Tag Archives: Below Deck

July 11, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Trina Kicks Kai To the Curb, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Coming Soon, Animal Accounts, Practically 10 Quotes & Lobster

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Emma found Gio at the pool and asked if he was trying to get his mind off of Sonny. Gio said it was harder than it sounded.

At a nearby table, Carly saw Josslyn on her laptop researching Dalton, but Josslyn said she was doing research for Dalton. She was having a hard time focusing, and Carly asked if she was sticking around for the fireworks. Josslyn said she was. She wanted to spend more time with the family, since the fire reminded her how fragile life could be.  

Anna went to Windymere to see Sidwell. She said she needed answers regarding his involvement in Natalia’s death.

Sonny told Laura that he found no satisfaction being right about his prediction that there would be violence. Their families were feeling the fallout, but he thought there may be a way to contain the damage.

Brook asked how Wiley and Amelia were handling things, and Michael said he was worried about Wiley. There had been an incident with Willow at the pool, and it had upset him.

Rocco asked Lulu if it was true that Britt gave birth to him, and she said she was calling his dad. He asked if Britt was his real mother.

Josslyn said, what happened with Kristina reminded her of what happened with Michael and Morgan, but Carly said, right now, they were safe, happy, and healthy. She was grateful for that… and Josslyn. Vaughn came into the pool area and Josslyn remembered their kiss. Carly suggested Josslyn go talk to him.  

Gio told Emma that Sonny had been great to him. How could he be the man that Tracy warned him about? Emma said people weren’t one thing. Maybe it was true, maybe it wasn’t, but it probably landed somewhere in between. She suggested if he wanted to know who Sonny was, ask someone, and Gio saw Carly.

Cody asked Sasha if anything else had happened with Daisy, and she said, no. She wanted to believe it was just mom brain or she was exhausted, but Cody said, she wasn’t sure, was she?

Sidwell insisted he’d never harm the mother of his son, and Anna said she’d come alone because she didn’t want to subject anyone else to his performative assurances that he was merely a businessman. She wanted the truth. He said the truth was, he’d been at Windymere signing contracts with Alexis. According to his son, Natalia had been Sonny’s loose end, so why not look to Sonny for answers?  

Laura told Sonny that she didn’t scare or back away from a fight. She didn’t turn her back on friends and he was stuck with her. He said she was still stubborn, and she said, damn straight. They hugged, and Boyle burst into the interrogation room, filming with his phone.

Michael said, whoever Willow was now, she wasn’t the woman he fell in love with, and Brook said she couldn’t believe people weaponizing children. He asked if she was talking about Lulu, and she said Lulu used Gio and hurt him to score points with Dante, sticking it to her for something that happened years ago. She had no consideration for what it would do to Brook’s child. She’d almost stooped to Lulu’s level and had considered getting back at her through Rocco, but she couldn’t hurt an innocent bystander, especially a child. It was wrong.

Rocco asked why they had to wait for his dad, and Lulu said it was important stuff and Rocco deserved to hear it from both of them. Dante came in, and Lulu said Rocco had questions about Britt Westbourne.

Cody told Daisy to enjoy her first 4th of July that she wouldn’t remember. He told Sasha that was going to the boathouse, but grabbing a cooler of beers first.  

Vaughn said he and Josslyn had to figure out how to keep Emma distracted. They’d gotten off track last night. The kiss never happened. She said, what kiss?

Gio told Carly that he was on break and hoping to ask her some questions about Sonny, since she knew Sonny better than anyone.

An officer stood over Boyle and Laura said make sure the film was deleted. Boyle said he had a right to film, but the officer said, not in the interrogation room. Laura told Boyle that it was illegal, but Boyle said the people deserved to know the truth about the mayor consoling the mob boss about his daughter. Or was the hug about Natalia? Laura told the officer to get this jackass out of her sight, and the officer took him out. Laura closed the door.  

Cody was at the boathouse when Brook arrived, and he asked how she could do that to him.

Rocco said he’d found two birth certificates. On one of them, Lulu and Dante were listed as his parents and on the other, the baby’s name was Ben, and Britt was listed as the birth mother. Was he Ben and did Britt give birth to him? Dante said she did, but Lulu said, genetically, Rocco was theirs. They’d planned to tell him when he was older. Dante said it hadn’t happened, but that was on him because he’d felt like they should both be there. Rocco said Lulu had been awake for a while, but Lulu said there had been so much to navigate – her recovery, finding Charlotte, and Lucky almost dying. She wasn’t making excuses, but it had gotten lost in the chaos. She was sorry, but they were here now, and he needed to know that what they were about to tell him didn’t change how much they loved him. Dante said it didn’t change anything, but Rocco said it did.

Rocco asked how Lulu could be mad at Brook, when she hadn’t even known Gio was her son, but Lulu said it wasn’t the same. Dante said they’d been planning on telling Rocco the truth.

Sidwell asked if Anna knew Sonny suffered from a heart condition, and she said, relevance? He said Sonny didn’t want to appear weak, and she asked if he was saying Sonny confided in Natalia. He said, then Natalia confided in him. Who knew how many others she’d told? Perhaps Sonny had discovered she’d broken his trust. She said, perhaps Sidwell couldn’t get over his ex’s indiscretions, and left.  

Brook said it had been her decision, and Cody said he’d never have told her what to do back then. She wondered if he was telling her now, and he said keeping the truth from him was making him complicit in hiding the truth from Dante. Dante was his best friend ever and it felt awful.

Lulu said she and Dante had been trying to have a baby and used IVF. They’d tried to use Maxie as their surrogate, but it didn’t work, so they put it on hold. Dante said Britt was a doctor at GH and stole an embryo, and Lulu said, the embryo was Rocco.

Carly asked what Gio wanted to know, and he said Tracy kept warning him that Sonny was dangerous, that he didn’t know who he was dealing with. The Sonny he knew was decent, more than kind, protective, and generous. Was Tracy wrong or was he blind? They sat down and Carly said it was complicated. Sonny didn’t wake up and choose this life. Gio said, the life chose him, and she said, it kind of did. He had to make tough decisions when he was young and got pulled in before he was old enough to know better. Sonny would admit he wasn’t proud of some things he’d done, but he was one of the most loyal men she’d ever known. He loved his family and Gio was a part of that family, but she’d be lying if she didn’t tell him that there was another side.

Josslyn told Vaughn that the animal thing was his way in. Emma had an organization at PCU called SAC – Students Against Animal Cruelty. Vaughn said that was perfect. He loved animals. He told Josslyn a sad story about the dog he’d grown up with, and she asked if the story was true. He asked if it mattered, and she said if he told it to Emma, she’d eat it up. He said that was his entry point and asked about Emma’s dislikes. What triggered her? Josslyn said she did.

Josslyn said she wasn’t Emma’s favorite person. Emma thought she was privileged, spoiled, and a total brat. Vaughn said if he and Emma bonded over how annoying she was, they’d be dating by the end of the night. Josslyn saw Emma and said it was go time. Emma had seen them kissing, so if he had a shot, Emma would need to think there was nothing going on. Vaughn asked if she was watching, and loudly asked, what’s the problem? He’d thought they had a real future. Josslyn said then he was as dumb as he looked. They didn’t work together. He was a janitor. He said, for the record, he worked in maintenance, and she said, call it what he wanted, but it wasn’t working. They were done. Get over it. She walked out, and Emma smiled.

Michael came in while Sasha was talking to Daisy. He said Sasha was great with her and helped put Daisy to bed. Sasha said they made a good team, and he said they always had. She said it made her believe it would work out with them as co-parents, and he said he knew she was hesitant. She said he was Daisy’s father, and her only concern was Daisy’s safety and well-being. He said his was too, and she said she was glad they were on the same page.  

Marco approached Anna at the hospital and asked if she had Natalia’s autopsy report. He needed to know how she died.

Emma handed Vaughn a drink and said she was sorry about Josslyn. He asked if she saw that, and she said she heard it. The whole pool did. She thought he’d dodged a bullet. Josslyn had always been like that. He said, privileged, spoiled, and self-absorbed. He’d glimpsed it, but chosen to ignore it. Emma said, to brighter days ahead, and they clinked glasses.

Cody said he’d thought he and Brook were friends, and she said they were. She’d trusted him on her hardest day. She knew she could count on him to get her home and keep her secret. She was sorry she let him believe she’d ended the pregnancy. He said he’d assumed it, and she said she’d needed to protect her baby, then she wanted to forget what happened. Her not being upfront wasn’t a reflection on their friendship or how much she cared. He said he believed her and hoped she knew him helping Lulu wasn’t about payback. He wanted to know the truth and wanted Dante and Gio to know too, because he hadn’t known the truth about his own father. She suggested they forgive each other, and he said he was game if she was. She said she didn’t want to lose his friendship, especially over Lulu. He asked if they should hug it out, and they did.

Rocco said, Britt stole him? and Lulu said they’d trusted her. Dante said Britt carried him to term without their knowledge or consent, and Lulu said Britt only cared about herself. Rocco said Britt had done a messed-up thing, but if she hadn’t stolen him, he might not have been born. They might never have used the embryo. They didn’t really want him.

Vaughn brought up SAC, and Emma said she’d started it. Animal rights was her thing. He said he’d love to get involved, and she suggested they have another round and talk about it. He said it was on him, and they went to get drinks while Josslyn watched.  

Carly told Gio that Michael had wrestled with the same questions. So had Dante, but they’d both come back. Once Sonny was in your life, he stayed if you let him. Gio said if he needed more answers, maybe he’d ask Sonny’s son.

At the station, Anna told Sonny that the autopsy showed Natalia had died from a lethal combination of drugs and alcohol. The lack of defense wounds indicated nothing had been forced. Whether it was accidental or intentional, she couldn’t say, but it wasn’t murder. Boyle listened from around the corner. (Does anyone do their actual jobs?) 

Lulu said that wasn’t true. They’d wanted Rocco. Dante said Rocco was seven months old before they figured it out, and Rocco said it was weird to think Britt had been his mom during that time. Lulu said Britt was never his mother. She stole the embryo, broke the law, and took him from them. Rocco said it wasn’t like he’d been theirs. They’d gotten stuck with him after the fact. Dante said they’d gone back because they wanted to try again and figured out an embryo was missing, and Lulu said they’d been desperate to have a child of their own. They’d loved each other and he was conceived in that love, no matter how he came into the world. She wanted him to know he was loved beyond measure. Dante told Rocco, what she said, and Rocco said that explained why the one birth certificate said Ben. It was what Britt had named him. Part of him wished Danny had never found the file. Lulu asked, what file? and he said, it was in a stack of Brook’s Deception stuff. It was mostly about Britt, but the birth certificates were in there. Dante said it was a lot at once, and Rocco said it would take a bit for him to understand. He wasn’t mad, but wished he’d heard it from them, not like this. Dante said, them too, and Rocco went upstairs. Lulu said there was something she had to do. Brook came for her son. Not on her watch.  

Cody, Brook, Sasha, and Michael sat outside the boathouse, and Cody said it was a year ago today he told Mac that he was his son. Sasha said he became a full-fledged Scorpio, and Brook said she remembered Drew announcing he was running for congress. Even granny was proud of him. Michael asked if they were ready for the buzzkill. It was the beginning of the end of his marriage – Drew and Willow’s first kiss. Sasha said she’d love to erase the memory, and Brook said, everything was different a year ago. Her son was living in Port Charles, and they were under the same roof. Maybe this time next year, he’d be talking to her again. Sasha said, things work out, and they watched the fireworks.

Daisy was heard on the monitor, and Sasha said she’d go. She left and Michael stayed with the others.

At the pool, everyone watched the fireworks. Emma looked at Josslyn and took Vaughn’s arm.  

Sasha went to Daisy’s room, but the crib was empty.

Boyle said Sonny must be relieved that he got off scot-free again, and Sonny said Natalia had been his friend. Boyle said the autopsy proved nothing. Sonny was a professional and could finagle an OD in his sleep. Anna said Sonny was free to go, and Laura said she’d walk him out. Boyle said, of course (🍷), and outside, after looking up at the fireworks, Sonny and Laura went their separate ways.

Sidwell watched the fireworks, when Marco arrived. Marco said he talked to the Commissioner and Natalia’s death had been ruled an accident. Corinthos was free and the case was closed. Sidwell said the police might have dropped the matter, but make no mistake, they wouldn’t.  

Rocco came out on the patio where Dante was watching the fireworks. He asked where his mom was, and Dante said she was running an errand. Rocco said he hoped Dante wouldn’t talk to Danny’s dad. It wasn’t Danny’s fault that he found the folder and Dante shouldn’t be mad at him. Dante said he wasn’t mad at Danny. Danny wasn’t responsible for this.

Cody said the drink supply was depleted, and he and Michael left to get more. Brook was left by herself, when Lulu stormed up on the deck. She called Brook a hateful bitch, and said she knew Brook hated her, but to hurt Rocco was unforgiveable. She slugged Brook in the face.

Tuesday:

Sasha went into the nursery, but Daisy wasn’t there.

Lulu decked Brook and said Brook was the same lying backstabber she’d always been. She’d used Lulu’s son to get back at her.

Jason showed up at Lulu’s per Rocco’s request, and Rocco asked Jason to tell him everything about Britt Westbourne.

Marco said they were calling Natalia’s death accidental, but Sidwell said there was nothing accidental about it. Marco said it was his fault, but Sidwell said, he did everything he could. Marco said his mom’s death was on him.

As they set up for a movie night, Alexis asked Kristina what was wrong, but Kristina said, nothing. She’d just been thinking about how good Alexis was to her. Alexis said, being her mom, it came with the territory, but Kristina said she wasn’t feeling the love after Alexis found out about Elizabeth and Ric.

Portia and Elizabeth watched the fireworks at the MetroCourt, and Elizabeth said she was surprised Portia had no plans with Curtis. Ric approached their table and said he thought tonight couldn’t get better.

Nina went to the gallery and told Ava that Willow was dead set on marrying Drew. Ava asked what she had cooked up, and Nina said, to stall as long as she could. She was hoping something would happen to wake up her daughter and show her that she was marrying a man who would help destroy what was left of her life.

Sasha checked the bassinet in the living room, but Daisy wasn’t there either.

Felicia met Mac at the station and told Molly that she was relieved Kristina hadn’t been hurt in the fire. Molly said Cody had been right and she’d been thinking of the worst-case scenarios. Mac wondered what Cody had to do with the fire, but Molly said they happened to be together beforehand and because she was in no state to drive, Cody drove. Mac said Cody was a considerate guy and it was a shame he was single.

Nina said she’d convinced Willow that a formal wedding would look better to the judge, and Ava said she was sorry Ric didn’t do better with Willow’s custody. They may not have gotten his best work, since the morning of Willow’s hearing, he was with Elizabeth instead of working.  

Elizabeth asked Ric where Ava was, and he said, at the gallery. Portia said she couldn’t wait to see Joel Sartore’s new photos, and Ric told Elizabeth that he had box seats to the Port Charles Symphony when they were doing Gershwin. His phone rang and he stepped away, but when he came back, he said he had to run. He left and Portia said it must be something important to peel him away from Elizabeth.  

Jason asked Rocco where Danny got the file, and Rocco said he found it in a stack of Brook’s files. Jason asked if his parents knew, and Rocco said they’d talked. They told him that he was the embryo Britt stole and that she gave birth to him, not his mom. Jason said he hadn’t been in town when that went down, but what did he want to know. Rocco said Danny told him that Britt and Jason had been friends. That must have meant he liked her. Jason said he did, and Rocco said his parents thought she was awful. Jason said they had bad history, and Rocco said they told him Britt went to prison and her parents were psychos. Jason said, her father more than her mother, and Rocco said Britt had died saving Josslyn’s life. Her history was all over the place. Jason knew her. What was she really like?

Brook said she had no idea what Lulu was talking about, and Lulu said Danny found the file about Britt and showed it to Rocco. Brook said, Rocco wasn’t supposed to see it, and Lulu asked why Britt left it lying around. Brook said she hadn’t, but what was in the file was true. She thought Lulu never lied to her children and it was no secret, yet Rocco never knew. Lulu said she and Dante had intended on telling him the truth when he was old enough to understand, but life had been complicated since she woke up from her coma. Brook said, Lulu claimed her son deserved to know the truth, but Lulu said it wasn’t the same thing. Brook said Lulu was a hypocrite with a double standard.

Sasha told Michael that someone took their daughter.

Ava said Ric had lied to her face, and Nina said, if Ric was cheating, get rid of him. Ava said she didn’t think he was, and Ric was fun, sexy, and they made a good team… most of the time. Nina had to go, since she was meeting Willow for a drink, and Ava told her to enjoy the time while Drew was away. They’d also get more time together planning the wedding.  Nina said that was the upside. They were going to look at dresses, something she’d dreamed of doing with her daughter. If only Drew wasn’t the biggest mistake of Willow’s life.

Mac said he knew Cody and Molly got off to a rocky start, but they seemed to be in a better place. Molly said Cody had helped her a few times and he was a nice person. Mac said Cody was the best guy, when an officer said there had been a possible child abduction.

Marco told Sidwell that he should have had Natalia put in protective custody, but she insisted Sonny would take care of her and had a new life set up for her. Sidwell said, all Sonny cared about was that she was a liability, and Marco said she wouldn’t listen, and he’d never forgive himself. Sidwell said Marco was a good man and a great son. They both knew Sonny Corinthos was the reason his mother was dead.

Alexis said Kristina had lost her baby and her sister within months of each other. She’d been estranged from her other sister, then there was Michael’s accident and the insanity with Ric and Ava. It had been too much for her, she’d been pushed too far, and broke. Kristina said that didn’t make it okay, and Alexis said she wasn’t condoning it, but understood. She was doing what she could to keep Kristina out of prison. Kristina said she was grateful, but felt Alexis gave in to Ric and Ava’s blackmail for Molly’s sake. Alexis hadn’t wanted Molly to know she was the reason Ric got hurt. Alexis said she’d done it for both of them. She loved them both. Kristina said she’d thought she’d gone too far, but Alexis said her love was unconditional and nothing could change that.

Ric went to the gallery and told Ava that he’d gotten a call from the bank man in the Caymans. Two of the accounts were overdrawn. Ava said she’d been in a rush to install new lighting, and it was pricey, and Ric said it looked better than the lighting in Pentenville, which was where they’d be if she threw money around, they weren’t supposed to have.

Sasha said no one in the house had seen Daisy, and Michael said the police were on their way. Olivia and Ned came in, and Sasha told them that someone took Daisy. Michael said no one saw any strangers leave the property, and Ned suggested he search outside while Michael searched the house.

Jason told Rocco that Britt didn’t make the best decisions and did hurt people, but she was strong and heroic too. Rocco said, like when she saved Josslyn, and Jason said Britt also helped him out even when it put her in danger. Rocco said everyone told him that she was horrible, but he heard something different from Jason. Maybe she wasn’t all bad, but a good person wouldn’t steal an embryo. Jason said he and Britt didn’t become friends until after that, and Rocco asked if he thought Britt changed. Jason said he did, but the people she’d hurt might not agree. Rocco wondered how he could be mad at Britt, since without her, he might not have been born.

Lulu insisted Brook left the folder where Rocco could find it, but Brook said she didn’t and it wasn’t like she’d unearthed a revelation. It was public record. Unlike how Lulu broke into Martin’s room getting information from a confidential file she had no legal right to. Lulu said Brook had to dig to get Rocco’s birth certificate, but Brook said, unlike Gio, Rocco would have found out because everyone knew. She didn’t hurt Rocco. Lulu did by withholding the truth.

Ric asked, what if someone became suspicious about Ava’s newfound wealth? and Ava told him that she’d say she sold a rare piece. That’s what the holding companies were for, so no one would connect them with the money. Ric said, only as long as they didn’t draw attention to it. They had to work together. Ava said she’d barely seen Ric lately, since he’d been at Beecher’s Corners so much, then admitted that she knew Ric had been with Elizabeth the morning of Willow’s hearing. Laura had seen them.  

Portia asked what was going on with Elizabeth and Ric, but Elizabeth said they were just friends. Portia asked if she liked spending time with him, and Elizabeth said they got along, and he made her laugh. Portia suggested Elizabeth go get some Gershwin. She hated that Ric was the reason Heather Webber had been released, but realized he was just doing his job. Elizabeth said she knew better than to get involved with Ric again, and Portia said, famous last words. Nina came by and asked if they’d seen Willow, but Elizabeth said they hadn’t.  

Lulu said Brook always found a way to justify her bad behavior, but Brook said Lulu was describing herself. She’d lied to her son. Lulu said she and Dante hadn’t had a chance to tell Rocco, and Brook said it was because Lulu was too busy digging into her life. Gio shouted for them to stop it. He’d been looking for Michael and heard yelling. If they were fighting about him, don’t. Lulu said they were fighting what Brook did to his brother Rocco.

Chase asked when Sasha last saw Daisy, and Sasha said, in the nursery before the fireworks. She shouldn’t have left Daisy alone. Michael said there was a night nurse and Sasha had taken the monitor. It had been reasonable to leave her. Sasha said someone had been going in and messing with their daughter. Did he remember the other day when someone had changed her onesie and she’d been facing the other way? And there was the mobile. The first night, someone had turned it on when she was in the shower. Olivia heard something in the living room, and went in. She said Daisy was there. The baby was fine. They went in to find Daisy in the bassinet.

Kristina said she was going to get Alexis out from under Ava and Ric’s thumb by being smart, but not impulsive, and Alexis said she wasn’t convinced it was a good plan, but she liked Cody. Kristina said Molly deserved the credit. She brought out the best in him. The only reason Cody had agreed was that she’d told him Molly wasn’t happy about Ava dating Ric, but the money didn’t hurt. Alexis hoped Ric and Ava imploded and thought it would be fun to watch them go at each other’s throats.

Ric said he’d brought juice to a friend with a broken leg, but Ava said she cared that he’d lied. He said he knew she’d overreact and him omitting the truth didn’t threaten their freedom like her spending the money did. She couldn’t just take it whenever she wanted. Ava said she had work to do, when Cody came in. Ric wondered why he was there, and Cody said Ava hired him to help hang the show, Ric left, and Cody told Ava that he was all hers. Where did she want him?  

Felicia told Molly to ignore Mac, but Molly thought it was sweet. To be honest, it had surprised her that she and Cody became friends. An officer said the missing child had been found, and Mac suggested he, Felicia, Cody, and Molly all have dinner. It would be fun.

Marco told Sidwell that Natalia had shown up at the christening and she and Sonny had a tense conversation. Sidwell said Natalia had intruded on Sonny’s sacred family time, and in so doing, sealed her fate. Sonny wasn’t about to let Natalia cause more problems ever again.

Sasha said it was the first place she looked, but Daisy wasn’t there, and Olivia said Daisy was safe and sound. Sasha said someone had taken her and could still be on the property, and Michael suggested another search. Ned said he’d check the gatehouse, and Michael could check the garage. Olivia told Sasha that the mind could play tricks, especially if you were hormonal, but Sasha said she didn’t misplace her baby.  

Elizabeth told Portia about Lucky proposing before he left. She’d been tempted to say yes, but their lives were going in two different directions and weren’t compatible anymore. Portia commended her for being strong enough to recognize that.  

Nina got a text from Willow, who said there was traffic, and she was on her way.

Rocco said it was strange to think he’d had another mom, another name, and another life, and Jason said, Britt didn’t talk about that part of her life much. It hurt her to remember it, but what she shared was how much it changed her. She didn’t expect a lot, but when she had him, she fell in love with him, and it surprised her. Rocco asked if she was sad when she had to give him up, and Jason said she knew what she’d done was wrong. He wasn’t hers and she had no right to him, but she loved him, and it was hard for her. By the time he knew her, she’d been doing the right things more than she realized. He thought if she saw him now, she’d be impressed with the person he’d become.

Brook said she didn’t do anything to Gio’s brother, but Lulu said she dug up that he’d been carried by someone else. Gio asked if she meant a surrogate, but Lulu said it was more complicated than that and Brook had blindsided Rocco. It was payback for her finding out the truth about Gio. Brook used her son to hurt her, and she’d never forgive Brook. Lulu left, and Brook swore it wasn’t true. She never meant to hurt Rocco.

Brook told Gio that Britt giving birth to Rocco was a matter of public record and not a secret except to Rocco. Gio said, until now. When he heard she and Dante were his parents and everything he’d thought was true wasn’t, it was the worst feeling. Brook said she was sorry, and Gio said she’d done the same thing, but Rocco was younger, and it would be harder to handle. Brook said she never gave the information to Rocco and never meant for him to see it, and Gio asked why she had gone digging. What was the point?  

Rocco thanked Jason and said talking to his parents about it was weird. Obviously, they hated Britt. Jason said he was there if Rocco needed him and left.  

Outside, Lulu saw Jason and asked what he was doing there.  

Willow met Nina and said she was sorry she was late. There had been traffic. Nina wondered what route Willow had taken, since she’d had no problem.

Chase said he spoke to everyone, and no one saw anyone suspicious. There had also been no sign of forced entry. In the foyer, Michael thanked Ned and Olivia for their help, and Olivia said it wouldn’t be a bad idea for Sasha to talk to her doctor. She wasn’t saying it was postpartum, but if it was, early intervention was key. She and Ned went upstairs, and Michael saw Chase talking to Sasha.

Alexis brought out popcorn, when the doorbell rang. It was Ric, who said they had business to discuss. He stopped when he saw Kristina.

Molly said she was swamped with work, and Felicia said, another time. Molly left, and Felicia asked if Mac could be any more obvious. Mac said he thought Molly and Cody were a good fit, but she said forcing it would do the opposite. If it was meant to be, it was meant to be. He said Molly might be the person Cody needed to keep him honest and on track.

Cody and Ava discussed what height to hang a piece of art, when Cody kissed her.

Elizabeth asked if Portia and Curtis were having problems, and Portia said every relationship had rough patches. You could give up and walk away or get down and fight. She’d always been a fighter.

Sidwell told Marco that Natalia discovered Sonny had a heart condition and had been sworn to secrecy. She’d told him, thinking it could entice him to speak to Marco on her behalf. Sonny must have found out, and the betrayal was further proof she couldn’t be trusted. Marco said he didn’t care what the autopsy said. His mother was dead because she knew too much. Sonny couldn’t get away with it. Sidwell said he’d make sure of it, but Marco said they’d make sure of it.

Kristina said Molly wasn’t there, and Ric said, it was worth a shot. Sorry for interrupting. Alexis suggested he text Molly, and he left. Alexis said she was terrified Kristina was going to go off on Ric, but Kristina said Ric and Ava not knowing she knew about the blackmail would work in their favor. Alexis commended her for stuffing her feelings in pursuit of a future goal.

Cody asked if it was okay, and Ava said it was a fine kiss. He said, ouch, and she amended it to a very good kiss. She half-heartedly slapped him and said it could never happen again. He said he totally understood and was sorry. He misread the signs. Wishful thinking. He told her that he’d leave, but she asked if they couldn’t hang the work together without further misunderstandings. He said, 100%, and she said, then back to work.

Jason told Lulu that Rocco had reached out with questions about Britt, and she asked what he told Rocco. He said from his experience, she was a good person, and Lulu said, who stole an embryo with no intention of returning her son. Jason said he’d told Rocco the truth, but Lulu said it was his truth based on his limited time with her. He said that didn’t make it less real and Rocco deserved to know all of it, and he left.

Gio said Brook wanted to hurt Lulu more than avoid hurting his brother. Walking away was clearly the right decision. He never should have come back and wouldn’t make that mistake again. He left and Brook cried.

Sasha said she was never letting Daisy out of her sight and asked Michael if they could move the crib to her room. Michael said they could, and she said she had to protect Daisy. In the foyer, Michael told Chase that he was going to phone a security company to doublecheck the house, and Chase asked, what if Sasha was imagining things? Michael said he’d do what he had to in order to keep Daisy safe, and Chase said, even if it meant keeping her safe from her own mother?

Willow told Nina that she’d really been on the phone with Drew and lost track of time. She flashed back to going into Daisy’s room and picking the baby up. She told Daisy that they were going for a little walk. Daisy’s daddy wanted her children, so she was going to show him how it felt.

Wednesday:

At the pool, Kai told Drew that he was glad he got to meet the DC staff, and Drew said they were the best in the business. Kai thanked him for the internship and Drew thanked Kai for the heads up about Curtis’s ambush.

Felicia told Curtis that her P.I. tracked Jacinda in Sydney and convinced her to fly back. She’d be there in a little over 24 hours.

Trina was surprised Ava had gotten all the photos up, and Ava said she’d had help from a friend.

Cody told Kristina that he’d overplayed his hand with Ava and probably had zero chance of getting her away from Ric.

At the hospital, Ric asked what Elizabeth was doing tonight.  

Carly found Willow at the nurses station and said Michael told her what Will had done and she wasn’t getting away with it.

Michael asked if Sasha would like a break. He was happy to watch Daisy. Sasha said after what had happened, she wasn’t letting Daisy out of her sight ever again.

Jason told Sonny that two bodies had been fished out of the harbor – Selina’s associates. Sonny said, if there were questions, the police should question Sidwell. Sidwell had hired them to come after him and his family.

Sonny said he and Selina had clashed in the past, but their alliance had held up. It was too convenient. Jason said it felt like a set-up, and Sonny agreed. Since the fire, there had been wall to wall media coverage on why he was dangerous for the city and Measure C was getting support. Jason said if it passed, Sonny would lose his base of operation, and Sonny said. whether or not Selina was involved, Sidwell was the brains. That’s why Sidwell needed to answer for almost killing his daughter.

Kristina said she’d thought it was going well with Ava, and Cody said he was in the gallery and he thought they were vibing. So he went in for a kiss, but she slapped him. Kristina asked, what happened after that? and he said she asked him to stay and help hang the photos. She said, interesting. Maybe his game wasn’t as bad as he thought.

Ava told Trina about Cody finding her sunglasses and said he was quite handy. Trina said he’d done a great job, and Ava agreed. She pointed out the new lights, and Trina asked how she could afford them. Ava said her financial hiccup was over and she was now free to splurge, despite Ric’s miserly financial advice.

Elizabeth said she had plans to go to the Joel Sartore exhibit, and Ric suggested they go together.

Carly said she knew about the incident at the pool with Wiley, but Willow whined that she hadn’t seen him in so long. Carly said she could see her kids if she didn’t marry Drew, and Willow said they were getting married. Carly said she couldn’t stop that trainwreck, but she could and would ban Willow from the MetroCourt if it happened again and the judge would find out. Willow said she was heartless, and Carly reminded Willow how she’d called Michael absent when he was recovering. Lucas came by and Willow left. He said he needed a huge favor from Carly. She needed to protect Marco from Sonny.

Carly asked if Sonny was making moves, and Lucas said it was only a matter of time. She said, because of the fire? and he said there was no love lost between Sonny and Sidwell and it wasn’t a stretch to think he was behind the fire. She asked if there was proof, but he said all Sonny needed was a strong suspicion and he’d retaliate. Sidwell went after his daughter, so it made sense for him to go after Sidwell’s son. Carly thought he was jumping to conclusions, but he said no one knew Sonny better than she did. Was he that far off? Could she assure him Marco was safe?

Jason asked how Kristina was, and Sonny said she was rattled, but physically fine. Jason said something had been bugging him about the two fires. Two of Sonny’s kids were involved, but a sophisticated device had been used in the penthouse fire, while the fire at Charlie’s was old school. It didn’t feel like it was the same person behind them. Sonny said he had doubts about the penthouse and the hitwoman in LA. If Jason was right, there was a threat on two fronts. Jason said that made protecting their families harder.

Cody said a woman slapping you wasn’t a sign they were into you, but Kristina said even though Ava hadn’t been open to it, she’d let him stick around. If she turned against Ric, she’d see him with fresh eyes. Cody told Kristina that Ava had said it was good kiss before slapping him. He supposed she could be right, but a big part of him had been relieved. He’d gotten to know Ava, and there was more there than he’d thought. Kristina said, no, there wasn’t.

Ava asked how the guest list was, and Trina said they were at full capacity. Ava asked if Trina’s parents were coming, and Trina said her dad was, but her mom had to work. She thought they were avoiding each other. Ava said she was sorry, but she was sure they’d figure out how to deal with the problems they were facing.

Felicia said she’d let Curtis know when Jacinda was on the plane, but wondered if the interview wouldn’t have been easier to do over the phone. Curtis said he thought it would be more effective if Jacinda told the public herself, when there was a knock at the door. Jordan said she was interrupting again, but Felicia said she was just leaving. She left, and Curtis told Jordan that he’d tracked down Jacinda, who’d agreed to talk. She asked if he still planned on incriminating Drew, and he said blowing up Drew’s life was his best shot at protecting his wife. Speaking of which, he wanted to explain what Jordan had walked in on. Jordan said, Portia wanted to send her a message – stay out of her marriage. She didn’t agree with Portia’s tactics, but Portia was absolutely right.

Kai said he’d struggled with telling Drew, and Drew said he knew Kai cared about Trina, who obviously loved her parents. Kai said he couldn’t let Drew be dragged for something he didn’t do, and Drew said the negative publicity could affect Willow’s chances of getting her kids back. His own daughter was also still dealing with losing her mother, barely saw her brother, and was bonding with Wiley and Amelia, who were now gone. It was too much, but he had a plan and hoped it worked.

Michael said he knew it was scary, but Daisy was okay now. Sasha said they still didn’t know what happened. She was positive she’d left Daisy in the nursery, so how had Daisy ended up in the living room bassinet, especially after she’d checked? Michael said he had no idea, and she said it wasn’t the first time something strange had happened to or around Daisy. There was the mix-up at the hospital, the mobile mystery, and Daisy’s onesie being changed when she was out of the room. It was too weird. He said he was sure there were plenty of reasonable explanations, and she said he thought she was crazy, didn’t he?

Jordan said she hadn’t intended on causing a problem, but Curtis said it wasn’t on her. He’d dragged her into his marital problems when he’d confided in her about Portia’s lies. Jordan had urged him to talk to someone else, but she’d been there for him. He was sorry she’d become a target for Portia. Jordan asked if he meant the iced tea, but he didn’t know what she was talking about. She explained that Portia had confronted her after she’d seen them reminiscing about Baltimore and thrown her iced tea at her. He said he had no idea Portia had seen them, but it was a mess. Jordan said before it got messier, she needed to do the right thing and remove herself from his life.

Elizabeth said she enjoyed Ric’s company, but didn’t want to mislead him, and Ric said he’d always respect her boundaries. He was sorry if she felt he was overstepping. All he wanted or needed was her friendship.

Kristina said any goodness Cody saw in Ava was an act. He knew about the horrible things she’d done. He said he knew about the horrible things that had happened to Ava. She’d told him about Kiki. Kristina said Kiki was tragic, but instead of using it as a turning point, Ava was still out there scheming and ruining lives. Kristina said she didn’t care about Ric, but Molly loved her father and Ric being with Ava didn’t make her happy. It would be better for everyone if Ric and Ava weren’t together. Cody wondered why they didn’t tell Molly what they were up to, but Kristina said she’d never approve. They’d better keep it a secret. Molly walked in and asked what Cody was doing there. And what was that about a secret?

Trina told Ava that she liked the idea of focusing on her own life and she had nothing to complain about. Ava asked if it was due in large part to Kai, and Trina said he’d gone to DC, and she was excited to see him tonight. Ava said Trina deserved for wonderful things to happen, and Trina said she didn’t know how it happened, but even when they didn’t see eye to eye, they respected and supported each other. Ava said it was healthy and mature. She and Ric could learn from it. Trina asked if everything was okay, and Ava said they’d had a fight, but it was nothing. Trina said she hoped Ric knew how lucky he was to have Ava, and Ava said she hoped Kai knew how lucky he was to have Trina.  

Drew said if he blocked Curtis, he and Portia could figure out that Kai tipped him off. It could affect his relationship with Trina. Kai said it was the only thing he’d been thinking about. He was worried Trina would feel betrayed, but he was going to hope she understood that he had to do what was right. He admired her folks, but they were in the wrong, and he hoped they could agree to disagree. Drew said he’d do what he could to keep Kai’s name out of it, but Kai said he thought it was better if he owned up, even if he didn’t like the consequences. Drew said he was proud of Kai, when Willow joined them. Kai said he was going to the exhibit and maybe he’d see them there. He left, and Drew said he was happy Willow had joined him, but she said they should enjoy it while they could. Carly threatened to ban her from the pool. Drew asked, why?

Sasha told Michael that she wasn’t tired or suffering from postpartum. She’d had mental health and addiction issues in the past and could understand why he’d doubt her. He said he didn’t. He believed everything she was saying. He knew her. She was strong and level-headed. He’d seen when she wasn’t and could tell the difference. If she said something strange was going on with their daughter, he was listening. She thanked him and said it meant everything. He said, if she was right, that meant someone who was in the house or had access to it took their daughter and hid her on purpose. She said that’s why she was scared. Someone was deliberately gaslighting her or someone was trying to prove they could get to their daughter whenever they wanted. That was why she and Daisy had to move immediately.

Carly told Lucas that Sonny didn’t go after civilians or innocents and asked how closely Marco was tied to his father’s business. Lucas said he only worked on the legit side. He believed Marco, knew him, and trusted him. Carly said he was in deep, and Lucas said Marco meant a lot to him. He asked her to remind Sonny that Marco saved Kristina. If anyone had the power to sway Sonny, it was her. She said he was overestimating her influence, and he asked her to try. If Sonny went after Marco, it would trigger an all-out war that would affect all of them.

Willow said she’d just wanted to see her son and was being punished, but Drew said they had to tread lightly. They couldn’t give Michael ammunition. Willow said Wiley was happy to see her and if Michael cared about Wiley, he’d let her spend time with him. Drew said she was being punished for leaving Michael, but getting married would fix all this. It would show the court they had a stable, loving home. They’d secure visitation, then get custody. Willow said, in the meantime, Michael had Wiley, Amelia, and Daisy, and her arms were empty.

Michael asked if Sasha was sure she wanted to move, and she said she didn’t feel safe. He said every decision she’d made had been right and he trusted her judgement. Where did she want to go? There was Mac and Felicia’s or his mom. He could also talk to Lucy about getting her a place and he’d cover the expenses. She said he was generous, but the only way she could rest easy and know Daisy was safe was getting outside Port Charles.

Sonny told Jason to increase security and keep eyes on Sidwell and any other threats. Jason said at least Sonny was in the clear about Natalia’s death, and Sonny said whether it was on purpose or an accident, Natalia OD’d on her own. Jason asked if he thought Turner still wanted to pin it on him, but Sonny said, even though Turner wanted to put him away, she didn’t railroad him. She thought turning over the evidence against him was too much for Natalia and they were both responsible for her death. Jason said Turner felt guilty. What about him? Sonny said Natalia thought they had a romantic thing, and he was going with her to Belize. When he told her that wasn’t the case, it was the last straw. Jason said, Sonny still tried to help her. He wasn’t responsible. Sonny said he still wished it had been different.

Molly said, what secret? and Kristina said, no matter how hard Cody tried to hide it, he was a sweet guy. He came over to see how her recovery was going, and he’d been helpful the night of the fire. Molly said it was sweet, and he’d kept their mom from freaking out. Cody said he was going to leave while he was ahead, but Molly said, hold up. Where was he going dressed all fancy? Did he have more legal trouble? He said he was going to a showing at the Jerome Gallery, and Molly said she didn’t think it was his vibe. He said it wasn’t, but he’d helped hang the pictures and the photographs of the baby animals were amazing. He left, and Molly asked what was wrong with Kristina. The one time badmouthing Ava would be helpful, she kept her mouth shut.

Kristina said everyone told her to stop it, but Molly said, not with Cody. She saw him and Ava hanging out by the pool and Ava was like a creepy spider luring him to her web. Kristina asked if Ava was interested, and Molly said, it seemed like it. Ava was supposed to be with her dad. Ava would chew Cody up and spit him out. He’d come to her rescue, and she considered him a sort of friend. Kristina asked if Cody was a sort of friend or did Molly want it to be more.

Cody arrived at the gallery and Trina said she’d check on the caterers. Ava said Cody cleaned up nicely, but he was way early, and he said he wanted a private minute to apologize again for crossing the line. She said, bygones, and he made up for it with the excellent job. He said they made a great team.  

Curtis said Jordan hadn’t crossed any lines, and Jordan said it needed to stay that way. She didn’t want to be responsible for his marriage falling apart, directly or indirectly. Their lives would intersect professionally and with family, but it was best if they didn’t see each other. He said he hated this, but she was right. He’d allowed himself to lean on her in ways they hadn’t been fair to her or Portia. He thanked her and said she was a class act and an amazing woman. She told him, good luck with Jacinda. She was rooting for him to take down Drew. She left.  

Elizabeth asked how Marco was, and Lucas said Marco insisted he was all right, but he and Natalia hadn’t been close and it complicated things, making them worse. Marco had been wondering, if he could have saved Natalia if he hadn’t stopped to rescue Kristina. Elizabeth said they’d never know, but it was possible if Marco hadn’t stopped, both his mom and Kristina would be dead. Lucas said Marco did a heroic thing and he hoped certain people saw that and appreciated it too.

Sonny said, even though there was no evidence, he was going to pull out of Deception, and Jason asked if Sonny wanted him to call Diane. Sonny said his main priority was Sidwell. The fire couldn’t go unanswered. Jason asked what he wanted to do, and Sonny said, send a message. Come after my child and your child will pay.

Lucas asked how it went with Ric, and Elizabeth said he was going to the gallery show and suggested they go together. Lucas said Ric was seeing Ava yet asked her to go. He was the messiest man in the world. She said she made it clear they were just friends, and she thought she got through. Lucas said she’d been upfront and clear about her boundaries, and it was up to Ric to accept that. She said it was the first test, and Lucas said he hoped Ric passed or he would answer to Aunt Ava.

Ric brought Ava flowers, and Trina went to put them in water. Ric gave Ava a card, and she took a check out of the envelope. She said it was a lot of zeros and asked what it was for. He said he’d spoken to Alexis, and she released extra funds to use for the gallery. He wanted to remind her that they were in this together and hoped she forgave him. She said she appreciated a man who knew how to apologize, as Cody watched.

Molly asked Kristina why everyone thought she was interested in Cody. Mac had been matchmaking, but they had nothing in common. Kristina said, so she was definitely not interested, and Molly said she just didn’t want Ava to eat him alive and wondered how they’d gotten involved in the first place.  

Felicia told Curtis that when her P.I. went to pick up Jacinda, she was gone and her place had been cleared out. She was guessing Jacinda got cold feet, but Curtis said, no. Drew somehow got to her. He wondered how the hell Drew knew what he was up to, as Kai listened outside the door.

Drew told Willow that he was sorry, but she said it was Michael’s fault. He said he couldn’t wait to marry her, and she said her only regret was that it seemed like she was marrying him to get her kids back. She wanted them back, but hoped he knew she loved him. He said he loved her too, and they kissed.

Sasha said something was off and she needed to protect Daisy, and Michael asked if that meant uprooting her life. she said, yes. Daisy was her number one priority. She’d already lost one child and wasn’t going through that again. It might seem crazy or extreme, but she needed to protect Daisy even if it meant leaving Port Charles and going into hiding on their own. Michael said he couldn’t let her do that.  

Jason told Sonny that he’d made arrangements for Marco. Say the word, and the plan went live. There was a knock at the door, and Sonny opened it to Carly. He asked what brought her by, and she said she was there to stop another one of their children from being killed.

Thursday:

Ava introduced friend and inspiration Joel Sartore and his new book, Photo Ark Babies. She said that the animals were fragile, magical, and in need of our attention.  

Boyle met Drew at the pool and said he had everything Drew needed to land a public hit on Sonny Corinthos and his good friend the mayor.

At the hospital, Martin told Laura that his physical therapist was a miracle worker, but things would have been different if he hadn’t gotten treatment. Laura asked, why? Was he in some kind of trouble?

Lucas gave Marco Natalia’s personal items, and Marco said the investigation was over. Lucas said he was so sorry, and Marco said he didn’t care what the investigation said. His mother wasn’t responsible for her own death. Sonny was.

Carly said if Sonny went after Marco, Sidwell would have no choice but to strike back, and it would be back and forth until everyone was dead. sonny told her to stay out of it, but she said, not when their children’s lives were on the line.  

Sasha said she didn’t want to fight with Michael, but couldn’t compromise their daughter’s safety. Michael said he meant he couldn’t let her leave alone.

Stella told Portia that she had too much work to go to the exhibit opening, and Portia said Trina would understand. Stella asked if Portia was meeting Curtis, but Portia said he hadn’t shared his schedule with her.

Felicia told Curtis that her P.I. went to pick up Jacinda, but she was gone, and her place was completely cleared out. She was guessing Jacinda got cold feet, but Curtis said, somehow, Drew got to her. He didn’t know how the hell Drew knew what he was up to. Kai knocked at the door and asked for a minute, and Felicia said she was sorry she couldn’t do more. She left, and Curtis asked how much Kai heard. Kai said he heard Curtis couldn’t find Jacinda and he wanted to tell Curtis that he was the one who warned Drew.

Joel thanked everyone and said the new book was a prequel to the main Photo Ark book. He passed out prints, and his wife told Trina that she and Ava had done an amazing job. Trina said, after seeing the photos, she’d never be the same.

Ric said Ava outdid herself. She knew her stuff. Cody watched them, then approached Elizabeth. He told her that he helped hang the photos and knew where the baby sloths were. They walked off together, and Ric frowned.

Martin blamed Tracy for his fall, and Laura said she got it, but if he chose to go to war with Tracy, no one would win.

Sasha said Port Charles was Wiley and Amelia’s home, and Michael couldn’t leave, but she and Daisy could. She and Michael could think of a place together. He said he needed to know that wherever they went, they got there safely. She couldn’t leave without protection. She asked if he was going to hire a bodyguard, but he said he had something much better.

Carly said she knew how the game worked. Sonny could either call for a cease fire or escalate things. If he escalated things, he put everyone they loved in danger. Michael called Jason and asked Jason to meet him at the pool house. Jason left, and Carly told Sonny to admit it. When he heard it was Michael, his heart stopped.

Stella asked if Portia and Curtis were good, and Portia said they were going through a rough patch. Stella said that’s why they needed to remember what they meant to each other and how hard they’d fought to get where they were.

Curtis said, Kai overheard a conversation between him and his wife at their house and took it to Drew. How could Kai betray his privacy? Kai asked how he couldn’t. Curtis wasn’t going to expose a crime. He was going to lie and destroy Drew’s reputation. It wouldn’t just hurt Drew, but it would hurt Drew’s daughter and Willow. Drew had a right to know. Curtis said Kai was meddling in affairs he didn’t understand. Nothing was as simple as he thought. Drew came in and asked if there was a problem, and Kai said he told Curtis what he’d done. Curtis said Kai had no idea who Drew really was or what he was capable of, but he did. Kai said he was sorry, but did what he thought was right. Curtis said Kai didn’t have to explain to him, but he would have to explain it to Trina.

Cody spilled wine on Elizabeth, and Ric rushed over with his handkerchief.

Martin said he couldn’t let Tracy get away with what she’d done, and Laura said he had a right to be angry, but pursuing a feud wouldn’t end happily for anyone. Her best advice was to let Tracy do Tracy and he should focus on his recovery. Martin said he’d try, when Stella joined him. He said if it hadn’t been for her expertise… Stella asked if she could speak to him in private.

Boyle gave Marco his condolences and said he’d do everything to see that Sonny Corinthos and everyone who enabled him was made to pay for the tragedy. A bunch of reporters appeared and asked if Sonny killed Marco’s mother. Was it true she and Sonny were more than friends? Had she laundered money for the Corinthos organization?

Kai was late to the gallery, and Trina texted him. Ava mumbled that Ric couldn’t keep his hands off Elizabeth, and told Trina to let her know how it went. Trina stepped away, and Cody told Ava that he was hearing the show was a huge success. Ava said there was someone she’d like him to meet.

Trina thanked Josslyn and Gio for coming, and they talked about the photos. Josslyn asked, where’s Kai? but Trina said she didn’t know. He was supposed to be there. She was guessing that Drew kept him late.

Kai said he was sorry it turned out like this, and Curtis said so was he. Kai left, and Curtis asked if Drew was proud of himself. Drew said he was proud of Kai, and Curtis said he’d manipulated Kai into spying for him. Drew said Kai had overheard what Curtis was up to and chose to bring the information to his intended victim. Curtis said Drew was no one’s victim, but Drew said he didn’t hire Jacinda; Curtis’s wife had. She’d set him up and drugged him, which was a felony. Curtis conspired to bring her back to make a false statement, which was also a crime. How was he the bad guy here?

Sonny said he’d do what he needed to do and nothing Carly said would change that. She said Kristina would be dead if not for Marco. Was this how Sonny repaid him? He said it wasn’t about Marco. It was about Sidwell. Sidwell had nearly got Kristina killed. He’d torched Charlie’s and had to face the consequences. Otherwise, their kids were in even more danger than they were now. Carly said it was a trap. He’d have to find another way to get Sidwell to stand down. If he couldn’t do it for the kids, do it for Morgan. They couldn’t lose another kid. Morgan had died, Michael had been shot and almost burned alive, and Kristina had been held hostage and almost killed. When they found out Morgan was gone, she would have given anything to turn back to a time when they could have done something different. Sonny said him too, and she said, now is that time. He had to stop the violence before they lost someone else they loved.

Michael said Sasha and Daisy were leaving Port Charles, and Jason asked, why? Michael said Daisy had disappeared. They’d found her in her bassinet, and she was fine, but they didn’t know how she got there. Sasha said Olivia thought she was sleep deprived or hormonal, but someone had broken in and moved Daisy to make her think Daisy was gone. Michael said it could be about anyone, and Sasha said she wasn’t sticking around to find out. Jason asked if Michael was good with this, and Michael said Sasha was right. They weren’t safe here. Jason asked where Sasha wanted to go.

Gio listened in. and Sidwell told Jordan to ask Anna to send a detective to the airport. The night Natalia died, Sonny’s private plane was ready to go on a flight to Belize. Natalia was going to take it and never be heard from again. Perhaps she took her life because she didn’t want to face what Sonny had planned.

Boyle said the people of Port Charles deserved to be safe. Not just from mob violence, like the fire at the club owned by Sonny’s daughter. They needed protection from the coercion of the criminal element that led to Natalia’s death. He asked if Marco had a comment, and Marco said his mother’s death was tragic and those responsible would be held accountable. Laura walked in and Boyle asked if she’d join him in condemning Sonny Corinthos, who was responsible for hounding Natalia to her death.

Curtis said he knew who Drew was, even if Kai didn’t, and Drew said he had proof that Portia abused her position and falsified medical records.  Curtis said Drew would never let that leak and give up his leverage, and Drew asked if Curtis wanted to call his bluff. His first stop would be the hospital, then the PCPD. Curtis needed to do one simple thing or Drew would do that.

Emma told Josslyn that it broke her heart how animals were tested in a lab rather than being out in the wild, and Josslyn said she hadn’t found out anything yet. Dalton hadn’t even let her in the lab. Emma told her to find a way in. Dalton was up to something. Josslyn said she wouldn’t talk to Emma about her job, but Emma said she was just telling Josslyn goodnight. She was leaving to meet Vaughn. Josslyn told her to have fun, and Emma said they both would, and left.

Ric said he could drive Elizabeth home to change, but she said it wasn’t necessary. She gave him back his handkerchief, and Ava asked to speak with Ric privately.

Martin said he couldn’t thank Stella enough for getting his insurance reinstated. Desperation and pain were bad combination, but thanks to her, he was a new man. He intended on writing a letter… She told him to be quiet or they’d both be in serious trouble.

Laura said the investigation into Natalia’s death was officially closed and asked the press to give the family the room they needed to grieve. She’d meet Boyle in a debate, but wasn’t sinking into the mud with him. Boyle asked if Marco knew that Sonny had been held at the PCPD for 24 hours. The police were going to charge him with Natalia’s murder until he was mysteriously let go. Marco said he wanted justice and would release a statement. It was a private matter and Boyle was intending on exploiting his mother’s death. It was an act of manipulation and Marco gave him no support. If Boyle kept harassing him, he’d take legal action against him.  

Gio showed up at Sonny’s and said he needed to talk. Carly told Sonny that she’d said what she needed to say. Please think about it. She left and Sonny asked what was on Gio’s mind. Gio said he came from Ava’s gallery and Sidwell was there. He overheard Sidwell talking about Sonny. He’d said Sonny’s plane was scheduled to fly to Belize on the day Natalia died and he wanted the PCPD to get the flight plan. He wanted them to reopen the investigation. Sonny told him, stay out of it.

Jason said when they got where they were going, he’d secure the location, and get Sasha and Daisy settled in. Sasha thanked Michael for helping and trusting her. She was worried he might be humoring her. Michael said she made the right decision, when Daisy started fussing. Michael picked her up and said he thought she was hungry. Sasha said she’d take Daisy to the house to feed her. Daisy would be sleeping in her room every night until departed. She left and Michael told Jason that he didn’t know how to do this.

Michael told Jason that he loved Daisy so much and now he was going to lose her. He had no idea when he’d see her again. He wouldn’t be there for her first steps or her first words, and his wouldn’t be the face she recognized, but he couldn’t fight Sasha on this. Jason said she had good instincts. For what it was worth (🍷), he’d been in Michael’s position. He’d had to walk away from Danny and Jake more than once. It never got easier, but Michael’s situation was different. None of this was his fault.

Josslyn met Carly at the pool and said she’d gotten Carly’s message. Carly said she was fine. She just wanted to see Josslyn and tell her how much she loved her. They hugged, and Josslyn said she loved Carly too, but she was worried. Did something happen?

Ric said he showed Elizabeth some attention, and Ava threw herself at the hired hand. Ava said they’d been talking about the show, but Ric said she was flirting. She said she was surprised he noticed. He was putty in Elizabeth’s hands when she wanted something and dirt under her feet when she didn’t, but he was too smitten to realize.

Drew told Curtis that he wanted one thing. A front-page exposé on Sonny Corinthos and Natalia Ramirez. Curtis said it sounded like an Invader headline, and Drew said, underneath that headline would be an accurate report that Sonny was held for 24 hours and questioned about Natalia’s death. He also wanted Curtis to publish a timeline on Sonny and Natalia’s relationship. He handed Curtis an envelope and said he wanted Curtis to include a copy of the autopsy report. Curtis asked where he got it, and Drew said, an anonymous source, but Curtis said he needed more than that. Drew said Curtis had more than enough to go to print. It was a small price to pay for his wife’s freedom.  

Jordan told Portia that she came in peace to clear the air. She’d had a conversation with Curtis and told him that she didn’t want to risk blurring the lines. From now on, they’d only see each other on family occasions and when they couldn’t avoid it. She wanted Portia to know that she wasn’t a woman who stuck her nose in other people’s marriages. Whatever happened with Portia and Curtis, she was out. Portia said Curtis must have eaten Jordan’s speech up with a spoon, but she wasn’t buying a word.

Gio said he was sorry. He thought Sonny should know. Sonny said he appreciated Gio coming over, but didn’t want him to go near Sidwell, who was a dangerous man. He didn’t want Gio to be near him either. He didn’t agree with most of what Tracy said, but she was right when she told Gio to stay clear of him. When she’d tried to get Gio not to sign the papers for the trust fund, she was trying to do the right thing. Gio said she was trying to control him, but Sonny said she was trying to save him. When he was a young guy, he made mistakes and thought he’d be the only one to suffer. Then he realized the people he cared about could get hurt, but it was too late. Gio said, for what? and Sonny said, to get out, to change things. So now, all he could do was protect his family. Gio said Sonny was his family too. Didn’t he get to protect Sonny? Sonny said what he wanted Gio to do was not listen in on Sidwell or anyone else. Stay clear.

Marco said he knew about Boyle and wasn’t surprised he’d stoop so low, and Laura said she was relieved Marco saw Boyle for who he was. She wished his father would do the same. Marco said he disagreed with his father on many things, but make no mistake. He held Sonny responsible for his mother’s death and Laura considered him a friend. Shame on her.

Ric said Ava was coming off as ungrateful and he’d been good to her through his misfortune. She said he wouldn’t have known Kristina was responsible for his misfortune if not for her. Without her, he was a lawyer with a schoolboy crush, He said he was going to go before they said something they’d regret. He left and we saw Cody had been listening in.

Stella said if Martin had taken care of his back issue in the past, insurance would have considered it a preexisting condition. She was seeing it more and more, patients being turned down to care they were entitled to. Martin said he wanted people to know how well she took care of him, but she said she just filled out some paperwork, a request to get him the assistance he needed. He said he wanted her to know, if it did get out, he’d do everything and anything to defend her, and she told him to take care of himself. She thought it was better for them both if no one knew how she may or may not have finessed the system.

Trina was alone at the gallery when Kai arrived.

Laura told Marco that she and Sonny shared a grandchild. That made him family, but didn’t mean she agreed with everything he did. Marco said Laura was the mayor and took an oath to uphold the law, and she said she did. Right now, Marco’s emotions were holding Sonny accountable, but from a from legal point of view, it was different story. He said, what about ethically and morally? and she said they all had to follow the dictates of their conscience. She was truly sorry and wished him and his family peace. She left, and Marco told Lucas that Boyle was an ass. He wasn’t going to let Boyle use him, but he did blame Sonny for his mother’s death and didn’t want it to come between them. Lucas said Sonny’s actions were his own and had nothing to do with them, and Marco said, good. Sonny had already cost him his mother, and he didn’t want to lose Lucas. Lucas said he wouldn’t. He wasn’t going anywhere,

On the phone, Curtis said he wanted a full media blast on their website and social media. Did Sonny Corinthos end Natalia Ramirez?  

Sonny said Gio needed to stay away until things cooled down, but Gio said Sonny stood by him and he wanted to stand by Sonny. Sonny said the worst that could happen was Gio getting hurt because of him. Do it for his grandpa. Gio said if that’s what Sonny wanted, and Sonny said it was… for now. They hugged and Gio sniffled.  

Carly told Josslyn that she’d had a conversation with Sonny about Kristina and what happened at Charlie’s. He could have lost a daughter, and she wanted to tell hers that she loved her. She would never ask Josslyn to live her life small, but Josslyn was precious to her. So while she was living her big, beautiful life, be careful. Josslyn said, for her, and they hugged.

Jason told Michael that his working for Sonny was intolerable for Sam. She’d had the right to protect Danny, but Michael didn’t deserve to lose his daughter. He was sorry, but unfortunately, it was the right thing to do. Michael said he’d promised Sasha that as much as he loved his dad, he wouldn’t be that kind of father. He promised that nothing like the fire would ever happen to his kids, but he never thought he’d have to make good on his promise so soon.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Anna walks into the Brown Dog Bar and approaches Isaiah at the bar. She wonders if she can ask him a favor. She’s waiting for Felicia and noticed her granddaughter is here with a man at least ten years her senior. Isaiah asks if she’s concerned, but she says she doesn’t know if she is or not, but she’s definitely intrigued. She’s wondering if he’d mind being her cover.

Trina thanks Kai for hanging around and says she has to clean up a couple of things. Then they can head to the afterparty. She can’t believe he missed Joel Sartore. He was talking about why he does what he does, and it was so inspirational. Where was he? Kai said, something important came up with Trina’s dad.

Portia tells Curtis, it was no surprise Trina put on a wonderful show. Joel Sartore’s photographs were absolutely wonderful. Curtis says he sent Trina congratulatory flowers, and Portia says she’s sure Trina loved them, but she thought for sure he’d make it there before she did. Trina looked for him all night. He says, unfortunately, he was here being blackmailed by Drew again.

Lulu thanks Laura for coming by, and Laura asks, what’s going on? Lulu says, Brook is mad, and Laura asks, about what? Lulu says, about what Brook thinks she did to Gio. Now Brook is going after Rocco. Laura asks what she means, and Lulu says she means now she has Brook to thank for Rocco knowing about Britt Westbourne.

Rocco searches for something on Spyder-Finder.

Chase comes out of the water by the boathouse, and Tracy says, just the man she wants to see. He asks if everything is okay, and she tells him that his stroke is off, and his breathing is too soon in the cycle of the surf. He says he’ll keep it in mind, and she asks if he’s seen Brook. He says, not yet. He was working all night and then came here. Is everything okay? She says, no. She thinks his wife is barreling headlong into disaster and he needs to stop her.

Michael walks into the living room and sees Brook. He says he’s sorry. He didn’t realize anyone was in here. Is she okay? Brook says she’s fine. The room is all his. She starts to leave, but he says, wait. What’s going on? He doesn’t mean to pressure her about anything, but he’s happy to listen. She says she thought things were bad enough when Gio discovered she’d given him up. Now her son truly hates her. Honestly, she doesn’t know if it can get any worse. Dante walks in and asks why the hell she did that to his son.

Laura says, Britt Westbourne has been dead for years. What could Brook possibly say about her that’s relevant today? Lulu says, everything. Rocco knew none of it. She and Dante never told him the story of how he came to be. Or more accurately, they had no chance to tell him. Laura asks why Brook took it upon herself to tell Rocco anything about Britt, and Lulu says, to hurt her. Laura hugs her and says she’s so sorry, and Lulu says, God forbid he find out from his parents who can explain it in a way he could understand. Brook set it up for him to find out in the worst way. All because she wanted to cause maximum damage.

Chase says, with all due respect, he doesn’t think he and Tracy should discuss Brook behind her back. If she’s concerned about her granddaughter, take it up with her. Tracy says, if only it were that easy to rein Brook in. Clearly, he still has no idea what he’s dealing with.

Brook asks what Dante is referring to, but he says, don’t. Not after what she did. Michael asks, what’s going on? and Dante says he knew Brook could be destructive, but being this cruel to his kid is a new low. Michael suggests he step back. He doesn’t appreciate Dante talking to Brook that way. Dante says Michael wants to defend this person who dug up sensitive, ancient history about Britt Westbourne, the woman who stole an embryo belonging to him and Lulu. She planted it in herself and gave birth to Rocco, passing him off as her own. Michael says he knows it was awful, but what does that have to do with what’s happening now? Dante says, ask Brook. She made a file about that horrible woman and left it where Rocco or anyone else could find it. He asks Brook to tell him that he’s wrong. Please. Go ahead.

Isaiah says he’s in. He’ll absolutely cover for Anna. Anna thanks him, and at a table nearby, Vaughn suggests he and Emma get out of here and find a quieter place to talk. This bar isn’t really his scene. Emma says she knows a cool place closer to campus, and he says, sounds great. They get up and head for the door, but Anna intercepts them and asks who Emma’s friend is.

Curtis tells Portia, arrangements were in place to bring Jacinda back to Port Charles, but when the P.I. got there, she was gone. Portia says, she ran? Why? Curtis says, she didn’t run. Drew paid her to disappear. She asks how he knows, and he says, Drew told him. She says she doesn’t understand, and he says he didn’t either, but then Kai showed up and said he was the one who told Drew about the plan. She asks why he’d do something like that… Oh no. Trina. Does Trina know? He says he’s not sure, but he’s sure as hell going to make sure she does, and Portia says, this is very bad. Trina cares for Kai. Curtis says he knows, and Portia says, who knows how she’ll react when she finds out Kai betrayed them? but Curtis says, if he were Portia, he’d be more worried about Drew. Once again, Drew has them where he wants them. She says, all because of her.

Kai tells Trina that the reason he missed the opening was because he went to her dad’s office to talk to him and caught the tail end of Curtis’s conversation with Felicia. Trina says, Felicia works with her mother at the hospital, but he says, they weren’t talking about the hospital. They were talking about that Jacinda woman Curtis was trying to find. She says, the escort? Maybe they should change subject for a lot of reasons. He says she wishes he could for a lot of reasons, but he can’t. Jacinda is gone again. Drew arranged for her to disappear. Trina says she doesn’t know why they’re discussing it when it has nothing to do with them, but he says, it does. The reason Drew knew was that he told Drew what her dad was planning.

Anna asks to be introduced to Emma’s friend, but Emma said they were just heading out. Anna says she’ll buy them a drink. She insists. They sit back down, when Anna’s phone dings. She says, Felicia can’t make it, so she thinks it worked out perfectly. She has more time to get to know… Name? He says, Vaughn, and Anna shakes his hand. She says, nice to meet him. She’s the Police Commissioner. How does he know Emma? He says, from PCU, and she asks if he’s a student there. He says he works in the facility department, and Anna says, oh. Did he attend the university many years ago? Vaughn laughs and says he’s so sorry. He has to use the men’s room. Excuse him. He leaves and Emma asks if Anna is planning on fingerprinting him, but Anna says she hasn’t decided. Does Emma realize he’s at least ten years older than she is? She has questions. Emma asks if Anna never dated an older guy, but Anna says they’re not talking about her. Emma says, come on. He’s hot. And she’s an adult. She can date who she wants. Anna says she broke into the lab at her last university. He works in facility at PCU. Is he aware that she’s using him?

Dante says Brook went looking for information on Britt because she wanted to hurt Lulu, and Brook says, yes, but she didn’t tell Rocco, and she didn’t leave it out. It was one the table under Deception materials. No one was supposed to find it. He says, yet somehow, they did, but she says, they weren’t meant to. It was an accident. Dante says she left a file out containing private information about his son in the house his son lives in. It was like leaving out a loaded weapon. She wanted him to find it. Maybe she planned it – he doesn’t know – but she did it to hurt Lulu, and it’s got to stop. He gets that Lulu upset Gio who thinks Brook gave him up without a second thought, but she can’t blame Lulu. That’s all her. Michael says, that’s enough.

Chase says he doesn’t need Tracy telling him anything about his wife, and she says, how about if she tells him about her and Brook. They’re a lot alike. He says he’s aware of the traits they have in common, and she says, of course (🍷), but she suspects he sees Brook through rose colored glasses. He says he supposes he’s biased when it comes to his wife, and she says, he’s supposed to be. When someone intentionally hurts them, they don’t take it lying down. She’s blown up her own life more than once seeking revenge and she doesn’t want Brook to follow in her footsteps. Chase asks who Tracy thinks Brook is going after, and she says, Brook holds Lulu responsible for what’s happening with Gio and there’s no doubt in her mind that Brook is going after Lulu. Does he think Brook’s justified?

Laura says, that’s just awful, and asks how Rocco is handling it. Lulu says, he’s confused and asking questions. She’s at a loss and thinks he’s overwhelmed. Brook’s main goal was to cause chaos. Laura suggests they focus on Rocco. What he needs right now is understanding. Lulu says she’s his mother and Rocco is her and Dante’s biological son. Britt gave birth to him, but she and Dante are the only parents he’s known. Laura says, and the only parents who have loved him, and Lulu says she knows that. Why does it feel like Rocco is pulling away? Laura says, because at Rocco’s age, information like this can change everything.  

Trina asks if Kai is saying that after they talked, he went and told Drew – her father’s enemy – what her father was planning? He says, yes, and she asks how he could do that. He says, how could he not?  

Curtis says he’s not going to let Drew take Portia down. He’ll do what he has to in order to stop him. Portia says, it’s a beautiful gesture, but he’s not doing it for her. He’s doing it for Trina. She appreciates his moral code and him not letting her hang out to dry, but she wishes he wanted to protect her because she’s his wife. He says, fine. She did cause this and he’s not saving her for her, but for Trina and himself. He wants to be able to look in the mirror and know he honored his vows and did what he could to protect her. She says she’s sorry she’s not worthy of his honorable intentions. She’s sure Jordan is, right? …Yeah. Don’t wait up. She leaves.

Laura says, it’s really painful when you feel your children pulling away, but she thinks it’s inevitable. When a kid finds out their parents have a complicated history, it can’t be easy to explain. Lulu says, a complicated past is the Spencer way, and Laura says, it really is. It can be painful for a child to find out their parents existed in ways they knew nothing about. It can affect how they feel about themselves and how they relate to their parents, but she’s found out over the years that none of it outweighs a strong foundation of love. Lulu asks if she thinks it will pass, and Laura says she does. She thinks going forward, Rocco may look through life with a different lens and he may have questions, but Rocco knows how much they love him. That’s because Lulu is a wonderful mother. Her love has never wavered. Lulu puts her head on Laura’s shoulder, and Laura says, it’s gonna be okay.

Michael says, Dante needs to back off. He has no idea what it cost Brook to give up Gio and has no right to judge. Dante says, he’s right. He doesn’t know what Brook went through. Brook says she appreciates everything Michael said, but she thinks it’s something she and Dante have to work out for themselves. Michael asks if she’s sure, and she says she is and thanks him. Michael leaves, and Brook says, it’s just them, so let her have it – again.

Rocco goes outside, and Laura says, nice to see him. He says, her too, and she says she hears it’s been a rough couple of days.

Chase says, Lulu crossed the line. Tracy knows that. Tracy says, letting Gio find out his parentage at the Nurses Ball wasn’t Lulu’s finest hour, and he says, neither was the harassment, bullying, and threats that led up to it. Although it needed to come out for everyone’s sake, including Brook’s. She says, they’re in complete agreement so far, and he says, now they’re going in different directions. He also believes had it been handled delicately, Brook could have built a relationship with her son instead of praying every night that he’ll forgive her someday. She says, he will. He just needs time. Chase says he’s not so sure. Lulu was relentless and did it in the worst way possible. She asks if he agrees in helping punish Lulu.  

Kai says he heard Trina’s dad plotting against Drew. He said he was going to pay Jacinda to lie and say Drew took the ketamine on purpose. He was standing next to Drew when Tracy flipped the press conference and called out Drew for drug use and said he should be kicked out of office. He knew the truth about what happened. Trina knows Drew has been good to him with the surgery and the internship, but even if he hadn’t done those things, he couldn’t let Drew be accused of something he didn’t do. That’s not who he is. He doesn’t live his life that way. Trina says she seriously respects his sense of loyalty. She just wishes it extended to her.

Michael goes to see Curtis and says he got Curtis’s text. It sounded important. Curtis says, it is. He thought he should give Michael and his family advance warning. Michael says, that doesn’t sound good, and Curtis says, in about an hour, the headline will be the same throughout all Aurora Media platforms and he thought Michael should hear it. Did Sonny Corinthos End Natalia Ramirez? He shows Michael the copy.

At the Brown Dog Bar, Portia asks Isaiah if this seat is taken, and he says, it was, but he believes his companion has moved on. She says she knows how that feels, and he says, long day? She says, they all feel long nowadays. She ran into Jordan who’s trying to steal her husband. She’d be lying if she didn’t say Jordan is right about one thing. If her marriage is ending, she has no one to blame but herself.

Vaughn returns and says he’s sorry. There was a line. Anna says, in the men’s room? and he says, yeah. Emma asks if Vaughn still wants to get out of here, and Anna says don’t let her scare him off. They were just getting acquainted. Josslyn comes in and tells Vaughn, okay. He wins.

Vaughn asks what Josslyn is doing here, and Emma says she can answer that. She told Josslyn they were going out. She can’t explain Josslyn showing up at the Brown Dog though. Is she stalking them? Josslyn says, hardly. She still has Vaughn’s location on her phone. Emma says, yikes. Sharing her location with a guy she just met. Pretty thirsty. Josslyn says, yikes. Snatching up the guy she just broke up with. Pretty desperate. Anna says, okay, ladies. Let’s not resort to stereotypical female behavior in the Brown Dog. Josslyn says, right, and Emma says, Josslyn is here, so make her point. Josslyn says she made it. If she walks out, she and Vaughn are done. It’s either her or Emma.

Rocco tells Laura that the hardest part is, no matter what his mom says, he keeps thinking he might never have been born if Britt hadn’t stolen the embryo that was him. She asks why he keeps thinking that, and he says he feels like his parents didn’t choose to have him. Lulu listens in, and Rocco says he was stolen, and suddenly, whether they wanted him or not, they were parents. Laura says she assures him there was nothing sudden about it. They wanted him. They were desperate to have him. They fought for him and prayed for him and when he showed up, it was nothing short of a miracle. He says, no one has called him a miracle before, but she promises they did, many times. The thing about miracles is, they never happen the way you expect them to. Actually, Rocco knows something about this. All the afternoons he sat at his mother’s hospital bed, holding his mother’s hand, and praying for her to come out of the coma. She came back one day and he got his miracle. It wasn’t the way they expected and certainly not in an easy way, but they’re still grateful, aren’t they? Rocco says he’s always grateful for Sam, and she says, always. She knows it’s a confusing time and knows he’s been left with a lot of questions. That’s perfectly understandable, but one thing he never has to question is his parents’ love for him. That is something he can depend on for the rest of his life.  

Dante tells Brook that what he said about her giving up Gio was out of line. He owns that, but he feels she was out of line too. He knows how much she despises Lulu – Brook says, Lulu feels the same about her too – but to involve his son, who’s now questioning what he’s known… Brook says it was never her intention, and he says he knows, but it doesn’t matter. At the end, it was the same result. She says she wanted to hurt Lulu and Rocco got caught in the crossfire. She regrets it, truly she does. It might be the worst thing she’s ever done.  

Chase tells Tracy that it wasn’t fair, but there was no grand payback scheme or plot for revenge, and she says, Brook is smart and motivated. Lulu made mistakes, and Brook homed in on the worst one, then exploited it. He says, for what it’s worth (🍷), he doesn’t like her talking about his wife like that, but she says, it’s true also that Brook loves him and respects him and wants to be the best version of herself for him. That’s why she thinks he’s the only one who can stop her. He says he doesn’t police his wife or tell her what to do, and she says, no good can come of these two women destroying each other. She loves them both so much. He asks what she wants him to do, and she says she wants him to see if he can stop this from devolving any further. They’ll just end up hurting each other and themselves.

Trina says she gave Kai a heads up that Drew was working against them, but it didn’t matter. His loyalty starts and stops with Drew. Kai says, that’s not true, and she asks if he’s sure. That’s not what it feels like. He asks if she’s saying she doesn’t trust him anymore, and she says, why should she? They agreed to stay out of it, and he’d told her that he wouldn’t say anything, then he did the complete opposite. So tell her, why she should trust him when he betrayed her family and her?

Michael says he takes it that Drew insisted, and Curtis says, correct. He was on the verge of outmaneuvering Drew and getting his family out from under Drew’s thumb when the weasel got out ahead of him. Michael says, he’s not alone. He told Curtis to stop Drew from taking his family down. Curtis says he’s not sure he has any moves left, and Michael says, professional or personal? Curtis says, maybe both. He’s not sure he and Portia have what it takes to make it through this.

Laura says she knows Rocco’s parents are upset. They wanted to be the ones to tell him and didn’t want him to be blindsided. When he talks to them, please try to remember what they talked about. Promise her to remember he is their miracle and always will be. He says he promises and thanks her. She says, one more thing. He’s allowed to ask questions. Ask all of them and keep asking until he gets answers that feel satisfying. That’s important. This is his life. They hug, and he says, she always gets it. She says she tries.

Brook tells Dante that she told herself that Lulu needed a taste of her own medicine, so she’d know how it felt to have someone digging around in her past without her knowledge or consent. He says, she used his son, but she says she never meant for Rocco to see it. Dante says, but he did, and she says she knows. She gets sick to her stomach when she thinks about it. Rocco is hurting and probably questioning everything and it’s all her fault. Now she has to live with that. She’s so, so sorry. He says he appreciates that, and she says, if it makes him feel better, Gio thinks she did it on purpose and hates her more because she hurt his little brother. She can’t tell him that he shouldn’t. Dante says it doesn’t make him feel better. He knows she’s sorry and believes her, but unfortunately, there’s not a way to fix the way Rocco and Gio are feeling. She says she knows. The silver lining is, now that Gio thinks she’s the lowest of the low, maybe he’ll be more open to Dante.  

Vaughn tells Emma that he’s sorry. This is super awkward. Emma says, actually… Josslyn is kind of crazy, and he says he’s into it… and her. What can he say? Sorry. He’ll see Emma around. Emma says, see ya, and Vaughn steps away with Josslyn.   

Tracy tells Chase, don’t misunderstand. The way he sees Brook, the warmth and kindness, is real. But so is the viciousness and fight. He says, she’s not wrong, and she says it would be a tragedy to lose the beautiful part he amplifies. Convince Brook that the way forward isn’t revenge, but building a family with him and a relationship with her son.

Kai says, it wasn’t an easy decision. He cares about Trina and her family. She says he cares about Drew more, but he says, it’s not that. He can’t stand by and let something happen he knows is wrong. She says she told him that her parents and Drew’s situation was complicated. He didn’t have enough information to know what was wrong and decided her parents were the villains. He says he knows what he heard. Her father was going to pay Jacinda to lie about Drew. How can she expect him to sit back and let someone be destroyed for something they didn’t do? She wouldn’t want to be with him if he was a person who was okay with that. She says, right now, she’s not sure she wants to be with him at all.

Isaiah says, Portia is putting her time and effort into competing with Jordan and proving herself to Curtis. She shouldn’t have to do all that. She’s a fabulous doctor and a wonderful woman. If her husband can’t see that, maybe he’s the problem.  

Josslyn says Vaughn is welcome for the save. Did he think it would have worked? He says, probably not. He’s ditching the plan. It’s not worth it if Anna’s eyes are on him. Brennan wasn’t kidding. She’s sharp and she’s onto him. They have to sell this. He kisses her, and Anna tells Emma, they’re a bit intense. Emma says, Josslyn never misses a chance to embarrass herself. She’s got a gift. Anna says she’s sorry. She doesn’t know if Emma is just acting interested, but she thinks it’s better not to involve this guy. It will work out for the best. Emma says she thinks Anna is right, and looks at the master key hidden in her hand.

Isaiah tells Portia that he learned early on, if you play your own game, you have a better shot at winning. Maybe it’s time she played her own game and not Jordan’s. Portia says, the next round is on her, and tells the bartender, two, please.  

Michael says, don’t give up yet, and Curtis says he hopes he and Portia are stronger than Drew’s manipulations. For his family’s sake, he hopes they are. Michael says he meant what he said. Do what he has to in order to protect his family. Curtis thanks him, and Michael says he’s going to protect his and let his dad know about the headlines he’s about to see. He leaves.   

Kai says he thought Trina’s dad was wrong, so he did something about it. That doesn’t mean he’s disloyal to her. She says, that’s what it feels like, and he says, all he did was tell the truth, but she says, no. He made a choice and chose Drew. But one thing about her is that she’ll always choose her family, no matter what, and he will never be family to her. He flounders for a moment and says he loves her, but she says, get out. He leaves and she stumbles back, sitting on a bench.

Chase says, Tracy is right. Brook’s number one priority should be Gio. She missed out on so much time. Tracy says, good. They’re in agreement. He says he appreciates her concern about his marriage, but he loves Brook and he’s going to spend the rest of his life with her. He promises right here and now, there’s nothing Brook could do that will ever drive him away. Nothing.  

Dante says when Brook gave Gio up, she did it with the intention of doing right by their son. He knows she made that decision from a place of love. That’s where it all starts, right? A parent’s love. They absolutely want only the best for you. Gio needs to know that and feel it from both of them. She’s got to believe she’ll get the chance to show him that. She says she hopes so, and they hug.

Lulu thanks Laura so much for her help with Rocco. Laura really helped her too. Laura says, Lulu and Dante have a wonderful son. It may take a little time, but Rocco has such a good head on his shoulders and loves them both to pieces. It’s going to be fine. Have faith in that. Have faith in him.

Rocco emails Obrecht: Dear Doctor Obrecht, You may not know me, and I don’t remember meeting you, but I used to be your grandson.

On Monday, Brennan tells Josslyn if they’re going to do this she has to fully commit

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Well, phooey. But cool she’s living her dream.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-casting-news-kirsten-storms-done-taping-as-maxie-for-the-year-moving-out-of-la/

Here’s hoping GH wins the big one.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/the-52nd-annual-daytime-emmy-awards-the-complete-list-of-soap-nominations/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/stars-from-general-hospital-days-of-our-lives-and-more-react-to-their-daytime-emmy-nominations/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Captain Kerry said bosun Caio was just surviving and bid him ciao. In Caio’s interview, he said he was surprised, which explains why he got the boot. It was the crew night out and the only ones who made out were Jess and Solène, much to the delight and disappointment of the dudes. Except for Kyle, who felt stupid. I still wonder how the hell they get up for work the next day. I could barely do a desk job with a hangover when I worked in an office. The guests, who owned a strip club, wanted a dinner theme reminiscent of teen shows in the 90s, and because it was Carnivale in St. Maartin, Fraser decided to bring it to a party on the dock. The guests came in hot, and not in a good way. Fraser thought they were rude and classless, and predicted the cruise would be hell. It didn’t take long before the captain told the crew that the guests were becoming rowdy and to let him know if they crossed the line. Demand we can do. Rude and demeaning we cannot do. Maybe it’s me, but you’d think a group of people in the adult entertainment industry would act like adults. Instead, they were like a bunch of drunk kindergarteners. Unfortunately, Fraser’s Carnivale looked like it was about to be the Fyre Festival 2.0.

Next Gen NYC

The group took a trip to the Jersey Shore for Brooks’s birthday, and Charlie continued to be a d*ck, even though he admitted the Shore didn’t suck. Being fascinated with this group is my new guilty pleasure. Who else would get so excited over seeing mac and cheese at a grocery store hot bar?

The Valley

This show is making me weary, since I don’t think I could spend even five minutes with any one of these people. Jax was still clueless, complaining that he’d just gotten out of rehab and Brittany wasn’t giving him a chance. Apparently, he doesn’t understand what divorce papers are or that rage texting her pretty much the entire time was not a good look. He didn’t exactly show anyone that he’d changed. It was interesting to hear Zack calling anyone else messy, since he’s possibly the messiest of all. The group went on a cruise which started off copacetic, but quickly degenerated into a bunch of fights. One of the best moments was Jesse asking if production knew what camel toe was. Um… they work for Bravo.

Real Housewives Of Miami

Ugh. These women. I kind of like Stephanie, and not just because she has a private jet. I appreciated that she was the only one to call out Lisa for being two hours late. Although they were headed to a Greek-themed Narcissistic party, so perhaps it was on point. Seriously though, Lisa has a rep for being incredibly late, and like Stephanie, it’s my pet peeve. You might as well say your time is more valuable than everyone else’s.

Real Housewives of Orange County

Tamra and her screech are back. Shannon is off lemons and on to The Golden Door. The Dubrows have scrapped the idea of reconstructing the skabillion dollar house they bought and want to just move on. Emily and Katie are at odds, with Gina playing referee or pot stirrer. I haven’t decided which. And Jenn is still with Ryan.

Random Reality Items

Not her year. But if you’re making $250K a month, is spending $105K that unreasonable?

https://ew.com/denise-richards-husband-aaron-phypers-files-for-divorce-11767773

More sad news. I don’t think it’s going to go well for him on social media. Scheana is beloved by many.

Apparently, they’ve found more people who are 30+ who want to pretend they’re 14 on the weekends.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Trainwreck: The Cult of American Apparel. Netflix. I heard about CEO Dov Charney before, but watching him in action was stomach churning. It’s no surprise that when his disgusting machinations caught up with him and he was fired, Yeezy picked him up.

https://www.pressparty.com/pg/newsdesk/Netflix/view/465621/

What Jennifer Did. Netflix. Since this is a true crime doc, the spoilers aren’t really spoilers, and it was pretty apparent what the outcome was from the jump. Interesting info about AI in documentaries in this article. I hadn’t noticed, but then again, I’m usually multitasking.

https://www.slashfilm.com/1562704/true-story-netflix-what-jennifer-did-explained/

I’m Your Venus. Netflix. This was just sad, although the ending had some uplifting moments. Venus Xtravaganza (Paris is Burning) was a trans girl living her best life when that life was taken from her at 23 years old. Most of this was about her family’s battle to get to the bottom of her murder and also have her name legally changed. It was precious to see how much they loved her. Sadly, the case still remains open.

https://ew.com/venus-xtravaganza-documentary-new-details-murder-case-11759646

Barbara Walters: Tell Me Everything. Hulu. Bette Midler probably said it best: She did her homework. The best interviewers are the ones who have actually studied their subject beforehand, and Barbara was one of the best. Like Martha Stewart, she was a woman in a man’s world and had to overcome a lot of hurdles. So many women in broadcasting have her to thank for paving the way. She might have been considered rude – again, like Martha – but if she’d been a man, she’d have been admired for her no-nonsense ability to get things done. I actually know someone who was a caterer at a dinner she attended, and he confirmed her rudeness, but it probably becomes second nature. Or she might have just been hangry.  

Sinners. HBO/Max. IMO, a horror masterpiece. One of the best things I’ve seen ever. I love a horror story that parallels the supernatural with real life horror, and like Lovecraft Country, this delivers. Twin brothers open a juke joint in 1932, and some uninvited guests arrive with the KKK not far behind. The story was unique, the special effects more than worthy, the character development was remarkable, the acting superb, and the music phenomenal. There’s a dance scene at the club that’s just incredible and absolutely transported me to another place and time. The film was also sexy without being overt or even showing any nudity. I’m hoping to see this sweep the Oscars and it should have a sporting chance, since the Academy is more apt to honor a horror film than it used to be. I can’t say enough good things about this movie. Just go watch it. Now.

https://theeverygirl.com/sinners-movie-review/

And they went a sustainable route with costumes. Extra kudos!

https://www.slashfilm.com/1905800/sinners-marvel-movie-blade-costumes/

🔮 Watch Of the Future…

Premieres July 22nd.

https://people.com/welcome-to-plathville-micah-girlfriend-faces-the-family-wrath-exclusive-11756749

https://parade.com/news/tlc-reality-star-27-accused-of-verbal-abuse-in-shocking-audio-shared-by-ex

🫏 News From the Wild…

🦛 Baby’s first birthday.

https://people.com/moo-deng-viral-pygmy-hippo-celebrates-1st-birthday-11769791

🦈 Well it is Shark Week soon.

https://people.com/diver-swims-into-real-life-sharknado-encounter-amid-feeding-frenzy-exclusive-11768103

🐕 Superdog.

https://people.com/james-gunn-reveals-how-rescue-dog-inspired-krypto-in-superman-exclusive-11758362

🐐 Quotes of the Week

Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do. – Pelé

The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.Dolly Parton

The greatest deception [humans] suffer is from their own opinions. – Leonardo da Vinci

But instead of spending our lives running towards our dreams, we are often running away from a fear of failure or a fear of criticism. – Erin Wright

You are not your resume, you are your work. – Seth Godin

Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.Oprah Winfrey

The bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep. – E. Cossman (Or sometimes a good stiff drink.)

The truth is, everyone is going to hurt you. You just got to find the ones worth suffering for.Bob Marley

You were a little bit the victim of a surgical misadventure. – Dr. Terry Dubrow, Botched

🌌 Touching the Sky…

Until next week, stay safe; stay keeping an open mind and respecting local culture when traveling; and stay remembering that miracles never happen the way you expect them to.

July 3, 2025 – GH Weekdays, No Friday For You, Happy 4th, Soap Suds, Down But Not Out, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, A Farewell, Dressed For Independence, Septenary Quotes & Pie

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Natalia walked into the christening and sat down. Carly wondered why she was there, and Sonny said he’d handle it. He asked to speak to Natalia outside, and they left. Sasha brought in Daisy.

Lucas and Marco prepared to cook dinner in Sonny’s old kitchen, but Lucas lost the recipe and admitted he was no chef. Marco said they’d have to improvise.

In his office, Curtis was about to get busy with Portia on the desk, when Jordan walked in, turned around, and left. Curtis said Portia had set that up, and Portia said she sure as hell did.

Turner asked Anna if failing to take down Sonny was a dereliction of duty or incompetence, and Anna told her again to take her gripe to internal affairs. Sonny wasn’t stupid; he was smart and strategic. Turner said, so was Anna, and wondered if Sonny was really one step ahead of Anna or if her personal allegiance was causing her to look the other way.

Natalia said Sonny was supposed to be on the plane with her, and he said she wasn’t supposed to be there. He was giving her a new life where she’d be comfortable, and he could monitor her safety. Natalia insisted he’d said he’d go with her (he actually never did) and whined about not knowing anyone. Was dumping someone in a foreign country his way of taking care of loyal people? He said she’d have a new life in Belize, but his life was in Port Charles. (Again, I will totally go if she doesn’t want to.)

Wiley asked if they were waiting for mommy, but Michael reminded him that she wasn’t coming. They were waiting for grandpa.

Brook asked if Chase knew why Natalia was there, but he said he couldn’t discuss it.

Anna said Turner’s routine was getting old and it was unnecessary. They had the same goal and Turner could use her as an ally or wreck herself on the altar of Sonny Corinthos. She wouldn’t be the first and Anna was fairly certain she wouldn’t be the last. She didn’t understand why Turner wasn’t working directly with her. Turner needed her.

Curtis said Portia had just apologized for all the lies and manipulation, then manipulated Jordan into walking in. He wondered if Portia’s seductive moment was part of the plan, but she said, no. She’d sent a message that Curtis wanted to see Jordan and knew she’d come running, but wasn’t sure when Jordan would get there. Curtis said, another lie, and Portia asked if he was mad because she lied or because his ex saw him kissing his current wife.

Lucas told Marco that he was a prolific microwaver. (Same.) His mom cooked, but Carly and Sam didn’t. They got good hair, but missed the culinary gene. He’d had no time to learn and when he was married, Brad cooked. Now he got take-out or something from the hospital cafeteria. Marco said his mom taught him to cook. It was something they loved doing together when he was young… before it all went wrong.

Natalia got more upset, and Sonny said he’d set up a beautiful home in a beautiful area. She’d have access to anything. She said, except connections – friends and family, but he said she could make friends. She cried and said she thought they were starting a life together. Kristina came out and said Father Reyes was about to start, and Sonny said he’d be there in a little bit. He told guard Steve to take Natalia to her hotel and make sure she got on the flight. Natalia said, felicitations on his granddaughter’s christening. She hoped he and his whole family got every blessing they deserved. She left with Steve, and Sonny went back inside.

Father Reyes asked what the baby’s name would be, and Sasha said, Daisy Celeste. The priest said Daisy’s name was her special identity to God and welcomed her to her family and the church. The godparents did their thing, renouncing Satan and promising to raise Daisy in the faith. Father Reyes baptized Daisy with water and made the sign of the cross with oil on her forehead. He presented Daisy Celeste, and there was applause and taking pictures.

Anna said Turner hadn’t crossed a line yet, but was teetering on the brink. Taking Anna’s officers while keeping her out of the loop wasn’t going to work. Turner needed to be careful in deciding how to proceed. Jordan walked in and apologized for interrupting, but Anna said, the acting DA was just leaving.

Curtis said he was looking at someone he didn’t know. Was it all a set up or a show? Portia said everything they’d just shared was real. They were reconnecting and Jordan needed to see that. Jordan wanted him back and needed to know it wasn’t happening. Not now, not ever.  

Jordan told Anna, sorry. It looked intense. Anna said Jordan did her a favor, putting a civil end to it. She asked if Jordan saw Curtis, and Jordan said she saw Curtis with Portia on his desk. Anna said she was so sorry, but Jordan said she didn’t blame Anna. She blamed Portia and herself. She’d played right into Portia’s hands. She thought Portia wanted her to catch them in the act. The bitch set me up.

Curtis told Portia that Jordan had been nothing but good to him. He went for a swim and they had a conversation. Portia said Curtis and Jordan had been dialed in. It was proof of what she’d been feeling for a long time. He said what she was feeling was in her head, but she said, no. Even before she confessed to him at the Nurses Ball, she noticed their private conversations. He said she’d been too busy being blackmailed by Drew and lying, and he thought her guilt was driving this. She said she felt guilty, she was hurting, and they were struggling. Jordan saw Curtis was vulnerable and was trying to exploit that. Curtis said it didn’t sound like Jordan, but it sounded like Portia.

Father Reyes gave his blessing and told everyone, go in peace. Michael invited them all to the Quartermaines and said the late Monica would love having them. Sasha suggested they get the show on the road since Daisy needed a diaper change. Carly asked Sonny what was going on with Natalia, and he said it was taken care of. Kristina asked if Jason had any idea what was going on. It seemed strange. Jason said whatever it was, was over. Today was about Daisy, Michael, and Sasha. She said, spoken like a true godfather. Daisy was lucky she had him to protect her. They all were.

On the phone, Chase told Turner that he was at All Saints Chapel. Natalia was just there at Sonny’s granddaughter’s christening. She and Sonny spoke briefly, and she left, but he didn’t know what they’d discussed. Brook saw him and asked what he just did.

As they finished dinner, Lucas said he couldn’t have pulled this off, but Marco said Lucas set a nice table. Lucas said he enjoyed the meal, the company, and the conversation, and thanked Marco for coming to his culinary rescue. Marco said Lucas saved lives and he saved dinner, and they kissed.

Natalia told Steve that she needed to pack and take a shower, but he said they needed to get to the airport. She asked if a girl couldn’t take a shower in peace, and he said he’d be outside. He left and she closed the door and cried.  

Chase said he wished Brook hadn’t listened, and she said it wasn’t Sonny’s fault Natalia showed up. Chase reminded her that they put a wall between work and their personal life, and asked her to respect that. He had to go to the station and didn’t want to fight. She said she needed to know if something was going on between Natalia and Sonny, but he said he couldn’t talk about it. He loved her. She said she loved him too, and he left.

Natalia hyperventilated and took some pills, washing them down with liquor. She put on her bathrobe, picked up a dress, and tossed it down. She took more pills and remembered Sidwell saying it was all on her for not accepting Marco for who he was. She flashed back to Sonny saying he was giving her a comfortable life in a beautiful area, but it wasn’t his life. His life was there. She recalled Marco saying, if she left, it was on her. She was no longer his client or his mother. She’d officially be nothing to him. She sent a text.

Marco and Lucas started to kiss, when Marco’s phone chimed. Lucas said, that was two in a row. Shouldn’t he check? Marco looked at his phone and said it was his mom. Lucas said it was gibberish, and Marco said she was probably drunk. Her drinking and texting weren’t a rare occurrence. When she was drunk, the guilt took over, and her texts were word salad courtesy of autocorrect. Lucas said Natalia was leaving the country. Didn’t he think the timing was odd?

Anna said if Jordan thought it was a set-up. That meant Portia was throwing down the gauntlet. What was she going to do? Portia said, nothing. Curtis wasn’t an option. She had feelings to process and was trying to walk away with some semblance of dignity. She had to. she wouldn’t be responsible for ruining Curtis’s marriage, but Portia and her games might be.

Portia said if Curtis was saying she went after a crack in his marriage to Jordan and unfairly took him away, but Curtis said that was on him. The issue between them nothing to do with Jordan. He’d believed Portia was worried about Trina and trying to find peace between them. She said that was why she came, but he said she seemed more worried about Jordan. Was everything an act? She said, nothing was an act. He’d been cold and hard to reach. He might disagree with her decision, but she wasn’t sorry. She did it to save them. He said she wasn’t saving them. She was destroying them.

Felicia asked how Carly felt about her new grandbaby, and Carly said Daisy was a surprise, but it felt like she’d always been there. She fit in. Felicia said a new grandchild to love on and spoil was a blessing, and Carly agreed. She wished her mom could have met Daisy. Felicia said Bobbie had been with them in spirit at the christening and was probably there too. She loved a good party. Jason came in and Sasha brought Daisy over to him. She asked if he wanted to hold her, and he said, sure, taking the baby. Sasha asked what he wanted Daisy to call him, and he said Jason was fine. She said he’d stuck by her and looked out for her and Daisy. She admitted she didn’t mind it as much as she thought she would. He took a lot of heat, and she felt taken care of. Daisy would feel that too. She was trying to say he was a good man. Daisy was lucky to have him in her life looking out for her and so was she.

Curtis asked what Portia’s end goal was with her lies and stunts. She wasn’t pulling them closer, but driving them further apart. She was Trina’s mother, but he still didn’t trust her. She asked if that’s all she was to him. She’d thought she was his wife, but maybe that didn’t matter because she lied. Lord knew, Jordan never did. He said Jordan lied about work and being undercover. She didn’t lie about having his child or being blackmailed by his enemy, and didn’t lie and manipulate him into doing his enemy’s bidding. Jordan was never the problem. The real problem was them.  

Jordan said she and Curtis had a complicated history and genuine affection. She didn’t want those feelings bound up in Portia. She should walk away and find peace. Anna asked if she thought it was possible, and Jordan said it depended. Portia’s instinct was to lie, and she did the opposite of what Curtis was. It was hard to know that. Anna said, right now, Jordan owed it to herself to process her feelings and find a way to move forward. What did she need?

Natalia drunk texted Marco again, when there was a knock at the door. Steve said they had to get going, and she said she was almost ready. She cried and sent another text.

Marco said it was his mom again, and Lucas it was pretty garbled. I know you’re mad. I’m… someone? Marco said she got drunk and texted him and it never made sense. Then she’d leave a voicemail in the morning apologizing. Lucas said she was leaving to start a new life. There was no guarantee she could call him again. His mom was reaching out and it might be his last chance to reach back.

At the Quartermaines, Brook phoned Chase and asked him to call back. She was worried about Sonny and Natalia. Kristina came in with a giftbag, and asked Sonny what Natalia was doing at the church. He told her not to worry about that, when her phone dinged. She said the manager at Charlie’s called in sick and she had to open up. She gave Michael the giftbag for Daisy and left.  

At Charlie’s, two masked guys came in and poured gas on everything.

Portia told Curtis that wasn’t true. The one causing a problem was Jordan. The problem was, Jordan needed to know they were married. They had a daughter, were a couple, and had a beautiful family. Curtis got a call, and Portia said don’t let her stop him from answering. She was just his wife. She’d leave him to it. Just know she’d be fighting for their marriage. What about him? She left.

Turner ran into Anna’s office and told her to put out an APB on Natalia Ramirez. She was skipping town, and it might be their best chance to take Sonny down and it began with Anna’s lead.

Lucas cleaned up and blew out the candles. There was a song part while the celebration continued at the Quartermaines. Natalia drunkenly stumbled around and looked at her phone. She slumped on the couch and let the phone fall from her hand. There was a text from Marco saying he was on his way.

Kristina went into Charlie’s and saw the puddles behind the bar. She touched her hand to the gas and smelled it, when a Molotov cocktail came through the window and everything was in flames.

Tuesday:

On the phone, as he stood at his usual vantage point on the turret, Sidwell said that he saw the job was completed. Alexis arrived with a bunch of folders and told Sidwell that they needed clearances from the harbor master for goods he was importing. Sidwell said he thought Marco handled his accounts, and Alexis said he did, but nothing got filed until she vetted it fully.

At the hospital, Isaiah said Portia had asked him to cover the ER, and Elizabeth said, good. Portia had been working too hard.

On the phone, Lucas asked if Marco caught his mom, but still driving, Marco said, not yet. He kept calling, but got voicemail and there had been no more texts. He guessed she passed out. He apologized for their night being ruined, but Lucas said, it was just interrupted. There would be other nights. Suddenly Marco said, what the hell? and had to go. Josslyn came in and asked if Lucas had a friend over, and he said, it was an amazing night until it wasn’t. Something had come up. She said she was giving Trina and Kai some privacy, and he asked about the christening. She said, Sonny was Daisy’s grandfather, so there was drama. Marco’s mom showed up at the church.

Sasha, Carly, and Cody fawned over Daisy.

Michael thanked Sonny for putting the kids to bed, when Jason said he and Sonny needed to talk. There was a knock at the door, and Molly told Michael, sorry she was late. He said, the star of the show needed a diaper change and a nap, but there were still people there. She asked if Kristina was there, but he said, she had to go open Charlie’s.

Jason told Sonny that the plane was ready, but Natalia hadn’t shown up.

Steve knocked at Natalia’s door and said they needed to get going. He heard something and jetted. Chase and another officer came around the corner and Chase knocked, saying it was the PCPD.

Kristina grabbed the fire extinguisher and tried to put the fire out.

Chase banged on the door, when Anna arrived. He said no one had seen Natalia leave and there was no noise. She said the hotel manager had given her the key, and she was going in. They found Natalia out cold on the couch, and Chase checked her pulse while the other officer called an ambulance.

Isaiah saw a picture of Lucky hanging off the side of a mountain on Elizabeth’s phone, and she said she was choosing to believe Aiden’s explanation that it was an optical illusion. Aiden was having a great time with his dad.

Sidwell insisted most of his contracts were routine and suggested Alexis didn’t trust his son. Alexis said it was standard for her and Diane to oversee new associates for six months, but Sidwell thought it was a massive waste of time. Alexis said she’d earned her reputation, and no document went out with her name on it until she was satisfied. He still believed her hypervigilance was because of Marco and said his son should be extended the same courtesy she’d want her daughter to have. She said, duly noted, and continued with the contracts.

Lucas asked if Carly or Sonny told Josslyn why Natalia was in the chapel, but she said they wouldn’t tell her and neither would Jason.

Sonny said Michael was a great father, and Michael said he had a great teacher. People said his dad was important, powerful, and busy, yet Sonny made time for him, and it made him feel special. He wanted to make sure his kids felt the same way. Sonny said Michael was special and he was proud to be his father.

Sasha thanked Molly for coming and said she knew it was hard. Molly said she couldn’t help wondering about Irene, but she couldn’t be happier for Sasha. Sasha said she wondered about Liam sometimes, when Cody joined them and confessed that he’d eaten all the little sausage thingies.

Jason got a phone call and told Sonny there was a fire at Charlie’s.

Kristina yelled for help and ran behind the bar (not the best plan), when Marco asked if anyone was there. She yelled for help again and said everything was burning. Marco came in under a blanket and asked if anybody was left, but she said it was just her. He said they wouldn’t make it out the front and they ran for the back door under the blanket.

Elizabeth said the patient had no pulse and was probably an OD. Isaiah said some medical stuff and told her that he’d take over the compression. We saw it was Natalia.

Cody asked if Michael knew what happened, but Michael said he had no idea. Carly showed Molly pictures of the christening, and Michael said the late Monica insisted on them documenting everything. Cody asked if when Jason and Sonny disappeared, they acted like things were fine, and Michael said that was the drill. Cody said he was just trying to fit in, when Molly’s phone rang. She asked if Michael was sure Kristina was at Charlie’s, and he said, why? She said her friend that worked at the PCPD said there was a three-alarm fire there, and Michael flashed back to the fire in the penthouse. Cody said he’d drive, and he and Molly left.  

Isaiah said, time of death, 9:07 pm. Did they know who she was? Elizabeth said she did.

Josslyn told Lucas that it was just about to start when Natalia showed up and Sonny was not happy to see her. Lucas asked if she seemed drunk, and Josslyn said she didn’t see Natalia, but thought her mom would have mentioned it. Was something going on with Natalia? Lucas said he didn’t know, when his phone rang. It was Elizabeth.

Kristina and Marco ran outside coughing, when Dante arrived. He hugged Kristina and asked if she was hurt. She said, no, and he asked if Marco was okay. What happened?  

At the hospital, Lucas said he wasn’t able to reach Marco, and Elizabeth said she remembered they were having dinner and thought they might be together. He said they were, but Marco left to see his mom at the MetroCourt. Where was he?  

A paramedic said Kristina and Marco had smoke inhalation and minor burns, and Kristina said, it was burning fast. Dante said all that mattered was that she was safe, and she said, thanks to Marco. Sonny and Jason arrived, and Sonny hugged Kristina. Jason asked what Marco was doing there.

Alexis said she was satisfied, and Sidwell presumed she’d be charging her hourly fee. She said, oh God yes, when Molly called. Molly said there was a fire at Charlie’s and Kristina was there. She was headed there and had tried calling Kristina, but there was no answer. Alexis said she’d be right there.

Josslyn saw someone outside and opened the door to find Jack. She asked why he was lurking, and he said it was a test to see how long it would take her to notice. She said her mom wasn’t home, but he said he came to talk to her. Vaughn told him about her plan to distract Emma, and he thought it was good. He didn’t want Emma near Dalton. He told her to make it priority number one and figure out a course of action asap. Josslyn said he could have just called her to the office. Was he hoping to run into her mom?

In the car, Molly worried about the firefighters not getting there on time. A three-alarm fire was bad. Cody said they didn’t have all the facts yet, and she worried about it being like the penthouse. She and Kristina were on track to be sisters again and she couldn’t lose her. Cody said, stop assuming the worst-case scenario.

In Natalia’s hotel room, Chase told Anna that it looked like she’d drunk a lot of alcohol, and they bagged a bottle of pills. Suicide? Anna said, possibly, or staged. Natalia had been leaving town. Chase said a guy had been seen walking away from the room and he might be involved. Anna said have the hotel give them the security footage and find him.  

Kristina said she’d be dead if not for Marco. She wasn’t supposed to work, but the manager called in sick. She was going to open up and noticed the smell of gas. The floor was wet, and she heard a crash, then everything was on fire. She tried to put it out, but it was too big and too fast. She was trapped and Marco burst in and got her out. Sonny said Marco just happened to be in the area? and Marco said, yes. He was on his way to the MetroCourt when he saw the fire. He noticed a car in the parking lot and ran in to make sure nobody was inside. He said he needed to get to his mother and asked if they could talk later, but Sonny said Marco wasn’t going anywhere.  

Sidwell said the launch was ready, but Alexis asked if he had a speedboat or a rowboat. She had to get off the island and see if Kristina was all right. He asked if she was sure Kristina was in the pub.  

Jack told Josslyn that agents compartmentalized. He’d be delighted to run into Carly, but came to talk to her. He was her superior and she didn’t get to comment on his relationships. She asked if he’d notified his superior that he was in a relationship with an agent’s mother, when Carly came in. She asked what Jack was doing there.

Lucas told Chase that he was with Natalia’s son when Marco got some garbled texts that were unreadable. He thought Natalia was drunk, so he decided to check on her. He called from the car on the way to the hotel, said something came up, and hung up quickly. He never called back. Was Chase sure Marco never showed up? Chase said they were going through the security footage, but no one remembered seeing him. Elizabeth said she hoped Natalia’s death was an accident, but Anna said the cause wouldn’t be official until there was an autopsy. Lucas said they couldn’t do an autopsy until Marco knew his mom was dead.

The EMT insisted Kristina go to the hospital, and Marco asked if he could get his phone. Molly and Cody arrived, and Molly said she was so scared Kristina was hurt. She loved Kristina so much. They hugged.  

A firefighter said the fire was totally out, and Dante asked if they had any idea what started it. The firefighter said his men were working on it, when Anna showed up. Dante told her that gas might have been used as an accelerant, and she asked if there were any casualties. He said, no. Kristina was the only one inside and she was fine thanks to Marco Rios. Alexis arrived and hugged Kristina. Sonny said Kristina would be okay, and she said, no thanks to him.

Jack said he took a chance he’d find Carly there, and she said it was good to see him. Josslyn said she remembered she had a quiz, but left her notes at the apartment. She’d probably stay there tonight. She left, and Jack asked if Carly was all right. She said, no. There was a fire at Charlie’s, the pub Sonny gave Kristina. She didn’t know if Kristina was inside, but hearing about the fire took her back to the ICU and wondering if her son would survive the night.  

Michael flashed back to another actor playing him, who was conveniently covered in fire. He got a call and told Sasha that Kristina was okay. She was inside, but had gotten out. He was about to get a drink when he remembered he’d taken a pain pill, and Sasha said she didn’t realize he was still in pain. He said he usually didn’t need a pill, but he didn’t want it to interfere with the celebration. The doctors said he had residual nerve damage, but thought he’d be pain free soon. It was nothing compared to the pain after the fire. He told her about going through debridement and said it was agony. Thank God Kristina was okay.

Dante said he thought Marco needed to go to the hospital, and Alexis asked Sonny, which of his enemies did this? They kept going after him and got his children instead. She knew he and Kristina working together was a bad idea. Death and violence were all over him like a plague he passed on to those who loved him. It had to stop. She would not bury another daughter. There were soap looks all around.

Carly told Jack she was worried about Kristina. When she heard there was a fire, she shut down and the anger and fear came rushing in like the penthouse fire was happening then. It was crazy because Michael was standing by her, but it was like she was back in the clinic in Germany. She could only touch his hand because it was excruciating if she touched anything else. All she could do was sit there and hear him moan. Jack said she’d experienced PTSD because the emotional trauma couldn’t be processed all at once and she’d been triggered. A lot of agents had it and he’d dealt with it himself. She said she couldn’t tell him what it meant that he understood. Josslyn blamed Sonny and she was right. He almost lost another child. She didn’t know what she’d do if something happened to Donna. Jack held her.  

Sasha said Michael had asked for her in the ICU, but was sedated by the time Jason found her. Did he remember what he’d wanted to tell her? He said he wanted to tell her to take care of their daughter no matter what happened him, and she did. Daisy was perfect. All his kids were safe and it was going to stay that way. She said he couldn’t know that, and he said he could. His dad was a great father, and he’d never be like him, but he promised nothing like the fire would ever happen to his kids.

Marco got to the hospital and asked Lucas, what happened? Anna said she needed to have a conversation with him about his mother, and Marco said, why? Was she there? Was she okay? He ran past everyone and into Natalia’s room. When he saw her, he put his hands to his face.

On the phone, Sidwell said his instructions were clear. Do not set the fire unless the building was empty. If Sonny Corinthos’s daughter was in the fire, there would be hell to pay.

Kristina said they didn’t know what caused it, but Alexis said she did. It was Sonny’s love for money and power that exceeded everything and everyone. They’d both lost children and knew how painful it was. She couldn’t and wouldn’t go through it again. Kristina said it was suggested she go to GH and get checked out, and asked Alexis to come with her. Cody said he’d drive, and they left, along with Molly. Sonny told Jason that they had to find out who caused the fire. Kristina wasn’t supposed to be working. Jason said, the manager called in sick, and Sonny said, talk to him. A firefighter said it looked like there was evidence of arson, which made this place a crime scene.

Wednesday:

At the Surf Lodge, Emma and Outback high-fived. Gio joined them and said Outback steals his shoes, but only the left ones. He wanted her to choose between him and the dog, but she didn’t want to choose between her two favorite strays. She also had the feeling that the real problem was him being upset about Brook and Dante being his real parents.

Tracy found Brook working in the living room. Brook said, Deception might be in serious trouble, but it might be too late to fix it.

Vaughn found Josslyn at Charlie’s and asked why she wanted to meet there. She said she heard there was a fire and came to check, but she couldn’t get herself to leave.

At the hospital, Kristina told Alexis that she was fine and would like to go home. Alexis said, she could have died.

Marco cried, and sat by Natalia’s bedside saying, no, no. It couldn’t be happening. It couldn’t end this way.

Elizabeth suggested Lucas let Marco have time with his mom, and Anna said Lucas could help them figure out what led to Natalia’s death.

Jason told Sonny that they had guys on the street who would hear whispers about the fire. Sonny said they both knew Sidwell was responsible.

Selina went to Windymere and said, finally, she and Sidwell were meeting in person. She asked if he wanted to set up a poker game, but he said he wanted to warn her. She was about to go to war with Sonny.

Gio admitted he might be upset about his parentage, and Emma said if he wanted to talk, she was there. He said he wasn’t there yet and told her that he was dropping out of PCU.

Josslyn told Vaughn that her former stepsister almost died in the fire. It was unnerving, and all because she was the daughter of Sonny Corinthos.  

Alexis asked Kristina, what happened? and Kristina said the manager called in sick, so she left to open up Charlie’s. When she walked in, she smelled gasoline and the floor was wet, but before she could check, she heard a window shatter and suddenly fire was everywhere. The fire extinguisher wasn’t enough, and she wouldn’t have gotten out alive if not for Marco.

Anna asked about Natalia’s texts, and Lucas said, they were all gibberish. Sometimes she drank and texted Marco. Marco came out, and Lucas asked if he was okay. Anna said they were sorry for his loss, and Marco said he didn’t understand what happened. Anna said she and Chase entered Natalia’s hotel room and she was unconscious. They called the paramedics immediately. Isaiah said Marco’s mother was unresponsive at the scene. There was no pulse, and the paramedics weren’t able to restart her heart. Unfortunately, when she was brought in, there was nothing they could do. Marco asked what the cause of death was, and Isaiah said it was speculation, but they suspected it was an overdose. Marco said, accidental or intentional? but Isaiah said they didn’t know. They suspected a lethal combination of tranquilizers and alcohol, but they’d know for sure when there was an official autopsy. Elizabeth said she was sorry. She and Lucas tried to call him. Marco said his phone was in the car. He was on his way to see his mother and saw the fire at Charlie’s. There was a car in the parking lot, so he ran in to make sure nobody was inside. Anna said he got Kristina out just in time. He was a hero tonight. Marco said he was able to save Kristina, but not able to save his mother.

Gio told Emma that he had a music scholarship and would be first chair violinist in the orchestra. It was a huge responsibility and honor. She said he deserved it, but he said he had no intention of playing again. He would lose his scholarship and couldn’t afford college on his lifeguard’s salary. She suggested he borrow from family, but he said he wanted nothing to do with them. She said, what about Sonny? but he said it didn’t seem right. She said, why not wait? He might feel differently in the fall. Don’t walk away from the gig just yet. He might want to play again by September.

Brook told Tracy that Natalia found something in Sonny’s supplemental investment… Tracy said, an offshore account. Sonny was laundering money and now they were complicit. Brook said, it was a clerical error, but Tracy said, it was a felony. Brook said she was sorry. It was all her fault.

Chase asked if the texts were in Marco’s phone, and Marco said they were, but his phone was in his car at Charlie’s. Anna asked if the messages were incoherent, and Marco said he thought one message was supposed to say, I’m sorry. He guessed he’d never know. He texted her that he was on his way, but he saw Charlie’s was on fire. They knew the rest. He had no idea his mother needed him so bad. Lucas said it wasn’t his fault. He thought a life was at risk and stopped to help. Marco asked how Anna ended up at the hotel, and she said the acting DA was supposed to pick up his mom. As her lawyer, Marco must have known that the DA negotiated a plea deal in exchange for evidence against Sonny. Chase said Natalia showed up at the christening for Sonny’s granddaughter. He saw them talking and alerted Turner. Natalia definitely seemed troubled.

Jason said Sidwell was mad about Sonny not selling his piers and it was payback. Did he think Kristina was a target? Sonny said it didn’t matter. Kristina almost died. Ever since Sidwell came to town, two of his children nearly died. If anything happened to Kristina, he didn’t know what he’d do.

Selina said Sidwell was misinformed. She wasn’t at war with Sonny and stayed on his good side. They had an understanding. Sidwell said that changed tonight when a firebomb was placed in Sonny’s daughter’s place of business. She said she had nothing to do with that, but he said her associates Simon and Dan doused Charlie’s with gas and lit it up with a Molotov cocktail. When Corinthos went on a hunt to find out who was responsible, he’d trace it to her. She said, in other words, he set her up, and he lifted his glass to her.

Tracy said she blamed Brook’s mother. She raised Brook to trust Sonny. Brook said she believed what Natalia said, it was an accounting error. Sonny wouldn’t do anything to hurt Deception. Tracy said they were going to use this to their advantage and not bury it.

Vaughn said, Sonny was once married to Josslyn’s mother and Donna was their child? and Josslyn said, yeah. So was her older brother Morgan. He said, Morgan died in a car bombing. He was sorry. She said there was plenty of blame to go around. Morgan died because he was Sonny’s son, and it was the same reason Michael nearly died, and the same reason Kristina nearly died. He said, not a fan? and she said her family kept getting hurt because Sonny Corinthos brought death and destruction wherever he went.

Alexis said Kristina had Marco to thank. If she had died, her father would have died too, because she would have killed him. It was no accident. Someone was sending Sonny a message and Kristina got caught in the crossfire. Molly came in with Deanna and said she was filling out administrative forms and needed Kristina’s ID. Alexis said she had a copy on her phone, and left with Deanna. Molly asked how Kristina was doing, and Kristina said she was desperate to get out, but Alexis wanted her to stay overnight. Marco saved her life. Allie always said her brother was a good guy. Molly said Marco was a hero, but Kristina was amazing too. They way she handled their mom when she went after Sonny was impressive. In the past, she would have jumped to Sonny’s defense and fought with their mom. Instead, she let Alexis say what she needed to and Molly was proud of her.  

Sonny told Jason that he and Kristina had a special connection. He thought it had to do with them being the most alike. Jason said he thought so too, and Sonny said they had the same anger, intensity, and demons. Kristina fought with her emotions like he did, and he wanted to protect her. That’s why Alexis was out of her mind with fear, and he respected that. Jason said she was safe, and Sonny said, for now. They had to find out who did this. Otherwise, his whole family was in danger.  

Selina said she’d go to Sonny and tell him the truth. He’d known her longer than Sidwell, and her words had more weight. Sidwell said, go ahead, but given Kristina’s close call, he guessed Sonny wouldn’t let her live long enough to get her explanation out. (I guess a phone call wasn’t an option?) They’d clashed in the past and she’d already crossed Sonny once. She said Sonny would see through him and guessed Sonny already had, and he said he’d point the finger at her associates. Who knew what evidence Sonny would uncover about her involvement? The best idea was for her to leave town now. She said, and walk away from her business? but he said she could return later with his blessing. Port Charles would be a better place when she returned. She said the only way she could come back was if Sonny was dead, and he said he was aware. He opened the door, and she said she guessed she had a plane to catch. Until they met again. He said, travel safely, and she left.

Chase said Natalia and Sonny spoke privately and she left. Marco said he was almost positive it wasn’t the full story. His mother was murdered by Sonny.  

Gio said he needed a clean break from his old life filled with lies, and Emma said there were good things too. Gio said they were tainted. He’d felt special performing when he was a kid. Now he knew it was a lie. The technique was still there, but without the passion and the smile, the music was hollow. There was no point in playing. His family had been stolen from him.

Deanna said Kristina had a close call, but would be fine, and Alexis said the last time she filled out these forms was for Sam. Deanna suggested Alexis read the information and she’d write it, and Alexis said that would help a lot.

Kristina told Molly that even if she was collateral damage, she didn’t feel it was her dad’s fault. Her mom was scared for her child, and she got that. Molly said, because of their daughter. She couldn’t lose Kristina. She loved Kristina so much. They joined hands and Alexis watched from the doorway.

Anna asked if Marco had proof of his accusation, but he said, wasn’t it obvious? His mother had evidence that she was about to turn over and Sonny found a way to stop her. Lucas suggested he take a minute, and Marco agreed. Anna said talking about the fire could wait. In the meantime, he had their condolences. Don’t hesitate to reach out if the thought of anything else. She and Chase left, and Marco said he almost admitted he knew his mom was breaking the deal and moving out. Lucas said Marco had been through lot, and Marco said he was glad Lucas was there. Lucas said him too, and Marco said he needed to call his father, but had no phone. Lucas said he’d deal with it and he wanted Marco to get checked out by Isaiah. Doctor’s order.  

Jason said they’d find out who did this, and Sonny said he couldn’t lose another child. He wasn’t going through what he went through with Morgan again. Jason said they’d stop them, and Sonny said they’d make them an example. It would hurt so bad, they wouldn’t think of coming for his family again. An eye for an eye, effective and fair. Jason said, Sidwell’s only known child was Marco, and he’d just saved Kristina. Sonny said he owed Marco, but protection was more important than gratitude. If Marco ended up being collateral damage, so be it.

Elizabeth found Sidwell’s number for Lucas, and Lucas made the call. He said he was calling on Marco’s behalf. His son was fine, but there was something Sidwell should know. Marco’s mother passed away tonight.

Chase asked if Anna thought Marco was right and Sonny killed Natalia. She said they couldn’t rule it out. Her phone chimed and she said it was the security footage. It was useful, but not good news for Sonny.

Tracy said they needed to come clean, and Brook asked, why? Tracy said if they were honest and declared their innocence, they’d probably just get a slap on the wrist. If they helped nail Sonny, they’d be rid of him, and it was a win-win. Brook said Sonny was the only family member Gio was talking to, and Tracy said, all the more reason, but Brook said if they took Sonny away from Gio, her son would hate her even more. Tracy said, fine. She’d do it all by herself, when Chase walked in. Tracy said the PCPD had perfect timing for once.  

Emma asked Gio to promise not to drop out of PCU, and he promised he’d make no decisions for now. She said they had to figure out what else he was passionate about. He showed some interest in exposing Professor Dalton’s animal testing. He asked how they start Dalton’s take down, and she said she couldn’t prove he was testing on animals yet because she couldn’t get into the lab. They might have to do something drastic. Gio asked if that was her way of saying illegal.

Vaughn told Josslyn that he’d never defend Sonny, but watching your loved ones pay for your crimes must take a toll. Josslyn said she tried to let go of her anger, but too many people she loved were getting hurt. She had no sympathy. She’d never told anyone this or even said it out loud, but that was one reason why she joined the WSB. He said he thought it was because of Dex, and she said that was part of it, but it wasn’t just about an idealistic version of justice. It was more personal and a lot less altruistic. He asked if she wanted to get high enough in the agency to take down Sonny, and she said, exactly.

Marco told Lucas that Isaiah gave him the all-clear, when Sidwell arrived. Sidwell hugged Marco and said Lucas told him about Natalia. He was so sorry. Marco thanked him, and Sidwell said he had to make sure Marco was okay. He thanked Lucas for calling, and Lucas left to give them time to talk. Marco said it was surreal. He knew she was gone. He’d seen her body, but his brain couldn’t process it. Sidwell said, take a breath, and Marco said he had to call Allison, but didn’t know how to break the news. Sidwell told him not to worry about it now, and Marco said there was so much he wished was different. They hugged, and Sidwell said he knew.  

Anna went to Sonny’s place and he said he couldn’t answer questions about the fire right now, but she said she was there for a different reason. Natalia Rameriz was dead.  

Tracy said she had some interesting news too, and Chase said he was sorry to inform them that Natalia Rameriz was dead. It may or may not be a drug related OD or foul play. Anna was questioning Sonny. Brook asked if he was suspect, and Chase said they were exploring possibilities. Tracy said it wasn’t okay for Sonny to be anywhere near Gio. He was taking too many people, and he wasn’t taking Gio too.

Emma asked if Gio thought Sonny could give them pointers, but he said, definitely not. He may not be taking Sonny’s money or advice in this particular situation, but he was glad to have him. Sonny was the only one he could trust right now.

Kristina asked how long Alexis had been there, and Alexis said, not that long, but long enough to see them together. It warmed her heart. She wished Sam was with them too. She couldn’t lose another daughter. That meant they were both contractually obligated to outlive her. They needed each other and couldn’t let anything separate them. They all agreed and had a group hug.

Lucas asked Elizabeth’s opinion. OD or murder? She said there were no obvious signs of violence, but the autopsy would tell them more. Did he think Sonny had her killed? He said, all they knew was that Natalia was dead, and Kristina almost died. To him, that was the start of a mob war that had Marco’s family on one side and his on the other.  

Marco said he felt like it was his fault, and Sidwell asked, how? Marco said his mom was texting him and he could tell she was drunk. It wasn’t the first time. Sidwell said there was no way he could have known, but Marco said maybe if he’d gotten there in time, if he hadn’t stopped to help with the fire. Sidwell said, what fire? and Marco said, at Charlie’s Pub. He stopped and saved Kristina Corinthos Davis. Sidwell said Marco could have died, and Marco said it was crazy how things played out. Thanks to him Sonny’s daughter is alive and thanks to Sonny, his mother was dead. Sidwell asked how this had anything to do with Sonny.

Sonny invited Anna in and said he was sorry to hear it. Why did she come in person? He wasn’t close to Natalia. Anna said they’d had an intense conversation at the christening, and he said Natalia was congratulating him. She asked if he could explain why his bodyguard was having a conversation with Natalia at the hotel, and he asked if he should call Diane. She said, it depended. Did he have something to hide? Another of his guards was seen entering and exiting her room. He was in the corridor when the police arrived and made himself scarce. That made her think he and Natalia had a close association. He asked what she was getting at, and she said Natalia had evidence the DA’s office was going to use against him and was conveniently dead of alcohol and tranquilizers. They were waiting for the autopsy, but in the meantime, he was a person of interest, and she had to take him in for questioning. 

Josslyn said she just gave Vaughn the ammunition he needed to get rid of her. She had an unhealthy personal vendetta which made her unfit for the job. She was sure she’d be out tomorrow morning. She started to leave, but he grabbed her arm and said he’d told her that lofty ideals weren’t a reason. Those agents got jaded, but a concrete goal to take Sonny down would get her through tough times. And there were going to be tough times. She asked, what was his goal? and he said maybe he’d tell her sometime. Once he got to know her better. He kissed her.

Thursday:

At the pool, Willow told Gio that she saw what happened at the Nurses Ball. There was nothing more painful than being betrayed by someone who was supposed to love you.

As they sat in chaise lounges, Trina told Kai that it wasn’t a bad way to spend a holiday afternoon. She knew the perfect spot to watch the fireworks.

Brook said Maxie should be there, and Tracy asked if she was going to tell Maxie that Sonny’s blood money would bring down Deception. She wanted to do her best to save Gio.

Michael opened the door to TempMaxie (see below), who said she was there for an emergency Deception meeting, but as unofficial godmother, she wanted a peek of Daisy. He said he couldn’t thank her enough for making the christening happen. It gave him hope for his family’s future.

Danny and Rocco were at the Surf Lodge, and Emma approached their table. She asked what was so important she had to detour from the pool on a national holiday, and Rocco asked what she knew about Britt Westbourne.

Laura went to see Lulu, who said she was reporting on the fire for the Llanview Banner. Those who were pro Measure C said the fire was proof of mob violence escalating and that Laura was ignoring it because of her connection to Sonny. Laura said there was a right way and a wrong way to investigate, and she had to do it the right way. She was the one who’d called for Measure C. Lulu said she hated to say it, but maybe it was time for Laura to cut Sonny loose, but Laura asked what they would accomplish except tearing the family apart.

In the PCPD interrogation room, Sonny told Turner that he wasn’t saying a word unless his attorney was there. Turner said that’s why she was there.

On the phone, Jason said, what did Diane mean, he wasn’t allowed to see his attorney?… Keep him posted. Dante arrived and said the PCPD was holding Sonny and wouldn’t let him talk to Diane. He had an update on the fire at Charlie’s. Selina was a suspect.

Gio told Willow, for what it was worth (🍷), he was sorry, and she said, when your life was turned upside down, you found out who you could trust. He said, and who you can’t, and she said anyone who helped you through hard times was someone you could always count on.

Michael said Kristina was at GH, and Maxie asked if she was okay. He said she had a cough, but was doing all right, and she said, it could have been worse. He said that’s why he was focused on the good, like how Wiley and Amelia were crazy about their baby sister. He was trying to stick to routine, hoping it made things more stable until the visitation hearing.

Willow told Trina and Kai that she was sorry to interrupt, and Kai said he thought she’d be celebrating with Drew in DC. She said Drew was too busy working, so she thought she’d keep it lowkey. Maybe next year. Drew was impressed with Kai’s work and appreciated him going the extra mile.

Brook said they had no reason to think Gio was a target, but Tracy said it was a naïve thing to say. Brook said it wasn’t like he lived with Sonny. They barely spent time together. Tracy said when gangsters went to war, they didn’t go after each other, but after their enemy’s loved ones. They could only try their best to protect Gio, but he wouldn’t be safe until Sonny was done with once and for all.

Turner said she could hold Sonny for 24 hours, and Sonny said she couldn’t keep him from seeing his attorney. In the meantime, he wasn’t saying anything. Diane was one of the few people he didn’t mind waiting for. Turner said, if his attorney was withheld, anything he told her was inadmissible. It was his best opportunity to tell her what happened. He asked why he should take her word on this, and she asked why he was acting like the injured party when Natalia was the one who was dead.

Dante told Jason that they’d ID’d two suspects as Selina’s guys and there was a warrant out for them. Selina had booked a flight to Singapore and the needed to find out if she got on it. Jason asked, why come to him? and Dante asked if they should keep looking for Selina’s guys or were they buried in the woods.

Emma wondered why Rocco was asking about The Britch, The Wicked Witch of Westbourne, and Rocco said he presumed she didn’t like Britt. She said she was little and for a while her dad dated Britt. Eventually, he came to his senses and dumped her as. Britt was so pathetic and desperate, she got pregnant… She got it now.  

Maxie asked why they were working on a holiday, and Brook said she had bad news. Maxie said, hit me, and Brook said, it seemed Sonny’s second investment had been made with dirty money. Maxie said Sonny wasn’t sloppy like that and Brook showed her the financials. Maxie asked how she found out, and Brook said Natalia told her. Maxie said Natalia would have to walk her through it, but Brook said she couldn’t. Natalia died last night. Maxie said, Brook didn’t think… but Brook said, never. Maxie said they’d have to go to the police and hand over the records, and Brook said, what about Spinelli? Spinelli adored Sonny. Would he be okay? Maxie said he’d have to be. Her family needed Deception, and she’d do everything she could to save the company.  

Lulu said, Laura just had to publicly disavow Sonny. She didn’t have to do it for real. Laura said, first of all, Ezra Boyle had a tracking device on her and would be waiting with cameras to prove to the world she was a liar. Secondly, Sonny was part of the family. What kind of example would she set for her grandchildren, teaching them how to lie to save their hide? She was also thinking about Rocco. She’d never want him to have to choose between his grandmother or grandfather. Lulu said she’d talk to him, and he’d understand, but Laura said, would he? She wasn’t sacrificing her family or principles or compromising her own morals. She couldn’t help feeling there was more to this.

Emma said she had to go, and Rocco said Britt was pregnant with him. He was the baby she carried. Emma said she was just a kid. He should talk to his mom and dad. Their memories would be better than hers. Danny thanked her for talking to them, and she said she totally got it. Happy 4th. She started to leave, but came back and said there had to be more she never knew about. She thought Rocco owed it to himself to find out the truth.

Willow said Kai stepped in and got Drew out of the disaster at the press conference, but Kai said it was no big deal. Willow said Drew told her it was the only silver lining, and Kai said he just did his job. Willow said he made an impression on Drew, who thought he had a great future in politics. Willow left and Trina said they needed to talk, but Kai said he knew what she was going to say. Trina suggested even if he knew what a woman was going to say, let her say it. (Truth!) All the Quartermaines were crazy, and they would make him crazy too. Tracy walked in and Gio turned away. Trina said, case in point.

Tracy said she didn’t know if Gio wanted to talk to her. He wasn’t answering her texts. He said, make it short, and she said she thought his life was in danger.

Kai said Trina didn’t need to worry. He was only interested in politics. Maybe not forever, but after football, it was good to be interested in something. Trina said he needed to understand and accept that the Quartermaines were always battling about something. He had to remember not to get stuck in the middle. Michael came into the pool area with Wiley and saw Willow. He steered Wiley over to his swim instructor.

Lulu said she didn’t want Laura to betray her principles, but she wanted Laura to beat Boyle. Laura said she wanted that too, and Lulu said she was still ahead in the polls, but she was falling behind. Boyle was corrupt and so unqualified, she couldn’t hand the city to someone like him. If she wanted to save Port Charles, she needed to stay where she was – in the mayor’s office. How far was she willing to go to make that happen?

Turner told Sonny that Natalia was facing five years for a DWI, and she offered Natalia a lifeline. If she turned over evidence against Sonny to her office, the charges would be dismissed. Natalia agreed, so imagine her surprise when Natalia wound up dead, with two of Sonny’s men coming and going… Sonny said all this had nothing to do with him. Turner hauled Natalia in on a trumped-up charge and persuaded Natalia to give her information that might incriminate him. Might. He thought Turner believed she was the one who got Natalia killed.

Jason said he had no idea about Selina’s men. He didn’t think Selina would risk crossing Sonny and wouldn’t target Kristina. Dante said, if not Selina, who set it up? but Jason said Dante already knew the answer. Dante said, Sidwell.  

Tracy told Gio about Charlie’s and said they suspected arson. His Aunt Kristina was trapped and had minor injuries, unlike his Uncle Michael, who had severe injuries from a previous fire. The reason for both was Sonny Corinthos.

Maxie said they’d all agreed to let Sonny invest, except Tracy, and Brook said, this time, Tracy was right. She’d love to turn the evidence in, but Gio would hate her more than he did already. Was there any way they could wait for a subpoena? Maxie said, no. They needed to get ahead of it. She picked up a folder, and Brook said it was the wrong file, but Maxie opened it, seeing Britt’s picture. She asked what it was and why Brook had it, and Brook said it was supposed to be her revenge against Lulu.

Trina told Kai that even if her mother hadn’t had to work, they’d have canceled the cookout. Things were tense between her parents.

Michael told Willow that Wiley hadn’t seen her yet and to please leave before he did. She said the visitation hearing was August 1st. She’d see Wiley then. He said, until then, he was asking her not to make it harder than it had to be.  

Tracy told Gio that Sonny put everyone in danger around him. The people after Sonny knew he was Gio’s grandfather, and she had no intention of losing him. Gio said he wasn’t hers to lose, and she said, like it or not, he was a Quartermaine. He said, they might be related, but she didn’t own him and never would. Emma joined them and suggested they order some iced tea and cool down.

Brook said they should call their lawyer and turn the financials into the DA’s office, but Maxie said it could wait. What did she mean by revenge? Brook asked if she remembered when Lulu refused to apologize, and Maxie said, vividly. Brook said she recalled Lulu bragging that she’d never lie to her child, then remembered a story about Britt stealing an embryo and passing it off as her own. Rocco would want to know the truth and she needed proof. Maxie asked if she was going to show Rocco the file.

Rocco said the only reason Britt got pregnant was to trap Emma’s dad, but Danny said Emma told them there was more to the story than that. His mom was his mom, period. However he got here, Danny was glad he did and so was everybody else… almost. Rocco thanked Danny and said he was glad Danny told him the truth when no one else did. If Danny hadn’t found the file, he thought his parents would have never told him.

Turner said Natalia’s blood alcohol level was above the limit and the charge was real, as well as the consequences, and Sonny said she mentioned a five-year consequence. Did she tell Natalia that it was a possibility, or did she make it sound like a done deal without Natalia having an attorney present? Turner said she offered Natalia a great deal. She either killed herself or Sonny killed her. He was busy at his granddaughter’s christening, but his associates dropped her off at her room at the MetroCourt. Sonny said he hired nice guys, and she said, whether they forced Natalia to ingest huge amounts of tranquilizers and alcohol or she did herself, they both had a hand in her death.  

Brook told Maxie that she’d never show Rocco the file, but since Lulu would never keep a secret from him, she was sure he knew. Maxie asked when Lulu was supposed to tell him. When she was in a coma? Brook said she got why Lulu didn’t tell Rocco that Britt was her surrogate when Rocco was younger, but he was too old to be in the dark now. Maxie said Lulu was the one Brook was mad at, but it would hurt Rocco, and Brook said that’s why she didn’t tell him.

Laura asked if Lulu was saying she had to sacrifice her family and principles to beat Boyle, and Lulu said, if she wanted to win, something had to change. Laura said she believed in being straightforward with voters, but Lulu said, they read headlines, not articles. Laura said, Sonny told her this in confidence and it had to stay between them, and Lulu said it was off the record. Laura said Sonny told her that Sidwell was going to bring violence to Port Charles. Then the fire happened. It was a scare tactic, and she didn’t scare. Lulu said, it scared the public. Boyle was in Sidwell’s pocket. If he won, Laura was essentially handing the keys to the city to Sidwell. Laura said there was more than one thing at play. If she disavowed Sonny, she was playing into their hands. She had to be very smart with her next move. If she wasn’t careful, Port Charles could go from a bad situation to something much worse, like that. She snapped her fingers.

Dante told Jason that he read Sonny was a magnet for violence. What better way to prove it? Jason said, taking down Sidwell would be easier If Natalia hadn’t been found dead with Sonny’s guard in the hallway. Dante said he believed Sonny knew Natalia had evidence incriminating him, but he wasn’t allowed near the case, and Jason said it was probably for the best.

Sonny told Turner that Natalia was a strong person. In the end, we never know what drives a person to do what they did. Turner said he still blamed her, but he said she was doing her job. How Natalia dealt with it was on her, not Turner. Turner said, no more questions, and left.

Trina told Kai that she was worried about her parents. She wanted them to stay together. He said there was nothing wrong with wanting lasting love.

Tracy asked Emma to leave them alone, but Gio said he’d like her to stay. Or they could both leave. It was up to Tracy. Emma said Gio was going to tell her later anyway, and Tracy told Gio that his grandfather was a dangerous man. Gio said, not to him, but Tracy said, especially to him. Sonny’s family were targets and she didn’t want him to be the next victim. If he didn’t want to live in the main house, he could live in the gatehouse, or they could move Trina and Josslyn in there and he could have the apartment. Gio said he liked where he was living and wasn’t moving back. They were not family. Tracy said she understood that people in the house had hurt him, but his feelings weren’t worth his life. Emma said her grandmother was literally the Police Commissioner, and Tracy said, a lot of good she’d done to curb crime in Port Charles. She was Gio’s best bet. Gio said he’d consider it if it was really about his safety, but it was about him rejecting his grandfather. He wasn’t going to do it.

Wiley saw Willow and ran to her. She hugged him and said she missed him so much. He did great in the pool. Michael said it was time to go, and Wiley asked why they couldn’t stay and swim with mom. Willow told him that the judge said they had to wait a while longer before they could spend time together, and Wiley said he hated the judge. He missed her. Willow said, hopefully, the judge would change her mind soon, and Michael said it was time to go. Wiley and Willow hugged, and she told him to be a good boy and go with daddy. She loved him. Wiley said he loved her too, and left with Michael.   

Kai told Trina that they all wanted to believe making a commitment meant something and no matter what, they didn’t give up on each other. Trina said, it was a risk. When you trusted someone, they could disappoint you. He said, maybe if it was worth it, so was the risk. Trina was worth it. Trina said she never thought she’d feel like this again. He was worth it too.

Wiley told Michael that he didn’t want to wait for the judge. He wanted his mom to come home and be with him now. Michael said he knew, and hugged him.

Tracy said Gio was an adult, and she couldn’t force him, and Gio said, then they were done. Tracy said she had a request. After work, he should go by Charlie’s and see what was left. Then go to the hospital to visit his Aunt Kristina. Gio said he knew what she was doing, and she said, after that, she wanted him to go to the cemetery and visit his Uncle Morgan’s gravesite. He was 23 years old, a year older than Gio. He was killed in a car bomb because of his father. (Well, really Julian.)

Laura went to the PCPD and said she needed to see Sonny. The judgmental desk sergeant said, of course (🍷). He was in the interrogation room, and she could go in. Sonny asked if she was sure she wanted to be seen with him, and she said this couldn’t wait. He asked what was wrong, and she said he warned her that violence was coming. The thing was, a warning without details didn’t help much. She needed to know what Sonny knew.  

Jason said he and Dante lived in the same house, the house he swore he’d never move back to. Their kids were like brothers. Dante said, who would have thought that? and Jason said he didn’t want trouble with Dante and didn’t want to take any action involving him. Dante said he wished he believed Sonny wasn’t going to try and retaliate, but unfortunately, he knew better. He left, and Jason made a call. He asked if there were eyes on him yet… No. Let him know when they wanted to move.  

Brook told Maxie that she was going to set it up so Rocco accidently found the file, but he’d been through enough. Lulu had it coming, not Rocco. Maxie said she knew Lulu had hurt her, and intended or not – Brook said, it totally was – It wouldn’t solve anything. Brook said she could get back at Lulu for what Lulu did to her and Gio, but she chose not to. She was better than Lulu.  

Rocco went home, and Lulu said she thought he was working on something. He said she needed to tell him about Britt Westbourne.

On Monday, Rocco confronts Lulu about Britt giving birth to him; Josslyn tells Vaughn, this isn’t working. We’re done; Sidwell tells Anna if she’s looking for answers, look to him; Sonny tells Laura there may be a way to contain the damage.

🫔 No Enchilada This Week…

There’s no new GH tomorrow because…

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Coming, albeit temporarily.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/kirsten-storms-temporarily-replaced-on-general-hospital-nicole-paggi-steps-in-as-maxie/

And going.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/eva-larue-exits-general-hospital-as-natalia-it-was-just-an-awesome-experience-excl/

She was really excellent in her final scene.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/eva-larue-on-natalias-death-on-general-hospital-ive-never-been-killed-before-excl/

🪟 Full disclosure, everything is a little shorter this week because not only did I suddenly realize the last GH would be on Thursday, but I also ended up at the doctor with no good, very bad allergies. No hot dog cookout for me, but that’s okay, there’s always streaming to catch up on.

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Bosun Caio claimed to be adjusting to Captain Kerry. I think he meant adjusting to actual work, since that seemed to baffle him.

Caio, Caio.

Next Gen NYC

Georgia planned an event with Brooks’ mom Meredith (Real Housewives of Salt Lake City) which was an interesting pairing. Charlie continued to be a d-bag, which was no surprise to anyone, as well as Brooks’ dad being weirdly intrusive.

The Valley

Jesse finally proposed to Kristen in Maui and it made almost everyone cry.

Real Housewives Of Miami

Adriana hosted a baby shower for Julia and Martina. Lisa tried to guest, but became overwhelmed, still grieving her father. New Housewife Stephanie was introduced and we found out her goal in life was to become filthy rich – and she succeeded. Mazel! She gave one of the best quotes of the night: What kind of welcome is this? I was just asked to have a threesome. Where’s the food? Needless to say, there was also a bunch of fighting, and in her interview, Kiki also gave quote: Who fight at a baby shower? We need God. We need help. I’d say that covers it.

Random Reality Items

Couldn’t happen to a nicer guy.

The Runway returns.

https://ew.com/project-runway-season-21-trailer-contestant-clashes-nina-garcia-attitude-11764431

Scheana reveals all. I totally buy she didn’t know he was married. I doubt she could lie her way out of a paper bag or keep a secret.

https://ew.com/scheana-shay-opens-up-about-eddie-cibrian-affair-in-memoir-excerpt-11764114

I still miss Metul.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

I mostly caught up on series since I actually went out in the real world and interacted with real people last weekend.

Trainwreck: Poop Cruise. Netflix. This one made me want to never go on a cruise. No air conditioning, no lights, no food, no more booze for you, no toilets, and I will never look at a red bag the same way again. Or lasagna. And if you should decide to brave the high seas, make sure you read that contract thoroughly.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1419133/carnivals-poop-cruise-cruise-ship-nightmare-timeline

Squid Game. Netflix. Since it’s still fresh, no spoilers, but IMO, the ending probably wasn’t what anyone hoped for. That being said, the final leg of the series was still spectacular and the VIPs super creepy. I’d love to see those cut scenes.

https://deadline.com/2025/07/squid-game-season-3-premiere-viewership-netflix-1236446846/

Behind the scenes.

https://ew.com/squid-game-season-3-jump-rope-vips-cut-exclusive-11765916

What might have been.

https://www.slashfilm.com/1900202/squid-game-season-3-gi-hun-alternate-ending/

The Gilded Age. HBO/Max. Basically Downton Abbey set in NYC, this show is worth watching for the costumes and sets alone. My only complaint is that it’s being doled out like methadone, one episode at a time. Yeah, I’m spoiled. Speaking of which, some mild spoilers.

https://ew.com/the-gilded-age-review-season-3-11752361

The real deal.

https://www.indiewire.com/features/commentary/the-gilded-age-season-3-fact-vs-fiction-1235135953/

🐍 Adios, Sidewinder…

I was sad to hear this. He’s the reason hearing Stuck in the Middle With You has a whole new connotation now.

https://ew.com/michael-madsen-dead-reservoir-dogs-and-kill-bill-actor-was-67-11766378

🐾 Red, White, and Pet…

Dress them up, but please don’t take them out.

https://cheezburger.com/6118661/16-super-cute-animals-all-dressed-up-to-celebrate-4th-of-july

🐝 Quotes of the Week

Music doesn’t lie. If there is something to be changed in this world, then it can only happen through music. – Jimi Hendrix

You are not called to be a canary in a cage. You are called to be an eagle, and to fly sun to sun, over continents. – Henry Ward Beecher

To be nobody but yourself — in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else — means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting. – e. e. cummings

We never know when our last day on earth will be. So, love with full sincerity, believe with true faith, and hope with all of your might. Better to have lived in truth and discovered life, than to have lived half-heartedly and died long before you ever ceased breathing. – Cristina Marrero

No need to hurry. No need to sparkle. No need to be anybody but oneself. – Virginia Woolf

Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear – not absence of fear. – Mark Twain

Sometimes what’s right for the hole isn’t right for the soul. – Marisol Patton, Real Housewives of Miami

🦅 Waiting For the Chirp, Chirp, Chirp…

Until next week, stay safe; stay following pet safety guidelines for the 4th of July; and stay not leaving folders meant for revenge lying around.

June 27, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Daisy’s Christening Day, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Dead Coming Up, New Squid, Bite Me, Above & Beyond, Octrain Of Quotes & Banner

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Carly talked to Michael in the MetroCourt Garden about Daisy’s christening, but he wasn’t paying attention. She asked what was going on, and he said welcoming a new family member felt cruel to Willow.

Nina said Willow had just gotten divorced, but Willow said she’d just lost her kids. Marrying Drew would help her get them back.

In his office, Martin told Drew that he’d alerted the media. Tracy had caved and they had her where they wanted her.

Brook found Tracy in the solarium and told her that there was so much she wanted to say to Gio, but she was giving him space. Tracy said Gio would come to her when he was ready. She wanted to run something by Brook, and Brook asked if she was hiding a body. Tracy said, not yet. She’d received an offer from Drew and had agreed to his terms. She needed to decide if she should go through with it.

Kai went to the gallery and told Trina that he’d taken Drew up on his offer and accepted the internship.

Portia sat down in the locker room and Isaiah came out in a towel.

Curtis came out of pool, and Jordan said she was shocked to find him there in the middle of the day. How would Aurora survive without him chained to his desk? He said, through the magic of cellphones. What was the point in working in a building that had a rooftop pool if he didn’t take advantage of it once in a while?

Carly said it was up to Michael and Sasha, but his beautiful baby girl was something to celebrate, and he shouldn’t feel guilty about the christening. He’d fought for his parental rights and the judge decided the children were better off with him full time. She was relieved. He said he was too, but was having a hard time getting past Willow falling apart in court. Carly said they’d been in love a long time and that didn’t go away overnight, but he said it wasn’t just that. Willow loved the kids and was still their mother, and he wanted her to be when she was ready and healthy. The real problem was Drew.

Willow said she and Michael had gotten married when they wanted to fight Nelle, and Nina said, so it was just a legal tactic, but Willow said this was different. She and Michael weren’t in love the first time they got married. She and Drew were in love and intended to stay married. They were telling the truth. Nina said, they knew that, but the judge wouldn’t.

Jordan told Curtis that the job with Sidwell gave her a bump in salary, so she could afford something bigger. Plus, to maintain her cover, she had to commit to the part. Anyone in her position would upgrade their living situation.

Isaiah told Portia that he was sorry. He didn’t realize anyone was in here. She said she needed a minute after pulling a 15-hour shift. She was trying to work up the energy and wherewithal to go home and couldn’t find it.

Trina said she thought was turning down the move to DC, and Kai said he did turn it down. He didn’t want to leave Port Charles or her, but Drew said the position had flexibility and Drew would make it work for him. Drew was letting him work in Port Charles. He might go to DC one in a while, but he definitely wasn’t moving there. Trina said she was happy he was staying, and he said him too. He asked if she was okay about him taking the internship. He wanted her to be honest. She said she didn’t trust Drew and thought working for him would be Kai’s biggest mistake.

Drew told Martin that this was the second best thing that happened to him all day, and Martin wondered what could possibly be better. Drew said Willow agreed to marry him, and Martin said he’d offer congratulations, but he and matrimony were no longer speaking. It was a smart strategy for the custody fight. Drew said what was different was that he loved Willow and looked forward to her sharing his last name – Quartermaine.

Tracy told Brook about the press conference and said if she dropped the cease and desist preventing Drew from using the name, he would refuse to cooperate with the authorities and the ketamine charges would go away. Brook asked what the problem was, and Tracy said, her pride. It was telling her to let this ridiculous case go forward. Force them to prove it. Brook said, could they? and Tracy said, of course (🍷) not. She didn’t drug Drew. Brook said, normally she’d tell Tracy to fight to the end, but it was a matter of public record that she’d framed Alexis. She could lose even though she didn’t do it. Drew was a complete sleaze, and he was offering her an offramp. She may just need to swallow her pride and take it.

Isaiah said Portia was Co-Chief of Staff. Why was she working a long shift? She said someone had to cover for Dr. Park in the ER and she volunteered. He said he apologized if he was overstepping, but was she possibly taking on too much? She said she was actively avoiding going home, and he said if things were tough there and at home, she needed a distraction and to not think of either.

Curtis said Jordan was good at making a believable cover, and she said there were so many life-or-death situations where he had her back and helped her. He said he knew she had his back, and they reminisced about a drug operation where they sat in his busted-up car in the August heat with no air conditioning. Jordan said, if only his employees knew their polished CEO once sat in a sweatbox, and Curtis said he remembered the chase. Then the look on his face when he realized he’d been played. Jordan said, that almost made it worth it.

Nina said if Willow married Drew, it would look like they were working the system. The judge saw how devastated Willow was. She’d think they only married to change that. Willow said they wouldn’t be, and Nina said, they knew that, but had to make sure no decisions seemed irresponsible or reckless. Willow said Martin had advised them to get married. He’d said it was a good strategy. Nina said, it might be, but Willow didn’t have to do it right away.

Michael told Carly that he and Willow had no chance to solve their problems. If Drew had backed off, who knew what could have happened? Carly said, Drew was family. They were close and he trusted Drew. Then Drew betrayed him in the worst possible way. Michael said, then Drew played mind games with his son, making Wiley think he didn’t want him. It was despicable. What kind of man did that? She said, someone with no moral compass. At least for now, Willow was blind to it. Michael said that was going to change.

Kai asked if Trina’s parents couldn’t keep their grudge with Drew between them, and she said they happened to be people she loved and who mattered to her. He said he got they had a bad experience, but Drew had been nothing but good to him, and she said she he was, but she had to question Drew’s motives. Kai asked if it wasn’t possible Drew saw something in him. She had. It was an amazing opportunity to explore politics on a national level without leaving Port Charles. She said she didn’t know he was interested in politics, and he said all he’d thought about was football. Now his future was wide open. It intrigued him. He liked helping people and serving the community. He wanted to see where it went. Maybe he’d pursue it long term or maybe not, but he did know he was hoping that working with someone she didn’t like wouldn’t come between them.

Brook asked if Tracy was that worried about Drew calling himself a Quartermaine, and Tracy said it did. The name meant something, and he didn’t deserve the name or the respect that went with it. Brook said Drew would never get what he really wanted – their acceptance. He’d never actually be one of them. Monica wouldn’t even let him into the house. If he needed a name change to drop the charges, give it to him. Tracy said she’d face the humiliation that came with the deal she made with the devil, but Brook said she wouldn’t be doing it alone, and took Tracy’s hand.

Isaiah said Portia would be no good to her patients if she ran herself into the ground. If she wasn’t going to get sleep, at least have some fun. Portia said she didn’t remember what fun was like, and Isaiah said they’d have to change that. It was a beautiful day, and they were going to go have fun.

Carly said Michael was legally able to get the kids away from Drew, and he said if Willow had any chance of being in their lives, Drew had to be taken out of the equation. Carly said she’d even teamed up with Nina, but nothing would shake Drew’s hold on Willow, but he said that was before she lost her kids. She painted Drew as her hero, but he was the real reason she’d lost her children. If she was forced to see that, maybe it would finally be enough for her to walk away for good.

Nina said it was fine if Willow and Drew wanted to get married, but they had to convince the judge it was a real marriage, not just a legal strategy. There should be no rush. No city hall. No Vegas. An actual wedding that was planned. Willow said she’d have to wait longer to see her kids, but Nina said there had been no visitation hearing yet. Willow said if they got married by the time the hearing was scheduled, it would improve her chances, but Nina said rash decision making wasn’t going to help her get her kids back.

Jordan said, afterward, she and Curtis had sat on the roof of his car, and he said they celebrated finally nailing Hoffman. She said the breeze from the water cooled them off. She remembers it being the best feeling ever. He said, because it was.

Kai said he appreciated that Trina was worried, but he was making a choice based on his experiences and could handle himself. He didn’t have to like someone to learn from them. Trina said, but he liked Drew, and he said he did. Maybe Drew would give him a reason not to, but that was a lesson he had to learn for himself. It was an amazing opportunity, and he was going to take it. His phone dinged and he said he had to go to a press conference for Drew. He’d call her later. As he left, she called him back and kissed him. She said she didn’t have to agree with him to be on his side. He had this. He thanked her and kissed her.

Brook met Chase at the press conference, and Tracy said she appreciated the support, but Brook didn’t have to notify the family to witness her public humiliation. Brook said she was Tracy’s moral support and Chase was hers. Chase said he was here support Tracy too, and Tracy said she’d been through worse, when Martin came in.

Curtis said, it was a long time ago, and Jordan said things were a lot different. He said he was proud of them. They’d come a long way. She said she just got a glimpse of the guy she used to know, when Portia came in with Isaiah. Curtis’s phone rang, and he said it was Trina. Trina asked if he could come by the gallery.

Portia told Isaiah that her workaholic husband made time to spend at the pool with Jordan, and he said maybe they had the same idea they did. Portia said they weren’t co-workers and didn’t need to decompress. They used to be married. Did he think they’re behavior was appropriate? He said he didn’t think he was the person to ask. He wasn’t impartial. He and Jordan used to date.

Willow said getting married could be the only way to get her kids back, and Nina asked if Drew was pushing her, but she said, not at all. Nina suggested she tell Drew that she wanted more time to plan. As her mother, she’d love to give Willow the wedding she’d dreamed of. They could plan it together. Willow said she’d already told Drew that she’d marry him, but she’d think about the rest of what Nina said. She had to go. Nina told her to call if she needed to talk, and Willow left.

Carly says she wants Drew out of Willow’s life almost as much as Michael does, but she may never leave Drew. Was he willing to keep the children out of her life for good if that was the case? He said Drew wouldn’t be part of Wiley and Amelia’s life. It was non-negotiable.

Martin told the press that Congressman Quartermaine was going to address the charges against his aunt, Tracy Quartermaine. There was nothing more important to him than family, honesty, and loyalty. Brook wondered if Tracy would go through with it, and Chase said Tracy had the means, motive, and opportunity. Brook said Tracy’s colorful past didn’t help, but if Tracy had wanted to drug Drew, she wouldn’t have met him in a public place and kept the evidence in her car. She’d already been caught framing someone and wouldn’t let herself get caught again. He said it was an interesting and perfectly logical defense.

Drew said, it didn’t have to go this way. Tracy could have cooperated. Tracy said he was so proud himself for winning. Gloat wasn’t a good color on him. He said, nor on her, although she’d worn it many times. Now that the shoe was on the other foot, he guesses it was proof they were related. He left and she said, think again.

Isaiah told Portia that he and Jordan’s relationship was brief. It got complicated and she wanted to step back. Portia said she could guess why, and he said this wasn’t helping her unwind. Maybe they should go. She said, absolutely not, and he said he’d wanted to help her relax, not add to her tension. She said it hadn’t. Curtis didn’t even notice she was here. Clearly, he was focused on something else.

At the press conference, Drew told Kai, when it was over, they could go back to what was important, making the constituents happy. His aunt made a grave error in judgement and when she acknowledged that, he could put the incident behind him and move forward. Kai flashed back to hearing Curtis talk about paying Jacinda off to say Drew took the ketamine on purpose, and Drew said he’d see Kai after the press conference.

Nina said she needed to talk to Carly. Carly needed to get through to Michael. If she didn’t, Willow was going to marry Drew.

Michael found Willow in the solarium and told her that the kids weren’t there. She said Yuri told her and although she’d love to see them, she came to see him.

Trina told Curtis that Kai accepted a position as Drew’s congressional intern, and he said he was sorry. There were better people for Kai to work and learn from, but don’t let the tension affect their relationship. Kai was a good guy and Trina seemed happy with him. Don’t let this stop that between them. Trina said she knew Curtis was trying to find the escort and bring her back, but she didn’t understand how it would protect her mom. He said it was complicated and to leave it alone, but she said she couldn’t. What kind of trouble was her mom in?

Portia said she couldn’t fix the situation until she knew what she was dealing with, when Isaiah’s phone rang. He said he needed to take it and when he left, Portia went over to Jordan. She said she was sorry to interrupt. Jordan must be exhausted from entertaining her husband all afternoon.

Carly said she felt awful about Willow, and Nina said she’d be legally entitled to visitation sooner or later. Carly said they’d deal with it them, and Nina said both kids were at an impressionable age. Drew would be a potential role model and a huge influence. The only way to change that would be for Michael to compromise now. Carly needed to convince him to allow Willow to see the kids and get a court order as soon as possible and make sure it’s just Willow, not Drew. Carly said she didn’t think it was possible, and Nina said if Willow saw the kids, she could pry her away from Drew. Carly had the power to get Michael to allow Willow to see the children.

Michael asked how Willow was feeling, and she said, better. She was so shocked. It hit her all at once and she didn’t know how to handle it. He said it was a surprise to him too, and she said the process was horrible. She didn’t want another court fight. Wiley and Amelia loved and needed them both, and they needed to set a good example. Michael agreed, and she said that’s why she wasn’t hiding anything anymore.  Their lack of honesty was what got them into trouble in the first place. She and Drew were getting married.

Drew addressed the press and said he knew his family was a fractious group and Tracy Angelica Quartermaine’s questionable judgement was legendary. As a family, they’d decided it didn’t make sense to waste taxpayer money and clog the court with a personal mattery. His aunt fully regretted her actions that led to her arrest and was pleased to make a public announcement. The Quartermaine family would settle the dispute in house, and he’d no longer cooperate with the investigation involving his aunt and strongly encouraged them to drop the charges. Now his aunt would like to address them herself.

Tracy took the podium and said she’d like to read a few prepared remarks. With regard to the reckless and reprehensible accusations she’d levied against her beloved and honorable nephew, Congressman Drew Quar… After trying several times, she said she couldn’t do it. She had to tell the truth. Drew took the drugs, then planted them in her car. He caused embarrassment and disgrace to the family when he destroyed his nephew’s marriage and should be thrown out of office the same way his stepmother threw him out of the Quartermaine mansion.

Tuesday:

Jason met Sonny at Sonny’s house. Sonny said Turner thought she was sending him to prison, but didn’t know her star witness was about to disappear.

Sidwell invited Lucy to lunch at the MetroCourt Garden, and said his son would be joining them.

Jordan said she didn’t know what Portia was implying, and Portia said she saw Jordan and Curtis by the pool, smiling and laughing. Jordan said reminiscing about old times? and Portia asked if she meant during their marriage. Jordan said Portia needed to have a conversation with Curtis, but Portia said Curtis wasn’t the problem. Jordan was.

Trina told Curtis about Kai overhearing him and Portia talking about Jacinda. She asked if Portia was in trouble and did Drew have something to do with it. Kai was working with Drew, and she needed him to tell her what was going on.

Tracy tried to call Drew Congressman Quartermaine, but couldn’t do it. She said she had to tell the truth. Drew took the drugs, then planted some in her car to embarrass and disgrace her. Just ask her nephew about that. He should be thrown out of office the same way his stepmother threw him out of the Quartermaine mansion. Martin suggested Brook take Tracy home. She was either having a stroke or sundowning.

Nina said Carly had to convince Michael to give Willow visitation. It was the only way to stop her from marrying Drew. Carly said Nina had plenty of chances to do that and nothing had worked. Why was this time different?

Michael said he and Willow married to get custody of Wiley from Nelle. Did she think it was going to help her this time? She said she loved Drew and wanted to spend the rest of her life with him, and Michael said if she married Drew, he’d make sure she never saw the kids again.

Jason said Natalia’s house was set up along with the guards, and Sonny said if she brought over the incriminating records, she’d be off to Belize. Jason said he had eyes on her just in case, but had one concern. What if Natalia already told Sidwell everything she knew?

Sidwell, Marco, and Lucy talked about Sidwell’s house in Dubai, and Sidwell said he’d tried to swing a substantial sale Lucy’s way, but it fell through. She asked if he was talking about Windymere, but he said, no. Sonny’s piers. Sonny considered his offer, but decided not to take it. Que sera sera. Lucy said, don’t give up yet. Perhaps she could still make it happen.

Nina said if Michael agreed to a generous visitation schedule, there was no way Willow would pass it up, even if Drew couldn’t go. Eventually, Willow would see that she didn’t need Drew’s help to have the kids in her life, and it would be the beginning of the end of their relationship. Carly said Drew was still calling the shots. There was no way he’d let Willow agree when it didn’t include him.

Willow said Michael won custody, but once she and Drew were married, the judge would revisit it and give her at least partial custody. Michael said he wasn’t being cruel, but after her meltdown, he didn’t think that would happen. He’d exercise every bit of his power to protect his kids. She said he didn’t have to protect them from her, but he said as long as she was with Drew, it wasn’t healthy for them. It was his opinion and the judge’s too. She said Willow’s relationship with Drew was the reason she’d lost. If they got married, she would seal her fate. She said he was just trying to bully her into dumping Drew. He was scared she was going to win and when she did, she’d try to have more compassion than he had for her.

Tracy said she was no fool, and on the side, Kai said he wanted to get Drew out of there, out of the line of fire and away from the cameras. Martin said Tracy blew her chance to stay out of prison with her insolent behavior. If there was any doubt about her guilt, there wasn’t now. She said his client got caught acting like a frat boy on spring break and was trying to cover his ass, planting the ketamine to frame her. From the audience, Cody said she was dead wrong about that.

Lucy said perhaps she could get Sonny to reconsider, but Sidwell said he’d declined before. She said circumstances had changed and she thought she’d pay him a visit right now. Sidwell called her an angel, and hugged her.

Sonny told Jason that he’d considered the possibility of Natalia leaking information to Sidwell, but from what he’d seen, she couldn’t stand Sidwell. The animosity ran deep and Sidwell would make plans to come after him even if Natalia was gone. He wasn’t the type to take no for an answer.

Portia said she’d seen Jordan begging for Curtis’s attention before, when Isaiah came back. Portia said Jordan found excuses to seek Curtis out, but Jordan said they had business dealings, and they were still family. Curtis was TJ’s uncle. And they were friends. Portia was projecting and what she’d described was how she chipped away at Jordan’s marriage to Curtis. Portia asked if it was pay back, and Jordan said if they were having a problem, it wasn’t on her. Portia asked, who said they were having problems? and Jordan said something wasn’t right or Portia wouldn’t be confronting her. Portia said Jordan had been fawning over Curtis and it was embarrassing, and Jordan said Portia was the one causing a scene because she felt insecure. It had nothing to do with her. If Portia’s marriage was on the rocks, Jordan was guessing she only had herself to blame. Grabbing a drink from nearby, Portia threw it on Jordan.

Cutis said Trina’s mother was in a tough position with very negative consequences if it wasn’t handled, and Trina asked how she could help. He said she couldn’t. They were handling it. She asked if he was tracking down Jacinda, and he said, yes. She asked if he was going to ask her to lie, but he said, the less she knew, the better. She said she understood he wanted to protect her but thought he was making a big mistake. She could help.

Tracy said she gave Cody a roof over his head and a job. This was how he repaid her? Brook told Chase that Cody despised Drew, and Chase asked why he was doing this. Brook said she had no idea. Martin announced that Cody was the son of the PCPD Chief of Police Mac Scorpio and worked for Tracy. It was courageous for him to speak out against his employer. Cody said he wasn’t a supporter of Drew’s and didn’t vote for him, but he couldn’t stand by and see him be accused of something he didn’t do. Cody was in charge of the horses, and Hades was their prize show horse. Before the Hampton Classic, Hades needed a minor medical procedure, and he had to help by getting an anesthetic. His truck wouldn’t start so he borrowed Tracy’s car. In addition to supplies, he picked up ketamine and must have left a vial in Tracy’s car. That meant the congressman didn’t frame her and Miss Quartermaine didn’t drug the congressman. She was innocent.

Curtis said he appreciated Trina’s concern, but her mom was in this situation because of him. Drew had been gunning for him and got to him through Trina’s mother. He was the target, not her, and he didn’t want Trina involved. They were capable people, and she had to trust him. Trina asked him to promise to tell her if it got worse, and he promised, but told her, in the meantime, don’t discuss it with anyone. She promised that she and Kai wouldn’t tell anyone.  

Jordan asked what was wrong with Portia, and Isaiah told Portia to come with him. As she left, Portia warned Jordan to stay out of her marriage. Isaiah hustled her out and asked if she felt better. Portia said, not really. This wasn’t her, but she had to deal with this once and for all. Her phone rang and she said now was her chance.

Nina told Carly that she’d deal with Drew, but needed Michael to work with her. Do it for their grandchildren. They loved and needed to see their mother. It would also help Willow deal with the trauma. Carly said she wasn’t unsympathetic, but hadn’t forgotten what Willow put the children through. She couldn’t stop Willow from marrying Drew; no one could. Nina would have to figure out another way. Carly left.

Jason said too bad Sidwell wasn’t legit. Sonny selling him the piers would solve all their problems. Sonny said, leaving Port Charles in Sidwell’s hands was a huge mistake, and Jason said they couldn’t tie him to the explosion or exonerate him. There was too much uncertainty, and they should prepare for blowback. There was a knock at the door, and Jason opened it to Lucy carrying a basket of oranges. She said she was hoping to have a tête-à-tête with Sonny, and Jason said he had to get going. He left and Lucy said they needed to talk about Sonny’s piers.

Outside, Jason’s phone rang. Nina asked if there was any chance he could meet her at the MetroCourt.

Michael said he’d tried to be compassionate, but Willow said he was unreasonable. She’d flown to Germany to see if they could work something out, and he refused to see her. He asked where she was getting that. No one told him that she was there. She said she spoke to the receptionist, who’d conferred with him and said he didn’t want to see her. He said, that never happened. It must have been a mistake. Willow said the mistake was hers thinking it was possible to be amicable, but he said it made no sense. She said he couldn’t stand it that she chose Drew over him, and he was holding it against her, keeping the children from her as punishment for falling in love with another man. He said he’d never use the children to punish her, but he would protect him from Drew, who was a destructive, manipulative fraud. She insisted Drew was none of those things. He respected her enough to tell her the truth, and he said Drew lied to her and she lied to herself. Willow said Drew treated her as an equal, and he said she wouldn’t stop living in her warped fantasy life. She said he was used to getting his way, but not this time. She was going to marry Drew, and she was going to get her children back.

Martin asked why Cody hadn’t stepped up before now, and Cody said he didn’t watch the news. There was so much sadness out there. He didn’t realize he’d left the ketamine in the car until it was time for the procedure. The full truth was he didn’t ask to borrow Tracy’s car and was worried she’d be upset if she found out. Martin said, more than facing charges that would send her to prison? and Cody said he didn’t realize how far it had gone. When he found out what happened, he had to say something. Martin asked how much Tracy was paying him, and Cody said he had the receipt, pulling it out of his pocket and reading, Dr. Jane Thomas, DVM. Martin said that didn’t prove a damn thing. It could have been doctored. Tracy grabbed the receipt and said she’d take it to an expert to prove it wasn’t. It was going right to her lawyer. Martin made a grab for it and fell off the stage.

Sonny asked if Sidwell sent Lucy over, but she said, no. She thought he needed to reconsider Sidwell’s offer. It wasn’t about the commission, but about being his friend and getting him out of a politically sticky situation. Measure C made a mess for him and Laura. Why turn down Sidwell? Sonny said, because he was a bad guy, and Lucy asked if he realized he was already in business with Sidwell through Deception. He said it wasn’t his decision, and she said the stock was soaring. It would be that much better if Sidwell owned the piers to operate his import business. He said, minerals and God knows what else, and she said in the spirit of cooperation and friendship, what could she do to make it happen?

Marco wondered if Sidwell thought Lucy could get Sonny to change his mind, and Sidwell said it was a long shot, but she was very persuasive. He hoped she succeeded so he didn’t have to resort to more drastic measures… Just kidding. Marco said he didn’t think Sonny would be an impediment for much longer.

Nina told Jason that Drew was engaged to her daughter, and she needed to make sure they didn’t make it to the altar. He asked how he could help, and she said she pitched a plan to Carly to get Michael on board, but Carly turned her down. She was desperate and Michael valued his opinion. He asked, what was her plan? and she said she wanted Michael to let Willow see the kids – without Drew. It would give Willow less reason to marry Drew and give her wiggle room to get Willow to postpone the wedding. If she got really lucky, she could convince Willow to dump Drew altogether. He said, it could work, and she asked if that meant he’d talk to Michael. Willow approached and asked, what’s going on here?

Carly told Michael that she’d talked to Nina and Nina told her that Willow and Drew were getting married. He said he knew. Willow was just there. She was convinced it would help her win back custody. Carly said, Nina thought if he allowed Willow visitation without Drew, it would take away her incentive to get married. Eventually, she could be pried away from Drew, and he’d be out of the picture for good. In the end, that’s what he wanted, right?

Portia said she was at the pool when Curtis called, and he said they must have missed each other. She said, they didn’t. She saw him with Jordan and thought they needed to have a conversation about that. He said they needed to discuss Trina. She knew Portia was in trouble, and knew it was because of Drew.

Martin was helped up, and Drew said he thought it best to bring the conference to an end. He thanked everyone for their time and patience, but Tracy said, before they left, there was something Drew might want to say to the good people of Port Charles. Drew said it seemed his dear Aunt Tracy had been exonerated, and he couldn’t tell them how relieved he was to know she wasn’t the one who drugged him. But rest assured he’d be working closely with the PCPD to find the real culprit. Tracy said he didn’t have to look far. Just look in the mirror. She laughed.

Jordan said she was glad Isaiah was still there, and he asked if she was okay. She said it was unexpected, but she was fine, and she thanked him for intervening. She didn’t know why Portia flew off the handle. He said he saw her with Curtis too. Was she seriously trying to say there was nothing to worry about?

Portia said they should have been more careful and asked if Curtis thought Kai told Drew what he heard. Curtis said, Trina told him that Kai wouldn’t, and he had a hard time believing Kai would do anything to hurt their family or Trina. He wanted to make sure Trina didn’t get tangled up in this. She asked if Trina knew what Drew was holding over her head, but Curtis said she had no idea Portia doctored Heather Webber’s test results. Portia said, if she did, she’d probably blame herself, and he agreed. They had to make sure to stop Drew. She said it didn’t seem possible, but he said he had some good news.

Michael said he thought Willow would come to her senses, but he was wrong and so were Carly and Nina. Today he knew Willow was incapable of realizing that her and Drew’s relationship was harming the kids. It was why she lost custody, and she couldn’t or wouldn’t see it. Ultimately, it didn’t matter because the impact on the kids was the same. Carly asked, what was his plan? and Michael said he’d ask Diane to delay the visitation hearing, but when it happened, Willow would get nothing. Keeping the kids from their mother broke his heart, but he couldn’t allow Drew to be part of their lives.

Drew said if Martin hadn’t been focused on revenge, he would have seen what Tracy was planning and stop it before she made fools of them. Martin said he could do damage control with the press, but Drew said he’d done enough. Martin said he was going to the hospital to get his back checked, and Drew said Martin’s retainer was all he was getting.  

Chase said, that was quite a speech, and Cody said it was the truth. Chase asked if he really had the receipt, and Cody said he’d have to check. He wasn’t so good at keeping records.  

Brook said, that was wild. Cody rode in to rescue Tracy. Tracy said she was relieved to be cleared.

Sonny said Lucy was a savvy businesswoman and savvy enough to know not to get involved in the situation. Lucy said he was judging Sidwell by his reputation, not his actions, but he said he trusted his sources. She said she also trusted hers and thanked him for hearing her out. She hoped she hadn’t imposed on their friendship. He said, not at all, especially when she brought him delicious oranges. They ate one.

Sidwell asked why Sonny wouldn’t be a problem. Did Marco know something? Marco told him that he’d said as much as he could say, and Sidwell said he hoped Marco was right. He preferred not to get his hands dirty, but if it was the only option to eradicate Sonny from Port Charles, so be it.

Jordan said nothing was going on, and Isaiah asked if it was completely innocent… It wasn’t his business anymore. She said she was sorry it didn’t work out, and he said him too. He saw that Sidwell wasn’t the only problem. Her ex-husband was too. She said that wasn’t true, but he said, deep down, she knew it was. If not, she was in for a rude awakening.

Curtis told Portia that Felicia had a lead on Jacinda. She was in Sydney, He didn’t know her exact location, but he would within 48 hours. Portia said, maybe the nightmare would be over soon, and Curtis said if he could convince Jacinda to come back and publicly state that Drew hired her for a wild night of sex and drugs, he’d be too busy to focus on imploding Portia’s career.

Tracy asked if Brook didn’t think Cody would lie, and Brook said she wasn’t judging, but it was clever. Tracy said, it was Michael’s idea. A real Quartermaine knows how to get things done.

Drew told Kai that he’d have to call off the wedding. He couldn’t be the reason Willow lost her kids. Kai asked if he thought it was a possibility, and Drew said it seemed everyone was against them. Kai said there was something he should know. Curtis Ashford planned to find the escort and bring her back to say Drew knowingly abused drugs. He should prepare for increased scrutiny. (I said, no, no, no, no, no, through the whole thing.)

Willow asked if Michael sent Jason to intimidate her and her mom, and Jason said she was making a mistake. She said he was wrong about his brother. Drew was a good man, and she couldn’t wait to be his wife. Together, they were going to get her kids back. He said, if that’s what she wanted to do, that was her choice, and left.

Michael said he hated separating the kids from their mom, but it was for their own good, and Carly said she’d been where he was. She was convinced keeping him from AJ was the right thing, but he didn’t thank her for that decision. His kids might not thank him and might very well resent him. He said he had to do it anyway and live with the consequences.

Wednesday:

Gio instructed Rocco and Danny on working at the pool. Danny was on water and Rocco on towels. Rocco told Danny that his mom took his photo like it was his first day at school. From a chaise lounge, Lulu waved to Rocco.

At the Quartermaines, Marco gave Lulu two birth certificates for Rocco, telling her how, 7 months later, it was altered to Rocco Falconari. Dante walked in.

Kristina went to Alexis’s office and Alexis said she’d seen Elizabeth. Martin was pushing her to sue the car company. She wasn’t interested and Alexis thought she didn’t suspect Kristina’s involvement. Kristina said Elizabeth didn’t suspect, she knew. Lucky told her.

At the gallery, Ava gave Laura an invitation to the Joel Sartore opening, but Laura said her calendar was overflowing. If she couldn’t make it, could she pass the tickets on to Elizabeth?

Ric came into the hospital, and Elizabeth said she was busy, but he said he was there to see a potential client.

Martin told Lucas that his back was still killing him. Lucas examined him and Martin said it was all Tracy Quartermaine’s fault.

Tracy looked at her phone and laughed, when Cody walked in. He said he knew how much she enjoyed watching Martin fall ass over teakettle, and she thanked him. She knew the minute she told him to shut up, Martin would insist he speak. She was trying to make a GIF of Drew’s face the minute he realized she’d won, but she’d ask Leo to do it later. They needed to discuss his payment. He said he didn’t want her money.

At Sonny’s, he asked what Natalia’s answer was, but she said she didn’t know. He was asking her to give up her life. He said, for a whole new beautiful, comfortable life in Belize. They were running out of time. What was her answer?

Rocco asked what Lulu was doing there, and she said she was just another guest. She asked if he remembered his social security number and if he thanked Carly, while she straightened his shirt. Danny told Gio that Rocco was so embarrassed. if his mom was here… she’d do the same thing. Gio said, so would his.

Brook told Dante that they were wrapping up and said she’d let Marco know when she made a decision. Marco left, and Dante said he assumed Chase told Brook what happened. She said, yeah. He could hold what he wanted against her, but Chase was just protecting her. He said he didn’t want to hear it, and she asked if he wanted to yell at her again. He said he didn’t. Talking to Chase made him realize it wasn’t getting him anywhere. In order to reach Gio, they had to work together.

Cody told Tracy that Drew was such an ass, he was happy to take him down a peg or two. She’d been framed and he was glad to help. She was a great boss, and it was the best job he’d had. She said Hades loved him and she found him more than tolerable. She thanked him.

Kristina said Lucky didn’t mention the blackmail to Elizabeth. Just that he helped cover it up. She had the right to turn Kristina in, but wasn’t going to. Alexis said Elizabeth must know Lucky could be charged as an accessory after the fact, but Kristina said, Lucky was headed to Africa, but Elizabeth knew it would hurt Alexis and Molly. Alexis said Kristina’s plan to break up Ava and Ric needed to stop.

Ava said, of course (🍷), and Laura said Elizabeth loved art and now that she had her cast off, she probably wanted to get out. Ava said she was happy Elizabeth was feeling better, and asked if Laura wanted a sneak peek at Joel’s new book. She sipped at a drink, and Laura said not her too with the dragonberry juice. Ava said Ric got her hooked on it, and Laura said he and Elizabeth were drinking it when she stopped by.  

Elizabeth asked Lucas if Laura knew Martin was in the hospital, but he said he wasn’t sure. She said she’d do the honors, and he said he’d noticed Ric was around, but she said he was there for a potential client. Lucas pointed out that Ric had dropped by every day since Lucky left, and she asked if he thought she was leading Ric on.  

Sonny said the longer Natalia stalled, Turner would pull the deal and prosecute her. He couldn’t let her give Turner anything that incriminated him. Natalia handed him the key to her safe deposit box and said, everything was in it. Her life was in his hands.

Ava said Ric had been working nonstop, and Laura said, now that the Corinthos case was settled, he’d have more time. Laura’s phone rang and she stepped away to take the call. It was Elizabeth.

Kristina said, as long as Ric and Ava were in it together, they’d drain the Cassadine estate dry, and Alexis would get caught for embezzlement. Alexis said she wouldn’t leave Elizabeth in Ric’s crosshairs, but Kristina said, she already was. If anyone could handle Ric, she could. Alexis said Elizabeth had a soft spot for Ric and she’d take him back. They should tell her about the blackmail. Kristina said, if they did, she’d confront Ric before she kicked him out of her life. Then he’d retaliate by sending her to prison. They were in this too deep and couldn’t say anything.

Cody told Tracy that he didn’t like taking money to help a friend.

Martin said he was going to sue Tracy for emotional and physical distress and the damage would go up with every spasm, but Ric said Martin had lunged at the paper, lost his balance, and fell. Martin said Tracy goaded him. How about a nuisance suit? She’d pay them to go away. Ric said Tracy was too vindictive to settle and he’d need a retainer of $15K. Martin said he couldn’t afford it. He wasn’t even sure he could pay his deductible. Ric said, forget Tracy. Take care of his back.

Lucas said Elizabeth was friendly toward Ric, but he was seeing Ava. Why did she seem bothered? She said there were certain things she liked about Ric, but hadn’t forgotten the terrible things. She wasn’t going back to him and Ric knew that. Unless he saw what he wanted to see. Lucas said it was hard seeing the good in people that others didn’t, and she asked if he meant Brad. He said they all made choices, and he’d decided when he had enough.

Dante said he wasn’t ready to forgive Chase or Brook, but didn’t want to prevent a relationship with Gio now. Brook said she wanted that too and was sorry Gio was so mad at Dante. She gave Gio up. It wasn’t Dante’s choice. Dante said she’d had a good relationship with Gio before. On the other hand, he’d come down hard on Gio when Rocco passed out. He regretted it and it made it harder for Gio to trust him. She said they were in the same boat. What should they do?

Sonny said he knew Marco negotiated for Natalia and asked what the timeline was. She said, Monday, and he said she’d be long gone by then. She couldn’t tell Marco that she was leaving. If Turner found out she was going to run, Turner would arrest her. Natalia said she wouldn’t be able to come back, and he said, no contact with friends or family. Belize was beautiful, especially if you had money, and she’d be safe. She’d be in a beautiful, luxury home on the beach. She asked if he would still be in contact with her, and he said, yeah. He owed her a debt and took it seriously. (If she doesn’t want to go, I will.)

Cody met Kristina and said he assumed she wanted an Ava update. She asked how it was going, and he said she couldn’t expect instant results. If he came on too strong, Ava would get suspicious. She told him to include Lucky leaving the country in his next conversation, and he asked, why? She said Ric was infatuated with Elizabeth and Ava was aware of it. She was guessing that Ric didn’t tell Ava about Lucky, and it would make her insecure and more receptive to his advances. Cody said if Ric was into Elizabeth, wasn’t his job done?

Elizabeth said she was sorry she’d assumed Ric was there to see her, and he said she could make it up to him by letting him buy her coffee – or dragonberry juice. She said she would have guessed he had plans with Ava, but he said, not tonight. Ava was swamped with a big show coming up at the gallery.

Brook told Drew that Gio was fair. They should let him set the pace and not crowd him. Eventually, he’d be ready to hear them out. When he was ready to listen, they’d prove they wanted a relationship, one on one and as his parents. Dante asked, what happened if Gio was never ready?  

Lulu asked how Rocco and Danny were doing, and Gio said it was their first day, but he thought they’d get the hang of it – Danny dropped a towel – eventually. Lulu asked how Gio was doing, and he said, just fine.

Alexis asked if Eliabeth had a minute to talk in private, and she said, sure. Lucas’s phone rang, and Marco asked if he wanted to meet for a drink at the MetroCourt pool when he was done. They could watch the sunset. Lucas said he’d love to. He was guessing from Marco’s tone, his mom’s legal troubles had cleared up, hypothetically, and Marco said, hypothetically, the interim DA was tough, but he negotiated, and a tentative agreement was in place. He was glad it was over.

Sonny said Natalia had kept his heart condition a secret and made sure he got the help he needed. She came to him when Turner offered her a deal. She said she was sorry she let Turner think there was a deal worth making, and he said she was there for his daughter when she’d had an accident. She was also there for Kristina in court. These were the little things he didn’t forget, and he’d make sure she was taken care of. She thanked him and said he had no idea how grateful she was. She was excited about the new life he was offering. He said loyalty meant everything to him and he wouldn’t abandon her.

Laura asked what Martin had done to himself, and he said he’d had a bad fall and was stuck there overnight. He didn’t want to be a burden. She said he was her brother. She loved him and he’d never be a burden. He said he’d wanted to get his own place, but couldn’t work, and she told him not to worry. He’d need an overnight bag, so text her a list of things she needed to bring back. She left, and he said, Tracy Quartermaine is going to pay for this one.

Tracy met Lulu at the pool, and said there was a pool at the house, but Lulu said, that pool didn’t employ Rocco. It was his first day. Tracy thought it was cute that Lulu was spying on Rocco, but Lulu said she wasn’t spying, and Tracy laughed. Gio asked Danny what he was doing, and Danny said, refolding the towel. Gio said they couldn’t reuse the towels, but Danny said, the guy barely touched it. Gio said, any towel they picked up should be put in the bin. Lulu said it looked like Gio would have the big brother thing down if he gave it a chance, and Tracy told her to just be grateful they were getting along. He was still mad at Brook, and she hoped he got over it soon.

Dante told Brook that they couldn’t give Gio so much space that he’d question if they cared. They had to do something to show him. She said they couldn’t force a relationship on him, and he said there was so much he didn’t know about Gio. Now he felt like he’d never get to know him. Brook said he would. Between her, Dante, her mom, and her grandma, they’d get through to him. Dante said they were a tough group to ignore forever. She was right. They had to be patient, but it was hard. He’d missed so much already.

Cody asked if Molly would be okay if Ric and Elizabeth got back together, and Kristina said, Molly would love that, but Elizabeth wasn’t interested. Until Ric knew he had a sure thing, he’d settled for Ava, but Ava… Cody said, is no one’s consolation prize, and Kristina said, if there was a break-up, it would be Ava breaking up with Ric. They had to get Ava to see that she had better options than Ric.

On the phone, Ava said she’d lost an antique watch. She knew she had it the day Ric went to Beecher’s Corners to work a case. Could they tell her the date?… Her mistake. Thanks. She flashed back to Ric telling her that he’d made it back so quickly because he had a fast car and knew a shortcut. In the present, she said he was a lying liar.

Marco asked if Lucas was working at GH when Britt was Chief of Staff, and Lucas said he was. Britt was best friends with his ex, Brad. Why? Marco said he came across her name whole working on a case. He’d see Lucas at the pool. Lucas said they’d start at the pool and see where the night took them.

Alexis said she didn’t realize Kristina and Elizabeth had talked, and thanked Elizabeth for not going to the police even though she had every right. She didn’t take what Kristina had done lightly. She’d spent her life pursuing justice, and now she was covering up Kristina’s crime. Elizabeth said, of course (🍷) she was. Kristina was her daughter. Alexis said she couldn’t let Kristina go to prison even though she deserved it.  

Lulu thanked Rocco for the excellent service, and Tracy said, the service was fine, tipping him. Danny and Rocco high-fived and Gio said they were free to go. Rocco asked if they could go in the pool, but Gio said employees didn’t get to swim. Swim at the Quartermaines. Danny said what if he tripped and fell into Rocco, and Rocco said, and as he was falling, he pulled Danny in? Tracy blew a whistle and said she’d give them a ride home. She’d had enough fun in the sun.

Cody saw blank walls in the gallery and asked, what happened? Was this art? Ava said, no. She was making room for an exhibit. He saw a freestanding sculpture and asked if that was art. She said it was abstract and meant to be touched. They both ran their hands over it, when Ava’s phone rang. She said, that’s not right. They booked months ago… She was sorry too. Cody asked if she was okay, and she said, not really. That was the guy who normally hung the art exhibits. He had a family emergency and wasn’t coming.  She had nothing on the walls for the exhibit. Cody said he was good with a hammer and nails.

Elizabeth said Lucky told her that Kristina thought it was Ava’s car, and she was horrified, and Alexis said so was she. Elizabeth said she knew Kristina had been struggling since she lost the baby and Sam. Anyone would have snapped. She thought Kristina made a terrible mistake. She gave into her impulses, and she knew Kristina regretted it. Alexis said that was generous. She thought Kristina was aware of the severity of what she’d done, but she was wondering if she was seeing what she wanted to. Elizabeth said she didn’t think so. After talking to Kristina, she thought Kristina understood. It was one reason why she agreed to stay silent.

Sonny asked when Natalia was supposed to meet with Turner, and she said, Friday afternoon. He said by the time the meeting rolled around, she’d be on a beach, sipping a Mai Tai and thinking about her future. She thanked him and said she’d be ready. She needed him to know how important their relationship was to her, and he said it was to him too. She said she was sorry she’d compromised it not telling him that Jenz was her ex. He blindsided her and she froze. No matter how he sold himself, he was a dangerous man. Marco wasn’t. Sonny needed to know Marco wasn’t like Jenz. Her attitude drove Marco toward his dad, but he wasn’t a criminal like his father. Remember that. Sonny said as long as Marco was only Sidwell’s lawyer, there was no problem.

Ava said, hanging the art was harder than it seemed. She couldn’t ask Cody. Cody said he was offering. She would have to point and occasionally cheer him on, and not hit him with anything when he got too close to the art. Serenity, where he grew up, was huge and had a lot of art. He wasn’t allowed near it, but sometimes there was a piece he’d have to look at. If he leaned in, the housekeeper would slap him. Ava said, that was terrible, and he said, those days were long gone. He’d be on his best behavior and be careful. No slapping or fighting. Ava asked if he did that often, and he said, the last person he hit was the mayor’s son, but in his defense, he was drunk. Ava said, he hit Lucky? but he told her that it wouldn’t be a problem. He didn’t get drunk anymore and Lucky was out of the country.

Elizabeth told Alexis that Ric knew how she felt about Lucky and they hadn’t been killed. She thought it best to move on and she had. So had Ric. The accident was a wake-up call. Ric seemed lighter. Ric heard them and ducked around the corner.

Natalia went to Miller & Davis, and Marco asked if she wanted to go over the deal. Natalia said the message was clear, but she wasn’t there as his client. She was there as his mother.

Dante saw Lulu at the pool, and she told him that Rocco’s shift was over. He said, too bad. It looked like they both had the same idea.

Kristina was sitting in a lounge chair, when Lucas came in. She asked if he wanted to join her, and he said he was meeting Marco, but was happy to keep her company in the meantime. She asked if things were going well, and he said, very well.

Dante saw Gio and said, got a minute?

Brook was looking at the birth certificate, when Danny and Rocco walked in. Rocco asked if she was working, and she said, yeah. She was busy with a very important project.  

Deanna went into Martin’s room, and he said he hoped she brought dinner. He was starving. She said they had a bit of a problem. She was sorry, but apparently, his insurance lapsed. He was no longer covered.

Sonny went to see Laura and she asked, what’s going on? He said he wanted to tell her in person that he wouldn’t be selling the piers to Sidwell. She said she couldn’t tell him how relieved she was to hear him say that. Sidwell was an evil man. The last thing she wanted was for him to get a foothold in Port Charles. Sonny said that’s why he turned Sidwell down. He wants to take over the city, but that ain’t gonna happen. He knew Sidwell acted like a legitimate businessman, but he’d seen how Sidwell operated. Laura said, so had she, Lucky, Anna, and Jason. Sonny said, not to start anything, but violence was coming to Port Charles and they had to figure out a way to stop it.

Thursday:

Sasha put Daisy in her crib as she talked about the christening.

Brook was looking at the Rocco folder when Rocco and Danny came in. Danny said they almost got kicked out, and Brook asked what they did. Jason came in and told them to quit bugging Brook.

Gio told Dante that he was still on duty, and Dante said he had tickets to the Port Charles Philharmonic series. He asked if Gio would like to check it out with him. He, Gio, Rocco, and Charlotte could make a night out of it.

At the pool, Lucas told Lulu that he was meeting Marco, and she said she was happy that he was happy, but how close was Marco with his father?

Marco said he wasn’t interested in talking to Natalia outside of the case, and she said even if he never acknowledged her as his mother, she gave birth to him and nothing changed that. Not even if they never spoke or laid eyes on each other again. He asked what that was supposed to mean.

Sidwell looked at photos of Sonny’s family members, when Boyle came in griping about being summoned to Spoon Island. He asked what was with the photos, and Sidwell said Sonny’s family was his obvious weakness. Their negotiations broke down and it made him upset.

Carly went to Sonny’s and said she had bad news about the christening. Sonny said he thought the reception was at her place, but she said Monica wanted to go, so it was easier to have it there. He said there was something he needed to fill her in on.

Sidwell told Boyle that Sonny turned him down, so he had to give Sonny incentive to sell. The people of Port Charles had to be reminded there was a menacing thug in their midst. Boyle said he wanted no part of it, but Sidwell said he was paying for Boyle’s campaign and didn’t care what he wanted. He’d do what Sidwell deemed necessary, smile, and say thank you.  

Lucas said he understood Marco and his father were close, and Lulu asked if he wasn’t concerned. He said, not really. He appreciated her concern, but they were two completely different people. Marco wasn’t his father. She said it would be good to know how tight they were. Were they just emotionally tight or criminally tight too?

Natalia said it may be the last time she and Marco saw each other, and he said she was leaving the country, wasn’t she?

Dante told Gio that he didn’t know much about classical music, but the first chair violinist was one of the best in the country. Did he want to check it out? Gio flashed back to smashing his violin and said music wasn’t his thing at the moment. Dante said, maybe some other time. He had a subscription and Gio could take who he wanted to. Let him know.

Jason asked how the pool was, and Brook said it was still standing. Danny said Gio wouldn’t let them go for a swim, and Jason said they had a pool there. Rocco told him, that’s what Gio said, and Danny said, nothing happened, and Tracy drove them home. The boys left, and Jason asked if Brook was good. She said she was up to her neck in Deception, and Jason said he had to talk to the boys and see how much money he owed Carly.

Sasha told Daisy, sleep well, my little ray of sunshine. She turned out the light and left.

Felicia was waiting in the nook and asked Sasha how it was going. Sasha said it was wonderfully exhausting and everything she’d ever dreamed of. She thanked Felicia for coming, and Felicia said she figured it had something to do with the christening and last-minute errands. Sasha said it was something more important. Felicia had been supportive, encouraging, and loving, Sasha’s ultimate safe space. It would mean so much to her if Felicia would be Daisy’s godmother.

Danny and Rocco told Jason about the day, and Rocco said Gio was a drag. They wanted a quick swim. Danny said it wasn’t like Carly would care, when Dante came in. He said the staff being in the pool would make them look entitled unprofessional. They didn’t want to be those guys. The boys left and Jason thanked Dante. He said he thought it was going to be good for Danny to work, and Dante said Rocco too. Did Jason have a minute? Jason asked, what’s up? and Dante said he realized he had the wrong take on Jason.

Lucas told Lulu that he assumed Marco and Sidwell’s relationship was similar to Sonny and Dante’s. They loved each other, but chose to keep Sonny’s extracurricular activities out of it. Lulu said Sidwell didn’t strike her as having the same code or boundaries, but Lucas said Marco promised he had nothing to do with his father’s business and had given him no reason not to trust that. Lulu said she didn’t, but she was going off what she knew about Marco’s father, and Lucas said, totally fair. Imagine if Charlotte was judged solely on who her father was. She said, well played, and he said, score. She said she just wanted him to be careful, and he said his eyes were open. Maybe he and Marco crossed wires. He was going to go. Lulu said, if Marco showed up, she’d tell him that he just missed Lucas, and Lucas left.

Natalia said she was leaving the country and Marco never had to deal with her again ever. He asked where she was going, and she asked what difference it made. She was starting a new life somewhere else. He wondered how she arranged it. Sonny, right? She said, yes.

Sonny told Carly that Sidwell had offered to buy his piers. The offer looked good on paper, but he couldn’t hand over unchecked power. He knew Sidwell wasn’t a fan of the word no and wouldn’t give up. Carly asked how long Sidwell had been trying. How were they sure he wasn’t responsible for the fire in the penthouse, or the assassination attempt in LA? Sidwell could be a threat to their family.

A drunk guy told Lulu that he liked her hat, calling her blondie. He asked if he could buy her a drink. She said she was good, and the guy sat down. He said the Mai Tais were insane, and Gio asked if Lulu was okay. The guy said he was trying to convince her to have Mai Tai and loosen up. How about a swim? Gio said the pool was closed and the lady would like him to move along, but the guy said he and blondie were good. Lulu said if he called her blondie once more time, she swore… Gio said he was going to tell security the guy was harassing her, and the guy said they were real buzzkills. He’d go swimming on his own. Gio repeated that the pool was closed. Get out. The guy left, and Lulu thanked Gio for the assist, when they heard a splash.

Brook looked at Rocco’s folder and flashed back to Lulu saying she’d never lie to her children or keep huge life altering secrets from them. Brook called Deception and asked Mona to print out the March financials. She’d pick them up from the office. She put the folders on her desk and left.

Sonny told Carly that he, Brick, and Jason had been looking into it, but so far nothing tied Sidwell to the bombing or assassination attempt. Then again, nothing exonerated him either. Carly asked how they knew he wasn’t a genius at covering his tracks, and Sonny said he was keeping his guard up. Sidwell had it easy getting what he wanted in Port Charles. Carly said he was invested in Deception, had underwritten the Nurses Ball, and scooped up Windymere, but Sonny said Sidwell wasn’t going to take anything from him.

Marco asked when Natalia went to Sonny, and she said before she’d come to him. He said Sonny was going to kill her, but she said that wasn’t who Sonny was. He said Sonny was a mobster, but she said he wouldn’t hurt her. They were friends… more than that. He’d promised to take care of her. He appreciated she’d been there for him a lot. He said she was blowing the deal and now her best outcome was to go to prison where they could keep her safe, but she said she and Sonny were leaving together. He said Sonny’s entire family and business were there. He wasn’t going anywhere. She said, not permanently, but she was starting a new life in a new country and Sonny would be part of it. He’d promised to provide for her. He said Sonny was going to kill her. He’d negotiated a deal she’d had no intention of honoring. He could be on the hook and go to prison. Lucas came in and asked if he was okay.

Felicia said she’d be honored to be Daisy’s godmother. Was Michael… Sasha said she was certain Michael was in full agreement. Felicia was a steadying presence and a true friend. Felicia said they were family, and Sasha said she felt that. Her mom and Robert were gone, and she was grateful. Other than her grandmother, she’d had no consistent mother figure. Felicia had a maternal way with her gentle guidance and open acceptance. She let people find their own way and she wanted that for her daughter. Felicia suggested they make it official, raised her hand, and said she accepted the role as Daisy’s godmother. They hugged.  

Daisy cried and someone came into the room, their shadow looming over her.

Natalia said she’d let Marco fill Lucas in. She wasn’t dealing with him when he behaved like this. Marco said he tried. If she left, the rest was on her. If she walked out, she was no longer his client or his mother. She was officially nothing to him. She said she already was and left. Marco said he had to call the police, but Lucas said, don’t do that.

Carly asked Sonny, what about Natalia? She was Sidwell’s ex and knew he’d had heart surgery. What if she’d tipped Sidwell off? Sonny said, let him worry about that. Natalia wasn’t going to be a problem for him or anyone in their family.

Dante said he thought Danny ran wild because Jason was too busy with Sonny to see what Danny was doing and what Danny thought he needed. Jason said he knew Danny needed space, and Dante said balance began there. They couldn’t hold on too tight. That’s not how it operated with Rocco, and he had to be patient with Gio. Let him call the shots. He was sorry he was so dismissive and critical of the way Jason parented his son. He apologized. Jason said, no problem. Apology accepted.  

Sasha suggested she make tea and found she’d put the milk in the cupboard instead of the fridge. Baby brain was real. Felicia asked how it was going with the Quartermaines, and Sasha said it had been great. Michael was an amazing father and Wiley and Amelia were so cute with the baby. They wanted to help with her, and she loved it. Felicia asked about Sasha’s parents, and Sasha said Robert video called every morning at 10 am Eastern time. He had to see Daisy. Felicia said, what about Holly?

Daisy was now in a different onesie, and the mystery person left. (I wondered now if it was Holly.)

Sasha said Holly was a work in progress, and Felicia said, weren’t they all? Sasha said they’d come a long way to build a relationship, and Felicia said her relationship with Maxie hadn’t always been good. She made some big mistakes, and it took a lot of time and effort and a lot of forgiveness to overcome it. It didn’t happen overnight. Sasha said Holly had been lovely. She’d sent a gift and they’d been texting. Now that she was a mother with a daughter, she looked at some of Holly’s choices differently and thought Holly did the best she could in the best way she knew how. Holly was what she was, and Sasha was starting to see she did what she could. Felicia said nothing taught you humility faster than parenthood. Everything you knew about your parents probably deserved a second look, as well as things you knew about yourself. They heard Daisy crying on the monitor, and Felicia said she was going home to rethink her outfit.  

A man told Gio that the guest was escorted off the property and sent home in a cab. It wasn’t the first incident, so he was no longer welcome at the MetroCourt. Gio had done an excellent job getting him out of the pool. He told Lulu, sorry for the inconvenience, but Lulu said she was fine and praised Gio. The man left, and Lulu said, part of her wanted to let him drown. Brook came in, but stayed behind a partition, listening. Lulu asked what the rule was about dangling your feet in the water, and Gio said he’d let her. She asked if he wanted to join her, and he said, why not? They sat laughing and talking as Brook watched.

Danny said he was going to bury Rocco at poker, when he saw the folders on Brook’s desk. Rocco said Brook told them that was private. Should he be looking at it? Danny noticed Rocco’s name.

Lucas said it was just them, and Marco said Lucas didn’t understand. He needed to get his mom arrested. Lucas said he’d mentioned Sonny, and Marco said his mom had evidence against Sonny that she was supposed to turn over to ADA Turner, but she already gave it to Sonny. Sonny convinced her that he’d protect her, and in her mind, she was moving to another country to live with Sonny. Lucas said that made no sense. Sonny had too many ties to Port Charles. Marco told Lucas, that’s what he’d said. She was supposed to turn everything in on Monday at 11 am, but she wouldn’t be there. Now he was left holding the bag. Lucas said he couldn’t bring the police in. He couldn’t be the reason his own mother went to prison.

Sidwell was looking at the photos again, when he heard Natalia coming in. She said she and Marco just got in a huge fight. Marco never wanted to see her again. He asked, whose fault was that?

Lulu and Gio talked and laughed, and Lulu said she was glad Gio was here for the boys. She had the feeling they needed him. Gio said he was glad Danny and Rocco weren’t there when the drunk was bothering her. They would have tackled him into the pool. Lulu said they didn’t need to. The Mai Tai idiot did it on his own. She thought they handled it pretty well. He said if she hadn’t thrown him the floating device, the guy would have dragged him down too. She said they made a pretty good team, and he said, they sure did. They high-fived and Brook looked pained.

Jason said he was sorry for what Dante was going through with Gio, but Dante said what happened wasn’t on Jason. Jason said Dante wasn’t responsible for what he didn’t know. Gio was a smart and good kid. Dante had to trust him to figure it out. Dante said he didn’t know what Gio would want from him or even what he had to offer, and he didn’t think Gio would accept it if he did.

Danny said it was about Rocco. See for himself. He handed Rocco the folder.

Marco said either Natalia went to prison, or he did, or she died, but Lucas said he didn’t know as Sonny would kill her. Marco negotiated in good faith with the ADA. It wasn’t on him if his mother ran for it. Marco said it was a total nightmare, and Lucas said the only people who knew the truth about Natalia’s plans were Sonny, Natalia, Marco, and him. He wasn’t going to say a word. No one else ever needed to know. Marco said Lucas would keep his secret? and Lucas said he would.

Sonny said they should be grateful Michael was home safe with the kids and happy, and Carly said, and their newest adorable surprise granddaughter. It was wild all the family Daisy brought together. Daisy was a Spencer, a Corinthos, a Quartermaine, and a Scorpio. Sonny said, God help her, and Carly said she was going to get so much love.

Sasha goes to Daisy’s room and says Daisy is lying in the wrong direction. She always puts Daisy facing the door. And her onesie was yellow. Did daddy change her? Why would he do that?

Natalia says she should have known she wouldn’t find compassion. Sidwell turned her son against her a long time ago. He says she did that all on her own, for not accepting Marco for who he was – a remarkable man. So whatever hole she found herself in this time, don’t expect him to dig her out. Natalia said she didn’t, but she needed him to promise something. He said he loved Marco; prove it. Keep Marco out of his disgusting business. They both knew Sidwell had his hands covered in blood. Don’t doom their son to the same fate. She left and he took out the photos one more time. He looked at Sonny, then slammed the envelope down. He went out onto the turret in the rain and looked out over the city.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Josslyn greets Michael at the Quartermaines and says they’re having a christening in his baby’s honor. She’s so excited, but admits she didn’t see it coming. He says, no one did at first. It wasn’t exactly planned. She says, you can’t plan for a baby as cute as Daisy. They’ll all be putty in her little hands. He says, Daisy was what his heart needed, but he didn’t realize until Sasha told him. Josslyn says she’s happy for him, and he says he’s happy for him too. She says, he’s home where he belongs, and he says, finally. She asks why he wanted to meet here instead of the church, and he says he wanted the chanced to explain why she’s not Daisy’s godmother.

Felicia says she’s excited. She can only imagine how Sasha is feeling. Sasha says she’s pretty excited too, and Felicia says, a christening is a big deal. It’s an honor to be Daisy’s godmother. Sasha says, when she was growing up, there was no big family, just her and her grandmother most of the time. Thanks to Felicia, Maxie, and Mac, Daisy will have the kind of life she didn’t have. She loves Felicia. Felicia says she loves Sasha too, but why did Sasha make everyone think Jason was Daisy’s father the whole time?

Carly says, Jason looks perfect (FYI, in a suit), and he thanks her. She says, Michael would have probably asked him to be Daisy’s godfather, but Sasha did it first. Michael didn’t have to ask. He says he’s honored, but he was surprised. She says, in the first place, he really stood up as Daisy’s father when no one knew who was. Sasha would have been alone except for him. They must have a genuine bond. He says, they do, and she says, it’s fitting that now he gets to watch over Michael’s daughter like he watched over Michael.

Natalia thanks Brook for coming over. She wanted to speak with Brook privately. Brook asks, what’s going on? and Natalia says, it’s the last thing Brook wants to hear. Deception is in trouble.

Turner shows up at Sonny’s place, and he says, hi, Justine. To what does he owe the visit? She says, for the record, they’re not on a first name basis, and he asks if he should call his lawyer. She says, he might if his attorney can explain why he sent her this. She indicates a box in her hands.

On the phone, Anna says, then get another judge to sign off because she needs the warrant today… Yes, today today… Thank you. She tells Jordan, sorry. Signing off is supposed to be the easy part. Jordan says, don’t apologize. She knows how it works in this office. Anna asks if Jordan put any more thought into what she should do about Curtis, and Jordan says she doesn’t know what’s happening between them, but whatever it is, Portia has a big problem with it.

Portia goes to Curtis’s office and says he must have gotten an early start this morning. She didn’t see him at home. He says he had work he needed to take care of, and she says she understands. she was hoping they could talk. He says, now is not a good time today, but she says she needs to know one thing. Is he helping her with Drew to save their marriage or is he using getting her out of trouble as an excuse to leave her once and for all?

Sasha tells Felicia that there was so much strife swirling around Michael, she didn’t want her child dragged into any part of what was going on around him. Felicia says, being a mother means making hard choices and putting your child first. Sasha was already thinking like Daisy’s mom before she was even born. Another way to be a mom is allowing the family to spoil her daughter. That reminds her. She and Yuri took all the gifts to the nursery. Sasha says, gifts? Plural? Felicia says, Sasha has no idea, and Sasha says she’ll remind Daisy again and again how lucky she is – how lucky they are – to be part of the Scorpio family. Cody stands at the door with a giant stuffed elephant and asks if that includes them.  

Sonny asks, what’s in the box? and Turner asks if he’s really going to pretend he doesn’t know. He says he doesn’t have to pretend. Sorry to burst her bubble. She says, it’s a baseball glove, gorgeous, very expensive. Some of the nicest leather she’s ever seen. He says, whoever sent it was doing her a favor judging by the sad, ugly glove she showed him the other day. She could definitely use it. She says, giving gifts to a public official is a risky move. If it’s seen as a bribe, it’s a felony. He says, is that so? She says, it is, but a squeaky-clean guy like him would never cross that line, would he?

Josslyn says she would make the best godmother the world had ever seen, and Michael says, no doubt, but he and Sasha agreed in the beginning that she would make all the decisions when it came to raising the baby. Josslyn asks if he supports that, and he says, 100%. She decided on Jason and Felicia. Josslyn says she can’t be mad at that. They’re amazing options. She knows firsthand that Jason is the best godfather one could have. Michael says Jason promised to be there for Daisy, just like he was there for him and for Josslyn, and she says, when Michael was in Germany, she couldn’t help feeling the heart of the family was missing. He really is their anchor. He says, speaking of his time away, it sounds like she and mom kept busy. Mom is dating the spy from Christmas dinner and Josslyn went to Easter Island and is now assisting a professor in his research. She needs to tell him everything, like now.  

At the church Jason says, Carly and Michael didn’t make it easy, but it was an honor to watch over them. Carly says she looks back at that time and she’s like, how did I do that? How could she leave her newborn? But she was able to do it because of him. If Michael was with him, she knew he’d be okay. Jason says, and he was, and she says, more than okay. He took care of everything, even Michael’s christening. By the time she walked into the church, her son had a name. He says, two of his favorites – Sonny and Mike. He can still hear Edward yelling, over my dead body! when they announced it. She says, only the Quartermaines would crash a christening, and he says, they had to. They weren’t invited. She says, Edward was so mad. Wow. But not today. There will be no uninvited crashers today.  

Brook tells Natalia that she blew off Tracy’s concerns about Sonny’s investment because she did her due diligence. The money was clean. It was from an account Sonny put aside for the record label. Natalia says, that money was clean, but it was a second follow-up transaction from a different account. If she’d scrutinized it in time, she’d have caught it. Brook asks if Sonny knew, but Natalia says, he had no idea. His finance team handled it. Brook says, Sonny would never do something like that, and Natalia agrees and says, it was a huge clerical error. Brook says, an error that could cost Deception its reputation, and Natalia says, it could, but there are some things they can do to protect the company. Have Sonny divest for safety and optics. There’s also a chance it may never come out. Brook asks if Natalia thinks they need to avoid a scandal, and Natalia says she doesn’t know, but she thought Brook deserved to know regardless. Brook says she appreciates that, but why come forward now?

Anna says, so Portia, General Hospital’s Chief of Staff, threw a drink on Jordan? and Jordan says, Co-Chief and yes. Portia threw a glass of iced tea on her. Anna says, wow, and Jordan says, and she caused a total scene, which is her way. Anna says, good Lord. Talk about overreacting. Jordan says, it’s just Portia’s M.O. in general, but if she’s being honest, she’s not so sure Portia was. She and Curtis do have a connection that runs deep, and she’ll always carry a torch for him. She doesn’t think that will ever change. Anna says, it’s a struggle, carrying a torch for another woman’s husband, one that you still love or have feelings for. It’s kind of brutal, especially when they’ve moved on. Jordan says, that’s the thing. They were reminiscing by the pool yesterday and she started feeling like maybe he felt the same way. Anna says, in spite of what Jordan felt in her head, she knew he was married, and Jordan says, that’s why she asked to stop by Anna’s office. She wishes she could have settled the conflict between her head and her heart before she walked through the door. Anna says she knows where Jordan’s heart is. Where is her head at? Jordan says she’s not the kind of woman to get involved in someone else’s relationship. If she did, she couldn’t respect herself and it would mean she didn’t learn anything from the pain she felt when her marriage fell apart, and she did. Even if Portia is being petty, she could never do to Portia and her marriage what Portia did to hers.

Curtis says, all he can concentrate on right now is getting free of Drew and any leverage he has over Portia. Whatever’s happening between them is lower on the list. Portia says she needs him to move it up. She can’t sit in limbo forever, waiting for him to decide whether their marriage is worth fighting for. He says he understands, and she says, maybe he has a lot going on right now or maybe he’s not ready to fight for their marriage, but she is. He says, if they dive into this right here, right now, she’s not going to like what he has to say, and she says she may not like it, but she wants to hear it. She needs to hear it. He says, okay. He admits that Drew wouldn’t have gone after her had he and Drew not fallen out. She says she’s proud of him standing up to Drew and refusing to be taken advantage of, and he says, right. He appreciates that, but they wouldn’t be in this situation if it wasn’t for her lies. After everything that happened with Trina, she promised him that things would be different. She’d always tell him the truth. She knows better than anyone that secrets ruined his marriage to Jordan. Yet here they are, questioning their future together for the exact same reason. Portia hurt him and betrayed him. His mind is blown that she’d be so foolish to put their family in this situation again. She says, wow. She’s glad she’s finally hearing what he’s thinking. He was right. She didn’t like it, but she needed to hear it. Now he needs to hear what she has to say.

Sasha says, of course (🍷) she and Daisy are happy to have Cody and his friend as part of the family, and he says, good to hear, because it could go either way on any given day. But actually, this isn’t his friend. To be honest, he intercepted the delivery guy. There’s a card. Sasha reads: Wishing you and Daisy a life filled with love and happiness. Love, Mom and Dad. She says, it’s so sweet, but it’s a little weird to read mom and dad. Felicia asks if Robert and Holly mentioned anything about visiting, but Sasha says, not yet. But she’s bombarding them with photos and videos. Mostly Robert. She and Holly don’t communicate as much, but she wants Daisy to know both of her grandparents. They hear Daisy cry on the monitor, and Felicia asks if she can get her. Sasha says, sure, and Felicia leaves. Sasha asks if Cody wants to hold the baby, but he says, Daisy is still pretty new. Let her grandparents and cousins break her in before he attempts anything. She says, if he’s sure, and he says he is. She seems happy. She says she is, and he says, that wasn’t the most convincing response. She says, sorry. Everything is fine. He says he knows her. If it’s not, she has to tell him. Seriously, what’s wrong? She says she doesn’t know. Something really weird is going on around here and it has to do with Daisy.

Josslyn says, when Michael has a few hours to spare, they can go to lunch or something and she’ll fill him in on everything he missed when he was gone. He said they’ll definitely go, and she says, he’s definitely paying. He says he missed her, and she says she missed him. So did the kids. How is he doing back home with the kids living with him full time? He says he’s adjusting. They both love being a big brother and sister. She asks if they’re excited about the christening, and he says, yes, but he thinks they’re struggling, Wiley in particular. He asked if his mom would be there, and when he told Wiley, no, he could see the confusion all over his face. How were they having a big family event without mom being there? And it’s only going to get worse. Josslyn asks, why? and he says, because Willow and Drew are getting married.

Brook says she doesn’t understand why Natalia didn’t tell her the second she saw it, but Natalia says she wasn’t sure about it. When she was, in good conscience, she couldn’t move on and not tell Brook. Brook thanks her for telling the truth, unlike some other people in her life, and Natalia says she thinks her son probably had a little to do with her coming forward. Allison too. Brook says, how’s that? and Natalia says, when you have two kids who want to have nothing to do with you, you realize some pretty hard truths about yourself. Like maybe you need to be a better person or a better mom. She just made a lot of mistakes with Marco and Allison. She refused to see the way her children were living their lives as anything other than missed opportunities. She destroyed her family and it’s her own damn fault. Brook says, there’s still time to repair it, but Natalia says she wishes that were true, but there’s nothing left here anymore for her. A lot of pain and hurt, and she thinks Marco is better off without her here. He’s started a whole new life in Port Charles and that’s okay because she has her future wide open now waiting for her.

Sonny says, it must have been sent by a very thoughtful teammate, and Turner says, maybe, but she finds it awfully convenient that the day after they had a run-in at the park, a brand-new baseball glove appears at her door with no note, no return address, and no indication of whom it might be from. He says he doesn’t know what to tell her, and she says, only someone with expert help and motive could pull off a drop that clean. He asks if that’s all she’s got, a gut feeling and no evidence. Is that how she prosecutes all her cases? She says her instincts haven’t let her down yet, and he says, yet. That is the word that matters. She says, okay. Even if he didn’t send it, she can’t accept it. He can pass it along to one of his teammates. Kristina comes in and asks if Sonny is ready to go, when she sees Turner.  

Sasha tells Cody, Daisy is great, but there have been a few things… It started at the hospital when they brought her the wrong baby. They sorted it out, but it still shook her up pretty good. He says, of course (🍷) it did, and she says, then, the first night they were home, the mobile over the crib was spinning. She knows it was off when she left. Then yesterday, when she put Daisy in her crib, she was wearing a yellow onesie. When she went to check on her, not only was she in a pink onesie, she was facing in the other direction. He says, Daisy can’t move around like that yet, right? and she says, no, and she can’t change her own clothes. He says, good to know. The hospital is an easy explanation, but the other stuff, there’s Michael, the nannies, and Mama Q running around. Any one of them could have done it. She says she asked. No one touched anything. He asks if she’s sure. This place is kind of like Grand Central Station. Any number of people could have gone in there and run the mobile or moved Daisy. Unless… She says, unless what? and he asks if she thinks it’s a ghost. She says, no, but it’s really unsettling, and he says he knows, but he’s sure there’s an easy and corporeal explanation for it all. He knows what happened with Liam and knows the journey she was on to get here. She has a second chance at being a mother and he promises her baby will be okay. She asks how he knows, and he says, she’s got the best mom in the world. He thinks he knows and always knew.

Josslyn tells Michael that she guesses she shouldn’t be surprised. Willow and Drew are awful people, so now they’re doing an awful thing. Michael said he was blindsided by the news, and she says she bets. She was so hard on Willow when he was gone, and mom took on Drew. They didn’t actually get anywhere, but they got a lot off their chests. It was like some weird primal scream therapy. Michael laughs and says he’s glad something good came out of it. He’s trying his best to keep the hurt and anger over his marriage out of the equation altogether and focus on what’s good. She says, yes. That’s the right thing to do. The kids love their mom. He says, they want to see her, but Willow keeps choosing Drew over them. By agreeing to marry Drew, she’s making that choice permanent. She says, Willow is going to… Willow, but she’s caused enough drama. So please don’t let it darken what should be a special day.

Carly says she wants to doublecheck security and then she’ll be good, but Jason says he and Sonny took care of that. The church is secure and has been on lockdown ever since. She says she did see quite a few guards, and he says, there are quite a few she didn’t see, so everything’s going to run smooth today. She asks if he’s sure, and he says he’s positive. After the explosion at the penthouse and the attempt on Sonny’s life in LA… She says, both unsolved, by the way, and he says, but they’re on high alert, especially at events like this. If anyone even thinks of making a move, they’ll be stopped.

Turner says, good to see Kristina again. She hasn’t seen her since the trial. How is she? Kristina says she’s okay. It got little crazy at the end when the decision came in. Turner says she remembers, and Kristina says she never got the chance to properly thank Turner for all she did. So thank you. Turner says she was happy to do what she could. It’s her job to bring criminals to justice. It looks like they have somewhere to be. She hopes they have a wonderful rest of their day. Sonny says, her too, and she leaves. Kristina says, the acting DA pays Sonny a house call? Something is going on unrelated to softball. He says, there’s nothing going on. He promises. Could she do him a favor? He left Daisy’s gift in the kitchen. Can she get it and meet him back here? She goes to the kitchen and Sonny makes a call. He says, ADA Turner was here. She’s showing too much interest for his taste, so as far as Natalia goes, there’s a change of plans.  

Anna says, if Curtis is feeling the same way Jordan does and the same pull, she’s probably right, and Jordan says, maybe it’s like Anna said. Being connected the way they are, they’ll probably always feel something. She doesn’t want to think about what that means. Portia and Curtis’s future is unclear, but she knows the issue they’re dealing with is serious. Portia’s been dishonest and kept secrets from Curtis. Anna says, kind of sounds familiar. Would it be fair to say that she and Portia are now on an even playing field? Jordan tells Anna that she can certainly say Portia’s high horse is a lot lower these days, and Anna says she thinks Jordan needs to speak with Curtis, have a proper, honest conversation about all of this. Jordan says, maybe. Curtis is important to her, and she’ll always want him in her life, but the way things are going, she doesn’t know if she can be around him anymore.

Curtis tells Portia, if she’s got something to say, let’s hear it, and Portia says she knows a little something about being hurt and betrayed too. He keeps bringing up Trina and she could have sworn they dealt with that a long time ago. Yet here he is throwing it in her face again. He knows she kept Trina’s paternity a secret from him and Taggert to protect her. That’s why this whole thing with Drew started. She wanted to protect Trina from that lunatic Heather Webber and did what she had to, what she could do, to keep Heather in prison where she belonged. She’ll always do whatever it takes to protect their daughter. She knows he wants her to say she regrets everything, but she doesn’t. He says, at least she’s finally being honest, and she says she’s so tired of living in fear of his judgement, his impossibly high standards, and needing to be right every single time they talk. She’s terrified that she’s going to try her best, but never live up to his image of the perfect woman in his head. She’s a human being. She makes mistakes. Those mistakes shouldn’t cost their relationship. They should work on them and grow from them. That’s what marriage is. He says, secrets can’t be the way married couples solve their problems. He can’t keep secrets from her. She says he didn’t tell her that he and Michael were plotting against Drew. Like he said, that’s what he did that started all this and that’s the reason Drew is coming after her right now. Drew is trying to destroy her life and everything she’s worked for because she’s Curtis’s wife. A wife he’s not sure he wants anymore. He says he regrets every day what he started with Drew, but she says, keep the regrets. She wants some understanding. He says, she has it, and she asks why he feels like what he did is different than what she did. He says, there are differences, but she says, no. There’s hypocrisy and irony because she loves him for protecting their family by any means necessary, but when she does it, he uses it as an excuse to break up their family.  

Carly greets Michael with a hug and asks, where’s Daisy and the kids? He says, Kristina is supervising a photo shoot in the garden before the ceremony, and she says, good luck. She can’t imagine anyone in that group staying still for very long. Sonny says he’s surprised Jason got her to stay still, and she says, they were having a conversation about old times, like Michael’s christening, and how important it is for them all to be together and look out for each other. Sonny says, nothing is more important than family – the family you’re born into and the family you choose along the way. As they all know, family is forever.

Looking at her laptop, Natalia says, Sonny was right about one thing. Belize is gorgeous. Is that sand really that white? That’s crazy. There’s a knock at the door, and she opens it to Paul. She asks, what’s going on? She didn’t expect him until later. He says, everything is fine. There’s just been a change in her itinerary. She’s not leaving tonight. She’s leaving now. She asks where Sonny is, and he says, at his granddaughter’s christening. She says, if he’s taking the red eye, she’ll wait and take it with him, but he says, Sonny’s not going with her. She’s going alone.

Anna looks at some papers and makes a call to Turner. She says, Commissioner Devane. Something just landed on her desk, and they need to discuss it. She needs Turner here now.

Curtis says, Portia is right about protecting Trina, but they have different ideas about what that looks like and the consequences of their different ideas look different. She says she’s apologized over and over. At some point, he has to break down and tell her how to fix this. He says he’s not sure it can be fixed, and she says, so he’s saying this is it? This is how they end after everything they’ve been through together? She understands that he’d never do to her what she’s done to him, but she’d never make him feel the way he’s making her feel. She starts to cry, and he says, she’s hurting and in pain. She says, they love each other and brought each other so much joy and so much happiness, haven’t they? Let’s just get back to that. Just tell her what to do. How they can work through this together. Tell her there’s hope. He kisses her.

 Brook comes into the church and says she ran into Sasha and Daisy outside. That baby is delicious. Carly says she plans on spoiling Daisy every chance she gets, and Brook says she thinks there’s going to be a long line of people waiting to do just that. Carly says, the more love, the better, and Brook says, always. Carly says she needs to find Father Reyes and tell him this has to be perfect, and Michael says, or they could not pressure him and just see if he’s set up for the ceremony. Carly says, we’ll see, and they leave. Brook says, good thing they’re all in the church. The father is going to need all the help he can get. Chase says, so Corinthos and Scorpio. That’s unusual parenting. Felicia says, it is, but Robert seems very happy about it. He and Holly sent a gift to the house. Chase says he’s disappointed. He’d be interested to see Sonny, Mac, and Robert stand around the baptismal font. Felicia says, Mac and Robert can’t be here, so he’ll have to let his dream go. Brook says she wants to run something by Chase, and they go to a more private spot. He asks if she’s okay, but she says, no. She has no idea how to tell Maxie. He says, tell Maxie what? and she says, Deception might be in very serious trouble.

Sonny tells Jason that ADa Turner paid him a visit today. Her reason was innocent enough, but she’s more interested in him than he’d like. Jason says he doesn’t like that, and Sonny says him neither, but it made him think getting Natalia out of town sooner rather than later was the best thing. Jason says, he moved up her flight and Paul is picking her up as they speak, and Sonny says, the last thing they want is for her to run into Turner or anybody else. Jason says, Paul is taking her straight to the airport, and Sonny says, she’s going to be put on a plane and she’s going to Belize, and this can finally be over.

Natalia says, Sonny’s not coming? and Paul says, her name has always been the only one on the manifest, but Mr. Corinthos arranged for her travel, accommodations, and security. She says, but he didn’t arrange to get himself on the plane, and Paul says, he has no reason to need to accompany her. She says, okay. Then she needs like, an hour to pack. He says, that’s fine, but she needs to hurry. He’ll let Mr. Corinthos know her ETA. Paul leaves and she closes the door and cries. She says, Sonny’s not… So there’s not… a future. There’s no new life. Just the same one somewhere else. Did she just tell herself this story? I didn’t do it without your help. Sonny, you bastard. You don’t want anything to do… What happened to not abandoning her? She cries some more and says, he doesn’t want anything to do with her. He just wants her gone. She checks the hallway, grabs her purse, and leaves.

Portia is about to return Curtis’s kiss, when he lifts her onto the desk. They hear the door open and it’s Jordan.  

Brook tells Chase that Sonny’s second investment in Deception wasn’t clean, and he asks if that wasn’t Tracy’s concern all along. She says she’s aware, and he asks how she found out. She says she saw Natalia at the MetroCourt earlier… He says he can’t talk about this, and she says, why? What does he know?

Turner asks what Anna wants to discuss that’s so important Anna had to order her into the office, and Anna says, see that? showing her a folder. It landed on her desk. It was an accident. It was intended to go to Detective Chase. The same detective Turner assigned to a case that she and Detective Falconari were excluded from. Turner asks how much she read, and Anna says, enough to know this stops now. Turner says, really? and Anna says, Turner isn’t running an investigation through her department using her officers without her. Turner says, there are reasons Anna was excluded. First and foremost, she can’t count on Anna when it comes to dealing with Sonny Corinthos. Anna says, okay. If Turner doesn’t trust her, she doesn’t end run her. Take it to internal affairs. Turner says, maybe she will.

Brook says, Sasha and Josslyn are going to bring in Wiley and Amelia, and Carly asks if Sonny is good. He says, yes, he is. He loves moments like this. The whole family under the same roof. They just don’t get enough of them. She says, no, they don’t, when Natalia strides in. Carly asks Sonny why Natalia is here.

On Monday, Portia says Curtis may not see what’s going on here, but she certainly does; Lucas tells Marco that this may be the last chance he has to reach back; Natalia says Sonny is going to get what he deserves; and there’s an explosion.

General Hospital will not be airing a new episode on July 4th.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

First the sad stuff. This still upsets me to no end.

https://extratv.com/2025/06/25/slain-actor-johnny-wactor-s-mom-and-brother-attend-premiere-of-his-final-film-exclusive/

https://extratv.com/2025/06/09/first-look-at-johnny-wactor-s-final-film-ciao-mama-exclusive-trailer/

https://people.com/johnny-wactor-mom-gets-standing-ovation-premiere-of-actor-final-movie-one-year-after-death-11761541

I recognize him, but don’t remember him from GH. His character sounded like a good time though.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/joe-marinelli-general-hospital-and-santa-barbara-alum-has-passed-away-at-68/

Now fun stuff. Hmm… We know Britt’s coming back – I assume in a flashback – so why not? Although Obrecht is still alive, so why not?

https://parade.com/tv/general-hospital-star-67-keeps-fans-guessing-amid-return-rumors

A sign of the times. The only shocking thing to me is finding out there’s another soap character out there named Sonny.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/pride-and-joy-the-romantic-and-dramatic-history-of-gay-weddings-on-daytime-soaps/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

The gay porn guests were still on board and Chef Anthony forgot one of them had a shellfish allergy. Fraser told the guest that it was his mistake, but in his interview, he said he was concerned since bringing on the chef had been his bright idea. Solène cleaned the bar without being told, and Rainbeau went out of her mind with joy. In Rainbeau’s interview, she thought it was kind of sad she was this excited, but it wasn’t long before she found a big mess Solène didn’t clean up. After she confronted Solène, Solène tried to bitch to Jess about it, but Jess wasn’t having it. The guests requested an S&M Venetian private club dinner, and Fraser was happy to oblige, insulting the guests without cracking a smile while serving dinner. The other staff, including Chef Anthony, played along, and a good time was had by all. After the guests left, Captain Kerry said he’d been impressed by everyone’s performances, but unfortunately, the tip didn’t reflect that. It was pathetic. Since there was a commercial, I figured he was doing that thing they do on American Idolwe’re so sorry to tell you… you’re going to Hollywood! But alas, that wasn’t the case. It was $19,990 or $1500 each. He gave them a dinner perk and some time off, and later, the crew lounged in the hot tub. Fraser kissed Damo after his boyfriend had specifically told him that kissing others was a no-no, but in his defense, it sounded like they never see each other, both of them being in the industry.

Next Gen NYC

So I guess 10K for an apartment is on the cheap side now? At least according to Ariana and Hudson who found one for that amount. Charlie said, with his dad, it was one big d*ck measuring contest. Well, it’s only a contest if you enter. He brought some friends to meet his dad and stepmother, probably to prove what an immeasurable d*ck his father is and that the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree. Georgia was dating a guy that sounded like her complete opposite, but he seemed cool and wanted to invest in her heart project. So kudos! One reviewer compared this show to NYC Prep, which I also loved, but this group seems a lot more mature. In thinking about it, it must be really weird to be related to someone on reality TV and probably being their kid is the worst. Georgia, the one native New Yorker, is the one feeling like the odd man out because she’s not there as a nepo baby.

The Valley

Jax needs to have some cheese with that whine. When he wasn’t listing the faults that he supposedly addressed in rehab, he was complaining about how Brittany and the rest of the world treated him. A group trip to Maui was planned, where Jesse intended to propose to Kristen, and at least Jax had the good sense to opt out. No doubt he wanted to party without eyes on him. Not that it mattered a whole lot. With him or without him, there are plenty of issues to go around. Everyone has beef with someone, but when they claim to want resolution by talking it out, the talks usually end up with screaming and/or crying.

Yeah. He doesn’t seem like the nicest guy. And what the blip is Scheana wearing?

Real Housewives of Miami

It never fails that I stop watching something, forget why I stopped, then remember after I watch again for a while. With this, it was the constant screaming matches during events. This time it was during a surprise wedding celebration Alexia was throwing for Marisol and new husband Steve, and between Julia and Gurdy. It doesn’t matter why. It’s always stupid stuff. I felt bad for Marisol though. She was like, hello? Can you deal with this another time and not at my wedding reception?

Random Reality Items

I’m not sure why she was concerned. I didn’t get the vibe she was the bad guy in the situation. Just the opposite.

Below Deck baby leaves the dock!

You, too, can live like the Countess.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Trainwreck: Mayor of Mayhem. Netflix. At the time, this guy was an endless source of amusement to me. It was like, what’s next? In watching  this, I could see why people wanted to keep him in office. He really did work for the people. Unfortunately, his extracurriculars got the better of him.

https://people.com/what-happened-to-toronto-mayor-rob-ford-11758556

Grenfell Uncovered. Netflix. Harrowing and upsetting doesn’t begin to cover it. A high-rise apartment building became a literal wall of flame in the blink of an eye because of the inappropriate materials used to build it. Fire freaks me out since it so easily becomes out of control. I can’t even imagine being trapped in an inferno like this.

https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a65170885/grenfell-uncovered-netflix-documentary-trending/

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tv/article-14837965/Netflix-viewers-tears-Grenfell-Uncovered-documentary.html

The Ritual. Netflix. Nothing deep here. Sacrificial rituals aren’t my favorite sub-genre, but this is a fun watch. The monster has a slow reveal, but there’s plenty of action leading up to it.

No spoilers.

https://www.unilad.com/film-and-tv/netflix/netflix-horror-the-ritual-watch-creepy-861343-20240828

Lotsa spoilers.

The Fix. Amazon Prime. The air is unbreathable, but there are ways around it. You can wear a mask, but the more affluent can get a drug that combats the poisonous ozone. It can also have some crazy side effects. Apparently, there’s a limited supply, but the public doesn’t know it. Although it seemed like the head guy gave out an awful lot of it to those around him. Since it was something a little different, I didn’t hate it, but it wasn’t one of my favorites. IMO, the plot got more complicated than it needed to be, with unnecessary tributaries thrown in.

https://www.tomsguide.com/entertainment/prime-video/prime-video-just-got-an-overlooked-sci-fi-thriller-movie-thats-already-crashed-the-top-10-and-its-a-pleasant-surprise

Diary of the Dead. Amazon Prime. I kept missing this part of George Romero’s Living Dead manifesto, so this one’s a little old, but a zombie is a zombie and this delivered. One interesting tidbit was seeing Greg Nicotero (The Walking Dead franchise) in the credits as Special Makeup Effects Producer.

Dead City finale. AMC+. Just when you think you’ve seen every way possible the dead can attack, they find something new. There was truly some phenomenal acting. While I’m sad to see this come to a close, I’m looking forward to Daryl Dixon’s next chapter. Spoilers, but come on, you haven’t seen this yet?

⚰️ Dead Of the Future…

Premieres September 7th.

https://ew.com/the-walking-dead-daryl-dixon-season-3-teaser-premiere-date-new-photos-11759045

🐙 Join the Game…

Squid Game is back in the house.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/squid-game-season-3-review-netflix

https://www.netflix.com/tudum/videos/watch-the-trailer-for-squid-game-season-3

🦈 Have a Bite…

Shark Week begins July 20th.

https://www.discovery.com/shark-week/shark-week-2025-kicks-off-july-20

https://people.com/shark-week-2025-how-to-watch-new-shows-11759071

🐶 Tails Of Surprise…

💍 If I tried this with one of my dogs, it would be chaos multiplied.

https://people.com/celebrity-dog-serves-as-ring-bearer-in-owners-wedding-exclusive-11762126

🐕 Who says cats are the only ones with more than one life?

https://people.com/dog-thought-dead-for-4-years-reunites-with-stunned-family-11760580

🐻 No doubt my dogs would take advantage of the open refrigerator.

https://people.com/small-senior-dog-scares-big-black-bear-out-home-video-11757704

🪽 I love an inter-species friendship.

https://people.com/woman-finds-comfort-in-friendship-between-pomeranian-and-pigeon-after-loss-of-daughter-11759276

🐳 Quotes of the Week

The only defense against the world is a thorough knowledge of it. – John Locke

A year from now you may wish you had started today. – Karen Lamb

Amateurs sit and wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work. – Chuck Close

You build on failure. You use it as a stepping stone. Close the door on the past. You don’t try to forget the mistakes, but you don’t dwell on it. You don’t let it have any of your energy, or any of your time, or any of your space. – Johnny Cash

It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation. – Herman Melville

Be not afraid of life. Believe that life is worth living, and your belief will help create the fact. – William James

You’ll have bad times, but they will always wake you up to the stuff you weren’t paying attention to. – Sean Maguire (Robin Williams), Good Will Hunting

I asked my dog what two minus two was. He said nothing. – I don’t remember where I heard this, but it’s pretty funny.

Happy Independence Day!

♨️ We Got Steam Heat…

Until next week, stay safe; stay behaving responsibly on Independence Day, aka the 4th of July; and stay working on your mistakes and growing from them.

June 20, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Willow Answers Drew’s Proposal, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Coming Someday, Pets (!) Of a Different Kind, Double the Four Quotes & Hot Fun

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Jack met Carly at the pool. She told him that life had been crazy, and she should have thanked him a long time ago. He said, for what?

Emma saw Gio at the pool, then noticed Dalton getting out. Gio asked if she was there for pool time, and she said, something like that.

Vaughn walked into Dalton’s office and told Josslyn that Dalton was still at the MetroCourt. She said she needed to finish before he got back.  

Tracy found Martin in the living room and said he’d gotten her invitation, and he was on time. Martin said he assumed she was ready to pay him to intercede on her behalf and asked if she had her checkbook ready.

Drew told Jason that he had the solution to their problem. He needed assurance from Michael first, but Michael wouldn’t listen to him. Jason said the problem wasn’t Michael or anybody else. The problem was Drew.

Anna told Chase and Dante to come with her – now! She led them to a jail cell and asked for their badges and guns. She said this had to stop and they weren’t going anywhere until they figured it out and started acting like partners again. She told the guard to lock them in and if they started fighting again, turn the hose on them.

Lulu said, when it came to Brook, she’d done nothing wrong, and Maxie said, maybe this was a mistake, and they should wrap it up. Brook said nothing was ever Lulu’s fault, no matter how many lives she destroyed, and Lulu said the only thing she destroyed were Brook’s lies.

Dante guessed they had to figure this out, and Chase said Dante was treating him like the enemy. Dante said Chase was supposed to be his partner and best friend, to have his back, but Chase said he’d made a choice to support his wife. He hated the position he was in, but for better or worse, his loyalty was to Brook. He’d always have her back. Dante said, and stab him in his.

Maxie said this needed to stop. Brook and Lulu were supposed to be finding common ground because they loved their kids. Brook said that Lulu was only interested in going scorched earth, but Lulu said Dante and Gio deserved to know the truth. Brook said from the moment Lulu woke up, she’d looked for ways to tear Brook down, and Lulu said, Brook gave her all the ammunition she needed.

Emma said hi to Dalton, and he said he was sorry she didn’t get the job, but she had stood out in class. He was impressed by her, so if she wanted to talk shop, she was welcome to come by his office any time. He’d make time for her. He left, and Gio asked what the hell she was doing.

Carly said she’d been worried about Michael for so long. Then there he was, fully healed and strong. Jack said she never gave up, and she said she’d never give up on her kids. He said he admired that, and she said there were moments that were hard to watch Michael fight for the kids, but he won in the courtroom and welcomed a new, beautiful daughter. It wouldn’t have been possible without Jack. He got Michael into the clinic, flying him in on a medical jet. She’d always be grateful. Her kids were the most important things in her life.

Tracy said she wasn’t paying Martin for anything. She called so she could give him a message for Drew as his counsel. Tell him that she’d give him the Quartermaine name back.

Drew told Jason to take him out of the equation. He didn’t want Willow to suffer, and they both knew she loved her kids. Jason said Drew was completely out. Willow lost custody. Michael had to take the kids away because she left him no choice. Drew said, there were choices. They’d met with Carly and offered a compromise. The kids would stay with Willow and Michael would have very generous visitation. Jason said there was no way Michael would allow the kids to live under the same roof as Drew. Willow trusted him and he tore her family apart. He set Wiley up to believe his own father didn’t want him. Drew was poison to those kids, and until Willow saw that, there would be no compromise.

Vaughn asked if Josslyn saw anything out of the ordinary, but she said, not on the uni mainframe. Vaughn said they needed his cellphone, but she said she hadn’t had the opportunity to clone it. He told her, make one, and she said Dalton needed to be distracted. If it was on his cellphone, she’d get it.  

Emma said she’d tried to stop Dalton’s research before, but it didn’t work, and Gio asked if she thought he was working on animals. She said she needed proof. That’s why she wanted the job, but Josslyn swooped in and stole it. She’d have to get more creative and closer to Dalton. Gio asked, how creative and how close? and she said Dalton wasn’t the first sleazy professor interested in a student. He’d told her to stop by any time. Gio asked how he could help.

Carly gave Jack a gift bag and he said, it’s not ticking… He took out a big, fancy wrench that said, To a Jack of All Trades, and he said he loved it. It was the most thoughtful gift he’d ever received. He kissed her.

Brook told Lulu to admit that when she found out about the baby Brook gave up, she decided to blow things up and do as much damage as possible. Lulu said she had no master plan. Dante had a child out in world and Rocco had a brother. They deserved the right to know him. Brook said, and in deciding who deserved what, Lulu thought her son deserved to get hurt, but Lulu said she never intended to hurt Gio. If she made a mistake, it was that she didn’t go to Dante immediately.

Chase said Brook was afraid Dante would go looking for their son, and Dante said he would have. Instead, he found out they were living in the same house. Chase said, Brook didn’t know it was Gio, and Dante said he could forgive Brook as a teenager, but she was an adult, and they were living in the same house. She never said anything, and she should have. Chase should have. Chase said Brook didn’t want her child’s life turned upside down and he respected her wishes, and Dante said their lives were intertwined. They were basically family. He got that, as a teen, Brook felt ashamed, but she should be ashamed now for not telling him.

Tracy told Martin that as long as Drew retracted his statement to the police and refused to testify about the ketamine business, she’d drop the cease and desist over his usage of the name. Martin said it didn’t matter. They had more than enough evidence to send Tracy to the hoosegow. Tracy said they both knew she didn’t drug Drew, and an investigation would prove she was being framed. It was also a magnanimous offer. All Drew wanted was the name, so take the deal. Martin said, no. He didn’t think that worked for them.

Drew said they all hated that he’d empowered Willow, and she stood up to Michael. Willow was an incredible mother. That didn’t matter because she refused to fall in line and do as she was told. They were punishing her. Jason asked if he actually believed that was the truth, and Drew said he did. It was a travesty in the courtroom. Michael might have stolen her kids, but he wasn’t going to keep them. Jason moved closer and asked if that was the message Drew wanted taken to Michael, and Drew said, quote me.

Emma asked if Gio wanted to help or to tell her it was a bad idea, and he said, it was a bad idea, but she wasn’t going to listen. He knew she could handle herself, especially if she had him as back-up. She asked if he planned to ride to her rescue, but he said, only if she needed it. She had his back on the worst night of his life, and he’d always have hers. she said she appreciated it, and left.

On the phone, Anna asked to be patched into Patrolman Jennings. She asked if Jennings had eyes on the person of interest… Great. She wanted a Code 169.2… He heard correct. Jack came in and said he was glad she was here. They needed to talk.  

Dalton went to his office, and Josslyn gave him his messages. When he set his phone down, she covered it with a folder. He said there was nothing too important, so he was heading to the lab. She said she hadn’t been to the lab and would love to see it, and he promised she would, but there was no need to rush it. Dalton left, and playing custodian in the hallway, Vaughn told her that she was clear. Josslyn picked up Dalton’s phone and started to clone it.

Lulu said, once Brook knew, she had months to tell the truth, but kept lying, and Brook said she thought Lulu respected her choice. Lulu said she understood, but once it was clear that Brook’s son was Gio, she couldn’t stay silent. Brook said it wasn’t her call, but Lulu said she chose to tell the truth. Brook chose to lie again and again. She won’t lose any sleep. Could Brook say the same?

Chase said Dante needed to be careful how he talked about Brook. She had nothing to be ashamed of. She’d agonized over it years and did Dante a favor for not making him trade his youth for diaper duty. Dante said he would have stepped up, but Chase said Brook wasn’t ready to be a mother. She would have been forced if she hadn’t chosen adoption. Between the Cerullos and the Falconaris, they would have taken her choice, so she chose to break her own heart so her son could have a good life. She made the right choice. Dante said, for her, but not for him or his son.  

Tracy told Martin, quit posturing. It was his duty as Drew’s counsel to take her offer to Drew. She suspects he agrees. Martin said he didn’t think so, but Tracy said Drew wanted the legitimacy of being a Quartermaine. They both win. Martin said he’d agree if she held a press conference, a very public one, and warmly welcomed Drew back to the bosom of the Quartermaine family. He’d taken the liberty of drawing up a statement. He handed her some paperwork.

Jason said Drew wasn’t taking Michael’s kids, and Drew asked if Jason was protecting them. It was so typical. Him rushing into battle for Carly, Sonny, and the rest of the family. Meanwhile, his own family was begging for his attention. When was the last time he checked in with Danny or Jake? (Hmm… The same could be said of Drew. When was the last time we even saw Scout? And the Nurses Ball doesn’t count.) Sam would be so proud. Even after her death, Jason hasn’t made them a priority. Jason said Drew would never get Michael’s children. He may have destroyed their mother, but he would not destroy them. Quote me. Jason walked out.

Anna and Jack went to the interrogation room, and Jack said the WSB recognized the assassin who tried to kill Sonny, and Anna asked if he meant the firebomb. He said there had been a second attempt in LA in April. He thought Jason would have brought her up to speed. She was a contract killer on the WSB’s radar. Now she’s dead. She was well-known in the espionage community, just like Soliski, the operative who put the incendiary device in the penthouse. Anna said, so two different people tried to take out Sonny in the last six months, and he said, exactly. Their local mob boss had run afoul of someone with powerful and dangerous connections.

Vaughn saw Dalton go back into his office and looked panicked, but Josslyn was apparently finished. She asked if everything was all right, and Dalton said something had come up. Had she seen his phone?

Jason met Carly at the pool, and she said he sounded worried on the phone. He said Drew wanted him to make a proposal to Michael on his behalf, but Carly said Drew had nothing to offer that would interest Michael. Jason said that’s what he told Drew, and she said Willow believed in Drew and he caused her to make bad decisions. Now she wanted to see her kids and Carly felt terrible, but it was on Drew.

Tracy read, my beloved nephew… The document went on about her lapse in judgement, and she suggested Martin must have had too many blows to the head if he thought she’d accept responsibility for something she didn’t do. Did Drew know he was doing this? He said it involved the other issue, and Tracy said, like Willow’s custody woes? He thought he’d swoop in and get what he wanted – her humiliated. He said, or in prison. Either works. He’d give her time to think about the offer. He left.

Dante said he didn’t think Gio appreciated that Brook lied, but what did he know? Gio wasn’t talking to him. Chase asked whose fault that was, and Dante asked if he was to blame for Brook, Lois, and Gloria lying. Chase said Dante and Gio’s relationship damage had nothing to do with them. When Rocco got alcohol poisoning, Gio was just a nice kid trying to help, but Dante came down on him hard. Dante said his son almost died, and Chase said he took his fear and hammered on Gio. His own mother said he came down too hard on Gio, and if Gio didn’t feel safe to come to Dante, it was on him. He was throwing blame, but it started and ended with him. Dante said Chase had no idea what it was like to be told his son was in the hospital. He wasn’t a father.  

Maxie said they were all guilty of lying, but Brook told her not to waste her time. Lulu would never understand how hard it was to give up a baby. It was like she died inside. All she wanted was a better life for her son. Why couldn’t Lulu see it. Lulu said she did, but there was more to it. She’d sacrifice anything for her children, but she wouldn’t lie to them or keep a huge life altering secret. Brook made Gio’s entire life a lie. No wonder he wanted nothing to do with her. Brook slapped Lulu (and I mentally joined her).

Lulu lunged at Brook, but Maxie stepped in between them and said, enough. They took it too far and Brook needed to go home. Brook said, happily, but it’s not over. Lulu came after her son, and she was going to pay dearly for that. Brook left and Lulu said she couldn’t believe Brook hit her. She was so lucky they were here. She would have taken Brook down. Maxie said Brook shouldn’t have hit Lulu, but Lulu took it way too far. Gio found out the truth about his family in the worst way possible because of her. She and Brook hated each other and would never be friends. The world kept going, but Lulu hurt Brook’s child, and she had to own that.

Dante told Chase that he was sorry. He shouldn’t have said that. He didn’t mean it. Chase said Dante was saying a lot of things he didn’t mean and would end up regretting. He was asking as Dante’s partner and friend, stop lashing out at everyone. Dante said he would feel like he had a handle on part of it, and something would happen, and he’d be furious all over again. Chase said he got it, but Dante was isolating Gio, who would have no place to go when he wanted to build a relationship with his father. Dante asked if Chase thought it was an option at this point, and Chase said he thought Gio was too overwhelmed to see his parents were good people. He and Brook needed a chance to show up for him. Dante admitted that he was too hard on Gio. Not because Gio was his son, but because he was wrong. He hoped he hadn’t blown his chance to know his son.

Anna said the second attempt took place out of her jurisdiction. If it was connected and if the WSB was concerned, why was Jack willing to share information? Jack said whoever wanted Sonny dead tried to take him out twice. A family member had already been hurt and there was no reason to stop until they finished. He didn’t want to see someone else get hurt. Anna said he wanted to protect Carly, but he said he wanted to give her up to date information. She asked if he’d looked into Dalton, and he told her to check her email for a report. As far as he could tell, Dalton was perfectly clean. She thanked him and he left. She said, liar.

Josslyn asked if Dalton was sure it wasn’t in his car, but he said he’d had it with him in here. He moved some files around and found his phone. He told her to get all the stuff off of his desk so it didn’t happen again. He was going back to the lab.

Carly said she knew Michael didn’t want to see Willow in more pain, but he wanted his children safe and couldn’t trust them to be emotionally safe with Drew. Jason said he didn’t think it was possible for Willow to walk away from Drew, and she said Willow was so fragile. It was like she’d been taken back to the cult. Jason said Drew’s intention was to get Willow’s children back to her, and Carly said Drew wanted to show her that he was her hero and only he could save her, but the judge’s ruling was over. Jason said it wasn’t over. Nothing was over. Drew was not going to give up.

Martin met with Drew, who said he’d almost told Michael that he’d stay out of Willow’s life so she could have access to her children. Jason made him realize if he left, he’d be abandoning Willow. He’d be leaving her alone, powerless, and vulnerable to everyone. Martin said Willow did have a loving mother with considerable resources, but Drew said he’d stay by Willow’s side and give her the strength to fight back and win. They were going to war. They were going to get Willow’s kids back and use every weapon in Martin’s arsenal to do it.

Brook met Marco in the solarium, and he asked if she was okay. She said she would be. Was he able to do the research she’d asked for? He said he started, but there was a lot there. He was still unclear about what she wanted with a dead woman.

On the phone, Anna said, anything… Oh, the person of interest is here?… He must be upset about the Code 169.2. She walked into the squad room and asked if she heard Dalton correctly that there was a boot on his car. Dalton said, unfortunately, yeah, but he didn’t expect the Police Commissioner to get involved. Anna said she was happy to help.

Vaughn went into Dalton’s office and told Josslyn that he overheard Dalton. He had a boot on his car and was pissed. Did she get it? She said she did. A full copy of everything on Dalton’s phone. Emma started to walk in, and Vaughn grabbed Josslyn and kissed her.

Drew told Martin to do whatever it took. He didn’t care how deep Martin had to dig. They needed leverage to get Willow her children back. Martin said there was one step they could take, but it was drastic. He’d never go through with it himself. Not again. It was risky and the potential for catastrophe was unlimited.

Jason told Carly that it didn’t matter. Michael had the kids. Willow was a shell of herself, and Drew felt responsible. His back was to the wall, and he could do something crazy. Carly said she didn’t give a damn. Drew wasn’t getting near her grandchildren again. Whatever it took, she was going to stop him. Gio overheard. (You’d think he’d stop listening in.)

Chase said if Dante didn’t have faith in him as a friend, did that mean Dante had no faith in him as a cop. They could go to internal affairs and say they didn’t want to be partners anymore. Dante said he hated how it went down, but he could keep his work and personal life separate. Chase said he thought he could too, and Dante called to the guard. He said tell the Commissioner they were good. There was no need to break out the hose. The guard unlocked the door.

Lulu approached Gio, but he said he was in the middle of his shift. She said it wouldn’t take long. She owed him a big apology.

Marco handed Brook a folder, and she said the woman played a major role in Lulu’s life that directly impacted Lulu’s family. She needed all the legal documents. Marco asked what she was trying to prove, and she said that Lulu wasn’t half the mother she said she was. The woman that was going to help her prove it was Britt.  

Tuesday:

Emma apologized and asked if she was interrupting, as Vaughn hid the cloning device in his hand. He asked if she was going to rat them out.

Gio asked, why the apology? and Lulu said he overheard her confronting Lois at the Nurses Ball. It shouldn’t have been how he learned about his birth parents. He said she had nothing to be sorry for.

Brook told Marco that she wasn’t in Port Charles at the time and needed to know if wild stories she’d heard were true. He asked if it was a particular story, and she said that Britt had stolen an embryo belonging to Dante and Lulu. She had it implanted in herself and got pregnant, giving birth to a baby boy.

Sonny joined Dante and Rocco at the batting cages and said Dante was looking good. Maybe he should dump the PCPD and play for Corinthos Coffee.

Sasha thanked Felicia and Carly for offering her a place to stay, but she was moving back to the Quartermaines. Whether she wanted it to or not, it felt like home.

Michael told Curtis that Aurora had its strongest numbers ever, and Curtis congratulated him on the baby. He said he was glad Michael came by, and handed Michael his resignation.

Nina told Drew that Willow wasn’t ready to see him, and she wasn’t sure Willow ever would be.

Willow sat in her room, remembering Michael saying she’d chosen Drew over her kids. Lucas came in and said he heard she was going home, but she said, there was no home without her children.

Emma said, so Josslyn and Vaughn knew each other, and Josslyn said they’d spoken a few times. Vaughn said, when they did, he was a goner, so he made it a point to track Josslyn down. Emma said she didn’t remember kissing in Dalton’s office being part of the job description, and Vaughn said he’d get fired if he was caught, but Emma said his secret was safe. He thanked her and left. Josslyn said, thanks, but Emma said, save it. Her silence was going to cost Josslyn.

Sasha said her situation at the Quartermaines was pretty perfect, and the late Monica had thought of everything for the nursery. Felicia agreed that it was probably the best place for Sasha, but if she changed her mind, she knew who to call. Sasha said she and Daisy were so lucky, being a part of something so big and so warm. She never had that growing up and was grateful her daughter would. Not to mention the debt she owed Willow for delivering her baby safely. Michael said she’d lost custody of the children. Carly said she did, and Sasha said, she must be devastated. Carly said that was an understatement.

Lucas said Michael wasn’t vindictive and would never want to break the children’s connection with Willow. Once the dust settled, he was sure Michael would allow access. Willow said it would be at Michael’s discretion. He would get to decide where, when, and how long. Lucas said he thought the court decided that, and she said she bet Michael let him see Wiley. Lucas said he did. That’s how he knew they’d work something out. They both wanted what was best for the kids. Willow said she was sure he was right, and he left to check on her discharge orders.

Michael asked why Curtis was resigning. If he wasn’t happy… Curtis said it was nothing like that. Something was off about the recent coverage of Drew. It wasn’t all positive, but he’d been giving Drew the benefit of the doubt and it had been his call. Michael said he was right in deciding on reporting about Drew’s actions and not editorializing, and Curtis said he’d had no choice. Drew was blackmailing his wife.

Nina told Drew that Willow needed to avoid any shock or disruption. She could be retraumatized. He said she couldn’t stop him from seeing Willow, but she said she could. He wasn’t Willow’s husband and had no legal standing. As Willow’s mother, she did, and he wasn’t on the list of approved visitors. Willow was scheduled to leave and coming home with her. He said that wasn’t happening, and asked Portia to remind Nina that he could see Willow anytime he wanted, but Portia said, according to HIPPA, the family decides. He said he thought it was time to have a chat with the two of them. They’d forgotten who was in charge.  

Josslyn said Emma promised Vaughn’s job was safe, but Emma said she didn’t say Josslyn’s was. Josslyn asked if Emma was going to tattle. Were they five? Emma said, for all she knew, Dalton would fire Josslyn and hire her as a replacement. It would be fitting, since she deserved it in the first place and didn’t sabotage anyone to get it. Karmic retribution. Josslyn asked what Emma wanted, and Emma said she wanted Josslyn to get the hell out of there.

Drew said he knew Nina and Portia were working against him and knew they’d hired Jacinda to have him drugged. Nina said, prove it, but he said that wasn’t how it worked. She needed to stop with the pushback and Portia needed to stop stalling. Portia said he needed to be realistic. She couldn’t make Curtis do what he didn’t want to. He wasn’t a puppet or stupid. Drew said that wasn’t his problem. If they went behind his back one more time, he’d expose their secrets. They held each other’s fate in their hands. One more screw up from either of them, Portia’s career ended and Nina’s relationship with her daughter ended.

Curtis said Michael was a majority shareholder, so full disclosure, and Michael asked where that left him if Curtis resigned. Curtis said his dealings with Drew shouldn’t come at the expense of Aurora’s integrity, but Michael said he wouldn’t accept it and tore up the envelope. Curtis said he couldn’t run Aurora with Drew call the shots, and Michael said, Drew tore his family apart and was doing the same thing to Curtis’s. Do what he had to in order to save his family.

Dante said he’d be sticking with the PCPD, and Sonny said, what about Rocco? He had skills. Dante said, stay away from his rookie. He’d be playing for the boys in blue. Rocco said he’d had some interesting offers, and Sonny said, let’s see what you got. Rocco said he had no mitt, but Sonny said Vito was out front and would drive him to get it. Rocco left, and Sonny said he wasn’t being selfless. He needed to talk to Dante alone. Dante asked if it was about ADA Truner, and Sonny said she was coming down hard on him. He wanted a heads up. Dante said he’d been locked out of an investigation. He thought it had to do with Sonny, but now he knew. Sonny said Dante shouldn’t get the blowback, and Dante said he was worried about him.

Gio asked why Lulu went digging in the first place, and she said she was trying to find her daughter’s location. She stumbled upon the information that Brook had given up a baby when she was young and Dante was the father. She’d known Dante a long time and knew in her heart that he’d want to know his son. Gio said he thought he knew where this was going. She wanted him to hear Dante out, but the only people he could stand to look at were Sonny and Rocco. Nothing she said could change his mind.

Brook told Marco that if she had this straight, Britt passed Rocco off as her son. When Dante and Lulu figured it out, they claimed him as their own. She wanted to start by finding Rocco’s original birth certificate. If Britt was listed as the mother, she wanted to know who the father was. Marco said it would take some digging and asked what she wanted the information for.

Vaughn got out of the pool and Josslyn kissed him. She said he started it, and he said he had to keep Emma from spotting the cloning device. She said, thanks to his quick thinking, they were officially dating. And they had a big problem.  

Dalton came in and saw Emma in his office looking through a folder. He said this was an explanation he was looking forward to hearing.

Lulu said she wasn’t trying to get Gio to forgive anyone, talk to anyone, or do anything. Gio said he didn’t get it. If Lulu cared, why didn’t she tell Dante? Lulu said she should have, but she wanted to talk to Brook first. Brook was extremely emotional when she told Brook that she had a son. Gio asked if Lulu believed Brook really didn’t know, and Lulu said he was taken away before Brook could see or hold him. He said it showed that she didn’t want him, but Lulu said she thought it was something they felt helped to make the process less painful. Gio asked why Brook stayed quiet, and she said Brook said she didn’t want to hurt him or disrupt his life. Gio said she meant disrupt her life. She was only thinking of herself.  

Brook said she didn’t need a reason, but Marco said it would help to know where she was coming from. What was she hoping to get? Did she intend to use the information against Lulu? She said, what if she did? Didn’t Lulu deserve a taste of her own medicine? He said he didn’t know enough about the situation to tell her, and she said, what if she did use what he dug up against Lulu. Would it bother him? He asked if she wanted a lawyer or a moral compass, and she said, lawyer. He said she was paying for the information and could decide how to use it.

Nina asked what Drew wanted, and he said he wanted her by his side when he brought Willow back home. From Portia, he wanted an editorial in Aurora about the miscarriage of justice at the Corinthos custody hearing. A mother ripped from her children. He’d go to Curtis himself, but he was sure Curtis would rather hear it from her.  

Curtis said Michael shouldn’t pay for him being in a bind, but Michael said they would take Drew down together. Curtis said he’d handle the situation with Portia in his own way, but he couldn’t use Aurora to do it, and Michael said he was already using Aurora and Drew wouldn’t suspect. They’d let him think he was winning. The more confident he got, he’d get sloppy, like what happened at the custody hearing. He and Willow were close to a compromise, when Drew manipulated his nine-year-old son and left him in tears. All in the name of destroying the chance of joint custody. Drew gambled and Willow lost. Leave him do it again and he’d leave himself wide open. When he did, they’d be ready to strike.

Carly told Sasha that Willow argued with the judge and begged. She left, but she heard Willow passed out. Sasha asked where she was now, and Felicia said, here. Carly said she thought Willow was being released soon, and Sasha said she felt terrible for Willow. A nurse brought the baby in and gave her to Sasha, but Sasha said it wasn’t her baby. It wasn’t Daisy. What had they done with her? Where was her baby?  

Vaughn said he thought Emma said no problem, but Josslyn said it was for her. He asked what Emma wanted, and Josslyn said, for starters, leave her alone in Dalton’s office. She was probably ransacking it. He said they both knew she wouldn’t find anything, but she said Emma wasn’t the type to give up. He said he could tell by the way she was dressed at the pool, and Josslyn asked what he meant. He said Emma was flirting with Dalton and made a point of chatting him up, and she said Emma had no idea what she was getting into. They needed to stop her.

Emma said Josslyn had to leave, but she was happy to help Josslyn finish filing, and Dalton said he and Josslyn would have a conversation about that. It was Jossln’s job, not Emma’s. Emma said it gave her something to do while she was waiting for him. He’d said to stop by anytime. She was serious about continuing her studies in Environmental Physics. Did he have a second? He said, for her, sure, and she said she’d hit a wall on an equation and was hoping to walk her through it.

Dante told Sonny to look out for Turner. She’d been made interim DA and wanted to make a name for herself. She was smart and efficient and had the PCPD and the DA behind her. The stuff with Gio made him realize how important his relationship with Sonny was. He was lucky to have Sonny as a dad. Sonny said she was the lucky one. He appreciated Dante standing up for his brother. Had Gio reached out? Dante said, no. Why would he? He’d been lied to his whole life and didn’t trust anyone. Sonny said Gio would come around sooner or later, and Dante hoped he was right. In the meantime, he needed Sonny to look after his boy.

Gio said the only reason Brook wanted a relationship now was to save face, but Lulu said she didn’t think so. Brook had a lot of flaws, but caring what other people thought wasn’t one of them. He said she cared when she got pregnant, but Lulu said, she was a scared teenager and wanted what was best for him. Gio said, fine, but she grew up and still never looked for him. He thought it was weird that they were living in the same house, and she didn’t know. She should have felt or sensed it. However, the mother connection works. Lulu said she didn’t know. There were so many other factors involved. He said she figured it out, and she said, the night of the college party when Dante confronted him, it was the way Lois jumped in. She was so fierce about it. Dante said, Lois and Gloria were always defending Gio and protecting him, and it just clicked in place. Gio asked if she agreed with them. Did she think they were just looking out for him? She said she thought that was their goal, but they took it too far. Now he was the one paying the price.

Outside Willow’s room, Nina said if Drew told Willow that she set him up, Willow would know they’d slept together. Drew said, go ahead. Tell her right now.

Michael asked Sasha, what’s wrong? and she said, Daisy was missing. Carly said they brought Sasha the wrong baby, and Michael said they’d find their daughter. Everything would be okay. Take a deep breath. Lucas brought Daisy in and gave her to Sasha. Sasha said, thank God. It’s her.

Vaughn agreed with Josslyn that Emma should steer clear of Dalton. If she got involved with the professor, Anna would get drawn in. Josslyn said, Dalton could get spooked, and Vaughn said, or close up shop all together. She said, the bottom line was, they had to get Emma away from Dalton, and he said it was hard when someone had a cause to defend, but she said she knew how to keep Emma away.

Portia went to Curtis’s office and told him that Drew wanted Aurora to publish an editorial against the Corinthos custody verdict. He wanted them to say the judge got it wrong. The children should have gone to their mother. She knew it was the last thing he wanted to deal with and tried to talk Drew out of it. He said, don’t. It’s fine. He’d run the editorial.

Rocco approached Brook and she said it was good to see him. He said he’d been spending time at his mom’s. He was going to the batting cages, but wanted to tell her that he talked to Gio. He was working at the MetroCourt pool as a lifeguard. He said he was glad they were brothers, but he was still mad at their dad. He didn’t get it since the person he should be mad at was her.

Lulu said Lois and Gloria didn’t try too hard to cover their tracks, and Gio said they didn’t think anyone would bother looking. They believed the lie. Lulu said she got the sense they were hoping and praying it would all work out. She confirmed it when she found out Camilla hadn’t been pregnant leading up to the time he was born. Then she found that Brook had a baby boy on May 15th. He said, wow. He didn’t even know his own birthday.

Sasha told Daisy that she was never allowed to disappear again, but Michael said it wasn’t her fault. Carly wondered whose fault it was, and Lucas said she was in the nursery. He thought she was put in the wrong bassinette. Sorry. Sasha said she was just grateful that Daisy was safe, and Felicia asked to talk to Lucas outside. In the hallway, she asked how it happened, and he said protocols were adhered to religiously, especially by the nurses. He thought he’d ask questions, and she said she wanted to assist him as Sasha’s patient advocate. He said he was going to talk to the nurse on duty. This never should have happened.

Drew said he knew Nina wasn’t going to tell Willow, and she said he promised Willow would get full custody, then stood in the way of compromise. He said, Willow alienated everybody else. They were all she had left. What would happen to Willow if she lost them? They went in and found Willow lying on the bed fully dressed. Nina asked how she was doing, and Willow took Drew’s hand. She said she missed him, and he said he was just letting her get some rest. How was she doing? She said she was so tired, and he said, because she’d been through so much. They had to get her home so she could rest and recover. Willow said she wanted to go home.

Dalton handed Emma her papers and said, there, and Emma said it was impressive. She pictured everything he did in his lab as miraculous and wondered if she could have a peek. He said she was a brilliant student, but she couldn’t see his ongoing research. His sponsor wouldn’t have that.

Josslyn said, Vaughn could join Emma’s animal rights group. His job in the maintenance department was a plus because he had access to the labs. He could sell himself as a true believer and lead Emma down the wrong path away from Dalton. He said, perhaps she was getting the hang of this.

On the phone, Marco said, before Natalia Ramirez testifies against Sonny Corinthos, they want more assurance. They want a deal in writing.

Sonny said he’d always look after Gio, no matter what, and Dante said that meant Sonny had to protect himself. The family needed him and Gio needed him most of all.

Gio said he wouldn’t know who he was if not for Lulu, but Lulu said that wasn’t true. He said he didn’t know his own birthday. Everyone knew their birthday except him. Not until now. She said she was sorry. She shouldn’t have blurted it out. Her delivery left a lot to be desired. He said, it hurt like hell, but at least it was real.

Rocco told Brook that he had to talk to Gio. None of this was his dad’s fault. She said it was more complicated than that, but Rocco said his dad did nothing wrong. She said as much as she dreamed of finding her son, she never wanted it to happen like this, and she wasn’t the one responsible. Rocco said he hoped it worked out for her, and left. Brook looked at a picture of Britt in the folder.

Portia said it was a quick yes, but Curtis said it wasn’t like he had a choice. She asked what Michael said, and he said he’d handle Michael.  She said she hated that she was putting him in that position, but he said he knew who the real enemy was, and it wasn’t her.

Willow signed the discharge documents, when Sasha came out of the elevator with Daisy, Michael, and Carly. Soap faces all around.

Wednesday:

At the hospital, Ric asked if Isaiah knew where Elizabeth was, and Isaiah said she’d taken a personal day. She needed to regroup after Lucky and Aiden left for Europe.

In her office, Alexis thanked Elizabeth for meeting her. She wanted to talk about Elizabeth’s car accident.

At the pool, Kristina wanted to check in with Cody, but he said she couldn’t be there. He was waiting for Ava. He’d paid the manager to alert him when she made a reservation. Kristina left and Ava walked in.

In Curtis’s office, he told Portia that he wished she’d trusted him. They could have faced Drew together. She said she could see that now, and he said she was wife. She said she hoped that never changed. She loved him so much.

Kai told Trina that today was the big day. He found out when he could play football. Trina asked Josh for a break, and told Kai that this all ended when he got the all-clear, but Kai said that was up to Drew.

Back home, Willow told Drew that the house had been filled with so much hope and promise. She’d imagined a life filled with it, but now it felt empty… like her.

Sasha and Michael looked at Baby Daisy, and she said she felt terrible running into Willow and Drew. He said, thankfully, there was no scene, and she admitted she felt guilty about Willow going home without her kids. He said, thanks to him, but she said she was glad the children were with him. He said, since they were on the topic, maybe now they could figure out what to do about Daisy.

Ric asked if Elizabeth mentioned how long Lucky and Aiden would be gone, and Isaiah suggested he call Lucky.

Alexis said Laura mentioned that Martin was pressuring Elizabeth to sue the car company, and Elizabeth told her that she said no. Alexis said Laura had asked her to look things over and as an objective lawyer, see if she had a solid case. Elizabeth said she appreciated Laura’s concern, but she was totally healed and had no desire to go to court. She was ready to put the nightmare behind her.

Cody called to Ava and asked what she was doing at the pool. She said it was too beautiful a day to be cooped up, so she thought she’d work by the pool. He suggested she take the seat next to him, and she did.

Portia moved to kiss Curtis, but he said he was sorry. He wasn’t ready yet. She said it was going to take some time. She’d have to earn his trust back and hoped he’d give her a chance. Jordan knocked at the door and asked if she was interrupting. Portia said, yes, she was, and Jordan said she’d come back, but Curtis said, don’t leave.

Kai said Josh was here for the season, but Trina said Kai wasn’t obligated to that. He said he got that she and her parents didn’t like Drew, but it sounded like they’d paid a sex worker to smear his name. She said they didn’t know what was really going on, and he hoped they could agree to disagree. Trina said they could, and he said he hoped it wasn’t long before they could celebrate.

Willow looked at Amelia’s stuffed giraffe and told Drew it was Amelia’s favorite. She thought she’d be bringing Amelia home. He said he was sorry, but it wasn’t over… She said, stop. Don’t make more promises he couldn’t keep.

Ric said he was concerned about Elizabeth, but Isaiah said she could take care of herself. If he had other questions, inquire somewhere else. Lucky was one of his best friends and he’d look out for Elizabeth while Lucky was gone. Mess with her and you’d mess with him. Ric said, of course (🍷), and assured Isaiah that Elizabeth didn’t need protection from him.

Elizabeth made a phone call to Kristina and asked Kristina to come to her place. It was important.

Curtis said it was a conversation they should have at home, and Portia said he was right. Her husband was all Jordan’s, so to speak. She left, and Jordan said she’d just made an awkward situation worse. She didn’t mean to cause a problem. He said she didn’t. How could he help her? She said she was following up on Sidwell’s meeting about voting yes on Measure C, and he said he was getting it from all sides. Portia just told him that Drew wanted Aurora to run a hit piece on Michael.

Michael said he knew he’d agreed to Sasha’s terms, but that was before everyone knew he was the father. Now that the secret was out… She said, he wanted to change their arrangement? and he said he’d like to be a part of his daughter’s life, but it was up to her. He’d still respect her terms. Sasha said, to be honest, she thought he was going to fight her for custody like he did Willow, but he said he didn’t trust Willow’s judgement. He trusted hers. She said she still wanted to be the only parent on the birth certificate and raise Daisy herself. Nothing had changed. He asked if she was cutting him out of their daughter’s life completely.

Drew said he didn’t want to give Willow false hope, but didn’t want her to give up. She said it was over. She’d lost and Michael got custody. She’d never get her children back. He said, in time, Michael would be willing to negotiate, but she said he wouldn’t even talk to her. He just walked away, like what happened in Germany. He’d played cruel mind games, so why would Drew think he’d compromise, even when she helped deliver his baby. He also made up a story about Wiley overhearing Drew. She should never have fought him. He was too powerful. She gambled with her children and lost them forever. He said she didn’t understand what really happened.

Kai asked the doctor how soon he could go to practice, and the doctor said the procedure was a success and his subsequent test results were promising. However, based on the latest results, the titanium didn’t fuse to his spine sufficiently to compensate for the damage of the fracture. He knew it wasn’t what Kai wanted to hear. Kai asked if that meant he’d never play football again, and Trina told Josh to turn the camera off.  

Cody said this was his favorite fav pool outside of the Obsidian in Vegas, and Ava said she loved the Obsidian. It was old school with a classic vibe. Cody said he expected to run into the Rat Pack when he gambled there, and she asked, what was his game? He said, poker, and she said, same. He asked, what was her biggest jackpot? and she said, $33,000. His? He said, 12K. She must let him in on her strategy. She said, a lady never tells, when Molly came in and looked over at them.

Elizabeth said she thought it was time to get everything out in the open, and Kristina said, like what? Elizabeth said she thought Kristina knew, but she’d make it easy. Lucky told her that Kristina caused the accident. She’d cut Ric’s brake lines thinking it was Ava’s car. She’d tried to kill Ava, and instead, nearly killed her and Ric.

Trina wondered if Kai’s condition could improve, and the doctor said, anything was possible, but right now, it looked like it was as good as it was going to get. She asked about a secondary procedure, but he said it would be too risky. He understood that Kai was disappointed, but the good news was, he was perfectly healthy. Trina asked if he could play any sport, and the doctor said, absolutely. Running, biking, swimming, but he advised no contact sports. The impact of a 250-pound player hitting him could be catastrophic. He was sorry. Kai said he knew the doctor did the best he could, and he appreciated it. The doctor left, and Josh said, sorry. Did Kai mind talking about how he was feeling, and Trina said, of course (🍷) he minded. He was devastated. Josh said it was his job… and Trina said if he didn’t get his damn camera out of Kai’s face, she was going to drop kick it out the window and him behind it. Josh said he was truly sorry, and left. Trina said she was so sorry. Was there anything she could do? Kai said, nothing. It was all over. She hugged him.

Isaiah told Portia that he had a quick question. Ric was just there looking for Elizabeth, and when he mentioned Lucky left town, Ric practically jumped for joy. How bad did he mess up? Portia said Elizabeth knew how to handle Ric, but he said she had enough to deal with. He could tell she was still hurting. He thought she would always love Lucky. Portia said, sometimes feelings for exes never went away. Ask Jordan.

Jordan told Curtis that Drew was the main reason Willow lost custody. Now he wanted Aurora to clean up his mess? Curtis told her that he said he’d do it. He had no choice. Drew was blackmailing his wife. She asked what he was going to do now that Michael was back, and he said he owed Michael the truth and came clean. He offered Michael his resignation, but Michael insisted he stay. He was convinced they should let Drew think he’d won… at least for now.  insist stay convinced let d think won at least for now

Drew said Willow couldn’t blame herself. He had no idea how far Michael would go. He should have been more prepared. Willow said it wasn’t his fault, but he said it was. He promised she’d keep her children, and he failed her. He was sorry. It wasn’t over. He talked to Martin, who mentioned something they could do that might improve her position and get the terms revisited. The timing wasn’t great, but they should give it a shot. They should get married.

Alexis met molly at the pool, and Alexis said she didn’t care for the pool, but some people liked it. Molly said, they seemed to, as she stared at Cody and Ava. Alexis turned around and looked too.

Cody said he used to hustle poker games, and Ava said her daughter Kiki hustled for the thrill of it. She didn’t approve, but deep down, she was proud. Cody asked if Kiki was still a gambler, but Ava said she’d passed away several years ago. He said he was sorry, but she said she liked to talk about Kiki. It had been a while since she thought of them playing cards and it made her smile when she did. She thanked him for that.  

Kristina said she was so sorry. She never meant to hurt Elizabeth. Elizabeth said she knew. She meant to hurt Ava. More precisely, Kristina meant to kill her. Kristina said she snapped. She was still grieving Adela and had a huge fight with Ava again. She was in the garage and saw the wire cutters. She tried to stop it. She called Ava to warn her, but she didn’t pick up. As she was driving back, she passed the crash and saw what happened. She was horrified. Elizabeth said Kristina got her and Ric, and Kristina said, if they wouldn’t have made it, she was going to confess. Elizabeth said they would have been dead, so they wouldn’t have been impressed with her grand gesture. So Kristina let Lucky cover for her. She wanted to call the police, but the only reason she didn’t was because Lucky would be charged as an accessory. Now that he’s out of the country and not in the reach of the PCPD… Kristina said, Elizabeth was going to turn her in.

Kai told Trina that he had no doubt he’d play again. He was an idiot. She said, stop. He wasn’t an idiot. The surgery was a success. He said, not enough. What did he do now? She said he’d get through it and find peace like he did before, but he said that’s what he told himself, in time, he’d be fine without football. But he was lying to himself and to her. The moment he found out about the surgery, he was out of the dark cell and on the other side. He again had the hopes and dreams he’d worked his butt off for. He thought he had a second chance. It wasn’t about fame or glory. It was about him being himself again. Now all that is gone. The door was slammed in his faced and he’s sitting in the dark again. She said she was so sorry and hugged him. He said he was so damn close.

Sasha said she wasn’t cutting Michael out of Daisy’s life. She wanted Daisy to know her dad, but she planned on retaining full custody and raising Daisy by herself with no assistance or interference from him or any of the Quartermaines. The only change would be that Daisy would know he was her dad. Did he think he could still live with that? He looked at Daisy and said he meant it when he said he trusted her to make the decisions she thought best for their child. He could live with her terms, but would like in writing that if anything happened to her, he’d be Daisy’s legal guardian. She said, yes, and thanked him. He said the custody fight made it clear to him that his kids came first. He wanted to give Daisy the best life and asked her to consider what she needed. She’d always have his full support.

Willow asked if Drew was proposing now? and he said he wanted it to be more romantic, but it was all about their happiness and love for each other. It would show they had a stable, loving home with two parents. She said that’s why she married Michael the first time. So he could get custody of Wiley from her sister Nelle. She wasn’t sure she’d do it again. He said, this was different. That was a marriage of convenience, but they were in love. It’s where they were headed anyway. She said she’d thought so, but she wasn’t sure it would work, and he said they’d present themselves to the court as a loving family, opposed to Michael with his mistress and baby. He wasn’t guaranteeing custody, but at least they had a fighting chance if she said yes.

Molly told Alexis that Ava cozying up to Cody, didn’t sit well with her. He was too nice of a guy for Ava to sink her fangs into. Alexis said he seemed nice. Were they friends now? Molly said he’d kind of helped her a few times. She was stranded with a flat and he gave her a ride on his horse. He also escorted her to the Nurses Ball and sat at the table with her when Alexis and Kristina were nowhere to be found. But she was glad that whatever happened, Alexis and Kristina made amends. Alexis said she and Kristin had a whole new level of understanding.  

Elizabeth told Kristina, no, and Kristina said if Elizabeth did turn her in, she’d understand. Elizabeth said the family had been through enough Losing Sam. She didn’t think they needed the pain of watching Kristina go to prison and Molly would be devastated to know that Kristina almost killed her dad. She was going to abide by Lucky’s wishes. Kristina thanked her, but Elizabeth said if she ever did something like that again, a revenge plot, she would turn Kristina in in a heartbeat. There was a knock at the door and Elizabeth let Ric in. He stopped when he saw Kristina.

Willow told Drew that the judge repeatedly said she’d used bad. She might see it as rash or impulsive, or worse, that she put him before her children again. Drew said he thought the court would see their relationship in a different light. If they got married, it would be seen as more legitimate and respectable. Willow said she wasn’t sure, and he said he knew it was coming fast. She said it was hard to think straight. She was tired. He said, just think about it and know whatever she decided, it wouldn’t change how much he loved her. He suggested she get some rest. Then maybe marriage wouldn’t be such a bad idea.  

Kai said he was sorry he lost it, but Trina said, don’t be. He never had to hide his feelings from her. He said he wasn’t used to being… and she said, vulnerable? He said he guessed so. There was something he needed to do. She said he needed time to process and feel his feelings, but he said he’d be fine. She said maybe she could come with him, but he said it was something he needed to do alone. He was grateful for her and he’d call her later. He left.

Ric said Kristina was the last person he thought he’d find at Elizabeth’s, and Kristina said, same. She was about to head out. She thanked Elizabeth for understanding. They were definitely on the same page. She left and Ric asked what that was about, but Elizabeth said it was a personal matter. Why was he there? He said he stopped by the hospital, and she wasn’t there, so he tracked her down, and she said if he had something to say, spit it out. She had a lot to do. He said he thought she’d have loads of time now that Lucky and Aiden were in Europe, and she said she knew why he was here. Because Lucky was gone… He said he came by to make sure she was okay, as a friend. He wanted her to know that if she needed anything, he was here for her.

Cody asked, when was the last time Ava hit up Vegas? and she said it had been a while. It would be funny if they’d crossed paths. He said he was positive they didn’t, and she asked how he was so sure. He said he would have remembered her, and she said, enough hooky. She had to get back to the gallery. It was nice running into him. He said it was great running into her too. Now it was time for the pool. She left and he jumped in. Molly smiled at him and raised her beer.

Jordan said she was glad Michael threw Curtis’s resignation in the trash, and he said Michael knew how conniving and destructive his uncle had become. He tore Michael’s family apart and Michael warned him not to let the same thing happen to him. He didn’t have the heart to tell Michael that it might be too late for him and Portia. The phone rang, and Curtis said he had to take it. Jordan said they’d talk about the meeting another time, and left. Curtis said, put him through.

In the hallway, Jordan called Anna and asked if she had time to meet up. She was in desperate need of a friend and a stiff drink.

Trina stormed into Portia’s office and said she knew it. Portia asked, what happened? and Trina said Kai spoke to the doctor who helped with the spine surgery. It wasn’t good enough to play football. Portia asked how Kai was taking it, and Trina said he was heartbroken. And all because of Drew Cain. She hated him so much.

There was a knock at Drew’s door and he opened it to Kai. Kai said he was sorry to just drop by. Had Drew herd from Josh? Drew said, not yet. What was going on? Kai said the documentary wasn’t going to turn out the way either of them wanted it to.

Michael told Wiley and Amelia to say hello to their baby sister. Meanwhile, outside someone watched them.

Thursday:

Jordan met Anna at the pool and Anna asked, what was the emergency? Jordan said Curtis’s marriage was on the rocks and she didn’t know how she felt.

At a table nearby, Isaiah told Lulu that Lucky and Aiden’s European adventure was up and running. Lucky said she was going through something and asked him to look in on her. If she wanted to talk, he was there, but if she just wanted to hang out, he was good with that too. Lucky was one of the best friends he ever had and saved his life a few times. Lulu said Isaiah had saved hers, so she thought they were square.  

On the phone, Josslyn left a message for Dalton saying she was sorry. She’d had a family situation, but she’d never ask anybody to do her work again. Trina came in and Josslyn said she’d never believe what Emma… What was going on? Trina said, it’s Kai.

Kai told Drew that the surgery worked, but not enough for him to play football again.

Jason told Sasha and Daisy, welcome home, and asked where Michael was. She said, tucking the kids in. They were staying there tonight. Michael came in and said, Amelia wanted her mother to kiss her goodnight, but he wasn’t sure when it would be okay for Willow to see the kids. Jason asked how Willow was doing, and Sasha said they’d run into her at GH and she wasn’t doing well.

Sonny arrived at Windymere, and Sidwell said he was surprised when Sonny called. It must be important. Sonny said he was thinking about Sidwell’s offer to buy his pier.

Trina told Josslyn that the doctor called Kai’s surgery a successful failure. He was better than before, but not good enough to play football. Josslyn said he must have been devastated, and Trina said, and then some. Josh had his camera in Kai’s face the entire time, so she put her hand over it. Josslyn said it was one thing to be injured and miss a season, but it was Kai’s entire career, and Trina said when she got everybody out, Kai started sobbing. Again Kai’s future was pulled out from under him and his dreams destroyed, and it was all Drew’s fault.

Drew said they knew it wasn’t guaranteed, but Kai had recovered so well, and Kai said he thought so too, but they were both wrong. He could do normal activities, but no football. Even if he was willing to risk it, no school or franchise would take him. All that work for all those years amounted to nothing.

Jordan told Anna that Curtis said he was worried it was too late to patch up things with Portia and her heart began to race. She wasn’t saying she wanted to get back with him… Anna said she’d kind of been where Jordan was, and Jordan asked what she did. Anna said she struggled. She’d loved Robert and he fell for Holly. She heard they had problems and considered taking advantage of the situation and get back with him. Jordan said, did she? and Anna said part of her wanted to, but the other part thought no good could come of it. She ultimately decided she wouldn’t want someone swooping in if she was having marital problems. Jordan said that’s exactly what Portia did to her.

Michael told Jason that he needed to figure out where they were going to lived. The gatehouse was out. It would be too hard for the kids to live there without their mom. Jason suggested he stay there. At least the kids would have the family close. Sasha said she was going to put Daisy to bed and thanked Michael. She was glad they were on the same page. She left, and Jason said things seemed to be going good with Michael and Sasha. Michael said they’d talked things out. He wasn’t sure everyone would agree he was doing the right thing, and by everyone, he meant the rest of his family.

Sonny said he wanted to talk to Sidwell man to man. He wanted the truth. Why did Sidwell really want his pier? Sidwell said he appreciated Sonny’s directness, so he’d respond in kind. He wanted to pier in order to end Sonny’s influence on the city.

Marco told Lucas that he couldn’t stop thinking about his mom, but attorney/client privilege prevented him from telling Lucas about it.  

Jordan told Anna that she knew Portia didn’t intentionally sabotage her marriage. It wasn’t about payback, but Portia didn’t learn from her mistakes. Curtis forgave her for lying, then she turned around and lied to him again. She felt horrible for Curtis and Trina, but didn’t have much sympathy for Portia.

Lulu told Isaiah that she’d dug herself a big hole and a lot of people were pissed and hurt. It wasn’t her story to tell, so she couldn’t say more. His phone rang and he said it was GH. She told him to get it. There was someone she needed to talk to anyway.

Michael told Jason that Sasha asked him to continue to allow her to raise Daisy in her own way away from the Quartermaine insanity. But that also meant staying out of his baby’s life. Jason asked if he told her that he would honor her wishes, and Michael said he did, but Daisy was here now, and the secret was out. Sasha wanted to be the only legal parent, and he agreed.

Sasha put Daisy in her crib and said, this was her room. Mommy would be right next door and hear Daisy the second Daisy needed her. Sleep well. Mommy loves you. She turned out the light and left. (Daisy is one of those delightfully animated babies like Wiley was.)

Sonny asked if Sidwell thought he was going to push him aside, but Sidwell said he was hoping Sonny would step down like a gentleman. His shadow loomed large and his name was tied to organized crime. The cycle of violence had been constant. He was planning on doing business there and it didn’t include monthly mob shootouts. He would bring jobs and commerce. It would be good for the city, good for Sonny, and good for him. Sonny said if Measure C passed, the city would take the pier, but Sidwell said he was a gambling man. What was life without risk?

Drew told Kai that he was so sorry. It wasn’t the outcome they’d wanted or expected. Kai said it wasn’t the best ending for the documentary. Josh filmed him getting the news and he was so messed up, Trina jumped in and got rid of Josh. He knew it was supposed to be an uplifting story about his big comeback… Drew said, don’t worry. There wouldn’t be a documentary. He owned the footage, and it wouldn’t see the light of day. Kai said Drew didn’t want a sad ending. Now he wasn’t even getting a documentary. Drew said Kai didn’t owe him an apology. If anything, he owed Kai one. (Narcissist/sociopath at work.)

Trina told Josslyn that Kai was devastated the first time, but eventually accepted it. Then Drew came along with this newfangled surgery like it was a medical miracle. He wanted Kai’s good PR. He never cared about Kai. Josslyn said, Drew didn’t care about anything and ended up ruining the lives of the people he helped. Trina said, like Willow? Was she any better? Josslyn said she went home today, and Trina asked how bad it was in court. Josslyn said she wasn’t there, but her mom was and said the judge granted full custody to Michael. Drew had her convinced she’d be able to take the kids, and when reality set in, she broke. Trina said Drew was such a user. Her dad, now Kai, even Willow now. Josslyn wonder who was going to stop him, and Trina said somebody would Count on it.

Josslyn told Trina that Michael said he found Wiley in tears. He’d overheard Drew tell his lawyer that Michael didn’t want Wiley and Amelia now that he had Daisy. Trina said no one believed it, did they? and Josslyn said, only Willow. It wasn’t like Drew was subtle. Trina said he was legit crazy. He’d threatened to bulldoze the Quartermaine crypt, then partied with a sex worker while Willow was out of town. Now he was hurting kids. Josslyn said, he had a good reason. The crypt was in the wrong place. He didn’t know Wiley was there… Who would believe all this? Trina said, Kai, and it was scaring her.

Jordan said, Curtis didn’t tell her they were splitting up, but Anna said, he was confiding in Jordan about his marriage. What did she think she’d do if his marriage ended? Would she go back to him? Jordan said she didn’t want to think… Lulu said she was sorry to interrupt (maybe we should make Lulu interrupting a drinking game). She needed to talk to Anna. Jordan stepped away.

Marco said Lucas couldn’t repeat this information, and Lucas said Marco had his word. Marco said, remember when he ran into a certain client of his at the pool? They got arrested later and charged with a DWI. Lucas asked if anyone was hurt, and Marco said, luckily, no, but it wasn’t their first offense and they’re facing severe consequences. Lucas said he was surprised Marco took on this client. He’d sounded like he wanted nothing to do with her. Marco said he didn’t. Then he thought about what Lucas told him and realized he couldn’t turn his back on her. Lucas asked if she could go to prison, and Marco said the acting DA offered her a deal for the exchange of information on a certain alleged crime lord. Lucas said, Sonny Corinthos?

Sidwell said if Sonny sold him the pier, it would be front page news. Measure C would become about real estate and not a referendum on Sonny’s reputation. The voters won’t care because no one would be worried about who had the pier or what happened to it. Sonny said Sidwell gave money to the Measure C campaign and was trying to get him to sell. That left him no choice. Sidwell said Sonny did have a choice. He could walk away richer and more importantly, clean. It was a chance to unburden himself and free himself from the enterprise that long enriched him, but had become an albatross around his neck. Neither of them was getting younger. Sonny had led a tragic life and already lost one son. Can he imagine the rest of his days with his family safe and secure? Sonny asked if Sidwell was threatening his family.  

Jason said Michael’s name wouldn’t be on the birth certificate, and Michael said, nope. He wasn’t sure what Daisy’s last name would be, but it wouldn’t be Corinthos or Quartermaine. Jason said he was sure Tracy would have something to say about it, and Michael said he had no custodial rights, but he trusted Sasha and she updated her will for him to get custody if anything happened to her. It was important that she remain the sole legal parent. Jason said even if Michael was okay with it, others might not be, and Michael said starting with his mother and the Quartermaine’s. He was sure some would say he was giving away his baby and he never wanted Daisy to feel that way.

Someone creeped into Daisy’s room and watched her.

Lulu said she needed to apologize to Anna, and Anna asked why. Lulu said she’d never properly thanked Anna for bringing Charlotte back. She was nasty about Valentin, and she was sorry. Anna said Lulu had a right to be, but Lulu said, Anna still brought her daughter back and risked her life. It wasn’t enough, but she thanked her.

Isaiah asked Jordan how her new job was. He’d seen her ads on Measure C. She was doing a good job. Did she change her mind about Sidwell?

Trina told Josslyn that she thought Kai was in a daze and could only think about going to the guy who paid for his surgery and thanking him. Every time Drew’s name comes up, she bites her tongue. Josslyn said Trina’s silence was usually loud, and Trina said she hated to stay quiet, but she didn’t want friction because of Drew. Josslyn said, Drew promised Willow would get her kids back. Once Tracy proves he set her up, everyone will know he’s a liar and won’t believe anything he says again.

Drew said Kai was an amazing talent. He’d wanted to help Kai achieved his goal, but didn’t consider the downside and he should have. It was his fault. Kai said he was glad he took the chance. He did what he could to get his dream back. Drew said Kai’s positivity was priceless. He may not be able to give football back to Kai, but he might have something else to offer him.

Marco told Lucas that fortunately, his client doesn’t sign anything before going over it with a fine-tooth comb. He slammed on the brakes. Now Turner is giving him the runaround and holding the threat of prison over his client’s head. Lucas said Sonny used to be married to his sister. They weren’t close, but had family in common. He had no illusions about Sonny. Marco said his mom had made herself a target for Turner and Sonny. They’d both be gunning for her and he didn’t know how to help.  

Sonny said no one threatened his family and lived, and Sidwell said he was sorry. He meant the complete opposite. Once Sonny no longer owned the pier, everyone around him would be safe from the people trying to take things from him. Sonny said, like Sidwell, but Sidwell said, if either of them wanted violence, this would have been over long ago. Sonny said, like how his son almost died? and Sidwell said, a man’s children are sacred. That kind of violence must be met in kind. He wouldn’t want anything to happen to Marco. Sonny said he’d do anything to keep his family safe, and Sidwell said, good. Did they have a deal?

Anna said she knew she’d caused pain, but Lulu said she knew it was an accident. Anna said it was her responsibility, and she had to live with it every day, and Lulu said if she got tired of carrying the burden, she encouraged Anna to put it down. Anna thanked her and asked how Charlotte was doing. Lulu said Charlotte was doing great. She found a friend group and was counseling at Lila’s Kids this summer. Anna said she was glad Charlotte had a parent who could love and guide her the way she needed.

Jordan said she had no illusions about Sidwell, but she enjoyed her job, and Isaiah said it must help that her ex was head of Aurora.

Drew said he had an intern lined up, but they dropped out. Was Kai interested? It was a paid internship, and Kai would work closely with him here and in DC. He realized it couldn’t replace football, but it might be a nice distraction. He handled the Pediatric Sports Initiative (🍷) well. Kai said, that was one speech. It was a generous offer, but Drew didn’t have to give him a consolation prize. Drew said it was no secret he’d alienated a lot of people. Kai was a natural born leader and great with the media. Most of all, he had integrity, and he needed someone with integrity by his side whose judgement he trusted. And it would look great on Kai’s resumé. He believed Kai could do a lot of good if he was interested.

Marco said he was resigned to a life without his mom, but he didn’t want to see her go to prison, and Lucas said he understood. His dad came around and when things finally fell apart, homophobia wasn’t the problem. Just because their parents gave them life, didn’t mean they owed their parents theirs. Do what makes him happy. Marco said his father’s acceptance was important. She only saw what she wanted him to be.

Jason said, the only thing Daisy would think was that her dad loved her and was easier to work than her mother, and Michael said when he was granted full custody, he felt like he could breathe again. Jason said, the way Willow reacted after the ruling showed she wasn’t stable, and Michael said Willow was strong. To see her crumble that way, she may be damaged in ways that can’t be repaired. Only because she fell in love with Drew. Jason asked if he was worried about Sasha, but Michael said, no. He had to hope she didn’t have her own Drew someday. Jason said he didn’t think Michael had to worry. Daisy was her number one priority, and she was strong. Michael said he thought Sasha was a great mom, and Jason said, that’s what was important.  

Sasha went into Daisy’s room and discovered the mobile above the crib was playing music. She asked if the music woke Daisy up.  

Sonny asked why he and Sidwell would have a deal. Port Charles was his home. His roots and his children were there, and he would protect the city from anyone, including Sidwell. Sidwell said, be wise. Reconsider. Sonny wondered why he should take Sidwell’s money, told Sidwell to stay out of his way, and left.  

Trina said Drew had crossed powerful people, and Josslyn said, Tracy, Trina’s dad, Michael, and Jason, and by extension, Sonny. Sonny and her mom weren’t the most forgiving group. One would take Drew down and soon. Trina said she hoped so, but she didn’t want Kai near Drew when it happened.

Drew asked if Kai had plans for the summer, but Kai said, not anymore. Drew told him to take some time and think about it. Remember his future wasn’t over. It would just be different, and Drew thought it would be just as bright whether he took the offer or not. As much as Drew would like to have Kai on his team, no matter what, he hoped Kai considered him a friend. Kai said he did and they shook hands.  

Lulu told Anna, nothing was more important than her children. She still couldn’t believe she lost four years literally overnight. She didn’t want to miss another second, and thanks to Anna, she didn’t have to.

Isaiah said, for what it was worth (🍷), he was sorry how things ended between them, and Jordan said, for what it was worth (🍷), so was she. He said, regardless of his attitude… and she said, which time? He laughed and said he wished her the best. She said sometimes the timing just wasn’t right.

Lucas said he thought it was great that Marco’s father supported him, and Marco said that’s why he tried to extend the same grace to him. Lucas said, as his father pointed out, being gay is different than being a criminal, and Marco said he didn’t mean it that way. The closeness with his dad was important. Lucas said he just worried about Marco’s proximity to danger, like Michael or his father at one time. Marco said he got the impression Sonny and Michael were close, and Lucas said Michael was a strong person. He’d had a tough life, but things were finally looking up. He couldn’t tell Marco how happy he was when the judge granted full custody to Michael. Marco said, with no visitation, but Lucas said he was sure Michael wouldn’t keep Willow out completely. Marco said it was unusual. Judges usually didn’t consider no visitation for the mother.

Judge Haran said she granted Michael full custody like Sidwell wanted, and he thanked her for a job well done. The rest of the money had been wired to her account.

Michael told Jason that for a long time after the explosion, every day, every moment, was agony and fear. He figured his kids were with Drew and Sasha was pregnant with him not being there to help. It was one of the lowest point in his life. Jason asked how he got through it, and Michael said his kids. Knowing that they needed him, he knew he had to get better and get back home. Jason said the kids were lucky to have Michael, and Michael said he was lucky to have Jason looking after them. Knowing that helped a lot. He never expected things to turn out this way. He was happy with all three of his children under the same roof and safe with him. What more could he ask for?

Sasha adjusted the mobile and said, good night. I love you. She left.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

On the phone, Ava says she looks forward to seeing someone at the gallery, when Nina walks in. Ava says she’s been texting and calling. How is Willow? How is she? Nina asks how much she told Ava, and Ava says, just the very awful, very broad strokes. Nina says, Michael got full custody. Willow collapsed and was hospitalized after that. She needs to talk to Ava. Ava asks, what happened? and Nina says, it was everything she feared… and so much worse.

Willow comes out of the bedroom and asks if Drew went running already. He says, it’s a beautiful day outside, and she says she guesses she must have fallen back to sleep. He says, she probably needed the rest. How is she feeling? She says she knows she slept last night, but she’s still so tired, and he suggests he make her breakfast. Anything she wants. It might make her feel better. She says she’s not hungry. It’s hard to care about starting her day without seeing her kids.

Wiley says he can swim the length of the pool without taking a breath, and Michael says, no way. How did he learn to do that? Wiley says, Uncle Drew. Does he want to see? Michael says, absolutely. Let’s see what you’ve got. Wiley swims and Michael looks over at Kristina.

Curtis finds Tracy in the solarium, and she says, this is a nice surprise. Unless his Aunt Stella sent him to chastise her. He says, she didn’t. The truth be told, his Aunt Stella found it quite amusing watching Tracy’s recent run-in with the PCPD. Tracy says she bets. What brings him here? He says, how about delivering Drew the setback he so richly deserves? Together. She says she’s listening. Tell her more.

In the park, Emma suggests Gio play softball for the PCPD. He likes to play, and he doesn’t suck. He’d also score points with her grandmother. He asks if he needs to score points with her grandmother, but she says, of course (🍷) not. Her grandmother loves having Gio stay with them, but just think, she’d love it more if he played ball for the PCPD. He says he can picture the situation, sitting in the dugout with Dante right now, and she says it would be the perfect way to get everyone off his back. Maybe everyone would relax and stop worrying about how he’s handling the Brook and Dante are my parents thing. He says, everyone is worried he’s going to do something crazy and lose it again. Like he might turn to a life of crime or become a Buddhist monk. She says, both things take commitment, and he can’t even agree to play ball for the PCPD. A dog runs up and grabs Gio’s baseball mitt, running away with it. He yells, don’t! and chases the dog. Emma follows saying she’s worried about the dog running into the street.

Anna tells Sonny, the party is over, and he tells her, many people have said that and they were wrong. She says she’s not wrong. She’s gone easy on him in the past, but today is the day of reckoning and there’s nothing he can do about it. We see they’re in the park to play ball.

Anna says, no matter how many ringers he has playing on his team, he’s going to lose, and Sonny asks what she’s talking about. What ringers? Is she suggesting he hires people to play on his softball team? She says, there’s a minor league pitcher warming up in the bullpen and he has plenty of minor leaguers on his team, but he says she doesn’t know what she’s talking about. She knows how much he respects her, but when she was across the pond playing cricket and eating crumpets, he was playing stickball in Bensonhurst until it was so dark, you couldn’t see. She says, speaking of Bensonhurst, did he know Gio’s been staying with them? and he says, yeah. Emma’s been great for him. She says, Gio is good for Emma. She’s thinking they kind of help each other. It’s nice.

Gio says, drop the glove, dog, and we’ll pretend this never happened, and picking the dog up, Emma says, stop it. You’re scaring her. He says, she’s not freaking out; she’s taunting him. Emma says, aren’t you cute? and he says he doesn’t see anyone looking for her. She says, she has no collar. No worries. She knows what to do.

As they lie in bed, Trina wonders if it’s okay to ask Kai where he was, and he says he went to tell Drew that the surgery was a successful failure. It was good for his health, but bad for his football career. She says she felt like that’s where he was, and he says he knows how she feels about Drew, but he wanted to talk to Drew one on one. She says she gets it. How’d it go? He says he thanked Drew for paying for his very expensive consultation and surgery. Then he asked if they could stop the whole documentary thing. She says, really? Wow. How did he take the news? Kai says, he was amazing. He said they could totally stop it and no one would ever see the footage. Then – get this – he apologized.

Curtis says, Drew has been on the ropes for a while now. The voters weren’t thrilled with his relationship with Willow. Tracy says, otherwise known as his nephew’s wife. Go on. Curtis says, then Drew’s reputation took a hit when a viral video surfaced of him taking body shots off an unknown woman, and Tracy says, otherwise known as a sex worker. Please go on. Curtis says, then the congressman claims he knows who drugged him and there was a mixed reaction at best. Folks aren’t sure about Drew. She says, he doesn’t exactly exude trustworthiness and credibility, and Curtis says, here’s the problem. Her high-profile arrest on the red carpet at the Nurses Ball shifted the power in Drew’s favor. He was seen as a victim and gained sympathy. She says, that’s exactly what he knew would happen when he framed her.

Wiley comes out of the pool and goes over to Amanda (nanny? swim coach? who knows?) Kristina says, Michael did a great job covering when Wiley brought up Drew, but he says he didn’t. She insists he did. Wiley has no idea how he feels about Drew. He says, thank God for that. It’s crazy. He remembers last summer Wiley couldn’t stop talking about Uncle Drew and how he wanted to be a Navy SEAL just like Drew was. At the time, he was thrilled that Wiley was having so much fun and Drew was taking an interest in him. It never occurred to him that Drew might be using Wiley to get to Willow. Kristina says, it never occurred to any of them. They were under the radar until they weren’t. Michael said, that’s one of the sad parts of divorce, the good memories getting poisoned. All those times him, Willow, and the kids were hanging out with Drew. Were they flirting and he was that oblivious? Kristina says, he wasn’t oblivious. He was in love and trusted Willow. He says, what that was, was a mistake, and she says, he has a right to be angry, but it would be a mistake to let it consume him. He says he’s sure he’ll get over it eventually, but she says, that’s not good enough. He has to decide that his anger isn’t in charge. Thanks to Ava, she knows about anger consuming you and it’s dangerous to let it go unchecked. You find yourself doing and saying something you deeply regret that you can’t take back. Michael wonders why he has the feeling she’s talking about something specific. What did she do?

Ava says, Drew is the one with bad judgement, but according to the judge, Willow is the one making all the bad decisions, and Nina says, exactly. Ava says she’s so, so sorry. She can’t believe what that man has become. Nina says she saw it coming. She tried to get through to Willow. She begged Willow to postpose the custody hearing, but that man has his hooks in Willow so deep, she barely recognizes her daughter anymore. Ava takes Nina’s hand.

Willow tells Drew that she never thought Michael would get custody like that. She doesn’t know what happened. He says he doesn’t know what happened either (because they’re both stupid), but it doesn’t matter. They can fix it. They know how. Has she thought about his proposal? She says, it’s all she’s thought about, and he says, that’s nice to hear. She says she knows he wants to help, and she loves him for it, but he’s the reason Michael took the kids away. She doesn’t see how marrying him will help get them back.  

Turner tells Anna that against her better judgement, she’s here to play for the PCPD. Plus, the league is a great networking opportunity. Anna says, there we go. Sounds about right.  

Sonny tells Gio, looking good. Is he playing? Gio says he knows him – Uncle Sonny. He’s not used to see him like this. Sonny says, when they’re playing, Gio can call him Sonny, and Gio says he can do that, and thanks him. Sonny says he saw Gio and Emma throwing the ball around, and Gio says, then they found a stray dog. Emma is off somewhere trying to find the owner. Sonny says, good. He thought they could have a conversation. Gio says, Sonny is the one person in the family not pursuing him to talk, but Sonny says he thought Gio could be on the Corinthos Coffee team. He saw that Gio had a great arm. Gio says he can’t believe Sonny saw him play. He had to sneak out to do it. Why? Sonny says he was trying to get Rocco to play, and Gio says, Corinthos Coffee, ELQ, the PCPD, and Deception. Those are teams full of people he can’t stand to see right now. Sonny says Gio found out a hard truth in a bad way. There’s nothing they can do to change that. All they can do is move forward and he’s willing to help Gio.

Michael asks Kristina, what’s going on? Did something happen? She says, nothing. It’s just they both know she’s made terrible mistakes based on anger before. She almost let her anger at Ava destroy her completely and she doesn’t want that for him. Drew and Willow have already taken enough from him. Don’t let them take more. He says, the Willow he knew was stronger, and she says, Willow was struggling more than any of them knew. Drew took advantage of that, and they both betrayed him. It doesn’t matter anymore. What matters is that he has his kids and they’re safe, at home, and healthy. And he has a beautiful baby girl. What matters is that he try to focus on the positive. He says, she’s right. When he feels himself needing revenge, he’ll focus on the kids and their future. She says he needs to do that for himself too. He says he’s hoping Willow will get to a place where he feels okay about her being around the kids. They need both of them, but he doesn’t know when and if he’ll feel comfortable to let her see them.

Drew says, Willow is right. It’s his fault completely that Michael took the kids. He made two big mistakes. He never should have invited Wiley to DC for his swearing in. Obviously, he wanted them there for his big moment and it was pure selfishness on his part. She says, Wiley wanted to be there. She’s proud of him. She still is. He says he never should have drawn up the guardianship papers, but she says they had no idea how long Michael would be in Germany and she didn’t want Carly to take her kids if something happened to her. If she’d made Nina the guardian, Diane wouldn’t have even mentioned it. He says, the bottom line is that the judge thought they were disregarding the law. So from now on, they were consulting a lawyer before doing anything. This was them doing just that. She says, getting married because a lawyer says it’s a good legal strategy would be like she was using him, but he promises that’s not the case. He would marry her anytime, anywhere. He would love that their marriage be a natural progression of building their lives together, but right now, they have to get her kids back. But if she doesn’t want to get married, they won’t. All he asks is that she listen to all the facts before she makes a decision. How does that sound?

Trina says she didn’t know Drew knew how to apologize, and Kai says, he does and he did. He felt awful that the surgery didn’t get him back on the football field. Drew knew he wanted that more than anything. She says she can’t be mad at that, and he says, good. The more he talked to Drew, the more he realized he was glad he had the surgery. Otherwise, he’d always wonder. This way, he knows for a fact that he did everything he could to get back on the field. He thinks it made it easier for him to face the loss of the future he imagined for himself. She says, that is amazing, but it’s a little fast. She guesses it’s good, but just yesterday he seemed so lost and it hurt her heart. He says he was lost when he left GH. He had no idea what his future looked like, but Drew helped with that too. Drew offered him a paid position as his congressional intern.

Tracy tells Curtis, as if she’d ever slip Drew a drug and leave evidence of it in her car. Come on. If you’re going to frame someone, put some effort into it. Curtis asks if she can prove Drew planted the ketamine, and she says, no, but she knows when he did it. He sailed over and pretended he wanted to discuss Measure C. Then he stayed afterward to plant it. Curtis says, the case hinges on Drew’s testimony and the two of them had a drink the night he was drugged, and she asks if anyone saw her put a drug in his drink. Did they find her fingerprints on the bottle? Curtis says, no, and she says, because she didn’t do it. He says, if they get Drew to retract his statement, the DA’s office doesn’t have a case, and she says, correct. Alexis said they’d have to drop the charges. Then she’d have her lawyers sue for false arrest. He asks how they get Drew to recant, and she says, let him use the Quartermaine name and make a public apology for her egregious lapse in judgement. He says, so there’s an offer on the table, but she says, no. There’s an offer in the garbage because she’s not going to do that.

Michael says, Wiley flew across the pool. He’s so strong. He bets Wiley is hungry. Wiley says he’s starving, and Michael says he’s guessing a PB&J. Wiley says, yes, please, and Michael asks if Kristina would like to join them. She says she’d be delighted, and Wiley asks if Daisy can have one too, but Michael says, she’s too little. When she’s big enough, Wiley can make her one himself. Let’s go. Kristina sees Wiley’s T-shirt was left behind and tries to get Michael’s attention, but Michael keeps walking.

Trina says, Kai can’t play football anymore. Doesn’t he want to take a beat before jumping into something else? He says he thinks he needs this. Now he has a purpose. The internship will give him something to focus on and a way to move forward. She asks, how long is the internship? Will it go past the summer? What is he going to do about school? Will he move to DC? He says he has to ask about that, but he definitely knows he doesn’t want to move to DC. He doesn’t want to leave her.

Ava tells Nina that she can’t believe this even happened and Drew still refuses to see he’s the problem in Willow’s life. If he loves her like he says he does, why not get the hell out of her life. Nina says she told him that at the hospital, and Ava says she guesses he wasn’t very receptive. Nina says, no. He just doubled down and said he knew she and Portia had worked together to ruin his reputation. Now if either of them crosses him, he’ll take them both down. Ava says, oh well. Evil and efficient. Nina says she’s afraid the only way out is telling Willow that she and Drew slept together when Willow and Drew were falling in love, and Ava says she gave Nina that advice all along. She knows Nina had her reasons, but Nina shot her down every time. Nina says she knows, but they agreed Willow needed her and Willow needs her right now more than the truth. She needs to get Willow away from this man. Ava says she has a list of reasons why Nina shouldn’t tell Willow the truth, and Nina says, tell her. She’s all ears. Ava says Nina has to be very careful. If she tells Willow the truth now after everything that happened, Willow may or may not believe her. Or she may confront Drew. Drew will tell her that Nina is a liar and Willow will believe him. Either way, she’ll have lost her relationship with her daughter. Nina says she couldn’t bear it after everything else, and Ava says, with Nina out of the picture, who would Willow have left to lean on? Nina says, just Drew, and Ava says, take it from someone who alienated and lost her daughter, don’t do it. Don’t say a word. The truth is important, but the most important thing is not to lose Willow right now.

At Drew’s place, Martin says, Judge Haran often rules in favor of married couples over a single parent. That’s why he suggested Willow and Drew get married. It will demonstrate that no matter how their relationship began, it’s something they’re invested in. Drew asks what Willow thinks, and Willow says she and Michael got married to keep Nelle from getting custody of Wiley and it worked. Martin says, with her and Drew married, and Drew’s reputation restored, he thinks they stand a better chance of getting the custody ruling amended. Drew says, wait a minute. His reputation restored? Did that mean Tracy was going to play ball? Martin says, not happily, but he thinks she’s smart enough to know that she doesn’t have a choice.

Curtis tells Tracy, so from Drew’s point of view, this is a good plan. The public believes he’s the innocent victim and he gets to look magnanimous for letting his auntie off the hook. Tracy says she was mildly impressed when Martin made the offer, and Curtis wonders if they could get Martin to switch sides, but Tracy says she doesn’t see him doing that. Curtis says, because? and she says, because she had him arrested for the crypt scheme. All he wants now is to see her publicly humiliated. Curtis asks what her lawyers think about going to trial, and she says, they thought the incident a while back with Alexis would be worked in again. He says, the one where she framed Alexis for drunk driving, then left town when the trial came up? and she says, yes, but she and Alexis are past that. So she doesn’t see why it’s the court’s business. He says, so she’s looking to get the charges dropped, and she says she guesses so. He says, to that end, he hired a P.I. to track down Drew’s body shot companion, a woman named Jacinda She says, if he finds her, she can tell everyone about how Drew bought the ketamine and took it himself, and he says, that’s exactly right.

Sonny says, Gio can feel how he wants. if he wants to cut off people, that’s what he needs to do. He believes Gio should keep working at the MetroCourt. Gio says, it’s a good job. He’s helping people and saving up for his own place. Sonny says he’s not going to keep bugging Gio to play for Corinthos Coffee. He thought it would be fun and actually, he needs someone like Gio. Gio says he might be terrible, but Sonny says he’s seen Gio hit the ball halfway across the block when he was a kid. Gio says he remembers that. He remembers he didn’t get to play often. Lois and Gloria worried that he’d hurt his hands and it would affect his violin playing. Sonny says, don’t worry. Now he’s an adult and doesn’t have to answer to them. Gio says, Sonny is right. Okay. He’ll play for Corinthos Coffee. They high five.

Drew asks if Martin clarified things, and Willow says, it made sense. She feels like at least she can breathe again. There’s hope. He says, absolutely there’s hope. He wishes they lived in a perfect world and could have the wedding of their dreams, but they don’t. It they want to keep hope alive, that’s what they need to do. She says, nothing is more important than her kids. Okay. Let’s get married. He asks if she’s sure. She doesn’t feel pressured? She says she’s sure. Marry me. They kiss.

Turner says, it’s official now. She’s Anna’s teammate. Anna says, the world has a sense of humor, and Turner says she assumed she’d be on the bench for a while, but they have her playing the next game. Anna says, the PCPD has always been at a bit of a disadvantage with the cops. They can’t sustain a consistent line-up. That’s why they combined this year. Turner says, got it. She’s going to need practice… a lot. The last thing she wants to do is let down her team. Anna says, it gets competitive, but do her best and she’ll be fine. Anna thanks her and says, they got off on the wrong foot. She’s sure once Sonny is gone, they’ll get along better. Anna says, stranger things have happened, and leaves. Turner says, okay, and Sonny yells at Turner to catch the ball.

Gio asks if Emma had any luck finding the owner, but Emma says, no. She tells Sonny, hey, and says she took the dog to a shelter where she volunteers. They checked for a microchip to see if she had an owner, but she doesn’t seem to have one. She thinks the dog might be a stray. Sonny says, she’s cute, and Anna says, that dog is a thief. Emma tells Gio to make himself useful and hold her. She’s going to take a picture and post it online to see if anyone claims it. Gio asks if she’s talking about him or the dog, and she says, smile. She takes the picture.

Nina says she thinks Ava is right. Willow can’t take another loss. When they were checking out of the hospital, she was fragile. To make matters worse, they saw Michael and Sasha and Carly with the new baby. They had cards and flowers and were filled with joy.  Then Drew made her leave, say she had an emergency work meeting, to keep her from going home with Willow. Ava says, Willow needs her now more than ever, when Nina’s phone dings. She says, Willow wants to meet her at the MetroCourt pool, and Ava says, she’s getting out of the house. That’s a very good sign. Nina says, maybe she can get through to Willow after all. (This might seem farfetched, but I wonder if Willow is stalking Sasha’s baby. She is pretty tired in the morning.)

Tracy asks how close Curtis is to finding this Jacinda woman. Martin is insisting on a public apology ASAP. Curtis tells her, it’s hard to say, and she says, as long as she’s exonerated. She doesn’t like taking the blame when she’s guilty. She’s definitely not doing it when she’s not. He says, understood, when Michael comes in. Curtis says he and Tracy were just discussing how Uncle Drew is demanding a public apology from her. He wants her to paint him as a hero and a survivor. Michael says, if anyone likes to be seen as a hero, it’s Drew, and Tracy says, what if Curtis can’t find the woman? Nobody will believe Drew framed her and there’s no proof that he planted the ketamine. Michael says, ketamine? Isn’t that a horse anesthetic?

Sonny asks if Turner is looking for this ball, and she says, it got away from her. He tosses it to her and says, not much of a softball player, is she? She says he’s not the first person to notice that today.

Trina says, sorry she’s late, but Ava says, that’s okay. She got Trina’s text. Trina says she and Kai were having a whole conversation about his future, and Ava asks if it was inspired by his follow up with the surgeon. Trina says, it was. Kai will never play football again. Ava says she’s so sorry. Kai must need her now and because he has her, he’ll be just fine. Trina says she hopes so. He was so crushed by the follow-up. It broke her heart. But he’s such a good man. The first thing he wanted to do when he found out his dream wasn’t going to happen was to thank Drew for making the surgery happen in the first place. Ava says, that was admirable. Maybe with the surgery behind him now, Kai will no longer be so tied to Drew. Trina says, he will. Drew’s not letting go of him. He offered Kai a position as his congressional intern.  

Drew says he’s having a good day and hopes what Kai is going to make it even better, and Kai says he wishes he could. He’s so sorry. Drew says, oh no, and Kai says he’s honored Drew thinks he’s the right person to trust with the position. He’s thought it over and has to decline. Drew says, politics isn’t for everybody. He thought it was a good thing, but guesses he was wrong. Maybe Kai’s interests lie elsewhere. Kai says, Drew wasn’t wrong actually and the more he thinks about it, he can see how politics can be rewarding. Drew says he’s confused. Why doesn’t Kai want to take the position? Kai says he doesn’t want to relocate to DC. It not the right move. He has to graduate from PCU, and more than that, he wouldn’t have survived the last six months without Trina. So where she is, is where he wants to be.

Nina meets Willow by the pool and says it’s great to see her out and about. How is she doing? Willow says she’s moving forward, and Nina says, okay. That’s wonderful news. It’s exactly what she should do. Willow keeps looking around and sees the T-shirt. She says, this is Wiley’s, and Nina says, Wiley’s not here. She would have seen him if he was. Willow says she must have gotten the time of the lesson wrong, unless Michael forgot. Wiley will be crushed if he did. Nina says, Michael didn’t forget. Why don’t they sit down for a minute. Willow says she can’t. It’s Wiley’s favorite and she has to reunite him with it now.

The dog steals Anna’s hat, and Emma says, it’s not the best idea to steal the Police Commissioner’s hat on game day. Anna asks, whose dog is that? and Emma says she’s trying to find the owner. Anna says, and if she can’t find the owner? and Emma says she’s going to keep her. She’s going to call her Outback.

Turner tells Sonny that she wasn’t allowed to play softball as a kid. Her mom spent a fortune on braces and wasn’t about to risk her getting hit in the mouth with a ball. Sonny says, what about when the braces came off? and she says, and risk this smile? Not a chance. He says she’s got great smile and should use it more often, and she says, it’s 2025. He’s not actually telling a woman she should smile more. (Yeah, we hate that.) He says, actually, he was thinking about her mom’s investment, and she says, have a good game. He tells her to keep her eye on the ball, and leaves.

Ava says she can see how difficult an offer it would be for Kai to refuse. Did Trina try to talk him out of it? Trina says she was tempted, but doesn’t want to be that kind of person. She’s not with Kai because he does what she wants. He’s a confident guy and knows himself and she finds that attractive. Ava says, it’s an attractive quality, and Trina says she’s going to support his choice, even though it’s not what she would choose for him. Ava asks if that means he’s taking the internship, and Trina says, no. He’s not moving to DC. He wants to be with her. Ava says, smart man, and Trina says she wants Kai as far away from Drew as possible.

Drew says he gets where Kai is coming from. There’s nothing more important than making sure the woman in your life that you love is a priority, but the terms of the internship aren’t set in stone. He can make it what he wants it to be. Kai asks what that means, and Drew says, it’s flexible. He wants Kai to come with him to DC a few times a year, see how things are run on Capitol Hill, meet some people. He’ll be based in Port Charles, and when Drew is in DC, Kai will represent him here, interface with the constituents. It will be a great hands-on experience for him. Kai says, Drew would be okay with him repping him? and Drew says, Kai is a positive person, and he wants those on his team who genuinely care about people. Kai wants to make a difference and is a natural fit for the job. Kai says he’s starting to think he could be too. Okay. He thanks Drew and says he won’t let Drew down. When does he start?

Nina says she doesn’t think it’s a good idea for Willow to go to the Quartermaines now, but Willow says, this is a special situation. Wiley loves this T-shirt. Nina says she understands, when Kristina approaches. She says, there’s something of Wiley’s still here, and Willow asks if Wiley and Amelia are doing okay. Kristina sees the shirt in her hand and says, that’s exactly what she’s looking for. Thanks. Willow says she was worried Michael might forget, but Kristina says, he didn’t. Nina says, Wiley told her that he swam across the pool in one breath. It was pretty cool. Willow says, he’s been working on that, and Kristina tells her, that’s what he said. Willow reluctantly gives her the shirt and says, please tell the kids that she… Kristina says she will, and leaves. Nina asks if Willow wanted to be here because she needed to see Wiley, and Willow says, of course (🍷). Nina says she knows how desperately Willow misses them, but she’s not allowed to see the kids right now, and Willow says she knows, but if she happens to bump into them… Nina says, Willow can’t do anything to make Judge Haran think she’s violating the court’s decision, and Willow says she knows. Nina is right. Nina say she’s sorry it has to be like this, and Willow says, her too, but it won’t be for long. Nina says she hopes Willow is right, and Willow says she knows she is. By the time the visitation hearing is scheduled, she and Drew will be married.

Martin asks if he’s setting up a press conference or not, and Tracy laughs. She says, as if she would act… Michael says, they talked about this, and Curtis says, she has no other choice right now. She says she seems to have misplaced her copy of the statement, but Martin takes out another and gives it to her. She says, wonderful. Thank you. She tears it in a few pieces, says, one more, tears it again, and throws it in the air. Curtis says he thinks Tracy is trying to say, go ahead and set up the press conference, but Tracy tells him that’s not what she’s trying to say. Michael says, please. Let’s just get this over with. The less they have to do with Drew, the better. Tracy says, okay. Set it up. She’ll perjure herself by reading his poorly written statement.

On Monday, Brook says Tracy needs to swallow her pride and take it; Carly asks if Michael is willing to keep Willow out of their children’s lives for good; Kai tells Trina that he’s taking the offer; and Nina tells Willow that waiting will be worth it.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Get up to speed with Britt and the embryo.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/the-wild-tale-of-britt-giving-birth-to-rocco-on-general-hospital/

I started forgetting about his character. They mentioned him recently and I was like, oh yeah.

https://parade.com/tv/general-hospital-star-reveals-surprising-new-career-move

💉A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Chef Anthony is back and was showing pictures of his beautiful black kitty. It was a charter of gay porn stars, which Captain Kerry had no problem pointing out that Fraser would love. The guests marveled at the skylight where they were going to do a few nude moments. Solène was still a pita and Rainbeau hyperventilated over the vacuuming. I identified. Fraser had to reprimand the stews because the captain came to him in nothing but a towel because he had no uniform, and he was pissed. For Parisian night, there were two chefs and a talent show. The captain had a talk with bosun Caio about things like the banana floating away.

Next Gen NYC

Once again, Charlie was the man of the hour, triggering Riley with micro-aggressions about being scary. He apologized, then behind her back said he didn’t mean it. Brooks has a boyfriend and his dad was trying to be cool, asking about the boyfriend’s body count – he just learned it! – and telling Brooks not to give his heart away before knowing this info. He also thought he should mentor Charlie and I cringed my way through their meeting. Ew. Too much sex talk from a guy I didn’t want to hear it from. Gia had a party and everybody hauled ass out to New Jersey, albeit on a private bus. And several brought laundry.

The Valley

Jax. This guy. He says all the right things, then ten seconds later acts like a d-bag. I was impressed by Zack calling him out after he went on about how many hours of therapy he had in rehab. Zach asked if he was rage texting Brittany the rest of the hours. <snort> On top of it, he blah-blah-blahed about doing the right thing in his interviews. And took the couch when he picked up his stuff. No surprise, his first order of business was to crash Zack’s party where Brittany was in attendance. He was also all hot and bothered about the party thrown for Brittany at their bar, whining that it was a big insult since he was just getting out of rehab. In Danny’s interview, he said what we were all thinking – he wasn’t sure rehab worked. Jax was no less snarky or full of himself than he was before he went in. Maybe even more so. Kristen said, all Jax knows is there’s a party and he’s got to be there. He doesn’t care what it is, who it’s for, or who’s going to be there. Jax was served and Schwartz said in terms of divorce, it was a love letter. No doubt Jax will make short work of changing that.

The Real Housewives Of Miami

Larsa and Lisa having to share a flight and a car ride was amusing after their sniping and snarling last week. Both Lisa and Larsa’s son were modeling in Milan. This whole Alexia divorce thing is a mystery to me. That guy is just yanking her chain and she can do better. And Lisa’s boyfriend Jody being friends with Larsa’s ex and her going on about it right in front of her son. Are we 12? Also mature was her decision to take a selfie with a ring light when Lisa walked the runway.

Random Reality Items

Wow. We haven’t even seen it yet and already there’s a Reunion.

Isn’t stars kind of subjective? To paraphrase Mariah Carey, I don’t know them.

I never would have thought she’d leave NYC, especially for Florida.

I kinda sorta watched her reality show and kinda sorta liked her.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy. Netflix. Documentary. I remember hearing about this at the time and feeling horrified that ten people lost their lives in the crush at Travis Scott’s concert. Using footage from people’s phones, it’s even more horrific. You can literally feel what it was like. The weirdest thing was how, in one area, people were having fun, oblivious to what was going on in other areas, where people were getting hurt or dying. There was a lot of blame to go around, but I voted for Live Nation, who made rules that it would seem were impossible to keep during a disaster. The best part was how a nurse was pulled out of the crowd before being crushed and saved another concertgoer. The saddest part was how, in the end, no individual was criminally responsible. It didn’t have to happen, yet could happen again.

https://www.undertheradarmag.com/reviews/trainwreck_the_astroworld_tragedy

Trainwreck: Woodstock ’99. Netflix. 3 episodes. The perfect example of a Pinterest fail. The idea: Duplicating the musical phenomenon that was the original Woodstock, filled with peace, love, and understanding. The Reality: Too hot, too filthy, too expensive, along with some lit candles. It was a powder keg waiting to explode. Next up in the Trainwreck line is Rob Ford, the mayor of Toronto, who has given me many amusing moments. I can’t wait.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/trainwreck-woodstock-99-tv-review-2022

Creep 2. Netflix. Another work of budget genius. Serial killer * is at it again, this time with a female protagonist. Or is she? And again an ending that I saw coming, then didn’t.

Mild spoilers.

Spoilers, but I thought this was an excellent article. I hadn’t considered the parallel between the film and the horror film industry as a whole.

https://certifiedforgotten.com/creep-2

Titan: The OceanGate Submersible Disaster. Netflix. The main focus is on OceanGate’s CEO Stockton Rush and how he brushed aside naysayers while having too many yes men. Despite our penchant to reach for the stars, or in this case the depths, basic scientific concepts are kind of important. His choice to put his faith in a concept rather than a proven vessel turned out to be a deadly one.

https://slate.com/culture/2025/06/titan-oceangate-disaster-netflix-documentary-submersible-elon.html

🔮 Future Watch…

Hopefully, they’re not just releasing one episode a year.

https://okmagazine.com/p/the-last-of-us-season-3-cast-plot-release-date/?utm_source=aigeon

🐾 Facets Of Fame…

🦩 Pets who are statues.

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/famous-dog-statues

📜 Historical pets.

🦄 Pets that don’t really exist.

https://www.ranker.com/list/best-fictional-pets/carly-kiel

🐓 Quotes of the Week

If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it. – Toni Morrison

Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance. – Samuel Johnson

You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated. – Maya Angelou

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order. – John Burroughs

Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. – Annette Funicello

I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took an excuse. – Florence Nightingale

Don’t count the days, make the days count. – Muhammad Ali

I’m all right with her being gone, but where the hell did she go?Amy Slaten, 1000-lb Sisters

Happy Juneteenth

🌳 Bustin’ Out All Over…

Until next week, stay safe; stay cleaning up after yourself at the park or beach; and stay never letting anger consume you, even when you have a right to be angry.

June 13, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Maxie Sets Up Brook and Lulu, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Un-Undead, City Bear, Best In Stage, Notable Pets (!), 3 Quotes 3 Times & Have a Cup

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

At the hospital, Drew told Ric about seeing Michael and Willow together with the kids. Things were definitely thawing. Whatever reconciliation was happening, he was going put an end to it right now.

Michael called Willow and said it was nice last night with the kids, and he thought they might speak privately at the courthouse. She said she’d like that and told Nina about it. Nina said it was a good sign. Michael wanting to talk might be what they’ve been hoping for.

Lucky brought Elizabeth to work and said it was the last time he could make sure she got there.

Chase found Brook at the boathouse, and she said she felt closer to Gio there. He practiced there and loved how the sound carried. He may never play the violin again and it was all Lulu’s fault.

Rocco told Lulu that Gio wasn’t answering his texts, and Lulu admitted she could have handled it better. Rocco said both his dad and Gio were hurting, but she said it would eventually blow over.

At the pool, Ava came in and Marco approached her.  

Cody asked if Carly had a minute. How did she feel about love?

Kristina brought Wiley and Amelia to the hospital, and Lucas said he knew they were here to see… Wiley said, Daisy, and Kristina left with Amelia after parking Wiley on a bench with a snack. Lucas asked how meeting Daisy was, and Wiley said, very fun. Lucas had to go to the desk, when Drew saw Wiley sitting alone. The wheels turned in his head, and he told Ric that things had to go their way. They needed custody of Wiley and Amelia. Now that Michael had the new baby, he didn’t want them.

Marco told Ava that they’d met at Miller & Davis, and she’d sold some artwork to his father Jenz Sidwell. He was lucky he ran into her. His father needed to get a Van Gogh through customs, and he thought she might have connections. She said, no problem, and he said he didn’t even have to name drop Lucas. She asked how he knew Lucas, and he said they were dating.

Cody told Carly that every Tuesday night could be the MetroCourt’s weekly singles night at the pool with a $50 buy in. He’d get the proceeds, but when couples hit it off, they’d want to get a hotel room, and she’d get the revenue. She said it was a five-star establishment, and they didn’t rent rooms by the hour, but he said they could get influencers and sponsors. The MetroCourt pool would be the hottest hang out for wealthy singles. Who could say no to love?

Elizabeth said Lucky had a lot of goodbyes to make, and he said, none of them were as hard. She said they were 15 when they fell in love and weren’t the same people, but it was okay. He said he still loved her as much today as back then and always would. She said she loved him, but they both knew he struggled with Port Charles, and it fit him even less now. They just ended up wanting different things, but it was better they parted now than wound up unhappy. They hugged and he said, goodbye.

Brook told Chase that she begged Lulu not to say anything, but she couldn’t do it. She didn’t know if she was more furious at Lulu or her mom. Chase showed her his response to Lois’s text, saying that Brook needed space and he refused to be a go-between. Forgiveness was Brook’s choice and he supported her decision. He told Brook that she could always count on him loving her.  

Drew told Ric that Michael now had a family with Daisy and Sasha, and it was what he wanted. Wiley listened as Drew said it was the only reason Michael came back. Ric said it would make it easier for them, and Drew walked away. Ric noticed Wiley sitting on the bench and followed Drew.

Willow told Nina that maybe Jason was right. She and Michael needed to just talk, face to face, with no one else in their ear. Nina said the kids needed both parents, but the way things had been headed, she wondered if Michael was even going to get visitation.  

Ric asked if Drew’s performance was for Wiley’s sake and wondered if it was a good idea to use the kid. Drew said he hated himself for it, but he loved Willow and had to derail any softening between her and Michael. Ric asked if it would be so terrible, and Drew said, yes. Because if Willow agreed to shared custody, it would only benefit Michael. Michael was losing and knew it. Compromises weren’t good and they had to stay the course. Hopefully with Wiley’s help they would.

Michael asked Wiley, what happened? and Wiley said, Michael didn’t want him and Amelia anymore. Michael said that wasn’t true. He loved them more than anything and there wasn’t anything he wanted more. Their phone calls were what got him better. All he wanted was to come home to them. Wiley said, what about the new baby? and Michael said he’d need Wiley more than ever to be a big brother and teach Amelia how to be a big sister. Where did he get that idea to begin with? Wiley said he heard Uncle Drew say it.

Ava said Lucas was quite the catch, but Marco was no slouch himself. Marco said she might change her mind when she found out his mother was Natalia Ramirez.  

Carly said she appreciated Cody’s idea, but they had themed nights at the pool every night of the week. If that changed, she’d let him know. She loved his hustle. She left, and Cody asked Gio how he was holding up. Gio said, for a guy who just found out his whole life was a lie, he was fine. Cody asked if Gio needed money, but Gio said he was staying with Emma and her grandmother and had everything he needed.

Lucky went to Lulu’s and said he came to say goodbye. He was leaving Port Charles for good. Lulu said, when they’d talked, things with Elizabeth were going great, and he said, they were, but it couldn’t last and that was on him.

Willow told Nina that it was like old times. Not in a romantic way, but just nice. That Michael shouldn’t be kept away from his kids. Nina said Willow told her that Michael was a good dad, and Willow said she’d just been disappointed. He was acting like the old Michael, and he’d compromised in the past. She could return the favor by compromising now. Nina said, that was the way, to be open and honest, and Willow said, if that was true, why had Nina kept secrets?  

Michael, Kristina, Wiley, and Amelia looked at Daisy, and Kristina said she would need Wiley to teach her the tricks of the trade. Michael gave Wiley his phone and told him to find out which cartoons Daisy needed to know about while he talked to Aunt Kristina. He told Kristina that things were never going to get better with Drew in the picture.

Seeing Elizabeth, Lucas said all was right with the world again, and they hugged. He asked what was wrong, and she said, Lucky was leaving. She told him to go after he proposed.

Lulu said, staying in one place had never been Lucky’s thing, and he said he and Elizabeth were opposites. Her comfort was in stability. Lulu asked where he was going, but he said he didn’t know. He was going to travel with Aiden over the summer, like they did with their mom and dad. Lulu said she hated this, but it sounded like he and Elizabeth were being mature, and he said, Elizabeth was, and he was trying his hardest to be. She asked if he was sure he could walk away, and he said he loved Elizabeth too much not to.

Ava said she apologized for her part in exposing Marco’s mother’s unlovely opinions, and Marco said Lucas had told him, but he knows how deep his mother’s intolerance runs. Ava said she couldn’t imagine not accepting her child for who they were, and he said he appreciated that. Ava said she’d be in touch, and left.  

Rocco asked if Gio got his texts, and Gio said he was sorry. He was still spinning. Rocco. Rocco said he got it and was sorry, but Gio said, Rocco didn’t lie to him. Rocco said he’d never lie to his own brother.

Nina asked, what secret? (really?) and Willow said, that Michael and Sasha slept together. Nina said she just found out the other day… Willow said she wasn’t mad. She was grateful. She knew how close Nina and Sasha were and couldn’t imagine how difficult it was. Nina said she knew if she was going to make sure Willow got the kids, she needed to tell Ric. She loved Willow so much and would do anything for her. Willow told her that a lot of people said the words, but never backed them up with action. Nina did and put her first. Michael joined them and told Willow that Wiley thought he didn’t want him and Amelia anymore, and she said, because of the new baby? Wiley was thrilled to see her. Where did he get that idea? Michael said, from Drew.

Kristina went to the pool and told herself to take a deep breath. She looked up at the window and Gio asked if she was okay. She said she thought she could do it, but maybe it was a bad idea. It’s her first time back at the pool since… Gio said she was pale and suggested she sit. He’d get her some water. He brought her a bottled water and asked if he could take her to the elevator, but she told him that she said she’d do it, and she was going to. He said, if she needed him, let him know, and he left. Ava walked by on the phone, talking about the Van Gogh, and saw Cody on the end. She said she believed he was on her chaise.  

Chase said Gio would come around, but Brook said when he heard it was her choice to give him away, it shredded him. Chase suggested she give him time to process, and she said it was her choice to give him up and now he knew. Chase said she did the best she could, but she said she gave Gio away. The part that hurt most was that she didn’t want him. Chase said that’s not how it was, but Brook said, it was for Gio. He was in pain, and she caused it.

Rocco said finding out he and Gio were brothers and living together, he had no idea, and Gio said he always wanted a brother. Rocco said him too. He had Danny, but he was glad to have Gio too. Gio said, growing up, he was lonely sometimes. He was envious of people with crazy families and when his mom died, he wished he’d had even one person to go through it with him. Things were weird, but finding out he had a brother was one of the best things to come out of all these lies. Rocco said he knew it was tough with Dante. He could talk to him again and make him get it so they could move past that night.

Cody said he was so sorry and offered to get Ava a drink for commandeering her chaise. She said she wouldn’t say no to an ice tea, and he apologized again. He left as Kristina watched.

Michael said he found Wiley in tears and Wiley told him that he heard Uncle Drew saying he didn’t want him or his sister. Drew was tearing apart their family. Willow insisted he misunderstood, but he told her that Dre said it and he bet Drew meant for Wiley to overhear. Willow said, Drew would never do something like that. Wiley either misconstrued something or Michael was making it up to turn her against Drew. Drew as a good man who loved her and her children. He would never do something to hurt them. Michael told her to remember this moment, the moment she could have ended things, but refused. She chose Drew over her kids. He went into the courtroom, and Nina asked if Willow was okay, but Willow said, no. Drew asked what was wrong, and Willow said Michael claimed Wiley heard Drew say that Michael didn’t want him. Wiley is upset now, but she knew he’d never do that. He said, no, never, and hugged her. He said he was so sorry. It just showed that Michael wasn’t well, and the kids belonged with them.

Michael told Diane to stick to the plan. Do what she had to do for him to get the kids. They weren’t safe with Willow.

Ava said she had some loose ends to tie up, and Cody thanked her for chatting. He was sorry about the chair. She said, no problem, and started to leave, but Kristina asked if she was back to the scene of the crime. Ava said, days like this made you appreciate your freedom. Enjoy it. She left and Kristina saw Ava’s sunglasses on the table.

Elizabeth said it was crazy how much she and Lucky loved each other. Maybe if she was the same girl he’d met outside Kelly’s and was willing to throw caution to the winds and follow… Lucas said, but she wasn’t that girl anymore, and she said, no, but she knew her and was grateful for her. And she was grateful for the boy she met outside Kelly’s all those years ago. They would always love each other, but it wasn’t going to work this time. He said she was doing the right thing. Truly loving someone was wanting what was best for them. She said, in their case, just not each other.

Lulu said she’d miss Lucky. She was counting on him to help her through this rough patch. He said he saw the video from the Nurses Ball. Thanks to her? She said, not on purpose, and he said he took that as a yes. She said she never meant to hurt Gio. She was just trying to find out the truth.

Chase told Brook that he wanted to lash out when his world fell apart and punish everybody. He guessed Gio felt that way, but it wasn’t forever. Emotions would fade and Gio would see Brook’s decision for what it was, the ultimate sacrifice. She said, even if Gio forgave her, she didn’t know if she could forgive herself. What if Gio never allowed her to be his mother because of the secrets and lies she didn’t know about? He said there would be no keeping the big stuff from their child. They would learn from this and their child would know they were adopted as soon as possible. Brook agreed and promised she learned from her mistakes, but Lulu never would.

Gio told Rocco that he wasn’t being rude, but he wasn’t ready, and Rocco said his dad had no idea about any of this either. Gio said it didn’t matter. Dante made it clear what he thought of him, and he didn’t care if Dante changed his mind because they were related. He got that Rocco loved his father, but Dante meant nothing to him

Ric called Willow as his next witness. He said she had two children and had been married two years, correct? and she said, yes. He asked if she believed Michael was a good father, and she said she used to believe that more than anything. He said, and now? and she said, absolutely not.

Kristina approached Cody, and he said, hello Molly’s sister. She asked how he would like to make some money.

Lucas said there was power in acceptance, and Elizabeth said she was proud of her and Lucky. Staying together would end in heartbreak. He said, she did the responsible thing, and she asked why it hurt so much. They hugged.

Lucky said Lulu was just trying to do the right thing and one day Gio and Dante would be able to see that. Lulu said she hoped so, and Lucky said he was taking off. She was in charge of holding all things down that were Spencer. She said she was up for the challenge. Was he sure she couldn’t convince him to stay? Lucky said she was the reason he came back, and he was so glad he did. The one thing he’d change was that he wished he’d been the match that saved her. She said he’d saved her more times than he realized. He said, back at her. And if she ever needed him… She said, use the bat signal? and he said, or text. He loved her. She said she loved him to, they hugged, and she cried.

Rocco said he got that Gio wasn’t ready to talk about their dad and didn’t want people to treat him differently. But they’d always gotten along. If they hung out more, it wouldn’t be a big change. Gio suggested they put the brother stuff on the back burner and go back to just being friends, and Rocco said he’d like that. See him soon? Gio said he could count on it, and Rocco left.

Brook thanked Marco for coming to the boathouse. She reached out before he was new in Port Charles and she needed a lawyer with no ties or conflict of interest. Did he have any ties to Lulu Spencer? He said, none that he was aware of, and she suggested they get started. (I like it!)

Willow said it was more obvious after the fire when Michael chose to go to Germany for treatment rather than Baltimore where he’d be closer. Ric said, and the children could visit, and Willow said, before that, work at Aurora and ELQ made him miss things like school events, sports, family dinners, and weekend trips. Ric asked if that was difficult for Wiley and Amelia, and she said very. It converted the message that Michael liked the idea of being a father more than the act of being one.  Ric said, beyond Michael’s family’s violent lifestyle, it was clearly an abandonment issue, and Willow said she tried to keep it civil. She even flew to Germany, but Michael refused to see her. She tried, but Michael couldn’t or wouldn’t meet her halfway. Michael wrote something on a pad, showing it to Diane, and Ric said, no further questions. Diane said, Willow testified under oath that the children were her number one priority, and Willow said, yes. Diane said, so tell her and the court honestly, which was more important, being with them or being with Drew Cain?

Tuesday:

Tracy found Brook at the boathouse and asked if Jenz Sidwell’s son just left. Brook said he was a lawyer, and Tracy wondered who she was going to sue. Brook said, if she was, it would be her mother and grandmother, but no damages could make up for the look of pain on her son’s face.

Ava talked to Trina about an upcoming art opening. They were going all out, the whole shebang. The nightmare was over, and Ava was back.

Cody asked if Kristina needed a bartender, but she said she wanted him to seduce someone.

Martin went to Laura’s office and told her that he’d lied about where he was.

Lucky found Isaiah at the hospital and said he was there to repay a debt.

Kai went to Portia’s office and wanted to know about the congressman.

Diane asked Willow, what mattered more, being with the children or being with Drew? and Willow said Michael had given her a similar ultimatum. He’d grant her access to the children, but only if she left Drew. The hearing was really about her relationship with Drew. Why should she have to choose?

Tracy said Lois and Gloria had betrayed Brook, and Brook said she’d given them the boot. Her mother only thought about how it affected her, yet she’d lied to her, Gio, and everyone. Her whole life she’d tried to live up to their expectations and be good and honest. Look where it had gotten her.

Martin said he’d told Laura that he’d taken care of the unpleasantness with his ex-wife, but he was in a jail cell in Lodi. All of his ex-wives had gotten together and decided to strip him of his assets. He was broke.

Cody said he thought it was progressive of Kristina. He’d always felt Alexis was attractive… She told him, stop. God no. He said, then who? and she said she wanted him to seduce Ava. He said, why her?

Ava said she was able to refinance her second property and Jenz Sidwell had made several large purchases. It was touch and go for a while, and she wouldn’t have gotten though without Trina’s help. Trina said she was there when Ava needed her, except for tomorrow. She was going to GH with Kai for his post-op scan. She was still worried, but it was Kai’s choice. Ava asked why it still wasn’t sitting right with her, and Trina said it was hard to accept Kai getting closer to Drew, even though she got why he felt grateful. Ava said Trina’s original assessment of Drew was spot-on and she advised Trina to be careful around that man.

Kai thanked Portia for inviting him to the barbecue. It was really fun and great to meet Trina’s granddad, but he owed her and Curtis an apology. He shouldn’t have gone on about Drew. He tried not to judge and make up his own mind about a person, but didn’t understand how someone so good to him didn’t get along with them. Portia said it had nothing to do with anyone else, and he said he knew there was an issue at Aurora between Drew and Curtis. Was there something else he wasn’t seeing about Drew?

Diane said, going back to the beginning of the affair, what happened? and Willow said she and Drew fell in love. She tried to stay away from him, but she couldn’t. Diane asked if Drew pursued her, but she said, no. Diane said, she pursued him? but she said, no. Diane wondered if they’d fallen in love for no reason, and Ric objected, saying Diane was badgering the witness. Judge Haran overruled it, and Willow said she didn’t understand what this had to do with her ability to be a mother. Diane said, it had no bearing on the affair? Even them having sex on the floor of the children’s nursery?

Lucky gave Isaiah the deed to a cabin by the lake that his dad built. He wanted Isaiah to have it. He wouldn’t be able to use it because he was leaving Port Charles.

Brook said she’d tried to live up to their standards and they were total hypocrites, and Tracy said, now she knew who they were. She didn’t have to please or defend them. She was free. Brook said her son was still a Cerullo, but Tracy said, he was still a Quartermaine, like Brook. Brook said as soon as Lulu came at her, she should have ground Martin down for information. She should have looked for her son.  

Ava said, the congressman was very cunning, and Trina had a right to be concerned about what he had in mind for Kai. Trina said she knew what Drew was capable of and didn’t like it, but she was going along for Kai’s sake. Ava said, Portia had to deal with Drew because of the Pediatric Sports Initiative (🍷), and Trina said Portia had been stressed. Maybe that was why.

Portia told Kai that Curtis and Drew were best friends, then Drew changed. They hardly recognized him. Kai wondered why, and Portia said Drew had gone to prison for insider trading. While he was there, he was attacked and nearly died. She didn’t know if that was why, but once he got out, he was opportunistic, selfish, and extremely manipulative. He was willing to use anyone to get what he wants. That’s why she, Trina, and Curtis were so concerned. He asked how he could turn his back on someone who’d done so much for him, but Portia said they’d never ask him to do that. She just wanted him to be aware of the kind of person Drew really was. She and Curtis had trusted him, and he did things to hurt them. They didn’t want Drew to exploit Kai. Kai asked if she thought Drew was capable of that, and she said she knew he was.

Willow said she and Drew didn’t plan on it. Sam had just died. Diane said, so the only way to comfort him was to have sex in the nursery. In that instant, she’d put Drew’s needs ahead of her children’s. They could have come in at any point and seen them in flagrante delicto. Ric objected for badgering again, and the judge sustained it. Diane said, when Michael was at General Hospital being treated for third degree burns, did Willow bar the family’s access to him? Willow says, because… Diane said, yes, or no? and Willow said, yes, but… Diane said Willow wasn’t so sure of her course of action. What convinced her otherwise? Willow said Drew helped her realize it was the only way to get her children back from the Quartermaines. Diane asked why she didn’t consult Michael before taking Wiley to Drew’s inauguration in DC, and Willow said, Wiley waws excited and she and Drew thought it was a great opportunity. Diane said, when Michael chose to seek treatment in Germany, it frustrated her. She didn’t want the best possible medical treatment for him? Willow said, of course (🍷) she did, but she didn’t think he’d abandon his children. Diane said, to choose the best treatment was abandoning his children, and Willow said, yes. Diane asked why she chose to move Wiley and Amelia into Drew’s home without consulting Michael, and Willow said she and Drew felt it was the best stable home. Diane asked how the children felt, and Willow said, they loved it. Diane asked if they’d expressed a desire to return to their own home, and Willow admitted they’d asked to move back home.

Cody asked why Kristina was going after Ava and why she thought Ava would be into him. Kristina said Ava was easily distracted and Cody was charming and a shiny new object. She wanted to help Ric see how horrible she was. She was looking out for Molly. He said Molly was pretty great, and she said, Molly was amazing. She loved her father and was appalled that he was dating Ava. Molly hated Ava as much as she did. If not for Ava, she wouldn’t have fallen and lost their baby. Ava was the reason her brother Morgan was dead, and if Cody could come between Ava and Ric, he’d be doing a good thing, and she’d make it worth his while.

Ava asked how Trina’s parents were acting weird, and Trina said Marshall came for a visit and they were having a family get together, but her parents had a vibe, and it wasn’t the first time. Ava asked, when was the first time? and Trina said, since the Nurses Ball. They left early, saying they had to work, but she felt there was something more happening. Ava said relationships went through phases and it was normal. There was nothing to worry about. Trina said Ava was probably right. She was sure she was making a big deal of nothing.

Martin told Laura that it was embarrassing. He was so skint, he couldn’t afford his room and he was wondering if he could impose on her and Doc and move in for a while. Laura said, of course (🍷). Lulu just moved out and Lucky was spending all his time with Elizabeth. She was hoping it would become permanent. They had plenty of room. They hugged and she said he could stay as long as he liked. He said he was going to get back on his feet even though his most lucrative client was in prison for life. He was going to make a full financial recovery, and Tracy Quartermaine was going to pay for it.

Tracy said what if Brook had looked and it led to Gio. He could still be just as angry. Brook said only if he knew who she was. She wouldn’t have wanted to destroy his memories of Camilla. She wished she’d come clean on her own terms instead of keeping Lois and Gloria’s secrets. She’d begged Lulu to keep quiet. Tracy said she thought she’d convinced Lulu too. She was sorry. Brook said she was going to remind people never to come for Brook Lynn Quartermaine, and Tracy asked if by people, she meant Lulu. Brook asked if she didn’t think Lulu needed to be held accountable.

Diane asked why Willow didn’t want shared custody, and Willow said she loved her children and had wanted their father to be in their lives. Diane asked why she used the past tense, and Willow said, up until an hour ago, she thought it was possible. Michael seemed open to compromise. They were getting along last night, showing Wiley and Amelia their new baby sister. Diane asked, what changed? and Willow said, Michael gave in to his animosity for Drew. Before the hearing, he approached her and made it clear he wouldn’t agree to a joint custody arrangement, so she had no other option than to petition for full custody. Diane asked if she thought she was the perfect parent, but Willow said she’d made mistakes. She regretted the way her marriage ended, but when she fell in love with Drew, her marriage was already over. She and Michael were going through the motions and neither one of them was able to admit it.

Ric said, for months, Willow was the primary caretaker of the children, and she said, when Michael was in Germany, she was the sole parent. Drew was a godsend. He helped them move into a safe home. He cared for them, read to them, and played with them. He made them feel safe and loved. She might have made mistakes, but she was Wiley and Amelia’s mother, and they belonged with her.

Lucky told Isaiah that he’d proposed, but it didn’t take. Part of him was heartbroken, but the rest felt like he knew it was the right thing for both of them and Aiden. Isaiah asked why he didn’t give the cabin to his son, but Lucky said, Aiden told him that his wilderness phase ended when he was a PC Pioneer. Isaiah saved his sister’s life, and he couldn’t begin to thank him. Isaiah said Lucky got him out of Sidwell’s compound and was almost killed. Lucky said rescue missions and life or death poker games were his jams, and Isaiah said, when they met, he said he was soul searching, but he was hiding. Coming to Port Charles, he found a place to practice and found a place to live. He faced himself. Because of Lucky and his sister, he was back in the OR. If anybody owed anything, Isaiah owed him. Lucky said Isaiah was welcome and they hugged. He told Isaiah that he had to take off, and Isaiah said, good luck. Lucky told Isaiah to fix the place up for him. Isaiah owed him.

Kai thanked Portia for her time and said he thought now that he knew Drew’s background better, he understood why Trina didn’t trust him. Portia said, a word of advice. Drew didn’t have to be an issue for him and Trina. Focus on what brings them together.

Judge Haran said both sides had given her a lot to consider. She’d be making a propriety determination on which parent should get custody and would keep the welfare of the children first and foremost in her mind. They’d be notified when she reached a verdict. Court was adjourned. Drew hugged Willow and said she was great. Carly said, what now? and Diane said they waited and hoped the judge made the right decision.  

Tracy said she thought Brook made up her mind, and Brook said she’d tried to live down the Dante and Lulu thing and make up for it. Tracy said she did more than make up for it, and Brook said she should have been more like Tracy. Tracy was who she was and made zero excuses for it. She’d do anything for her family and didn’t pretend otherwise. Mess with her and she’d mess right back. Tracy said she loved seeing this strength, but Brook needed to know that exercising that strength came at a cost.

Cody said he got that Kristina was looking out for her sister, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to get mixed up with Ava. Kristina said she’d make it worth his while, and he asked, how? She said she had resources. She was good for it. He said he wasn’t un-interested, but needed to know she was serious. She asked his terms, and he said, cash, money up front, and he wouldn’t tell what she was up to.

Trina said she was happy Ava was back on her feet, and the gallery was safe. Port Charles wouldn’t be the same without it. Ava said she’d had some lucky breaks, and Ric had been a help. Trina said she noticed ava and Ric had been spending a lot of time together, and Ava said Ric was a good man. She was getting to know him on a professional and personal level. Trina asked if she was happy, and Ava said she thought she was. Trina said, if Ava was happy, she was happy.

Laura suggested Martin settle in before he declared war with Tracy, and Martin said he wasn’t kidding. Tracy was going to foot the bill for his pain and suffering. Laura said she’d steer clear of Tracy, but he said Tracy had it coming. Laura said her home was his home, but if he broke one law in getting back at Tracy… Martin said she had his word. He was being meticulous, thorough, and 100% legit. For once, the law was on his side.

Tracy told Brook that she’d spent most of her adult life wrangling her great-grandparents. No doubt she would have lived a happier life if she’d stepped away from the conflict instead of leaning in. Were scheming and conflicts where Brook wanted to put her energy, or having a relationship with her son and strengthening her marriage? It was amazing that she’d found the love of her life. Brook said Tracy had Luke, and Tracy said she did, but she had five or more marriages before him. The grifter, three mobsters, and a serial killer… and two other marriages to Luke. Brook is in a different position than she was. Brook was surrounded by good people who loved her. She wanted Brook to think carefully before she put her energy and strength toward revenge.

Trina said she wondered if Ric was right for Ava. She knew his reputation because of Josslyn. Ava said Josslyn was hardly objective, and Trina said he fought to get Heather released. She got that it was his job, but she thought Ava was great and wanted him to be worthy of her.

Cody said it wasn’t going to happen overnight and Kristina said she wasn’t being impulsive. She’d thought it through and was playing the long game. He said he’d have to access the situation, for a fee, and she said, how much? He said $1000 would get her a trial run, and she said here was his way in, handing him the sunglasses. They had a deal.

Lucky knocked at Laura’s office door, and she asked what was on his mind. He said he needed to tell her that he was sorry, but he was going to disappoint her again. She said he was leaving, wasn’t he?

Portia left a message for Nina and said she was calling again. Call her back. She knew Nina was busy, but she needed to find Jacinda. It was an emergency. Portia threw her phone and said, dammit! The phone nearly hit Isaiah, who was standing in the doorway.

Brook said she appreciated the warning, but thought Tracy was underestimating her. She could love Chase and be a good wife and build a relationship with her son. Tracy said she was concerned about the revenge, but Brook said she didn’t look at it as revenge. She was being true to herself. She was doing what she felt was right, fair, and just.

Michael said Willow held her own better than he thought she would, and Carly said Willow may think she had the last word, but the judge would see through it. He said he hoped she was right. Something wasn’t making sense. Was she sure Willow went to Germany? Carly said, Jason convinced her to go, and he said, then why did no one tell him that she was there?

Willow thanked Nina for her support, and Nina said she’d do anything for Willow. Willow said she couldn’t believe Michael would lie about something Wiley said. It made her more certain she was doing the right thing. As if Drew would ever say such a thing.

Ric told Drew that he hoped the outcome was what Drew was hoping for. He did what he could. Drew said so did he. Staging the scene in front of Wiley guaranteed there would be no compromise between Michael and Willow. Ric said he guessed when you went up against the Quartermaines, you had to pull out all the stops, and Drew said, Willow stood strong. They were going to win. (I say, no, they won’t, because Willow said Drew’s name one too many times, and obviously excluded Michael from all decisions.)

Wednesday:

Lucky told Laura that he wanted to make it work, but this wasn’t where he belonged, at least not right now. She asked if he genuinely believed this was what was best for him, and he said he was. She said then there was nothing to apologize for.

At the hospital, Martin approached Elizabeth and said he was looking for a client. She asked what their name was, and he said that remained to be seen.

Trina and Kai went to the pool, and Kai said he had something he needed to tell her. When he was at her parents’, he heard something he wasn’t supposed to.

Isaiah asked if everything was okay, and Portia said it was a spam call. He said he was worried it had something to do with her lying to her husband.

Felicia went to Curtis’s office and asked why he wanted to see her. He said he wanted to hire her.

Nina said she thought Willow handled herself well on the stand. She was steady, calm, focused, and fought for her children. Willow said Ric had her prepared, but she wished things hadn’t gone so far, and Nina told her that Michael said something about Wiley overhearing Drew say Michael didn’t want Wiley and Amelia. Willow insisted Drew would never say that. It showed Michael was even willing to lie about Wiley.

Sonny asked how it went, and Jason said the judge was making her decision. Michael said he didn’t know, but him losing was a definite possibility, and if he did, he was taking Wiley and Amelia and leaving the country.

Lucky said he’d felt guilty that he was gone when Laura and Lulu needed him most. He’d promised not to abandon them again. Laura said he hadn’t abandoned them. There were times he left when he had to and times he was running away, but this time it felt like he was going because it was what was best for him. What changed? Lucky said he’d asked Elizabeth to marry him and she wisely turned him down.

Elizabeth asked if Martin’s client was a patient, and he asked her to point him in the direction of any patient who was feeling litigious. She said, so he was ambulance chasing, and he said he had no choice thanks to Tracy and his ex-wives. Elizabeth was just in a car accident and might be entitled to compensation. Elizabeth was like, thanks, but no thanks, when Tracy came out of the elevator. She asked, who let Martin out?

Kai said Trina’s mom and dad were talking about the escort who was partying with Drew. Her dad said he wanted to find her and have her claim that Drew paid her for sex and took the ketamine on purpose. He said they couldn’t figure out their marriage until her mom was safe and her mom wasn’t safe until he found the escort.

Curtis said he knew Felicia had stepped away from P.I. work, but he admired her skill and professionalism. She said she felt the same way about him. Why did he need her? He said he was too busy at Aurora to tackle a project and was hoping she’d be interested in moonlighting. She said, what’s the job? And he said, it was less a what and more of a who. He wanted her to locate someone off the grid who was a key part in a major story Aurora was running, an escort named Jacinda… She said, the escort seen with Drew doing body shots? and he said, that’s the one.

Portia said she didn’t know what Isaiah meant, and he closed the door. He said, the last time he came to her office he overhead her conversation, and she said, he eavesdropped. He said he didn’t need to. Anyone could have heard, but it happened to be him. She asked what he heard, and he said, if her husband found out she was lying, her marriage would be over. She asked what he wanted, and he said it was obvious something was weighing on her. If she needed to vent before things got worse, he was available.

Willow said she thought they’d had a breakthrough when she saw the version of Michael that she used to know, and Nina wondered if his change in attitude was because of what Drew said. Willow told her it was what Michael claimed he said, and Nina said, maybe Wiley heard something. Willow said, anything was possible, but it was more likely that Michael was doing what he had to in order to get sole custody. Nina asked if she thought Michael was lying, and Willow said she thought he was trying to manipulate her. First, he showed her the side she fell in love with, and when she let her guard down, the real Michael showed up. If he made her uncertain and vulnerable, he’d swoop in and take her children. She wasn’t going to let that happen.

Sonny said Michael didn’t sound optimistic, and Michael said Willow came off as sympathetic and the truth about the baby might have been enough. Carly asked if he was going to leaved his life behind. What about Sasha and Daisy? Michael said he and Sasha would cross that bridge when they came to it. Drew set Wiley up and he didn’t want the kids around Drew anymore. Willow thought he was a liar and Drew walked on water when Drew was actively hurting his kids. Willow wouldn’t see it, so they couldn’t be with her.

Laura said it must have been hard for Elizabeth too, and Lucky said she didn’t turn him down because she didn’t love him. They loved each other and wanted what was best for each other. They’d taken different paths and needed different things. It was better they acknowledged that now. If they didn’t, they’d just end up hurting each other.

Tracy asked if Martin had been released early from the pokey, and he said his ex-wives had bled him dry thanks to her. She said she’d gotten handwritten notes and Blair’s floral arrangement was decadent. His exes had good taste, except in men obviously. Martin said she should be nicer to him. She just might need his services sooner than she might think.

Trina wondered what Drew had to do with her parents’ marriage, and Kai said he was just telling her what he’d heard and wished he hadn’t. He got the impression her dad wanted to track down the escort and pay her to lie about Drew.

Curtis said he wanted Felicia to nail down Jacinda’s location and circle back to him, and she said she was guessing someone paid her to leave town and stay hidden. It might be tough to track her down. He said he’d make it worth her time, and she said she could absolutely find Jacinda, but needed assurance that had nothing to do with money.

Isaiah said Portia was an excellent physician and a fantastic administrator. She seemed stressed. Maybe for her own sake, she should take a step back. Portia said he was out of line, but he said he didn’t think he was. If she kept going like this, she was going to make a mistake. She said she appreciated his concern, but strain and stress were part of the job. She was fine, and as far as her marriage went, that was none of his business. He said, understood, and left.

Carly said Michael couldn’t leave his new baby, and Michael said he didn’t want to, but what choice did he have? He’d promised to let Sasha raise the baby on her own terms and his kids were his everything. Daisy had her mom, so he had to put Wiley and Amelia’s interests first. Jason said he’d be there if Sasha need anything, and Sonny said he’d be there for everything. Michael said he never wanted to keep Daisy a secret, but was respecting Sasha’s wishes. It didn’t help with custody. Carly said, now that the truth was out, it might cost Michael when the judge ruled.

Isaiah told Elizabeth that he was down one best friend and up one cabin. It was a gift from Lucky. Elizabeth said, he never mentioned it, and Isaiah said, maybe they had other things to talk about. Was she okay? She said, yeah, and he said he was a little surprised when she told Lucky to go. She said Port Charles was where Lucky was from, not where he belonged, and Isaiah said Lucky wanted to be with her. Why not roll the dice? She said it was tempting and would have been great for ten minutes, but it wouldn’t work and they’d both be heartbroken again.

Laura said love stories didn’t really have fairytale endings in real life, and Lucky said he’d like to think once in a while they did. She and his dad weren’t big on fairytales. Laura said they liked adventures. She never questioned Lucky’s need to be out in the world, seeing it, saving it, changing it. She was grateful he came home and reconnected with the people he loved and who loved him and would always love him no matter where he went.

Trina said Tracy being arrested for drugging Drew made no sense, and Kai asked if it was possible. She said she didn’t know, but Drew had screwed over her father and destroyed his own nephew’s marriage. He was a politician trying to save his career, so he could be lying. Kai said, what if he wasn’t?

Curtis asked, what kind of assurance? and Felicia said she was guessing Jacinda didn’t anticipate the full-blown media circus. She needed to know that if she located Jacinda and Jacinda chose to stay hidden, she’d honor that. He said he had no intention of sensationalizing it. He just wanted to talk with her and make her an offer. If she refused, he’d respect that. Felicia said, in that case, they had a deal, and they shook hands. There was a knock at the door and Jordan said she was sorry for interrupting, but Felicia said she was just leaving. She left, and Jordan said, let her guess. He hired Felicia to track down Jacinda.

Nina said, if Michael was warm and caring, did Willow think they could reach a compromise? and Willow said she wanted to. The kids loved their dad and missed him when he was gone. But if he was willing to lie about the children and Drew, what else was he willing to lie about? How could she trust him? Drew came in and said Willow was incredible in court. She was about to get her kids back because of it. She showed what kind of person and mother shew was. She could have had it in the bag when Sasha took the stand and said she was pregnant. As soon as the truth was out, it was game over.

Carly said if Michael took the kids out of the country, it was kidnapping and there was no coming back from that. Michael said it wasn’t a move he was making lightly, and she said, what about his family, his brothers and sisters he was leaving behind? He said he didn’t want to, but it was no life without his kids. They were his first priority, but not Willow’s. She asked if Willow didn’t entertain the possibility that Drew said what he did, but Michael said, he could do no wrong in Willow’s eyes. She might trust him with the kids, but he couldn’t.

Tracy asked why she’d need Martin, and he asked if she wasn’t out on bail. She was facing charges of drugging a sitting congressman. She said she was framed, and he said they found the evidence in her car. She said, Drew put it there. Did he think anybody would believe she was stupid enough to keep evidence in her car of a crime she’d committed? He said he didn’t know, but she had a checkered past. He’d had plenty of time to do the research and there were all kinds of ways Drew could make her life miserable. Maybe he should talk to Drew about them.

Jordan told Curtis that Felicia was one of the best P.I.s to find someone off the grid – present company excluded. She had no doubt Felicia could track down Jacinda. Curtis said, the question was, what could he get Jacinda to say about her involvement with Drew?

Trina wondered why her father would pay an escort to make up a story about Drew, and Kai said he didn’t know. It seemed like he wanted to protect her mom. She asked if he thought it was connected to the woman they thought drugged Drew, and he said he thought that’s what it sounded like, but she said, it made no sense. She didn’t know what was going on, but she was sure there was an explanation. Kai asked what she wanted to do.

Drew said Michael’s lies came to light, but Willow put the ugliness aside and delivered her husband’s mistress’s baby. She’s practically a saint. Willow said she was a nurse and Sasha was in labor, but he said it was more than that. The judge would see that Michael deserved to lose his kids, and when she got full custody, they could put it behind them and get a fresh start in DC. Willow said she wouldn’t relax until the kids were back with her. She needed to get some air and would be back soon. She left, and Nina asked if Drew meant one word of what he just said.

Sonny said, whatever Michael needed, he was there, and Michael asked what Jason thought. Jason said he thought Michael was doing what he thought was right for the kids. He’d do what he promised and look out for Sasha and Daisy and get them to visit. Whatever Michael decided. Michael thanked Jason for looking out for them when he couldn’t, and Jason said, of course (🍷). Michael said Carly was being too quiet, and Carly said she thought he was wrong and making a huge mistake. There had to be another way. If he crossed that line, he’d be a fugitive in the eyes of the court and make Drew and Willow right. He said he could live with that as long as the kids were safe. They were out of time, and he couldn’t leave the children with Willow and Drew. He was going to pick up Wiley and Amelia and take them to the park, and he left.  

Lucky guessed it was time to head to the airport, and Laura told him to give Aiden a hug and send lots of pictures. Wherever he ended up, try a little harder to keep in touch. Let her know how and where he was once in a while. He promised, and she said she was grateful he came home. She was going to miss him. She hugged him and cried. She said she was happy he was here and wanted him to know he had her blessing to go. He said it meant the world to him and thanked her for the welcome home. Also, for letting him go. She said if he ever needed her, she was there. She would always be his mom.  

Isaiah told Elizabeth that Aiden would have an amazing time. He was coming back, but Lucky wasn’t. It may be the last time she’d see him in who knew how long. Was she sure she’d said everything she needed to?

Jordan said Curtis was taking a chance. He was not the only one with a Drew problem and might not be the only one searching for Jacinda. Curtis said that’s why he needed to get to her first, and she said, what then? He said, it stayed between them, and she said she trusted him with her cover working for Sidwell. He could trust her with this. He said he intended to find Jacinda and pay her to tell him a story on record that would protect Portia and destroy Drew. Jordan said, if it worked, it would solve his problem, but what if it created another?

Trina said they wouldn’t do anything, unless Kai had a better idea, and he said, maybe she should talk to her parents. She said, ask them if they were planning on paying a sex worker to defraud the congressman? She didn’t know what was going on, but it was none of their business. She trusted her parents, but didn’t trust Drew. She was asking him to let it go. He said she was right. it was none of their business, and suggested they get in the pool.

At the airport, Aiden thanked Lucky for taking him, and Lucky said he hoped it was the first of many trips. He had so many places to show Aiden. Aiden asked how long they’d be in Paris, and Lucky said it was a pit stop for now and they’d circle back. they were going to start with his grandpa’s old stomping grounds, Amsterdam. Lucky got a text from Elizabeth: Wait for me.

Nina said Drew was enjoying this, but Willow wasn’t. It was tearing her apart. He said he wasn’t enjoying it. He wasn’t the bad guy; Michael was. She said, from where she was standing, it was a photo finish. Everyone was getting along great, and they could have reached a compromise, but then suddenly, something changed. Wiley apparently heard that his father no longer wanted him and Amelia because of the new baby. He wouldn’t know anything about that, would he?

Carly told Sonny that they just got Michael back. She couldn’t lose him and her grandchildren. Talk to him. Sonny said he hated this, but Carly said he seemed ready to put Michael on a jet. He said she’d do the same, and Jason said, Carly was in the courtroom. Was it as bad as Michael thinks? Sonny’s phone rang and he left to take the call.

Willow was in the park when Wiley ran up to her and hugged her. She looked up and saw Michael with Amelia.

Tracy asked if Martin was digging up dirt on her. They both knew he didn’t have the money to rent a bulldozer. He said it would be harder for her to dig her way out of the charge. His help was going to cost her.

Jordan said she’d be a bad friend not to say that so far, Jacinda had been discreet, for a price. Portia had a Drew problem, but if he pursued Jacinda, he might have a Jacinda problem. In paying the escort to lie about the congressman, he would muddy himself and risk losing everything – his reputation, his integrity, maybe even his freedom. He could end up in prison or under Drew’s thumb for the rest of his life. He said it was a risk he was going to take. He and Portia shared a child, and he couldn’t have the mother of his daughter go down by Drew’s hand. He’d rather have a Jacinda problem than have Portia lose her medical license or go to prison. He wasn’t going to let that happen.

Nina wondered if Drew was depraved enough to set up her sweet grandson and tell him that his father no longer wanted him because he had a new baby. Even Drew couldn’t be that cruel. Drew said, what Wiley heard was exactly what Willow and the judge needed to hear. And when her daughter got full custody of her grandchildren, Nina would agree.

Carly told Jason that she saw what Michael saw. Willow clinging to Drew and Drew having no remorse. Jason asked if she thought it would go in Michael’s favor, but she said she didn’t know. Who was to say who the judge would believe? Jason said he could see why Michael thought he had to go, and Carly said she hated it. He said him too, and she said she thought she couldn’t stand Willow and Drew before. Their selfishness cost her not only Michael, but Wiley and Amelia.

Michael told Wiley to look out for his sister, and the kids ran off to play. Willow said she guessed they had the same idea, and he said, the kids loved the park. She said she couldn’t count how many times they’d brought the kids here together, and he said, good times. She said, they were… It didn’t have to be this way. He said, it didn’t. She made a choice. They both made choices. Willow’s phone rang and it was the courthouse. Michael said, they must have reached a decision.

In her office, Laura took a picture of Lucky as a child out of her wallet. She kissed it and said, my baby. She held it to her heart.

An airline guy told Lucky that he needed to board, and Lucky said his son was already on the plane. He was waiting for his son’s mother. Could he have five minutes? The guy said, one, and Elizabeth ran in saying she was there. She said he waited for her, and Lucky said he’d always wait for her. He noticed she had no luggage, and said, for a second, he thought maybe she was coming. She said she’d thought about it, but couldn’t let him leave without him know she did love him. That hadn’t changed and she’d never stop loving him. He said he loved her too, more than ever, and she told him, be happy. Take care of himself, yes? He said, yes, and she said, get Aiden home safely. He promised and the guy said it was time. They kissed, and he said he’d still think of her whenever he saw something beautiful. He said, goodbye, and gave her one last look before walking onto the ramp. She sighed and said, bye, Lucky.

Thursday:

Sonny got into a car in the hospital parking lot and Natalia was in the driver’s seat. She said she was in serious trouble, and so was he.

Kristina went to Alexis’s office and said she thought she just solved their problem with Ava.

Cody went to the gallery and Ava asked if she could help him. He said, no, but he thought he could help her.

Elizabeth met Laura in the breakroom, and Laura said she wanted to check in with Elizabeth about Lucky. Elizabeth said she was sorry. Laura had every right to blame her for Lucky leaving town.

Willow said the judge was fast and wondered what it meant, but Drew said he had no idea. His gut instinct said the woman Michael cheated with giving birth during the hearing was not a good look.

Drew said it had to be a good sign and that the judge was going to award the kids to Willow, but Ric said, not necessarily. She could have decided on shared custody. Willow said she’d rather not. It was already uncomfortable. She ran into Michael in the park with the kids, but they barely had a chance to talk before they were called back. Michael came into the courtroom with his supporters, and asked if Jason made arrangements in case things didn’t go their way. Jason said he’d be in the air before anyone realized the kids were gone.

Alexis asked what Kristina did to solve their problem, and Kristina said Alexis told her that the only way to stop the blackmail was for Ava and Ric to turn on each other and break up their united front. Alexis said she told Kristina to leave it to her, but Kristina said the opportunity fell in her lap and she had to take it. She hired someone to seduce Ava.

Ava asked how Cody thought he could help her, and he said she’d left some pretty fancy looking sunglasses at the pool. He handed them to her and she said they were her favorite pair. She couldn’t believe she left them. He said it was exciting to see the works of art, and she thanked him for finding her sunglasses. A less honest person would have kept them. He said they looked better on her than on him, and she asked who he knew where to bring them. She didn’t recall giving him her name.

Laura hugged Elizabeth and said she didn’t blame her, but Elizabeth said if she’d told Lucky yes, he would have stayed. Laura said they both would have ended up miserable. She was grateful that Elizabeth knew Lucky would never be content in Port Charles, even though she was happy having him here. She knew he’d be happy traveling the world and helping people, and Elizabeth gave him the opportunity to make that choice with no regrets. Laura was grateful to her.

Sonny asked, what kind of trouble? and Natalia said it was risky for her to be talking to him. Yesterday, after they talked at the pool, she was pulled over and arrested for driving under the influence. She was upset after talking to Marco and drank more than she should have. She was ashamed of herself, but lucky that it wasn’t worse. It wasn’t her first offense, and she was facing up to five years in prison. Unless… Sonny said, unless what? and she said unless she helped ADA Turned build a case against him.

Judge Haran said the request for divorce was hereby granted. The marriage was dissolved. Willow got the 2024 Range Rover, the art collection, and any jewelry and clothing she acquired during the marriage. But what was of the utmost importance was the determination of custody of the two minor children.

Alexis asked if Kristina hired a gigolo, but Kristina said she didn’t hire a professional. She hired Cody Bell. She saw him and Ava bump into each other and there was something there. Ava was taken with him. Alexis asked if she thought Ava would dump Ric for Cody, and Kristina said it would take come work on Cody’s part, but she thought in time, Cody would have Ava eating out of the palm of his hand.

Cody said he wasn’t stalking Ava. Everyone knew who Ava Jerome was. Her reputation proceeded her. Ava said, not in a good way, and he said he preferred to make his own conclusions about people. His reputation wasn’t too great either. She said, in her book, he was a hero. The sunglasses were from a special collection that was sold out and she wasn’t telling him how much they cost. He said the gallery must be doing well. He’d driven by and wanted to come in, but he knew nothing about art. She said, so he was interested in or curious about art, and he said, definitely. He’d love it if she’d explain it to him. She said she loved talking about art and was happy to share her knowledge. She had time right now.

Sonny said they both knew Natalia had nothing to offer Turner. He’d never confided anything about his alleged illegal activities. She had nothing that would incriminate him. She said, actually, she did. And if she gave Turner what she had, he could be put in prison for a long time.

Judge Haran said there were different factors to consider in determining the custody of young children and it came down to which parent was better suited to keep them safe and secure and would put their welfare and best interests above all else. Mrs. Corinthos had exclusive custody since December 12th, 2024, and moved them from home to home four times. She transported Wiley across state lines without his father’s knowledge and had him stay in the same hotel suite she stayed in with Congressman Cain. In the wake of Michael’s catastrophic injuries, she’d made no attempt to promote contact with the children and their father. In addition, she filed paperwork giving legal guardianship to Congressman Cain and ignoring Michael’s custodial rights. She had demonstrated a consistent pattern of neglecting regard for her children’s emotional well-being and violated the law. Now that Michael was recovered, he was capable of caring for the children, along with support from his many family members. Consequently, the decision of the court was to award full physical and legal custody to the children’s father, Michael Corinthos. (What I said.)

Ava told Cody that abstract art wasn’t meant to be taken completely literally and showed him a painting. She said it was the 1919 eclipse that led to Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, but he said he thought it looked like a guy with snakes coming out of his eyes. She must think he’s an idiot. She said, no. Art was subjective and at its best should affect the motions, but sometimes the connection wasn’t there and that was okay too. He said he was worried if he told her the truth, she’d feel like she was wasting her time teaching him, but she said she’d only feel that way if he’d said he saw what she did. She was glad he told the truth. He said he felt destined to be an uncultured dope, and she said she didn’t give up that easy. She liked a challenge. He said so did he.

Alexis said Kristina’s plan had the potential to backfire spectacularly. What if Ava found out? Kristina said Cody had experience as a conman. She thought he could do it. Alexis asked if she thought he could steal Ava away from Ric, and Kristina said it wasn’t going to be easy, and he’d need help. That’s why she needed to push Ric on someone else. Alexis asked if Kristina hired a gigolo for him too, but Kristina said, with Lucky out of the picture, Elizabeth was single, and they both knew Ric wasn’t over her. Alexis said Kristina couldn’t push Elizabeth on Ric. She didn’t deserve it. Kristina said Elizabeth didn’t have to share Ric’s feelings, but given their past, he was the perfect person. Ava would be insecure and jealous and run into Cody’s waiting arms. They could use this to their advantage. Alexis said she thought Kristina hadn’t learned a damn thing from her mistakes.

Laura asked Elizabeth to come to dinner soon. Martin was back from California. Elizabeth said he was there earlier. He thought she should fila a lawsuit against the car manufacturer. He thought it would be a big payday. Laura said maybe Elizabeth should consider it, since she’d had pain and suffering as a result, but Elizabeth said she’d like to put it behind her. Laura said she understood. She could wrangle her brother. He wouldn’t badger Elizabeth. Elizabeth said she’d come if she could bring dessert, and Laura said it was a deal.

Sonny asked what information Natalia had, and she said when she was fired, she was in the middle of analyzing the financials and put a copy on her home computer. She still had it because she wanted to make sure to protect herself. The authorities were keeping a close eye on her ex’s involvement with Deception, and she wanted to make sure she could prove she didn’t do anything wrong. He asked what that had to do with him, and she said it included all the records of his involvement. She followed the money and there were discrepancies. None of them added up to more than a slap on the wrist… Sonny said, but they’d give probably cause to get a warrant to search his holdings, and she said she was guessing they’d find more than enough to take him down.

Willow said she didn’t understand what was happening, and Ric said she lost. She said they couldn’t be right, and he said he was sorry. She got up and said, please. The judge couldn’t give her kids to Michael. They belonged with her. She started to hyperventilate, and Ric told her to control herself. Judge Haran said visitation would be negotiated at a later hearing after the children had consulted with a psychologist. Willow told Ric, do something, shaking him. She started to flip out and said her children needed her. The judge banged her gavel and called for order, telling Ric to restrain his client. Willow said, how could they do this? Michael had cheated with Sasha and had his baby. All she’d done is love her children and try to do her best. She screamed, it isn’t right, and Judge Haran said court was adjourned. She asked the bailiff to clear the court, and Willow ran over to Michael. She cried and told him that Wiley and Amelia needed their mom. Tell the judge that she’d made a terrible mistake. Diane said they need to go, and Willow grabbed Michael’s hand. She said, they need their mother, and Michael shook her off. He left, and Nina held Willow, who continued her hysterics.  

Alexis said, acting first and thinking later was what got them in this mess, but Kristina said she was doing the opposite. She’d thought this through before speaking to Cody. It was a plan for the long game and had flexibility. They could pivot as it progressed. Alexis said there were a lot of variables they had no control over that had to go right at the right time. Kristina said Cody had to see if it worked first, but it was a sure-fire way to break up the united front of Ric and Ava. It wasn’t illegal. Alexis said it was unethical, and Kristina said they were extorting her. Alexis thought they should wait for a better opportunity, but Kristina said it may never come. In the meantime, Alexis had to embezzle money from Ace and the more likely she was to get caught. Alexis’s phone rang, and she said, great. It was Laura. Laura asked if Alexis could stop by. She had something important she needed to discuss, and Alexis said she’d come right over. Kristina asked if Alexis thought she knew about the embezzlement, and Alexis said she guessed she’d find out.

Ava asked Cody to think of something beautiful, and he said, Angelina Jolie. She said, maybe something less prurient. Something beautiful, not a woman, that got him in the gut. He said, a horse running in a field at sunrise, and she said there was so much beauty to be found in nature. She handed him a flyer and said she was having a show. Joel Sartore was a talented wildlife photographer, and she thought he should come. He said, hors d’oeuvres. It sounded fancy. He doubted she’d want him there. She said it could be stuffy and the likes of him could liven it up a little bit. Think about it. He said he would and thanked her for the crash course in art. Ava thanked him for rescuing her sunglasses.

Sonny asked if Turner knew Natalia had the Deception financials, but Natalia said she only told Turner that there was a slight possibility she could find something. No promises. He said he assumed she was going to keep quiet, but she said she was in a bind. She didn’t want to do anything to hurt him, but she was backed in a corner. If she didn’t cooperate, she’d go to prison. He asked if she was blackmailing him, but she said, no. She was loyal to him and hoping they could figure something out. She needed his help.

Carly asked if Michael was okay, and he said he won custody of his kids, but seeing Willow fall apart, he didn’t want that. Diane said she felt for Willow, but her outburst validated that the judge made the right decision. Michael said he had to see his kids.

Still freaking out, Willow said she needed to see Wiley and Amelia. They need to know how much she loved them. Nina promised they knew, and Drew said he thought they should get her home. They helped Willow up, and Willow said Drew told her that she’d win, then keeled over.

At Charlie’s Cody told Kristina that he went to the gallery. He and Ava had an interesting conversation and as far as he was concerned, he completed the trial run, which meant Kristina owed him $1000. She said she’d send it now, and used her phone. She asked how it went, and he showed her the flyer, saying it was his ticket to see Ava again. Based on their interaction, he thought he pulled it off. He’d definitely see how far it could go. How far did she want it to go? Kristina said, whatever needed to happen for Ava to leave Ric, and he said he could do that, but there was one catch.

At Laura’s office, she apologized to Alexis for being vague. Martin was back in town and trying to convince Elizabeth to file a lawsuit over her car accident. Alexis said she was surprised Elizabeth didn’t want to put it behind her, and Laura said, she was going to do that, but Martin was desperate for work and thought it would be quite a bit of money. She thought Elizabeth deserved it since the accident was caused by a vehicle malfunction. Alexis said the car had been destroyed. To find evidence would require a lot of investigation. Laura said her brother had his own agenda and she wanted an unbiased, honest opinion. If Alexis thought Elizabeth had a strong case, she may try talking her into pursuing it.

Drew and Nina brought Willow to the hospital, and Elizabeth said she heard Willow fainted. How was she feeling? Willow didn’t respond, and Elizabeth said she had a room set up. Was it okay to get her settled in? Willow barely nodded, and Elizabeth wheeled her away. Drew said it was a travesty He didn’t understand how Willow lost. Nina asked if he heard anything the judge said. She lost because Drew had her take Wiley across state lines and tried to make himself the children’s legal guardian. Willow lost her children because Willow did everything that he wanted her to since their egregious affair began. In the eyes of the court, that made Willow a bad mother.

Natalia said she knew she’d betrayed Sonny’s trust not telling him that she’d been married to Sidwell, but she valued their friendship and hoped he felt the same way. He said he did and was grateful for her discretion. He’d make sure both of them came out unscathed. When did she have to report back? She said tomorrow at 3, and he said they’d talk before that. Stay calm and he’d handle everything.

Elizabeth said she was going to give Willow IV fluids and draw up some labs. Try to rest. Everything would be okay.  

Carly asked if Michael was okay, and he said, it was gut wrenching watching Willow. He couldn’t help thinking about when he first fell in love with her. She was great with Wiley and when she was pregnant with Amelia, she risked her life to carry the baby to term. He couldn’t reconcile the Willow he married with the one he divorced today. He didn’t know how it ended up like this. Carly said she didn’t either. Maybe it would be a wake-up call for Willow to get her act together and have a relationship with her children. He said he hoped so. In the meantime, he had to figure out a way to tell them that they wouldn’t be seeing their mom for a long time.

Nina asked how Willow was, and Elizabeth said, physically, she was fine. She started Willow on IV fluids, but her vitals were good. She thought Willow was in shock. Drew said he was going to sit with her, but Elizabeth said she was dozing off. It was best to let her rest before she had a psyche consult. Drew asked if Elizabeth thought she had a mental breakdown, and she said she couldn’t be sure, since Willow wasn’t responding, but they’d know more soon.

Natalia thanked Sonny for everything. She was afraid he wouldn’t take her call. He said it was water under the bridge. They’d work together. Natalia said maybe he’d trust her like he used to and wondered if they could get back to where they were. He said coming to him was the first step, and she said she was glad she did. It had been a nightmare. She’d never felt more trapped and alone. This was the first time she felt like maybe things would turn out okay. He said she had to trust him, and she said she did. He was such a constant. They hugged.

Alexis told Laura that a lawsuit might take a long time. She wasn’t sure it was worth the trouble, but she’d speak to Elizabeth and get the details. See if Martin was right to pursue it. Laura thanked her and said she knew she could count on Alexis’s unbiased, honest opinion.

Kristina asked, what catch? and Cody said he did his research on Ava. He knew she wasn’t a saint, but had no idea how downright lethal she was. She shot Mama Q. Kristina said, if it helped, she was trying to shoot someone else, and he said, she also killed Mama Q’s cousin, definitely on purpose. If Kristina wanted him to be Clyde to Ava’s Bonnie, he needed hazard pay – a lot – added to his original fee. She said, fine, and suggested they negotiate and get him started.

Ava left Ric a message that she was thinking about him. She wondered how it went in court and hoped they ruled in his favor. Call her back when he got the chance. She picked up her sunglasses and pondered.  

At the hospital, Ric asked Elizabeth how Willow was, but she said he knew she couldn’t tell him. HIPPA. He said, of course (🍷). He’s been doing this a long time, but if she’d seen what he saw… She said she couldn’t imagine losing custody of her children, especially that young. Her heart hurt for Willow. Ric said he hated losing because of his pride, but this one hit differently. He never felt so horrible losing a case. She said he did everything he could, and he said he wished it had been a different result. She put her hand on his.

Carly gave Jason a beer and said Michael was outside telling Wiley about the divorce and what it meant for everybody. It was going to be rough for a while. If Michael had gone on the run, it would have been worse. Jason said Michael and the kids would be okay, but he wasn’t sure he could say the same about Willow. Carly said, it was awful. Drew led her down the wrong path. Jason said now she was suffering the consequences. Drew shattered Michael’s family and shattered Willow. This was on Drew.

Drew said he was going in to sit with Willow, but Nina said she was resting and not to disturb her. He said he felt helpless, and she said if he wanted to help, go home. He said he wouldn’t abandon Willow. She needed him. Nina said he was the last person Willow needed. He didn’t get it. He did this to her. He cost her the children. If he truly loved Willow as much as he said he did, he’d walk away right now and never look back.

On the patio, Wiley asked if they could go back to the park and see mommy, but Michael said he was sorry. They wouldn’t be able to spend time with mommy for a while. Wiley asked, why? and Michael said they went to court, the place that made the rules grown-ups had to follow. Even though he and mommy loved them, they decided it was probably best if they weren’t married anymore. The judge agreed and also decided Wiley and his sister should live with him. Wiley said, what about mommy? and Michael said, for now, it was the three of them. Mommy loved him and his sister so much. Soon she’d come and visit. They hugged and Michael said he loved Wiley so much.  

Willow opened her eyes and looked around. She remembered the judge saying that it was the decision of the court to award full physical and legal custody to the children’s father, Michael Corinthos.  

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

At Pozzulo’s, Sonny tells Jason, Michael wasn’t sure he’d get custody of the kids, much less full custody, and Jason says, it’s what’s best for the kids, as long as Drew is in the picture. Sonny asks, how’s Willow? but Jason says he hasn’t heard yet. It was really rough seeing her in the courtroom yesterday. Sonny says he hopes she get the help she needs, and Jason says, they all do, especially Michael. He still cares about her. Sonny says, of course (🍷) he does. He’s Michael and she’s the mother of his children. He loved her very much. Jason says, he still does, but Sonny says he doesn’t know if they could have made it together, but it doesn’t matter. They know who’s to blame.

Drew meets with Martin and says, Willow is in bad shape. Martin says he’s not surprised. Nothing, not even partial custody. Drew says he can’t stand seeing her like this. Can they appeal? Can they argue that Ric was a last-minute substitute and get the judge’s ruling thrown out? There had to be something they could do to get Willow her children back.  

Maxie calls Brook, who says, what’s up? Maxie says, James is home sick from summer camp and Georgie wants him to stay in the garage, so she doesn’t get infected by his cooties. It’s been a pretty normal day. She was wondering if Brook could come over to work with her. Brook says, who could say no to that? She’s on her way. The doorbell rings and Maxie opens the door to Lulu. Lulu says she got Maxie’s text. That must mean Maxie is still speaking to her.

Tracy says, good, Brook is still here, but Brook says she’s on her way out. She’s headed to Maxie’s. Tracy asks if the weekend starts on a Thursday now, and Brook says, it probably does somewhere, but they’re working from there. Tracy says, as long as the work gets done. It will do Brook a world of good to focus on work. Brook says, as opposed to what? Revenge?

Anna says, Natalia Ramirez? and Molly says she was assigned to the case, but had to recuse herself. Anna says, Molly’s sister was involved with Natalia’s daughter. Right. Natalia is… Molly says, Natalia has a complicated relationship with her whole family. She’s afraid she doesn’t have many details about the case. Anna wonders why it was reassigned to an attorney on Molly’s level, and Molly says, it should have been. Who took it? Anna says, acting DA Justine Turner.

Marco thanks Alexis for sitting in on the meeting, and Alexis says, not a problem. She knows what it’s like to shepherd her family through legal troubles. Marco says Alexis is helping his mother, even after the terrible things she said about Kristina and his sister when they were together, and Alexis says, they came to an understanding. He asked for her help and she’s happy to help. What’s past is past. Natalia comes in and says, Alexis’s assistant told her to come in. Alexis says, it’s fine, and Natalia asks what this is about. Marco says, it’s about her arrest, and Natalia says, really? Now he cares?

In the squad room, Chase says, it’s been a minute since he and Dante talked, and Dante says, if they keep it to work, they should be good. Chase asks, is that possible? Or are they going to have a problem here?

Drew says he doesn’t understand what happened, and Martin says he’d love nothing more than to run up some billable hours, but at this point, pursuing an appeal is unlikely to change the outcome. Drew asks, why? He doesn’t understand how Willow lost. (Boy, is he an idiot. The judge even explained why.) Martin says, for starters, he reviewed the judge’s ruling, and while it’s harsh, her reasoning was straightforward. Willow took Wiley over state lines without Michael’s permission, then turns around and tries to make Drew, the man she had an affair with, guardian of her children. Again, without consulting the father. Drew says, Michael was halfway around the world and unreachable, but Martin says he’s not sure the argument that Michael getting the best possible medical care was abandoning his children endeared them to the judge. In legal parlance, they’d say it was disregard for the father’s parental rights. Drew asks if there’s some way they can appeal. There has to be. Martin says, maybe, but the odds of winning are so low, all it would do is cause Willow more pain. Is that something Drew wants to do?

Anna says, Justine took the case herself. Does Molly have any idea why she might do that? Molly says she doesn’t know. Since Turner stepped in for Robert as the interim DA, she’s been cherry-picking high profile cases, but a DWI? Anna says her thoughts exactly. There must be something in this DWI that caught her attention. She’d love to know what it is.

Dante says, work isn’t a problem for him, and Chase says, good. Dante asks, what have we got? but Chase says, we don’t have anything. The case was assigned to him… alone. Dante says, Chase is telling him that Anna doesn’t want him on it? but Chase says, not Anna. ADA Turner wants him to work it alone. Dante asks, why? and Chase says he’s guessing there’s a conflict. Dante wonders if it’s his dad, but Chase says he hasn’t been informed as to the nature of the conflict. The ADA said to report to her and no one else. Dante asks if Anna knows, but Chase says he hasn’t had a chance to discuss it. Dante says he’ll talk to her himself, but Chase says he doesn’t think it’s necessary. Dante says he sure as hell does.

Maxie tells Lulu, don’t be ridiculous. Of course (🍷) she’s still talking to her. Lulu says, she’s one of the few who are, and Maxie says she’s been Lulu, meddling in people’s lives until it blew up in her face. That was her jam. Lulu says she had the best intentions and she’s not sure it was a total disaster. Maxie says, that’s the part she’s not sure about? and Lulu says, Gio finally knows the truth about his parents. He thought he was an orphan. Now he knows he isn’t and has huge family who loves and accepts him. Maxie says, what Lulu did affected a lot of lives. Does she understand? Lulu says she tried to get Brook to tell the truth. Brook had decades to do it. As far as she’s concerned, she did nothing wrong.

Tracy says she’s glad Brook is taking her advice and is focusing on work instead of revenge, and Brook says she plans on spending today solely focused on Deception. Tracy says, it’s a more appropriate outlet for Brook’s hurt and rage, but Brook says she’s not sure rechanneling her rage is the best practice. Tracy says, getting Erica Kane on the phone is a worthwhile outlet and Erica will probably respect her for it, and Brook says she’ll put it on her to-do list. Tracy says, it will be a more affective pursuit than Brook’s ill-conceived vendetta against Lulu. She’s glad to see Brook let it go. Brook asks, who said anything about letting it go?

Natalia says she needed Marco and called him repeatedly. He didn’t pick up once and now he’s summoned her here. He says he got her messages this morning and set up a meeting as soon as he knew, and Alexis says, he does want to help. Natalia says she’s already handled it. The ADA offered her a deal. Alexis says she strongly advises Natalia not to represent herself. Let them help her navigate the deal. Without counsel, it would be precarious. Marco promises Sidwell won’t know any of this, and Alexis says, no one will. Natalia says, great, and they sit down. Alexis asks, what led up to the deal and what are they offering? and Natalia says, last night, she was arrested for a DWI, not her first, Alexis says, that’s a felony and can mean up to five years in prison, and Natalia says, that’s what the DA told her before she offered the deal. Alexis says, she’s the interim DA. What are the terms? Natalia says, they want her to turn over everything she has on every single interaction she’s had with Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny says, Willow isn’t the same Willow he knew when Michael started going out with her, and Jason says, if that Willow still exists, there will be no change with Drew in the picture. Sonny says he’s happy about what’s going on with Michael and thanks Jason. Jason was there when the ruling came in. He was supposed to go, but he couldn’t. He had something important to take care of. Jason says, business? and Sonny says, kind of. Natalia is starting to be a real problem for him.

Tracy says, let the emotions settle and clear, calm minds lead to letting it go, but Brook says, if someone had done that to Tracy’s kids, Tracy wouldn’t be so willing to let it go. Lulu hurt Tracy’s grandkid – her – and destroyed Gio’s memory of the woman who loved and raised him. If it had been anyone other than Lulu who’d done that, Tracy would be ready for war. Tracy says, there’s truth in that, and Brook thanks her. She also thanks Tracy in advance for not telling her to let it go again. She won’t. Now she has to get to work. Lucy won’t be happy if she lets this affect her job. Tracy says, Lucy is inconsequential. Maxie wants what’s best for her. That’s what they all want. They want her to heal.  

Maxie says, Lulu destroyed the memory of the woman Gio thought was his mother and went against a dying woman’s wishes, but Lulu says she’s not the one who lied. Gio is Dante’s son and not once in 22 years did Brook tell Dante that she’d had a baby. She chose not to and if Dante wants to be mad at someone, he should be mad at Brook. Maxie says, Brook made an impossible choice, and Lulu says, no one is judging Brook on her decision to give Gio up, but Maxie says, Gio might disagree. Lulu says, it was Brook’s decision not to tell the truth, and Maxie says, it was Brook’s truth and not hers to tell. Lulu says, somebody had to, and Maxie says, why her? Lulu says, because she knows exactly what it’s like to be kept in the dark when it comes to her child. Dante deserved to know, like she did. She’s not trying to make Maxie feel guilty about Georgie. She made a mistake. Britt and Valentin committed crimes. Maxie says she appreciates the distinction, but this situation is about Brook. And in order for everyone to move on, including Gio and Dante, Lulu needs to take accountability for what she did.

Alexis says, sorry. She has to recuse herself. Sonny is Kristina’s father and a close friend. Natalia says she was afraid of this, and Marco says he wouldn’t have asked Alexis if he’d known. Alexis says he did nothing wrong and everything that was said is covered under attorney/client privilege. Natalia thanks her, and Alexis says, good luck. Sorry. She leaves, and Marco says, Natalia could be in real danger. Tell him exactly what she has on Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny says, Natalia was the CFO of Deception and had access to the financial records, and Jason asks if he didn’t let her go. Sonny says, she kept them at home, and Jason says, that’s not good, but it’s a legitimate business. What’s the problem? Sonny says, the problem is, the money he invested wasn’t clean and there are some discrepancies. Jason says, that’s not a mistake Sonny would make, and Sonny says, the money guy screwed up and is now in the Pine Barrens. Natalia got a DWI and it’s not her first. She could go away for a long time. Jason asks if that’s why she’s trying to make a deal, and Sonny says he knows the records she has wouldn’t be incriminating… Jason says, but it would open the door to a bigger investigation, and Sonny says, Turner could do a deep dive into his financial records, everything he’s had in the last 20 years. Jason asks how he knows, and Sonny says, Natalia warned him. She told him everything. Jason asks how he wants to handle it, and Sonny says he can’t let Natalia let Turner know anything.  

Marco says, Natalia hasn’t handed anything off to the DA and it doesn’t sound too damning to begin with. Where is the evidence? She says, on a portable drive in a safe deposit box in a Port Charles bank. She’s supposed to hand it over this afternoon. Marco says, that’s not going to happen. Not until he meets with Turner and gets the best possible deal. She says she’s not in a hurry, and he says he’s more concerned about her safety. Does Corinthos know she and Turner are talking? She says, he has no idea, but Marco says, that doesn’t mean her life isn’t in jeopardy. He knows they have a history, but he would never want to see her get hurt. She says she’ll be fine, but he says she doesn’t seem to understand the severity of the situation. Not only did she get another DWI, which is irresponsible enough, she’s wrapped up in Sonny Corinthos’s life and is in danger. She says she appreciates his concern, but Sonny would never hurt her.

Sonny says he knows that Natalia is a liability. If it was anybody else, he’d deal with them permanently. Jason says he gets why Sonny doesn’t want to, and Sonny says, Natalia kept his confidence about his heart problem and she’d been good to him. She saw him through. Jason says, so she’s a good friend? and Sonny says, not just to him, to Kristina. When Kristina was in the car accident, Natalia was there and called him. She stayed until he got there. At Ava’s trial, she got on the stand and lied to protect Kristina. Jason says he remembers, and Sonny says, she could have kept quiet about Turner’s deal, but she came to him. He’s grateful for that. Jason says, it’s always better to know, and Sonny says, it’s not like he trusts her. Jason says he feels like he owes her. How can he cut his losses and protect himself? Sonny says, and do it without hurting Natalia.  

Drew says he hates it, but Martin is probably right. Let the judge’s ruling stand… for now. Martin says, it’s the smart thing, and Drew says, it makes no sense. The judge ruled in Michael’s favor. (Apparently, he didn’t listen to what anyone is saying.) Martin says, it’s not the norm. In most cases the standard is shared. Drew says, Michael wouldn’t hear of it. It was all or nothing. He was contentious. Martin says he was hoping for 60/40 split in Michael’s favor. He didn’t expect full custody with no visitation built in. Drew asks if there’s anything they can do, and Martin says, there is, but he’s not going to like it. They could run around Diane Miller and talk to Michael. Michael is angry, but he’s not cruel. He loved Willow and given time, he might grant her access. Drew says, were it that simple. Michael made it clear that as long as he’s in Willow’s life, he’ll make sure she never sees her children again.

Anna says, keep her posted, and Molly says, what she learns, Anna will learn. As Molly is leaving, Dante comes in, and they hug. Molly says she hasn’t seen him since the Nurses Ball. How is he doing? Dante says he’s hanging in there, and she says, call her if he wants to talk. Anna thanks her, and she leaves. Anna asks what she can do for Dante, and he says his so-called partner told him… Anna says, so-called? and Dante says, Chase is working on a case he’s not allowed to be part of. Anna says she read the file. The DA’s office assigned Chase the case and embargoed him. He asks if she has any insight, and she says, not yet, but she can’t do anything about it unfortunately. He says he guesses Chase was telling the truth, and she says, doesn’t he usually? Dante says, he used to, and she says she thought they were solid. All she’s hearing is hostility. Why? What’s going on? He says, it’s a family matter. He shouldn’t have brought it to work. She says, it’s too late for that.

Maxie tells Lulu to put herself in Brook’s shoes, see things from her perspective, but Lulu says, that’s all she’s been doing for months. Maxie says, clearly, that’s not all she’s been doing, and Lulu says she feels for Brook. It can’t have been easy to find out Gloria and Lois knew she had a son all this time and never told her. Maxie says, exactly. Brook’s relationships with her mother and grandmother are, at the very least, damaged. They’re not the same and never will be. Lulu says, it’s not her fault. They were the ones who lied. Maxie says, Gio is the son Brook has been thinking about every day for 22 years, who she’s known her whole life and had no idea who he was. Lulu says, that’s on Gloria and Lois too, and Maxie says, if Brook messed with Lulu’s relationship with Rocco, she’d be angry. Lulu says, of course (🍷) she would, but it would never happen. She doesn’t lie to her kids. She never has and never will. The doorbell rings, and Brook walks in with her face in her phone, saying Maxie will never believe the numbers… She sees Lulu and stops.  

Brook says she shouldn’t be surprised that Lulu got Maxie to lure her over here, so Lulu could ambush her or get Maxie to run interference. She is surprised Maxie would let herself be used. Maxie says, excuse me, and Lulu says, Brook is the last person she wants to see. Maxie says she needs them both to shut up right now. First of all, she would not let herself be used and when Brook says such a thing, she feels like Brook doesn’t know her. And she’s perfectly capable of scheming herself, which is exactly what she did. Brook asks, why? and Maxie says, the two of them need to be in a room, face to face – no Dante, no Chase, no Quartermaines – and have it out. Lulu says, Maxie doesn’t want that, and Brook says, too many breakable objects. Maxie says, this has to end. What they’re doing is affecting more than them. It’s affecting people they love.

Anna says, Dante and Chase are her best detectives. Whatever they’re going through, now work is a problem, so she has to get to the bottom of it. He says, don’t worry, and she says, obviously, this has something to do with what happened at the Nurses Ball. He says, it does. His whole life changed that night. He found out he had a son, Gio. For 22 years, he’s lived his life without him. Anna says, he’s right to feel how he does. What did Chase do? He says, Chase knew for months, and she says, that Gio was his son? He says, not Gio, but Chase knew Brook had his kid and kept it to himself, and she says, he didn’t expect Chase to betray his wife’s trust. He says, Chase should have at least convinced her to tell him, and she says, convince Brook? Other than they had a child together, she’d have thought Dante never met her. Dante says, he puts his life in this guy’s hands every day. How can he trust him? She says, he’s going to hate what she has to say next. She could see why Chase kept it from him.

In the solarium, Alexis asks, what legal entanglement did Tracy get into this time? Does it have anything to do with her arrest at the Nurses Ball? Tracy says, Drew is accusing her of drugging him. He has a flair for the theatrical. Alexis says, he isn’t the only one, and Tracy says, he’s a thorn in her side, but whether Alexis sees it or not, he’s a problem for her also. As luck would have it, there might be a solution to their Drew problem. Alexis says she has no idea what Tracy is talking about, and Tracy says, Alexis is Scout’s grandmother and as such, has legal standing in the city of New York. She needs to sue Drew for custody of Scout.

Drew says, Michael can be ruthless, but he’s also reasonable, and Martin says, it sounds like there’s still something to hope he’ll be reasonable about. Drew says, unlike his less trustworthy family members, he believes Michael would stand by what he says. Willow told him in the past that at his core, Michael is a good person. According to the whole town, he’s the problem and derailed Willow’s life. Whether that’s true or not – and he doesn’t believe that it is – it’s the perception. Martin says, all too often, perception is reality, and Drew says, exactly. If he ends things with Willow, takes Scout and goes to DC, Michael will give Willow access to her children. Martin asks if that’s something he’d be willing to do, and Drew says he loves Willow and knows she loves him. Between Michael’s demands and everything that’s been spewed at her about him, he has to ask himself the question, would she be better off without him?

Dante says he can’t believe Anna is taking Chase’s side, but she says she’s not taking his side. Like Brook, she chose not to tell her child’s father about his child’s existence. Dante says, she didn’t tell Robert about Robin because she had to keep Robin safe, and Anna says she did, but she didn’t end things on good terms with Robin’s father, and it wasn’t fair to Robert. It was mostly deeply unfair to Robin. She got lucky and Robin forgave her. She thinks partly because Robin was a child. Gio will be a bit trickier. Dante says, he already is, and she tells him that she’s not saying he doesn’t have a right to be angry about being betrayed. But as much as he thinks what Brook should have done or said, he’s not in Brook’s shoes. It’s never easy and it’s never clear cut. He says, Robert handled it, and she says she was lucky there too. He embraced Robin and made the choice to accept that what happened, happened. Better decisions could have been made, but they weren’t. He focused on his relationship with Robin. He could have chosen not to have one, but he did his best to not dwell on the past. Dante says, good on him for being able to do that, but he doesn’t think he can swing it. Anna says she thinks she understands if he can’t, but he can do the bare minimum and keep things professional with his partner. In fact, she insists on it.

Molly goes to Alexis’s office and sees Marco. She says she’s sorry to interrupt, but she’s looking for her mother, Alexis Davis. He says, she just stepped out and he’s not sure when she’ll be back, and she says, he must be Marco Ramirez. Her mother’s said great things about him. He says, they’re all true. He’s met Kristina, so she must be… She says, Molly Lansing Davis, and shakes his hand. She works in the DA’s office. He says he was just about to call there. He needs to discuss the Natalia Ramirez case.

Natalia goes into Sonny’s office, and he says, she wasn’t followed. She asks how he knows, and he says his drivers are good. She thanks him for seeing her. He asks if she has information for him, and she says she just saw her son at Miller & Davis. They discussed the deal, but she didn’t tell him that she tipped Sonny off. She would never. He says he appreciates that, and she says, they’re in this together. Don’t worry about her. He says he’s glad she said that because he thinks he has a way out for both of them.

Alexis says, Tracy wants her to sue Drew for custody of Scout. Why doesn’t she do it herself? Tracy says she was falsely accused of drugging a sitting congressman. Alexis is the next best thing. Alexis says she’s thought a lot about Scout’s well-being. She’s thought about it every day since Sam died, and of course (🍷) since Drew’s scandal. Tracy says, so she’s on board, and Alexis says, Scout loves her father, and he loves her. Tracy says, oh please. Drew doesn’t know about love. He just knows how to mimic love. Alexis tells her, say what you will about Drew – and she’s said a thing or two of her own – the bottom line is, his daughter believes in him. He’s a good father and loves Scout. The last thing she wants to do is upend that little girl’s life more than it has been. Tracy says, Drew pretended to be a loving father, who pulled his daughter out of the house and separated her from Danny and Rocco – again. Alexis says, Scout has suffered more and lost more than a child should, and Tracy says, Alexis should have told Drew to leave Willow alone. Alexis says she didn’t want him to make a run for DC and take her granddaughter with him. Things have changed. Michael has custody and Willow’s not leaving the kids. Tracy says, she would if she cared what was best for them, and Alexis says she’s telling Tracy to find another way to get back at Drew. She’s not letting Tracy use her granddaughter to do it.

Maxie says, Brook and Lulu have so many people in common. Tracy is Brook’s grandmother and Lulu’s stepmother. Lulu says she knows who Tracy is, and Maxie says, then she probably knows Tracy is seeing two people she cares about who are breaking her heart. Brook says, with all the backstabbing going on at that house, and Maxie says, fair point. How about Dante? How much pain he must be in seeing the mothers of his children despising each other – two of the most important people in his life. Gio is Rocco’s brother. What do they think will happen if they’re constantly at war? Brook says she doubts Gio knows. He won’t talk to her. Maxie says, it’s only a matter of time before it trickles down to Gio and Rocco’s relationship. She’s not asking them to do it for her, even though she’s tired of it, and she’s not asking them to do it for themselves. Do it for the people they both love.

Dante says, Chase is right. He’s not on the case. Chase says he wouldn’t lie about that, and Dante says, just about the son he didn’t know he had. Chase says, they’re not letting personal feelings impact work. Dante can’t do that. Dante says, or what?

Marco tells Molly that he’d like everything to go through him and needs the details, starting with the deal. Molly says, he’ll have to speak to ADA Turner, and he asks if she can offer advice on how to handle Turner. She says, Turner is fair, but ambitious. She’s determined to make a name for herself. She’s got political ambition and if she wants something, she’ll stop at nothing to make it happen.

Natalia says, Belize? and Sonny says he owns property there and knows people. She can start over. He’ll help her with a new life and a new identity. She says she doesn’t know. She may not have the best relationship with her kids, but leaving them behind and never speaking to them again… He says, it’s a lot to ask, but they don’t have more options. They’re on the clock. Turner will send her to prison unless she takes the deal. Natalia says she promised she wouldn’t. In tipping him off, she sacrificed her future. He says, in Port Charles. He guarantees she can have a life somewhere else. He’s going to make sure she’s protected and that she has a great life. She has his word.

Tracy tells Alexis that it was worth a shot. About that absurd ketamine charge… Alexis asks if it’s really that absurd, and Tracy says, I beg your pardon. Alexis says she knows Tracy thinks Drew framed her, but she’s living proof of Tracy’s ability to orchestrate a situation. Tracy says, let it go. The two situations are completely different. She did that. This, she did not. She was framed, plain and simple. Alexis says, if only that were the case. There’s only one solution. Tracy says, out with it, and Alexis says, the only way the case will move forward is if Drew testifies. Don’t give him a reason to do that. Tracy says she doesn’t mean… and Alexis says she does. Apologize. Tell Drew not to pursue it. Ask him, plead with him, grovel. Her fate is in his hands.

Jason meets Drew and asks what he wants, and Drew says, it’s about Michael. Jason says he figured that much, and Drew says he needs Jason’s help. Jason has a good relationship with Michael. Jason says, so did Drew until he blew it, and Drew says he’s not asking for a fight. For everyone’s sake, especially Willow’s, he needs Jason’s help to fix things. Jason says, how? and Drew says he needs Jason to take a proposal to Michael from him.

Chase tells Dante, or nothing. Calm down. Dante says, don’t tell him what to do. Don’t tell him anything. Chase knew he had a son. He sat here across from him knowing the truth and didn’t tell him anything. How could he do that? Chase said he was honoring his wife’s wishes, and Dante says, he should have manned up and told his wife to tell the truth. Chase says he doesn’t tell his wife what to do. It wasn’t his secret to tell. It was her child. Dante says, and his. Remember that? Anna tells them to lower their voices. They have a situation that apparently, she has to handle.  

Lulu says she has to admit she didn’t consider the long-term effect on Gio and Rocco, and Maxie says, it’s not too late to start. If Gio sees her set her anger aside maybe he will too. Show him anything is possible. Brook says, fine. Maxie is right. Maxie says, she is? and Brook says, for Gio and Rocco’s sake, she’s willing to accept Lulu’s apology. Lulu laughs and says she owes someone an apology, but that someone sure as hell isn’t Brook. She owes Gio an apology. She feels terrible about the pain she caused him, but she’s not sorry for what she did to Brook and never will be.

On Monday, Martin tells Tracy, there is a way they both can win; Josslyn tells Vaughn, if the information is on his phone, she’ll get it; Anna says Drew and Chase aren’t going anywhere until they figure it out; and Jason tells Drew, until Willow sees it, there will be no compromise.

🧼 The Only Soap News Fit To Print…

Lucky’s last day.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/what-happened-on-jonathan-jacksons-last-general-hospital-episode-as-lucky/

No. Just no. He is Lucky.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/jonathan-jackson-on-gh-recasting-lucky-i-respect-that/

I’m psyched. Maybe she’ll be an ex-wife of Martin’s?

https://ew.com/one-life-to-live-legend-erika-slezak-joins-general-hospital-11753991

Woah.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/eva-larues-real-life-stalker-nightmare-subject-of-new-documentary/

Apparently, it’s going to be a wild ride.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/kelly-thiebaud-says-her-general-hospital-return-will-be-a-wild-ride/

https://parade.com/news/general-hospital-stars-tease-enjoy-the-ride-amid-cast-shake-up-steve-burton-bradford-anderson

He’s with Lesley now.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-star-chris-robinson-dies-at-86/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Chef Lawrence was done (that was quick), and Fraser suggested Chef Anthony from last season as a replacement. Captain Kerry wasn’t so sure about that, since he’d had to let Anthony go, but Fraser swore he was a changed chef, now with more experience. Solène spiraled over finding a poopie in a toilet she had to clean, quickly shouting for help. She’ll be lucky if that’s the worst thing she finds. And I guess just flushing it wasn’t an option? This one is a real germophobe, which makes me wonder why she chose a career where she has to clean up after people and the crew is cramped together even during their off hours. Primary Sam said Lawrence’s curry was even better than his mom’s, which was an excellent note to go out on. Sam was also surprisingly complementary upon departure. The tip was a fatty – $30K.

Why he said goodbye.

The Valley

Kristen and Luke had a housewarming party where the outcasts were invited. They left their house messy, which would cause me untold anxiety. I once found a pair of underwear that had missed the laundry basket after a party, and ten years later, I’m still not over it. Michelle paid a visit to Lala, and Jasmine and Melissa met with Janet and Jason to squash their beef. Jasmine apologized for her Karen tirade, saying she just felt it in the moment. How old are you again? In watching Brittany’s interviews, I’ve decided she should have picked a different dress other than the keyhole neckline number. It makes her boobs look totally off center. Because Jax was being sprung from rehab soon, the gang turned Jax’s bar into Britt’s for a night and threw her a party. With all the nonsense Jax continues to put her through, she’s lucky to have such a great support system.

Agreed.

Next Gen NYC

Teresa and Meridith had dinner with Gia and Brooks, proving that you don’t have to go home again to go home again. Ava met with her dad, Damon Dash, and he said he wanted her to run one of his companies. He thought she’d make a great CEO, which I thought was one of the best compliments a dad could give his daughter. My favorite moment – possibly my favorite moment so far – was Georgia proving she wasn’t blackout drunk by saying, 7 x 5 = 45. (Hint: It does not.) I’m still loving this show, but not so much crypto trader Charlie. Apparently, I’m not alone since Ariana said – and I quote – you been a dick since I met you.

🐎 Smushed in between these shows was a watch party for a 2024 reality show, The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys, with cast members from Below Deck, Southern Charm, and The Valley. I was only half paying attention, and all I know is that they owe a ton of money on their ranch and their second season will be showing up on Bravo. It’s always a good time when Kate and Fraser get together, but it just made me long for another season of Outer Range.

https://people.com/the-mcbee-dynasty-real-american-cowboys-moves-to-bravo-for-season-2-exclusive-8730303

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/the-mcbee-dynasty-real-american-cowboys-season-2-everything-to-know-trailer-cast-premiere-date

🌴 Love Island looks like the dumbest sh*t ever. And all I watched was the credits.

Random Reality Items

I kinda sorta watched this.

Returns on July 31st. The first time I randomly watched this show, I was surprised at how much I liked it. Those who can’t do, watch it on TV.

I thought I felt a collective exhale from the direction of the city.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

28 Weeks Later. Hulu. For whatever reason, I missed this one and wanted to get it in before 28 Years Later comes out. Lots of gore, lots of speedy zombies, and lots of Robert Carlyle. If you like a good zombie romp, you’ll like this movie. The ending was a bit abrupt, but fitting.

https://www.cbr.com/28-weeks-later-streaming-hulu/

https://collider.com/28-years-later-danny-boyle-explains-virus-sunshine-trilogy/

Presence. Hulu. A family moving into a spectacular house that’s also haunted is nothing new, but that doesn’t mean there still can’t be some surprises, and the ending sure surprised me. The acting was as impressive as the house, and main character Lucy Lui has been one of my favorites since Kill Bill. I was particularly impressed with the one-sided phone conversations which are difficult to do convincingly. Be forewarned though, the overall tone is depressing, as many ghost stories are.

https://www.cinemablend.com/movies/presence-streaming-hulu-i-think-its-the-most-original-haunted-house-movie-in-years

Carriers. Paramount+. In a post-apocalyptic world where a highly contagious virus has wiped out most of the world, two brothers and their girlfriends set off on a trek for whatever is out there. Meeting a man traveling with his daughter, who’s infected, they learn a doctor has developed a serum that combats the virus. No surprise, their trip isn’t an easy one and fraught with obstacles.  While the concept isn’t exactly a new one, it’s a favorite genre of mine, and both the acting and script were satisfactory.

https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/carriers-review/

A Minecraft Movie. Soon to be on HBO/Max. I can’t believe I forgot to include this last week. I went to see literally the last showing at my local cinema and I was so glad I did because I loved it. Quite a bit. Jack Black and Jason Momoa make a great team, one living his childhood dream and the other stuck in his glory from the 80s. The entire cast rocks, but what I loved best were the creatures. They were cuteness squared. Lambs! Pandas! Dennis! There was nothing deep here, just a lot of fun and playfulness.

https://www.cinemablend.com/movies/didnt-expect-a-minecraft-movie-to-be-one-of-favorite-experiences-of-year-then-watched-with-kids

https://www.cbr.com/hope-may-be-lost-for-a-minecraft-movies-chances-at-1b/

Sirens. Netflix. While I covered this last week, I finished the series and found the ending to be genuinely satisfying.

🏌️‍♂️ He’s Not Really Dead…

It’s kind of like the time someone dumped milk on Susan Lucci at the grocery store, believing she was really Erica Kane.

https://ew.com/last-of-us-co-creator-reacts-to-fans-angry-over-pedro-pascal-shocking-exit-11750367

⚰️ Speaking Of Dead…

Somewhat of a spoiler, but I don’t care. This was one of the best moments ever.

https://ew.com/zombie-bear-attack-walking-dead-dead-city-11744356

🎭 The Toniest Awards In Town…

The winners.

https://playbill.com/article/tony-awards-2025-live-updating

The best and worst moments.

https://ew.com/tony-awards-2025-highlights-best-and-worst-moments-11747808

And as always the most important, the fashion.

https://people.com/tony-awards-2025-best-dressed-stars-11750333

🐾 Famous, Fabulous, and Fuzzy…

🐶 Who doesn’t love a pet moment?

https://zeenews.india.com/photos/entertainment/national-pet-day-2025-8-celebrity-pet-moments-that-won-the-internet-and-fans-hearts-2884657

🐕 To be fair, my non-famous dogs influence me every day.

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/who-are-the-top-dog-influencers

👑 Adding crown snatching to his resumé.

🎬 Hooray for Hollywood pets.

https://www.tmz.com/2025/05/10/hollywood-famous-pets/

🎺 Quotes of the Week

A room hung with pictures is a room hung with thoughts.Joshua Reynolds

Happiness depends to some extent upon external conditions, but chiefly upon mental attitudes. – Paramahansa Yogananda

Magic exists. Who can doubt it, when there are rainbows and wildflowers, the music of the wind and the silence of the stars? Anyone who has loved has been touched by magic. It is such a simple and such an extraordinary part of the lives we live. – Nora Roberts

Whatever you are, try to be a good one. – William Makepeace Thackeray

If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there. – Lewis Carroll

Every champion was once a contender that didn’t give up.Gabby Douglas

Ideas do not reach perfection in a day, no matter how much study is put upon them. – Alexander Graham Bell

New Yorkers are very friendly… sometimes. – stranger Ariana Biermann met on the street, Next Gen NYC (She’s not wrong.)

You wanna act some type of way in your corduroy pants?Hudson McLeroy to Charlie Zakkour, Next Gen NYC

Happy Pride Month!

🍃 Blowin’ Through the Jasmine In My Mind…

Until next week, stay safe; stay prioritizing hydration; and stay remembering, all too often, perception is reality. So act accordingly.

June 6, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Anna Gives Sonny a Warning, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Watch Of the Future, Worth Barking About, Decuplet Of Quotes & Summer  

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Elizabeth asked what Lucky knew about her accident, and he said he knew Kristina caused it.

Kristina went to see Michael and said she had so much to tell him.

Laura told Alexis, as Ace’s legal guardian, she got statements from the trust. It looked like 10 million dollars had been removed from the Cassadine estate in the past month and a half.

Rocco showed Lulu the video of Gio smashing his violin at the Nurses Ball and asked, what happened?

Gio showed up at Sonny’s and said he had a question. Did Sonny know?

Brook told Lois, two things would always be true. Gio would always know she gave him up and she would always know Lois lied to her. Gio didn’t want anything to do with her, and she didn’t want anything to do with Lois. Gloria walked in and told her not to talk to her mother like that. If Brook wanted to have it out with someone, have it out with her.

Brook asked if Lois was hiding behind Gloria, but Lois said she was trying to get Brook to understand. Brook said there was nothing to understand. Two people she’d loved and trusted lied to her. Gloria said that was enough.

Rocco asked if it was true that Brook and Dante were Gio’s parents, and Dante said, yeah. Gio was his son and Rocco’s brother.

Alexis told Laura that what she’d seen were investments and apologized for not telling her sooner. She’d thought it was best to diversify some of the trust portfolio and moved some of it to a mutual fund that was high rated. She wanted to make sure Ace’s inheritance remained strong. There was nothing more important than family.

Elizabeth wondered what Kristina had to do with her accident, and Lucky told her about Kristina cutting the brake line to what she thought was Ava’s car. Elizabeth said, it wasn’t Ava’s car though. It was Ric’s.

Michael asked how the family was, and Kristina said she and Molly were great. Her and her mom were… fine. Family was complicated. She couldn’t believe Michael was finally home and walking into a custody battle, but he said it needed to be settled once and for all. Kristina said she knew he wanted to do right by his kids. If he was telling himself that deep down Willow was a good mother and made compromises, it would be the wrong move.

Sonny said Gio had questions and so did he. Why didn’t he come in and get answers? Gio said Sonny didn’t tell him, no, so he must have known, but Sonny said he didn’t know. The first time he heard was when Gio announced it to the world. He hadn’t known Brook was pregnant, which was surprising since he was so close to Lois. Gio said, if he didn’t know, why had Sonny always been so nice to him? Sonny had paid for his lessons, music, and education. Why had he been so generous? Sonny said he knew Gio was special and that hadn’t changed.

Lulu told Rocco that his dad and a lot of people were trying to make sense out of it, and Rocco said, Gio’s mom was Camilla, and his dad was a soldier who died in the war. Dante said they were led to believe that. Gio was lied to and so was everyone else.

Gloria told Brook to calm down and cool off. Emotions were high. She knew it was a lot to process, but Brook’s mother was still her mother, and she was still Brook’s grandmother. She had to show some respect. Brook had been a pregnant teenager, and it didn’t just affect her. Imagine the position she’d put her mother in. Lois said Brook told her that she wasn’t ready to be a mother and she trusted Brook to know herself and respected her wishes. Brook said, by lying? and Lois said, by protecting Brook and doing the best she thought she could for Brook’s child. Gloria said Brook’s mother lied to spare her and it ate her alive, and Brook asked if that’s what Lois told herself, that she was sparing her. Lois said keeping Gio in the family was the only way to ensure he was going to be taken care of and happy. And he was. Gloria said Camilla was a godsend. Would Brook rather they gave him to strangers, and she never saw him again?

Kristina told Michael that she thought Willow would come to her senses and realize being with Drew was a mistake, but Willow was more consumed with Drew now than she ever was, like how it was with Shiloh. She’d been bouncing the kids around and they hardly saw them anymore. Michael said if Drew had his way, it would only get worse. Word had it that Drew bought property in DC.  

Elizabeth told Lucky that they had to tear the car apart to get them. They both had surgery. Ric almost died. How long had he known? Lucky said, since the night it happened. He’d been covering for Kristina ever since.

Gio said there had to be more to it. Did Lois ask for Sonny’s help? Sonny said, she did. She was his oldest friend and the Cerullos were family. He was more than happy to help. That’s what family does. Gio said, Lois lied, but Sonny said it was more complicated than that. Had Gio heard the story about Dante being his son? Gio said, bits and pieces, and Sonny said, when Lois found out, it was before Camilla died. Gio asked Olivia pulled a Lois and never told him about Dante, and Sonny said, she kept it from everybody. He thought she was worried about his affiliations. He wasn’t defending Lois, but she made her choices for a reason. He and Dante knew where Gio was coming from.

Dante said he didn’t know he had a child and definitely didn’t know it was Gio, and Rocco asked, when were he and Brook together? Dante said they’d been camp counselors one summer. They were kids not much older than Rocco. They were teenagers and got careless. They made a mistake. Brook didn’t tell him that she’d gotten pregnant, had a baby, and put it up for adoption. Rocco said, Brook never told him that he had a son? and Dante said he found out the same way everyone else did – when Gio announced it and smashed his violin.

Brook said, if it was up to Gloria and Lois, she wouldn’t have known Gio was hers. She’d continue hoping and praying her son was out there living a safe and happy life. Lois said, he was happy, and Gloria said Brook was acting like they didn’t make sure Gio was loved and well-protected. He was their priority. Brook said they were acting like they’d done nothing wrong and didn’t regret everything. She asked if Lois regretted giving Gio to Camilla, and Lois said, no. Brook asked if Lois didn’t regret lying to her for 22 years and letting her see Gio, never knowing he was her son. Gloria said they made the decision they thought was best, and Brook said, when Camilla died, Gio was an orphan, but they said nothing.

Laura told Alexis not to overextend herself. The Cassadine fortune carried a lot of baggage. Don’t allow it to add to her stress level. Alexis said she needed to follow her conscience, when Suzanne came in and gave Alexis the balance sheets for the Dolos fund, since Laura had been asking about it. Alexis asked if Laura wanted to go over them, but Laura said, in the future, just keep her more informed. Suzanne said she heard congratulations were in order. Laura’s extended family had a new addition. Laura said, excuse me?

Rocco wondered why Brook didn’t tell Dante that he had a kid. He was the best dad. Dante said he didn’t know how much Brook knew, and Rocco said, she knew she had a baby. Lulu said Dante couldn’t answer his questions yet. He was trying to make sense of it himself. Rocco said Gio was his brother, and he missed out on nearly everything with him, and Lulu said she was sorry. His dad would get answers and so would he. Rocco said it was a lot. If it was some big secret, how did Gio find out the truth?

Brook said, Gio was 12 when Camilla died. Didn’t they think he needed a mother? Lois said, it tore Gio apart. They were just getting him through it. Gloria said, the poor boy would have been traumatized all over again, and Brook said her son was alone at his lowest point, but Lois said he was loved and cared for. Brook said, not by her. She was an adult, and they kept her son away from her when he was all alone. She’d never forgive them for that.

Sonny said now that Gio knew Brook and Dante were his parents, circumstances were different, but he got it. Gio asked if it was easy with him and Dante, but Sonny said, not at all. It changed everything. Dante went from being an adversary to being his son. Gio asked if they were cool now, and Sonny said he was proud of that. It took years and it might take time to build a relationship with Dante. Gio said, what if he didn’t want that?

Kristina said taking Michael’s children away didn’t sound like the Willow she knew. She didn’t recognize Willow anymore. Michael said at first, he thought Drew was manipulating her, but she was responsible for her choices. She chose to prioritize Drew and chose to destroy her family.

Lucky told Elizabeth that Kristina showed up at Charlie’s, then ran out. He went after her. She called Ava to try and warn her. Elizabeth said, Ava wasn’t in the car, and Lucky said he found Kristina pulled over near the crash, totally freaked out. She was in shock when she saw Ric and said she’d thought it was Ava. That’s when he knew she’d caused the crash. Elizabeth asked why he hadn’t turned Kristina in to the police.

Lucky said, Kristina could get charged with three counts of attempted murder and go to prison for life, and Elizabeth said maybe that’s where she belonged. He said she didn’t see Kristina’s regret. It wasn’t premeditated, but a crime of passion, a lapse in judgement. When she realized what she’d done, she tried to stop it. Elizabeth said, but she couldn’t. She and Ric could have died. He said the only reason Kristina wasn’t behind bars was because she didn’t die. It was a miracle she survived, and she and Ric were okay. He didn’t see how it benefited anyone to send Kristina to prison. Elizabeth said, what if it kept Ava from being killed? (I don’t know if I’d consider that a benefit.)

Michael told Kristina that he wasn’t the perfect husband, but he loved Willow. He didn’t think they’d ever seen each other clearly and only showed the parts they wanted the other to see, not the dark parts. Kristina said, that would have been honest, and they’d have handled the dark parts, but Michael said Willow couldn’t have handled his.

Lulu told Rocco that Gio found out the truth because of her. She uncovered some information and thought his dad deserved to know the truth. She investigated and found out the baby was Gio. Rocco said Gio was living with them. He didn’t get why Brook kept it from them, and Lulu said she didn’t know what Brook knew. She’d struggled over the right thing to do, but he needed to understand that she respected adoption as well as Brook’s right to make her choice. She took issue with the lies. Gio was his half-brother, and his dad was an amazing father, so when she found out he was here in their lives, she couldn’t keep quiet anymore.

Sonny said he couldn’t tell Gio how to feel, but Dante was a good man and a great father. If Gio give him a chance, Dante would show him. Gio said Dante didn’t like him. He made that perfectly clear after Rocco’s alcohol poisoning. He wasn’t interested in having a relationship because of biology. Sonny said he understood Gio felt hurt, angry, and betrayed. It wasn’t the best state of mind to make decisions. Take his time and see how he felt. Figure it out then and make a decision to what he was open to or not. Gio said, Olivia lied. Did Sonny ever stop hating her for that? Sonny said he never hated her. He was angry and it took a long time to get past that, but loves her. At times he thought about how much time he missed with Dante, but he forgave her and didn’t regret it.

Gloria said she and Brook’s mother her did their best. Brook owed her beautiful life to Lois. Stop hating her and try thanking her. Brook said her child was in pain because they’d both misled him his entire life, but Gloria said they’d made a decision that wouldn’t destroy her life or Gio’s. Brook said they didn’t know what life she would have given Gio, or he would have given her.

Elizabeth asked, what would keep Kristina from trying to kill Ava again? and Lucky said it was a wake-up call, but Elizabeth wasn’t convinced. Why was it on him to cover for her? Her mother was a lawyer. Lucky said it was too late. He helped cover it up, which made him an accessory. She said, so if he went to the police, he’d be charged too, and Lucky said if she felt the need, he’d go, but she told him not to risk prison. It didn’t just affect them. They had to think of Aiden, Ric, Molly, and Alexis, who was still grieving the loss of Sam. She wasn’t sending one of Alexis’s remaining daughters to prison. Lucky said when he saw Lulu, he thought of how much he owed Sam. He thought that’s what drove him to protect Kristina in the first place and didn’t think she would try it again. Elizabeth said it would only harm more people who didn’t deserve to be hurt. She’d keep Kristina’s secret.

Suzanne told Alexis that she was sorry. She assumed Laura knew what happened at the Nurses Ball. Alexis said Suzanne’s knack of oversharing worked out this time. Mayor Collins had the right to know. There was a knock at the door and Marco said he needed to discuss the Dolos fund statement. Suzanne left and Alexis asked what they needed to address.

Michael said he made an error in judgement when it came to Willow. He’s sure she felt the same way. Kristina said it’s not like Drew would make her happy and Michael said he wouldn’t. She destroyed her life to be with him, so it had to seem worth it. He was more important than the children. Kristina said everyone tried to tell Willow and she claimed the children were happy, and he said, the truth was, Wiley and Amelia were no longer emotionally safe. He was going to take the children, no matter the cost to Willow.

Brook said she loved her Quartermaine family, but didn’t trust them. Not until now did she realize they were the family she wasn’t safe with. Gloria said that wasn’t fair or true. Brook’s mother loved her more than anything and every decision she made was to protect her and Gio. Gio wasn’t hurting because of them. That honor went to Lulu Spencer who was messing around in things that were none of her business. Brook said Lulu hated her, so she didn’t expect anything from Lulu. But if this is how they showed her love, she didn’t want any part of it. Lois said she knew Brook was angrier than she’d ever been, but please say she believed Lois loved her.  

Rocco asked if Lulu told Gio, but Lulu said, no. She thought Gio overheard a conversation between her and Lois. She was going to tell Rocco’s dad, but Gio went public before she could. Rocco asked if they wanted him to talk to Gio, and Dante said he appreciated that, but it was on him. He had to figure out where to start. He left.

Sonny told Gio that if he needed a place to stay, he was Gio’s grandfather, so his home was Gio’s home. Even if he wasn’t Gio’s grandfather, it would still be. If there was anything Gio needed, he was here. Gio thanked him, but said, whatever he did next, he’d do on his own for himself, and he left.

Michael said he put his kids in this situation, and it was his responsibility to get them out, and Kristina said she’d help any way she could. Michael said if there was no other option, he’d break Willow down to nothing to keep the kids away. She was going to see a Michael Corinthos she’d never seen before.  

Marco told Alexis that the company was brand new, incorporated in the Grand Keys and in existence less than a month. Their only asset was the 10 million dollars from the Cassadine estate. It had the makings of a shell company, and he wondered if they were dealing with a case of fraud. Alexis said there was no fraud and assured him that they’d been vetted, and he said he realized he was new, but he liked her and the firm. He’d seen set-ups like this before, and it looked like a set-up for money laundering. Was she sure it was good?

Lucky said he was sorry. He owed Elizabeth the truth. She said she was glad he was being honest, but why now? What changed? He said if they’re really doing this, he couldn’t lie to her. He wanted to be worth of her trust. she was the most important thing in the world to him. If she hadn’t survived the crash, he couldn’t have handled it. She said it would be nice when she got her cast off and could move on from all this, and he said that was all he wanted, kissing her cheek. She said, in some ways, they’d taken a horrible situation and made it surprisingly wonderful. Being under one roof was unexpected and part of her would miss this. He said they could still look forward to amazing things like the dinner he was making for her tonight. He went to the kitchen and Elizabeth moved her blanket, uncovering a ring box.

Rocco said he was sure Dante hated how hard it was on Gio, and Lulu said she thought he was right. She had some regrets too, but now she thought Gio needed to figure out how great it was to have Dante for a father. Rocco said he was a good guy. Gio had to see that. Lulu said she thought he would, and he’d see how great it was to have Rocco for a brother. They hugged, when Laura came to the door. She told Lulu that heard it was a very eventful Nurses Ball.

Dante showed up at Sonny’s, and Sonny said he just missed Gio. Dante said he didn’t just miss Gio. He missed 22 years with his kid. He guessed that was Brook’s fault.  

Brook said she believed Lois loved her and believed Lois thought she was doing the right thing, but it was wrong. Not at the Nurses Ball. Were they thinking about Gio, standing up on stage, all alone, smashing his violin? He left the room shattered with nowhere to go and no one to trust. Think about that and tell her that everything they did was for the best for Lois’s grandson. Lois cried and Gio walked in.

Tuesday:

The pool is open! Trina and Kai went to the pool and met Emma there. Emma said her AC went out coming back from Niagara Falls with Gio, and Trina asked where he was now. Emma said she dropped him off at Sonny’s.

Dante told Sonny that he had a hard time seeing Brook the same way and owed Sonny an apology. When he found out Sonny was his father, he didn’t welcome Sonny with open arms. Sonny said they’d gone past that and moved on, and Dante said his mother lied and he gave her the benefit of the doubt, but he was having a hard time doing the same with Brook. Sonny said Dante could be angry with who he wanted, but the important thing was he had a son who was hurting.

Gloria said, thank God Gio came home to his family, but Gio said he wasn’t home and none of them were family. He was grabbing his stuff and leaving.

Alexis wondered if Marco was asking if she was laundering money, but he said, no. He had experience in international banking law and if she found herself entangled or the investment not working out the way she planned or she got in trouble, he was here to help.

Diane gave Ric her witness list and said she’d offered Willow a generous settlement. Ric said he had a few tricks up his sleeve and saw Kristina on the witness list.

In the hallway, Michael told Kristina that he was ready for this to be over, and Jason told Carly to keep cool on the stand. Do what it took to get her grandchildren away from Willow, even if she had to be civil. Drew and Willow came in with Nina, and Willow said she was terrified. Drew said he was here for her and so was her mother, and Nina said, don’t worry. Everything would work out just fine.

Tracy arrived and told Drew, sorry. She was fresh out of ketamine. Willow and Drew went into the courtroom and Drew told Ric that he was counting on him to convince the judge that Michael was no altar boy.

Sasha worried that Ric knew about her and Michael, but Jason said, he didn’t. But if she was called to the stand, she was good under pressure.

Diane said they were about to start and everyone went in. Michael told Jason that they had a problem.

Nina said hi to Sasha, who barely looked at her.

Lois said Gio had every right to be angry, but Brook had nothing to do with this. Gio asked Brook if they’d made her give him up.  

Dante said Gio was reeling, and Sonny said Dante knew what it was like to meet his father as an adult and could relate. Dante said he had a lot of years to make up for, and Sonny said if he and Dante got past it, Dante and Gio could work their way to each other. Dante said he had to get to the courthouse. He was testifying on Michael’s behalf. Sonny told him to go help his brother for both of them, they hugged, and Dante left.

Diane said she wasn’t putting Jason on the stand. Ric would question him about the incendiary device and would say his proximity to Sonny posed a danger to Michael’s children. He wasn’t wrong. Jason said he still wanted to support Michael, but she told him to support Michael from a distance. She asked if Michael was okay, and Michael said, no, but she was right. She said, always, and Michael said he’d be right in. He thanked Jason for understanding. Even after what she’d done, he hated raking Willow over the coals. Jason said it wasn’t about Willow. It was about the kids, and he had to keep them away from Drew. Michael was a great father, and his kids needed him. Jason left and Michael went inside.

Alexis thanked Marco, but said there was nothing to be concerned about. Dolos wasn’t a shell company, and she was perfectly comfortable with the investment. He said if she changed her mind or the investment came under scrutiny, there were ways to mitigate her personal risk. She thanked him, when her phone rang, and he left. She asked what Ric wanted, and he told her to get to the courthouse now. She said she didn’t have a court date, but he said, Kristina did.

Ric said Diane had added Kristina to the witness list. If she testified, she’d most like tell the story about Willow using Michael’s torched body as a bargaining chip. Alexis said, if Willow was worried about that, she shouldn’t have done it in the first place, and he said, like if Kristina didn’t want to go to prison, she shouldn’t have cut his brake lines. Alexis wondered what Diane could ask Kristina that had to do with the divorce, and Ric said, maybe nothing, but she never knew what her daughter might say that would open up a line of questioning. They were starting, so whatever she wanted to do, do it fast.

Josslyn walked into the pool area and Emma glared at her.

Sidwell and Jordan came to the pool and met Dalton at a table. Sidwell introduced Jordan and told her that Dalton was doing cutting edge research at PCU. Jordan said Sidwell told her that he was about to change the world, and Dalton said that was the plan. Josslyn told Trina and Kai that she had to work, but would see them on her next day off. She went over to Dalton’s table and Emma said she was sashaying over like she owned the place and cozying up to Dalton. Trina said Josslyn was working for him, and Emma said Trina’s bestie sabotaged her and stole the job that was practically hers.

Brook told Gio that she had no idea she had a son, but no one made her give him up. She was a teenager and wanted him to have parents who could love and care for him without needing to grow up themselves. Gio thanked her for being honest and got that she didn’t want him, but she said knowing she couldn’t care for him wasn’t the same thing. Gio said she would have found a way, and Brook said it was the hardest thing she’d ever done and carried it with her every day. Lois said, Brook loved Gio enough to give him a better life, even if it meant never seeing him again.

Judge Haran came in and asked to hear from the plaintiff. Diane said her client was seeking full custody of his minor children. They were going to prove the children’s mother abdicated her parental responsibility, beginning with her actions during an extramarital affair with Michael’s uncle. They were offering a 5-million-dollar settlement. Ric said Willow couldn’t be bought. She was a devoted mother and was seeking full custody. The judge told Diane to call her first witness.

On the stand, Carly said she was present at the Quartermaine Christmas party where the video of Willow and Drew having sex in the children’s nursery played, and Diane asked, what happened after it was viewed? Carly said she realized Willow and Nina had left, so she went to the gatehouse where Michael and Willow were living. She found Willow and her mother attempting to remove the children without Michael’s knowledge. Michael showed up before they could sneak away. Diane asked if he stopped them from leaving, but Carly said, he did not. He wanted to avoid confrontation, and Willow was emotionally unaware of how her actions were impacting the children. They were upset, but Willow was only concerned about how the night’s events were affecting her. Diane asked if it was difficult for Michael to watch Willow leaving with the children, and Carly said, it was heartbreaking, but he understood their well-being came first. Diane asked about Willow accompanying Drew to his inauguration, and Carly said Wiley called her. They were spending the night in a hotel suite, and she didn’t think Willow was aware he’d called. He said she was in Uncle Drew’s room. Diane asked if Michael had authorized the children’s transport across state lines, and Carly said, absolutely not.

Josslyn told Dalton that she’d sent out his proposal, and he introduced her to Sidwell. Sidwell said she seemed familiar, and Jordan said she was Carly’s daughter. Dalton said Josslyn was his new assistant, and Sidwell invited her to join them. Josslyn sat down, and Sidwell asked how she enjoyed working with Dalton. She said she couldn’t wait to get into the lab, and Dalton said his screening process was rigorous. He had to find people he trusted. He’d learned that lesson the hard way.

Chase took the stand, and Diane asked if he’d collected Wiley and Amelia from their grandmother’s penthouse. He said they had a court order to do so, and Diane asked if the children were upset. Chase said, not at all. Wiley was especially eager to go home. Diane asked if he hadn’t once been married to Willow, and he said, yes. She asked if Willow had been faithful, and he said, it was complicated. Diane said, yes, or no? and he said, no, she wasn’t.

Jason went to Sonny’s and told him that Diane changed her mind about him taking the stand. Sonny said he hated that the only thing he could do for his son was stay away and the only thing he could do for his grandson was wait him out. Gio had come by earlier and was angry, but Sonny hoped he could make up with his family. Jason said Gio wanted nothing to do with the Quartermaines, and Sonny said, he was especially mad at Lois and Gloria. Jason said, so were the Quartermaines. They were furious and they weren’t the only ones.

Gio asked why he should believe anything they said, and Lois said maybe he shouldn’t. They’d lied to him for his entire life, and she was sorry for that. Gloria told her not to apologize and told Gio not to act like they did a terrible thing. He had a good home, and Camilla was a wonderful mother. She loved him with all her heart, and he loved her the same. He said, then why did she lie to him every day of his life? Even on her deathbed, she didn’t tell him. Lois said they’d spoken to her before she passed, and she’d agreed it would be too confusing to tell him the truth. Brook said, she agreed? Did they pressure a dying woman into keeping their secret?

Ric asked who Willow cheated with, and Chase said, Michael. Ric asked if Michael knew she was married to Chase, and Chase said, he did. Ric had nothing further, and Diane asked to redirect. Did Willow know she was married to him? Chase said, of course (🍷), but… Diane thanked him. The judge told him to step down, then called for a 10-minute recess.

Drew asked if Ric planned on fighting back or was he going to hand the children over to Michael. Ric said, so far, there had been a lot of pearl clutching, even from Michael’s own mother, about him letting Willow take the kids. There were no kidnapping charges filed, and Diane was retreading old territory while they had new and compelling evidence to offer.  

Alexis got to the courtroom and asked to borrow her daughter. In the hallway, she told Kristina that she was getting her out before Kristina got them both thrown in prison.

Dalton said Sidwell had been generous in his support, and Sidwell said Dalton’s research was going to benefit the whole world. Dalton said, if only everybody saw it that way.

Trina told Emma that Josslyn wouldn’t take a job she hadn’t earned, and Kai said Josslyn would be spending the summer in a lab while they hung out at the pool. He intended to make the most of his freedom before training. He asked if Trina wanted to join him and they went into the pool.  

Gloria said Brook should be ashamed to accuse them of such a thing. It was Camilla’s choice. Lois said she didn’t want to pass on and have Gio grieving and questioning his entire life. Camilla made her wishes clear. She didn’t want to die with Gio thinking she wasn’t his mother. Gloria said if Camilla had wanted to tell him, they would have worked things out, and Brook said she got why they didn’t tell him before Camilla died, but afterward, she could have helped him. They made sure she never got the chance.

Diane told Dante that he was up next. Then Kristina, Tracy, and Michael was last. Dante said, Kristina left with Alexis, and Diane said she was testifying that Willow kept Michael’s family from him while he was fighting for his life in the burn unit. Carly said Diane could put her back on the stand, but Diane said they needed to hear from someone close to Michael who could clearly convey what happened. Michael said he thought he knew who could do it.

Sidwell asked Dalton to tell Jordan about his research, and Dalton said he was devising a process to help generate clean energy. Josslyn’s phone rang, she said she had to take it, and left.  

Back at her office, Alexis told Kristina that she was sorry if her absence hurt the case, but there was no choice. Marco came in and said Diane was looking for Alexis. Why wasn’t Kristina in court? Kristina said she was going to tell Diane that it was too triggering, and she was getting flashbacks from the last time Ric shredded her. It was believable. She told Marco that she didn’t think they’d met and introduced herself as the family embarrassment.

Jason asked how much forgiveness Lois needed from Sonny, and Sonny said he didn’t condone what she’d done, but he stood by their friendship because it was Lois. Dante and Brook were spinning and Gio felt the people he trusted the most lied to him. When he was on stage and broke his violin, it broke Sonny’s heart. (Same.) That instrument was his life, and he destroyed it. Jason suggested Gio was taking out his anger out on himself, and Sonny said he knew what it was like and didn’t want it for his grandson.

Brook told Lois and Gloria that they kept saying they wanted to protect Gio, yet they left him without any parents at all. Get out. They weren’t welcome there anymore. Lois said she’d pack her stuff, but Brook said she’d have the staff do it and send it to Bensonhurst. She wanted them out of her sight right now. Lois and Gloria left, Lois giving Brook a long stare (that I couldn’t exactly read).

On the stand, Dante said Michael wasn’t the intended target of the incendiary device. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Diane said, nothing further, and Ric asked Dante to tell the court what this was, giving him a folder. Dante said it looked like Michael’s criminal record, and Ric asked him to read the flagged passage. Dante read that Michael was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and served time in Pentenville, and Ric said, nothing further. Diane asked for a redirect and asked Dante to please describe the surrounding circumstances. Dante said, Claudia Zacchara kidnapped Carly who was pregnant. By the time Michael found them, Carly had given birth to Josslyn. Claudia absconded with the baby and in stopping her, Michael accidentally killed her. So he went to prison for protecting his baby sister. Ric then asked, what was the weapon in question? and Dante said, an ax handle. Ric said, for the record, Michael was charged with involuntary manslaughter, not self-defense or justifiable homicide. He had nothing further.

Tracy was sworn in, and Carly got a text from Josslyn: Stay calm on the stand. Don’t lose your temper. Diane said Michael and Tracy had a publicly contentious relationship, yet she was a character witness. Why? Tracy said they had a contentious business relationship. Michael was the lynchpin of the Quartermaine family and was her late brother Alan and his wife Monica’s only biological grandson. He was the future of her family. Drew wanted everything Michael had, including his wife, who enthusiastically obliged. Ric objected and it was sustained.

Ric asked Tracy to explain her arrest, but Tracy asked, why? It was irrelevant. Judge Haran told her to answer the question, and Ric asked if Tracy was arrested for kidnapping Wiley and Amelia. Tracy said she was babysitting at Michael’s request. The children were restless, so she had her bodyguard Yuri take them for a drive. Ric asked if she was refusing to answer, and Tracy said it wasn’t about her. It was about Willow’s fitness as a parent. Willow professed to being the perfect mother, but she was so willing to let Drew use her children as a weapon against their family. Ric asked if she was charged with kidnapping, and the judge told her to answer. Tracy said, yes.  

Tracy left and Diane said she’d like to call Michael, when Josslyn walked in. Diane said, actually, she’d like to request a brief recess to confer with her witness, but Ric said she could prepare on her own time, not the court’s. Judge Haran said she was inclined to agree. Call her next witness or rest her case.

Sidwell said he had another engagement, but Jordan should stay and enjoy the sunshine. He left, and Jordan said she’d love to read more about Dalton’s work. He said he appreciated her interest, but his research was hush-hush, and she said that made her want to read it even more. Why the need for secrecy? He said, the simple answer was that he didn’t want his work subject to public scrutiny until it was complete.

Kai and Trina called for Emma to come in, and she got in the pool. Dalton looked at her and she looked back. (Again, hard to read. Is he a creeper? Is she annoyed?)

Marco said he was the new associate and had only heard good things about Kristina. He left and Alexis said they couldn’t risk Ric questioning her. Kristina wondered if this was how it was going to be. Ric would say jump and Alexis would ask, how high? Alexis said Kristina tried to kill someone and almost killed two people. She didn’t get to be picky about how Alexis covered it up.

Lois went to Sonny’s and said she and Gloria were heading back to Bensonhurst. Her daughter wanted nothing to do with her. Sonny said, she would, but Lois said they’d see about that. Sonny offered to talk to Brook on Lois’s behalf, but Lois said, don’t bother. She was worried about Gio. He had no one looking out for him. Sonny said he’d do everything he could for their grandson, and she said that was all she could ask. She thanked him and left.

Brook said she’d like it if Gio stayed. They could work through this. He said he got it. They were both lied to, but the fact was, none of them wanted him. The feeling was mutual. He walked out.

On the stand, Josslyn said, Willow used the status of Michael’s medical proxy to bar the family from him. He’d filed for divorce, so they were estranged. Michael needed to be surround by family, but it didn’t matter. Willow used Michael’s life-threatening medical condition to get what she wanted and ignored the impact on the family, putting her child’s father’s health in jeopardy. Diane asked where Drew was, and Josslyn said, next to Willow. Diane gave it over to Ric, who said, when Willow forbade the family from seeing Michael, was it after Josslyn’s mother ruthlessly stole the children from their home? Josslyn said, no, and Ric said she didn’t have her niece and nephew taken by her mother? Josslyn said she did, but they were staying with their grandmother. They weren’t removed from their home. Her mother had a court order, so a judge felt they shouldn’t be under Willow’s care. It was perfectly legal. Ric said Josslyn testified that Willow took drastic action after the family used the legal system to separate her from her children. Wouldn’t any mother do anything to fight for her children? Diane objected and said Josslyn wasn’t an expert in motherhood, and the judge said, sustained. Ric said Willow’s only desire was to be reunited with her children. Wasn’t that all she wanted? Carly whispered, don’t take the bait, and everyone waited.

Wednesday:

Anna thanked Jack for stopping by her office. It wasn’t about official police business, but entirely personal.

Emma got out of the pool and Gio gave her a towel. He said he’d been hired as a lifeguard, but was pitching in. He couldn’t stay with her and her grandmother forever. She asked if he’d gotten all the answers he needed.

Lucky directed Elizabeth, sans cast, to a gazebo where a beautiful table was set for dinner. She asked what the occasion was, and he said, her getting her cast off. He thought she’d appreciate a change of scenery and they had a lot to celebrate.

Sonny met Laura at a table by the pool, and she asked if it wasn’t the day of Michael’s hearing. He said he thought it was better if he stayed away. She congratulated him on his new grandson and said that’s why she wanted to meet. She was afraid it would have huge repercussions for the entire family.

Brook stormed into Lulu’s house and Lulu asked what she wanted. Brook said she wanted to know why Lulu blew her son’s life to hell.

Ric asked Josslyn if it wasn’t true that her sister-in-law only desired to be a good mother, but Josslyn said she didn’t know. They weren’t close. She did recall something Willow said at the Nurses Ball though. They were in the ladies’ room and Willow told her that nothing was more important than being with Drew.

Elizabeth said the cast kept her from doing the things she loved, like dancing with him, and Lucky took out his phone. She said, not here, but he said, why not? and put on music. They danced.

Gio told Emma that he’d gotten some answers from Sonny, who had no idea Gio was his grandson. He went back to the Quartermaines’ to get his stuff and ran into Brook, Lois, and Gloria. It was World War III. Lois confirmed that Brook didn’t know he was her son, but that didn’t change the fact that she didn’t want him. Emma said she was sorry, and he said he didn’t know what to believe. Aside from her, the only person he trusted was Sonny. He saw Sonny sitting with Laura and said, and now he wasn’t sure about that.

Laura said there was tension between Lulu and Dante, when Gio interrupted. He asked if Sonny was keeping tabs on him.

Brook said she’d had another ugly encounter with her son, and Lulu said she wasn’t the one who gave up Gio and lied to Dante. Brook said, but she was the one digging into things that were none of her business and was responsible for Gio finding out in the worst way possible. Lulu went at it with Lois backstage where anyone could overhear. Lulu said if she could change it, she would, but Gio was suffering because Brook’s mother perpetuated a huge lie. That wasn’t on her. Brook said she blamed her mother and grandmother, but Lulu couldn’t deny her part in it. She was no way off the hook.

Willow jumped up and said, that was out of context, and the judge told her to sit down and refrain from further outbursts. Ric asked if there was anything more, and Josslyn said it was fuzzy after that. Things escalated when Drew barged in the ladies’ room, threatened her, and told her to stay away from Willow. He said Michael would lose his kids. Ric had no further questions, and Diane called Michael Corinthos III to the stand.

Diane asked if Michael loved his wife and he said he did. She said he not only married her, but made her the adoptive mother to his biological son Wiley, so he must have held her in the highest esteem. He said he did, and she asked if that continued today. He said he was in love and thought it had blinded him to certain red flags. Willow grew up in a cult, Dawn of Day, and he thought she’d suffered from that upbringing more than he’d realized. Ric objected, saying it was speculation, but Diane said Michael had direct insight on his wife’s character. Judge Haran allowed it, and Diane asked him to elaborate. Michael said Willow was taught not to think for herself and to bend to the will of others. She did that with the cult leader Shiloh and was doing it now. She was willing to do whatever Drew wanted even to the detriment of her children. Diane asked for an example, and he said she was a very damaged person. Unless and until her issues were resolved, he didn’t believe she was capable of providing a safe and stable home for their children.

Dalton sat next to Emma and said it was nice to see her again.

Jack said he’d never heard of Dalton, and Anna said he was a world-renowned physicist working on a highly classified project in Port Charles. He was working at Northern Coastal in Berkeley up until a year ago in a secure restricted lab. A student group tried to break in and vandalize the lab, but security caught them before they did any damage. What he was working on was so classified, rather than risk exposure, they had the students sign an NDA and expelled them instead of pressing charges. Within the month, Dalton left Northern Coastal and wound up in Port Charles. Jack said, it could be innocuous, but Anna said it had the earmarks of someone avoiding scrutiny. Dalton specialized in cold fusion. He asked what she thought was going on, and she said her gut was telling her that he was working on something big and potentially dangerous.

Laura told Gio that she asked Sonny to meet her there. It was her idea. Gio apologized and said he was on overload. Sonny said everything was confusing and introduced Laura, saying she was Rocco’s grandmother. Laura said she’d been meaning to reach out and thank him for what he did for Rocco the night he had alcohol poisoning. He was a good friend. Gio said he wished he’d done more. Now he was Rocco’s half-brother. Laura said she was looking forward to getting to know him better, and Gio said he had to get back to work. He left, and Laura said, clearly, Gio was in pain. Sonny said he wished he could do more to help.

Brook said she’d asked Lulu to back off, but Lulu kept digging, even after she said it would hurt her son. Lulu said once she suspected Gio was Dante’s son, she couldn’t drop it, and Brook asked how she figured it out. Lulu said she got suspicious when Dante ripped into Gio after Rocco’s alcohol poisoning and Lois got over the top protective. Things fell into place, especially when she found out Camilla was never pregnant. Brook said she should have stayed out of it, and Lulu asked if Brook really didn’t want to know she was Gio’s mother.

Ric said Michael alleged that Willow was incapable of giving their children a safe and stable environment due to her upbringing, but they should look at Michael’s. He was raised by Sonny Corinthos, a well-known crime lord. Diane started to object, and Ric said, withdrawn. There was no denying that Michael grew up surrounded by violence. He was shot in the head as a child with a bullet meant for his father and Dante had testified that he was caught in a firebomb at the penthouse, which was why he’d been absent from his children’s lives. Even if he wasn’t the target, it didn’t seem like a safe and stable environment for children to grow up in.

Ric said it wasn’t the first time Michael had manipulated the legal system to exact revenge. He’d sued his own father for custody of his half-sister Avery. Ric wanted to revisit the topic of Claudia Zacchara. Involuntary manslaughter was a serious crime.

Elizabeth thanked Lucky for going to all this trouble, and he said he’d thought about this since they were kids. She said, a picnic in a gazebo? but he said it was just the setting for the main event. She asked, what main event? and he said, this, showing her the ring.

Jack asked how Anna knew about the break-in, and she said she did some digging. He said, because Emma was a student? and she said that’s why it was personal. She would involve herself, but he had more resources and latitude. She knew she was on to something. He said he thought it was more like she was being an overprotective grandmother and wondered if it was impairing her usually impeccable judgement.

Dalton said he knew Emma was upset at not getting the job and hoped she didn’t hold it against him, and she said she was sorry she took it badly. She’d been disappointed. He said he had no idea it meant so much to her, and she said she enjoyed his class. She was jealous that Josslyn got to work so closely with him. Vaughn watched them from a nearby table.

Sonny told Laura that he’d spoken to Gio, who wanted to know if he’d known the truth. He hadn’t and thought Gio believed him. He hoped they could keep building a solid relationship. Laura said she thought they could. Gio knew he could talk to Sonny. Sonny said Gio was upset with Dante and Brook, and Laura said she knew Dante had a terrible fight with Lulu. She expected there would be friction for a while. That’s why she thought it was important for both of them to keep an eye out for Rocco. She had the feeling he could use the extra support.

Brook asked if Lulu expected a thank you, and Lulu said she at least expected Brook to stop acting like it was the worst thing ever. Brook said it was up there, and Lulu wasn’t the heroine in the story. Lulu said she wasn’t the villain either, and Brook said, whatever she had to tell herself. Yes. She’d rather be in the dark and sparing Gio the pain. Lulu said Gio would have a family – a father, brother, and a mother again – but Brook said she didn’t know if that was true. Gio pushed them away, and based how furious he was, she didn’t think that was ever going to change.

Diane asked if Michael had contact with his children while he was recovering in Germany, and he said they spoke on the phone. She asked if Willow facilitated the calls, but he said his sister Kristina did. Diane asked if Willow made a concentrated effort to connect him with his children, but he said, no. She said, since the adultery was exposed, had Willow made every action to separate him from his children? and he said, yes. Diane said Willow transported them across state lines for a trip with Drew and he was not advised? and he said, yes, correct. She asked if he’d been advised that on April 14th, Willow signed and filed a document appointing Drew Cain as the children’s guardian in the event anything happened to her, and Michael said, no. She said, no further questions, and submitted photos of Congressman Drew Cain, the guardian of her client’s children, engaging in a frolic with a woman convicted multiple times for solicitation. She asked for the court’s attention on the monitor and showed proof of Willow’s adultery with her uncle-in-law in the children’s nursery playroom. The video played and she rested her case.

Ric said Nina had seen the footage before, and Nina said, at the Quartermaines’ Christmas party. He asked how it came about, and Nina said, Tracy accidentally played it from Michael’s phone. It was from an app. Michael had secretly installed a nanny-cam without her daughter’s knowledge. (Not sure how this applies, since it wasn’t like he would think that would happen.) Ric said it was odd that Michael knew and never said anything, and Nina said, at first, he kept it a secret from Willow. Ric asked if she agreed with what Carly said went down at the gatehouse, and Nina said they did want to leave, and Carly tried to stop them. But when Willow insisted the children needed be with their mother, Michael never put up a fight and gave her permission to take the children. He asked if the children were upset, but she said, not at all, and he asked if it was fair to say Willow loved her children and they loved her back. Nina said Willow was the best mother she’d ever seen. Her children adored her. In her opinion, Michael didn’t want custody. He was just angry and punishing Willow for falling out of love with him.

Diane asked when Nina last spoke with her son-in-law, and Nina said she tried to speak with him at the Nurses Ball, but he was too busy snatching her grandson. Diane said, just answer the question, and Nina said, not since before he went to the hospital. Diane said, the same night he filed for custody, so her opinion on his motives for wanting custody was just speculation, and Nina said, yes.

Felicia went to Anna’s office and asked if she was interested in a bite, but Anna said she’d lost her appetite. Jack was there and she asked him to investigate something she was suspicious of that involved Emma. He accused her of being over-protective. She asked Felicia to put on her P.I. hat. She’d give Felicia the facts and Felicia could tell her if that was the case.

On the phone, Vaughn said he was hanging by the pool… No problem. He’d come right over. He left.

Dalton asked what Emma’s plans for the summer were, but she said she hadn’t figured them out. She might take an internship with a cosmetics lab, but it wouldn’t be like working in his lab. Was there any chance they could meet met up sometime? She had so many questions about things they’d talked about in class. He said he’d be delighted. His door was always open.

Josslyn’s phone dinged and she told Carly that it was work. She left, and Ric asked Sasha her occupation. She said she’d been the cook at the Quartermaines’ for a little over a year. He asked if during that time she witnessed any interaction between Michael and Willow, and she said she had. She even babysat the kids. He asked her to describe their relationship, and she said there was nothing out of the ordinary until she saw Willow kiss Drew on the 4th of July last year. He asked how she felt, and she said she was stunned and felt bad for Michael. They were friends. He said they were once engaged. Was their romantic relationship sexual in nature? Diane said it was irrelevant, but Ric said it spoke of the nature of their relationship, and the judge told Ric to proceed with caution. Sasha said, during the course of their relationship, they had sex, and Ric asked when their relationship ended. She said, 2021, and he asked, when was the last time they had sex?

Vaughn said he had Dalton under surveillance, and Jack said they hit a major snag. As they suspected, Anna was on to Dalton and close to launching her own investigation. Vaughn said, that could spook Dalton and send him underground, and Jack said, or worse, he could halt his research. They didn’t want him selling it, but they did want the technology for themselves. Anna couldn’t get in their way.  

Felicia wondered how Emma would feel about Anna asking the WSB to look into her professor, and Anna said, Emma would tell her that she was overstepping. But she felt she was on to something. Felicia said, was she, or was she overcompensating because of Robin?

Dalton told Emma to let him know when she wanted to meet up, and she said she’d be in touch.

Laura said she was sure everything would be done to shield Rocco, and Sonny said he was a sensitive kid. He’d figure it out. Laura said she thought it was important that he knew he could talk to them. She thought they should present a united front to show the whole family wasn’t torn apart. Sonny said he thought Rocco had a wise grandma, when Boyle approached the table with his phone recording. He said it was their esteemed mayor with Public Enemy Number One. Smile for the camera. It was a livestream for the people of Port Charles.

Lulu said she was sure Gio would come around, but Brook said she wasn’t. It didn’t have to be this way and would have been different if Lulu had come to her and let her decide. Lulu said she thought Brook would keep lying, and Brook said Lulu made a huge life-changing decision for her and her kid. She should have respected Brook as a mother instead of trashing her entire life. Congratulations. Lulu always wanted to destroy her life and finally succeeded.

Ric asked, when was the last time Sasha and Michael had sex? and Sasha said she didn’t understand why he was asking. He said he thought she did, and Diane objected. Judge Haran told him to get to the point, and he asked if Sasha was at the Brown Dog Bar on October 30, 2024. She said, yes, and he asked what she did. She said, drink, and he asked, how many? She said she didn’t know. She was upset after finding out her boyfriend was her cousin. He said, when she left, was she alone? and she said it was none of his business. The judge told her to answer, and she said she left with someone. Ric asked who she left with and reminded her that she was under oath. She said she left with Michael.  

Vaughn suggested Josslyn get involved, but Jack said she was too green to go up against a former agent. Vaughn said he knew how to handle Devane.

Anna said she’d always regret not being there for Robin when Stone died and she was diagnosed with HIV, and Felicia said she didn’t have to be over-protective because of it. Anna said, what if both things were true? She over-compensated, but she also trusted her instincts and they were telling her Dalton was working on something illegal.

Gio asked, who was that guy? and Emma said her professor. Gio said, the physics guy, and she asked if he was still there. He said, yeah. Why? She took off her towel, revealing her bikini bottoms, and Dalton watched.

Lucky said he’d loved Elizabeth almost his entire life, since the first day they met. They had their had ups downs, and he knew they’d been through so much. It seemed like madness, but they’d also matured a lot – her more than him perhaps, but deep down, the connection was still there. He believed more than ever they could still have the life they’d envisioned since they were teenagers. He got down on one knee and said all he wanted was to spend the rest of his days with her and Aiden and her boys. So would she do him the honor of marrying him… again? She said she loved him so much, but the answer was no.

Sonny said he was in no mood, and Boyle said this was why when the people hit the polls, they should vote for Ezra Boyle for mayor and vote yes on Measure C. Laura asked if he was done, but Boyle said he had so much more. Gio walked by with a stack of towels and accidentally on purpose knocked him into the pool. Gio said he was so sorry. He hadn’t seen Boyle. Laura and Sonny laughed as Boyle flailed around in the pool, and Laura said she liked that grandson of Sonny’s. Sonny said, he’s a winner.

Lulu said it was unbelievable. She was just trying to do the right thing and Brook and Dante were thinking the worst of her. Brook said she was glad to hear Dante didn’t believe Lulu’s act, and Lulu said, at least they knew Gio was their son. How it played out was up to them. She was out. She started to walk away, but Brook asked if she thought it was going to be that easy. Lulu was going to blow up her life and walk away? If she did, she was in for a rude awakening. Brook walked out.

Ric said Sasha and Michael left the bar after consuming a lot of drinks. Did they have sexual relations that night? Unless she wanted her baby born in Spring Ridge, answer truthfully. Sasha said, yes. They left the bar and had sex, and he said, here they were, 9 months later. He understood she was claiming Jason Morgan was the father. Was that really true? Or is Michael Corinthos actually the father? Sasha said Ric was a disgusting creep. Yes. It was true. Michael was the father of her baby.

Thursday:

Lucky asked Elizabeth to marry him – again – and she said she loved him so much, but her answer was no. He asked if she meant no now or forever.

At the pool, Lucas met Marco with a Mai Tai, and they clinked glasses.

Maxie met Sonny at a poolside table and asked why he wanted to meet privately. He said he didn’t want Lucy’s spin on it and asked how badly Deception needed Sidwell. She said, right now, they needed Sidwell more than they needed him.

Curtis told Portia to relax, and she said they were sleeping in separate bedrooms. How was she supposed to relax? He said he didn’t want the family to figure out something was wrong and ask questions.

Kai and Trina arrived at her house, Kai bearing flowers.

Jason met Anna at the park, and she said she needed his help. He’d be helping Carly too.

Jack said, Josslyn saw Sidwell and Dalton together? and she said she’d seen on Dalton’s calendar that he had a meeting at the pool. It being Sidwell was just a lucky break, and she was asked to join them. Jack asked if she’d learned anything interesting, and she said Sidwell was sponsoring Dalton’s research.

Ric said, on October 30th, Sasha had sex with Michael which resulted in her pregnancy, and she said, yes. He said, on October 30th, the night before Willow and Drew made love (gag), but she said she wasn’t there. She had no idea. He said, to the best of her knowledge, as far as she knew, was Michael unfaithful first?

Elizabeth said told Lucky that she didn’t see a way of their lives fitting together, and Lucky said he’d disappeared before and didn’t blame her for thinking he wasn’t going to stick around for the long haul, but he knew he could, and he wanted to. She said she loved having him there, and he’d hold on to the ring and prove every day that he was in it for the long haul. She said she believed him, but he had to ask himself, would it really make him happy?

Trina said she hoped Drew would focus on someone else and get off Portia’s back for a while. The doorbell rang, and Trina opened the door to Marshall. He asked how his favorite granddaughter was, and they hugged.

Maxie said, Sonny’s investment kept Deception afloat at a crucial time, but they’d made the money back several times over. Their Youth Truth serum was going through the roof, and the more demand for the product, the more zincite they needed. Sonny asked if Sidwell was the only one who could access it, and she said if he knew someone else who was sitting on a pile of it, introduce her. She’d heard the stories, and wasn’t happy working with Sidwell, but right now they were making money because of him. Money she needed because her kids refused to stop growing and eating. So she was putting her misgivings aside until he gave her a reason not to. Natalia walked in, saw Marco, went to the bar, and ordered a vodka soda.

Jason asked what Carly had to do with it, and Anna said, the new professor at PCU, Henry Dalton, was doing extensive research. It looked above board, but she was concerned that it was more dangerous than he was letting on. She needed help to prove she was right. Jason said he didn’t see what that had to do with Carly, and she said, Dalton hired a new research assistant – Josslyn.

Josslyn asked if she should get close to Sidwell, but Jack said he’d take care of Sidwell. Concentrate on monitoring Dalton. What was inside this box would allow her to clone the contents of his phone. He also knew Anna was suspicious of Dalton. She said, because of Emma, and he said Anna was determined to go after him. She said they needed to find a way to discredit Emma so Anna would stop looking, and he said they couldn’t attract Anna’s attention to the Bureau and had to let it blow over.

Ric asked, how inebriated was Michael? but Sasha said he’d have to ask Michael. He asked if drugs were involved, and she said, absolutely not. He asked if Michael had cheated with other women, and Diane objected. He withdrew the question and said, her witness. Diane said, let’s talk timelines. Sasha testified that she’d witnessed Willow and Drew share a kiss on July 4th, 2024. In a subsequent conversation, did she tell Sasha about a second kiss in early September? Sasha said, yes, and Diane asked if Willow confessed the nature of her feelings. Sasha said Willow told her that she had feelings for Drew that she couldn’t control, and Diane said, let the record reflect both the kisses and Willow characterizing her feelings happened before October 30th. Judge Haran said, so noted, and Diane had nothing further. The judge told Sasha to step down, but Ric had a redirect and asked how much Michael paid her to hid the fact she was carrying his baby.

Natalia said she was glad she ran into Marco, and he introduced her to Lucas. She said, nice to meet him. She needed to talk to Marco alone. Lucas said he’d be at the bar, and left. Marco asked if she realized how incredibly rude she was, and she said she was sorry, but they had important family business to discuss. Allison still wasn’t returning her calls. Could he please ask her to return one text or call. She’d like to join Allison on tour, and they needed to discuss things. Marco said, despite his better judgement, he introduced her to Lucas, who was important to him. Instead of making an effort, she wanted him to convince his sister to bring her on tour. Natalia said stop making her the bad guy. Allison needed to stop her tantrum and realize she needed her.  

Maxie told Sonny that she needed to take care of something quick and went over to Lucas. She said, please tell her that complete snack wearing the hell out of that swimsuit was Marco. He said it was, and she said she needed details. He could start with what Marco and his mother were fighting about. They didn’t look happy. Natalia told Marco to let her explain, as Sonny watched them.

Marshall said it was good to see them, and Curtis said, Aunt Stella and TJ were sorry, but they had to work late. Marshall said he was sorry he wouldn’t be there long enough to them, but it was just a short stop over, then the tour was back on the road. Curtis said they loved him and were proud of him. He was touring with Wynton Marsalis. Trina introduced Kai to Marshall, and Kai said it was nice to finally meet him. Marshall said he’d enjoyed Kai’s games. He had impressive improv skills and Marshall was sorry his career got cut short. Kai said he was on his way back to playing. It was miraculous. He’d met some who made it their mission to get him on the field again.

Elizabeth said she fell in love so young. The feeling had never gone away, and she couldn’t imagine it ever would. Loving him meant she wanted his happiness as much as her own. He said, being with her made him happy, but she said it meant being in Port Charles, the same town, the same house, and the same routine. She knew it was too small of a place for him and the last thing she wanted was for him to live an unfulfilled life just to prove himself to her. Was Port Charles really where he wanted to be?

Sasha said, Michael didn’t pay… She doubled over and Ric asked if she was all right. She said she was fine, and he asked if Michael told her to keep their tryst a secret, but she said they both felt no one else needed to know. He asked, why? and she said because she worked for his family, loved her job, and didn’t want to jeopardize it. He asked what Michael’s reason was, and she said she couldn’t speak for him, but she knew he still loved Willow, even after he found out she’d kissed his uncle, so maybe that. He said, when she found out she was pregnant, did she tell Michael? and she said, yes. He asked if Michael instructed her to keep it secret, but she said, no. She was the one who insisted. Michael was willing to claim the child publicly, but she asked him not to. She knew what was coming for Michael and Willow and didn’t want her baby going through that. She wanted to protect her baby from a life where the people around them tear each other… She gasped in pain.

Lucky said he loved Elizabeth and wanted to be with her, but maybe she was right. Port Charles would always be important, but it wasn’t his home anymore. Being there full time wouldn’t fulfill him, at least right now. Elizabeth thanked him for being honest, and he said he’d give anything to be the kind of person who was content staying, but she said, if he was, he wouldn’t be the person she loved. He said it was unfair. They’d just found their way back to each other. She said it would be more unfair if she asked him to stay, and he suggested she leave with him instead. They could go see the world together.

Trina told Marshall about the day Josh came early and Kai was on his pain meds. He just kept petting her sweater and saying, fuzzy. They all laughed, and Kai said Josh was a great guy, but he couldn’t wait until he could play again and his part in the documentary was over. Trina said, or they could go out in public without someone following them asking questions. Marshall said it was both flattering and a chore, and Kai said, Congressman Cain was generous enough to arrange and pay for his surgery. He felt the documentary was the least he could do.  

Anna said Josslyn would be working closely with Dalton, and Jason said she needed to tell him everything she knew about the professor. Anna said she became suspicious when the Emma thing didn’t add up. Dalton taught at Emma’s previous university. She was arrested for protesting his research, but instead of charging the students, the university swept it under the rug. It was almost as if the school didn’t want to call attention to it. After that, Dalton turned up there at PCU. Jason said none of that told him that it was worth investigating, but she said, the fact that the WSB was looking into it should.

Marco said Ally had worked up the courage to tell Natalia who she really was, and Natalia pushed her aside, like she did him. Natalia said she was trying to be better, and she was better, but Marco said, not enough. In the years when he needed a mother, she wasn’t there. The best thing to do was leave Ally alone and stay away from him too.

Sasha said she thought she was in labor, and Rick suggested it was cheap theatrics. Michael yelled at him to back off and ran up to Sasha, and Judge Haran adjourned the court while the witness got medical attention. Michael promised Sasha that it would be okay, and she said it wasn’t supposed to happen for another month. She couldn’t lose the baby. It couldn’t be like Liam. He said it wouldn’t. They’d get her to the hospital on time. She said there was no time. The baby was coming now. Willow said, let her help.

Willow asked if Sasha was feeling pressure or the urge to push, and Michael asked if she thought she could make it to the hospital, but Sasha said she wasn’t going anywhere. The pain was too strong. He said the paramedics were on their way, but Willow said they wouldn’t be on time. Sasha’s water broke and her contractions were two minutes apart. The baby was coming any second.

Lucky said they could see the world together. Elizabeth was an amazing nurse. Think of the good they could do. Every day would be an adventure. (Packing now.) Elizabeth said, what about their son? and Lucky said he could come too. His parents bounced around. She said he was born into that life and didn’t know any different. Aiden had friends and family here. He had school and Tobias. He was graduating soon and would apply for college. She didn’t know if he wanted to be uprooted. He said, Aiden came first, but when he went to college, they were free and could go wherever they wanted. Elizabeth said it wasn’t just Aiden. She had a life here too, that she loved. She had friends and family and a career that she didn’t want to leave behind. It would make her as unhappy as he would be if he stayed.

Natalia said she knew she made a mistake and wanted to make it right if Marco would give her the chance, but Marco said he had. And she disappointed him every time. He was done thinking she was going to change and done with this conversation. Go get drunk somewhere else. She walked away and Sonny asked her to have a seat. She sat with him and said, when she tried to fix things with her kids, why did she make it worse? He said they were hurt. She needed to give them space. They’d come around when they were ready. She said Marco’s father was doing everything in his power to keep them apart, and Sonny said, Marco seemed like a smart guy. Sooner or later, he’d realize he needed his mommy. Natalia asked why Sonny was being so nice.

Jason asked how Anna knew the WSB was involved, and she said, Brennan. He said, Jack told her? and she said, he may as well have. When she told him her suspicions, he completely dismissed them out of hand. He said her judgement was clouded because of Emma. Jason asked if there was any chance he was right, and she said she was good at what she did. It didn’t behoove Jack to wave off her suspicions. He asked if she thought Jack was trying to throw her off, and she said she was certain of it. The fact that he said there was nothing there meant there was definitely something there. She had no idea about the WSB’s plan, but if it warranted their attention… He said, it’s got to be big, and she said, and therefore dangerous. Josslyn had no idea what she was being pulled into.

Jack said, in order to avoid Anna’s scrutiny, she needed to believe Josslyn was who she thought Josslyn was, and Josslyn said she was a hard-working college student with a job in a science lab. Josslyn said, if Anna asked any questions, she didn’t know what Anna was talking about. Jack said if Anna popped in the lab, Josslyn would be surprised. Under no circumstances was she to run interference. Was he clear?   

On the phone in the hallway, Carly said, what did they mean, the paramedics couldn’t get through?… There was a protest about Measure C? Tell them that a woman was having a baby and to come now.

Drew told Ric that he was nervous at first… Nina interrupted and said, what the hell was Ric doing? He said his job, and she said she gave him everything, even the contact information on the bartender who saw Sasha and Michael leave together. All he had to do was establish they’d had an affair. Carly stormed over and said, it was her. Nina was the reason Ric found out it was Michael’s baby.

Lucky said he fell in love with Elizabeth the moment he saw her sneaking a cigarette outside Kelly’s all those years ago, and he never stopped loving her. He’d always love her. She said she’d always love him. She wouldn’t be who she was today without him. They used to want the same things, but the people they grew into… He said, not so much.

Lucas asked what was with Marco’s mom, and Marco said, same as always. Lucas said he was sorry. If Marco wanted to talk, he was there. Natalia seemed upset. Marco asked if that was Lucas’s way of telling him that he was too hard on her.

Sonny said he’d been where Natalia was at with his son Michael. They were able to find their way back to each other and he thought her kids would do the same. She had to back off and let it happen. Maxie waved to him from the bar, and he said he had a meeting and asked her to think about what he said. She said, yeah, and thanked him. Sonny left, and she looked at Marco. She called Sidwell and said she was done letting him put her off. He owed her and she was coming over to collect. She drained her drink and left.

Portia said, Michael showed up? and Trina said she left out the part about Willow seeing Wiley running into Michael’s arms. It was quite an entrance and exit. He picked up Wiley and walked out. Portia said she was sorry she missed it, and Trina asked why they had to leave early. Portia said she told Trina. They both had work in the morning, plus her father had to phone some affiliates in Japan. But they were there for the most important part, Trina’s song.  

On the patio, Marshall said Kai seemed like a solid young man, and Curtis said he was and he treated Trina well. Marshall said that was all that mattered, but something Kai said had him worried, and Curtis said he thought positively about Drew. Marshall said they both new Drew Cain didn’t deserve his admiration, and Curtis said Drew had been good to Kai, but he hoped Drew didn’t turn on Kai the way Drew turned on him.

Willow said Sasha was doing great. She could do this. Sasha said she couldn’t lose another child, and Michael said the baby would be fine. From the information she’d sent him, he knew the baby was healthy and strong. She’d done everything right and she was going to come through the pregnancy. She was one of strongest people he’d met, and he knew she could do this one last thing. Willow said the baby was crowning. This was it. Take a deep breath and one last big push. Sasha pushed.

Carly said Sasha was Nina’s friend. How could Nina betray her like this? Drew said it happened because Carly insisted on a court date. Now Michael would know she betrayed him, and he’d lose custody of his children. Carly said he didn’t give a damn about Wiley and Amelia. He was helping Willow to hurt Michael. Nina said Carly was trying to take Willow’s children from her to hurt Willow, but Carly said she was protecting her grandchildren. Willow had lost all sense of decency and common sense to be with Drew. Drew said they loved each other and wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. He didn’t know why she couldn’t accept that. Carly said she wasn’t the only one who had a problem with him. She knew for a fact Nina was the one who hired Jacinda and had him drugged.  

Sasha wondered why the baby wasn’t crying. Please tell her the baby was okay. The baby began to cry, and Willow picked up the biggest preemie in history. She said, it’s a girl.  

Elizabeth asked if Lucky planned on leaving Port Charles soon, and he said, yeah. He knew it was sudden, but being here and knowing they couldn’t be together hurt too much. He should find Aiden and talk to him. He had no clue how to tell Aiden that he was leaving again. Elizabeth said she might have a thought.

Josslyn told Jack that if she saw Anna, she was her friendly neighborhood student assistant, and he said he’d take care of Devane. She asked what he was going to do, and he said he was just informing her. It was her job to concentrate on the mission and not question outside her purview.

Anna said she couldn’t be 100% certain her suspicions were correct, but Jason said, the fact that the WSB was interested pointed to her being right. Anna said, now Emma was going after Dalton. Emma denied it, but she knew and couldn’t allow her to get involved where she might get hurt. She needed to find out what Dalton was working on and what he intended to do with it. Jason said, and if Josslyn is in danger, and Anna said she couldn’t get directly involved. Dalton would know the WSB had eyes on him. She needed him to look into Dalton for her, but promise not to confront him directly. He said he’d take care of it.

Sonny thanked Maxie for the meeting, and she said she wanted to make sure he wasn’t offended. He said, no, but he thought they should be more careful. Sidwell knew when he invested in Deception that Sonny was an investor. He was positive Sidwell’s interest in Deception was actually an interest in him.

Lucas told Marco that his relationship with his mom had a lot of ups and downs, but they were both willing to work on their issues and got through it. It was hard to believe she was gone. They lost a lot of time fighting, but when they worked things out… Marco asked if it was Lucas’s subtle way of telling him not to cut his mother out, but Lucas said it wasn’t his place. He was just offering his own experience. Marco said he was glad Lucas did, and took his hand.

A police officer gave Natalia a breathalyzer test and said it was .12, way over the limit. Natalia said she felt fine, but the officer said she was under arrest for driving while intoxicated. She argued as he cuffed her and read her rights.

On the patio, Kai left to get Marshall a refill, and Trina said, so? Marshall said he seemed like a nice young man. Did he make her happy? She said, so happy, and he said that was all they needed to worry about. She said she missed him, and he said he missed her too. More than he could ever say.

Portia said she’d told Trina that she and Curtis left early because they had work in the morning and he had a call from affiliates in Japan, and he said she was good at making up stories these days. Portia said she was sick of it. The snide comments, the tension, and straight up anger he’d been throwing her way. He said, deal with it. They can’t figure out what to do about their marriage until he finds Jacinda and pays her off to say Drew hired her for sex then took ketamine on purpose. (He’s out of the loop.)

Willow gave the baby to Sasha and Sasha said she was so beautiful. Michael said she was amazing, and thanked Willow, who nodded. They all looked at the baby, and the paramedics came in with a gurney.  

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Marshall says he’s overjoyed at how happy Trina is with Kai, but Kai’s admiration for Drew Cain is a bit unsettling. Curtis says he doesn’t like it either, but he hopes Kai sees the truth about Drew. Marshall says he hopes it happens sooner rather than later.

Molly goes into the interrogation room and as she’s looking at a folder, she says she’s here to ask a few questions of… Miss Ramirez. A still drunk Natalia says she doesn’t appreciate being held like a common criminal. She holds up her cuffed wrists and says, look at this. It’s harassment because she knows Sonny Corinthos. Tell the police they’re not going to get away with it.

Jordan says, since the Nurses Ball, Sidwell has been well-received. She thinks he should donate to the July 4th celebration, keeping him in the spotlight as a philanthropist both corporately and as a citizen. He says he’d like to look into it, when Marco comes in. Marco says he doesn’t mean to interrupt, but Sidwell says, he’s not. They’re just wrapping up. Unless of course (🍷) … Jordan says she has one last question, about Henry Dalton.

Jason says he’ll get what he can on Henry Dalton and confirm the WSB’s interest in him, and Anna thanks him. He says he’ll be discrete, and she says she appreciates it. ADA Turner comes by and says, it’s a nice night for a stroll, but a curious place for a chat. Or did she interrupt a meeting?

In Sasha’s hospital room, Michael says, the baby is so beautiful, and Sasha says, the doctors say she’s perfect, even if she did come early. Sonny comes in and says he could have told her that. He and Michael hug, and he asks how Sasha feels. She says, better than ever, and Sonny says, congratulations to both of them. Michael introduces him to his new granddaughter Daisy, and Sonny says, hello, little one. Welcome to the world.

Carly and Felicia hug, and Felicia says, Bobbie would be so pleased. Another Spencer woman in the world who also happens to be a Scorpio. Carly says, Daisy has a flair for the unconventional, which means she’ll fit right in with in both families. She’s just thankful Daisy is healthy and safe. Felicia says she thinks the woman Carly should thank is Willow, and Carly turns to see Willow standing there.

Nina knocks on Drew’s door and says she knows he’s in there. He needs to listen to her. He opens the door and says, don’t waste her breath. It’s too late. Nina says, Willow knows? and he says, not yet, but the second she comes home, he’s telling her that her own mother set him up. She tried to destroy his life and reputation. She says, if he does that, they’ll both lose Willow. She guarantees it.

Curtis says he really missed Marshall, and Marshall says he missed his family too. He’s sorry Portia got called back to GH. He kind of got the feeling that she was using work as an excuse to get out of the house. Is there something Curtis wants to tell him?  

Molly says, according to the arresting officer’s report, Natalia blew a .12 on the breathalyzer. Then she grabbed the breathalyzer out of the officer’s hand. Natalia says she doesn’t want to cause any more trouble. This has taken so much of her time already. Just let her pay the fine or whatever. She wants to go. Can she go? Molly says she doubts that’s going to happen, but it’s up to whoever is prosecuting the case, and Natalia asks if she isn’t it. Molly says, normally she would be that, but she’s going to recuse herself because of personal bias. Otherwise, Natalia’s lawyer could claim she’s not impartial. Natalia says she doesn’t know Molly, but Molly says she knows Natalia, for the homophobe that disrespected her sister.

Sidwell tells Jordan, Henry Dalton has innovative ideas on forms of clean energy and he’s funding Dalton’s research. She says she thinks that would be more proof of him being a philanthropist, but he says, not yet. The research is promising, but he’d like to wait to highlight his involvement once it’s successful. Marco says he assumes this is part of Sidwell’s push to position himself as a legitimate alternative to Sonny Corinthos, and Sidwell says, maybe. Before Jordan goes, he’d like her to show Marco more of the latest polling. She says, the latest polls show that 62% of the voters want Sonny’s piers taken from him using imminent domain. That means Measure C is on track to pass. Marco says, that’s the last thing Sidwell wants.

Anna says, not that it’s any of Turner’s business, but she and Jason were discussing her granddaughter, Emma. Emma and Jason’s cousin Gio left the Nurses Ball together. She can understand their concern. She was there, wasn’t she? Turner says she was, and nothing brings you closer together than family. Jason asks if this is official or is he free to go, and Anna says she doesn’t know. Maybe Turner is going to arrest him for speaking to her or her for talking to him. Turner says, they’re both free to go, and Jason leaves. Turner says, Anna has to see how bad it looks meeting in secret. Even if nothing happened, the implication of impropriety is there. Anna is a public servant and needs to be aware of how she’s perceived. Anna says, suspicious minds will always find something wrong. There’s nothing she can do about that. Turner says, her behavior is compromising the public’s trust in the city of Port Charles and their leaders, and Anna says, save it for her stump speech. Turner asks how Anna knows, and Anna says she respects ambition. In Turner’s case, it’s the sheer volume. She’s obviously set her sights on being the new DA. Turner says, Port Charles needs newer, younger blood and a DA who actually lives in Port Charles and is doing their job. Anna says, Robert is a hard man to beat. She’s going to need more than mudslinging.

Curtis tells Marhsall that when he found out about Trina, he and Portia agreed that the only way they could continue their marriage was to be completely honest with each other. He just found out she’s been lying to him for months. Marshall asks if he’s talking about… Curtis says, she hasn’t been unfaithful. That’s all he thinks he wants to say right now. Marshall says he’s truly sorry, but something is different this time. Whatever happened, Curtis is still here. Curtis asks what he means, and Marshall says, he could have walked away, but he didn’t. Why not?

Nina says, if Drew tells Willow about Jacinda, she’ll tell Willow that while they were falling in love, he was also sleeping with her mother. She’ll turn her back on both of them and be completely alone at Michael’s mercy. Is that what he wants? He says he can’t see Willow forgiving either one of them, but he can’t believe Nina had him drugged and paraded around Port Charles. Nina says, no one made him go clubbing or take body shots off a sex worker, and technically speaking, she didn’t drug him. He asks how she could do this to Willow. Willow’s pain at being betrayed was horrible. What kind of mother would do that? She says, the kind desperately trying to save her daughter from him, but now she knows that’s impossible.

Carly says she owes Willow a huge thank you for coming to Sasha’s aid, and Willow says she’s glad she was there to help. She’s happy for Sasha and Michael, and Carly. Carly thanks her, and Willow says, hopefully this means no more fighting. The truth is out there, and the judge’s decision should be obvious now. Carly says her greatest hope is that her grandchildren, all her grandchildren, end up where they’re safe and loved. She leaves, and Felicia asks if Willow is good. Willow says, yeah, but Carly doesn’t understand. Now that Michael’s secret is out, Michael lost.

Michael says he’s sorry he didn’t see Sonny before this, but Sonny says he hears Michael’s been busy. Michael says he’s not the only one. Sonny’s seen two new grandchildren is just as many days. Gio, now Daisy. Sonny says, life is full of surprises and miracles, and he and Michael hug.

Nina says, Willow is completely in love with Drew and will believe anything he tells her. It’s cost her so much. She doesn’t want Willow to lose her kids too. Drew asks, how could she? It’s out there now on record that Michael cheated first and fathered another child. When the judge rules, they’ll finally be free to get out of Port Charles. Nina asks what he’s talking about, and he says they’re about to start a new life in DC, away from all this. Away from all his haters. She says she knows that’s what he wants, but what does Willow want?

Sasha tells Daisy that she’s been waiting for her all along. She loves Daisy so much. In a baby voice, Cody says, I love you too, mama, and comes in. He says he won’t stay. He wanted to make sure she was okay after her courtroom birth. Sasha says, she’s perfect, and he says, they both are. She thanks him and tells Daisy that this is her big old cousin Cody. He says, hey, Daisy. I have so much wisdom to pass on, tiny grasshopper. He tells Sasha that he guesses he has a few apologies to give to Jason, and she says, yeah, he does. Daisy was conceived on the night they broke up. She was at the Brown Dog Bar, and she was devastated. Michael was there. He says, at least something good came from their doomed romance. He’s glad she found her happily ever after. She thanks him and says she hopes he finds his too.

Natalia says, Molly’s sister forgave her, and Molly says, Kristina has a big heart. Now Natalia sees why she can’t be the prosecutor. Another ADA will come. Natalia asks, how long will that take? She didn’t even get her phone call, and someone has to take these off. She shows Molly the handcuffs again, and Molly says she’ll talk to the desk sergeant. Good luck. She leaves and Natalia says, thanks… for nothing.

Curtis tells Marshall that the knows Portia loves him and God knows he loves her too, but the lying hurts. It’s twice that he knows of and he doesn’t want to make the same mistakes he made with Jordan. Marshall asks what he means, and Curtis says he reached a boiling point. It was one lie too many and that was it. In retrospect, Jordan’s lies were work related. They were tied up around bringing Cyrus to justice. For him to ask her for answers just wasn’t fair. Marshall says, he was just trying to make it work, and Curtis says he was fighting for what they had. He quit and sometimes he thinks he gave up too soon. Marshall says, from the sound of things, maybe he should give Portia the second chance he didn’t give Jordan. Curtis says, maybe.

Michael says, Jason told him that there was another attempt on Sonny’s life, and Sonny says, yeah. Brick saved his life. He’s thinking the person behind it could be responsible for whoever bombed the penthouse. He hates that Michael was hurt because of it, and not for the first time. Michael paid a high price for being his son. Michael says he wouldn’t change it if he could. Nothing his kids could ever do would make him stop loving him and the same went for them. Sonny says, thank God, and Michael says, Sonny did everything in his power to protect him, but now he’s an adult and he’s protecting himself and his family. Sonny pats his shoulder.

Marco says, support for Measure C would be going against Sidwell’s own interests. If Sonny sold him the piers and Measure C passed, it would be his property that would be seized. Sidwell says, it won’t come to that. They’re using Measure C as a strategy to get rid of Sonny. Jordan says, so far the strategy is working, and Sidwell says, in passing Measure C, they’re using it to pressure Sonny into selling the piers. Once the piers are his, the voters wouldn’t care about Measure C. Sonny’s hold on Port Charles will be gone. Jordan says, on that note, good night, gentlemen, and she leaves. Marco says he hopes Sidwell has a Plan B, and Sidwell asks, why? Marco says, Sonny Corinthos isn’t the type of man to give up without fight.

Sonny tells Michael how Diane thought Michael would probably be better off if he stayed away from the hearing, and Michael said he knew. She’d said something to Jason. Sonny asked how it was going, and Michael said, honestly, he didn’t know. When his paternity came out, he thought his biggest nightmare came true, but when Sasha gave birth, he got to be there. It felt like a miracle. Sorry he didn’t tell the truth about the baby. Sonny says, as long as the baby is healthy and he and Sasha are on the same page, and Michael says he thinks they are. Sonny says, Drew has been pulling Willow’s strings, and Michael says, it pushed him to the point where he had to fight for Wiley and Amelia. Sonny says, maybe everybody coming together will bring them an opportunity. A smart man knows sometimes compromise is the only solution. And Michael is a very smart man.

Jason visits Sasha, and he says, the baby is beautiful. It looks just like her. Congratulations. She thanks him for everything he did for them. He took a lot of flak from a lot of people for nothing. The secret came out anyway. Jason says they did the best they could in the situation. The good news is she and Michael get to be Daisy’s parents. She wonders if she can ask one more favor. She’s had no time to run it by Michael, but she’s sure he’d agree. Would Jason be Daisy’s godfather? He says, it would be an honor, when Carly asks if she can come in.

Jordan tells Curtis that she’s sorry to just drop by. TJ told her that Marshall was in town and she wanted to say a quick hello. Curtis says, he would have loved that. Unfortunately, he had a late flight. She says she’s sorry she missed him, but please tell her that they had a good visit. He says, it was wonderful and it couldn’t have come at a better time. He needed his dad’s insights. She asks if Portia is there, and he says, no. She’s at GH. They’re both making a lot of excuses not to be alone together. She says she’s sorry, and he says, so is he. He doesn’t know what’s happening with his marriage.

An officer uncuffs Natalia and gives her phone to her, and she says, it’s about time. Privacy please. She makes a call.

Marco’s phone rings and Sidwell asks if he needs to get that, but he says, no. He’s already said all he needs to say to her.

Natalia says, voicemail. Perfect. She leaves a message saying she gets it. Things ended badly earlier at the MetroCourt, but she’s in real trouble. She needs him, so can he please come to the PCPD as soon as he can? Please, Marco. Please.

Molly goes to the pool and sees Cody with a beer, his feet in the water. He yells, Molly! Come join the celebration! Even she must be off the clock by now. She says she has to be… Why the hell not? and he says, a beer for the lady, but she says, actually, she’ll have white wine.

Turner tells Anna she’s not campaigning. Not yet. She’s doing her job. Two of the city’s top officials – the mayor and the Police Commissioner – have close personal ties to known criminals, Sonny Corinthos and Jason Morgan. Why not bring them up on charges? Anna says, give her evidence that will stick in court and she’ll arrest them immediately. Turner says, sounds good, but she’s read Mr. Morgan’s arrest record. All the times he was arrested, he never once saw a conviction. Anna says, that’s the DA’s department, not hers, and Turner says, the DA’s office is limited by the evidence collected, or lack thereof, by the PCPD. Anna says, goodnight, and leaves. Turner says, goodnight, and answers her phone. She says, really? They made an arrest… You know what? She’ll take care of it herself.

Sidwell asks if something happened between Marco and Natalia, but Marco says, just more of the same. She is who she is. He suggests they focus on Sonny. It’s not going to be easy dealing with him. He’s been running Port Charles for decades and stopped other hostile takeover attempts. Sidwell says he sees Marco has done his research, and Marco says, you bet. Sonny’s a heavy hitter. He should never be taken lightly. Sidwell says he’s also done his research. Marco’s friend Lucas is an extended member of Sonny’s family. Marco says, another reason he wants nothing to do with Sidwell’s campaign for getting Sonny out of town.

Nina says, Drew is the main reason Michael and Willow’s custody fight got so vicious so quickly, but now they have the opportunity to cool things down. So why doesn’t he step back a little bit and give Michael and Willow room to talk about a custody arrangement that doesn’t include ripping the family apart? If he advocates for that, Willow will give him all the credit. Drew says, Michael is a Quartermaine, and those people don’t stop until they have everything. So the only way to protect Willow is to convince her that Michael is relentless and not to be trusted. Willow needs to get custody of the kids. Otherwise, Michael will take them from her.

Willow sees Michael at the elevator and asks if he’s leaving. He says he’ll be right back. He’s picking up Wiley and Amelia so they can meet their baby sister. He gets in the elevator.

Jason says he’ll give them a minute, but Carly says, don’t go far. He says he’ll be right outside, and leaves. Sasha says, Michael knew everything, and Carly says she understands. She knows Sasha did everything she could to protect Michael’s baby. All she can ask is that they be honest with each other. Sasha thanks her, and Carly thanks Sasha back. She says, if Sasha and her daughter need anything, please ask her.  

On the phone, Drew asks if Willow is coming home soon, but she says she’s sticking around a little longer. Michael is bringing Wiley and Amelia and she’s hoping to see them. He says, don’t worry. Soon she’ll have full custody, and she’ll get to see them every day.

Cody says, get over here. The water’s great. Molly says she has a few more emails and she’s not messing up her suit. He asks if she can’t be the least bit spontaneous, consequences be damned, and she says she’s perfectly comfortable. Besides, the pool is closed. He says, that’s an easy fix. Just turn the sign over. Does she sleep in her business suit? Does she color code her underwear and organize her socks? She says, okay, okay. Fine. She’ll show him that she’s not uptight. She takes her shoes off and rolls up her pants. She sits next to him and puts her feet in the ware. She says, happy? and he says, elated.  

Turner tells the desk sergeant that she heard Natalia Ramirez was brought in this evening, and he says, she was. Is the acting DA taking DWI cases now? She says she’d like to see Natalia’s file, and he gives it to her. She flips through it and says she needs them to check on priors. She wants everything she can get her hands on about Natalia Ramirez.

Sidwell asks how it’s going with Lucas, and Marco says, they’re taking it slow. But he’s not unsure about the feeling that Lucas could be someone special. He doesn’t want to screw it up. Sidwell says he’s happy for Marco and Port Charles to have the both of them. Marco asks why he wants the piers, and Sidwell says, it’s the perfect place to expand his interests as a mineral importer, as well as his less public pursuits. Marco says he’s going to stop Sidwell there. He represents Sidwell in his legitimate business dealings only. That’s their agreement. He has nothing to do with anything illegal. Sidwell says he does business all over the world. What’s illegal in one place is legal in another. Marco says, Sidwell is a successful businessman many times over. Does he really need to push for more?

Curtis says he told Jordan at the Nurses Ball, Drew was pressuring Portia to have him run favorable coverage about what he’d doing. She asks if he found out what Drew has on Portia, and he says, it’s pretty bad. It could ruin Portia’s life. He saw all the signs, but didn’t want to believe Portia would lie to him to do Drew’s bidding. She says she’s sure Portia felt backed into a corner, and he says, the problem is even worse. The pictures of Drew’s mystery woman. Portia set him up. She hired Jacinda and gave her ketamine to give to Drew. Jordan says, wow. What a mess. Curtis says, after Trina, Portia promised him, no more lies. She broke her promise and chose to manipulate him instead of telling him the truth.  

Nina visits Sasha, who says, she just missed the star of the show. Nina says, that’s okay. She’ll go to the nursery and see her through the glass. She came to see if Sasha was okay. Sasha says she’s a bit tired, but so happy, and Nina says, good. She’s sorry for the way Ric went after her. She’s sure the shock of his harsh treatment probably led to Sasha’s premature labor. She never meant for anything to happen to Sasha or her baby. Sasha says, that’s on Ric, not Nina, and Nina says she wishes that were true. She was the one who told Ric that Sasha and Michael had sex.

Jason tells Carly that Michael asked him not to tell her. At first, he only knew they’d slept together, but when Michael asked for her in the burn ICU was when he put it all together. Carly says, what about the rumors he was the father? and he says he didn’t deny them because they were trying to protect Michael and Sasha. She says, that’s awfully noble. She has to know. For Michael, would he have continued to lie to her?

Sasha asks how Nina knew, and Nina says she just recently figured it out. She was in the Brown Dog Bar and the bartender confirmed it. Sasha says, and she ran to Ric. How could she do that? Nina says she hated doing. She’s sorry she exposed Sasha’s secret, but she couldn’t let Willow’s children be taken away. Sasha says she knows Nina loves Willow, but does she really think the children will be better off with Drew full time?

Jordan says she doesn’t believe Portia set out to lie. Fear is the driving force behind a lot of lies and bad decisions. Curtis says he realizes that, but they just want to keep how far apart they are from Trina, and she says, they can’t keep it from her indefinitely. Trina is too smart. Curtis says, she definitely is and will figure it out. Jordan says, the kindest thing for him and Portia to do for each other is not rush to judgment. Take a beat and look for a way to repair what’s broken instead of fixing his discomfort by ending the marriage. He says, easier said than done, but she says he’s the strongest man she knows. If he wants to save his marriage, he’ll find a way.  

Molly says, Cody told her that he was celebrating, and he says, Sasha had a baby. It was a little premature, otherwise, she’s perfect. She says she can definitely drink a toast to that, and he says, it was a big adjustment finding out Sasha was his cousin. He didn’t react well. She says, yeah. She thinks she remembers a few arrests. They laugh and he says he was feeling pretty miserable and sorry for himself. But seeing how happy Sasha is reminded him that sometimes things don’t you don’t expect to be happy turn out to be great.

At the hospital, Anna congratulates Sonny and says she guesses he and Robert are officially related. He should probably expect a box of cigars. He says, the big exploding kind? and she says, even enemies can find common ground. They have Robin and now they have the baby. He says, love is a powerful thing, and she says, it is. In the spirit of peaceful coexistence, she’d like to share a conversation she had with ADA Turner. She’s making it her mission to go after him. He says he’s aware. Many have tried. Anna says, Turner wants Robert’s job, and she doesn’t think Turner will rest until she puts him behind bars.

Wiley runs to Willow, and she says she’s happy to see him. She loves him so much. He tells her, daddy says they have a new baby sister. He’s taking them to meet her. Can mommy come too? Michael says, absolutely. Please join them.

Molly says she’s surprised Cody came here for a one-man celebration, and he asks if she means instead of a dive bar. Dive bars are more his speed. He guesses he was just feeling nostalgic. This was the spot where he first arrived in Port Charles. Actually, he parachuted in right here. He knocked Britt Westbourne into the pool. Molly says she remembers. There’s a GIF out there of Britt looking like a wet rat. He says that was his fault. It took her a while to forgive him. To Britt. They clink glasses. He says, it was three years ago. That’s a long time. Molly says, it’s not that long, and he says, before he lived here, he barely ever stayed in any place more than a few months at a time. This time he’s glad he stayed.

Sidwell says he understands what Marco is asking of him, but respects him too much to tell him what he wants to hear. Instead, he’ll be honest. He has no interest in changing the way he does business or lives his life. Marco asks what Sidwell is telling him, and Sidwell says, the offer for Marco to be his righthand man is still on the table.

Anna says, Turner wasn’t sharing anything, but she knows Turner is actively investigating Sonny, and Sonny says he appreciates the warning. ADA Turner can dig all she wants. He’s a law-abiding citizen and she ain’t going to find anything.

Turner goes to the interrogation room and Natalia asks if her son is here. He’s her lawyer. Turner says, not yet, and Natalia says, Turner can’t ask her anything without her lawyer present. Turner says, fine, and sits down. Why don’t they talk about Sonny Corinthos while they wait?

Jordan says she’s sure Curtis will figure out the right thing to do, and he says he appreciates her faith. He only knows for sure that Portia is completely vulnerable to Drew. He can’t decide what to do about his marriage until he knows she’s safe from Drew.

Jason says, it would have been difficult, and Carly says if she’d asked if Jason was the baby’s father, would he have lied to her? He says he’s glad she never did, and she wonders why Michael didn’t trust her enough to tell her. He says, Michael thought once she knew, she would be too exited and never be able to hide it, and she says she doesn’t know if she’s mad or grateful, but now that the truth is out that Michael cheated, Willow is convinced she’ll get full custody of the kids. He asks if she thinks Willow is right, and she says, yeah. She’s afraid Willow is right.

Nina said she couldn’t defend what Willow and Drew were doing, but she loved her daughter. As a mother, she had to tell Ric about Sasha and Michael. But she loves Sasha and she’s very sorry that what she did hurt her. Sasha says she’s too tired to fight or hold a grudge. She has her daughter now and that’s all that matters. She does feel sorry for Nina though. They both know Willow is making terrible choices and she’s going to keep making them as long as Drew’s in her life.

Michael and Willow look at the baby along with Wiley and Amelia. They smile at each other as Drew watches.

On Monday, Drew tells Portia that they’ve barely scratched the surface of what she can do; Lulu says she and Danny need to get a few things straight; Jason asks if Dante is threatening to charge Danny with manslaughter (again, no one died, so what the…?); and Sidwell wants to make a deal with Sonny to their mutual advantage.  

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Boo! Hiss! I’m not really into the romance on the show, but why is it every time I like a couple together, one of them leaves?

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/its-official-jonathan-jackson-is-leaving-general-hospital/

That whole thing was so powerful, from his violin performance to him smashing it.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/gh-exclusive-how-giovanni-mazza-brought-gios-pain-to-life/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

The OG Deck is back with Captain Kerry and Chief Stew Fraser. I will miss Captain Lee and Kate forever, but this is what we’ve got. Deckhand Kyle is also back, so turn on your closed captions. The other deckhands and stews were all new to the boat. The only stews that stood out to me were Rainbeau de Roos, whose name I would love to steal, and Solène Favreau, who seemed inept, harried, and not good at receiving correction. They were off to a great start, leaving the guests’ luggage at the dock, and the bosun saying too many things were happening. The first charter brought small children, and Fraser playing princess with the primary’s little daughters was precious. Primary Sam was not as precious, using a black light to comb his room and being super nit-picky with the food. After sending steaks back and having the chef making new dishes, he decided they didn’t want them. It didn’t look like anyone else got a vote, so good thing there were more courses. By the end of the episode, Chef Lawrence babbled at production and was ready to quit.

Meet the cast.

The Valley

I really feel badly for Brittany, the recipient of rage texts and failed party plans. She tried – the operative word being tried – to organize a nice trip to the beach, but apparently Jasmine had been storing up beef at Janet and let fly. Apparently, Janet is a sh*t ass friend, a vibe killer, exhausting, had sh*tty friends, and gave Karen energy. Now tell us how you really feel. Seriously, like Summer House, these people are too old for this. Hell, people ten years younger are too old for this.

Next Gen NYC

I already like this series a lot, but whenever a show is set in NYC, I wonder how much of my liking it is about loving the city. Poor Georgia, the only native New Yorker, is wondering why she suddenly feels like an alien when she gets questions like, who the f*** is Ben Affleck? and discovers that no one saw When Harry Met Sally. Riley Burress says she doesn’t know that show. Perhaps it reminds me of my early NYC days. If I’d the looks of a model, the money of a rock star, and an apartment that wasn’t a railroad flat with a triangular closet. Regardless, it was more fun than you can imagine, and I hope to relive a little of that with this group.

Meet the cast.

Summer House

In the Reunion Part 2, there was a lot of rehashing Lexi and Jesse’s on and off situationship. I was very much over this already, so I kind of tuned out. Not to mention how much I cringe everyone someone talks about Toegate. Oddly enough – or maybe not, since motherhood will mature you – Lindsay was the voice of reason, one of the cast calling her Mother Hubbard. Not so surprisingly, Kyle was an a-hole and did his best to steal her thunder. Gabby’s dress, if that’s what we’re calling it, continued to be distracting.

Random Reality Items

Because he got high.

Will make beds to stay there.

Slade Smiley! NOLA! Shannon’s vajayjay! Premieres July 10th.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Creep. Netflix. I thought this film was genius budget-wise. Two actors, one handheld camera, and no need for special effects, this could have been made for about 25 bucks, so kudos. It didn’t hurt that the story was original and pretty intriguing. A filmmaker takes a gig documenting a dying man’s story for his unborn son. It isn’t long before the filmmaker, and the audience, start to wonder if that’s what’s really going on. Well executed, with twists and turns, and an ending I never saw coming, which is saying a lot. This is kind of an old film, 2016, so there wasn’t a whole lot on it, but apparently, there’s a sequel.

https://www.fortressofsolitude.co.za/creep-netflix-horror-movie-mark-duplass/

Fear Street: Prom Queen. Netflix. Adapted from RL Stine’s book series, this is the third in a trilogy. Nothing new to see here and it’s been done better, but it was worth a quick trip to the 80s. There’s also something to be said for a movie you need absolutely no brain power to watch.

https://www.newjerseystage.com/articles2/2025/06/03/new-release-review-fear-street-prom-queen/

Sirens. Netflix. Julianne Moore is one of my favorite actresses. She is incredible in Boogie Nights, the Midnight Cowboy for the 90s. But I digress. I’ve only watched a couple of episodes so far, but I’ll be in for the rest. The bad sheep sister, who also takes care of a homebound, sick father, tries to rescue her younger sibling from what she believes is a cult. Funny, witty, and keeps you guessing.

Cold Case: The Tylenol Murders. Netflix. A three part docuseries on the obvious cold case. I really didn’t know a whole lot about it, especially what was most disturbing. James William Lewis who was tied to the murders, has never been tried.

https://decider.com/2025/05/27/cold-case-the-tylenol-murders-netflix-review/

Day of Reckoning. Amazon Prime. This was a weird film, and I could see why a lot of people didn’t like it, but I enjoyed it. Fifteen years after a load of weird monsters have devastated mankind, they’re back for the survivors. There’s never a concrete explanation as to why this is happening, or why people aren’t better prepared for their return. The plot has more holes than Swiss cheese, but I didn’t care. I loved the monsters. They were reminiscent of the old Ray Harryhausen effects, but a lot gorier. And they all can’t be Godzilla Minus One. I thought it was a good time.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5742568/

Some user reviews. A few spoilers here.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5742568/reviews/

🔮 Looking Forward To Watching…

The second part of Squid Game Season 6 premieres June 27th.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/squid-game-season-3-trailer

Season 7 of Stranger Things premieres November 26th, December 25th, and December 31st. Cute, huh?

https://www.eonline.com/news/1418123/stranger-things-final-season-premiere-date-revealed

https://deadline.com/2025/05/stranger-things-5-premiere-date-netflix-1236414933/

The Black Phone 2 is in theaters October 17th, and will eventually stream on Peacock. I honestly don’t know how I feel about this. The first one had such a perfect ending, I can’t fathom a sequel being as good. That doesn’t mean I won’t watch it though.

https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/the-black-phone-2-debuts-eerie-official-trailer-for-blumhouse-sequel

🐶 Snips, Snails, Puppy Dog Tales…

🏆 The Stanley Pup returns June 6th on TruTV, as well as on NHL Network on June 8th.

https://people.com/stanley-pup-dog-hockey-game-returns-how-to-watch-11749775

🐕 A dog-endorsed book.

https://people.com/the-dogist-elias-weiss-friedman-new-book-exclusive-11749240

🐩 The ray of sunshine that is Pilaf meets some new friends.

https://people.com/demi-moore-announces-she-and-her-tiny-dog-pilaf-are-caring-for-even-smaller-baby-ducks-11748457

🪅 Quotes of the Week

If you don’t have time to do it right, when will you have time to do it over?John Wooden

Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none. – William Shakespeare

A champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall.Serena Williams

Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth. – John F. Kennedy

I believe the most important single thing, beyond discipline and creativity, is daring to dare. – Dr. Maya Angelou

The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. – John Powell

Sometimes you make the right decision, and sometimes you have to make the decision right. – Dr. Phil McGraw

A mathematical formula for happiness: Reality divided by Expectations. There were two ways to be happy: improve your reality or lower your expectations.Jodi Picoult (I vote for lowering expectations.)

The border to eternity is never ahead of us. It runs parallel to life and can be crossed over at any moment by old and young. – Reinhard Bonnke

There’s plenty of time for finger pointing later. Let’s stay focused. – Joey Armstrong (Jon Lindstrom), Beyond the Gates

🎡 Are You Ready For the Summer…

Until next time, stay safe; stay being careful to watch out for rogue waves at the beach; and stay knowing that sometimes compromise is the only solution.

February 7, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Cyrus Finds a New Target, Soap Suds, This Week’s Reality, Weekend Watch, Rebirth, Coming Soon(ish), Nixed, Wins, Two Different Bowls, A Half-Dozen Quotes & Dust

Standard

What I Watched Today

(The whole GH enchilada & entertainment minutiae on Fridays)

General Hospital

Monday:

Laura told Jordan that Sidwell was charming and cordial and was going to be a big problem for her and the city. Elizabeth and Lucky discovered a Turning Woods patient who had dementia, but was otherwise healthy, had died of heart attack. Lulu said Dante owed her no explanations and he told her about Anna not letting him near Sam’s case.

Laura was worried about Lucky going after Sidwell and told Jordan that Anna thought Sidwell was behind the fire. At the Surf Lodge, Maxie gave Emma advice on living with Anna, but when Sasha came in, she told Emma to find another table. Alexis told Sonny that nothing helped, but pain helped fuel her rage of injustice over Sam’s death.

Trina asked for Curtis’s help in talking to Kai, and Kai told his friend/ teammate Quinn that he wouldn’t be coming back. Lulu apologized to Dante for what she did in Prague and for seeming ungrateful for Sam’s sacrifice. She said he could talk to her about anything. He said he felt badly about not being home much in the weeks before Sam died, and Lulu said it was because he’d been by her bedside. Laura told Lucky about Sidwell being in Port Charles, and Jordan told Isaiah. Emma eavesdropped on Maxie and Sasha. Maxie said some people thought Jason was Sasha’s baby daddy.

Kai asked Quinn to step up because he could lead. Brook met with Lois and said the last thing Dante needed was to find out he’d fathered a child in high school. She wondered if the child even knew they were adopted. Dante told Lulu about proposing to Sam. Sonny said he was there for Alexis, and they hugged.

Sasha wondered why people couldn’t just leave her alone to live her own damn life, and it was no one’s business but hers who the father was. Emma told Gio about what she’d overheard, and Quinn blamed Trina for splitting Kai’s focus. Curtis told Kai his story and said Kai had to live his. He was never going to know if he could fully recover unless he went through the process. Lulu said she was happy Dante had a love like Sam, and he said he didn’t blame her for anything.

Trina told Quinn to check himself. Looking for something to blame wasn’t going to help Kai, and maybe he was the one giving up. Kai said everything he’d planned for was gone and Curtis said Kai’s bravery against the defensive blitz told him who Kai was as a person, and it extended beyond the field. Laura asked what Alexis knew about Sidwell, who showed up at the MetroCourt. Jordan introduced herself and asked what brought him to Port Charles and what he planned to do there. Elizabeth asked Lucky what it was like to be Sidwell’s prisoner, and he said, it was hell.

Curtis suggested Kai accept help and Kai said he couldn’t face the disappointment of his family. Curtis said, focus on healing his body and mind, and Kai said Curtis had given him a lot to think about. Curtis left his number and Kai texted Trina to come by. Emma wanted to tell Anna that Jason was the baby’s dad and Gio had a bad feeling. Maxie said, the more Sasha stonewalled, the more people would talk, but Sasha said she owed no one any explanations. Laura filled Alexis in on Sidwell and said Anna had opened an investigation about Sam. Sidwell told Jordan that he was an importer of gems and rare earths. He knew how to find things of value. Lulu said she got why she couldn’t be the person Dante turned to right now, but if that changed, he knew where to find her.

Tuesday:

NuJack (Pfft! He looks like Nathan Lane and has no accent – very disappointing) and Carly took a private plane back to Port Charles. Anna called Josslyn into her office. Drew got busy with Willow after jumping the fence to get to the gatehouse, and he said nothing could keep him from seeing her. Cody continued to pay off his debt to Selina and she told him she had a proposition for him. Lucky told Elizabeth that he’d stopped Jason from killing Sidwell in Somalia, and Isaiah went to the MetroCourt and saw Sidwell with Jordan. He asked if Sidwell was back to kill him personally. Brook set up a table at the MetroCourt for a Deception meeting.

Sidwell said he and Isaiah had an unfortunate misunderstanding while working together, but Isaiah said, it was no misunderstanding, and Sidwell had sent someone to kill him in Port Charles. Jordan said Isaiah was interrupting and Isaiah told her about Lucky being held prisoner. Lucy came over, having sensed tension, and asked if they all couldn’t get along. Drew said he and Willow shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to see each other, and Willow said everyone was just biting their tongues, but she didn’t want to cause more pain. Selina said she was setting up a high stakes poker game and wanted Cody to play with house money. She would also cancel his remaining debt. He asked for a cut of the winnings and reminded her that Mac was his father. She said anything could be negotiated and his discretion would be honored. He said he’d think about it. Lucky told Elizabeth that Jason killing Sidwell would have been purely about revenge, and he didn’t want to carry that burden. Anna told Josslyn about Dex and Sam being murdered, and that Dex had listed only Josslyn as family. Josslyn asked if Anna said they suspected Cyrus. Collette called Jack on the plane and said there was something he needed to see when he got back.

Lucky told Elizabeth about the poker game and how it had unlocked something in Sidwell, who became fixated on beating him. He’d been infuriated that Isaiah escaped, and when Lucky lost, he would die. Anna told Josslyn that they didn’t have proof, but Portia had banned Cyrus from the hospital. She knew Josslyn wanted justice, but to get it, they’d need evidence. Willow told Drew that she wanted to make things work. The kids adored Monica and this was their home. She also still cared about Michael and thought this would help his recovery, but the toughest person to deal with had been Sasha. Even though she was pregnant by a random guy, Willow felt constantly judged. Drew left, but forgot his tie on the couch. Sasha met Felicia at the MetroCourt, and Isaiah told Jordan, whatever money Sidwell brought in was blood money. Jordan told him to handle the conflict on his own time. Lucy joined the Deception meeting, and Jordan asked what Isaiah’s issue was with Sidwell.

Sidwell said that Isaiah had been his personal physician, but didn’t like the conditions and departed. He wanted to buy Jordan dinner to make up for interruption, and she said, call her office. He left and she texted Isaiah to meet her. Brook told Tracy that Natalia and Sonny went to LA to handle financing. The sales had dropped because of Lois losing her accent. Drew went to see Selina and asked about her previous association with Curtis. He asked if she was a silent partner in the club. She said she could provide interesting insight, providing their exchange was mutually beneficial. Cody came back and asked if Drew got lost helping blind orphans, Seeing Drew there confirmed that Drew was exactly who Cody thought he was.

Lucky told Elizabeth it had been like his dad was guiding him during the poker game, and Elizabeth had helped him too. Josslyn told Anna that she’d volunteered at Turning Woods and Cyrus had everyone there fooled. Anna told her that she was interfering with the investigation and don’t go back. Carly visited Willow, bearing gifts for the kids from Germany. She told Willow that Michael started treatment and wanted the kids to know he loved them. He also wanted to thank Willow. Willow asked if Carly wanted tea and Carly said she did, but when Willow went to the kitchen, Carly found Drew’s tie sticking out of the couch cushion.  

Selina said it was none of Cody’s business, and Drew said he was addressing a constituent’s concern. Cody asked if Willow knew and said Drew and his brother were alike. Drew was sleeping with his nephew’s wife and Jason got Sasha pregnant. Selina told Cody to get out and had her bodyguard escort him.  

Collette showed Jack a cabin where Cyrus had been hiding out, but she hadn’t wanted to go inside without his authorization. Josslyn told Anna that she’d do whatever it took to stop Cyrus and get justice for Dex, but Anna said, the more Josslyn entangled herself in the investigation, the more likely Cyrus was to get away. They needed proof and he already knew he was being watched. If he found out, he’d cover his tracks. She told Josslyn to let the PCPD take it from there. Jordan met Isaiah at the Surf Lodge. He said Sidwell was dangerous and hired assassins to take out those who crossed him.

Lucky told Elizabeth that he’d been close to escaping, but guards caught him and worked him over. He thought it was the end, then he saw her, and she told him that he shouldn’t quit. He should get up off the floor and fight. Jordan said, it was like Sidwell’s crimes had never happened, and Isaiah said it was because he’d committed them in war torn regions where there were no laws. She said she was going to spend time with Sidwell and find evidence to put him away. She’d had experience going undercover and Sidwell was interested in her, so she’d take the opportunity. When Willow came back, Carly was gone, and so was Drew’s tie. Drew went to the MetroCourt to meet with Anna, who had a wish list from the PCPD for federal support. Drew said he’d be happy to suggest funding as long as organized crime was the top priority – i.e. arresting Sonny and Jason. Carly came in and called out Drew for leaving his tie while he was having sex with Michael’s wife.

Jack said they’d tail Cyrus, and Collette asked if he wasn’t curious about the cabin. She wanted to insure their special project wasn’t put at risk. He said it wasn’t their objective to catch a killer, but to see what action Josslyn would take if she found the cabin. Lucky said, Elizabeth had gotten him through a lot, and she said she was glad, but she couldn’t be anybody’s angel. He said he just needed her to be her. He told her about a song he’d heard on a jukebox in Mogadishu that reminded him of dancing with her at Luke’s. He played it on his phone, and they danced.

Isaiah said he thought Jordan liked the rush better than pushing papers, and she said she’d need his help. He’d have to stay away from her because Sidwell couldn’t know about their connection. He said, no way in hell was he staying clear of her. Their connection would also go undercover. Willow left a message for Michael, saying, the kids loved him and talked about him all the time. They couldn’t wait for him to get home.

To add insult to injury, Carly said she’d bought the tie for Drew and found it in the couch. He wanted to talk privately, but she said, no. His nephew was fighting for his life while Drew was sleeping with his wife on property he’d been banned from. She wanted everyone to know he was pathetic. He wasn’t half the man Jason was. Drew said the joke was on her. Jason had knocked up Sasha – the family cook. Wow. He’s outdone himself at being an ass on so many levels.

Wednesday:

Brad confronted Cyrus at the hospital. He said Cyrus was trying to convince the world he was a changed man, but was considered a danger to the patients. Josslyn convinced the custodian at Turning Woods to let her in Cyrus’s room. Willow told Nina about Carly disappearing on her. At the MetroCourt, Sasha told Drew to make a disaster of his own and Willow’s life, but leave her and her baby out of it.

Ric told Elizabeth that she was back to work immediately. Carly told Drew that he had no right to get involved with Sasha’s private life. Tracy said she was going to warn Willow that if it Drew showed up again, she’d be out on the street without her children, but Brook said she’d convince Willow to do what was best for everyone. Anna told Drew that it was inappropriate for him to influence a case against Sonny and Jason. Kristina wanted to wait to tell Danny that Sam was murdered, but Alexis said if he found out from someone else, they risked losing him. Cody told Molly that he was sorry to hear about Sam and that he and Sam were kindred spirits, and she took Danny to see Alexis. Cody told Dante that he should be there for Danny since Danny’s dad was worthless, when Sasha walked in.

Brook told Willow about what happened at the MetroCourt and asked what she was thinking. Lucy said she didn’t see it coming that Jason was Sasha’s baby daddy, but didn’t hate it. She loved spectacles when she wasn’t at the center of them. Drew asked to talk to Maxie. Lucky asked Ric to find out Cyrus’s parole terms and Elizabeth said it would be a personal favor to her, so he agreed – on the house. At the hospital, Lucas told Carly that Jack had been there as his patient and asked if she was dating him. She said, maybe, and he asked if she’d slept with him, but she said they hadn’t crossed that line yet. Valentin had tried to kill Jack, and she’d saved his life. Sasha asked where Cody got off telling everyone Jason was the father and Cody asked if he wasn’t. Josslyn searched Cyrus’s room and noticed a pressed flower in his Bible. The custodian came back, and she said she found what she was looking for.

Sasha said it was none of Cody’s business and asked where he got the idea. He said after seeing them at the boathouse, and she told him to let it go. Brook asked, why wave a red flag at Tracy? and Willow said this was her home, but it was an easy fix, and asked to move back in with Nina. Drew asked Maxie to share her opinion, and she said she felt sorry for Michael. She didn’t think it was cool for him to pull Sasha into the drama. He said he needed a mother’s advice. Lucy pumped Felicia for information, and Lulu asked Anna where Jack was. Lucas said Carly didn’t want to be with somebody who didn’t tell her the truth.

After Ric left, Lucky said, if they got specifics, he could find a way to get Cyrus busted, and Elizabeth said he meant frame Cyrus. Tracy said everything was Sasha’s call. She could fight and would with Tracy’s support. Brook told Willow to take a step back and that Drew was the problem. When she got involved with him, her life fell apart. Nina suggested Willow take some time alone to figure out the direction of her life. Drew asked Maxie to speak to a decorator about his new house. She said he sounded like a great dad, and she’d help him. Anna suggested Lulu call Jack’s office. Lulu said she already had with no luck, but she’d get Carly to intervene. She asked if Anna had heard anything about Charlotte.

Tracy said every woman had the right to live life on their own terms and she’d do her best to watch out for Sasha. Sasha needed to have a game plan. Nina said Willow could stay with her as long as she needed, but Brook said that wasn’t the agreement. Willow said she didn’t care. Anna said she didn’t know where Charlotte was and neither did the WSB. Lulu said Jack was lying because of some spy reason and a lot of people would be sorry when she got her daughter back. Carly said Jack wasn’t like Sonny, but Lucas told her to walk away while she could. It was Jack’s literal job to keep secrets, and she shouldn’t make the same mistake twice. Elizabeth said Cyrus needed to be stopped no matter what. If they had to frame him, so be it. Cyrus noticed his Bible had been touched and the pressed flower was moved.

Thursday:

Brad asked to leave early, and Portia said okay, but Curtis wondered what was up with that. Brad showed off his muscles, and Lucas said, whatever training program he was on was clearly working. Jack met with Josslyn at Bobbie’s, and she said that she was going to prove Cyrus killed Dex. Lois went to see Martin and told him that she really needed a lawyer. Willow told Nina that deep down, she knew Brook was right. She shouldn’t have been in the gatehouse with Drew. Alexis told Danny that the authorities believed his mom’s death wasn’t an accident.

Brook blamed herself for Willow leaving. Willow said when Drew left, all she could think about was Michael, and Nina said the accident robbed her of closure. She could now focus on her next steps. Then like a bad penny, Drew showed up. Portia told Curtis that Stella seemed to like Brad, so she was willing to give him a second chance, and Curtis thought it was time for him to have a chat with Brad. Josslyn told Jack about getting into Cyrus’s apartment, but not finding anything. He said that might indicate Cyrus had a second location. While Rocco listened in, Dante asked Chase who the person of interest was, but Chase wasn’t talking. Alexis told Danny that the police and hospital believed Sam was murdered.

Molly said, Sam wasn’t the only victim, but it was being kept quiet to not alert suspects. Chase made Dante promise not to do anything reckless and told him the suspect was Cyrus. Jack said, even the best criminal left a trail and evidence would surface, and Josslyn asked him not to tell her mom, when Carly and Lucas walked in. Gio told Brook not to blame herself for the actions of others. Tracy showed up and Brook told her it didn’t go as planned. Tracy said it was time to call the lawyers.

Curtis asked if Brad was still working with Selina, but Brad said they’d cut all ties. He would never do anything to jeopardize Portia and Terry’s faith in him. Carly and Jack shared a table, and he asked her not to tell Josslyn about them. Lois told Martin that Brook had a baby with Dante and she needed to make sure no one found out. Danny agreed Scout shouldn’t know about Sam being murdered and asked if his dad knew. Chase said, circumstantial evidence pointed to Cyrus, but Dante said it made no sense. Tracy interrupted and asked Chase and Dante to check for security flaws on the property, and Rocco snuck away. Nina said Drew had put Willow in a position to lose her children, and suggested he move to DC, but he said he’d take Willow and the kids with him. Nina said if he wanted a fight, she was ready to oblige.

Alexis said it wasn’t their job to get involved in the investigation. When Danny left, Alexis said she found it unsettling that he’d brought up his father. Lucas said it looked like Jack and Carly were getting close, and Josslyn said, as long as it wasn’t Sonny, she was on board. She asked if Lucas had ever heard of Austin Gatlin-Holt. Lois told Martin that the baby had been placed with a member of her extended family, but Brook didn’t know. (Is it Gio???) She asked if Brook could find out, when Tracy knocked at the door. She asked why Lois was there.

Stella told Curtis that she believed Brad had turned a corner. Brad asked if Curtis knew about their arrangement, but Portia said, no and don’t tell him. Josslyn said Austin had testified for Cyrus at his parole hearing, and Lucas told her to stay out of it. Lois told Tracy that she’d heard what happened with Willow and that was why she was seeing Martin. Martin said the deal wasn’t legally binding and the blame lay with Tracy. Lois suggested they leave. Brook told Chase and Dante that Willow moved out. Nina told Drew that Willow still cared about Michael and Willow told Drew it was a mistake for them to meet at the gatehouse. She was still processing the end of her marriage. Drew said it would be unfair to deny their feelings, but they were free to be together since it had been made public – if that’s what she wanted.

Willow said of course (🍷) she did. They kissed and Nina saw them. Alexis was worried that Jason would seek vengeance, and Kristina said, some people didn’t look at vengeance the way Alexis did. Rocco talked with Danny and told him that Cyrus was a suspect. When Carly took a call, Josslyn asked Jack to help her find out if Austin had leased or bought a place nearby. Nina called Carly and said they had to end a problem once and for all. After seeing Tracy to her car, Lois came back to see Martin again. He said there were two ways the truth could come out. If the child came of age and requested their birth certificate… Lois said there was no way they knew they were adopted, and he said, also, if Brook met with whoever handled the adoption and asked to meet her child. Lois said it would blow his world apart, and Martin asked if she was in contact with them. She said, Brook’s son was her grandson Gio. (Ha! I was right.)  

Friday’s Enchilada:

Lulu thanks Laura for meeting her at Bobbie’s and Laura says she’s always happy to meet her beautiful daughter, but what’s so urgent? Lulu says she met with Jack Brennan, and she has news, and Laura asks if Charlotte and Valentin have been found. Lulu says, no. Valentin surfaced briefly in Germany, but disappeared before they could track him. Jack wouldn’t give her any other details. Laura says, of course (🍷) not. It’s Jack and it’s classified. Lulu says she’s got to find Charlotte soon. She knows something bad will happen if she’s with Valentin. Laura says she’ll do what she can, but Lulu says, there may be another path she can follow.

Carly brings a folder to Lucas at the hospital because he left it at home, and he says he’s glad she didn’t come to him for dating advice. He sticks by his assessment that dating a spy is a bad proposition. She says she has more important things to deal with than taking the time to point out Lucas’s questionable taste in men. Nina called and wants to see her. She needs him to convince her that it’s not a good idea to work with Nina.

Nina gives Maxie two tickets to the NYC Winter Fashion Formal and tells her that she can take who she wants. Maxie asks what Nina wants, and Nina asks what she means. Maxie says, Nina only gives her stuff when she wants something, but Nina says, that’s not true. Maxie says, Nina gave her Chanel boots when she wanted Maxie to get a million Christmas gifts for Wiley, and Nina says, fine. She needs help. It might sound crazy, but she needs advice on how to convince Carly to work with her. Maxie asks what she wants to work on, and Nina says, breaking up Drew and Willow.

Willow tells Elizabeth, happy first day back, and hugs her. She says, the doctors and nurses missed her and every one of her patients asked about her. Elizabeth says, it feels good to be back and be missed more than she should admit. Portia joins them and welcomes Elizabeth back. Elizabeth says, it’s good to be back, and Portia asks to speak to her before her shift. Portia heads for her office and Elizabeth makes a face at Willow.

At the Grill, Sidwell thanks Drew for meeting him, even if he’s interrupting Drew’s breakfast. Drew says he’s happy for the company and to welcome a new constituent to Port Charles, and Sidwell says, this constituent doesn’t want to waste more of his time than necessary, so he’ll get to it. Drew may not know, but he imports rare gems from around the world. One of the reasons he chose Port Charles was the pending development of the esplanade. He asks what the status is on its progress, and Drew says, unfortunately, it’s being held off because of environmental concerns. Sidwell says, forgive him for being blunt, but did Sonny Corinthos have anything to do with the delay?

At a hospital in Los Angeles, Sonny says he doesn’t like waiting, and Natalia says, it shouldn’t be much longer. Sonny says he owes her for coming to California with him, and she says she was just thinking, how is Sonny going to pay her back?  

Jordan asks if Anna remembers the microdot recorders she bought for the department, and Anna says, they’ve used them successfully already. Jordan says she needs to borrow one, and Anna asks, who will be wearing the device? Jordan says she will.

In her office, Portia says, as Co-Chief of Staff, she wanted to apologize to Elizabeth for suspending her, and Elizabeth thanks her for saying that. She admits it was a relief, and Portia says she never believed Elizabeth would harm her patients. Elizabeth says she knows Portia had to follow protocol, and Portia says she did, but she hated it. As much as she’s not a fan of Ric’s, in watching him fight for Elizabeth, she never realized he was such a good lawyer. He didn’t give the hospital lawyer half a chance and she came to win. Elizabeth says she’s grateful for everything Ric’s done for her, and wonders if she’s allowed to ask the status of the hospital investigation. Portia says, Elizabeth can, but she doesn’t have any new information. Everything they had on the three, almost four, deaths was turned over to the police. It’s officially a criminal investigation. Elizabeth asks if she’s sure it was only three, and Portia says, they had the lab techs go over all the deaths in the last few months and didn’t find any others. Elizabeth says, that’s good to hear. Does Portia know if the police have a suspect? Portia says she hasn’t touched base with them, but prays they catch whoever is responsible, so they don’t destroy any more lives.

Nina says, it’s ridiculous for Drew to be sneaking in behind everyone’s backs, but Maxie says, Willow is an adult. Even if they think her choices are stupid, she has the right to make them. Besides, she doesn’t think Drew would do something to hurt her. Nina says, sorry. She didn’t realize Maxie was a fan of Drew’s. Maxie says, she’s neutral. She’s Switzerland. Nina asks how she can be when Drew’s over-the-top romantic gestures and horrible advice drive Willow to make disastrous decisions? Like moving out of the gatehouse and back in with her. Maxie says she thought Nina would be happy having Willow and the kids living with her, and Nina says, of course (🍷) she wants them with her, but if the entire Quartermaine security staff can’t keep Drew and Willow apart, how can she? Maxie says, she probably can’t, and Nina says, if Drew didn’t live in a hotel room, he’d probably have Willow and the kids move in with him, and that would be a disaster… What’s wrong? Maxie says she has the feeling Drew won’t be in the hotel much longer, and Nina says, because…? Maxie says, because he’s in escrow on a new house… and she told him that she would help him find a decorator. Nina says, Drew is buying a new house and Maxie is helping him with it?

Lucas asks why Carly is considering working with Nina, and Carly says, to break up Willow and Drew. Drew wants to keep Willow to himself, and his schemes are so obvious, even Nina noticed. Jason brokered a living arrangement with Willow and the Quartermaines, and Drew blew it up. He asks, how? and Carly says she visited Willow at the gatehouse and when Willow went to the kitchen, she saw a tie she’d given Drew sticking out of the couch. Part of the arrangement was that Drew wasn’t allowed on the property, and he snuck in like they were star-crossed lovers. Of course (🍷) she loudly confronted him in public at the MetroCourt. He says, of course (🍷). He guesses it didn’t go well. She says, it was a disaster, and Lucas says he can’t talk about being on the moral high ground. He lit into Willow at Christmas, and it was a disaster. Ava had to talk him down. She says, clearly, they’re people who act first and think later, and he says, maybe it’s time they learn from their mistakes.

Natalia asks if Sonny is worried about what the doctor is going to tell him, but Sonny says he tries not to think about it. He hopes it’s not serious, but right now he has to focus on finding who put the firebomb in the penthouse.

Lulu says, it occurred to her to search in a different way, and Laura says, how so? Lulu says she and Rocco were talking about how Charlotte loved riding, and she knows Valentin let Charlotte have a phone. So she started following popular equestrians on social media. It’s a longshot, but she might find a follower with an account that belongs to Charlotte. Laura says, so her focus has changed from where Valentin could be to where Charlotte would want to go, and Lulu says she’s also looking at the best stables and riding facilities in Europe. Valentin wants Charlotte to be happy, so maybe he’ll let her take lessons. Laura says, it sounds promising. She might get a real lead. Laura’s phone rings, and she says, tell her that she got a meeting with Congressman Quartermaine… Ugh. Okay… They’re saying they think he’s there now?… Good job. She thanks them and tells Lulu that she’s got to get to a very important meeting, but keep her in the loop. Lulu says she promises. Fingers crossed it works. Laura says she’s proud of Lulu. She’s smart. Good job. Lulu thanks her, and Laura leaves.

Elizabeth calls Nurse Gail at Turning Woods and thanks her for her help when she and Lucky were there. She hopes she didn’t get Gail in trouble with her boss. Gail says, not at all. Director Furner had no issue with it. Besides, she knows the head nurse at GH wouldn’t ask her a favor if it wasn’t important. Elizabeth says she knew Gail would understand, and Gail says, they’ll talk soon. Cyrus walks in and asks how Gail is. She says, fine, and himself? He says, the same. He was about to visit Mrs. Brown. How is she doing? Gail says, the same, and he says, the poor dear. He’s going to pray with her. Gail says she’s sorry, but he can’t see patients. Not until he talks to Director Furner.

Furner thanks Cyrus for his help and says, they’re grateful for the time he’s devoted to the patients, but feel its best he not visit them going forward. Cyrus says, the decision is sudden, and Furner says, there was a complaint lodged by Mayor Collins about him misrepresenting himself as Lulu Spencer’s medical proxy. Cyrus says he couldn’t help overhearing Nurse Gail talking to Elizabeth Baldwin earlier. Might she have influenced his ban? Furner says, all he knows is Miss Baldwin was here with Lulu’s brother Lucky, and they were upset about his access to Lulu. He was also informed that Cyrus has been barred from volunteering at GH. Cyrus says, it’s a big misunderstanding, but Furner says, that’s not what he heard. Cyrus says, from whom? He’d like to know who’s spreading these lies. Is the source Elizabeth Baldwin? Furner says, Turning Woods is a private facility, and they have the right to decide who they allow to see patients, but Cyrus says, the patients need him. He refuses to abandon them. Furner says, sorry. He’s afraid they’ll have to make do without him, and Cyrus leaves.

Lucas says, the reason he let Wiley go was to make peace and he knew Michael would be a great father, but when Willow took him away from Michael, he had to confront Willow. Carly says she understands that kind of anger. When she found the tie, she lost it. It was in the house Michael shared with Willow and the kids, and it was like a slap in the face. Drew was there having sex with Willow, and she felt she needed to speak up for him. Lucas says he gets it, but don’t do anything to give Drew an excuse to come swooping in like Willow’s knight in shining armor. Carly says she can’t stand that Willow thinks he’s her hero. She’s sure her confronting him just solidified their us against the world thing. He says, they need to stop making an already bad situation worse, and Carly asks what she should do about Nina. He says, if her goal is to stop escalating the conflict with Willow and Drew by working with Nina, do the opposite of that.

Maxie tells Nina that she’s jumping the gun. Drew hasn’t even purchased one piece of furniture yet. Nina says, she’s right. They still have time. Maxie needs to do what she needs to do to delay Drew moving in. Pretend she can’t find a decorator or distract him with terrible color swatches. It will give her time to come up with something to keep them apart. Maxie says she’s not going to be Nina’s underhanded minion on this one. She doesn’t like what Willow and Drew did because it hurt Michael, but they’re adults and they can do what they want, questionable choices and all. Nina says she’s not going to sit by and watch Drew take advantage of her vulnerable daughter, and Maxie asks if she’s doing it because she thinks Drew is bad for Willow or because Willow is now with the man Nina once wanted for herself?

Drew says, Sonny has no sway in the decision. It has to do with his constituents. Sidwell asks if Sonny Corinthos isn’t one of his constituents, and Drew says he could argue that Sonny is a resident, but his business doesn’t necessarily help make Port Charles better. Sidwell asks if he’s considered Pier 55 and the surrounding area as a new location, and Drew says, Sonny owns the building there and has a legal coffee company. Sidwell asks if that isn’t what Eminent Domain is for. (Don’t even get me started on that, Jenz.) Can’t the government claim land if it’s to help revitalize the city? Drew says he’s explored moving the location, but it costs money and time, and Sidwell says, as a future businessman and tenant, he’d be willing to make a large financial commitment if it solves the funding issue. Drew says he’ll keep it in mind, when Laura walks in. She says, just the man she was looking for, and Sidwell says, how nice to see her again.

Anna asks why Jordan wants to wear a wire, and she says she met Jenz Sidwell a few days ago. Anna says, lucky you, and Jordan says, Laura was talking to her about how dangerous he is and not long afterward, he walked into the MetroCourt, so she introduced herself. They talked, and she got the idea he was interested in her, interested in a way she could use to her advantage. Anna says she’s sure Sidwell is interested in Jordan, and Jordan says, apart from what Anna’s already told her, does she have any information that would be useful to get closer to him? Anna says she doesn’t and asks what outcome Jordan is looking for. Jordan says, no law enforcement agency can connect him to his crimes, and Anna says, unfortunately, that’s true. He’s clever and has resources. He was running a small army in Somalia. Jordan says she needs to figure out why he came to Port Charles and what he plans to do, and Anna says, no one has established a real reason. Jordan says, if she can get close… and Anna says, she’ll find a way to catch him.   

Nina says she had an ill-advised short-lived fling after getting caught up in the spell Drew wove over his admiring constituents. That’s all it was. Maxie says, so Nina is really over him, and Nina says, absolutely. 100%. She saw the terrible effect he’s had on Willow, and she’s done. Willow is kind, gentle, and sweet, but with Drew’s help, she’s made one bad decision after another. Drew has a talent of bringing out the worst in people. He did with her. Maxie says she never thought she’d hear Nina say that, and Nina says she should have listened to Maxie. It was a horrible idea, trying to distract Drew from Willow by sleeping with him. Maxie tells Nina that she hates to say I told you so, but Nina tells her, say it. Maxie says, it’s not as much fun when Nina agrees. There’s only one real reason Willow is so out of character and crazy. She’s in love with Drew. Nina says she keeps telling herself it’s infatuation or hero worship thing, but she thinks Maxie is right. It’s something deeper. Maxie says, in all fairness, they’re not in a position to judge what someone will do for a person they love. Nina did stupid stuff when she loved Sonny. How is it any different with Willow and Drew? Carly stands in the doorway.

Drew says, it’s nice to see Laura, and starts to introduce her to Sidwell, but Laura says, they’ve met before. Drew says he didn’t realize they knew each other, and Laura says, that must mean Sidwell didn’t tell Drew that he held her son captive and nearly killed him in Somalia. Drew says, is that true? and Sidwell says, once again, he has to point out that his version of events differs greatly. Laura says, her son has no reason to lie about the man Sidwell really is, and Sidwell says, a more sensitive person might react to the mayor making negative accusations in public with a defamation suit, which would be terribly costly to the city. Thankfully, they have cooler heads, don’t they? Laura says she hears the threat, and Drew suggests it might not be the time or place to discuss it. Sidwell says, nonsense. He’s sure if the mayor joins them, she’ll have plenty to add to their conversation. He’d love to show her that his goal is to contribute to her fair city.

Cyrus walks over to Lulu’s table at Bobbie’s and says, it’s truly a miracle to see her back on her feet. He knew she’d woken up, but to see it for himself fills him with great joy. His prayers have been answered. She says, God does work in mysterious ways, and he asks if she’s fully recovered. She says, nothing about her is any of his business, and he says he didn’t mean to upset her. He just came in for a bite to eat. She says she doesn’t care why he’s here. Her family has a restraining order against him, and if he takes one step closer, she’ll call the cops.

Carly says, Maxie poses a good question, and Maxie thanks her and says she thinks she’ll go now. Please don’t break anything. She leaves, and Nina says, Carly will probably think she’s a hypocrite and she wouldn’t blame her. Carly says she wants to sit for this, and Nina says, watching Drew bulldoze his way into Willow’s marriage was incredibly eye opening. Because it’s what she did to Carly with her marriage to Sonny. Carly says she never thought she’d hear Nina admit she did wrong, and Nina says she did. She can’t go back and change what’s done, but at the end of the day, she’s just a mother like Carly. And like Carly, she loves her child with everything she has. She can’t sit by and watch her daughter destroy her life for a man who’s not worthy of her.

Willow asks if Lucas needed a nurse, and he says he needs to order tests, and he’d appreciate it if she’d deliver the folders. And if they could rush the results, that would be great. She says she’ll see what she can do, and Lucas says, wait. He needs to say something. She says, if it’s about Drew or her relationship with the kids, she’d rather they keep things professional. He says, actually he wants to apologize for what he said the last time they saw each other. He had no business judging her choices or telling her how to live her life. He’s very sorry. She thanks him, and he says, if she or her kids need anything, he’s here for her. No strings attached. He promises. She says she appreciates that very much, and leaves.

Laura says, actually, she’d love to hear what they were discussing, and Drew says, in light of the environmental concerns, Mr. Sidwell proposed they relocate the esplanade to Pier 55. Sidwell says, transforming a blighted area to an esplanade full of shops, restaurants, and new housing developments would be beneficial to Port Charles. Laura says, if he has a proposal, submit it to her office. She’s sure he’s only concerned with what’s best for Port Charles. Drew says he’s looking forward to working toward that end, and she says, that’s part of the reason she voted for him. He says he’s thrilled to know he earned her vote. He’ll do everything in his power to justify her faith. She says, good, because he should know that she doesn’t believe a partnership with Sidwell is the solution to making Port Charles a better place. Sidwell mimes clutching his pearls, and she says, the drama, and leaves. (Sidwell is always a good time, but I want my husband Jack back.)

Anna says she never told Jordan the full extent of what happened when she and Jason were in Somalia to rescue Lucky. Jordan says she knows they barely got out alive, and Anna says, they were almost killed. It’s clear how dangerous Sidwell is, because she believes he’s behind the firebomb at Sonny’s apartment. Jordan says, so she believes Sidwell’s arrival in Port Charles so close to the attack on Sonny is too much of a coincidence not to mean something, and Anna says, exactly. Jordan says, Anna isn’t going to lecture her on how she’s no longer a cop and using a wire undercover isn’t in her job description as Deputy Mayor? Anna says, no. She’s giving Jordan the equipment. If she needs to go undercover to bring Sidwell down, Jordan has her full support. Anna leaves to get the recorder.

Natalia asks if Sonny is going to tell his kids, but he says, they’ve been through too much already. Kristina and Dante are still mourning Sam. Michael is in Germany fighting for his life. He doesn’t want to worry them. She says she understands, and Sonny says, if his business rivals hear about it, it will give them an invitation to come after him and his family. That can’t happen. The nurse says, the doctor is ready for Sonny, and Natalia asks if he wants her to go with him. He holds out his hand, she takes it, and they walk in together.

Maxie tells Willow that she needs help with her son, and Willow asks if he’s sick. Maxie says, no. He’s great, but he’s driving her nuts. He wants her to plan a playdate with Wiley. Willow says she would love that, and Wiley would too. She’ll check her schedule, and they’ll make it happen, Maxie says, it will get James off her back. Nina told her that Willow and the kids moved back in with her. How is Willow doing?

Carly says, the only reason she’s here is because Nina convinced Willow to let her and Sonny see Michael in the hospital. Nina says she thinks they need to work together to keep Willow and Drew apart, and Carly says, okay. Don’t get her wrong. She despises them as a couple, but she doesn’t see how tearing them apart will help. The damage is done. If they find out, Willow will never let them see the kids again. Nina says she thought about that, but thinks it’s a risk worth taking. If they do nothing, that’s a worse option. Carly says she’s not sure about that. She confronted Drew in public at the MetroCourt about how he snuck onto the Quartermaine property to see Willow. It didn’t go over well. Nina says, Willow moved back in with her. At least when Willow was at the Quartermaine’s, Drew didn’t have free reign. Now that Willow is back, she can’t keep them apart. She needs help. Carly asks if they won’t be making a bad situation worse, and Nina says, worse than Drew moving Willow and the kids in with him? How would Carly feel then?

Elizabeth tells Lucas that she talked to Portia about the investigation, but she never said anything about Cyrus. That means Lucas never said anything to Portia about Cyrus being a suspect. He says he didn’t, but Cyrus was banned from volunteering at Turning Woods, and Elizabeth says she did hear that. She was wondering if his name was off the suspect list. He says he doesn’t know, but he does know they want him caught. Some people have lost too much because of him. Elizabeth says, some more than others. She and Lucky are close to finding something that will prove him guilty.  

Lulu says, Cyrus is violating the restraining order. Stay away from her. Cyrus says, it pains him that her family jumped to terrible conclusions about him. This is all a misunderstanding that’s kept him from doing his good work at Turning Woods. She says, the place where he lied about having power over her medical care, and he says, she was alone, and he cared for her. She says, when she woke up, she didn’t hear him caring. She heard him talking to the doctor about transferring her to another state where she’d be far away from the people who love her and truly alone. He says, she’s confused, but for good reason. He’s not the man he used to be. She missed his transformation from his past circumstances. He wants only the best for her. She says she sees him clearly when she opened her eyes at Turning Woods. He’s the reason she had to run away while she was still weak and recovering. She knew she had to get away from him and his sick plan for her. Cyrus says he sat by her hospital bedside. He read the Bible to her and prayed for her. She has no concept of the devotion he showed her. No one has done for her what he has. Lulu starts digging in her bag for her phone and calls Anna’s office. She says she’d like to speak to the Commissioner. Her family has a restraining order on… She looks around and Cyrus is gone.

Natalia says, getting a pacemaker and on a medical regime is no small thing. Sonny needs to do this. Why put it off? Sonny says he needs to find who put the bomb in the penthouse. It’s all he can focus on right now. He doesn’t find out who’s responsible, his family isn’t safe. After that, he can focus better. She says she hopes he can do it in the next three months. She can come with him for support when he gets it done. He says he’d appreciate the company. It has to be done. She suggests they get out, and they leave. A guy in the waiting room follows and, in the hallway, he takes out his phone. It’s the man who tried to kill Isaiah at the hospital.

Nina says, Drew is in escrow for a new house and wants there to be enough room for Willow and the kids, and Carly says, no. Even if he did, that doesn’t mean he would ask Willow to move in already. Nina says she wouldn’t put it past him, but Carly says, no. Nina says, whether they like it or not they’re connected because they’re Wiley and Amelia’s grandparents and want what’s best for them. Michael is out of the country receiving medical treatment, so for now, Carly is his proxy. As much as she loves Willow, she’s not blind to how easily Willow was convinced to go along with Drew. Carly asks what she suggests, and Nina says, what if she told Carly that they could have access to Drew’s new house. It could be useful. So what does she think? Is she in or out? Will she help do whatever it takes to protect their grandchildren?

Willow says, Maxie is one of the only people to ask how she’s doing. She’s getting lectures on her relationship with Drew and Maxie isn’t judging. She didn’t realize until now how lonely it’s been. Maxie says, they’ll schedule a playdate, and the boys can run around while they catch up, and Willow says, it will be nice. Maxie asks, who’s place? and Willow says, Maxie’s. Nina’s isn’t the best play space for kids. Maxie says she hopes the kids exhaust themselves to the point where they pass out, and Willow says, it sounds amazing. She’s grateful having a place to stay, but she needs to look for her own place with a kid friendly backyard.

Sidwell says he has no control over how people choose to see him, but hopes Drew sees him as an ally. His phone rings and he says he should take it. Drew says he’s got to get going anyway. Sidwell has given him a lot to think about. Sidwell says, that’s all he can ask, and Drew leaves. Answering the phone, Sidwell says, so? The man at the doctor’s office says he followed Natalia to a medical office. The man who she’s with is seeing a cariologist. Sidwell asks, who would that be? and the man says, Sonny Corinthos. (Rut-roh.)

Lulu goes to Anna’s office and says, Anna’s not going to believe what she saw. Cyrus was at Bobbie’s and violated the restraining order by talking to her. Anna asks Lulu to tell her exactly what happened, and Lulu says, he claimed he was just there to get a bite to eat. She was told he was banned from volunteering at Turning Woods, and she told him to leave her alone, but he just kept talking. Anna asks what he said, and Lulu says, he told her that he spent a lot of time with her when she was in a coma. It really freaked her out. Then he said, no one has done for her what he has. What does he mean? What does that lunatic want from her?

Elizabeth tells Lucas, if they find irrefutable evidence against Cyrus, they’ll hand it over to the police. Until then, it’s important that as few people as possible know he’s a suspect. Lucas says, Cyrus already knows. Josslyn ran into him at the PCPD and accused him of killing Dex. Anna must be aware or at least suspicious about Dex’s death. Elizabeth says she knows it sounds easier said than done, but he needs to keep Josslyn away from Cyrus. If he feels cornered, he’ll get more dangerous. Cyrus walks into the hospital and sees Elizabeth talking to Lucas. He flashes back to finding the flower in the Bible moved and gives Elizabeth a nasty look.

On Monday, Kristina asks Ava where she thinks she’s going; Martin asks if Willow really wants a divorce; Jason asks why Tracy would believe anything Drew says; and Carly asks how far Nina is willing to go to get Drew out of the picture.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

I would never put down Chris McKenna’s acting skills, but he’s no Jack Brennan. If it was a matter of money, they should have given Charles Mesure whatever it took to keep him. And really, not even an accent? Come on. They could have done better here.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/gh-recast-shocker-mesure-out-mckenna-in-as-brennan

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/laura-wright-on-ghs-brennan-recast

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/chris-mckenna-opens-up-about-taking-over-as-brennan-on-gh

This is for the G’s and this is for the Hustlas.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/donnell-turner-on-snoop-dogg-guesting-on-gh

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck Down Under

I didn’t watch this since I’m Below Deck-ed out, but here you go.

Deck OG Kate parlays her Traitors money into real estate.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/kate-chastain-new-florida-house-exclusive-photos-interview-details

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Sutton asked Garcelle to go with her to Agusta to visit her mother, and Mauricio took Kyle to a shooting range. She cried because everything was different, and in her interview, she said she was grieving the loss of someone who was still here. Kyle joined Sutton and Garcelle, while Boz, Erika, and Dorit went to Kathy’s for dinner. Kathy called PK PJ which was pretty funny. Erika told Dorit that she had to be proactive. If she didn’t make decisions, life would make them for her. Everything Dorit had told them indicated that PK didn’t want her back.

The Real Housewives of New York City

While on break, Brynn told Jenna that everyone hated her, and she was afraid of everyone. Janna said she was apologizing but not acknowledging what she’d done. Rebacca joined the group, and Brynn said she didn’t share her real life the way the others did. Erin said Rebecca was the most self-involved human she’d ever met. The topic of Scientology was bandied about, and we flashed back to Brynn basically calling Rebecca a snake oil salesman. I don’t know what they have against Rebecca. I like her and I actually thought the prank was funny. For being New Yorkers, this is one sensitive bunch. The Brynn/Ubah situation was rehashed and it’s another drain I didn’t think had to be circled so hard. To quote Erin, it was f***ed up, but Brynn corrected herself pretty quickly. Ubah said she forgave Brynn, but they would never be what they were. Two seconds later though, they were hugging it out, so who knows? These girls hate and love each other in the same breath. If I had to pick a best dressed – they’re all beautiful, even Jenna in her robe, turban, and sunglasses – it would be Racquel. Andy said he hoped it was the first step forward. Yeah. Until next season.

Apparently, Rebecca has had enough.

Real Housewives of Salt Lake City

Britani joined the Reunion Part 3000. She’d been wearing the same dress as Angie, but graciously changed. She probably didn’t want to be included in a Who Wore It Better? list. She said she’d broken up with Jared, who sounds like a real piece of work. After their break-up, he’d gotten on social media and talked quite a bit of smack about the women. He called Bronwyn a low vibrational human being, whatever that means. Britani followed that topic with saying Bronwyn’s flying monkeys spread smack about her to her estranged daughters and Bronwyn had things to pay for.

Andy said he never thought he’d be talking about slut shaming at a Bat Mitzvah, and there was much ado (again) about Britani bringing the wine to Angie’s prayer meeting. I honestly thought it was more of a place and time thing, but I guess not. It was about the Mormon rule of not drinking alcohol. So then why does Angie say she stays pretty sober. (See below.) What does that mean? Just a glass of champagne at weddings? Just weed? So much is just overreaction. Bronwyn’s dog bite was revisited, and not only did she not sue over it – it was a rescue whose owner she knew in a dog park – she paid for the dog to be checked out. There had been a medical issue, and he was now healthy and living where he has room to run. Having dealt with this issue myself, not only do I commend Bronwyn, I suggest anyone who has an overly aggressive dog have it thoroughly checked out by a vet. End of PSA. There was a lot of talking over each other. At the end, they all said nice things about each other and toasted with Mary’s favorite, Miller High Life.

Southern Charm

Venita told Leva about JT having a girlfriend, and Leva said he was a jerk. Agreed. Craig wanted to be a farmer, but his community wouldn’t allow chickens, so he went for the next best thing – bees. FYI: Bee suits are white because dark colors remind bees of a bear. How anyone knows what bees are reminded of is beyond me, but I wouldn’t test that theory. They went to a bee ranch or whatever it’s called, and Craig was pumped. Paige was not as thrilled, but said, if he liked it, she loved it. They checked out the goats and Craig fantasized about living on a farm. Paige said she loved making up fake scenarios in her head – she was a girl – but she had a realistic streak and Craig was more sentimental. She told him that she was only 31, but he sometimes made her feel like she was 75. Yeah, she’s a New Yorker and not ready for waving from the porch in a rocking chair. I honestly think Paige just needs someone closer to home, although Craig might have moved if she’d stuck it out. Throughout the conversation, it really seemed like she was unhappy, but didn’t want to admit it. Shep was still insecure about Sienna and expressed concern in his interview that she was on a higher level than him. Aw, poor Shep. It must be tough being on the receiving end for once.

Patricia had the annual gentlemen’s dinner. Whitney’s hair looked like he’d stuck his finger in a light socket, and he didn’t find it amusing that Patricia had taken the car out with Shep when she hadn’t driven in 40 years. She told the guys that they were using Napoleonic china and Craig said he shouldn’t touch any of it. We flashed back to his previous mishaps, like spilling red wine on a white sofa. She suggested Craig propose, and in Patricia’s interview, she said, in her day, you met, dated, got engaged, and got married. With these guys, it seemed very murky, and they had a schedule with no end to things. The back broke on Whitney’s chair, and Patricia said they never had a dinner where a chair didn’t get broken. And no matter what theme she chose, the dinners turned into arguments, accusations, and breakage. Whitney said the overriding issue with Sienna was that Shep wasn’t rich enough, he was boring, and not famous enough. Ouch. Craig said it was like having dinner with your granddad who had no filter.

The JT plot thickens.

Aww! She’s ready to show her bump. As much as I’ve disliked Madison, I do like Brett, and they deserve some happy news.

Southern Hospitality

I tried to pay attention, but only a few things stood out. They went to Vegas for Maddi’s DJ gig and her face was on the side of a building, which both freaked her out and pumped her up. I’m not sure if it’s because of the cameras, but reality stars seem to get overexcited about hotel rooms. Like they’ve been living in huts and never seen one before. Except for Ramona (RHONY OG), who always complains. This group is obsessed with Will’s cheating and looks like there’s more crying from Emmy to come.

Random Reality

The two Lisas have spoken.

I really hope this works out for her. I loved It’s Complicated.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

I’m still losing myself in Lost, plus doing a Swedish I’m-Not-Dead-Yet house cleaning, so the only extra thing I watched was The Menu on Netflix. It was horror, it was humor, it was surprise after surprise. A group of wealthy diners is taken to a remote island to have a meal at one of the most exclusive restaurants on earth, paying $1200+ a person. Each course becomes increasingly odd, and the final course is a nightmare. It’s detailed – a text describing each course pops up on the side – and was like nothing I’d ever seen before.

In simple terms.

A review without spoilers.

https://www.purewow.com/entertainment/the-menu-netflix-review

The particulars.

https://www.netflix.com/tudum/articles/the-menu-release-date-news

Obviously major spoilers.

https://ew.com/the-menu-ending-explained-8783965

🦕 Can’t Wait To Watch…

I never care about the plotlines. I just come for the dinosaurs.

https://people.com/jurassic-world-rebirth-trailer-scarlett-johansson-8712343

🦥 Awaiting New Seasons…

Coming February 16th.

https://www.cbr.com/yellowjackets-season-3-release-date-and-delay-reason/

Coming in April.

https://ew.com/the-last-of-us-creators-set-stage-dense-episodes-season-2-exclusive-8783868

https://ew.com/the-last-of-us-season-2-premiere-month-2025-8769682

Remember them? Coming this spring.

https://undeadwalking.com/walking-dead-dead-city-season-2-features-the-return-characters-villainous-ways

No date set yet.

https://www.cbr.com/everything-we-know-about-walking-dead-daryl-dixon-season-3/

Coming never.

https://winteriscoming.net/agatha-all-along-won-t-get-a-second-season

🚫 Boo Hiss…

Mean parole officer. She should still host. I haven’t watched it in years – too busy streaming – but I’d watch that one.

https://ew.com/martha-stewart-reveals-snl-hosting-opportunity-was-nixed-by-parole-officer-8781521

🏆 For the Win…

The full Grammy winners list.

https://www.grammy.com/news/2025-grammys-nominations-full-winners-nominees-list

The best, worst, and WTF? moments. Note to Rolling Stone: Not everything has to be political. Maybe people are poliweary right now.

The fashion.

https://www.eonline.com/photos/37508/grammys-2025-red-carpet-fashion

🏈 Bring On the Bowl…

Who’s performing.

https://people.com/all-about-the-2025-super-bowl-performers-8784892

Breakout shark.

https://people.com/left-shark-from-katy-perry-super-bowl-halftime-reflects-on-performance-exclusive-8779782

The commercials.

https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/best-super-bowl-commercials-2025

🐕 A Bowl Of Puppies…

Everything you need to know.

https://people.com/everything-to-know-puppy-bowl-2025-8785179

Everything you need to know and more.

https://www.discovery.com/shows/puppy-bowl

☄️ Quotes of the Week

Happy accidents are real gifts, and they can open the door to a future that didn’t even exist. It’s kind of nice sometimes to set up something to encourage or allow happy accidents to happen. – David Lynch

If you want to succeed, double your failure rate. – Thomas Watson

You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. – C.S. Lewis

Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. – Dale Carnegie

Advice is like snow – the softer it falls, the longer it dwells upon, and the deeper it sinks into the mind. – Samuel Taylor Coleridge

You can roll manure in powdered sugar, but it still ain’t a jelly donut. – Berta (Conchata Ferrell), Two and a Half Men

🧉 Sticking To the Punchbowl…

Until next Friday, stay safe; stay remembering, it’s just a game (unless you bet money on it, then cry if you lose); and stay not acting first and thinking later.

September 17, 2024 – Alexis Is Arraigned, Soap Suds, Goodbye Dubai, VanderNew, Canceled Vows, Pieces Of Emmy, Watch These, Different Strokes & Skyline

Standard

What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts, recaps, and the whole GH enchilada on Fridays)

General Hospital

Trina meets Stella at the Surf Lodge, and Stella tells her about a secret menu for the nightclubbers, so they can restore themselves before crawling home. She suggests Trina memorize it for when she’s out all night, but Trina says, that’s not going to happen. Stella says, she might be surprised.

Nina discusses a catering job with Sasha, a fashion event for Drew’s campaign with high dollar donors. She’ll pay for the staff to help. Sasha says, Tracy is unhappy with her right now, and she thinks she should keep her head down and be available for the family. Nina says, Drew is a Quartermaine, and she thinks he’s going to make a fantastic congressman. Sasha says, Nina has turned into an ardent supporter, and Nina says, Drew has made quite an impression on her.

Willow is doing yoga outside the boathouse, when a shirtless Drew comes by. She almost falls, and he catches her. (Please.)

Michael lets Sam into his office, and asks, what brings her by? She says, their sister Kristina, and he says, what about? Sam asks him to tell her Kristina’s whereabouts and actions the night John was killed, but he says he wasn’t with her. Why would Sam think he knows? She says, because they’ve been joined at the hip since Cates’s murder, and he says, she’s been struggling. Sam says she thinks he knows what Kristina’s been struggling with. Did she kill Cates? he says, of course (🍷) not, and she says he seems pretty sure. Is that because he knows who did?

On the phone, Sonny says, Alexis needs help and whatever it costs, he’ll pay it. There’s a knock at the door, and he tells them to just take care of the situation. He opens the door to Molly, and says he’ll call back. He invites her in and asks if it’s an official visit or personal. She says, her mother is being arraigned today, and he says he knows. He’s going there to support her. Molly says, that’s absolutely the worst thing he could do.

Kristina comes into the interrogation room, and Alexis asks what she’s doing here. They hug, and Kristina says she’s sorry. Alexis says she’s fine, but Kristina says, nothing about this is fine. Alexis asks again why Kristina is here, and Kristina says she’s going to do what she should have done when they brought Alexis in. She’s going to confess.

Molly says, if Sonny is in the courtroom, he’ll tank Alexis by association. He says he’s going to pay her bail, but Molly says, that’s not necessary. He says he knows he’s not her favorite person, and he and Alexis have had their ups and downs, but they come together when it comes to Kristina. They both want to be there for her. Molly says, this is for her mother, and he says, Kristina needs to see that her father shows up for her mother. Molly says, it’s not about Kristina. It’s about their mother.

Alexis asks what Kristina has to confess, and Kristina says, she got home, and when Alexis went to the kitchen, she took Alexis’s keys and took her car. Then she went to her dad’s and got his gun. She’d overheard John telling Anna that he was going to the Quartermaines, and she went to kill him. She pulled into the driveway and sat. She couldn’t get herself out of the car. She couldn’t do it, so she went to Adela’s grave. Alexis knows the rest. She wishes Alexis hadn’t found the gun, but if she tells the police, they can retrace her movements. Alexis says, she can’t do that, but Kristina says, it will let Alexis off the hook. Alexis tells her, it will do the opposite. It will make her look guiltier.

Nina tells Sasha that she admits Drew surprised her. She thinks he’d be great and thinks he can actually win this. Sasha says, with Nina in his corner, she doesn’t see how he can’t, and Nina says, Sasha can make up and amazing menu and supervise the catering. If Tracy has a hard time with it, she’ll talk to her, or Tracy can take it up with Drew. He’ll convince her. He can charm the pants off of anyone. (Interesting choice of words.) Sasha says, they’ve really come far, but Nina says, not far enough.

Willow says, the yoga centers her before work, and Drew asks, how’s it going? She says she’s busy, good busy. She loves being back at the hospital. Then there was the back-to-school flurry, which is thankfully over. She should get going. She drops her water bottle, and when Drew reaches for it, she says she’s got it. She retrieves her bottle and jets.

Michael says he’s not a cop and doesn’t know any more than anyone else, but Sam says she’s been putting the pieces together. Kristina had a messy night. Cates charged her in the death of her own child, and she was a wreck, emotionally driven with the potential to be unstable. And she was probably mad as hell. He knows how impulsive she is, and she’s worried their mother is protecting her, so she framed herself for a murder she didn’t commit. Michael asks if anyone would believe Alexis would kill someone, and Sam says, the evidence has been piling up and a lot of convictions are based on circumstantial evidence. The one way to free Alexis is to find the person who killed Cates and bring them forward. Michael says he just found body, and she says, they both know Sonny killed Cates or paid for it. Which one is it?

Stella says, it’s clear Trina has an eye for art and the passion to go with it, and Trina says, it’s coming back. Stella says, don’t let it blind her to the bigger picture. Her appreciation for art is impressive and she’s great at sales, but she can’t live her life in the gallery. She needs to get her butt back to school.

Sasha asks if Nina and Drew are seeing each other on the downlow, but Nina says, it’s not about romance. They’re focusing on the campaign. Sasha says, all those long hours into the night? Nina is invested. Nina says she’s dedicated to getting him elected, but Sasha says, there’s more to it, isn’t there? Nina says she feels they could definitely pick things up after Drew wins. Willow hears them from outside on the patio.

Michael tells Sam that Sonny wouldn’t discuss that with him. Her mother is an exceptional attorney. Outside of Diane, there’s no one better, and she’s innocent. Cates hasn’t been dead long, and evidence will surface. If the gun is still in the water, the police will do a ballistics check. She says, they haven’t found it, and he says, they need the gun to prove their case. Trying to track down the guilty party isn’t the way to go. They need to find evidence that clears Alexis. Everything else is a waste of time.

Sonny says he knows what Alexis is facing, and Molly says, then focus on her. Sonny says, the truth can’t change the fact that Kristina went through something horrible. He needs to be there to support his child. She says, Alexis is not his child, and his support drove Kristina all the way to Ava’s suite.

Alexis says, it will look like Kristina is crafting a story to cover for her, but Kristina says she can’t let Alexis take the risk. If they come forward together, they can make it right. Alexis says, they need to let it play out. Neither one of them killed Cates, but if Kristina comes forward it will either make her look guiltier or Kristina will inadvertently incriminate herself. She doesn’t have an alibi, she stole the gun, took Alexis’s car, and went to the Quartermaines. She had the means, motive, and opportunity. Kristina asks how the police can do an investigation if they don’t know the truth, and Alexis says, it’s their job. Kristina’s job is to not incriminate either one of them. She said she hated Cates and wanted to kill him. Don’t let anyone else hear her say that. Kristina says she just wants to help, and Alexis says she’s begging her, do not take this further.

Willow comes in and says she could smell Sasha’s scones, and Nina says she hasn’t seen Willow for a while and misses her. Willow says she’s getting back to her routine, but thinks she has time for tea. Sasha goes to get the tea, and Willow asks why Nina is here. Nina says she asked Sasha to cater a donor event for Drew, and Willow says she saw him at the boathouse. Nina says she’ll try to catch him. She wanted to say how proud she is about everything Willow is doing at GH, but they need to make time to see each other. Willow says she would love that and will get back to her. Nina leaves, and Sasha comes back. She asks where Nina went, and Willow says, she left to find Drew at the boathouse. Congratulations on her catering job. Sasha says, Nina just offered it to her, but she’s still unsure. Willow says, there’s a lot of that going around, and Sasha asks if she’s okay.

Alexis tells Kristina to promise her, when Dex comes in and says, Alexis will be leaving for her arraignment soon. He leaves, and Alexis asks Kristina if they have an understanding. This probably won’t go to trial. The police will find real evidence and the charges will be dropped. She has an arraignment to work on and can’t be worrying about Kristina. When she makes bail, she’ll come home, and they’ll talk about it. Kristina says she’s sorry about everything she’s put Alexis through, and Alexis says, she wasn’t thinking clearly. Now let her fight the battle for both of them. She’s a mother and that’s what they do. Kristina would do the same thing.

Sonny says, there’s no way Kristina could have known what would happen, but Molly says, she went to Ava looking for fight. Sonny says, Kristina wanted to persuade Ava not to make her testify, but did she think she’d lose her child’s life? No. Molly says, if Kristina hadn’t gone at all, her child would still be alive, and he says, she knows Kristina is suffering. She says, what about her and TJ? and he says, they’re all suffering, but it’s Ava’s fault, not Kristina’s. She says, Kristina should have known there was no way she was going to change Ava’s mind. She was reckless and impulsive like always. She was there when Kristina got the subpoena and coached her through it, but Kristina wouldn’t listen. They need their mom to make bail more than seeing him offer support. That’s what’s best for his child. He says, she’s made her point. He won’t go. She thanks him, and he says, one more thing. Since he can’t be there for Kristina, he needs Molly to be there for her. He knows Molly is hurting, but she needs to put her anger away for her sister and be there. He doesn’t think Kristina can handle it otherwise. She says she can’t make any promises, and leaves.  

Michael says he’s not losing sleep over Cates’s death. Is Sam? Sam says she’s glad he’s gone, and Michael says he’s sure the Feds aren’t shedding any tears. She says, even though he went rogue, he’s still an agent and they’ll close ranks to catch the killer. She hopes they find evidence to clear her mom, but if they don’t, will he let an innocent woman go to prison? She leaves.

Stella says, it looks like Trina is maintaining, but she thinks Trina is stalling. Trina says, maybe that’s all she can manage, and Stella suggests she’s afraid taking the next step will mean losing Spencer. She said if she stopped grieving, she would lose him, but he wouldn’t want her to put her life on hold forever. It’s time to take the next step and reach for her dreams. Trina says, the last time she reached for her dreams, she went to Paris and Spencer died, and Stella says, but she didn’t. She still has her whole life ahead of her. How is she going to spend it? Hiding at the gallery or is there something bigger she wants to accomplish?

Nina knocks at the boathouse and tells Drew that Willow said he was here. She was talking to Sasha about the fashion fundraiser. It’s not the celery and carrot stick crowd. They’re serious foodies. Drew says, this is not working for him.

Willow says she’s finding a balance with her schedule, and Sasha says, Willow doesn’t have to talk to her, and if Willow tells her to mind her own business, she will. When she was cleaning up during the 4th of July celebration, she saw them kissing. She’s not judging, but she gets the sense that what happened is weighing on Willow, especially with what she just said. If Willow ever needs to talk to someone, she’s here. Willow says, there’s nothing to talk about. It was just a kiss. They got caught up in the moment. Sasha says, no big deal, and Willow says, it wasn’t… then it… happened again.

Michael asks if Sonny was able to dispose of the gun that killed John, and Sonny says, Jason handled it. Michael says, Alexis is being arraigned today, and Sonny says, Molly was here, but he knew already. Michael says, Sam came to see him. Does he think it was coordinated? Sonny says he thinks they’re worried about their mother. Molly was adamant about him not going to the arraignment. She made some good points, so he’s not going. Michael says he thinks it’s for the best. Sam is suspicious. She’s got no proof, but she’s doing the math. Sonny asks if Michael thinks she’s going to push this, and Michael says, she’ll do what it takes to clear Alexis. He encouraged her to find evidence that Alexis didn’t do it instead of focusing on who did. The problem is, Kristina has time not accounted for. Sonny says he knows. If Kristina talks, it won’t be good for either of them. Michael says, if things start going bad, Kristina won’t let her mother take the fall, and Sonny says, they need to do something that can ensure that won’t happen.

Sam and Kristina meet outside the courtroom, and Sam asks how Alexis seems. Kristina says, she’s confident that she’ll make bail, and the case will be dropped before it goes to trial. Has she seen dad? She thought he’d be here. Molly joins them and says, he won’t be. It’s for the best. Kristina says, Molly told him not to come, didn’t she?

Molly says she spoke to Sonny. He’s doing what’s best for their mom, and Kristina should too. Kristina goes into the courtroom, and Sam and Molly follow. Sam sits with Kristina, and Molly sits behind them. A man walks in, and Sam asks if Molly knows him, but Molly says, no. Alexis is brought in and the guard takes off her handcuffs. She nods to her girls and sits down. The bailiff says, all rise. The Honorable Henry Otis presiding. The judge tells them be seated. He’s unfamiliar with the man who walked in and asks him to present his credentials. The man introduces himself as Noah Reynolds, representing the FBI. He’ll be prosecuting the murder of one of their own.  

Willow tells Sasha that she doesn’t want to have feelings for Drew, but she does. Sasha knows she loves Michael, their kids, and the life they’ve built together. How could she do something so reckless? Sasha says she’s sure Willow’s feelings for Drew didn’t happen in a vacuum. Maybe something isn’t working with her and Michael? Willow says, no. They’re happy and they will be as long as she keeps her distance. Sasha says, Drew isn’t pressuring her? and Willow says, not in the least. He respects Michael and understands how important family is to both of them. Sasha asks how she’s going to keep her distance when they both live here. They’re bound to run into one another, like at the boathouse. Willow says she supposes they could move out, but if Drew is elected, he’ll spend most of his time in DC. She’s doing everything she can to keep away from him. She even went back to her job at GH, so she didn’t have to work with him. She thought that would make her remember what matters most and stop her before she stupidly destroys her life, the life she dreamed of and fought hard to have. She feels out of control and wonders what’s wrong with her. Sasha hugs her and she cries.

Drew wonders if he’s uprooting his life and putting everything on the line for his ego, and Nina says, he wanted to get into politics to do good. He asks if it’s worth it. His private life is a mess and he’s four points down in the polls. Nina says, there’s a four-point margin of error, and Drew says his opponent is a mom with a husband and kids she totes around. She’s got the family values thing locked down. He can’t compete. She says, he has Scout, and he says he thought about it, but he can’t use Scout as a prop. Nina says, then use me.

Sonny says he doesn’t regret killing Jagger. The bastard deserved to die, but he didn’t want Michael to witness it. He didn’t want Michael to carry the weight of the secret and lie or cover for him. Michael says, Sonny never asked him to, and Sonny says, the night he killed Jagger and saw Michael standing there, for a split second he thought, he’s got me. Killing a federal agent point blank is going to put him away forever. Michael says, but he didn’t, and Sonny asks, what stopped him?

Judge Otis says he understands Alexis is defending herself, and she says she’s a fully accredited attorney. He says if she thinks she’s laying the groundwork for an appeal or mistrial, she’s not. She says, that’s not her intention, and he says, she’s being charged with a felony count of murder in the first degree. How does she plead. She says, not guilty. She asks that bail be set, and because she’s an officer of the court, be released on her own recognizance. Noah asks that the request be denied. Alexis has proven she’s a danger and threat to the community, and the prosecution requests she remain in custody.

Stella says, Trina used to talk about being an art curator or an art professor. Has she given those up? Trina says, not really, and Stella asks what kind of degree she’d need. Trina says, a Bachelor’s, an MSA, and eventually a doctorate, and Stella asks if there’s anything else she’s interested in. Going back to school will broaden her options. She can just take a few classes to start moving forward. Trina says she doesn’t know if she’s ready. It scares her. Stella says, it feels scary now, but don’t do it for herself today. Do it for herself ten years from now. Give herself some options and opportunities, so she doesn’t have to remain stuck. She has the day off, so they’re heading to campus to get Trina registered for the fall semester. Trina says, Stella seems sure registration is still open, and Stella says she may have called and asked. Trina says she’s not surprised. Okay. Let’s do it. Let’s get unstick. They hug.

Sasha says she can see how Willow would have feelings for Drew. He saved her life. Willow says, that’s gratitude. These feelings snuck up on her. Sasha asks if she’s clear that she loves Michael, and Willow says, yes. It never went further than a kiss. Sasha says, so it was a mistake. They all make mistakes. Willow says, that goes for Drew too. He’s not a sleaze. He loves Michael too, and doesn’t want to hurt him. Sasha says again, everyone makes mistakes, and Willow thanks her for not judging. Sasha says she’s far from perfect. So what is Willow going to do about this? Willow says she doesn’t know what to do.

Nina says, if she and Drew are together, they can push the campaign over the top. If she’s front and center on his arm supporting him, people will jump to conclusions about their status. He asks if they’re supposed to do the no comment thing, and she says, there’s nothing wrong with potential voters perceiving that they’re the country’s newest power couple. He says, she’d do that for him? and she says she thinks she owes him one. He says, she kind of does.

Sonny tells Michael that he killed Jagger for the family. He came after Kristina and kept coming after her at the worst time of her life. He knew Jagger wasn’t going to stop and Jagger would go after all the people close to him because of his stupid vendetta. He had to be stopped. Michael asks why Sonny is telling him this, and Sonny says he never wants to put Michael or any of his children in a position to cover for him. Michael says, all that matters is protecting Kristina, and Sonny says, if Michael had called the cops, he wouldn’t have stopped him. Michael had all the power in that moment and chose him. He’ll never forget that. He touches Michael’s chest and says he loves him. Michael says he loves Sonny too, and he will always choose their family. They hug.

Noah says, it’s not the first time the defense was sent to prison for a serious assault, but Alexis says, that has no bearing on this case. Noah says, she procured a firearm, and multiple witnesses saw her illegally dispose of it, and Alexis says, alleged disposal. She thought this was a bail hearing, not a trial. Noah says, she’s a flight risk, and Alexis says, he’s reaching. Noah says, the defendant shares a child with Sonny Corinthos, who has unlimited resources, and Judge Otis says, enough. Does Alexis have anything to say on her behalf? Alexis says, plenty. The prosecution’s laundry list is rife with innuendo, speculation, and condemnation. She’s not perfect, but she’s not a cold-blooded killer. Beyond the courtroom, which she holds in the highest esteem, she’s a mother. She has three adult children and grandchildren who need her. She’s not going to risk that. She served her time honorably and with humility, and it’s with humility she asks that bail be set. The judge says he appreciates her impassioned response. She’s a gifted and talented lawyer, but he’s made his decision. The defendant is to be held without bail and remanded to Pentenville while awaiting trial.

Tomorrow, Elizabeth tells Ric that it almost sounded like an apology; Heather says, it’s a compromise she’s not going to have to make much longer; and Natalia tells Sonny that they’re going to find the actual murderer.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Apparently, Lindsay Hartley (Temp Sam) filmed this week’s scenes at the same time she filmed Irene/Adela’s funeral scenes.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/lindsay-hartley-fills-in-for-kelly-monaco-on-gh-again

His untimely death was so sad, but I have to ask. Were they an item?

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/kelly-monaco-remembers-billy-miller

There’s not too much information here. So do they get together on the regular?

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/jophielle-love-reunites-with-her-gh-parents

Our Southern gentleman returns. I love him in this role.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/michael-e-knight-returns-to-general-hospital

🐪 Two Camels and a Priest Walk Into a Bar…

As Reunions go, this one was pretty mild. While there was plenty of finger pointing, some lackluster receipts, and Lesa calling Stanbury the Wicked Witch of the Middle East, the women managed to stay seated, not fling any Solo cups, and no one called anyone a see you next Tuesday. The best part was when Andy ran a video compilation of the group’s lack of athleticism. It was especially fun to revisit the golf game.

The question of Sergio wanting a baby came up, and we found out that Sergio had never googled dealbreaker, so he didn’t actually understand what Stanbury mean when she asked if not having a baby would be one. Andy suggested Sara be a surrogate, and said it would be a Housewives first, as we could hear the cash register ringing in his head.

At the end, there was a weird gift exchange where Brooks acted like a total a-hole, refusing to open Taleen’s gift or card. Maybe she smelled the one worthy receipt of the night. The card was a copy of a Twitter post – excuse me X (can Elon Musk not spell or something?) – that Brooks made, saying, said blah-blah-blah, Taleen had a crappy wardrobe, and she wanted Taleen to show her one article of clothing that Taleen had lent to her. Inside the box was a dress of Taleen’s that Brooks had worn for sure, since Taleen also produced a photo of her in it. D’oh! Lesa made Stanbury the president of her fan club, gifting her with a starter pack, the ID showing a photo of Stanbury post facelift surgery. Stanbury took her gift with her usual good British humor. She can dish it out and she can take it. Andy said these were like gifts at a red wedding, yet no swords were really drawn.

Sara closed things out by saying if they didn’t have empathy for each other, what were they even doing here? Good question.

I hate to admit it, but I might miss this show. I don’t think Bravo has technically renewed it, but I can’t imagine them not.

🍸 VanderSpinning…

Presumably, this is a spinoff, not a reboot, but who knows? Maybe the old cast should be the ones who do a spinoff. No Rules For You.

🛟 Yachtie To the Core…

Chef Ben cannot be tied down.

🏆 Just One More…

I never watch awards shows. Rather than sit through hours of mind-numbing monotony, I’d rather just read stuff like this afterward.

https://ew.com/emmys-2024-best-and-worst-moments-8712955

💻 Last Weekend’s Watches…

I love nothing more than a dystopian post-apocalyptic film, and Uglies delivers. It’s a shame it wasn’t on the big screen though, since the action and special effects sequences are big. Another streaming selection taken from a YA novel series, there were moments when it seemed like an After School Special, but overall, I loved it. Of course, now I’m reading the books.

https://people.com/joey-king-uglies-trailer-8692521

Definite spoilers here.

https://people.com/uglies-ending-explained-8713501

The Dark Side of… is a great series, and reality TV is as dark as it gets. I never watched The Swan, as I found the premise of a plastic surgery competition disturbing. I did see a couple episodes of Kid Nation, but it just didn’t seem like a situation children should be in. Sure enough, I was right.

https://ew.com/chicago-fire-actor-daniel-kyri-recalls-drinking-bleach-on-kid-nation-8707380

🐕 They’ve Got the Look…

By God, they’re right.

https://www.dailypaws.com/pet-news-entertainment/celebrities/goldendoodle-layla-looks-like-will-ferrell-goes-viral-on-twitter

Normally, I prefer pets to have human names, but Milkshake is perfect for this one.

https://www.dailypaws.com/pet-news-entertainment/celebrities/milkshake-the-pink-pug

However, her life is never a drag.

https://www.dailypaws.com/pet-news-entertainment/feel-good-stories/meet-miss-pickles-the-drag-pug

🧘‍♀️ Of Crickets, Crows, and Retrospects…

Come by tomorrow for soap and what’s Listing in LA. Until then, stay safe, stay continuing to wear sunglasses even during the colder months, and stay giving yourself options and opportunities, so you don’t remain stuck.

June 7, 2024 – Jake Sees Finn At the Brown Dog Bar, Everything Emmy, Shahs Now, Bad Timing, Sandy On Deck, More Last, Dragons Plus One, Black Barbie, Don’t Worry, Stanley’s Pups (!), Quote Octet & Queen

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Hey, whatever happened to Roxie, Finn’s bearded dragon? Just curious.

Willow is with Wiley in the pool, when Drew comes in. Wiley hollers to him, and she says, Wiley is excited to see him. So is she, but she’s not as exuberant about it. He says he’s excited to see them too. He didn’t know the Navy SEALs were training here today. Wiley says he wishes there were SEALS in the pool (although it’s questionable as to which kind he means), and Willow says she’s glad they’re not. It will be hard enough getting him out of the water today. Drew says he hears that, and she says, of course (🍷) he does. He and Wiley are kindred spirits. It’s good to see him. He says, it’s good to see her too, but he’s surprised to see them bobbing around in here. Willow says, Wiley thinks the hotel pool is more fun than the one at the Quartermaines. She can’t say he’s wrong and it’s a gorgeous day. Drew says he had a similar thought process himself, and she says, great minds. Amelia is loving her swimming lessons. She’s a proud mini fish. Drew says, amazing. So if Amelia is a mini fish, what does that make Wiley? Wiley says, a shark, and dives under the water.

Nina walks into the pool area on the phone. She says she needs them to hear her on this. Crimson is an elite publication and they’re not giving a discounted ad rate to a gym equipment company… She doesn’t care what Mr. Cain said. It’s still not happening. She watches as Drew gets in the pool.

Dex sees Gio at the towel bar and says he didn’t expect to see Gio here. When did he start working at the MetroCourt? Gio says, this morning. Can he interest Dex? He holds out a towel and says, fresh from the dryer. Dex says, Gio read his mind. So did Olivia put him to work? Gio says, good guess. He’s living at the Quartermaines and said he was looking for a part-time job, and here he is. Dex says, Olivia did him a favor. There are definitely worse places to work. Gio says he’s with Dex there. Aunt Olivia promised that he could be off duty early enough to watch the NBA finals, even if it goes to seven games. Dex says, here’s hoping, and Gio says he’s been following all season. He can’t wait for game two on Sunday night. (I assume it’s on ABC.) Dex says, be warned, and looks at Josslyn. The lifeguard is a big sports fan. She’s fierce and a terrible loser, so if Gio is rooting against her team and his team wins, don’t gloat. Josslyn and Dex smile at each other.

Going into Chase’s apartment, Chase tells Brook that he doesn’t know if he’s being strategic or just avoiding the thing he dreads. Maybe they should have gone to Finn’s first like they planned. She says, they still could. What would he say to Finn? Chase says, you son of a bitch, how could you use our dad’s death as an excuse to dive into a bottle? She looks at him, and he says, not the best approach, huh? She says, certainly justified, but no. She doesn’t think Finn would have a good response to that. Chase says, he’s sick. It isn’t his fault. Addiction is a disease. He knows this. He has training for this, and he’s still so angry and frustrated and disappointed that Finn would do this to Violet. And his dad. She says, and him, and he says, frustrated and angry will get them exactly nowhere. They need to come up with a plan. A way to confront Finn, get him into recovery, and most of all, protect Violet.

At the Brown Dog Bar (remember that place?), Jake and his friends Gordo and Dale take a seat in a booth. Jake asks what they do now. Does somebody take their order or what? Gordo tries to get the bartender’s attention, but he says, the bartender’s not even looking this way. He guesses if they want a drink, they have to go to the bar. Jake says, if they do that, they’ll be carded. Gordo will be fine, he has a fake ID, but Jake has nothing. He’ll just be out here twisting. Gordo tells him, relax. Nobody ever gets carded here. Jake asks how he knows, and Gordo says he just knows. He asks Dale if he’s got this, and Dale says, no problem. They give their money to Dale, who says, three of their best cheap beers coming up, and goes to the bar. Jake looks over and sees Finn at the bar, sitting next to a woman.

The woman says, here’s to ignoring first impressions, and Finn says, okay, clinking glasses with her. He holds up two fingers, and she says she wasn’t sure she was going to come over here. She was afraid he was going to be one of those dark, brooding types, but she figured, what the heck, and came on over. She’s glad she did because he is all kinds of fun. (I doubt Finn has ever been called all kinds of fun before.) Finn says, really? Huh. They clink glasses again as Jake watches Finn down the shot.

Wiley pops out of the water, and says, how about this time? Nina watches them, and Drew says, that was like, fifteen seconds. He’s going to have to hold his breath a little bit longer to be a Navy SEAL, but he has a lot of time to figure that out. Willow says, ever since she mentioned to Wiley that Drew was in the Navy, all he’s talked about is how he wants to be a Navy SEAL. He’s less certain, though, about what that is. Drew says, he’s got a lot of time to figure that out. The Navy will be lucky to have him. Willow says, and Wiley will be lucky to have Drew as his mentor, and Wiley asks if he’ll get a uniform. Nina smiles and walks toward the pool, but she literally runs into Gio, who drops the towels he’s holding. She says she’s so sorry, and helps him pick them up. She doesn’t know where her mind was at just now. He says, somewhere good, he hopes, and Wiley yells, Grandma Nina! He gets out of the pool, and she wraps him in a towel. She says, look how big he’s gotten, and hugs him.

Chase says he doesn’t know where to start with Finn or with Violet. The day his dad died, and Brook took Violet to Bobbie’s, Finn completely broke down. He knew he’d screwed up and told Chase to pour the rest of the bourbon down the sink. He made a bad choice, but it was like Finn was getting back on track, and he bought it. Brook says she would have thought the same thing, but he says, no, she wouldn’t. She says, they have very different experiences with substance abuse. The Quartermaines have a lot of history with it and there was this couple down in Bensonhurst… Anyway, she knows how to recognize it for exactly what it is. He says, what kind of detective is he if he’s this naïve? and she says, believing in his brother says nothing about his work as a detective. He says he bought Finn’s whole act. The remorse, the resolve to do better, and Finn lied to him. She says, he didn’t do it on purpose. It’s part of the disease. He says, reading about it is one thing. Experiencing it firsthand is another. He keeps thinking about when Finn was at their dad’s memorial. He was shaking hands and wiping away tears, putting on this whole devoted son act. Then he’d sneak away to the bar and have a few tequila shots. And for the record, he bought the whole devoted son act too. She says, it’s not necessarily acting. He could be a devoted son in mourning and an addict who just had a relapse. Chase says he defended Finn to Elizabeth. She was worried about Finn, and he said everything was okay. She says, he has to give himself a break. Finn isn’t the only one who just lost his dad. Chase is in mourning too, and he’s way too close to Finn and the entire situation to see it clearly. If this was a case, he’d take himself off of it. He says, but it’s not a case. He can’t hand Finn off to someone and say, good luck to the both of you. She says, even if he could, he wouldn’t do it. Finn is his brother. He says, she’s right. He loves Finn and wants to help him through this, even though he’s madder at Finn than he’s ever been. She says, no one can disappoint you like the people you love the most. That’s why they call addiction a disease. He says he knows. And when he’s less angry, he’ll remember that Finn is suffering too. She says, they both love Finn and want to treat his situation compassionately, but their main priority has to be protecting Violet. He asks, so how do they shield Violet when her father is falling apart?

Jake tells Gordo that he had to go – now, and Gordo says, why? What’s wrong? Jake says, his mom’s boyfriend is here and if her boyfriend sees him, he’s dead. Gordo asks, what’s he doing here? He thought Jake said he’s a good guy. Jake says he doesn’t know. He’d thought he was.

Finn tells the woman that he signed up for Doctors Without Borders right out of med school, right after he graduated, and she says, so she’s having drinks with a fun doctor? Lucky her. Did he go anywhere good? he says, no. The good places don’t usually need them. He was in Rota, the Mariana Islands. She asks if people were shooting at him, but he says, no, not really. A lot of people needed help and didn’t have anywhere else to get it. Their operating room was a tent. She says, he’s lived quite the life, and probably save quite a few along the way. He says, not enough, and she asks if that’s why he’s here in Port Charles. Dr…? He suggests they leave the names out of it, and she says she doesn’t see why not. They’ve been doing just fine without them so far. He says, just think of him as in town to visit family, and she asks, how bad is it going? She’s only asking because he’s sitting in this place with her instead of doing whatever families do when they visit. He says, just taking in the local sights, and she says, he sure is. And she hopes he feels welcome. She’s also hoping there’s something she can do to make his trip memorable. He downs another shot. (I’m getting drunk just watching.)

Willow goes over to Wiley and Nina, and Nina says she’s sorry. He was just coming out. Wiley says, Grandma Nina is here, and Willow says she can see that, and says hi to Nina. Nina says, nice to see her, and Wiley asks if she’s going swimming, but Nina says she doesn’t think she’s dressed for swimming. Actually, she came here to look for his Uncle Drew, but maybe some other time, okay? Wiley says, sure. Swimming’s always good. Nina says she thinks so too, and Wiley says, the Quartermaines have a big pool too, and they have a big blow-up thing that looks like a duck. He thinks she’d like swimming there. He does. Willow says, they’ll see about that, and sits down with Wiley. Drew gets out of the pool and says he heard Nina was looking for him. What does she need? Willow says, Wiley smells like chlorine, and Drew says, there’s a pre-swim lotion you can put on your skin that prevents the chlorine from getting through. Willow asks if that’s something he learned from the Navy, but he says, no. He actually read it in Crimson. They had a few ads for it, or is he just imagining things? Nina smiles at him.

Dex says, here’s to Josslyn’s first day of lifeguarding, and she thanks him. She says, here’s to no running, fighting, or cannonballs, and he says he bets she can get two out of three. Trina says that’s not what she wants to hear, and Josslyn thanks him for remembering it’s her first day. He says, she knows how much he loves swimming, and she says, it’s a good thing he got those stitches out. Otherwise, she’d have to stop him from getting in the pool. He says, that might be easier said than done, and Trina says she heard about what happened to him at Brook’s wedding reception. That’s insane. He says, it was a little, but it’s over and he’s okay. Thanks to Joss. She’s the one who took him to the ER and made him wait to get stitches. He would have gone home, put some ice on it, and probably wound up with a scar. Trina tells him, some people say a scar makes you look a little daring, and he says, but then people as how you got it and he’d have to explain it. Some things are best left forgotten. He looks at Josslyn, and so does Trina.

Brook brings Chase something to eat, but he says he’s not hungry. She says she knows, but he has to keep his strength up. Wow. She thought she’d have more time before she’d see her mother. He says, there are worse things, like sitting around feeling helpless. He just lost his dad. He can’t risk losing his brother too, and he can’t let Violet get caught up in Finn’s mess. He thought Violet would be reason enough for Finn to get back on the wagon. Brook says, she hasn’t been so far, and he says, she’s right. A person can’t be an addict’s only incentive to get sober. She says, they have to do more than just cross their fingers and pray that things don’t go from bad to worse. If Finn is in denial about his drinking, he’s certainly not going to think there are any problems when it comes to Violet. Chase wonders how Violet is going to feel about whatever they decide to do. How does this end without one or both of them hating us? She says, Finn is going to hate whoever makes him confront his drinking, and there’s absolutely nothing they can do about that. And yeah, Violet might think she hates them for a little while. He says, it’s better than leaving her with her father… He can’t believe he just said that. She says, if he hadn’t, she would have.

Dale comes back with the beers, and Gordo says, see? Told you we wouldn’t get carded. Good job. He takes a long sip, and says, the best money can buy. Their money anyway. Jake continues to watch Finn, and Gordo says, chill out. Drink his beer. Jake says, the last thing he needs is for Finn to see him drinking, and Gordo says, yeah. He’s really taking in the beauty of this place. Come on. That guy hasn’t looked at anything but that woman in half an hour. He’s not sure that guy knows there is anything else in this bar. Jake says, shut up. His dad just died. Gordo says, he looks real sad, but Jake says, he doesn’t know. This doesn’t mean anything. He would never do this to Jake’s mom.

The woman puts her hand on Finn’s leg and says, there must be other things he’s dying to see besides the inside of this bar. She can think of a few things that might be of interest. Finn motions for the bartender to come over and asks if there are any liquor stores around this establishment, but the bartender says, not really. Finn says, how about that bottle there? and points. That’s a nice bottle. Would he be willing to part with it? The bartender says, they’re not supposed to, and Finn says he knows that, and puts a fifty on the bar. How does he feel about that bottle now? The bartender scoops up the bill and puts the bottle on the bar. The woman says she loves the sight of a man taking care of business, and Finn picks up his drink. He says, here’s to taking care of business, and they clink glasses.

Trina says she’s going to grab herself an iced tea while Josslyn and Dex catch up. Does anybody want one? They say, no thanks, and Trina leaves. She bumps into Gio, who maybe needs glasses, and he says he’s so sorry. She says, that’s okay, and he says, for some reason, he’s like a human bumper car today, but she says, he’s okay. It’s fine. He says, it’s not, but he promises he’s not always such a klutz. He was just going to check in with Josslyn. Trina says she would probably hold off if she were him. Those two used to be together and now they’re not, but it looks like they’re patching things up. He says, they obviously still like each other, and she says, that’s what she keeps trying to tell them. She loves them, but they’re exhausting. He says he comes from a long line of nosy Italians, so he has to ask. Why did they break up in the first place? She says she doesn’t know all of the details, but it had something to do with Josslyn’s stepfather. Technically, ex-stepfather, which is bonus points for Josslyn. Sonny Corinthos is basically awful.

Dex asks if Trina knows everything that went down between him and Sonny, and Josslyn says she told Trina that Sonny assaulted him. She didn’t get into the details and probably won’t. He says, Sonny tracked him down in the park the other day, and she says she doesn’t see any fresh wounds or bullet holes, so she guesses that’s progress. He says, Sonny told him the bad blood between them was done, and he could live his life however he wants. Even become a cop. She says, wow. Dex doesn’t need his permission, but she’s a little surprised. He says he’s surprised too, and she asks if Dex believes him. It’s the least he could do after trying to kill Dex, but it’s Sonny, so… He says he believes Sonny hates him, but he also believes Sonny has taken the target off his back. She says she can finally breathe, and he says, him too. She says she guesses it’s a fair trade. Dex doesn’t press charges and Sonny leaves him alone. He says he’s just ready to put Sonny and whatever he does or doesn’t do behind him, and just focus on what’s in front of him. That’s all that matters.

Drew tells his future frogman to come along and let Willow and Nina talk lotions. He goes back into the pool with Wiley, and Willow says, Nina and Drew seem to be working well together. Nina says, it’s amazing how perspectives can change. They respect each other as professionals and that’s been nice. Willow says, however they managed it, they seem to be in a more peaceful place, and they both look happier. Nina says she’s certainly on board for more peace, and Willow says, he’s so good with Wiley and Amelia, and of course (🍷) his own daughter. Nina says, he really is. She’s never seen Drew Cain like this.

The woman whispers something to Finn, and Jake says, you’ve got to be kidding me. That’s it. He gets up, but Gordo says, hang on. Not here. Jake says, he doesn’t need to do this to his mom, but Gordo says, if Jake gets in his face here, they’re all going to get busted, right? Jake says, right.

Finn says he needs to go. He needs to get out. He needs some fresh air. He picks up the bottle and tells the woman, let’s go, and she says, that‘s an excellent idea. She follows Finn out, and Dale tells Jake that he’s really sorry. Jake thanks him and says he’s sorry, but he has to get out of here. He leaves, and we see the two empty shot glasses on the bar.

Brook says, Violet doesn’t have a passport, does she? and Chase says he’s not sure. She says, if they need one, they’ll get one, and he asks why exactly Violet needs a passport. She says, because they’re going to take Violet with them to Italy while Finn is at rehab. What’s that saying about seeing the world through a child’s eyes? He says he doesn’t know, but he knows the saying about abducting a minor and taking them across state and international lines. It’s a felony. She says, they’re not kidnapping Violet, but he says he’s pretty sure Finn’s going to say they did in court. He loves that she’s willing to bring Violet on their honeymoon, but Finn’s never going to go for it, and Violet’s not going to want to go if Finn’s not 100% behind it. And if he’s being honest, he doesn’t think child abduction is the answer to all of their problems. She says, what if they keep it local? and he says, like a scavenger hunt? Where Finn goes around town looking for his own child? (Ha-ha-ha!) She says she can tell by the tone of his voice that he’s not completely on board, and he says, it’s a terrible plan. It’s actually one of her most troubling. Her family would be proud. She tells him that he always knows exactly what to say, and he says he knows she came up with that plan just to take the edge off. She asks if it worked, and he says, no, but he loves her for it anyway, and they kiss.

Gio says, Sonny Corinthos is Josslyn’s ex-stepfather? and Trina says, yes, to her eternal regret. He says his family thinks Uncle Sonny is second only to the Pope in terms of greatness, and she says, Uncle Sonny? He says, Sonny’s not really his uncle, more like his benefactor. Sonny’s been really good to him. She says, okay. She’s happy for him, but pretty much everyone in Port Charles has an opinion about Sonny. Some good, some bad. She just knows there’s some bad history when it comes to Joss. He says he’s sorry to hear about that, but now that they’ve gotten that settled, tell him. Why did she have such a weird look on her face when they first met? Did he do something, or have they run into each other before?

Finn brings the woman to his apartment, and he looks at all the boxes. He flashes back to packing up Gregory’s stuff and picking up the shoes Gregory wore at the wedding. The woman asks if those are the things from his border work. These boxes, are they his Doctors Without Borders stuff? He nods and says, it’s hard to believe he lived that life. It feels like it happened to somebody else. She says she sure likes the doctor guy who’s living this life, but he says he doesn’t. He doesn’t like anything about him. She smooths his hair back and says, hey. Come on, sugar. This is not the time to be sad. Anything he’s feeling, she can take it away. He asks how she’s going to do that, and she says, how about this? and kisses him. Doesn’t that feel better? He nods and she says, and this, kissing him some more. (I’ve been basically yelling, no, no, no! at the TV since they left the bar.)

Jake goes into the hospital and finds Elizabeth at the reception desk. She says she didn’t expect to see him until later. She thought he was going to the movies with Gordo. He says, they were, but… She asks, what happened? and he says he met up with Gordo and Dale, and they were on their way to the movies, and they passed this dive bar. He’s talking super sketchy, and they saw Finn coming out. She asks if he’s sure it was Finn, and he says, positive. And he wasn’t alone. She says, great. He’s found himself a drinking buddy. Jake says, sort of. He was with this lady, like with her with her, and it was pretty obvious he’d been drinking with her.

Elizabeth turns away, and Jake says he’s sorry, but she says, he has nothing to apologize for. He says he didn’t want to tell her, but he had to, right? and she says, he absolutely had to. She’s glad he did. Thank you. He says, sure, and she says she’ll handle this when she’s done here, but he says he doesn’t know. That might not be the greatest idea right now. She says, don’t worry. She’s got this. She’ll see him at home, okay? He says, okay, and she leaves. He takes out his phone and makes a call. He says, it’s Jake. My mom’s got a situation. She needs you.

Chase tells Brook that there’s got to be something they can do that doesn’t mean them spending their honeymoon in separate prison cells fighting assorted felony charges. Brook says, okay. What if they make something happen at the Q’s house that Violet just won’t want to miss? He says he’s listening, and she says, they tell her that all the kids are out of school, that there’s tennis and swimming and horseback riding and barbecues every night. He says, like summer camp, and she says, exactly. He says, that sounds promising. Are they just talking about this or doing it? She says, we are doing it, baby. And all the Quartermaine adults will take turns on supervising shifts, work schedules permitting. He says, because of his dad, he has some time off he could use, and she says, and she can work from anywhere. So they’ll just say they’re spending a few weeks at the Quartermaines. He says, and there will be a bunch of cousins and pseudo cousins and assorted rugrats running around playing with Violet. She says, not bad, huh? and he says, yeah. He’ll talk to Finn tomorrow, assuming that he’s sober. She says, and with Violet staying with the Qs, they can do some sort of intervention. Get him to see what kind of trouble he’s in. Chase asks if she’s sure her family is going to be okay with this. He can’t imagine Tracy will be. It’s a lot. (One more kid? And Violet no less? Hardly.) She says, then they’ll tell her the truth, privately. Tracy and Finn are friends. She should know anyway that her friend is in trouble. Then she can help them get the rest of the family on board. He says, that might be a leap, and she says, maybe. But at the end of the day, every last Quartermaine is going to be doing this, no matter what it takes.

Nina and Willow sit by the pool, and Nina says, the lotion. It’s called DermaPool and it’s fantastic. It contains shea butter and green leaf extract in it. It leaves a moisturizing coating on the skin and vitamin C neutralizes the chlorine. Olympic swimmers swear by it. They had medalists that were actually part of the ad campaign at Crimson, and they were great. It also helps with pool rash and swim hair… Willow says, swim hair? and Nina says, you know how chlorine can change some hair green? Willow says she didn’t know it had an official name, and Nina says, Crimson has boxes of DermaPool in storage. Why doesn’t she send Willow a couple of boxes?… She can really overdo it sometimes. The last thing Willow needs is a truckload of product showing up on her doorstep. Willow says, that’s okay, and Nina and Drew exchange glances.

Trina is on her laptop at a table, and Gio says, sorry. The way people go through towels, you’d think they never saw one before. Trina says, people go wild when they’re not the ones doing the fluffing and the folding, and he says, that makes sense. At the risk of trying her patience, is she sure they never met before? He’s positive he’d remember someone like her. She says she promises they haven’t, but she will admit that if she looks at him just the right way out of the corner of her eye, he does look like someone she used to be close to. He says, why used to be? Why aren’t they close anymore? She says, he died, and Gio says he’s sorry. He’s an idiot. She says, no. You know what? I’ll just… She dashes out, and Josslyn looks at Gio.

Willow tells Wiley that they have to get home. Mommy has a date. He says he doesn’t like that idea, and she says, it’s with daddy. He’s taking her to dinner. Wiley says, okay then, and she says she’s glad he approves. Nina asks if they’re going anywhere fun, but Willow says she has no idea. It’s a new place Michael wants to try. Nina says, nice. She’s sure wherever they go, it’s going to be lovely. She should get back to Crimson before they send out a search party. They still have some things to iron out before they launch the next issue. She tells Wiley that it was really, really great spending some time with him, and he says he knows. Let’s do it again. She says she hopes this is the start of an incredible summer for him and Amelia. She hopes they have lots of adventures and lots of fun and lots of swimming. He says he already told his mom that he’s going to swim every day this summer, and Willow says, he’s not lying. He started telling her about his swim plan in February. Nina says, that sounds like a great plan. It was really good to see Willow. Willow says, it was nice seeing Nina too. Wiley loved it. Nina says, and if she ever needs DermaPool… Willow says she knows who to call. Nina leaves as Drew watches.

Josslyn catches up with Trina and asks if she’s okay. Trina says, yeah. She just went to the ladies’ room. Josslyn says she saw Trina take off. Did Gio say something? She’ll beat him up if he did. Trina says, Gio didn’t say anything wrong. It’s just that sometimes some things will just hit her a certain way, and memories of Spencer will flood in and just knock the wind out of her. Josslyn says she’s so sorry, and Trina thanks her. She thinks it’s best if she just goes home. Josslyn says she’s going to be off soon, and they could go somewhere. They could talk or go see a movie. Whatever she wants. Trina thanks her, but thinks it’s best if she just has some alone time tonight. Josslyn says, of course (🍷), and hugs Trina. She says, but she’s here, and Trina says she knows. She leaves, and Dex comes back. He asks if Trina is all right, and Josslyn says, not at the moment, but she will be. He asks if something happened, and she says, not really. She thinks that grief just snuck up on her. He says, it’s going to take her a while to get over Spencer, and Josslyn says, it is. She really loved him. She feels so bad for Trina. He says, there’s been some big losses lately. What he keeps trying to say and keeps screwing up is, every moment is precious. They both know that life is short, so have dinner with him.

Chase says he wishes there was something they could do to fix Finn right now, and Brook says, her too, but they can’t lock him in a cage for his own good. He says he desperately wants Finn to stop drinking before he hits rock bottom, and she says she knows. They just need to remind him that the stakes are different for him than they are for other people. On top of everything else, Finn is a doctor at GH. People know him from there. If he keeps this up, word is going to get out. He says, if Finn does something he truly regrets and can’t take back, he’ll never recover. There will be nothing left of the Finn they knew and loved.

Elizabeth approaches Finn’s apartment and almost knocks, but then lets herself in with her key. She sees Finn and the woman sitting on the sofa, the woman’s legs on Finn’s lap, and the nearly empty bottle on the table with two glasses. Elizabeth is stone-faced and Finn just looks drunk.

On Monday, Curtis tells Drew, this is just the right time to do this; Willow tells Michael, if Drew can start fresh with Nina, maybe she can too; Nina tells Maxie, this is the price they pay for dancing with the devil; and Finn wants a chance to explain.

🏆 Winning Daytime…

The winners.

https://people.com/daytime-emmys-2024-winners-list-8653423

The important winners.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/gallery/daytime-emmys/the-2024-daytime-emmy-award-winners

Red carpet gallery.

https://parade.com/tv/daytime-emmy-awards-red-carpet-fashion-outfits-2024

History maker.

https://people.com/daytime-emmys-2024-dick-van-dyke-becomes-oldest-winner-guest-performer-in-drama-8652791

🌍 Where In the World Is Reza Farahan…

This was another reality show I actually liked. Yeah, there was fighting and fussing, and Mike… Well, let’s not talk about him. But it had tons of heart, and it was the real deal. I need someone to root for and this group was worthy of cheering on.

📹 Nice Try…

Doubtful I’d have watched this before the whole Rust tragedy anyway. He just doesn’t seem like a good guy.

https://people.com/alec-baldwin-reality-show-not-ideal-timing-rust-trial-source-exclusive-8659398

👩‍❤️‍👩 There Went the Brides…

After the wedding and other hookups.

https://extratv.com/2024/06/04/captain-sandy-on-married-life-and-below-deck-hookup-shockers-exclusive/

Who was in attendance.

Supposedly, there was no shade intended on excluding Captain Lee.

🌁 Are We There Yet…

The latest news on The Last of Us. Sounds great if we ever get to see it.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/the-last-of-us-season-2-will-expand-on-unseen-stories-from-game/

https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/the-last-of-us-season-2-episode-count-seasons-3-and-4/

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/the-last-of-us-four-seasons

🐉 Caution – Dragons Ahead…

This makes me want to give it another try.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/house-of-the-dragon-season-2-review

A spinoff of a spinoff.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/game-of-thrones-sea-snake-spinoff-steve-toussaint

💃🏾 Evolution Revolution…

This is definitely on my must-see list.

https://ew.com/shonda-rhimes-black-barbie-documentary-trailer-8658080

🕸 Not So Itsy Bitsy…

Everybody, calm down. It’s not going to bite you or your pets, and it doesn’t have wings. Actually, my first thought was, I hope I get to see one.

https://people.com/joro-spiders-2024-everything-to-know-8659303

🐶 Move Over Montreal…

The pups are taking over the ice. More on the Stanley Pup.

https://people.com/stanley-pup-adorable-rescue-dogs-take-nhl-ice-8659802

https://www.nhl.com/fans/2024-stanley-pup

📠 Quotes of the Week

Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.Albert Einstein

A mathematical formula for happiness: Reality divided by Expectations. There were two ways to be happy: improve your reality or lower your expectations. – Jodi Picoult

The border to eternity is never ahead of us. It runs parallel to life and can be crossed over at any moment by old and young. – Reinhard Bonnke

As I get older, I am becoming more selective of who I consider a friend. I find that I would rather have 4 quarters than 100 pennies. – Steve Maraboli

The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing. – John Powell

I believe the most important single thing, beyond discipline and creativity, is daring to dare.Dr. Maya Angelou

I am under no obligation to make sense to you. – Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Be yourself, but not too much.  – Jasmine Pineda, 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?

⛺️ Oh Those Summer Nights…

Join me on Monday for a little soap and a little Deck. Until then, stay safe, stay respecting others’ boundaries at the beach or pool (also, please don’t leave litter behind), and stay remembering addiction is a disease, and give grace, but don’t excuse it.

May 27, 2024 – No Soap For You, Saddest News Ever, Not Quite Beyoncé On Deck & Color Me

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

No soap, Memorial Day, but we might as well get this sad news over with. Although I’m sure you know already, since it’s been plastered everywhere. So senseless and tragic. I hope the guy who shot him rots in prison then hell. This really made me feel so sad.

https://people.com/johnny-wactor-dead-general-hospital-actor-was-37-8654162

Below Deck

Captain Kerry tells Ben and Kyle that ignoring his order to clean their cabin is blatant disrespect. He’s shown them respect and busted his ass to help them, so is this the way they say thanks you? In the captain’s interview, he says, it’s total disrespect. He’s given Ben the opportunity to be a leader. He tells Ben that he’s the bosun and his goal is to be in the captain’s seat one day. Kyle says something about them being busy, but Captain Kerry says he saw Kyle talking to Barbie, so they weren’t that busy. Get their room sorted out. In Kyle’s interview, he says, at the end of the day, to him their cabin is clean. Um… a hard no. They mostly throw things in the closet and get the room somewhat tidy. Fraser tells Xandi that tonight is the Beyoncé theme, and he wants the crew to do Single Ladies. In his interview, he says, it’s primary Michele’s 50th birthday and they want to make sure it’s the best birthday ever. It’s his time to shine. Mummy knows how to do her sh*t and do it well. Nick tells Fraser, the guests have been taxing, and in Nick’s interview, he says he once worked on a sailboat and had to balance plates on both hands. It can’t be worse than that, right? Captain Kerry inspects Ben and Kyle’s room and asks how long it took them. Ben says, 10 minutes, and the captain says, it’s better. In Ben’s interview, he says he’s never been in this much trouble. The captain is taking it as a f*** you, but they were busy, and he didn’t give a sh*t at the time. Paris tells Barbie that she’s going right back to work after she hits land, and Barbie calls her mom. She says she’ll be home in three days, and she’s going to spend a month doing nothing. In Barbie’s interview, she says she misses her family and can’t wait to see her parents. Her dad isn’t affectionate, so she won’t get cuddles, but he’ll tell her positive things and remind her that she’s a good person and appreciated by her friends. She tells her dad that she did some things he may not like, and she hopes he loves her anyway. In her interview, she says, she’ll tell him about Kyle later. She never imagined she’d be with someone who didn’t share her lifestyle. The dinner starter comes in the form of sushi food porn that looks incredible. The guests get ready, and guest Stephanie says she’s Beyoncé if she let herself go grey. Fraser calls the crew to practice their dance, and in Xandi’s dual interview with Fraser, she wonders why they’re even attempting this. He says, because it’s Beyoncé and it’s the last charter. They have to do something. She says she thinks he’s overestimating all of them. Fraser welcomes the Beyoncés, and the guests come out, each one dressed in a different Beyoncé style. The crew does their dance, but beforehand, there’s a disclaimer that the music is not the property of Beyoncé. Since we don’t really see much of it, I’m not sure what that was about. In Fraser’s interview, he says, across the board, he’s the beehive. The guests are thrilled, and Barbie tells Fraser that if she’s up late and has to leave at 11, she’ll need naps. She needs her 8 hours!!! In Xandi’s interview, she says, Barbie is the last person who should be complaining, and in Barbie’s interview, she says she’s been doing all the work. Xandi continues her interview, saying she just has to get through the next 24 hours, and she’s done. Fraser tells Barbie to be the Barbie she’s been for the last week, and Barbie says, they’re mean. Xandi points out that Barbie is complaining about getting 8 hours sleep.

Guest Tya asks the table why they love Beyoncé, and Michele says, she’s unapologetically Black, while another guest says, she’s a Virgo, which I guess is as good a reason as any. The entrée comes and wow – glazed salmon over Asian noodles. The birthday cake is a strawberry cake, and it looks very cool, but it’s not chocolate, so, eh. Barbie tells Paris that she had to pull toilet paper out of the toilet and got piss on herself. She hates being here. I’m wondering why the toilet paper didn’t flush. In the morning, Nick says he’s dead to the world, and tells Fraser that he’s exhausted. The captain says, they’re pulling anchor for the last time, and they head for Port Louis Marine. In Sunny’s interview, she says she thinks she’s done well for her first time being lead deckhand. There were some downfalls – we flash back – but she’s proud of herself. In Ben’s interview, he says, after thinking it over, he needs to apologize to the captain. Even though he’d do it differently, it’s the right thing.  

Ben tells Captain Kerry that he had time to think, and seeing how upset the captain was, he realized they were wrong, and he apologizes. The captain says, if he can’t follow orders when things are easy, what happens when there’s something like a fire? He appreciates Ben talking to him; it means a lot. He hopes it’s been a learning experience. In Captain Kerry’s interview, he says, it takes courage to grow, and he commends Ben for the apology. Ben says, now he thinks he’s in the wrong cabin. It’s the last breakfast, and in the captain’s interview, he says he’s not upset that this is the last docking in this windy place. The guests agree it was a great girls’ trip, and Dylan thinks his shirt smells like wet dog. The crew changes into their whites and lines up for goodbyes. Michele says, they had an amazing time, and Fraser says she was the best Beyoncé. Michele thanks them for her 50th and wishes them the best. She gives the captain the tip envelope, and says, the queen has exited. Live your best life. She and her crown leave, and Captain Kerry says, six weeks. They did amazing. Well done. The drinking commences even before cleaning the boat, and Ben says, they’ll start from the top and get ready to boogie afterward. The captain calls the crew for the tip meeting, and says he’s been in yachting since he was 18. He’s 47 now and has never seen a team work together so well. The tip is $20K or $1,539 each, and the captain says, altogether, they’ve made $208,750. In Dylan’s interview, he says he can feel the pre-workout already. They toast, and Kyle calls home. He tells his mom that he thinks he’s found the one, and in his interview, he says his relationships don’t tend to last, but he thinks he’s in love. He sees a future with Barbie. His mom says, she’s more than welcome to visit. Everyone gets ready to go out, and Kyle tells Ben that he looks like he walked out of Grand Theft Auto.

The crew toasts to the last charter in the taxi, and they go to a gorgeous restaurant next to a waterfall where they’re seated on a deck overlooking it. Fraser suggests a dippy doo doo dar later, which I guess is code for skinny-dipping. Kyle says he’s jumping in the water and takes his clothes off as he goes. Barbie follows him and says, they had a conversation about this. What the f*** is he doing? Xandi yells, get your willie out, and the crew follows suit, but Barbie tells them to stop. This is not enjoyable for her. Dylan hugs Xandi, who says he’s the annoying little brother she didn’t want, but will always love. Ben tells Sunny that he thinks their situation is going the right way and he’d love to take her on a date in Miami. In Sunny’s interview, she says, it feels right, but there’s still a voice in her head telling her to be wary. She’s telling herself not to get wrapped up in her feelings, but she’s a hopeless romantic, and she’s hoping something fruitful comes out of this. Kyle says he’s skinny-dipping, and someone says, get your willy out! Barbie wonders if she’s asking for too much. She’s a class act and she’s not dating someone who’s not.

Barbie tells Paris, this is embarrassing. This is her problem with Kyle. Nick asks if Kyle has adapted at all, but Barbie says, he’s himself and she has to be the one to adapt. In Nick’s interview, he says, neither one of them is in the wrong or the right, and he can’t see a future, but don’t take relationship advice from him. They go to a club where there’s more drinking and dancing. Barbie says she’s nipping this in the bud before it becomes annoying and tells Kyle that she asked him to do one thing. What is so hard about covering his huge d*ck? He surprises me by not saying, thank you, and says he’s not trying to piss her off, but she says he knows it does. She’s literally falling in love with him and thinks he’s worth it. Kyle says he’s in the wrong, but he’s trying. He’s sorry for being an idiot. He hasn’t felt like this in a long time. Barbie takes his hand and says she for real loves him. They kiss and she tells him to stop showing his d*ck. Ben applauds.

In the taxi, Xandi says, if Barbie had been her stew, she would have let Barbie go. She had a bad attitude, but now she’s adapted. Barbie says she made it through, and in her interview, she says, everyone is against her. Xandi says she’s glad Barbie made it, and Barbie says, it’s because her captain believed in her. She busted her ass all season. Xandi says she knows Barbie is good at her job, but Barbie asks, what’s the point in saying that now? Paris tells Barbie to shush, and Xandi is obviously upset. The taxi gets quiet, but then Barbie says, after all she’s done to be nice, why is Xandi attacking her? She’s still here and Xandi isn’t her chief stew. Xandi can’t fire her. Xandi says, f*** me, and Fraser tries to calm her. She starts crying, and Kyle tells Barbie to relax. Barbie says he needs to start backing her. She’s the one who should be crying. Paris tells her, shut the f*** up, and Barbie starts ranting, then everyone tells her to shut up. Barbie says she wants out of the car and she didn’t attack anybody, but Paris says, yes, she did.

They go back to the boat, and Barbie says she’s an alpha in a car of betas. She doesn’t need idiots in her life. She’s successful and worked her ass off. She locks her cabin door and tells Kyle to f*** off when he knocks. She says he was supposed to be her person, but he backs other people. Go f*** yourself, you backstabbing bitch. Get away, all of you. You all suck. Kyle says, this is the worst thing that could have happened, and Xandi says she doesn’t want work with Barbie again. Barbie starts throwing her stuff in suitcases, and says, everybody wins. She doesn’t need that sh*t. She’s done. She quits. They want to drive her batsh*t crazy? They win. She’s going to a five-star resort. In Barbie’s interview, she says she’s not quitting because her job is done, but this job sucks. All she’s done is put her ego aside all season and worked on herself. She cries and says, people continuously continue [sic] to be against her. Nobody cares about her. She walks out, and in her interview, she says she and Kyle are done. She’s not going to be with someone who doesn’t have her back. She broke every rule for him and went against her family, and he let people attack her. Kyle has been the biggest disappointment, and she never wants to see him again. So much for being in love and him being worth it.

In the morning, Nick is snoring in the crew mess, and there’s another kind of mess everywhere. Xandi wants her mummy and Fraser says his head hurts so much. Kyle tells Ben that he got a message from Barbie telling him to change his flight. She never wants to see him again. He put his heart on the table, and it got pinched back. In Kyle’s interview, he says he’s putting on a brave face, but he’s glad she’s gone. He’s never been on such an emotional rollercoaster and Barbie took him for a ride. He thinks he felt more strongly about her than she did about him. He tells Ben, he told her that he loved her, but life goes on. Captain Kerry looks for butter and mumbles that everyone was so annoying last night. In Xandi’s interview, she says she’s disappointed about how it ended, but a drunken mouth speaks a sober truth. Dylan says goodbye to the captain, and Captain Kerry says he knows Dylan struggled a bit, but he got through. In the captain’s interview, he says, Dylan can go a long way, and he would work with Dylan again. He wishes Dylan luck, and Dylan says he got a job today on a 44-foot yacht. Captain Kerry tells him, stay in touch. In Dylan’s interview, he says, it was a character-building experience. He envisions having his own yacht. That’s what he’s working toward. He’s ready. In Paris’s interview, she says, it’s sad to say goodbye, especially to Xandi. She couldn’t ask for a better roommate. She’s going straight back to work, managing a house and working on a boat once a week. She needs money. She’s expensive. In Nick’s interview, he says, St. David, I love you. It’s been fun, but he’s not leaving the couch for a while. He tells the crew, if he misses his flight, he’ll be in the bar. Ben tells Captain Kerry about Xandi saying she wouldn’t hire Barbie, and Barbie going batsh*t crazy over the top. The captain thanks him for the update, and calls Barbie. She says, she’s disappointed that it went down like this, but she’s done. Fraser sits on the floor and says he needs sleep.

Barbie tells Captain Kerry that she’s done. She needs to work on herself, but needs to do it around people who care about her. In the captain’s interview, he says he thinks Barbie was always pissing in the wind. She didn’t fit in, but she tried, and he feels for her. Barbie tells him that she doesn’t like the hotel she’s in and she’s trying to book a villa next door. She thanks him for checking on her and practically hangs up on him. This girl is not going to work on herself. She’s just looking for a group of people who will tell her what she wants to hear. Sunny asks where Barbie is, and Fraser says he wants to push her off the boat, but Xandi says, she’s gone already. Sunny says, she left at 2 am, and Fraser is really startled. He asks if he said goodbye, but Xandi says, no one did. He suddenly remembers that it started in the car, and says, she showed her real self. She took the reins off and galloped into herself. In Fraser’s interview, he says, Barbie hasn’t changed one bit. The proof is in the pudding. Bye, babe. Farewell. He tells Xandi and Sunny that he had to put up with that all season, and Xandi says, he deserves a raise. In Xandi’s interview, she says she’s going back to yacht life, but needs to start thinking about land life. Love and light to everyone. She’s done. In Kyle’s interview, he says he lost the girl he loves, but he’s going to make lemonade out of lemons in Miami.

Ben tells Captain Kerry that seeing the deck crew gel felt like success, and in the captain’s interview, he says, at the start of the season, he believed Ben should be bosun, but he doubts he would have put him there at the end. He hopes Ben learns to pull his socks up and do himself a favor. Everyone says their goodbyes, and in Ben’s interview, he says he came on as lead deckhand and he’s leaving as bosun. He’s going to see how it goes with Sunny. Sunny asks if they’re going with the wind, and in her interview, she says she’s heard boatmances are iffy and romantic. It’s undeniable they have something going on. She wants to pursue it, but is reminding herself not to get hurt. She and Ben leave together. Captain Kerry tells Fraser that he loved seeing Fraser’s growth. He did his best to turn things around. Fraser says he’s lucky to have had Kerry as a captain, and the captain says he doesn’t get accused of that often. I kind of find that hard to believe, since he’s no Captain Lee, but he seems like a fair boss. He says, Fraser did a great job, and in his interview, he says, Fraser is the best chief stew after his girlfriend. Fraser says he thinks Captain Kerry is a fantastic leader. He’s that Aussie bloke, but also has wonderful depth. In Fraser’s interview, he says, one of the biggest lessons he’s learned is that if you have distracting thoughts that are keeping you from your goal, you need to take a step back. He had goals coming in and feels he nailed them. He’s not perfect, but he’d rather learn from his mistakes than regret the things he’s done.

Captain Kerry says he knew he had big shoes to fill coming in. They had epic highs and lows he’d like to forget about, but that’s yachting. He’s grateful for all of it. That was one hell of an adventure.

🏨 Early Check Out…

It’s been a long long weekend, so bidding you adieu until tomorrow, when I’ll give you soap and a VanderFinale. Until then, stay safe, stay taking that last piece of pizza or dumpling if everyone is just sitting around staring at it, and stay learning from your mistakes rather than regretting the things you’ve done.