Tag Archives: Below Deck

November 28, 2022 – Ava Pays a Visit To Ryan, Playboy Debauchery On Deck, About That Reunion, New Reality Down South & Late

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Guard Craig lets Dante in to see Heather, who’s doing some painting. She tells him, hello again, Detective Handsome, and asks if he’d like to model for her.

On the phone at the MetroCourt, Mac asks how his brother is, and at the hospital, Jordan says, TJ is with him right now. Mac says he should be with Robert too, but she says she needs him to stay on task. He knows how important this is. He says he’s on it, and looks at a table where Doc and Ava are sitting. Ava tells Doc that she’s officially all his, and he says he appreciates her meeting at the last minute. He wouldn’t have asked if it wasn’t important. She asks, what’s up? and he says he’ll let Mac explain. Mac sits down, and she says, now she’s doubly intrigued. What would the Chief of Detectives and GH’s top psychiatrist want with her? Mac says, they need her help catching Esme Prince.

Esme screams, then apologizes for waking Ace up. She still can’t believe Ace is moving around. Elizabeth walks in, and Esme asks why she’s here. Elizabeth says she’s here to help Esme.

Nikolas leaves a message for Ava, saying he loves and misses her, when the doorbell rings. It’s Victor, and Nikolas says, it’s not a good night, but Victor says he’s here to move in.

At Rice Plaza, Scotty tells Laura that Obrecht is with Britt, and Laura says, it’s nice Obrecht can spend the holiday with her daughter. He asks, what about her and Doc? and she says, they’re not going anywhere because she doesn’t want to leave her brother Martin alone right now. She knows it’s affecting Scotty too, and promises she won’t rest until she’s brought Lucy’s real shooter to justice. Holly sits at a bench nearby.

Elizabeth takes Esme’s blood pressure, and Esme says, Elizabeth was misleading. She thought Elizabeth was here to help her. Elizabeth says she is helping Esme. The baby is fine, but she’s got to stop with the screaming; it’s stressful for her and the baby. Esme says she’s locked in a tower, and Elizabeth covering for Nikolas doesn’t help. Elizabeth says she’s doing the best she can to help Esme have a healthy pregnancy. She assumes Esme’s had no prenatal care. She should take pregnancy seriously; there could be complications. Esme asks if she shouldn’t be under a doctor’s care then, and not under house arrest, but Elizabeth says, Esme will have to make do with her. Don’t worry. She knows what she’s doing. Esme asks how she can’t worry. She’s locked in here with no idea what’s to become of her. Elizabeth has to convince Nikolas to let her go. Elizabeth says, even if she wanted to, she doubts Nikolas would listen, not after Esme attacked him, but Esme says, Nikolas is making that up. Elizabeth says she’s not making up Esme attacking her, and Esme says she was in fight or flight mode. Elizabeth asks if she’s making up Esme filming revenge porn, and victimizing Josslyn and her son, and Esme says, so that’s it. Elizabeth is committed to being Nikolas’s accomplice. Elizabeth asks if Esme would rather have her baby in prison, and Esme says, this is a prison, with no oversight or chance of parole. And what happens to her after she gives birth? Did Nikolas tell Elizabeth that? Elizabeth says, he did. Esme will be taken to Greece, where she’ll live a life of luxury on Cassadine Island. Esme asks if Elizabeth really believes Nikolas is going to take care of her for the rest of her life.

Ava tells Mac that she wants Esme to rot, but she’s already told the cops everything she can think of. She hasn’t seen Esme in months. Mac says, they know Esme’s back in Port Charles, but the trail went cold after she crossed paths with Elizabeth Baldwin at the docks. Ava says, if she knew where Esme was, she’d serve her up, head on a platter… figuratively speaking, of course (🍷). Doc says, they don’t think Ava knows where to find her, but they think she knows someone who does.

Ryan’s new caregiver tells him that he doesn’t see any new articles about The Hook killer, but how about this? Prisoner Anna Devane remains at large after escaping a prison transport. Ryan blinks twice, and the caregiver says, how about sports? There’s football, basketball… Oh look, they’ve got pickleball.

Dante says he’s there to ask Heather about the prison transport crash, but she says, that’s old news. He says, it’s an ongoing investigation, and she says, right to business, huh? Not even a, hi, how are you? He asks how she is, and tells her that he’s here on official police business, but if she doesn’t want to cooperate, he’ll go. She says, cool your jets, Mr. Serious. I’ll tell you everything you want to know… for a price. Quid pro quo, Clarice; she does her best Anthony Hopkins impression.

TJ tells Diane and Jordan that Robert’s okay; he’s sleeping it off. Diane asks if she can see him, and TJ nods. She goes into Robert’s room, and Jordan asks if TJ really thinks Robert had too much to drink. He says, could be. They ran a tox screen, and he’s waiting for the results. What is she thinking? She says she thinks the DA was drugged.

Nikolas asks, why the urgency? Why does Victor have to move in tonight? Victor says, there’s been a development in his plans, and Nikolas says, plans that necessitate Victor hiding out on a secure island. Victor says, it had better be secure. He needs to prepare his family for what’s to come. It seems Nikolas and Spencer are the only Cassadines he can trust right now. Of course (🍷), the snail’s pace of Nikolas’s divorce from Ava is a continuing cause of concern. Now more than ever, Nikolas needs to get his house in order. He hands Nikolas a drink, and Nikolas says, if Victor is moving in to ensure his cooperation, he already told Victor that he agrees to his terms. Victor says, forgive him if he needs more assurance than Nikolas’s word, and Nikolas says, the house is still undergoing renovations. It’s not prepared for Victor yet. Victor says, then prepare it. Tonight the tide turns for this family.

Holly says, she just saw an enormous woodchuck floating up to the sky, and Scotty says, she probably hasn’t seen a parade in a while. Laura says, the mayor gets priority seating, and Holly’s welcome to join them, but Holly says, it sounds lovely, but she has somewhere to be. She told her Ride Share to pick her up at the Plaza. Laura asks if she has plans with Robert, but Holly says, not tonight; it’s business, not pleasure. Scotty says he didn’t know Holly had a job, and Laura says, the night before Thanksgiving? What kind of business?

Dante tells Heather that he’s not authorized to make a deal, but if he was her, he’d want to assist them. Who knows how it will work out for her down the wire? She tells him, if he wants her help, come back with someone who can make a deal, and he says, good luck with her painting. She’ll have plenty of time to get good at it. He leaves, and Heather has an epiphany. She knocks at the window, and thanks Craig for letting in the charming detective. She asks if he’d be an absolute dear, and escort her to make a teeny weeny phone call

TJ tells Jordan that he won’t know anything until the tox screen comes back. He’ll put a rush on it. She asks him to keep her posted, and he leaves.

Diane says, oh good; Robert’s up. He asks where he is; it looks like a hospital. She asks if he doesn’t remember, and he says he remembers tequila. She says, he and Holly shared some tequila shots, he had a bad reaction, and Holly took him back to his room. She asked Diane to give his WSB contact a message. He asks where Holly is, and where’s his briefcase? She says, he didn’t have it on him when he stumbled out of the elevator, and she hasn’t seen Holly since she left the MetroCourt to take him back to his room. He tells her, get Ashford here – now.

Holly says, unfortunately, some work won’t wait. As mayor, she’s sure Laura understands more than anybody. Laura says she absolutely does, with the ongoing hunt for Anna, and the search for Lucy’s real shooter. She imagines she’ll be working tonight, but she’ll find some time to spend with Martin, since they both saw their holidays going very differently. Scotty’s phone rings, and he steps away. Heather says, it’s his old pal, and he says, for cryin’ out loud. What does she want? She says, don’t be a grouch. Come to Spring Ridge, visit her, and find out. She promises it will be worth his while.

Esme tells Elizabeth, think about it. She gets whisked away, and holed up on some foreign island, with no one looking for her. Does Elizabeth really believe Nikolas is going to keep her around indefinitely? Once she gives birth to his child, she’ll be completely disposable. Elizabeth says, what Esme is suggesting won’t happen, but Nikolas is loyal to the people he cares about. So her advice is, make sure Nikolas cares about her. Esme says, like Nikolas cares about his son? and Elizabeth says, Esme is behind in her bloodwork; she’ll be sure to do it next time. Esme asks, which is when? and Elizabeth says she’ll come every couple of days until Esme delivers. She gives Esme a bottle of prenatal vitamins, and tells her to take one every day. She’s guessing Esme hasn’t taken them before, and Esme says she’s been a little busy. Elizabeth says, now she has the time. They’ll make her baby healthy and strong. Esme says, getting out of this room would work wonders in that regard, but Elizabeth tells her to take her vitamins. She’s not getting out of here any time soon. She leaves, and Esme looks at the bottle.

Ava asks why Mac is wasting time talking to her when he knows someone who can find Esme, but Mac says, she’s a pivotal part of their plan. Doc says, and she has the right to refuse, and Ava says, refuse what exactly? Doc says, Esme is cunning and dangerous, and Mac says, they’ve questioned everyone Esme has had a relationship with in Port Charles. Doc says, except one – his brother. Despite his best efforts, Esme forged a connection with Ryan when she was interning at Spring Ridge. Ryan will know how to find Esme. Mac says, Ryan refused to communicate with Doc, and it’s unlikely he’ll cooperate with the police. They thought if they gave him some incentive to cooperate… and Ava says, they want to use her as bait. Mac says he understands the gravity of what they’re asking her to do, and it’s completely up to her. Doc says, she’s the one person Ryan is likely to communicate with, but it’s not worth it if it’s going to cause her trauma. She tells them, say no more; she’s in. Doc suggests she take some time to think about it, but she says, they don’t have time. Esme terrorized this town long before she started her murderous rampage. They have to get to her before she gets to Trina. That’s the theory, right? That Esme is the killer and her ultimate target is Trina. Mac says, it is, and Ava says, then they have to find Esme and stop her. If she has to see Ryan to get it done, so be it. She’ll do whatever they ask. When do they need her? Mac says, right now.

Esme says, come on, think. What would daddy do? Ryan appears on the bed, and says he thought she’d never ask. She says, did he hear Elizabeth? She calls herself a nurse, but didn’t even help her. She’s too busy holding a grudge because of that stupid sex tape. He says he told her; don’t get distracted by Spencer… She says she has no time for I told you so. Help her figure a way out of here. He says he gets so tired of repeating himself. Use the baby. She asks, how? and he says, the baby’s health is dependent on her. She saw how frightened Nikolas was when he thought she was in distress. She says, until Nurse Baldwin threatened to do a C-section with no anesthesia, and he says, Elizabeth called her bluff, but that’s no reason she can’t build on a successful tactic. Throw out the vitamins Elizabeth gave her. She asks, what good that would do? and he says, refuse to take care of herself. If her health suffers, the baby suffers. She says, but if she harms the baby, she could lose…. her only leverage, and he says, the baby is her only leverage. She doesn’t have another option. Make sure Nikolas knows what’s at stake.

Craig lets Scotty into Heather’s room, and she says, it’s good of him to come. He says, hiya, Heather. He’s here because she’s Franco’s mother, so what does she want? She tears up and says, their boy was such a beautiful soul. She hates that he was taken in such a violent, cruel way. He says he knows. He sees she’s still painting, and she says, it’s what she and Franco shared in common. These works lack her usual depth. He asks how she can she tell, and she says, because of her neck. He asks, what’s wrong with her neck? and she says, didn’t he hear? Her prison transport van crashed, horribly. She’s been in agony ever since; she can hardly paint. He says, for cryin’ out loud, that’s why she’s in rehab, and she says she has half a mind to sue the city of Port Charles and the PCPD for physical and emotional distress. Isn’t that his area of expertise? He says, no judge is ever going to sign off on an institutionalized crackpot, but she says, what if she was a free woman? He asks, who’s going to let her out? and she says, he is.

Victor says, think of the perks. This way, Nikolas won’t have to spend Thanksgiving alone. Nikolas says he’s not in a celebratory mood this year, and Victor asks if that’s because of Spencer, Ava, or both. Nikolas says, among other things, when Elizabeth walks in. Victor says he’s sorry. He doesn’t remember Nikolas saying he had company, but Nikolas says he recalls telling Victor that it’s not a good time. Elizabeth says she’s sorry to interrupt, but Victor says, she’s not. The staff is moving him in; he’s the one interrupting. She says, he’s moving in tonight? How cozy. Victor says he’s sick and tired of living out of suitcases, and found himself craving family. He’ll start unpacking, and not detract from their evening any further. He’ll pick out a suite in the north tower. Nikolas says, no. The repairs aren’t finished yet; it’s not safe. Victor will have to stay in the south tower. Victor says, that’s a pity; the views are so much nicer in the north tower. He tells Elizabeth that it was a delight to see her, and leaves. Elizabeth says, what the hell? He’s living here now? Is Nikolas trying to get caught? In the foyer, Victor calls Gavin, and says, he’s arrived on Spoon Island. What did Gavin find out about the necklace, and where the hell is Holly Sutton?

Laura tells Holly that she can’t believe Scotty went to see Heather. Whatever she’s up to can’t be good. Holly wonders what happened to her Ride Share, and Laura asks where she’s going. Holly says, her meeting is out of town, and Laura says, it’s going to cost her a fortune. Why isn’t Robert taking her? Holly says, Robert doesn’t know. She’s going back to doing some contract work for government agencies, and she knows he wouldn’t approve because of her memory issues and how her last assignment ended, but she’s as sharp as ever. She needs purpose. Laura says she’d be happy to take Holly wherever she’s going, but Holly says she couldn’t trouble Laura. Laura says she insists. She won’t take no for an answer. Robert is a good friend, and she knows he woudn’t want Holly taking a Ride Share out of town tonight. Unless of course (🍷) Holly wants to call him. Holly says, thank you, she’d love a ride, but Laura says, no thanks necessary. It will give them a chance to talk. Holly picks up the briefcase, and follows Laura.

Nikolas asks how the baby is, and Elizabeth says, fine, for now. Esme has had no prenatal care, and she doesn’t know how they’re going to accomplish it with Victor here. It’s only a matter of time before Victor figures out he’s holding Esme prisoner here. He says, the north tower will be locked at all times, and Demetrius will be keeping an eye on Victor. He’s going to put his uncle in the south tower, which is on the opposite side of the house. He even soundproofed Esme’s room. Don’t worry; he has it under control. She says, this whole thing is going to blow up in their faces. It’s bad enough what they’re doing, and now Victor is going to be looking around. Victor comes back in, and Elizabeth says she was just on her way out. It’s good to see them both. Nikolas says he’ll walk her out, but she says, no need. Happy Thanksgiving. She leaves, and Nikolas tells Victor, she’s going through a tough time, and came here to talk. Victor says, stop lying to him. He knows exactly what’s going on.

At Spring Ridge, Mac thanks Dante for joining them, and asks how his conversation with Heather panned out. Dante says, not really, but they can talk about it later. What’s this all about? Mac says, Ava agreed to speak with Ryan, and Ava says she wishes Doc could be here. Mac says, him too, but Doc’s right; Ryan might not want to communicate in his presence. They walk into the rec room, and Mac asks if she’s sure she wants to do this now, but she says, no time like the present. Ryan’s eyes follow her as she walks over to him, and she asks if he’s still locked in. He blinks once, and the caregiver says, one blink for yes, two for no, but she says she’s familiar. Is he Ryan’s new caregiver? He says, one of them, and Ryan does a bunch of blinking. The caregiver tells her, he says… but she says she doesn’t care what he’s blinking. She’ll do the talking. She sits down, and asks if Ryan remembers his little friend Esme, his protégé. It turns out Esme is the one who attacked her. The audacity. How would he like the chance to get back at her for trying to take what’s his?

Scotty asks why Heather thinks he can get her out, and she says, it would behoove him. Once she’s a free woman, the judge will find her more credible when she sues the pants off the PCPD and the city. They’ll find her the victim of gross negligence, not some loon. It’ll be ka-ching, ka-ching for the both of them. He says he has a news flash for her. There are a lot details involved. He doesn’t know why she thinks he can get her sprung. She says, Detective Falconari was just here, and wanted to interview her about the crash, and the prisoner escape. He says, so? and she says, clearly her eyewitness testimony is very valuable to them. He says, that depends on the testimony, and she says, what if she can ID who helped Anna Devane escape?

Robert says he has to get out of here, and TJ says he appreciates the urgency, but Robert can’t leave. Robert says, TJ doesn’t understand. Holly is missing and could be hurt. There’s a $35 million necklace out there, and he has to make sure it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. Diane comes in with Jordan, and Robert asks if she found Holly or the necklace; somebody might have hurt Holly. Jordan says she wouldn’t worry. She took a look at the security footage, and Holly appears to be fine. He asks if she saw who took his briefcase, and she says, yes, and it’s someone he knows very well.

In the car, Laura tells Holly that her mother’s new place is in the center of town, near her favorite cafes and restaurants. Holly says she feels awful. Laura just came back, and she’s keeping her away from Doc. Laura says, Doc is working tonight. Besides, it gives them a chance to catch up. Holly says, without memories, there won’t be much catch up on her end, but Laura says she’s sure they’ll come back. So what agency did Holly say she was meeting with tonight? Holly says, Laura knows that’s classified, and Laura laughs, saying, she never assumes. She likes to keep her mind open to possibilities. Holly says, the mark of an effective mayor, when Laura’s phone rings. Laura says, and duty calls, and stupidly puts it on speaker. She tells Jordan that she can’t really talk. She’s sitting here with… Jordan says, it’s important. Robert Scorpio was mugged tonight. He’s all right, but the attacker stole his briefcase containing a necklace of diamonds from the Ice Princess. The suspect is Holly… The phone disconnects, and Holly takes out a gun. She tells Laura, no more questions. She’s so sorry it’s come to this.

The caregiver asks, what’s in it for Ryan? and Ava says, for every interview he gives, she’ll be there too. He can bask in her presence while he gives law enforcement the information they need to take that wretched Esme down. So he gets her company, and gets credit for doing a public service for once in his life. The caregiver says, maybe he doesn’t understand, but Ava says, he understands all right. He’s toying with her. She tells Ryan, just imagine how much more toying he could do with her as a captive audience. Enough stalling. Do they have a deal or not?

Heather tells Scotty, she reads the papers. Everyone is hot to trot to find Anna, from the WSB to the PCPD. And who’s the only one who can put them on the right trail? Little ol’ her. Strike this bargain with her. Free her, and they can squeeze this city for a tidy sum. He says he doubts anybody is going to make that deal, but she says, he’ll never know until he tries.  Doesn’t he want a windfall to ease his grief? Anna killed Lucy Coe, the woman who was the mother to the only child he has left. He can get revenge and strike it rich at the same time. What does he say? He says, no. Nein. His German girlfriend taught him that.  She says she can’t believe he’s turning down a way to make a fast buck, and he says he’s got a full life right now. He’s not going to let her screw it up. She says, is this all because of his new girlfriend? Why did he come here if he didn’t want to help her? He says he wanted to see if she was up to anything crazy, so he could tell the cops. She says, think it through. She never forgets her friends, or her enemies. He says, neither does he, tells the guard to let him out of this nuthouse, and leaves.

Nikolas says he doesn’t know what Victor thinks is going on, and Victor says, the loaded looks, the hesitation about him moving in? He wasn’t born yesterday. He’s not shocked. He’s rather relieved Nikolas is behaving like a single man again. Nikolas says, it’s not what Victor thinks. He and Elizabeth are just friends. She’s been going through some things. Victor says, it’s nice they can comfort each other. He won’t cramp Nikolas’s style. Nikolas tells Victor, just do him a favor. Ava can’t know Elizabeth has been coming over. Victor says, of course (🍷) not. No need to make this divorce more complicated than Nikolas has made it already by sleeping with Spencer’s girlfriend. Nikolas thanks him for his discretion, and Victor says he’s on Nikolas’s side. All the more reason to put an end to this marriage once and for all.

Holly says, do as she asks, and no harm will come to Laura, and Laura says, like no harm came to Robert? She knew Holly wasn’t to be trusted, and hates that she was right. Holly says she doesn’t want to hurt Laura, and Laura says, Holly has a funny way of showing it. Put the gun down. Holly says she wishes she could, and Laura says, she can; just do it. Holly tells her to take the next exit, but Laura says, no. Holly says, they have a long history, but that won’t save her. She has no choice in this. Laura says, she always has a choice, but Holly says she doesn’t, and she will do what she has to. Laura says, why? Because she’s working for Victor Cassadine? Is that why she was whispering to Eileen Ashby? Is that why she stole Robert’s briefcase? Holly says, here’s the exit. It’s now or never.

Jordan says she thought Holly and Robert were friends. Why would she do something like this? He says, you tell me, and she says, if there’s something she should know, now’s the time to tell her. Her phone rings, and she steps outside to take it. Diane says, it seemed like he wanted to say something to the Commissioner. Why didn’t he? He asks what she means; he’s an open book. She says, come on. Holly is his ex-wife, but it’s obvious she stole the necklace and drugged him. He says he hasn’t had tequila in a while, and she says, he’s going to be in a lot of trouble with the WSB, but he says he can handle it. She tells him, said every cocky defendant she’s ever represented. She hopes he won’t mind being one of them, but her rates are exorbitant. She hopes whatever Holly got herself into doesn’t drag him down as well.

Nikolas tells Victor, they’ve been through this. He’ll divorce Ava, it’s complicated, he needs some time. Victor says his patience is wearing thin, but Nikolas says he’ll do what he must. He knows what’s at stake. Victor’s phone rings, and he says he hopes for Nikolas’s sake that’s true. They’re already on the launchpad. He goes out to the foyer, and tells Gavin, talk to him. What’s the status?… What does he mean, she’s disappeared?  

Outside of the car, Laura asks Holly if this is the end of the line. Is Holly going to kill her and leave her by the side of the road? Holly says, there’s been enough death. She punches some numbers into Laura’s phone, and says, perfect; there’s some recent calls. Laura asks what she’s doing, and Holly says, Laura’s family needs her, throwing the phone toward Laura. We hear a ring, and Doc says, hello? Laura picks it up, and says, help her please. She’s on Route 31 by the side of the road, near mile marker 35. Call Jordan. Tell her that Holly stole her car, and that she’s armed and dangerous.

The caregiver tells Ava that Ryan says, I can’t wait to see you again, my love. Mac says, tell him they’ll be in touch to schedule the first interview. They start to leave, but the caregiver says, he wasn’t done. He said, never fear, Ava. We’ll find Esme together. Ava and Ryan lock eyes (no pun intended) and Ava leaves with Mac and Dante.

Esme comes out of the bathroom, and says, that’s that. She shakes a few vitamins into her hand, and tosses the empty bottle on the bed. She says, don’t worry, Ace. Elizabeth will be back soon. They’ll tell her that they trashed the vitamins, and she’ll bring them more before these run out. She looks at the few vitamins in her hand, and says, all they have to do is scare her. Show her and Nikolas that they can’t be steamrolled. She knows what Ace’s grandfather would say, but she can’t risk hurting Ace, and being at Nikolas’s mercy. She’ll do what it takes to survive. She swallows a vitamin.

Heather walks into the rec room, and sees Ryan. She gasps, and the caregiver asks if they know each other. She says, everyone knows Ryan Chamberlain, and the caregiver says, the same could be said of you, Heather Webber. Heather backs up a bit, and the caregiver wheels Ryan out as Ryan stares at Heather.

Tomorrow, Olivia says, they’re still waiting on the man of the hour; Sonny asks if Nina wants to make new traditions; Laura wants the police to make sure it ends peacefully; and Alexis says, Jordan promised her, but didn’t deliver.

Below Deck

Alissa harps on Camille stocking the refrigerator, and in her interview, she says, Camille should respect her second stew position. She’s just doing her job, and getting bad vibes. Camille says she’s going to lose her sh*t, and on deck, Tony works out. In his interview, he says, working out is how he deals with stress. In 2011 he got depressed when his dad got sick, and tried to find a healthy way to deal with it. Working out is replacing soul pain with physical pain. In Fraser’s interview, he says, day one was bad, and he’s not feeling good about things, including his future in yachting. They need to work harder, better, and smarter. How? He’s not sure, but he needs the enthusiasm first. Guest Chad is up and looking for coffee, and Hayley tells Fraser that Chad looks incredibly hung over. In Hayley’s interview, she wonders, who the hell gets up that early after getting sh*tfaced night before? Fraser serves breakfast, and tells the guests they’ll be going to be beach later. Alissa tells Fraser that Camille stomped feet when she said Camille needed to back up the crew. In his interview, Fraser says he appreciates Alissa’s communication, even though it’s not the best news. In his last stint as chief stew, he let people off too easy. He needs to be more of a bitch. In Katie’s interview, she says she’s never worked on a boat this size, but she’s hardworking wants be doing the same as the guys. Owning her own boat is her goal. Rachel discusses the beach picnic with Fraser, and tells him that she’s making up serving boxes. In Rachel’s interview, she says, primary Peng is from Thailand, and she can’t wait to make the lunch. She lived in Thailand for a while, near the clubs where the ladyboys party. Fraser tells Camille, there’s a Reiki sound bath person coming to the beach, and she leaves with Alissa and Katie to help with service. At the beach, Camille says she can’t wait to get in the water, and Katie wonders if that’s allowed. In Camille’s interview, she forgets this is a job, and says, yachting is supposed to be fun. She and Ben get in the water, and Fraser radios that the guests are on the way. In Alissa’s interview, she says, they’re supposed to be working, but apparently Ben and Camille don’t give a f***.

Katie and Ben greet the guests, and Dr. Tanya arrives to do the sound bath thing. One of the guests – Ben? Chad? I don’t know – tells Camille, being gay is exhausting, and Camille says she should try it sometime. Dr. Tanya does her thing, and on the boat, Fraser helps Rachel pack the lunches. He heads for the beach with the food, and Captain Lee tells Rachel that he’s hoping to get rid of his crutches soon. In the captain’s interview, he says, the pain is gone; he just doesn’t look pretty walking. But he was never going to be a runway model anyway. Lunch is served on the beach, and the guests are thrilled with Rachel’s choice. Peng says, it’s like what his mom would pack him for a school lunch, and he got made fun of. Another guest – Chad? Ben? Jared? I don’t know – says, the kids with the bologna are teasing me. The guests return to the boat, and demand to see Tony’s abs. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s a perfectionist. Mummy loves a challenge. In Rachel’s interview, she says, it’s important the dinner go well. She can’t have a repeat of the day before. When the guests’ experience is sub-par, you have to work harder to make them think it’s good. Fraser radios the crew to tell them, dress-up clothing for the Playboy mansion debaucherous evening is available. Hayley says some things in her interview that I’m not even repeating, and Rachel realizes the fish smells bad. In her interview, she says she ordered 45 pounds of frozen fish, but it wasn’t not frozen fresh. Dinner is f***ed. She calls Fraser to the galley, and says, the branzino is off. F*** my life.

Calling it the deadliest snatch, Rachel wonders how she’s going to pull off surf and turf without the surf. She hates her f***ing life. The captain asks what the dinner dress attire is, and Fraser says, debaucherous playboy. The captain is less than happy. In Tony’s interview, he says he likes his abs, but because of what he can do. We see clips of his various athletic talents, and he says, sometimes he feels like a piece of meat, but for the family, he will do it. In Ross’s interview, he says he enjoys the company of the fairer sex; sex being the operative word. Ugh. Hayley and Alissa discuss who fancies who, and Captain Lee mumbles that he’s being tossed to the wolves, as he gets ready to join the guests for dinner. He thanks them for the invite, and apologizes for being absent. He says, it’s a nerve issue, which will hopefully be resolved quickly, but until then, he’s the best they’ve got. In his interview, he says, it’s uncomfortable, but he can’t toss in the towel. Suck it up, cupcake. Truffle fries are served, and the captain says, Rachel is a treasure. In Rachel’s interview, she says, somehow, some way, she pulled it off. Per the guests’ request, Peng’s face is everywhere in the décor. The guests take photos and drink shots, and Camille radios the crew that they’re asking for exotic dancers. Ben wakes up Tony, and says, they have to dance. In Tony’s interview, he says, whatever the guests want, they get. Peng sits in a chair, while they do what maybe could pass for a lap dance at a distance. In his interview, Tony says, he doesn’t know what to do. He’s got nothing. He’s the worst Latino ever. Alissa tells Camille to clean the salon, and when Camille is eating something in the crew mess, Alissa tells her what she didn’t do. She says she doesn’t want any pouting, and Camille says, it’s her delivery.

Tony makes a lot of noises while he works out. The sea is rough, and Captain Lee says, don’t f*** with him; he’s not in the mood. In his interview, he says, the weather there in unpredictable. It’s called Windward Islands for a reason. The docking is going to be challenging. The wind is at 29 knots, and he says, the boat is like a pinball in a machine. WTF? Camille delivers the captain’s laundry, and Alissa calls her mother. Fraser says, her mom sounds adorable, and she tells him that she’s closest with her mom. When her parents divorced, she lived with her dad, and he was pretty negative. He had primary custody, and her mom would get them on weekends. Her dad was mean, and was hard on her. In Alissa’s interview, she says, her dad was a strict, devout Christian, and having a controlling parent caused her to become soft and submissive. Her mom was inconsistent. One time, she said she’d see them next weekend, and they didn’t see her for two and a half years. Being a kid, she automatically forgave, but it feels like standing up for herself is important now. Captain Lee’s shirt is way too tight, and he tells Fraser, it’s the wrong size. Fraser gets Camille, and they search for a large, but can’t find one. The captain tells her that he should have three, and she apologizes. He calmly dons a polo. Ross goes over anchoring with the deckhands, and in his interview, he says, they have great attitudes, and he loves them, even though Tony is green. It’s a load on him, and he hopes to spread his load… his work load. He laughs at his own awful joke, and I’m not liking him a whole lot. In Captain Lee’s interview, he says he’s as nervous as a whore in the front row pew at church. The have mountains all around, and a pass that the wind funnels through. They’re big sail. It’s a tricky dock, but you get paid the big bucks to make the hard calls. The wind is at 37 knots, and the captain curses his life.

At 27 knots, the captain heaves a sigh. He calls the deck crew to the wheelhouse, and in his interview, he says, Mother Nature is a bad ass bitch. He tells the deck crew that they’re going to find a spot for the guests to disembark, and ferry their asses in. In the captain’s interview, he says, it’s a 200 foot boat, and a lot to spend if they f*** up. They anchor outside of the marina, and Captain Lee tells Fraser, they’re going to launch a tender. The guests pack, and guest Jared thinks he’s leaving with more than he came with. I identify. Captain Lee radios the crew to be on the aft deck in five minutes in their whites. Camille asks if the captain is upset, but he says, if he was, there would be no doubt in her mind. Fraser promises to fix the situation. Peng tells the crew that service was great, except for having to find the soap and toilet paper. But they were brought all the alcohol, and they love to drink. They did feel bad waking Tony up, and Tony says, it was a new experience. Peng gives the captain the tip envelope, and the guests get in the tender, yelling, wooooo! as they leave. The crew changes, and Captain Lee radios them to meet in the Sky Lounge. He says, the guests loved the crew’s involvement, and thanks them for going above and beyond. The tip is $25K, or $2100 each. The captain says, it’s a healthy start, and in Hayley’s interview, she says, she’s already envisioning the Louis Vuitton handbag she’s buying in the airport on the way home. Captain Lee says, that put some smiles on their faces, and the crew gets ready to go out. Tony tells Ben that the girls are all beautiful, but he’s not vibing, and Ben says he likes Camille. He wasn’t keen on Allison, but he’s starting to warm up to her. In the galley, Fraser hands Rachel a cucumber, and says, sometimes you don’t need words. In Camille’s interview, she says she wants to know Ben more. He’s a little shy, and she wants to open up so he can come in. I’m not quite sure what she means by that. Alisson tells Hayley that she knows Camille likes Ben, but Camille’s been a bitch to her, so she’s going to flirt with him. She doesn’t owe anybody anything. As usual, the yachting industry finds the least likeable and most immature people.

The crew heads out, taking a tender to shore. At the restaurant, Camille asks everyone to join hands, and says she hopes they all have a great season and stay safe. They’re going to get f***Ing slammed tonight because they had great charter. She makes small talk with Ben, but Alisson tries to block her with some flirting, and telling him that she should have worn underwear. In Hayley’s interview, she says, as uncomfortable as this is, she’s enjoying watching it. Who should she put her money on? Ben says he thought his last girlfriend was serious, and he ended up heartbroken. In his interview, he says he lost her to drugs and alcohol. So he got out, and came to join the big white boats. Camille asks, what do they call the guys in yachting? and Ben says, sluts? She says, lost boys, and in Camille’s interview, she says, she dated a big deal quarterback who cheated on her. She was depressed and anxious, and just wanted to get away. She didn’t want anyone to know her. A lot of people get away from their demons in yachting. Fraser tells Hayley that yachting is misunderstood, and she says, people assume they work on cruse ships. He says he’d rather his funeral be rotting in a car park than setting foot on cruise ship. The crew goes back to the boat, and they change to get in the hot tub, but it’s cold, so they go back downstairs. Camille twerks, and gives Ben a lap dance. In Alissa’s interview, she says, she’d never chase a man. Camille is a man chaser, but she’s not. If you don’t have a brain, you have to use something, and Camille uses her ass. Camille asks if Ben enjoyed it. He gets up, and… OH MY GOD, MY EYES!!!! Yeah, he liked it. In her interview, Alissa says, Camille lowered her value. She’s a dirty, disgusting, trashy, swampy bitch.

The morning dawns in a gorgeous place, and it’s 31 hours before charter. Captain Lee says, f*** me, and in his interview, he says, everything is numb. He’s not progressing at the rate he anticipated, and the pain is worse. He can barely stand. In fact, he can’t stand. He says, mother***er.

Next time, a charter of medical doctors; Fraser mistakenly calls the doctors nurses; Alissa and Camille clash; and Camille says, Alissa isn’t her boss. I wonder if that’s the actual problem, since Camille is a floater. Technically, Fraser and Ross are her bosses.

⛴ Oh yeah, the Below Deck Mediterranean Reunion. It was boring AF. Natasha and Jason weren’t there. No doubt with Jason it was sour grapes, since he didn’t end on a great note. Tasha said she was working, but hard to buy that, since almost everyone else was too. Nothing was new news, except there was a show of hands for who thought Tasha did Dave dirty. Everyone raised their hands except Kyle, who said they were both at fault, and that gets my vote too. Tasha had no business stringing Dave along, but he did get overly aggressive, which wasn’t cool when you’re trapped on a boat. Oh, and it was revealed Natalya and Storm got busy in a secret location during charter. The show was one of those Watch What Happens Live virtual things, which I think takes a lot away from it, but maybe no one was that interesting to start with.

🥃 Southern Hospitality is worth a look. It’s like Vanderpump Rules, but in the south. Seriously, it’s not much different. If you like one, you’ll like the other.  

💳 Black Friday For Days…

Join me tomorrow for more Thanksgiving in Port Charles, some tea, and music. Until then, stay safe, stay being open to new viewpoints, and stay finding healthy ways to deal with heartache. Like replacing soul pain with physical pain.

November 21, 2022 – Holly Tells Robert the Whole Truth, New Everything On Deck, Latest Crew, All About That Music Award & Next

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Drew stretches in the park, when Carly comes along. She asks if he’s going for a run, and he says he just finished. She points out that he just happened to be in the park when she came along, and tells him that they need to be careful. Someone knows about them.

Dex reaches for Josslyn’s hand, and she says, he’s awake. She feels his forehead, and says, his fever’s going down. She asks how he feels, and he says, much better. He struggles to sit up, and she asks, how’s the side? He says, it only hurts when he moves, and she gives him some water, saying, hydrate. He says, first of all, he wants to thank her. If she hadn’t helped him, he’d be totally screwed. She says, he’s welcome. What’s the second thing? He says he needs her to do something for him.

Sonny is on the phone, when Frank comes in with Brick. Sonny leaves a message for Dex, saying, three days is too long to go dark. One email’s not enough. Get back to me. Now. Brick says he hasn’t heard from Dex either; he’s been trying to track Dex through his sources. Sonny thanks him, and says, that isn’t the only reason he wanted to see Brick. Last night, he said he was cool about everything that went down with Brick and Carly. He’s not.

Austin comes to Britt’s office, and tells her, Dr. Talone’s on her way. Britt says, oh joy, and he says, she’s the leading specialist on Huntington’s disease, and her waiting list is usually months long, so… She says she appreciates the strings he pulled to get her a consult, but he doesn’t have to stay. He says he knows, but he can if she wants him to, and she says, it would be nice to have some moral support if this really is the beginning of the end.

Scotty joins Cody at the MetroCourt, and says he’s agreed to meet Cody, but being Dominique’s son can only get him so far. What does he want? Cody says, some legal advice. He might be coming into an absurd amount of money.

Robert says, the game’s over, and when Holly tries to protest, he says, enough. He baited her with a phony address on his phone. Fifteen minutes ago, Whitten and his agents descended on that property, acting on an anonymous tip. She supplied the tip. How long has she been working with Victor?

Josslyn says she’s not getting Dex clothes, but he says he bled all over what he was wearing; sorry about Michael’s shirt. She says, she told him, Michael won’t miss it, but that’s not the point, and he says, the point is, he can’t walk out in blood stained clothes. She says, the point is, he can’t walk; he can’t even stand. He says he can, and struggles out of bed. He says, see?

Carly says, Josslyn saw them kissing the night Sonny brought her home, and Drew says, and she didn’t say anything until now? She says, Josslyn’s got a lot going on. She’s fine. She can be trusted. He says, even when Josslyn was a kid, she always had his back. She made him feel like family. Carly says, he is family, and he says, that reminds me. Michael and Willow asked me to look into something that might be important to us. She says she likes the sound of us, when Olivia comes along. She says, well, well, well. Fancy running into them here.

Holly says, Robert has the wrong idea, and he says, damn it. You can’t talk your way out of this one, kid. She says, yes, she’s doing Victor’s bidding, but not by choice. She jumps up, and says, Not. By. Choice.  The more she tells him – God, it’s so complicated – the more she tells him, the more he has a target on his back. He says, damn it. There’s a target on everyone’s back as long as Victor is walking around. Luke was murdered. Anna was framed. From what he’s hearing, they’re all in danger, her included. He can help her, but she’s got to tell him everything, and he means everything.

Scotty says, Cody is coming into money; illegal money no doubt. Cody says, nope. He’s coming into this honestly. It turns out, Serena may not have walked away with all the Taub fortune. Scotty asks what he means, and Cody says, there is some dispute as to whether or not the fortune belongs to Leopold Taub’s heirs or Cesar Faison’s.  

Britt thanks Dr. Talone for making the time to see her, and Dr. Talone says, it’s an interesting case, but she has to leave for Toronto soon, so let’s just dive in. Britt says she’s asked Dr. Gatlin-Holt to sit in for moral support, and Austin says, that’d be him, and thanks her for coming. He’s the one who forwarded Britt’s records. Dr. Talone says she’s looked them over. Britt tested positive for the gene two years ago? Britt says, correct, and the doctor asks why she was tested. Family history? Britt says, that, and she thought she was experiencing symptoms, but it turned out to be her carpal tunnel acting up. Dr. Talone says, the details from that visit are vague, and Britt says she was incognito in a way at the time. She gave a false name to the doctor. Dr. Talone says she’s sure what the doctor told Britt was accurate, but without a full medical history, it might not have been complete. If the trouble swallowing is what Britt fears, it might imply she’s further along. Britt asks, how much further? and the doctor says, it could be, Britt’s secondary condition of carpal tunnel was masking over symptoms of chorea; a symptom of Stage 2 Huntington’s. If Britt wasn’t upfront with her identity, she assumes Brit withheld certain details of her life, say, five or ten years ago? Britt says she was essentially on the run most of that time, except for the year she spent in prison. Dr. Talone asks if she experienced irritability, anxiety, depression, or restless limbs during that time, and Britt asks if the doctor didn’t just hear her. She was on the run, then in a prisoner, so yes, she was anxious, irritable, and depressed. Dr. Talone says, It’s possible at that time, Britt was experiencing a harder to detect stage of the disease.

Brick says he’d never disrespect Sonny by making a move on the mother of his kids, and Sonny says he believes Brick, but when Carly meddles in his business, in his people, it usually ends up with disaster. Brick tells him, give Carly some credit. She handled herself well and took over the reins while Sonny was missing. Sonny says he gets that, but whatever she’s into now could be conflict with his kids. He can’t have that. Brick says, if the situation was dangerous, he’d tell Sonny. he gives Sonny his word. Frank pops in, and says, a supplier wants to meet with Sonny outside, and Sonny tells Brick that he’ll be right back. Brick sits, and takes out his phone.

Carly tells Olivia that she was just walking by… and Drew says, he was finishing his run. Carly says she was out for a stroll, since she has so much time on her hands, not being at the MetroCourt anymore. What about Olivia? Olivia says she just dropped Leo off at his first basketball practice. It’s just a little intermural thing with kids on the spectrum to practice their team building skills before the season starts. Carly’s phone dings, and she sees a text from Brick: At Sonny’s office. He knows we met up last night. Got some wild ideas about it. Carly says she’s got to go; something came up. She leaves, and Olivia says, Leo had quite an adventure last night. Drew says, Leo’s such a great kid, and she says she thinks so. He can’t stop talking about that cellphone he found outside the gatehouse.

Dex struggles to breathe and stand at the same time, and Josslyn asks if he’s going to sit down, or is she just supposed to watch him fall over? He admits he can’t run any marathons, but thinks he can make it back to his place, and she says, the last time he did that, he popped two stitches, and the wound got infected. He says, that’s because he was trying to sneak out of her brother’s house at night. He was in a hurry, he brushed up against a tree, and that’s when he popped the stitches. Fortunately, it’s broad daylight now. He just needs her to get him some clean clothes, and he’ll be out of here. She says, he can’t leave yet; he’s still too weak. He asks, how many people are on this floor? and she says, 30. He asks, how many floors are there? and she says, 10. He says, there are 300 ways to get caught, and she says, if he goes outside and collapses, that’s another way to get caught. He says he’ll be on his own, and she won’t be implicated. He didn’t come to her for help, but she helped him anyway. He’s not going to repay her by making her an accessory after the fact. She says, accessory to what? He still won’t tell her what he did… Correction; what Sonny ordered him to do. He says he only stayed last night because he was too messed up to leave, but he’s better now. So if she won’t get him the clothes, he’ll put his back on and take his chances.

Britt asks if Dr. Talone is saying that she could have been showing symptoms while she was on the run. That was eight years ago. Dr. Talone says, she’s trying to make the symptoms Britt had align with what they know of the disease. Trouble swallowing is her main symptom? Austin says, if Britt is honest with the doctor, it might help her make an accurate diagnosis, and Britt says she’s been more irritable lately. The tremors still show up once in a while… Dr. Talone says, define once in a while, and Britt says, okay, fairly regularly, but she keeps them in check. The doctor says she’d like to conduct some tests.

Cody tells Scotty, Leopold Taub bequeathed several pieces of jewelry to his direct heirs, including a necklace that somehow ended up with Peter August. Scotty says, Britt found that necklace in a safety deposit box, but it’s funny. The girl with the necklace is now hooked up with Cody through Society Set-Ups. Cody says he guesses it was fate, and Scotty says, or not. Cody says, the necklace contains diamonds cut from the Ice Princess, and Scotty says, the Ice Princess. The Cassadines were going to freeze the world with it. Cody says, that’s what he heard, and Scotty says he has a little piece of advice for Cody – run for the hills.

Holly says she’s been lying to Robert. Her memory of the last two years is anything but fuzzy; it’s seared into her. He suggests they take it from the beginning, and they sit down. She says she was investigating Rudge and his casino; that much is true. The rumor was, Victor was alive and well, and working with Rudge. Victor still had allies in the Bureau, word got out, and her cover was blown. Rudge kept her captive in the casino for weeks, until… He says, she managed to call him, and we flash back to Robert getting an indecipherable call from Holly, asking for help. She says she knew help was on the way, when Victor revealed himself to her. We see Holly bound to a chair, and she tells Robert, Victor wanted her to know what would happen if she tried to contact him again. We see a woman with a hood over her head being dragged into the room, and she says, Victor wanted to make an example of someone she cared about. Victor (who’s wearing a tuxedo) cocks a gun, and she says, that’s when he shot Paloma. We see Victor fire the gun, and Robert says, her sister? She says, the bastard made her watch while he murdered her sister in front of her eyes. Victor used her sister to demonstrate what would happen if she tried to escape. Robert says, Paloma looked just like Holly. It was her body they found on the casino grounds. We flash back to Robert telling Olivia, it’s Holly’s wedding ring, and Holly says, and wearing her wedding ring. Along with falsified dental records, voila! Everybody in the world thinks she’s dead. Evidently, Paloma was expendable, but Victor thought he might have some use for Holly someday. We flash back to seeing Holly on a monitor, yelling, open the door, you bastard! Let me out of here! She tells Robert, she was kept in the lap of luxury until her temper got the better of her. We see her being thrown in a cell, then banging on the door, yelling for help, and the door has a padlock on it. She tells Robert that Victor moved her from Crete to God knows where. Then he did find a use for her. He brought her here. Anna was getting in the way of his master plan, whatever the hell it is, and he wanted her to distract Robert, after framing Anna. He says, tell him she didn’t shoot Lucy, and she says, it was her. He says he doesn’t believe it. How could she? Lucy was her friend, and Holly killed her. Holly says she did no such thing. She said she shot her, but Lucy’s not dead.

Josslyn comes back to find Dex taking medication, and she tells him that he’s supposed to take it with food. She gives him an energy bar, and he asks if she had any trouble, but she says she was in and out in less than five minutes. As far as she knows, no one saw her. She tosses him a duffel bag, and he opens it. He says, socks? and she says she didn’t think he’d want to wear his old ones, and she wasn’t digging in his bloody bag of clothes to find others. He has a hard time even sitting up, and she tells him to give her the socks. She says, the fact that he can’t get dressed by himself might tell him he’s still too weak to go. She puts his socks on him, and he asks if she can help him with the pants. She puts them over his feet, and he gets up, zipping them. She says, that’s impressive. What is he going to do about the shoes?

Sonny asks Brick, where were we? and Brick says he respects Sonny. If this was about business, he’d tell Sonny what happened, but he prefers to leave other people’s private matters private. Doesn’t their friendship allow for that? Frank knocks, and Carly walks into the office. She says she heard Sonny got the wrong idea about her and Brick. She’s glad Brick is here while she sets Sonny straight.

Josslyn puts clothing in Dex’s bag, and he asks what she’s doing. She says, it would look weird for him to carry around an empty bag. He tells her to put his stuff in, and she says, and if somebody happens to open his bag, and it’s full of bloody clothes, that won’t make him look guilty at all. He asks what she’s going to do with them, and she says, take them to her mom’s and burn them in the firepit, along with the sheet, and everything she brought from Michael’s. He says, she’s going to a lot of trouble for him, and she says she is, so don’t get caught. She hands him the bag, and he kisses her. She kisses back, and he says, damn. This wasn’t supposed to happen. She says, well, it did, and he says he has to go. She says she can drive him, but he says, she’s done enough. He’ll take it from here. She says, wait, and gives him his keys. Their hands touch for longer than necessary, and he says goodbye. He leaves, and she watches him go from the door.  

Olivia tells Drew, now Leo wants his own cellphone. She said, when he’s twelve years old, which didn’t go over to well, and she told him, that’s 20 years younger than when she got her first cellphone. She snaps her fingers, and whistles, asking if he’s there, and he says, sorry. He was just… She says, thinking about Carly? She doesn’t suppose things between the two of them have progressed, have they?

Carly says she heard Sonny was asking questions about her being in Brick’s room. Not that it’s any of his business. Brick says, he just told her that Sonny was curious, and Carly says, here’s the deal. She and Drew are seeing each other. They have to keep it quiet because there are some insider trading issues at play. She asked Brick to cover their digital tracks. Sonny gestures for Brick to leave, and Brick says, gladly. Carly tells Sonny, she’s sure he has a lot to say, and he says he’s happy for her.

Britt comes back to her office, and says, Austin’s still here. He asks how it went, and she says, hell if she knows. Dr. Talone’s not exactly the warm, cheery type. Her bedside manner leaves a lot to be desired. He says, she woudn’t know anything about that, and they laugh. She thanks him for not treating her any differently now that he knows the truth. It’s easier to talk about this to people she doesn’t know very well. He says he’s touched, and she says she just means, it takes a lot more energy to get into it with people she’s closer to. He says, of course (🍷); like Cody, Brad… She says she knows how her story is going to end. It’s one thing to share the gory details with a triage doctor – he says, that would be him – and it’s another for her loved ones. She wants them to remember her, not what this horrible disease does to her. There’s a knock at the door, and it’s Dr. Talone. Britt asks what she found.

Scotty says, the Ice Princess is cursed. It’s a fact; look it up. Cody says he’s done some research, and Scotty says, anybody who’s claimed that diamond has died, including Luke Spencer. He wants nothing to do with it. Cody says, so Scotty won’t help him? but Scotty says he is helping Cody. He’s telling Cody to walk away. Cody says he’ll handle it himself, and Scotty says, forget the curse. Cody is going after this inheritance, and he’s going to screw over the girl he allegedly cares about. Is that really worth it?

Robert says, Lucy is alive? and Holly says, it was never Victor’s intention to kill her. Lucy’s just another person he can use as leverage against the people of Port Charles. He asks how she managed it, and she says, there were two shots fired that night. The first one she shot was a rubber bullet. We flash back to Lucy getting shot on the docks, and Holly says, the second was a real bullet. She fired into the water, leaving casing and residue on the pier. He says, but the video showed Anna, and she says, during Victor’s tenure at the Bureau, he perfected the art of prosthetics which he made her wear, just like Luke and Faison. Lucy was retrieved from the water almost immediately by Victor’s guards. We see Lucy being carried across the pier between two guards, as she’s asking, what happened? Holly asks Victor where they’re taking her, and Victor says, don’t worry. She’s in good hands… for the time being. But Holly still has more work to do. Robert says he doesn’t understand. Why not run to the cops, then and there? With Lucy alive, Anna’s cleared. She says, Victor must never know she told him this. Nobody must know Lucy’s alive. He says he doesn’t think Victor would harm Lucy. He seems to have a soft spot for her. Holly says, it’s not about Lucy. There’s another reason Victor must never know she betrayed him. He asks what Victor’s got on her, and she says, not what, who. My son.

Sonny says, it will never be easy for him to see Carly with another guy, but she’s seeing Drew, and he’s a decent enough guy. Sonny isn’t threatened by him at all. He’s not surprised; Drew is around her all the time. She thanks him, but says she didn’t come here for his approval. She came here because she didn’t want him to get the wrong idea about her and Brick. She asks how he knew she was in Brick’s room, and he says, because Nina said she saw Carly. Carly says, of course (🍷). It’s Nina’s mission in life to make her miserable. He says he told her that he was happy for her; can’t she be happy for him? She says she’ll be happy for him when his girlfriend learns to mind her own business. Frank opens the door, and Brick comes in with Dex. Brick says he found  a friend of Sonny’s waiting to see him. Carly says she’ll leave them to their business, and when she’s gone, Sonny asks where the hell Dex has been.

Dr. Talone says, Britt is showing signs of entering Stage 3 of Huntington’s disease. If her timetable is correct, Britt is in the low intermediate stage of the disease. Her current symptoms will increase, along with eventual significant cognitive impairment. Britt asks how much time she has, and the doctor says, the average life span of a patient in Stage 3 is five to fifteen years. But as for living her daily life, it could be as soon as 18 months before she needs full time care and assisted living.

Robert says, Victor has Ethan, and Holly says, after Robert’s adventure in Monte Carlo, Ethan found evidence that she might still be alive, and came looking for her. He asks why Ethan didn’t bring it to him, and she says she doesn’t know; maybe he wanted to get confirmation first. Unfortunately for all of them, Victor’s people caught him, and Victor is holding him to secure her cooperation. Robert says, so Victor’s got Anna on the run, he’s got Lucy and Ethan as prisoners… Holly’s phone dings, and she says, and he’s got her over a barrel. Robert asks if that’s him, and she says, he’s coming here. Robert has to go. Robert says, put him off, but she says she can’t provoke him, or he’ll do the same to her son that he did to her sister.

Olivia says, Drew and Carly would have a good reason to keep things quiet, and he says, such as? She says, a lot of questions Ned was asking about the merger; like who knew what and when they knew it. He says, the merger that never happened, but she says, hypothetically speaking, someone she’s married to could raise a pretty big stink with the SEC. And if that were the case, he should know he can count on her not to say anything. Carly is her best friend, and he’s family.

Josslyn cleans up her room, shoving the sheets into the bag with Dex’s clothes, and there’s a knock at the door. It’s Carly, and Josslyn tells her, Dex is gone. Carly says she knows. She saw him in Sonny’s office. Josslyn says, unbelievable. She almost kills herself trying to save him, and he runs back to Sonny. Carly says, Dex is working for Sonny by his own choice. As grateful as he is that she helped him, that job is going to be his top priority. Josslyn asks if Carly wants her to say this was a one-time thing, and she’s never going to see Dex again, and Carly asks if Josslyn would be disappointed if it was a one-time thing. Josslyn says she needs to go home. She needs to use the fire pit. Carly says, now is a good time, the girls aren’t there, and they leave.

Dex tells Sonny, the bullet grazed his side. It bled a lot, and got infected. He found a place to crash until his fever broke. Sonny asks why he didn’t call, and Dex says he lost his phone. Sonny says, that’s not very professional, and Dex says he was pretty out of it the first night. He didn’t know if the cops were looking for him. He kept his hat on and his face in shadow the whole time, but there was still a chance the guard could ID him. Sonny asks what Brick thinks, and Brick says, out of contact for three days, conveniently. Could be he lost his phone, but Brick sees why Sonny would be concerned. Dex says he laid low because he didn’t want to bring any trouble back to Sonny. No matter what, Sonny can count on him.

Holly tells Robert, she’s trying her best to save everyone. Anna, Lucy, Ethan, but something has to give. Robert says, she’s right; something does.

Britt thanks Dr. Talone for going out of her way to meet with her, and the doctor says she’s sorry she doesn’t have better news. She leaves, and Austin asks if Britt wants to go for a walk. She says, thanks, but she needs to be alone, and he asks if she wants a drink. She says, he’s been great, but she needs to handle this by herself. He says she knows where to find him, and leaves. She looks at her framed degree, then her business card. She tosses the card down, and holds out her hand, seeing the tremor. She says, damn it, and throws the degree into the bookcase, smashing it and whatever’s on the shelf. She swipes everything off of her desk and onto the floor, then throws a vase of flowers against the wall, shattering it, and cries.  

Victor arrives at the docks, and tells Holly that he just got word from Eileen Ashby; Anna has escaped. She asks how that’s possible, and he says, you tell me. She says she saw the text on Robert’s phone, and that was the address she gave to the Marshal. He says, Robert may be on to her; best be on her guard. Meanwhile, he has another assignment for her. One involving an old friend of hers.

Britt’s office is a mess. She kicks a chair, and picks up the necklace, which does not seem as heavy as it should. She says, gee, Peter, thanks. You got this from dear old dad. Guess what I got? Cody knocks at the door, then walks in.

Tomorrow, Brook tells Linc that she’s going to expose him for the creep that he is; Nina asks Dante how worried Ava should be; Cody tells Britt that she’s definitely worth loving; and Victor tells Holly that she’s got a lot more to lose.

Below Deck

Captain Lee tells us, St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. It’s straight out of a postcard. He’s been a captain for 37 years, and it’s time to do captain sh*t. He has a set of expectations that are so far out of the f***ing park. In Rachel’s interview, she says she’s like a mercenary chef. She’s coming in to murder sh*t and get tips. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s been crowned king… chief stew. It’s so good to be in charge. In bosun Ross’s interview, he says he’s from old school yachting. You work hard so you’ll be able to play hard. He may have overstepped on occasion, but tries his best to be professional. In her interview, stew Alissa says she’s a flirty person, and likes the attention on a boat. In stew/deckhand Camille’s interview, she says, she’s a Mississippi gal, and loves to twerk, which I’m sure will be a useful skill, and in deckhand Ben’s interview, he says he’s Peter Pan looking for his Tinkerbell. In deckhand Katie’s interview, she says she might be a pretty face, but she knows how to rock it. Deckhand Tony tells us in his interview, his entire life fits in his backpack. If it doesn’t fit, it must go away. Life is about collecting experiences. In stew Hayley’s interview, she says, people would describe her as a sensational stunning hot mess crazy bitch. The captain says he’s going to work their asses to the bone. Yachting isn’t all fun and games; it’s deadly serious. He’ll chew their asses and spit them out in a heartbeat. We see scenes from the coming season.

Fraser arrives first, and says, the boat looks huge and brilliant. He looks around, while Captain Lee looks over the crew’s CVs and wonders why every CV says, self-motivated. Fraser comes to say hello, and the captain says he knows Fraser will shine. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s been chief stew for one season, and wants to be a leader and a friend. He wants to mix personal and professional together to create something wonderful. The captain tells Fraser that Camille is a floater, but she’ll primarily be with him. In Captain Lee’s interview, he says, the boat is 197 feet. All the rooms are bigger, and there’s an extra deck. He tells Fraser that they’re picking up tomorrow, and it will be the usual sh*tshow. Rachel gets there next, and in her interview, she says she’s excited to see her boat daddy. The captain tells her that she has her own cabin, and she says she’s going to knock their socks off. She and Fraser hug. Ross meets the captain, and says he’s worked on 26 yachts, which makes Captain Lee happy. The captain reviews the deckhands with him, and says, Tony will be the greenest. In Ross’s interview, he says he has 11 years’ experience, and the hardest element for him is social dynamics. He holds back, and thinks of it as a chess game. In Alissa’s interview, she says, her ultimate goal is to make as much money as possible, meet high-end people, mooch off them, and live their life. When Hayley arrives, she tells Fraser that she loves St. Lucia, but the humidity isn’t doing her hair any favors. In her interview, she says, the three things she likes about herself are her t*ts, ass, and hair. Ben and Katie slip in, and Fraser talks to the stews. Hayley says she’s more geared to service, and Alissa says she loves housekeeping. Fraser says, it’s all good, and sends them to do cabins, saying, we’ll just get it all done. Tony and Camille are the last to come on board, and in Ross’s interview, he says he’s attracted to a few of the girls. It complicates things more if they’re on his team. He’s going to try and be as professional as he can, but it’s not his strong suit.

Fraser tells Ross that he’s throwing Camille in, but whenever Ross needs her, she’ll be his. Katie tells Camille that she’s from Ohio, and Camille said she detected Midwest. In Camille’s interview, she says she’s from a small town in Mississippi, but it was too small for her. Growing up, she didn’t get invited to parties because she was always the center of attention. It wasn’t on purpose, but she loves being extra. I see she’s modest too. Captain Lee calls a staff meeting, and jokes that they’re a motley looking bunch. Fraser goes to get the captain some coffee, but there’s no coffee or cream. Captain Lee shrugs it off, and introduces himself. He gives them the two rules: don’t embarrass the boat, and don’t embarrass yourself. He says he has a pocketful of plane tickets that he’ll have no problem handing out. He’s a little incapacitated from a nerve issue, so he’ll be depending on them in some areas. In the captain’s interview, he says he had back surgery, but the worst is behind him, and the doctors say he’ll continue to get better. He tells the crew that he wants to set records, and get all the cash they can possibly get. Pick up is tomorrow. Now go to work.

In Fraser’s interview, he says, Alissa knows what she’s doing. All her work is polished and structured. Hayley is all over the place, but enthusiastic. So far, so good. Provisions come in, and in Rachel’s interview, she says, more decks makes it harder. She has to go all the way down for her dry storage and walk-in freezer. It’s going to build her calves, and give her a nice hard ass. In Katie’s interview, she says she grew up in Ohio, and decided to move to Florida, where she got into yachting. She can do everything the boys can do. The captain radios Ross, Fraser, and Rachel for a preference sheet meeting. The first charter’s primary is Peng, an in-demand tax professional. He’s bringing his best friends to celebrate his birthday. The friends want Peng’s face decorating everything. They’ve requested a rave style party, and a Zen day at the beach. They’d also like a Playboy mansion themed party, with a sexy male dancer, and someone to jump out of a cake. Captain Lee says, they’ll be leaving his old ass out of that. The stews work on the cabins, and get to know one another. In Hayley’s interview, she says, yachting is like an ex-lover. You don’t want to commit, but occasionally want to dip back in. In Fraser’s interview, he says, he’s giving this his all, and he’s already stressed. There’s always a voice in the back of his head telling him that he’s not good enough. The boat is huge, and he didn’t know what he was facing. It’s worse than he thought, and he’s freaking out.

Fraser tells himself not to have a panic attack today, and the deck crew cleans the boat. In Tony’s interview, he says he worked on small boats; not like this one. He was born in Costa Rica, and he’s a free spirit. Going to the mountains for a few days with his backpack, that’s life. Fraser asks the interior to meet in the Sky Lounge, and the deckhands put on finishing touches. In Fraser’s interview, he says he had a mental breakdown last night. He can’t do everything, and has to learn to delegate. Here is his bible. He gives the stews a schedule of their responsibilities, and says, since he doesn’t know them, he went off their experience. He’s making Alissa his second, so she’s in charge of helping the girls out. In Alissa’s interview, she’s says she’s going to smash it. Her triangle of the people she listens to is, Captain Lee, Fraser, and whoever’s paying. If you’re not in the triangle, just do your work. Fraser says his priority is laundry, and Camille switches over to the deck for line instruction. Ross shows them a diagram of the boat, and goes over who is on which lines. In Camille’s interview, she says, she’s used to a small boat, but she likes being outside with the boys. It’s a vibe; wearing sunglasses and drinking a Coca Cola. I have no idea what the hell she’s talking about. Rachel curses the galley, and Fraser texts provisioner Marissa for a person to jump out of the cake. In Alissa’s interview, she says, Camille is giving her attitude. It’s annoying, but they’ll see how it progresses. The captain says, one hour, and Fraser takes a final look around, saying, everything is pretty. Camille does a pre-charter twerk, and the guests arrive. Ross says, God help us.

Captain Lee welcomes them aboard and to St. Lucia. He says, they have some fun planned for the birthday boy. Fraser will give them a tour, and they’ll get this party started. Primary Peng is off to great start, as he trips going up the first set of stairs. He also needs to pee, and there’s no soap in the bathroom. In Fraser’s interview, he says, the guests have been here ten minutes, and we’ve already f***ed up. The main bedroom has a skylight that opens up to the hot tub, which is just weird. Was that a money saving move, or is the owner some kind of kinkball? Captain Lee goes over things with Ross, and tells him, stay sharp. In the captain’s interview, he says, there’s a new crew, a new boat, a new location, new everything. It’s a lot of pressure, but you can’t put toothpaste back in the tube. He tells the deckhands, let’s not burn daylight, reminding me of John Wayne in The Cowboys. The boat heads out, and Peng and guest Quai decide to move a table, spilling the vase of flowers on it. In his interview, Fraser wonders, is it too soon to throw oneself overboard? Tony asks the captain about his career path, and Captain Lee says he’s been in the business 40 years, and did every sh*t job there is. In his interview, the captain says Tony is green as far as skills go, but he has a great smile and a willingness to learn. He can work with that. Ben has a Titanic moment with Camille in the crew mess. They drop anchor in Vigie Beach, and lunch is prepared. The guests seem pretty drunk already, and in Rachel’s interview, she says, lunch is late. there’s a new crew, new equipment, and a vast boat. She feels like a rushed a-hole, and it sucks.

Fraser tells Rachel that he’s going to seat the guests, and she asks if it’s over yet. Lunch is served an hour and fifteen minutes late, and guest Ashley is hangry. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s feeling frazzled, but all he can do is roll with the punches. Peng wonders where the food came from. After lunch, the guests go swimming, and Peng wonders why the water is wet. No more for him. In Camille’s interview, she says, if she was second stew, she’d have more fun. She thinks Alissa was the type who got all A’s, while she’s the type who rolled with it if she got a C. Ross and Katie pick up the cake, and Ross puts a bag over it, so it’s a surprise. Observing the guests, Captain Lee says, they’re drunker than a bunch of four-peckered goats. According to him, goats seem to get drunk a lot. The guests tell Fraser that they’re all Mormons. I would assume not practicing considering the amount of alcohol they’ve consumed. In Captain Lee’s interview, he says he’s been a captain for 37 years, and sailing the Caribbean a long time. St. Lucia is one of his favorite islands. It’s breathtaking, but the trade winds blow, and make your life miserable. Suck it up, creampuff. The boat rocks, and Peng wonders if it’s him. Everything has gone flying in the galley, and in Rachel’s interview, she says she has to stop what she’s doing and clean thoroughly. If someone chews on glass, it’s her ass, but it takes time. This is such a nightmare. She hates her life.

In her interview, Rachel says, this isn’t going how she planned. Glass is everywhere, and she’s in a time crunch. She’s worried about spiraling and shoving her foot up someone’s ass. All the guests wear shirts with Peng’s face on them, and Camille welcomes them to dinner in the Sky Longue. Ashley says, the décor is way too pretty. They look like Mississippi porch whores. I’m not sure what that means, but VC Andrews comes to mind. In Camille’s interview, she says, the guests are extremely f***ed up, and that’s her vibe. She loves drinking. Dinner is an hour late, and in Rachel’s interview, she says, the guests required a multi-course tasting menu. Everything is downstairs, and it’s a lot of running. Every second counts in service. It goes from zero to 100. Guest Junior says, Peng was his first friend in Salt Lake, and everyone gets all sentimental. Hayley and Camille do cabins, and Camille whines about nothing being prepared. She says she’s discombobbled, which I don’t think is a word. In Hayley’s interview, she says, smile, suck it up, and carry on. The dancers come on board, and not liking the Fireball shot, Peng spits it out. In Tony’s interview, he says, it doesn’t make you more special because you have more money. Hanging out and respecting the locals makes you a richer person. Fraser tells Rachel that the guests are impatient, and in his interview, he says, they still have a party to do, and it’s stressing him. Where’s Rachel at? Quai says she’s chill, but she’s bored, and decides to get ready for the rave. The rest of the guests leave the table, and Rachel says she’s going to cry.

In Rachel’s interview, she says, suck my d*ck, and Fraser radios for the crew to get in their outfits. Dessert is served, and the guests’ minds are appropriately blown by Rachel’s creation. In Fraser’s interview, he says, the guests are ready to party, and he hopes they can turn this around. The cake is set up, and one of the dancers pops out when Peng comes in. There are lots of glowsticks, and everyone jumps around to house music or whatever. The dancers do the limbo, and Rachel brings out a cake with a giant sparkler on it. The dancers leave, and Fraser says, it’s day one; kill me now. In his interview, he says he’s feeling unbelievably overwhelmed. He’s bit off far more than he can chew, and doesn’t feel prepared or capable of doing the job. Alissa bosses Camille around, and in Camille’s interview, she says, there’s a way to lead. Bossing is when you’re pushed down, told what to do, and made to do it because you’ve got to. It doesn’t sit well with her. In Alissa’s interview, she says, if you don’t want to be corrected, do it correctly. It’s going to be a long season.

This season, Captain Lee says, his mind is here, and his heart is here, but his body won’t cooperate. He’s made a decision.

⚓️ Meet the New Crew…

There are a few familiar faces.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/below-deck-season-10-get-to-know-the-crew-members

🏆 Award Worthy…

The AMA winners.

https://www.cnn.com/2022/11/20/entertainment/american-music-awards-winners-2022

Performances and moments.

https://www.etonline.com/2022-american-music-awards-best-moments-and-biggest-performances-of-the-night-194774

A tribute.

https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/watch-pinks-touching-performance-honor-olivia-newton-john-93719361

And most important, who wore what.

https://people.com/style/2022-amas-best-dressed-stars-photos/

🖼 Inside Looking Out…

Tomorrow, just soap and tea, so come sit a spell. Until then, stay safe, stay being gracious with intolerable relatives, and stay remembering that life is about collecting experiences.

November 15, 2022 – Brick Helps Out Carly, Her Reason, Final Bow, Kate Critiques, Done, Renewed, Final Talk, Ending Peek, Dog, This Little Piggy & Street

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

At the MetroCourt, Sonny gives Brick a hug, and asks, how was the flight? Brick says, smooth weather, easy check-in, but he’s hungry, and Sonny says, lunch is on him. How was Montreal? Brick says he made some progress on that front. Plus he has a few options to discuss with Sonny. Sonny says, before they talk, there’s someone he wants Brick to meet. Nina walks up, and says, gentlemen, and Sonny tells Brick, this is… Brick says, the woman who stole your heart.

Drew finds Leo outside, and asks what he’s doing. Leo says he’s collecting leaves, but he’ll go, and Drew says, Leo doesn’t have to go on his account. What’s the hurry? Is something bothering him? Leo says, everyone’s mad, but Drew says, he isn’t mad. Leo says, yes he is. He and Michael are mad at Leo’s dad. Is Drew mad at him too?

Willow finds Michael at his laptop, and says, he’s still at it. Michael asks how her nap was, and she says, good. She and the baby must have really needed the downtime. Maybe he does too. He says, later. He’s been filling himself in on bone marrow donations, and the family is already registered because of their history with cancer, but most people don’t realize how easy it is. He thinks they should organize a donor drive at GH; provide tests, and get as many people to register as possible. Hit up social media sites, and places to advertise, like Kelly’s, Charlie’s and other hot spots around town. She says, it sounds wonderful, and thanks him. He says, of course (🍷). They’re in this together. She says she’s so sorry she kept her leukemia diagnosis from him, but he says, it’s okay. They’re focusing on the future now. She says, a future with him is all that she wants, and he says he’s going to make sure it’s a healthy and happy one.

Josslyn tells Dex, do not move from this bed, and he says he owes her. She says, big time, and she plans to collect. She leaves, and just outside the door, Carly appears. She says she’s been calling and calling Josslyn, but she hasn’t answered. What the hell’s going on? Josslyn says, actually… She opens her room door, and pulls Carly inside, saying, quick. They need her help. Carly sees Dex on the bed, and looks at Josslyn.

Esme flings herself onto her bed, groaning dramatically. She’s startled by the bathroom door creaking open, and says, creepy, drafty old place. It’s probably haunted on top of that. She closes the door, and says, hear my voice, oh spirits. Scare the crap out of Nikolas; he deserves it. She doesn’t. She tells the baby, what they need is some advice from grandpa.

Jeff goes the hospital reception desk, and says he’s looking for Nurse Elizabeth Baldwin. The nurse asks, who she should say is here? and he says, her father, Jeff Webber. He turns around and sees Finn, and says, excuse me. Have we met? He holds out his hand, and Finn says, no. Jeff doesn’t know him, but Jeff knew his wife. He slept with her.

Nikolas invites Elizabeth in, and asks if she’s all right. She wonders why he’s asking, and he says he heard she was attacked at the pier last night, and was taken to GH. He’s relieved she isn’t badly injured, but should she be up and about? She says, thankfully, it was just a little bump on the head, but he already knew that. He says, he did? and she says, he must have. Would he have left her just lying on the pier if he thought she was badly hurt?

Carly says, Josslyn needs to start explaining, and Dex asks who she is. Josslyn tells him, just rest, and Carly asks, what happened to him? Josslyn says, he got shot. She found him last night on the Quartermaine grounds. She couldn’t take him to the hospital; they’d report it to the police. Carly says, they can’t have that, can they? He got shot working for Sonny, right?

Nina says she’s so happy to meet Brick. She’s heard so much about him. Sonny ask her to join them, but she says she doesn’t want to intrude. Brick says, not at all, and Nina says, she has to warn them. She may be called away on hotel business. Brick says, that’s right. She’s the new co-owner of the MetroCourt. Congratulations. Sonny tells him, Nina is also the editor of Crimson magazine, and Brick asks how she finds the time. She says she’s working on that. She knows the ins and outs of the fashion industry, but she’s still learning the ins and outs of the hospitality business. So he and Sonny go way back. Sonny says, they’ve been though a lot together, and she asks if Brick has any stories he can tell her. Brick says, actually, there was that time in Houston… but Sonny says, Brick doesn’t want to get into that. Nina says she wants to hear it, when hostess Trish approaches the table, and says, the chef wants to talk to Nina about the new tasting menu. Nina says, this won’t take long. Then she wants to hear this Houston story. She leaves, and Brick raises his eyebrows. Sonny says, what? and Brick says, she’s stunning, and Sonny looks happy. Sonny says, she makes him happy, and Brick says he’s glad to hear it, but guesses it didn’t go over well with Michael. Sonny says, when Michael and Nina cross paths, it’s trouble, and he just thinks it’s going to get worse.

Michael tells Willow, organizing a bone marrow drive is inevitably going to lead to some questions, and he knows she wants to keep her diagnosis private. She says she knows she can’t keep this a secret forever, but she wants to be her, Willow, not Willow the woman with cancer for as long as possible. He says, if she’s worried about people pitying her, don’t be. The people who love her will support her, and recognize her courage and strength. She says, they’ll still look at her differently. Admit it. When he finds out someone has cancer, what’s the first thing he thinks about when he sees them? You focus on the illness. He says, maybe if he doesn’t know them. He’s sure the people who do know her will continue to admire and delight in the things that make her herself. She says she’s just allergic to the idea of people feeling sorry for her, and he says, that’s because she’s independent, and used to doing things by herself, because growing up, she couldn’t rely on her parents, and had to handle things on her own. She says, he’s right. She had no idea how deeply that feeling’s been ingrained in her. He takes her hand and says, she’s not going to be alone ever again. Him, Wiley, and the baby, they’re family, and that’s not going to change. She says she hopes not, and he says he’ll make sure of it, and kisses her.

Jeff says, Finn’s wife? and Finn says he thinks Jeff remembers Reiko. He was on Saipan with her. Jeff says he just wasn’t expecting to see Finn, and Finn says, it’s a nasty business, isn’t it? Affairs. Finding out your wife cheated on you with sone jerk who abandons his kids. Jeff says, Finn doesn’t know everything. Is there someplace they can go to talk? Finn slugs Jeff, and tells him that he has nothing to say to him.

Elizabeth says she knows Nikolas was on that pier, and don’t tell her that she’s imagining it. Enough people have messed with her head. She doesn’t need him gaslighting her too. He says he won’t. He just didn’t know if she’d remember. She says, well, she did. She was actually on her way to see him when she ran into Esme Prince. She tried to call 9-1-1, Esme went for her phone, and she must have fallen and hit her head. The next thing she knew, Nikolas was standing over her, telling her to trust him, and then he was gone. He just left her there. Why would he do that? He says he went after Esme. He didn’t want her to get away. Elizabeth says, but she did get away, because Jordan said they’re still looking for her. He says he lost her, and she says, so he just decided to go home? Why didn’t he come back to see if she was okay? He says he heard sirens, and figured the police were on their way. They’d made eye contact, so he didn’t think she was badly hurt. She says, that’s not it. He knows something. Where is Esme?

Esme tells the baby, to be perfectly honest, she’s a little afraid of their grandfather… Maybe more than a little. She’s done her research, and he’s a dangerous man, and unpredictable, but he’s the only father she’s got, and he needs her. He may think he’s the most brilliant serial killer ever, but he’s currently in Spring Ridge, pretending to be a vegetable. Not that her situation is much of an improvement over his, but he’d be so disappointed in her. He’d have some strategy she’s overlooked; some way to turn the tables on Nikolas. So instead of asking, how do I get out, she should be asking, what would daddy do?

Drew says, Michael isn’t mad at Leo, and he’s certainly not mad at Leo. They’re buds. Leo says, they’re mad at his dad, and Drew says he’s not going to lie. They had a disagreement, but families argue from time to time. Leo says, they’ve been arguing a long time. He doesn’t want his dad going, like when his mom and dad were mad at each other. Drew says, Leo doesn’t have anything worry about. Plus, his mom and dad made up, didn’t they? Leo says, they got married again, and Drew says, that’s the cool thing about families.  They argue, make up, and still love each other. Leo says, that is cool. Can Drew and Michael make up with his dad?

Carly says, Dex is burning up, but he says he’ll be fine. She asks what he was doing at the Quartermaines, and he says he was looking for a good place to hide out, like the boathouse. That’s when he ran into Joss. Josslyn says, he was in bad shape. She couldn’t just leave him there to bleed. Carly says, she could call the police, or Sonny, and Josslyn says, hospitals have to report a gunshot wounds, and she knew the Sonny was probably the reason Dex got shot in the first place. Carly says, since he has a fever, that most likely means he has an infection. Can she take a look? She lifts his bandage, and says, yep, it’s infected. He needs antibiotics. Josslyn says she was going to get some, and Carly asks, where was she going to get them? Josslyn says she doesn’t know. She was figuring that out. Carly says, now she doesn’t have to, and Josslyn says, so Carly will help them? Carly sighs, and shakes her head.

Michael hands Willow a smoothie, and says he tested it himself. He could barely taste the cauliflower. She says, cauliflower in a smoothie, like this is unheard of, and he says, vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower are good for inflammation, and are high in folate, so it’s good for her and the baby. She says, someone has been googling cancer diets, and takes a sip. She says, not bad, and thanks him. She tells him that she’s been thinking about the idea of tracking down her biological family. Even if she finds them – and that’s a major if – how does she just show up out of the blue, and ask for a bone marrow transplant? He asks what she’d do if the situation was reversed, and she says she’d help if she could. He says, there’s your answer. There are a lot of good people out there who want to do the right thing, like she does. She says she guesses she’s jaded. People like Nina make it hard remember.

Brick says, he convinced Cortez that the price of challenging Sonny over Montreal was way too high. He’s agreed to move on. Sonny says, Brick has saved him considerable aggravation. He’s had more than enough these days. Brick asks, how’s business here? and Sonny says, stable at the moment. Brick says, what about Dex Heller, the guy he ran a check on? Did Sonny cut him loose yet? Sonny says he’s going to keep Dex around. He might even give Dex a promotion at some point. He came through for Sonny at some very crucial moments. He was loyal, and kept his mouth shut, except the last job went a little south… Brick asks if that would happen to be the prison transport that crashed, and Sonny says, Brick is on top of things, and Brick says, always. Sonny leans forward, and says, Anna got out. Dex is in the wind.

On the phone in his office, Finn says, correct. He’s reporting himself for a violation of conduct. He sees Jeff standing in the doorway, and says, please send over the form, and he’ll fill it out and return it to them. He asks what Jeff wants, and Jeff says he’s worried about Lizzy. Is she all right? He just flew in this morning and needs to know; is his daughter okay? Finn says, now he cares? and Jeff says, Finn doesn’t understand what happened. Finn says he understands Jeff had an affair with his wife, who he thought was happy in their marriage. Jeff says, she was, at first, but Reiko got lonely. She was on Saipan while Finn was on Rota. It was her first posting. Reiko sometimes got overwhelmed with the suffering they saw. She needed someone to talk to. Finn says, and Jeff was there.

Nikolas tells Elizabeth, don’t worry about Esme. He took care of her. She says, did he kill her? but he says, God no. He can’t. He won’t. Elizabeth has to trust him. She says, if he wants her to trust him, then he has to trust her. What did he do? He says he took matters into his own hands, and she says, like when he had Hayden shot? but he says he hasn’t hurt Esme; she’s fine. Elizabeth says, sounds to her like he knows where Esme is. Does he? He doesn’t say anything, and she says she’s had enough. She’s going to call the police. She takes out her phone, and he says, don’t. She asks if he’s going to make her disappear too. It would be real easy; no one knows she’s here. He asks if she thinks he’d harm her. She’s his touchstone; his one true friend. She says, just tell her – where’s Esme? He says, she’s here. He made sure she can’t hurt anyone else. Elizabeth says, that’s what prisons are for, but he says, Esme can’t go to prison. He won’t let her escape, and she’ll pay for everything she’s done, eventually. He swears on their friendship. Can’t she just leave it alone? Elizabeth says, no, she can’t. She wants to see Esme right now.

Esme hears footsteps, and says, go away. She’s on a hunger strike. Elizabeth says, Esme? and Esme jumps up. Elizabeth says, she’s pregnant? and Esme says, Elizabeth has to help her. Nikolas is crazy. He wants to kill her and her baby.

Sonny tells Brick that he got word from Dex via email. He’s laying low, but he’s going to contact Sonny as soon as he can. Nina comes back, and Sonny says, he and Brick will talk later. Nina apologizes, and says, where were they? She remembers; Houston. Sonny says, they’re done with Houston, but Brick says he doesn’t think so. They were at a game in one of these private boxes… His phone rings, and he sees it’s Carly. Sonny asks if there’s a problem, and Brick says, probably not, but he should take this. He excuses himself, and Nina says, Sonny was saved by the bell, literally. She’s going to hear this Houston story sooner or later. Brick goes around the corner, and answers his phone, saying, Carly. this is a surprise. She says, hopefully a good one, and he says, a dream come true actually. She says, he may not feel that way after he hears her request. Does he have a contact in town? He says, him. He’s at the MetroCourt. She says, he’s here? Excellent. She needs a huge favor. He says, anything for her.

Willow tells Michael, since a bone marrow transplant is her best option, and a relative is the best match, let’s do it. Let’s track down her biological family. He says, let’s get started right now, and she asks if he remembers saying she couldn’t believe anything Harmony said about her birth or her birth parents. She agrees, but there is one thing she knows for sure. Harmony was a member of the Friends for Peace and Love commune when she was a baby. They should start there.

Brick comes back to the table, and says, sorry. He has to cut this short. Nina says she hopes he’s in town long enough for them to take him out to dinner, and he says he looks forward to it. Especially continuing that Houston story. Sonny isn’t getting off that easy. He leaves, and Nina says, Brick is a charmer. Sonny says, he has a reputation. He’s a good guy, and one of the very few people Sonny trusts with his life. What’s going on with the chef? She says, they’ve reached a new understanding. Nina promises never to mention Asian fusion again, and Giselle promises not to throw any more sauce pans. Plus, Nina got a stylist to give Giselle a deal on her wedding dress. He says, a little bribery never hurts, and she says, he seems more relaxed. She knew something was bothering him. He says, things are looking up today, and she says she’s glad. Last night, she didn’t want to worry him… He asks, what’s on her mind? and she says, more of the same. She had another run-in with Michael and Willow.

Finn says, it’s that old story, huh? Sleazy mentor takes advantage of a young doctor just out of med school. Jeff says, if it makes Finn feel better, but Finn says, none of this makes him feel better. He just wants the truth. Jeff says, the truth is, he and Reiko never meant to hurt anyone. Finn says, Jeff couldn’t help himself, and Jeff says, something like that. Finn says, he understands Jeff is a cheater – Hayden’s proof of that – but Reiko wasn’t like that. Jeff says he doesn’t know what Finn wants him to say. What would make him feel better? Finn says, Jeff is looking for a quick fix. Too bad he can’t wipe out Finn’s memory. Shut him up the way he and his wife shut Elizabeth up.

Nikolas jumps between Esme and Elizabeth, and tells Esme to stand back. Leave Elizabeth alone. Esme says, thank God Elizabeth found her. Nikolas won’t listen to reason. Elizabeth says, Esme wasn’t reasonable when she attacked her on the docks, and Esme says, she’s sorry. It was a big misunderstanding. She thought Elizabeth was working with Nikolas; that Elizabeth was calling him. She was running for her life. Nikolas says, right. Elizabeth can see that Esme is fine. She has a comfortable bed, food… Elizabeth says, she’s trapped in here? and Nikolas says, she tried to escape off that terrace. He has to make sure she doesn’t put the baby in danger. Elizabeth asks how long Esme’s been here, and Esme says, he’s had her here for weeks. He and Ava tried to kill her, and when that didn’t work, he locked her up in here. Nikolas tells Elizabeth, he had to lock her up. Esme’s the one who’s been attacking people with a hook. She killed Brando and that bartender. She attacked Ava and Diane Miller, and even tried to attack him. Esme says, he’s lying, but Nikolas says, Elizabeth has to believe him.

Nina says, Willow told her to drop dead, when all she was trying to do was apologize, but Sonny suggests she leave it alone. She says she’s just trying to get them to understand she’s not a bad person, for Wiley’s sake. Willow is so cold. Nina doesn’t know what’s going on with her. He asks if they can just stick with the original plan, which was to stay clear of Michael and Willow. She says, okay. She’s sorry he can’t see Wiley either, and he says, he doesn’t like it, but it’s not forever. She says, he doesn’t really believe that, does he?

Jeff says he understands Finn is angry about Reiko, and Finn says, what he had with Reiko was years ago. What Jeff did to Elizabeth was unforgiveable. Jeff says, he and Carolyn did what they thought was best for their daughter, and Finn says, great job, dad. But Jeff and Carolyn’s little brainwashing trick didn’t stick. Elizabeth has been dealing with this for months. She was sleepwalking. She could have hurt people; she could have hurt herself. Jeff says, that’s exactly what they were afraid of 25 years ago. Lizzy was just 15. She couldn’t cope with what happened to Reiko. Finn says, so they made her forget, and shipped her off to be someone else’s problem? and Jeff says, that’s not how it was, but Finn says, that’s exactly how it was. Elizabeth thought she was delusional. She was going out of her mind trying to figure out what was wrong with her, because of what Jeff and his wife did. She’s the one who’s suffering through this.

Michael gives Willow some printouts of articles about the commune around the time she was born, and says, any luck online? She says, not yet, and he says, she can use these to compile a list of members who were there when she was born. There’s a knock at the door, and Michael opens it to Drew and Leo. He says, hello there, and Leo says, maybe Michael’s not mad at him. Michael says, Leo thought he was mad at him? and Leo says, and his dad too. Leo sees Willow, and runs in to show her the leaves he’s collected. Drew tells Michael, Leo senses the tension between them and Ned, and knew they were angry, but he reassured Leo that families argue sometimes, and it’s all good. Michael says, seems like it worked, and Drew says, but the kid’s right. They’ve been at odds with Ned for months, and they’ve got to fix that.

Josslyn says, Brick is the right guy to know, and Carly says, they’re lucky he’s in town. He’s going to text her when he’s got the meds, and she’s going to meet him. Josslyn says, he didn’t ask why she needed them? and Carly says, he’s not one to ask questions. Josslyn says, he’s probably done this a million times for Sonny, and Carly asks what Dex was doing when he got shot, but Josslyn says, he wouldn’t tell her. Carly says, and last night, when Josslyn said she was with friends, that was a lie? Josslyn says, yes, she lied, but it’s not like they tell each other everything. She didn’t know Carly was dating Drew. She saw them kissing. Carly says, her seeing Drew and Josslyn being in danger are two totally different things. Yes, she’s seeing Drew, but they have to keep it quiet. She’s not getting into that right now because they have bigger things going on. Josslyn says, that’s fine, and thanks Carly for calling Brick, and for understanding. Carly says, listen to her. She’s not here to visit. She’s here because she’s worried about Esme. She’s in town, and attacked Elizabeth last night. Josslyn says, Cam’s mom. Is she okay? Carly says, she is, but Esme got away, and no one knows where she is.

Back downstairs, Nikolas says he’s sure Elizabeth could use a drink. He knows he can. Elizabeth asks if Esme was lying, and Nikolas says, yes. The first thing she did after she escaped was come after him with a hook from the boathouse. She’s been in town for weeks. And look at her victims. Esme despised Ava. He doesn’t know why she went after Brando. Maybe he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Elizabeth says, that’s what the police think. They think Josslyn was the intended target that night. He says, that fits. Esme hates Trina and Josslyn, and Diane and that bartender ruined her plot to frame Trina. Elizabeth asks if he really thinks Esme is a serial killer, and he says, yes. She says, all the more reason to call the police, but he says, Esme can’t go to prison; she’s pregnant. Elizabeth says, right, with his grandchild. Does Spencer even know? He says, the baby isn’t Spencer’s, and she asks, who’s the father? He walks away, and she says, oh no, he didn’t. He says, it was a huge mistake, and she says, he slept with his son’s girlfriend? What is he doing? Her phone dings, and she says she has to go. He asks what she’s going to do, but she says she doesn’t know. She heads for the door, Nikolas following, and he grabs her arm, saying, listen to him. She says, let her go, and he says he’s sorry. Let him explain. But she jets.

Esme paces, saying, she can’t believe Elizabeth walked away. She’s supposed to help people. She’s not sure if nurses take the Hippocratic Oath, but they take some sort of oath, to promise to care for those in need. She guesses for Elizabeth that only applies to people she likes or approves of. It’s fine to leave her captive. She groans and sighs, and says, if only she had some leverage. She feels her bump, and says, leverage. That’s you, Ace. She has to convince Nikolas that if he doesn’t treat her right, it’s bye-bye baby.

Willow tells Leo that they’ll make a collage tomorrow, and Leo says, see you, fist bumping Drew on the way out. Drew looks at the stack of articles, and says, Friends of Peace and Love. Wow. Michael says, it’s just something he’s working on, and Willow says, it’s a commune; she was there as a child. Drew says he didn’t mean to pry, but she says, he’s not; he’s family. She’s trying to locate her birth parents, and see if she has more family out there. He says, he’s been there. Good luck to her. She says she needs it. She doesn’t have much to go on, except Harmony’s version of what happened. Drew flashes back to Carly telling him that Harmony said Nina was Willow’s birth mother on her deathbed, then telling him, the DNA test proved otherwise. He says, Harmony was a  convincing liar, and Willow says she didn’t realize he knew her.

Dex opens his eyes, and says, Joss? She says she’s here. He needs to hydrate. He gives him some water, and he says he had this wild dream that her mother was here. She says, that was no dream; she was here. She’s getting antibiotics for him. He asks, why? and she says, because his wound is infected, but he says, why would she help him? Josslyn says, because she asked her mom to help, and he asks if Carly is okay with her helping him. Josslyn says, she doubts it, but Carly isn’t going to lecture her now while he’s spiking a fever. Besides, she’s in no position to judge. He asks, why not? and she says, he’s not the first person to get shot working for Sonny. Her mother took her chances, now Josslyn is going to take hers. He says, why bother? She thinks he’s an idiot working for Sonny. She says, he is an idiot. Now he needs to lie back down and rest. She fixes his pillow, and he says, thanks, beautiful.

Jeff says he thought he owed Finn an explanation regarding his affair with Reiko, but he doesn’t have to justify how he and his wife chose to save their daughter 25 years ago. Finn says, Elizabeth is still dealing with this. For her, this is her present, and Finn’s a part of that. Jeff says, is he? He knows Finn has been seeing Elizabeth, but is that still true? Finn wonders why he asks, and Jeff says, Finn wasn’t in Monterey supporting Elizabeth when she needed it. What kind of relationship do they really have? He’s made mistakes, but he sacrificed his relationship with his daughter so she could live her life without the guilt she felt over Reiko. Finn says, that’s what Jeff tells himself. Even if he thought abandoning his daughter when she was 15 was best for her, where the hell has he been for the past 25 years? They see Elizabeth standing in the open doorway. Rut-roh.

Nina looks at her phone, and tells Sonny, lucky her. Giselle wants to yell at her again for her Asian fusion idea. She’ll be right back. She leaves, and Sonny looks at the email from Dex: Laying low. Will reach out when I’m able to come back.

Willow asks if Drew knows something else about Harmony, and Drew says, just that her reputation hasn’t shown her to be all that truthful. He’s sorry if he sounds disrespectful. He realizes Harmony still raised Willow, but he thinks it’s a good idea to verify everything she said about Willow’s birth parents. Willow says, so far, they don’t have a lot to go on, and Drew asks if she wants him to do some digging.  

Leo is in the woods, when he hears something beeping. He picks up a phone, and sees there’s an alert for an email from Sonny. I guess we can assume it’s Dex’s phone.

Nikolas comes into Esme’s room, and she asks, where’s Elizabeth? Did she call the cops? He says, not yet, and she says, he knows it’s just a matter of time. He doesn’t think Elizabeth would really lie for him, does he? He says, no. That’s why this ends now.

Dex says, the first night he and Josslyn met, she was so mad at him. She says, okay. She thinks his fever is spiking. He takes her hand, and says, she’s his guardian angel. Not like a sweet angel, like a warrior angel with a flaming sword. So beautiful, it hurts to look. He closes his eyes, continuing to hold her hand, and she says, it’s a good thing he’s delirious. He’ll never remember he said that… but she will.

Carly knocks at Brick’s hotel room door, and he says, Carly Corinthos. She gets more gorgeous every time he sees her. She says, it’s Carly Spencer now, and he looks so dapper as usual. She thanks him for coming through for her, and he says he’ll always be there for her. Come on in. Carly goes in, and Nina comes out from around the corner.

Tomorrow, Drew says he knows why Willow is in such a hurry; Nina wonders what Drew would think of this; Carly tells Josslyn, this is not the time to let her guard down; and Esme goes into labor… maybe.

🥪 Still Missing the BLTs…

Apparently, a knee replacement led to a Heather replacement.

🥀 Losing a Legend…

Saying goodbye to yet another veteran star of the soap screen.

https://people.com/tv/john-aniston-dead/

https://people.com/tv/days-of-our-lives-will-pay-tribute-to-john-aniston-in-his-final-episode/

Big Stew Energy…

It’s a shame she retired, but I can’t say I blame her.

🗽 You Can’t Fire Me…

I love it. She’s done because they don’t want her anymore.

💀 Still Undead…

FTWD is safe amid the rash of spin-offs.

🗯 Talking Through It…

Sounds cool, although I don’t know if it’s an historic event.

⚰️ Last Walk…

Nothing major, but spoilers included.

🐕‍🦺 And Most Important…

Don’t touch Dog.

🐷 Ending On a Sty Note…

This is the same reason I don’t want to go to an animal shelter. God knows how many I’d come home with.

https://people.com/pets/jason-momoa-brings-home-pig-after-filming-slumberland/

👓 Rereading the Room…

Stop in tomorrow for soap and a cup or two of tea. Until then, stay safe, stay thinking for yourself, and stay never mentioning Asian fusion to a temperamental chef.

July 26, 2022 – Nina Feels the Fallout, Honored, Jack’s Message, Mistake, Shocking, One More, Revelation, Next Chapter, In Love, For Shame, Sub-Genre, Adding Spice & Stop

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Josslyn brings Carly coffee, and she takes a sip. She tells Josslyn, it’s really strong, and Josslyn says, sorry. She added a few extra scoops. She couldn’t sleep last night, and has to get through the trial today. Is it too much? Carly says, it’s fine; she likes it. Josslyn was out late last night. What’s up? Josslyn says she went for a run, and took a longer route than usual. Carly says, and that route led her to Sonny?

Nina tells pool bartender Aaron that one of the servers just called in, and they’re short-staffed already. Can he fill in? He says he’s a bartender, not wait staff, and she says she realizes that, but it would really help if he could pitch in. He won’t be busy there until lunch. He says he’s in the middle of prep, and doesn’t think she knows what his job is like. She says she thinks he has the time, and he says, she’s been here a whole day. Is Mrs. Quartermaine around? She says, it doesn’t matter how long she’s been here. She’s co-owner, and she’s telling him to pitch in. He says he knows all about her. He read the article in The Invader. He knows how she stole that baby, how she stole Mrs. Corinthos’s husband, and this hotel. Carly was an awesome boss, so he’ll be taking his orders from Mrs. Quartermaine, not her. Sonny says, he’d better watch his mouth. You don’t talk to your boss like that.

Taggert walks Trina into the courtroom, and asks if she’s okay. She says, every person who testified yesterday knows she’s innocent, but the ADA kept twisting their words around, making it sound like they were covering up for her; asking them questions they didn’t know the answer to. He puts his hands on her shoulders, and tells her not to lose hope. Every person who testified yesterday came out swinging. They took every chance they could to protect and defend her. They’re Taggerts. This ain’t over til it’s over. Rory comes in, and says, agreed, and whatever that jury decides, it will be in her favor.

At the hospital, Portia hugs Curtis, and says she missed him last night. Did he get any sleep at all? He says he missed her too. TJ managed to sneak him into one of the on-call rooms for a quick snooze. He wanted to be close, in case Oz’s condition changed. He’s still in a medically induced coma. She says she knows; she checked as soon as she got here. He asks why she’s not at the courthouse, and she says she’s on her way, but had to check on a few of her patients first. He asks how Trina is doing, but Portia says she doesn’t know. Trina was quiet this morning, and left with her dad. Did Curtis talk to Taggert at all? He says, not yet, and she says, talk to her. Tell her how he found this guy. Tell her what happened. Jordan joins them, and says, she’d like to know the same thing.

Esme calls the hospital, and says she’s checking on the status of her father. He came in last night with a drug overdose; Oz Haggerty. She hears someone coming, and hangs up. Spencer comes in, and she says she was just on her way out. He says, no you don’t. Time’s up.

Nikolas asks if Ava is sure she doesn’t want him to go with her to the courthouse. He knows how worried she is about Trina. She says she’ll be fine. That’s sweet though; he’s been very sweet this morning. He says, speaking of sweet… and kisses her. He tells her to call as soon as she knows anything. She says she will, and picks up a manila envelope. He asks, what’s that? and she says, it’s here. He says, what is it? and she says, our future; their divorce papers. Did he know Martin was sending them? He says he was under the impression Martin was still reviewing them. She says, he did. It just needs their signatures. He takes them from her, and tells her not to worry about them now. She’s got enough on her plate worrying about Trina. She’d better get going. She says, they might as well get it over with, but he says he can’t sign them.

Spencer tells Esme, quit stalling. What’s her answer? Is she going to exonerate Trina, so she can learn who her birth mother is; yes or no? She says, that’s not something she can decide overnight, and he says, they’re testifying today, so she needs to make a decision now. She says, so he can go crawling to Trina, and tell her about his noble gesture? He tells her that he hasn’t said anything to Trina. He doesn’t care what she thinks of him. Esme says, oh please, give me a break, and he says, Trina is innocent. All he cares about is making sure she doesn’t go to prison. She says, but he doesn’t give a damn if she goes there? She doesn’t even think it’s possible for her to get Trina off the hook without going to jail herself, but he says, she’ll figure it out. Scheming is second nature to her. She’s been manipulating people and situations since the day they met. She says she never manipulated him; she loved him. Everything she did, she did for him. He wanted to break up his father and Ava, and maybe she took some things too far, but she did that because they were a team and they loved each other; at least she thought so. He says he’s heard all this before. What’s her answer? Is she taking his deal? She says she’s not sure his offer is worth helping Trina. Trina’s the reason she lost him.

Trina says she didn’t think she’d see Rory today, but he says he took a personal day; he wanted to support her. He’s so sorry for what he said on the stand. He feels terrible that he gave the jury any cause to doubt her. She says, that ADA is definitely doing a good job. She’s convinced Trina is guilty. Rory says, well, she’s wrong. It’s lucky Trina has such a smart lawyer. He’d thought he’d blown it for her completely, but when Diane cross-examined him, she gave him a chance to explain that the only reason Trina was in The Highsider was to get the bartender to ID Esme. But he should have done a better job with his original testimony, or figure out a way to dodge ADA Arden’s questions. She tells him, stop. She’s not the least bit upset, so give himself a break. He says he’s upset with himself. He’s going to make it up to her… if she’ll let him.

Jordan says she heard Curtis was quite the hero last night, and he asks if it’s an official interrogation. Jordan says she’s sure they’re both upset with her after her testimony, but she was under oath; she had to answer honestly. Portia says, no one expected anything otherwise, and Jordan says, really? Because she can tell Curtis is holding something back. Come on. Let her have it.

Josslyn says, unbelievable. Sonny came running to Carly after the way he’s treated her. What did he say? Carly says she wants to hear what Josslyn has to say, and Josslyn says, like she told Carly, she went for a run, and took a longer route than usual. She saw Sonny get out of his car, alone, which she thought was weird. Then she saw him walk into this alleyway, which was weirder. She went to check it out, and pulled out her phone as a precaution. She saw Sonny and his new muscle beating up some guy and threatening to kill him, and she recorded the whole thing. Carly says she’s sorry Josslyn had to see that, but she knows Sonny’s life. Did she stop and think it could turn into a more dangerous situation? Josslyn says, at the time, she just saw Sonny breaking the law. If it was anybody else, she would have done the same thing. Maybe not let them see her or hung around after… Carly says, Josslyn did that because she knew Sonny wouldn’t hurt her, and Josslyn says, who cares if Sonny wouldn’t hurt her? He was definitely hurting that guy in the alleyway. Why should Sonny get away with that? Why should she pretend it isn’t happening? Sonny trashed their family, and she’s done looking the other way.

Nina thanks Sonny, but says she thinks she’s got this. He asks the bartender what his name is, and Nina says, his name is Aaron. Sonny tells Aaron that he heard what Aaron said to his boss, and he gets it. What Aaron said was foolish and disrespectful, but in his experience, people who do those kinds of things usually have something else going on. He knows it felt good in the moment, but it doesn’t solve what’s really going on, and it doesn’t help Aaron in the long run to disrespect Nina like that, does it? Aaron shakes his head, and Sonny says he could be wrong. He has been in the past, but if that’s the case, they’ve got a bigger problem.

Curtis tells Jordan, there is something he wants to say, and she says she’s listening. He thanks her, and tells her that he saw what she did on that stand. ADA Arden had her backed into corner after corner, yet Jordan chose her words carefully, so as not to give the ADA any added ammunition against Trina. Then in the cross, she made sure to point out that Trina’s demeanor was not consistent with that of a guilty person, and answered before Arden could object. She did her job admirably; it meant a lot. Portia says, it meant a lot to both of them, and Trina feels the same way. Jordan says, Trina’s a strong young lady, and she’ll always be on the side of justice. To that end, she needs to know how it happened to be Curtis who brought in Oz Haggerty; the same bartender who came up when Diane was questioning Officer Cabrera. The same bartender who allegedly sold Trina the unregistered phone that was used in the crime. Curtis says, it happens that he found Oz passed out, and made sure he was brought here safely. She says, tell her how he found Oz, and why. What does he know that she should know?

Rory says he intends to be by Trina’s side for the rest of the trial, and she asks if Diane knows she’s being replaced. He says, for real. He promises to do all he can to make things better for him. Arden sees them, and says she wants word with Rory, now.

Ava asks if there’s a problem, but Nikolas says, no problem; it’s clarity. He just realized, she was right all along. The divorce is off. She says, he’s been convincing her for weeks they needed to do this. Now he’s doing a 180, and she’s confused. He says he knows. He was wrong. Reality struck. Hearing his grandmother’s house burned down, reminded him how unfair and random life can be. Anything can happen at any moment, and he can’t risk putting her through that. Please tell him that she understands.

Spencer says, all these proclamations of love, and what a team he and Esme were. He thought so too, but he realizes now what they had was never love. If someone loves him, they don’t hurt his friends. They don’t lie to his face over and over again. She says she didn’t, but he says, just don’t. Take the energy she spends on her lies, and put it to good use. Figure out how to set Trina free before it’s too late.

Aaron says, Sonny is right. He has stuff going on with his parents. He’s sorry for what he said, and how he said it. He’ll clock out and go. Nina says she’s not firing him. She accepts his apology. Just don’t let it happen again. He thanks her, calling her boss, and leaves. She tells Sonny that she’s impressed how he talked to Aaron. It reminds her of a man she knew in Nixon Falls. He says, him too, and she thanks him for having her back. He says, always. He had it when he suggested she sell her half of the hotel. This is the exact situation he warned her about. She says, really? How so?

Carly says she gets where Josslyn is coming from, and her feelings are 100% valid, but like she’s told Josslyn’s father many times over the years, if you go after Sonny, you have to consider the collateral damage. Josslyn says, Donna and Avery, and Carly says, yes. They’ve already had so much loss, it’s not fair to take their father away from them again. Josslyn says, that was Sonny’s message too. He said busting him for assault and attempted murder was somehow unfair to Donna and Avery. Carly says, Josslyn doesn’t agree? and Josslyn says, being a father is not a get get-out-of-jail-free pass. It doesn’t excuse the things Sonny has done, and will continue to do. Everyone is saying he’s such a good father, but shouldn’t they consider the life he leads puts Donna and Avery in danger? He certainly didn’t think about them during his time in Nixon Falls. Carly says, he didn’t remember them, but Josslyn says, he didn’t want to remember them. Isn’t that what he said during his testimony? That he was so happy with Nina in Nixon Falls, he didn’t care to think about anything else? Carly says she gets it. She gets Josslyn is mad about what Sonny put them through. So is she, but she’s trying so hard to move past it, and she can’t do that if she’s worrying about Josslyn going after Sonny.

Ava tells Nikolas, of course (🍷) she understands. The divorce on paper is tempting fate. It’s symbolic maybe, but legally binding. She’s thrilled they’re ditching it. He says, him too. Being her husband is all that matters to him. She says she feels the same way about being his wife. Now that that’s settled, she really has to go to court. What’s he going to do with those? He says he’ll find a symbolic way of destroying them, and they’ll celebrate not divorcing tonight. She asks if he has anything in mind, and he says, she’ll find out. They kiss, and she leaves.

Esme says, Spencer is asking a lot of her, but he says, in return for equal value. His Uncle Victor used considerable resources to find her birth mother. Does Esme want to know who she is or not? Nikolas walks in, and asks if everything is okay, and Spencer says, Trina’s trial is today, so they’re a little on edge. Nikolas says he’ll bet. At least he has some good news for Esme. He pulled some strings, and her internship at Spring Ridge has been reinstated. Esme says, oh my God. Really? This is amazing. She thanks him, and hugs him. She says she’s going to call her supervisor now, and work on her schedule. As she leaves, Spencer says, too bad she can’t start today, and she says, yes, of course (🍷), closing the door behind her. Spencer asks why Nikolas is always helping Esme.

Curtis says, he’s surprised the Commissioner is personally investigating an overdose victim, and Jordan says, she takes an interest when the victim’s name comes up in testimony during an ongoing trial. And when the person who found him is closely connected to the defendant. Portia says, certainly Jordan isn’t suggesting that Curtis had anything to do with the OD, and Jordan says, absolutely not, but it does raise questions. What’s going on? Curtis says, if he tells her, this can’t get back to the ADA.

Arden asks Rory, what’s going on? He’s not testifying today, and he’s out of uniform. He says he’s not on duty. He’s here as a private citizen, and she asks how he thinks it looks, cavorting with the defendant. (Cavorting?) He says he can’t control what people think, and she says, but he can control his actions. And if he doesn’t, is he ready for the consequences? Trina and Taggert watch from the courtroom, and Trina asks if Taggert thinks Arden is reprimanding Rory for his actions; for being here and supporting her. He says, it’s very possible, and she says she doesn’t want Rory to get in trouble because he’s her friend. Taggert says, she made Rory aware of the possible ramifications when they started the friendship. What’s going on here and now is not on her. Rory made a choice. I’m not quite getting this, since Arden isn’t his boss, but it’s not the first time something hasn’t made sense to me in Port Charles.

Josslyn says, Carly can relax, because Sonny’s guy convinced her to delete the recording. Carly asks how he managed that, and Josslyn says, he told her that if she turned the footage over to the cops, Sonny would just beat the charges, and that he – the guy – wouldn’t. And he’s probably right. Diane has gotten Sonny out of much worse. She just didn’t understand why the guy should go to prison for just following orders, yet Sonny’s not going to go for giving them. Carly says, makes sense, and Josslyn says, of course (🍷) the guy’s an idiot for even accepting a job from Sonny. Everybody knows who Sonny is and what he does. He had to know sooner or later he’d be expected to do something illegal. Carly says, Jason worked for Sonny, and he wasn’t an idiot, but Josslyn says, maybe he was. She loved Jason – she thought he was the best – but maybe he was an idiot, for making all those sacrifices for Sonny. No offense, but maybe Carly was an idiot for standing by him for that long. Sonny didn’t do that for her. Michael’s right. Sonny’s gotten away with all this crap for all these years because they lined up and made excuses for him. But he showed them who he really is. He showed them what they mean to him. Carly takes Josslyn’s hand, and says she’s not going to defend Sonny, but he’s still Donna and Avery’s father, and for their sake, she’d like to coexist. Josslyn wonders what she’s asking, and Carly says, the next time Josslyn goes for a run and sees Sonny walking down an alley, keep running. Josslyn says, she probably would have, except… Carly says, except what? and Josslyn says she was still mad about her testimony. Carly says, so that’s what fueled her interaction with Sonny? She thinks it was about control. Josslyn says, control of what? and Carly says she thinks Josslyn needed to reclaim some for herself, after the ADA weaponized her words against her best friend.

Sonny says he’s glad Olivia still serves Corinthos Coffee, and Nina says, why wouldn’t they? It’s top notch. He says, it would send the wrong message to change brands now, after everything that’s going on. All he’s saying is, Nina keeping Carly’s half of the hotel is going to cause a fallout. Nina says, now that they’ve established Sonny Corinthos is right, she has a few interns she needs to… He says, it’s not about who’s wrong. It’s about her accusing him of being more concerned about Carly than her. He’s there for her. He’s just trying to protect her. She says, really? She’s dealt with difficult employees before, but she needs to know he has her back when it counts. He says, always, and she says, it didn’t seem that way when he was trying to convince her to sell her half of the MetroCourt. He says, because he thought it was the wrong move. He has to speak his mind, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t support her. She says, there’s a difference between honesty and undermining, and he says he’s always going to be straight with her, even if she doesn’t like what he has to say. If she can’t deal with that, this is not going to work.

Jordan says, her part in Trina’s trial concluded after she gave her testimony, but as far as she’s concerned, the investigation is ongoing. She’s only obligated to inform the DA’s office if she sees a miscarriage of justice. Curtis says, okay. He’s tracking the black market phone Jordan found in Trina’s purse. He’s working to prove it was bought from Oz Haggerty by Esme Prince. Portia says, that’s why Trina and Joss were at The Highsider. They even brought it up in court yesterday, but of course (🍷) they twisted it, and used it against Trina. Curtis says, yeah, they did, but Josslyn and Trina went to that bar to find the bartender who sold Esme that phone. When they found him, they showed him a pic of Esme, and he recognized her. Jordan says she’s impressed by their initiative, but it was reckless. Portia says, she and Trina’s father weren’t happy about it, but she wasn’t surprised. At least they found something. Curtis says, he and Taggert took it from there, with a little help from Marshall, and a nephew who will remain nameless. He and Marshall followed Oz to his hotel room. They dropped a few threats about his connection to Trina’s case, and he took the bait. He went straight to Windymere. Jordan says, that’s interesting. Did he meet with Esme? Curtis says, they couldn’t get proof of that, but they saw Ava at the pier, and looped her in. But by the time she got there, Oz was gone. He’d disappeared, and didn’t return on the launch. He thinks Esme helped him get off the island undetected. Portia says, and now he is here, in a coma, with information that could clear her daughter.

On the phone, Esme says she called before about her father Oz Haggerty… Still no change?… They’re sure?

Nikolas says, Esme is Spencer’s girlfriend; why wouldn’t he help her? Spencer says, pulling strings takes effort. Phone calls, reciprocal favors. He’s just surprised Nikolas is going the extra mile for her. Nikolas says, nothing is more important to him than Spencer, and as long as Spencer cares for Esme, her concerns are important to him as well. Spencer says he didn’t ask Nikolas to do all that for him, and Nikolas says he wants Spencer to be happy. Is he happy? Spencer says he’s trying to be, and Nikolas asks how things are between Spencer and Esme. Spencer says, things are complicated, and Nikolas says, maybe he’s the problem. Spencer asks, how?

Josslyn tells Carly that she’s really worried for Trina. Her case isn’t looking so good. Carly says she knows, and she’s been where Trina is. Josslyn says, that’s what scares her. She felt so helpless on the stand. She counted on her testimony to help show Trina would never do something like that. As the victim, she thought it would turn the tide. That ADA twisted her words, and made Trina look guiltier than ever. Carly says, that’s her job, and Josslyn says she knows, but she doesn’t care. She hates herself for even answering the questions. She should have lied. Carly says, that would be perjury, and Josslyn says, then she should have shut her mouth, and let them hold her in contempt. Carly says, Josslyn did nothing wrong, and Josslyn says, then why does she have this awful feeling? Carly says, she’s afraid for her best friend. When Josslyn was on that stand, she was passionate in defense of Trina’s character, and put the blame on Esme. And the jury heard her, even though the ADA was trying to object. She showed strength, courage, and loyalty, and Carly is damn proud of her. She hugs Josslyn, and asks if she’s ready to go to the trial. Josslyn says, absolutely. She wants anyone on that jury who still doubts Trina to know her friends are not abandoning her. Carly says, that’s right.

Trina asks, what happened? but Rory says, nothing. She says, it was definitely something. ADA Arden didn’t look happy. The ADA thinks it’s bad optics for Rory to support her in public, doesn’t she? Rory says he’s not worried about her, and Trina says she’s not worried about her; she’s worried about him. Ava comes in, and asks how Trina is doing. Rory leaves, and Ava says, Officer Cabrera is back, huh? She hugs Trina, and says, he doesn’t appear to be on duty. Trina says, Rory is here to support her, and Ava says, Rory. Trina says, they’re friends, and Ava says, that’s all? Trina says, ask her again when the trial is over.

Taggert sits next to Rory, and says, Rory is a good friend to his daughter; he appreciates that. She needs her support system at this time. Rory says he’s proud to call Trina his friend, and Taggert says, he should be. Just for the record, Rory and him? They’re still not friends. Rory says, understood, sir.

Sonny says he came here because he didn’t like how he and Nina left things, and he doesn’t want to fight. Nina says, neither does she, but maybe this is another indication they need to take things slow. He says, why is that? and she says, they’re still trying to figure things out. He says, they’ve already figured each other out, but she says, if one fight derails them, it’s better to know now than later. He asks if that’s how she sees it, because he doesn’t see it that way, and she says, it is. He has a need to protect her from the world and coddle her? She doesn’t need to be coddled. She doubts he ever felt he needed to coddle Carly. He says, he and Carly have said way worse things to each other, and done way worse over the years. She says, if they’re aiming to have the kind of arrangement he had with Carly, where it gives them permission to be verbally abusive to each other, she doesn’t want any part of that, and walks away.

Curtis says, as soon as he connected Oz to Esme, he finds Oz fighting for his life. They know Esme is capable of some serious stuff, but this is attempted murder. Jordan asks if he thinks Esme knew he was on to her, and he says, it’s possible. Jordan says, since they can’t rule out illegal drug use being in play, it allows her to discreetly investigate. Portia says, thank you so much, and Curtis says, they appreciate it. Jordan says, she’s doing her job, and leaves. Portia’s phone dings, and she says, one of her patients is critical. Curtis tells her, go look into that, and he’ll stay to keep eyes on Oz. They can’t let him slip through their fingers again, not until he helps Trina.

Nikolas says he hasn’t been the best example to Spencer. He’s sorry Spencer is unhappy. Spencer says, they’ve had their moments, but this isn’t on Nikolas, and Nikolas says, part of being a parent feeling your child’s pain as if it were your own. He knows he’s caused that pain many times, but Spencer says, they’re moving past that now. Nikolas says he doesn’t know if he’ll ever move past the mistakes he’s made with Spencer. He’s like to promise not to make any more, but he probably will despite his best intentions. Just know that Nikolas loves him, and he’s a flawed man. Moving forward, he never wants to hurt Spencer again. Spencer says, they’re both flawed men. It’s okay. He’s… Esme comes in, and says she’s all set to resume her internship. Spencer says, great, but they should be getting to the courthouse. She says she’ll meet him there; she needs to change. He says he’ll wait, but she says, no need. She’ll be there. She won’t be late. He leaves, and Esme says she can’t begin to tell Nikolas how much this means to her. He says, they need to talk about her almost telling Ava and Spencer that they slept together, and she says she overreacted. He has no idea how much this internship means to her. It’s everything; it’s her future. When she contemplated telling them, it was in a weak moment. She would never do anything to hurt him or Spencer that way. He says she sure seemed to mean what she said, but she says, thankfully, it never came to that, and leaves.

Carly asks how Trina is doing, and she says she’s hanging in. Carly says, they’re all behind her; don’t forget that. Stay strong. Carly’s phone rings, and she steps out to take the call. Josslyn asks if that’s Trina’s dad sitting next to Rory, and Trina says she knows, right? His face seems neutral, which is a good sign. She can’t believe Rory showed up for her.

Ava catches Carly in the hallway, and says she understands Carly relinquished her share of the MetroCourt. Carly says she did, and Ava says, if Carly wants to spend more time with Avery, she’ll be glad to make that happen, since Carly will have more free time now. Carly says she’s always happy to spend time with Avery. Her family means more to her than a job ever could. Ava says, Carly is so fortunate she still has them. She’s lost so much lately. Carly says she is fortunate. Ava on the other hand, has to endure living with a stepson who hates her, and his psycho girlfriend who framed Trina. All because Ava’s husband can’t man up and kick them out, huh? Ava says, let’s just hope for the best for Trina, shall we? and goes into the courtroom. Carly’s phone rings again, and she says, Pilar? What’s up?

Sonny says, he knows he and Nina are just getting started. It’s going to take a little while to find their way, but that doesn’t mean they can’t speak their mind. He thinks that’s important, like they did in Nixon Falls. She says, absolutely, and he says he wants this; does she? She says, more than anything, and he says, then they have to stop comparing their relationship to his and Carly’s. That’s in the past. He takes her hand, and says, what they have is different. It’s meaningful, right? Nina says, he doesn’t always have to support her decisions – she knows he won’t – but she needs to know his loyalty is always with her. Carly’s long shadow is always going to hover over them, and no matter how hard they try to move forward, she’s afraid they’re never going to escape it. He says, they won’t, and she says, so he admits there are three people in this relationship, but he says, not between them. Carly is always going to be part of this. They can make peace with the past, but they can’t separate from what’s happened. Carly is the mother of his children, so it’s never going to be just the two of them. He can live with that because Nina means that much to him. What she has to decide is how much he means to her.

Carly tells Josslyn, she’s sorry, but she’s got to go. Donna got hurt on the playground. She’s okay. Pilar said she’s fine, but Carly wants to go home and make sure she’s okay. She’ll text when she gets there, and wants Josslyn to do the same; let her know what’s going on. Josslyn says, sure, and they hug. Josslyn tells Carly to give Donna a hug for her, and Carly leaves.

Taggert tells Trina that Diane is on her way; traffic. How is she doing? Does she need anything? Trina says she’s fine. She’s glad he’s here. She looks at Rory, and asks Taggert to excuse her for a minute. She needs to talk to Rory. Taggert says he’ll wait for her here, and she goes over to Rory. Taggert’s phone rings, and it’s Portia. She says, she doesn’t know what to do, and he tells her, take a breath, and tell him what’s going on. He thought she’d be here by now. She says, that’s the problem; she has an emergency. One of her patients is in critical condition, and being prepped for surgery right now. How does she do that to Trina? He tells her, do what she needs to do, and Trina will understand, but she says, Trina needs her. Trina needs her support, but her patient’s life depends on her. He tells her to take care of her patient, and he’ll take care of their daughter.

Trina says she knows Rory is downplaying what the ADA told him. If he needs to go, please leave. She doesn’t want him getting in any more trouble because of her. He says he wants to be here, but if him being here stresses her out… She says, that’s not what she means. She wants him to know that she realizes he’s putting himself out on a limb for her, and it means a lot. He says, in that case, he’s not going anywhere. Spencer walks in.

At Windymere, Nikolas asks Jordan if it’s an official visit, and she says, actually, it is. He asks how he can help, and she says she’d like to ask him a few questions about his recent visitor.

On the phone, Esme says she knows she’s not on the schedule yet, because her internship just got reinstated, but she needs to come in to see Ryan Chamberlain. Please tell her that she can see him right away. It’s urgent.

Tomorrow, Taggert asks if Ava has any idea what Spencer plans to say on the stand; Esme says, what’s leverage if you can’t use it; Victor says, as head of the family, he’s made a decision; and Ryan says, when you’re right, you’re right. I would assume to Esme, since he doesn’t talk to anyone else.

🍀 Lucky Lucky…

Pretty prestigious. It would have been nice if they’d been more specific about what he’d written though.

🙏 Thankful…

I don’t have kids, but I can’t imagine anything more difficult than losing a child.

⚠️ Not Yet…

Don’t you hate when that happens?

💎 It’s Her Turn…

Looks like Kathy is going to be in the hot seat for a while. She’s had a free ride too long.

💸 Another Day, Another Lawsuit…

I’m honestly starting to wonder.

👠 Took Long Enough…

What is wrong with these women that they even associate with that trash talking drunk?

https://okmagazine.com/p/kim-richards-reveals-why-she-ditched-brandi-glanville-friendship/?utm_source=Jeeng

🍑 After the ATL…

Cynthia is moving and shaking.

💕 Enjoying the Ride…

What that Sheree is up to.

👩🏻‍🍳 Model Chef…

I’d be amazed if anyone even remembers her being on ANTM. I don’t.

https://www.realitytitbit.com/bravo/below-decks-rachel-hargrove-body-shames-tyra-banks-after-2005-clash

🙀 Horror Plus…

The latest in queer horror.

https://ew.com/movies/rise-of-queer-horror-hannibal-chucky-shudder/

And while we’re on the subject, I can’t wait to see this.

https://ew.com/movies/kevin-bacon-they-them-trailer-theo-germaine/

🎶 Stop Right Now…

Not only is she posh, she’s a good sport.

https://people.com/music/victoria-beckham-does-spice-girls-karaoke-on-vacation-the-one-and-only-posh-spice/

https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/victoria-beckham-sings-spice-girls-hit-hilarious-karaoke-87375405

World Tour 2008 – All 5 – It was the best!

🧍🏽‍♀️ Taking a Little Sidestep…

Meet me here tomorrow for soap and whatever’s cringeworthy in Beverly Hills. Until then, stay safe, stay letting your conscience be your guide, and stay knowing, if you accept a job from a mob boss, sooner or later you’ll be expected to do something illegal.

July 12, 2022 – Another Preemption, Chefs Ranked On Deck, Guilty in Salt Lake & Sunny

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Yep. Another day of hearings, another preemption. And if you don’t know, now you know.

GH

The other soaps.

🌴 Taking the rest of the day off, or at least switching job gears. But here are a couple of nuggets.

🍳 Rate the Chefs…

Several of them were pretty bad, but IMO Leon was the worst. Repeat dishes, nasty remarks, attitude on attitude, not finishing the charter when he was let go. The best thing about him was, when he walked off, Ben replaced him. Not that Ben isn’t moody, but he’s a whole lot of fun.

🧂 Shah Shame…

Her attorney says, she’s a good woman who crossed the line. Please. Seems to me she crossed a lot of lines. And you’d think if she was smart, she might have been a little more low-key on the show, but I guess thieves never think they’ll be caught.

https://people.com/tv/real-housewives-of-salt-lake-city-jen-shah-still-filming-after-guilty-plea/

Andy weighs in. At least she’s honest? They forgot to add finally.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1337638/andy-cohen-shares-his-thoughts-on-rhoslc-star-jen-shahs-guilty-plea

🌞 It’s Only a Day Away…

Check in tomorrow when we’ll hopefully have soap, as well as a report on those horrible Beverly Hills diamond holders. Until then, stay safe, stay never letting others limit you, and stay not crossing any lines where you’ll ultimately be pleading guilty.

July 8, 2022 – Victor’s Plan Fails, NYC Sale, Awful Humans, Charm News, Disgusting Weasel, Where They Are, About Plath, Spicey, What a Doll, Good Deed, 8 Of Quotes & Under

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Chase calls Brook just as she’s walking into the pool area. He says, don’t hang up. He thinks they need to talk. She says, no time like the present, and he realizes she’s right there. She comes over to where he’s sitting, and he wonders why it feels like déjà vu. She says, maybe because they apologize to each other two or three times a day. You’d think they’d be used to it by now. He says, maybe that’s it, and she says, since they’ve played this scene before, could they just fast forward to the part where they’re friends again? He says, they could, but he doesn’t know if they should.

Alexis says, Gregory’s op ed is less of an opinion and more of a hit piece. The Invader’s interjection of opinion into the reporting of facts is not only lamentable, but an ethical slippery slope? He says, she issued a challenge; he accepted. Now the question is, can she set her ego aside and accept his? She says, his ego? and he says, his challenge.

Finn says, what does Doc mean, Elizabeth is gone? and Doc says, Finn just missed her; she checked herself out. Finn asks if that’s a good idea, but Doc says, she came of her own volition. She had the power to leave any time. Finn asks if Doc is saying Elizabeth left against his recommendation. Then Doc knows as well as he does that’s a mistake.

Terry asks if Britt can look at this, holding out her tablet, and Britt asks if it’s boring. Terry says, yes, and Britt says, then she lives for it. She takes the tablet, and Terry says, Epiphany made some last minute changes to the nurse’s rotation. Also, she wanted ask Britt about that Society Set-Ups mixer. Britt says, oh God, what now? A new GIF from another angle? Terry says, nothing like that. She was so impressed with the clientele, she signed up. Britt hopes Terry has better luck than she did, and asks if they have enough coverage for tonight. Elizabeth joins them, and says, problem solved. She’s back and reporting for duty. Where do they need her?

Olivia comes into the stables, and Cody says, Mama Falconari. She says, it’s Quartermaine now, and he says he knows, but he’s thought of her as Mama Falconari for all these years, so he hates to break tradition. She says, then don’t; she answers to both. He asks, what can he do for her? and she says, he already has. He’s made a forever friend in her son Leo. He says, Leo’s a great kid, and she says, he can’t stop raving about Cowboy Cody, and how he can answer any question about horses. He says, it’s nice to have an appreciative audience, and she says, it’s funny. He grew up making trouble with her one son, now he’s showing the ropes to her other one. He says, handling horses is a lot like getting to know people… Sometimes it’s a lot easier. She says, in regard to her son Leo, horses are a lot smarter than the men in her life, and Ned walks in.

Valentin comes into the MetroCourt Garden, and sees Laura texting. He says he’s glad he found her. Does she mind if he joins her? She says, not at all, and he sits. She asks if Charlotte is all right, and he says he believes so; why wouldn’t she be? She asks why else he’d be seeking her out, and he says, Charlotte is healthy and safe, and he promises there’s nothing he wouldn’t do to make sure she remains so.

On the phone, Anna says, C-A-S-S-A-D-I-N-E, first name Valentin, as Victor lurks around behind her. She says, he was recuperating at their clinic several weeks ago. She knows they wouldn’t normally release that kind of patient information, but this is an ongoing official investigation with the WSB… Yeah, she can send over her credentials immediately. Could they please have the director call her back at this number… She thanks them, saying, she appreciates it. Victor says, good morning, Agent Devane, and she asks if he’s stalking or lurking. He says, out for a morning constitutional is all, and she says, an agenda-free stroll. Why doesn’t she believe him? He says he would have announced himself, but he saw she was preoccupied investigating his son.

Brook says, Chase doesn’t want to be friends? but he says, of course (🍷) he does, and they are. She says, okay, then what? and he says he just thinks they don’t bring out the best in each other; that maybe their friendship, as much as it means to both of them, isn’t healthy. She says, he may have a point. The pattern they’ve fallen into with all the fighting and apologizing. Not to mention it made him punch someone. You could say it’s… He says, childish? Co-dependent? She tells him, she was going to say tricky. Forget about being a cop; he could work for Webster’s. He asks how she’d benefit from that, and she says, ouch. He says he’s sorry, but she says, don’t be; she deserves it.

Gregory says he realizes Alexis hasn’t had time to do more than skim the op ed, and she says she can’t wait to sit down and take it all in. He says, the gist of it is, The Invader coverage blurs the lines between objecting reporting and editorializing. He challenged her staff to commit to objectivity at all costs. She says, first of all, The Invader is a newspaper, not a wire service, and he asks if she’s saying only wire services can be objective. She says, secondly, the newspaper has to have a point of view, and he says, still, The Invader is miles ahead of where it was when Peter August was at the helm. She asks if he’s damning her with faint praise, but he says, not at all. The Invader can become a journal not unworthy of respect, and she says, as an editor, she needs to point out the double negative, but he says he used it for effect. She says, sure he did, and he says, still, as far as The Invader has come, there’s still room for improvement – for both of them. She says, he’s just chock full of suggestions – she points to her phone – thousands of words of them, most of them scathing. He says, listening to her now, he’s reminded of a criticism he omitted, and she says, there’s more? He says, her penchant for hyperbole, and she says, you know what she thinks? He says he’s eager to hear, and she says she thinks the good professor is so accustomed to dusty dry tomes, and just isn’t used to contemporary journalism. He says, and if he may? and she says, by all means. He says he concludes, the humble – that’s irony, by the way… She says she recognizes it, and he says, the humble editrix is unused to being challenged.

Doc says, Finn knows he can’t discuss specifics of Elizabeth’s treatment, and Finn says, he doesn’t need to explain doctor/patient confidentiality to him. He doesn’t want the details; he just wants Doc’s honest determination. Did Elizabeth discharge herself prematurely? Doc tells him, look, all he can say is, if a patient no longer wants intensive therapy, it’s their call. As for Elizabeth, he takes heart in knowing she has a good support system at home. Finn says, as long as she doesn’t push everyone away, and Doc says, then he’s afraid it’s going to take time and patience. Finn says, he’ll hang back. He’ll give her time. It seems like that’s all he’s doing these days, but how does he know if he’s giving her the space to heal or the room to relapse? Doc says, he doesn’t.

Terry says, Elizabeth didn’t tell her that she was coming in today, and Elizabeth says, it’s time; she’s ready. Britt says, it’s good to see her, and Elizabeth thanks her, saying, it’s good to be seen. So how about it? Put me in, coach. Britt says she’d be happy too, as soon as she hears from HR that Elizabeth is cleared, and Elizabeth suggests they skip the red tape. It sounds like they’re shorthanded. Britt says, while she loves the enthusiasm, the hospital has policies, protocol where… Elizabeth says she knows what protocol is. She’s worked here longer than Britt. Terry says, hang on, Biz, and Elizabeth says, Britt was probably hoping she got rid of her for good. Britt says, actually she was hoping Elizabeth had a speedy recovery and returned to work soon. She’s an excellent nurse, and yes, they are short-staffed. Elizabeth says, then what’s the problem? and Britt asks if she needs flash cards. If Elizabeth wants to come back, then she needs to be cleared by HR. So go to HR and get cleared. Elizabeth says, this is so like Britt. She’s sure Britt has convinced everyone else that she’s turned over a new leaf, but she can see pretty clearly, the Britch is back, and bitchier than ever.

Victor asks what possible reason Anna could have for looking into Valentin’s private medical records, and Anna asks if he’s ever heard the quote, we don’t see things as they are, we see things as we are. He asks her point? and she says, given his villainy, it makes sense he would ascribe nefarious intent to others. He says, cynicism is an ugly look on such an attractive woman, and she says, so is misogyny on such a dapper man. Yet here we are. He laughs, and says, she’s such a joy, and she says she tries. He says, always a quick rebut, and the appropriate literary reference. The question, however, remains, does Valentin know she’s a spy, in and out of the bedroom? She says, yes; why? He says he’s asking as a concerned parent. What exactly is the nature of her relationship with his son? She asks, what exactly is his?

Laura tells Valentin, she doesn’t say this often enough, but she’s actually grateful that Charlotte has him to watch out for her. He says, that’s nothing he’d expect to hear her say, and she says, they’ve had their difficulties in the past, but she can’t deny he’s an excellent parent. He thanks her, and says, coming from her, that means more to him than he can express. She says, if this little visit isn’t about Charlotte, to what does she owe the pleasure? and he says, just a drink between friends. He tells the waiter that he’ll have a bloody Mary, and Laura says she’ll have an iced tea. The waiter says, coming right up, and Valentin says, just an iced tea? She says, day drinking is not a good look for the mayor, especially after an attempted recall, and he says he’s glad that ridiculous attempt to oust her failed. She was a wonderful mayor, and Port Charles thrived under her leadership. She asks, why does he talk about her tenure in the past tense?

Brook says, when she offered to manage Chase’s singing career, she really did it to help him, and he asks, what percentage was to help him? She says, 90, and he looks at her. She says, 85, hand to heart, and he says he believes her. She says she hates that he’s out a paycheck, for defending her honor – again. He says, his actions were his own, and she says, but she put him in the middle of her mistakes… and two guys anyone would want to punch. He says, that is true, and she says, so even though it wasn’t her main goal when she was pitching the idea to him, the revenge part kind of slipped in. He says, so it wasn’t always there in the back of her mind? and she says, of course (🍷) it was. He says, then why not come out and say it; tell him the plan from the get-go. She says, because she didn’t want him to think she was using him, and he says, was she? She says she’s a Quartermaine. Self-interest is kind of in her DNA. She puts her hand on his knee, and says, on her word, nothing is more important than helping him.

Ned says, Olivia? and Olivia tells Cody, and here’s one of those men right now. Ned says he’s been looking for her. Can he speak to her about something? Cody says he’ll leave them alone, but Olivia says, they wouldn’t dream of interrupting his work, and tells Ned, she was just thanking Cody for being such a good friend to Leo. Ned says, Leo seems to think Cowboy Cody stepped straight out of a John Ford Western, and Cody says he’s lived a lot of places. Home is wherever you hang your hat. Ned says, about that. Since Cody will be interacting with his son, he took the liberty of going over Cody’s employment history. Seems like he doesn’t stay in one place for long. Should they already be looking for a replacement? Olivia says, Ned… and Cody says, no worries, Mama Q. He has been bouncing around for a while, that’s true, but their kind employment has gotten him doing exactly what he wants to do, exactly where he wants to do it. Don’t worry. He’s not going anywhere.

Britt tells Elizabeth, that’s enough, Nurse Baldwin. Clearly she’s still under duress. So leave now, while she still has a job. Elizabeth says, Britt can’t fire her; she’s union. Britt says she doubts Elizabeth’s union rep will come running to her defense, and as Chief of Staff… Elizabeth says, Co-Chief, and asks Terry if she’s going to let Britt threaten her like this. Terry says she’s sorry, but she has to agree with Britt. Elizabeth’s out of line.

Victor says, if Anna is curious about the deepening bond he has with his son, why ask him? Ask Valentin. Anna says she knows what Valentin’s intentions are when it comes to Victor; now she wants to know Victor’s. What does he want with Valentin? He says, what any parent wants. To see their child excel; to uplift and exalt the family. Most of all, to make him proud. Anna says, okay, and he says, she seems confused. She says, the relationship Victor is describing doesn’t sound reciprocal. It sounds like he’s using Valentin. And knowing what Victor is capable of, compels her to ask, to what end?

Valentin tells Laura that he’s sorry; he misspoke. He meant say, she is a great mayor, and Port Charles continues to thrive…  With all the machinations of ELQ, he’s not sleeping. She says, she’s not going anywhere, and he says he hears the all-stars gathered at Charlie’s to celebrate her. She’s much loved and very respected. Her phone rings, and she says she has to take this. She steps away, the waiter brings the drinks, and Valentin puts something powdered in her iced tea that’s probably not Splenda. After he’s done, with convenient timing, she comes back, telling him, it was Doc. A patient canceled, so he’s on his way over. Valentin says, he certainly won’t be a third wheel, so until Doc arrives, they should make the most of their time. They clink glasses, and as Laura is about to take a sip, her phone dings. She says, what a coincidence; it’s Charlotte. He asks if everything is all right, and she says, everything’s fine. Charlotte was just thanking her for the care package she sent. He says, he wasn’t aware Charlotte needed anything, and she says, it was hardly disaster relief. It was just the new book by her favorite author, and a couple little other fun things she thought Charlotte might enjoy. He says she’s sure she appreciates it, and Laura says, Charlotte’s mother is still not able to be present, so she tries to fill the void when she can. He says, Charlotte’s lucky to have her, and she says, and him. And Charlotte’s not the only lady in his life that feels that way. Anna seems to have grown very fond of him.

Victor says he’ll tell Anna what his plans are for Valentin, provided she tells him why the furtive call to check up on him. She says she’ll never explain herself to him. They can remain mysteries wrapped in riddles inside enigmas forever. He says, it’s obvious to him that she and Valentin don’t know each other nearly as well as they claim to. Nor do they trust each other, which is a pity. Because without trust, she’s nothing more to Valentin than a comely diversion.

Gregory says, for someone who takes issue with his subjective opinion, Alexis certainly prints a lot of them, and calls it hard news. She says, her paper takes stances on vital issues alongside fact-based articles, like the fact-based articles they did on city hall. He says, so will The Invader next be printing an interview with the exculpated mayor? and she says, she doesn’t see why not; they printed the petition against her. He says, she’s still relatively new to journalism. It’s a subject he teaches at university level. She says she’s sure it’s easy for him to sit on his high horse behind ivy walls, but while he’s talking about journalism theory, some of them are out in the field doing actual reporting.

Brook says she’d hoped Chase would see that his intentions were sincere, and when he didn’t… He says, she thought he was overreacting, and she says she did, until she talked with her dad. He helped her see that she probably should have run the whole plan by him, including the revenge plot. He says he also talked to his father. His father and brother urged him to give her the benefit of the doubt. She says, they did? and he says, they saw she was just trying to help him, and… She says, and what? and he says, they don’t seem to think her proposition is as crazy as he does. She gets up, and says, great. Then it’s settled. They move forward with her plan. He says, whoa. Pump the brakes, Quartermaine.

Elizabeth says she can’t believe Terry is taking Britt’s side, and Terry says, Elizabeth knows if she’s on anyone’s side, it’s hers. Elizabeth says, then let her come back to work, but Terry says, no; she’s not ready. Elizabeth says she’s fine. She just can’t stand the way Britt acts like she’s queen of this place. She’s Co-Chief of Staff, not God. Terry says, she is, and Britt asked Elizabeth to go to HR, the same as she would have. Elizabeth says, she was at that clinic voluntary. Why does she need to go to HR? Terry says, for liability purposes, she still needs medical clearance. Did her doctor at Shadybrook sign off? Elizabeth says, she signed herself out, which is her right, and Terry says, it is her right, but was it right for her? Elizabeth says she appreciates Terry’s concern caring for her doesn’t give Terry the right to question her decisions. She shouldn’t have to justify herself to anyone. She turns around and sees Finn.

Chase says he hasn’t agreed to Brook’s pop star scheme, and she says, but he will. It’s inevitable, so why waste time? He says, it’s doubtful it’s going to do either of the things she wants; get him paid or give Linc what he deserves. She says, maybe not, but they don’t know until they’ve tried, and he says, he’s not the pop star she’s envisioning. She says she’s not suggesting they put him in a Spandex onesie and throw glitter all over him, and he says, he doesn’t think the PCPD will value a singing detective as much as she does. She says, if after his suspension, he wants to go back to being a detective, she’ll totally support that. But while he’s in limbo, why not take the road not traveled? Maybe this setback will lead to a new passion. He says, a new passion can be a risky proposition, and she says, but the rewards could be greater than they ever dreamed.

Gregory says he didn’t write the op ed to insult Alexis. In fact, he admires what she’s done in such a short time. She thanks him for that, and says, she’s sure he understands that in the era where news is a click away, she has to distinguish the paper. He says, when she reads what he wrote, she’ll see he doesn’t fault her for that. He merely offers constructive ideas to help maintain integrity in reporting. She says she’ll read the whole op ed piece, put her wrath aside, and let him know if there’s a place for it. She starts to leave, and he says, if she stands by her vision for The Invader, she won’t have a problem printing every word.

Olivia says she’s glad Cody is sticking around. She’d hate for Leo to lose him. Cody says he’d hate to leave behind a brand new friend. Leo is stuck with him. Ned says, that’s good to hear. They’ll let him get back to work. Cody goes in the back, and Olivia asks if Ned is planning on alienating every single person in this house this week. He says he guesses he could have been a little more tactful, and she says, he couldn’t have been less. He says he was just looking out for Leo, and she says she knows that. He says, it looks like he’s been inconsiderate and self-centered all around, and she says, if that’s the road he wants to go down, she’s not going to stop him. He says, and because she deserves to hear this as often as possible, he should have looped her in on his decision making process about his ELQ vote. She says, yes he should have. It’s not like she’s asking for veto power over all his business decisions, but she does expect communication in the marriage. And she’s just going to pray for peace in this family. He says he let her down and he know that; he’s sorry. Now he needs to know they’re okay. She puts her arms around his neck, and says, they’re a team. If they stick with that, they’ll be fine. She kisses him, and he asks if there’s something else bothering her. She says, he picked up on that, and he asks if it’s anything he should know about. She says, things may be fine at home, but at work… it’s all falling apart.

Britt thanks Terry for the back-up, and says she knows Elizabeth is Terry’s friend. Terry says, Elizabeth is her best friend, and Britt says, great. Maybe Terry can tell her what the hell is going on with her BFF.  

Elizabeth walks with Finn, and he says, she looks good. She thanks him, and says she feels good. The pills are out of her system, so no more sleepwalking. He says, that’s a great start, and she says, start? She was at that clinic for weeks. She did the work, and she’s better. Believe her, if she felt like she was a danger to herself, her boys or her patients, she’d still be at Shadybrook. He says, he knows how committed she is to the people in her life. He thinks they’d just like to return the favor. She says she knows, and he asks, then why didn’t she tell anyone when she discharged herself? Or was he the only one who didn’t know?

Anna says, Victor doesn’t know the first thing about her and Valentin. They go back decades, and unlike Victor, his concerned father, she’s been there for him. He says, this isn’t a competition, and she says, if it were, he’d lose. He says, the difference is, unlike her, he trusts Valentin. He relies on Valentin to do what’s expected of him. She says she trusts Valentin too. She just doesn’t trust the people around him. He says, that makes two of us.

Valentin says, Anna spoke to Laura about him? and Laura says, she did. He says, anything she can repeat? and she says, it seems Anna has found a kindred spirit in him. He asks if that’s what she said, and Laura says, it’s not so much what she said, but how she said it, or how she didn’t say it, as the case may be. She does seem to have found the good in him. He says he told Laura it was there, and she says, he did. He seems to get Anna in a way most people don’t; kindred spirits. She just hopes Anna’s faith in him isn’t misplaced. She’s about to take a sip of her tea, and Valentin reaches for the pepper mill, practically shoving it in her face, so she spills her drink. She gets up, brushing herself off, as Doc comes in.

Alexis says, as she told Gregory, The Invader welcomes all viewpoints, even his. She’s sure after it’s proof read, it will be submitted into the next issue. He says, good to hear. Print and digital? She asks, exactly how many platforms does he need? and he says, it’s easier to read the commentary online; he likes the readers chiming in. She says, so he’s pretty sure the feedback will all be in his favor? and he says he suspects many will agree, with tweaks, The Invader is on its way to being a great source of information. She says she suspects the readers will already attest to what they’re doing right, and he says he looks forward to reading their reactions… providing the feedback is uncensored. She asks, what the hell is that supposed to mean?  

Anna’s phone rings, and she says she has to take this. She steps away, and Director Gibson says they received her credentials, and he can confirm Valentin Cassadine was a patient there. Anna thanks him, and says, that’s what she needed to know, but he says, however, his convalescence didn’t occur on the dates she provided. According to their records, he discharged himself after a week. The end date she provided… She says, exceeds that by a lot, and he says, exactly. He’s sure she can’t divulge the nature of the investigation, and that’s fine, but his priority is that the clinic not be held liable for any health implications caused by his early departure. She says, that won’t be a n issue, and he says, great, and asks if there’s anything else he can help her with. She says, no. He’s helped her more than he knows. Victor approaches her, and says, problem? but she just walks away.

Valentin says he’s so sorry, and tells Laura to send him her dry cleaning bill. She says she will, and Doc asks, what happened here? Valentin says he’s afraid Doc arrived to witness a rather inelegant lunch with the pepper. He tells the passing waiter, another iced tea, and says, as he was telling Doc’s wife, he hasn’t been sleeping well, and it’s made him clumsy. Doc says he’s never known Valentin to be clumsy before, but Valentin says, it happens. He apologizes. He looks at Laura, and says he’s so very sorry, and she says, just when things were going so well. Valentin jets, and Doc asks, what’s all this about? She says she wishes she knew. She’s just as confused as he is. Valentin asked to join her, and they had a surprisingly civil conversation. Doc says, he’s about as social as he is clumsy, and she says, today he was both. Doc asks why he doesn’t believe any of it, and she says, because he’s keenly perceptive and smart. He thanks her and kisses her hello, and she asks how things are with him. He says, today could have gone better, and she says, it’s not even lunchtime yet. (I know the feeling.) Is it Elizabeth? He says, she left Shadybrook, and Laura asks if she was his patient cancelation. He says, yeah, and she asks if she should be worried. He says he wishes he could say no.

Terry tells Britt that she’s sorry; Elizabeth’s not like that. Britt says, Elizabeth has been downright hostile to her since they met, and Terry says she knows they never liked each other. Britt says she was terrible to Elizabeth; to everybody. She earned all of her lovely nicknames, but now…? Today, this? Terry says, she’s been going through a lot, and Britt says, she understands, but her time away didn’t seem to have helped at all. Elizabeth seems to be the same… Terry says, again, best friend, and Britt says, challenging personality she always was. Whatever Elizabeth has going on, she can’t bring it to work like that. Terry says, agreed. She just hopes Elizabeth is okay. Britt says, oh, she’s in fine form.

Elizabeth says she’s sorry she didn’t tell Finn, but he says, it’s okay. He was just trying to figure out why she left him out of the loop. He knows he had a little trouble giving her the space she needed to heal, and for that he’s sorry, but he thinks he’s gotten better with that. She says, he has, and he asks if this is the way she wants things going forward; she doesn’t need him around? She says, no. She asked for distance when she was at Shadybrook because she had a lot to work through. She knows he wanted to be there for her and help her, and he did, by allowing her to have the space she needed to take this journey and figure things out on her own. He asks, how’d that go? and she says she learned a lot. The most important thing she realized is, her life is just better with him in it.

Brook and Chase almost kiss, and Brook says, so for what it’s worth (🍷), she thinks he’s the It Factor, and she knows Linc agrees. He says, two people; that’s quite the niche fan base. She asks him to give her his phone, and he does. She says, check this out, and she shows him the video of him singing. She says, whether or not he wants to be a recognized performer, he’s well on his way.

Ned says, if he’d known Carly had invested so heavily in Aurora… and Olivia says she didn’t even know until the morning of the vote. He says, anyway, it’s not going to be a problem, but she says she might end up owning he hotel with some oligarch who’s laundering his money; it’s a problem. He says, not if they buy Carly’s half of the hotel and give it to her, but she says she already floated that idea; it’s not going to happen. Carly said, no dice. He says, not even if they sell it to her at the same price she purchased it? and Olivia says, the history between Carly and the Quartermaines is too much; forget about it. He says, it’s going to be okay. The best partnerships cannot be torn apart. They’re proof of that. He kisses her, and they leave.

Elizabeth says she knows she kept Finn at arm’s length, but it was never meant to hurt him. He says he knows. He can be thick sometimes, and wanted to help. It took time for him to realize she needed some distance, and that’s on him. She asks, what if she told him what she really needs is him? and he says he’d probably tell her that he’s the luckiest guy on the face of the earth. Is she sure? Because everything that was wrong with him before is still there. He’s working on himself, but he has a long way to go. Is she sure she wants all that? She says, all of it, and they kiss. She says she’s sorry about everything she put him through. She promises it’s all behind them, and he holds her.

Cody puts away a saddle, and his phone chirps. A message from Society Set-Ups says they’ve found a match for him.

Britt looks at Elizabeth and Finn, and tells Terry, apparently, there is a lid for every pot, even the cracked ones. Terry says, if that’s true, maybe there’s hope for Britt yet (BA-DUM-CHH!) and walks away. Britt’s phone dings, she looks at it, and says, okay Society Set-Ups. Let’s see what unpromising loser you insist is my perfect match. She sees Cody’s name and photo, and sighs.

Alexis says, first Gregory maligns her leadership of the paper, and now he’s questioning her integrity? He says, he’s merely pointing out how tempting it is to confirm our own biases, and she says, she’s convinced the readers will reject his narrow suppositions. He says, care to make it interesting? and she says, like a bet? He says, unless she’s not as confident as she’s pretending to be, and she says, now his strategy is to call her chicken? She didn’t know they had playgrounds at universities, because that’s clearly where he picked up his tactics. He asks if his tactics are working, and she says, no, but she’ll take his idiotic wager. She’s in. He says, great. What are the stakes? She says, besides the massive hit to his ego? If the readers support him, then she’ll entertain his archaic notions. He says, is that all? and she says, he’s got her time and attention; take it or leave it. He says, done. And on the off-chance the readers side with her? She says, he’ll promise to pipe down, and stick to enlightening young minds. He says, it’s a bet, holding out his hand, and they shake.

Chase looks at the video and says, he can’t believe this. She says, they have to credit Leo. He’s the first one who liked the performance, and it sort of blew up from there. Chase asks how it has so many views, and she says she has an intern at Deception watching it on repeat, and he says, she does? She says, no. The numbers are all him. Face it. There’s an audience who wants him. All they have to do is cultivate it, and monetize it of course (🍷). He asks where they start, and she says, is that a yes? He says, it’s not a no, it’s a how. She says, don’t stress the details. By the time she’s finished these numbers will look quant in comparison. Leave it to her. She’s going to make him a household name.

Anna walks into the MetroCourt Garden, and Laura asks if she forgot something. Anna says she was looking for Valentin. He’s not in his room, so she thought she’d try here. Doc says, her instincts are good, but she just missed him. Laura says she doesn’t know where he went, and Anna says she was going to ask him something, but now that she’s here, she’s changed her mind. Laura asks if everything is okay, and Anna says she’s not sure, but she intends to find out.

Back in the park, Victor asks Valentin, is it done? but Valentin says, no. Laura remains in perfect health. Victor asks, why, pray tell, is that? and Valentin says, because he failed. Victor says, that’s a pity. He’s sure by now Valentin is aware, failure is not an option.

On Monday, Cody asks Britt why he’d leave, now that he’s met his match; Maxie asks why Spinelli would say something like that; and Carly says, it’s her only option.

🗽 Moving It Nice…

I’m not sure what her selling the apartment has to do with RHUGT. Doing it for an extra tag?

💎 Those Horrible, Horrible Women…

This episode turned my stomach. I’m not sure which incident pissed me off more. Kyle accusing Sutton of lying about her miscarriages…

https://screenrant.com/rhobh-kyle-richards-apologizes-sutton-stracke-miscarriage-accusation/

Or Erika cursing out Garcelle’s son – after she hit on Garcelle’s other son. At least Oliver was of age, but still.

🍹 Bring On the Charm…

This doesn’t sound much different from what we saw.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1337327/why-southern-charms-kathryn-dennis-and-chleb-ravenell-really-split

I was stressed too. I even said, no one makes/receives calls while they’re not driving?

🍸 As the Stomach Turns…

Whenever I see his name, all I can think is, that little troll. How dare he have done this to her and that cute little baby?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-10996103/Scheana-Shay-blasts-Lala-Kents-ex-Randall-Emmett-reacts-allegations-against-him.html

While Surfing…

Actually, I was watching reruns of the first seasons, and thinking about what an a-hole Adrienne was. Then I stumbled on this.

🏞 Meanwhile, In the Middle Of Nowhere…

All about Plathville, and a little speculation.

https://www.thelist.com/176645/the-untold-truth-of-tlcs-welcome-to-plathville/

https://screenrant.com/why-welcome-plathville-fans-suspect-kim-plath-unfaithful/

👠 Still Posh…

I love her. Can you imagine a woman being intimidated into getting on a scale in public today? Me neither. But she did end up winning at life.

https://people.com/health/victoria-beckham-recalls-being-forced-to-weigh-herself-on-live-tv-after-giving-birth/

https://people.com/health/victoria-beckham-says-being-thin-is-old-fashioned-talks-new-health-and-fitness-journey/

https://people.com/sports/david-and-victoria-beckham-mark-their-23rd-wedding-anniversary/

🩰 Outside the Dreamhouse…

All about the Barbie movie. I can’t wait.

https://people.com/movies/margot-robbie-celebrates-32nd-birthday-pink-barbie-cake-on-set-greta-gerwig-movie/

https://people.com/movies/barbie-movie-set-pictures/

https://www.elle.com/uk/life-and-culture/culture/a23638293/margot-robbie-barbie-doll-film/

👍 Ending On a Good Note…

I’m not a Hallmark kind of person, but I still appreciate kindness.

👄 Quotes of the Week

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. – Martin Luther King Jr.

Never stop just because you feel defeated. The journey to the other side is attainable only after great suffering. – Santosh Kalwar

Time changes everything except something within us which is always surprised by change. – Thomas Hardy

The four hardest tasks on earth are neither physical nor intellectual feats, but spiritual ones: To return love for hate; to include the excluded; to forgive without apology, and to be able to say, ‘I was wrong.’Unknown

Faith is daring to put your dream to the test. It is better to try to do something and fail than to try to do nothing and succeed. – Robert H. Schuller

Judge a man by the reputation of his enemies, and the character of his friends.K@$H

Above all else, go with a sense of humor. It is needed armor. Joy in one’s heart and some laughter on one’s lip is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life.Hugh Sidey

You can roll manure in powder sugar, but that still doesn’t make it a jelly donut. – Berta (Conchata Ferrell), Two and a Half Men

👡 Shuffling Off This Internet Coil…

Enjoy formerly known as the weekend, but come back for soap and some Deck when it’s over. Until then, stay safe, stay giving without expecting a return, and stay keeping in mind, we don’t see things as they are, we see things as we are.

June 23, 2022 – Again, Brand New Charm, Messy, All About That Charm, Worst Deck, Award Worthy, Good Dog & Real

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Crap they did it again.

Southern Charm

Craig’s pillows have officially taken off, and Shep’s furry Craig is getting big. Venita and Naomie get together for a game of tennis. Venita says she was a nerd in high school, and in her interview, she says, she got made fun of in school, but then got into modeling, and fell into being an influencer. She tells us, look at her now, and laughs. Naomie tells Venita, it’s sad to be back in Charleston. She thought she was moving to NYC and growing, but she was humbled real quick. Moving back was depressing. In Naomie’s interview, she says, she and Metul were there 10 days when she found out he was cheating. She crawled back to Charleston with her tail between her legs, and she’s starting over. Venita says, Naomie was losing herself in the relationship, and in her interview, Naomie says, she wanted to mold herself into who he wanted her to be. We flash back to times when Metul seemed controlling, and she says, by the end, he made her into a smaller version of himself. Leva calls, and asks if Naomie has seen Craig since Vegas, and Venita wonders what happened. Naomie says she went to Las Vegas, Leva was there with her family, and Craig was there with his friends on a separate trip. Naomie tells Leva, she’s seen him, and that’s all she’s going to say about that.

Craig calls Paige, and tells her that he’s working on his house, and gives her a tour as they talk. Paige is coming for Kathryn’s birthday party, and she thinks it’s weird that Kathryn invited Naomie, since Kathrin doesn’t like her. In Craig’s interview, he says he had a huge crush on Paige years ago, but she had a boyfriend. They met again when they were both single, and a spark accelerated to a mini inferno. The things that bothered Naomie don’t bother Paige. His confidence to sew is attractive to her. Since she lives in NYC, they do four days on/four days off. He’s finally back in his real house, as it’s been remediated of asbestos.

Austen meets Shep for a beer, and says, life is wonderful. Shep asks if Austen is still a free agent, and Austen says he’s asexual at the moment. In Austen’s interview, he says he was in a toxic relationship last year, and it left him heartbroken. We flash back to the Reunion, and Austen calling Madison a f***ing monster. He says, finally his eyes are open, and he’s the person he wants to be. He tells Shep that (new cast member) Olivia is back in town, and he likes her. We see a clip of Austen asking Olivia out, and in his interview, Austen says, they met through Leva. He tells Shep that Olivia went to L.A., but now she lives in Charleston. Since he’s been single, he’s met a few women he’s interested in, but it doesn’t have to turn into a relationship. We flash back to Austen on Summer House, and Shep says, Naomie is back in town too. He heard a rumor she and Craig are on good terms, maybe more, but Austen says, not so. He’d asked Craig about Vegas, and Craig said they just had lunch; he was already dating Paige. Shep looks like doesn’t believe it.

Venita and Naomie play tennis, and a bee chases Naomie around the court. They sit afterward, and Venita says, Leva was trying to drop a bomb when she called while they were in the car. Naomie says, she saw Craig in Vegas, and that’s all there is to say. Shep tells Austen that he hasn’t seen Craig in a couple months, but Craig has only made a low grade effort to have a friendship. How someone deals with success is very telling; can you maintain friendships and be a good person? He doesn’t think Craig works to maintain their friendship at all. He thinks he’s the big shot of the century, but Shep thinks Craig knows he’s in the wrong and has a small reckoning coming. Chleb and Kathryn play basketball, and in Kathryn’s interview, she says, they’ve been together a little over year. After six months, they moved in together. It’s the first relationship she’s had that moved in steps at a certain pace. It’s nice to have more structure, since historically speaking, she’s had none. Looking back, in her 20s, she had two babies; it was a crazy ride. We flash back to the Thomas days, and lots of screaming, and she says, but it’s a new decade. She’s going to use what she’s learned to pursue the life she wants, and not just take what’s given to her. She tells Chleb that she’s going to be a phoenix rising.

Whitney takes Patricia’s pups outside, and after they come in, one poops on the kitchen floor. He says, who did this? like one will answer, and calls them a-holes, saying, they were just outside. He makes a cursory look for enzyme cleaner, then uses vodka to clean the floor. He takes a swig from the bottle, and says the dogs are d*cks. I’m literally lol’ing. He tells Patricia that the dogs pooped inside, and he couldn’t find the enzyme cleaner. She tells him, it’s under the sink, and he says he used vodka. He tells her, the dogs are a lot of work, and she says she never realized it until Michael wasn’t around. In Patricia’s interview, she says, Michael had a spinal stroke, and it paralyzed him from the chest down. She’s still shocked. It hit her in the heart, because they’ve been together for 18 years. We flash back to Michael doing his thing, and she says, her longest marriage was 15 years. He’s the most stable relationship she’s had. Whitney says he’s being a dutiful son, and she says, he’s a little too sassy, and no F-words.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Pets are the great leveler. They don’t care how much money you have, what you look like, or what you do for a living. They will poop on your floor. I predict that was the best scene all season. It was hilarious. Except for the Michael part. That was too sad.

Kathryn is having a Roaring 20s party, and shops for a vintage tie for Chleb. In her interview, she says she wants an over-the-top Gatsby production. She wants glitz, luxury, angelic, and feathers. She calls Chleb, and shows him the ties. In Kathryn’s interview, she says, she loves what a good heart Chleb has, and his outlook on life. (I might also add, he has a great sense of fashion.) She says she overanalyzes to the point that she’s paralyzed, and he simplifies things for her. She gets him the ties he picked out, along with a silk scarf. Pringle goes see Craig at his store, Sewing Down South. The store also has a tap, and Pringle asks for a beer. Craig says, drink and shop; that’s what we’re all about. In Craig’s interview, he says, they made $200K in the first three months, and are continuing to grow. He tells Pringle that he was lucky finding this place, and thanks him for coming to the opening. We see clips from that, and Craig says, they had a huge opening weekend. He appreciated the support, but it bothers him that Taylor had to force Shep to come. Pringle says, Shep told him that Craig thinks he’s King Sh*t of the Mountain, and Craig says, Shep just tears him down. He stopped answering Shep’s calls, then Austen started. Austen was newly single, since he and Natalie had broken up. They were both hanging out with Paige, and Austen tried to tell her that Craig and Naomie had hooked up in Vegas, but Craig had already told her. He and Austen aren’t friends anymore because Craig can’t trust him. In his interview, Craig says, hanging out with anyone who’s not supportive of your success is stupid.

Shep tells Taylor that he’s not out of shape, and she says, round is a shape. In Shep’s interview, he says, he and Taylor are coming up on two years. She has a condo, but stays with him most of the time. Every now and then she gives him a night off. He thinks she wants to get married and have kids, but she’s not anxious to go down that road. They have no structural expectations. In Taylor’s interview, she says she’s had a Pinterest board of her wedding plans her entire life. Olivia gets ready for Kathryn’s party, and in her interview, she says she lives with her parents. She’d been living in L.A., but when covid happened, she came home because she wanted to be closer to her family. Her parents ask about Austen, and in her interview, she says, her mom was her age when she got married, and her parents have been together 34 years. The pressure is on. Austen arrives, and they argue about who’s going to get the door. Austen starts to look nervous, and in Olivia’s interview, she says, Austen slid into her DMs. It makes her a little giddy to see him. She lets him in, and introduces him to her parents, who notice the skull and crossbones on his shoes. Kathryn is having her makeup done, and tells makeup person Chelsea that she invited Naomie on a whim, even though what Naomie did hurt her feelings. In Kathryn’s interview, she says she reached out when Naomie’s father passed away, and Naomie visited when Kathryn’s mom died. But then Naomie made an Instagram post saying Kathryn should be ashamed of spreading the rumor about Cameron’s husband. Kathryn is hoping Naomie will apologize, so they can move on. Kathryn tells Chelsea that she thinks Naomie still has feelings for Craig; they hooked up in Vegas. Chelsea asks if Craig told Natalie about Paige, but Kathryn doesn’t think so.

Venita and Leva meet at Naomie’s, and Naomie tells them that she and Kathryn haven’t talked for a year and a half, but Kathryn said all the perfect things on the phone. We see a clip of Kathryn inviting Naomie to her party, and in Naomie’s interview, she says, when someone says they want to start fresh, you can’t say f*** off, I want to keep this negative energy going. She’s going to take the olive branch even though she’s scared. In Venita’s interview, she says, it’s good see this olive branch extended, since she didn’t think she’d ever see it. She’s going to take the chance. Leva asks, what if Craig is there with Paige? but Naomie says, she’ll be fine. In her interview, she says, it’s no big deal that they got together. Leva still says, there’s still something there, and Naomie says, Craig was the biggest love she’s had. It doesn’t go away that fast. She asks Leva not to do the weird mom thing, getting all excited if she and Craig talk.

Kathryn is all sparkles as she and Chleb enter the venue for her Great Katsby party. In her interview, Kathryn says she wants to start a new decade with a blank slate. She wants everyone to have a new beginning. Outside, Paige tells Craig that she just wants everyone to be nice. Craig introduces her around, and Kathryn tells Shep that she’s 30, like this is news to him. He says, nine years. He was 33 when they met, and now he’s 42. In Shep’s interview, he says, you tend to picture people at a certain age. To him Kathryn is that 21 year old. Naomie comes in, and says, Kathryn looks like one big diamond. She moves on quickly, and in Kathryn’s interview, she says, Naomie should have asked to talk to her. In Naomie’s interview, she says, it’s pretty clear she’s getting a f*** you look. Kathryn tells Shep about Craig hooking up with Naomie in Vegas. She says, Naomie was calling him afterward, saying she still loved him, and he told her it wasn’t a thing. Shep says, apparently, what happened in Vegas isn’t staying in Vegas. Leva asks Kathryn if everything is good with Naomie. Naomie felt that Kathryn was cold when Kathryn greeted her.

Ugh. Madison comes in. I was watching some of the previous season earlier today, and she is just one horrible person. Craig tells Austen that she’s here, and Naomie says she has the heebie-jeebies. She tells Austen to breathe, but he says he doesn’t care. In Olivia’s interview, she says, there are obviously some unprocessed things. They shouldn’t be going on a first date and be talking about home girl. Chleb tells Venita to be nice to Kathryn; she’s growing. Venita says she’s keeping in mind that not everything grows at the same speed, and some things take longer. In Chleb’s interview, he says, it’s Kathryn’s birthday, and she should feel like the princess she is. He wants them to make her feel comfortable. Shep grabs a bottle of (I think) champagne, and suggests he and Austen go outside to chew the fat. Craig is waiting, and produces three shots. Craig says, he didn’t expect to see some people here. Kathryn doesn’t like Naomie, but she came, and he didn’t expect to see Madison. Shep tells Craig, what about Vegas? and Craig says, Naomie texted him, and said he was right about everything. Austen asks if they hooked up, and Craig admits they did. In Austen’s interview, he says, they’re supposed to be best friends, and this just shows where their relationship has gone. He told everyone that he would know, but clearly he wouldn’t. He’s stunned. Craig says, Austen can’t keep a secret, and Shep says, Craig is mean to Austen behind his back. Craig tells Shep, shut up, and Shep says he hasn’t seen Craig lately either. Craig says it’s not healthy for him to hang out with Shep; he’s not the most positive person. Shep can’t set foot in Craig’s store without getting angry. Shep says he’s only been there once, for the opening, and Craig says, and Taylor had to drag him. In Shep’s interview, he says, what man hangs out at a retail store, and sells pillows. Hmm… I think he just made Craig’s point. Craig says, he’s not doing this; he’s going inside. Shep says, no, he’s going in, and they all go inside.  

Kathryn takes pictures with Chleb outside, and he asks how she feels. She says, she greeted Naomie and Venita, but after that, there’s been no eye contact. Chleb says he talked to Venita, and it seemed like she wanted to talk. Kathryn says, Chleb isn’t loyal. He’s been by her side, knowing Venita doesn’t want to talk to her. It’s not his conversation to have, and since when is he a peacemaker? He suggests they change the subject, and tells her that she looks beautiful. She says, she’s ready to go home. She stomps inside for her purse, and realizes she has the same bag as Leva, who’s sitting with Naomie. Kathryn tells Naomie, her greeting wasn’t meant to be awkward. Maybe she’s just an awkward person, but she felt hurt when Naomie said she should be ashamed of herself. Naomie says, Kathryn tried to ruin a good person’s family, and Kathryn says, Naomie isn’t better than she is, and acts like she’s better than everyone. She’s fake. Leva, who stepped away for a hot second, says she missed what happened. How did they go from zero to this? Naomie says, Kathryn fights dirty, and Kathryn asks, how? Naomie says, just because Kathryn yell and is being the loudest, she’s not scared of her. Kathryn tells Naomie to stop being condescending because she has passionate feelings. She was going through a hard time in her life. She calls Naomie a petty little bitch, and Leva points out that Kathryn invited her. Kathryn says, Naomie isn’t taking accountability, and Naomie jets, Kathryn says, she’s so fake, and announces she’s ready to go. She tells Chleb to stop talking to Venita, and storms out, but it’s unclear whether she wants Chleb to come with her. Craig says, this is crazy, like that’s something new, and calls to her. She tells him that she’s over this. Paige says, she thought they were polite in the south. In NYC, they say, f*** you, and walk away. Here, you linger.

This season, a wedding; Madison gets engaged; Paige and Craig get more serious; Patricia gets sh*tfaced; Chleb says, Kathryn is the problem; Leva feels like she’s suffocating; Kathryn tells Naomie, STFU; and Shep screams at Austen.  

🧾 Wow. I wouldn’t know where to start with all the wrong among this group. Although it all seems to boil down to not one of them being able to communicate properly. And Naomie, taking it to Instagram? You should be ashamed.

🍹 Charming News…

The new cast.

https://www.bravotv.com/southern-charm/about

Craig’s difficulties, aka first world problems.

Sadly, about Michael. I hope he still makes an appearance or two.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/southern-charm-patricia-altschul-on-new-details-about-michael-kelcourse-health

Cameran talks about going and coming.

Not as sad as Michael, but I was bummed to find out Metul was not all he was cracked up to be. He introduced me to butter chicken. When Naomie tried to make some, she said, something is missing, and he said, yeah, and Indian person who knows how to make this. Warning: it’s very addictive.

https://people.com/tv/southern-charm-naomie-olindo-no-contact-rule-with-ex-metul-shah-exclusive/

🛥 How To Choose…

I’ll bet it was a tough call. Some of them were on the Jax level.

https://screenrant.com/below-deck-franchise-worst-crew-members/

🏆 Coming Right Up…

The BET Awards will be aired on June 26th.

https://www.bet.com/tag/3qkxrw/bet-awards-2022

https://www.whattowatch.com/watching-guides/bet-awards-awards-date-and-time-host-nominees-and-everything-we-know

🐶 Sound the Trumpet…

Like the dog cares. They all deserve a g’boy.

https://people.com/pets/trumpet-the-bloodhound-wins-best-in-show-at-2022-westminster-dog-show/

🏖 Taking It To the Beach…

Stop by tomorrow for… who knows anymore? Until then, stay safe, stay keeping your promises or not making them, and stay not hanging out with anyone who’s not supportive of your success. According to Craig, it’s stupid.

February 18, 2022 – Lots Of Arrivals In Switzerland, Star Scare, Vet Return, Terry’s Date, Pick Up, Last One, Again, Wife Check, Full-Blown, Engaged, New Deck, Meme This, Half Presidential Quotes & Good

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Visiting at Spring Ridge, Laura hugs Spencer, and says he doesn’t look too much worse for the wear. He asks her to please not say prison is agreeing with him, and she says, no, never, but it doesn’t seem to be hurting him too much either. He says, there’s a heatwave going on and no AC in his cell. Maybe as mayor, she could pull some strings. She says, it’s a state level issue, but she’ll do what she can. How is he doing? He says, as much as he’d like to spin some awful tale of woe, other than being bored and restless, he’s doing fine. His Uncle Victor is looking out for him. She says, that’s what she’s afraid of.

At the MetroCourt, Ava asks if it’s hot in here or it’s her, and Nikolas says, it’s definitely her. She tells him, focus. They have a lot to do before their vow renewal. Even a small ceremony needs planning. He says, the vows aren’t going to write themselves, but she says she’s not writing any. He asks if she’s going to wing it, and she says she’s just going to be spontaneous. She’s going to say what’s in her heart at the moment. Why? Is he planning a big speech about love, obsession, and eternity? He tells her, he wouldn’t say that, and she says she can’t wait. Even at his most Cassadine-esque, it won’t be too much over-the-top. He says he wants it to be poetic, and she says, like, there once was a girl named Jerome, who made Spoon Island her home. He laughs, and says, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach. I love thee with breath and smiles, tears and with all my life, and if… Victor walks up, and says, and if God chooses, I shall love thee better after death.

Austin tells Obrecht, what Spinelli says, is the bug they planted on Victor didn’t malfunction. She says she knew it, and he asks if she thinks Victor just found the bug and destroyed it. She says, at least it worked long enough for them to overhear his plans for Drew Cain, and he says, but they’re still no closer to finding out where Peter took Maxie. Sam says, maybe they’re not, but Drew is, and he brought back-up.

WSB Field Office – Swiss/Austrian Border. Agent Malone lets Anna, Dante, and Drew into the office, and says, their resources are at Anna’s disposal. Malone wants to assure them that apprehending Peter August, aka Henrik Faison, is their highest priority. Anna thanks her and Agent Kreger, and reminds her that Drew and Dante have full clearance. Malone says, it’s good to see Dante is recovering from his ordeal in Ankara, and he says, she knows about that too, huh? She says, of course (), and tells Drew, and knowledge he has from his captivity with Peter would be of great use to them. Drew says, anything he can do to help, of course (🍷). Anna says, Malone interviewed the woman who found Maxie’s SOS on the mirror in the bathroom? and Malone says, yes. She was able to identify the photo of the hostage. Surveillance video captured an image of the car with two passengers, and they also have a license plate. Anna says, that’s great, and thanks her. She tells Dante and Drew, with any luck, they’re one step closer to finding Maxie.

On a plane, Felicia flashes back to Anna explaining why she doesn’t want Felicia coming along. She looks at car rentals on her tablet.

Maxie and Peter walk into a house, and Maxie says she gets why he felt safe here when he was a boy. This house is like one big architectural hug. He says, aptly put. He does love it here, out in the middle of nowhere, and since no one cared about him or his childhood, no one will ever associate him with this place, which makes it the perfect refuge. No one will ever find them here.

Spencer gives Laura some coffee, and she tells him that she gave Trina his gift. He asks if she liked it, and Laura says, she loved it. He has very good taste in friends. Trina is a lovely young lady. He agrees, and says, Trina is awesome, but if Laura can trust his judgement about his friends, can she trust his judgement about Uncle Victor? She says, Trina’s a very good person. His Uncle Victor, on the other hand… He says, she has a low opinion of him? and she says, his Uncle Victor is responsible for countless abductions and deaths, and let them not forget that he, and his brothers, and his father had a plan to take over the world by using that giant diamond, the Ice Princess, to mess with the weather patterns to freeze the world. He says, all he knows is, if it hadn’t been for Uncle Victor, he would be in Pentenville. She says, if he can find the good in Victor, why can’t he find the good in his own father?

Victor says, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, the way she could turn passion into poetry is unparalleled. Ava says he surprises her. She thought he’d be more of a Sophocles fan. Victor says, he is – he brings a chair over to the table – but Sophocles couldn’t write a love story to save his life. Whereas he’s an incurable romantic. One of his hobbies is collecting romantic poetry; first editions, original letters. Actually, did they know – he sits down – that even today, if you were to acquire a genuine firsthand epistle, you could find a lock of the owners’ hair within? Ava says, the better to clone them with, and he says, sharp as a briar this one. Nikolas married well, but Ava’s assumptions of him are a little outdated. The most valuable lesson he learned as head of the WSB, was authoritarianism leads to admin. Not as much fun. Nikolas says, what a relief, and Victor says, even though he no longer wishes to control the world, he’s determined to save it. Preferably, one life at a time. Nikolas says, starting with his former co-conspirator, Peter August? and Victor says, Peter betrayed him in Greece. Why on earth would Victor want to help him? Nikolas says, so he could escape the law, and Ava says, good riddance. Everybody wants him dead, gone forever will suffice. Nikolas says, too bad he had to take Maxie with him, but Victor wouldn’t know anything about that, would he?

At the hospital, Sam tells Austin, Dante and Drew are with Anna in Zurich. They have a lead on Peter. Austin says, if they find Peter, they find Maxie, and Sam says, hopefully. Obrecht says, don’t assume it will be that easy. Despite Anna’s effort to apprehend him, Peter has slipped through her grasp at every turn. Not to mention the possibility that Drew might still be under Peter’s influence. Nein. If there’s any hope of catching and killing Peter, she needs to go to Zurich herself. Coming down the stairs, Britt says, no, she doesn’t. Obrecht says, as if Britt could stop her, and Britt says, by going after a homicidal fugitive, Obrecht is endangering herself and others. Involuntary commitment to the psyche ward for 72 hours. Boom. Obrecht says, Britt would abuse her power that way? and Britt says, to protect her from Peter and herself? Yes, she would. Obrecht says she’s impressed by Britt’s willingness to pretzel the rules, and touched by her concern, and yet, she’s still going. Britt says, try it, and she’ll harpoon Obrecht with a spear gun – again.

Malone says, the suspect was last tracked going into the Zurich mountains. Unfortunately, there are so many winding roads there, it’s difficult to search. Drew wonders if he could have headed back to the Audubon and to the border, but Anna says, the guard there would catch them. Dante says, they could ditch the car and find another one, or probably hike, and Malone says, unfortunately, it’s very possible for them to cross the border to France on foot since Switzerland is such a small country. Drew says, in other words, they’re running out of bread crumbs.

Peter says, Maxie will find it’s quiet here. It’s peaceful, and this place is equipped with everything they’d ever want. They can live here together peacefully and comfortably, without ever having to see anyone, except the caretaker. She asks if he really believes it’s possible to disappear, and he says, this property’s private; it’s isolated. None of their friends, family, or colleagues have any idea about it. And if he’s wrong, he has an escape plan all set.

Victor says he washed his hands of Peter back in Crete, but let’s not waste time on him. Not when they’re planning a family celebration. Ava says, actually, she and Nikolas decided to keep their vow renewal a very private affair. They won’t need anybody but the two of them. Victor hopes they change their mind, especially as he’s already picked out the perfect gift. Nikolas says, thanks, but no thanks, and Ava says she’s not one to turn down a Fabergé egg. Nikolas says, even if it’s stolen? and she says, depends where from. Victor says, actually, he was thinking of something a lot more valuable, and Nikolas says, such as? Victor says, a reunion between Nikolas and his son.

Spencer tells Laura, when he thinks about how close he and Nikolas were when he was a kid… What happened to that guy? She says she knows he feels like his father abandoned him, and he says, he pretended he was dead. It didn’t only feel like his father abandoned him, he did abandon him. She says, okay, but Spencer’s punished him for that, many times. Both he and Ava. He says he hates Ava. He knows she probably finds that a strong word, but it’s not. And as angry as he is at Ava for breaking her promise to him, and letting Valentin off the hook, his father did far worse. She says, his father never did anything as bad as Victor; never. He says, his dad was the reason Britt was a fugitive for years. He married Hayden, then turned against her. One by one, his dad has systematically removed the people Spencer cares about from his life, and who does he keep? Ava. And sure, Uncle Victor may be far from perfect… She asks if he heard the part about world domination, and Spencer says, at least he puts his family first. She says, a lot of evil has been done in the name of the family, and he says, he feels safe in here, knowing Victor Cassadine has his back. She looks at Samuel, and says she should go. Spencer says he understands; she has a city to run. She says, just remember, his father told him that he’s not alone, and Spencer said when he came out, he’d be willing to… He tells her, he said maybe, and she says, that’s a start. She tells him she loves him, and leaves.

Obrecht tells Britt, this is no time to stand on the sidelines; Maxie’s life is at stake. Sam says, even if Obrecht was able to gain access to a private jet, Zurich is at least eight and a half hours away. Who knows where Peter and Maxie will be by then? Austin says, Sam is in touch with Dante, right? but she says, it’s not like he keeps her posted on his every move. Austin asks, isn’t somebody keeping tabs on Victor? and Obrecht says he’s just grasping at straws, but Britt says, if Victor’s involved, Obrecht needs to tell them what she knows. Austin says, it seemed like a good idea at the time, and Britt asks what he did. He says, planted a bug on Victor Cassadine.

Anna says, Maxie left one earring with Louise when she and Peter dropped her at the firehouse, and the other one she left where she wrote her plea for help on the mirror in the restroom. So obviously, she’s actively trying to leave a trail for them, but unfortunately, point A and point B are two different continents and an ocean apart. Dante says, it really is amazing Peter didn’t find that message in the restroom, and Drew says, Maxie’s trail has led them as far as it can. They have to start thinking like Peter. Anna says, he’s right. For Peter, the mountains are any number of choices where he can hide.

Maxie says, so this place is difficult to find, but easy to leave? and Peter tells her, let’s just say he always finds his way out, and if they ever need it, it’s a short trip to the Audubon and over the borders. She asks, which border? Please say Italy or France. He says, this place was once a sanctuary to him; now it’s their refuge. In time, he hopes she’ll begin to see it as their home. He can see it now; her and him, and their little… She says, what? Why is he looking at her like that? He asks, what happened to her earrings? I say, maybe he is a keeper. What guy notices whether you’re wearing earrings or not?

Nikolas says, if Victor really wants to heal the rift between him and his son, he’ll respect their boundaries, and leave them to heal on their own. Victor says he’s been doing that for some time, and hasn’t noticed a lot of progress. Ever since that poor boy got back to Port Charles, he’s been bounced from place to place. Nikolas says, Spencer’s made his own choices, and Victor says, yes, he has, there’s no denying that. But one choice he didn’t make is his current surroundings in prison. Ava says, he did though. It’s called consequences. Victor asks if she really wants to cast herself as the wicked stepmother, locking the mischievous little prince up in the tower, and she says she gave that little prince every opportunity to make amends, and he has been unrepentant. Victor says, so this is how she intends to retaliate; denying him a place in their renewal celebration, a place in their lives? That’s what she wants for her stepson, to keep him looking in on his own family from afar? Come on. If Nikolas won’t listen to him, maybe he’ll listen to her. Laura approaches the table, and says, her son doesn’t need Victor’s help. Neither does Spencer. Nikolas asks how she can be so sure, and she says she’s just come from Spring Ridge. Victor gets up and asks her to sit, but she says she’s fine. Nikolas asks how Spencer is doing, and she says, better than anyone could have imagined because someone is looking out for him on the inside. Nikolas asks why he’s not surprised, and Ava says, an inmate, a guard, what? Laura says, at least one guard, and asks if Victor has anything to add. He says, if he’s taken steps to insure his great-nephew’s safety, then he can’t see any harm in that. He’s going to leave them to their lunch. Perhaps the ladies can talk some reason into Nikolas where he can’t, for Spencer’s sake. He leaves, and Laura says, yuk. She thought he’d never leave. She sits down, and Ava tells them, she hates to be the one to say it, but she thinks Uncle Victor has a point.

Austin tells Britt, on paper, the plan made a lot of sense. He threatened Victor, and her mom swooped in to his rescue, and planted a bug on his lapel. Britt asks if it worked, and Obrecht says, it did. They were able to overhear an entire conversation he had with a Yohan, certainly a henchman of some sort. Sam asks what they said, and Austin tells her,  Victor wants to find Peter as much as they do. Britt asks if he gave them a clue or lead, or something that could tell them where Peter’s taken Maxie, but he says, no; the bug was destroyed. Sam says, great. Victor knows they’re onto him. Britt asks if it occurred to either of them, that instead of Victor leading them to Peter and Maxie, they may have just tipped him off? Obrecht says, of course (🍷), and Britt says, of course (🍷) what? Obrecht says, isn’t it obvious?

Dante asks, what if Peter is just hiding in plain sight, playing tourist? and Malone says, there are plenty of places the suspect and hostage could hole up. Drew says, how about places where people still expect privacy? Where no one will notice if they stay in. Malone says, they have plenty of tourist towns with attractions, and Dante says, offbeat attractions? She says, there are plenty; museums and nature trails. There’s even an old salt mine that’s now a museum and boutique. Anna says, salt mine? Maybe Peter is telling them where he’s going in his own words.

Felicia looks at Zurich on her tablet, and says, think. What was that place called? She remembers talking to Peter, and saying, she hopes Maxie can forgive her for not making the wedding. He says, they both understand that her great-aunt is very ill, and if she didn’t mean the world to Felicia, she wouldn’t be traveling all the way to…  She says, it’s so small, it’s not even a town; it’s just a census designated place. He says, it sounds charming, and she says, it is. Maxie should bring him to visit sometime. It’ll give him a sense of scale. He’s such a city boy. He says, not always. In fact, his favorite place on earth is in the Swiss Alps, miles away from anywhere. On the plane, Felicia says, the Swiss Alps… where?

Maxie asks if Peter is really worried about her earrings, and he says, she’s never without them, yet here she is. She says she noticed on the plane that she’d lost one, probably in the mad rush out of Port Charles, when they had to leave their daughter. Since it was random costume jewelry, she threw out the other one. He says, it doesn’t matter. It’s only diamonds and rubies for her from here on out. She says she really doesn’t care about jewelry. She just wants her children to be safe. He says he misses their daughter too. They just have to give it some time; let the trail go cold. So all those agencies and his enemies find themselves discouraged. Then, one day when it’s safe, they can bring Louise to them. In the meantime, should the worst happen and they’re discovered, he’s prepared. He takes a gun out of the back of his waistband.

Nikolas says, Ava has to realize, his uncle’s offer to broker peace between him and Spencer is intended to achieve the exact opposite. Ava says, but if he succeeds where they’ve failed… Laura says, he will have ingratiated himself to the whole family, and indoctrinated Spencer to his cause. Nikolas says, Victor’s cause is going to be far worse than Spencer’s ever done to them, and Laura says, absolutely. Victor is devious in a very deadly way, and far more dangerous than Spencer could ever be. Ava says, the fact that they’re discussing him means they’re onto him. They’ll see him coming a mile way. If they play along, he might reveal his agenda. Nikolas says, it’s still a risk. It would be a mistake to underestimate his uncle. Laura says, she doesn’t think they’re doing that though. There is an alternative, one that could reunite Nikolas with his son, and undercut Victor at the same time. Nikolas says, what’s that? and Laura says, swallow his pride. Go visit his son at Spring Ridge.

Victor hugs Spencer, and says, he seems well, all things considered. Spencer says, whoever calls this place a country club has never actually been to one. Victor assumes Samuel is keeping an eye on Spencer, and Spencer says he’s well-protected. He knows he has Victor to thank for that, and he’s grateful. Victor says, even though Spencer’s grandmother considers him a bad influence? and Spencer says, is he? Victor says, to be completely honest, he’s given her little reason to think otherwise. If his concern for Spencer’s well-being is making it harder for him here… Spencer says, it’s not. Other than his grandmother, Victor is the one person he can count on. Victor says he finds that a little hard to believe. What about the lovely Esme? Spencer says, he thinks him being stuck here is a strain on Esme’s devotion, but Victor says he’s sure it’s just a lover’s spat. The ups and downs of life, as they say. She blew up a car for him. If that isn’t devotion, he doesn’t know what is. As for Spencer’s grandmother, the last thing Victor wants to do is get between him and his family. Spencer says, Victor is his family. They may want him to forget that, but he won’t.

Britt says, whatever Obrecht thinks is obvious, does it have something to do with where Peter’s taken Maxie? Obrecht says, that’s the obvious part; she knows where to find Maxie. Austin asks if she’s going to share, but she says she can’t waste her time explaining. She needs to contact Anna.

Anna says, Peter wrote this novel. It’s called The Severed Branch. Malone says, there’s a copy with the other materials, and gets it. Anna says, basically the whole book is an allegory for his childhood. She seems to remember he refers to working in the salt mines. Drew says, that’s a common expression, and she says, she knows, but in the book, the character refers to the salt mines with affection. Drew asks if she’s saying that’s where he took Maxie, and she says she doesn’t know. Her phone rings, and she says, it’s Liesl. She asks Obrecht, what’s going on? and Obrecht says, salt mine. Find the salt mines, and you’ll find Peter and Maxie. Anna says, that’s what they were just figuring out. Malone says, there are three salt mines in the country. Two up here – she points to the laptop screen – and the one she mentioned. Anna says, that’s a pretty large area, and asks if Obrecht can narrow it down. Obrecht asks if Peter ever mentioned the farm, and Anna says, what farm? Obrecht says, where he became the man he is today.  

Felicia says, what was the name? Peter said it; it was V something. She remembers Peter saying it was a quaint picturesque farm, tucked away from the world. The closest place is a tiny, remote village, miles away from anywhere. If it were any tinier, it would be a census designated place. She asks what it’s called, and he says, versteckte Wiese. It’s German. It means hidden meadow. On the plane, she looks up hidden meadow in the German translator.  

Maxie asks if Peter can put the gun away; he doesn’t need it right now. He says, of course (🍷), but he’s sure she doesn’t mind if he keeps it handy, and tucks it back into his waistband. She says, whatever he thinks is necessary, and he says he appreciates her faith in him. She says she can’t tell if he’s being sarcastic… not that she could blame him. There’s something she’s been struggling with for a while. She’s spent so much time being angry with him, and the whole time, he just said he  loved her, and he’s been doing everything for her and Louise. She didn’t believe him, and she was wrong. He was willing to leave Louise behind at that firehouse, the child he’s been longing to hold and care for. That’s not selfish; that’s the opposite. That’s when she realized love is what’s driving him. She takes his hands, and says, his love is the kind of love they can build their lives around. It’s not going to be easy, but one day Louise, Georgie, and James will be with them, and she just has to live in hope for that day, no matter what.

Nikolas says he’s not sure Spencer is going to be open to a visit from him, and Ava says, he’s Spencer’s father. He has to try. As angry as she has been with Spencer, she urges Nikolas to repair his relationship with him. He knows what she would give for another chance with Kiki. He says she’s right; he’ll reach out. Ava tells him, go, hurry. She thinks they all know where Victor was going when he left here, and Laura says, straight back to Spring Ridge to make sure she didn’t turn Spencer against him. Nikolas says, and if Victor has already put his plan in motion to reunite him and Spencer? Laura says, if Victor’s scheming and plotting ends up bringing them together, she’s all for it. Isn’t he? He says he’ll give it a shot, and she hugs him, saying, he won’t regret this. She’s proud of him. He leaves, and Ava says, giving Uncle Victor a pass, are we? Laura says, for now, and Ava wonders what she’s up to.

On the phone, Victor says, thanks for the update, and Spencer asks if everything is all right. Victor says, everything is splendid, except for one thing; he has to run. Spencer says he appreciates the time. Victor is a busy man. Victor says, nonsense. Spencer is family, Spencer says, likewise, and Victor thanks him. That’s why he wants Spencer to know he’s doing everything he can to change. At least change people’s perspective of him. Despite what people think, all he wants is what’s best for his family. Spencer says, he just wishes his grandmother would give Victor a chance, and Victor says, leave Laura to him, and keep his eyes on the prize; his freedom and his future. Spencer says, he’ll try, and Victor says, when Spencer leaves, he wants Spencer to walk out with his held high. Big things are in the wind. They’re going to need to stick together as a family, that includes Spencer and his father. Spencer says, his father… and Victor says, is a Cassadine. The future belongs to them, and Spencer. He’s the heir to all that and more.

Obrecht tells Anna, there was a youth camp where Peter used to spend his school holidays as a child. Find that farm and she’ll find Peter, and do what she has to do to bring Maxie home. Anna thanks her, and tells the others, this book could be a roadmap. Drew says, if it’s an allegory, how clear are the directions? Anna says, she doesn’t know, but there was a farm, and if she remembers it was close to the oldest salt mine. In the book, Peter refers to it as a place with all kinds of animals… and children.

Peter says, Maxie is right. They’ll make this place a real home for their whole family. She says, somehow she doesn’t see Mac and Felicia understanding, but if there’s anything he’s proven to her, it’s that there’s nothing he can’t make happen. He says he tries. This place is really well-equipped, but they should still make a list of personal items and requests, things they might want, for Gustav the caretaker to get for them in the village. She asks if this village has a name, and he says, versteckte Wiese. She tries to pronounce it, and he says, close enough. It’s so small, it only appears on local maps. It might be considered census designated place. She says she can’t wait to see it… when he trusts her enough. He says he knows she’ll love it. If she wants to familiarize herself with the area, there are some paper maps in the cabinet. The GPS signal is pretty spotty up here. She says she doesn’t want to get a signal. She just wants to get used to her new surroundings. She tells him, it’s cold in here, and he says he could turn the heat up. Or how about if he builds them a fire? She says she’d like that, and as soon as he turns around, she looks in the cabinet.

Spencer asks Samuel if there’s nothing anyone can do about the AC, but Samuel says, this is a government facility. Even Spencer’s uncle can only swing so much. Spencer says, anything’s possible, right? Who knows? Maybe one day he and his family will learn to get along. Nikolas walks in.

Laura tells Ava, Victor is bending over backwards to try and impress and win over Spencer. And that can only mean one thing; he’s going to use him. Ava asks if Laura has any idea what he’s planning, and Laura says, no, but she will find out.

Victor waits in an alleyway, and says, good God. It feels like Santorini in the middle of an eruption. (Is it February or August in Port Charles?) Osiris himself would be at home. He takes off his jacket, and sits on a crate, when Yohan arrives. Victor says he’s impressed. He didn’t think Yohan would be amenable to this kind of climate. Yohan says he can handle the heat, and Victor says, the question is, can Peter August? Yohan says, their man reports that Anna Devane has arrived overseas with Detective Falconari, and Drew Cain. Victor says, then their man needs to solve this problem right now. He wants Peter August dead. Is that understood? Yohan says, completely, and Victor says, good, and tell their man, Anna and Dante are expendable. If they get in the way, he shouldn’t hesitate to eliminate them, but Drew Cain is much too valuable to him to lose.

Britt says she believes Austin has rounds, and suggests he get back to them. He says, helping find Maxie isn’t interfering with his patient care, and she says, it might interfering with finding Maxie. Let the professionals do their job; they’ll keep him posted. He starts to leave, and Sam tells him that he doesn’t have to worry. Dante, Drew, and Anna will bring Maxie home. He says he hopes she’s right, and leaves. Obrecht says she shares Sam’s faith, but must remind her that, at one point or another, that schwein Henrik has outmaneuvered them all, herself included. Britt says, which is not easy to do, and Obrecht says, if Peter really is the severed branch from Cesar’s poisoned tree, believe me, he will not go down without a fight.

Malone says, if the book is any indication at all, the farm should be located somewhere here in the mountains. She points to the screen again. Agent Kreger’s phone rings, and it’s Yohan, who says, their mutual friend would like to know if he’s located the gentleman. Kreger goes out in the hall, and says, let’s just say he knows where to find him. Yohan tells him, just do what you have to do, and Kreger asks if there’s any additional instructions. Yohan says, Devane and Falconari are expendable; Drew Cain must not be harmed. Kreger says, that complicates things, and Yohan says Kreger is paid to handle complications. Get it done. Anna says, Peter is so arrogant, he won’t be able to resist proving he’s one step ahead of them, and he’s left them a clue, one that he thinks only he knows. It will link him to the farm, and that’s what they have to find.

The flight attendant says they’re about to land, and Felicia smiles. We see a map showing versteckte Wiese on her tablet.

Peter comes in as Maxie is looking at a map. He asks if she’s planning a hike, and she says she was thinking they might take a walk, and talk some more. He says, what a lovely idea, but he’s afraid it will have to wait until tomorrow. It’s getting dark soon. That’s when the wolves come out.

On Monday, Trina says she’s been keeping something from Josslyn; Spencer asks Nikolas to join him; Maxie says, all Peter will get is the truth from now on; and Dante says, they’re back to square one, and that can’t happen.

🩺 Yikes…

Glad to hear one of our National Treasures will be okay.

🏥 Coming Back…

Weird how he has the same name as a head writer. How common could it be? It’s not like Joe Smith or something.

💘 Terry’s Valentine…

I’m hoping it works out with Chet.

💎 Recovery Time…

I needed to get myself together after just watching it.

🧂 Not So ShahMazing…

It’s not a good sign to be the last one standing. Unless you’re playing Squid Game.

🐹 Hamster Wheel…

Out of one suit and into another. And I don’t mean the kind they sell at Brook’s Brothers.

📠 Progressive Vetting…

Oh please. Like it’s that hard to look up stuff about people.

🍸 No Way To Live…

I’m surprised being on the show didn’t give her an eating disorder.

https://people.com/health/vanderpump-rules-ariana-madix-had-a-full-blown-eating-disorder-when-she-joined-the-show/

🛥 I Really, Really Liked Him…

He’s one of my favorite Below Deck yachties of all time. I’m glad he’s met his match.

https://extratv.com/2022/02/09/below-deck-star-josiah-carter-engaged-to-longtime-bf/

🦘 Deck Down Under…

The latest in the franchise. There will still be no one like Captain Lee. Ever.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1319902/heres-your-first-look-at-the-below-deck-down-under-trailer-and-the-sexy-new-captain

🏈 Bowling For Memes…

Best memes of the Super Bowl.

https://www.stadiumtalk.com/s/super-bowl-memes-cfc7e6b3e6064775

💡 Quotes of the Week

I’m not concerned with facts. Not if they interfere with my beliefs. – Agnes Van Rhijn (Christine Baranski), The Gilded Age

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

Sodies are bad. – Amy Slaton, 1000-Lb. Sisters

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

Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. – Confucius

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

Any man worth his salt will stick up for what he believes right, but it takes a slightly better man to acknowledge instantly and without reservation that he is in error. – Andrew Jackson

It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit. – Harry S. Truman

99% of failures come from people who make excuses. – George Washington

Whenever you do a thing, act as if all the world were watching. – Thomas Jefferson (And today, they might be.)

By leadership we mean the art of getting someone else to do something that you want done because he wants to do it, not because your position of power can compel him to do it. – Dwight D. Eisenhower

🧱 Another Brick In the Wall…

The Walking Dead is back with the next part of its final season, so join me in what will no doubt be the wee hours of Monday. Or that day when you used to report to work after the weekend, for those no longer punching the clock. Until then, stay safe, stay keeping it real, and stay wary of great-uncles bearing protection.

February 7, 2022 – Peter Goes On the Run With Louise, Reunion On Deck, Middle School House & Chocolate

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny asks what Nina is doing at the Haunted Star, and she says she was at Charlie’s with Obrecht, and Obrecht overheard someone saying he’s in a bad way. She didn’t want him to be alone on the boat if he wasn’t taking his medication. He says, he is taking his medication. He’s been taking it ever since she took him to General Hospital. This is something completely different. She says, she’s so relieved. She’s not relieved he’s in a bad way, she’s just… He says he knows what she means. He says, Charlie’s, huh? Is that where Obrecht overheard Kristina? Nina says, she was on the phone with someone. She asks if he wants to talk about it, and he says he was making a play to save his marriage. She says, she got the impression he was alone. She’s so sorry; she’ll leave, so she doesn’t cause anymore trouble. He says she doesn’t have anything to worry about. His marriage is over.

Carly runs into the hospital, and tells the reception nurse, Dante Falconari was brought in tonight. Can she tell Carly how he’s doing? The nurse asks if she’s family.

Still in the ER, Dante says, Sam doesn’t have to hold his hand to keep him calm, but she says she’s holding his hand to keep herself calm. She’ll feel better when the tests come back, and they know everything is okay. He says he’s fine. She can’t get rid of him that easy. She says she’s going to hold him to that, when the doctor comes in.

Maxie asks Felicia if there’s any word, and Felicia says, Mac is still in surgery; that’s all they’ll tell her. What about the kids? Maxie says, they’re good; they’re fast asleep. Spinelli will stay with them for as long as they need. Felicia wonders why it’s taking so long, and Maxie says, Mac is strong. He’ll pull through this. He has an amazing team of doctors, and he’s survived far worse than a gunshot wound. Felicia says, he was younger then, but she’s right; he’s strong and he’s resilient. They sit down, and Maxie says, he’s going to come back to them because he has to. Felicia puts her arm around Maxie.

Anna asks Robert if there’s any word on Mac, but he says, no; Felicia checked. Anna was with Mac when they found him. How’d he look? Leave nothing out. She says, it was bad. He lost a lot of blood. They managed to stabilize him, so they could transport him. She wouldn’t count him out though; not just yet. She asks if Robert wants coffee, but he says, please, stay.

On the docks, Victor tells Yohan, he’s late, and he’s alone. That wasn’t the plan. Yohan says, the plan hit a snag, and Victor says, that much is obvious. Where’s Peter August?

On the phone, Chase says, it’s Bailey Quartermaine. She’s eight months old… Yes, he has a recent photo, and he’ll send it now. He wants every available man and woman out there looking for her. Brook comes out, and says, she’s nowhere to be found. The monitor was turned off. He says, someone broke into his car and took it. Dammit! Peter got his daughter. He’s got Bailey.

Peter leans back in his seat, and tells Bailey/Louise, sorry for the delay. Sometimes daddy just needs a little downtime to think things through. They’re probably looking for both of them, but don’t worry. He won’t let them get her. This baby cracks me up. She’s one of those kids who, like the first Wiley, seems like she knows what’s going on.

Dante asks the doctor, what’s going on with him? and she says, his CT scan shows no evidence of a concussion or traumatic brain injury. He should be ready to go home tomorrow. He says, what about tonight? and she says she’d like to keep him for observation. Someone will be in shortly. She leaves, and he tells Sam, just like his mom always said; he has a hard head. Sam laughs, and Carly flies in. She says, they’re smiling, so Dante is fine? He says, they want to hold him for precautionary reasons, but he’s good to go. She says, she’s glad. Sonny is going to be relieved. Where is he?

Nina says, what does Sonny mean his marriage is over? Did something else happen? He says, Carly’s been distancing herself from him; shutting herself off. He wanted to show her how much she means to him, and let her know he’s 100% in this marriage. That’s why he wanted her to show up here tonight. No expectations. He wasn’t insisting she forgive him, and forget everything that happened. He just wanted her to come here so she could let him know if she wanted the marriage to move forward. He’s been looking at his phone for hours and hours; no sign of Carly. So he guesses Carly gave him the answer. He throws his phone, startling Nina, and says, they’re done. She says she’s so sorry, and he says, there’s a lot of people who don’t believe she is, but he does. She says she is; she’s so sorry. All she ever wanted was for him to be safe and happy. He says he’s been on this boat, and he’s been thinking a lot about why Carly didn’t show up. She told him that part of her anger was because Sonny was always defending Nina. Maybe he was.

Laura says, they’ve lost a lot of good people lately; Luke, Sean, now his brother. She says, they haven’t lost Mac, and even if they worst happens, they’ll get through it together, like they always do. He says, it’s just getting harder and harder, and she says she knows, but let’s not go down that path just yet. They have every reason to believe Mac is going to pull through, so please don’t lose faith. He says, every time he turns around, it seems the bad guys win. His faith is getting hammered on the ropes. She suggests he borrow hers, so he can come out swinging, and he puts his forehead against hers.

Felicia asks how Maxie is doing, and Maxie says, she just wants to focus on Mac coming out of surgery. She’s so happy Felicia is here with her. Anna and Robert join them, and Anna asks how they’re holding up. Felicia says she just checked on Mac. He’s not out of surgery yet, and it seems like it’s taking forever. She had a chance to see him before they wheeled him off to surgery, and she pleaded with him to come back to her, but he was just so still. She starts to cry, and Anna says, if there’s one thing she knows about Mac, it’s how much he loves his family. He’s going to do everything in his power to come back to her.

Chase finishes his calls, and tells Brook, they have a bulletin out on Peter and they’re working on a missing child alert. She asks how he knows it’s Peter who took Bailey, and he says, look at how all this went down. Peter escapes, tonight. He’s on the run. Chase’s car gets broken into, and Bailey gets abducted. That means someone is worried about her safety. It’s someone who’s improvising. It’s an unplanned abduction by someone who’s willing to risk everything for that child. She says, like a father on the run, and he says, all signs point to Peter. He’ll call Dante, and she needs to call Maxie.

Dante tells Carly that Sonny isn’t there; he hasn’t called Sonny yet. How did she find out? She says she was with Drew when Anna called him with the news that he’d been injured in Peter’s escape. What the hell is it going to take to stop that monster? After everything he’s done, even prison was too good for him. Dante says he wishes he wasn’t in there; he could be out helping hunt Peter down. Sam says he needs to rest. The WSB and the PCPD have it covered. Carly says she needs to let Sonny know what’s going on. She’s really glad Dante is okay. She tells Sam, take care of him, and Sam says, of course (🍷). Carly leaves, and Dante says, they were so close. His phone rings, and he asks Chase, what’s up? Chase says, Bailey’s been kidnapped, and they think Peter did it. Dante says, they think Peter kidnapped Bailey? How can he be sure? Chase says they don’t have conclusive proof, but his gut says 100%, so he called it in. He knows Dante is swamped, but with Peter on the loose, they could really use him here. Dante says he’ll be there as soon as he can. Sit tight. Sam says, Bailey’s been kidnapped? and Dante says, he thinks it was Peter. Sam asks why Peter would want Chase’s baby, but Dante says he doesn’t know. He’s got to get home. He starts to get up, but she says, he’s not.

Carly leaves a voicemail for Sonny, saying, she’s at the hospital. Peter August escaped while being transferred to Pentenville, and Dante and Mac were injured. Don’t worry. Dante’s okay; she just left him. But she came straight to General Hospital because she thought he’d be here. Mac is in surgery, and she’s going to do what she can to find out about Peter, but they’re going to have to do Martinique another night. If they’re lucky, they can get the guy who killed Jason. They can do it together.

Nina says, Sonny was put in an impossible situation just trying to do what’s right, and he agrees. He says, it was difficult when he came home. His wife was married to his best friend, but he was trying to keep the peace because he knew that’s what was best for his family. All he wanted to do was get back to the way it was before he went into that river. His life was so good. Nina says she just kept complicating it, but he says, no. When he was focusing on getting his life back to normal, what he didn’t see is he had an instinct to make sure Nina wasn’t hurt. Even though he was genuinely trying to do what was right for his family, he acted on that instinct. Despite everything she did, there was a part of him that cared about her, but because of that, he’s now lost the person that he loved the most. She promises she never intended for any of this to happen. She’s so sorry that she keeps hurting him over and over again. If she could, she’d make everything all right. She’d tell the world from the beginning that he was Sonny Corinthos. He says, even if it meant their time together never happened?

Carly sees Maxie, and hugs her. She says she heard what happened, and she’s so sorry about Mac. Where’s Maxie’s mom? Maxie says, she’s in the chapel with Anna. Robert’s here too, but he’s taking a walk. Carly says, she knows Maxie is exhausted, and they sit. She asks if Maxie has heard anything, but Maxie says, no. They’re just waiting and hoping. Carly says she knows how that goes. Dante’s here. He’s in the ER, but he’s okay. Maxie says, that’s a relief, and thanks Carly for letting her know. Austin comes out, and Maxie asks if he’s heard anything. He says, no, but that’s a hopeful sign. If it were bad news, they would have heard. Maxie says, that’s kind of a backwards system. They should give regular updates if it’s good news. He says he’ll bring it up at the next staff meeting, and says, hello, to Carly. She says, hello, back, and tells Maxie that she’s going to go. Call if she needs anything. Maxie says, okay, and Carly leaves. Maxie says she didn’t have a chance to thank Austin for helping Mac when he was brought in. She’s glad he’s there. He says, him too, and asks how she’s holding up. She says, she keeps thanking God that Louise is safe with Brook and Chase. She’s been constantly living in fear that Peter will evade law enforcement again, and here they are. That’s why she has to keep lying until Peter is caught again, or hopefully, dead. He says he still flinches a little when he hears her talk like that, but he’s beginning to understand. She says she can’t help thinking, if Mac doesn’t make it through surgery, the last thing she’ll have done is lie to him. She doesn’t know if she can live with that.

Yohan tells Victor that Peter shot Kendall. Peter hit Yohan in the shoulder, and he had to swerve off the road. He played dead while Peter dragged him and Kendall out of the car. Peter left them on the side of the road, and took off. Victor says, he really must have been in a hurry if he didn’t stop to check Yohan’s pulse, and Yohan says, he was desperate to get to the kid. Victor says, Peter probably figured he’d have no more use for him once he told Victor what he needed to know about Drew. Right now, he’s probably congratulating himself on how smart he is for getting away. Well, he couldn’t be more wrong.

Sam says, there are other detectives on the force, and Dante says, but Chase is his partner. He and Brook must be going out of their minds. He takes his blood pressure cuff off, and she tells him, stop it. She almost lost him tonight. Dante says he’ll do his best to make sure she’s never put through that again, but Peter’s hurt too many people. He’s caused too much damage, and Dante can’t let him hurt someone else. Not when there’s something he can do about it. She says, all right. She’ll get the nurse. He says, she’s something else, and she tells him, remember that. She leaves, and he calls Olivia. He says, two things. Peter’s transport didn’t go that well; he’s at GH… Calm down. He’s fine. The other thing, Brook’s not.

Brook tells Chase, she keeps hoping she’ll hear Bailey crying, she’ll go upstairs, and this will all have been bad dream. He says he takes it she hasn’t called Maxie yet, and she says she can’t. Mac’s been shot; she’s probably a mess. He says, she has to know, and Brook asks how is she supposed to tell her that her worst fear has come true? How is she supposed to tell Maxie that she left Bailey’s monitor inside when she went out on the patio, and Peter just waltzed in here and took Bailey? She starts to cry, and asks how she’s supposed to tell Maxie that Bailey is gone, and it’s all her fault. She begins hyperventilating, and he tells her to put her hands on his chest. Take deep breaths, and match her breaths with his. She does, and when she calms down, he says, this wasn’t her fault. She’s been protecting Bailey for months, and she’s going to keep doing that, and the best way to do that is call Maxie. Then they’re all going to figure out a way to bring Bailey home together. All right? He hands her the phone, and says, she can do this.

Maxie answers the phone, and says she was just about to call Brook… She knows about Peter. Mac’s been shot, and he’s in surgery. Brook says, Maxie? and Maxie says, what is it? Brook says, Bailey’s gone, and Maxie asks what she means. Brook says, Dante called Chase to tell him about Mac, and he mentioned Peter’s escape. By the time they went upstairs, they were too late; she was already gone. Maxie says, it was Peter; he took her. Brook says she doesn’t want to believe that, but Maxie says, he did. She can feel it. Brook wonders how Peter figured it out, but Maxie says, it doesn’t matter. They kept the secret for as long as they could, but Peter is smart and he’s connected. All that matters is he has her daughter, and she’s in danger. The doorbell rings, and Brook says, that’s the PCPD. Chase called them, and they’re doing everything they can to find her. She promises they will not let that son of a bitch get away with their girl. Maxie says, she’ll be there as soon as she can, and Austin asks how he can help. Maxie says, he took Louise. He has her. Austin hugs her.

Peter says, he knows Louise has probably heard awful things about him from her mom, or he should say, her mom’s friend. Regardless, he wants Louise to know she’s a liar. They’re all liars. He’s not a monster. He just wants to be the father she deserves. Unlike the poor excuse he had. She’s so beautiful. He spent so long looking for her, and now that he’s found her, he wants to give her the world.

Dante tells Anna that he’s checking out against medical advice. This is too important. Chase and Brook’s baby was kidnapped. She says, what? and he says, they think it was Peter. She wonders why Peter is doing this, but Dante says he doesn’t know. That’s what he has to find out. The nurse gives Dante some paperwork, and says he’s good to go, but take it slow. She leaves, and he says, not a chance. He signs the papers, and Anna says, the WSB is conducting a massive manhunt for Peter right now. Since they’re looking for the same person, she suggests they join forces so they can find him faster. He says, sounds good. There’s no way in hell Peter is getting away this time. They leave the ER, and Carly asks what Dante is doing. She thought he was staying overnight. He says, an emergency’s come up, and she asks if they’ve found Peter, but he says, no. Anna says, he’s taken Bailey. Carly says, oh my God, and Anna says, this whole thing is a nightmare, but she’ll find Peter and bring that baby home. Carly asks if she can swear to that, because Jason warned over and over again about Peter, and she didn’t listen. Anna says, she wants Peter captured. She needs this to be over. Carly says, she hopes so, because Peter needs to be stopped once and for all. Anna says she hears Carly, now hear her. When she finds Peter, she will stop him, once and for all for good.

Nina tells Sonny that she stopped in Nixon Falls on a whim, because she remembered Phyllis lived there and at that time in her life, she needed someone who was going to be on her side. Someone who would support her; someone who understood her. Nixon Falls ended up healing her. She found a peace and happiness she hadn’t known, and he was a large part of that. She never expected to fall in love with him. Strange as it sounds, she developed real feelings for him. He says, Mike never expected to fall in love with her either, and she says, to answer his question, would she give it all up if she had a do-over, the answer is yes. If she could spare him the pain he’s feeling right now, she would let all of that go in a heartbeat. He says he knows she means that, but they can’t change the past; they live with the consequences. She touches his face, then leans in to kiss him. He kisses back.

Maxie says she needs to go to Brook’s, and Austin says, no one’s going to be mad about that. She says, what if her mom needs her? and he says, he’ll stay here. He thinks she needs to talk to her family; tell them what’s going on with her and her daughter. He thinks they’ll understand. She says, what if it’s too much? but he says, she told him, and he understood. It’s up to her. Whatever she wants to do. He’ll be right back.

Felicia walks around the corner with Robert, and says, she never wants to see another cup of tea. She sees Maxie, and asks, what’s wrong? Is it Mac? Maxis says, no. Bailey Quartermaine’s been kidnapped, and they’re sure it’s Peter who took her. Felicia says, that’s horrible, and Robert says, he just got a text from Anna about that. She’s headed over to Brook and Chase’s house right now. Maxie says she’s going there too, and Felicia says, while Mac’s in surgery? Austin says he has an update. Mac has come through the most critical part of the surgery with flying colors. It’s still a long road, and there are no guarantees, but everyone is optimistic. Felicia thanks him, and Maxie says, that makes this easier. Felicia asks why she’s leaving. She’s sure Brook will understand that her mother needs her here. Maxie says she knows Felicia needs her, but her daughter needs her more. The baby Peter took isn’t Brook’s; she’s Maxie’s. She’s always been Maxie’s. Maxie was hiding her. Bailey is really Louise. She knows they probably have a lot of questions… Felicia says, which can wait. Go to her daughter, Felicia’s grandbaby. Just be safe. They hug, and Maxie says, until she’s back… Austin says, he’ll take care of it, and Maxie says, Austin can tell them what’s going on. She leaves, and Austin tells Felicia and Robert, have a seat. This is a helluva story.

Ned walks in, and hugs Brook. He says, Dante just called them. Olivia sends her love support; she didn’t want to get in the way. Brook says, sorry to interrupt their night. First granny, now her. Ned says, nothing is more important than her and his granddaughter. Liv feels the same way. He knew it was a mistake for her to move out here. This wouldn’t have happened if she’d listened to him and stayed put. She says, that’s not fair, and Chase says, they’re all scared, and emotions are raw, but Ned can’t blame Brook for any of this. Ned says, he doesn’t blame Brook; he blames Chase. Chase is the reason his granddaughter is missing. Brook says, dad… and Ned says, Chase is the one who insisted they move into this beach house with no security. Chase says, they did have security; he’s a cop. Ned says, a cop, who just got suspended for exercising poor judgement. Brook tells him, stop it. She made the choice for the two of them to move in here because it was the best choice for Bailey. And there is no one she trusts more to keep her safe than Chase. He’s been wonderful. So if Ned wants to blame someone, blame her. She can promise Ned one thing. Nothing he says can make them feel worse than they already do. They just have to focus on finding Bailey. Ned says, yes. She’s absolutely right and he’s sorry. He’s trying to get a handle on his temper when he’s upset or worried, and right now, he’s terrified. So he apologizes. Brook hugs him.

Sam says, Carly hasn’t heard from Sonny? and Carly says she guesses he’s still waiting at the Haunted Star. Sam says, the Haunted Star? and Carly says, long story. Sam says, something to do with their separation? and Carly says, Sonny planned this big, romantic gesture at the Haunted Star. He wanted her to show up as a signal that she’s willing to try and work on their marriage. Sam says, Dante’s gone; there’s nothing keeping Carly there. Carly says she was talking with Drew. She was there when he found out about Dante. She was really torn about showing up tonight, because it felt less like an invitation, and more like an ultimatum. Drew helped her see that maybe it’s not a line in the sand. Maybe it’s something Sonny really needs. Drew called it a cry for help, and that really resonated with her. She thought maybe she could do this for Sonny; show him that she’s willing to try. Sam says she admires that, but she gets Carly’s hesitation. Carly and Sonny have some real issues. Carly doesn’t have to forgive Sonny just because he wants her to. Carly says, she knows. Her faith and trust in Sonny are shaken right now, and she knows everything’s not going to be repaired just because she shows up; that’s going to take some time. Tonight would be about affirming her desire to try. She can meet Sonny halfway on that. Sam tells her to make sure he’s meeting her the other halfway, and Carly says, absolutely. She really does think she and Sonny could have a fresh start after all.

Nina tells Sonny that she shouldn’t have done that. She’s so sorry. He says, don’t, and kisses her again.

Anna asks why Brook believes Peter took Bailey, and Brook says, who knows what rationale that guy has for anything? The important thing is to find them as soon ask possible. She asks where the cops went, and Dante says, they’re searching outside the premises. Anna says, Peter has to have an endgame. There has to be a reason Peter thinks he can use Brook’s baby as leverage. Does he want something from her, or the Quartermaines? Dante says, first things first. Does Peter still think Valentin is Bailey’s father? If that’s the case, they need to send a protective detail over to him and Charlotte. Chase tells him, don’t waste the manpower. This isn’t revenge. Dante asks why Chase would say that; does he know something? Chase tells Brook, they can’t keep this up anymore, and Anna asks, what is going on? Ned tells her, if they know something, they need to tell the police, when Maxie comes in. Brook says, it’s not her secret to tell, and Maxie says, she’s right. It’s mine.

Austin says, he knows it’s a lot to take in, and Felicia says, she’s just so happy that her granddaughter has been safe and nearby all this time. She even knows what Louise looks like. She hates that Louise is with Peter, but it’s just a small window of time. They have a better chance of finding her; the trail hasn’t gone cold. She tells Robert that he spent months searching and chasing after fake Chloe, and she doesn’t even exist. What does he think? He says, he thinks her daughter is absolutely brilliant, and hugs her.

Peter tells Louise, he assumes they’ll have to ditch this car. It won’t be too long before someone recognizes him driving it. He wants her to know, he’s usually not this disorganized, but he doesn’t want any loose ends this time. It’s a small price to pay to finally hold her in his arms. Unfortunately, this means daddy has to make another deal with the devil one last time to get them out of here. Let that be a lesson. Her daddy will do anything for her.

On the phone, Victor tells someone to get everyone in position and await his call. He’ll send the coordinates momentarily. He tells Yohan, as long as he stays in Yohan’s car, they can track him. He installed a GPS for that very reason. He can’t wait to see Peter’s smug little face fall flat when they catch up to him. Victor’s phone rings, and he says, this is from Bruce’s burner phone. Hello, Peter. Peter says, hello, friend. Victor thought he’d heard the last of him? Peter is so sorry to disappoint him.

Sonny and Nina kiss there way to the stateroom. They go inside, and start ripping their clothes off, falling onto the bed.  

Brook tells Maxie, she didn’t say anything, she swears. She was just so worried about Bailey. Chase says, there’s no point in keeping this a secret anymore, and Ned asks, what the hell is going on? and Maxie says, they’re right; it’s time. It’s the only way they’re going to find Louise. Anna says, she means Bailey, but Maxie says, no. Bailey is Louise. Bailey’s her daughter. Everyone gives each other soap looks.

Felicia thanks Austin for telling them all this, and being a good friend to Maxie. He says, it’s his pleasure. He wishes there was more he could do, and she says, she’s sick knowing Peter has Louise. She hopes they don’t vanish before they get a chance to find her. Robert says, he’s alerted the team. It’s much easier to track a guy traveling with a baby than a guy traveling alone. They’re going to get this bastard, and when they do, they’re going to put him away. Unless of course (🍷) Robert accidently shoots him. Felicia says, Anna is on this, and Mac needs them. Austin says, if there’s anything he can do, let him know, and Felicia asks him to stay a minute. She stands in the middle of Austen and Robert, holding their hands.  

Peter asks if Victor isn’t happy to hear his voice; he should be. He’s ready to tell Victor everything he knows about Drew, but first, he just needs one more small addendum to their deal. Victor asks how many times Peter thinks he’s going to let Peter play him, and Peter says, it had always been his intention to hold up his end of the bargain. He just couldn’t let Victor detain him when he needed to get to his daughter. Now that he has her, he just needs one small favor from Victor, then he’ll give Victor the information, and Victor will never have to hear from him again. Wouldn’t that be nice? Victor tells him, save it. Peter is of no further use to him. He tells Yohan to let the men know there’s a baby in the car, and tells Peter, goodbye. Peter says, one more thing. If Victor is planning on tracking him with the GPS he installed, Peter threw it into a ditch. Victor asks what Peter wants this time, and Peter says, safe passage out of Port Charles for him and his daughter, so they can begin their new lives where no one can find them.

Carly sees the rose on the yacht steps, and goes inside. She calls to Sonny, and sees the white rose petal path to the stateroom. She smiles, and gets all verklempt. Nina and Sonny are getting very busy, while Carly continues feeling the romance. Carly opens the door to the stateroom, and surprise!

Tomorrow, Ned says, there’s going to be real hell to pay; Victor says, Peter dies; and Carly asks how they can fix their marriage when there’s three people in it.

Below Deck – Reunion

The whole cast, minus Jake – no excuse given; just, he couldn’t make it – attended, including Kaylee, but she was an in and out item.

Andy asked if Fraser knew how much talked to himself, and Fraser said it had been an eye opening year. He hadn’t known half the things he did. Andy asked Rayna about eyerolling, and she said she got grounded for it when she was growing up, but she was trying. Andy told us, the crew wasted no time in turning My Sienna into the Love Boat, and we were treated to flashbacks of moments of love on the high seas. Andy asked how Rayna reconciled getting busy with Jake, since he was engaged, but she said it was just for the pseudo fiancé’s green card. Speaking of which, Eddie’s girlfriend, who is half Brazilian and half Japanese – got her citizenship.

Andy said, Heather ran the interior with an iron fist (really?), but it didn’t stop the stews from talking about each other. Kaylee joined the group, and Andy asked Captain Lee if he thought the criticism about the interior in the beginning was a reflection of their capabilities. The captain said he thought they were all qualified, but had been getting used to working together. A viewer wondered why Jessica took the job when she was obviously miserable, to which Rayna said, Karen, mind your own f***ing business, apparently forgetting this was a reality show, and that comes with the territory. Jessica said, most of them hadn’t known what they were getting into. She’d worked on a private yacht where she was the sole stewardess. She had anxiety with the cameras being around 24/7. Heather said she thought the first few days were difficult, but then production disappeared into the background. Jessica said she thought Heather had been setting her up for failure, but Fraser said, no way. Heather begged to differ, saying, Jessica must have seen the show, and knew it wasn’t a solo stew gig. She’d said she was depressed being in the laundry, and had volunteered for service. They were also tired of picking up after her. Heather’s conversations with Fraser were to reassure him that she was doing something about it. Fraser asked, what good it would have done them to set Jessica up for failure? To him, it was absurd. Jessica said they’d talked behind her back, and she knew conversations were taking place, but Heather only talked to her when the cameras were around. Heather said the cameras were around 24/7, and Jessica kept saying she was fine. All they did was come at her with love. Jessica said, there was no love. She wanted to finish the season, but she’d lost 15 pounds, and wasn’t letting what had been done to her emotionally and mentally play out on camera. Heather said she dealt with repercussions of anxiety afterward in a different way, but had learned in looking back. She apologized to Jessica, and said she wished her nothing but the best. Jessica said she was sorry she couldn’t finish it out, and now works in sales and catering for a beach resort in Florida. A viewer asked what Kaylee felt in joining so late in the game, and she said, watching Fraser was a shock, but he had apologized to her. Another viewer asked why it was a big deal to Fraser that Kaylee was coming? Didn’t he want help? Fraser said he did, but he felt like he wasn’t in the loop. Andy said, on Watch What Happens Live, Fraser had said Heather could be cold and blunt, and Jessica said, sometimes personalities just clash. Kaylee said, on a yacht, you had to get stuff done, and Heather admitted her delivery wasn’t light, but that’s why she didn’t teach kindergarten. She couldn’t be a cheerleader 24/7. At this point, Andy said, here’s your hat, what’s your hurry? to Kaylee, and she left.

Rayna reveled that she was two months sober, and said she was super happy. Eddie asked if something specific caused her to get sober; he’d never seen it as an issue. Rayna said she had a lot of personal drama, and issues that she needed to deal with, and she’d been having depressed episodes. Rachel had a huge influence on her as well. When they were in a hotel after the season ended, Rachel said, Rayna needed to face her demons, fight her battles, and stop running. It was time.

We flashed back to primary Chelsea and her wired jaw, and Rachel cooking lobster for the person who said, no cooked fish. Andy asked Captain Lee if Rachel had redeemed herself, and the captain said, they’d had speedbumps, but Rachel had been truly remarkable this year. He was amazed at her command of her craft. Rachel said she didn’t consider shellfish fish, and she didn’t serve raw lobster. Andy asked what the weirdest thing was that she’d pureed for Chelsea. She said, it was the oysters, and everyone looked sick, including me. Andy asked if they agreed with the captain that Rachel was the best yacht chef he’s worked with, and everyone was on board (sorry, couldn’t help it). Heather said, it amazed her what Rachel could pull together in a short amount of time. On top of it, Rachel fed them incredible food. Andy asked if Rachel bought the bus she’d been talking about. She had, and we saw the pictures to prove it.  

We moved on to deckhand disfunction, and flashed back to several screw-ups. Andy asked Rayna her final impression of Eddie, and she said she loved Eddie, and had the utmost respect for him. Andy asked Captain Lee, who was to blame for the problems on deck? and the captain said, the responsibility ultimately rested on him. It was up to him to recognize the problems they were having. Andy asked if Jake had been a good lead deckhand, and Eddie said he’d gotten a little big for his britches at first. Captain Lee said, Jake didn’t wear britches that often. BA-DUM-CHH! Viewer Kathy M. asked why Rayna signed up for the job when it seemed like she didn’t like being corrected, and Rayna said, a lot of it was context, and Eddie had been disrespectful. Andy asked the captain if the crew had improved over the season, and would he bring back Eddie as first officer. The captain said the crew did improve, but there were such lapses at the most inopportune times. Eddie had been in a new role, and it was difficult transition; like going from a half full plate to one overflowing. Note that he didn’t answer the question about bringing Eddie back. We found out that Eddie was running tugboats in Baltimore.

Then it was time for the n-word issue. We flashed back to, it’s okay, it’s not okay, I’m over it, I’m adding people to it, not wanting to be the angry Black person, and being the passive/aggressive person. Andy asked, what kept Rayna from saying what she felt? and She said, although she accepted Heather’s apology, she didn’t think it was sincere, but she’d wanted to keep the peace. If she snapped, she would have been called ghetto, but if she shook it off, she was fake. A viewer said, at first, Eddie seemed dismissive, but then he took it seriously. Eddie said if Rayna said everything was okay, he respected that and took her at her word. Rayna said she hadn’t felt comfortable in a lot of instances. Rayna said Eddie claimed she said the f-word when she was drunk – f-word being a gay slur – like that excused Heather. Her sister was gay, and she was in the wedding party. Eddie pretended not to remember this exchange, and it seemed like the other crew members were tuning out, or maybe drinking heavily. I remembered another Eddie from many season ago. An Eddie who tried to gaslight stew Rocky, by saying that they’d never hooked up, when they had on several occasions. Then, when he finally admitted she was telling the truth, he said she’d initiated it, when clearly he’d texted her to start things off. I wondered if I was seeing this Eddie now, when some unseen footage was brought out. In it, Eddie was saying, Rayna used a homophobic f-word, but Rayna insisted she’d never used that word; it wasn’t in her vocabulary. Andy said, production wasn’t able to corroborate Rayna ever saying that, and since there was only one mention, they didn’t include the scene. Rayna said she didn’t think Heather was racist, and wished her well. She thought Heather was just being ignorant, and Heather agreed. Andy asked for Captain Lee’s opinion, and the captain said, Heather had apologized, and Rayna accepted. There had been a thorough investigation with several members of the production team, and they’d come to the conclusion that no action was required. It was a basis to move forward, and try to be better in the future.

Andy said Wes’s attempt to diffuse the Rayna/Heather situation went the wrong way, and we flashed back to Rayna insulting Wes, and saying he wasn’t Black. Andy asked if they’d discussed it, and Wes said he’d love to discuss it further in private. He got it all the time, being called half-Black or not Black. He suggested those watching let it be a teachable moment. No one should ever be called a derogatory term who was part of a disenfranchised group, not just African Americans.

Andy asked if Heather had final thoughts, and what had she learned? She said the n-word should never be used. At the end of the day, it was one of the biggest regrets of her life. Context was everything, but there was no excuse. Whether Rayna thought it was genuine or not, she was sorry. Rayna said, the whole experience was a lot. She didn’t hate Heather or wish her anything bad. She wished Heather nothing but the best. Andy asked Captain Lee, who in the crew had the best work ethic? Who got a gold star? The captain said he’d have to hand it to Wes. Wes was focused and did his job, and Captain Lee wished him continued success, since Wes is a captain. Wes said it meant a lot. Andy said Fraser was now a Chief Stew, and asked what his biggest lesson was. Fraser said he didn’t always see the big picture, and thanked Heather. Andy thanked everyone for a wild charter season, and we were out.

🏖 On the God awful Summer House, Carl remained the voice of reason, getting up early to go for walks, looking for a real relationship, and most of all not drinking. Ciara still wasn’t over Austen, but that was okay, since the housemates acquire the biggest bottle of rosé I’ve ever seen. I can’t keep track of who’s crushing on who, or even sleeping with who, but someone was eating chips alone in bed. There was a birthday party for Amanda, who was turning 30, and she wanted Kyle to make it a special day for her. She asked a lot, since I don’t think he can stay sober enough to get through a party, much less plan one. Off-the-grid Luke showed up, and a hula hoop game was played. There was some theory going around that if you were good at hula hooping, you were good at sex. By then, the housemates were well-inebriated, and played a drinking game that involved kissing. I’m pretty sure the last time I played drunk spin-the-bottle was in high school. No surprise, Amanda ended up in tears, and told the girls that the whole thing felt forced.

If anyone cares, next time, Lindsay says she needs to stop fighting the universe, Amanda wants a dog, and for Kyle to show her there’s a possibility he’s not an a-hole. Again, she wants a lot. And I’m not talking about the dog. Seriously, don’t watch this. These people are awful.

🚛 I’ve Got a Little Convoy…

Signing off, but join me tomorrow for a little soap, a little New Jersey. FYI, Real Housewives: Ultimate Girls Trip airs on Bravo tomorrow, as well as an all-day marathon of Below Deck’s season three. I love the early Decks. Until then, stay safe, stay being introspective on occasion, and stay making sure, if you’re going to meet someone halfway, they meet you the other halfway.

January 31, 2022 – Ned Thinks Sonny Should Reconsider, Final Charter On Deck & Changing

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Michael gives Willow a picture of the Eiffel Tower, and says, he and Wiley colored it in, but he’s the one who couldn’t stay in the lines. She loves it, and he says, there’s more. He knows she’s going to be busy wrapping up nursing school in the next few months. She says, here’s hoping she passes, but he says, he has no doubt. He thought they’d take a little trip over the long holiday weekend, and she asks, where to? He points to the picture, and she says, Paris. He asks if it’s something she wants to do, and she says, of course (🍷). She’s never been to Paris. She’s never been anywhere, but especially not Paris. He tells her to start pricing berets, and she hugs him. Coming up the walk, Carly sees them through the window, and smiles.

Sonny shakes a pill into his hand by the water fountain, and Leo asks if he’s sure he wants to do that. Sonny says, is he sure he wants to take his medication? but Leo asks if he’s sure he wants to drink from a public water fountain. Sonny asks, why not? and Ned calls to Leo, saying, Leo can’t walk ahead of him like that. Either this is a new Leo, or this kid grew over the weekend. Sonny says, Leo was just explaining to him that it’s dangerous to drink out of a water fountain. He needs to know why. Leo says, water fountains are sanitized less often than toilets, and Sonny laughs, saying, okay. Now I don’t want to drink out of a public water fountain.

Cameron tends the fire at the cabin, and tells Josslyn that he’s starving. He says he’s going to whip something up in the kitchen, and asks if she thinks Trina is hungry. Josslyn says she isn’t sure; she won’t answer. Cameron wonders if they should check on her, but Josslyn says she can hear Trina moving in the room. She probably just needs space. He tells her not worry about Trina or what she said, but Josslyn isn’t sure she can. What if they’ve been ignoring her feelings this whole time? Cameron says, the only thing stronger than Trina, is Josslyn’s friendship with her, and they kiss.

Esme asks Spencer if they should stop for coffee, but he says, it’s been a long day; he’s tired. She says, it’s still too early to go to his grandmother’s house, and he asks if she’d rather wake his grandmother and Doc up in the middle of the night. She says, she’d rather not answer any questions about why they came home from their weekend getaway the same day they left, and he says he’s sure. She asks, what’s that supposed to mean? and he says, it means he has a question. What the hell was she up to back there?

Elizabeth looks at some of Franco’s art in the art therapy room, and Finn comes to the door. He asks if he’s interrupting, but she says, of course (🍷) not; come in. He looks at a painting with her, and says, Franco may have been a man with a complicated history, but he sure had a lot of talent. She says, he sure did. She needs to make sure anything he has left is protected. He says, protected? and she says, someone torched Franco’s art studio. Someone is determined to destroy his legacy.

At Charlie’s, Stella tells Curtis that he has a decision to make. Does he want answers to things he might really not want to know, or does he want his father back in his life? Marshall comes in, and says, small world. Do they mind if he joins them? They don’t say anything, and he says, it seems like they’re into something, so he’ll just go deal with his business. Curtis asks, what business is that? and Marshall says, the manager Phyllis called him. He left his credit card there. He’ll just get it and be off. Curtis says, not so fast. (BTW, to confuse us, we’re back to the other Marshall again.) Curtis says he wasn’t interrupting. They were just talking about him. Marshall hopes they at least found a few good things to say, and Curtis asks if he has a minute. Stella says she’ll get the card from the bar, and asks if they want anything. Curtis says he’s good, but Marshall says, he’s developed quite a weakness for the wings here; he’d like one or two. She says she thinks they only come by the dozen, but if they’re all that, she’ll have some too. He says, tell Phyllis it’s on him, and he and Curtis sit down. Marshall asks, what’s on Curtis’s mind? and Curtis says, a lot, but they can start with why Marshall walked out of The Savoy when Curtis said he was considering asking Sonny for help.

Ned tells Sonny, Leo’s been playing a video game where he builds cities, so he’s gotten very interested in public works. He’s even advising Olivia on infrastructure improvements at the MetroCourt. Sonny says he’s sure she appreciates that, and Leo tells him, she said she’d put it in the budget. He asks if he can come over soon to play with Avery, and Ned says, Avery is more than welcome to come to their house too. Sonny tells Leo to come over any time he wants. He and Carly would love to have him over.

Willow lets Carly in, and Carly says, they look happy. Willow says her son is the most romantic, thoughtful man alive, and Carly says, that must have been some box of chocolates. Willow says, he’s whisking her away to Paris, and shows her the picture. Carly says, that’s some kind of getaway, and Willow says, she can’t wait. Oh my God. The trip is only a few weeks away, and she doesn’t have a passport. Michael says, they can get it expedited. She just needs her birth certificate, driver’s license, and a passport photo. Willow says, he thought of everything. If Carly will excuse her, she has a birth certificate to find. She runs off, and Carly says, she’s glad they’re getting away; they deserve it. He says he agrees, and asks if she’s okay. She says she ran into Nina, and he asks how that went. Carly says she hates her, and the part that kills her is that his father refuses to acknowledge the amount of pain she’s caused. How can Sonny say he loves her when he still has room in his heart for someone who caused so much pain to her?

Esme says, what is she up to? and Spencer says, it’s a fair question. She says, it’s not enough he accused her of orchestrating this weekend to blow up his friendships? and he says, which she denied. She says, does he believe her? and he says, he wants to, which is why he’s asking what she hoped to achieve with the questions she was asking during the drinking game. She asks, how was she supposed to know it would hit a nerve? She’s not the one who moved in on her best friend’s crush. He says, no, but she’s the one who threw it in Joss’s face, even though that’s not what happened. She says, wasn’t it? Trina seemed to think so before she threw her little tantrum. Spencer says, Trina didn’t throw a tantrum, and she asks what he would call it when someone storms off like that. He says, Trina was not herself, and Esme flashes back to putting the drugs in Trina’s hot toddy. She says, so it’s her fault Trina is a lightweight. Anything else he and his friends want to blame her for? Rising sea levels, world hunger, a hangnail?

Trina comes out of the bedroom, and Josslyn runs to her, asking if she’s okay. They hug, and Trina says, yeah. Josslyn says, they were so worried, and Trina says, she went out like a light. Even now, she’s super groggy. Cameron says, alcohol has a way of sneaking up on you, and Trina asks if people usually black out after one drink. Cameron says, maybe… if the drink is strong? but Trina says, it didn’t happen to anyone else. Maybe they’re just more experienced drinkers than she is. Cameron says, they’re not that experienced, and Josslyn says, they didn’t go to a boarding school in a country where you pour chardonnay on breakfast cereal. Cameron asks if Trina would like water or coffee to help with the hangover, and she says she’ll take some water. Trina tells Josslyn that she’s sorry she worried them, and for whatever happened. Josslyn says, she doesn’t remember? and Trina says, not much. Cameron brings the water, and says he’s going to take a shower. Trina asks Josslyn what she missed.

Phyllis asks what she can get Stella, and Stella points out Marshall and says, he left his credit card. Phyllis says, he sure did, and asks if she knows Stella; she looks familiar. Stella laughs, and says, she has one of those faces. They introduce themselves, and Phyllis says, so Stella knows Curtis. Stella says, he happens to be her nephew, and Phyllis says, then she must always have a VIP seat at the hottest club in town. Stella says, she’s got that right, and asks how Phyllis knows Curtis. Phyllis says, she and Curtis have a mutual friend in common, and once in a while, she likes to see who’s playing at The Savoy. Stella’s nephew has great taste in music. Stella says, it’s in his blood, and looks at Marshall.

Marshall asks Curtis not to tell him that he reached out to Sonny, especially not on his behalf, and Curtis says, what Marshall saw the other night isn’t typical Sonny. Marshall says, he doesn’t have a problem with Sonny in particular, but that lifestyle in general. As Curtis knows, he’s experienced getting mixed up with unsavory characters. He doesn’t want that for Curtis. Curtis says he understands, even if he doesn’t know all the details. He guesses they’ll get to those later. Marshall says he appreciates that, and Curtis suggests they put their past in the rearview for now, but wants to get one thing straight. If Marshall wants to have any kind of relationship with him, never threaten to disappear again.

Finn says, so Franco’s art studio burned. Does Elizabeth know what happened? She says, just that it was arson. They’ll keep investigating. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and barely no other property was damaged. He tells her that she looks exhausted, and she says, what every woman wants to hear. He says she’s beautiful when she’s tired; is that better? She says he’s right. She hasn’t been sleeping. He asks if there’s something else on her mind. She can talk to him. She says she can’t. It would ruin everything.

Spencer says he’s exhausted, and suggests he and Esme discuss this in the morning. She says, go to bed angry? No way. If anybody should be angry, it’s her with him. He asks what he did, and she says, how about the fact that he didn’t defend her, not once, not even when Josslyn called her a manipulative little bitch to her face? He says, after she drove Josslyn’s best friend out of the room in tears. Joss has a temper. He’d say she got off easy. She tells him, so he’s saying she’s a manipulative bitch, but he says he’s not. She says, he sure seems to be thinking it. She doesn’t want to sleep on this. She doesn’t want to go home with him at all.

Josslyn tells Trina, let’s just say, it was an eventful night, and Trina says, and she slept right through it. Where’s Spencer and Esme? Josslyn says, they left, and Trina asks, why? Josslyn says, she called Esme a manipulative little bitch, and Trina says, to her face? Josslyn says, which one, and Trina says, damn, Joss; well played. Josslyn says, honestly? It felt like too little too late. What’s the last thing Trina remembers? Trina says, they were playing Never Have I Ever, drinking hot toddies… Josslyn says, Esme asked Trina about when she and Cam were thinking about dating. Trina asks what she said, and Josslyn says, Trina told them that she missed the way things were before she and Cam got together, and felt like she had to pretend to be happy for them.

Carly tells Michael, it wasn’t anything specific that Nina said that upset her. It was the way she said it, like she and Sonny had this intimacy between them. Michael says, the last time he and Sonny spoke, he swore that he and Nina were done completely. She says, Sonny told her that many times, but emotionally, what they had between them is still alive and well. He says, as angry as he is at his dad for his part in this, he just wants his parents to be happy. She says, her too, but after everything that’s happened, happiness just seems further and further away.

Ned hands Sonny a bottle of water, saying, it’s the least he can do. Sonny takes his pill, and Ned suggests Leo sit and look at his book while he talks to Leo’s Uncle Sonny. Sonny tells Ned that Leo’s a smart kid, and Ned says, now that he and Olivia have learned how to tap into what interests Leo, he’s really blossomed. In fact, they’re here for a system technology program that GH offers to kids with ASD, Autism Spectrum Disorder. Leo loves it, and he’s learning a hell of a lot too. It’s become their special father/son time. Sonny says, seems like Ned and Olivia are trying to get it right, and Ned says, it’s a work in progress; it’s marriage. Sonny asks what Ned means, and Ned says he hopes he’s not overstepping, but Olivia filled him in on Sonny’s troubles. Based on what Sonny said to Leo earlier, are he and Carly back on track? Sonny says, they’re good, especially after what he’s got planned.

Michael tells Carly, he made it clear to Sonny that Nina should have paid for what she did, and Sonny shouldn’t have gotten in the way of that. Carly says, and Sonny told Michael that he just wanted to put the past behind him, or he just wanted to keep the peace. Just more vague excuses that translate to letting Nina off the hook. Michael says, pretty much, and she says, that’s why she can’t live with him right now. He says, he and Dante did convince Sonny that he needs to give Carly what she needs right now, which is time and space. She asks what Sonny said, and Michael says, he told them that he was willing to wait for her to work through this. She says, we’ll see. Patience isn’t a strong suit of Sonny’s, and Michael asks what he can do, but she says, nothing. She shouldn’t even be here dumping this on him. He says, of course (🍷) she should, but she says, she shouldn’t; he’s her son; their son. He says, that’s why he’s one of the people she should be confiding in, and he’s glad she is. He was talking to Drew, and Drew told him all he can really do is be there for his parents, and that’s what he’s doing. He’s glad he had the opportunity. She says, she just wishes Sonny would listen.

Sonny tells Ned, he’s planning something so romantic, it’s going to knock Carly’s socks off. She knows he loves her, but she needs to see it on a grand scale. Ned asks if Sonny is sure this is the right move, and Sonny says, Ned should understand. He did the same thing with Olivia, right? Ned says, he messed things up pretty bad, and lost Olivia’s trust. He scrambled to win her back. Sonny asks what he did, and Ned says, his first instinct was also to give her this grand gesture, and Sonny says, see? He’s on the right track. Ned says, but his daughter and Sonny’s son convinced him it wasn’t the right move. Like Sonny, he was convinced a great gesture would win Olivia back, but it would have been a disaster. So take it from him, whatever Sonny is planning, he should reconsider.

Phyllis tells Stella that her order is in, and Stella thanks her for accommodating a special request. Phyllis says, no problem with a half order. So Mr. Ashford is Curtis’s father. Stella says, he’s her late sister’s husband, and Phyllis says, it’s so nice to get family together. Stella says, sometimes. Family’s not always easy.

Marshall tells Curtis that he shouldn’t have put conditions on his presence. He wants nothing more than to build a relationship between them and their family. Curtis says Marshall can’t do that if he leaves again, but Marshall promises he’s not going anywhere. Curtis asks how Marshall’s new meds are working, and Marshall says, so far, so good. He lucked out with having three medical professionals around when he had his episode. He’s sorry if he scared Curtis. Curtis asks if Marshall is still looking to buy a house here, and Marshall says, he’s hoping to put down roots. That is, if Curtis doesn’t object. Curtis says, it’s totally up to Marshall. The way he hears it, it seems Marshall’s already made friends. Like Epiphany Johnson? Marshall laughs, and tells Curtis, all he can say is, the longer he stays, the more reasons he has to stick around.

Spencer asks if Esme is breaking up with him, and she says she doesn’t know; should she? His friends have had it in for her from the day she showed up. She put up with it for his sake, but he hasn’t stood up to them for her, not once. He says, that’s not true. He made it clear how important she is to him, and demanded they give her a chance. She says, then they disrespected him too, saying she’s the root of all evil. Does he know how much that hurts? He says he’s sorry, and she says, for what? He says, for not being the boyfriend she needs. Esme pouts, and says, as scared as he is about going to Spring Ridge, she’s even more afraid. When he goes away, she’ll have nobody. She’ll be all alone.

Trina tells Josslyn that she doesn’t remember any of that, but it makes sense. She had this feeling in the pit of her stomach like she did something terribly wrong. Josslyn says, Trina did nothing wrong; if she hadn’t been drinking, she wouldn’t have said it. Trina asks if Josslyn can forgive her, and Josslyn says she’s sorry, but she has to ask. Did the alcohol help Trina admit to something she was feeling? Trina says she doesn’t remember, and Josslyn asks if Trina thinks she moved in on Cam when Trina still feelings for him?

Willow tells Michael that she’s sorry to interrupt, but it’s the weirdest thing. She’s looked everywhere, but can’t find her birth certificate. She remembers using it when they got married. Michael says, it’s been a while, and things got moved around. There’s a box of documents in the attic; he can go check for her. She thanks him, and he goes upstairs. Carly says, so Paris? She’s happy for them; they deserve some fun. Willow tells her, that’s kind to say, considering, and Carly says she’s saying it because it’s true. Willow says she wants to apologize again for not telling Carly what she knew about Sonny and Nina, but Carly says she can stop. It wasn’t Willow’s place to tell her. That’s all on Sonny.

Sonny asks how Ned can assume his plan won’t work, if he doesn’t know what Sonny is planning? Ned says, their wives are both intelligent and strong willed, and allergic to BS. He learned that Olivia just needed to be heard, and he had to listen, and most important, be patient. Sonny says he’s glad it worked out for Ned and Olivia, but thinks their circumstances are completely different. He lost nine months of his life. Ned says he understands, and Sonny wants Carly back immediately. Sonny asks if Ned blames him, and Ned says, of course (🍷) not, but what does Carly want? Sonny says, she wants time and space, and Ned asks, then why isn’t Sonny giving her that?

Finn asks what Elizabeth is afraid of ruining, and she says, it’s just so awkward. Here they are trying to start out as a couple, and every time they take a tiny step forward, there’s a reminder of Franco. First, her wedding ring fell out of her locker, and now Franco’s artwork is being destroyed. Not to mention, Peter’s trial is around the corner. She wouldn’t blame him if he didn’t want to be saddled with the ghost of her husband. He says, he doesn’t mind. Whatever she needs, he’s here for her, and she says, really? He says, only for as long as it takes, and she says, in that case, she can’t let her past stop her from having a future. He asks what she’s saying, and she says, full steam ahead. He asks what exactly that entails, and she says, maybe another date, and this time they could be alone? and he says, alone? He likes it. Any reason why? She says, so there’s no chance of something collapsing over dinner, and he says she has him convinced. Does she need any help here? She says, no, she’s got it, and he says he knows she does. If she needs him, he’s just a phone call away. She thanks him for not giving up on her, and he says, not a chance, and leaves.

Trina says, she knew Cam had feelings for Josslyn, but didn’t want to tell her because he knew she was grieving Oscar. Then she and Cam got thrown together, and kidnapped together, and developed feelings for each other. It didn’t take them long to realize they weren’t really right for each other. She sees Cam as more like a brother. Josslyn asks if Trina resents her and Cameron being together, but Trina says, of course (🍷) not. Josslyn and Cameron are into each other, and she’d never stand in the way of that. She’s happy for them. She guesses she just has to get used to being the odd man out, and Josslyn says, whatever she can do, she will. Cameron walks in, and says, him too. They love each other. Trina says, and she loves them. This is all so embarrassing. She doesn’t even know how it got dredged up. Josslyn says, she does – Esme.

Spencer puts his hand on Esme’s knee, and says, she’s not alone; she has him. She says, does she? It sure doesn’t feel like it. He says he’s sorry. He’s so freaked out about going to prison, he neglected to consider how it’s impacting her. It’s not what she signed up for. She says she signed up for him; to be with him, and whatever comes with that. He says, she’s proven that time and again. She tried to help him get his dad back, and she stood by him when everyone questioned his inheritance. In return, he’s been weak sauce. She says she hopes he realizes there are plenty of guys who would be happy to have someone as loyal as her in their corner, and he says he knows he’s lucky. He takes her hand, and says, please, can she forgive him?

Stella tells Curtis that Phyllis is asking about what acts are coming to the club, and asks if he can catch her up. He says, absolutely; he was getting another drink anyway. He asks if he can get them anything, but they’re good, and he goes to the bar. Stella sits down, and asks, what’s this Marshall is telling her nephew about him being in Witness Protection?

Willow says, Sonny seemed pretty adamant that he was going to tell Carly when the time was right, but Carly says she thinks that was a lie Sonny was telling himself. Willow says, she doesn’t think Sonny would have told her? and Carly says, she thinks Sonny didn’t want to put himself in a position where he had to choose. Michael comes back, and Willow says, any luck? but he says, no; he can’t find it. She says she can get a replacement online, and Carly says she’ll let them get to their evening. She’ll be back later to see Wiley. Willow says, he’ll be waiting, and Michael walks Carly out. Outside, she says, she doesn’t want him walking her to her car; he’s not wearing a coat. He says, he just wanted to tell her, if the MetroCourt starts to feel too impersonal, she can stay with them. She says she appreciates that, but she did give herself one of the nicest suites they have. Besides, Willow and Wiley are his priorities now. He says, she’s his priority too, and they hug. She says loves him, and wants him to know, whatever happens with her and his dad, they’re both proud of the man he’s become.

Sonny says, he appreciates what Ned is trying to do, but what works for Ned and Olivia, doesn’t necessarily work for him and Carly. Ned says, fair enough; every marriage is different. He just knows, in trying to give someone what we think they want, it’s easy to miss what they actually need. Sonny says he hears Ned, but Carly loves decisive actions and bold moves; it’s what works for them. Ned hopes Sonny is right, and tells Leo, it’s time to start class. He thanks Sonny for being so cool with Leo earlier, and Sonny says, is Ned kidding? He survived pathogens. Leo might have saved his life.

Marshall tells Stella, he doesn’t think he came out and said Witness Protection, and she asks, what exactly did he tell Curtis? He says, that he was in hiding. It’s the truth; it’s just not entirely accurate. She says, that’s a distinction without a difference, and he knows it. Marshall was vague on purpose, so Curtis would draw his own conclusion. Marshall says, but it’s the truth he had to leave to protect his boys, and she says, but he left out some pertinent details. He asks what difference it makes what he said, or did, or what he didn’t do? He’s here now. Curtis not knowing the whole truth isn’t important. She’s not sure that’s the case, and he says, she knows the truth. What part of his story does Curtis need to know in order to embrace being his son? She knows he’d never have left his boys if he’d had a choice. He needs Curtis to understand that, so please don’t take this away from him.

Curtis tells Phyllis, he’s been so busy, he hasn’t had a chance to check in on Nina as much as he’d like to. How’s she doing? Phyllis says, now that her legal difficulties have been settled, she thinks Nina is better. She’s still finding her footing. He says he’s glad Nina has her, and she says she hopes she’s enough.

Esme says, does she forgive Spencer? She rolls her eyes, and says she’d have to think about it. He asks if there’s anything he can do to convince her. He’s not above begging. She says, getting on his knees might do the trick, and kisses him. She puts on her seatbelt, and snuggles next to him, putting her on head on his shoulder. She says, his friends don’t understand them. He doesn’t have to hide from her, and she doesn’t need to pretend with him.

Josslyn says, Esme knew what she was doing when she handed them those drinks, and asked those questions. Cameron says, it’s almost like she planned the whole thing, and Josslyn says, please. Cameron says, okay; she definitely planned it. He just wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt, for Spencer’s sake. Trina says she doesn’t know why setting Ava’s car on fire wasn’t a deal breaker, but she’s glad Cameron came to his senses. Josslyn says, it’s too bad that, during the game, no one asked, never have I ever played innocent when I’m clearly a psycho, and Trina says, Esme would have to drink her bodyweight in bourbon. Cameron says he’s headed to the kitchen, and asks if they need anything, but they say, no, and he leaves. Trina says, Josslyn might never forget what she said, but does Josslyn think she can forgive her? Josslyn says, only if Trina can forgive her for not being considerate of her feelings, and Trina says, then they’re good. Josslyn says, always, and Trina says, you’ve got to wonder. Does Josslyn think Esme is just a mean girl, or is there something more? Josslyn says, it’s definitely more.

Elizabeth guesses that’s that, and gets ready to leave, but the door suddenly slams shut. She tries it, and can’t get it to open. She says, hello? and then gets it open. She goes out into the hall, but she doesn’t see anything, and says, it must have been a draft. She goes back in, picks up the box of Franco’s artwork, turns out the lights, and closes the door.

Stella says, she shouldn’t have to explain this to Marshall, but apparently, she does. Keeping the truth from Curtis is like playing with fire, and she will not allow her nephew to be burned. He asks if she really thinks he’d do anything to hurt his boy, and she says, not on purpose. He says, then let him have this chance, when Curtis comes back. He says, the wings sounded so good, he asked Phyllis to bring them a dozen… If that works for Stella. She says, whatever makes him happy.

Spencer glances at Esme, asleep on his shoulder, and takes out his phone. He texts Trina, saying, worried about u. Text me.

Cameron gives Josslyn a coffee mug, and Trina sees the text came in, but ignores it. Cameron says, now Trina, but she says, no. She’s had more than enough to drink tonight. He says, it’s just cider; no alcohol, just sugar. She takes it, saying, that, she can do. He wants to propose a toast, and Josslyn asks if they’re drinking to never having to do anything Esme tells them again. Trina says, here, here, and Cameron says, he was aiming for something more positive. To best friends. Trina and Josslyn say, to best friends, and they all clink mugs.  

Carly tells Michael, stay warm, and he goes back inside. Her phone rings.

Michael asks if Willow is okay, and she says, she was trying to order a copy of her birth certificate off the state’s online portal. He says, no luck? Don’t worry. There’s still time to get an expedited passport. She says, it’s not the website that’s the issue; it’s her birth certificate. There’s no record it exists.

On the phone, Sonny says he knows Carly wants space, and respects that. She says, and yet he called. He says, he’ll give her all the space she needs if she’ll give him one hour on Friday. She asks, why? What’s happening on Friday? He says, one hour. It’s important to him. She says she can give him one hour, and he says, great. He’ll send a text, and give her all the information. He’s giving her space. She smiles, and says, goodnight. They hang up, and he says, it’s a start, and leaves the hospital.

Tomorrow, Ned says, it’s time to marry the woman of his dreams; Britt tells Austin that he might want to revisit his decision; Willow says, Paris here we come; and Sonny says, you can bet on it.

Below Deck

When we last left, Heather had called for the ice cream to be brought to the beach too early, and Rachel was pissed.

Heather suggests they keep it in the cooler, but Rachel says she doesn’t care anymore. Rayna tells Fraser, Heather is a f***ing bitch, and the guests ask for more lobster. Heather tells Rachel that she tried to communicate, and in Heather’s interview, she says, she can see the stress is getting to Rachel. She’s trying to step back, but she’s going to put on her fireproof suit, and hope she doesn’t go up in flames. On the boat, Wes chats up Kaylee, and in his interview, he says, she’s super attractive. He guesses he’s all about third stews, and misses Jessica. He tells Kaylee that when she’s done, she should come down and hang out. Eddie nails Wes to clean before the guests arrive, and Wes tells Kaylee, never mind. Rachel says, the ice cream is foamy, and Rayna says, but it tastes good. Heather tells the guests that the water is amazing, and some of them get in. Eddie picks up Rachel and Heather, and takes them back to the boat. One of the guests finds a sand dollar, and there’s major excitement. I just think, nice of you to wrest it from its home, thereby killing it. 😟  

Back on the boat, Rachel tells Eddie that she’s going to Miami after this. She’s bought a bus; a full sized Bluebird with a commercial kitchen. She’s going on a real road trip. In Rachel’s interview, she says, she bought a 40 foot bus, so she can hit everyone she doesn’t like. It’s no longer metaphoric; it’s literal. Eddie goes to pick up the guests, and one tells him that they loved Hamilton, and he says he heard Hamilton stopped by. When they get back to the boat, the guests have a shot, and primary Stephanie tells Heather that they’d like the captain to eat dinner with them. The stews blow up balloons, and Heather says, the dinner theme is Alexander Glamilton. Jake tells Fraser about letting Paris know he’s taking an 8 day holiday in Miami after the season. Fraser says he’s thinking of taking two weeks Miami, and asks if Jake wants to share a hotel. Heather asks Eddie for a quick moment with him and Jake on the bridge. Eddie tells Captain Lee that he’s sure she’s going to ask them to do something stupid. Heather tells them to approach the idea with an open mind. The guests have requested to see Alexander Hamilton be shot. He can use the same outfit and she’ll find one for Jake to be Aaron Burr. The captain says, the only thing that would give him pleasure in seeing Eddie get shot is if he does the shooting. She asks if he wants to be Burr, and it’s a quick, hard no. In Captain Lee’s interview, he says he thinks it’s cheesy, but if the guests want it, it’s what they get. Eddie says he’s down for this sh*t.

Rachel wants a silent galley for dinner, and in her interview, she says, it’s the last charter, and she’s going to be busy. Rayna goes to the galley to help, and Rachel repeats that she wants it silent. The captain puts on his white dress uniform, and everyone is seated. The guests are impressed with the captain, and primary Darin says, their kids are worried they’re bored. The first course is pronounced delicious, and Rachel thanks Kaylee for being understanding about the quiet. In Kaylee’s interview, she says she’s terrified. She doesn’t want to say or do anything, or even look at Rachel. She doesn’t want to get in Rachel’s way. Darin says the captain has good kids working on the boat, and the captain suggests sending some of the crew back with them. Except for Rachel. For Rachel, he could get two or three Eddies. Heather dares to tell Rachel that the guests are loving it, and in her interview, Rachel says, she made it clear no socializing in the galley. Just take the food up; that’s it. Rayna tells Heather that Rachel does not have the time, and Rachel does the cloche thing with some Kobi beef with pearl onions. Captain Lee jokes that it really sucks. In Rachel’s interview, she says she loves presentation; it’s everything. She’s made chocolate boxes, and she’s going to put sh*t on them, then burn them, and make them amazing. Jake and Eddie get into their costumes. Rachel tries to coat the chocolate boxes with white chocolate, but something goes wrong, and she says, the white chocolate is f***ed. That’s what happens when she’s distracted. She’s about to eat everyone’s face off. She throws it all in a sink, and says she doesn’t care anymore. She has to improvise.

Captain Lee tells the guests about cruising in the Bahamas, and how nurse sharks will come up to the boat. He says, they’re docile creatures, and the crew would jump in the water, freaking out the guests. We get the occasional curious nurse shark here that will come up close to the beach, and they never bother anyone. Rachel concocts a cherries jubilee, bringing it up along with tiny pitchers of (I think) chocolate sauce. Heather says, and for the grand finale, Eddie and Jake are here for them to witness the reenactment of a duel. It’s not a long duel, but Eddie’s death takes about the same amount of time. The captain says, that’s what happens when you feed the animals, and in Eddie’s interview, he says he’s still got it. Captain Lee tells the guests that he has captain stuff to do.

Since Rachel isn’t in the galley, Heather thanks Rayna, and says the guests loved it. Rayna ignores her, and in Rayna’s interview, she says, she and Heather will never see eye to eye. She’ll work with Heather, but they’ll never be friends. Bye, bitch. Heather says, best night ever. Holy! If not even being civil is Rayna’s way of working with someone, I’d hate to see if she was working against them. Fraser asks how Jake feels after his performance, and Jake says he’d do it again. Rachel tells Heather that she’s sorry about it having to be super quiet. Heather says, they survived, and Rachel says, at least it’s done. Heather says she liked working with Rachel, and Rachel says she’d like doing another season with Heather. Heather asks if Rachel thinks she can handle all this.

Eddie chases Rachel with a Bible, and she hisses. Heather asks Fraser, what’s the best way for her to handle Rayna; Rayna won’t even talk to her. Fraser says, Rayna’s not even giving her a chance, and Heather says, she claims she is. In Heather’s interview, she says, she’s apologized a bunch of times, and Rayna says, it’s all good. She takes Rayna at her word, and then Rayna ignores her. What is she supposed to do? Fraser tells her to just smile, and not say anything she doesn’t have to. Captain Lee tells Eddie that you always need to plan a docking. He’s going to pop Eddie’s cherry. Eddie says, he’s never docked a boat this big, and the captain says, the first time he did, it scared the hell out of him. He’s exited for Eddie. He’ll no longer be a virgin in that department. Rachel makes the last breakfast, and Darin announces he’s a muffin connoisseur. Stephanie says she doesn’t want to go back to the cold and snow. Captain Lee says he feels like he’s about to give birth, and Eddie says, that sounds like a personal problem.

In Eddie’s interview, he says, today is the culmination of the season for him. His palms are sweating, and his adrenaline is high. A crash is always a fear. Eddie discovers the bow thruster isn’t working outside, and the engineer is called. Captain Lee says, he’ll take control from inside, and in his interview, Eddie says, it’s his one opportunity to dock the ship, and he can’t do it. It sucks. The engineer discovers the thruster was depressed, and the captain tells Eddie to give it another shot. He gives Eddie instructions as Eddie docks, and the docking is successful. I have to mention, there are literally no other boats at the dock. Eddie thanks the deck team for making him look good. He tells the captain, it was easy, and exaggerates his hand shaking as he lifts his water bottle.

The crew meets on the aft deck to say goodbye to the guests. Stephanie says, it was the trip of a lifetime, and thanks the captain. She tells Eddie and Jake that they loved the Hamilton bit, and gives Captain Lee the tip envelope. The crew works for a hot minute, and the captain calls them to the crew mess for the tip meeting. He tells them that it went pretty good, and tells Rachel that her food was over the top. He tells Eddie, good job docking, and says, Eddie made his job easier. Everyone did a good job. The tip is $17K, or $1400 each, and the captain says, they made a total of $147K for the season. He tells them to go out tonight, and Jake says, he knows it’s going to be a great night. In Jake’s interview, he says he’s ready to party; he can’t wait. He and Wes jump into the water, followed by Rayna and Kaylee, who, no surprise, Rayna has taken a shine to. The captain watches them, and laughs. The crew starts drinking in the taxis, and Jake kisses Rayna.  

Eddie says, he’s so excited see another part of the island, and they drive into the jungle, where there’s a restaurant in a clearing. They watch the sunset, and Fraser tells Heather not to be affected by Rayna’s behavior. She’s better than this. Water off a duck’s back. There’s also a gift shop, and they go in to check it out. They sit at their private table, and Heather says, multiple times, the various departments leaned on each other, and she appreciates all of them. Fraser says, they had each other’s backs, and Eddie suggests a shot. Rayna says how much they love Kaylee, and Heather says, they’d been stressing over it before Kaylee came. Rayna says, they didn’t know if she’d be another Heather, and points out that Heather used the n-word. I feel like I’m in Groundhog Day. Eddie says he’s bored, and Heather suggests he jump in the fountain. Which he does. Rayna tells Fraser that her petty speedometer is on 100,000, whatever that means. She doesn’t want Heather to talk to her, and Fraser says, he thinks Heather is trying, but Rayna says she’s not going to be friends with a white person who says the n-word. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s close to both Rayna and Heather. It’s obvious Rayna is trying to provoke Heather, which isn’t nice, although Rayna has every right to be pissed. Can’t they all be civil, and enjoy the night? That’s all he’s asking for. Agreed on Rayna having the right to be pissed, but what she doesn’t have the right to do is take Heather on a roller coaster ride; saying it’s all good, being passive/aggressive in showing it’s not good, then saying it’s good, and getting mad all over again. At best, immature behavior, and at worst, psychotic behavior. Eddie buys some new clothes that look like something you’d get in a Florida variety store. They get in the taxis to go back.

Rayna says Kaylee is riding with them, since she has more fun with them, and Heather says, that’s what she thinks, but Kaylee lived with her for six months. Heather heads for the other taxi, and Rayna – for some bizarre, unknown reason – says, and Heather was the rudest to her. I say bizarre, unknown reason because I highly doubt Kaylee said anything like that. Heather tells Rayna to shut her mouth or say it to her face, and Eddie says, oh sh*t. In Heather’s interview, she says, she doesn’t know why Rayna has this attitude. She’s at a loss. Rayna tells Heather that she doesn’t like white people who say the n-word, and Heather says, Rayna told her everything was okay. Rayna repeats that she doesn’t like white people who say the n-word, and Heather gets on her knees and begs forgiveness. Rayna says she might as well get up, because there is no forgiveness. Heather says, that’s her prerogative, and Rayna says, Heather is causing a scene. Eddie steers Rayna away from Heather, and in her interview, Heather says, she wasn’t expecting it to come up again. She tried to have a conversation with Rayna, and Rayna said everything was okay. She understands Rayna’s point-of-view, and even why Rayna doesn’t want to forgive her. She recognizes that, but wants Rayna to see her and not her mistakes. Heather starts to cry, and Rayna curses her out in the taxi. Wes says, Heather admitted to it, and Rayna tells him to shut up. He’s f***ing Black, and should understand. Fraser says, for f***’s sake, and Rayna tells Wes, STFU. He’s not Black. In Wes’s interview, he says it’s painful that Rayna would so easily throw away somebody who’s wanted to help her. He’s deeply hurt. Heather asks Rachel to reason with Rayna, and in Rayna’s interview, she says, she deserves to be upset, but they’re all drunk, and this is not the place. She’s trying not to be the angry Black person, but there’s only so much she can handle. Rachel and Rayna get in a taxi together.

Back at the boat, everyone goes their separate ways. Rachel holds Heather in her bunk, and Rayna gets in Jake’s bunk. In the morning, Wes says, what’s happening above him? He wants out. He jets, and in the galley, Eddie tells whoever that he doesn’t know what to say about last night. Rachel opens champagne, and Wes tells Rayna, what she said wasn’t cool. Rayna says, she gets it, but doesn’t need anybody giving Heather a pass. Wes says he may be from the islands, but he was mostly brought up in the states. Rayna walks away without finishing the conversation, which is no surprise. She’ll probably get mad later and rage text him. Heather says she appreciates Rachel, and Rachel says, same. Heather gets her. In Kaylee’s interview, she wonders how it can be over. She just got here. After this, she imagines living in a van, not working. That’s the goal. Hashtag, VanLife. In Wes’s interview, he says he misses his sailboat, and hopes it hasn’t sunk. He has so much to take home. He’s excited to chill TF out. Rayna says she loves him, and gives him a hug. Jake says, it’s been a pleasure, and Rayna yells to Rachel that she’s leaving. Rachel tells Heather to just be civil.

Captain Lee tells Eddie, you did good, kid. And in a twist to confuse us all, Rayna hugs Heather. Heather says she wishes Rayna the best, and prays Rayna will feel that her apology is from the heart. In Rayna’s interview, she says, how much liquor was involved was no excuse, but she wants to move past it. She says she doesn’t want to leave Rachel, and Rachel thanks her for her help. In her interview, Rayna says, it’s hard to say goodbye to Rachel. She sees herself as a chef, and it will take time, but there’s no challenge she can’t do. She can’t see herself as having a goal and not accomplishing it.

Rachel goes to the bridge to say goodbye to Captain Lee, who says he’s still waiting for the same meal twice. She can put that on her resumé. Rachel says, put that in your cloche and smoke it. In the captain’s interview, he says, it was Rachel’s season of redemption. She upped her game, and did herself proud. If you looked inside her mind, it would be like a roller coaster. It would scare the hell out of you, but you’d like it. In Eddie’s interview, he says, Jake is a strange guy. He doesn’t give a f***, and does what makes him happy. Eddie respects that. Jake is his favorite. In Fraser’s interview, he says he’s learned so much. He wants to be chief stew, and has a lot to learn still, but he’s ready. Fingers crossed he gets the chance. Eddie says Rachel killed it, and they hug. He says he adores her. Heather says goodbye to Rachel, and they dance around, then hug. In Rachel’s interview, she says she’s going to travel. She can’t wait to start her journey on the bus. I’ll be at a parking lot near you. Heather tells Captain Lee, they survived, and he says, they kicked ass. In Heather’s interview, she says, she’s looking forward to the next chance to be even better.

Eddie and the captain sit with their feet up. Captain Lee says, they got through it, and Eddie says he had an interesting season as first officer. The crew had a lot of issues. The captain says, Eddie was out of his comfort zone, but that was good for him. In Captain Lee’s interview, he said, when it’s time for him to hang up his stripes, he’d like to see Eddie be captain. You’ve done well, grasshopper. He says he’s going to miss Eddie, but he’s sure their paths will cross again. Eddie says it’s great working for the captain, but Captain Lee says, Eddie doesn’t work for him; Eddie works with him. In Eddie’s interview, he says, the captain challenged him more in this position, but overall, he loves his boat pop-pop. He and the captain hug, and Eddie leaves. The captain says he’s going to miss Eddie. He’d better get his ass packed.  

There was no preview because this was the finale. No doubt the Reunion will be next. I’m pretty sure Rayna will be pissed off again by then.

💘 See You Next Month…

Come join me for the first soap of February tomorrow. The Real Housewives of New Jersey is also starting its new season, but I’m not sure how invested I’ll be in that. So perhaps a little NJ, a little tea; who knows? But until then, stay safe, stay a step ahead, and stay not missing what someone actually needs, in trying to give them what you think they want.