Tag Archives: horror

September 26, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Monica’s Memorial, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watch, Watching Soon, Already, Treasured Companions, Less Than a Dozen Quotes & Maggie

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Alexis met Molly at the coffee bar, and Molly said she couldn’t have this particular conversation in front of Kristina.

Brook interrupted Emma and Gio kissing in the stable.

Michael went to Sonny’s and told Sonny and Carly about Monica passing away.

Tracy looked at old photos, when the doorbell rang. She said nobody except her ever heard the front door, but if the oven door opened, there was a stampede. It was Lucy, and Tracy slammed the door in her face.

Britt went into Bobbie’s and saw Rocco with Charlotte. Rocco approached her and she said she was sure this must come as shock. Rocco said, kinda. His parents had seen her, but he was glad to finally get to meet her

Dante told Anna that he got more details about Nathan. He’d been pulled from a car wreck. But it couldn’t be Nathan. He was dead.

Elizabeth saw it was Nathan, but Lucas said, right now, he was a patient. They’d figure out the rest later.

Brook said she was looking for Cody, and Emma introduced her to Outback. Cody said she’d been bunking with him, and it would be hard giving her up. Brook said there was something they all should know.

Tracy told Lucy, go away, but Lucy said it was about Deception and important. The company could fold if they didn’t take action. She’d crawl through a window if Tracy didn’t let her in. Tracy opened the door and said, don’t talk. She told Lucy, have a seat… Monica died.

Michael said he found out when he got home and thought he was still in shock. Carly asked how Jason was, and Michael said Jason was holding up. Jason found her and thought she’d died in her sleep. Michael said, even though she’d been sick, they weren’t prepared for her to go so suddenly.

Dante said there was nothing in the car or on him, and Anna said it didn’t make sense. Dante said, Faison shot Nathan, and he was dead, but Anna said they thought the same about his sister. It wasn’t a coincidence.

Charlotte introduced herself, and Britt said she and Rocco had both grown. Charlotte left, and Britt said she’d seen pictures of Rocco on his social media. He asked if she followed him on MyFace, and she said she’d like to, if it was cool with him, and he asked her to send him a follow request.

Outside Bobbie’s, Charlotte told Lulu that Rocco was talking to Britt in the diner. Lulu said she was lucky Charlotte was her daughter and Rocco was lucky she was his sister.

Rocco said he’d asked Obrecht questions about her, and Britt said she’d tell him what she could. He said his mom was waiting, so another time, and she asked if he found his dog. He said he was still looking, and she told him not to give up hope.

Lulu asked how it went, and Rocco said Britt was nice, but it was kind of a lot. Lulu, Charlotte and Rocco headed for home.

Molly told Alexis about Kristina hiring Cody to come between Ava and her dad. She knew Kristina had good intentions, but it bothered her that she and Cody had been getting close and it screwed things up. She thought she had feelings for Cody.

Emma said Monica had always been kind to her, and Gio said him too. Cody said, everyone loved and respected Monica, especially the little guys. It would be rough on them. Emma said it would be rough on Brook and the family, and she was sorry for their loss. Cody asked how Tracy was taking it, and Brook said Tracy was composed, but devastated. Monica had been important to her.

Lucy said she was sorry, and Tracy said, Monica went peacefully in her sleep. She had to contact the hospital and write the obituary. Lucy handed her a shot and said, she needed it.

Lucas said Nathan appeared to be in good shape, and Anna asked why he was still unconscious. Lucas said, his brain activity was normal, but they’d know more when they did a CT scan. Officer Carson came in, and Anna asked him to get a sample to run a DNA test and take the patient’s fingerprints. Carson asked what the name was, and she said, Nathan West.

Brook said, sorry about the interruption, and Emma said they had to get Outback chipped first thing. Cody asked to say goodbye to his girl and told Outback that they hadn’t spent lot of time together, but were bonded for life. It would always be her home, so don’t be a stranger. He’d always have a sandwich for her. Brook said, why not make it her home?

Lucy said the Quartermaine home was something to aspire to, and Tracy said, Lucy was so inspired, she stole Monica’s husband. Lucy said she was surprised Tracy didn’t try to stop the wedding, but Tracy said, why bother? Monica and Alan found their way back to each other. Despite Lucy’s machinations, Monica triumphed over her.

Carly said Monica had loved Michael and was proud of him. The funeral home called Michael and he stepped away. Carly told Sonny that Michael had already been through enough this year.

Elizabeth said she couldn’t stop thinking about how it would affect Maxie and James, and Lucas said there had been no significant change in Maxie’s condition. Anna told them to keep it quiet for now and admit him as a John Doe.

Britt went back to Jason’s room and saw a gift on the bed. She opened it and said, oh my God.

Molly told Alexis that Cody had done it under the guise of helping her. His behavior was convoluted and backward, but at the end of the day, he had a good heart. He proved it tonight.

Brook said, half the time Rocco stayed with his dad. They could ask if he minded if Outback lived there. Cody said he’d love it, but the Q’s had made it clear he couldn’t have a pet. Brook said, if a Q made the rule, a Q can change it, and she declared it was okay. It couldn’t hurt to ask Rocco, and if he said, no, everything would stay the same. Cody said it was a dog’s paradise, and Emma said it sounded like the perfect solution.

Dante wondered what happened, and Anna said, he might not be Nathan. She didn’t want to give Obrecht false hope and thought she’d have to question Britt, since they were close when he died. It wasn’t impossible Nathan was alive, considering he and Britt were the children of Liesl Obrecht and Cesar Faison.

Lulu went to see Britt and said she was there to make peace for Rocco’s sake. Britt said it had been a long day, and Lulu said she was trying to stay open to Rocco getting to know Britt, but she wanted to set guidelines to protect him. She didn’t want him to get hurt. Britt said neither did she, and Lulu said, then they were on the same page, but Britt said she didn’t think so if Lulu was giving her guidelines about how and when she’d see her son.

Emma said Rocco was relieved Outback was fine and was cool with her staying there. Gio asked about the horses, and Cody said Outback got along with everyone. Brook said, welcome home Outback, and Cody said, the Princess of Port Charles has found a new castle.

Michael said the funeral director was going to get back to him with dates. There was so much to decide. Carly told him to give himself time to grieve, and he said he hadn’t told the kids yet. Carly said, instead of taking care of everyone else, let his dad and her take care of him, and she hugged him.

Lucy told Tracy that she’d been a different woman then. When she was younger, she didn’t know her power or her own strength. She thought all of her problems would be solved if she married Alan, but it was a complete disaster. He never stopped being in love with Monica. Tracy said they’d always been in love, even though they’d cheated on each other. They were the love of each other’s lives. Lucy said, Monica was an amazing surgeon and Chief of Staff, and everybody at GH loved her. People came from all over the world to see her. Tracy said Monica had a life well-lived, and Lucy said it was nice to think Alan and Monica were reunited. Tracy agreed and hoped so, and they toasted to Monica. Tracy said, may she rest in peace.

Dante told Anna that they were running the plates to make sure the car wasn’t stolen. Since Nathan and Britt were connected to Faison, did she want to notify the WSB? Anna said she wanted to have a better grasp of the situation first. It may not be Nathan. Elizabeth told them that the CT scan results were in.

Lulu asked why Britt and her mother thought they had a right to a relationship with Rocco. He wasn’t Britt’s son and she was nothing more than a test tube. Britt said she carried him for 9 months and they were connected in more ways than Lulu and Rocco were or ever would be. She birthed him, nursed him, and raised him for almost a year, and they both knew he wouldn’t exist if not for her. Lulu said Britt stole the embryo, and Britt said it was languishing in a cryochamber. Like it or not, they were establishing a relationship without constraints. Lulu said she’d been trying to give Britt the benefit of the doubt. She’d been told Britt had grown as a person and was a good Co-chief at GH. She saved Josslyn’s life, but they were all one-offs. She was still the same toxic, self-involved witch she’d always been. She left her own mother heartbroken when she faked her own death. Obrecht was still grieving when Britt waltzed into GH. She didn’t care about anyone but herself. Britt said Lulu was threatened by her because in her heart, she knew Britt was every bit a mother as she was. Maybe more. (Some peace maker Lulu is.)

Lucas told Anna that there was no sign of the brain swelling, but they had to wait to see if there were neurological deficits when he woke up. Anna called Carson to put a rush on the DNA and asked if he’d run the prints. Dante asked what he said, and Anna said, according to the PCPD database, the man lying in that bed is Nathan West.

Lulu said Britt wasn’t Rocco’s mother in any way, shape, or form. She was nothing more than an incubator of stolen goods. Britt said, not for long. She had stories from when Rocco was a baby, and she couldn’t wait to share them with him. Lulu said that wasn’t going to happen. Stay away from Rocco. Lulu walked out, and Britt said, his name is Ben! She slammed the door and took out the gift. She opened the box and we saw a note that said, DON’T FORGET TO TAKE YOUR MEDICINE, signed, C. 😮

Molly said Cody turned down Sonny’s $10K reward, and Alexis said she didn’t know if she was more stunned that Cody turned down the money or that Sonny put up that much for a dog. Molly said, he told Gio to give it to a shelter, and Alexis said it showed good character, but Molly seemed conflicted. Molly said Cody could be charming and sweet, but he was also frustrating and unpredictable. She was afraid she’d regret it. Alexis said Molly was smarter, braver, and had better taste in men than she did. Cody seemed like good guy. Take the risk. It wasn’t like she was sending out wedding invitations. Molly said maybe Alexis was right.

Gio asked Brook to tell Tracy that he was sorry about Monica, and he and Emma left. Cody said their vibe was hard to miss and asked if it was new. Brook said, maybe, and he said he thought everyone would be happy with the arrangement. Emma and Gio would be there more often, so it meant she’d be running into her son more often. Maybe it would bring them closer.

Michael said he and Monica talked about the custody battle for him as a kid, and Carly said she was sure Monica had a lot to say, especially about her and Sonny. Michael said he let Monica know that he wouldn’t be half the man he was if not for them, and eventually she conceded grudgingly that they didn’t ruin his life. Sonny said, that was a ringing endorsement, and Michael said she understood that they loved him and, on some level, she respected them. Carly said she hoped Monica knew they respected her a great deal too and they toasted, to Monica.

Lucy said she loved the staircase. It represented elegance and wealth. Tracy said, Alan wanted a grand staircase for Monica. He imagined her descending like royalty. She thought it and Monica were tacky, but she was wrong, wrong about so many things about her sister-in-law. She teared up, her voice cracking, and Lucy almost touched her shoulder, but just said goodnight and left. Tracy started to cry, went up the staircase a few steps, then laid on them and sobbed.

Tuesday:

Britt injected herself, when there was a knock at the door. It was Jason and she asked if he was there to fix the window.

On the phone, Martin said he had details about Monica’s memorial service. Might they be able to attend?

Lulu went to the Quartermaines and told Brook that she was so sorry about Monica. Brook thanked her and invited her in. She said she’d let her grandmother know Lulu was there.

Jordan visited Drew, and he asked if she was there as a friend or to make him see the error of his ways. She said, both

Marshall was welcomed home with hugs, and he said he’d tell them everything about the tour in good time, but right now they needed to come together as a family. Congressman Cain got what was coming to him, but he’d do everything in his power to make sure Curtis didn’t take the fall.

Felicia was glad to see Stella back at work.

Nina went to Anna’s office and said she wasn’t answering questions about Drew unless her lawyer was present, but Anna said it wasn’t about Drew. It involved Nina’s brother Nathan. Nina asked if it had something to do with Britt coming back, but Anna said she wasn’t sure. There was an unidentified individual recovering at GH. He was unconscious and she ran his DNA and fingerprints and confirmed a match for Nina’s brother. Nina said the tests were wrong.

Stella told Felicia that she was relieved the investigation was closed and needed to get back to focusing on her patients and friends who had bigger worries. How was Felicia doing? Felicia said she kept tabs on Maxie, but always heard the same thing – there was no change.

Curtis told Marshall that the worst was over and the charges against Stella had been dropped. She was back to work with a spotless record. Trina said now everyone would know they were trumped up charges, and Marshall said the fact Drew went after her proved there was no level that fool wouldn’t sink to get what he wanted, and he wanted to cause Curtis pain. Curtis said he was hardly the only person of interest. Congressman Cutthroat had plenty of enemies. Marshall said the one he wanted to protect was his son.

Drew said, the person who shot him was still out there, but Jordan said she was no longer on the force. She was sure Anna and the PCPD were making it a priority, but they had their work cut out for them. The way Drew hurt people left and right, there was a long list of suspects, some of them people he used to call friends. Drew said Curtis had turned against him and stole his company. He was possibly the man who pulled the trigger. Jordan said Drew was the one who went on the offensive, going after Stella, and Drew said, maybe she shouldn’t have broken the law. Jordan said, maybe he shouldn’t have abused his power to go against Curtis, and he said he didn’t want to fight. Monica just died. She said she heard. In fact, that was why she was there.

Britt said Carly was sending out a repair guy. Was it Jason? The window wouldn’t close and she needed to get to orientation after she ran the damn place. Jason easily closed the window and said, is that it? She said the closet was full, but he said he had commitments today. He came to grab something. He took out his suit, and she asked if there was a formal mob meet and greet, but he said it was a funeral. His mother died.

Michael said everyone’s memories about Monica helped Tracy, and Lulu asked how Tracy was. Brook said she couldn’t find Tracy anywhere.

Felicia said her heart broke for Spinelli, and Stella said, of course (🍷). No matter where they turned, somebody was hurting because Maxie wasn’t there. She wondered if Felicia was letting herself be distracted so she didn’t have to deal with her own broken heart. She was grieving too, and needed to let herself process it. If Felicia wanted time off, Stella would be happy to step in so Felicia could look after her family and herself.

Marshall said Drew was vindictive and wouldn’t give up until Curtis was thrown in prison for the shooting, but Curtis said the police had nothing on him. He’d stick to the facts, and given time, they’d find the suspect. There was a knock at the door, and Dante said he was wondering if he could have a word with Curtis.

Jordan said she was sorry to hear about Monica and thought, in the light of her passing and his own brush with death, Drew should use the time to take stock of his life. Drew said he was left with the memory of Monica refusing to let him back in the family estate, but Jordan said that didn’t mean Monica stopped caring. She’d expected more from him and wanted him to use his power and influence for good. He said, now she was gone, and Jordan said, her loss would be mourned. Could the same be said for him? If he couldn’t be a better man for Monica, be one for his daughter. Be the man he used to be, the man Scout needed. It was his chance turn his life around and grow from the experience. Ask himself what was truly important. Do that, and there might be hope for him yet. She left.

Britt said she was so sorry. She hadn’t known Monica was ill. Jason said she’d had a bad fall and her health had been up and down afterward, but they took care of her at home. Britt asked when she passed, and he said, yesterday morning. She said, that was the call he got when she was locked out? and he said Tracy wanted him to come back to the house. No one told Monica about Drew’s shooting and Tracy thought it best if he was the one who told her. He went to her room, but she was already gone. Britt said she was so sorry, and he said he just wasn’t prepared to find her that way.

Ned thought Tracy probably took Hades out for a ride, and Michael went to the stable. Ned said when Lulu saw Tracy, she’d probably complain about having to plan the memorial and brush off Lulu’s condolences with a sarcastic remark, but that was on the outside. The truth was, Monica’s death hit her hard. He’d never seen her so fragile.

Nina said, no way Nathan was alive, but Anna said she was at GH when he was brought in. She couldn’t believe it. That’s why she ran tests. She wanted to tell Nina first, since Obrecht probably couldn’t handle the shock after Britt. Nina wondered if Britt knew something. She showed up alive, then a couple of days later… Anna said the timing was questionable, but Nina said it couldn’t be Jay. They were all at the funeral. Anna said that’s why she ran tests. They couldn’t deny the DNA results or the fingerprint match. Nina said they knew all too well who could have arranged this – Cesar Faison. (A whodunnit, spy stuff and Faison? My head might explode.)

Dante said ADA Turner was nitpicking every line in every statement. He wanted to go over Curtis’s statement to make sure he had it correct. He’d start at the beginning of the night in question. Curtis paid Stella’s bail and took her home? Curtis said, correct, and Dante said, then he went to see Alexis. Did he go anywhere in between? Curtis said he stopped for gas, but didn’t remember the station name. He could check his credit card statement. That was between 8:30 and 8:45. Dante said, then Curtis went from Alexis’s to The Savoy and was there at 10:15, and Curtis said he went in the back and straight to his office, so no one could verify he was there. Dante said, then after The Savoy, Curtis went to the Brown Dog Bar and met Jordan for drinks, and Curtis said, right. Portia didn’t look happy.

Martin saw Stella and said the rumors were true. Something was going right in this crazy world. Stella asked how he was doing, and he said his back was fine. He wanted to see her face because he needed a shot in the arm before he paid a visit to Drew. She said she thought he was done being Drew’s lawyer.

Anna said it crossed her mind it had something to do with Faison, but she saw his brain in a jar, and Nina asked if she was sure. Anna said, 99%. She was going to follow up on everything, but needed a positive ID. Nina said, absolutely not, but Anna said she couldn’t go to Obrecht because she wouldn’t be objective. Nina asked if Anna thought Britt was part of it, and Anna said she needed a second pair of eyes before he regained consciousness. Please, come with her to the hospital.

Felicia went into Nathan’s room and asked how their John Doe was doing. When she saw his face, all of her paperwork slipped from her hands.

Ned said Monica and Tracy became each other’s favorite sparring partners. Their battle kept them sharp as tacks and kept the rest of them amused. Things changed when Monica became ill. Britt said, Tracy became Monica’s fiercest guardian and advocate, and Ned said he thought Monica saw her great-grandchildren every day. Lulu should have seen it when Willow tried to take the kids away. Brook said, or when Drew tried to destroy the family crypt and Tracy defended it for Monica. Lulu said it made sense for Tracy to fight that hard. Monica probably would have done the same for her. Ned said, for all her effort, there was one fight Tracy couldn’t win, and losing was one thing his mother didn’t handle well. Michael came back and said he checked the whole property, but couldn’t find Tracy and her car was gone. She could be anywhere.

Martin said he and the congressman came to an agreement, and Stella said, one minute, she was under investigation and arrested, and the next minute, the case was closed. He agreed to go back to work for Drew if the case went away. He said, yeah, but if he’d kept his mouth shut in the first place, there would have never been an investigation. It was his responsibility to end this thing. She said she didn’t like the idea of him going to work for Drew again for her sake, but he said he was being well compensated. He knew who Drew was, how far he was willing to go on Drew’s behalf, and knew when to stop. If there was anything he could do to keep Drew away from her, it was well worth it.

Felicia looked like she was in shock, and a nurse asked if she was okay. Anna said she needed to sit down, and asked Felicia to come with her. She took Felicia out to the hallway, and Felicia stared at Nina.

Britt said, when Drew was shot, Jason had been in Croatia for three days. She was doing the math, and if she was right, he was on his way home when she called him back to the Five Poppies. If he hadn’t gone to look for her and come back when she called, he would have been home with his mother for her last days. Jason said he was exactly where he needed to be.

Brook said Tracy’s bed wasn’t slept in and her overnight bag was missing. Her fine jewelry was gone, including Lila’s brooch. Ned said he had no tracker on Tracy’s phone because she refused to be tracked like a bear, and Brook said, maybe the right question was should they try to find Tracy or let her be. Michael said she could definitely take care of herself, and Ned said, under normal circumstances he’d agree, but she just lost her friend of 50 years and was grieving. They needed to find her.

Dante said the only time Curtis couldn’t account for was when Drew was shot. Did he make any phone calls? Curtis said, no, and Dante said that was all he needed. He left and Portia told Curtis it was time for her to go.

Anna told Felicia that she didn’t know if the man in the room was Nathan. She needed to find out more before she told anyone anything. Felicia said, Mac didn’t tell her either. She didn’t understand how… Anna said she didn’t either. She ran the number on the car he was found in and it was listed as having been in a crusher in Mississippi. He had no ID or phone, so she ran his DNA and fingerprints, and it came up as a match for Nathan. Felicia said Anna brought him on the force. Did she really think it was him? Anna said Nathan died and was buried, but then, so was Britt and she was back. She needed more to go on before she drew a definitive conclusion. Felicia said, the only person who knew for sure was lying in a coma.

Nina went in and looked at Nathan. She started to leave, but then turned back and sat by his bedside.

Jordan asked Stella how it felt to be back, and Stella said she wasn’t gone that long. Of course (🍷), it could have been longer if not for Jordan. Curtis told her that Jordan was instrumental in figuring out how Drew sicced the authorities on her to hurt him. Jordan said she’d do anything for Stella. What Drew did was awful. Stella said she was afraid the damage was already done.

Curtis followed Portia outside and said this was not the time. Portia said he made his choice and couldn’t admit he chose Jordan over her like always.

Trina listened at the door, but Marshall told her to stay out of her parents’ business. He was going to make coffee and needed her help.

Britt said she was sorry Jason wasn’t with Monica, but he said he’d never regret what he was doing instead. Monica wanted him to do the right thing, and he was. She said she knew what Monica meant to him and he should have had more time with her, and he said he did. After Sam died, she talked him into moving back with the Quartermaines, so Danny, Rocco, and Scout could be together. He told himself that he was doing the right thing for his son, but he was doing the right thing for himself too. Monica wasn’t sleeping a lot and neither was he. If her light was on, he’d check on her and see if she needed anything. Most of the time, he’d just sit with her, and sometimes they’d watch the sun come up together. Britt said she was sure Monica loved it, and he said he did too. He was so grateful for the time they had. He just wished he’d known that was all he was going to get.

Martin told Drew that he had an update on his safe. Turner was challenging the injunction, and he was waiting on the ruling, but didn’t know if the injunction would be upheld. The odds weren’t on their side. Drew said he wasn’t focused on the contents of his safe. He was focused on Monica. Martin said Drew had his sincere condolences, and Drew said, Monica treated him like a son until… Tracy and Michael and the rest of the family turned her against him.

Michael said he’d call Brick, and Ned said he’d see if Tracy filed a flight plan for the ELQ jet. They left to make the calls, and Lulu said, maybe staying in the house was too painful for Tracy. Brook said, it was Tracy, so who knew what she wanted, and Lulu said, if it was her dad, he’d go on a bender and be gone… She thought she knew where Tracy was.

Britt told Jason that maybe it was better not to know. Monica’s passing was unexpected, and they could just be together without worrying how to say goodbye. She spoke from experience. He grabbed his suit, told her, good luck on her first day, and left.

Drew said he thought he and Monica had a real relationship, when she turned her back on him. It was even more painful knowing it wasn’t her choice. The family made her do it. They poisoned her against him. Martin said, just so they were clear, he was Drew’s attorney and that was all. This time was billable, so it might be in Drew’s best interest to work through his grief with a therapist or the hospital chaplain… No, definitely a therapist. Drew said he knew exactly who he was talking to. Monica may have cut him out of her life, but he’d be damned if he was going to be cut out of her will.

Ned said they needed to find Tracy and bring her home. If she wasn’t there when they said goodbye to Monica, she’d be in more pain than she was. Michael asked how quickly they could get to her, and Ned said he knew someone who could get to her fast. On the phone, he said, it’s me… Thank you. Monica will be greatly missed… Actually, there was something they could do. He needed help with his mother.

Jordan told Stella that she had faith Curtis wasn’t involved in Drew’s shooting. They met for drinks that night and there was no way Curtis shot Drew. He had way too much to lose.

Portia said, when things were tough, or even when they weren’t, Curtis ran to Jordan. She didn’t know why she was surprised he was with her the night Drew was shot. Where else would he be? Curtis said they had a drink, and he’d been protecting Portia. The only reason she hadn’t been questioned was because of him. She said, stop protecting her. Don’t do anything for her. She was done pretending they had any kind of marriage. She walked off, and Curtis went back inside where Trina was waiting for him.

Felicia told Anna, if that was Nathan, what would it do to James? He was already struggling with his mom in the hospital. Anna said, maybe it would help to have another parent around, but Felicia said it was a parent he’d never met and had no relationship with. And if it wasn’t Nathan, it would mess up James even more. Anna said, don’t do anything until she found out the truth, and she was determined to find it.

Nina took Nathan’s hand and he squeezed hers. He turned his head and opened his eyes, and she said, Jay.

Wednesday:

Nathan woke up and Nina hugged him. She went to get a doctor and told Anna that Nathan was awake.

At the stable, James told Cody that his mom said his dad was watching over him and wondered if his mom was watching over him now too.

Curtis wondered how much Trina heard, and she said she saw the look on Portia’s face when he said he was with Jordan the night of Drew’s shooting. That said it all.

At the hospital, Portia ran into Jordan said Curtis was at his house. It wasn’t her home anymore.

On the ELQ jet, Brook hoped Tracy was still at the casino, and Ned promised they’d track her down. There was something he thought Brook should know. He had an affair with Monica.

Atlantic City, New Jersey. Tracy played blackjack in a private room, when Lois joined her and said, deal her in.

Nina told Anna that the second he smiled, she knew it was Nathan. Isaiah came out and said the patient was alert and stable. He’d sustained head trauma, so they were treating him for a concussion, and he had a scar from a previous gunshot wound, but there was no lasting trauma, and he seemed in excellent health.

Cody told James that his dad was watching him, but his mom wasn’t gone. He bet she was dreaming about him riding Comet. Felicia came in and James said he’d be a riding pro by the time his mom woke up.

Anna came into Nathan’s room, and he asked what was happening. She said, what was the last thing he remembered?

Curtis told Trina that Jordan wasn’t the reason for the strain in his and Portia’s marriage. Drew was a factor, but the problems already existed. Whatever happened, one thing that would never change was that they’d always love her and he’d always have respect for her mother.

Jordan said leave her out of it, and Portia said she owed Jordan an apology. She laid the friction between her and Curtis at Jordan’s door, and it wasn’t fair or right. The flaws in their relationship were there from the beginning, and her marriage was over.

Brook said Ned and Monica’s affair was the stuff of family legend, but Ned wanted to shed light on why. He was a tennis pro, and they were using different names. He didn’t know who she was or that she was married to his uncle. Brook begged him to stop, but he said he knew Monica in a way the rest of the family didn’t. He and Monica knew each other without the family politics and dysfunction. Monica was a remarkable, dynamic, insanely brilliant woman and he thought he let her down.

Tracy said if Lois left now, she’d leave a winner, and Lois gave her some hints. Tracy said she was going to find another table where the dealer was the only one who spoke, and Lois asked her not to go. Tracy said Lois was right. This was her room and her private dealer. Lois should be the one to leave. Lois said she would when she’d said her piece, and told the dealer to take a break, slipping him some cash. He left, and Tracy said Ned sent Lois. Lois said he was worried, and Tracy said he must be desperate, and Lois said Tracy was right. She’d done wrong by Ned in the past. Tracy said, alert the media. Lois was admitting fault. Lois said she considered it a moment of reflection. It happened when you lost someone important to you. It became clear how short life was and you were afraid you’d run out of time for the chance to make up for mistakes, and Tracy was going to make a mistake right now.

Ned said he didn’t show enough consideration for Monica when he went after AJ, and Brook said AJ had issues. Ned said he’d compounded them when he undermined and double-crossed AJ, but Brook said, that was life at the Quartermaine’s. Ned said nothing was more painful than seeing your child struggle. Monica had so much loss – the death of her three children and Alan – he didn’t want to lose sight of what he had. Being a father was the most important thing in the world. He needed her to know that he loved her endlessly. She said she’d always known.

Marshall said, some homecoming, and Curtis said, sorry. The police visit probably ruined the celebratory mood. Marshall said it was nice being home in the good times, but more important in the not so good times. He didn’t know if he was more worried about Curtis being a suspect or watching his family and marriage fall apart.

Trina went to see Jordan and said she was afraid her parents were splitting up.

Nathan said the last thing he remembered was Cesar Faison shooting him. He looked down his shirt and said, impossible. How could it be healed? Did it not happen? Nina said, it happened, and Anna said, seven years ago.

Lois said Tracy was the de facto Quartermaine matriarch. Didn’t she want to send a message to society that the family was being preserved? Tracy said society would be just fine, but Lois said Tracy wouldn’t be. She loved Monica. Tracy said her debt to Monica had been paid. Monica didn’t need her to show up, nor did anybody else.

Cody asked James to fill up the oats to feed the horses, and when James left, he asked Felicia what was wrong. Felicia said it sounded insane, but there was a man who looked exactly like James’s father admitted to GH. Cody said he thought… and Felicia said, he did. There was a funeral and everything, but somehow Nathan might be alive.

Nathan said that couldn’t be right, and Anna said it was 2025. He asked if he’d been in a coma, but Nina said he’d been declared dead. There was a funeral and a gravesite she’d been visiting for seven years. It was a miracle. Anna said it was definitely something they had to figure out, and he said they were both shocked and here. So did Maxie not know he was alive?

Curtis told Marshall that Drew’s shooting was the final straw with his marriage. Drew had tentacles in his life and was the reason Stella was arrested. He was the reason Trina and Kai broke up, and Portia lied to him for months about Drew blackmailing her. Marshall said he didn’t blame anyone for taking Drew out, and Curtis said, on paper, few people had more motive than him and the cops knew that. Marshall said it sounded like his family was under attack and they never needed each other more.

Isaiah went to Portia’s office, and she said, the last time they spoke, she’d told him the time they shared was all they had. He said, she told him they had no future, and she said she’d reconsidered.

Lois said Tracy was underestimating the importance of saying goodbye, but Tracy said Monica was dead and wouldn’t care. Lois said it was important for Tracy, when Ned came in. Tracy said, right on time. His minion stalled until he got there. Ned thanked Lois, and Lois said she was sorry for their loss. Ned told her that Brook was on the boardwalk, and she left. Tracy asked why he did that.

Felicia told Cody that Nathan died before James was born. James heard about him and had seen pictures, but never met him, and Maxie wasn’t there. She had to be there. Cody said until he was, they’d take it one step at a time. First, they’d have faith that the cops would figure out who he was. She said, and if it was Nathan? and he said they’d deal with it. She said she didn’t want James to be hurt or scared or confused, but he said confused was unavoidable, but they’d make sure the rest was taken care of, when James came back.

Anna suggested they go through the facts as they knew them. A motorist found Nathan in a wreck and called 911. He was extricated from the car and unresponsive. Nathan said he had no ID or cellphone? and she said that’s why she ran his DNA and fingerprints. The car was listed as destroyed, crushed in Mississippi. Nathan said he’d just appeared out of nowhere and had been missing for seven years? It was ridiculous. Where was Maxie? He needed to see her.

Trina said Dante came to question her dad about the night Drew was shot, and Jordan said he was establishing a timeline of Curtis’s movements and Curtis said he was with her. Trina said her mom heard, and Jordan said she just ran into Portia at the hospital. She’d made it clear things were strained. Now she understood why. Trina said her dad insisted Jordan wasn’t the issue in their marriage, but was that true? and Jordan said she respected Curtis and Portia’s relationship. She hadn’t pursued Curtis, and he hadn’t pursued her. Trina said she believed that, but unfortunately, her mom didn’t seem to. They were splitting up and that couldn’t happen. Jordan said she didn’t think there was anything Trina could do. They had to navigate their own relationship. Trina said she wasn’t trying to keep them together as a couple, but keep them out of prison.

Isaiah said Portia seemed adamant. So what changed? She said her marriage was over. She hadn’t told Trina, but Trina saw the writing on the wall. He asked if Curtis did, and Portia said he was at the end of his rope, like her. There were only so many times you could try to fix a relationship before you had to call it. She thought she and Isaiah would be a good thing, but only if he was interested too.

Ned said his main concern was Tracy, but she said she was where she wanted to be. He said he didn’t believe that, and she said she was under no obligation to attend the funeral. Monica was deceased and wouldn’t care. He said, no, but Tracy would.

On the boardwalk, Lois brought Brook some pink cotton candy and said she went to three different vendors. All they had was blue and she knew Brook didn’t like blue. It was always pink or bust. It was small, but she thought they could share.

Curtis told Marshall that he hated not trusting his wife. Every time they started fresh, they hit another wall. Marshall said, two people could love each other and still not be right for each other, and Curtis said they could make promises they intended on keeping. He didn’t believe Portia set out to lie. Marshall said, but she did. It was good they were both brave enough to acknowledge the situation. Curtis said it was no kind of marriage and no way to live.

Isaiah asked if Portia was sure her marriage was over, and she said she wasn’t playing games. He said he needed time to think about it, and she said she didn’t want to pressure him. He said he loved working there and wouldn’t do anything that risked him losing his job.

Brook told Lois, no thanks, and asked, how’s granny? Lois said, in a private card room playing blackjack and not winning, and Brook said she was grieving. Lois said it was deeply hard for a woman like Tracy to lose someone like Monica. They’d been sparring their whole lives. It was like the greatest tennis match of all time. Brook said she’d miss that, and Lois said they all would. Brook thanked her for coming, and Lois asked how she knew Tracy was there. Brook said Lulu told her that Tracy had bolted there before, and Lois said it wouldn’t have been her first choice. The Leprechaun Casino in Atlantic City didn’t scream Quartermaine. Brook said, Luke went there when he was banned from the strip, and Lois said she was proud of Brook and Lulu working together for her grandmother, and Brook said, and Maxie. Lois said she was sorry to her about Maxie. She did reach out. Brook said she knew. She saw the text. Lois said she knew. She saw Brook’s read receipt

Tracy said she didn’t need Ned telling her what she wanted or where she should be, and he asked if she didn’t want to honor Monica. She said she honored Monica plenty when she was alive, and he said, why abandon her now? She said she was sick of it. She went to a funeral for her father, a funeral for her mother, a funeral for her brother, and two for Luke. And let’s not forget Gregory. She was done burying people she loved. He asked if she didn’t think she’d regret it, but she said she didn’t want to listen to another tribute. She wanted Monica back and to be fighting with her, not burying her, but they didn’t always get what they wanted. She wouldn’t sit in a room and listen to platitudes about what a wonderful woman Monica was. She should still be there, but she wasn’t. She was dead. The end.

Nina told Nathan that she was so sorry. Maxie collapsed last month. She lost consciousness, but they weren’t sure why. Anna said her condition was stable, but unchanged, and Nathan said they were expecting. Did she have the baby? Was the baby okay? Nina said, the baby is now a wonderful, adventurous little boy named after his father – James Malcolm West.

James asked if Cody would teach him how to jump, and behind him, Felicia shook her head. Cody said, at some point, and Felicia suggested they go. She thanked Cody, and James said sometimes he wished Cody was his dad.

Trina told Jordan that the reason this all happened was because her parents were trying to protect her. If they broke up, the police might figure out they had motive and look in their direction. Jordan said Trina wasn’t responsible for fixing their relationship, but Trina said she couldn’t do nothing. Jordan said that’s exactly what she should do and let the investigation run its course, and Trina said, what if it led to her mom and dad? Jordan said, what if it led to Trina? Trust her. Stay far, far away from Drew’s shooting.

Marshall said, so they were calling it quits, and Curtis said he thought it’s what they both wanted. Marshall said they couldn’t while the investigation was ongoing, and Curtis said, if the police found out they split because of Drew, he didn’t want Portia to be a suspect. Marshall asked if Curtis thought she was guilty.

Portia told Isaiah that she loved her job too, and came close to losing it. The time they shared was amazing and she selfishly wanted more. He said he also thought it was amazing, but if they did this, it had to be quiet. Not just under the radar, but off the radar completely. No one could know. She said she understood, and he said he’d been down the same road before. Things got complicated and he got hurt. Whatever this was or became, he wasn’t signing up for that again.

Lois told Brook about the time Ned’s ex Kathryn Bell was poisoned. That’s when she realized she wasn’t in Kansas anymore, or Bensonhurst. Kathryn fell down the stairs, and they were all there – Alan, Monica, EJ, Jason, and Lila. They were all accusing each other of being guilty, while at the same time, working together to cover it up. Brook asked if Tracy was in the mix, and Lois said she hadn’t met Tracy yet, but her presence loomed large. She realized, as loony as it was, in their own twisted, convoluted way, the Quartermaines loved each other. Brook asked, who poisoned Kathryn? and Lois said, Reginald the butler, but that wasn’t the point. Family was family, ride or die, and Monica was at the heart of all of that. Brook said there really was a lot of love, and they shared the cotton candy.

Ned said Tracy had the right to deal with Monica’s death any way she chose. If she wanted to do her mourning by staying there, he’d stay and play as long as she wanted to do it, but it would be with a heavy heart. She said she could live with that, and he said he knew if she didn’t go to the service and pay tribute to the woman whose house she lived in and shared the majority of her life with, if she didn’t tell people who Monica was to her, she’d regret it. And he didn’t want her to have any regrets about anything. Tracy suggested they leave it up to the cards, and he said, as anyone with an enormous life decision would. She said she had 17. If she lost the next hand, she’d stay. If she won, she’d go with him. Deal? He asked if he had a choice, and she said, no. Hit me.

Thursday:

⚠️ Warning: This is nearly a whole enchilada since it was Monica’s memorial service.

Monica’s memorial was set up at All Saints. Elizabeth hugged Jason who said it didn’t seem real. She asked if he needed help, but he said Michael was there. She said she was glad he had Michael to lean on since she knew Sonny and Carly wouldn’t be there, and Jason said Monica blamed Sonny for a lot. It took her a long time to realize it was his choice to keep his distance from the family, and he knew he’d caused her pain. Elizabeth said, what happened in the past made him living at her house later that much sweeter. Monica was beyond happy to have her son back under her roof.

In the foyer, Ned looked at a photo of Monica and flashed back to talking to her about marriage and her saying he was an insightful man and irreplaceable friend. Olivia joined him and said it was a great picture, but Monica didn’t take bad ones. He said, she didn’t believe in them, and Olivia asked how he was holding up. He said some part of him didn’t believe this was possible. Even when she was sick, Monica had a presence in the house. Olivia said, and in the family. Whether she was there or not, it didn’t matter. It would always be Monica’s house. Brook, Chase, and Dante joined them, and Chase said he’d see them at the church, and left. Ned asked if they were ready to go, but Brook said she didn’t know if she’d ever be ready. She was staying strong for Monica. Olivia asked if Ned had the letter, when Tracy came down the stairs. She asked what they were all standing around for. Let’s say goodbye to Monica.

At the hospital, Drew asked Martin to help him with his tie, and Martin said he wasn’t ready to be released. Why was he out of bed and dressed up? Drew said he was going to his mother’s memorial.

Laura hugged Jason and said she was sorry for his loss. Speaking as the mayor, it was impossible to overstate how important a pillar of the community his mother was. She was at the heart of it. She respected Monica more than she could possibly say. Monica was also her friend, and she’d miss her a lot. Jason said, him too, and Laura said her mother planned on coming and came down with a bug. She couldn’t travel, but she’d be fine. She could still remember how her mother and Monica made peace. In the end, her mother thought of Monica as a friend.

Michael and Lulu hugged, and she said his grandmother was an extraordinary woman. She was glad she’d had time with her and would always be grateful for living at the Quartermaines when her dad married Tracy. When Monica threatened to throw him and Tracy out, she said Lulu could stay.

Stella told Jason that Monica was one of a kind and admired by everyone in the hospital, and Portia said she was honored to walk the halls with her. Michael joined them, and Portia said his grandmother was a remarkable woman. Stella said it was an honor to be there, and they sat down. Michael said, the small talk must be torture, and Jason said it was, but it was okay. He wanted to thank everyone who came to honor his mother.

Martin asked if Drew was sure this was a good idea, since the service was private, but Drew said he was still her son. Martin said he was still recovering, and Drew told him, say it. The family didn’t want him there, but he didn’t care about them or what they thought. He had every right to be there. It wasn’t about how things ended up. His mother loved and accepted him the second she found out he was Alan’s son and it meant something. She’d reached out to him, but he’d never returned her call. He’d thought she was calling about him protecting Scout. Martin asked if he meant the restraining orders, and Drew said he thought she’d side with the family. He never imagined it would be the last time they talked and he’d always regret it. He wasn’t letting his anger at the rest of the family stop him from saying goodbye to his mom.

Jason thanked Lucy and Felicia for coming, and Felicia said she loved hanging out with Monica. She was a good friend and had been Maxie’s heart surgeon. Monica’s hands gave Maxie new life. Lucy said, she was a brilliant surgeon. She was brilliant period. The truth was, Lucy was jealous, although Monica was no saint. Felicia said, stop it, and Lucy said, Monica was a brilliant doctor and family mattered more than anything.

Lulu asked if Laura knew what she was going to say, and Laura said she had a good idea. She and Monica had been through so much together. She flashed back to when she was a teenager and talking to Monica when Monica was a patient at the hospital. She told Lucy that Monica was battling a life-threatening disease and still had time to launch a support group. She was going to speak from the heart and hoped she found the words to tell them what Monica meant to her.

Gio said he hoped it was okay that he was there, and Jason said he was glad Gio came. Gio said he didn’t come as a member of the family, but was there for Monica. When she didn’t know they were related, she’d welcomed him into her home. He hoped the others didn’t get the wrong idea. Jason said he couldn’t control what other people thought, but he appreciated Gio being there. Brook and Dante walked in.

Brook said Monica would be touched that Gio came, and Gio said he didn’t know her long, but knowing her couldn’t have been better. Brook said Monica loved hearing him play. She talked about how talented he was. Dante said Gio was welcome to sit with them, but Gio said he was okay and would see them inside. Brook watched as Gio hugged Lulu, and Dante said Gio was there and it was a good thing. Brook said, progress, when Chase came in. Chase said Gio was there, and Brook said, to honor Monica. Baby steps.

Tracy and Ned arrived, and Ned told Michael, sorry they were late. Michael said Jason took care of everything, and Tracy said it would have made Jason’s mother very happy. Michael suggested they get started, and they walked in. Tracy looked at the photo collage, exchanged nods with Stella, walked to the front, and sat down.  

Martin told Drew that it wasn’t a question of what was right, but of what Monica wanted, and Drew said he knew they would have reconciled if they’d had more time. She wouldn’t have called if she’d given up on him. They loved each other and she was the only mother he’d ever known. Drew flashed back to bringing Monica a bunch of pizzas (presumably on Thanksgiving) just in case, and them hugging. He said he wasn’t letting the Quartermaines keep him from Monica’s celebration of life. He’d been kept from her actual life and wasn’t going to let Jason pretend he was her only son. Martin said he sounded angry already, and Drew said he was. Martin said, exactly. He just said the family wasn’t getting in the way of him mourning his mother, but was showing up really about Monica, or another way to screw with his family?

At the podium, Ned thanked everyone for coming on behalf of the family. They were here to honor Monica Bard Quartermaine. She had strong opinions on how her memorial should go and was clear she didn’t want it to be a sad occasion. She wanted to have a gathering of friends and family to remember her and celebrate her life, and he thought she was right – as usual. This was a celebration because they were all lucky to have known Monica and spent quality time with her, either in person or professionally. He cherished the years he had with Monica. She was the anchor of the family and always ready to welcome people into her house. Tracy flashed back to Monica telling her not to argue. They were welcoming a new baby into the house Alan gave her. Tracy asked if she was going to let one day go by without… Monica laughed, and Tracy asked why she was laughing. Monica said, because it got Tracy every time.

In the present, Ned said, to be honest, the house felt empty without her and he thought they were all a little lost. Olivia flashed back to Monica saying that she’d stood up for Drew, and that made Olivia aces in her book. This place wouldn’t be a home without Olivia being there, and she wanted Olivia to think of this as her house. Ned said it would take time for them to figure out how to live their lives without her love and guidance, but at least for today, they didn’t have to do that because Monica left one final message for them. Ned took out a letter and read: To my dear friends and family. Thank you for being part of my life. I have so many beautiful memories of all of you and hope you do too. Please share them with each other and be happy. I’m sorry to leave you, but I had a wonderful life and was truly loved, just as I’ve loved all of you.

Elizabeth said she’d known Monica almost her entire life. Her grandmother considered Monica to be one of her closet friends. Monica and Audrey worked together at General Hospital and her mother used to tell her that she had the utmost respect for Monica as a doctor. When Elizabeth started working at the hospital, she was intimidated, but didn’t need to be. Monica was so patient and willing to teach anyone who was willing to learn, no matter their position. She saw no title, but saw people, and that’s how she saw her patients too – people she spent time with and connected with. She treated them with honesty and compassion, and they loved her for it. It was the same for all of them, the staff. They were a second family, and she took care of them like she took care of the Quartermaines. She encouraged them to be the best version of themselves, and they loved her for that. Monica also inspired her to be the best version of herself and days she couldn’t, Monica forgave her, and she loved her for that. Elizabeth flashed back to Monica saying she wished she had gotten to know her grandchild. She lost Emily and AJ, and Jason was her only surviving child. If it were Elizabeth, wouldn’t she want to know she had another grandchild? In the present, Elizabeth said she was lucky to be part of the family, and her son Jake was lucky to be Monica’s grandson.

Laura said she was truly honored to be asked to speak. Like Elizabeth, she’d known Monica most of her life. When she was 15 years old, she volunteered at General Hospital as a Candy Striper, and when she met Monica, she was so impressed at how poised she was. As the years went by, she watched Monica navigate around the Quartermaine family, something even the Quartermaines might say was not such an easy task. Even though Monica married into the family, she was a Quartermaine through and through. Another job Laura had was working for Monica’s father-in-law Edward Quartermaine, a formidable and intimidating man. Even though she was young, she could see how much Edward truly loved and respected Monica. Tracy flashed back to Monica telling her that she hoped they lived happy lives for her father’s sake. Tracy said Monica loved Edward as much as she did, and Monica said, yes. And she knew the reason Edward was so healthy was because Tracy had taken good care of him after his heart attack. (Yeah, after she kept his pills from him.) Tracy said she could grow to like Monica, and Monica told her, don’t get carried away. In the present, Ned took Tracy’s hand and looked at Brook, who put her hand on Tracy’s shoulder.

Laura said, Monica saw caring for patients as an act of reverence. She only loved her own family more and she loved them very much. She treasured the time she had with them and sadly, also saw a lot of loss. She lost a son, AJ, and two daughters, Emily and Dawn, and finally, Alan, her husband. She battled breast cancer and alcoholism, and it only served to deepen her compassion for others. Felicia flashed back to giving Monica a card from Maxie and saying Maxie told her that Monica saved her life. Maxie said she knew Monica would be okay because General Hospital was the best hospital and had the best doctors and nurses. Monica said Maxie was right, and opened a handmade card. She told Felicia to thank Maxie and she’d write Maxie a note.

Laura said, Monica was generous with her time and philanthropy, two of the biggest reasons General Hospital and Port Charles were the amazing places they were today. She’d miss Monica with all her heart and knew Monica lived on in her family and in her legacy at General Hospital. She sat down, and Ned told Tracy that it was her cue. Was she really not going to say anything? Tracy said she couldn’t, and Lucy told Felicia that Tracy had to speak, or she’d regret it for the rest of her life. Felicia agreed, but said it wasn’t their call, and Lucy said, maybe Tracy needed someone to buy her more time. She went up to the podium and said she wasn’t asked to speak or scheduled to speak. Why would she be? She wasn’t part of the family and not really Monica’s friend per se. They were so-called rivals, enemies. She had a unique perspective on Monica Quartermaine and thought they all should know it. Felicia looked stunned.

Lucy said she shared a passion with Monica that everyone knew about – the Nurses Ball. As the founder and organizer, she worked closely with Monica. As a doctor, Monica saw the devastating consequences of HIV/AIDS up close and firsthand and was as devoted to the cause as she was. Monica performed at many Balls and was amazing. She was amazingly generous with her time and money, and she couldn’t have done it without Monica. She was going to miss having somebody that cared as much about their special event as she did. And of course (🍷), they also shared a husband, dearly departed Alan. She knew what they were thinking. It was unorthodox for the other woman to be speaking at the memorial, but Monica believed in facing things head on. They hated each other. We flashed back to Monica telling Lucy to stop seeing her husband. If she didn’t, Monica would make sure the hospital knew what a cheap little tramp they had running their daycare. Lucy said Monica shouldn’t make high-handed threats… People who live in a glass house. Monica asked what Lucy was implying.

Lucy said, Alan and Monica could fight. They would leave, but they’d always came back. They were the love of each other’s lives. So what they can learn is that love doesn’t look the same for very couple, but they know true love when they see it. They did make their peace. She was going to miss Monica and was sorry she was gone, but so happy to know Monica and Alan were back together again. She sat down, and Olivia asked Ned if no one else from the family was going to speak.

Jason went to the podium and said Lucy was right. Monica loved Alan so much that she took him in when he was a baby. She chose to be his mother, and from that moment on, she was his mom, no matter how he distanced himself or pushed her away. She let him be his own person and go his own way. She had faith and trust that he’d find his way back to her and eventually he did. He flashed back to Monica saying, no matter what was said in anger, he was her son, and she loved him very much. In the present, he said he wasted so much time. It took him so long to figure out that she wasn’t making him someone he wasn’t. She really just loved him for who he was, in the same way she loved everybody in the family – unconditionally. She told him that he wouldn’t be able to see all the forms love could take until he had a child of his own. She was right. Not until he had his son did he realize that what he saw on her face every day was love. Sometimes there was laughter or sometimes frustration behind it, but it was always love. And that kind of love made her the best mom to Emily, AJ, and to him. So speaking for all of her kids, he wanted thank them for being there. He went to the casket and said, I don’t think I said it enough, but I love you, mom.

Jason sat down, and Tracy asked why they were waiting. Michael asked if she was sure she didn’t want to say something. Tracy said Michael was supposed to be the last one to speak, and Ned said it was okay if she wanted time to collect her thoughts. She says she didn’t, and they were holding things up. Michael went to the podium and thanked everyone for coming. It meant a lot. He grew up hearing stories about Monica. People talked about her being a brilliant surgeon and respected her, but to him, she was just grandma. It wasn’t until later he found out what a powerful woman she was, busy saving lives. He understood that intellectually, but it didn’t feel that way. She made time to sit and ask about his day. It didn’t matter if he was in elementary school or the office at ELQ. She made the time and made time for his kids. He considered himself very lucky to spend time with his grandmother. The consolation is knowing that she’ll never really be gone as long as they remember her. He hoped they would help in remembering by celebrating the incredible life she lived in joining them back at Monica’s house. So unless anyone else wanted to say something…

Michael looked at Tracy, when the door opened. Drew wheeled himself inside and he and Michael locked eyes.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…  

At the podium, Michael says he considers himself very, very lucky to have spent time with his grandmother in the past few days, and there’s some consolation in knowing she’ll never really be gone. Not as long as they remember her. He hopes it helps them remember the celebration of the incredible life she lived by joining them back at Monica’s house. So unless anyone else would like to say something… The door opens, and Drew wheels himself into the church and up to the front. Chase asks, what the hell is this guy is doing? Felicia says, talk about inappropriate, and Lucy says, and Felicia was worried about her. Drew says his name is Drew Quartermaine and he’s here to honor his mother, Monica. Jason approaches him, but Tracy says, allow her to fact check. His name is Drew Cain and he’s in no way related to Monica and in no way was he invited. Drew says he has every right… but Tracy says, he’s delusional. Drew says, she wants to deny him the family name? That’s fine, but Monica called him her son, so he has every right to say goodbye. She says, he forfeited that right when he broke Monica’s heart, and starts to push his chair back down the aisle. He asks what she’s doing, and she says, escorting him out. She wheels him out the door and into the foyer. He says, she can stop, but she says, oh no. She’s just getting started. She parks his chair near the sign-in book and says, your presence here is neither required nor desired. In fact, it’s detested. She goes back in and closes the door. She says, well, that felt good. She walks to the front and says she guesses she’s supposed to say something about her sister-in-law. She doesn’t want to do it… She has tried to avoid it… She just doesn’t know if she can do it… Okay. She’s going to try… because she knows if she doesn’t… she’ll regret it… because… because Monica means that much to her.

Tracy says, so. When she first met Monica, Monica was already engaged to her brother Alan. Her initial thought was that Monica was beautiful and would never last. She assumed her brother would grow tired of her as he usually did, and it would be over as quick as it started. Monica was beneath them. She wasn’t good enough to marry into the Quartermaine family, much less carry the Quartermaine heir. Now Monica had bamboozled her father, her mother, and her brother, and it was up to her to make sure all their eyes were open – everyone laughs – but she underestimated Monica. Monica was nobody’s victim, least of all, hers. Monica gave as good as she got, and somewhere between, during, or because of their epic battles, she grew to respect Monica. In fact, that respect grew to love. In the 45 years they were family, she came to accept that Monica was not only good enough to be one of them, she was the best of them. The Quartermaine family wouldn’t be what they were without her. Monica would do anything for the Quartermaines. Monica took care of them when they lost both of her parents and her brother. Monica was the one who kept their memories alive, and it meant so much to her. She was sorry she never told Monica… Maybe she did. She probably phrased it like an insult. Everyone laughs, and Tracy says, that was their love language. It was how they knew they cared. She never for a moment thought that she would have to live her life without Monica, but she was wrong again. She was going to have to find her way in this world without Monica. Her brother made Monica her sister-in-law, but Monica became her sister. So, my sister, it looks like I’m the last one standing, but don’t you worry. That house is yours – everyone laughs – Alan gave it to you. And as long as I’m alive, I promise you, it’ll stay that way.

Drew is back in his hospital room, and Martin says, that was fast. Did he change his mind about going to the service? Drew says, no. He went. Martin says, briefly, and Drew says, Tracy kicked him out. Or should he say, rolled him out, and nobody tried to stop her. Martin says he’s shocked, and Drew says, it’s not right. There was a time when Monica loved him, really loved him. Martin says he’s sure she did, once upon a time, and Drew says he loved her too. She was amazing. She was there for him when he lost Oscar. She sat with him at the hospital and held his hand for hours. Now all of a sudden that’s not supposed to count for anything? That just gets erased like it never even happened? Martin says, it happened… along with a lot of other things, and Drew says, now the Quartermaines see him as an enemy? Martin says, they’re angry about the role he played in what happened between Michael and Willow, and Drew says he’s angry too. The point is, that shouldn’t even matter. Martin asks what he means, and Drew says, they’re all angry. The Quartermains live for a good fight, then come together in the end because family comes first. Martin says, not always. That didn’t happen today. Drew says, it didn’t. It’s the ultimate proof that they don’t see him as family. Martin says, so? and Drew says, it’s more clear than it’s ever been that he’s not a Quartermaine and never will be.

Back at the mansion, Laura says, her heart goes out to all of them. She thought it was a beautiful ceremony. Ned says, it was, wasn’t it? and Laura says she thinks Monica would have loved the way everyone came together. Michael says, everyone except Drew, and Laura says, oh well. She doesn’t know, but she thinks Monica is looking down watching and got a big kick out of it when Tracy showed Drew the exit. If only they could get him out of congress as quickly and easily as Tracy got him out of that church. Ned says, truer words… Refreshments are in the living room. Laura says, if Tracy needs anything, she’s here, Tracy thanks her, and they hug.

In the nook, Dante wonders, where’s the staff? Why is it a one-woman operation? Olivia says she gave them the day off. She wanted it to just be family. Isn’t he supposed to be working? Dante says he got someone to cover his shift, but she says he didn’t have to. He says, Monica was important to her and she’s important to him. Monica opened the doors of her home to him, Danny, Rocco, and Scout. She was an incredible woman. Olivia says, the best, which is why she made all of Monica’s favorites. Dante says he’ll give her a hand, and she says, remember how she had him deliver the hors d’oeuvres to the block party? He says he was zigzagging through the guests and never dropped one pig in a blanket, and she says, he was the cutest little server ever. He says, they’ll see if he’s still got it, and she tells him to take the bacon wrapped eggs. It’s Gio’s favorite and he won’t be able to resist. Dante says, it’s not the time or place to try and have a conversation with him, but she says she’s not trying to pressure it. She’s just saying he showed up at the church. That says something. If he shows up at the house, she thinks it says even more. Dante says, we’ll see, and she says, get out there. The bacon wrapped eggs aren’t going to deliver themselves. He says he loves her, and leaves with the platter.

In the living room, Lucy tells Felicia, when she lived here, she did steal some of these glasses. Felicia says, of course (🍷) she did, and they clink them. Dante comes in, and Brook says, Olivia let him do something? She got tossed out of the kitchen twice already. Dante says, she knows her way around serving tray? She looks like she might be a dropper. How is she holding up? She says, pretty much how you’d expect, and he says, any truth to the rumor that Lois and Tracy were gambling in Atlantic City last night? She says she doesn’t think they were gambling together. Tracy wasn’t doing much winning, and her mom won’t put a dime on the table if the vibe or the math is off. He says, that’s true, and she says she’s not done being mad, but she admits her mom came through for them. He says he’s not happy with Lois either, but it’s true what they say about the Quartermaines. They stick together, even if they do literally try to kill each other at times. She says, they show up when it really matters, and he says, even the ones who don’t like them. She says she’s hoping Gio comes, but doesn’t expect him to, and Dante says him neither. Maybe next time, he’ll say hi and bye to them. She says she doesn’t know. Maybe her shields are worn down with everything going on, but Gio’s anger hurt more than usual. Dante says, at times like these, everything lands a little harder, and she says she hopes she lives long enough to see Gio less angry. Not just for their sake, but his. Dante says they have to just keep showing up. It’s all they can do. Speaking of showing up, Tracy’s speech was incredible. Brook says, it was perfect. She’s so proud of her. He says, Tracy reminded him of her.

Lulu joins Jason outside the boathouse and says she thought she’d find him out here. She saw him greeting people at the church. That must have been a lot. He says he did it for Monica, but he can’t do it again here, and she says she doesn’t blame him. She thinks everyone would understand if he wanted to take off. He says, it’s tempting, but he needs to be here. So many times, he wasn’t and should have been. She says, that’s not true, and he says, that he wasn’t here? She says, no. That he wasn’t present. When she lived here with her dad, she doesn’t think a day went by that Monica didn’t mention him. She loved telling stories about him, and he gave her a lot to choose from. So even though he wasn’t physically here, his presence was felt. His mom made sure of it.

Martin says, Drew and Monica were close once and not even the almighty Quartermaines can take that away from him. Drew says, right, but Michael is the golden boy and always has been. He thought Monica still loved him enough to get past the whole Michael and Willow situation. Martin says, maybe if she’d had more time, she would have, but Drew says, with Tracy spewing poison in her ear, he doubts it. The only thing that stopped him from going full steam ahead and telling the police Michael shot him was to protect Monica, but now that she was gone, forget it. All bets are off. Martin asks if he’s saying he remembers it was Michael who shot him, and Drew says he doesn’t remember a damn thing, but the police don’t have to know that. He can tell them that it all came back at any time. Martin says, whoa. Take a deep breath. It’s possible he doesn’t have to perjure himself to get revenge. Drew says, perjury is the least of what he’ll do. He’ll stop at nothing to make Michael pay for what he’s taken. If convincing the cops that Michael is the one who pulled the trigger and put two bullets in his back is the way to do that, so be it.

Michael thanks Dante for being here, and Dante says, is he kidding? Monica opened her home to him and the kids when Sam died. That was everything. She was great with his mom and Leo too. Chase says, same here. She welcomed him into the family on day one. She was such a special person. Dante says, it’s weird to refer to her in the past tense. He can’t get past that. Michael says, it’s hard to believe she’s really gone, and Dante says, whatever he needs. Michael says, he’s doing it. Showing up and putting Drew’s investigation on the back burner for a minute. Dante says, they’re with family today and that’s all that matters

Lulu asks how Laura is doing, and Laura says, fine. Why? Lulu says, other than Monica’s family, Laura is the one who’d known her the longest, and Laura says, they did go way back. Further than she’d like to admit, before she even met Lulu’s father. Lulu says, really? and Laura says, Monica came to their wedding. Lulu says, along with the rest of the world (truth!), and Laura says, Monica was the type of person who you could count on when things got tough… and things did get tough. Lulu says she’s glad Laura had Monica, and Laura says, her too. She’s a better person because she knew Monica. She hopes she never forgets that. Lulu says she’ll help Laura remember. Deal? Laura says, deal. She’s going to miss Monica so much. They hug.

Dante says, it was one heck of a remembrance, and Tracy says she wasn’t going to do it. Then she was on her feet evicting Drew. Stella says, in spectacular fashion, and Tracy says she figured she was halfway there, so… Stella asks if she’s glad she did it, and Tracy says she is. Don’t tell her family. They were all over her about paying tribute, blah-blah-blah. Stella says, tell the truth. How is she holding up? Tracy says, it’s hard losing the people she loves – obviously, her parents, her brother Alan, losing Luke, Gregory, and now, Monica. They just keep leaving. Stella says she knows how Tracy feels, but she’s still here, and Tracy says, the last man standing, but Stella says, look around, not the foyer, but this house. That big old crazy family adores her. The door opens and Stella says, the family that keeps growing. Gio walks in.

Tracy says she’s so glad he came, and Gio says he wants to offer his condolences. He’s very sorry about Monica. Tracy thanks him and says she’s sorry for his loss as well. He says he wishes he’d gotten to know Monica better, and she says, you would have loved her, and she, you. Actually, she had a head start. He asks what she means, and she says she thinks Monica played his Nurses Ball performance at least a hundred times. She couldn’t get enough of it. Who could blame her? They didn’t see eye to eye a lot, but when it came to him, they were of one mind. She’s grateful he’s here. He says him too. He saw a different side of the family today. No drama. She says, really? and he says, actually, a little with Drew in the church. What else was she going to do? She tells him, some might say she had options, but he says, not him, and she says she’s glad to hear it. He says, the family coming together to support each other made him proud to be a part of the family. He’s proud to be her great-grandson.

Dante says he talked to Brook, and Olivia says, she keeps asking to help. He says he told her that she looked like a dropper, and Olivia says, facts are facts. He says, no matter what, the family seems to come together, and she says, it’s not always pretty, but it’s true. He says, apparently, Gio is here, but he hasn’t seen him, and she says she knew he’d still be angry, but he’d still show up. It says something. He knows deep down what’s truly important. Dante says, let’s hope, and Olivia says she doesn’t have to hope. She knows she’s right. He says, Brook told him about the trip to Atlantic City. It was good Lois stalled Tracy until Ned got there. Olivia says, Lois knows her way around Atlantic City, and he says, yeah, she does. Olivia hands him a tray and says, just out of the oven. They should be served warm. He kisses her cheek and leaves.

Dante sees Gio in the living room and puts the platter on the table. Gio tells Ned that he’s so sorry about his loss, and Ned thanks him. He says, it’s been a while. Is he doing okay? Gio says, yeah. He’s taking time to figure things out. Ned says he’s glad Gio is here now, and Gio says him too. Ned says, they spent time together when Gio was living here. Little did he know Gio was his grandson. Gio says, surprise! and Ned says, no pressure, but when he’s ready, if he’s ever ready, he’d love the chance to connect. Gio says, Ned was a musician, and Ned says he still is. He’d like to think he is. He’s never played the violin. Gio says, not a lot of people can say they have, and Ned says, a rarified few play like him. His performance at the Nurses Ball showed unbelievable talent, passion, and skill. You can’t teach that. It’s just part of who he is. Gio thanks him, and Ned says, don’t tell Brook, but it’s pretty obvious Gio got his musical talent from him.  

On the phone, Portia says, perfect. Thanks. She tells Elizabeth, it’s all set for later, and Elizabeth thanks her for spearheading it. Portia says, of course (🍷). How is Jake doing with all of this? Elizabeth says, he’s devastated. He loved Monica an awful lot. She thinks he felt relieved that there were no kids at the service. It made him feel less guilty. Portia says she was wondering if it was by design, and Elizabeth says, since Scout wasn’t allowed to go… Portia says, the restraining order, and Elizabeth says, even if Jake could be here, Michael and Tracy thought it best not to include the kids. Portia says, they’re probably right with Drew crashing the service, and Elizabeth says, even if the kids had been there, she doesn’t think it would matter. Nothing could dampen Monica’s memory in their eyes. Monica’s bond with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was strong. Portia says, the kids will carry the memory of Monica forever, and Elizabeth says, her legacy.

Tracy sits in the foyer looking at the family photographs, then gets up and goes out the front door.

Ned, Olivia, Michael, Gio, Dante, and Jason have drinks in the nook, and Ned says, hand to God. The elevator door opened and there was Monica on top of his mother, strangling his mother, or at least trying to. Olivia says, Tracy is nothing if not difficult to snuff out, and Gio says, this family is insane. Ned says, it is, but they wear it with pride, and Olivia says, maybe too much pride. Gio says he loves all these stories. Monica had a full life. Michael says, she remembered everything, and when she told a story, she had a picture to go with it, so it was like you were there. Jason says, she told one to him recently that he’d never heard before, and Gio says, don’t leave them in suspense. Let’s hear it.  

Brook asks if Portia has seen Tracy, but Portia says she hasn’t. Stella says, neither has she, for some time, and Portia says, maybe she took a minute for herself, but Brook says, those don’t always work out so well. She asks Dante and Lulu if they’ve seen her grandmother, and Dante says, no, and Lulu says, but they haven’t been on the lookout for her.  Brook says she thinks Tracy is nervous, and Lulu says, she should be proud. She was so vulnerable at the church. She’s never seen Tracy that way before. Brook says, her either, but in front of all those people talking, she rose to the occasion, and Lulu says, Tracy always does.

Ned says, if he hasn’t told Olivia already, she did an incredible job with all this, and Olivia says she wanted the operation to be a reflection of who Monica was – warm and welcoming and filled with beauty and class. He says, it was all those things and more, and she says, after all the years, she knows what Monica likes. She knows how Monica felt about her entertaining and fundraising, and she just did the opposite of that. Ned laughs and says he knows it was a lot of work. He thanks her, and she says, Tracy’s speech hit home. He asks, how so? and she says she thinks she and Monica were more alike than she thought. Monica wasn’t born a Quartermaine – Monica became one – and that’s how she feels too. Ned says, she’s brilliant and beautiful and a Quartermaine through and through. He kisses her and says, God help her. They kiss again.

As they leave, Chase tells Portia and Stella, thank you for coming, and Brook turns around to see Gio. She says she’s so glad he came, and Gio says he wanted to pay his respects, for Monica. She says, Monica would appreciate it. She thought he was pretty great. She really loved having him live here. She would look out the window and listen to him practice. He thanks her for telling him that and says, see them later. He leaves, and Chase says, he showed up, didn’t he? Brook says, he showed up, yeah, and Chase says, baby steps. Brook says, yeah, and they hug.

Lucy says, what about the will? and Michael says, sorry? Lucy says she just means, what about the house? Is it going to be for sale, because the market is sizzling hot. Felicia says, let’s go, and steers Lucy to the door. Lucy says, maybe a little too soon? Felicia says, yes, and they leave.

Lulu says, it’s been a minute since she’s seen Tracy, and Michael says he was thinking the same thing. Lulu says she was hoping to say goodbye.

As she walks outside, Elizabeth sees Jason. He thanks her for being here, and she hugs him.

Drew says, Monica would have been gutted to find out Michael was arrested and he was trying to spare her that, and Martin says, so he sat on something he didn’t remember? Drew says, Monica’s not a consideration anymore and Jason is gonna hate Michael going back to prison, and Martin says he knows things between Drew and his brother and nephew are strained. But doesn’t he think he’s missing the mark? Tracy is the reason he wasn’t in the church, and she insisted on changing his name. Doesn’t he think Tracy is the Quartermaine who deserves all this fury? Drew says, she’s going to get it. She orchestrated his exile and turned the whole family against him. She deserves a world of pain, but Michael out-destroyed them all. With one phone call, he can take them all down. Martin says, Tracy only suffers if the Quartermaine legacy crumbles, and Drew says, she deserves a lot more than that. Martin says, and he has the feeling someday she’ll get it. You know what they say, in the end, karma catches up with all of us. Drew says, and when it catches up with them, he’ll have a front row seat.

Ned says, they got through it somehow, and Olivia says, it was a touching, emotional, beautiful day. Michael says, exactly what Monica would have wanted. Everyone gathered to celebrate her, not mourn her. Ned says, to Monica, a woman who fought for this family until her last breath. As his mother said, she was not just one of us. She was the best of us. Michael says, I’ll miss you, grandma, and Jason goes to the foyer.

Jason goes up the stairs and stops midway. He looks up and says, I once told you… that you never lost me. I won’t lose you either. You will always be my mom. I love you. He raises his glass and we flash back over Monica’s life. Her journey with Alan, them meeting and getting married, sharing her cancer battle with him. With Emily and young Jason. Performing at the Nurses Ball with Tracy, toasting with Tracy, telling Tracy, this is my house, and Alan gave it to me, and Alan’s death. Jason says he knows she loves him and he loves her too. He flashes back to Monica hugging him, and he sighs.

Portia, Stella, Felicia, Elizabeth, and Laura gather at the GH memorial G GH Memorial wall. They look at the new photo of Monica, and Laura says, you worked so hard. Now rest. Elizabeth hugs Laura.

Tracy sees the crypt door ajar and goes in. She sees a woman facing the plaques and says, who are you and why the hell are you trespassing? The woman turns around and says, you must be Tracy Quartermaine. Tracy says, and you are? and the woman says, someone who’s been waiting quite a while to meet you.

It’s Victoria Lord Erika Slezak!

On Monday, Anna says there’s been a turn of events; Nina tells Obrecht and Britt that they’re going to need each other to get through this; Felicia tells Spinelli that James has the right to know his father is alive; and Willow introduces herself to Nathan.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

It’s about time, although I have to say, they did a bang-up job.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-pays-tribute-to-leslie-charleson-and-monica-quartermaine/

Leslie Charleson’s last interview IRL.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-leslie-charlesons-final-interview-reflecting-on-her-decades-as-monica-excl/

More from the real side. It was a weird world for all of us.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-steve-burton-on-jasons-monica-memorial-monologue-i-was-there-emotionally/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-jane-elliot-on-tracys-and-her-own-mourning-for-leslie-charlesons-monica/

She seems like she’d be amazing to work with.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-giovanni-mazza-on-jane-elliot-one-of-the-great-joys-of-my-life-excl/

I can’t wait to see how she stirs the pot. I can tell already that she and Jane Elliot will be making enemy magic.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/one-life-to-live-alum-erika-slezak-on-her-completely-different-general-hospital-role/

I don’t remember him, but if he was a Cassadine, he deserves a final bow.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/andre-landzaat-the-first-cassadine-on-general-hospital-dies-at-81/

To end on a lighter note, actors who began their careers on soaps.

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

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City

The first thing I noticed was that Heather has Ozempic face. Brrr… After their pseudo Blair Witch escapade, the women talked about their lives. Heather said she’d gritted her teeth while being a good Mormon wife and mother and felt guilty. Bronwyn moved her daughter’s boyfriend in so her daughter wouldn’t move out just yet. Whitney said she now wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, but couldn’t, especially after their business had been a fail. Mary said, some days, Robert Jr. was good, and some days he wasn’t. She was taking it one day at a time and letting him figure it out. She gave kudos to the women raising kids by themselves and said it was an accomplishment. Heather met with Lisa for lunch and told her about the dismissed lawsuits being discussed. Lisa got weepy and condescending at the same time. Bronwyn and Whitney discussed the possibility that Lisa had a side piece paying for her lip filler. Once again, more real than any of these women’s petty bullsh*t was Robert Jr., who told Mary that he felt like he was at a standstill. He wasn’t in a dark place, but it was still there. Mary said he had to retrain his mindset, and he said it was scary. He didn’t hang out with anyone anymore. In Mary’s interview, she said she’d been a helicopter mom and felt it led Robert to not telling her the truth. Bronwyn met Heather, wanting to talk outside the friend group and see if they could be friends or needed to just co-exist. Heather was concerned about the back and forth with Bronwyn and Lisa, and Bronwyn said Lisa had been talking smack about her, and it could either be called retaliatory or meeting Lisa where she was. Heather said it shouldn’t affect the rest of them. Later at a party, Lisa called Bronwyn a gout d*ck sucker. Huh?

Real Housewives Of Orange County

I think maybe these women need to read more… or something. In their respective interviews, Shannon had a hard time with the fool me once credo, and Gina said don’t make a mountain out of a mouse hill, trying it several more times before a producer took her out of her misery. There were some good moments with Tamra and her daughter Sophia, but those were counteracted when she nearly belted Gretchen then walked out because Gretchen had been talking sh*t about her. Which also made me wonder if there wasn’t a grain of truth about her banging the band member. And really, who cares? After pitching a screeching fit – why must Tamra always screech? – she walked out. Is she quitting again, or…? Gretchen also arranged for the group to take a self-defense class, and in her interview, Fancy Pants Heather thought because she lived on the 38th floor with lots of security downstairs, nothing could possibly happen to her. Does she never leave her apartment? Has she never heard the phrase, don’t sh*t in your own backyard?

https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/rhoc-recap-tamra-judge-melts-down-over-boy-band-affair-rumor/

Real Housewives Of Miami

I didn’t get a whole lot out of this episode, except for more arguments at parties. Oh, and Adriana probably shouldn’t set her sights on a music career, even though she sang about her dog. This was the finale, but even the factoids at the end were ho-hum. However, the three-part Reunion looks promising.

https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/rhom-finale-recap-real-housewives-is-where-friendships-go-to-explode/

Welcome To Plathville

I’m including this one this week because several people on this show are totally psycho. Ethan is a big baby man who likes to have literal tantrums where he throws things around. And Micah’s girlfriend Veronica doesn’t just stir the pot. She molds it on a pottery wheel, glazes it, and fires it. In her interviews, she looks absolutely insane as she comes up with every insult and scenarios that are only in her head involving the Plaths and their significant others. At a wedding, she schmoozes with the cows on the farm rather than attending like a normal human, while at the reception, Ethan throws her seashell place card across the field. I’m trainwreck fascinated by this whole peculiar crew that I’ve watched grow even weirder since the first season where they merely seemed unconventional.

Random Reality Items

In case you were wondering.

Hopefully, he doesn’t need new teeth.

A VanderBaby!

You can’t keep a good Morgan down.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Superman. HBO/MAX. I really enjoyed this. I didn’t read much about it beforehand, so I had no preconceptions, and was delighted to find a lot of the plot revolved around Krypto, Superman’s dog. Which should be no surprise to anyone who knows me. I could also identify, since Krypto doesn’t listen, much like my own dogs. The overworked and sometimes frustrated Man of Steel was more humanized, which I appreciated, and I loved the inclusion of a few other Superheroes. The acting was worthy and the special effects, a chef’s kiss. If there wasn’t so much streaming, so little time, I’d watch this again.

https://people.com/see-the-superman-2025-cast-vs-their-original-characters-11770576

Never Let Me Go. Netflix. One of the most depressing movies I’ve ever seen. People live to be over 100 years old because they’re harvesting organs from clones. The clones are required to make three organ donations once they turn 18, and by donation three, well, they’re dead. The depressing part was the clones thought they were actual people and had feelings. It has a supremely sad ending and I was bummed for the rest of the night. I noticed director Mark Romanek also directed One Hour Photo, a magnificently acted, but also disturbingly depressing film that I will never, ever watch again.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/never-let-me-go-15-year-anniversary

🔮 Watch Of the Future…

I’m so looking forward to this. Premiering December 17th. And I don’t think the teaser spoiled anything.

https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-movies-shows/fallout-season-2-teaser-sets-release-date-and-introduces-new-vegas-but-did-it-spoil-too-much-video

🎺 Early Roll Call…

Stars we’ve lost so far in 2025:

https://extratv.com/photos/image_jpeg_20250923_25e72ac1c25143dea5ea001dd403bfd0/

🐾 Lifestyles Of the Rich and Furry…

🐩 Historically famous pets.

https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/389888/historic-photos-show-celebrities-and-their-pets-at-home-through-the-years

💰 Spoiled pets.

https://www.kinship.com/pet-lifestyle/how-the-rich-spoil-pets

🐕 Bollywood pets.

🦉 Quotes of the Week

The point is not to pay back kindness, but to pass it on.Julia Alvarez

Someone who has never failed somewhere, that person cannot be great. Failure is the true test of greatness. – Herman Melville

Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life, but define yourself. – Harvey Fierstein

In order to understand the world, one has to turn away from it on occasion. – Albert Camus

Silent and listen is the same word, just misspelled. – CyHi the Prynce

Develop success from failures. Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping-stones to success. – Dale Carnegie

Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced. – James Baldwin

How you think when you lose determines how long it will be until you win. – Gilbert K. Chesterton

Fireball makes you talk a lot of sh*t.Tamra Judge, Real Housewives of Orange County

Superman doesn’t have time for selfies. – Superman (David Corenswet), Superman

🍁 Bring On the Flannel…

Until next week, stay safe; stay buying your Halloween candy early or risk them being out of mini Tootsie Pops (and get the Holiday Barbie while you’re at it); and stay never forgetting, it’s Monica’s house. Alan gave it to her.

August 28, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Drew Threatens the Wrong Person, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Impending Watch, Look Behind You, Not Your Every Day, A Pinch Over 10 Quotes & Other Side

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Molly walked in on Ava and Cody getting busy, and said, sorry.

Ric said he had business to discuss with Kristina’s mother, but Kristina said, his business was with her.

Alexis met Drew at the MetroCourt and thanked him for reaching out. She said she heard about him and Molly meeting, and hoped cool heads could prevail in finding a path forward and supporting Scout.

Laura met Martin at the MetroCourt, and he said he managed to make himself a very dangerous enemy.

Lucas said they were reclassifying Maxie’s status. She was in a coma and given the changed status, GH was no longer the best place to treat her. Spinelli said it meant they were kicking Maxie out.

Britt asked why Jason was still there. He needed to leave – now. He said she needed to tell him what she was doing there.

Felicia suggested they hear Lucas out, and he said Massachusetts General was where he’d worked before this. They had the best coma care in the country, had made incredible breakthroughs, and Maxie had a room there. He promised her care would be better, but Spinelli didn’t think she should be moved away from family and friends. He begged Felicia and Mac not to let her go.

Britt told Jason that her Huntington’s was in remission, and she lived in paradise. She’d put the past in the rearview mirror, including him. He said he knew her, and she was holding something back, and she asked if it was worth the long flight to let that piece of Eurotrash climb all over him.

Martin told Laura about stella and said it was all his fault. He should have suspected something. Drew was upset and all Drew could see was his hatred for Curtis. He should never have gotten involved with Drew in the first place.

Drew said his main concern was to provide the safety and support Scout needed, and Alexis said they were on the same page. Scout was lucky to have such a devoted father. A woman came in and served Alexis with papers.

Kristina said she knew about the blackmail. She’d thought she was cutting Ava’s brake lines, but cut his.

Cody told Molly that he did it for her.

Lucas said Maxie was one of his best friends and he wouldn’t transfer her, if he didn’t think it was her best chance. Felicia asked if he trusted the staff and could guarantee her daughter would get care and support like she did there, and he said it would be better. He couldn’t think of anywhere Maxie would be better taken care of.

Jason said he assumed Britt was talking about Greta, and Britt said she bet he made Greta feel like he accepted her, flaws and all… until Carly called. He said he was sorry for what he did to her, but he’d never do that to Greta. She meant nothing to him. He was working her the whole time.

Brook told Lulu that they were moving Maxie today and they should bring the kids to say goodbye for now. Lulu asked if Brook was ready for this, and Brook said she was trying to be. Lulu said, same.

Martin said he and Drew had officially parted ways, and Laura said she was proud of him. He said he’d have to continue freeloading off her generosity.

Kristina said she’d made a mistake, and Ric said he was sure her mother would clean up her next mistake like she had all the others. This was attempted murder. She said it wasn’t her intention to hurt them, and he said, but she had, and her intention had been to kill Ava. Prison should be her next stop.

Cody told Molly that none of this was real. He wasn’t into Ava intimately. He was getting paid. Ava said she didn’t pay him and there had been no sex. Cody said Kristina wanted get Ava away from Molly’s dad and told him that Molly hated them together.

Alexis said Drew lured her there to serve her a restraining order? She couldn’t come within 500 feet of her granddaughter. Drew said the family was all getting them, even Rocco. Nothing would stop him from protecting his daughter and the law would make sure of it.

Ava said Kristina paid Ric to feign interest in her because Kristina didn’t want her with Ric? and Cody said, yes. She said she’d deal with him later and left. Cody said, it was all Kristina’s idea, and it worked. Ava was distracted enough to have Ric focus his attention on Elizabeth. Wasn’t that what Molly wanted? Molly said, don’t do her any more favors, and left. Cody’s phone rang and Lulu told him to get to GH. Maxie and his family needed him. (Cody’s very busy, very bad day.)

Spinelli told Maxie that she was getting a change of scenery. She was being transferred to Massachusetts General. Apparently, their specialized care was second to none. She was second to no one in his life and heart. He’d thought he’d missed his chance to be her partner again and was grateful that he was wrong. It had been the best time in his life, and it wasn’t ready for it to end. He asked her to wake up and come home. They’d found their way back to each other before.

Jason told Britt that Greta made a point of hitting on him. She wanted information. Clearly, she had a connection to what was going on. Britt said it sounded like a great way to get himself killed.

Alexis asked, why? and Drew said it was obvious where she was headed. She was trying to get custody by painting him as unfit. Maybe she’d been behind that nightmare with the escort. She had complete disregard for Scout’s well-being. He wasn’t the problem – she was.

Kristina said she knew what she’d done was wrong and told Ric to remember that her baby died, she lost Sam, and her brother Michael had been burned so badly, he’d almost died. It had been one trauma after another, and she snapped. He said he understood, but she had to remember that Molly loved Michael, had also lost a sister, and lost a baby. The baby was also Molly’s, but Kristina acted life the grief was hers alone. She didn’t consider what Molly and TJ (remember him?) were going through. She’d tried to steal the child, and he had the paperwork to prove it. Molly had believed Kristina would stand by her promise, but Kristina was going to keep the child for her own. Molly would have lost a child either way because of her.

Martin noticed Drew and Alexis, and said, Laura had to win her reelection bid. She asked why that had anything to do with Drew and Alexis, and he said Ezra Boyle was Drew’s puppet. Drew’s power would go unchecked on the federal and local level. She was the leadership Port Charles deserved. She said he sounded like Lulu.

Drew said that Sam wanted Scout and Danny with him and Alexis was ignoring Sam’s wishes, but Alexis said, that was before Sam knew Jason was alive. Drew knew she’d wanted her children to stay together and in each other’s lives. Jason and Dante understood, but he was ripping Scout away from her family and friends. Drew said Jason was a thug and contract killer, and Danny was a thug in the making. Alexis said, shut up. Was that the best he had? He was hanging his despicable actions on a 15-year-old boy? He was not fighting his battle against his brother through their children. She wouldn’t stand for it.

Kristina said Ric was wrong about all of it. He kept pitting her and Molly against each other, but they’d talked, grieved, and mourned together and healed. They’d chosen that this would be the thing bringing them together rather than tearing them apart. The only reason she didn’t turn herself in was because she didn’t want Molly to know she’d almost killed him. But she also didn’t want Molly to know that her pathetic excuse for a father was blackmailing her mother. Ava came by and said she needed to talk to Alexis, but Ric said she wasn’t there. It didn’t matter. Ava was too late.

Cody arrived at the hospital, along with Lulu and the kids. Lulu told Spinelli that Charlotte was staying with Bailey Lou. Georgie asked what was going on, and Felicia said they were moving her mom to a special hospital. It was important that they wish her well and let her know how much they loved her before she goes.

Britt said Jason was seeing things that weren’t there. She wasn’t witness to any espionage activity. He said she hadn’t told him why she was there, and she said it was a five-star resort with a spa. She had a day job that kept her busy and out of trouble. He told her to leave with him. He could take her anywhere she wanted.

Brook asked if she and Lulu could see Maxie, and Lucas said as long as they didn’t fight. They went to her room, and Brook said Maxie did it. Here they were, here together on their best behavior. Lulu said only Maxie could make it happen, and Brook said, the most important thing was for Maxie to get better. Lulu said, until that happened, don’t worry, and Brook said they’d help take care of the kids and Spinelli. No one was better at ordering food. Lulu said everything would be okay. Focus on coming home and soon.

Ava said she and Ric were both played, and Kristina admitted she’d hired Cody to seduce Ava and drive a wedge between her and Ric. She did what she needed to, to get them to stop blackmailing her mother. Ava said she knew she should have gone to the cops. The lack of gratitude… Kristina asked if she should be grateful that Ava held her freedom over her mother’s head, and Ric said the argument was pointless. The blackmail was officially over.

Alexis said Drew was an abusive parent who utter neglected the well-being of his own child. It was reprehensible and cruel. Scout just lost her mother and the way he answered was to dump her with the help and sleep with his niece-in-law. Molly came to the table, and Alexis said she’d fight with everything she had. Drew said she’d lose. He was Scout’s only remaining parent and a member of congress. She was a known drunk, and it had barely been a year since her disbarment. She’d had her last visit with Scout. Scout wouldn’t see her again until she was 18, if Scout remembered her and if she was still alive. Alexis said he would be the one who was forgotten. When she was through with him, it would be like he never existed. And if Scout asked about him, she’d do Scout a favor and say he was a good man, because he wouldn’t be around to prove her wrong.  

Jason said, whatever Britt got herself into, he could fix, and she said she wasn’t going back to Port Charles. He said he would set her up anywhere she wanted, and she asked if he’d come visit her. He said if she wanted him too, but she said she wanted him to leave. It hurt her to see him. All she saw was home and he had no idea how hard that was. Please just go and forget he saw her. Forget this happened. She started to open the door, but he put his hand against it and said, just wait.

Mac asked if James wanted to go in, and when James hesitated, Cody said he was scared and wondered if it would help if they went in together. They all went into Maxie’s room, and Mac said she always managed to beat the odds, and she would again. He loved her very much. He kissed her forehead, and James asked if she remembered when he broke his arm and got a cast. She gave him his dad’s police badge, and it really helped. Now it could help her. He placed the badge on the bed and hugged her gently. Cody said he nailed it, and Mac said, perfect.

Maxie was wheeled out, and Lucas said he’d make sure she was settled and well taken care of. He promised to keep the badge with her. Felicia told Maxie that she was the strongest, most resilient, determined person she’d known. She had the utmost confidence that she’d see Maxie awake and alert soon. She loved Maxie so very much. Maxie was wheeled into the elevator and Lucas followed. Spinelli cried and there was sadness all around.

Jason took Britt’s hand and gave her a phone. He said she needed to keep this. He’d leave on one condition. She said she had a phone… unless he put her on his family plan, and he said it was a burner phone. Call if she needed him. No matter what, he’d show up. Britt said, better not tell Carly, and left.  

Molly suggested Alexis get some air, and Alexis told Drew, this is not over. He said, but it is, and Alexis left.

Martin told Laura that he wished Alexis had been more discreet. It was unwise to threaten Drew, especially where others could overhear. Laura said she didn’t hear anything. Did he? He said, come to think of it, no, and they clinked glasses.

Drew told Molly, FYI, if a process server asked her name, accept the envelope. She asked what he’d tell Sam, and he said that he was doing what was best for his daughter. She said he was doing what was best for himself. Sam would hate him and one day Scout would hate him too. Drew left.

Ric told Ava that it couldn’t go on forever. The amount of cash they were taking wasn’t sustainable. She should talk to someone about her spending habits. All of the accounts were empty, including the Swiss account she was secretly funneling money into. He was the victim after all. Ava said it was her divorce settlement. Get it back. He said he couldn’t. He’d bought $10 million in treasury bonds and couldn’t touch them. They’d mature in 30 days, and he was going to collect all the money plus interest, clean and laundered, and deposit it into an account he owned. Ava said they were partners, a team, and he betrayed her. He said she betrayed him first, and walked to the door. Ava picked up a sculptural globe and whacked him in the back of the head. He fell and there was blood on the globe.

Tuesday:

Josslyn struggled to get out of her bonds, when Pascal came in. She said she was there on her honeymoon. Let her go and let her see her husband. He said she didn’t have a husband and called her Agent Jax.

Brennan was in his office, when his phone rang. Anna said she’d tell him that it was his conscience calling, but they both knew he didn’t have one.

Sidwell asked if Lucy was all right, but she said she couldn’t stop thinking about Maxie collapsing. It was horrific. Sidwell said he saw it, and it was terrible, and Lucy said Maxie was in a coma and no one knew when she’d come out of it. Things could turn on a dime, the unthinkable happened, and life was never the same again.

Dante went to the stables with a six-pack and said he’d avoided Cody long enough. Cody asked, what changed? and Dante said Lulu told him about Maxie. He figured Cody could use a beer and a friend.

At the MetroCourt bar, Molly told Michael about Drew’s restraining orders and said she was afraid Alexis may have made a big mistake.

Ava said she had to stop Ric and Kristina said so she killed him. Ava said he was probably still alive, when Alexis walked in.

Josslyn asked what Pascal wanted, and he said he wanted to know what intel they’d shared with Brennan shared and what he already had in his possession. She said Brennan didn’t share anything with them. They were on a need-to-know list. Pascal said if she had nothing to offer him, she was disposable.

Anna asked about an update on Josslyn, and Jack said she was drunk. Where was she? She said it had been a tough day, and he told her not to discuss Agent Jax in public. She said he didn’t care about anyone but himself, and hung up. Colette came in and told Jack that it was time to call this whole thing off.

Cody told Dante that his dad and Felicia were doing their best to be optimistic, but it was hard on them. He’d done his best to comfort James. Dante said he’d done the same with Rocco and it was a tightrope. You wanted to keep hope alive, but not give unreasonable expectations. Cody said James looked up to him, but sooner or later, James would learn the truth, that he let people down.

Molly said her mom had been going off on Drew and caused a scene, and Michael said he’d done the same thing with Drew recently. Molly said, Drew used to be a good guy. What happened to him? Michael said he didn’t know, but Drew was causing trouble for more and more people and had to be stopped.

Alexis asked if Ric was dead and Kristina checked for a pulse. She thought he had one, and Alexis said she was calling an ambulance. She asked which one of them was going to tell her what happened, and Ava asked Kristina to take this one.

Kristina said Ric came over and she called out on blackmailing Alexis. Alexis asked if she did this, and Kristina said, no. Alexis said, thank God, and Kristina said she got upset, but it got uglier when Ava showed up. Ava said she’d uncovered Kristina’s plot to have Cody seduce her and told Ric, but he didn’t care. He’d been busy clearing out their shared bank accounts and putting the money in a bond account. It all happened so fast. She just grabbed the nearest object. Alexis said she still need to call the police, but Ava said, no. If she went down, Kristina would go down.

Lucy said sorry for putting a damper on things, but Sidwell said he was glad she opened up. Her compassion and empathy were inspiring. She said she wished there was something she could do for Maxie, and he told her to keep the company going, so when Maxie returned, she’d have nothing to worry about. Lucy said the whole world saw Maxie collapse while demoing their new product. There were some on social media saying their product was deadly and Erica Kane was probably jumping on it. Sidwell said they’d have to put their heads together and come up with a solution.

Jack said Colette didn’t call the shots, but she said she didn’t understand. It was clearly a disaster. He said she didn’t know the parameters, and she suggested he fill her in. He said everything was under control and he had to be somewhere. She asked if it was another rendezvous with his agent’s mother, and he said his personal life was off limits. If he had to tell her again, it would be the last thing she heard.

Josslyn said Pascal was probably going to kill her anyway. Why tell him anything? He said it made her chance of survival slightly better, and she said she’d consider giving him the information if she saw Vaughn was okay. He said even though she was new to this, she should know she was in no position to negotiate, and she said her lips were sealed then. Pascal said he had so many ways of unsealing her lips, he couldn’t wait to find out which one made her crack.

Dante thought Cody was being harsh, but Cody said he knew how bad he’d screwed up. He’d found out Brook was pregnant… Dante said he’d been a teenager, but Cody said he wasn’t a teenager when he didn’t tell Mac that he was his son. If he’d learned anything, Molly wouldn’t have seen him kissing Ava for money.

Molly said she couldn’t find a solid legal recourse, but Michael said Drew hadn’t won yet. Give it time. If she and Alexis put their heads together, they’d be unstoppable. She said it was the second time he’d calmed her when she was at the brink of spinning out, and he asked if she took his advice about Cody. She said she had. She went to the stables to ask him out for coffee, but he was a little busy. Michael asked what he was doing, and she said, Ava Jerome.

Alexis said, so much for Ava agreeing not to blackmail her, but Ava said it was about self-preservation. She still had two smoking guns that could send Kristina to prison. Kristina said Ava would also go to prison for attempted murder and embezzlement, and Ava said a bump on the head wasn’t like cutting brake lines. Kristina said they all had blood on their hands, so they were stuck together.

Jack saw Anna at the Brown Dog Bar, and she asked how he found her. He said, let’s go, but she said she wasn’t going anywhere with him. He suggested they at least move to a table, and they sat down. She asked what he wanted. She’d put it on her tab. He said he thought one of them should stay sober, and she said, suit himself. He asked what was going on with her, and she said her goddaughter was in a coma. He said he was sorry, and she said she hated feeling helpless. She felt helpless about Josslyn too. He didn’t answer her question. Had he heard from Josslyn? He said, not yet, and she said if something happened to Josslyn, he’d most certainly lose Carly after he’d sacrificed his assets and Josslyn’s life as well.

Colette snuck back into Jack’s office and looked around. She found a safe with an electronic lock and called Pascal. In French, she said she needed help getting the block box. She needed the combination. He said he knew how to get exactly what they needed.

Lucy said she’d forgotten what it felt like to have somebody in her corner, and Sidwell said he was there for her, anything she needed. She said he was doing it now. She appreciated him being there with her more than he knew. He said, why not come spend the night at his place? (I love how he said it like it was an apartment and not a private island.)

Michael said, Cody and Ava? and Molly said if she’d walked in ten minutes later, she’d have caught a different show. Michael said he owed her an apology for the bad advice, but she said he couldn’t have known. Cody claimed he was only with Ava because of her. He said somebody paid him to lure Ava away from her dad and break them up for her sake. Michael asked if he said who, and Molly said, Kristina.

Cody told Dante that Kristina paid him to break up Ava and Ric. Flirting with Ava wasn’t a chore and the money was good, but he didn’t do it for the money. He did it for Molly. Dante wondered what Molly had to do with it, and Cody said he knew how much Molly loved her dad and thought it would help to get Ava away from him. But because of him, it turned into a complete and utter disaster.  

Vaughn was thrown into a chair next to Josslyn by two thugs, and Pascal said he showed her that he was okay. Give him the information. She said she told him that she’d consider it, and he asked Vaughn what the WSB knew about the resort. What were their instructions? Vaughn laughed and told him, go to hell, and a thug punched him om the gut.

Anna said she didn’t know how Jack could do this to Carly. He claimed he cared about her and lured her daughter down a dangerous path. He said, by the time he realized what Carly meant to him, it was too late, but Anna said it was too late the minute he set eyes on Josslyn and realized he could use her. Carly thought he was a loving, wonderful man, but he wasn’t. He was a soulless bastard. Jack said he never forced Josslyn to do anything, and Anna asked if he presented the op by saying she’d make a difference in the world. Did he sell her by saying she’d be seeing the world and fighting justice? He said, Josslyn went into it with open eyes, but Anna said she had no idea what she was getting into and neither did that girl. She had no understanding that she was leaving her innocence, her freedom, and maybe her family. The WSB would ruin Josslyn’s life the way it ruined hers. Jack said, not every agent regretted joining, and she said, just the ones that had a conscience. He told her to stop feeling sorry for herself. She had choices. It wasn’t the Bureau’s fault she’d made the wrong ones. And the ones that ruined her life were all hers.

The thug punched Vaughn some more, and Pascal asked, what does the WSB know? Vaughn spit on Pascal, and Pascal wiped his face. A thug took out what looked like a drill, and Pascal said Vaughn had one last chance. What does the WSB know?  

Anna asked if Jack was referring to her decision to work with Faison, and he said she was so ambitious, determined to be the best agent. So she took a short cut. Anna said, Faison played her like a puppet, and Jack said Faison used her ambition against her and she became a double-agent. That’s what ruined her life, not the WSB. Anna said, both were equally destructive, but point well taken. She owned her decision, and she didn’t want Josslyn to make the same ones. Jack said she wouldn’t. Their situations were different. Anna said they weren’t. Josslyn was in over her head, like she was. He said she was underestimating… and she told him, shut up. End this before Josslyn got hurt, or worse. Abort the objective and bring her home. Stop being an agent for one damn second and act like a human being. He needed to do whatever it took to save Carly’s daughter.

Vaughn said he wasn’t telling Pascal a damn thing, and Josslyn said, stop. She’d give him all of the information, but don’t hurt Vaughn. Vaughn told her, shut up, and Pascal said it was now or never. Josslyn said, everything the WSB knew was in a black box in Brennan’s office in Port Charles. He didn’t share any information with them. If Pascal wanted to know what Brennan knew, get to the box. Vaughn said, Agent Jax… and Pascal said they knew about the box. What they don’t know is the combination. Josslyn said, 1-0-1-8-7-7, and Pascal said, cooperation can be a wonderful thing. He left with the thugs, and Vaughn asked what the hell was she thinking. Did she know what she’d done?

Sidwell said he didn’t mean to be forward, but he knew Lucy was going through a difficult time. He thought she could use the company and Windymere was a large house. The guest rooms were comfortable, and she’d be more than welcome. She thanked him and said, normally, under any other circumstances, she’d come over for a sleepover, but she felt the need to back to the hospital to see if Mac and Felicia need anything. He said, of course (🍷). Just know the invitation is open ended. She said she’d keep it in mind for future reference, and they clinked glasses.

Cody told Dante that he hated Molly walking in. She seemed hurt. Dante asked if there was something Cody wasn’t telling him, and Cody said they were getting to know each other, and he thought it was going well. Then it was like a switch flipped and Molly started hating on him lately, treating him like she had a low opinion of him. He just proved her right. He tried to explain, but he couldn’t find his shirt and Ava was yelling, get out. Molly did not want to hear him out. Dante asked if he ended up giving up Kristina, and Cody said he did. Kristina was probably mad, and he could kiss his paycheck goodbye.

Molly told Michael that it made sense how Kristina didn’t want her distracted by Cody. Kristina warned her that Cody was paid to sleep with women, conveniently leaving out she was the one who paid him. She was finally trusting her sister again. Now she learned Kristina was manipulating her. Michael said he thought Kristina was trying to help and do something nice for her, and she said, that’s what Cody told her. But why not tell her? If it was a plan for her, why not let her in on it? Michael suggested it might be difficult for her to keep from Ric, and she asked if he thought she should forgive her sister. He said he thought she should hear Kristina out. As far as Cody went, in a backwards way, he thought he was trying to do her a favor. Maybe she should give him the benefit of the doubt.

Alexis said, just when she thought this nightmare was over, and Kristina said Ava was one who assaulted Ric. Ava said because of Kristina. Ric betrayed them all and left her on the hook. Alexis said her ex was on the floor unconscious, whacked in the head with her favorite paperweight. Could they not point fingers? Molly would be home soon, and not only was Ric her dad, Molly was an officer of the court. Kristina asked what they were going to do with Ric.

Josslyn asked if Vaughn was okay, and he said she shouldn’t have done that. She said they were going to kill him, and he said she should have let them. She gave them classified information. Has she forgotten who she is? She’s an agent not a college kid. Thanks to her, they’re both traitors. Pascal watched them on his phone, and she said it stopped them from working his face with a hot iron. Vaughn said because of her, they failed, and Pascal won. Game, set, and match.

Jack told Anna not to worry about Josslyn. He had faith she’d be fine. Anna said she thought she’d tell Carly that he recruited her daughter. She stood a shot at convincing Josslyn to quit. He said, in doing so, she’d jeopardize the mission and Josslyn’s life. She wouldn’t say a word. Anna finished her drink and said she hated that he put her in this position. He said she did it to herself by sticking her nose where it didn’t belong. Knowing about Josslyn was a burden they both had to carry.

Sidwell asked what Colette was doing at Windymere, and she apologized for coming unannounced. Pascal confirmed he’d taken care of the problem. Sidwell said he didn’t answer to Pascal any more than he answered to her, and she said Pascal was inquiring on behalf of their associate. He told her to tell them both that he’d soon have controlling interest in Deception, and they could use that company as they’d previously discussed. And they could thank him for the compound. It worked perfectly. Maxie Jones and her big mouth are no longer a threat.  

Cody told Dante that he couldn’t blame Kristina if she didn’t pay him. He didn’t keep money long anyway. He cared more about Molly than the money. Dante said it sounded like he liked her, and Cody said he did. She came off as serious and uptight, but she was sweet and fun to be around. Dante said it sounded like Cody was getting to know her pretty well, and Cody said, too bad it was all over. Now she knew he was a world class jerk.

Molly said maybe Michael was right, but good intentions didn’t change what he and Kristina did. It was more about her dad. She was no fan of Ava’s, but Kristina shouldn’t have interfered in their relationship. Her dad needed to know what was going on.

Ava said she was taking the paperweight. It was evidence and she wasn’t leaving it there with the two scheming snakes. Kristina said Ric’s car had been moved to the garden shed. As far as the outside world was concerned, Ric was never there.

Somewhere in a basement, Ric woke up tied to a bed with a gag in his mouth.

Wednesday:

Kristina came home to find Molly there and asked what was going on. Molly said she knew what Kristina did to her dad.

Ric woke up and saw Alexis. She took the gag out and he said, thank God, she found him. She had to get him out of there.

Molly told Kristina that she knew about her dad. Cody told her everything. She’d walked in on him and Ava pre-sex, and he told her that Kristina paid him. Kristina said, not to have sex per se, but she hired him to break up Ava and Molly’s dad. She thought she was helping. Molly said she got that, but Kristina couldn’t interfere with people’s relationships, even if she did believe Ava would hurt her dad. Kristina said she was definitely right about that, when Sonny came to the door.

Portia found Curtis in her office and said she’d seen Stella. It looked like things were good. He said looks could be deceiving. Aunt Stella was in serious trouble.

Isaiah told Stella that he hoped she wasn’t having any more trouble and asked why she thought she’d been singled out. She said she suspected somebody was trying to cause trouble. She’d done nothing wrong.

Willow met Drew at the MetroCourt and said she needed strong allies right now. The only ones she had left were Elizabeth, Ric, and hopefully, him.

Marco lit a candle in the church, when Gio came in. Marco told Gio that he was saying a prayer for his mother, and Gio said today was his mom’s birthday. Every year he lit a candle in her honor. They introduced themselves, and Gio said he’d read about Natalia in the news. He was sorry for Marco’s loss. Marco said he was managing. It had been a complicated relationship. Gio said, for a while, people accused his grandfather of being responsible for her death, but he had nothing to do with it. He hoped Marco believed that.

Sonny told Molly that he was wondering about the parameters of Turner’s jurisdiction, and Molly said, and how it affected him? He said, also Laura and the vote on Measure C. Kristina said maybe they shouldn’t have this conversation there, and Molly said it was like she was trying to get rid of them.

At Windymere, Lucy read some social media comments about Maxie and Deception, and Jordan said they were insensitive. Lucy said the public was believing their product caused Maxie’s condition and told Sidwell that she was afraid Deception was going out of business.

Elizabeth asked how Maxie was, and Lucas said she was settled in and had the best team. They were running every test imaginable. Now he just hoped they could help her. Ava asked if Lucas had a minute. She needed his help.

Ric babbled, and Alexis told him, calm down. How did he end up there? He said he’d gone to her house to finalize the last payment, when Kristina ripped into him about the blackmail and Ava ripped into him as well. He’d drained the shell corporation, even the money Alexis just sent Ava, and Ava found out. He put the money in a bond account, and she was livid. Alexis asked how he ended up there, and he said he didn’t know. He was leaving and everything went black, then he woke up there. He guessed Ava hit him over the head. Once Alexis let him go, he was going to take care of Ava, and Alexis would never have to deal with either of them again. Alexis said, as appealing as that was, unfortunately, it wasn’t going to work for her, and he asked if she was in on this.

Drew said Willow could always count on him and asked, what made her reach out? She said she asked Kristina to be a character witness. She’d presented herself as a mediator between her and Michael, but she showed her true colors. Kristina refused to testify on her behalf and said she was a terrible mother. She needed someone from Michael’s family to vouch for her. Drew said there was still time and promised he’d help get her kids back if she let him. Nina approached the table and asked, what in God’s name was Willow doing with him?

Ava told Lucas that she’d been having trouble sleeping for almost a week and was exhausted. She asked if he could prescribe some sleeping pills to tide her over, since her doctor couldn’t see her for a few weeks. He said, just 30 days, no refills, and she thanked him. He asked if she was sure he wasn’t cramping her style, not having sleepovers with Ric, but she said she and Ric had decided to call it quits.

Alexis said she came home, and Ric was splayed out on the floor. Ava and Kristina explained they’d decided this was the right course of action. He asked why she helped Ava, and she said, Ava came to her first with the same deal. One last payment, she’d cut him out, and no more blackmail. He asked why she didn’t go with the father of her child, and she said because of her other child. Ava was throwing in his car and the security footage which would ensure Kristina didn’t go to prison. He said he tried working with Ava and look where it got him. If she let him go, he promised not to press charges against her or Kristina. She said, hmm… She thought she’d take her chances with Ava. He asked what she was going to do when Ava gave her what she wanted. Kill him?  

Kristina said she didn’t think their mom should be disturbed, but Molly said she went out for a walk. Kristina said she didn’t think Sonny should be talking to Molly about the acting DA, and Molly told Sonny, with Robert gone, Turner had more power and was keeping a close eye on him. She was ambitious, but fair, and wouldn’t manufacture evidence. She could have used Michael to come after him and his family, but she didn’t. Sonny said, she didn’t, and she stood up to Drew, and Kristina said she was glad someone did. He had her, Molly, and her mom served with restraining orders to stay away from Scout.  

Marco told Gio that the autopsy showed no signs of foul play and he was finding ways to deal with it. He left and Gio lit a candle. Brook came in with flowers and said she was sorry. She didn’t know he’d be there. She came to light a candle and leave the flowers in honor of Camilla’s birthday, but she could come back. He said it wasn’t about him today. It was about his mom. She should stay.

The insurance goons said they needed a word with Stella, but she said she was in the middle of helping a patient. One of the goons said, as of now, her employment was suspended, and Isaiah listened in.

Portia said Drew sicced the investigators on Stella, and Curtis said, apparently Martin accidently hinted Stella did something to help him with a claim. Drew took the information and used it, along with his position, to get back at them. She said, what about the truce? and he said he knew this was a possibility. She said it was low, even for Drew. That meant he’d come after her next. He still had the proof that she tampered with Heather Webber’s test results. He said Drew was focused on Stella, who wouldn’t be in trouble if not… She said, if it wasn’t for her. Isaiah came in and said the fraud investigators were back and were with Stella. Curtis told Portia to stall them for as long as she could. He’d call for help. Portia left with Isaiah.

Brook told Gio, Camilla could make the violin laugh and cry. She also remembered how much Camilla loved him. He was her entire world. Gio said she was his too. She was a great mom. He can’t wrap his head around the fact that she wasn’t his biological mother. He’d assumed he inherited his music and talent from her, but it wasn’t true. Brook said, of course (🍷) it was. He was the person he was today because Camilla raised him. She’d passed on her love of music and she saw so much of Camilla in him. She was kind, thoughtful, and so generous, just like her son. He and Camilla were so chill. He didn’t get that from her. Gio said, definitely not.

Alexis told Ric, relax. She wasn’t going to kill him. He asked what her end game was, and she said to keep him on ice until the bonds matured, then collect the money, and put it back in the trust. Then, Ava would turn over the evidence to her and he’d be free to go. He said, and he wouldn’t go to the police because they all had dirt on each other, and Alexis said, tell her that he’s proud of her. He said there was one problem with her master plan. Ava would try to kill him. She said she wasn’t going to let that happen, and he said forgive him for not having the utmost faith in her. Her phone chimed and she said it was Kristina. She had to go. It’s been fun. Ric started to yell, and she said nobody would hear him, but better safe than sorry. He said this was inhumane, and she asked if he didn’t do this to Carly. He said Alexis was better than him, and she said because of him, she’d embezzled. It was a slippery slope. She put the gag back in his mouth and left.

Lucas told Elizabeth that he managed to get some tea. Ava and Ric’s love was no more. He thought she’d want a warning that Ric might come around more often. Elizabeth said he’d be met with boundaries complete with barbed wire fencing. Had Lucas had more trouble with Willow? He asked if there was a reason he would, and she said, the last time Drew was there, they’d had friction. She can’t guarantee he wouldn’t come around again. Lucas said, if Willow wanted to ruin her life because of that guy, more power to her.

Nina asked if Willow was trying to lose custody for good, and Willow said, of course (🍷) not. Nina said, then why was she in public with this man? and Drew said he was a respectable sitting member of congress. Nina said respectable was debatable and Drew was the reason why Michael filed for sole custody. He’d fight tooth and nail if she continued to associate with Drew. She thought Willow finally understood. Willow said, right now, Michael had all the power, and without Drew’s support, power, and influence, she didn’t see her getting her kids back. Nina said nothing Drew had done to help her ever panned out. Do not get sucked back in by this charlatan. He could cost her the chance of ever seeing her kids again.

Lucy said she needed to take a moment and left. Jordan’s phone rang and she stepped away. She said, Curtis… She’d be right there.

Stella said the goons had no right to prevent her from doing her job, when Portia joined them and said they needed to stop harassing her employees. She wanted them to leave. One of the goons said they were conducting an investigation, and she said, do it elsewhere. She was going to contact the hospital’s lawyer and see what they could do to settle this. Curtis came back and said he’d tried to reach Alexis with no luck, but reinforcements were on the way. One of the goons told him to redirect them to the Port Charles police station. Stella was under arrest.

Gio told Brook that he could confide in his mom about anything. She never judged and it stayed between them. It was hard to believe she’d been keeping such a huge thing from him. Brook said she knew how he felt. Camilla was trying to honor her mom and grandma’s wishes, and they’d requested secrecy. Maybe she’d wanted to tell him the truth. Either way, his mother loved him with her whole heart. Never doubt that. When Brook gave him up, she’d prayed for one thing, that he went to a good family and had parents who loved and protected him. Thanks to Camilla, her prayer was answered. She owed Camilla so much.

Lucas told Elizabeth that he’d kept Ava at arm’s length because of Carly and Sonny. But he was getting to know her and liked spending time with her. She was fun and had an affinity for trashy reality TV and wine. Elizabeth said he couldn’t live there forever, but he said right now worked for him. He liked not having to decide what was next. Elizabeth wondered if he was holding out hope that Marco would live with him, and he said it was too early for that, but maybe someday.

Marco told Sidwell that he couldn’t wait any longer to use the leverage against Sonny. He had to tell Sonny that he knew Judge Haran was bribed to rule in Michael’s favor and threaten to reveal everything. Sidwell said he’d deploy the bomb when the time was right, but Marco said Sonny was either directly or indirectly responsible for his mother’s death. He met Sonny’s grandson at the church and had to bite his tongue. He wanted to make Sonny pay. Sidwell said, he will… in time. Marco had to be patient a little bit longer.

Alexis came home and Molly said she needed to get back to work. She told Kristina that they’d continue their conversation later, and Kristina said, for sure. Molly left, and Kristina said she was going to look for a charger she’d left there. When she was gone, Sonny said he was in a bind regarding Drew, and Alexis said, Congressman Cutthroat strikes again.

Curtis said they weren’t taking his auntie anywhere. They were not arresting her. One of the goons said they were following orders, and Curtis said Congressman Cain was weaponizing their department to attack him through his aunt. It was corrupt and illegal, and they didn’t want to be a party to this travesty. Their names and faces would be plastered all over the media. The other goon told Curtis to let them do their job. Otherwise, they’d arrest him too. Curtis held out his wrists, but Stella said it was okay. Jordan came in and introduced herself, saying she was the former Police Commissioner and DEA agent. She’d explain the situation to her contact at the DEA and put a call in to their boss. Be patient and she was sure this would be sorted out in no time. They just needed a few more minutes. The second goon said, fine.

Drew said Nina was just trying to scare Willow, and Nina said, shut up. Willow didn’t need him. Willow could walk out with her right now. Willow asked why she should go anywhere with Nina. Nina was saying Drew was the reason she lost custody, but the person to blame was her. If Nina had just told the truth from the start, she’d still have her children. Nina said she regretted not speaking up sooner, and Willow asked why she didn’t. Drew told her that he’d wanted to, but Nina wouldn’t allow it. (So… If that was the case, wouldn’t that mean she was more powerful than Drew? Willow is an idiot.)

Lucy came back and Sidwell asked how she was. She said, better, and apologized for being so emotional, but he said he knew she cared about Maxie, so it made sense. It concerned her and her company. That’s why he felt bad about delivering more bad news. He’d checked Deception’s stock, and the situation was quite dire. He handed her his tablet, and she said she guessed it was true. They were going to lose the company. He said, maybe not. Maybe there was something he could do to help.

Kristina went down to the basement and said she assumed her mother explained Ric’s current circumstances. He’d earned himself a staycation and had time to relax and reflect on his life choices. Greed and the need for revenge led to this. She didn’t think anyone would miss him apart from Molly. They’d find a way to explain his absence. Other than that, no one cared or would suspect a thing.

Alexis told Sonny that Drew was using his position to keep her, the girls, and Scout’s brothers away from Scout. She was so furious, she lost it in a crowded restaurant. Sonny said, Drew was screwing over people left and right. Eventually someone would take him down. If you make that many enemies, you get a target on your back. It was just a matter of time and Drew would get what he deserved.

Nina told Willow, that was a lie. She never forced Drew to do anything. He was a manipulative, sleazy, SOB. Willow said the fact was, Nina kept her mouth shut and she was blindsided on her wedding day, causing her to create a scene at the chapel and Carly’s house. (Nice accountability.) Nina said Drew would only make things worse, but Willow said, only Drew was powerful enough to fight Michael. She told Drew, if he got her kids back, she’d come back to him, but only if he kept his promise.

Jordan said she was doing everything she possibly could to get Stella out of this mess, and Curtis said he appreciated her help. On the phone, one of the goons said, yes, sir… Understood. He told the other goon, they got the green light. They were taking her in.

Brook said she’d get out of Gio’s hair. Would he be all right? Gio said, yeah, Brook said, take care, and she left.

Curtis called Alexis, who said she was sorry. She hadn’t listened to his message yet. He said she needed to get to the PCPD right away. Stella had been arrested.

Ava said she’d repay Lucas with dinner and drinks, but Lucas said they’d have to skip the drinks. The pills didn’t mix with alcohol. She said he could drink for both of them, and he said he knew how she loved her martinis. She said, desperate times call for desperate measures.

Kristina said Ric set Ava off. She picked up that paperweight and whacked him with everything she had. She thought he was dead. He was lucky. She kept thinking about how he defended Ava in court. Now he was on the other end of her wrath. Did he still think it was possible Ava didn’t cause her fall? Until the bonds matured, he’d lose time and a lot of money, but she and Molly lost a child. He’d leave when they let him go.

Curtis told Stella that Alexis would meet them at the PCPD, and one of the goons said Curtis couldn’t come with them. Only Stella’s lawyer could. Stella said she’d be fine, and left with them. Curtis asked if Jordan could be put in direct contact with the fraud division. It might help if she personally explained what Drew was doing. Jordan said she’d fix things. She promised. She took his hand as Portia and Isaiah watched. Portia started to leave, and Curtis asked where she was going. She said she had to work. There was nothing more she could do for his aunt that he and his ex-wife weren’t already doing.

Sidwell told Lucy that he was thinking, if he was willing to invest enough money in the company to keep it afloat, he’d need a larger interest in the company in return. Lucy said she supposed she could talk to the others, but why invest money in a sinking ship? What was in it for him? He said the pleasure of helping someone he cared about. She had charm, charisma, strength, and beauty. She was the kind of woman who could turn a company around.

Nina said the court would never grant Willow visitation if Drew was in the picture, and Drew said he had more power than Nina realized. Marco came in and had one ear toward their conversation. Nina said Drew was more delusional than he realized. He was setting Willow up for more heartbreak. He’d pushed her to the brink. If he hurt her daughter, she’d see him dead. Drew said, that sounded like a threat. He should have her arrested. She said he could try, but be careful. The most dangerous person was the one with nothing left to lose. She walked out and Marco came over to the table. He said he couldn’t help but overhear. It sounded like Drew had a huge problem on his hands, but lucky for Drew, he believed he had the solution.

Thursday:

Brook went to the station to see Dante about their son.

Marco told Sidwell that he made a move against Sonny because it had to be done.

Tracy wondered what Martin said to Yuri that he was allowed into the mansion, and he said he had information she wanted to hear, and he needed her help. Stella Henry was in trouble.

One of the insurance goons said they’d found another of Stella’s cases where there was a discrepancy in regard to coverage dates. She told him that she wasn’t saying anything until her attorney was present.

Trina wanted to see Stella, but the other goon said only her lawyer could go in. Alexis said, that would be her, and Sonny asked if they were going to have a problem here.

Curtis followed Portia to her office and asked, what the hell was that comment? Portia said his focus was completely on Jordan, but he said it was completely on his auntie. Portia said it gave him the perfect opening to confide and rely on Jordan, but he said he didn’t have time for her petty jealousy. She said he had no time for their marriage.

Drew went to Michael’s office and Michael asked why he was there. Drew said, out of concern for Michael’s children.

Curtis asked if Portia didn’t care that Stella had been wrongly arrested, and she said, of course (🍷), but it didn’t make her blind. He had all the faith in the world when it came to Jordan, but none when it came to her. He said, from the beginning of them, she didn’t think enough of him to tell the truth that she was a married woman, and she said she never intended to lie, but he said that’s how she problem solved and coped. She did it again and again, Drew’s blackmail being the latest example. He missed half of Trina’s life because of her lies. He tried to trust her and she repaid him by lying again. This time, Aunt Stella was paying for it.

Alexis said the goon trying to prevent her client from access to counsel was illegal and wouldn’t bode well for their investigation and he took her into the interrogation room. Trina thanked Sonny, who said something wasn’t right. This unit did bigger cases and nothing Stella had done would rate them. Trina asked if he thought Stella was here because she was being targeted by Drew.

Martin said Stella was being investigated for insurance fraud, but Tracy said Stella was principled to a fault. He said now they had to prove it. He was hoping she would leverage the Quartermaine family name. She was a powerful member of the board, so she could convince the hospital to lobby support. Tracy said, consider it done, and asked how this lunacy commenced. Martin said, Drew Cain.

Michael said Drew had two minutes, but Drew said he only needed one. He was going to bring Wiley and Amelia to Willow today and be on his best behavior. He was going to smile and apologize for keeping her from her children and tell the kids he’d made a big mistake. Then he wouldn’t get between the move for shared custody, 50/50. Michael said, the judge thought otherwise, but Drew said her ruling was meaningless now that he knew it was bought and paid for.

In the church, Gio talked to Camilla. He said he missed her every day, especially today. He knew how much she loved her birthday and the traditions that went with it. He’d play Vivaldi for her and out of all the traditions, that one was probably his favorite. She’d said music had to come from the heart or it wasn’t worth playing. He hadn’t found it in his heart to play since he found out the truth. Right now, the only thing he felt was loss.

Brook told Dante that she went to light a candle and Gio was there doing the same thing. It was the first of Camilla’s birthdays since he found out. He had questions he’d never be able to ask her, and he was the same sad, grieving boy he was when she died. Dante said he remembered the funeral. Gio was lost and broken. Brook said when life was dark and hopeless, family got you through it. Gio needed his father.

Dante said he and Gio hadn’t been on good terms since Rocco went to the hospital, but Brook told him, try. He was a good father, and she’d taken away his chance with Gio. Dante left.

Martin said he’d sung Stella’s praises to Drew and Drew put the rest together, and Tracy said Stella was in jail because of him. Martin said don’t lay this at his feet. This was all because of her.

Alexis told the goons they’d been moving so fast, they forgot to get the judge’s signature. They left, and Alexis said she’d bought them a little time. Stella asked if she was really going to jail.

Jordan asked if Isaiah had seen Curtis, and Isaiah said Curtis was with his wife. She said she had news about Stella, but he suggested maybe giving them the space they needed. He said she needed him to stop with the snide remarks. What was going on? He said, she and Curtis obviously had feelings for each other.

Portia said Curtis was blaming her? and he said this whole mess started because of her. He understood she wanted to protect Trina, but she went about it all wrong. She told that was easy to say after the fact. At the time, all she could think about was keeping her daughter safe. He asked if she didn’t think they wanted the same thing. She left herself wide open to Drew’s blackmail. He went after Drew to defend her, and Drew had gone after Stella in retaliation – because of her. She said, normally she’d beg for his forgiveness and apologize, but not anymore. She may have told lies, but he was living one.

Marco said he told Drew about Judge Haran, and Sidwell asked, why? Marco said he knew Drew would act on it, and Sidwell asked how it served their mission. Marco said Drew would use it to go after custody of Willow’s kids and it would make Sonny unravel. Michael would blame Sonny and Sonny would lose his son like he lost his mother. Sidwell said Marco made a foolish error in judgement.

Michael said he had no idea what Drew was talking about, and Drew said the night before he stripped Willow of her parental rights, a million dollars ended up in Judge Haran’s bank account. Sonny paid off the judge, and he was going to use his congressional power to expose it. When he did, the decision would be questioned and thrown out. He’d be ordered back to family court and all of his sins, including getting Sasha pregnant while he was still married, would be held against him. Maybe he’d get a weekend a month and a week during the summer if he was lucky. 50/50 seemed generous and he should jump on it while he had the chance.

Martin said if it weren’t for Tracy, he wouldn’t have needed Stella’s help. She torpedoed him at the press conference and ratted him out to his exes when he was in lockup in Lodi. Tracy said the only thing they agreed on was that Stella was a good woman who needed their assistance, which they could give her separately, and he said the idea of working together was just a joke. He prayed every night he was there to see it when she got what was coming to her. She said, back at him. Get out of her house. He said it wasn’t hers. All this belonged to Monica.

Isaiah said he saw Curtis and Jordan in the park, and Jordan said Curtis was married. She never crossed the line and never would. He said he’d been watching Portia struggle to keep her marriage intact, and Jordan said she didn’t realize he and Portia were close. He said Portia convinced him to join the staff as a surgeon. She didn’t deserve to be caught in the middle of what was going on with Jordan and Curtis. Jordan said nothing was going on, and he said, maybe that was true for her, but could she say that was true for Curtis?

Portia said Curtis laid next to her in bed, kissed her, made love to her, and told her that he loved her, but his heart belonged to Jordan. He said she conveniently kept forgetting one thing. He never gave Jordan a second chance, but he’d given her more than one. She said now she wondered if the reason was because he was on the rebound from Jordan and now he wanted to get back with her.

Alexis told Stella that Trina and Sonny were outside. She wasn’t alone. Stella said she should have thought more about her family before working the system for her patients, but Alexis said she wasn’t there because of what she did. It was because of who she is.

Michael said his father wasn’t even at court, and Drew said that was convenient. He was sure an inquiry into the judge’s bank records would show a large deposit the day before the ruling. Michael said Drew planned to abuse his power, and Drew suggested he tell the court that Willow should have full custody. Michael said that would never happen, and Drew suggested he may be able to pull strings and get a judge to replace Haran. Maybe one he had a little sway with.

Gio prayed, and from the back of the church, Dante said, amen.

Dante asked if Gio minded if he joined him, and Gio said it was a church. Anyone could come in. Dante sat down and Gio said Brook told Dante he was there. Dante said she reminded him it was Gio’s mother’s birthday. He should have known. Sorry. He remembered the parties the Cerullos threw. Camilla’s birthday was timed around Labor Day, so it was a double celebration. They had great times together. Gio asked if he was mad at Camilla, and Dante said, no, why would he be? Gio said she knew the truth about Dante and Brook like Lois and Gloria did. He was mad at them, so Dante must be mad at his mom too.

Jordan said Isaiah was out of line and she wasn’t dignifying it with an answer. He said it was a shame. They could have had something great. He fell for her. Maybe it ended because of a business relationship, but the truth was, he never had a shot. Her heart was always with Curtis. Maybe she was used to denying her own feelings because she couldn’t see them, but he could.

Curtis said he and Jordan shared a history and family, but so did he and Portia. The difference was, they shared a daughter. Portia said, Trina was the reason they were still married. Not because he was in love with her, but because he wanted to create a family with Trina to make up for the time he missed out on. He said, because of her, and she asked how long he’d felt this way. He said he’d buried his feelings of resentment about her lies, hoping and praying they’d go away so they could be a family, but they hadn’t. They were just under the surface. She said it was the most honest he’d been. Now she knew for sure he was never going to forgive her lying about Trina. She believed he was always in love with Jordan. He said he was going to be with his aunt, and she said if he walked out, it would confirm that everything was true. He never wanted to fight for their marriage, and she’d know their marriage was over. He left and she cried.

Sidwell said they both wanted to bring Sonny down in completely different ways, and Marco said Sidwel’s strategy was to wait. His was to act. Sidwell said Marco was controlled by his emotions. He wanted to use the information to get control of Sonny’s piers. Marco said he didn’t care about the piers. He cared about justice for his mother. Sonny needed to pay for the role he played in her death. Sidwell said he agreed. That was all part of the plan until Marco imploded it. So now they had to figure out what the blowback was going to be for them.

Sonny said Stella wanted him to stay out, and Alexis said she was right. He was a radioactive presence that would complicate things. He said it wasn’t that simple when Drew’s fingerprints were on it. Sooner or later, that SOB was going to pay.

Michael said if Drew had proof, he’d be waving it in his face, but Drew said he’d get what he needed. Michael said he’d just falsify it. He’d made it clear what he’d do when someone stood in his way. The court order said he had full custody. After this stunt, he’d see that the hearing was pushed back indefinitely. Congratulations. He may have just cost Willow the chance to get her kids back for the second time. Drew said, don’t say he didn’t warn him, and left.  

On the phone, Drew told Kai that he needed a favor. He needed to find out where Carly was right now.

Tracy told someone to call her as soon as possible. It was about Stella. Brook came in and said she was at the station and saw Alexis, Trina, and Sonny there for Stella. Tracy promised Martin would answer for it. He shot his mouth off, and Drew ran with it. Brook said she was sorry. She knew how close Tracy and Stella were. Tracy said she was doing what she could to help. Why was Brook at the PCPD? Brook said she went to talk to Dante about Gio. He was lost and hurting and needed a parent, but she knew it couldn’t be her.

Dante said Gio’s mom was always booked and when he was too little to go with her, he’d stay with them. He remembered a Christmas Eve when one of the Seven Fishes caught on fire. Brook, Lois, and Gloria spent most of the night trying to put it out. It was funny now, but not then. They were all in the kitchen, leaving him to hold Gio. It was the first time he’d ever held a baby, and he was petrified. It felt like he was holding a ticking bomb. Camilla walked in and she and Gio looked at each other like they were the only people in the room. There was smoke, burning fish, chaos, yelling, and it stunk, but they didn’t notice. They just had big smiles looking at each other. He knew Gio wished he could talk to her again and find out why she went along with all this, but he thought Gio already knew the answer. Camilla was thinking about him every step of the way. He could see that and hoped one day Gio could too.

Jordan said she was sorry she hurt Isaiah, but it had nothing to do with Curtis. He wasn’t a part of her life in the way Isaiah thought. Curtis came out of the elevator, and Isaiah left. Curtis wondered what that was about, but Jordan said it didn’t matter. She talked to old co-workers, and couldn’t do much about calling in favors yet, but she did get solid information. It started with a tip and the investigators were pointed in Stella’s direction. It was someone with a lot of influence in the political sector. He said, like a congressman, and she said, exactly.

Portia cried over her framed wedding photos, screamed, and smashed them. She tried to pull her wedding ring off, when Isaiah came in. He asked if she was okay, and she said she couldn’t get this off. He said it was okay. Just breathe.

Michael told Sonny that Drew was coming after him and the kids, and he was using Sonny to do it.

Brook told Tracy that the reason Gio was hurting was the close bond he’d had with Camilla. They were each other’s entire world. Thank God for that. The one question that haunted her was wondering if his adoptive mother would love him as much as she would have loved him. Tracy said now she knew he was, and Brook said her prayer was answered, but it made her sad that they wouldn’t have the same relationship. Tracy said she didn’t know that. Life was long and Gio wasn’t done writing his story yet.

Gio said he had to get going and thanked Dante for the story. Dante said he had lots more if Gio wanted to hear them, and Gio said he appreciated today, but wasn’t interested in the two of them being close. Dante said he understood. He was sorry for the way he’d treated Gio when Rocco was taken to the hospital. He was scared out of his mind and took it out on Gio instead of dealing with his feelings. He’d just lost Sam and was worried about losing Rocco. It was inexcusable and he was sorry. He wasn’t saying that because he knew Gio was his son. He’d wanted to apologize at the Nurses Ball, but didn’t want to ruin the moment. Gio’s mom would have been proud of his playing. Gio said he’d like to think so too, and started to leave, but then said, what if Dante had known about him when he was younger? What would he have done? Dante said he’d like to think he would have stepped up and been the father Gio deserved. Unfortunately, they’d never know, but what he did know was that he was sorry he didn’t get the chance.

Sidwell told Marco, what’s done is done, and Marco asked, what now? Sidwell said they needed to stay one step ahead of Corinthos.

Sonny said he didn’t bribe the judge, and Michael said he didn’t think so, but Drew did. He mentioned proof that the judge’s bank account received a very large payment. Sonny said, maybe. Just know he didn’t do it, but somebody else might have.

Sidwell told Marco, the best case scenario was everything coming out and the judge admitting the payment came from him. Marco said, best case? and Sidwell said, in the worst case, Sonny would get to the judge first and figure out who was behind it. Then they’d find themselves staring down the barrel again.

Michael said Drew was trying to frame him and force Willow getting custody. If he was put behind bars, she’d get custody that way. Sonny said there was only one person who could give them the answer – Judge Haran.

Sidwell said, to avoid retaliation, they needed to get to Judge Haran before Corinthos did.

Stella said she was sorry Trina got caught up in this. Don’t get involved any deeper so Drew made her his target. She didn’t think she could take it if something happened to Trina. Trina said she loved that Stella was trying to protect her, but don’t worry, and Stella said she was trying to protect herself. They hugged, and Trina said everything would be okay. She loved Stella. Stella said she loved Trina too, and Trina left.

Trina came out and told Alexis to stay with her aunt. Alexis asked where she was headed, and Trina said, to get some answers.

Isaiah took Portia’s ring off her finger, and they kissed. He tossed the ring on the floor next to the broken picture frames, and Portia tossed away her lab coat. They got busy.

On the phone with Willow, Drew said he went to see Michael. He thought, after the dust settled, Michael would reconsider their custody agreement. Curtis came in and said the crusade against his family needed to stop. It needed to end or he would end Drew.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Britt wakes up with a hangover and groans. She says, damn you, Jason.

Carly tells her assistant, if Michael calls, put him through. Otherwise, she needs all of her calls held. She has a very important meeting. She tells Rocco and Danny, all right gentlemen, fun’s over. It’s the end of the line.

Chase sees Judge Haran in Bobbie’s, and she tells him that she wanted to thank him. She appreciated his testimony in the Morrison case. He says, glad he could help. Actually, he was hoping to run into her about a case. She says she already made her ruling, but he says, it concerns another case she’s handling. There’s something she needs to know about Willow Tate.

At the hospital, Elizabeth thanks Willow for coming in, and Willow says she was happy to do it. Before they get started, does Elizabeth have a minute? Elizabeth says, of course (🍷). Is something wrong? Willow says, not wrong. After all the kindness Elizabeth has shown her, she deserves to know about it first. Elizabeth says, okay… and Willow says she’s getting back together with Drew.

Curtis says, coming after his family will be the last mistake Drew ever makes, and Drew says, Curtis can threaten him. Curtis can come after him. Whatever he wants. It doesn’t matter. His aunt still committed fraud. Curtis says, and Drew just had to kick off the investigation, didn’t he? Not because of anything he thought she did – Kai approaches the door and listens – but because he could use her to get to him. Drew says, it hurts, doesn’t it, watching his family suffer. Good.

Portia and Isaiah get busy in her office, and there’s a song part.

Carly says she’d like them both to work at the MetroCourt next summer. She could even move them up to lifeguard, if they get certified. Danny asks if lifeguards get tips, and she says, no, but they do make more money. Rocco says, it’s a dilemma, but she says, they have plenty of time to think. In the meantime, enjoy the rest of the time they have off before they have to hit the books. They thank her, and she says, by the way, has Danny heard from his dad? Danny says, actually, his dad called to tell him that he was coming home, and Carly says, great, but Danny says, not really. The best thing he can do is stay away.

Britt slugs around and tries to brush her hair. She says, even her hair hurts. The room phone rings, and she says, what? Pascal says he was just in her lab and she’s not there, and she says she knows. She’s in her room. He called her here. He asks if he needs to remind her, and she says, please don’t, she’s begging him, but he says she’s here to work, not swill margaritas by the pool. She’s wasted a whole day. Britt says, the day’s not over yet. If he’s done reminding her, she’ll be right there. She hangs up and picks up the burner phone Jason gave her. She says, get over yourself. It’s just a phone, not a token of his love. She puts it in a decorative box and leaves.

Judge Haran tells Chase that she ruled on the Corinthos divorce case months ago. As she recalls, the only thing on her calendar now is a visitation hearing. He says, right, in October, and she says, as a fellow officer of the court, he knows she can only rule on testimony submitted under oath. He says he understands, and she says, then he should also know, speaking about that case, and in this setting, is highly inappropriate, and anything he says will have no bearing on her ruling. He says he didn’t expect it would. What he needs to say is purely background. She says, he’s an excellent detective, so say what he needs to say quickly, and he thanks her. They sit down, and he says, as she may remember, he and Willow were once married. She says, it was brought out at trial, and he says, whatever she’s heard, know that Willow is a wonderful mother and deserves to see her kids.

In the breakroom, Elizabeth says, after everything Drew put her through, why is Willow going back to him? and Willow says, because Drew can get her kids back. Elizabeth says he made her that promise before and look what happened. She completely lost custody of her kids. Willow says, even so, he’s still her best chance, but Elizabeth says, no, he’s not. He not only failed in helping her get her kids back, he was the reason she lost them. Willow says, not entirely, and Elizabeth says she knows there were other factors, but Willow has a strong enough case without Drew. She doesn’t need him. Willow says, Elizabeth has been wonderful and supportive. She’ll always be thankful for everything Elizabeth has done for her, but the truth is, if she goes into court with nothing but a few character references from co-workers and a spotless attendance record, there will be no visitation. After everything that’s happened, she’ll be shut out of her kids’ life for good, and she can’t let that happen.

Curtis tells Drew that he’s a coward. Drew doesn’t have what it takes to face him, so he came for Curtis’s family. His 70-year-old aunt is sitting in the PCPD right now because of Drew. Drew says he was just playing by Curtis’s playbook. Curtis broke Willow’s heart on her wedding day, so he had to pay back Curtis in kind. Kai continues to listen, and Curtis says he didn’t break Willow’s heart, Drew did that. Remember? By screwing her mom while breaking up her marriage, then lying about the whole thing. Drew says Curtis is always coming at him with a double standard. Curtis is all about honesty, except when it has to do with Stella or Portia. He’s just telling the truth. And he just got started. There’s still the matter of Curtis’s wife… Curtis says, it’s not about Portia. It’s about his auntie. All she wanted to do was help people. Drew says he heard about her good deeds from Martin Grey. She had a little tendency to bend things for the patients. As such, it was his duty as a representative to the people to alert the state. Curtis says, so he got his flunkies to start an investigation. Drew needed to end this while he still could.

Isaiah picks up Portia’s wedding photo and says he just wants her to know he didn’t plan this. She says, just so he knows, neither did she. He says, good thing too. Most of her plans seemed to blow up in her face. She picks up her wedding ring and looks at it. Isaiah says, so, any regrets? and she says, not a one, but this can’t have happened here. He says, no, and she says she’s his boss. This is her office. He nods, when Trina comes in.

Carly says, did she miss something? and Danny says, not at all. It’s about Scout and Drew. She asks what his so-called uncle did now, and Danny says, he got restraining orders against him and Rocco to keep away from Scout. She asks, why? and Danny says he picked up his sister from camp one day. Rocco says, they just wanted to see their sister, and she wanted to see them, but they didn’t get Drew’s permission. Danny says, Drew accused him of kidnapping, and Carly wonders why she’s not surprised. She doesn’t understand what it’s got to do with Danny not wanting his dad to come back. Danny says, here’s the thing, Rocco’s been served… Rocco says, or rather his mom was because he’s a minor. Danny says, they had to serve Rocco’s to his legal guardian. His legal guardian is his dad. Until his dad comes home, he can’t be served, which means, legally, he can still see Scout.

Jordan says, Stella would never have been arrested if Drew hadn’t singled her out. It’s an obvious abuse of power. Stella says that’s what she was afraid of. Not for herself, but for Curtis. Drew can’t keep pushing Curtis like this or Curtis is going to fight back and do something that he’ll regret. Which means Jordan has to stop him. Jordan says, me? She’ll try. Stella says she needs to do more than that. Right now, she’s the only one he’ll listen to. Please. She’s got to talk him down.

Drew says he offered Curtis his friendship over and over, even after Curtis tanked his company and forced him out. Curtis spit in his face and took away the woman he loved. Curtis says, maybe Drew shouldn’t have been screwing her mom, and Drew says, and maybe while Curtis is talking to his aunt through the plexiglass window, he can remind her that he’s the reason she’s there. Curtis says, before he lets that happen, he’ll see Drew dead. He leaves. Kai comes in and says he just passed Mr. Ashford on his way to the elevator. He seemed pretty upset. Drew says, he was just worried about his Aunt Stella. He can assure Kai that he’ll do everything in his power to help her. Kai says he’s glad to hear that. Stella was really good to him when he was recovering. He’s sure Drew remembers that. Drew says, of course (🍷). If she did commit fraud, his hands are tied, but he’ll just have to cross that bridge when he comes to it. So, did he happen to track down Carly? Kai says, she’s in her office at the MetroCourt. (While I’m glad he overheard the conversation, couldn’t he have just called?) Her assistant said she’d be there until the end of the day. Drew thanks Kai and says, it’s much appreciated. It’s getting a little late, so why doesn’t Kai head out too? Kai thanks Drew, but says he’s going to stick around. He has to finish the research for Drew’s speech on interstate expansion. Drew says he appreciates it, all the hard work Kai is doing, and Kai says, absolutely. Drew can always count on him, and Drew leaves.

Trina says, sorry for interrupting, and Portia says, they were just talking about hospital business. Isaiah says, they can do that another time. He has enough to get him started. Portia says, okay, great, and Isaiah leaves. Portia asks Trina, so what’s going on? Is everything okay? Trina says, no. The tension level in their house has been ratcheting up for a while now. Aunt Stella is in prison all because of Drew’s vendetta. She needs to know why it happened. Portia says, the arrests or tension? and Trina says, all of it. She and Trina’s dad have been feuding for a while now with Drew, and now it’s spilled over to Aunt Stella. She needs to know the reason behind this mess. Portia says, well, like everything she does and everything she’s done, it all comes back to Trina.

Britt walks down the hallway and sees Pascal with Tomas, who says, understood. Britt says, hey, Tomas, and Pascal says, Dr. Westbourne. How industrious of her to show up. She says she thought he was squatting outside her lab. What is he doing? Pascal says, his job. She should get busy doing hers. She asks, what’s going on? Tomas should be at the spa. Pascal says, so far, he’s treated her as a guest. He’s let her enjoy their amenities, the bar, the spa… She says, everything except the exits, and Pascal says, but all of that could change if she does not get to work. She says he needs to watch his tone. He’s getting a little too comfortable with the imperative. Pascal leaves.

Judge Haran tells Chase, what she can say is this. The role of any judge in this kind of case is to determine what’s best for the child. Chase says, exactly. Wiley and Amelia need their mother. She says, while obviously there are exceptions, most judges believe that children are best served when they’re able to see both parents. So they’re not opposed to visitation rights. In any case like this, the judge would consider an individual’s behavior and conduct since their last trial. They would also consider that the individual maintained a clean record and showed no evidence of mental instability. Chase says, got it, and she says, if an individual can demonstrate some growth, a judge may be inclined to be generous with the visitation schedule. Chase thanks her and says he knows Willow will have a just hearing. She has an impeccable record for fairness. She tells him, have a good day, and leaves.

Elizabeth says, before Willow does something life-altering, please reconsider going back to Drew, and Willow says, if she had a choice, she wouldn’t, but she doesn’t. Elizabeth asks if she still loves him, and she says, yes… no… I don’t know. It doesn’t matter. The only thing that does matter is getting her children back. That will be more than enough

On the phone, Judge Haran says, they might have a problem. A detective is asking questions about the Corinthos case. She needs to know they have her covered.

Carly says, technically, Danny can still see Scout, but it’s a terrible idea, and Danny says, but she misses them. Rocco says, and they miss her, and Carly says she knows they do, but Drew is just waiting for Danny to overstep. It’s not going to help Scout at all if he gets in trouble. Danny asks what he can do, and she says, they need to let the lawyers handle it. Danny says, but Drew is the one hurting Scout, not him, and Carly says she knows, but… Drew walks in and says, this is her big meeting? She says, what the hell is he doing here? and he says, it’s the delinquents. Get rid of them and he’ll tell her. Danny says they were just leaving, but before they go, Drew served Rocco, but he was the one who picked up Scout. Rocco had nothing to do with it. Drew says, yeah, it’s true. Rocco’s not involved, but where one goes, the other usually follows. He couldn’t take that chance. Rocco says they’re her brothers, and Drew says, Danny’s only half and he’s nothing. Carly says, hey, and Danny says he’s sorry he didn’t call Drew when he picked up Scout from camp. He would have, but Scout begged him not to. Drew says, Danny kidnapped his daughter and could have gotten her killed. Danny is lucky he didn’t go over Chase’s head and press charges. But you know what? There’s still time. Carly says, back off – now.

Trina asks if Portia is saying the whole thing with Drew is her fault, but Portia says she’s not saying that at all. She’s right. There’s been a huge amount of tension between her and Trina’s father because Drew has been blackmailing them. Trina says she knew he had something. What does he have on her? Portia says, he has proof she tampered with Heather Webber’s blood tests. She altered them to keep Heather’s cobalt levels sky high, so she would stay in prison where she belongs, stay away from them, and most importantly, stay away from Trina. Trina says, and Drew found out, and Portia says, yeah. She had erased the data in the hospital database, but he managed to get his hands on the only remaining evidence of what she’s done – a hard copy of the altered test results with her system login. He’s been blackmailing her for months and if he does go through with this, she could lose her job. She could lose her medical license and even be brought up on criminal charges. Trina asks what Drew wanted her to do, and Portia says, at first, he just wanted good press at Aurora. Trina says, something her dad was not inclined to do, and Portia says, no. She thinks she got him to change an article, but thinks that was about it. But Trina’s father figured out something was going on with her. When he confronted her, she confessed. Trina says, he must have been furious, and Portia says, he was. He understood why she altered the tests. He wanted to keep Trina safe like she did. But she kept things from Trina’s father for so long and tried to manipulate him on Drew’s behalf. She apologized profusely, and he said he understood, but by the time they decided to fight Drew together, she thinks he’d gone through so much, then this happened. Trina says, because Portia was trying to protect her, but Portia says, all this happened because Drew is a detestable monster and masquerades as a human being. It’s not Trina’s fault. It’s no one’s fault. Drew is the one responsible. Trina says, ignorance isn’t bliss. Ignorance is ignorance. She’s glad to know everything. Portia says she and Trina’s father love her very much, and Trina says she knows. They hug and Trina says she loves them too.

On the phone, Kai says he’s calling from Congressman Cain’s office. He’s calling to check in on the status of the Stella Henry investigation… Okay. Great, and thank you. The congressman will be pleased that they’re following up on his request for conducting a thorough investigation.

Elizabeth says, Willow needs to think about this, but Willow says she has. Elizabeth says, not hard enough. Now that she knows what Drew is about, does she really want to get back together with a man who she’s not even sure she loves and definitely doesn’t trust? Willow says, yes. She knows Drew loves her and will do anything to get what he wants. She thinks she’s seen it for herself. When Michael was at the clinic in Germany, she went to visit him. She thought if they saw each other face to face, they could come to an agreement about the kids together. But they told her that Michael refused to see her. Elizabeth says, that doesn’t sound like him, and Willow says, because it wasn’t. It turns out Michael never knew she was there because Drew was the one pulling the strings. He had her turned away and that’s why she never spoke to Michael. Elizabeth says, that could have been the chance to work things out with him. Doesn’t she think Drew manipulated her? Willow says, maybe, and Elizabeth says, definitely, absolutely, 100%. What Drew did was just… Willow says, powerful. He was able to reach across an ocean and stop her from seeing Michael. Elizabeth asks why she’s saying this like it’s a good thing, and Willow says, it proves she’s making the right decision. If Drew wants to get her kids back, that’s what will happen, because Drew always gets what he wants.

Carly thanks Danny and Rocco for their help this summer and says their final checks are in the mail. Danny says he’s not leaving Carly alone with Drew, but she says she’ll be fine. Rocco says, Carly can take care of herself. Let’s go. They leave, and Carly says, Drew does realize the only person he’s punishing by keeping Scout away from her brothers is Scout. Drew says, Rocco is not Scout’s brother. People have got to stop calling him that. She says, why? Scout’s not going to. He says, we’ll see about that, and Carly says, what? He’s unbelievable. Scout’s grieving her mother. She’ll be grieving her for a very long time. He should be grateful for those boys, that they want to spend so much time with her. She’s going to need them. He says, she’s got to stop worrying so much about Danny and Rocco when she really should be worrying about Michael.

In the squad room, Curtis says his auntie is here, so he figures the arraignment went okay, and Stella says, thank the Lord, they’re letting her go. Jordan says, Alexis was amazing. She talked circles around the judge and ADA. Curtis says, great. How is she feeling about all this? Stella says, much better. She should have trusted Curtis about Alexis from the beginning. If she goes to trial, she’ll be more than happy to have Alexis in her corner. Jordan says, they’re hoping it doesn’t come to that, and Curtis says, yeah. It never should have come to this. Stella shouldn’t even be here. This whole thing started because of a conflict between him and Drew and that’s it. But because Drew is a coward without a shred of honor, he’s pulling Curtis’s whole family into this. He’s sorry he let it go this far. Stella asks how this is his fault. He’s the one who stayed principled throughout this whole fight. He says, and if not for her, he doesn’t know where he’s be, and they hug. He says, they sealed that part. Now he’ll post bail, and they can all go home. He starts to leave, when Jordan says, hold on a second, and he says he knows what she’s going to say. She says, what is that? and he says, she’s going to tell him to let it go and not encourage it to escalate any further. She says, and? and he says, she knows as well as he does, this is not the end. Alexis may have spared his auntie one night in a cell, but so much for a truce. Drew is never going to let this go.

Elizbeth says, what Drew did in keeping Willow away from Michael is disgusting, and Willow says, maybe on the surface, but Elizabeth says, no, through and through. Drew didn’t want her to work things out with Michael. He basically sabotaged her access to her kids. Willow says, because what Michael would have offered wouldn’t have been enough, and because of Drew, she can get full custody. Elizabeth says, and then what? She’s going to keep Michael away from his kids the way he’s doing to her? Willow says, exactly. She is their mother. Elizabeth says, and he’s their father, and Willow says, she doesn’t understand. Elizabeth says she does understand. What Drew did doesn’t take power. It takes a phone call and a little bit of money. Looking worshipful, Willow says, he reached across an ocean, and Elizabeth says, and bribed somebody. It probably didn’t even cost that much. And of all the things he’d done, including lying about Nina, this is by far the worst. She’s selling her soul. Willow says, it’s not like that. Before, she was blind. She couldn’t see Drew for who he was. Now her eyes are wide open. She knows who she’s dealing with. Elizabeth says, he’s a terrible person who caused Willow a lot of pain, and Willow says, maybe. (WOTD) She’d gladly trade her soul for her children. What mother wouldn’t? Elizabeth says, what good is she to the kids if she’s just going through the motions and not living a part of her actual life? and Willow says she’ll do what she needs to, sacrifice whatever she has to, and live with whatever she has to, as long as Drew gets her children back. Elizabeth says she’s already doing all the right things. She doesn’t need Drew to get her kids back because she’s enough all on her own. Willow asks if Elizabeth can promise her that, but Elizabeth says, no, and neither can Drew. Willow says, Drew is her best option, which means she doesn’t have a choice.

Drew tells Carly that an investigation revealed Judge Haran took a payoff of one million dollars the night before Michael took the kids from Willow. Carly says, so? and Drew says, obviously Sonny bribed her. Carly says, obviously means Drew doesn’t have any proof, right? and Drew says, there’s going to be an investigation into the money and into Haran. When that happens, the custody decision will be thrown out and the case heard by a new judge. When that happens, there’s no way Michael will get full custody. Any judge will see that Willow deserves to get her children back. Carly says, why? Because he thinks so? She can’t wait until Diane calls a parade of character witness again and Willow. Any judge will clearly see she’s unstable. Drew says, she’s their mother, and Carly says, and? Drew says, and she, of all people, should understand that. How many times has she played the mother card? She goes out, does something unconscionable, and her excuse is always the same – she did it for her kids. She says, damn right. She goes to extremes for her kids, but at least when she does it, she’s rational. Willow needs help. Drew says, not as much as Michael. If she wants to keep her mother title, she’d better step up and start acting in his best interests. She says, what are? and he says he proposed a deal to Michael, and he was either too foolish or arrogant or vindictive to accept it, but if she gets him to accept the deal of Willow getting primary custody, she’ll allow visitation. She says, so generous, and he says, actually, more than. If Michael doesn’t accept – which he won’t – then they go to court and then he will lose his kids forever. She says, okay. He went to Michael and Michael turned him down. Now he’s here talking to her. He’s desperate. He says, no. He just knows she can get Michael to take the deal. She’s done it many times before. She says, and why in the hell would she do that? and he says, because she’s a realist and because she knows it’s the last chance she and Michael have to remain in Wiley and Amelia’s lives.

Britt sees Tomas and says she’s glad he’s still here. There’s something he can do for her. Does he know that huge server in her office? It’s driving her crazy. It keeps humming in her ears. She needs him to move it. He says he’ll go to tech, but she says, that will take forever. Then her work will take forever. Then they’ll have to listen to Pascal whine about it forever. He says, this is procedure, and she says she knows, but he knows how they follow the rules here. Come on. Doesn’t he want to put those big, beautiful muscles to good use? Unless he can’t move it. Then she’s sorry she put him on the spot. He says, of course (🍷) he can. She seems stressed. Maybe instead, he could give her a massage. She says, what really stresses her out is getting him to move the server. Like now. Do it or does she have to tell you-know-who that he’s the reason she’s fallen behind. He walks toward the lab, and she doubles back. She opens a door with a card and sees Josslyn and Vaughn. She looks like, WTF? and Josslyn says, please. Can she help them get out of here? Britt listens and hears something. She jets and Vaughn looks at Josslyn.

Chase says he got Willow’s text, and she thanks him for coming. There’s something she needs to tell him. He says, there’s something he needs to tell her too, and she says she’s come to a pretty big decision. He says he saw Judge Haran at Bobbie’s and has great news for her and her kids.

Rocco asks if Danny is sue his dad is okay with them taking the speedboat out after dark, and Danny says, it’s not dark yet. Rocco says, it will be soon and what about then? Danny says, Drew is with Carly. They can go see Scout. Rocco says, since he was served with a restraining order, this would actually be kidnapping, but Danny says, they don’t have to take her anywhere and they’ll be really fast. He hates that guy so much. Rocco says, so does he, but they need to do what Carly said and stay away from Drew. Danny says, okay, but they’re definitely egging his house tonight… Lighten up. It was a joke. Rocco says, there’s someone down there, and Danny says, my God. They’re not moving. He thinks that’s a body.

Trina walks into Drew’s office and asks Kai, where’s Drew? Kai says, he’s not here, but he’s glad she is. She says she needs to find him. It’s about her mom. Kai says, whatever she’s going to say to Drew, don’t bother. It’s pointless. She asks what that means, and he says, Drew is the one who had Stella arrested and the only reason he did was because it was the most effective way to hurt her dad. She asks how he feels about that, and he says he feels like an idiot for not listening to her earlier. She was right all along. Drew is a monster. He’s corrupt, manipulative, and he’s willing to destroy people to get what he wants. He should never have given Drew the benefit of the doubt and he certainly shouldn’t have taken this job and never ever taken his side. She asks if he really means that, and he says, more than anything. She says, that means more than she can say, and he says he’ll do everything he can to make it up to her and her parents. She says, good, because she really needs his help right now.

Curtis says, Drew will do whatever it takes to hurt his aunt, and Stella says, because he knows it’s the best way to hurt Curtis. Jordan says she’s right about that, and Curtis says he’s not going to let that happen. Stella says, what he’s not going to do is go after Drew. Don’t let Drew push him into doing something he regrets. Don’t let Drew compromise her or the family any more than he already has. Curtis says, too late, and leaves. Jordan and Stella look at each other.

Portia looks at her wedding photo, when Isaiah knocks at the door. He says he saw her daughter leave earlier and wanted to check on her. Is everything good? She says, it’s as okay as it can be for now, and he says he’s not sure what that means. She says, that girl wanted answers, details on what’s going on between her, Drew, and Curtis. So she told her. He says, wow, and she says, she’s an adult. She could feel the tension going on between her and her father. It’s been going on a while. Now she knows exactly why. He says he’s sorry, and she says her too. He says, it must have been really hard, and she says, it was, but does he know what’s harder? All those secrets. Holding all those secrets for everyone. It was just so exhausting. He says he’s sorry if he made her day harder in any way, but she says he definitely didn’t. She says she does want him to know that her marriage was broken beyond repair before he walked through that door and all of this – her marriage, Trina, Stella, all of it – can be laid at the feet of Drew Cain.

Carly says, Willow may be an idiot, but she’s not. Drew can threaten her all he wants, but she’s not impressed. He says, no? and she says, no. He says, maybe she should talk to the Ashfords about their sweet aunt Stella and how he was able to dismantle her entire life with a few phone calls. Maybe then she’d be impressed. She says, he’s unbelievable. He’s proud of that? Going after Stella, of all people. What the hell is wrong with him? He says, what he did to Stella was nothing. Just the onset, a gentle preview of what he’s going to do to Michael if she doesn’t play ball. She says, okay. He made the wrong threat to the wrong person. If he ever tries to hurt Michael again, she’s going to stop him. He asks what she’s going to do. Sic Jason on him? She says she doesn’t need Jason. Mess with Michael and mess with her family, she’ll kill him herself. Elizabeth overhears.

On Tuesday, Trina tells Kai that he can help save her mother; Michael tells Kristina that Willow has to live with the consequences of her choices; and Willow tells Chase that she found a way to get her kids back.

GH is preempted on Monday.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-is-preempted-on-labor-day/

🧼 All the Soap News Fit to Print…

Never, ever, ever think you have an online relationship with a celebrity and they need your money.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/deepfake-video-of-general-hospitals-steve-burton-costs-woman-her-life-savings/

A refresher course in Ric.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-infamous-panic-room-tale-when-ric-was-the-captor-not-the-captive/

What goes around…

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-ric-hostage-twist-its-a-reverse-panic-room-says-rick-hearst-exclusive/

I can’t decide whether this is cool or just weird.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/tristan-rogers-to-make-surprise-appearance-on-young-and-restless-as-colin-following-his-death-at-79/

This is definitely cool.

https://ew.com/young-and-the-restless-casts-roger-howarth-11799845

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

For whatever reason, maybe alcohol, Kyle was back to yapping about slipping it to one of the guests. He worked Fraser’s last nerve, and in Fraser’s interview, he said he loved Kyle, but wouldn’t be putting his neck on the line for him anymore. Back-to-back charters, one wanting a Kentucky Derby theme, with a primary who is pre-mastectomy. After f***ing up royally, Jess told Captain Kerry that the whole cancer thing was causing her not to have her head in the game. He gave her a hug, which I thought was sweet and thoughtful. Solene continued to not comprehend that you have to work when you’re at work, and I don’t comprehend how she’s still employed. Maybe Fraser is as tired as I am of having to learn new names. The St. David Derby involved hats and stick ponies.

The Real Housewives Of Orange County

Emily had a Persian New Year Polygraph Party, and she said it would be a pivotal night for this group. Apparently so. Tamra slunk back in – no surprise there – but the polygraph test showed Katie to be a lying liar who lies about everything, including her shoe size. After she got the Game of Thrones shame treatment, she was kicked to the curb. Gina and Gretchen met with Kiki Monique, the blogger Katie had allegedly spoken to, and it was Gene the Machine’s 96th birthday. Shannon took him out for lunch where he was serenaded with Happy Birthday from a Marilyn Monroe impersonator. Oh, and Fancy Pants has a downstairs apartment for family time and a penthouse for sexy time. Nice!

https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/did-katie-make-up-the-real-housewives-of-orange-county-roofie-rumor/

The Real Housewives Of Miami

I didn’t pay a whole lot of attention to this one this week. In a nutshell, it was pretty dresses, fabulous hair ornaments, and Stephanie schooling us on Jetiquette. And of course, arguments.

https://www.thedailybeast.com/obsessed/rhom-recap-stephanies-private-jet-completely-breaks-the-housewives/

Random Reality Items

Returns on September 16th, with a super-sized episode no less.

https://parade.com/tv/the-real-housewives-of-salt-lake-city-season-6

Returns on October 5th, also super-sized.

As long as Bravo is paying, why complain?

There seem to be no end to the perks of getting cheated on by Sandoval. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.

Maybe she googled him.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Paper Girls. Amazon Prime. Season 1. I really enjoyed this series about a group of girls who are surprised to end up in the future (for them, 1988, probably so we can have a good soundtrack). A time traveling mystery ensues, the girls meet their future selves, and find out their fortunes both good and bad. While I’d recommend it, I should have checked before watching whether it was a one-off, especially since Prime is known to be a tease, canceling shows after one season. Sadly, this was one of them.

https://readysteadycut.com/2022/07/29/review-paper-girls-season-1-amazon-original-series/

Apparently, the theory is that the series adaption wasn’t faithful enough to the graphic novels, even though creator Brian K. Vaughan was involved. Not having read the source material – and I probably won’t, since graphic novels are very pricey and don’t last as long as traditional novels – I didn’t care, so I’m doubly pissed about it being canceled.

https://www.cbr.com/paper-girls-brian-k-vaughn-adaptation/

The Monkey. Hulu. (Also on Prime, but it’ll cost you.) As Hal (Theo James) says: It’s a bad monkey. It’s a bad, magic, killer monkey. And it is. Twins Hal and Chip acquire a toy monkey – but don’t call it a toy – left behind by the pilot father who abandoned them. Turning the key prompts the monkey to play the drums, as well as cause death and disaster. I’m not sure exactly what I expected, but it wasn’t this, and I mean that in a positive way. It was actually quite good. Gruesome as hell, with a dark sense of humor, and an unsurprising surprise ending. Theo James is also incredible as the twins.

https://movieweb.com/stephen-king-the-monkey-hulu-streaming-chart-horror/

Hollywood Demons. Hulu, HBO/MAX, et al. A six-part series. I’ve only watched the first two so far – Stephen Collins, America’s Dad and Child Stars Gone Violent – but I’ll be back to finish. I enjoy an exposé. I’ve never seen Seventh Heaven, but I was familiar with who Stephen Collins was and it was a complete shock to find out he was a creeper. It’s not so much of a surprise to see child stars gone bad. While many of us suffer disappointments in life and don’t go off the deep end, admittedly, child actors have a unique set of problems. Hopefully by now their rights are more closely protected.

https://people.com/hollywood-demons-docuseries-id-pulls-back-glamorous-curtain-fame-11690832

https://people.com/stephen-collins-accuser-speaks-out-id-hollywood-demons-11701410

Episode list.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt36041664/episodes/

🔮 Watch Of the Future…

While I love so many of today’s shows, it’s insane how short the seasons are and how long in between them. That being said, I’m looking forward to this one.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/fallout-season-2-trailer-robert-house

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/fallout-season-2-release-window-teaser-images-plot-cast

📺 Watch From the Past…

Apparently, it was the place to be.

https://ew.com/weirdest-star-trek-cameos-of-the-1990s-11772466

I watched a couple of seasons of this, but then drifted away. Some of it was demeaning, but on the other side, many of the contestants were petulant and whiney. It always baffled me when they were told they were getting a haircut or color change and they’d totally freak out. That’s show biz, kids.

https://ew.com/americas-next-top-model-winners-where-are-they-now-11792796

🐾 Strange But True…

🐕 Queen Elizabeth would have been pleased.

https://people.com/hundreds-corgis-compete-at-international-competition-11797031

🐈‍⬛ I wouldn’t bet my life choices on it, but it’s still pretty cool, and a sweet rescue story.

https://people.com/black-cat-rescue-goes-viral-for-hidden-talent-of-tarot-readings-exclusive-11788963

🦏 I bet my dogs could make the team.

https://people.com/sniffer-dogs-may-have-found-lost-critically-endangered-sumatran-rhinos-indonesia-11796169

🐻 And stay out! This dog is not having it. Canines, don’t try this at home.

https://people.com/pomeranian-chases-bear-out-of-house-in-viral-tiktok-exclusive-11791334

🐦 Quotes of the Week

Today stretches ahead of you waiting to be shaped. You are the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. What today will be like is up to you. – Steve Maraboli

You measure the size of the accomplishment by the obstacles you had to overcome to reach your goals. – Booker T. Washington

I have never met a man so ignorant that I couldn’t learn something from him. – Galileo Galilei

My responsibility to myself, my neighbors, my family and the human family is to try to tell the truth. – Toni Cade Bambara

Summer has always been good to me, even the bittersweet end, with the slanted yellow light. – Paul Monette

The most difficult thing is the decision to act; the rest is merely tenacity. – Amelia Earhart

Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. – Mark Twain

The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them. – Ernest Hemingway

Dance above the surface of the world. Let your thoughts lift you into creativity that is not hampered by opinion. – Red Haircrow

The wise warrior avoids the battle.Sun Tzu

I cannot listen to you anymore with that bad tan. – Jennifer Tarazona to Elise Benson, 90 Day: Hunt for Love Tell-All

🍃 All Too Short a Date…

Until next week, stay safe; stay enjoying the last long weekend of the summer, but don’t drink and drive; and stay remembering that ignorance isn’t bliss. It’s just ignorance.

August 15, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Drew Targets Wiley and Stella, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Watching Someday, Top Paws, 10 Solid Quotes & Distance

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Cody told the pool guy to put Tracy’s drink on his tab and he went over to her table. She said she was seeking solace from the children at the house, but she enjoyed his company. She asked what he was dressed for, and he said he had a date.

Ava met Nina at the MetroCourt bar. She said she was meeting someone, but he could wait.

Molly was working on her laptop working on her new romance at Haven’s Coffee Bistro, when Alexis arrived.

Dante threated Obrecht with jail, and she asked how he’d tell his son that he’d put his grandmother in a jail cell. Laura suggested he take a walk and cool down. He left and Obrecht thanked Laura, but Laura said the only reason Obrecht was there was for them to see if she was capable of putting Rocco’s needs before her own. She’d proved she couldn’t. Obrecht said just because they disagreed didn’t mean she was wrong.

Jack said there was something he had to tell Carly. He hadn’t been completely honest. He wasn’t sure she’d want to go away with him after he told her.

Anna told Jason that she’d thought it was Britt’s choice to disappear, but now she was wondering if it wasn’t Britt’s choice at all.

Vaughn asked if they were interrupting and Pascal let Britt go. She left and he asked if he could help them. They said they were on their honeymoon.

Jack said he hadn’t been honest about his assignment. The WSB had a specific target, a threat with worldwide complications. There was a clear and present danger, and at some point, he may have to disappear and had no idea how long he’d be gone.

Nina asked if things were better with Ric, and Ava said her date wasn’t with Ric. Nina asked if Ava had dumped Ric, and Ava said, yes, but he didn’t know it.

Cody said his date was with Ava, and Tracy asked what he was thinking. Ava was a dangerous woman and not worth it. Cody said he could handle Ava and was only doing it for the money.

Alexis told Molly that Drew was taking Scout away from them.

Obrecht said she and Rocco had bonded and if his parents came between them, they’d be his enemies. Laura said Obrecht and Rocco didn’t have a relationship, and his parents could make him understand their concerns. Obrecht said Lulu hadn’t done that, and Lulu said she’d been in a coma. Her absence wasn’t her fault. Obrecht said she left Rocco when she went looking for his sister. She hadn’t been a mother to Rocco for years. Was it any wonder he was curious about Britt? Laura asked, how dare she imply Lulu wasn’t a good mother?

Pascal said Vaughn and Josslyn’s room was ready, and Vaughn asked if they could rent a boat tomorrow. Pascal said, no problem, and Josslyn asked for a tour of the grounds. Pascal showed them around.

Anna told Jason that she wasn’t sure, but new information had come to light. She thought Britt’s tote bag was from the Five Poppies, and Jason said he was convinced Britt was there. Anna said she learned that the resort was under WSB scrutiny, and he asked what she knew and how she knew it.

Alexis told Molly about Drew’s plans to move to DC full time, and Molly thought, strategically, Alexis shouldn’t take an antagonistic position. Alexis said she’d gone to Monica to intervene, but wasn’t holding out much hope. She wondered if they could research legal precedents on a grandmother taking custody of a minor child.

Ava told Nina that she had to take care of a few things before telling Ric. They had fun, but it was time to move on. He was too preoccupied with Elizabeth and always would be. Nina said Ava deserved a man’s full attention.

Tracy asked if Ava was paying Cody for sex, but he said someone else was, but they just wanted Ava distracted. Tracy didn’t approve.

Laura told Obrecht that Lulu was a very good mother and her children loved her. She knew Obrecht would grieve Britt for the rest of her life, but never speak to daughter like that again. She wouldn’t disrespect Rocco’s parents and if she wanted to be part of Rocco’s life, she had to earn it. She had to prove to them she could be respectful and a positive force in Rocco’s life and put his needs ahead of her own grief. If she couldn’t respect the rules his parents created, she’d have no place in Rocco’s life. What was it going to be?

Carly said she thought Jack was going to say he had a wife and kids stashed away, and he said it was a national issue. She said she trusted him, but wanted him to be careful. She admired his commitment to protecting them from harm.

Anna told Jason that one of Brennan’s men had grabbed her. Jack filled her in, then told her to back off. He believed the Five Poppies was a front for something dangerous. She didn’t doubt Britt being there was a coincidence, but she didn’t know if it was by Britt’s free will or she’d been coerced.

Molly said she didn’t think it was the right way to go, but Alexis said grandparents had legal standing in New York. Molly said it was for visitation, not custody, and Alexis said that’s how new laws were made. Molly made a list of pros and cons, and said they’d need to prove Drew was unfit. Alexis said there was a laundry list of reasons. He was nowhere to be seen at Scout’s extracurriculars, and Scout spent all day in her room. She needed the support of family and friends, and leaving wasn’t in Scout’s best interest.

Ava told Nina that it was Cody, and Nina asked how they happened. Ava said they kept bumping into each other and he’d filled in for her carpenter. He appreciated her, made her smile, and he was uncomplicated.

Tracy asked if Cody needed money. She usually sided with the woman, but her sympathy was with him. He was better than that and a better man than he knew. He needed to get over his low opinion of himself. He’d stepped up for her, saved Rocco’s life, was fabulous the night of the fire, and saved James from drowning. He was a good man and shouldn’t sell himself cheaply.

Jason wondered if it had something to do with Faison, and Anna said, even though Faison was dead, his work lived on. Britt had worked closely with him when they were on the run. Jason wondered if there was an illegal lab there, and Anna said that was the type of bad Faison was into. Did Britt talk about her father? He said, only that she’d inherited Huntington’s from him. What did the WSB think was happening? She said Faison had been interested in weaponizable tech with the potential to destabilize entire countries.

Pascal showed Vaughn and Josslyn to their room, and Vaughn tossed Josslyn on the bed. Pascal left and they checked the room for bugs.

Dante came back, and Laura said she knew it wasn’t easy, but it didn’t need to devolve into an ugly, nasty fight. It still didn’t. They owed it to Rocco to find common ground. Obrecht said Laura was right. She shouldn’t have spoken like that. The pain of losing Britta was very present. They’d gotten close and had the mother/daughter relationship she’d always dreamed of. Dante said maybe them getting along was what was best for Rocco if they could still make it happen, and Obrecht said Rocco was lucky to have a family who loved him. If one of them wanted to be there when they talked, it was fine. She’d wait to hear from them. She left.  

Cody said Tracy was being kind, but she said that wasn’t something she did. Cody said he’d sold out to Drew for $50K, and Tracy said he should have asked for more. He said he’d gambled and lost to Selina. If he hadn’t, he could have had a downpayment on Serenity instead of doing this side hustle. Tracy asked if he needed the money.

Molly told Alexis that family and custody law was based on property law. Each parent had a 50% interest, and since Sam was gone, Drew got 100%. Alexis said they had to prove Scout was physically or emotionally jeopardized, but Molly said, in the eyes of the law, Drew provided her needs. Alexis said she needed her mother, and in lieu of that, she needed them, a connection. Sam wouldn’t be okay with this, and she had to fight for Scout’s mother since she wasn’t there.

Jason said, Britt didn’t want anything to do with weapon development, and Anna asked if he was going to Dalmatia. He said, yes, and thanked her for the information. She said, if Jack got wind of it, he’d have her arrested and shipped to Steinmaur, possibly for treason, and Jason said he wouldn’t tell a soul.

Jack said he’d never been with someone he wanted to confide in and Carly was the most amazing woman he’d ever met. Carly said she understood that secrecy was unavoidable. Not all secrets should come to light, and she was grateful he was making those decisions. She trusted him to handle the threats. He said not many agents sustained a stable relationship, and she said, as long as he was honest, she wasn’t going anywhere.

Nina said Cody tended to be sloppy, and she reminded Ava of Cody’s drunken brawl with Drew at the Brown Dog Bar. Ava said Drew had treated them horribly, and Nina said she wanted Ava to be careful. Every relationship had complications. Ava said it wasn’t a relationship. They were just having fun and enjoying each other’s company. Nina said, the last time she had uncomplicated fun with Drew, they knew how that turned out, and Ava said Nina was a good friend. She appreciated Nina’s concern, but she didn’t have to worry. She could handle Cody Bell.

Tracy said she’d help Cody if he was in trouble, but he said he wasn’t. Tracy said the next generation of Quartermaines should be asleep now, so she could go home. Cody didn’t have to do this. Cody said she hadn’t known him long, and she said, maybe that was why she saw who he was now, not who he once was. She respected him and hoped he could respect himself. She left.

Molly said she was with Alexis 100%, but as a lawyer, Alexis’s chance of proving Drew unfit was small. If she filed, Drew would deny them any access to Scout and his lawyers would make sure it was a lengthy trial. In the meantime, Drew would find reasons to turn Scout against them. She hated it, but thought with Scout being in DC, she’d still have access to the Davis women. It was the best way to go. It wasn’t what Sam wanted, but they’d see Scout on vacations and holidays. Alexis asked how they could possibly let Scout go.  

Vaughn poured champagne, and he and Josslyn toasted to no bugs. Josslyn said at least they got a break from faking it, and Vaughn found a map of the grounds. They marked where they’d seen security cameras, and Josslyn said there was a large staff present, and the public grounds were only a fraction of the compound. It confirmed Brennan’s suspicions. If they were looking around, it would be convincing that they were newlyweds looking for secluded spot. Vaughn took his shirt off.

Dante said he was sorry he went off, and Lulu said, same. Laura said they’d been out of line, but she was proud of them both for hanging in. She thought they could reach an agreement and believed that in Obrecht’s own broken way, she was trying. They had to remain focused make Rocco understand that they understood his need to learn more about Britt and Leisl. Lulu said, whatever it took. She wasn’t going to lose Rocco.

Alexis thanked Molly for not giving her false hope and keeping a level head, and Molly said they weren’t letting Sam and Scout down. Drew was. Alexis said the custody petition was a last resort, but she needed to keep that option open. She was going to write a petition. She asked if Molly would be a second pair of eyes, and Molly said, absolutely. And if Alexis went through with it, she’d be by her side then too. Alexis said she had to get back to work.

Ava found Cody at the MetroCourt and said she was ready to go, but he said he’d have to take a raincheck. One of the horses had a minor medical procedure and he needed to check on him. She said, another time, and he said, definitely. She kissed him and said she’d text him. He said he was looking forward to it, and left.

Lulu said Laura had always been wise, but she wasn’t sure she could follow Laura’s advice. Laura said they had to keep the lines of communication open with Rocco, make him feel like he could confide in them. Dante said they could do that, and Laura said she’d keep an eye on Leisl. Obrecht was trying, but she’d be foolish to trust her completely.

At the bar, Obrecht told Nina that she had to agree to Dante and Lulu’s rules, and Nina said she saw both sides. Obrecht said, ultimately, it was up to Rocco. She was sure he’d come to her again. Nina asked what she’d do then, and Obrecht said she’d respond the way Britt would want her to.

Jack told Carly that the first thing agents were taught is that you can’t count on the future. He was happy for the time he got to spend with her. Carly said she was an optimist. As far as she was concerned, they had all the time in the world. They kissed.

Josslyn came out in her shortie-nightie, and Vaughn said he was wondering if this was okay. Josslyn said, sharing a bed? What was the alternative? He said, the floor, and she told him, don’t be ridiculous, but thanks for asking. They got in bed and Josslyn turned out the light. She said, goodnight Mr. Nash, and he said, goodnight, Mrs. Nash.

Jason said Anna had his word that he’d protect her, and she said she told him because she trusted him. Take care… Good luck. She left.  

Britt asked Pascal where her medicine was. It wasn’t in her room and she couldn’t miss a dose. He said it was in the lab, waiting for her, and she asked if she was expected to work took. He said she took the whole day off, and she said she couldn’t believe he was playing this game. He said it was a reminder that her good health was reliant on his good will and results in a timely manner result. Or her medication would be withheld completely. Pascal’s phone rang, and Jason said he’d like to book a room. The name was John Moore. Pascal said they’d be happy to have him.

Tuesday:

A room service breakfast was brought to Vaughn and Josslyn. Vaughn got the tray and brought it over to the bed. He kissed Josslyn and tipped the man at the door. Josslyn asked if the kiss was really necessary, and Vaughn said, absolutely.

Britt lounged by the pool looking at photos of Rocco on her phone.

At the MetroCourt pool, Gio told Rocco about Outback needing a new home. Obrecht came by and fawned over Outback, who reminded her of her childhood dog. Lulu came in, saw them, and left.

Anna told Emma that she didn’t have leg to stand on with the no pet policy, but Emma said she wasn’t just upset about Outback. Anna had the lecture canceled, didn’t she? Anna said she did. Did Emma know why?

Drew found Willow at the hospital, but she was unreceptive, saying it wasn’t the time or place. He said he’d meet her anywhere, but Lucas suggested he leave.

Lulu told Carly that she needed to evict Obrecht from her hotel.

Marco met Alexis, who said she needed a third-party attorney who could be brutally honest. Her granddaughter’s future depended on it.

Danny said he invited someone over and Jason saw Scout in the living room. He asked how she got there, and Danny said he took Scout.

Anna said she knew it was Dalton’s lab Emma broke into at her last university and presumed that’s what she was doing in Port Charles. Did she learn nothing from what happened at the last school? Emma said she was just trying to right a wrong and do some good in the world. Why was Anna against it?

Vaughn said they were newlyweds and Josslyn sleeping in bolstered their cover story. They needed to figure out where the tracker went dark and look for restricted zones, starting with a romantic garden walk. She said she had a better idea.

Pascal approached Britt, who said she earned her break. He said she certainly had. Her work was impressive, and she’d made excellent progress. Britt said, give her what she wanted, and they’d get results, and he said, they got results when she was focused and not distracted. She put her phone away.

Gio had to get back to work and asked Rocco to hang with Outback. Rocco asked if Britt liked dogs, and Obrecht said she loved other people’s dogs, but was too busy for her own. Dogs loved without condition, something humans couldn’t manage. He suggested she adopt Outback. If she did, he’d owe her.

Lulu told Carly that she’d seen Rocco and Obrecht fawning over some dog at the pool. They’d had a meeting and Obrecht said she’d only see Rocco at his parents’ discretion. With Obrecht living at the hotel and Rocco working there, she could see him when she felt like it. Carly said Obrecht would assume she was doing it for Lulu, but Lulu said Carly could come up with a plausible excuse.

Marco asked what Alexis needed to know about grandparents’ rights, and Alexis said she needed someone to be impartial. Since Scout’s mother passed away, her father had made questionable choices. Marco said he was at The Savoy when Drew was doing body shots off his date, and she said he wasn’t an unfit parent per se, but he was irrational and spinning too many plates – his career, his mess with his ex-fiancé, and his battle with the Quartermaines. It had been one scandal after another for months and a plate was going to drop. He asked if she thought the plate was Scout, and she said it was already affecting Scout negatively, but she didn’t know if it was enough for her to get custody.

Danny told Jason that he’d visited Scout at Lila’s Kids, and she’d begged him to bring her there. She missed everybody. Jason said they missed her too, and asked if Danny signed her out. Danny said, no. They just took off. Jason said he had to call Drew, but Scout said, no. She didn’t want to leave.

Lucas said Nurse Tate was on duty, but Willow said she could handle this and thanked him. Lucas left, and Willow said Lucas was right. Drew should go. It was going to matter in court, and she didn’t want to give anyone anything to use against her. Drew said he was trying to help her get her kids back, but she said he was the reason she lost them. She didn’t want or need his help.

Anna said Emma had been arrested twice. If it happened again, it could jeopardize her future. Emma said she knew what she was doing, and Anna said, if that was true, she’d understand what happened now mattered. Choices you make today stay with you. Emma said she didn’t get why the person she looked up to most was the same person standing in her way, but Anna said she was trying to help Emma by protecting her from herself.

Josslyn suggested she and Vaughn split up. He’d walk the grounds, while she checked out the facilities, starting with the spa. No cellphones were allowed there, so people might have their guards down. She thought it would be faster and more efficient if she got the layout of the grounds and staff rotation, and he found the access points to the shielded areas. He said they’d do it her way. Be careful and keep her eyes open.

Carly said she couldn’t pass up a challenge and would find a way to send Obrecht packing. Lulu hugged her and left. Carly saw Alexis talking to Marco.

Marco said he concurred with Molly’s assessment. A sustained litany of scandals introduced in court might be enough to get temporary custody. Alexis said Drew was powerful and as the surviving parent, was likely to win Scout back. Then he’d come at her with every weapon in his arsenal. Her phone rang, and Jason said he needed her to come to the Quartermaines right now.

Drew said he had resources Willow didn’t have, but she said she didn’t care. Every second they’d spent together was a lie. He said she was his truest love, but she said, no more speeches, grand gestures, or pretending. His phone rang, and it was Scout’s camp. He said, what did they mean, Scout was missing?

Drew told Willow that it was the director of Lila’s Kids. They couldn’t find Scout and he was going to call the cops. She said, when she was a teacher, kids snuck off all the time. She was sure something caught Scout’s attention, and she’d turn back up. Give it time and let her know when Scout was found. Lucas watched them.

Alexis arrived at the Quartermaines, and Scout hugged her. She asked if Scout wasn’t supposed to be at camp, but Scout said she’d rather be there. She missed it. Jason suggested Danny take Scout to the stables, and they left. Alexis asked how Scout got there, and Jason said Danny had seen her at camp and she begged him to bring her back. He couldn’t say no. Alexis said Scout missed her family so much, and Jason said they were the people she lived with when Sam was still alive. Alexis said Scout missed her mother so much.

Carly asked if Marco had a minute. It was about Lucas. Marco said, okay, and she said she needed to make something clear.

Obrecht was playing with Outback when Rocco came back and asked if she’d thought about taking the dog. She said she wished she could, but she was staying at the hotel. If circumstances were different, she’d do it in a heartbeat. He thanked her for considering it, and she said, anything for him. Lulu went over to Anna and Chase at the bar, and Anna said she loved her granddaughter, but she was a bit of a challenge. Lulu said she knew the feeling, and Chase left for the station. Lulu asked if everything was okay with Emma, and Anna said she hoped so.

Gio told Emma that Anna was Police Commissioner and a former spy. She’d be watching Emma like a hawk now that she knew. It was over. Emma said, not necessarily.

Alone in the room, Josslyn looked at the bed and flashed back to sparring with Vaughn, Vaughn saying he’d tell her his goal when they knew each other better, Vaughn kissing her, throwing her on the bed, and bringing her breakfast. She left.

At the pool, Vaughn introduced himself to Britt as Christopher Nash, and she said she was Britt. He asked how she was enjoying her vacation, but she said she was a resident of the resort. It wasn’t perfect, but it had its upside. He asked if the seat next to her was taken, and she said it was all his. He took his shirt off, because that’s where we are now, and made himself comfortable.

Vaughn said he was interested in buying a place there, but was looking first before he made an offer. Britt must know the resort like the back of her hand. He’d heard there was a private hot spring. She said, no one told her about it, and he said he’d ask the manager. She said, that guy is useless, and he said maybe she could show him around. She said he was wearing a wedding ring and asked if he was happily married.

Willow saw Lucas in the breakroom and thanked him for his help with Drew. He said he tried to help, but she wouldn’t let him, and she said she wanted to handle it herself and not cause a scene. He said he didn’t understand why she was still willing to give Drew the time of day, and she said it was none of his business. He said Drew made a fool of her publicly and to be seen talking to him was just… a little pathetic, and she said she came to thank him and move past the tension, but she guessed not. He said she only seemed interested in hearing what she wanted to hear. Next time, he’d keep his mouth shut. She said he’d been policing her. Why? Was he going to report to Michael and Carly?

Marco said he wasn’t comfortable talking behind Lucas’s back, and Carly said she wanted to make sure he didn’t make Lucas pick sides between his father and Sonny. He said her brother had a mind of his own, and she said he obviously had sway. She didn’t want him complicating her brother’s life. He asked if it was possible she thought him dating Lucas complicated hers.

Scout and Danny came back, and Jason asked Danny to help him with something. They left, and Alexis asked Scout why she left camp to come there. Why did she call Danny and not her dad? Scout said she asked her dad all the time, and Alexis asked if she told him that she missed coming there. Scout said he knew and said he’d take her, but then work stuff happened and they didn’t go. Alexis said she’d talk to Scout’s dad and get him to understand, and Scout said she hated not living there with Danny and Rocco. Alexis said she knew and hugged Scout.

Jason said he knew Scout was Danny’s sister and he loved her, but he couldn’t just take her wherever she wanted to go. Danny said Scout was lonely. She was with a nanny all day. He wasn’t wrong. His mom would want him to do the right thing and take care of Scout. Jason said he knew she would, when Drew burst in with Chase and asked, where was his daughter?

Rocco told Obrecht that there was an issue with her charging her order to her room. She needed to check at the front desk, but he needed a credit card for now. She gave one to him.

Emma said Gio was right. Her grandmother would watch her every move. She’d walk the straight and narrow for a few weeks, throw her off the scent, then come after Dalton. She wasn’t going to stop until she found out what she needed to take the guy down.

Obrecht walked by and Outback jumped onto Lulu’s chaise lounge. She said she saw Rocco showing Outback around, and he said Outback needed a new home. What if they adopted her?

Carly said she didn’t want Lucas to get hurt again, and Marco said they had similar priorities. Was she asking him for something specific? She told him to be as transparent and honest as Lucas was. If there was any inkling that Lucas was into it more than Marco was, she’d rather Lucas be angry at her meddling than be hurt down the road. Marco said he understood, and he left.

Lucas said Willow choosing him and Brad to raise her baby meant everything. He was trying to return the gift. She said, by making her feel awful and reporting to his sister and nephew? but he said he was pretty good at staying objective and thought he was right in this case. She said she’d prove in court that he wasn’t, and he said dragging everyone into court did no one any favors, especially Wiley and Amelia. The day they lost Wiley was the hardest of his life, but the silver lining was that he knew Wiley would be happy and safe with her and Michael. He thought she’d put Wiley first. She said she did, but he said that wasn’t what he was seeing. She was putting her feelings and needs first. He understood betrayal, but why was she going back for more? She said she left Drew at the altar, and he said it was like watching an addict and their drug of choice. Her addiction was Drew.

Chase said two campers had seen Scout ride off with Danny. Drew said he was worried about her, and noticed Alexis was there. He told Scout to go to the car, but Scout said she hadn’t seen Grandma Monica yet. Alexis said she’d drive Scout home, but Drew said they’d find another time to see Monica. Scout said he always told her that, he promised they would, and she left. Danny asked what the big deal was, and Drew said they had things they needed to do, but Alexis said Scout would normally be at camp. She wanted to stay there. Why did a teenager see things more clearly than Scout’s own father?

Vaughn told Britt that he was on his honeymoon, and it was too soon to tell if he was happily married, but he was crazy about his wife. She wondered what his wife would think about him chatting up another woman. Josslyn told the pool attendant that she was meeting her husband, and Vaughn told Britt that he thought his wife would be totally fine.

Drew said Scout’s well-being was all he cared about. He hadn’t wanted her to see what was about to happen. Jason asked if Drew was going to have him arrested, but Drew said Jason wasn’t the one who broke the law. Alexis said he wasn’t serious, and Drew told Chase to arrest Danny for kidnapping. Danny said he couldn’t do this, but Drew said he sure as hell could. (Does he think this will be a good look to impress Willow with? Also, police IRL would tell them it was a civil matter and jet.)

Willow said Lucas had it all wrong. He didn’t hear the conversation. She knew who Drew was. That’s why she walked out on him at their wedding. She ended things, but it had nothing to do with Lucas. Wiley wasn’t his son anymore. Lucas said Wiley was still family. She wasn’t doing right by him, and now her mess was spilling into the hospital. Stella, Elizabeth, and Deanna all agreed to testify for her and write a statement. They were going above and beyond, while she did the bare minimum getting Drew to stay away. She said, next time, she’d consult his playbook, and he said, if she kept engaging, people would think she cared more about Drew than the kids. At least he was saying it to her face. She slapped him and said, how dare he?  

Lulu said they had a lot going on and a dog was a huge responsibility, and Rocco said he got it, but he’d been trying to find a home for Outback all day. The closest he came was Obrecht. She wanted to, but she couldn’t. Lulu said, let’s just do it. She saw how much it meant to him, but he had to help with walking and feeding her. Whatever it takes. He said, definitely, and she said, it’s settled. They were bringing Outback home. They hugged.

Obrecht asked if Carly had anything to say, and Carly said, good morning. Obrecht said the front desk informed her that she’d been evicted from her room, and Carly said the room was toxic. Mold. She could comp Obrecht a room elsewhere. Obrecht said she’d be sure to tell Rocco that his mother orchestrated the whole thing to keep them apart.

Britt asked Vaughn to put sunscreen on her back and turned around. Josslyn got a full view of her and was like, WTF???

Wednesday:

Drew said he was a congressman, and his daughter had been abducted. He and Willow were the only two authorized to pick up Scout. Jason told Danny to wait om the living room, and said Drew wasn’t arresting his son. Drew said, of course (🍷) not. Chase was, and if Jason stopped it, he’d have Jason arrested for obstructing justice. (That Drew, always a real laugh riot.)

Marco looked for Lucas at the hospital, and Elizabeth said he was in the breakroom.

Lucas told Willow that her colleagues had gone above and beyond, and she said she was grateful, but he said, was she? While they were stepping up, she still couldn’t stay away from Drew. If she continued this behavior, people would think she cared more about Drew than her kids. She said she knew he did, and he said at least he said it to her face. She slapped him, and left, walking past Marco. Marco asked if Lucas was okay. What the hell was that?

Temp Maxie brought James to the pool where they met Cody. She told him to listen to Cody, and started to leave, but she ran into Sidwell. He said Lucy told him about Deception keeping quiet about Sonny’s investment. He thought it was a wise decision, but she disagreed.

Rocco told Gio than his family was adopting Outback, and he and Emma could visit whenever they wanted. Brook came in, and Gio asked what she was doing there.

Carly said if Obrecht squealed on Lulu, she’d just stick to the mold story, but Obrecht said Rocco would see through her lies. Carly said Obrecht wouldn’t just hurt Lulu; she’d hurt Rocco.

At the MetroCourt restaurant, Anna asked if Jack had heard from Josslyn, but he said it wasn’t her concern. She said maybe not, but if he didn’t give her an update, she’d tell Carly that he’d recruited her daughter to the WSB.

Britt thanked Vaughn for lotioning her back and smoothed his hair. As Josslyn watched, he said his wife refused to let him cut it for the wedding, and Britt asked if he always did what his wife wanted, or did he sometimes go his own way. Pascal told Josslyn that she looked like she’d seen a ghost.

Willow hyperventilated and Elizabeth asked if something was wrong. Willow said she’d just made a mistake that could permanently cost her the kids.

Alexis told Drew that nothing was worse than not knowing where your child was, but Scout was fine and safe. There was no need to punish Danny. Drew said Danny had broken the law and there were consequences for that his criminal father hadn’t taught him. She said Danny was a minor who picked up his sister on his bike and forgot to sign her out. No judge would be convinced, and he had no case. Drew said he didn’t care. He wanted it on record. She said Scout adored her brother and asked him to pick her up. Scout would feel guilty and think it was her fault. Cut the crap and stop the nonsense for Scout’s sake.

Brook said she was just there to see Maxie, and Gio pointed to where she was. Brook thanked him and left.

Brook told Sidwell that she needed to borrow Maxie, and he left. Maxie said Brook seemed rattled, and Brook said she ran into Gio, and as usual, it didn’t go well.

Obrecht told Carly that she’d never dream of hurting Rocco. He wanted answers to questions about the woman who died saving Carly’s daughter’s life. Carly said she was grateful, but Obrecht would only make Rocco resent his mother. Was that what she wished to accomplish?

Jack told Anna that the agents hadn’t checked in, but were still well within the agreed-on time frame. He cared about Josslyn too, and would know if something was wrong. Anna asked if he was sure about that.

Josslyn said that woman was getting handsy with her husband, and Pascal said she was a long-term guest. Josslyn asked if she had a name, but Pascal said he’d take care of it. She said she didn’t want to make a scene, and he said he’d be discreet.

Britt suggested Vaughn come to her room for a beverage, but he proposed they go to the bar instead. She said he could invite his wife. The more, the merrier. Pascal told Britt it was time for her massage, but she said she hadn’t booked one. He said her friend must have booked it on her behalf and she didn’t want to disappoint him. Britt told Vaughn she was sorry to cut things short, and he said he hoped he saw her around. She said he definitely would, and Vaughn left (which made no sense, but okay). Pascal told Britt that she knew the rules and the consequences for breaking them.

Sidwell picked up a plastic football and gave it to James. James said he thought Sidwell worked with his mom, Maxie Jones, and Sidwell said she was lovely and smart. James said he was the guy with the zincite, and his mom said he’d saved their company, and Sidwell said maybe James should work at Deception one day, but James said he wanted to be a cowboy or a policeman like his Grandpa Mac. Sidwell asked if Mac wasn’t Chief of Detectives.

Lucas told Marco that Drew was talking to Willow, and he tried to run interference, but she insisted on hearing Drew out. She’d come in to thank him for trying to help. Marco asked how it ended with her slapping him, and Lucas said he was frustrated, and it went downhill. She accused him of spying for Carly and Michael, then he pointed out that her colleagues were vouching for her at the visitation hearing, but she’d done nothing to change her own behavior. Marco said he saw the part where Lucas said she cared more about Drew than the kids, and Lucas said, and Marco saw Willow slap him. Marco said Lucas had a witness. Did he want to go to HR?

Willow told Elizabeth that Lucas said she didn’t care about her kids and chose Drew. She lost it and slapped him. Elizabeth asked if Lucas put hands on her or threatened her, and Willow said, no, but he antagonized her. Elizabeth asked, who initiated the conversation? and Willow said she did, but she knew what she did was wrong. Elizabeth said Willow assaulted a fellow staff member. It was grounds for suspension and maybe even termination.

Gio said he and Emma would definitely come over to see Outback, and Rocco said he thought it was a peace offering after he’d started asking questions about Britt, the woman who gave birth to him. Things with his mom were better, but how were things with Gio and his mom?  

Drew told Alexis that Scout would initially feel guilty, but he’d have a conversation with her and tell her that none of this was her fault. Her brother should have known better. He told Chase, please arrest Danny, and Chase said he came with Drew because Drew was worried, but Scout had come of her own volition. It had been her idea, and he had no grounds to arrest Danny. Drew said it was Chase’s job, but Chase said his job was to protect the people of Port Charles, not carry out Drew’s personal vendetta. He’d give Danny a warning, but that was the best he could do. He went into the living room, and Jason said if Drew wanted to come at him, fine, but don’t try to do it through his son again.

Danny asked if Chase was going to arrest him, and Chase said, no, but he couldn’t do that again. Jason came in, and Chase said he wanted them to know they were both lucky. Danny took his sister without telling anyone and they rode a dangerous strip of road. They could have been picked up by a random squad car and been in serious trouble.

Drew asked Alexis to try to see his perspective. He was a public figure, and Scout could have been kidnapped. Alexis said, but she wasn’t. She wanted to spend time with her brother. She missed Danny. He said, they could have gotten in an accident, and she said he had a right to be upset, but was taking it too far. He said he was trying to protect his daughter, and she said, from her brother? He said Jason taught Danny that rules didn’t apply, which made him a danger to Scout.

Brook said she knew Maxie wasn’t happy about the vote to keep quiet about Uncle Sonny, and Maxie said, it was a bad decision. To make it worse, it was for personal reasons. Brook admitted they didn’t want to hurt Sonny and Gio, but still thought it was the best way to protect Deception. Maxie asked if there was anything she could say to make Brook change her mind.

James told Sidwell that Mac was the Chief of Detectives and Cody’s dad, and Cody said he was the black sheep of the family. Mac was the moral compass. James said that Maxie needed Mac’s advice on something important.

Obrecht told Carly that Lulu was afraid she was using Rocco’s interest in Britt to her advantage, but she had no ulterior motive. She’d cleaned up her act and Anna could vouch for her. She called Anna over and said she needed Anna to convince Carly that she wasn’t a danger to anyone. The past was the past. Rocco’s parents feared she was out for no good, but Rocco was her last connection to her daughter. Anna said she thought Obrecht should honor her daughter and make peace with Rocco’s parents, or it would just make it harder on Rocco. Britt wouldn’t want that.

Pascal reminded Britt that there was no fraternizing with the guests, but she said she was tired of being by herself. He suggested sending Tomas to her, but she said Tomas was cute, but no fun. He said she was supposed to keep a low profile, but she said she wasn’t Taylor Swift. She was in Croatia. Who would recognize her? He said people came there on vacation and posted to social media. Even if she was in the background, someone who knew her could spot her and their project would go up in flames. She said she just wanted five minutes of real interaction with a real human who didn’t report back. What did it hurt if she flirted? He said it was too risky. Don’t go near that man again.

Jack found Colette sitting at his table, and she said he’d sent Vaughn and Josslyn to Croatia, but Josslyn wasn’t ready. He said it was a recon mission, and she said, on foreign soil. She couldn’t believe he sent in someone so inexperienced. He had to have her extracted immediately.

Josslyn went back to the room and Vaughn asked if she’d sent the manager over. She said, yes, and he asked, why? He was working an angle. She said he’d been lecturing her on how they had to be convincing as newlyweds. It would be suspicious if she didn’t care about a random woman hitting on him. Weren’t they supposed to be in love? Vaughn said the woman was a long-term resident and had access to places they couldn’t go. He wanted to establish a relationship and get to know her. Josslyn said she’d save him the trouble. She knew the woman. He said, who is she? and Josslyn said, who was she. She’s supposed to be dead.  

Willow told Elizabeth that she couldn’t lose her job. It would hurt her chances of getting her kids back. She’d apologize… Elizabeth said, no. The only thing Willow was going to do was go home. Willow said she needed to show the court that she was responsible and stable, and Elizabeth said she’d do her best to smooth things over, but Willow was in no state to see patients. It wasn’t a request. She was telling Willow to leave.

Lucas told Marco that he didn’t want to report Willow. She was going through a tough time. Marco said it was good to get Lucas’s side on the record first, in case Willow tried to blame him, but Lucas said he doubted she would. She knew he had a witness and in retrospect, he should have stayed out of it. Aside from coming to his rescue, why was Marco there? Marco said he had an interesting conversation with Lucas’s sister. She wanted to make it clear that she loved Lucas. Lucas said, details, but Marco said he’d have to wait. He had an errand to run. He gave Lucas a kiss and left.  

Anna said Britt wouldn’t want Rocco in the middle of a war with Obrecht and his parents, and Obrecht said, in the spirit of cooperation, she’d content herself with a room at the Cosmopolitan. She’d need the penthouse. Carly said, of course (🍷), thanked them, and left. Obrecht said it wasn’t the help she’d been looking for. She preferred to stay there. Anna said Carly wasn’t going to let that happen and she did get the penthouse. Obrecht apologized for interrupting her conversation with Agent Brennan. It looked intense.

Jack reminded Colette that it was his op, and she didn’t give him orders, and she said she was sorry, but Josslyn had expedited training and had only been an agent for a few months. She hadn’t proven herself. He said, if not for Josslyn, they wouldn’t have known about the Five Poppies, and she said, Josslyn hadn’t been undercover before. What if she slipped? He said Vaughn was more than capable and he wasn’t pulling the plug. Carly came back, and Colette said she was just leaving. She left, and Carly said Colette didn’t like her, but Jack said she was upset about how he was handling a case. Carly said she was sure he knew what he was doing, but he said, not always.

Britt said if Pascal didn’t want her hitting on a guest, let her leave, but he said she was just in Paris. She said, that was a month ago. Let her go to the city for a night and have fun. He said she enjoyed a lot of privileges there and a quick way to lose them was to overstep, but she said they both knew he wasn’t the one in charge. He said he’d been given full authority over her and she’d do as he said, and she said she thought she’d demand some changes, starting with him.

Josslyn showed Vaughn Britt’s photo on her phone, and he said, that was definitely the woman. She said her name was Britt. Josslyn said, Dr. Britt Westbourne. Britt lived in Port Charles and supposedly died saving her from a serial killer. He said he’d want that story later. Did Josslyn think it was staged? She said saving her life was real, but after that, she wasn’t there and doesn’t know. Vaughn wondered why Britt would fake her own death, and Josslyn said, before she died, Britt was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease. Maybe she wanted to spare her family and friends her deterioration. He said, there were no signs of deterioration. Maybe she faked her diagnosis. If she saw Josslyn, it was over. Their assignment would be compromised.

Sidwell introduced Marco to Cody and James, his new friends, and Cody suggested he and James get back to their game. They left, and Sidwell said James was a charming child, full of surprisingly useful information. Marco said he knew Sidwell made it look like Judge Haran took a bribe from Sonny so he could threaten Sonny with being exposed. He couldn’t wait much longer and had to play that card before it was too late.

Elizabeth said Willow told her what happened, and she sent Willow home, and Lucas said it was ugly. She asked if he wanted to file an incident report, and he said things got heated, but it was over. He was letting it go. She said she knew Willow deeply regretted it, and he said, to be fair, he said things he shouldn’t have. She said Willow had been struggling and the incident wouldn’t be helpful for her getting visitation rights. He said he didn’t want to sound harsh, but unless there was a huge change, he didn’t think Willow should be anywhere near his nephew’s children.

Gio told Rocco that it wasn’t just about Brook giving him up for adoption. He’d watched her do other things that hurt people, like Rocco. Rocco said not to be mad at her on his account. She didn’t want him to find the file, but Danny found it by accident. Gio said it turned Rocco’s life upside down, but Rocco said he was glad to know the truth and told that to Brook.

Brook told Maxie, why invite law enforcement to dig into Deception’s financials? They didn’t know what Natalia did. They needed to leave it alone and pray nobody found out about Sonny’s dirty money. It was gone now. Maxie said that might work for Brook. Brook was a Quartermaine, but she couldn’t afford that gamble.

Jason said he appreciate Chase handling things, and Chase said he was glad to help. He left, and Jason said he knew Danny thought he did the right thing. Danny said Scout was his sister and she was sad and alone. He couldn’t tell her no. Jason said Danny could have called him or his grandmother. Next time, he wanted Danny to look at all of his options before he acted. Danny said he got it and asked if Jason thought Drew would have him arrested. Jason said, absolutely.

Alexis said Drew knew Danny wouldn’t put Scout in danger. She was his sister, and he loved her. Drew said, Danny considered Rocco his brother, but didn’t he bring Rocco to a college party where he got alcohol poisoning? Danny was out of control. She said that was a gross exaggeration, and he said, Sam always worried about Jason’s influence and would want him to protect Scout from Danny. She said since he was invoking her daughter’s name, what Sam wouldn’t want is Scout being isolated from her brother and denied access to the house she considered home. Sam wouldn’t want Scout moving to Washington DC away from the only family she knew and would want Drew to stop being selfish and to put his daughter’s needs above his own. Drew said what Sam wanted or not didn’t matter. She wasn’t here and he was. Alexis said, how dare he? and he said he was only stating facts. He was Scout’s only living parent, and he wanted his daughter to feel safe, protected, and loved. He thought it was best that Scout stayed away from people who constantly undermined him. People like her.

Rocco said Gio’s mom did him a favor. Gio shouldn’t think she was a bad person. Gio said they still had so many issues, that wasn’t going to happen.

Maxie said, if Brook was wrong, Brook would lose her job, a project Brook was doing with her grandmother. She’d lose everything. It was her company and also how she supported her family. She had no inheritance or trust fund and had three children. Brook said they were protecting their future, but Maxie thought it was best they came clean with the authorities.

Marco told Sidwell that the mother of Michael’s children was unravelling quickly. If it continued, no court would see her as a viable parent. Michael would keep his kids and Sidwell would lose his leverage over Sonny.

Lucas said, based on what he’d seen and heard, Willow was too emotional and volatile, but Elizabeth said Willow just needed time. With Drew not being around, she thought Willow would be back to her old self. He said he was just glad Michael had sole custody. If that hadn’t been the case, he’d have reported the incident in a heartbeat.

Jason said Drew hated him and wanted to hurt him, and the easiest way was through Danny. Danny said, if he messed up, it was giving Drew more ammo, and Jason said it wasn’t fair and cowardly as hell, but it was the reality of the situation. Be careful. If anything happened to Danny, he wouldn’t be able to stand it.

Alexis told Drew that temperatures were running high. They needed to calm down and take a step back before they did something they’d regret. Drew said it was too late. He’d tried his best to keep Scout in Alexis’s life, but she’d made it impossible. When she found out Scout was there, she should have called him. Instead, she kept him from his daughter. She said that wasn’t her intention, but he said she’d proved he couldn’t trust her. From now on, Scout had no more contact, either with her, Danny, or anyone else from her family. He walked out. (Once again topping himself with horrifying behavior.)

Anna said she and Jack had a long history, not all of it good, and Obrecht said he’d beat Anna out for the number one spot at the WSB Training Academy. Anna asked how she knew, and Obrecht said, Cesar talked about her all the time. She knew more about Anna’s life than Anna remembered. Anna said she didn’t hold a grudge, but she and Jack didn’t see eye to eye. He was more of a soulless company man. Obrecht said she heard Jack didn’t play by the rules. Kind of like Anna. She thought that would make him Anna’s type.

Carly thought she and Jack should go somewhere more private, when his phone chimed. It was a text from Vaughn about enjoying the sunsets, and Jack smiled. Carly said, it must be a good text, and he said his associates checked in and everything was going to plan.

Vaughn told Josslyn that he sent Jack a message to let him know things were good on their end, and she asked if he told Jack about Britt. He said, not yet. He wanted to do more research. Britt was a doctor? Josslyn said, a very good one. She was the daughter of Leisl Obrecht and Cesar Faison. He said, a notorious family tree, and she said Britt was similar. She was fearless, strong, and very intelligent, with a background in lab research. He said that couldn’t be a coincidence. Did Josslyn think Britt was the person receiving Dalton’s package? She asked if he thought Britt was involved with cold fusion, and he said, it fit. He would bet anything that Britt was the key to getting the answers they needed.

Britt asked why Pascal didn’t tell her that he left the resort, and Pascal said it didn’t matter. She was to work and if she fell behind, he’d been instructed to keep her in the lab until they were back on schedule. She said they couldn’t continue to treat her this way… Forget it. He wasn’t worth her time. She walked off, and Pascal’s phone rang. Speaking in French, he said it was a surprise, and Colette said there was a problem. They had trouble. Two WSB agents had infiltrated the resort and were posing as a couple on their honeymoon. Their names were Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Nash.

Thursday:

Jordan admired her new apartment, when there was a knock at the door. It was Anna with a housewarming gift.

Curtis found Portia at the hospital and said he had an important invitation for his wife.

Stella met Trina at the pool and said she was about to be in trouble. She was left with no choice but to meddle and matchmake.

At the MetroCourt, Drew told Kai that Measure C would have to wait. He was focusing on moving to DC.

At a table nearby, Boyle told Laura that he wanted to stop her resolution to expand the public library. It could wait for November, and once Laura was voted out, he’d sign the resolution.

ADA Turner told Molly that she’d been informed that a pricey basket of restorative bath produces arrived at her office. There was no name on the card, but she knew exactly who sent it – Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny brought Donna to the pool, and Donna reminded Gio that he’d promised to play the violin at her birthday party in September.

Dante told Michael that he could pull camera footage to see if Willow was in the vicinity of the Quartermaine mansion on July 4th. It would hold up court. Brook came in and asked, who’s going court?

Chase found Willow sitting in the park asked what was going on. Could he do something for her? She said he was doing it. (Running by with his shirt off?)

Stella said she was curious about what happened, and Trina said she and Kai were happy, but Kai overheard her mom and dad planning something that involved Drew. They talked and agreed it had nothing to do with them, so they’d stay out of it. Stella said Kai worked for Drew and probably felt indebted grateful, and Trina said, in spite of their agreement and without giving her a heads up, Kai told Drew what he’d overheard. He broke his word and hurt her family. It was something she couldn’t get past.

Curtis told Portia that her favorite chef Adrian Sinclair from Chef Supreme was in town and he’d arranged for a private tasting. He figured they should make time for just them. She said she loved the sound of that and kissed him. Isaiah watched and shook his head.

Anna said Jordan’s place was amazing. It would be lovely furnished if she could afford it. Jordan said she was working with an interior designer. She could afford it now.

Gio told Donna that his violin broke so he couldn’t play, but he’d never miss her birthday party. She went for her swim lesson, and Sonny said Gio didn’t have to go, but Gio said there was no way he’d disappoint Donna, although he was guessing Brook and Dante would be there. Everyone said he should give it time, and he had, but his feelings hadn’t changed. Sonny said Gio couldn’t get past it and had given up.

Michael said he was going back to court for the visitation hearing in October, and Brook said Willow missed her kids and they missed her. Why not let her see them? Michael said Willow wasn’t stable and it wasn’t good for the kids to see her like this. He left and Brook told Dante that she knew she’d screwed up and she was heartbroken. He suggested they do something about it.

Sonny said Gio had a right to his feelings. When Dante found out Sonny was his father, he had to figure it out on his own. Gio asked how he did that, and Sonny said he’d have to ask Dante, but there was a time he thought they’d never have a relationship, and they got there. He wouldn’t trade it for the world. Gio said he wasn’t sure that was going to happen with him and his parents, but Sonny believed they’d get there. Gio said, and if they didn’t? and Sonny said he wasn’t obligated to make nice, but they’d be there if he decided to make a go of it. His parents were amazing people.

Dante said he kept putting off telling Rocco about Britt and now he was vulnerable to Obrecht, and Brook apologized. He said he didn’t bring it up to talk about the file. They’d chosen to give Gio space. She said Gio seemed just as hurt and angry. Space wasn’t helping him heal. Dante said it was actually making Gio’s anger fester and he’d built a wall. Things were difficult with Rocco, but they talked and worked through it. He wanted to do the same with Gio.

Willow told Chase that she’d normally be at work, but Elizabeth sent her home yesterday and told her to take the day off. Chase asked what was going on, and she said she’d lost her temper and slapped Lucas. It was basically assault. He didn’t report it and it wasn’t on her record, but Elizabeth thought she should decompress. He asked what led her to do something like that. Had Lucas provoked her? She said he was the first person in a long time that gave her the benefit of the doubt.

Stella asked why Trina thought Kai went to Drew, and Trina said Kai told her was because he felt he should be honest. He threw trust and loyalty out the window when she’d thought they were building something. Why did his loyalty to Drew outweigh that when Drew wasn’t loyal to anyone?

Kai told Drew that Scout loved her brother and talked about her grandmother and aunts all time. He was worried she’d miss them, and she’d already lost so much. Drew said he appreciated Kai’s kindness, but Scout’s grandmother believed Scout was better off with her. Kai said, while Drew was in DC? but Drew said, not just then. He didn’t agree and it wasn’t fair to put Scout in the middle of the tension. He’d lost Willow, his son Oscar, and Scout’s mother Sam. His daughter was everything in the entire world to him, and the best thing to do was to move to DC as soon as possible.

Turner told Molly about Sonny helping her when she’d twisted her ankle. Sending restorative bath products was inappropriate and she needed to make that clear. One trip to the ER didn’t equal a friendship. Molly said, here was her chance, as Sonny came into the restaurant.

Brook said she agreed 100%, and Dante said they needed to be the ones to break down the wall, but Brook said he hadn’t even known he had a child. Gio would understand why Dante hadn’t been in his life. Dante said it was an us thing and he wanted them to do it together, but Brook said, maybe Gio could forgive him. She didn’t see Gio ever forgiving her.

Willow told Chase that Lucas said she didn’t care about her kids as much as she cared about Drew, and she lost it. It wasn’t like it was the first time anyone said that to her. Chase said everybody had limits. Maybe it was one time too many. He wasn’t there, and obviously she shouldn’t have slapped him, but – off the record – it sounded like he had it coming. She was a good mom and loved her kids. Lucas had no right to make that judgement. (Wow. That is not the response Chase should have given her. She gave her co-worker a pretty good whack – at work. If he had it coming or not is immaterial. I’m reporting her… Oh, wait. I don’t really live in Port Charles.)  

Curtis saw Michael at the hospital and asked if everything was okay. Michael said he was there for routine bloodwork. Was Curtis okay? Curtis said he was confirming the date for the Pediatric Sports Initiative 🍷, but the reason he was there was to visit his wife. Michael asked how it went, and Curtis said things were going great and a lot of that was because of Michael.

Isaiah said it seemed like things were looking good, and Portia said she and Curtis were going on a date tonight. They’d both recommitted to working on their marriage. Isaiah said that was great, but where did Jordan fit in all this?

Anna helped Jordan measure a window, and Jordan said she was suddenly working in the private sector and making good money for the first time. Anna said Jordan had spent a lot of time in the civil service trenches. She deserved to treat herself. The job with Sidwell must be paying off more than she’d anticipated. Jordan said it took her completely by surprise. It was nothing like what she’d expected. Anna said, including Sidwell? and Jordan said her mission was standard undercover. The plan was to get close to Sidwell, get inside his organization, and get evidence. Anna asked if the plan had changed.   

Laura found Sonny at the MetroCourt bar and asked if he was snubbing her. He said he didn’t think it was good for them to talk in public, and she asked when he was going to accept that she didn’t care who saw her with him in public. If she disavowed him now, without a reason to prosecute him, it would look performative and everyone would know. She did have a question though. Was it true what happened Marco Rios?

Drew said he’d be leaning on Kai more when he moved to DC. Kai would be his eyes and ears in Port Charles. He needed to know what was happening in his district. Kai said, politically speaking? but Drew said, everything.

Stella said loyalty was important, but sometimes you put your faith and loyalty in the wrong people, and Trina asked if Stella thought she did that with Kai. Stella said, no. She thought Kai did that with Drew. He got the wrong way in trying to maintain a personal/work balance. Had Trina never failed? Trina said, of course (🍷), but she never went back on her word or hurt someone she cared about. Stella said Trina reminded her of Curtis. He could be rigid. Most things weren’t, especially love. Trina said Kai told her that he loved her after he confessed, and Stella asked if she believed it.

Sonny said Laura was navigating a complicated situation. He didn’t want anything he did to blow back on her. She said Drew and Sidwell were trying to make her look bad, but she’d looked worse. He said he was doing what he could to make sure that didn’t happen, and she said she had to protect her position as mayor. He said maybe she had a problem then.

Trina said Kai was honest and she believed he loved her, but she didn’t think it mattered, and Stella said, of course (🍷) it did. It would be a shame to let go of something good… especially when it was standing in front of her. Trina turned around and Kai was there.

Michael said he was glad things were going great, but he wasn’t sure how he helped, and Curtis said Michael refused to accept his resignation at Aurora. Michael encouraged him not to let Drew destroy his marriage. Things with Drew had calmed down and they’d called a tentative truce. Michael asked if Curtis was sure it wasn’t a trap, and Curtis said he was proceeding with caution. He thanked Michael for his support, and Michael said he considered a friend coming out on top his own victory.

Jordan told Anna, the plan was the plan, but she needed to regroup. There hadn’t been a whiff of anything illegal. Maybe Sidwell’s business there was legit. If it was and she was enjoying the work, why not enjoy getting paid? Anna said she was glad Jordan was enjoying it, but she’d be remiss if she didn’t remind Jordan that she and a number of other people were almost killed by Sidwell, including Isaiah. Jordan said if she didn’t live the life she could afford, it would also tip Sidwell off, but Anna wondered if Jordan would be able to pull herself out when it was over.

Chase said it was easy to draw conclusions when someone had no idea what Willow was going through, and Willow asked if things were okay with him and Brook. He said they’d decided to pursue adoption, and she said he and Brook would make the best parents. He said he’d like to think so, but they’d stopped looking.

Brook told Dante that Gio was there when Lulu accused her of intentionally leaving out the file to get back at her. Dante said Gio only knew half the story and he’d been mad already, and Brook said Gio knew that Dante was an overprotective jerk who desperately loved his son. He might believe that love could extend to him. Gio had seen her in the worst possible light and she didn’t want to be the reason Dante didn’t build a relationship with his son. She told Dante to go to Gio and change Gio’s perception of him.

Drew asked if Boyle had the latest poll numbers, and Boyle said he was within five points of Laura. Drew said they were one step closer to getting rid of Sonny, and Boyle asked why it was so personal. Drew said Sonny and his brother Jason were linked. They were both dangerous and destructive and had never been held to account the way they deserved, but it was going to happen with him. Boyle’s phone rang and he stepped away. Molly approached the table and asked if Drew had a minute. She sat down and said it was about Scout.

Laura said she had to protect the city from organized crime and if Sonny got caught up in the crossfire, she might not be able to protect him. In the meantime, she knew Port Charles was better off with him in power than Jenz Sidwell. The most frustrating thing was that she couldn’t just say that. Anna approached them and asked if she was interrupting.

Kai came over to the table, and Stella asked him to join them. Trina said they could catch up, but she needed to get a book back to the library and wanted to finish it. (Ouch!) She left, and Stella said Trina was nothing if not stubborn. She was hurt, with good reason. He sat down and said he didn’t know how to fix things. She said she thought he could still win back Trina’s heart, but he’d have to try a lot harder than this.

Michael saw Gio at the pool and said Donna was here for her swim lesson. He was sure she talked about her birthday. It was next month, but Donna was a bit of a planner. Gio said it was going to be awkward. Brook and Dante would be there, but he’d do anything for Donna, and he was sure she knew it. Michael said she definitely did. It didn’t have to be awkward with Dante and Brook. Not if he didn’t make it that way.  

Isaiah apologized to Portia and said it wasn’t his place to ask about Jordan. She said she knew it was out of concern for her, and he said he was glad things were looking up. She said she and Curtis were in a better place than they’d been in a long time. Jordan wasn’t a consideration.

Jordan opened the door to Curtis, who said, here he was, at her service.

Kai brought iced tea over to Trina and asked if she’d like to join him. She said she was getting ready to leave, but thanks for offering.

Isaiah said he hadn’t seen Portia this happy maybe ever. It looked good on her. She thanked him and said it felt good too, and she left.

Curtis told Jordan, based on the report and looking at the place, she didn’t need his eye, and she said she’d appreciate it if he took a look around. She wanted him to inspect every inch of this place.

Gio said there was nothing Michael could say about Brook and Dante to change his mind, and Michael said he got it. He’d written his dad off more than once. He figured out a way to forgive. Family is everything. Gio said, then why not let Willow see the kids? and Michael said the situation was different and he hoped it was temporary. Gio said not to worry about him. He was fine. Michael asked if he wanted to feel this kind of fine forever. If not, he had to move forward, or the anger and pain would calcify and cripple him. Gio thanked Michael for his advice, but said he was good. Michael said he wasn’t and wouldn’t be until he changed it.

Chase told Willow that Brook decided she didn’t want to adopt right now. She had to be fully on board, so they were putting it on hold. Willow said she was sorry, and he said he wanted a child so bad. He was starting to think it would never happen. Not until everything was figured out with Gio, if that was even possible.

Dante said they had to do something to change the whole thing up and he wanted it to be the three of them, but Brook said it wasn’t possible. Maybe never. He said she was Gio’s mom. They made a mistake when they were stupid kids, but they also created a beautiful son. They owed it to him to be his parents together. It was the only way to get past the anger about all this. She asked when he got so smart, and he said he had lived, and he was learning. Did she want to give it a go? She said, all right. They’d do it his way.

Laura thanked Anna for meeting her, and Sonny said he had something to do. He left and saw Turner. He said, fancy meeting her here, and she asked if he was following her. He said his daughter had a swim lesson, and she said she was glad she ran into him. She’d received a very expensive gift at her office with no signed card. She knows he didn’t send it, since she explained a public official cannot and will not accept gifts. She also didn’t think he’d make the same mistake twice. If he did, she’d prosecute him for harassment.

Laura told Anna that she’d advocated for Obrecht to have supervised visits with Rocco. She was hoping Anna would tell her that she made the right choice. Anna said Obrecht had evolved over the years. She though Obrecht genuinely regretted her past actions. She was a woman of extremes, but Anna didn’t think she’d hurt Rocco. Still, it was better to be Obrecht’s friend than her enemy. Boyle came over and he said Laura’s resolution to expand the library had enough votes to pass. Laura said it was wonderful news, and she couldn’t be happier that he was the one delivering the news. He asked how much Sonny bribed the councilmen, and Anna said that was a serious accusation. She’d get the PCPD right on it. Boyle said, laugh it up. When he exposed her protecting a common criminal, the office would be his and firing her would be his first order of business.

Molly told Drew, obviously, Scout missed her mother. It was important that she had family around. How could they make it happen? Drew asked if she meant after they moved to DC, and Molly said she was worried about Scout. Scout was so young and had lost so much. She was hoping they could compromise on what was best for her. He said he appreciated her coming to him, but unfortunately, they were past that. She said they didn’t have to be, and he said the best thing for Scout was having a good relationship with her father. Molly’s mother was trying to undermine that, and given the reality of the current situation, the best thing was for Scout to move to DC and have no contact with her grandmother or her aunts. 😡

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Portia tells Trina, be honest. What does she think? Trina says, the dress looks amazing and looks even more amazing with her in it. Portia says she needs to look perfect tonight.

Jordan says, the apartment isn’t technically hers yet, but now that Curtis has seen every corner of the place, what does he think? Curtis says he thinks she has a natural eye for real estate. This place is great. She says, that’s a relief to hear. She should be hearing from her realtor soon. He says, good luck. This place is fantastic. She thanks him and says, tell her it’s not too good to be true.

At Sonny’s place, he tells Donna that he thought he’d need a net to get her out of the pool. She swam a lot. Is she hungry? What does she want him to make her for dinner? She says, birthday cake, but he says, that’s not until September. She says, regular cake, but he says, cake is for dessert. She needs to eat dinner. What is she in the mood for? She says, pizza? and he says, okay. There’s a knock at the door, and he opens it to Turner.

Stella says she’s just glad she ran into Tracy and they both have time for a quick iced tea and catching up. Tracy says, it doesn’t have to be quick. How about dinner? Stella says she’d love to, but she has a meeting at the hospital later. They walk into the MetroCourt and see Drew with Martin, and Stella says, maybe they should have an iced tea by the pool, but Tracy says, is she going to let those two chase them out? Absolutely not.

Martin says his back goes into spasms just being in the same room as Tracy Quartermaine. He can’t believe someone as wonderful as Stella Henry would be willing to be friends with someone like that. Michael comes in with Wiley, and Wiley tells Tracy that he did the butterfly stroke all the way across pool. She says, is that the one with the splashing and the bobbing? and he says, yeah. His dad said he did so good, he can have a hot fudge sundae. Tracy says, sorry, but she believes they’re all out of hot fudge. Michael notices Drew, and Wiley asks if they have caramel. (Which is seriously no substitute, but okay.)

In the room, Josslyn looks at the resort layout on a tablet, when Vaughn comes in. He says he took a quick walk around the lobby, and clocked the cameras, shift changes, and keyboard access points. She says, while he was gone, she snagged a hotel tablet from the housekeeping cart. It has a more detailed version of the resort map. She figured they could use it and narrow in on the dead zones where the tracker might have lost the signal. He says, good. He’ll take it from here. She says, excuse me? and he says, she’s been scrubbed from the mission.

Britt tells a staff member that she needs to Christopher Nash’s room number, and the woman says, of course (🍷). One moment please. Pascal appears and says, thank you, but that won’t be necessary.

Jason gets in a car, and calling him Mr. Moore, the driver welcomes him and says he’s going to love his stay at the Five Poppies. Jason thanks him.

Tracy tells Wiley that she’s sorry, but she thinks they’re out of caramel too, and Wiley asks if that’s true. Michael says, no way. Grandma Carly would never let that happen. He thinks Aunt Tracy wants to keep all the hot fudge and caramel to herself. Tracy indicates Drew is there, and Michael says, thanks for the heads up, but he can’t avoid Drew forever. He’s going to deal with it now. He tells Wiley, let’s get a sundae, and Tracy says, enjoy his ice cream. Michael and Wiley go to a table, and Stella says, what he’s done to that family is a crying shame. After all the things he’s done, you’d think that man would hide himself under a rock somewhere. Nope. Here he is. Tracy says she never heard Stella speak against Drew like that. She’s loving it. What’s the occasion? Stella says, Drew Cain has been nothing but trouble for Curtis. She tried taking the high road and not judging people, but Drew makes that very difficult. Tracy says he’s more than earned Stella’s low opinion and hers. He’s a self-promoting narcissist who is still trying to extract all the wealth and power he can from her family name. Stella says, if she feels that way, why is she continuing to promote Measure C? Why is she helping a man she despises? Tracy says, because politics makes strange bedfellows. And yes, she loathes Drew and Ezra Boyle, but it’s temporary and worth it if they get rid of Sonny.

Sonny said Turner was the last person he expected to see, and she says she’s afraid she has to bother him at home, but it won’t take too much time. He says he appreciates it. He has his daughter tonight and she’s hungry. He asks if Donna can say hi to Miss Turner, and Donna says, hi. Her hair is so pretty. Turner thanks her and tells Donna to call her Justine. She remembers Donna from the Nurses Ball. Personally she thinks Donna had the best dress. Donna says she helped pick it out, and Turner says, obviously, she has great taste. Donna thanks her and says her daddy is making pizza. Does she like pizza? Turner says, of course (🍷). Who doesn’t? Donna asks if she can stay and eat dinner with them, and Turner says, thanks for the invitation… Sonny asks if she’s eaten, and Turner says, no, not yet. He says, then stick around. Nobody goes hungry on his watch. She says she doesn’t want to impose, but he says she’s not. What does she want on her pizza? Mushrooms? Pepperoni? The only thing he doesn’t deal with is pineapple. Donna says, come on. You’ve got to draw the line somewhere. Sonny says he stands by that, and Donna says, she’s got to stay. They always have fun. Turner says, what about olives? Are olives acceptable? Sonny says, okay. Olives on the pizza coming right up. Donna says, Turner is lucky. Her daddy makes the best pizza ever. Sonny and Donna go into the kitchen. (Hey, we’ve never seen Sonny’s new kitchen. I wonder if it has a moss bowl🎍. )

Portia tells Trina that she really like this one, but she still wants to try on the rest. There could be one here that blows them away. She could do a solid color or could do a different style altogether. She holds up some dresses, and says, what? Trina says, nothing. She just looks pretty nervous for someone picking out a dress, especially because she looks amazing in pretty much everything. Portia says, and she’s just going out to dinner with her husband. Trina must think she’s being really ridiculous right about now. Trina says, no, not at all. She knows things between Portia and her dad have been stressful lately. Portia says, sorry about that. She knows they haven’t done a great job hiding that either. Trina says she’s not a kid. She doesn’t want them to feel like they have to hide anything. She doesn’t know all the details, but she’s glad they’re reconnecting. Portia says her too. More than she can put into words. She wishes she didn’t feel like they still had so far to go. Trina says, she might feel like that, but it’s a good first step, and Portia says, now she’s feeling foolish, thinking one dinner is magically going to save her marriage. Trina says, she’s not foolish, okay? And this is a good start. After everything they’ve been through, she hopes Portia can relax and let tonight be a really wonderful night between her and Curtis.

At the hospital, Isaiah tells Felicia that he knows he’s overstepping, but he’s seen how great she is at advising patients. He was hoping to impose for some advice on a personal matter. Felicia says, absolutely. It’s not an imposition. He asks if it’s okay if it stays between them, and she says, of course (🍷). It might not be a work matter, but she would never break his confidence. He says, thanks. Okay. Let’s say she knew a couple were having problems and were doing their best to work things out. One spouse is hoping they work things out together, but then she saw the other spouse with someone else, someone from their past, their romantic past. Does she owe it to the hopeful spouse to say something? She says, he asked for her advice. Here it goes. Stay out of it.

Jordan tells Curtis, the thing about real estate is that a lot of the time it looks really great. Then the escrow closes, and you discover hidden flaws, like the water pressure is terrible, or none of the outlets work, and every morning a garbage truck pulls under your beautiful balcony and beeps for 20 minutes. (Truth!) He says he’s not sure there’s anything he can do about the garbage, but if she likes, he can do a take no prisoners inspection of the place. She thanks him, but says, it’s already too late. She’s completely in love with this place. Whatever problems it has are hers to fix. He says he’s been there. If it makes her feel better, even without a full inspection, he can tell her this place is in good shape and the quality of the building is top notch. It all is. She says, that’s such a relief to hear, and he says, don’t worry. She’s one of the hardest working people he knows and deserves to come home to a place like this every night. She thanks him and says she has one more feature to show him. Trust her. She’s saved the best for last.

Trish brings Wiley a hot fudge sundae, and Michael says, dig in. He’s earned it. Wiley asks why Aunt Tracy said they were out of hot fudge, and Michael says, she was just teasing. She knows how much he loves it. Wiley says he thinks she’s pretending, and Michael asks what he means. Wiley says, she’s being silly, but he thinks she’s sad. She misses Gio. Michael says he thinks Wiley is right. He’s proud Wiley is paying attention to people’s feelings, especially when it’s people they love. Would it be okay if he went and talked to Aunt Tracy for a minute? He’ll be right back.

Stella says she’s going to give Tracy the benefit of the doubt and assume she knows what she’s doing with that Measure C business, but she still thinks it’s a big gamble. Tracy says, Stella’s not wrong, but the thing about gambling is, sometimes you get a big payoff. Michael says he’s sorry to interrupt, but does Stella mind if he steals Tracy for a minute? Stella says, fine. Go ahead.

Drew tells Martin, as usual, the Quartermaines are being complete hypocrites. Michael is out doing whatever he wants, playing golf every day, while Willow is working herself to the point of exhaustion at the hospital just to prove she’s good enough to see her own children. It is unconscionable. Martin says, admittedly, Willow is in a terrible situation, but he thinks this is the part where he’s supposed to remind Drew that Willow made it perfectly clear she doesn’t want his help. Drew says, but she doesn’t know. She doesn’t know what she’s up against. She doesn’t know how badly she needs his help, so he’s going to show her.

Britt asks if Pascal spends his days hiding behind palm trees ready to jump out and yell at her if she does something he doesn’t like, and Pascal says, the Nashes have a right to their privacy. She says, this has nothing to do with the Nashes. He’s trying to control her. He says, if she’d quit fighting with him, he wouldn’t have to. Nothing can get in the way of her work, and to that end, he’s told her repeatedly to stay away from the guests. She says, what she does on her own time is none of Pascal’s business or his, but he says, that’s where she’s wrong. He made it clear that his main responsibility is to keep her focused and on task while he’s away.

Josslyn says she and Vaughn already talked about this. She’s going to lay low in the room and Britt will never see her. Vaughn says, they can’t take that chance, but she says, their cover is that they’re on their honeymoon. The bride doesn’t just pack and go home. He says, she  does if saw her husband flirting with a guest and they had a fight. She discovered he’s a serial cheater and booked the first flight home to see her mom. Don’t forget throw the ring at him when he gets home. Just don’t hit him in the eye. She says she might throw something at him, but it won’t be the ring. She doesn’t have to go. The resort is huge. Once they know Britt’s routine, she’ll have no issue avoiding Britt. He says, they’re talking about Britt Westbourne. According to his research and her experience, Britt isn’t someone to underestimate. She’s Cesar Faison’s daughter, the woman who saved Josslyn’s life and should be dead, a woman who will recognize Josslyn the second she sees her, even at a distance. Josslyn says she knows what she’s doing, okay? Britt will not see her. There’s no good reason why she shouldn’t stay. He says he doesn’t need her. All she is, is a liability.

Portia asks what Trina thinks of this one, and Trina says now she’s torn because she loves this one now. Portia says, better than the first? and Trina says, Portia is having so much trouble picking out a dress. More than she did before her first date. Portia says she’s sorry. Trina must think she’s being completely ridiculous. The last time she dressed up like this was at the Nurses Ball. She and Curtis weren’t in a great place and she spent the whole night pretending, acting like everything was okay, when in reality, she was dying inside. It was awful. Trina says she remembers. She was worried about Portia and her dad. She could tell there was something they weren’t telling her. Portis says, yeah. Well, it’s over now. It’s all in the past. She wants to just put on a beautiful dress tonight, do her makeup and hair, and take Trina’s dad’s breath away. She looks in the mirror and says she wants tonight to be absolutely perfect. Trina says, it will be, and Portia says, everything is out in the open. There are no more secrets between her and Trina’s father. Tonight should be a fresh start, but what if there’s no going back to the beginning? Trina says, look. Wherever they’re going and however they do it, they’re doing it together. And considering Portia is making sure tonight is a perfect night, they both want the same thing. Portia says she does really hope so.

Jordan says, what did she tell him? and Curtis says, if anything, she undersold it. That stove is crazy. She says, right? Six burners, a griddle, and the pièce de résistance, a double convection oven. She dreams about that stove at night and all the things she’s going to cook on it. He says, yeah. Uh-huh. Interesting hearing her talk about the dream stove. He seems to remember back in Baltimore when she stored the shoes she couldn’t fit in the closet in the stove. That’s just nasty. She says, that’s because the pilot light wouldn’t stay lit. That thing was useless, but it did give her space for more shoes. Her phone rings, and she says, it’s her realtor. She’s nervous. What if the answer is no? He tells her to answer, and she says, hello… You’re sure?… Well, thanks for letting her know. They’ll talk soon. She tells Curtis, well, it’s official. They’re standing in her new apartment. He says, allow him to be the first to say, welcome home, and she thanks him.

Felicia tells Isaiah, unfortunately, this is one of those things she had to learn the hard way. Never insert yourself in someone’s marriage, no matter how much you want to help. That’s why she says, let it play it out. Say he tells the spouse who’s hopeful about what he saw? Who does he think is going to take the brunt of their anger? He says, shoot this messenger? and she says, to start. Then they’ll say he’s meddling in matters that don’t concern him, and they’ll be right. He says he was already leaning toward staying out of it, but he needed the opinion of someone he respected. He was right. He thanks her for her advice and honest opinion, and she says, anytime. She wishes there was something he could do to help his friend. He says, there’s nothing he can say to either spouse, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he needs to leave it alone.

Drew approaches Wiley and says, he doesn’t mind if Uncle Ernie Drew joins him, does he?

Michael says he told Gio how he should make the first move to work things out with his parents, and Tracy says, really? What inspired that? He says he just thinks Dante and Brook are good people trying to do the right thing by their son. He should give them a chance. She says, perhaps, or an armchair psychologist might think that he’s trying to ensure Gio has both parents because his children don’t have both of theirs. He says, that hadn’t occurred to him, but yeah. She may be right. Every day, it seems less likely that their mother is going to be in the kids’ lives. Michael walks over to Drew and says, it looks like Drew is sitting in his seat. His friend is sitting alone. Maybe Drew should go back to him. Wiley tells Michael that Uncle Drew says mommy misses him and he should let him see her, and Drew says, out of the mouths of babes.

Portia says, it was so much fun, and Trina says, it was. She’s glad she convinced Portia to try on that last dress because it really is the winner, and she looked stunning in it. Portia says, Trina’s fantastic sense of style saved her again, and more than that, she thanks Trina for lifting her up when her anxiety was trying to get the best of her. Trina says, Portia has done that for her so many times, and Portia says she knows, but thanks Trina anyway. She’s lucky to have Trina and lucky to have her beautiful family together again. That’s all that matters to her. They exchange I love yous and hug.

Curtis pops a bottle of champagne and Jordan says she can’t believe this amazing place is going to be all hers. Curtis says, well, believe it. New stove, new life, and a better view than the inner harbor in Baltimore. Did she think back in the day, she’d wind up here, her in this fancy apartment? She says, and him, the CEO of a major media conglomerate? and he says, and they deserve all the credit. He wishes he could go back and talk to the younger version of them and let them know all their hard work will pay off. She says her too, because there were more than a few times it didn’t seem like it would, and he says he’s glad they witnessed each other’s success because they both know intimately the sacrifices it took to make it here. She says, cheers to that, and they clink glasses. He says, maybe he shouldn’t drink before he drives. He’s meeting Portia for dinner. She says he hopes they have a good night, and he says he’d better get going don’t. He doesn’t want to be late. She says, definitely not, and thanks him. He says, congratulations on the apartment, and he leaves. She sips champagne alone.

Turner says, the pizza was incredible. Where did Sonny get that sauce? Sonny says he made it himself, and she says, no way. Donna says he did, and he doesn’t lie, and Turner says she’s not suggesting he did. She just never took Donna’s father for a chef. Sonny says, there’s a lot she doesn’t know about him, and Turner sits down. She asks when he started making his own pizza, and he says, when his older kids were little, to have fun and spend time together, they’d cook in the kitchen. She says, that’s actually nice, and Donna yawns. Sonny says, look who’s getting sleepy, but Donna says she’s not. Can she have cake now? Sonny says, how about cake in the morning? and Donna says, sounds delicious. He says, don’t tell mom, and she says she won’t. He says he’ll find one of her favorite movies so she can watch it and fall asleep, and she says, good idea. He tells her to say goodbye to Justine, and Turner tells her to enjoy the movie. She thanks Donna for inviting her to such a delicious dinner, and Sonny says he’ll be right back. As he walks Donna to her room, she says she likes Justine. She’s really nice. Turner smiles.

Pascal tells Jason, welcome to the Five Poppies. How was his journey? Jason says, fine. He’s looking forward to having a break. Pascal says, of course (🍷). That’s what they do best here. And he’s here, if Mr. Moore wants to partake in any of their experiences, excursions, or treatments, anything he likes. Jason says, right now, he’d like to get to his room, and Pascal says, of course (🍷). Everything has been set up according to his preferences. An attendant will show him to his room.

Josslyn tells Vaughn that she doesn’t have to go. They’re here to do surveillance. She can stay in the room away from all the guests. She doesn’t have to leave. Vaughn says, what’s the point of that? and she says, the point is, she can’t leave him there all alone. They don’t have all of the facts, but they know something is going on. He’ll need backup. He says he doesn’t. He’s done this before and her getting recognized will not be the reason this op is blown. He won’t let it. She’s leaving. She says, fine. She picks up the tablet and says she’s going to return it to the housekeeping cart before someone comes looking for it. Don’t worry. No one will see her face. She leaves.

Tracy asks how dare Drew accost that child, and Drew says, that’s a bit of an exaggeration, even for her. He saw Wiley sitting by himself and came over. He was worried about Wiley. Tracy says she’s made a lot of mistakes in her life, but the biggest one was backing him. She’s pulling her support for Measure C and going tell Monica everything that’s going on, in vivid detail. She’s going to break him if it’s the last thing she does. Michael asks Tracy to do him a favor and take Wiley to the pool for a popsicle. His sundae melted, but he still deserves a treat. She says she’d love to, and tells Wiley, come with her. She tells Stella that she’s so sorry to cut their evening short, but Stella says, that’s fine. Go get this little boy some dessert. They leave and Michael tells Drew that he’s only going to say this once. Stay the hell away from his son.

Curtis is at the table, when Portia comes in, looking glamorous. She asks what he thinks, and he says he thinks she looks incredible.

Isaiah calls Jordan and says he’s glad he caught her. He hasn’t heard from her in a while. She says she was surprised when his name popped up. It’s been a minute. He asks if she can come see him at GH. It’s important.

Sonny comes back and tells Turner that he put one of Donna’s favorite movies on and she was asleep in about a minute. Turner laughs and says she’s got to admire Donna’s fighting spirit though. She’s a really great kid. She’s funny, smart, intuitive, and full of charm. He says he’s biased. She’s his girl and has him wrapped around her little finger, and she knows it. Turner says, she’s so cute. She can see how it’s hard to say no. She wouldn’t have come if she’d known Donna was here tonight. He says he’s glad she stayed, but doesn’t understand just why she’s here. He thought they already had a discussion and made it clear this afternoon. What did she want talk about? She says she’s still not okay about him sending any sort of gifts, and he asks, who said it was him? She says, whoever sent it, it was a very nice gesture. He was so helpful when she sprained her ankle, and she repaid his kindness by taking a cheap shot at his expense. She came tonight to tell him that she’s sorry.

Drew says he doesn’t know what Michael is so angry about. He was just telling Wiley the truth; his mother misses him. Martin says, excuse me. There’s something urgent he needs to talk to Drew about. Drew asks if it can wait, but Martin says, no, it can’t. Drew says, just one more thing, and asks when Michael is going to stop lying to Wiley about his mother. Michael slugs him.  

Sonny says Turner was just doing her job, and she says her job is to prosecute people accused of committing a crime in a courtroom. And she wants to win those cases because of the evidence and facts she put together, not because she’s successful in vilifying them in public. He says he thinks some of her colleagues would disagree with that. They would just say do whatever works. She says she thinks that’s a cheap trick. That’s not the kind of prosecutor she wants to be and not the kind of person she wants to be either. He says he doesn’t think she’ll be receiving any anonymous gifts in the future. Not because she doesn’t deserve it, but because whoever sent them doesn’t want to put her in an awkward position again.

Stella arrives at the hospital, and Felicia says she was just about to text her. Is she ready for their favorite weekly task, the patient review meeting? Stella says, it’s the highlight of her week, and Felicia says she’s gone through most of the records, but not all of them. Hopefully, it won’t take too long for them to do the rest. Stella says, however long it takes, she’d rather be here than part of what she just witnessed at the MetroCourt. Felicia asks, what happened? and Stella says, Drew Cain happened. She can’t believe the lengths that man will go to in order to get what he wants. Felicia says, it had to be bad to get Stella this angry, and Stella says, oh, it was. If she hadn’t seen it for herself, she wouldn’t believe it. Drew tried to get a little boy to turn against his father.

Portia tells Curtis, the night has been incredible. The tasting menu, the beautiful table, and the handsome man in a suit sitting right next to her. It’s perfect. Curtis says he wanted to make sure tonight was extra special for her, and she says, it has been. She just has no words. He asks why she sounds wistful. Is there something she’s not telling him? She says, only that she appreciates this more than he knows because she wasn’t sure it was ever going to happen.  

A server gets champagne ready on a serving cart outside of Josslyn and Vaughn’s room. He puts a silencer on a gun and hides the gun. He knocks at the door and says, room service. He goes in and says, compliments of the management. He pulls out his gun, and Vaughn wrestles with him.

Portia says she was trying to find the perfect dress for tonight, and Curtis says, it looks like she found the right one. It looks like it was made for her. She thanks him and says she has to admit she was a bit nervous about tonight. She felt like it had to go well, like it was the first step toward them finding their way back to one another again. He says he felt the same way – he takes her hand – but this time, they should do it right. He kisses her and the next thing we know, they’re getting busy. Not at the table, in their bedroom.

Felicia says, the sooner they finish the review, the sooner they can catch up, and Stella can tell her what happened tonight. Stella says she likes the way Felicia thinks. Give her one minute. She goes over to Jordan and says, good to see her. Jordan says, her too, and Stella says, Marshall is coming down and she was planning a dinner with Curtis and Portia. Can she make it by any chance? Two men come in and one says, Stella Henry? Stella asks what she can do for them, and the man says they’re with the New York State Department of Financial Services Fraud Division. They have a few questions for her. Isaiah watches. (Somehow, I don’t think that’s how that works, but it’s not the first time GH has played fast and loose with various rules.)

Tracy tells Wiley, don’t even think about going in that pool. Come over here. She can see him thinking about it. Sit. Wiley sits down, and she says, thank you. Michael joins them and says, sorry about the sundae. Wiley says, that’s okay. Aunt Tracy got him a great popsicle instead. She knew his favorite flavor. Tracy says, it’s all about who you know. She has to talk to his dad for a minute. Sit here. Do not move or go anywhere near the pool. She has her eyes on him.

Tracy asks, what happened? and Michael says he did exactly what she wanted. He hit Drew.

Turner thanks Sonny again, when there’s a knock at the door. Sonny says, what the hell? and Drew says, it’s his congressman. He needs to see him. Turner says, that’s Congressman Cain. He can’t know that she’s here. Sonny says, get out of sight and he’ll get Drew out of here. She leaves and he opens the door. He says, rough night? and Drew says they need to talk. Sonny says, about what? and Drew says, about what Sonny is going to do for him. Sonny says, why the hell should he do anything for Drew? and Drew says, if he doesn’t, he’s having Sonny’s son arrested for assaulting a public official. Turner listens from another room.

Pascal says he hopes Mr. Moore’s room is to his liking, and Jason says, it’s very nice. Thank you. Tomorrow, he’d like to schedule a boat for scuba diving. Pascal says he’s more than happy to help him with that. He’ll see what he can arrange. Britt comes by and suddenly stops when she sees Jason. They lock eyes. (Ooh, I can’t wait.)

Josslyn goes into the room and sees Vaughn tussling with the server. She sees the gun on the floor and picks it up. She angles for shot while they’re moving around, squints, and shoots.

On Monday, Curtis tells Portia, Aunt Stella may be in trouble; Stella wonders what kind of questions they could have for her; Britt says Jason has to come with her – now; and Maxie asks Martin if she can be kicked out of Deception if she goes against them.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

In case you weren’t around or need a refresher.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-jason-and-britt-relive-the-complete-history-of-their-relationship-so-far/

Of course Britt’s plugged into social media.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-kelly-thiebaud-previews-britt-and-jasons-complicated-reunion-excl/

I like him, and as much as I like an opposites attract thing, I’m not so sure he vibes with Molly.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/casting-exclusive-josh-kelly-breaks-his-silence-on-general-hospital-future-i-want-to-stay/

And in the oh yeah, you’re on this show category.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/tajh-bellow-speaks-out-on-tjs-future-on-general-hospital/

Sad last minute news. I was just talking with a friend last weekend about how long he’s been on the show. Let’s hope they do better by him than they’re doing with Leslie Charleson.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-tristan-rogers-dies-at-79/

https://people.com/tristan-rogers-dead-general-hospital-8600222

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Without guest Kelly’s drunken antics, things ran more smoothly, but the boatmance quadrangles continued to complicate things. There was a pajama party complete with a pillow fight, which seemed really stupid. If I was paying a billion dollars for a few days, especially after the first day had been ruined, it would be the last choice I’d make. Cleaning up the feathers was no easy chore for the crew either. Kyle decided Solene’s cavalier ways were an ick for him. They got a $22K tip, which I didn’t think was nearly enough for what the crew had to endure, and neither did the captain. Kyle screwed himself by drunk talking that he “slipped it” to the primary while he was holding her up in the water. Considering that other guests were around them and it was broad daylight, it was highly unlikely, but he went overboard (figuratively) and nearly got the boot. Luckily, no one believed him and Captain Kerry had mercy.

The Valley

Danny’s inappropriate behavior was rehashed and Andy asked if Danny thought he had a drinking problem. Then we moved on to the ring rumor about Jason and revisited Jax’s burner account under the name of Frank Dremon which he really meant to be Frank Drebin. Kristen called Jax attending a party he wasn’t invited to pulling a Doute. We flashed back to Jax insisting it was his show, then went even further in flashing back to the same thing on Vanderpump Rules. We all had déjà vu and everyone had a good laugh, but Jax needs some new material. Danny touching some woman’s butt was also rehashed, and we flashed back to the 50th time it was brought up on the show. This is one of the reasons I hate Reunions. It’s like a three-part rerun of all the bad stuff.

Real Housewives Of Miami

A trip to Sevilla, Spain didn’t stop these women from being a-holes. In a surprise twist, this was a two-parter and was on Thursday as well. I paid more attention to the second part.

Marysol said they’d brought hurricane season to Spain. Did no one look at a weather report? Lisa was still upset over Larsa following her ex. I can see her point. I’m not so sure it wouldn’t piss me off too, especially if the wounds were fresh, but instead of harping on it at every opportunity, just reframe the friendship. Lisa had a phenomenal dress for her interviews – see below. Fashion first. When they picked out flamenco dresses, there were some big ass earrings that I also eyeballed. There was bickering the car and Julia told them to knock it off, but Kiki said it best: Come on, ladies. We’re in Spain. Apparently, Lisa ended up getting rage texts from Larsa’s SO Jody, which was totally inappropriate. Whenever I hear them talk about Jody, it always takes me a moment to remember who he is. At first, I always think it must be a Housewife I can’t place.

Lisa’s dress.

https://wornontv.net/528799

Real Housewives Of Orange County

Shannon was all I’m not going if Katie is going, but she seemed to be everywhere anyway. Tamra admitted to Shannon and Emily that she shouldn’t drink because she got mean, and in Jenn’s interview, she said, until there was an intervention or exorcism, nothing was going to change with Tamra. In NOLA there was a dog parade/adoption event, and I applaud the women for having no arguments while they were there. They also went to see a lady about voodoo dolls. I’m sure there’s a pin shortage in NOLA now. Even though in Gina’s interview, she said voodoo had a positive side and went on about manifestation, I don’t think it’s the best choice to open any doors there. Tamra apologized to Gretchen, and in Gretchen’s interview, she said Tamra was good at making you hope she’d changed. It didn’t take long for Tamara to be at odds with Gretchen, who said she believed Katie wasn’t taking smack about Tamra to a blogger. No surprise, Shannon screeched about how much she hated Katie during a nice restaurant dinner, right in front of the server. Fancy Pants Heather tried to sympathize with Tamra, who screamed at her and walked away. Gina said Tamra had taken a Xanax and had a drink, and in her interview, Tamra said she felt unloved and unwanted. She was out. I see therapy is working out well.

Random Reality Items

If only.

No real information here. It’s literally just a tease.

I can’t wait to see this.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Twisted Metal. Peacock. I mentioned this last week, but now that I’ve seen more, I’m all about this show. Love the story, love the characters, love the apocalyptic weirdness. The action scenes are amazing, the car crashes could give Quentin Tarantino a run for his money, the editing is incredible, and the backstories of the characters are well done. The soundtrack is phenomenal, and I’ve already downloaded several songs to my playlists. It’s also funny. Crazy ass clown, Sweet Tooth, has many good one-liners – he wanted to do stand-up, but flopped in Vegas, and has a backstory to beat them all – but not in a trite Freddy Krueger way. Even the sex scenes have a humorous quality to them. I’ve watched into Season 2, but now they’re doling out episodes like methadone once a week, so I saved a couple of them until I can rack up more.

https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/how-to-watch-twisted-metal-season-2-on-peacock

https://www.mensjournal.com/entertainment/twisted-metal-season-2-review-plot

https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/twisted-metal-season-2-guide-to-racers-cars-costumes

https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/twisted-metal-on-peacock-licensed-music-soundtrack

Woman in the Yard. Peacock. I was glad I didn’t spend money to see this in the movies. It was pretty creepy throughout most of the film, but then it ended up being an allegory and having a philosophical point. It was still better than Mother, time I will never get back, but all the same, I felt cheated. This review accurately sums up how I felt.

Crack: Cocaine, Corruption and Conspiracy. Netflix. A trip down 80s Memory Lane when cocaine was in vogue and then crack came into being changing everything. This just about says it all – A user: I can walk to the moon. I’m good to go.

The Gilded Age – Finale. HBO/MAX. It doesn’t get much better than this. I hope we don’t have to wait years for the next season. All the spoilers.

https://ew.com/the-gilded-age-creators-on-the-russells-marriage-larian-and-more-11787314

🔮 Watch Of the Future…

I almost forgot about this show. I loved the first season. I think I’ll make it to Season 2, but hopefully I live long enough to see a Season 3.

https://ew.com/one-piece-season-2-first-look-photos-teaser-reveal-early-season-3-renewal-11787924

Not a given, but it would be nice. We need more Deadpool in the world.

https://ew.com/ryan-reynolds-deadpool-avengers-doomsday-tease-11789267

🐾 Tails Of Rescue…

🐶 El Wray didn’t win, but I’m not bitter… sniff…

https://people.com/worlds-cutest-rescue-dog-contest-2025-voting-11786201

🐩 Another rescue makes good.

https://people.com/dog-travels-to-40-countries-with-his-foster-dog-exclusive-11786287

🐕 So ugly, she’s cute.

https://people.com/bulldog-named-petunia-crowned-worlds-ugliest-dog-2025-11788211

🦨  Quotes of the Week

I hope I shall possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain what I consider the most enviable of all titles, the character of an honest man. – George Washington

Always seek out the seed of triumph in every adversity. – Augustine Og Mandino II

Stay close to anything that makes you glad you are alive. – Hafez

The danger in buying silence is, it only works until somebody talks. – Christopher Lee Parson aka Captain Obvious, The Nine Lives of Vince McMahon

With the past, I have nothing to do; nor with the future. I live now. Ralph Waldo Emerson

The deeper the truth in a creative work, the longer it will live. – Sir Charlie Chaplin

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

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. – Lao Tzu

All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others. – George Orwell

My eyes cannot take this anymore. – Salsa instructor Santi, Beyond the Gates

🌻 The Odd Uneven Time…

Until next week, stay safe; stay catching fireflies, then letting them go; and stay having anything you want on your pizza, even pineapple.

July 25, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Willow Confronts Nina, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Goodnight Dark Prince, Where Are They, Best Kind Of Con, Atypical Animals, A Half-Dozen Quotes & Dreamer

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Brennan found Carly at the pool and suggested a swim. She said the pool was booked for a private party, and he thought it was perhaps a party for two.

Josslyn wondered why Brennan went radio silent after they’d tagged the courier, and she and Vaughn went to his office, but he wasn’t there. Josslyn wondered if was against policy to date an agent’s mom.

Dante worried that Josslyn was a civilian, but Anna said she thought Josslyn had been recruited to be an agent.

Flora had her own show on Home & Heart and welcomed Lucy and Brook. Lucy said Maxie was still in New York and Brook was nervous. Brook said it was the first time she’d handled the pitch, but Flora said she’d be great. She’d inherited her mama’s charm

Jason approached the airline employee and said there was a passenger on the plane to Dubrovnik that he had to speak to now. He tried to buy a ticket, but the guy said it was too late.

Flora asked if Lois was okay, and Brook said Lois was stepping down as spokesperson. In the meantime, she’d be filling in.

Dante wondered if Josslyn was playing spy games, but Anna said Josslyn had been trained. She was younger when she’d been recruited, and Josslyn was a prime candidate. It was understandable that Dante still saw her as a little girl wearing a corn costume. (Ha-ha! They’ll never let that go.) He didn’t want to think of her as doing something dangerous, but Brennan had an eye for talent. She’d talked to Carly earlier and was convinced Josslyn had been recruited to keep an eye on Dalton. He’d reeled her in with Cyrus Renault.

Brennan said he had a nefarious ulterior motive that was classified. They hadn’t spent much time together and he’d missed her. She confessed she missed him too and they kissed.

Lucy told Brook that they started off with great sales and then they’d drop off, but she had a surprise that would hook the viewers.

Anna said Josslyn was determined to prove Cyrus was guilty and had been a convincing spy. Dante said Sonny mentioned Brennan was at Carly’s on Christmas Eve, and Anna thought it had been a test. Josslyn had leads a civilian wouldn’t have access to and she thought Josslyn had been under constant surveillance. If she hadn’t handled it, Brennan wouldn’t have recruited her.

Vaughn told Josslyn to stick to the assignment. This part of her life didn’t exist for Carly. Josslyn wondered if Brennan wasn’t breaking rules, but Vaughn said the last thing she wanted to do was make waves with Brennan. It was the quickest way to a desk job doing data mining in a language that didn’t use vowels. She didn’t want to go against Brennan and had no idea how much pull he had. She asked if he was telling her that Brennan could do whatever he wanted and get away with it.   

Carly asked if everything was okay, and Brennan said he was dealing with a tricky situation, but he’d made progress today. He asked what was going on with her, and she said Daisy and Sasha had left town. Maybe forever. She felt like she’d had a brand-new grandchild magically appear and disappear. She and Michael were both heartbroken and didn’t know if they’d ever see Daisy again.

Brook said she’d do her best, and Lucy said, she always did. Brook said she kept thinking about her mother and how the audience loved her. Lucy said Lois turned into a real pro, and Brook said she missed who she and Lois used to be.

On the plane back to Port Charles, Jason flashed back to his days with Britt.

Anna told Dante that she’d felt alone in the world. She was studying dance and felt there was something more. The recruiter saw something in her and she was sure Brennan had told Josslyn she could make a difference. Dante wondered if Josslyn knew what she was getting herself into, and Anna said she hadn’t, but it filled a void for her. It probably did for Josslyn too. Dante said Brennan represented a purpose, and Anna said the trip to Easter Island was probably a cover for her training. Dalton was the target and Josslyn was already at PCU. She had an internship with Dalton that she went to great lengths to obtain, sabotaging Emma’s research and using it as her own. Anna believed Dalton was doing something bigger than illegal animal testing.

Carly told Brennan that Michael had been supportive of Sasha leaving town. Sasha was convinced someone was targeting Daisy. She told Brennan about the weird things that had happened and that it wasn’t mommy brain. She thought it was strange, but not dangerous, and he said leaving the country was pretty drastic. She said it was killing Michael and her to let them go. She had to stop herself from asking him to fix everything.

Flora went on the air and introduced Brook and Lucy from Deception Cosmetics. They were here to talk about newest product, Youth Truth Serum. Brook said it was the only serum the viewers would ever need, and Lucy said they needed their beloved spokesperson to introduce it. Surprise! Lois was here. Lois hugged Brook and said she was so sorry. Brook said she didn’t know whether to hug Lois or fire her.

Jason had more flashbacks about Britt on the plane, telling her that just because she had the genetic marker for Huntington’s, it didn’t tell her how to live. He remembered them getting busy.

Vaughn told Josslyn that Brennan was the best there was. Whatever compromises he made, the world was better off. Didn’t she want to do some good in the world? She said that’s why she was there, and he said she never wanted Brennan as an enemy.

Carly said it made sense to believe what was happening was connected to Sonny, and she never wanted Sonny and Brennan’s worlds to collide. He’d already bent the rules for her on several occasions and she didn’t want him to think she was using him. He said he wasn’t keeping score, and she said she wanted him to know that he was enough. He said if she was ever in doubt, ask. If there was something wrong, come to him. He wanted to be someone she could turn to.

Anna said she didn’t know what she was getting into at the time, and the good she did came at a personal cost. Dante said his time with the WSB cost his marriage and almost his sanity. He didn’t want that for Josslyn. Anna said it wasn’t his decision to make. She’d tried to warn Carly about Brennan, but the agenda wasn’t Carly; it was Josslyn. Dante wondered if Brennan had been using Carly to get to Josslyn.

Jason flashed back to telling Britt that he was marrying Carly, and Britt kicking him out.

Brook tried to jet, but Lucy suggested she and Lois do a mother/ daughter pitch. Brook said Lois looked more like her sister thanks to the serum and they did a demonstration. Lucy saw the numbers and said Lois and Brook were a hit.

Anna said Dante couldn’t say a word to Carly. She didn’t need to know. Dalton could be one of the reasons the WSB had opened a field office in Port Charles. She didn’t trust Brennan, but if he was going to the trouble to nail Dalton, Dalton was a serious threat, and he would never give up. Dante said, even if it meant sacrificing an agent?

Carly said it wasn’t fair Brennan couldn’t share his problems with her, and he said he thought it was one of the reasons he didn’t have personal relationships. He had to keep a wall between his personal life and his job. He would see his colleagues doing it and it made them vulnerable and less efficient, but just being with her helped.

Flora said they were sold out and thanked the women of Deception. She told them to come back soon and often. They had a rare kind of magic. Lucy wanted to reschedule something, and Brook asked, what the hell was that? Lois said she thought Brook knew she was coming, and Lucy said she’d done it for Deception and them. Couldn’t they move forward? Lois said she was so sorry. She never would have come if Lucy hadn’t lied, but she missed Brook so much. Brook told Lucy that she knew how to make sure this didn’t happen again, and Lois said she’d do anything. Brook said she didn’t have to. She was fired.

Anna said she’d take it from there, and Dante said they’d both lost a lot working for the WSB. He got why she wanted them to stay quiet, but would she have wanted someone to get her out when she was Josslyn’s age? He left.

Carly said it sounded like they had a future together, and Brennan said he hoped they did. They kissed some more.

Josslyn said she wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize the mission, and Vaughn said, the more people Dalton shared information with, the more dangerous it was going to be. She said she was ready, but he said she was distracted and couldn’t be. Both the op and their lives were on the line. Brennan called Vaughn, and Vaughn told Josslyn that the courier got a connecting flight to Dubrovnik.

Jason remembered saying goodbye to Britt, telling her that he had this, then looking at a tarot card. He flashed back to seeing her get on the plane and frowned.

Dubrovnik, Croatia. Britt got out of a car and the driver said, welcome back. She said it was good to be back.

Tuesday:

Brook met Tracy at the pool because Tracy wanted to celebrate Brook’s appearance on Home & Heart. The product sold out. Brook said, don’t thank her, thank Lois.

Lois flashed back to Brook firing her, and Flora brought her some sweet tea with a little something extra to take the edge off. Flora said they’d sold out in record time and then Lois got fired, but Lois said it was the least of what she deserved.

Portia asked Isaiah to her office, and jokingly asked if he was fired. She said, of course (🍷) not. He wasn’t going anywhere, but she was.

In Laura’s office, Sonny was on his phone, and Sidwell told said Sonny would get what he wanted, but he expected to get the same in return. Laura came in and asked if Sonny was okay after Nina’s interview with the PC Press. He said she needed to cut ties with him, or he’d do it.

Sidwell went to Drew’s place, joining Martin and Jordan for a meeting about Measure C. He told Drew that he had to withdraw his support for Measure C and halt his attacks on Sonny.

Lucas went to see Chase at the station, and said Marco was missing. Sonny had kidnapped him.

Drew said they had to keep the campaign alive, and Jordan said public opinion was turning in their direction. Sidwell suggested that Tracy make up the difference, and Martin volunteered to deliver the news.

Brook told Tracy that part of Lucy meant well and the segment was great. She’d also realized she missed Lois, and Tracy wondered if Brook forgave her, but Brook said, no. She fired her.

Lois said she and Brook had fights before, but not like this. She was trying to protect Brook, but Brook wouldn’t listen to her. Flora said everything was in confidence, but Lois said there were no secrets to keep anymore. She didn’t tell Brook who or where her own child was. She’d thought Brook was ready to move on, but realized it was just Lucy being Lucy. Brook was angrier than she’d ever been and would never forgive her.

Willow gave Elizabeth a formal wedding invitation at the hospital, and said she was glad Elizabeth was coming. She wasn’t sure anyone would. Tomorrow, she officially became Mrs. Drew Cain.

Drew asked, what changed? and Sidwell said if he continued the funding, he’d have to pay too high of a price. Sonny had kidnapped his son.

Sonny said things were worse for Laura. He was linked to Natalia’s death his ex was talking bad about him in press. She didn’t want to be seen with a man accused of abusing women, but he had the feeling the bad press wouldn’t be there forever.

Lucas told Chase that there was no sign of Marco and Marco hadn’t returned his texts or calls. There was no way Marco would miss his mother’s memorial, but Sonny was there talking to Sidwell. Chase said he couldn’t bring someone in on hunch, but ADA Turner interrupted and insisted Sonny be brought in.

Portia said she couldn’t tell Isaiah why, but it was work related. She thought when all was said and done, the board would ask for her resignation. Isaiah wanted to help, but Portia said there was nothing he could do. She’d be compromising herself to do anything, and she couldn’t do that anymore. Isaiah said he’d miss her, and she said it had been a pleasure working with him. He said she and Terry had convinced him to work there, and she said he was an asset to the hospital and a good friend to her. She didn’t want to leave. He told her to honor what she knew was right and if she went down, go out swinging. She said she intended to.

Willow showed Elizabeth a picture of her dress, and Elizabeth said it would be magical day. Willow said it would also be hard without the kids there, and Elizabeth said she still believed there would be a resolution. Willow said the day was about moving forward and getting her kids back and it was all thanks to Drew. (Bleh.)

Sidwell said, in exchange for Marco’s safe return, he had to withdraw funding and stop the attack on Sonny, but Jordan said they didn’t need a campaign. They needed the police. They should bring Anna in on it. Sidwell said it was a life-or-death deadline, and any delay might get Marco killed. Sonny won the battle, but not the war, and as soon as Marco was safe, he’d make sure Sonny paid in ways even he never dreamed of.

Jordan and Drew wondered what kind of retaliation Sidwell was thinking of, and Drew wondered if he meant something like Charlie’s. Sidwell said that was Selena’s work, which sounded reasonable to Drew and Jordan. Drew said Sidwell had to take the piers through Measure C, and Sidwell said he might have another strategy, but wasn’t taking further steps until Marco was home safe.

Sonny told Laura that it was just a feeling, but he still thought she should distance herself. She said she didn’t want to give in to Sidwell’s scare tactics. Turner called Sonny and told him that he had to come down to the station. She knew that he was in the mayor’s office and thought it would be better if he came in voluntarily. He agreed, and Laura said she didn’t want to publicly denounce him to win political points. People would see through it.

Lois told Flora about Brook getting pregnant and how she’d turned to her own mother after promising Brook she wouldn’t tell anyone. Her Cousin Camilla had lost her husband and wanted a child, so she’d adopted the baby. No one was to know except her, Lois, and Camilla. She’d thought about telling Brook the truth, but only got close to doing it when Camilla died. Flora understood why she didn’t, and Lois said she continued to lie to everyone. Flora said Lois had held the family together the only way she knew how, but Lois said it destroyed everything. Her daughter and grandson wouldn’t talk to her, but even worse, ruined Brook and Gio’s relationship.

Tracy said firing Lois wasn’t what she’d expected, and Brook asked her to be less thrilled. When the segment ended, all she thought of was Gio and the lies. Tracy said she endorsed Brook’s plan retroactively, and Brook said it felt like she was taking back control, but now she felt empty. Martin approached, and Tracy said he was like weed – unsightly and good for nothing. What did he want? He informed her that Sidwell had withdrawn funding and support for Measure C and the campaign against Sonny. He wasn’t at liberty to discuss the particulars, but she’d have to fill in the funding, since Drew couldn’t use his own funds to finance the measure. Tracy said it would continue to be fully funded, but she no longer had to tolerate the barnacles – i.e. Martin and Drew – holding onto her for relevance, so they were not to call her. Martin wondered what she’d do if she ever lost all her money, but she said that was never going to happen.

Jordan went to Laura’s office and told her there was a Sidwell update involving Sonny.

Sonny went to the station, and Turner said Marco was missing. The reason was because Sonny had kidnapped him.

Lois told Flora that she’d do anything to fix Brook and Gio’s relationship. She’d still make the same decision today, but with Brook and Gio living under the same roof, and Gio’s father and grandparents close by, she should have told Brook. Instead, she’d doubled down on the secret, and it was her fault. Flora said Lois had been young too and probably felt alone. She tried to do right in every possible way, and turned to the person she’d trusted the most. She’d thought it was her fault, her mistake, and her choice, but the lie started with her mama.

Brook said she didn’t know Tracy was part of the smear campaign. She couldn’t stand Sidwell and Drew. Tracy said, necessity made strange bedfellows, and she was going to disseminate the truth about Sonny. Brook said it was her truth. Gio thought she and Sonny were family, and if she hurt Sonny, she’d hurt Gio, and it would cost her. Tracy said because of Gio, she couldn’t let it go.

Jordan asked if Laura wanted the good or bad news first, and Laura said, the good news. Jordan said Sidwell was pulling his funding and his smear campaign, and Laura said Sonny had thought the bad press would be ending soon. Jordan said Sonny was holding Sidwell’s son captive.

Sonny said Turner had no proof, but she said Lucas was convinced he had something to do with Marco’s disappearance. Sonny said Marco saved his daughter’s life, and Turner said, from the fire he believed Sidwell started. Sonny said they both knew she had nothing. Did she call him here because she missed him?

Isaiah told Elizabeth about renovating the cabin and said he was headed there after work. He wasn’t going to the wedding, but glad Willow was happy. Elizabeth said, happy may be relative. Drew’s drama wasn’t dying down. She hoped he made Willow as happy as Willow thought he did.

Willow went to Portia’s office and gave her an invitation, saying, if there was ever a time to put the past aside, this was it. They’d love to have her and Curtis there. Portia tossed the invite in the trash and said the kid gloves weren’t working, so she’d give it to Willow straight. Willow had no idea who her fiancé really was and it was high time she found out.

Lois told Flora that her mother was guided by her own moral compass and values, which weren’t right or wrong, but she’d gone along with it. Everything that was happening was her responsibility. Flora said the bond between mama and daughter was tough as nails. At some point, Brook would need Lois, and when she did, she’d be back. Lois hoped Flora was right, but in the meantime, she was giving Brook her space. Lois thanked Flora, and Flora told her not to be so hard on herself. Lois said she was going back to Bensonhurst until Brook was ready. When she was, Brook would know how to find her.

Tracy told Brook that she didn’t want Gio to end up on the list of lives Sonny destroyed. Two things could be true. Brook could believe Sonny had a good heart, and she could believe Sonny posed a threat to Brook’s son. Tell her she was wrong.

Laura asked if there was any evidence, and Jordan said, not yet. There was only Sidwell’s word that he met with Sonny, who confirmed he had Marco. His list of demands included pulling the funding and stopping the negative media wave against Sonny, and by association, her. Laura said Sonny knew it was going to end, because he was going to make it end. It was retaliation for the fire at Charlie’s and Kristina nearly dying. Jordan thought there was a possibility that Sonny was no longer the lesser of two evils, Maybe he was as bad as Sidwell.

Sonny said he had no problem with Marco, and Turner said if Marco didn’t surface in 24 hours, she’d have Sonny arrested. Sonny told her to do what she needed to do.

Lucas thanked Isaiah for filling in for him, and Isaiah gave Lucas a very small envelope that someone had dropped off for him. Isaiah had to leave, and Lucas opened the envelope. Inside were a business card and a key.

When Martin came back to Drew’s, Drew gave him a wedding invitation, but Martin said he didn’t do weddings. He got hives at the thought. Drew said Martin worked for him, and Martin said if he’d be working, he was going to bill Drew. Drew left to make a phone call, and Martin saw a colorful envelope under a chair. He pulled it out and saw it was addressed to Monica.

Drew called hospital to find out if Portia was there, and Elizabeth asked if he wanted to talk to her. He said, no, and he’d see Elizabeth tomorrow. The look on Elizabeth’s face said she thought it was weird.

Martin asked if the envelope was something Drew needed, but Drew thought the kids had been using it for scrap paper. He had to leave and told Martin to lock up when he was done. After Drew was gone, Martin took a paper out of the envelope and read: Dear Monica, I’m so sorry you’re ill. I know it’s been a long time. I’ve been meaning…  He kept reading, then stared at the letter in shock.

Willow said, Portia was her boss and it was inappropriate to comment on her personal life. Portia said, not when it came to Drew. He’d been blackmailing her and wanted her to falsify Michael’s medical records so it looked like he was addicted to drugs. That was Willow’s knight in shining armor and the man she was about to marry.

Wednesday:

Spinelli, James, and Obrecht were at the hatchet range. James threw, and Obrecht said, adequate. Let Oma show him how it’s done. She got a bullseye, and James said he wanted to do that. She said, of course (🍷), and told him to home in on the target. Never lose sight of anything you want to achieve. James got a bullseye, and Obrecht said, very nice. Spinelli said, well done and not at all disconcerting. James said he was going to need more axes.

Rocco waited on Carly and Jason at the pool, and Carly said, great kid. Jason said Rocco had been asking about Britt and wondered if that’s what made him think he saw her.

Lying on a chaise lounge, Lulu got Rocco’s attention. He asked what she was doing there. It felt like was hovering, like he was a little kid. He was at work. Could she give him a little space?

Turner asked if Sonny had nothing more to tell her about Marco’s whereabouts, when Dante came in and said someone was there to see her. She left, and Dante said he knew she was questioning Sonny about Marco’s disappearance, but Sonny said it was a conversation they didn’t want to have.

Turner thanked Sidwell for coming to the station and said Lucas was concerned about Marco’s safety and whereabouts. Did he have reason believe Marco met with foul play?

Lucas banged on the door where Marco was being held and called his name. He took out the key (which he might have done first), opened the door, and saw Marco passed out on the chair.

Nina went to see Drew and asked if he’d been told that Sasha left Port Charles with Michael’s baby permanently.  

Willow said she couldn’t believe Portia and Curtis hated Drew so much she’d say something like that, and Portia said Drew wanted to frame Willow’s ex-husband, who she claimed to once love, and make it appear like he was a drug addict. It was illegal and unethical. He wanted her to change Michael’s blood tests so he could steal the children, and it meant nothing? If that was the case, she wasn’t sure she knew who Willow was anymore.

Lucas ran to Marco and told him to wake up. Marco stirred and asked what took him so long.

Dante said he just wanted Sonny to hear him out. His grandsons Gio and Rocco were going through a lot. They admired Sonny and wanted to emulate him, and he was asking Sonny to keep that in mind.

Sidwell told Turner that he wasn’t in the habit of making accusations without evidence or facts, and she asked if he thought his son was in danger. He said he wanted confirmation on his son’s safety that he’d had yet to receive.

Carly asked where Jason saw Britt, and he said, the airport in Paris. He’d caught a glimpse of her getting on a flight to Dubrovnik. Carly asked if he tried to talk to her, but he said she was on the plane already and they wouldn’t let him. She said, maybe Britt was fresh in his mind, and he was tired. He saw someone similar and mistook them for Britt. He asked if Carly wouldn’t question if she saw him, even if she thought he was dead, but she said this was different. Britt was dead. He said, so was he.

Obrecht taught James how to throw the ax, and he came close to a bullseye. Spinelli texted Lulu to come quick, and Obrecht said James was so grown and looked like his father. Spinelli said James was his own person, but had Nathan’s fearlessness and sweetness. She said she’d been absent too long. It was important to connect with family face to face. Why did no one tell her how out of control Willow had become?

Drew told Nina that Willow would be surprised, and Nina said she told Willow. She didn’t mention it? He said Willow was focused on the wedding. He was sure Michael was trying to control Sasha like he had Willow. Good for her that she got away. Nina said, that’s not why she left, and Michael had given her his full support, even making the arrangements. Someone had been targeting their baby.

Portia told Willow that Drew knew Michael had to get blood testing to monitor his burn treatment. He’d fought hard to heal and come back to be with his children and Drew wanted to destroy that. He wanted her to alter the test results to make it appear like Michael abused opioids and would want a large sample to establish a pattern. That was how Drew wanted to get her children back. Willow said, if that’s what it took, she was on Drew’s side.

Lucas said Sonny was a bastard and asked if Marco was okay. Marco asked how Lucas found him, and Lucas said, somebody dropped off an envelope with a key and address in it, and Marco said he had no key to the handcuffs. Did Lucas? Lucas said, no, but his sister Sam taught him how to pick a lock. Marco said he had to hear more about this family, and Lucas got him free. Marco got up, but stumbled, and Lucas caught him. Marco said, his hero again, and they kissed.

Carly said Jason couldn’t be sure it was Britt and wondered why Rocco had been asking about her. Jason said Danny had found a file with Rocco’s original birth certificate and showed it to Rocco, who found out Britt gave birth to him. She asked if Rocco knew Britt stole the embryo and if Lulu knew that Rocco knew, and he said, yes to both. Lulu made it clear how she felt about Britt and that she didn’t want him talking to her son again. Carly said his opinion was different than most people’s, and he said he knew Britt differently. She said she couldn’t judge Britt. Josslyn was alive because Britt died saving her. He said, what if she hadn’t?  

Spinelli said Maxie would want them to cut Willow some slack since she was going through a hard time, and Obrecht said she understood, but was concerned with Willow’s response to it. Friends and family saw her spiraling, but she wasn’t a weakling like some believed. She had untapped potential she was beginning to recognize, and it wasn’t necessarily potential for good.

Nina told Drew about Daisy disappearing, then being found in a bassinet where Sasha and Michael had already looked. Drew said a child disappearing was every parent’s worst nightmare and guessed that it was one of Sonny’s enemies. Nina said everyone was assuming Sonny was being sent a message, and Drew said, but she wasn’t buying it. She said, it made sense, but what if it was someone else? Someone who knew the house and how to avoid the security cameras. Someone who wanted to spite Michael and Sasha and wanted to terrify them without hurting the baby. Someone like him.

Portia said she and Willow were professionals who took oaths and pledges to help people, but Willow said she couldn’t help anyone if she didn’t have her children. Portia asked what Willow thought the children would do when their father was falsely labeled as a drug addict. Michael had survived so much and was a devoted father. Willow said Michael took her children. He used his money, power, influence, and the legal system without a second thought. Drew was the only person who believed and supported her. Michael didn’t fight fair, so why should she?

Marco told Lucas that he’d been treated okay until he tried to escape, and Lucas said Marco needed to get to the hospital. Marco said, before that, he had something else he needed to do.

Turner told Sonny that Sidwell might have questions for him, and Sonny went into the squad room. Turner said Sidwell confirmed that his son had been missing for more than 24 hours, and Sidwell said he feared Marco had been abducted by someone to coerce him into compliance. Sonny asked him to be more specific, but Sidwell said he thought specificity (which I’d thought was just a Spice Girls word) would be a hazard to his son’s health. Turner said she wanted to help, but needed a name. Who did he believe was responsible for taking his son?

Lulu arrived at the hatchet range and asked Spinelli, what was the emergency? He said, if Maxie were there, she’d want Lulu to be informed in person. Obrecht was in Port Charles. Lulu asked, why? and he said she claimed she wanted to see family and was worried about Nina and Willow. But he knew Britt had been the subject of conversation, so there was the timing. He thought she should know. Lulu called Dante and asked him to meet her at the range. It was about Rocco.

Sidwell said his son was a brilliant, heroic young man… Marco appeared and said he thought there was some confusion about where he’d been. He and Sidwell hugged.

Lucas told Carly that Marco was alive, and she said, so he was safe. He said that was yet to be determined, and she said, it was a misunderstanding. He said, hardly. He needed her help, and she owed him a favor.  

Willow said she tried not to bring her personal life to work, and Portia said Drew was blackmailing her. Willow said she was sorry whatever Portia had done put her in this position, but she wasn’t to blame. Michael was. He pushed too far. Portia said Michael wasn’t blackmailing her, and Willow said he was blackmailing her. If she wanted to see her children again, she needed to leave Drew. If this was what needed to be done to get her kids back, so be it. She trusted Drew. He was the only one she trusted. Willow walked out.

Drew told Nina that he didn’t do it. Despite what she thought, it had never been his goal to make anyone suffer. He wanted Willow to get her children, not terrorize a baby. It had to be related to Sonny. His daughter’s restaurant was torched, and Nina gave an interview about Sonny being dangerous. Nina said she wasn’t as certain as he was. Whoever did this was capable of torturing someone just for the hell of it and they were still out there. She left.

Rocco asked if Jason had a minute, and said he’d met with Britt’s mom. Jason said, she was in Port Charles? and Rocco said they met for coffee. There was way more to Britt than people thought. She was more than just some bad person.

At the door to Marco’s room, Lucas told Carly that he and Marco were supposed to meet there. Hopefully, Marco went to GH to get checked out, but he’d had something else to do first. Carly said it sounded like he was okay, and Lucas said he’d found Marco unconscious, beaten, and handcuffed to a chair. If Marco had been killed, he would have made sure Jason and Sonny spent the rest of their lives in prison.

Marco told Turner, Sidwell, and Sonny a story about getting lost, trying to get cellphone service, and falling into a ravine. When he eventually found his way back to his car, he had a flat tire. He fell asleep for the rest of the night, changed the tire, and made his way back to Port Charles. Turner said she assumed if his statement was typed up, he’d sign it, and he said, absolutely. Let him know when. He left, and there were soap looks all around.

Carly told Lucas that Sidwell was dangerous. Marco was his son and lawyer and knew who his father was and what he did. Lucas asked if that made him fair game, and she said he moved to be closer to Sidwell and there was an assumption of risk. Whoever took Marco, did so because they knew who his father was. The blame landed on Sidwell’s door. Lucas said they both knew who took Marco, and she said he’d just met Marco. He was in deep and being naïve. He said he didn’t want to argue. Just one more little favor. Don’t mention Jason or Sonny to him again. Carly left.

Spinelli went to Drew’s and said, according to Maxie, all the RSVPs were in. Drew thanked him, and Spinelli said he wished nothing but the best for him, Willow, and Michael and the kids. Be happy… and good to each other. Drew said he planned to be.

Lulu was throwing an ax when Dante arrived. He said his was being interrogated by the acting DA, and Lulu said she was doing this so she didn’t have a panic attack. Obrecht was in Port Charles. Dante said, why? Since when? Lulu said, recently. Spinelli said she was visiting family, but she didn’t buy it. Dante said he didn’t want Rocco to run int other before they could tell him who she was. Was he at work? She said he practically kicked her out for hovering, and he said they had to talk to Rocco and let him know who Obrecht was. She said, and he needed to know to stay far away.

Jason asked how Rocco connected with Obrecht, and Rocco said he found her email online. He emailed some questions, and she emailed back that they should talk in person. She said Britt was kind of a mess, but not like it was a bad thing. She sounded sort of proud. Britt was brave and didn’t let what others thought influence her. She said Britt loved him. He thought Britt may have been a better person than his mom and dad let themselves realize. Maybe Britt’s reasons for having him weren’t totally bad. Obrecht watched from a distance and said, Herr Morgan, we meet again.

Obrecht said she didn’t expect to see Rocco so soon, and Rocco said he worked there. She said she commended a young man earning an honest wage and told Jason, for a man presumed dead, he looked none the worse for wear. Britt would be pleased. She asked Rocco to help her get settled in and followed him to a chair. Carly came in and told Jason that Lucas was upset with him and Sonny. Jason said he didn’t blame Lucas, and she asked, is that Dr. Obrecht? He said, it sure is and it can’t be a coincidence.

Sidwell said he was relieved more than he could say, and Turner said, Marco told an interesting story. He said, it sounded quite harrowing, and thanked her for looking into it. He left, and Sonny said he was glad it was settled, but it was always nice see her. If there was nothing else… Turner said, actually, there was.

Marco came back to the hotel, and Lucas asked how it went. Marco said he clarified what he could to the police, and Lucas said Marco promised he could look him over. Marco took his shirt off, and Lucas wanted to check for broken ribs, but Marco said he’d been dreaming of a shower for 24 hours. Don’t go away. He left for the shower.

Obrecht told Rocco that when she was being held captive on Cassadine Island, Britt shot her with a spear fish gun. They laughed and Obrecht took a selfie. Dante and Lulu stormed in, and Lulu told Rocco to leave. He stepped aside, and she told Obrecht, get up. She was leaving. Never go near her son again. Obrecht said she apologized if she offended her by being in her son’s proximity. It was a shame they couldn’t peacefully co-exist, since Rocco wouldn’t exist if not for her dear, departed Britta. She left.  

Nina went to Portia’s office and Portia said she’d had a terrifying conversation with Nina’s daughter. Nina asked, what was terrifying? and Portia said, everything. She didn’t recognize Willow anymore. What had Drew done to her?

Turner asked which was the more likely scenario. Marco driving out of cellphone range and missing for 24 hours or Marco’s father setting fire to Sonny’s daughter’s place of business, which almost cost her life, and Sonny retaliating by snatching Sidwell’s son and getting what he wanted in exchange? Sonny said, the first because it was what Marco said happened. She said she thought they had an understanding. They’d both played unfortunate roles in Natalia’s death, and she’d thought he had a conscience. Now she saw he was just as corrupt and soulless as she’d originally thought. He said if he was corrupt and soulless as she thought, Marco would be dead. (Truth!)

Marco came out of shower, and Lucas said when he didn’t hear from Marco, he knew something bad happened. He was terrified he wouldn’t see Marco alive again, that he’d be a casualty of what his dad did and Sonny’s retaliation. Marco said Lucas found him and he was safe. This was about them and no one else let. Let this be just about them. They got busy.

Jason told Carly that Rocco had reached out to Obrecht, and she came to Port Charles. What did she know about Britt’s death? She said only what Josslyn told her. Heather Webber went after Josslyn with a poisoned hook and Britt was able to intercept her, but got nicked in the process. Jason said, and she died? and she said, yeah. He asked who was with her? and she said, her mom. Britt died in Leisl’s arms. Jason said he needed to talk to Obrecht.

Lulu asked what Obrecht said to Rocco, and he said, nothing. They were just talking. She said, about what? and Dante told her, take it easy. She said she’d like to know why Obrecht was coming after her son, but Rocco said he reached out to Obrecht. He had questions and wanted to know more about Britt. Dante said whatever he heard about Britt, she was no hero. Neither is her mom. He can’t listen to what she says. Rocco said he got they hated Britt and had their reasons, but they weren’t his and he didn’t hate her. He left.  

Portia told Nina that Willow hand delivered a wedding invitation, and she thought it was worth it to let Willow know about the man she planned to marry. She told Willow that Drew was blackmailing her and wanted her to alter Michael’s blood tests so the results looked like he was a drug addict in family court. She could tell Nina was horrified, but guess who wasn’t or wasn’t even fazed? Willow.

Willow came home, and Spinelli told her that Maxie thought everything was perfect. She did ask if they could make one addition. Leisl was in town. Willow said Obrecht was her aunt and special to both of them, and Spinelli said he heard the Cosmopolitan was a stunning venue. Drew thanked him and told him to thank Maxie, and Spinelli said that Maxie was now a titan in her industry. He wouldn’t be a bushel in her light. He left, and Willow looked at her tablet. She said the Cosmopolitan couldn’t compare to the Quartermaine grounds, but it would be beautiful. She wondered where to seat Obrecht, when Drew flashed back to what Nina had said. He asked Willow what she did July 4th when he was still in DC, and she said she got a drink with her mom after the fireworks. She barely made it. She fell asleep and almost missed the fireworks completely. Drew looked concerned.

Thursday:

Sonny met Carly at the pool, and she asked if escalating things was the way to go with Sidwell. Sonny said, if he hadn’t, it would have been tough on the family and his business and shown him as vulnerable. She needed to talk to her brother. Lucas turned him into the cops. Michael came in with Wiley.  

Marco and Lucas basked in the afterglow. Lucas said he could get used to this, and Marco said he was thinking the same thing.

Trina ran into Kai at the Bad Jen Café.

Portia was looking at her resignation when Curtis came in. He asked if she stayed at the hospital because she had work, or did she not want to come home? She said it was her last night working at GH and probably as a doctor. She wanted to make the most of the time she had left.

Alexis went to Drew’s to pick up Scout and said Scout was taking this flower girl thing seriously. Drew said he knew Alexis had misgivings, but promised the marriage would be great for Scout. She said, we’ll see.

Obrecht said the chapel was the perfect balance of spare and ornate, and Elizabeth said Maxie made sure it was stunning. Obrecht said she was sure Spinelli executed Maxie’s instructions. She’d suck it up and be polite, her wedding gift. The flowers were magnificent. What a pity they’d been sacrificed for a marriage doomed to fail.

Nina gave Willow a bracelet for something borrowed, and Willow thanked Nina for encouraging her to have a real wedding. Nina said she deserved more, but Willow said, what more could she want? She and Drew were pledging to spend the rest of their lives together and it was all because of Nina.

Portia said she was tendering her resignation, but Curtis said he thought that was only if they’d exhausted all other options. She said they had. She told Willow that Drew was blackmailing her and forcing her to manipulate Michael’s test results. If he had an ace up his sleeve, now was the time to play it. This was her only option to leave on her own terms. She’d asked Trina to come by and they were going to tell her everything before it came out. He told her not to resign or call Trina. Give him one more day.

Kai said he meant what he said when he told Trina how he felt, and she said she knew. He said he knew she felt betrayed, and she said he’d betrayed her and her family. He said his feelings hadn’t changed and he’d give anything for them to find their way back to each other, and she asked why he was wearing a suit. He said Drew and Willow were getting married and he was going to the wedding. She said, that’s why there was no going back, and walked out.

Marco said a perk of being held hostage was getting out of the friend zone, and Lucas said he respected using humor as a coping mechanism, but Marco must have been terrified. Marco said he was uncomfortable and deeply inconvenienced, and Lucas said he was terrified. Marco said, when they first met in Miami, he thought, this guy is special, and it might be his chance. That’s why he wasn’t scared. He didn’t give up easy. Now that he found Lucas, he wouldn’t let anything keep them apart.

Michael took Wiley over to his swim lesson, and Carly said, whatever Lucas told the police obviously didn’t stick. Sonny said he wasn’t even arrested. Marco showed up. He said he’d gotten lost hiking, broke his phone, and had a flat. She asked how Sonny made that happen, and he said he and Sidwell had an understanding. She asked if that meant their family was no longer in danger, when Michael came back and said he’d like to know that himself.

Drew said, Scout loved living with Wiley and Amelia, but Alexis said Willow didn’t even have visitation. He said the kids belonged with Willow and the court would agree. He’d have more time with Scout too, once they moved to DC, but don’t worry. Alexis was still the closest connection to Scout’s mom and he’d do his best to keep that connection alive. She asked if he discussed it with Scout, but he said, not yet, and she said don’t tell Scout until he was sure. Port Charles was her home, where her school, friends, and family were. Alexis knew she didn’t get a vote, but thought it was a good idea for Scout to get used to her stepmother before a permanent decision was made about going to DC. He said she was right and he’d do it her way. Scout was excited about the wedding. Alexis said Scout wanted Drew to be happy, but she knew he’d always put Scout’s happiness before his own, and she went to get Scout.

Willow joined the ladies in her robe, and Obrecht said the day would be special. Willow said it already was because they were there. She didn’t have the words to tell Obrecht how grateful she was. She was only alive and here because of Obrecht and Drew. Obrecht said Willow’s good health and happiness was her reward, and Elizabeth took Willow to check on the bouquet. Nina said Willow looked happy, and Obrecht said, she was smiling as sweetly as when she learned Sasha and Daisy fled Port Charles.

Lucas said he was glad he and Marco didn’t sleep together the first night. Now they could see where this took them. Marco predicted they were headed someplace great, and Lucas asked if he needed to check in with work. Marco said his bosses knew not to except him. Work wasn’t how he wanted to spend his first day of freedom. They got busy.

Sonny told Michael and Carly that he and Sidwell came to an agreement. The media attention would now die down and the campaign for Measure C lost its bankroller. Michael said Sonny did everything he could and he still supported Sasha’s decision to leave with Daisy. Sonny said he thought things would have been different if not for the fire. Drew wouldn’t have had so much influence over Willow. Michael said he didn’t think it mattered, but Sonny said Drew took advantage of Michael’s injury and destroyed any hope of compromise.

Drew told Scout that she looked beautiful and thanked Alexis. Alexis said it only took 5000 hairpins and a lot of hairspray, and Drew said he’d get ready when they left. Alexis said they wanted to make sure Willow got her present before the ceremony, and Drew said he was proud of Scout for making Willow feel welcome. He was the luckiest dad because he had the greatest kid. Scout said she couldn’t wait. All the family could come visit them and she knew they were going to be happy. She and Drew hugged.

Elizabeth asked Obrecht to help with the bouquet, and Obrecht told Nina that she was a doctor, not a florist, and wouldn’t be a party to baby’s breath. She joined them anyway, and Nina flashed back to Drew saying it wasn’t him who messed with Daisy. She remembered Willow smiling after hearing that Sasha wasn’t coming back and started to panic.

Curtis wondered, what if Willow stopped standing by Drew? and Portia said she wasn’t not sure how that would happen. Curtis said Drew was using her to attack Michael for Willow so she could reunite with her kids, but what if Willow wasn’t on board? There was a good chance he wouldn’t need them. Portia said he’d just punish them more. Either way, Drew and Willow were getting married today. Once the rings were on, Drew would be more hellbent on her changing the test results. He said, what if Willow backed out? and she said, why? Did he know something? He said, maybe. He was going to fight to save Portia, even if it meant betraying a friend.

In the bride’s room, Alexis said Scout wanted to make sure Willow got her present before the ceremony. Willow opened her gift, and Nina started to hyperventilate. She said she left Willow’s present in the car, and dashed out. Willow took out a framed photo of her and Scout, and said she couldn’t wait to be a part of Scout’s family. Scout said her too, and asked if Willow wanted to be called mom, which didn’t seem to sit well with Alexis.

Michael said he tried not think about what might have been with Willow. Now that he understood who she was, it was inevitable. Carly said, Drew manipulated the situation, like he did Willow, and Michael said that’s why it was inevitable. She asked how he felt about the marriage, and he said it was hard. He didn’t believe his and Willow’s relationship was a lie, but knew it was over. Sonny asked how Wiley and Amelia were doing, and Michael said they missed their mom, but Willow had shown time and again that she’d put Drew first. He couldn’t trust her anymore. Sonny said it was hard, but Michael was doing the best he could with the kids. Michael said Willow didn’t see it that way. She thought he was punishing her and Drew.

Nina started to cry in the chapel, when Ava came in. She said she thought Nina could use some support. Was she all right? They hugged, and Ava said it was going to be a long day. Things were crazy right now, but would settle down. Nina said, things were so much worse than she’d thought.

Kai brought Drew the passport he’d left at the office and said he didn’t want Drew to miss his honeymoon. Drew said they were going to the south of France for the trip of a lifetime. Willow deserved it. The fallout from their relationship had mostly landed on her and he thought it had taken a toll. He flashed back to asking Willow what she’d done on July 4th, and Willow saying she barely made it to the MetroCourt and almost missed the fireworks. Drew told Kai that he thought the trip was what Willow needed to forget her troubles. When you found the right woman, you knew. Kai said, sometimes you couldn’t keep her. He and Trina had broken up. Drew asked if it was because of what Kai did for him.

Curtis told Portia that it was a long shot, but it was their only option. If it worked, Drew wouldn’t have Willow to protect and no use for them. He’d go to DC and forget them. She said, what if he didn’t? and Curtis said then she could hand in her resignation as planned. She said she didn’t want him to compromise himself for her when she’d gotten them into this mess. Trina came in and said, it seemed important. What did they need to tell her about?

Kai said he wasn’t going to tell Drew at first. He and Trina had agreed it was best to stay out of it, but Drew had been great to him. He had to say something. Trina felt he went back on his word, but he had to tell Drew when he knew Drew was being framed for something he didn’t do.

Portia said, the reason… and Curtis said they were being overprotective. It was his idea to text Trina. They wanted to check on her and see how she was doing, since they knew she broke up with Kai. Portia said they wanted to let her know that she could talk to them, and Trina said their timing was perfect. She just ran into Kai for the first time, and it was hard. All he wanted to do was act like nothing happened. He said he still cared, and she believed him, but it hurt, and she was disappointed. She still cared for him as much as she ever did.

Lucas and Marco went to the pool, and Lucas looked over at Sonny. Marco said he wasn’t in a pool mood, but Lucas said he had every right to be here. He did nothing wrong. Marco said he’d rather it not darken his day, and suggested they go back to the room and figure out something else. Lucas said, give him a minute, but Marco told Lucas not to get into it with his family on his account. Lucas said he was doing it for himself and walked toward the table. Sonny got up to meet him, and Michael told Carly that he didn’t know how to tell Wiley that his mom was marrying his Uncle Drew.

Willow said Scout could call her whatever she liked, but she’d never take the place of Scout’s mom. Stepmom had a bad rap, so maybe not step anything. She could be just someone in Scout’s life who loved her and her dad and had Scout’s back. Scout hugged her, and on the side, Obrecht told Alexis, condolences on the loss of her daughter. There was nothing more terrible. They were members of a terrible club. Alexis said things had been difficult since Scout lost her mom, but Drew promised everything would work out. Obrecht said, has he now?

Nina told Ava about Sasha leaving Port Charles because of the strange things happening with Daisy. Ava said, as someone who’d been gaslit, it sounded familiar, and Nina said, now Sasha and Daisy were gone. Ava said maybe it was wise. Daisy was Sonny’s grandchild, and it came with the territory. Nina said, that’s what everyone thought. She did, but the more she went over it, the less she saw anything to do with Sonny. Ava said she had intimate knowledge of Sonny’s business, but Nina said, what if Willow was targeting Michael and Sasha’s baby?  

Lucas thanked Sonny for sending him the key. Did Sonny think he was doing him a favor? Sonny said he was giving Lucas a word of advice. He should be counting his blessings. He didn’t know who the players were or what was at stake. Lucas said Marco’s life was at stake, but Sonny said Marco seemed healthy. The next time Lucas was worried about Marco, do them favor and don’t call the cops. Sonny left.

Carly said she knew it was hard, but it would be fine, and Michael said Wiley’s lesson was almost over. It was time to tell him what was going on. Carly said he was the best father, and hugged him. Michael went over to Wiley, and Lucas came to the table. He said he didn’t know if Carly saw Marco, but he had cuts and bruises. Carly said she was glad to see Marco, and Lucas said Carly’s ex just told him that he didn’t have the right to be mad because he didn’t know what was going on. She said he didn’t. He’d just proved that by going to the police.

Trina said it would be easier if Kai was a jerk, but he wasn’t, and Curtis said he was just a young man who made a mistake. Trina said he shouldn’t have told Drew, especially after he said he wouldn’t. He felt he did the right thing. Anyone should be able to see who Drew really was, but not Kai. He refused. Curtis said, Kai broke his word, and it hurt, but she needed to realize that sometimes you had to make compromises for people you cared about. Was she okay? Trina said she would be and thanked them for letting her mend. Curtis said he had to go, and left. Trina asked Portia what this was really about and what did Curtis have to do.

Elizabeth said Willow had to get dressed, and Willow wondered where her mother was. Alexis said they’d keep Drew at bay, and Obrecht said, superstitions only have as much power as we give them, but better safe than sorry. Elizabeth said it was time for Willow to get into that fabulous dress.

Ava asked if Nina had proof, but Nina said, no, but Willow had proximity and access. She worked at GH and was there when Sasha was given the wrong baby. She could have easily switched them. Ava said Willow hadn’t lived at the Quartermaines for a while, but Nina said she did long enough to know where the security cameras were. Ava said it seemed like a stretch, and Nina said, more than a mobster goon taking the time to switch a newborn’s onesie to send a message? Ava said it was a bit of a leap. Willow was famously kind, sweet, and compassionate. Nina said, when she told Willow that Sasha left town and took Daisy, she smiled. Her Aunt Liesl saw Willow smile like her plan worked.

Lucas said Carly agreed on a code of silence about Sonny, but they were divorced. Why keep his secrets? Did she rationalize her actions because of Donna? Carly said Donna had something to do with it, and he said she had no choice, but the only way to deal with Sonny came at a cost, including Morgan. She said she wasn’t rehashing her son’s death with him. She accepted her decisions. Sonny was one of them and she had to live with the consequences. Look at himself. Since he’d been back in Port Charles, he’d almost went back with his ex and now he was in deep with a guy he barely knew. He was throwing accusations when he couldn’t see the situation clearly. Lucas said, Sonny kidnapped Marco, but Carly said it wasn’t that cut and dried. Lucas was too blind because Marco was the first guy he’d fallen for since Brad, and that was all he saw. She left.  

Sonny went to see Marco at the hotel and told him that his father had gotten him into the situation, but he was the reason Marco wasn’t still in it. He wanted Marco to stay out of his way.

Portia said she had no idea what Curtis was doing, but it must be important, and Trina said she hoped they didn’t hear about it on the news. Portia said it was Curtis and Drew’s feud, and Trina’s relationship shouldn’t be in the middle, and Trina asked if Portia was saying she should let it go and take Kai back. Portia said, no, but whatever she did, do what was best for her, not what they wanted. People were flawed and weak and failed to live up to their own expectations, much less anyone else’s. She had, so who was she to judge?

Michael told Wiley that his mommy and Uncle Drew were getting married, and Wiley said, no. He wanted her to still be married to Michael. Michael said he was sorry. He knew it was hard, and Wiley was disappointed, but he needed to know his mommy would always love him, and so would he. They hugged. (Hey, I have that MetroCourt towel too.)

Kai said he was heading to the church and wished Drew luck. He knew Drew and Willow had been through a lot. Drew said it had been quite a road getting there, but that’s what would make it all that much sweeter. After this, his focus would be to make Willow happy for the rest of their lives.

Nina told Ava that she’d been in denial too long. Willow probably wanted to punish Michael and felt justified, but this was Drew. As Willow’s mother, she couldn’t stand by and let it go on any longer. She was done. She was finally done. She stormed out.  

There was a knock at the bride’s room door and Curtis came in. Willow said he shouldn’t be there, but he said there was something she needed to know before she married Drew. She said, if it was about Drew blackmailing his wife… but he said when she was falling in love with Drew, before the 4th of July, Drew was sleeping with her mother.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Lucas walks into Carly’s office and asks since when does she just walk away from him in the middle of a fight? She says she owns the hotel and didn’t want to make a scene. He closes her office door and says, good, they’ll finish it here, but she says she doesn’t think it’s a good idea. She thinks they should walk away and cool off before they say something they regret.

In Marco’s hotel room, Marco tells Sonny to let him get this straight. Sonny kidnapped him, locked him in a room, and handcuffed him to a chair, and now Sonny wants him to stay out of his way? Sonny says his problem isn’t with Marco. It’s with his father. He just wants Marco to stay out of it. Marco says, it’s too late for that, and Sonny says Marco has his word that he won’t be touched as long as he stays out of his father’s business. Marco says, that’s impossible. He’s his father’s lawyer. Sonny says he understands Marco only represents his father’s legitimate business holdings and it should stay that way. As a matter of fact, Marco should work for his father from far away. Marco asks what he’s saying, and Sonny says he thinks Marco should go back to Miami.

At Windymere, Lucy says she just wanted to make sure Sidwell was okay after Natalia’s memorial. Is he okay? He says, it has been a tough few days, but he’s fine. She looks stunning. He knows the dress isn’t just for this visit, and she says, the other reason she’s here is that she’s officiating at Willow and Drew’s wedding. She heard he was invited and realizes he’s still grieving, but she thinks it will be quite the affair and was hoping they could go together.

Kristina sees Cody at the pool, and he says, it looks like they both had the same idea. She asks if he’s here to run into Ava? but he says he’s taking the day off from their little arrangement. Ava is at Willow and Drew’s wedding. Thanks to yours truly, Ric and Ava are on pretty shaky ground after their big blow-out at the art exhibit. It won’t be too much longer before she succumbs to one of his many charms and he’ll be able to seduce her away from Molly’s dad. Molly comes in, and Kristina says she hopes his many charms work. He says he’ll keep her posted.

Drew walks into the chapel with Kai and asks how it’s going. Elizabeth says, everything is going according to schedule, and he thanks her for stepping up with so little notice. Everything looks amazing. Elizabeth says, it really does, and asks Kai to help her move something.

Cody goes over to Molly’s chaise lounge. Seeing she’s totally covered up, he tells her, better watch out. She’ll suffocate.  

On the phone, Michael says, let him know if they seem sad or upset… Thank you so much. Kristina asks, what’s up? and he says, it’s Drew and Willow’s wedding today.

Scout comes into the chapel with Alexis, and Drew says, there’s his little girl. You look amazing. Did she get the chance to see Willow? Alexis says, she got a peek at the wedding dress, and Scout says, Willow looks like a princess. Drew says that makes him a prince, and after today, they’re going to live happily ever after.

Nina knocks on the bride’s room door and asks if it’s all right if she comes in. She walks in and says she’s sorry she’s late. She knows she said she went out to get a present, but actually… Willow says she doesn’t need a present. What she needs is honesty. Did Nina and Drew have an affair?

Lucas says he’s sorry if he upset Carly by bringing up Morgan. It was too much. She says, it was, and he says, the point he was trying to make is that her loyalty to Sonny has brought her nothing but heartache and grief. She says she doesn’t need to be lectured about her own life by him, and he says he wouldn’t have to if she’d stop defending Sonny and listen to him. She says she does listen. She just doesn’t agree with everything he says. Sonny is the father of her kids and she cares about him. Yes, he’s got flaws… Lucas asks how she can say that. Sonny is a monster who’s done terrible things. He kidnapped Marco. She asks if he’s going to put that on Sonny. Marco’s father nearly killed Kristina in the fire. Sidwell had to know that wouldn’t go unanswered. He put his own son at risk. Everything that happened to Marco is on Sidwell. He says, what Sidwell did was completely wrong, but Sonny was equally wrong kidnapping Marco. While she may be able to excuse Sonny’s actions, he can’t. Not anymore.

Marco says he has no intention of moving back to Miami, and Sonny says, fine, but if he stays here, he’s putting himself at risk. Marco says, because he has a relationship with his dad? That hardly seems fair considering how close Sonny keeps his own children. Sonny says, Port Charles is his home. He raised his kids here. Marco’s father is the one who moved here causing all kinds of trouble. Marco says he admits when his father asked him to move here, he had no idea what he was walking into. If he’d known he’d get caught in the crossfire, he probably wouldn’t have come, but now he’s created a life here and he’s not willing to give it up. Sonny guesses they’ll have to figure out a way to peacefully coexist. Let him ask a question. Marco says, go ahead, and Sonny says, everybody seems to think he’s responsible for Marco’s mother’s death. Is he one of them?

Molly says, you can never be too vigilant about sun protection, and Cody asks if you don’t need vitamin D from the sun to prevent getting scurvy. She says she’s pretty sure scurvy is from lack of vitamin C, and he says, that sounds right. Is she really going to stay wrapped up like a mummy all day? It’s got to be hot. She says she is a little hot, and he says, heat stroke is a thing too. She removes her coverup, revealing a bikini, and he says, for some reason, he thought she’d be wearing an old timey bathing suit. She says she managed to surprise him, and he says, she always does.

Drew says he’s glad Obrecht could make it, and she says, it was certainly a last-minute invitation. It’s lucky she was already in town, or she’d have to read about her grand-niece’s wedding in the newspaper. He says, sorry about that. It happened quickly. She says, perhaps too quickly. She wishes Willow would have given her decision a little more thought. He says he didn’t realize she had reservations about their relationship, and she tells him that she’ll always appreciate him rescuing her from Greenland so she could save Willow’s life, but stealing a wife from his own nephew? She would say his hero status is a bit tarnished. Elizabeth asks if she can borrow Obrecht, and they leave together.

Elizabeth says, Drew didn’t look happy. Did Obrecht say something un-celebratory? She promised she would be good. Obrecht says Elizabeth promised her an open bar, and Elizabeth says, at the reception, not the church. (Ha-ha!) Obrecht says she’s sorry about Drew. The words just flew out of her mouth before she could stop them. Elizabeth says she understands Obrecht has strong feelings about the wedding, but at this point in time, she doesn’t think anything is going to stop it from taking place.

Nina asks, what makes Willow think that? and Willow says, it’s a very simple question. She’d like an answer. Nina says she doesn’t know what Willow heard, but let her… Willow says, was she sleeping with Drew? Yes or no? Nina sighs and struggles and says, yes. Willow says, oh my God. She told herself it couldn’t be true, that Nina would never do that to her, but she did. Nina had sex with her fiancé. She thinks she’s going to be sick. Nina reaches for Willow, but Willow says, don’t touch me. Nina says she knows how bad it sounds, but when she and Drew first got together, she had no idea about Willow’s attraction to him. Willow asks, when exactly? and Nina says, April of last year. Willow asks how long it went on, and Nina says, until August. Willow says, so what Nina is telling her is, the entire time she was falling in love with Drew, he was sleeping with Nina.

Sidwell says he politely declined Congressman Cain’s invitation, but Lucy says, it’s a gentleman’s prerogative to change his mind. She was thinking it would be good for him, a change of scenery to celebrate a happy occasion. He says, maybe, but things have been a little tense with him and Sonny Corinthos. She says she does care about both him and Sonny, and wishes they could put their differences aside, but she happens to know that Sonny isn’t attending the wedding. Sidwell says, maybe, but as he said, he decided to step away from anything political in Port Charles. He took away his support for Measure C and cut ties with Congressman Cain. Lucy says, wow. Why the sudden change of heart? He says, Marco has been through so much. He doesn’t want Marco drawn into his conflict with Sonny Corinthos.

Marco says his first impulse was to blame Sonny for his mother’s death. Clearly, she had a problem with the way he ended things. The night she died, he told the police that Sonny was responsible, but now that the initial shock of her death has worn off, he realized it’s not that simple. Sonny says he was fond of Marco’s mother and would never want anything to happen to her. It was the police who put her in an unfortunate position. Marco says, to be honest, he wishes she’d taken the deal from ADA Turner. It wasn’t ideal, but maybe she’d still be with them. She was under pressure and dealt with it in her own way like she usually did, by drinking. Sonny says, she did that a lot, and Marco says, more than he was comfortable with. This time, she mixed pills with booze and ended up making a fatal mistake. He may not be Sonny’s biggest fan, but he knows Sonny didn’t put the pills in her hand. Sonny asks if he thinks it was on purpose, but Marco says, no. His mother was a lot of things, but suicidal wasn’t one of them. Sonny agrees and says, Natalia was a strong woman. She wouldn’t go out like that. Marco says, no, she wouldn’t, and Sonny says he owes Marco’s mother a lot. She helped him out quite a bit. He thinks there’s something Marco should know. One of the last things Natalia said to him was how much she loved Marco and that she regretted the fact they were estranged. Marco says, him too. Now they’ll never get the chance to make it right.

Lucas says, for years, he’s gone along with Carly and toed the party line. Sonny’s not so bad. He lost his kids. He donates a lot of money to charity and the hospital. He’s pretended all that negates the blood on Sonny’s hands, even when it was his father. Carly says, Julian attacked Sonny. It was self-defense. He asks if she’s sure about that. All they have is Sonny’s version of events. She asks if he’s doubting that now? Is Marco the reason he’s drawn a line in the sand? Lucas says, no. Sonny kidnapping Marco made him open his eyes and come to his senses. She says, it’s done just the opposite. He’s so caught up in the newness of the relationship, he’s willing to throw out long standing family relationships. She hopes when the newness wears off, Marco is worth it. He says, Marco’s not a rebound relationship. It’s new and there’s a lot he doesn’t know about Marco, but she knows a lot about Sonny and excuses all of it. She says, Sonny could have killed Marco, but all Sonny did was detain him out of respect for her and Lucas. He asks if she hears herself. Is she saying he should be grateful Sonny didn’t kill Marco? That’s insane. And the fact she can’t see that is further proof that she’s been living in Sonny’s world way too long and he refuses to be part of it. He walks out.

Molly puts on sunscreen, and Cody says she must go through a gallon a day. She says she wants to make sure she’s covered. Does he want some? He says he doesn’t need it. He tans easy. She says he should still use it. People who tan easy can still get skin cancer. (Truth! I’m a big promotor of sunscreen all year round.) He says, might as well or he won’t be able to think of anything but cancer now. Can she get his back? She says, sure, and puts some on him.

Kristina tells Michael that Willow is going to come out of her delusion and realize she lost out on an incredible guy, but it will be too late. She looks over at Cody and Molly, and asks if he’s seeing this. Michael says, it looks like something is going on, and she says, that’s exactly what she was afraid of.

Ric startles Elizabeth in the vestibule and says she looks lovely. She thanks him and says she didn’t expect to see him. He says he was invited as a show of appreciation for stepping in for Martin during Willow’s divorce hearing. To be honest, he thinks they needed people to fill the pews. They’re not the most popular couple these days. She says she knows, but she’s doing all she can to make sure it’s a beautiful ceremony for Willow’s sake. He asks if they can share a dance at the reception. Friends dance and he’ll keep four feet between them, even during the slow dances. She says, that sounds weird, and he says he’s trying to respect her boundaries. Ava sees them, then walks back into the chapel.

Obrecht says she was told this was a joyous occasion, but Ava looks like she just drank sour milk. Ava says she’s sorry. Men are idiots. Obrecht says, if it helps, she was assured there is an open bar at the reception, and Ava says, it does help, and thanks her. Elizabeth comes back and wonders where Nina is. Ava says she’s with the bride, and Elizabeth says she’s sure they’re having a sweet mother/daughter moment, and thinks she’ll leave them alone. Ava says she thinks that’s for the best.  

Willow asks how Nina could betray her like this. She confided in Nina and told her that she’d kissed Drew. She told Nina about her feelings and Nina didn’t say anything. Nina says she should have, but at that moment, she couldn’t. She was so afraid. Willow says, of what? and Nina says, losing her. Their relationship then was so rocky. All she wanted to do was be a mother to Willow and finally, Willow opened that door and confided in her. If she told Willow, she’d have shut the door again. Willow says, she was too much of a coward, but that doesn’t explain why she kept sleeping with Drew. Oh my God. Was Nina in love with him? Nina says, no. She hated Drew and still hates him. What they did was twisted and wrong, but she thought she was helping Willow. She convinced herself that she could save Willow’s marriage if she lured Drew away from her. Willow laughs and asks if Nina is seriously trying to say she was doing her a favor, but Nina says she’s telling Willow that she made a mistake. When she realized how important Drew was to Willow, she swears she stopped it, and by that time it was too late to tell her. Willow says, so instead, Nina let her fall deeper in love with Drew and watched as she threw away her marriage and children for a man Nina knew was lying to her, and she did nothing.

Lucy tells Sidwell that she was hoping to end the salacious story about Sonny’s involvement in Natalia’s death, but unfortunately, she didn’t succeed. She’s sorry. He says, it’s all right, and thanks her for being kind during the time he needed support. It means so much. He takes her hands, and she says he’s very welcome. She’s got a wedding to officiate and has to go, but he has one last chance to join her. He says he thinks it’s best he doesn’t, and she says, okay. She hopes Sonny appreciates his effort to get along. He says he hopes so too. For him, it’s all about peaceful coexistence.

Lucas arrives at Marco’s room and sees Sonny. He asks what Sonny is doing here, and Sonny tells him that he’s said his piece. He’ll leave them alone. He doesn’t want trouble with Lucas. Lucas says, he shouldn’t have kidnapped Marco, and he swears, if Sonny does it again, he’ll go straight to the police. Sonny says he’ll keep that in mind, and leaves. Marco thanks Lucas for being protective, but it’s not necessary. Lucas says he knows Sonny. He doesn’t care what Sonny said. Sonny didn’t come here to check up on him, but to intimidate him. Marco should go back to the PCPD and add the interaction to his previous statement. Marco says he didn’t give a statement. He didn’t tell them what Sonny did.

Kristina asked Michael to strike up a conversation with Cody to get him away from Molly. He asks what he should talk about, and she says, anything – sports, taxes, horses. He says, okay, but she owes him one He goes over to Cody and asks if they can talk a second, and Cody says, right now? Michael says, yeah, sorry, and Cody says, sure. He gets up, tells Molly that he’ll be right back, and goes elsewhere with Michael. Kristina takes Cody’s seat and asks what Molly is doing. Molly says, getting some sun, and Kristina asks what she’s doing with Cody. She thought Molly wasn’t interested in him. Molly says she’s not, and Kristina asks if Cody knows that.

Ric says he hasn’t heard from Ava since their tiff at the gallery, and she says, when he spent the night fawning over Elizabeth like a lovesick schoolboy. She saw them in the vestibule. He says they ran into each other at the guestbook and exchanged pleasantries. That’s what she saw. She says, thou shalt not be willfully ignorant in the Lord’s house. The Lord might just smite him. She walks off, and Ric looks up.

Nina says she did try to get Willow away from Drew. She encouraged Willow repeatedly to work on her marriage. She urged Willow not to move in with Drew, but she wouldn’t listen. She warned Willow over and over that it wasn’t a healthy relationship. Willow says, all things now considered, Nina kind of undersold that, and Nina says, it got to the point where she couldn’t say one bad thing about Drew or Willow would be all over her. Willow says, so it’s her fault, but Nina says, no. She’s just trying to get Willow to understand that she did listen. She did everything she could to get her away from Drew. Willow says, Nina tried every way but one. If Nina had said she and Drew were sleeping together, instead of keeping something like that from her, she’d have left Drew in a heartbeat. But Nina lied and let her lose her children. Nina says she was afraid if she told the truth, she’d lose her child in the process, and Willow asks if she hears how incredibly selfish she sounds. What kind of mother is she? Nina says she’s sorry. Willow has no idea how much she regrets her actions, and she’d do anything to make it right. Willow asks how she can possibly make it right. Nina didn’t just lie to her and betray her trust, keeping the truth from her helped her to lose custody of her children. She will never forgive Nina.

Sonny goes to Carly’s office and says she needs to talk to her brother. He completely lost it. Carly asks what he’s done now, and he says Lucas threatened to turn him over to the cops if he even looked at Marco wrong. She says they just had it out here too, and he says she needs to keep Lucas in line. He’s already gone to the cops once and now he’s threatened to do it again. She says, Marco disappearing shook him up. Now that he knows Marco is fine, she’s sure everything will calm down. He says, if it doesn’t, she needs to be prepared. Has she ever said anything to Lucas that could backfire on him? She says, no. She’d never put him or her brother in a compromising position. How could he ask her something like that? He says he’s just asking a question, don’t bite his head off, and she says her relationship with Lucas is hanging by a thread and he’s questioning her loyalty. Her loyalty to him is what has Lucas mad and they’re both driving her crazy.

Lucas tells Marco, so that’s it? Sonny just gets away with kidnapping him? Marco says, it’s a small price to pay if it prevents them from getting dragged any further into a dangerous situation. The tradeoff is worth it. He hopes Lucas understands. Lucas says he wants Sonny to pay for what he did, but it’s Marco’s call. All he can do is respect Marco’s decision. Marco thanks Lucas for having his back and asks if Lucas minds if he gets some rest. He’s exhausted. Lucas says, of course (🍷). He has something he has to take care of anyway.

Molly says she was just getting Cody’s back, and Kristina says, he has a reputation. If he thinks Molly is into him, he could use it to his advantage. Molly says she knows Cody has a past, but he’s changed, and Kristina says, he has a habit of luring in beautiful, rich women for their money. Molly says, what? and Kristina says she was thinking maybe that explains why he’s spending so much time with Ava. And Molly is a beautiful, successful lawyer, and a Cassadine. He could be looking for a payday. Molly says, that’s ridiculous. She’s a civil servant. Besides, they’re friends and he’s never asked her for anything. Kristina says, that’s very good. They should stay friends. She’s just saying there’s nothing worse than getting close to someone and realizing they have an agenda. She doesn’t want that for Molly.

Ava asks for a word with Alexis, and Alexis says, now? Ava says, if it’s okay, and they go into the vestibule. Alexis asks what Ava wants, and Ava says she needs to speak to Alexis about business. Alexis says, this is neither the time nor the place, and Ava says she agrees. That’s why she’d like to meet at Alexis’s office next week. Just the two of them. Ava goes back into the chapel.  

Nina says she knows she messed up and Willow has every right to be furious, but please don’t shut her out of her life. She loves her so much. Willow says she trusted Nina and went against her instincts letting Nina back into her life. She’d thought they’d come so far. Nina says, they have. Spending time as a mother and daughter has meant everything to her. It’s something she didn’t get to do with Nelle, and it means more than Willow will ever know that she had the chance to do it with her. Willow says their relationship was never really real, was it? It was all built on lies. All of it. None of it was real. Nina sits next to Willow, but Willow inches away, and Nina tells her, don’t say that. Willow gets up and says she thought she was so lucky to have her mom by her side. Nina could have saved her all the heartbreak. All she had to do was tell the truth. Nina says that’s why she’s here, to tell the truth, but Willow cries and says, the damage has been done. Because of Nina’s silence, she lost everything.

Willow says she burned every bridge and sacrificed everything for Drew, a man who’s been lying to her their entire relationship, and now he’s all she has left. Nina says, that’s not true. Willow has her. Willow says, sorry. She needed Nina to be a mother when it mattered and would have done some good, but she didn’t. Nina says she loves Willow. Try to understand… Willow says, Nina wasn’t cut out to be a mother. Maybe because her own mother was a total nightmare, but she doesn’t have a maternal bone in her body. She envies Nelle. Nelle died never knowing that Nina was her mother. She wishes she’d been as lucky as Nelle. Nina says, she doesn’t mean that, and Willow says, get the hell out. She opens the door and tells Nina that she said, get out. Nina slowly walks out, and Willow closes the door and cries (completely avoiding and omitting her own part in any of this).

Sonny says he doesn’t want to cause problems between Carly and Lucas. He knows how much Lucas means to her. Carly says, he means a lot, but she doesn’t like him coming hard at Sonny. Suddenly, Lucas sees everything in black and white. Marco’s a saint and Sonny… Sonny says he’s not, and she says, pretty much. He says, looks like Lucas has it bad for Marco, and she says, yeah. He’s taking Marco’s side right now. Sonny asks if she thinks he should lay low and stay away from her place, but she says, that doesn’t work for her. Lucas needs to understand this part of her life is not going to change.

Molly says she doesn’t know where Kristina heard these rumors about Cody, but trust her, there’s no chance he’s seducing her for money. Kristina says, they looked chummy. Even Michael noticed. Honestly, asking her to put sunscreen on his back. Typical sleazy guy move. Molly says she’d just been lecturing him on the dangers of skin cancer, and Kristina says, oh, okay, fine. Maybe she’s being an overprotective sister. She doesn’t want Molly to get hurt. Molly looks over at Cody talking to Michael.

Willow flashes back to telling Drew that Carly said he was manipulating her and saying she chooses him completely.  She remembers Drew promising she won’t lose her kids, and Martin saying that the courts favor married couples and suggesting they get married. She flashes back to saying there’s nothing more important than her kids, Drew kissing her, saying he loves her, them getting busy. She looks in the mirror.  

In the chapel, Lucy says, it’s time, so please take your seats. She goes up front, and the guests sit down. Nina comes in and Obrecht says, it’s an emotional day, but she might want to touch up her makeup. Nina says she has to get out of here. Will Obrecht come with her? Obrecht says, the wedding is about to start, but Nina says, there’s not going to be a wedding. Obrecht asks, why not? when Elizabeth says, everyone. The bride is ready. Obrecht says, it appears Nina was mistaken.

Kristina thanks Michael for his help, and Michael says, sure. Now explain why she’s trying to come between Molly and a guy who obviously likes her. They leave, and Cody brings drinks back for himself and Molly. She asks, what’s this? and he says, a little thank you for putting sunscreen on his back. He thinks she missed a spot. Does she mind finishing? He doesn’t want an uneven tan. What would people say?

Sidwell says he’s so glad Marco is here and hugs him. Finally, privacy. Be honest. How bad was he hurt? Marco says he’ll be fine, and Sidwell says he’s so sorry Marco was drawn into his war with Sonny Corinthos. He knows Marco wanted to stay out of it. Marco says, not anymore. He’s all in now. Whatever it takes, Sonny Corinthos needs to go. They hug again.  

Sonny tells Carly, like he said, he doesn’t want to cause problems between her and Lucas. He hopes they patch things up. She says, at the end of the day, they love each other. When the dust settles, everything will be okay. Lucas comes in and she says she’s glad he came back. He hands her a key and says he’s moving out, and she asks if that’s necessary. He says he’s afraid it is.

Nina says she shouldn’t be here, and Obrecht says, nonsense. She’s the mother of the bride. Besides, it’s starting. Scout walks down the aisle, tossing flower petals. Drew meets her at the front and says she was perfect, kissing her cheek. The organ plays Here Comes the Bride, and there’s a moment where we wonder if Willow will show. Then Elizabeth opens the door, and Willow is there in her bridal gown, holding her bouquet. She walks in and Drew smiles, but Willow just stares straight ahead with no expression.  

Unless she has a bayonet in that bouquet, I’m not going to be happy.

On Monday, Josslyn asks if there’s a problem and Jack says, that depends on her; Molly says, Cody isn’t worried about sun exposure, he just wants her hands on him; Michael asks Kristina, what could possibly be worse than the people she tried to kill; and Lucy says, speak now or forever hold your peace.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

I’m going to miss Daisy more. I love those animated babies who look like they actually understand a scene.

https://ew.com/general-hospital-says-goodbye-sasha-actress-sofia-mattsson-11775417

I’m excited too!

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/kelly-thiebuad-confirms-that-shes-back-on-general-hospital-as-britt-im-very-much-excited/

Isn’t this always the way?

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-finn-carr-looked-like-a-complete-lunatic-when-he-met-kelly-thiebaud-exclusive/

It’s not a wedding in Port Charles without a literal or figurative explosion.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/6-general-hospital-weddings-that-were-blown-up-by-the-reveal-of-explosive-secrets/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Apparently, social media was not kind to Fraser about Chef Anthony getting fired. Although he claimed he’d wanted the chef to get another chance, he told Rainbeau that what he needed was a team who could do the job. If they couldn’t, that wasn’t his responsibility. Preach! Poor mummy had a lot on her plate, trying to keep the love triangle turned quadrangle straight, along with his interior team. Although if he woke me up with wakey, wakey, I’d crack him one.

The Valley

Brittany, Michele, and Janet visited Lala to see her new baby. Brittany said, until there was drug testing, Cruz wasn’t visiting Jax, which is understandable, since he is still batsh*t crazy and high. Michele had a Zen Party, and why the hell she invited Jax is a mystery. He’s about as far from Zen as you get. Why he came is also a mystery, since he smack talked everyone in his interviews. When Brittany saw a lawyer, she explained that after she and Jax got married, their mortgage went from $8000 to $17,000 – yes, you read that right – because he owed so much in back taxes. Jax said he was going to wait until the last day to sign the papers just because, and in her interview, Brittany said she’d had blinders on, but now saw a greasy man child. Yep. Scheana and Brock went to Michele’s party, and I didn’t recognize Brock with a blond buzzcut. Is that on purpose? Michele said it was the most un-Zen Zen Party she’d ever been to, and Zack capped off the night by going apesh*t over Brittany still being friends with Janet.

Next Gen NYC

The group came back from New Jersey after an angst filled seaside trip, and Riley said she thought it was Jersey. No, hon, it’s you. I’m not crazy about the Brooks/Meredith stuff. It’s basically a snoozefest they’re both trying to make happen. After saying he’d give Georgia a million to fund her new club (Emira says, google him), Omar and Georgia broke up. Georgia had to break up with his money too, and was left stranded in Singapore. It was the finale, and I enjoyed Ariana talking about becoming more of New Yorker and pointing out that she’d learned Greenwich was not pronounced Green-witch. But does she know Houston Street is pronounced Howston, not like the city in Texas? Emira would also like you to know that she loves being messy. And she ain’t talking about socks on the floor.

I can’t say I’m surprised.

Real Housewives Of Miami

Stephanie told us that boogers and Birkins don’t mix, so no kids for her. Probably no pets either. Larsa liked how Stephanie put all her cards on the table, and I agree. Marisol said Stephanie did something they couldn’t do in a decade, get Lisa to be on time. Guerdy had a Celebration of Life party which she ended by projecting Julia’s texts to her about the cruise on a big screen and shaming her. She claimed it was good for the group and would allow [them] to move on in a positive and truthful manner. Right. How 14-year-old mean girl of her. In Julia’s interview, she said Guerdy took an even that was supposed to be about conquering cancer and made it about her personal feels regarding something else. Lisa said it was like Game of Thrones, and Marisol compared it to Carrie. It was that whole vibe. Guerdy said it was her party and she could do what she wanted to. She’s not wrong, but that didn’t make what she did right.

Real Housewives Of Orange County

It was hard to pay attention to this since it’s all the same old. Fancy Pants had a fancy un-birthday birthday party with girls in a huge champagne glass pouring coffee champs. No surprise, Shannon got into it with Katie because no party is complete without an argument. Shannon said Katie was worse than Alexis or Tamra. Oh horrors. Even worse Shannon left her grilled cheese behind when she stormed out.

Random Reality Items

They’re back, back in the USA.

I don’t know who this is, but holy! I read about this in the NY Post. What’s wrong with people?

I love a crossover, plus, I have a friend who is friends with Melissa. Brush with fame!

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Trainwreck: Balloon Boy. Netflix. While there wasn’t much new about this story, the interviews were enjoyable, and it was a bit eye-opening to see the overkill of law enforcement. My guess is, the reason Richard Henne took a plea deal was because his wife was not a citizen and threatened with deportation. Seriously?

https://people.com/trainwreck-balloon-boy-true-story-11772282

Brick. Netflix. Like CBR says, the reviews were not great, but I loved this thriller from Germany. It got off the ground quickly – no slow start here – and was full of surprises. My mouth literally dropped open at one of them. The inhabitants of an apartment building suddenly find themselves bricked into their apartments and work together (or not) to find a way out. Of course they toss around theories as to why this might be happening, but the end was still startling to behold.

https://www.cbr.com/netflix-brick-underrated-movie/

Interesting comparison to The Platform.

https://movieweb.com/brick-fans-stream-the-platform-netflix/

Jaws@50: The Definitive Inside Story. Hulu. What you’d expect it to be, but loads of fun trivia and lots of great interviews. It was amusing to find out that Steven Spielberg thought it was going to be the end of his career and discovered it was the beginning.

https://www.buzzfeed.com/jeremyhayes/jaws-50-documentary-facts

Humane. Hulu. This time, the world disaster is climate change and overpopulation. The solution is (mostly) voluntary euthanasia and sterilization. However, if someone in a family volunteers, even though they can back out, there must be a body. A family must decide who’s the one to go, and it became a cross between Agatha Christie and Dallas. IMO, a thoroughly amusing ending.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/humane-film-review-2024

Born to be Viral: The Real Lives of Kidfluencers. Freeform/Hulu. This was more disturbing than a horror film. Every kid wants attention, but making them live in a world of it that’s on view for all to see seems wrong. The worst part was how the parents of these children followed social media trends instead of creating trends. Which would actually take some thought and hanging in there until something sticks. The worst so-called trend was fighting in front of the children to get their reaction. W… T… F…? Even though they claimed it was a fun family activity, the parents were in it for the views equaling money, which made it even worse.

https://people.com/born-to-be-viral-docuseries-trailer-exclusive-11752092

🦇 Mama, He’s Comin’ Home…

There have been way too many celebrity deaths recently, but rather than post a depressing list, I’ll let Ozzy represent. After all, one of his lives was being a reality TV star. Amazing and uncanny how he recently had what was basically a farewell concert. I loved what he had to say about his legacy, that just being remembered was enough. Rock on in the heavenlies, Ozzy.

https://extratv.com/photos/image_jpg_20250722_003fee8f48a2475d9db0ebb3d52af97d/

👛 Just Because…

Loved this movie. Loved the clothes. Loved the chihuahua.

https://ew.com/clueless-cast-where-are-they-now-11771504

🪄 What Happens In San Diego…

Now you can even cosplay at home.

https://ew.com/how-to-watch-entertainment-weekly-2025-san-diego-comic-con-livestream-11778481

https://ew.com/comic-con-2025-issue-11772797

🐾 Uncommon Tails…

🦁 Mufasa is real!

https://people.com/how-a-pride-of-lions-saved-a-kidnapped-12-year-old-girl-in-ethiopia-11768461

🐹 The latest in neon animals.

https://people.com/photographer-captures-first-ever-photo-glow-in-the-dark-marsupial-animal-11774372

🐕 From unwanted to winners.

https://people.com/worlds-cutest-rescue-dog-contest-where-are-they-now-11772840

🪺 Quotes of the Week

The first week of August hangs at the very top of summer, the top of the live-long year, like the highest seat of a Ferris wheel when it pauses in its turning. The weeks that come before are only a climb from balmy spring, and those that follow a drop to the chill of autumn, but the first week of August is motionless, and hot. It is curiously silent, too, with blank white dawns and glaring noons, and sunsets smeared with too much color. – Natalie Babbitt, Tuck Everlasting

Blessed is the man, who having nothing to say, abstains from giving wordy evidence of the fact. – George Eliot

It is not fair to ask of others what you are not willing to do yourself.Eleanor Roosevelt

Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere. – Albert Einstein

A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of their opportunities, and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of their difficulties. – Harry S. Truman

This is syrup. No one drink it. – Brooks Marks, Next Gen NYC

🎶 The Song Sings Itself…

Until next week, stay safe; stay listening to Molly and always using sunscreen – all year round; and stay never losing sight of anything you want to achieve.

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

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dante saw Gio and said, got a minute?

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

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

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

Thursday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

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

Next Gen NYC

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

The Valley

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

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

Real Housewives of Miami

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

Random Reality Items

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

Below Deck baby leaves the dock!

You, too, can live like the Countess.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

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

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

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

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

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

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

No spoilers.

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

Lotsa spoilers.

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

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

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

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

⚰️ Dead Of the Future…

Premieres September 7th.

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

🐙 Join the Game…

Squid Game is back in the house.

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

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

🦈 Have a Bite…

Shark Week begins July 20th.

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

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

🐶 Tails Of Surprise…

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

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

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

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

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

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

🪽 I love an inter-species friendship.

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

🐳 Quotes of the Week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Happy Independence Day!

♨️ We Got Steam Heat…

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

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

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dalton came in and saw Emma in his office looking through a folder. He said this was an explanation he was looking forward to hearing.

Lulu said she wasn’t trying to get Gio to forgive anyone, talk to anyone, or do anything. Gio said he didn’t get it. If Lulu cared, why didn’t she tell Dante? Lulu said she should have, but she wanted to talk to Brook first. Brook was extremely emotional when she told Brook that she had a son. Gio asked if Lulu believed Brook really didn’t know, and Lulu said he was taken away before Brook could see or hold him. He said it showed that she didn’t want him, but Lulu said she thought it was something they felt helped to make the process less painful. Gio asked why Brook stayed quiet, and she said Brook said she didn’t want to hurt him or disrupt his life. Gio said she meant disrupt her life. She was only thinking of herself.  

Brook said she didn’t need a reason, but Marco said it would help to know where she was coming from. What was she hoping to get? Did she intend to use the information against Lulu? She said, what if she did? Didn’t Lulu deserve a taste of her own medicine? He said he didn’t know enough about the situation to tell her, and she said, what if she did use what he dug up against Lulu. Would it bother him? He asked if she wanted a lawyer or a moral compass, and she said, lawyer. He said she was paying for the information and could decide how to use it.

Nina asked what Drew wanted, and he said he wanted her by his side when he brought Willow back home. From Portia, he wanted an editorial in Aurora about the miscarriage of justice at the Corinthos custody hearing. A mother ripped from her children. He’d go to Curtis himself, but he was sure Curtis would rather hear it from her.  

Curtis said Michael shouldn’t pay for him being in a bind, but Michael said they would take Drew down together. Curtis said he’d handle the situation with Portia in his own way, but he couldn’t use Aurora to do it, and Michael said he was already using Aurora and Drew wouldn’t suspect. They’d let him think he was winning. The more confident he got, he’d get sloppy, like what happened at the custody hearing. He and Willow were close to a compromise, when Drew manipulated his nine-year-old son and left him in tears. All in the name of destroying the chance of joint custody. Drew gambled and Willow lost. Leave him do it again and he’d leave himself wide open. When he did, they’d be ready to strike.

Carly told Sasha that Willow argued with the judge and begged. She left, but she heard Willow passed out. Sasha asked where she was now, and Felicia said, here. Carly said she thought Willow was being released soon, and Sasha said she felt terrible for Willow. A nurse brought the baby in and gave her to Sasha, but Sasha said it wasn’t her baby. It wasn’t Daisy. What had they done with her? Where was her baby?  

Vaughn said he thought Emma said no problem, but Josslyn said it was for her. He asked what Emma wanted, and Josslyn said, for starters, leave her alone in Dalton’s office. She was probably ransacking it. He said they both knew she wouldn’t find anything, but she said Emma wasn’t the type to give up. He said he could tell by the way she was dressed at the pool, and Josslyn asked what he meant. He said Emma was flirting with Dalton and made a point of chatting him up, and she said Emma had no idea what she was getting into. They needed to stop her.

Emma said Josslyn had to leave, but she was happy to help Josslyn finish filing, and Dalton said he and Josslyn would have a conversation about that. It was Jossln’s job, not Emma’s. Emma said it gave her something to do while she was waiting for him. He’d said to stop by anytime. She was serious about continuing her studies in Environmental Physics. Did he have a second? He said, for her, sure, and she said she’d hit a wall on an equation and was hoping to walk her through it.

Dante told Sonny to look out for Turner. She’d been made interim DA and wanted to make a name for herself. She was smart and efficient and had the PCPD and the DA behind her. The stuff with Gio made him realize how important his relationship with Sonny was. He was lucky to have Sonny as a dad. Sonny said she was the lucky one. He appreciated Dante standing up for his brother. Had Gio reached out? Dante said, no. Why would he? He’d been lied to his whole life and didn’t trust anyone. Sonny said Gio would come around sooner or later, and Dante hoped he was right. In the meantime, he needed Sonny to look after his boy.

Gio said the only reason Brook wanted a relationship now was to save face, but Lulu said she didn’t think so. Brook had a lot of flaws, but caring what other people thought wasn’t one of them. He said she cared when she got pregnant, but Lulu said, she was a scared teenager and wanted what was best for him. Gio said, fine, but she grew up and still never looked for him. He thought it was weird that they were living in the same house, and she didn’t know. She should have felt or sensed it. However, the mother connection works. Lulu said she didn’t know. There were so many other factors involved. He said she figured it out, and she said, the night of the college party when Dante confronted him, it was the way Lois jumped in. She was so fierce about it. Dante said, Lois and Gloria were always defending Gio and protecting him, and it just clicked in place. Gio asked if she agreed with them. Did she think they were just looking out for him? She said she thought that was their goal, but they took it too far. Now he was the one paying the price.

Outside Willow’s room, Nina said if Drew told Willow that she set him up, Willow would know they’d slept together. Drew said, go ahead. Tell her right now.

Michael asked Sasha, what’s wrong? and she said, Daisy was missing. Carly said they brought Sasha the wrong baby, and Michael said they’d find their daughter. Everything would be okay. Take a deep breath. Lucas brought Daisy in and gave her to Sasha. Sasha said, thank God. It’s her.

Vaughn agreed with Josslyn that Emma should steer clear of Dalton. If she got involved with the professor, Anna would get drawn in. Josslyn said, Dalton could get spooked, and Vaughn said, or close up shop all together. She said, the bottom line was, they had to get Emma away from Dalton, and he said it was hard when someone had a cause to defend, but she said she knew how to keep Emma away.

Portia went to Curtis’s office and told him that Drew wanted Aurora to publish an editorial against the Corinthos custody verdict. He wanted them to say the judge got it wrong. The children should have gone to their mother. She knew it was the last thing he wanted to deal with and tried to talk Drew out of it. He said, don’t. It’s fine. He’d run the editorial.

Rocco approached Brook and she said it was good to see him. He said he’d been spending time at his mom’s. He was going to the batting cages, but wanted to tell her that he talked to Gio. He was working at the MetroCourt pool as a lifeguard. He said he was glad they were brothers, but he was still mad at their dad. He didn’t get it since the person he should be mad at was her.

Lulu said Lois and Gloria didn’t try too hard to cover their tracks, and Gio said they didn’t think anyone would bother looking. They believed the lie. Lulu said she got the sense they were hoping and praying it would all work out. She confirmed it when she found out Camilla hadn’t been pregnant leading up to the time he was born. Then she found that Brook had a baby boy on May 15th. He said, wow. He didn’t even know his own birthday.

Sasha told Daisy that she was never allowed to disappear again, but Michael said it wasn’t her fault. Carly wondered whose fault it was, and Lucas said she was in the nursery. He thought she was put in the wrong bassinette. Sorry. Sasha said she was just grateful that Daisy was safe, and Felicia asked to talk to Lucas outside. In the hallway, she asked how it happened, and he said protocols were adhered to religiously, especially by the nurses. He thought he’d ask questions, and she said she wanted to assist him as Sasha’s patient advocate. He said he was going to talk to the nurse on duty. This never should have happened.

Drew said he knew Nina wasn’t going to tell Willow, and she said he promised Willow would get full custody, then stood in the way of compromise. He said, Willow alienated everybody else. They were all she had left. What would happen to Willow if she lost them? They went in and found Willow lying on the bed fully dressed. Nina asked how she was doing, and Willow took Drew’s hand. She said she missed him, and he said he was just letting her get some rest. How was she doing? She said she was so tired, and he said, because she’d been through so much. They had to get her home so she could rest and recover. Willow said she wanted to go home.

Dalton handed Emma her papers and said, there, and Emma said it was impressive. She pictured everything he did in his lab as miraculous and wondered if she could have a peek. He said she was a brilliant student, but she couldn’t see his ongoing research. His sponsor wouldn’t have that.

Josslyn said, Vaughn could join Emma’s animal rights group. His job in the maintenance department was a plus because he had access to the labs. He could sell himself as a true believer and lead Emma down the wrong path away from Dalton. He said, perhaps she was getting the hang of this.

On the phone, Marco said, before Natalia Ramirez testifies against Sonny Corinthos, they want more assurance. They want a deal in writing.

Sonny said he’d always look after Gio, no matter what, and Dante said that meant Sonny had to protect himself. The family needed him and Gio needed him most of all.

Gio said he wouldn’t know who he was if not for Lulu, but Lulu said that wasn’t true. He said he didn’t know his own birthday. Everyone knew their birthday except him. Not until now. She said she was sorry. She shouldn’t have blurted it out. Her delivery left a lot to be desired. He said, it hurt like hell, but at least it was real.

Rocco told Brook that he had to talk to Gio. None of this was his dad’s fault. She said it was more complicated than that, but Rocco said his dad did nothing wrong. She said as much as she dreamed of finding her son, she never wanted it to happen like this, and she wasn’t the one responsible. Rocco said he hoped it worked out for her, and left. Brook looked at a picture of Britt in the folder.

Portia said it was a quick yes, but Curtis said it wasn’t like he had a choice. She asked what Michael said, and he said he’d handle Michael.  She said she hated that she was putting him in that position, but he said he knew who the real enemy was, and it wasn’t her.

Willow signed the discharge documents, when Sasha came out of the elevator with Daisy, Michael, and Carly. Soap faces all around.

Wednesday:

At the hospital, Ric asked if Isaiah knew where Elizabeth was, and Isaiah said she’d taken a personal day. She needed to regroup after Lucky and Aiden left for Europe.

In her office, Alexis thanked Elizabeth for meeting her. She wanted to talk about Elizabeth’s car accident.

At the pool, Kristina wanted to check in with Cody, but he said she couldn’t be there. He was waiting for Ava. He’d paid the manager to alert him when she made a reservation. Kristina left and Ava walked in.

In Curtis’s office, he told Portia that he wished she’d trusted him. They could have faced Drew together. She said she could see that now, and he said she was wife. She said she hoped that never changed. She loved him so much.

Kai told Trina that today was the big day. He found out when he could play football. Trina asked Josh for a break, and told Kai that this all ended when he got the all-clear, but Kai said that was up to Drew.

Back home, Willow told Drew that the house had been filled with so much hope and promise. She’d imagined a life filled with it, but now it felt empty… like her.

Sasha and Michael looked at Baby Daisy, and she said she felt terrible running into Willow and Drew. He said, thankfully, there was no scene, and she admitted she felt guilty about Willow going home without her kids. He said, thanks to him, but she said she was glad the children were with him. He said, since they were on the topic, maybe now they could figure out what to do about Daisy.

Ric asked if Elizabeth mentioned how long Lucky and Aiden would be gone, and Isaiah suggested he call Lucky.

Alexis said Laura mentioned that Martin was pressuring Elizabeth to sue the car company, and Elizabeth told her that she said no. Alexis said Laura had asked her to look things over and as an objective lawyer, see if she had a solid case. Elizabeth said she appreciated Laura’s concern, but she was totally healed and had no desire to go to court. She was ready to put the nightmare behind her.

Cody called to Ava and asked what she was doing at the pool. She said it was too beautiful a day to be cooped up, so she thought she’d work by the pool. He suggested she take the seat next to him, and she did.

Portia moved to kiss Curtis, but he said he was sorry. He wasn’t ready yet. She said it was going to take some time. She’d have to earn his trust back and hoped he’d give her a chance. Jordan knocked at the door and asked if she was interrupting. Portia said, yes, she was, and Jordan said she’d come back, but Curtis said, don’t leave.

Kai said Josh was here for the season, but Trina said Kai wasn’t obligated to that. He said he got that she and her parents didn’t like Drew, but it sounded like they’d paid a sex worker to smear his name. She said they didn’t know what was really going on, and he hoped they could agree to disagree. Trina said they could, and he said he hoped it wasn’t long before they could celebrate.

Willow looked at Amelia’s stuffed giraffe and told Drew it was Amelia’s favorite. She thought she’d be bringing Amelia home. He said he was sorry, but it wasn’t over… She said, stop. Don’t make more promises he couldn’t keep.

Ric said he was concerned about Elizabeth, but Isaiah said she could take care of herself. If he had other questions, inquire somewhere else. Lucky was one of his best friends and he’d look out for Elizabeth while Lucky was gone. Mess with her and you’d mess with him. Ric said, of course (🍷), and assured Isaiah that Elizabeth didn’t need protection from him.

Elizabeth made a phone call to Kristina and asked Kristina to come to her place. It was important.

Curtis said it was a conversation they should have at home, and Portia said he was right. Her husband was all Jordan’s, so to speak. She left, and Jordan said she’d just made an awkward situation worse. She didn’t mean to cause a problem. He said she didn’t. How could he help her? She said she was following up on Sidwell’s meeting about voting yes on Measure C, and he said he was getting it from all sides. Portia just told him that Drew wanted Aurora to run a hit piece on Michael.

Michael said he knew he’d agreed to Sasha’s terms, but that was before everyone knew he was the father. Now that the secret was out… She said, he wanted to change their arrangement? and he said he’d like to be a part of his daughter’s life, but it was up to her. He’d still respect her terms. Sasha said, to be honest, she thought he was going to fight her for custody like he did Willow, but he said he didn’t trust Willow’s judgement. He trusted hers. She said she still wanted to be the only parent on the birth certificate and raise Daisy herself. Nothing had changed. He asked if she was cutting him out of their daughter’s life completely.

Drew said he didn’t want to give Willow false hope, but didn’t want her to give up. She said it was over. She’d lost and Michael got custody. She’d never get her children back. He said, in time, Michael would be willing to negotiate, but she said he wouldn’t even talk to her. He just walked away, like what happened in Germany. He’d played cruel mind games, so why would Drew think he’d compromise, even when she helped deliver his baby. He also made up a story about Wiley overhearing Drew. She should never have fought him. He was too powerful. She gambled with her children and lost them forever. He said she didn’t understand what really happened.

Kai asked the doctor how soon he could go to practice, and the doctor said the procedure was a success and his subsequent test results were promising. However, based on the latest results, the titanium didn’t fuse to his spine sufficiently to compensate for the damage of the fracture. He knew it wasn’t what Kai wanted to hear. Kai asked if that meant he’d never play football again, and Trina told Josh to turn the camera off.  

Cody said this was his favorite fav pool outside of the Obsidian in Vegas, and Ava said she loved the Obsidian. It was old school with a classic vibe. Cody said he expected to run into the Rat Pack when he gambled there, and she asked, what was his game? He said, poker, and she said, same. He asked, what was her biggest jackpot? and she said, $33,000. His? He said, 12K. She must let him in on her strategy. She said, a lady never tells, when Molly came in and looked over at them.

Elizabeth said she thought it was time to get everything out in the open, and Kristina said, like what? Elizabeth said she thought Kristina knew, but she’d make it easy. Lucky told her that Kristina caused the accident. She’d cut Ric’s brake lines thinking it was Ava’s car. She’d tried to kill Ava, and instead, nearly killed her and Ric.

Trina wondered if Kai’s condition could improve, and the doctor said, anything was possible, but right now, it looked like it was as good as it was going to get. She asked about a secondary procedure, but he said it would be too risky. He understood that Kai was disappointed, but the good news was, he was perfectly healthy. Trina asked if he could play any sport, and the doctor said, absolutely. Running, biking, swimming, but he advised no contact sports. The impact of a 250-pound player hitting him could be catastrophic. He was sorry. Kai said he knew the doctor did the best he could, and he appreciated it. The doctor left, and Josh said, sorry. Did Kai mind talking about how he was feeling, and Trina said, of course (🍷) he minded. He was devastated. Josh said it was his job… and Trina said if he didn’t get his damn camera out of Kai’s face, she was going to drop kick it out the window and him behind it. Josh said he was truly sorry, and left. Trina said she was so sorry. Was there anything she could do? Kai said, nothing. It was all over. She hugged him.

Isaiah told Portia that he had a quick question. Ric was just there looking for Elizabeth, and when he mentioned Lucky left town, Ric practically jumped for joy. How bad did he mess up? Portia said Elizabeth knew how to handle Ric, but he said she had enough to deal with. He could tell she was still hurting. He thought she would always love Lucky. Portia said, sometimes feelings for exes never went away. Ask Jordan.

Jordan told Curtis that Drew was the main reason Willow lost custody. Now he wanted Aurora to clean up his mess? Curtis told her that he said he’d do it. He had no choice. Drew was blackmailing his wife. She asked what he was going to do now that Michael was back, and he said he owed Michael the truth and came clean. He offered Michael his resignation, but Michael insisted he stay. He was convinced they should let Drew think he’d won… at least for now.  insist stay convinced let d think won at least for now

Drew said Willow couldn’t blame herself. He had no idea how far Michael would go. He should have been more prepared. Willow said it wasn’t his fault, but he said it was. He promised she’d keep her children, and he failed her. He was sorry. It wasn’t over. He talked to Martin, who mentioned something they could do that might improve her position and get the terms revisited. The timing wasn’t great, but they should give it a shot. They should get married.

Alexis met molly at the pool, and Alexis said she didn’t care for the pool, but some people liked it. Molly said, they seemed to, as she stared at Cody and Ava. Alexis turned around and looked too.

Cody said he used to hustle poker games, and Ava said her daughter Kiki hustled for the thrill of it. She didn’t approve, but deep down, she was proud. Cody asked if Kiki was still a gambler, but Ava said she’d passed away several years ago. He said he was sorry, but she said she liked to talk about Kiki. It had been a while since she thought of them playing cards and it made her smile when she did. She thanked him for that.  

Kristina said she was so sorry. She never meant to hurt Elizabeth. Elizabeth said she knew. She meant to hurt Ava. More precisely, Kristina meant to kill her. Kristina said she snapped. She was still grieving Adela and had a huge fight with Ava again. She was in the garage and saw the wire cutters. She tried to stop it. She called Ava to warn her, but she didn’t pick up. As she was driving back, she passed the crash and saw what happened. She was horrified. Elizabeth said Kristina got her and Ric, and Kristina said, if they wouldn’t have made it, she was going to confess. Elizabeth said they would have been dead, so they wouldn’t have been impressed with her grand gesture. So Kristina let Lucky cover for her. She wanted to call the police, but the only reason she didn’t was because Lucky would be charged as an accessory. Now that he’s out of the country and not in the reach of the PCPD… Kristina said, Elizabeth was going to turn her in.

Kai told Trina that he had no doubt he’d play again. He was an idiot. She said, stop. He wasn’t an idiot. The surgery was a success. He said, not enough. What did he do now? She said he’d get through it and find peace like he did before, but he said that’s what he told himself, in time, he’d be fine without football. But he was lying to himself and to her. The moment he found out about the surgery, he was out of the dark cell and on the other side. He again had the hopes and dreams he’d worked his butt off for. He thought he had a second chance. It wasn’t about fame or glory. It was about him being himself again. Now all that is gone. The door was slammed in his faced and he’s sitting in the dark again. She said she was so sorry and hugged him. He said he was so damn close.

Sasha said she wasn’t cutting Michael out of Daisy’s life. She wanted Daisy to know her dad, but she planned on retaining full custody and raising Daisy by herself with no assistance or interference from him or any of the Quartermaines. The only change would be that Daisy would know he was her dad. Did he think he could still live with that? He looked at Daisy and said he meant it when he said he trusted her to make the decisions she thought best for their child. He could live with her terms, but would like in writing that if anything happened to her, he’d be Daisy’s legal guardian. She said, yes, and thanked him. He said the custody fight made it clear to him that his kids came first. He wanted to give Daisy the best life and asked her to consider what she needed. She’d always have his full support.

Willow asked if Drew was proposing now? and he said he wanted it to be more romantic, but it was all about their happiness and love for each other. It would show they had a stable, loving home with two parents. She said that’s why she married Michael the first time. So he could get custody of Wiley from her sister Nelle. She wasn’t sure she’d do it again. He said, this was different. That was a marriage of convenience, but they were in love. It’s where they were headed anyway. She said she’d thought so, but she wasn’t sure it would work, and he said they’d present themselves to the court as a loving family, opposed to Michael with his mistress and baby. He wasn’t guaranteeing custody, but at least they had a fighting chance if she said yes.

Molly told Alexis that Ava cozying up to Cody, didn’t sit well with her. He was too nice of a guy for Ava to sink her fangs into. Alexis said he seemed nice. Were they friends now? Molly said he’d kind of helped her a few times. She was stranded with a flat and he gave her a ride on his horse. He also escorted her to the Nurses Ball and sat at the table with her when Alexis and Kristina were nowhere to be found. But she was glad that whatever happened, Alexis and Kristina made amends. Alexis said she and Kristin had a whole new level of understanding.  

Elizabeth told Kristina, no, and Kristina said if Elizabeth did turn her in, she’d understand. Elizabeth said the family had been through enough Losing Sam. She didn’t think they needed the pain of watching Kristina go to prison and Molly would be devastated to know that Kristina almost killed her dad. She was going to abide by Lucky’s wishes. Kristina thanked her, but Elizabeth said if she ever did something like that again, a revenge plot, she would turn Kristina in in a heartbeat. There was a knock at the door and Elizabeth let Ric in. He stopped when he saw Kristina.

Willow told Drew that the judge repeatedly said she’d used bad. She might see it as rash or impulsive, or worse, that she put him before her children again. Drew said he thought the court would see their relationship in a different light. If they got married, it would be seen as more legitimate and respectable. Willow said she wasn’t sure, and he said he knew it was coming fast. She said it was hard to think straight. She was tired. He said, just think about it and know whatever she decided, it wouldn’t change how much he loved her. He suggested she get some rest. Then maybe marriage wouldn’t be such a bad idea.  

Kai said he was sorry he lost it, but Trina said, don’t be. He never had to hide his feelings from her. He said he wasn’t used to being… and she said, vulnerable? He said he guessed so. There was something he needed to do. She said he needed time to process and feel his feelings, but he said he’d be fine. She said maybe she could come with him, but he said it was something he needed to do alone. He was grateful for her and he’d call her later. He left.

Ric said Kristina was the last person he thought he’d find at Elizabeth’s, and Kristina said, same. She was about to head out. She thanked Elizabeth for understanding. They were definitely on the same page. She left and Ric asked what that was about, but Elizabeth said it was a personal matter. Why was he there? He said he stopped by the hospital, and she wasn’t there, so he tracked her down, and she said if he had something to say, spit it out. She had a lot to do. He said he thought she’d have loads of time now that Lucky and Aiden were in Europe, and she said she knew why he was here. Because Lucky was gone… He said he came by to make sure she was okay, as a friend. He wanted her to know that if she needed anything, he was here for her.

Cody asked, when was the last time Ava hit up Vegas? and she said it had been a while. It would be funny if they’d crossed paths. He said he was positive they didn’t, and she asked how he was so sure. He said he would have remembered her, and she said, enough hooky. She had to get back to the gallery. It was nice running into him. He said it was great running into her too. Now it was time for the pool. She left and he jumped in. Molly smiled at him and raised her beer.

Jordan said she was glad Michael threw Curtis’s resignation in the trash, and he said Michael knew how conniving and destructive his uncle had become. He tore Michael’s family apart and Michael warned him not to let the same thing happen to him. He didn’t have the heart to tell Michael that it might be too late for him and Portia. The phone rang, and Curtis said he had to take it. Jordan said they’d talk about the meeting another time, and left. Curtis said, put him through.

In the hallway, Jordan called Anna and asked if she had time to meet up. She was in desperate need of a friend and a stiff drink.

Trina stormed into Portia’s office and said she knew it. Portia asked, what happened? and Trina said Kai spoke to the doctor who helped with the spine surgery. It wasn’t good enough to play football. Portia asked how Kai was taking it, and Trina said he was heartbroken. And all because of Drew Cain. She hated him so much.

There was a knock at Drew’s door and he opened it to Kai. Kai said he was sorry to just drop by. Had Drew herd from Josh? Drew said, not yet. What was going on? Kai said the documentary wasn’t going to turn out the way either of them wanted it to.

Michael told Wiley and Amelia to say hello to their baby sister. Meanwhile, outside someone watched them.

Thursday:

Jordan met Anna at the pool and Anna asked, what was the emergency? Jordan said Curtis’s marriage was on the rocks and she didn’t know how she felt.

At a table nearby, Isaiah told Lulu that Lucky and Aiden’s European adventure was up and running. Lucky said she was going through something and asked him to look in on her. If she wanted to talk, he was there, but if she just wanted to hang out, he was good with that too. Lucky was one of the best friends he ever had and saved his life a few times. Lulu said Isaiah had saved hers, so she thought they were square.  

On the phone, Josslyn left a message for Dalton saying she was sorry. She’d had a family situation, but she’d never ask anybody to do her work again. Trina came in and Josslyn said she’d never believe what Emma… What was going on? Trina said, it’s Kai.

Kai told Drew that the surgery worked, but not enough for him to play football again.

Jason told Sasha and Daisy, welcome home, and asked where Michael was. She said, tucking the kids in. They were staying there tonight. Michael came in and said, Amelia wanted her mother to kiss her goodnight, but he wasn’t sure when it would be okay for Willow to see the kids. Jason asked how Willow was doing, and Sasha said they’d run into her at GH and she wasn’t doing well.

Sonny arrived at Windymere, and Sidwell said he was surprised when Sonny called. It must be important. Sonny said he was thinking about Sidwell’s offer to buy his pier.

Trina told Josslyn that the doctor called Kai’s surgery a successful failure. He was better than before, but not good enough to play football. Josslyn said he must have been devastated, and Trina said, and then some. Josh had his camera in Kai’s face the entire time, so she put her hand over it. Josslyn said it was one thing to be injured and miss a season, but it was Kai’s entire career, and Trina said when she got everybody out, Kai started sobbing. Again Kai’s future was pulled out from under him and his dreams destroyed, and it was all Drew’s fault.

Drew said they knew it wasn’t guaranteed, but Kai had recovered so well, and Kai said he thought so too, but they were both wrong. He could do normal activities, but no football. Even if he was willing to risk it, no school or franchise would take him. All that work for all those years amounted to nothing.

Jordan told Anna that Curtis said he was worried it was too late to patch up things with Portia and her heart began to race. She wasn’t saying she wanted to get back with him… Anna said she’d kind of been where Jordan was, and Jordan asked what she did. Anna said she struggled. She’d loved Robert and he fell for Holly. She heard they had problems and considered taking advantage of the situation and get back with him. Jordan said, did she? and Anna said part of her wanted to, but the other part thought no good could come of it. She ultimately decided she wouldn’t want someone swooping in if she was having marital problems. Jordan said that’s exactly what Portia did to her.

Michael told Jason that he needed to figure out where they were going to lived. The gatehouse was out. It would be too hard for the kids to live there without their mom. Jason suggested he stay there. At least the kids would have the family close. Sasha said she was going to put Daisy to bed and thanked Michael. She was glad they were on the same page. She left, and Jason said things seemed to be going good with Michael and Sasha. Michael said they’d talked things out. He wasn’t sure everyone would agree he was doing the right thing, and by everyone, he meant the rest of his family.

Sonny said he wanted to talk to Sidwell man to man. He wanted the truth. Why did Sidwell really want his pier? Sidwell said he appreciated Sonny’s directness, so he’d respond in kind. He wanted to pier in order to end Sonny’s influence on the city.

Marco told Lucas that he couldn’t stop thinking about his mom, but attorney/client privilege prevented him from telling Lucas about it.  

Jordan told Anna that she knew Portia didn’t intentionally sabotage her marriage. It wasn’t about payback, but Portia didn’t learn from her mistakes. Curtis forgave her for lying, then she turned around and lied to him again. She felt horrible for Curtis and Trina, but didn’t have much sympathy for Portia.

Lulu told Isaiah that she’d dug herself a big hole and a lot of people were pissed and hurt. It wasn’t her story to tell, so she couldn’t say more. His phone rang and he said it was GH. She told him to get it. There was someone she needed to talk to anyway.

Michael told Jason that Sasha asked him to continue to allow her to raise Daisy in her own way away from the Quartermaine insanity. But that also meant staying out of his baby’s life. Jason asked if he told her that he would honor her wishes, and Michael said he did, but Daisy was here now, and the secret was out. Sasha wanted to be the only legal parent, and he agreed.

Sasha put Daisy in her crib and said, this was her room. Mommy would be right next door and hear Daisy the second Daisy needed her. Sleep well. Mommy loves you. She turned out the light and left. (Daisy is one of those delightfully animated babies like Wiley was.)

Sonny asked if Sidwell thought he was going to push him aside, but Sidwell said he was hoping Sonny would step down like a gentleman. His shadow loomed large and his name was tied to organized crime. The cycle of violence had been constant. He was planning on doing business there and it didn’t include monthly mob shootouts. He would bring jobs and commerce. It would be good for the city, good for Sonny, and good for him. Sonny said if Measure C passed, the city would take the pier, but Sidwell said he was a gambling man. What was life without risk?

Drew told Kai that he was so sorry. It wasn’t the outcome they’d wanted or expected. Kai said it wasn’t the best ending for the documentary. Josh filmed him getting the news and he was so messed up, Trina jumped in and got rid of Josh. He knew it was supposed to be an uplifting story about his big comeback… Drew said, don’t worry. There wouldn’t be a documentary. He owned the footage, and it wouldn’t see the light of day. Kai said Drew didn’t want a sad ending. Now he wasn’t even getting a documentary. Drew said Kai didn’t owe him an apology. If anything, he owed Kai one. (Narcissist/sociopath at work.)

Trina told Josslyn that Kai was devastated the first time, but eventually accepted it. Then Drew came along with this newfangled surgery like it was a medical miracle. He wanted Kai’s good PR. He never cared about Kai. Josslyn said, Drew didn’t care about anything and ended up ruining the lives of the people he helped. Trina said, like Willow? Was she any better? Josslyn said she went home today, and Trina asked how bad it was in court. Josslyn said she wasn’t there, but her mom was and said the judge granted full custody to Michael. Drew had her convinced she’d be able to take the kids, and when reality set in, she broke. Trina said Drew was such a user. Her dad, now Kai, even Willow now. Josslyn wonder who was going to stop him, and Trina said somebody would Count on it.

Josslyn told Trina that Michael said he found Wiley in tears. He’d overheard Drew tell his lawyer that Michael didn’t want Wiley and Amelia now that he had Daisy. Trina said no one believed it, did they? and Josslyn said, only Willow. It wasn’t like Drew was subtle. Trina said he was legit crazy. He’d threatened to bulldoze the Quartermaine crypt, then partied with a sex worker while Willow was out of town. Now he was hurting kids. Josslyn said, he had a good reason. The crypt was in the wrong place. He didn’t know Wiley was there… Who would believe all this? Trina said, Kai, and it was scaring her.

Jordan said, Curtis didn’t tell her they were splitting up, but Anna said, he was confiding in Jordan about his marriage. What did she think she’d do if his marriage ended? Would she go back to him? Jordan said she didn’t want to think… Lulu said she was sorry to interrupt (maybe we should make Lulu interrupting a drinking game). She needed to talk to Anna. Jordan stepped away.

Marco said Lucas couldn’t repeat this information, and Lucas said Marco had his word. Marco said, remember when he ran into a certain client of his at the pool? They got arrested later and charged with a DWI. Lucas asked if anyone was hurt, and Marco said, luckily, no, but it wasn’t their first offense and they’re facing severe consequences. Lucas said he was surprised Marco took on this client. He’d sounded like he wanted nothing to do with her. Marco said he didn’t. Then he thought about what Lucas told him and realized he couldn’t turn his back on her. Lucas asked if she could go to prison, and Marco said the acting DA offered her a deal for the exchange of information on a certain alleged crime lord. Lucas said, Sonny Corinthos?

Sidwell said if Sonny sold him the pier, it would be front page news. Measure C would become about real estate and not a referendum on Sonny’s reputation. The voters won’t care because no one would be worried about who had the pier or what happened to it. Sonny said Sidwell gave money to the Measure C campaign and was trying to get him to sell. That left him no choice. Sidwell said Sonny did have a choice. He could walk away richer and more importantly, clean. It was a chance to unburden himself and free himself from the enterprise that long enriched him, but had become an albatross around his neck. Neither of them was getting younger. Sonny had led a tragic life and already lost one son. Can he imagine the rest of his days with his family safe and secure? Sonny asked if Sidwell was threatening his family.  

Jason said Michael’s name wouldn’t be on the birth certificate, and Michael said, nope. He wasn’t sure what Daisy’s last name would be, but it wouldn’t be Corinthos or Quartermaine. Jason said he was sure Tracy would have something to say about it, and Michael said he had no custodial rights, but he trusted Sasha and she updated her will for him to get custody if anything happened to her. It was important that she remain the sole legal parent. Jason said even if Michael was okay with it, others might not be, and Michael said starting with his mother and the Quartermaine’s. He was sure some would say he was giving away his baby and he never wanted Daisy to feel that way.

Someone creeped into Daisy’s room and watched her.

Lulu said she needed to apologize to Anna, and Anna asked why. Lulu said she’d never properly thanked Anna for bringing Charlotte back. She was nasty about Valentin, and she was sorry. Anna said Lulu had a right to be, but Lulu said, Anna still brought her daughter back and risked her life. It wasn’t enough, but she thanked her.

Isaiah asked Jordan how her new job was. He’d seen her ads on Measure C. She was doing a good job. Did she change her mind about Sidwell?

Trina told Josslyn that she thought Kai was in a daze and could only think about going to the guy who paid for his surgery and thanking him. Every time Drew’s name comes up, she bites her tongue. Josslyn said Trina’s silence was usually loud, and Trina said she hated to stay quiet, but she didn’t want friction because of Drew. Josslyn said, Drew promised Willow would get her kids back. Once Tracy proves he set her up, everyone will know he’s a liar and won’t believe anything he says again.

Drew said Kai was an amazing talent. He’d wanted to help Kai achieved his goal, but didn’t consider the downside and he should have. It was his fault. Kai said he was glad he took the chance. He did what he could to get his dream back. Drew said Kai’s positivity was priceless. He may not be able to give football back to Kai, but he might have something else to offer him.

Marco told Lucas that fortunately, his client doesn’t sign anything before going over it with a fine-tooth comb. He slammed on the brakes. Now Turner is giving him the runaround and holding the threat of prison over his client’s head. Lucas said Sonny used to be married to his sister. They weren’t close, but had family in common. He had no illusions about Sonny. Marco said his mom had made herself a target for Turner and Sonny. They’d both be gunning for her and he didn’t know how to help.  

Sonny said no one threatened his family and lived, and Sidwell said he was sorry. He meant the complete opposite. Once Sonny no longer owned the pier, everyone around him would be safe from the people trying to take things from him. Sonny said, like Sidwell, but Sidwell said, if either of them wanted violence, this would have been over long ago. Sonny said, like how his son almost died? and Sidwell said, a man’s children are sacred. That kind of violence must be met in kind. He wouldn’t want anything to happen to Marco. Sonny said he’d do anything to keep his family safe, and Sidwell said, good. Did they have a deal?

Anna said she knew she’d caused pain, but Lulu said she knew it was an accident. Anna said it was her responsibility, and she had to live with it every day, and Lulu said if she got tired of carrying the burden, she encouraged Anna to put it down. Anna thanked her and asked how Charlotte was doing. Lulu said Charlotte was doing great. She found a friend group and was counseling at Lila’s Kids this summer. Anna said she was glad Charlotte had a parent who could love and guide her the way she needed.

Jordan said she had no illusions about Sidwell, but she enjoyed her job, and Isaiah said it must help that her ex was head of Aurora.

Drew said he had an intern lined up, but they dropped out. Was Kai interested? It was a paid internship, and Kai would work closely with him here and in DC. He realized it couldn’t replace football, but it might be a nice distraction. He handled the Pediatric Sports Initiative (🍷) well. Kai said, that was one speech. It was a generous offer, but Drew didn’t have to give him a consolation prize. Drew said it was no secret he’d alienated a lot of people. Kai was a natural born leader and great with the media. Most of all, he had integrity, and he needed someone with integrity by his side whose judgement he trusted. And it would look great on Kai’s resumé. He believed Kai could do a lot of good if he was interested.

Marco said he was resigned to a life without his mom, but he didn’t want to see her go to prison, and Lucas said he understood. His dad came around and when things finally fell apart, homophobia wasn’t the problem. Just because their parents gave them life, didn’t mean they owed their parents theirs. Do what makes him happy. Marco said his father’s acceptance was important. She only saw what she wanted him to be.

Jason said, the only thing Daisy would think was that her dad loved her and was easier to work than her mother, and Michael said when he was granted full custody, he felt like he could breathe again. Jason said, the way Willow reacted after the ruling showed she wasn’t stable, and Michael said Willow was strong. To see her crumble that way, she may be damaged in ways that can’t be repaired. Only because she fell in love with Drew. Jason asked if he was worried about Sasha, but Michael said, no. He had to hope she didn’t have her own Drew someday. Jason said he didn’t think Michael had to worry. Daisy was her number one priority, and she was strong. Michael said he thought Sasha was a great mom, and Jason said, that’s what was important.  

Sasha went into Daisy’s room and discovered the mobile above the crib was playing music. She asked if the music woke Daisy up.  

Sonny asked why he and Sidwell would have a deal. Port Charles was his home. His roots and his children were there, and he would protect the city from anyone, including Sidwell. Sidwell said, be wise. Reconsider. Sonny wondered why he should take Sidwell’s money, told Sidwell to stay out of his way, and left.  

Trina said Drew had crossed powerful people, and Josslyn said, Tracy, Trina’s dad, Michael, and Jason, and by extension, Sonny. Sonny and her mom weren’t the most forgiving group. One would take Drew down and soon. Trina said she hoped so, but she didn’t want Kai near Drew when it happened.

Drew asked if Kai had plans for the summer, but Kai said, not anymore. Drew told him to take some time and think about it. Remember his future wasn’t over. It would just be different, and Drew thought it would be just as bright whether he took the offer or not. As much as Drew would like to have Kai on his team, no matter what, he hoped Kai considered him a friend. Kai said he did and they shook hands.  

Lulu told Anna, nothing was more important than her children. She still couldn’t believe she lost four years literally overnight. She didn’t want to miss another second, and thanks to Anna, she didn’t have to.

Isaiah said, for what it was worth (🍷), he was sorry how things ended between them, and Jordan said, for what it was worth (🍷), so was she. He said, regardless of his attitude… and she said, which time? He laughed and said he wished her the best. She said sometimes the timing just wasn’t right.

Lucas said he thought it was great that Marco’s father supported him, and Marco said that’s why he tried to extend the same grace to him. Lucas said, as his father pointed out, being gay is different than being a criminal, and Marco said he didn’t mean it that way. The closeness with his dad was important. Lucas said he just worried about Marco’s proximity to danger, like Michael or his father at one time. Marco said he got the impression Sonny and Michael were close, and Lucas said Michael was a strong person. He’d had a tough life, but things were finally looking up. He couldn’t tell Marco how happy he was when the judge granted full custody to Michael. Marco said, with no visitation, but Lucas said he was sure Michael wouldn’t keep Willow out completely. Marco said it was unusual. Judges usually didn’t consider no visitation for the mother.

Judge Haran said she granted Michael full custody like Sidwell wanted, and he thanked her for a job well done. The rest of the money had been wired to her account.

Michael told Jason that for a long time after the explosion, every day, every moment, was agony and fear. He figured his kids were with Drew and Sasha was pregnant with him not being there to help. It was one of the lowest point in his life. Jason asked how he got through it, and Michael said his kids. Knowing that they needed him, he knew he had to get better and get back home. Jason said the kids were lucky to have Michael, and Michael said he was lucky to have Jason looking after them. Knowing that helped a lot. He never expected things to turn out this way. He was happy with all three of his children under the same roof and safe with him. What more could he ask for?

Sasha adjusted the mobile and said, good night. I love you. She left.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

On the phone, Ava says she looks forward to seeing someone at the gallery, when Nina walks in. Ava says she’s been texting and calling. How is Willow? How is she? Nina asks how much she told Ava, and Ava says, just the very awful, very broad strokes. Nina says, Michael got full custody. Willow collapsed and was hospitalized after that. She needs to talk to Ava. Ava asks, what happened? and Nina says, it was everything she feared… and so much worse.

Willow comes out of the bedroom and asks if Drew went running already. He says, it’s a beautiful day outside, and she says she guesses she must have fallen back to sleep. He says, she probably needed the rest. How is she feeling? She says she knows she slept last night, but she’s still so tired, and he suggests he make her breakfast. Anything she wants. It might make her feel better. She says she’s not hungry. It’s hard to care about starting her day without seeing her kids.

Wiley says he can swim the length of the pool without taking a breath, and Michael says, no way. How did he learn to do that? Wiley says, Uncle Drew. Does he want to see? Michael says, absolutely. Let’s see what you’ve got. Wiley swims and Michael looks over at Kristina.

Curtis finds Tracy in the solarium, and she says, this is a nice surprise. Unless his Aunt Stella sent him to chastise her. He says, she didn’t. The truth be told, his Aunt Stella found it quite amusing watching Tracy’s recent run-in with the PCPD. Tracy says she bets. What brings him here? He says, how about delivering Drew the setback he so richly deserves? Together. She says she’s listening. Tell her more.

In the park, Emma suggests Gio play softball for the PCPD. He likes to play, and he doesn’t suck. He’d also score points with her grandmother. He asks if he needs to score points with her grandmother, but she says, of course (🍷) not. Her grandmother loves having Gio stay with them, but just think, she’d love it more if he played ball for the PCPD. He says he can picture the situation, sitting in the dugout with Dante right now, and she says it would be the perfect way to get everyone off his back. Maybe everyone would relax and stop worrying about how he’s handling the Brook and Dante are my parents thing. He says, everyone is worried he’s going to do something crazy and lose it again. Like he might turn to a life of crime or become a Buddhist monk. She says, both things take commitment, and he can’t even agree to play ball for the PCPD. A dog runs up and grabs Gio’s baseball mitt, running away with it. He yells, don’t! and chases the dog. Emma follows saying she’s worried about the dog running into the street.

Anna tells Sonny, the party is over, and he tells her, many people have said that and they were wrong. She says she’s not wrong. She’s gone easy on him in the past, but today is the day of reckoning and there’s nothing he can do about it. We see they’re in the park to play ball.

Anna says, no matter how many ringers he has playing on his team, he’s going to lose, and Sonny asks what she’s talking about. What ringers? Is she suggesting he hires people to play on his softball team? She says, there’s a minor league pitcher warming up in the bullpen and he has plenty of minor leaguers on his team, but he says she doesn’t know what she’s talking about. She knows how much he respects her, but when she was across the pond playing cricket and eating crumpets, he was playing stickball in Bensonhurst until it was so dark, you couldn’t see. She says, speaking of Bensonhurst, did he know Gio’s been staying with them? and he says, yeah. Emma’s been great for him. She says, Gio is good for Emma. She’s thinking they kind of help each other. It’s nice.

Gio says, drop the glove, dog, and we’ll pretend this never happened, and picking the dog up, Emma says, stop it. You’re scaring her. He says, she’s not freaking out; she’s taunting him. Emma says, aren’t you cute? and he says he doesn’t see anyone looking for her. She says, she has no collar. No worries. She knows what to do.

As they lie in bed, Trina wonders if it’s okay to ask Kai where he was, and he says he went to tell Drew that the surgery was a successful failure. It was good for his health, but bad for his football career. She says she felt like that’s where he was, and he says he knows how she feels about Drew, but he wanted to talk to Drew one on one. She says she gets it. How’d it go? He says he thanked Drew for paying for his very expensive consultation and surgery. Then he asked if they could stop the whole documentary thing. She says, really? Wow. How did he take the news? Kai says, he was amazing. He said they could totally stop it and no one would ever see the footage. Then – get this – he apologized.

Curtis says, Drew has been on the ropes for a while now. The voters weren’t thrilled with his relationship with Willow. Tracy says, otherwise known as his nephew’s wife. Go on. Curtis says, then Drew’s reputation took a hit when a viral video surfaced of him taking body shots off an unknown woman, and Tracy says, otherwise known as a sex worker. Please go on. Curtis says, then the congressman claims he knows who drugged him and there was a mixed reaction at best. Folks aren’t sure about Drew. She says, he doesn’t exactly exude trustworthiness and credibility, and Curtis says, here’s the problem. Her high-profile arrest on the red carpet at the Nurses Ball shifted the power in Drew’s favor. He was seen as a victim and gained sympathy. She says, that’s exactly what he knew would happen when he framed her.

Wiley comes out of the pool and goes over to Amanda (nanny? swim coach? who knows?) Kristina says, Michael did a great job covering when Wiley brought up Drew, but he says he didn’t. She insists he did. Wiley has no idea how he feels about Drew. He says, thank God for that. It’s crazy. He remembers last summer Wiley couldn’t stop talking about Uncle Drew and how he wanted to be a Navy SEAL just like Drew was. At the time, he was thrilled that Wiley was having so much fun and Drew was taking an interest in him. It never occurred to him that Drew might be using Wiley to get to Willow. Kristina says, it never occurred to any of them. They were under the radar until they weren’t. Michael said, that’s one of the sad parts of divorce, the good memories getting poisoned. All those times him, Willow, and the kids were hanging out with Drew. Were they flirting and he was that oblivious? Kristina says, he wasn’t oblivious. He was in love and trusted Willow. He says, what that was, was a mistake, and she says, he has a right to be angry, but it would be a mistake to let it consume him. He says he’s sure he’ll get over it eventually, but she says, that’s not good enough. He has to decide that his anger isn’t in charge. Thanks to Ava, she knows about anger consuming you and it’s dangerous to let it go unchecked. You find yourself doing and saying something you deeply regret that you can’t take back. Michael wonders why he has the feeling she’s talking about something specific. What did she do?

Ava says, Drew is the one with bad judgement, but according to the judge, Willow is the one making all the bad decisions, and Nina says, exactly. Ava says she’s so, so sorry. She can’t believe what that man has become. Nina says she saw it coming. She tried to get through to Willow. She begged Willow to postpose the custody hearing, but that man has his hooks in Willow so deep, she barely recognizes her daughter anymore. Ava takes Nina’s hand.

Willow tells Drew that she never thought Michael would get custody like that. She doesn’t know what happened. He says he doesn’t know what happened either (because they’re both stupid), but it doesn’t matter. They can fix it. They know how. Has she thought about his proposal? She says, it’s all she’s thought about, and he says, that’s nice to hear. She says she knows he wants to help, and she loves him for it, but he’s the reason Michael took the kids away. She doesn’t see how marrying him will help get them back.  

Turner tells Anna that against her better judgement, she’s here to play for the PCPD. Plus, the league is a great networking opportunity. Anna says, there we go. Sounds about right.  

Sonny tells Gio, looking good. Is he playing? Gio says he knows him – Uncle Sonny. He’s not used to see him like this. Sonny says, when they’re playing, Gio can call him Sonny, and Gio says he can do that, and thanks him. Sonny says he saw Gio and Emma throwing the ball around, and Gio says, then they found a stray dog. Emma is off somewhere trying to find the owner. Sonny says, good. He thought they could have a conversation. Gio says, Sonny is the one person in the family not pursuing him to talk, but Sonny says he thought Gio could be on the Corinthos Coffee team. He saw that Gio had a great arm. Gio says he can’t believe Sonny saw him play. He had to sneak out to do it. Why? Sonny says he was trying to get Rocco to play, and Gio says, Corinthos Coffee, ELQ, the PCPD, and Deception. Those are teams full of people he can’t stand to see right now. Sonny says Gio found out a hard truth in a bad way. There’s nothing they can do to change that. All they can do is move forward and he’s willing to help Gio.

Michael asks Kristina, what’s going on? Did something happen? She says, nothing. It’s just they both know she’s made terrible mistakes based on anger before. She almost let her anger at Ava destroy her completely and she doesn’t want that for him. Drew and Willow have already taken enough from him. Don’t let them take more. He says, the Willow he knew was stronger, and she says, Willow was struggling more than any of them knew. Drew took advantage of that, and they both betrayed him. It doesn’t matter anymore. What matters is that he has his kids and they’re safe, at home, and healthy. And he has a beautiful baby girl. What matters is that he try to focus on the positive. He says, she’s right. When he feels himself needing revenge, he’ll focus on the kids and their future. She says he needs to do that for himself too. He says he’s hoping Willow will get to a place where he feels okay about her being around the kids. They need both of them, but he doesn’t know when and if he’ll feel comfortable to let her see them.

Drew says, Willow is right. It’s his fault completely that Michael took the kids. He made two big mistakes. He never should have invited Wiley to DC for his swearing in. Obviously, he wanted them there for his big moment and it was pure selfishness on his part. She says, Wiley wanted to be there. She’s proud of him. She still is. He says he never should have drawn up the guardianship papers, but she says they had no idea how long Michael would be in Germany and she didn’t want Carly to take her kids if something happened to her. If she’d made Nina the guardian, Diane wouldn’t have even mentioned it. He says, the bottom line is that the judge thought they were disregarding the law. So from now on, they were consulting a lawyer before doing anything. This was them doing just that. She says, getting married because a lawyer says it’s a good legal strategy would be like she was using him, but he promises that’s not the case. He would marry her anytime, anywhere. He would love that their marriage be a natural progression of building their lives together, but right now, they have to get her kids back. But if she doesn’t want to get married, they won’t. All he asks is that she listen to all the facts before she makes a decision. How does that sound?

Trina says she didn’t know Drew knew how to apologize, and Kai says, he does and he did. He felt awful that the surgery didn’t get him back on the football field. Drew knew he wanted that more than anything. She says she can’t be mad at that, and he says, good. The more he talked to Drew, the more he realized he was glad he had the surgery. Otherwise, he’d always wonder. This way, he knows for a fact that he did everything he could to get back on the field. He thinks it made it easier for him to face the loss of the future he imagined for himself. She says, that is amazing, but it’s a little fast. She guesses it’s good, but just yesterday he seemed so lost and it hurt her heart. He says he was lost when he left GH. He had no idea what his future looked like, but Drew helped with that too. Drew offered him a paid position as his congressional intern.

Tracy tells Curtis, as if she’d ever slip Drew a drug and leave evidence of it in her car. Come on. If you’re going to frame someone, put some effort into it. Curtis asks if she can prove Drew planted the ketamine, and she says, no, but she knows when he did it. He sailed over and pretended he wanted to discuss Measure C. Then he stayed afterward to plant it. Curtis says, the case hinges on Drew’s testimony and the two of them had a drink the night he was drugged, and she asks if anyone saw her put a drug in his drink. Did they find her fingerprints on the bottle? Curtis says, no, and she says, because she didn’t do it. He says, if they get Drew to retract his statement, the DA’s office doesn’t have a case, and she says, correct. Alexis said they’d have to drop the charges. Then she’d have her lawyers sue for false arrest. He asks how they get Drew to recant, and she says, let him use the Quartermaine name and make a public apology for her egregious lapse in judgement. He says, so there’s an offer on the table, but she says, no. There’s an offer in the garbage because she’s not going to do that.

Michael says, Wiley flew across the pool. He’s so strong. He bets Wiley is hungry. Wiley says he’s starving, and Michael says he’s guessing a PB&J. Wiley says, yes, please, and Michael asks if Kristina would like to join them. She says she’d be delighted, and Wiley asks if Daisy can have one too, but Michael says, she’s too little. When she’s big enough, Wiley can make her one himself. Let’s go. Kristina sees Wiley’s T-shirt was left behind and tries to get Michael’s attention, but Michael keeps walking.

Trina says, Kai can’t play football anymore. Doesn’t he want to take a beat before jumping into something else? He says he thinks he needs this. Now he has a purpose. The internship will give him something to focus on and a way to move forward. She asks, how long is the internship? Will it go past the summer? What is he going to do about school? Will he move to DC? He says he has to ask about that, but he definitely knows he doesn’t want to move to DC. He doesn’t want to leave her.

Ava tells Nina that she can’t believe this even happened and Drew still refuses to see he’s the problem in Willow’s life. If he loves her like he says he does, why not get the hell out of her life. Nina says she told him that at the hospital, and Ava says she guesses he wasn’t very receptive. Nina says, no. He just doubled down and said he knew she and Portia had worked together to ruin his reputation. Now if either of them crosses him, he’ll take them both down. Ava says, oh well. Evil and efficient. Nina says she’s afraid the only way out is telling Willow that she and Drew slept together when Willow and Drew were falling in love, and Ava says she gave Nina that advice all along. She knows Nina had her reasons, but Nina shot her down every time. Nina says she knows, but they agreed Willow needed her and Willow needs her right now more than the truth. She needs to get Willow away from this man. Ava says she has a list of reasons why Nina shouldn’t tell Willow the truth, and Nina says, tell her. She’s all ears. Ava says Nina has to be very careful. If she tells Willow the truth now after everything that happened, Willow may or may not believe her. Or she may confront Drew. Drew will tell her that Nina is a liar and Willow will believe him. Either way, she’ll have lost her relationship with her daughter. Nina says she couldn’t bear it after everything else, and Ava says, with Nina out of the picture, who would Willow have left to lean on? Nina says, just Drew, and Ava says, take it from someone who alienated and lost her daughter, don’t do it. Don’t say a word. The truth is important, but the most important thing is not to lose Willow right now.

At Drew’s place, Martin says, Judge Haran often rules in favor of married couples over a single parent. That’s why he suggested Willow and Drew get married. It will demonstrate that no matter how their relationship began, it’s something they’re invested in. Drew asks what Willow thinks, and Willow says she and Michael got married to keep Nelle from getting custody of Wiley and it worked. Martin says, with her and Drew married, and Drew’s reputation restored, he thinks they stand a better chance of getting the custody ruling amended. Drew says, wait a minute. His reputation restored? Did that mean Tracy was going to play ball? Martin says, not happily, but he thinks she’s smart enough to know that she doesn’t have a choice.

Curtis tells Tracy, so from Drew’s point of view, this is a good plan. The public believes he’s the innocent victim and he gets to look magnanimous for letting his auntie off the hook. Tracy says she was mildly impressed when Martin made the offer, and Curtis wonders if they could get Martin to switch sides, but Tracy says she doesn’t see him doing that. Curtis says, because? and she says, because she had him arrested for the crypt scheme. All he wants now is to see her publicly humiliated. Curtis asks what her lawyers think about going to trial, and she says, they thought the incident a while back with Alexis would be worked in again. He says, the one where she framed Alexis for drunk driving, then left town when the trial came up? and she says, yes, but she and Alexis are past that. So she doesn’t see why it’s the court’s business. He says, so she’s looking to get the charges dropped, and she says she guesses so. He says, to that end, he hired a P.I. to track down Drew’s body shot companion, a woman named Jacinda She says, if he finds her, she can tell everyone about how Drew bought the ketamine and took it himself, and he says, that’s exactly right.

Sonny says, Gio can feel how he wants. if he wants to cut off people, that’s what he needs to do. He believes Gio should keep working at the MetroCourt. Gio says, it’s a good job. He’s helping people and saving up for his own place. Sonny says he’s not going to keep bugging Gio to play for Corinthos Coffee. He thought it would be fun and actually, he needs someone like Gio. Gio says he might be terrible, but Sonny says he’s seen Gio hit the ball halfway across the block when he was a kid. Gio says he remembers that. He remembers he didn’t get to play often. Lois and Gloria worried that he’d hurt his hands and it would affect his violin playing. Sonny says, don’t worry. Now he’s an adult and doesn’t have to answer to them. Gio says, Sonny is right. Okay. He’ll play for Corinthos Coffee. They high five.

Drew asks if Martin clarified things, and Willow says, it made sense. She feels like at least she can breathe again. There’s hope. He says, absolutely there’s hope. He wishes they lived in a perfect world and could have the wedding of their dreams, but they don’t. It they want to keep hope alive, that’s what they need to do. She says, nothing is more important than her kids. Okay. Let’s get married. He asks if she’s sure. She doesn’t feel pressured? She says she’s sure. Marry me. They kiss.

Turner says, it’s official now. She’s Anna’s teammate. Anna says, the world has a sense of humor, and Turner says she assumed she’d be on the bench for a while, but they have her playing the next game. Anna says, the PCPD has always been at a bit of a disadvantage with the cops. They can’t sustain a consistent line-up. That’s why they combined this year. Turner says, got it. She’s going to need practice… a lot. The last thing she wants to do is let down her team. Anna says, it gets competitive, but do her best and she’ll be fine. Anna thanks her and says, they got off on the wrong foot. She’s sure once Sonny is gone, they’ll get along better. Anna says, stranger things have happened, and leaves. Turner says, okay, and Sonny yells at Turner to catch the ball.

Gio asks if Emma had any luck finding the owner, but Emma says, no. She tells Sonny, hey, and says she took the dog to a shelter where she volunteers. They checked for a microchip to see if she had an owner, but she doesn’t seem to have one. She thinks the dog might be a stray. Sonny says, she’s cute, and Anna says, that dog is a thief. Emma tells Gio to make himself useful and hold her. She’s going to take a picture and post it online to see if anyone claims it. Gio asks if she’s talking about him or the dog, and she says, smile. She takes the picture.

Nina says she thinks Ava is right. Willow can’t take another loss. When they were checking out of the hospital, she was fragile. To make matters worse, they saw Michael and Sasha and Carly with the new baby. They had cards and flowers and were filled with joy.  Then Drew made her leave, say she had an emergency work meeting, to keep her from going home with Willow. Ava says, Willow needs her now more than ever, when Nina’s phone dings. She says, Willow wants to meet her at the MetroCourt pool, and Ava says, she’s getting out of the house. That’s a very good sign. Nina says, maybe she can get through to Willow after all. (This might seem farfetched, but I wonder if Willow is stalking Sasha’s baby. She is pretty tired in the morning.)

Tracy asks how close Curtis is to finding this Jacinda woman. Martin is insisting on a public apology ASAP. Curtis tells her, it’s hard to say, and she says, as long as she’s exonerated. She doesn’t like taking the blame when she’s guilty. She’s definitely not doing it when she’s not. He says, understood, when Michael comes in. Curtis says he and Tracy were just discussing how Uncle Drew is demanding a public apology from her. He wants her to paint him as a hero and a survivor. Michael says, if anyone likes to be seen as a hero, it’s Drew, and Tracy says, what if Curtis can’t find the woman? Nobody will believe Drew framed her and there’s no proof that he planted the ketamine. Michael says, ketamine? Isn’t that a horse anesthetic?

Sonny asks if Turner is looking for this ball, and she says, it got away from her. He tosses it to her and says, not much of a softball player, is she? She says he’s not the first person to notice that today.

Trina says, sorry she’s late, but Ava says, that’s okay. She got Trina’s text. Trina says she and Kai were having a whole conversation about his future, and Ava asks if it was inspired by his follow up with the surgeon. Trina says, it was. Kai will never play football again. Ava says she’s so sorry. Kai must need her now and because he has her, he’ll be just fine. Trina says she hopes so. He was so crushed by the follow-up. It broke her heart. But he’s such a good man. The first thing he wanted to do when he found out his dream wasn’t going to happen was to thank Drew for making the surgery happen in the first place. Ava says, that was admirable. Maybe with the surgery behind him now, Kai will no longer be so tied to Drew. Trina says, he will. Drew’s not letting go of him. He offered Kai a position as his congressional intern.  

Drew says he’s having a good day and hopes what Kai is going to make it even better, and Kai says he wishes he could. He’s so sorry. Drew says, oh no, and Kai says he’s honored Drew thinks he’s the right person to trust with the position. He’s thought it over and has to decline. Drew says, politics isn’t for everybody. He thought it was a good thing, but guesses he was wrong. Maybe Kai’s interests lie elsewhere. Kai says, Drew wasn’t wrong actually and the more he thinks about it, he can see how politics can be rewarding. Drew says he’s confused. Why doesn’t Kai want to take the position? Kai says he doesn’t want to relocate to DC. It not the right move. He has to graduate from PCU, and more than that, he wouldn’t have survived the last six months without Trina. So where she is, is where he wants to be.

Nina meets Willow by the pool and says it’s great to see her out and about. How is she doing? Willow says she’s moving forward, and Nina says, okay. That’s wonderful news. It’s exactly what she should do. Willow keeps looking around and sees the T-shirt. She says, this is Wiley’s, and Nina says, Wiley’s not here. She would have seen him if he was. Willow says she must have gotten the time of the lesson wrong, unless Michael forgot. Wiley will be crushed if he did. Nina says, Michael didn’t forget. Why don’t they sit down for a minute. Willow says she can’t. It’s Wiley’s favorite and she has to reunite him with it now.

The dog steals Anna’s hat, and Emma says, it’s not the best idea to steal the Police Commissioner’s hat on game day. Anna asks, whose dog is that? and Emma says she’s trying to find the owner. Anna says, and if she can’t find the owner? and Emma says she’s going to keep her. She’s going to call her Outback.

Turner tells Sonny that she wasn’t allowed to play softball as a kid. Her mom spent a fortune on braces and wasn’t about to risk her getting hit in the mouth with a ball. Sonny says, what about when the braces came off? and she says, and risk this smile? Not a chance. He says she’s got great smile and should use it more often, and she says, it’s 2025. He’s not actually telling a woman she should smile more. (Yeah, we hate that.) He says, actually, he was thinking about her mom’s investment, and she says, have a good game. He tells her to keep her eye on the ball, and leaves.

Ava says she can see how difficult an offer it would be for Kai to refuse. Did Trina try to talk him out of it? Trina says she was tempted, but doesn’t want to be that kind of person. She’s not with Kai because he does what she wants. He’s a confident guy and knows himself and she finds that attractive. Ava says, it’s an attractive quality, and Trina says she’s going to support his choice, even though it’s not what she would choose for him. Ava asks if that means he’s taking the internship, and Trina says, no. He’s not moving to DC. He wants to be with her. Ava says, smart man, and Trina says she wants Kai as far away from Drew as possible.

Drew says he gets where Kai is coming from. There’s nothing more important than making sure the woman in your life that you love is a priority, but the terms of the internship aren’t set in stone. He can make it what he wants it to be. Kai asks what that means, and Drew says, it’s flexible. He wants Kai to come with him to DC a few times a year, see how things are run on Capitol Hill, meet some people. He’ll be based in Port Charles, and when Drew is in DC, Kai will represent him here, interface with the constituents. It will be a great hands-on experience for him. Kai says, Drew would be okay with him repping him? and Drew says, Kai is a positive person, and he wants those on his team who genuinely care about people. Kai wants to make a difference and is a natural fit for the job. Kai says he’s starting to think he could be too. Okay. He thanks Drew and says he won’t let Drew down. When does he start?

Nina says she doesn’t think it’s a good idea for Willow to go to the Quartermaines now, but Willow says, this is a special situation. Wiley loves this T-shirt. Nina says she understands, when Kristina approaches. She says, there’s something of Wiley’s still here, and Willow asks if Wiley and Amelia are doing okay. Kristina sees the shirt in her hand and says, that’s exactly what she’s looking for. Thanks. Willow says she was worried Michael might forget, but Kristina says, he didn’t. Nina says, Wiley told her that he swam across the pool in one breath. It was pretty cool. Willow says, he’s been working on that, and Kristina tells her, that’s what he said. Willow reluctantly gives her the shirt and says, please tell the kids that she… Kristina says she will, and leaves. Nina asks if Willow wanted to be here because she needed to see Wiley, and Willow says, of course (🍷). Nina says she knows how desperately Willow misses them, but she’s not allowed to see the kids right now, and Willow says she knows, but if she happens to bump into them… Nina says, Willow can’t do anything to make Judge Haran think she’s violating the court’s decision, and Willow says she knows. Nina is right. Nina say she’s sorry it has to be like this, and Willow says, her too, but it won’t be for long. Nina says she hopes Willow is right, and Willow says she knows she is. By the time the visitation hearing is scheduled, she and Drew will be married.

Martin asks if he’s setting up a press conference or not, and Tracy laughs. She says, as if she would act… Michael says, they talked about this, and Curtis says, she has no other choice right now. She says she seems to have misplaced her copy of the statement, but Martin takes out another and gives it to her. She says, wonderful. Thank you. She tears it in a few pieces, says, one more, tears it again, and throws it in the air. Curtis says he thinks Tracy is trying to say, go ahead and set up the press conference, but Tracy tells him that’s not what she’s trying to say. Michael says, please. Let’s just get this over with. The less they have to do with Drew, the better. Tracy says, okay. Set it up. She’ll perjure herself by reading his poorly written statement.

On Monday, Brook says Tracy needs to swallow her pride and take it; Carly asks if Michael is willing to keep Willow out of their children’s lives for good; Kai tells Trina that he’s taking the offer; and Nina tells Willow that waiting will be worth it.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

Get up to speed with Britt and the embryo.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/the-wild-tale-of-britt-giving-birth-to-rocco-on-general-hospital/

I started forgetting about his character. They mentioned him recently and I was like, oh yeah.

https://parade.com/tv/general-hospital-star-reveals-surprising-new-career-move

💉A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Chef Anthony is back and was showing pictures of his beautiful black kitty. It was a charter of gay porn stars, which Captain Kerry had no problem pointing out that Fraser would love. The guests marveled at the skylight where they were going to do a few nude moments. Solène was still a pita and Rainbeau hyperventilated over the vacuuming. I identified. Fraser had to reprimand the stews because the captain came to him in nothing but a towel because he had no uniform, and he was pissed. For Parisian night, there were two chefs and a talent show. The captain had a talk with bosun Caio about things like the banana floating away.

Next Gen NYC

Once again, Charlie was the man of the hour, triggering Riley with micro-aggressions about being scary. He apologized, then behind her back said he didn’t mean it. Brooks has a boyfriend and his dad was trying to be cool, asking about the boyfriend’s body count – he just learned it! – and telling Brooks not to give his heart away before knowing this info. He also thought he should mentor Charlie and I cringed my way through their meeting. Ew. Too much sex talk from a guy I didn’t want to hear it from. Gia had a party and everybody hauled ass out to New Jersey, albeit on a private bus. And several brought laundry.

The Valley

Jax. This guy. He says all the right things, then ten seconds later acts like a d-bag. I was impressed by Zack calling him out after he went on about how many hours of therapy he had in rehab. Zach asked if he was rage texting Brittany the rest of the hours. <snort> On top of it, he blah-blah-blahed about doing the right thing in his interviews. And took the couch when he picked up his stuff. No surprise, his first order of business was to crash Zack’s party where Brittany was in attendance. He was also all hot and bothered about the party thrown for Brittany at their bar, whining that it was a big insult since he was just getting out of rehab. In Danny’s interview, he said what we were all thinking – he wasn’t sure rehab worked. Jax was no less snarky or full of himself than he was before he went in. Maybe even more so. Kristen said, all Jax knows is there’s a party and he’s got to be there. He doesn’t care what it is, who it’s for, or who’s going to be there. Jax was served and Schwartz said in terms of divorce, it was a love letter. No doubt Jax will make short work of changing that.

The Real Housewives Of Miami

Larsa and Lisa having to share a flight and a car ride was amusing after their sniping and snarling last week. Both Lisa and Larsa’s son were modeling in Milan. This whole Alexia divorce thing is a mystery to me. That guy is just yanking her chain and she can do better. And Lisa’s boyfriend Jody being friends with Larsa’s ex and her going on about it right in front of her son. Are we 12? Also mature was her decision to take a selfie with a ring light when Lisa walked the runway.

Random Reality Items

Wow. We haven’t even seen it yet and already there’s a Reunion.

Isn’t stars kind of subjective? To paraphrase Mariah Carey, I don’t know them.

I never would have thought she’d leave NYC, especially for Florida.

I kinda sorta watched her reality show and kinda sorta liked her.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

Trainwreck: The Astroworld Tragedy. Netflix. Documentary. I remember hearing about this at the time and feeling horrified that ten people lost their lives in the crush at Travis Scott’s concert. Using footage from people’s phones, it’s even more horrific. You can literally feel what it was like. The weirdest thing was how, in one area, people were having fun, oblivious to what was going on in other areas, where people were getting hurt or dying. There was a lot of blame to go around, but I voted for Live Nation, who made rules that it would seem were impossible to keep during a disaster. The best part was how a nurse was pulled out of the crowd before being crushed and saved another concertgoer. The saddest part was how, in the end, no individual was criminally responsible. It didn’t have to happen, yet could happen again.

https://www.undertheradarmag.com/reviews/trainwreck_the_astroworld_tragedy

Trainwreck: Woodstock ’99. Netflix. 3 episodes. The perfect example of a Pinterest fail. The idea: Duplicating the musical phenomenon that was the original Woodstock, filled with peace, love, and understanding. The Reality: Too hot, too filthy, too expensive, along with some lit candles. It was a powder keg waiting to explode. Next up in the Trainwreck line is Rob Ford, the mayor of Toronto, who has given me many amusing moments. I can’t wait.

https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/trainwreck-woodstock-99-tv-review-2022

Creep 2. Netflix. Another work of budget genius. Serial killer * is at it again, this time with a female protagonist. Or is she? And again an ending that I saw coming, then didn’t.

Mild spoilers.

Spoilers, but I thought this was an excellent article. I hadn’t considered the parallel between the film and the horror film industry as a whole.

https://certifiedforgotten.com/creep-2

Titan: The OceanGate Submersible Disaster. Netflix. The main focus is on OceanGate’s CEO Stockton Rush and how he brushed aside naysayers while having too many yes men. Despite our penchant to reach for the stars, or in this case the depths, basic scientific concepts are kind of important. His choice to put his faith in a concept rather than a proven vessel turned out to be a deadly one.

https://slate.com/culture/2025/06/titan-oceangate-disaster-netflix-documentary-submersible-elon.html

🔮 Future Watch…

Hopefully, they’re not just releasing one episode a year.

https://okmagazine.com/p/the-last-of-us-season-3-cast-plot-release-date/?utm_source=aigeon

🐾 Facets Of Fame…

🦩 Pets who are statues.

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/famous-dog-statues

📜 Historical pets.

🦄 Pets that don’t really exist.

https://www.ranker.com/list/best-fictional-pets/carly-kiel

🐓 Quotes of the Week

If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it. – Toni Morrison

Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance. – Samuel Johnson

You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated. – Maya Angelou

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order. – John Burroughs

Life doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. – Annette Funicello

I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took an excuse. – Florence Nightingale

Don’t count the days, make the days count. – Muhammad Ali

I’m all right with her being gone, but where the hell did she go?Amy Slaten, 1000-lb Sisters

Happy Juneteenth

🌳 Bustin’ Out All Over…

Until next week, stay safe; stay cleaning up after yourself at the park or beach; and stay never letting anger consume you, even when you have a right to be angry.

June 13, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Maxie Sets Up Brook and Lulu, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Un-Undead, City Bear, Best In Stage, Notable Pets (!), 3 Quotes 3 Times & Have a Cup

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

At the hospital, Drew told Ric about seeing Michael and Willow together with the kids. Things were definitely thawing. Whatever reconciliation was happening, he was going put an end to it right now.

Michael called Willow and said it was nice last night with the kids, and he thought they might speak privately at the courthouse. She said she’d like that and told Nina about it. Nina said it was a good sign. Michael wanting to talk might be what they’ve been hoping for.

Lucky brought Elizabeth to work and said it was the last time he could make sure she got there.

Chase found Brook at the boathouse, and she said she felt closer to Gio there. He practiced there and loved how the sound carried. He may never play the violin again and it was all Lulu’s fault.

Rocco told Lulu that Gio wasn’t answering his texts, and Lulu admitted she could have handled it better. Rocco said both his dad and Gio were hurting, but she said it would eventually blow over.

At the pool, Ava came in and Marco approached her.  

Cody asked if Carly had a minute. How did she feel about love?

Kristina brought Wiley and Amelia to the hospital, and Lucas said he knew they were here to see… Wiley said, Daisy, and Kristina left with Amelia after parking Wiley on a bench with a snack. Lucas asked how meeting Daisy was, and Wiley said, very fun. Lucas had to go to the desk, when Drew saw Wiley sitting alone. The wheels turned in his head, and he told Ric that things had to go their way. They needed custody of Wiley and Amelia. Now that Michael had the new baby, he didn’t want them.

Marco told Ava that they’d met at Miller & Davis, and she’d sold some artwork to his father Jenz Sidwell. He was lucky he ran into her. His father needed to get a Van Gogh through customs, and he thought she might have connections. She said, no problem, and he said he didn’t even have to name drop Lucas. She asked how he knew Lucas, and he said they were dating.

Cody told Carly that every Tuesday night could be the MetroCourt’s weekly singles night at the pool with a $50 buy in. He’d get the proceeds, but when couples hit it off, they’d want to get a hotel room, and she’d get the revenue. She said it was a five-star establishment, and they didn’t rent rooms by the hour, but he said they could get influencers and sponsors. The MetroCourt pool would be the hottest hang out for wealthy singles. Who could say no to love?

Elizabeth said Lucky had a lot of goodbyes to make, and he said, none of them were as hard. She said they were 15 when they fell in love and weren’t the same people, but it was okay. He said he still loved her as much today as back then and always would. She said she loved him, but they both knew he struggled with Port Charles, and it fit him even less now. They just ended up wanting different things, but it was better they parted now than wound up unhappy. They hugged and he said, goodbye.

Brook told Chase that she begged Lulu not to say anything, but she couldn’t do it. She didn’t know if she was more furious at Lulu or her mom. Chase showed her his response to Lois’s text, saying that Brook needed space and he refused to be a go-between. Forgiveness was Brook’s choice and he supported her decision. He told Brook that she could always count on him loving her.  

Drew told Ric that Michael now had a family with Daisy and Sasha, and it was what he wanted. Wiley listened as Drew said it was the only reason Michael came back. Ric said it would make it easier for them, and Drew walked away. Ric noticed Wiley sitting on the bench and followed Drew.

Willow told Nina that maybe Jason was right. She and Michael needed to just talk, face to face, with no one else in their ear. Nina said the kids needed both parents, but the way things had been headed, she wondered if Michael was even going to get visitation.  

Ric asked if Drew’s performance was for Wiley’s sake and wondered if it was a good idea to use the kid. Drew said he hated himself for it, but he loved Willow and had to derail any softening between her and Michael. Ric asked if it would be so terrible, and Drew said, yes. Because if Willow agreed to shared custody, it would only benefit Michael. Michael was losing and knew it. Compromises weren’t good and they had to stay the course. Hopefully with Wiley’s help they would.

Michael asked Wiley, what happened? and Wiley said, Michael didn’t want him and Amelia anymore. Michael said that wasn’t true. He loved them more than anything and there wasn’t anything he wanted more. Their phone calls were what got him better. All he wanted was to come home to them. Wiley said, what about the new baby? and Michael said he’d need Wiley more than ever to be a big brother and teach Amelia how to be a big sister. Where did he get that idea to begin with? Wiley said he heard Uncle Drew say it.

Ava said Lucas was quite the catch, but Marco was no slouch himself. Marco said she might change her mind when she found out his mother was Natalia Ramirez.  

Carly said she appreciated Cody’s idea, but they had themed nights at the pool every night of the week. If that changed, she’d let him know. She loved his hustle. She left, and Cody asked Gio how he was holding up. Gio said, for a guy who just found out his whole life was a lie, he was fine. Cody asked if Gio needed money, but Gio said he was staying with Emma and her grandmother and had everything he needed.

Lucky went to Lulu’s and said he came to say goodbye. He was leaving Port Charles for good. Lulu said, when they’d talked, things with Elizabeth were going great, and he said, they were, but it couldn’t last and that was on him.

Willow told Nina that it was like old times. Not in a romantic way, but just nice. That Michael shouldn’t be kept away from his kids. Nina said Willow told her that Michael was a good dad, and Willow said she’d just been disappointed. He was acting like the old Michael, and he’d compromised in the past. She could return the favor by compromising now. Nina said, that was the way, to be open and honest, and Willow said, if that was true, why had Nina kept secrets?  

Michael, Kristina, Wiley, and Amelia looked at Daisy, and Kristina said she would need Wiley to teach her the tricks of the trade. Michael gave Wiley his phone and told him to find out which cartoons Daisy needed to know about while he talked to Aunt Kristina. He told Kristina that things were never going to get better with Drew in the picture.

Seeing Elizabeth, Lucas said all was right with the world again, and they hugged. He asked what was wrong, and she said, Lucky was leaving. She told him to go after he proposed.

Lulu said, staying in one place had never been Lucky’s thing, and he said he and Elizabeth were opposites. Her comfort was in stability. Lulu asked where he was going, but he said he didn’t know. He was going to travel with Aiden over the summer, like they did with their mom and dad. Lulu said she hated this, but it sounded like he and Elizabeth were being mature, and he said, Elizabeth was, and he was trying his hardest to be. She asked if he was sure he could walk away, and he said he loved Elizabeth too much not to.

Ava said she apologized for her part in exposing Marco’s mother’s unlovely opinions, and Marco said Lucas had told him, but he knows how deep his mother’s intolerance runs. Ava said she couldn’t imagine not accepting her child for who they were, and he said he appreciated that. Ava said she’d be in touch, and left.  

Rocco asked if Gio got his texts, and Gio said he was sorry. He was still spinning. Rocco. Rocco said he got it and was sorry, but Gio said, Rocco didn’t lie to him. Rocco said he’d never lie to his own brother.

Nina asked, what secret? (really?) and Willow said, that Michael and Sasha slept together. Nina said she just found out the other day… Willow said she wasn’t mad. She was grateful. She knew how close Nina and Sasha were and couldn’t imagine how difficult it was. Nina said she knew if she was going to make sure Willow got the kids, she needed to tell Ric. She loved Willow so much and would do anything for her. Willow told her that a lot of people said the words, but never backed them up with action. Nina did and put her first. Michael joined them and told Willow that Wiley thought he didn’t want him and Amelia anymore, and she said, because of the new baby? Wiley was thrilled to see her. Where did he get that idea? Michael said, from Drew.

Kristina went to the pool and told herself to take a deep breath. She looked up at the window and Gio asked if she was okay. She said she thought she could do it, but maybe it was a bad idea. It’s her first time back at the pool since… Gio said she was pale and suggested she sit. He’d get her some water. He brought her a bottled water and asked if he could take her to the elevator, but she told him that she said she’d do it, and she was going to. He said, if she needed him, let him know, and he left. Ava walked by on the phone, talking about the Van Gogh, and saw Cody on the end. She said she believed he was on her chaise.  

Chase said Gio would come around, but Brook said when he heard it was her choice to give him away, it shredded him. Chase suggested she give him time to process, and she said it was her choice to give him up and now he knew. Chase said she did the best she could, but she said she gave Gio away. The part that hurt most was that she didn’t want him. Chase said that’s not how it was, but Brook said, it was for Gio. He was in pain, and she caused it.

Rocco said finding out he and Gio were brothers and living together, he had no idea, and Gio said he always wanted a brother. Rocco said him too. He had Danny, but he was glad to have Gio too. Gio said, growing up, he was lonely sometimes. He was envious of people with crazy families and when his mom died, he wished he’d had even one person to go through it with him. Things were weird, but finding out he had a brother was one of the best things to come out of all these lies. Rocco said he knew it was tough with Dante. He could talk to him again and make him get it so they could move past that night.

Cody said he was so sorry and offered to get Ava a drink for commandeering her chaise. She said she wouldn’t say no to an ice tea, and he apologized again. He left as Kristina watched.

Michael said he found Wiley in tears and Wiley told him that he heard Uncle Drew saying he didn’t want him or his sister. Drew was tearing apart their family. Willow insisted he misunderstood, but he told her that Dre said it and he bet Drew meant for Wiley to overhear. Willow said, Drew would never do something like that. Wiley either misconstrued something or Michael was making it up to turn her against Drew. Drew as a good man who loved her and her children. He would never do something to hurt them. Michael told her to remember this moment, the moment she could have ended things, but refused. She chose Drew over her kids. He went into the courtroom, and Nina asked if Willow was okay, but Willow said, no. Drew asked what was wrong, and Willow said Michael claimed Wiley heard Drew say that Michael didn’t want him. Wiley is upset now, but she knew he’d never do that. He said, no, never, and hugged her. He said he was so sorry. It just showed that Michael wasn’t well, and the kids belonged with them.

Michael told Diane to stick to the plan. Do what she had to do for him to get the kids. They weren’t safe with Willow.

Ava said she had some loose ends to tie up, and Cody thanked her for chatting. He was sorry about the chair. She said, no problem, and started to leave, but Kristina asked if she was back to the scene of the crime. Ava said, days like this made you appreciate your freedom. Enjoy it. She left and Kristina saw Ava’s sunglasses on the table.

Elizabeth said it was crazy how much she and Lucky loved each other. Maybe if she was the same girl he’d met outside Kelly’s and was willing to throw caution to the winds and follow… Lucas said, but she wasn’t that girl anymore, and she said, no, but she knew her and was grateful for her. And she was grateful for the boy she met outside Kelly’s all those years ago. They would always love each other, but it wasn’t going to work this time. He said she was doing the right thing. Truly loving someone was wanting what was best for them. She said, in their case, just not each other.

Lulu said she’d miss Lucky. She was counting on him to help her through this rough patch. He said he saw the video from the Nurses Ball. Thanks to her? She said, not on purpose, and he said he took that as a yes. She said she never meant to hurt Gio. She was just trying to find out the truth.

Chase told Brook that he wanted to lash out when his world fell apart and punish everybody. He guessed Gio felt that way, but it wasn’t forever. Emotions would fade and Gio would see Brook’s decision for what it was, the ultimate sacrifice. She said, even if Gio forgave her, she didn’t know if she could forgive herself. What if Gio never allowed her to be his mother because of the secrets and lies she didn’t know about? He said there would be no keeping the big stuff from their child. They would learn from this and their child would know they were adopted as soon as possible. Brook agreed and promised she learned from her mistakes, but Lulu never would.

Gio told Rocco that he wasn’t being rude, but he wasn’t ready, and Rocco said his dad had no idea about any of this either. Gio said it didn’t matter. Dante made it clear what he thought of him, and he didn’t care if Dante changed his mind because they were related. He got that Rocco loved his father, but Dante meant nothing to him

Ric called Willow as his next witness. He said she had two children and had been married two years, correct? and she said, yes. He asked if she believed Michael was a good father, and she said she used to believe that more than anything. He said, and now? and she said, absolutely not.

Kristina approached Cody, and he said, hello Molly’s sister. She asked how he would like to make some money.

Lucas said there was power in acceptance, and Elizabeth said she was proud of her and Lucky. Staying together would end in heartbreak. He said, she did the responsible thing, and she asked why it hurt so much. They hugged.

Lucky said Lulu was just trying to do the right thing and one day Gio and Dante would be able to see that. Lulu said she hoped so, and Lucky said he was taking off. She was in charge of holding all things down that were Spencer. She said she was up for the challenge. Was he sure she couldn’t convince him to stay? Lucky said she was the reason he came back, and he was so glad he did. The one thing he’d change was that he wished he’d been the match that saved her. She said he’d saved her more times than he realized. He said, back at her. And if she ever needed him… She said, use the bat signal? and he said, or text. He loved her. She said she loved him to, they hugged, and she cried.

Rocco said he got that Gio wasn’t ready to talk about their dad and didn’t want people to treat him differently. But they’d always gotten along. If they hung out more, it wouldn’t be a big change. Gio suggested they put the brother stuff on the back burner and go back to just being friends, and Rocco said he’d like that. See him soon? Gio said he could count on it, and Rocco left.

Brook thanked Marco for coming to the boathouse. She reached out before he was new in Port Charles and she needed a lawyer with no ties or conflict of interest. Did he have any ties to Lulu Spencer? He said, none that he was aware of, and she suggested they get started. (I like it!)

Willow said it was more obvious after the fire when Michael chose to go to Germany for treatment rather than Baltimore where he’d be closer. Ric said, and the children could visit, and Willow said, before that, work at Aurora and ELQ made him miss things like school events, sports, family dinners, and weekend trips. Ric asked if that was difficult for Wiley and Amelia, and she said very. It converted the message that Michael liked the idea of being a father more than the act of being one.  Ric said, beyond Michael’s family’s violent lifestyle, it was clearly an abandonment issue, and Willow said she tried to keep it civil. She even flew to Germany, but Michael refused to see her. She tried, but Michael couldn’t or wouldn’t meet her halfway. Michael wrote something on a pad, showing it to Diane, and Ric said, no further questions. Diane said, Willow testified under oath that the children were her number one priority, and Willow said, yes. Diane said, so tell her and the court honestly, which was more important, being with them or being with Drew Cain?

Tuesday:

Tracy found Brook at the boathouse and asked if Jenz Sidwell’s son just left. Brook said he was a lawyer, and Tracy wondered who she was going to sue. Brook said, if she was, it would be her mother and grandmother, but no damages could make up for the look of pain on her son’s face.

Ava talked to Trina about an upcoming art opening. They were going all out, the whole shebang. The nightmare was over, and Ava was back.

Cody asked if Kristina needed a bartender, but she said she wanted him to seduce someone.

Martin went to Laura’s office and told her that he’d lied about where he was.

Lucky found Isaiah at the hospital and said he was there to repay a debt.

Kai went to Portia’s office and wanted to know about the congressman.

Diane asked Willow, what mattered more, being with the children or being with Drew? and Willow said Michael had given her a similar ultimatum. He’d grant her access to the children, but only if she left Drew. The hearing was really about her relationship with Drew. Why should she have to choose?

Tracy said Lois and Gloria had betrayed Brook, and Brook said she’d given them the boot. Her mother only thought about how it affected her, yet she’d lied to her, Gio, and everyone. Her whole life she’d tried to live up to their expectations and be good and honest. Look where it had gotten her.

Martin said he’d told Laura that he’d taken care of the unpleasantness with his ex-wife, but he was in a jail cell in Lodi. All of his ex-wives had gotten together and decided to strip him of his assets. He was broke.

Cody said he thought it was progressive of Kristina. He’d always felt Alexis was attractive… She told him, stop. God no. He said, then who? and she said she wanted him to seduce Ava. He said, why her?

Ava said she was able to refinance her second property and Jenz Sidwell had made several large purchases. It was touch and go for a while, and she wouldn’t have gotten though without Trina’s help. Trina said she was there when Ava needed her, except for tomorrow. She was going to GH with Kai for his post-op scan. She was still worried, but it was Kai’s choice. Ava asked why it still wasn’t sitting right with her, and Trina said it was hard to accept Kai getting closer to Drew, even though she got why he felt grateful. Ava said Trina’s original assessment of Drew was spot-on and she advised Trina to be careful around that man.

Kai thanked Portia for inviting him to the barbecue. It was really fun and great to meet Trina’s granddad, but he owed her and Curtis an apology. He shouldn’t have gone on about Drew. He tried not to judge and make up his own mind about a person, but didn’t understand how someone so good to him didn’t get along with them. Portia said it had nothing to do with anyone else, and he said he knew there was an issue at Aurora between Drew and Curtis. Was there something else he wasn’t seeing about Drew?

Diane said, going back to the beginning of the affair, what happened? and Willow said she and Drew fell in love. She tried to stay away from him, but she couldn’t. Diane asked if Drew pursued her, but she said, no. Diane said, she pursued him? but she said, no. Diane wondered if they’d fallen in love for no reason, and Ric objected, saying Diane was badgering the witness. Judge Haran overruled it, and Willow said she didn’t understand what this had to do with her ability to be a mother. Diane said, it had no bearing on the affair? Even them having sex on the floor of the children’s nursery?

Lucky gave Isaiah the deed to a cabin by the lake that his dad built. He wanted Isaiah to have it. He wouldn’t be able to use it because he was leaving Port Charles.

Brook said she’d tried to live up to their standards and they were total hypocrites, and Tracy said, now she knew who they were. She didn’t have to please or defend them. She was free. Brook said her son was still a Cerullo, but Tracy said, he was still a Quartermaine, like Brook. Brook said as soon as Lulu came at her, she should have ground Martin down for information. She should have looked for her son.  

Ava said, the congressman was very cunning, and Trina had a right to be concerned about what he had in mind for Kai. Trina said she knew what Drew was capable of and didn’t like it, but she was going along for Kai’s sake. Ava said, Portia had to deal with Drew because of the Pediatric Sports Initiative (🍷), and Trina said Portia had been stressed. Maybe that was why.

Portia told Kai that Curtis and Drew were best friends, then Drew changed. They hardly recognized him. Kai wondered why, and Portia said Drew had gone to prison for insider trading. While he was there, he was attacked and nearly died. She didn’t know if that was why, but once he got out, he was opportunistic, selfish, and extremely manipulative. He was willing to use anyone to get what he wants. That’s why she, Trina, and Curtis were so concerned. He asked how he could turn his back on someone who’d done so much for him, but Portia said they’d never ask him to do that. She just wanted him to be aware of the kind of person Drew really was. She and Curtis had trusted him, and he did things to hurt them. They didn’t want Drew to exploit Kai. Kai asked if she thought Drew was capable of that, and she said she knew he was.

Willow said she and Drew didn’t plan on it. Sam had just died. Diane said, so the only way to comfort him was to have sex in the nursery. In that instant, she’d put Drew’s needs ahead of her children’s. They could have come in at any point and seen them in flagrante delicto. Ric objected for badgering again, and the judge sustained it. Diane said, when Michael was at General Hospital being treated for third degree burns, did Willow bar the family’s access to him? Willow says, because… Diane said, yes, or no? and Willow said, yes, but… Diane said Willow wasn’t so sure of her course of action. What convinced her otherwise? Willow said Drew helped her realize it was the only way to get her children back from the Quartermaines. Diane asked why she didn’t consult Michael before taking Wiley to Drew’s inauguration in DC, and Willow said, Wiley waws excited and she and Drew thought it was a great opportunity. Diane said, when Michael chose to seek treatment in Germany, it frustrated her. She didn’t want the best possible medical treatment for him? Willow said, of course (🍷) she did, but she didn’t think he’d abandon his children. Diane said, to choose the best treatment was abandoning his children, and Willow said, yes. Diane asked why she chose to move Wiley and Amelia into Drew’s home without consulting Michael, and Willow said she and Drew felt it was the best stable home. Diane asked how the children felt, and Willow said, they loved it. Diane asked if they’d expressed a desire to return to their own home, and Willow admitted they’d asked to move back home.

Cody asked why Kristina was going after Ava and why she thought Ava would be into him. Kristina said Ava was easily distracted and Cody was charming and a shiny new object. She wanted to help Ric see how horrible she was. She was looking out for Molly. He said Molly was pretty great, and she said, Molly was amazing. She loved her father and was appalled that he was dating Ava. Molly hated Ava as much as she did. If not for Ava, she wouldn’t have fallen and lost their baby. Ava was the reason her brother Morgan was dead, and if Cody could come between Ava and Ric, he’d be doing a good thing, and she’d make it worth his while.

Ava asked how Trina’s parents were acting weird, and Trina said Marshall came for a visit and they were having a family get together, but her parents had a vibe, and it wasn’t the first time. Ava asked, when was the first time? and Trina said, since the Nurses Ball. They left early, saying they had to work, but she felt there was something more happening. Ava said relationships went through phases and it was normal. There was nothing to worry about. Trina said Ava was probably right. She was sure she was making a big deal of nothing.

Martin told Laura that it was embarrassing. He was so skint, he couldn’t afford his room and he was wondering if he could impose on her and Doc and move in for a while. Laura said, of course (🍷). Lulu just moved out and Lucky was spending all his time with Elizabeth. She was hoping it would become permanent. They had plenty of room. They hugged and she said he could stay as long as he liked. He said he was going to get back on his feet even though his most lucrative client was in prison for life. He was going to make a full financial recovery, and Tracy Quartermaine was going to pay for it.

Tracy said what if Brook had looked and it led to Gio. He could still be just as angry. Brook said only if he knew who she was. She wouldn’t have wanted to destroy his memories of Camilla. She wished she’d come clean on her own terms instead of keeping Lois and Gloria’s secrets. She’d begged Lulu to keep quiet. Tracy said she thought she’d convinced Lulu too. She was sorry. Brook said she was going to remind people never to come for Brook Lynn Quartermaine, and Tracy asked if by people, she meant Lulu. Brook asked if she didn’t think Lulu needed to be held accountable.

Diane asked why Willow didn’t want shared custody, and Willow said she loved her children and had wanted their father to be in their lives. Diane asked why she used the past tense, and Willow said, up until an hour ago, she thought it was possible. Michael seemed open to compromise. They were getting along last night, showing Wiley and Amelia their new baby sister. Diane asked, what changed? and Willow said, Michael gave in to his animosity for Drew. Before the hearing, he approached her and made it clear he wouldn’t agree to a joint custody arrangement, so she had no other option than to petition for full custody. Diane asked if she thought she was the perfect parent, but Willow said she’d made mistakes. She regretted the way her marriage ended, but when she fell in love with Drew, her marriage was already over. She and Michael were going through the motions and neither one of them was able to admit it.

Ric said, for months, Willow was the primary caretaker of the children, and she said, when Michael was in Germany, she was the sole parent. Drew was a godsend. He helped them move into a safe home. He cared for them, read to them, and played with them. He made them feel safe and loved. She might have made mistakes, but she was Wiley and Amelia’s mother, and they belonged with her.

Lucky told Isaiah that he’d proposed, but it didn’t take. Part of him was heartbroken, but the rest felt like he knew it was the right thing for both of them and Aiden. Isaiah asked why he didn’t give the cabin to his son, but Lucky said, Aiden told him that his wilderness phase ended when he was a PC Pioneer. Isaiah saved his sister’s life, and he couldn’t begin to thank him. Isaiah said Lucky got him out of Sidwell’s compound and was almost killed. Lucky said rescue missions and life or death poker games were his jams, and Isaiah said, when they met, he said he was soul searching, but he was hiding. Coming to Port Charles, he found a place to practice and found a place to live. He faced himself. Because of Lucky and his sister, he was back in the OR. If anybody owed anything, Isaiah owed him. Lucky said Isaiah was welcome and they hugged. He told Isaiah that he had to take off, and Isaiah said, good luck. Lucky told Isaiah to fix the place up for him. Isaiah owed him.

Kai thanked Portia for her time and said he thought now that he knew Drew’s background better, he understood why Trina didn’t trust him. Portia said, a word of advice. Drew didn’t have to be an issue for him and Trina. Focus on what brings them together.

Judge Haran said both sides had given her a lot to consider. She’d be making a propriety determination on which parent should get custody and would keep the welfare of the children first and foremost in her mind. They’d be notified when she reached a verdict. Court was adjourned. Drew hugged Willow and said she was great. Carly said, what now? and Diane said they waited and hoped the judge made the right decision.  

Tracy said she thought Brook made up her mind, and Brook said she’d tried to live down the Dante and Lulu thing and make up for it. Tracy said she did more than make up for it, and Brook said she should have been more like Tracy. Tracy was who she was and made zero excuses for it. She’d do anything for her family and didn’t pretend otherwise. Mess with her and she’d mess right back. Tracy said she loved seeing this strength, but Brook needed to know that exercising that strength came at a cost.

Cody said he got that Kristina was looking out for her sister, but he wasn’t sure he wanted to get mixed up with Ava. Kristina said she’d make it worth his while, and he asked, how? She said she had resources. She was good for it. He said he wasn’t un-interested, but needed to know she was serious. She asked his terms, and he said, cash, money up front, and he wouldn’t tell what she was up to.

Trina said she was happy Ava was back on her feet, and the gallery was safe. Port Charles wouldn’t be the same without it. Ava said she’d had some lucky breaks, and Ric had been a help. Trina said she noticed ava and Ric had been spending a lot of time together, and Ava said Ric was a good man. She was getting to know him on a professional and personal level. Trina asked if she was happy, and Ava said she thought she was. Trina said, if Ava was happy, she was happy.

Laura suggested Martin settle in before he declared war with Tracy, and Martin said he wasn’t kidding. Tracy was going to foot the bill for his pain and suffering. Laura said she’d steer clear of Tracy, but he said Tracy had it coming. Laura said her home was his home, but if he broke one law in getting back at Tracy… Martin said she had his word. He was being meticulous, thorough, and 100% legit. For once, the law was on his side.

Tracy told Brook that she’d spent most of her adult life wrangling her great-grandparents. No doubt she would have lived a happier life if she’d stepped away from the conflict instead of leaning in. Were scheming and conflicts where Brook wanted to put her energy, or having a relationship with her son and strengthening her marriage? It was amazing that she’d found the love of her life. Brook said Tracy had Luke, and Tracy said she did, but she had five or more marriages before him. The grifter, three mobsters, and a serial killer… and two other marriages to Luke. Brook is in a different position than she was. Brook was surrounded by good people who loved her. She wanted Brook to think carefully before she put her energy and strength toward revenge.

Trina said she wondered if Ric was right for Ava. She knew his reputation because of Josslyn. Ava said Josslyn was hardly objective, and Trina said he fought to get Heather released. She got that it was his job, but she thought Ava was great and wanted him to be worthy of her.

Cody said it wasn’t going to happen overnight and Kristina said she wasn’t being impulsive. She’d thought it through and was playing the long game. He said he’d have to access the situation, for a fee, and she said, how much? He said $1000 would get her a trial run, and she said here was his way in, handing him the sunglasses. They had a deal.

Lucky knocked at Laura’s office door, and she asked what was on his mind. He said he needed to tell her that he was sorry, but he was going to disappoint her again. She said he was leaving, wasn’t he?

Portia left a message for Nina and said she was calling again. Call her back. She knew Nina was busy, but she needed to find Jacinda. It was an emergency. Portia threw her phone and said, dammit! The phone nearly hit Isaiah, who was standing in the doorway.

Brook said she appreciated the warning, but thought Tracy was underestimating her. She could love Chase and be a good wife and build a relationship with her son. Tracy said she was concerned about the revenge, but Brook said she didn’t look at it as revenge. She was being true to herself. She was doing what she felt was right, fair, and just.

Michael said Willow held her own better than he thought she would, and Carly said Willow may think she had the last word, but the judge would see through it. He said he hoped she was right. Something wasn’t making sense. Was she sure Willow went to Germany? Carly said, Jason convinced her to go, and he said, then why did no one tell him that she was there?

Willow thanked Nina for her support, and Nina said she’d do anything for Willow. Willow said she couldn’t believe Michael would lie about something Wiley said. It made her more certain she was doing the right thing. As if Drew would ever say such a thing.

Ric told Drew that he hoped the outcome was what Drew was hoping for. He did what he could. Drew said so did he. Staging the scene in front of Wiley guaranteed there would be no compromise between Michael and Willow. Ric said he guessed when you went up against the Quartermaines, you had to pull out all the stops, and Drew said, Willow stood strong. They were going to win. (I say, no, they won’t, because Willow said Drew’s name one too many times, and obviously excluded Michael from all decisions.)

Wednesday:

Lucky told Laura that he wanted to make it work, but this wasn’t where he belonged, at least not right now. She asked if he genuinely believed this was what was best for him, and he said he was. She said then there was nothing to apologize for.

At the hospital, Martin approached Elizabeth and said he was looking for a client. She asked what their name was, and he said that remained to be seen.

Trina and Kai went to the pool, and Kai said he had something he needed to tell her. When he was at her parents’, he heard something he wasn’t supposed to.

Isaiah asked if everything was okay, and Portia said it was a spam call. He said he was worried it had something to do with her lying to her husband.

Felicia went to Curtis’s office and asked why he wanted to see her. He said he wanted to hire her.

Nina said she thought Willow handled herself well on the stand. She was steady, calm, focused, and fought for her children. Willow said Ric had her prepared, but she wished things hadn’t gone so far, and Nina told her that Michael said something about Wiley overhearing Drew say Michael didn’t want Wiley and Amelia. Willow insisted Drew would never say that. It showed Michael was even willing to lie about Wiley.

Sonny asked how it went, and Jason said the judge was making her decision. Michael said he didn’t know, but him losing was a definite possibility, and if he did, he was taking Wiley and Amelia and leaving the country.

Lucky said he’d felt guilty that he was gone when Laura and Lulu needed him most. He’d promised not to abandon them again. Laura said he hadn’t abandoned them. There were times he left when he had to and times he was running away, but this time it felt like he was going because it was what was best for him. What changed? Lucky said he’d asked Elizabeth to marry him and she wisely turned him down.

Elizabeth asked if Martin’s client was a patient, and he asked her to point him in the direction of any patient who was feeling litigious. She said, so he was ambulance chasing, and he said he had no choice thanks to Tracy and his ex-wives. Elizabeth was just in a car accident and might be entitled to compensation. Elizabeth was like, thanks, but no thanks, when Tracy came out of the elevator. She asked, who let Martin out?

Kai said Trina’s mom and dad were talking about the escort who was partying with Drew. Her dad said he wanted to find her and have her claim that Drew paid her for sex and took the ketamine on purpose. He said they couldn’t figure out their marriage until her mom was safe and her mom wasn’t safe until he found the escort.

Curtis said he knew Felicia had stepped away from P.I. work, but he admired her skill and professionalism. She said she felt the same way about him. Why did he need her? He said he was too busy at Aurora to tackle a project and was hoping she’d be interested in moonlighting. She said, what’s the job? And he said, it was less a what and more of a who. He wanted her to locate someone off the grid who was a key part in a major story Aurora was running, an escort named Jacinda… She said, the escort seen with Drew doing body shots? and he said, that’s the one.

Portia said she didn’t know what Isaiah meant, and he closed the door. He said, the last time he came to her office he overhead her conversation, and she said, he eavesdropped. He said he didn’t need to. Anyone could have heard, but it happened to be him. She asked what he heard, and he said, if her husband found out she was lying, her marriage would be over. She asked what he wanted, and he said it was obvious something was weighing on her. If she needed to vent before things got worse, he was available.

Willow said she thought they’d had a breakthrough when she saw the version of Michael that she used to know, and Nina wondered if his change in attitude was because of what Drew said. Willow told her it was what Michael claimed he said, and Nina said, maybe Wiley heard something. Willow said, anything was possible, but it was more likely that Michael was doing what he had to in order to get sole custody. Nina asked if she thought Michael was lying, and Willow said she thought he was trying to manipulate her. First, he showed her the side she fell in love with, and when she let her guard down, the real Michael showed up. If he made her uncertain and vulnerable, he’d swoop in and take her children. She wasn’t going to let that happen.

Sonny said Michael didn’t sound optimistic, and Michael said Willow came off as sympathetic and the truth about the baby might have been enough. Carly asked if he was going to leaved his life behind. What about Sasha and Daisy? Michael said he and Sasha would cross that bridge when they came to it. Drew set Wiley up and he didn’t want the kids around Drew anymore. Willow thought he was a liar and Drew walked on water when Drew was actively hurting his kids. Willow wouldn’t see it, so they couldn’t be with her.

Laura said it must have been hard for Elizabeth too, and Lucky said she didn’t turn him down because she didn’t love him. They loved each other and wanted what was best for each other. They’d taken different paths and needed different things. It was better they acknowledged that now. If they didn’t, they’d just end up hurting each other.

Tracy asked if Martin had been released early from the pokey, and he said his ex-wives had bled him dry thanks to her. She said she’d gotten handwritten notes and Blair’s floral arrangement was decadent. His exes had good taste, except in men obviously. Martin said she should be nicer to him. She just might need his services sooner than she might think.

Trina wondered what Drew had to do with her parents’ marriage, and Kai said he was just telling her what he’d heard and wished he hadn’t. He got the impression her dad wanted to track down the escort and pay her to lie about Drew.

Curtis said he wanted Felicia to nail down Jacinda’s location and circle back to him, and she said she was guessing someone paid her to leave town and stay hidden. It might be tough to track her down. He said he’d make it worth her time, and she said she could absolutely find Jacinda, but needed assurance that had nothing to do with money.

Isaiah said Portia was an excellent physician and a fantastic administrator. She seemed stressed. Maybe for her own sake, she should take a step back. Portia said he was out of line, but he said he didn’t think he was. If she kept going like this, she was going to make a mistake. She said she appreciated his concern, but strain and stress were part of the job. She was fine, and as far as her marriage went, that was none of his business. He said, understood, and left.

Carly said Michael couldn’t leave his new baby, and Michael said he didn’t want to, but what choice did he have? He’d promised to let Sasha raise the baby on her own terms and his kids were his everything. Daisy had her mom, so he had to put Wiley and Amelia’s interests first. Jason said he’d be there if Sasha need anything, and Sonny said he’d be there for everything. Michael said he never wanted to keep Daisy a secret, but was respecting Sasha’s wishes. It didn’t help with custody. Carly said, now that the truth was out, it might cost Michael when the judge ruled.

Isaiah told Elizabeth that he was down one best friend and up one cabin. It was a gift from Lucky. Elizabeth said, he never mentioned it, and Isaiah said, maybe they had other things to talk about. Was she okay? She said, yeah, and he said he was a little surprised when she told Lucky to go. She said Port Charles was where Lucky was from, not where he belonged, and Isaiah said Lucky wanted to be with her. Why not roll the dice? She said it was tempting and would have been great for ten minutes, but it wouldn’t work and they’d both be heartbroken again.

Laura said love stories didn’t really have fairytale endings in real life, and Lucky said he’d like to think once in a while they did. She and his dad weren’t big on fairytales. Laura said they liked adventures. She never questioned Lucky’s need to be out in the world, seeing it, saving it, changing it. She was grateful he came home and reconnected with the people he loved and who loved him and would always love him no matter where he went.

Trina said Tracy being arrested for drugging Drew made no sense, and Kai asked if it was possible. She said she didn’t know, but Drew had screwed over her father and destroyed his own nephew’s marriage. He was a politician trying to save his career, so he could be lying. Kai said, what if he wasn’t?

Curtis asked, what kind of assurance? and Felicia said she was guessing Jacinda didn’t anticipate the full-blown media circus. She needed to know that if she located Jacinda and Jacinda chose to stay hidden, she’d honor that. He said he had no intention of sensationalizing it. He just wanted to talk with her and make her an offer. If she refused, he’d respect that. Felicia said, in that case, they had a deal, and they shook hands. There was a knock at the door and Jordan said she was sorry for interrupting, but Felicia said she was just leaving. She left, and Jordan said, let her guess. He hired Felicia to track down Jacinda.

Nina said, if Michael was warm and caring, did Willow think they could reach a compromise? and Willow said she wanted to. The kids loved their dad and missed him when he was gone. But if he was willing to lie about the children and Drew, what else was he willing to lie about? How could she trust him? Drew came in and said Willow was incredible in court. She was about to get her kids back because of it. She showed what kind of person and mother shew was. She could have had it in the bag when Sasha took the stand and said she was pregnant. As soon as the truth was out, it was game over.

Carly said if Michael took the kids out of the country, it was kidnapping and there was no coming back from that. Michael said it wasn’t a move he was making lightly, and she said, what about his family, his brothers and sisters he was leaving behind? He said he didn’t want to, but it was no life without his kids. They were his first priority, but not Willow’s. She asked if Willow didn’t entertain the possibility that Drew said what he did, but Michael said, he could do no wrong in Willow’s eyes. She might trust him with the kids, but he couldn’t.

Tracy asked why she’d need Martin, and he asked if she wasn’t out on bail. She was facing charges of drugging a sitting congressman. She said she was framed, and he said they found the evidence in her car. She said, Drew put it there. Did he think anybody would believe she was stupid enough to keep evidence in her car of a crime she’d committed? He said he didn’t know, but she had a checkered past. He’d had plenty of time to do the research and there were all kinds of ways Drew could make her life miserable. Maybe he should talk to Drew about them.

Jordan told Curtis that Felicia was one of the best P.I.s to find someone off the grid – present company excluded. She had no doubt Felicia could track down Jacinda. Curtis said, the question was, what could he get Jacinda to say about her involvement with Drew?

Trina wondered why her father would pay an escort to make up a story about Drew, and Kai said he didn’t know. It seemed like he wanted to protect her mom. She asked if he thought it was connected to the woman they thought drugged Drew, and he said he thought that’s what it sounded like, but she said, it made no sense. She didn’t know what was going on, but she was sure there was an explanation. Kai asked what she wanted to do.

Drew said Michael’s lies came to light, but Willow put the ugliness aside and delivered her husband’s mistress’s baby. She’s practically a saint. Willow said she was a nurse and Sasha was in labor, but he said it was more than that. The judge would see that Michael deserved to lose his kids, and when she got full custody, they could put it behind them and get a fresh start in DC. Willow said she wouldn’t relax until the kids were back with her. She needed to get some air and would be back soon. She left, and Nina asked if Drew meant one word of what he just said.

Sonny said, whatever Michael needed, he was there, and Michael asked what Jason thought. Jason said he thought Michael was doing what he thought was right for the kids. He’d do what he promised and look out for Sasha and Daisy and get them to visit. Whatever Michael decided. Michael thanked Jason for looking out for them when he couldn’t, and Jason said, of course (🍷). Michael said Carly was being too quiet, and Carly said she thought he was wrong and making a huge mistake. There had to be another way. If he crossed that line, he’d be a fugitive in the eyes of the court and make Drew and Willow right. He said he could live with that as long as the kids were safe. They were out of time, and he couldn’t leave the children with Willow and Drew. He was going to pick up Wiley and Amelia and take them to the park, and he left.  

Lucky guessed it was time to head to the airport, and Laura told him to give Aiden a hug and send lots of pictures. Wherever he ended up, try a little harder to keep in touch. Let her know how and where he was once in a while. He promised, and she said she was grateful he came home. She was going to miss him. She hugged him and cried. She said she was happy he was here and wanted him to know he had her blessing to go. He said it meant the world to him and thanked her for the welcome home. Also, for letting him go. She said if he ever needed her, she was there. She would always be his mom.  

Isaiah told Elizabeth that Aiden would have an amazing time. He was coming back, but Lucky wasn’t. It may be the last time she’d see him in who knew how long. Was she sure she’d said everything she needed to?

Jordan said Curtis was taking a chance. He was not the only one with a Drew problem and might not be the only one searching for Jacinda. Curtis said that’s why he needed to get to her first, and she said, what then? He said, it stayed between them, and she said she trusted him with her cover working for Sidwell. He could trust her with this. He said he intended to find Jacinda and pay her to tell him a story on record that would protect Portia and destroy Drew. Jordan said, if it worked, it would solve his problem, but what if it created another?

Trina said they wouldn’t do anything, unless Kai had a better idea, and he said, maybe she should talk to her parents. She said, ask them if they were planning on paying a sex worker to defraud the congressman? She didn’t know what was going on, but it was none of their business. She trusted her parents, but didn’t trust Drew. She was asking him to let it go. He said she was right. it was none of their business, and suggested they get in the pool.

At the airport, Aiden thanked Lucky for taking him, and Lucky said he hoped it was the first of many trips. He had so many places to show Aiden. Aiden asked how long they’d be in Paris, and Lucky said it was a pit stop for now and they’d circle back. they were going to start with his grandpa’s old stomping grounds, Amsterdam. Lucky got a text from Elizabeth: Wait for me.

Nina said Drew was enjoying this, but Willow wasn’t. It was tearing her apart. He said he wasn’t enjoying it. He wasn’t the bad guy; Michael was. She said, from where she was standing, it was a photo finish. Everyone was getting along great, and they could have reached a compromise, but then suddenly, something changed. Wiley apparently heard that his father no longer wanted him and Amelia because of the new baby. He wouldn’t know anything about that, would he?

Carly told Sonny that they just got Michael back. She couldn’t lose him and her grandchildren. Talk to him. Sonny said he hated this, but Carly said he seemed ready to put Michael on a jet. He said she’d do the same, and Jason said, Carly was in the courtroom. Was it as bad as Michael thinks? Sonny’s phone rang and he left to take the call.

Willow was in the park when Wiley ran up to her and hugged her. She looked up and saw Michael with Amelia.

Tracy asked if Martin was digging up dirt on her. They both knew he didn’t have the money to rent a bulldozer. He said it would be harder for her to dig her way out of the charge. His help was going to cost her.

Jordan said she’d be a bad friend not to say that so far, Jacinda had been discreet, for a price. Portia had a Drew problem, but if he pursued Jacinda, he might have a Jacinda problem. In paying the escort to lie about the congressman, he would muddy himself and risk losing everything – his reputation, his integrity, maybe even his freedom. He could end up in prison or under Drew’s thumb for the rest of his life. He said it was a risk he was going to take. He and Portia shared a child, and he couldn’t have the mother of his daughter go down by Drew’s hand. He’d rather have a Jacinda problem than have Portia lose her medical license or go to prison. He wasn’t going to let that happen.

Nina wondered if Drew was depraved enough to set up her sweet grandson and tell him that his father no longer wanted him because he had a new baby. Even Drew couldn’t be that cruel. Drew said, what Wiley heard was exactly what Willow and the judge needed to hear. And when her daughter got full custody of her grandchildren, Nina would agree.

Carly told Jason that she saw what Michael saw. Willow clinging to Drew and Drew having no remorse. Jason asked if she thought it would go in Michael’s favor, but she said she didn’t know. Who was to say who the judge would believe? Jason said he could see why Michael thought he had to go, and Carly said she hated it. He said him too, and she said she thought she couldn’t stand Willow and Drew before. Their selfishness cost her not only Michael, but Wiley and Amelia.

Michael told Wiley to look out for his sister, and the kids ran off to play. Willow said she guessed they had the same idea, and he said, the kids loved the park. She said she couldn’t count how many times they’d brought the kids here together, and he said, good times. She said, they were… It didn’t have to be this way. He said, it didn’t. She made a choice. They both made choices. Willow’s phone rang and it was the courthouse. Michael said, they must have reached a decision.

In her office, Laura took a picture of Lucky as a child out of her wallet. She kissed it and said, my baby. She held it to her heart.

An airline guy told Lucky that he needed to board, and Lucky said his son was already on the plane. He was waiting for his son’s mother. Could he have five minutes? The guy said, one, and Elizabeth ran in saying she was there. She said he waited for her, and Lucky said he’d always wait for her. He noticed she had no luggage, and said, for a second, he thought maybe she was coming. She said she’d thought about it, but couldn’t let him leave without him know she did love him. That hadn’t changed and she’d never stop loving him. He said he loved her too, more than ever, and she told him, be happy. Take care of himself, yes? He said, yes, and she said, get Aiden home safely. He promised and the guy said it was time. They kissed, and he said he’d still think of her whenever he saw something beautiful. He said, goodbye, and gave her one last look before walking onto the ramp. She sighed and said, bye, Lucky.

Thursday:

Sonny got into a car in the hospital parking lot and Natalia was in the driver’s seat. She said she was in serious trouble, and so was he.

Kristina went to Alexis’s office and said she thought she just solved their problem with Ava.

Cody went to the gallery and Ava asked if she could help him. He said, no, but he thought he could help her.

Elizabeth met Laura in the breakroom, and Laura said she wanted to check in with Elizabeth about Lucky. Elizabeth said she was sorry. Laura had every right to blame her for Lucky leaving town.

Willow said the judge was fast and wondered what it meant, but Drew said he had no idea. His gut instinct said the woman Michael cheated with giving birth during the hearing was not a good look.

Drew said it had to be a good sign and that the judge was going to award the kids to Willow, but Ric said, not necessarily. She could have decided on shared custody. Willow said she’d rather not. It was already uncomfortable. She ran into Michael in the park with the kids, but they barely had a chance to talk before they were called back. Michael came into the courtroom with his supporters, and asked if Jason made arrangements in case things didn’t go their way. Jason said he’d be in the air before anyone realized the kids were gone.

Alexis asked what Kristina did to solve their problem, and Kristina said Alexis told her that the only way to stop the blackmail was for Ava and Ric to turn on each other and break up their united front. Alexis said she told Kristina to leave it to her, but Kristina said the opportunity fell in her lap and she had to take it. She hired someone to seduce Ava.

Ava asked how Cody thought he could help her, and he said she’d left some pretty fancy looking sunglasses at the pool. He handed them to her and she said they were her favorite pair. She couldn’t believe she left them. He said it was exciting to see the works of art, and she thanked him for finding her sunglasses. A less honest person would have kept them. He said they looked better on her than on him, and she asked who he knew where to bring them. She didn’t recall giving him her name.

Laura hugged Elizabeth and said she didn’t blame her, but Elizabeth said if she’d told Lucky yes, he would have stayed. Laura said they both would have ended up miserable. She was grateful that Elizabeth knew Lucky would never be content in Port Charles, even though she was happy having him here. She knew he’d be happy traveling the world and helping people, and Elizabeth gave him the opportunity to make that choice with no regrets. Laura was grateful to her.

Sonny asked, what kind of trouble? and Natalia said it was risky for her to be talking to him. Yesterday, after they talked at the pool, she was pulled over and arrested for driving under the influence. She was upset after talking to Marco and drank more than she should have. She was ashamed of herself, but lucky that it wasn’t worse. It wasn’t her first offense, and she was facing up to five years in prison. Unless… Sonny said, unless what? and she said unless she helped ADA Turned build a case against him.

Judge Haran said the request for divorce was hereby granted. The marriage was dissolved. Willow got the 2024 Range Rover, the art collection, and any jewelry and clothing she acquired during the marriage. But what was of the utmost importance was the determination of custody of the two minor children.

Alexis asked if Kristina hired a gigolo, but Kristina said she didn’t hire a professional. She hired Cody Bell. She saw him and Ava bump into each other and there was something there. Ava was taken with him. Alexis asked if she thought Ava would dump Ric for Cody, and Kristina said it would take come work on Cody’s part, but she thought in time, Cody would have Ava eating out of the palm of his hand.

Cody said he wasn’t stalking Ava. Everyone knew who Ava Jerome was. Her reputation proceeded her. Ava said, not in a good way, and he said he preferred to make his own conclusions about people. His reputation wasn’t too great either. She said, in her book, he was a hero. The sunglasses were from a special collection that was sold out and she wasn’t telling him how much they cost. He said the gallery must be doing well. He’d driven by and wanted to come in, but he knew nothing about art. She said, so he was interested in or curious about art, and he said, definitely. He’d love it if she’d explain it to him. She said she loved talking about art and was happy to share her knowledge. She had time right now.

Sonny said they both knew Natalia had nothing to offer Turner. He’d never confided anything about his alleged illegal activities. She had nothing that would incriminate him. She said, actually, she did. And if she gave Turner what she had, he could be put in prison for a long time.

Judge Haran said there were different factors to consider in determining the custody of young children and it came down to which parent was better suited to keep them safe and secure and would put their welfare and best interests above all else. Mrs. Corinthos had exclusive custody since December 12th, 2024, and moved them from home to home four times. She transported Wiley across state lines without his father’s knowledge and had him stay in the same hotel suite she stayed in with Congressman Cain. In the wake of Michael’s catastrophic injuries, she’d made no attempt to promote contact with the children and their father. In addition, she filed paperwork giving legal guardianship to Congressman Cain and ignoring Michael’s custodial rights. She had demonstrated a consistent pattern of neglecting regard for her children’s emotional well-being and violated the law. Now that Michael was recovered, he was capable of caring for the children, along with support from his many family members. Consequently, the decision of the court was to award full physical and legal custody to the children’s father, Michael Corinthos. (What I said.)

Ava told Cody that abstract art wasn’t meant to be taken completely literally and showed him a painting. She said it was the 1919 eclipse that led to Einstein’s Theory of Relativity, but he said he thought it looked like a guy with snakes coming out of his eyes. She must think he’s an idiot. She said, no. Art was subjective and at its best should affect the motions, but sometimes the connection wasn’t there and that was okay too. He said he was worried if he told her the truth, she’d feel like she was wasting her time teaching him, but she said she’d only feel that way if he’d said he saw what she did. She was glad he told the truth. He said he felt destined to be an uncultured dope, and she said she didn’t give up that easy. She liked a challenge. He said so did he.

Alexis said Kristina’s plan had the potential to backfire spectacularly. What if Ava found out? Kristina said Cody had experience as a conman. She thought he could do it. Alexis asked if she thought he could steal Ava away from Ric, and Kristina said it wasn’t going to be easy, and he’d need help. That’s why she needed to push Ric on someone else. Alexis asked if Kristina hired a gigolo for him too, but Kristina said, with Lucky out of the picture, Elizabeth was single, and they both knew Ric wasn’t over her. Alexis said Kristina couldn’t push Elizabeth on Ric. She didn’t deserve it. Kristina said Elizabeth didn’t have to share Ric’s feelings, but given their past, he was the perfect person. Ava would be insecure and jealous and run into Cody’s waiting arms. They could use this to their advantage. Alexis said she thought Kristina hadn’t learned a damn thing from her mistakes.

Laura asked Elizabeth to come to dinner soon. Martin was back from California. Elizabeth said he was there earlier. He thought she should fila a lawsuit against the car manufacturer. He thought it would be a big payday. Laura said maybe Elizabeth should consider it, since she’d had pain and suffering as a result, but Elizabeth said she’d like to put it behind her. Laura said she understood. She could wrangle her brother. He wouldn’t badger Elizabeth. Elizabeth said she’d come if she could bring dessert, and Laura said it was a deal.

Sonny asked what information Natalia had, and she said when she was fired, she was in the middle of analyzing the financials and put a copy on her home computer. She still had it because she wanted to make sure to protect herself. The authorities were keeping a close eye on her ex’s involvement with Deception, and she wanted to make sure she could prove she didn’t do anything wrong. He asked what that had to do with him, and she said it included all the records of his involvement. She followed the money and there were discrepancies. None of them added up to more than a slap on the wrist… Sonny said, but they’d give probably cause to get a warrant to search his holdings, and she said she was guessing they’d find more than enough to take him down.

Willow said she didn’t understand what was happening, and Ric said she lost. She said they couldn’t be right, and he said he was sorry. She got up and said, please. The judge couldn’t give her kids to Michael. They belonged with her. She started to hyperventilate, and Ric told her to control herself. Judge Haran said visitation would be negotiated at a later hearing after the children had consulted with a psychologist. Willow told Ric, do something, shaking him. She started to flip out and said her children needed her. The judge banged her gavel and called for order, telling Ric to restrain his client. Willow said, how could they do this? Michael had cheated with Sasha and had his baby. All she’d done is love her children and try to do her best. She screamed, it isn’t right, and Judge Haran said court was adjourned. She asked the bailiff to clear the court, and Willow ran over to Michael. She cried and told him that Wiley and Amelia needed their mom. Tell the judge that she’d made a terrible mistake. Diane said they need to go, and Willow grabbed Michael’s hand. She said, they need their mother, and Michael shook her off. He left, and Nina held Willow, who continued her hysterics.  

Alexis said, acting first and thinking later was what got them in this mess, but Kristina said she was doing the opposite. She’d thought this through before speaking to Cody. It was a plan for the long game and had flexibility. They could pivot as it progressed. Alexis said there were a lot of variables they had no control over that had to go right at the right time. Kristina said Cody had to see if it worked first, but it was a sure-fire way to break up the united front of Ric and Ava. It wasn’t illegal. Alexis said it was unethical, and Kristina said they were extorting her. Alexis thought they should wait for a better opportunity, but Kristina said it may never come. In the meantime, Alexis had to embezzle money from Ace and the more likely she was to get caught. Alexis’s phone rang, and she said, great. It was Laura. Laura asked if Alexis could stop by. She had something important she needed to discuss, and Alexis said she’d come right over. Kristina asked if Alexis thought she knew about the embezzlement, and Alexis said she guessed she’d find out.

Ava asked Cody to think of something beautiful, and he said, Angelina Jolie. She said, maybe something less prurient. Something beautiful, not a woman, that got him in the gut. He said, a horse running in a field at sunrise, and she said there was so much beauty to be found in nature. She handed him a flyer and said she was having a show. Joel Sartore was a talented wildlife photographer, and she thought he should come. He said, hors d’oeuvres. It sounded fancy. He doubted she’d want him there. She said it could be stuffy and the likes of him could liven it up a little bit. Think about it. He said he would and thanked her for the crash course in art. Ava thanked him for rescuing her sunglasses.

Sonny asked if Turner knew Natalia had the Deception financials, but Natalia said she only told Turner that there was a slight possibility she could find something. No promises. He said he assumed she was going to keep quiet, but she said she was in a bind. She didn’t want to do anything to hurt him, but she was backed in a corner. If she didn’t cooperate, she’d go to prison. He asked if she was blackmailing him, but she said, no. She was loyal to him and hoping they could figure something out. She needed his help.

Carly asked if Michael was okay, and he said he won custody of his kids, but seeing Willow fall apart, he didn’t want that. Diane said she felt for Willow, but her outburst validated that the judge made the right decision. Michael said he had to see his kids.

Still freaking out, Willow said she needed to see Wiley and Amelia. They need to know how much she loved them. Nina promised they knew, and Drew said he thought they should get her home. They helped Willow up, and Willow said Drew told her that she’d win, then keeled over.

At Charlie’s Cody told Kristina that he went to the gallery. He and Ava had an interesting conversation and as far as he was concerned, he completed the trial run, which meant Kristina owed him $1000. She said she’d send it now, and used her phone. She asked how it went, and he showed her the flyer, saying it was his ticket to see Ava again. Based on their interaction, he thought he pulled it off. He’d definitely see how far it could go. How far did she want it to go? Kristina said, whatever needed to happen for Ava to leave Ric, and he said he could do that, but there was one catch.

At Laura’s office, she apologized to Alexis for being vague. Martin was back in town and trying to convince Elizabeth to file a lawsuit over her car accident. Alexis said she was surprised Elizabeth didn’t want to put it behind her, and Laura said, she was going to do that, but Martin was desperate for work and thought it would be quite a bit of money. She thought Elizabeth deserved it since the accident was caused by a vehicle malfunction. Alexis said the car had been destroyed. To find evidence would require a lot of investigation. Laura said her brother had his own agenda and she wanted an unbiased, honest opinion. If Alexis thought Elizabeth had a strong case, she may try talking her into pursuing it.

Drew and Nina brought Willow to the hospital, and Elizabeth said she heard Willow fainted. How was she feeling? Willow didn’t respond, and Elizabeth said she had a room set up. Was it okay to get her settled in? Willow barely nodded, and Elizabeth wheeled her away. Drew said it was a travesty He didn’t understand how Willow lost. Nina asked if he heard anything the judge said. She lost because Drew had her take Wiley across state lines and tried to make himself the children’s legal guardian. Willow lost her children because Willow did everything that he wanted her to since their egregious affair began. In the eyes of the court, that made Willow a bad mother.

Natalia said she knew she’d betrayed Sonny’s trust not telling him that she’d been married to Sidwell, but she valued their friendship and hoped he felt the same way. He said he did and was grateful for her discretion. He’d make sure both of them came out unscathed. When did she have to report back? She said tomorrow at 3, and he said they’d talk before that. Stay calm and he’d handle everything.

Elizabeth said she was going to give Willow IV fluids and draw up some labs. Try to rest. Everything would be okay.  

Carly asked if Michael was okay, and he said, it was gut wrenching watching Willow. He couldn’t help thinking about when he first fell in love with her. She was great with Wiley and when she was pregnant with Amelia, she risked her life to carry the baby to term. He couldn’t reconcile the Willow he married with the one he divorced today. He didn’t know how it ended up like this. Carly said she didn’t either. Maybe it would be a wake-up call for Willow to get her act together and have a relationship with her children. He said he hoped so. In the meantime, he had to figure out a way to tell them that they wouldn’t be seeing their mom for a long time.

Nina asked how Willow was, and Elizabeth said, physically, she was fine. She started Willow on IV fluids, but her vitals were good. She thought Willow was in shock. Drew said he was going to sit with her, but Elizabeth said she was dozing off. It was best to let her rest before she had a psyche consult. Drew asked if Elizabeth thought she had a mental breakdown, and she said she couldn’t be sure, since Willow wasn’t responding, but they’d know more soon.

Natalia thanked Sonny for everything. She was afraid he wouldn’t take her call. He said it was water under the bridge. They’d work together. Natalia said maybe he’d trust her like he used to and wondered if they could get back to where they were. He said coming to him was the first step, and she said she was glad she did. It had been a nightmare. She’d never felt more trapped and alone. This was the first time she felt like maybe things would turn out okay. He said she had to trust him, and she said she did. He was such a constant. They hugged.

Alexis told Laura that a lawsuit might take a long time. She wasn’t sure it was worth the trouble, but she’d speak to Elizabeth and get the details. See if Martin was right to pursue it. Laura thanked her and said she knew she could count on Alexis’s unbiased, honest opinion.

Kristina asked, what catch? and Cody said he did his research on Ava. He knew she wasn’t a saint, but had no idea how downright lethal she was. She shot Mama Q. Kristina said, if it helped, she was trying to shoot someone else, and he said, she also killed Mama Q’s cousin, definitely on purpose. If Kristina wanted him to be Clyde to Ava’s Bonnie, he needed hazard pay – a lot – added to his original fee. She said, fine, and suggested they negotiate and get him started.

Ava left Ric a message that she was thinking about him. She wondered how it went in court and hoped they ruled in his favor. Call her back when he got the chance. She picked up her sunglasses and pondered.  

At the hospital, Ric asked Elizabeth how Willow was, but she said he knew she couldn’t tell him. HIPPA. He said, of course (🍷). He’s been doing this a long time, but if she’d seen what he saw… She said she couldn’t imagine losing custody of her children, especially that young. Her heart hurt for Willow. Ric said he hated losing because of his pride, but this one hit differently. He never felt so horrible losing a case. She said he did everything he could, and he said he wished it had been a different result. She put her hand on his.

Carly gave Jason a beer and said Michael was outside telling Wiley about the divorce and what it meant for everybody. It was going to be rough for a while. If Michael had gone on the run, it would have been worse. Jason said Michael and the kids would be okay, but he wasn’t sure he could say the same about Willow. Carly said, it was awful. Drew led her down the wrong path. Jason said now she was suffering the consequences. Drew shattered Michael’s family and shattered Willow. This was on Drew.

Drew said he was going in to sit with Willow, but Nina said she was resting and not to disturb her. He said he felt helpless, and she said if he wanted to help, go home. He said he wouldn’t abandon Willow. She needed him. Nina said he was the last person Willow needed. He didn’t get it. He did this to her. He cost her the children. If he truly loved Willow as much as he said he did, he’d walk away right now and never look back.

On the patio, Wiley asked if they could go back to the park and see mommy, but Michael said he was sorry. They wouldn’t be able to spend time with mommy for a while. Wiley asked, why? and Michael said they went to court, the place that made the rules grown-ups had to follow. Even though he and mommy loved them, they decided it was probably best if they weren’t married anymore. The judge agreed and also decided Wiley and his sister should live with him. Wiley said, what about mommy? and Michael said, for now, it was the three of them. Mommy loved him and his sister so much. Soon she’d come and visit. They hugged and Michael said he loved Wiley so much.  

Willow opened her eyes and looked around. She remembered the judge saying that it was the decision of the court to award full physical and legal custody to the children’s father, Michael Corinthos.  

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

At Pozzulo’s, Sonny tells Jason, Michael wasn’t sure he’d get custody of the kids, much less full custody, and Jason says, it’s what’s best for the kids, as long as Drew is in the picture. Sonny asks, how’s Willow? but Jason says he hasn’t heard yet. It was really rough seeing her in the courtroom yesterday. Sonny says he hopes she get the help she needs, and Jason says, they all do, especially Michael. He still cares about her. Sonny says, of course (🍷) he does. He’s Michael and she’s the mother of his children. He loved her very much. Jason says, he still does, but Sonny says he doesn’t know if they could have made it together, but it doesn’t matter. They know who’s to blame.

Drew meets with Martin and says, Willow is in bad shape. Martin says he’s not surprised. Nothing, not even partial custody. Drew says he can’t stand seeing her like this. Can they appeal? Can they argue that Ric was a last-minute substitute and get the judge’s ruling thrown out? There had to be something they could do to get Willow her children back.  

Maxie calls Brook, who says, what’s up? Maxie says, James is home sick from summer camp and Georgie wants him to stay in the garage, so she doesn’t get infected by his cooties. It’s been a pretty normal day. She was wondering if Brook could come over to work with her. Brook says, who could say no to that? She’s on her way. The doorbell rings and Maxie opens the door to Lulu. Lulu says she got Maxie’s text. That must mean Maxie is still speaking to her.

Tracy says, good, Brook is still here, but Brook says she’s on her way out. She’s headed to Maxie’s. Tracy asks if the weekend starts on a Thursday now, and Brook says, it probably does somewhere, but they’re working from there. Tracy says, as long as the work gets done. It will do Brook a world of good to focus on work. Brook says, as opposed to what? Revenge?

Anna says, Natalia Ramirez? and Molly says she was assigned to the case, but had to recuse herself. Anna says, Molly’s sister was involved with Natalia’s daughter. Right. Natalia is… Molly says, Natalia has a complicated relationship with her whole family. She’s afraid she doesn’t have many details about the case. Anna wonders why it was reassigned to an attorney on Molly’s level, and Molly says, it should have been. Who took it? Anna says, acting DA Justine Turner.

Marco thanks Alexis for sitting in on the meeting, and Alexis says, not a problem. She knows what it’s like to shepherd her family through legal troubles. Marco says Alexis is helping his mother, even after the terrible things she said about Kristina and his sister when they were together, and Alexis says, they came to an understanding. He asked for her help and she’s happy to help. What’s past is past. Natalia comes in and says, Alexis’s assistant told her to come in. Alexis says, it’s fine, and Natalia asks what this is about. Marco says, it’s about her arrest, and Natalia says, really? Now he cares?

In the squad room, Chase says, it’s been a minute since he and Dante talked, and Dante says, if they keep it to work, they should be good. Chase asks, is that possible? Or are they going to have a problem here?

Drew says he doesn’t understand what happened, and Martin says he’d love nothing more than to run up some billable hours, but at this point, pursuing an appeal is unlikely to change the outcome. Drew asks, why? He doesn’t understand how Willow lost. (Boy, is he an idiot. The judge even explained why.) Martin says, for starters, he reviewed the judge’s ruling, and while it’s harsh, her reasoning was straightforward. Willow took Wiley over state lines without Michael’s permission, then turns around and tries to make Drew, the man she had an affair with, guardian of her children. Again, without consulting the father. Drew says, Michael was halfway around the world and unreachable, but Martin says he’s not sure the argument that Michael getting the best possible medical care was abandoning his children endeared them to the judge. In legal parlance, they’d say it was disregard for the father’s parental rights. Drew asks if there’s some way they can appeal. There has to be. Martin says, maybe, but the odds of winning are so low, all it would do is cause Willow more pain. Is that something Drew wants to do?

Anna says, Justine took the case herself. Does Molly have any idea why she might do that? Molly says she doesn’t know. Since Turner stepped in for Robert as the interim DA, she’s been cherry-picking high profile cases, but a DWI? Anna says her thoughts exactly. There must be something in this DWI that caught her attention. She’d love to know what it is.

Dante says, work isn’t a problem for him, and Chase says, good. Dante asks, what have we got? but Chase says, we don’t have anything. The case was assigned to him… alone. Dante says, Chase is telling him that Anna doesn’t want him on it? but Chase says, not Anna. ADA Turner wants him to work it alone. Dante asks, why? and Chase says he’s guessing there’s a conflict. Dante wonders if it’s his dad, but Chase says he hasn’t been informed as to the nature of the conflict. The ADA said to report to her and no one else. Dante asks if Anna knows, but Chase says he hasn’t had a chance to discuss it. Dante says he’ll talk to her himself, but Chase says he doesn’t think it’s necessary. Dante says he sure as hell does.

Maxie tells Lulu, don’t be ridiculous. Of course (🍷) she’s still talking to her. Lulu says, she’s one of the few who are, and Maxie says she’s been Lulu, meddling in people’s lives until it blew up in her face. That was her jam. Lulu says she had the best intentions and she’s not sure it was a total disaster. Maxie says, that’s the part she’s not sure about? and Lulu says, Gio finally knows the truth about his parents. He thought he was an orphan. Now he knows he isn’t and has huge family who loves and accepts him. Maxie says, what Lulu did affected a lot of lives. Does she understand? Lulu says she tried to get Brook to tell the truth. Brook had decades to do it. As far as she’s concerned, she did nothing wrong.

Tracy says she’s glad Brook is taking her advice and is focusing on work instead of revenge, and Brook says she plans on spending today solely focused on Deception. Tracy says, it’s a more appropriate outlet for Brook’s hurt and rage, but Brook says she’s not sure rechanneling her rage is the best practice. Tracy says, getting Erica Kane on the phone is a worthwhile outlet and Erica will probably respect her for it, and Brook says she’ll put it on her to-do list. Tracy says, it will be a more affective pursuit than Brook’s ill-conceived vendetta against Lulu. She’s glad to see Brook let it go. Brook asks, who said anything about letting it go?

Natalia says she needed Marco and called him repeatedly. He didn’t pick up once and now he’s summoned her here. He says he got her messages this morning and set up a meeting as soon as he knew, and Alexis says, he does want to help. Natalia says she’s already handled it. The ADA offered her a deal. Alexis says she strongly advises Natalia not to represent herself. Let them help her navigate the deal. Without counsel, it would be precarious. Marco promises Sidwell won’t know any of this, and Alexis says, no one will. Natalia says, great, and they sit down. Alexis asks, what led up to the deal and what are they offering? and Natalia says, last night, she was arrested for a DWI, not her first, Alexis says, that’s a felony and can mean up to five years in prison, and Natalia says, that’s what the DA told her before she offered the deal. Alexis says, she’s the interim DA. What are the terms? Natalia says, they want her to turn over everything she has on every single interaction she’s had with Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny says, Willow isn’t the same Willow he knew when Michael started going out with her, and Jason says, if that Willow still exists, there will be no change with Drew in the picture. Sonny says he’s happy about what’s going on with Michael and thanks Jason. Jason was there when the ruling came in. He was supposed to go, but he couldn’t. He had something important to take care of. Jason says, business? and Sonny says, kind of. Natalia is starting to be a real problem for him.

Tracy says, let the emotions settle and clear, calm minds lead to letting it go, but Brook says, if someone had done that to Tracy’s kids, Tracy wouldn’t be so willing to let it go. Lulu hurt Tracy’s grandkid – her – and destroyed Gio’s memory of the woman who loved and raised him. If it had been anyone other than Lulu who’d done that, Tracy would be ready for war. Tracy says, there’s truth in that, and Brook thanks her. She also thanks Tracy in advance for not telling her to let it go again. She won’t. Now she has to get to work. Lucy won’t be happy if she lets this affect her job. Tracy says, Lucy is inconsequential. Maxie wants what’s best for her. That’s what they all want. They want her to heal.  

Maxie says, Lulu destroyed the memory of the woman Gio thought was his mother and went against a dying woman’s wishes, but Lulu says she’s not the one who lied. Gio is Dante’s son and not once in 22 years did Brook tell Dante that she’d had a baby. She chose not to and if Dante wants to be mad at someone, he should be mad at Brook. Maxie says, Brook made an impossible choice, and Lulu says, no one is judging Brook on her decision to give Gio up, but Maxie says, Gio might disagree. Lulu says, it was Brook’s decision not to tell the truth, and Maxie says, it was Brook’s truth and not hers to tell. Lulu says, somebody had to, and Maxie says, why her? Lulu says, because she knows exactly what it’s like to be kept in the dark when it comes to her child. Dante deserved to know, like she did. She’s not trying to make Maxie feel guilty about Georgie. She made a mistake. Britt and Valentin committed crimes. Maxie says she appreciates the distinction, but this situation is about Brook. And in order for everyone to move on, including Gio and Dante, Lulu needs to take accountability for what she did.

Alexis says, sorry. She has to recuse herself. Sonny is Kristina’s father and a close friend. Natalia says she was afraid of this, and Marco says he wouldn’t have asked Alexis if he’d known. Alexis says he did nothing wrong and everything that was said is covered under attorney/client privilege. Natalia thanks her, and Alexis says, good luck. Sorry. She leaves, and Marco says, Natalia could be in real danger. Tell him exactly what she has on Sonny Corinthos.

Sonny says, Natalia was the CFO of Deception and had access to the financial records, and Jason asks if he didn’t let her go. Sonny says, she kept them at home, and Jason says, that’s not good, but it’s a legitimate business. What’s the problem? Sonny says, the problem is, the money he invested wasn’t clean and there are some discrepancies. Jason says, that’s not a mistake Sonny would make, and Sonny says, the money guy screwed up and is now in the Pine Barrens. Natalia got a DWI and it’s not her first. She could go away for a long time. Jason asks if that’s why she’s trying to make a deal, and Sonny says he knows the records she has wouldn’t be incriminating… Jason says, but it would open the door to a bigger investigation, and Sonny says, Turner could do a deep dive into his financial records, everything he’s had in the last 20 years. Jason asks how he knows, and Sonny says, Natalia warned him. She told him everything. Jason asks how he wants to handle it, and Sonny says he can’t let Natalia let Turner know anything.  

Marco says, Natalia hasn’t handed anything off to the DA and it doesn’t sound too damning to begin with. Where is the evidence? She says, on a portable drive in a safe deposit box in a Port Charles bank. She’s supposed to hand it over this afternoon. Marco says, that’s not going to happen. Not until he meets with Turner and gets the best possible deal. She says she’s not in a hurry, and he says he’s more concerned about her safety. Does Corinthos know she and Turner are talking? She says, he has no idea, but Marco says, that doesn’t mean her life isn’t in jeopardy. He knows they have a history, but he would never want to see her get hurt. She says she’ll be fine, but he says she doesn’t seem to understand the severity of the situation. Not only did she get another DWI, which is irresponsible enough, she’s wrapped up in Sonny Corinthos’s life and is in danger. She says she appreciates his concern, but Sonny would never hurt her.

Sonny says he knows that Natalia is a liability. If it was anybody else, he’d deal with them permanently. Jason says he gets why Sonny doesn’t want to, and Sonny says, Natalia kept his confidence about his heart problem and she’d been good to him. She saw him through. Jason says, so she’s a good friend? and Sonny says, not just to him, to Kristina. When Kristina was in the car accident, Natalia was there and called him. She stayed until he got there. At Ava’s trial, she got on the stand and lied to protect Kristina. Jason says he remembers, and Sonny says, she could have kept quiet about Turner’s deal, but she came to him. He’s grateful for that. Jason says, it’s always better to know, and Sonny says, it’s not like he trusts her. Jason says he feels like he owes her. How can he cut his losses and protect himself? Sonny says, and do it without hurting Natalia.  

Drew says he hates it, but Martin is probably right. Let the judge’s ruling stand… for now. Martin says, it’s the smart thing, and Drew says, it makes no sense. The judge ruled in Michael’s favor. (Apparently, he didn’t listen to what anyone is saying.) Martin says, it’s not the norm. In most cases the standard is shared. Drew says, Michael wouldn’t hear of it. It was all or nothing. He was contentious. Martin says he was hoping for 60/40 split in Michael’s favor. He didn’t expect full custody with no visitation built in. Drew asks if there’s anything they can do, and Martin says, there is, but he’s not going to like it. They could run around Diane Miller and talk to Michael. Michael is angry, but he’s not cruel. He loved Willow and given time, he might grant her access. Drew says, were it that simple. Michael made it clear that as long as he’s in Willow’s life, he’ll make sure she never sees her children again.

Anna says, keep her posted, and Molly says, what she learns, Anna will learn. As Molly is leaving, Dante comes in, and they hug. Molly says she hasn’t seen him since the Nurses Ball. How is he doing? Dante says he’s hanging in there, and she says, call her if he wants to talk. Anna thanks her, and she leaves. Anna asks what she can do for Dante, and he says his so-called partner told him… Anna says, so-called? and Dante says, Chase is working on a case he’s not allowed to be part of. Anna says she read the file. The DA’s office assigned Chase the case and embargoed him. He asks if she has any insight, and she says, not yet, but she can’t do anything about it unfortunately. He says he guesses Chase was telling the truth, and she says, doesn’t he usually? Dante says, he used to, and she says she thought they were solid. All she’s hearing is hostility. Why? What’s going on? He says, it’s a family matter. He shouldn’t have brought it to work. She says, it’s too late for that.

Maxie tells Lulu to put herself in Brook’s shoes, see things from her perspective, but Lulu says, that’s all she’s been doing for months. Maxie says, clearly, that’s not all she’s been doing, and Lulu says she feels for Brook. It can’t have been easy to find out Gloria and Lois knew she had a son all this time and never told her. Maxie says, exactly. Brook’s relationships with her mother and grandmother are, at the very least, damaged. They’re not the same and never will be. Lulu says, it’s not her fault. They were the ones who lied. Maxie says, Gio is the son Brook has been thinking about every day for 22 years, who she’s known her whole life and had no idea who he was. Lulu says, that’s on Gloria and Lois too, and Maxie says, if Brook messed with Lulu’s relationship with Rocco, she’d be angry. Lulu says, of course (🍷) she would, but it would never happen. She doesn’t lie to her kids. She never has and never will. The doorbell rings, and Brook walks in with her face in her phone, saying Maxie will never believe the numbers… She sees Lulu and stops.  

Brook says she shouldn’t be surprised that Lulu got Maxie to lure her over here, so Lulu could ambush her or get Maxie to run interference. She is surprised Maxie would let herself be used. Maxie says, excuse me, and Lulu says, Brook is the last person she wants to see. Maxie says she needs them both to shut up right now. First of all, she would not let herself be used and when Brook says such a thing, she feels like Brook doesn’t know her. And she’s perfectly capable of scheming herself, which is exactly what she did. Brook asks, why? and Maxie says, the two of them need to be in a room, face to face – no Dante, no Chase, no Quartermaines – and have it out. Lulu says, Maxie doesn’t want that, and Brook says, too many breakable objects. Maxie says, this has to end. What they’re doing is affecting more than them. It’s affecting people they love.

Anna says, Dante and Chase are her best detectives. Whatever they’re going through, now work is a problem, so she has to get to the bottom of it. He says, don’t worry, and she says, obviously, this has something to do with what happened at the Nurses Ball. He says, it does. His whole life changed that night. He found out he had a son, Gio. For 22 years, he’s lived his life without him. Anna says, he’s right to feel how he does. What did Chase do? He says, Chase knew for months, and she says, that Gio was his son? He says, not Gio, but Chase knew Brook had his kid and kept it to himself, and she says, he didn’t expect Chase to betray his wife’s trust. He says, Chase should have at least convinced her to tell him, and she says, convince Brook? Other than they had a child together, she’d have thought Dante never met her. Dante says, he puts his life in this guy’s hands every day. How can he trust him? She says, he’s going to hate what she has to say next. She could see why Chase kept it from him.

In the solarium, Alexis asks, what legal entanglement did Tracy get into this time? Does it have anything to do with her arrest at the Nurses Ball? Tracy says, Drew is accusing her of drugging him. He has a flair for the theatrical. Alexis says, he isn’t the only one, and Tracy says, he’s a thorn in her side, but whether Alexis sees it or not, he’s a problem for her also. As luck would have it, there might be a solution to their Drew problem. Alexis says she has no idea what Tracy is talking about, and Tracy says, Alexis is Scout’s grandmother and as such, has legal standing in the city of New York. She needs to sue Drew for custody of Scout.

Drew says, Michael can be ruthless, but he’s also reasonable, and Martin says, it sounds like there’s still something to hope he’ll be reasonable about. Drew says, unlike his less trustworthy family members, he believes Michael would stand by what he says. Willow told him in the past that at his core, Michael is a good person. According to the whole town, he’s the problem and derailed Willow’s life. Whether that’s true or not – and he doesn’t believe that it is – it’s the perception. Martin says, all too often, perception is reality, and Drew says, exactly. If he ends things with Willow, takes Scout and goes to DC, Michael will give Willow access to her children. Martin asks if that’s something he’d be willing to do, and Drew says he loves Willow and knows she loves him. Between Michael’s demands and everything that’s been spewed at her about him, he has to ask himself the question, would she be better off without him?

Dante says he can’t believe Anna is taking Chase’s side, but she says she’s not taking his side. Like Brook, she chose not to tell her child’s father about his child’s existence. Dante says, she didn’t tell Robert about Robin because she had to keep Robin safe, and Anna says she did, but she didn’t end things on good terms with Robin’s father, and it wasn’t fair to Robert. It was mostly deeply unfair to Robin. She got lucky and Robin forgave her. She thinks partly because Robin was a child. Gio will be a bit trickier. Dante says, he already is, and she tells him that she’s not saying he doesn’t have a right to be angry about being betrayed. But as much as he thinks what Brook should have done or said, he’s not in Brook’s shoes. It’s never easy and it’s never clear cut. He says, Robert handled it, and she says she was lucky there too. He embraced Robin and made the choice to accept that what happened, happened. Better decisions could have been made, but they weren’t. He focused on his relationship with Robin. He could have chosen not to have one, but he did his best to not dwell on the past. Dante says, good on him for being able to do that, but he doesn’t think he can swing it. Anna says she thinks she understands if he can’t, but he can do the bare minimum and keep things professional with his partner. In fact, she insists on it.

Molly goes to Alexis’s office and sees Marco. She says she’s sorry to interrupt, but she’s looking for her mother, Alexis Davis. He says, she just stepped out and he’s not sure when she’ll be back, and she says, he must be Marco Ramirez. Her mother’s said great things about him. He says, they’re all true. He’s met Kristina, so she must be… She says, Molly Lansing Davis, and shakes his hand. She works in the DA’s office. He says he was just about to call there. He needs to discuss the Natalia Ramirez case.

Natalia goes into Sonny’s office, and he says, she wasn’t followed. She asks how he knows, and he says his drivers are good. She thanks him for seeing her. He asks if she has information for him, and she says she just saw her son at Miller & Davis. They discussed the deal, but she didn’t tell him that she tipped Sonny off. She would never. He says he appreciates that, and she says, they’re in this together. Don’t worry about her. He says he’s glad she said that because he thinks he has a way out for both of them.

Alexis says, Tracy wants her to sue Drew for custody of Scout. Why doesn’t she do it herself? Tracy says she was falsely accused of drugging a sitting congressman. Alexis is the next best thing. Alexis says she’s thought a lot about Scout’s well-being. She’s thought about it every day since Sam died, and of course (🍷) since Drew’s scandal. Tracy says, so she’s on board, and Alexis says, Scout loves her father, and he loves her. Tracy says, oh please. Drew doesn’t know about love. He just knows how to mimic love. Alexis tells her, say what you will about Drew – and she’s said a thing or two of her own – the bottom line is, his daughter believes in him. He’s a good father and loves Scout. The last thing she wants to do is upend that little girl’s life more than it has been. Tracy says, Drew pretended to be a loving father, who pulled his daughter out of the house and separated her from Danny and Rocco – again. Alexis says, Scout has suffered more and lost more than a child should, and Tracy says, Alexis should have told Drew to leave Willow alone. Alexis says she didn’t want him to make a run for DC and take her granddaughter with him. Things have changed. Michael has custody and Willow’s not leaving the kids. Tracy says, she would if she cared what was best for them, and Alexis says she’s telling Tracy to find another way to get back at Drew. She’s not letting Tracy use her granddaughter to do it.

Maxie says, Brook and Lulu have so many people in common. Tracy is Brook’s grandmother and Lulu’s stepmother. Lulu says she knows who Tracy is, and Maxie says, then she probably knows Tracy is seeing two people she cares about who are breaking her heart. Brook says, with all the backstabbing going on at that house, and Maxie says, fair point. How about Dante? How much pain he must be in seeing the mothers of his children despising each other – two of the most important people in his life. Gio is Rocco’s brother. What do they think will happen if they’re constantly at war? Brook says she doubts Gio knows. He won’t talk to her. Maxie says, it’s only a matter of time before it trickles down to Gio and Rocco’s relationship. She’s not asking them to do it for her, even though she’s tired of it, and she’s not asking them to do it for themselves. Do it for the people they both love.

Dante says, Chase is right. He’s not on the case. Chase says he wouldn’t lie about that, and Dante says, just about the son he didn’t know he had. Chase says, they’re not letting personal feelings impact work. Dante can’t do that. Dante says, or what?

Marco tells Molly that he’d like everything to go through him and needs the details, starting with the deal. Molly says, he’ll have to speak to ADA Turner, and he asks if she can offer advice on how to handle Turner. She says, Turner is fair, but ambitious. She’s determined to make a name for herself. She’s got political ambition and if she wants something, she’ll stop at nothing to make it happen.

Natalia says, Belize? and Sonny says he owns property there and knows people. She can start over. He’ll help her with a new life and a new identity. She says she doesn’t know. She may not have the best relationship with her kids, but leaving them behind and never speaking to them again… He says, it’s a lot to ask, but they don’t have more options. They’re on the clock. Turner will send her to prison unless she takes the deal. Natalia says she promised she wouldn’t. In tipping him off, she sacrificed her future. He says, in Port Charles. He guarantees she can have a life somewhere else. He’s going to make sure she’s protected and that she has a great life. She has his word.

Tracy tells Alexis that it was worth a shot. About that absurd ketamine charge… Alexis asks if it’s really that absurd, and Tracy says, I beg your pardon. Alexis says she knows Tracy thinks Drew framed her, but she’s living proof of Tracy’s ability to orchestrate a situation. Tracy says, let it go. The two situations are completely different. She did that. This, she did not. She was framed, plain and simple. Alexis says, if only that were the case. There’s only one solution. Tracy says, out with it, and Alexis says, the only way the case will move forward is if Drew testifies. Don’t give him a reason to do that. Tracy says she doesn’t mean… and Alexis says she does. Apologize. Tell Drew not to pursue it. Ask him, plead with him, grovel. Her fate is in his hands.

Jason meets Drew and asks what he wants, and Drew says, it’s about Michael. Jason says he figured that much, and Drew says he needs Jason’s help. Jason has a good relationship with Michael. Jason says, so did Drew until he blew it, and Drew says he’s not asking for a fight. For everyone’s sake, especially Willow’s, he needs Jason’s help to fix things. Jason says, how? and Drew says he needs Jason to take a proposal to Michael from him.

Chase tells Dante, or nothing. Calm down. Dante says, don’t tell him what to do. Don’t tell him anything. Chase knew he had a son. He sat here across from him knowing the truth and didn’t tell him anything. How could he do that? Chase said he was honoring his wife’s wishes, and Dante says, he should have manned up and told his wife to tell the truth. Chase says he doesn’t tell his wife what to do. It wasn’t his secret to tell. It was her child. Dante says, and his. Remember that? Anna tells them to lower their voices. They have a situation that apparently, she has to handle.  

Lulu says she has to admit she didn’t consider the long-term effect on Gio and Rocco, and Maxie says, it’s not too late to start. If Gio sees her set her anger aside maybe he will too. Show him anything is possible. Brook says, fine. Maxie is right. Maxie says, she is? and Brook says, for Gio and Rocco’s sake, she’s willing to accept Lulu’s apology. Lulu laughs and says she owes someone an apology, but that someone sure as hell isn’t Brook. She owes Gio an apology. She feels terrible about the pain she caused him, but she’s not sorry for what she did to Brook and never will be.

On Monday, Martin tells Tracy, there is a way they both can win; Josslyn tells Vaughn, if the information is on his phone, she’ll get it; Anna says Drew and Chase aren’t going anywhere until they figure it out; and Jason tells Drew, until Willow sees it, there will be no compromise.

🧼 The Only Soap News Fit To Print…

Lucky’s last day.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/what-happened-on-jonathan-jacksons-last-general-hospital-episode-as-lucky/

No. Just no. He is Lucky.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/jonathan-jackson-on-gh-recasting-lucky-i-respect-that/

I’m psyched. Maybe she’ll be an ex-wife of Martin’s?

https://ew.com/one-life-to-live-legend-erika-slezak-joins-general-hospital-11753991

Woah.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/eva-larues-real-life-stalker-nightmare-subject-of-new-documentary/

Apparently, it’s going to be a wild ride.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/kelly-thiebaud-says-her-general-hospital-return-will-be-a-wild-ride/

https://parade.com/news/general-hospital-stars-tease-enjoy-the-ride-amid-cast-shake-up-steve-burton-bradford-anderson

He’s with Lesley now.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-star-chris-robinson-dies-at-86/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

Chef Lawrence was done (that was quick), and Fraser suggested Chef Anthony from last season as a replacement. Captain Kerry wasn’t so sure about that, since he’d had to let Anthony go, but Fraser swore he was a changed chef, now with more experience. Solène spiraled over finding a poopie in a toilet she had to clean, quickly shouting for help. She’ll be lucky if that’s the worst thing she finds. And I guess just flushing it wasn’t an option? This one is a real germophobe, which makes me wonder why she chose a career where she has to clean up after people and the crew is cramped together even during their off hours. Primary Sam said Lawrence’s curry was even better than his mom’s, which was an excellent note to go out on. Sam was also surprisingly complementary upon departure. The tip was a fatty – $30K.

Why he said goodbye.

The Valley

Kristen and Luke had a housewarming party where the outcasts were invited. They left their house messy, which would cause me untold anxiety. I once found a pair of underwear that had missed the laundry basket after a party, and ten years later, I’m still not over it. Michelle paid a visit to Lala, and Jasmine and Melissa met with Janet and Jason to squash their beef. Jasmine apologized for her Karen tirade, saying she just felt it in the moment. How old are you again? In watching Brittany’s interviews, I’ve decided she should have picked a different dress other than the keyhole neckline number. It makes her boobs look totally off center. Because Jax was being sprung from rehab soon, the gang turned Jax’s bar into Britt’s for a night and threw her a party. With all the nonsense Jax continues to put her through, she’s lucky to have such a great support system.

Agreed.

Next Gen NYC

Teresa and Meridith had dinner with Gia and Brooks, proving that you don’t have to go home again to go home again. Ava met with her dad, Damon Dash, and he said he wanted her to run one of his companies. He thought she’d make a great CEO, which I thought was one of the best compliments a dad could give his daughter. My favorite moment – possibly my favorite moment so far – was Georgia proving she wasn’t blackout drunk by saying, 7 x 5 = 45. (Hint: It does not.) I’m still loving this show, but not so much crypto trader Charlie. Apparently, I’m not alone since Ariana said – and I quote – you been a dick since I met you.

🐎 Smushed in between these shows was a watch party for a 2024 reality show, The McBee Dynasty: Real American Cowboys, with cast members from Below Deck, Southern Charm, and The Valley. I was only half paying attention, and all I know is that they owe a ton of money on their ranch and their second season will be showing up on Bravo. It’s always a good time when Kate and Fraser get together, but it just made me long for another season of Outer Range.

https://people.com/the-mcbee-dynasty-real-american-cowboys-moves-to-bravo-for-season-2-exclusive-8730303

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/the-mcbee-dynasty-real-american-cowboys-season-2-everything-to-know-trailer-cast-premiere-date

🌴 Love Island looks like the dumbest sh*t ever. And all I watched was the credits.

Random Reality Items

I kinda sorta watched this.

Returns on July 31st. The first time I randomly watched this show, I was surprised at how much I liked it. Those who can’t do, watch it on TV.

I thought I felt a collective exhale from the direction of the city.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

28 Weeks Later. Hulu. For whatever reason, I missed this one and wanted to get it in before 28 Years Later comes out. Lots of gore, lots of speedy zombies, and lots of Robert Carlyle. If you like a good zombie romp, you’ll like this movie. The ending was a bit abrupt, but fitting.

https://www.cbr.com/28-weeks-later-streaming-hulu/

https://collider.com/28-years-later-danny-boyle-explains-virus-sunshine-trilogy/

Presence. Hulu. A family moving into a spectacular house that’s also haunted is nothing new, but that doesn’t mean there still can’t be some surprises, and the ending sure surprised me. The acting was as impressive as the house, and main character Lucy Lui has been one of my favorites since Kill Bill. I was particularly impressed with the one-sided phone conversations which are difficult to do convincingly. Be forewarned though, the overall tone is depressing, as many ghost stories are.

https://www.cinemablend.com/movies/presence-streaming-hulu-i-think-its-the-most-original-haunted-house-movie-in-years

Carriers. Paramount+. In a post-apocalyptic world where a highly contagious virus has wiped out most of the world, two brothers and their girlfriends set off on a trek for whatever is out there. Meeting a man traveling with his daughter, who’s infected, they learn a doctor has developed a serum that combats the virus. No surprise, their trip isn’t an easy one and fraught with obstacles.  While the concept isn’t exactly a new one, it’s a favorite genre of mine, and both the acting and script were satisfactory.

https://www.empireonline.com/movies/reviews/carriers-review/

A Minecraft Movie. Soon to be on HBO/Max. I can’t believe I forgot to include this last week. I went to see literally the last showing at my local cinema and I was so glad I did because I loved it. Quite a bit. Jack Black and Jason Momoa make a great team, one living his childhood dream and the other stuck in his glory from the 80s. The entire cast rocks, but what I loved best were the creatures. They were cuteness squared. Lambs! Pandas! Dennis! There was nothing deep here, just a lot of fun and playfulness.

https://www.cinemablend.com/movies/didnt-expect-a-minecraft-movie-to-be-one-of-favorite-experiences-of-year-then-watched-with-kids

https://www.cbr.com/hope-may-be-lost-for-a-minecraft-movies-chances-at-1b/

Sirens. Netflix. While I covered this last week, I finished the series and found the ending to be genuinely satisfying.

🏌️‍♂️ He’s Not Really Dead…

It’s kind of like the time someone dumped milk on Susan Lucci at the grocery store, believing she was really Erica Kane.

https://ew.com/last-of-us-co-creator-reacts-to-fans-angry-over-pedro-pascal-shocking-exit-11750367

⚰️ Speaking Of Dead…

Somewhat of a spoiler, but I don’t care. This was one of the best moments ever.

https://ew.com/zombie-bear-attack-walking-dead-dead-city-11744356

🎭 The Toniest Awards In Town…

The winners.

https://playbill.com/article/tony-awards-2025-live-updating

The best and worst moments.

https://ew.com/tony-awards-2025-highlights-best-and-worst-moments-11747808

And as always the most important, the fashion.

https://people.com/tony-awards-2025-best-dressed-stars-11750333

🐾 Famous, Fabulous, and Fuzzy…

🐶 Who doesn’t love a pet moment?

https://zeenews.india.com/photos/entertainment/national-pet-day-2025-8-celebrity-pet-moments-that-won-the-internet-and-fans-hearts-2884657

🐕 To be fair, my non-famous dogs influence me every day.

https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/who-are-the-top-dog-influencers

👑 Adding crown snatching to his resumé.

🎬 Hooray for Hollywood pets.

https://www.tmz.com/2025/05/10/hollywood-famous-pets/

🎺 Quotes of the Week

A room hung with pictures is a room hung with thoughts.Joshua Reynolds

Happiness depends to some extent upon external conditions, but chiefly upon mental attitudes. – Paramahansa Yogananda

Magic exists. Who can doubt it, when there are rainbows and wildflowers, the music of the wind and the silence of the stars? Anyone who has loved has been touched by magic. It is such a simple and such an extraordinary part of the lives we live. – Nora Roberts

Whatever you are, try to be a good one. – William Makepeace Thackeray

If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there. – Lewis Carroll

Every champion was once a contender that didn’t give up.Gabby Douglas

Ideas do not reach perfection in a day, no matter how much study is put upon them. – Alexander Graham Bell

New Yorkers are very friendly… sometimes. – stranger Ariana Biermann met on the street, Next Gen NYC (She’s not wrong.)

You wanna act some type of way in your corduroy pants?Hudson McLeroy to Charlie Zakkour, Next Gen NYC

Happy Pride Month!

🍃 Blowin’ Through the Jasmine In My Mind…

Until next week, stay safe; stay prioritizing hydration; and stay remembering, all too often, perception is reality. So act accordingly.

October 30, 2024 – Time Of Death 5:48 PM, Justification, Salty Stuff, Ariana Does Horror, Dark Dancing, Halloween Watch, Best In Costume & Night Wind

Standard

What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts, recaps, and the whole GH enchilada on Fridays)

General Hospital

Jason beings Scout and Danny to the hospital. Scout wants to show Sam her costume and Danny just wants to see her.

Alexis brings Sam some candy, and Sam asks her to remind Dante to get some more for the trick-or-treaters. Alexis says, both she and Dante bought some, and now they have 60 pounds of it. She wants to know Sam’s secret. She can put herself together in a minute or sixty, but Sam looks so good after surgery. She’s glowing.  

Trina stops by Portia’s office and says she’s heading to school. Portia asks how it is being back, and Trina asks if the rumors are true that Heather left Port Charles. Portia says, yes, and Trina wonders if Portia had something to do with it.

On the phone, Willow says, Michael hasn’t come home and she’s worried. Call her back. There’s a knock at the door and it’s creeper Drew. She asks why he would come here.

Sasha sits up in bed and remembers being at the bar. She looks next to her, and Michael rolls over. (Rut-roh.)

Cody is sleeping on Maxie’s couch, and cowboy James holds his finger under Cody’s nose. Cody opens his eyes and asks what James is doing, and James says, checking to see if he’s breathing. Cody says, is he? and James says, so far. Cody says, too bad, but James says, breathing is supposed to be good thing. Cody says, tell that to his head, and James says, Cody should have told him that they were having a sleepover. Cody says, it wasn’t exactly a planned thing, and James says he has gummi worms in his holster. He asks if Cody wants one and Cody says, no. (I can feel his stomach lurch.) James asks what he’s going as for Halloween, when Maxie walks in. She says, Cody looks like he’s going as someone who made a big mistake last night. (That’s actually pretty funny.)

Sasha flashes back to the bar and Michael ordering tequila. She asks what he’s doing here, and he says, celebrating. He finally knows the truth. He tells the bartender, keep them coming. She remembers them making out and then moving to the bed. Michael wakes up and sees her.

Drew says he’s sorry to drop in, but he needs to apologize. Willow says she doesn’t want his apology. Just go. If Michael finds them together, it’s the last thing she needs. Drew asks if she’s heard from him, but she says, no. He asks if she wants him to call… and she says, no. Stay away from her and Michael. Her marriage can’t take any more of his help. He says he understands and asks if she was about to tell Michael when she showed up at the main house. She says she thought it was better if Michael heard it from her. Nina told her everything.  

Portia says she had nothing to do with Heather leaving. Now they can refocus their lives again. Trina says she has nothing to report and asks about Marshall, but Portia wants to hear everything about school.

At the Surf Lodge, Dante asks if Rocco is okay, but he says he just wants to see his mom. Dante says, she’s still recovering and will be in the ICU for a while. They’ll see her when she’s moved, but there’s something he wants to talk to Rocco about first.

Sam says she heard Lulu’s surgery went well, and Alexis says, her transplant prognosis is good. Sam says, that’s a relief, and Alexis says, it’s a relief to see Sam smiling. Sam says, considering she’s fine and Lulu has hope, it’s cause for celebration, and Alexis says, their family is long overdue. Sam says she hopes Alexis means that… She shows Alexis the ring and says, Dante proposed. Alexis says, it’s about time, and Sam says she knows Alexis isn’t a big advocate of marriage. Alexis says her marriages were dumpster fires. Sam’s will be better. They hug.

Trina says she loves art history, but her project partner has made no appearance. She doesn’t want to say how good things are or she’ll jinx it, but Portia says, that won’t happen. What about her missing partner? Trina says she tried to contact them, but if she doesn’t hear from them soon, she’s going to tell the TA to get her a different partner. Portia says, it’s Trina’s turn to have some good times, and Trina says she’s going to make it happen for herself. She’s got to get going. She’ll see Portia later.

James asks Cody what mistake he made, when a car horn blows outside. Maxie says, that’s Billy’s mom, and James says, if Cody changes his mind about not going trick-or-treating, go as a cowboy, so they’ll match. He and Cody fist bump, and Cody is like, ow. James leaves, and Maxie asks how Cody’s hangover is feeling.

Sasha and Michael are both in robes, so I assume they’re at a hotel. He asks if she’s okay, and she says she has a hangover from hell and is totally mortified. Otherwise, she’s okay. Him? He says, the same, and asks what they had to drink. She says, everything, and he says, that wasn’t his plan. He doesn’t think he had a plan. She says, neither did she. She was angry and hurting, and the alcohol did nothing to improve her judgement. He says he was in the same place. What happened… Neither of them planned it. They’re both at fault. Sasha says she’d agree, but it hurts to nod her head, and Michael says his hair hurts. She says, there’s something she didn’t tell him. When he told her about Willow kissing Drew, she already knew. She saw them kissing on the 4th of July. She walked into the solarium, but they didn’t see her, and she didn’t say anything. She didn’t know what to say or do. It was the last thing she expected. He says, it was the last thing he expected to hear, and she says, Willow is her friend, but she and Michael have history. He’s always been kind to her and she should have told him. He says she was just trying to be loyal to both of them. He understands and he’s not mad. She says, him being mad wouldn’t be the straw that broke the camel’s back, but it would be the straw that killed her. He says, it’s not on her. Willow and Drew are the ones who put them in this position.

Scout tells Jason that she brought Sam a grilled cheese because she likes them, and Olivia said she was a hero. Jason says, she’s one of the bravest people he knows, and they go into the elevator.

Alexis says, when first she first noticed Sam and Dante together, she thought they were a perfect match. The longer they were together, Sam smiled more. She was more herself than with anyone else. Sam says, that’s how it felt from the beginning. They each had a piece of a life, but not the whole thing. It works. Alexis says, they made it work. They committed to building a life, and they took that life, and wrapped it around their families. Sam says she never thought it could be this way, and Alexis says, Sam showed her what a healthy relationship looks like. She wasn’t able to give her girls that kind of family, but Sam is giving it to hers. What she just did for Dante and Rocco is the best gift ever. There’s no demonstration of love that’s greater. Sam says she loves Dante, and Alexis says she loves Sam, and kisses her hand.

Maxie tells Cody, don’t throw up on the rug. They had a dog… Cody says, don’t finish that story. He’s sorry he crashed here, but Mac insisted because Felicia swapped out her couch for a love seat. Maxie says, if it wasn’t an election year, she would have heard about it. She knew it would come back to bite her. Cody asks if she thinks a pint-sized cowboy with gummi worm breath will be punishment enough, and Maxie says she thought Mac talked some sense into him.

Sasha says she doesn’t blame Michael for being angry, but Willow felt terrible and was beating herself up. Michael says he’s glad Willow regrets kissing Drew, but he hates that she’s beating herself up over it. It just happened, right? Sasha says, after Willow confided in her about the second kiss… Michael says, there was a second kiss? and Sasha says she thought he knew.

Drew says, Nina showed up and told Willow everything? and Willow says, yes. He asks what she said, and she says, Cody was blabbing about how Drew kissed his nephew’s wife. Drew says he’s sorry, but she says she’s not blaming him. Drew says, Cody was drinking like it was his job, and Willow tells him that Nina said he was very drunk and punched Drew. Then he said what he said. Drew says, that sums it up, and she says she didn’t want Michael to find out from a stranger or a news report. She wanted to tell him. She thought she could make him understand. Drew says, and he decided to do it himself, and she says, after all the times he told her not to, he went ahead did it anyway. (I hope the bloom is finally off that rose for her.)

Dante tells Rocco that Sam said yes, she’ll marry him. They want to make their family official. Rocco seems surprised. Rocco says he is, and Dante asks if he’s surprised that she said yes, but Rocco says he’s surprised Dante asked. Dante says, why? Clearly, it’s something. What’s going on? He doesn’t like them being married? Rocco says, what about mom?

There’s a beeping alarm, and Jason notices Portia running toward Sam’s room. He sees Alexis running out and she looks at him. She shakes her head.

Jason tells Danny that he needs to take his sister to Bobbie’s. Eat something and wait there for him. Danny asks, what’s going on? but Jason says, not right now. Scout says she wants to see mom, and Danny says, he was thinking that mom loves the cookies at Bobbie’s. They could get a bunch for her as a surprise. They leave, and Jason asks Alexis, what happened? She say she doesn’t know.  

Elizabeth says, Sam isn’t responsive and has no pulse. She’s not breathing. Lucas says, code blue and he wants a crash cart. He wonders where this is coming from. Her vitals were normal. He asks if it could be internal bleeding, and Portia says, a possible embolism. She does chest compression, and he asks for the paddles. He uses them on Sam, but there’s no response. He does it again.  

Maxie tosses a bag of ice to Cody, and he says, there’s some stuff she should know before she gives her speech. She says she knows more than he and Sasha would like, and he says, she knows they’re cousins? She says, first cousins, and he asks if it was published in The Invader.  She says, it’s not known publicly, but her mom is friends with Sasha’s mom. Sasha said her mom was dead, so Maxie was surprised when Holly told her mother and Sasha confirmed it. Cody asks how Sasha is, and Maxie says, hurt and confused, to be expected. He says, that makes two of them, and she asks what he remembers. He says he was drinking… She says, not at all responsibly, and he says he punched that smarmy son of a bitch Drew Cain in his smug little face. Maxie says, he and Sasha got horrible news, and they were both in a bad place, but she doesn’t understand. Why Drew?  

Willow says she wanted to be honest from the beginning, but Drew said not to make it a bigger deal. Then he blindsided her. Why? Why blow up her life? Drew says he didn’t have a choice. Ned and Tracy were going to blackmail him. She says she can’t believe they knew. She’s going to be sick. Drew says, the told him that they’d tell Michael everything unless he went along with their demands. It would have only escalated until someday it blew up anyway. In the moment, he had no other call. He still doesn’t. She says, he’s probably right, and he says, she’s got to believe him. If he’d had a second to warn her, he would have. He’s sorry. She says, none of that matters. All she cares about is her family. She wants Michael to come home. She can tell him one truth; she loves him and their family. And she’s going to do what it takes to earn his forgiveness. There’s only one person who could have told Cody. Sasha. She can’t believe Sasha did that to her. (Oh come on. Like telling an SO a secret you’re keeping is unheard of.)

Michael asks what Sasha means, but she says, forget it. He says, tell him what she knows, and she says, the night McConkey died, Drew was torn up, and he and Willow kissed again. Michael asks if there were any other times, but she says, no. Willow loves him and she’s hating herself. He says, maybe she should. He can wrap his head around one kiss. One kiss is a mistake. The second time is not an accident. They made a choice.  

Cody says, Drew is sleeping with Nina and kissing Willow, and Maxie asks how he knows. He asks how she knew, and she says, look at this face. People tell her things, but she doesn’t drink and tell. He says he feels bad about his big mouth, but not the punch, and she says she’s not being judgy, but why Drew? Cody says he’s trying to be a good guy, but look at what doing the right thing has gotten him. She says she’s sorry about Sasha.

Sasha tells Michael, emotions were high, and Drew and Willow got caught up in the moment. She thinks they know something about that. She doesn’t like herself right now. She loves Willow and broke her confidence and slept with her husband. Michael says, there’s enough blame to go around, but the person at fault the most is Drew. (Agreed.)

Willow says, she confided in Sasha, and Sasha blabbed (WOTD) to Cody, but Drew says, she can take Cody off her worry list. He’ll handle Cody. Willow says, Michael will be home soon and she’s going to tell him everything, including about the second kiss. It’s the only way they can move forward. Drew says, Michael is already hurt. Telling Michael about her feelings for him will only hurt him more. (Yeah. We see how well that advice worked out the first time.)

Cody tells Maxie, Drew is not a good guy. Nobody knows he’s sleazing around with his nephew’s wife and sleeping with her mom. He thinks he’s better than everybody else, but he’s not. He’s a sleaze hiding behind a nice haircut and fancy coats and suits, and he’s getting rewarded for it. He wanted to pull Drew down from the pedestal he’s put himself on and throw him down in the gutter where he belongs. Maxie says, so he had his big moment and lashed out. Where did that get him? He says, a night on her couch, and she says, he could have wound up in jail. He says, thanks to Mac, that didn’t happen, and she says she’s sorry. It’s a horrible thing, but she hopes he realizes that he has a family who can help him through it and will. Things are going to get better. Stay away from Drew. He says he plans to, and she says, otherwise, he’ll deal with her. He asks if this is what having a sister is like, and she says, if you’re lucky.

Lucas calls for the paddles again, and tries to revive Sam, but she’s still unresponsive. (These scenes are actually a little stressful to watch, they’re so intense.)

Dante asks if Rocco remembers what it was like before Sam, and Rocco says, they were sad all the time. Dante says, they were barely making it through the day. It’s like they were sleepwalking. Then Sam showed up and it got better. It was like they woke up. Rocco says, it was easier to move, and Dante says, they weren’t stuck anymore. Rocco says, Sam unstuck them, and Dante says, they did it together, but Sam made it possible.  

Lucas says he won’t quit, and Portia says, she’s in AFib. Lucas tells Sam not to quit on him now.

Alexis asks a nurse if she can tell her what’s going on. She’s Sam’s mother. The nurse says, her medical team is doing what they can, and they’ll update Alexis as soon as they can. She leaves, and Alexis tells Jason that she doesn’t understand.  She was just with Sam. Dante had proposed, and Sam showed her the ring. They were happy and laughing. She doesn’t know what happened.

Lucas keeps trying and tells Portia to resume compression. Portia keeps trying, but her face says, it’s futile.  

Alexis tells Jason, Sam was fine one second – happy about her future – and the next, her face went completely white, and she couldn’t breathe. She was confused and Alexis didn’t know what to do. She doesn’t understand. She’s scared

Dante says, Sam, Danny, and Scout were a package deal, and Rocco says, it took some getting used to. Danny is mostly a pain. Dante says, siblings are pains, but we love them, and Rocco says, most of the time, they’re great. Dante says, family is great. And Sam is the one who gave them their family again.

Sam flatlines, and Portia says, it’s time. Lucas says, no. She’s still here. Go again. The paddles… I said, charge. Portia keeps up the chest compression and looks at Elizabeth.

Alexis says she called Sam’s name, but she didn’t answer. Alarms went off and she was pushed out while they rushed in. Her girl is in there.

Scout wonders where Jason is. It’s almost time for trick-or-treating. Danny says he’ll take her. He knows the houses where the best candy is. She says, mom loves Halloween candy… Grandma looked weird. He says, not really, but Scout says, she did to her. He says, she’s just tired. She spent the entire night at the hospital. She asks if he thinks mom will have a scar, and he says, probably. A scar is cool. She says, mom is cool. She’s a hero. He says, she is.

Portia says, the patient is still in asystole, but Lucas says he can do this. Portia says, she’s been in asystole for 30 minutes. She’s gone. Lucas gathers himself and says, time of death, 5:48 pm. The monitor is shut off.

Tomorrow, Elizabeth tells Jason, do it for Sam; Drew asks Cody if they have a deal; Michael asks Willow if there’s anything else; and Sasha says, no one has to know about this.

⚖️ There Is No Defense…

Seriously? There’s a big difference between nobody’s perfect and being a total creeper.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/cameron-mathison-defends-drews-contentious-gh-love-triangle

🧂 Worth Their Salt…

The almost fistfight between Whitney and Lisa’s husbands was shut down before it got to the RHONJ Battle of the Joes level. While I give kudos to Justin for defending his wife, dumping a full bottle of Lisa’s tequila down the drain when he got home was a little juvenile. For one thing, Lisa wasn’t there, so the point is moot. All he did was create the hassle of getting more tequila. I’d say good riddance to it, but apparently, they like it. Justin and John met later and right away John asked if they should order appetizers. Now that’s the way to squash beef. Eat some smashed potatoes with it.

I like Bronwyn more every episode. One of the fun things she likes to do is pick her husband up from the airport wearing different costumes. Get that sexy nurse out of your head, because I mean things like sharks and unicorns. And mushrooms. More like mascot costumes. He acted longsuffering about it, but he seems to be a good sport, and I can see why she married him.

Heather went to Bronwyn’s fantabulous house, where Bronwyn met her at the door wearing fantabulous earrings. An errant dog poop found inside prompted Heather to say in her interview that she had to watch her step. Who among us owners of little dogs has not found a wayward poopie? And Bronwyn’s house is so massive, it’s a wonder she can find her own bathroom. Bronwyn was honest in saying she’d invited Heather because she was planning a group trip and didn’t know where their friendship was at. As usual, Heather took offense and denied any responsibility in their rift. IMO, Heather lost any shred of authenticity along with the weight. In Angie’s interview, she’d said she’d known Heather since they were kids. Heather had always wanted to sit at the cool kids’ table, still did, and would do anything to sit there. I’ve never heard a more accurate description.

😈 Still Not As Scary As Sandoval…

Because she doesn’t have enough gigs.

👠 Trick Or Tango…

Even DWTS gets into the Halloween act.

🎃 After the Tricks and Treats…

I’ll be shooting for Apocalypse Z this weekend.

FYI, The Substance is in theaters, but according to this article, will be streaming on Halloween.

A straight up guide.

https://deadline.com/feature/where-to-watch-halloween-movies-tv-streaming-guide-1236157656/

More family friendly fare… mostly.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/30/entertainment/halloween-movies-2024/index.html

I dunno if I’d consider these under the radar, but there are some good ones here.

https://www.ksl.com/article/51164945/10-under-the-radar-halloween-movies

For the NASA nerd in you.

https://www.space.com/halloween-2024-cosmic-monsters-horror-movies

Choices from across the pond.

https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/best-new-horror-movies-to-watch-this-halloween/

🐶 Ready For Treats…

Never enough photos of pets in costumes. Especially when money is no option.

https://www.tmz.com/2024/10/30/celebrity-pets-all-dressed-up-for-halloween/

👻 In the Midnight Hour…

Needing to sleep like the undead before facing the goblin horde on All Hallows’ Eve. But join me tomorrow for soap, what the witches are brewing in the OC, and more Halloween. Until then, stay safe; stay never blowing out a Jack-o’-lantern before midnight; and stay not going dressed as someone who made a big mistake last night on Halloween.

November 19, 2023 – Part 2 – The Final Fear & Better

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

Fear the Walking Dead

Part 2 – The Road Ahead

Madison flashes back to Alicia as she looks for Tracy in the woods. She calls to Tracy and says, she doesn’t have to be afraid. Tracy hides in a hollow log, looking at her medal, and crying silently. Zombies start to come into view. Dwight pops out of the woods and kills one, and Tracy scootches further back into the log. June asks if they found Tracy, and Sherry says, not yet, but they found Troy’s righthand guy. He’s hurt bad, but he’ll make it. Daniel asks why they’re helping Russell, and Dwight says, the herd dispersed, and they want to keep him close to find out where they went. Daniel wants to get a car and get as far away as possible, but Luciana says, it’s over. Daniel says, not as long as the girl is out there. Troy still has his followers and they’re fanatics. They hurry Russell into the car, and Daniel asks Luciana how far the refinery is. She says, about a day’s drive, and he tells her get the car and he’ll get some supplies, and they leave. Tracy comes out, but so do a couple of wayward zombies. She knocks one down, but her pokey stick gets stuck in another, and it brings her down. She kicks at it, and Madison kills it. She says, Tracy is going to get herself killed, but Tracy says she doesn’t care. Madison killed her dad. Madison asks if she heard her mom was Madison’s daughter, but Tracy says, that’s not true. Her mom Serena died. Madison asks why Tracy’s father would tell her what he did, but Tracy says she doesn’t know. Madison insists Tracy come with her. It’s not safe; there are dead everywhere. Tracy says she’s not safe with Madison, but Madison says she did what she had to. She sees Tracy’s ankle is hurt. She says, what’s left of the herd is still out there, and she’s all Tracy’s got. She coughs and thinks of Alicia. Tracy asks where Madison is taking her, and Madison says, to find Tracy’s mother and her daughter, so her daughter can be put to rest. Tracy’s father was right about one thing. Pretending the world is different than it is gets people killed. The sooner Tracy figures that out, the better. It’s how she’ll survive. Madison figured it out too late to save her own kids and she’s not making the same mistake with Tracy.

Aww, the opening credits show everyone.

Luciana gases up a car and hotwires it. She radios Daniel to meet her, and Madison appears holding a gun on Luciana. Madison tells her, don’t say anything, and turn off the walkie. She asks if Luciana’s road network doesn’t include Fort Worth. They need Luciana to show them the way. Madison calls to Tracy, and Luciana says, she looks hurt. She asks why Madison is doing it this way, and Madison says she can’t run the risk of being taken back to the island and living the way Victor wants them to, thinking the world is different than it is. That will get them killed. Troy is out of the picture, so fix the car so they can get out. Madison takes some oxygen and remembers Alicia and Nick. Luciana says, maybe if Madison puts Alicia to rest it will help her see beyond her anger and show her there’s something more to fight for. She tells Madison that she needs to get a new fuel pump, and Madison makes her leave the walkie.

Madison tapes Tracy’s ankle, and Tracy says, pretending they’re family won’t change what Madison did. Madison says she knows it seems unforgiveable, but this way, Tracy will live long enough to understand why she did it. Tracy gives Madison the medal and tells Madison that her dad said he got it from her mom. If what he said is true, it belonged to Alicia. Madison asks, why give it to her? and Tracy says, it doesn’t work. It didn’t keep her dad safe. Madison says, apparently, it didn’t keep Alicia safe either, and Tracy grabs Madison’s gun, saying, back away. Madison says she’s not leaving Tracy, and takes the gun from her. She takes out the magazine and says, it’s not loaded. Does Tracy think she’d risk pointing it at her daughter’s kid? She puts the medal in the empty magazine and then into the breast pocket of her jacket, and Tracy asks why she’s keeping it. They both know it doesn’t work. Madison says, it’s all she has left of her daughter, besides Tracy. She can get a new chain for it. Victor shows up, and asks what they’re doing here. Madison says, Luciana told them? but Luciana says she gave Madison her walkie. Victor says he needs to take them back to PADRE, so Tracy can process what happened, and to help Madison process what Troy told her. Madison says, they can’t go back, but Victor says, it’s the safest place. Madison says, building what she and Alicia wanted will just get Tracy killed, but he asks what she’s talking about. She says, Alicia gave Troy a second chance, and he killed her and took her kid for it. Victor says he knows things seem scary, but Tracy can trust him, and holds out his hand. Madison shoots in the air and says, stay away. The shots alert the zombies heading their way, and they fight the zombies off. Daniel says he’s not letting Madison take Luciana away from him, and Madison says, nobody’s going to get hurt if they just let her and Tracy go. They’ll go on foot if they have to. The zombies are getting plentiful, but Daniel says, they don’t have enough bullets, and Victor suggests they get inside. They all go in the auto shop.

Zombies scrabble at the windows, and Madison asks if there’s another way out, but Luciana says, the back wall caved in. Victor says he’s getting help and radios Frank. He tells Frank that they’re pinned in an auto shop and need help, but Frank says, they’ve got their own problems with the dead. On the island, a barge full of zombies is headed for the dock. Dwight says, what the hell is this? and Russell says, they should have done more than disperse the herd. If Troy taught them one thing, it was how to herd the dead. They’re going to overrun this place, and there’s not a damn thing they can do. June says, they had a truce, but Russell says, then they killed Troy. Dwight grabs Russell and says, stop them, and Russell laughs and says, he can’t. Zombies begin to tumble into the water, and Dwight says, get everyone inside and close the gates now! The rain starts to pour, and the zombies start coming through the water and onto the shore. It’s pretty creepy looking.

Daniel says, there’s not enough firepower. They’ll wait them out. They’ll tire eventually. Victor says, it’s time they don’t have, and calls Frank. Frank asks if Victor is okay, and Victor says, they’re safe for now. What about Frank? Klaus tells Frank that they’re surrounded by zombies, but the walls are holding. He asks if Tracy is there, and Victor says, she is, why? Sherry sits Russell by the radio and Frank says, Troy’s man wants to talk to her. He says if they hand over Tracy, his men will draw the zombies away. Victor puts Tracy on, and Tracy asks if it’s really Russell. Russell says, it is. He promised Troy that he’d take care of her. Madison says, Troy asked her, and Russell says, after she gutted him. He wasn’t in his right mind. Madison says, Tracy is all she has left, but Russell says, that’s not necessarily true, and she asks what that means. Troy stabbed Alicia and left her for dead, but he didn’t see her die. Madison says, Troy told her that Alicia turned, but Russell says, that’s because it’s what he told Troy. Troy cut her up pretty good, but Alicia got him too. She nearly drove her arm clean through his stomach. Like mother, like daughter. He limped home with it still in his belly; that’s how he got her arm. He sent his men back to make sure the job was done, and they found a blood-soaked mattress, a bloody knife, and bloody footprints heading out the door. Victor says, that doesn’t mean she’s alive, and Madison says, he could be lying to get what he wants. Why did Russell tell Troy that she was dead? Russell says, Troy wasn’t in a forgiving mood. He told Troy what he wanted to hear. Give them Tracy, and she’ll find her daughter. Luciana tells Madison not to fall for it, but Madison tells Russell that she can’t do that. If Alicia is out there, she deserves to be with her daughter. Alicia wouldn’t want her turning Tracy over. Russell says he thought she might say that, so his men will take the island, but Dwight says, the dead can’t get in here. Russell says, they don’t have to get in. They just have to get the living out. There are some bomb blasts, and Victor says, he needs to get to the island. He’s doing it with or without them. He opens the door to the waiting zombies, and everyone scrambles. There’s slicing and dicing and whacking zombies in the head.  

Dwight asks how Russell blew off the grenades, and Russell says, they had launchers for a while, and waited for the right time to let them rip. Dwight knocks him down, and June says, they can’t stay much longer. Daniel was right; they should have left Russell to die. Dove brings June the set of pistols that belonged to John and asks what they are. June says, a little help from the past, and Dwight says, they have to leave. They’ll go through the woods. He tells Dove to take the prefects and fire as many flares as they can off the far walls. It will thin the herds and they can create their own path. Only kill zombies if they have to, and don’t stop until they get to the dock. They’re bringing Russell with them. Are they ready? Sherry says, for Finch, and Dwight says, open ‘em. Russell asks if they’re insane. They’ll be eaten alive. Dwight says, that’s why Russell is here, and uses him as a buffer in the front. Ha-ha-ha!

At the auto shop, Victor says, that’s the last of them. They have to get to the island now. Daniel says that’s the last time Victor and Madison put his family in danger to save theirs, but Victor says, Daniel would do the same thing if Luciana was on the island. Daniel says, Victor is pursuing this self-serving crusade to make himself feel better about the rotten things he’s done, and Victor says, the parts of him that Daniel hates are the things he doesn’t like about himself. Daniel asks if he’s a psychiatrist now. Every person he ever cared for, he lost because of Madison and Victor. Madison says, they’ve all lost people, and Daniel says he’s sorry he let Madison’s husband in his barbershop back in Los Angeles. He’s had bad luck since. She says she’s sorry she let Daniel into her home, and Victor says he’s sorry he let Daniel on his boat. Luciana says, they can make it to the refinery before sunrise, and Daniel says, wherever Alicia is, she’s better off without Madison. Victor says, that’s enough, and Luciana tells Madison that the car should get her where she wants to go. She hopes Madison can find peace. Daniel suggests Tracy run as far as she can from these people; Madison is losing her mind. And Victor is a selfish, pathological liar, and would have gotten them killed like every person he’s cared for. Victor radios Frank, and Frank says, there are too many. They can’t get to the dock. They’re pushing them back to the center, pushing at the fence. Victor asks why they’re not inside the fort, and Frank says, they’re fighting. They’ve got their hands full and the zombies are going to breach the net. Victor says, they need to move to the docks, but Madison says she’s not going. She has to find Alicia. Victor says, they will, after they save the island. She says, Tracy is in no shape to fight, and if she goes, she might not come back. Victor says he needs his friend to try and save his family, and she says, he is her friend, but she can’t. He doesn’t understand. She’s been seeing Alicia, Nick too. It’s like a dream, just their faces, before things went bad, back in L.A. If she has a chance to find Alicia, she has to try. Start over. Victor asks if she doesn’t think he wants that. He has his family dream; she’ll have hers too. Madison says, then he understands why she has to look for Alicia. She can’t go further with him. He says, so this is it. He came to save Tracy, to save Madison, so he could give her chance to get things right. Now Frank and Klaus might die because of it. He guesses Madison is teaching Tracy what she wants her to learn. This is how you survive. If she finds Alicia, tell her that he tried.

Tracy and Madison are in the car, and Madison looks at a map. Tracy says, if Madison is so sure the world is sh*t, why was it so important for Alicia to believe differently? Madison says she doesn’t know. She thinks parents just try to give their kids the things they didn’t have. Tracy asks if Madison had nothing to believe in when she was a kid, and Madison says, her daddy used to drink. When he drank, he hurt her mama. He hit her. He would apologize and claim he’d stop drinking, but he never did. She watched it happen for a long time, when she was around Tracy’s age. One day it went too far. She saw too much, like all those moments built up. She knew he was going to kill her mama eventually and she wanted it to stop. She wanted it to stop so bad, she shot him. Tracy puts her hand on Madison’s and says, she did it to protect her mom. She didn’t want Alicia to have to do anything like that. Madison says she thought she could build a place where Alicia wouldn’t have to, where she and Madison’s son could feel safe. But all she ever did was put them in danger. Tracy says, so Madison gets it. Why she has to do this. She shoots Madison in the side, and Madison falls out of the car. She laughs, and says, Tracy finally understands this is what happens when you try to build something better. You end up giving people hope and putting them in danger and getting them killed. Find Alicia and make sure she understands too. Tracy says, Alicia’s not her mom. She’s done listening to Madison. She runs away.

Victor and the others run to the island, and Victor radios for help. Luciana and Daniel hear him, but Luciana says, they can’t get there in time. They’ll have to fight on their own. Victor says, it can’t end like this. Nooo!

On the island, the dead are being burned in funeral pyres. Troy is now a zombie and stuck in a tree. Tracy sees him, and says she’s been looking for him all night. She shot Madison; she had to. She thinks everyone died on the island. She loves him. She aims the gun and shoots.

Tracy buries Troy, and says, he was all she had left. She looks at the gun, when Victor comes along. He tells her to put the gun down, but she says, leave her alone. He says, if that’s what she wants, but first he’d like to help clean her up, and there’s something he needs to tell her. Zombies are heading their way, and Victor picks up the gun and holds out his hand. He says he knows a place that’s safe.

Tracy asks what Victor wants. Why is he still here? He says, because she still has something left to fight for. She just doesn’t know it yet. She asks how he can say that. How is he even alive? He says, Madison saved him. She saved all of them. He promised he’d find Tracy and tell her what Madison did. Tracy says, no, no, no. She shot Madison. She killed her. We see Madison after Tracy shot her. She gasps and gets up. Victor says, she thought she was dying too. She thought it was all over. Tracy asks, what happened? Madison takes the magazine out of her pocket, and Victor says, something stopped the bullet, the St. Christopher’s medallion, Alicia’s medallion. Tracy says she doesn’t understand, and Victor says, after Tracy shot her and Madison realized Tracy wanted everything to end, she knew she was wrong. She knew she had to do something big, something monumental, if there was any hope in restoring Tracy’s faith in what’s worth fighting for. We see the fighting on the island and Dwight yelling, move! Victor says, for the people they love, for the people they have, for the things that are bigger than all of them. We see June tending wounds, and Victor says, for the things they’d give their up lives to protect. Tracy says, no way she saved them all with that many dead, but he says she did. The same way she did before. Like a repeat of the stadium. We see Madison drawing the zombies’ attention with a flare, and leading them away, and Victor says, she led the dead into PADRE’s walls so they could escape to the docks and live. Madison breaks open fire extinguishers, and Tracy asks why she did that for them, and he says, it wasn’t just for them. It was for her too, so she would know. She says, know what? and Victor says, that her dad and Madison were right. They knew fighting for something better could get you killed, but it also does something that just fighting to survive can’t. It can let you live forever. Madison sets fire to the horde and blows up everything. Tracy says she’s got no one left, but Victor says, she has him and all the others. Tracy says, Madison died for her and so did her father. She can’t. She pushes Victor and takes the gun. She says she can’t be here, and runs out into the dark woods.

Tracy picks a flower among the rubble and brings it to a sleeping Madison. She takes out the medal and tells Madison that she found a chain in the supplies. She wishes it still worked. She puts it in Madison’s hand, and Madison stirs. Tracy takes out the gun, and Madison wheezes, then coughs. She asks, where is she? and Tracy says, she’s awake. She’s thought Madison was going die and had to drag her up here on a stretcher. She got antibiotics. She thought Madison’s lungs were infected. Her dad trained her in all fields of medicine. Madison says, the fort collapsed, and Tracy says, it took her half a day to dig Madison out. If she hadn’t had this one mask, Madison would have suffocated. Madison sits up, and says, Tracy came back. Tracy says, Madison is the only family she has left. Victor told her what she did. Madison says she’s sorry about Tracy’s dad, and Tracy says she knows. She’s sorry she shot Madison. Madison says she doesn’t think she gave Tracy much choice and sits up. She did good. She did real good. A woman asks if anyone is there, and Tracy grabs the gun, telling her, stop. No closer. The woman says she’s not here to hurt anyone, and Tracy says, put your hands up and move slowly, but the woman says, she can put the gun down. She’s just here to bury her… We see it’s Alicia and she says, mom? They hug and cry.

Madison says she can’t believe it’s real, but Alicia promises it is. She asks if Madison is okay, and Madison says she will be. Meowing comes from Alicia’s duffel bag, and Tracy runs over, opening the bag and petting… Skidmark! I nearly burst into tears. I forgot all about him. Alicia says, it’s a very old friend she came across searching a warehouse for supplies. She’s trying to return him to his rightful owner. Madison asks how she found them, and Alicia says, a story woman about a woman who sacrificed herself here. The person who told her said her name was Madison. It didn’t make sense, and she didn’t know how Madison could possibly be alive, but she had to be sure. She saw the fort over there. How is Madison still here? Madison says, Alicia’s daughter came back and saved her, and Alicia asks what she’s talking about. Madison says, Tracy, the child Troy took, but Alicia says she never had a kid. Tracy says, Alicia’s not her mom? and Alicia says, no, but she knew Tracy’s mom when Tracy was a baby. Her name was Serena. She was a pretty amazing woman. Madison wonders why Troy lied; she doesn’t understand. Tracy says, Troy knew how hard Madison fought for her own kids and gave Madison a reason to for her. Madison asks who Alicia heard the story from.

On a bridge overlooking a highway, Alicia says she’d been picking up outside chatter on the road. She would have looked for Madison if she’d known she was alive. Madison says she would have looked for Alicia too; she would have never stopped looking. Alicia says, after Troy attacked her and she got back on her feet, she went to find the people she’d been saying with, and she saw something on the road; women dressed like her, using the weapons she was using, doing the things she was doing, helping people. Madison says she met some of them, and Alicia says, it was like the story of what she’d done was doing more good than she could do on her own. So she went somewhere else and used a different name so Troy couldn’t find her. If she hadn’t, maybe they’d have found each other. Madison says she made the right choice. She gave people something to believe in. Tracy runs over with binoculars, and they duck down. They see several trucks coming down the road, and Alicia says, the people who told her what Madison did had one of those containers. We see the trucks said PADRE, but now the P is changed to an M, and they say MADRE. Madison wonders if it’s because of her, and Alicia says, they don’t even know she’s alive.

The four trucks meet at a crossroads. Luciana asks if everyone has a mask and knows where to refuel, and June says, yes. Dove asks what direction June is going in, and June says, there’s a cabin in Texas she needs to visit, someone she hasn’t seen in a while. Dove asks if she wants company, and June says, it’s far, but Dove says it will give June time to teach her medicine. What June did for her when she was shot, she wants to learn to do the same for other people. June says, then she’s going to the right place. The cabin belonged to her husband. It’s where she met him. Where he taught her to shoot and survive and to live again. If he can do that for her there, maybe she can do the same for… Odessa. Ada says, the repeater stations will allow them to stay in touch, and Dwight says, they’ll be hearing from him. He’s going to be looking for the parents who are still out there. Sherry says, they found each other against all odds, they’d like to do the same for the kids. Odessa asks, after they find them, what then? and Sherry says, they’ll figure it out. Everyone disperses into their vehicles, and Sherry asks what Dwight is thinking. He says he’s thinking about the Sanctuary. They could take everybody there. She asks, why go back there? and he says, they know it’s defensible, and the streets are still intact. She says she lost him to that place before. She can’t lose him again. He says, she’s not going to. They’re a family. Maybe they can take the place and make it worthy of its name. Make Finch proud. Sherry nods, and says, okay. Let’s try. He says he loves her; she says she loves him too, and they kiss.

Daniel says he was thinking about what he told Victor, and he was wrong… in some parts. Victor did save him and his family when the world fell apart. Thanks for the Abigail. Victor says, don’t thank him for something people should do for one another. Daniel caught him on a good day. Daniel says, maybe Victor does remind him of the worst parts of himself. He doesn’t know if people like them can act differently. Maybe that’s why he has a problem with Victor. But for the sake of the others and their own sakes, he guesses they’ve got to try and change. Victor thinks he has, but whether Daniel has is up to him. In German, Daniel says, I’m tired of war. All the best. He puts his hand on Victor’s shoulder and moves on. Victor hugs Luciana and tells her to take good care of herself. She says, him too. Gracias. He kisses her hands, and goes to the truck. Daniel hears a cat, and Skidmark comes out from under the truck. He asks, where did you come from? and laughs, picking the cat up and hugging him.

Victor sees a freshly picked flower in the truck and asks if Klaus put this in here. Klaus says, no. Why? Victor says, nothing, and they get in. Frank says, he did all he could. If Tracy wants to be found, she will. They’ll comb the area a few more times. He gets in, and Victor looks out the window. He sees Madison, Alicia, and Tracy walking away through a yard, and Frank asks what he’s looking at. Victor says, nothing, and starts the truck. He asks, where to? and Klaus puts his finger randomly on the map. Victor says, onward. I wonder if Victor will tell them one day.

Madison and Alicia lean against the truck, and Tracy asks if Madison is sure she’s okay with this. Madison says, they don’t need her. They’re like the people who step in for Alicia. They’ll do better if they think she’s gone. Before she gives them a reason to stop believing. Alicia asks, where to? and Madison says she’s been having visions of Alicia and Nick, before everything went bad. Alicia asks, where? and Madison says, Los Angeles. Alicia says, they saw it get bombed, but Madison says, that was a long time ago. It’s probably still pretty rough there, and people could use their help. She puts her hand on the cannister holding Nick’s ashes and remembers the old days. She says, it will never be what it was, but that doesn’t mean they can’t start over. Alicia says, let’s go, and Madison asks if Tracy is in. Tracy says, yeah, let’s go, and they get in the truck.  

The song, Mama Tried plays as they drive away.  

There are thank yous for the cast to the fans. Thank You #WalkingDeadFamily.

🌊 See you later for soap and awful people on Deck.

November 19, 2023 – First Part of Fear Finale & Dog

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What I Watched Today

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

Disclaimer… or something. To do this amazing but very, very long finale justice in editing, I give you Part 1 right now and will post Part 2 tomorrow. Or later today. Or… I’m tired.

Fear the Walking Dead

Part 1 – Fighting Like You

Mississippi Queen plays, and we see a fire being set and bright lights coming on. The zombie horde is led out of the woods by Troy and company. He radios Russell who says, they’re in formation. He’ll see Troy at the rendezvous. Tracy asks how they’ll get to PADRE, since it’s an island. They can’t walk the zombies in. Troy asks, who said they were walking? Russell came through with the perfect way to get them there. They’ll finally have a home. Tracy says, her mom pulled loose, and zombie Serena scrabbles at the back window of the truck. Troy says, she won’t hurt them. She’s going to be the one to make Madison pay for everything she’s done. He asks Tracy, what’s wrong? and Tracy asks why her mom has to kill Madison. Troy says, Alicia’s mother put the thinking into people’s heads that got them killed, and they can’t let that happen to anyone else. Tracy says, Victor told her the St. Christpher medal belonged to Alicia, but Troy asks if she knows how many St. Christopher medals are out there. He was mistaken. Her mother gave it to him when she died and made him promise to give it to her and keep her safe. That’s what he’s been doing ever since. Tracy yells, look out! and the truck flips over an embankment.  

Tracy tells Troy, wake up, and he opens his eyes. She says, he’s been out for hours, and he asks, what happened? She says, they went over an embankment. She thinks he ran over a trap. Troy has been impaled with a tree branch, which is sticking out of his upper chest, and he says he’s pinned to the seat. He asks, where’s the gun? and she says, he lost it when they crashed. She can’t find it. He says, they have to catch up with Russell, and tries pulling the branch out, but he can’t. He says, Tracy has to go meet Russell. He’ll give her the coordinates. But she says she’s not leaving him. He says she has to. It’s everything they’ve fought for. If she doesn’t make it to PADRE, everything they’ve done won’t mean anything. Tracy says she’s going to find help. She doesn’t want to live there if she’s not with him. She gives him the medal to keep him safe like, and says she’ll come back for him. Then they’ll make PADRE their home together. She runs off, zigzagging through the zombies headed for the truck.  

A zombie is squashed by the MRAP tank, and Madison gets out. Victor radios, as Madison realizes the zombie horde is gone. He asks where she is, and she says she can’t help him. Enough people died because of her and she can’t put the rest at risk. He says, it’s just him and his newly found friends. She says she has the tank, ammo, and guns, and doesn’t need help. Unlike him, she has no one to disappoint. He should build PADRE into what Alicia wanted. Victor says, she thinks it’s one thing, then can’t stop. He learned the hard way at the Tower. There was always one more thing he had to do to keep it safe. Before he knew it, he was the thing people needed protection from. There’s another way. Madison opens the back door to the tank, and sees Tracy. She asks what Tracy is doing here. Where’s Troy? Tracy says, he’s hurt, and Madison says, bullsh*t, but Tracy says, he crashed the truck. Madison asks, why Russell didn’t help, and Tracy says, he couldn’t. He’s leading the rest of the herd. Madison asks, where? but Tracy says she doesn’t know. Madison asks, who does know? and Tracy says, her dad is going to die if she doesn’t help him. Madison asks why she’s here, and Tracy says she thought she could use the radio. Madison asks where the truck is, and Tracy hesitates, but Madison says, Tracy can’t use her radio and she’s running out of options. Tracy says, it’s down an embankment, about a mile east of here. Madison sits her down, and zip ties her wrist to the tank. She radios Victor and says, change of plans. She’s leaving the MRAP. Victor asks, where she’s going, and she says, to kill Troy. Tracy says, no! What happened to, no one’s gone until they’re gone? She told Victor to build what Alicia wanted. If Madison gave Victor a second chance, why not her dad? Madison says, he doesn’t deserve one, and Tracy says, that’s not what Alicia believed. Help her dad the way Alicia helped her. She gestures toward Alicia’s mechanical arm, displayed in the tank, and Madison leaves.  

Russell radios Troy and says he’s picking up stragglers. How is Troy in the same place? Troy says, by the looks of it, he’s not going anywhere. Promise him something. Russell says, anything, and Troy tells him whatever happens, find Tracy and make sure she gets there. Russell promises she’ll finally have a home. The zombies coming closer to Troy are whacked in the head, as Russel says, they’ll take the island. Madison says, no, they won’t, and neither will Troy. He pulls the branch out of the seat, but not his chest, and he launches himself at Madison. They tumble down, and he pushes her toward zombie Serena. Madison twists the stick, pulls it out, and shoves it in zombie Serena’s head. Troy says, she had no right. Madison picks up the hammer, and says she’ll bury him next to her, and he says, she thinks killing him will help build the island. She says, he killed her daughter. She has to do what she has to, to make sure Alicia’s memory didn’t die with her. People like them are no longer in this world, but Troy says, she can’t kill him. She wants to stop the herd, and he’s the only person who knows where they’re going. She says, her people will figure it out, but he says, not in time. She needs to do something for him. He needs to see his daughter. He needs to tell her something. Madison brings out the radio, and says, tell her now, but he says he needs to see her. She says, nice try, a-hole, and he says, let him bury his wife. Bring him to his daughter, and he’ll take her to Russell. She asks what he has to tell Tracy that’s so important, and he says, it just is. She asks how she knows he’ll hold up his end of the deal, and he says, she doesn’t. Just like he doesn’t know she won’t kill him. She says, okay. She takes him to Tracy, who asks, what happened to him? He says he was doing what it takes to protect PADRE and get to see his daughter one more time. Madison radios Victor and says she’s coming back. She’s bringing Troy and he’s going to lead them to the herd. And she’s bringing Tracy. She tells Troy, hold still, and pulls out the stick. He falls over.

Tracy watches one of Alicia’s video tapes, when Victor opens the tank. He asks what she’s doing here, and she says, waiting for her father. He agreed to tell them where the herd is heading. Victor says, whether he’s lying or not remains to be seen. Why would her father help when PADRE is everything to him? Why would he give it up? He supposes they’ll find out. Tracy says, he’s going to kill Madison when he gets what he wants. She thinks he doesn’t deserve a second chance. One of the Alicia clones asks, how many tapes has Tracy seen? If she watches more, she’ll see that Madison gave a lot of people second chances, whether they deserved them or not. Tracy says, like who? and Victor tells her that Madison never gave up on him, but Tracy says, Madison’s not her anymore. Madison radios Victor and says, they’ll be there shortly. Troy buries Serena, and she tells him, it must be nice to bury the person you love. He says, Alicia can rot on her feet forever, and she asks if he wants her to put the branch back in. Keep talking. He says, his wife is dead because of her, and she asks, why? Troy says, it’s not important, and Madison says, it was important enough for him to kill her daughter over it, and he says, Serena was pregnant, and they were still looking for a place live since Mexico. She got bit. Madison says, and that’s Alicia’s fault? but Troy says, nope. Alicia’s the one who saved her. Madison asks, how? and he says he put out an SOS on the radio. Alicia was the last person he thought would respond, but she did. Madison says, she helped him? and he says, that surprises her, especially after how they parted ways in Brokejaw. Serena was bitten on the arm like Alicia, so she knew where to cut and how to do it… Then, when Serena was out of the woods, Alicia got back in the MRAP and left to help more people. Madison says she’s having a hard time seeing how this led to him killing Alicia, and he says, Serena changed after that; Alicia changed her. She wanted to be just like Alicia. Madison asks if she was, and he says, yeah. She tried to help as many as she could. One day, they got a call, and SOS on the radio. A guy said he needed help, and when Serena showed up, he shot her and robbed her. He took everything she owned and left her for dead. When Troy went looking for her, he found her holed up in a strip mall, but it was too late to save her; she’d lost too much blood. He held while she died. He listened to her weep about how she’d never watch their daughter grow up. She allowed herself to get wrapped up in Alicia’s bullsh*t, and she made him promise to never let Tracy hurt the way she did. So he never let his daughter believe the same bullsh*t Alicia put in Serena’s head. Madison says, that’s why he killed Alicia? and he says, yep. He made a promise. An errant zombie tumbles down the hill toward them and Troy shoves Madison, who gets tangled with it. He runs, but trips on a wire and falls into a trap. Madison extracts herself and goes over to the pit. She says, today is not his day, and Crane comes up behind her. He says, it’s not hers either, and hits her in the back of the head.

Madison wakes up on a barge, tied to Troy. Crane says, welcome back. Does she like his new digs? It doesn’t measure up to what they have in PADRE, but it was handy to get supplies to the cargo ship when he ran out of gas. Troy asks, who the hell is he and what does he know about PADRE? Crane says, he is PADRE. Or he was. Him and his sister. Lark got his sister killed. Madison says, she got herself killed, and Crane says, and Blue Jay spared him. Madison asks what he wants, and he says he’s looking for a way to get paid back. Today he found it. He heard them on the radio, and he’s prepared to give Troy what he wants. Troy asks, what’s the catch? and Crane says, he can start by telling his friend to call off the dogs, and Troy laughs. He asks why he’d do that, and Crane says, he’ll let Troy and his daughter live in PADRE. Madison says, he’s lying, but Crane says, Troy has more of a chance with him than Madison. Do they have a deal? He holds out the radio, and Madison yells to Victor that they’re on a barge near the docks, but Crane knocks her in the face. She says she should have killed him when she had the chance, and Crane says, this is what happens when you show mercy. She says she was trying to save his people from him and his sister, and Crane says, change of plans. Troy is going to tell his friends to call off their army in person and take him to the herd. If either one of them tries anything, he’ll kill them both. He tells his men to get the truck ready.

They drive, and Victor comes on the radio, saying, they’re at the barge… Crane turns off the radio and asks, what changed? Madison risked her life to reunite Wren and Nightingale. Now she’s using a father against his daughter. What happened to, family is worth fighting for? She says, it still is. She’s just fighting his way. Zombie blood hits the windshield, and Daniel, Luci, et al come out. Crane tries to overpower them, but zombies start coming. Luci calls to Madison, who shoots at Crane’s guys, and a couple of zombies get Crane down.

Luciana leads them into a nearby building, and Madison tries to radio Victor, but Troy says, he can’t hear. They have to get to higher ground. Daniel says, he’s not going anywhere, and Luciana says, they’re here for a reason. To do to him what he did to them at her truck stop. Daniel says, and Ofelia and Charlie and anyone else he hurt. Madison says, he can’t be the only one who knows where the herd is, and Luciana says, they can find it without Troy. Madison says she needs to find the MRAP and meet Victor on the road. Daniel is about to cut the bond tying Troy to Madison, but Madison stops him. She says, they can’t have him getting away when this is over. She has to make sure he doesn’t hurt anyone else. Daniel says, if she doesn’t, he will, and he and Luciana leave.

Troy and Madison walk, and Troy tells Madison that Crane isn’t going to take the herd. He sent Crane in the wrong direction. Madison asks, why? and he says he’s dealing with her, not them. Madison says, she’d kill him just as quick, but he says he doesn’t think so. He knows her, or maybe he knows what it is to believe in something so hard, you can’t let it go. They get to a footbridge that’s basically rope and boards, hanging over a lagoon where zombies are lurking. Troy wants to cross, but Madison says, something is pulling them down, probably quicksand. If the bridge breaks, they’re both dead. A shot fires, and Crane says he found them. They run to the bridge, which looks pretty shaky, and they start to go across. It breaks, and the zombies look up, ready for an easy lunch. Crane takes the trusty ax he just happens to have, and cuts one of the ropes. Madison and Troy fall in.

Crane tells Madison that he thought she needed to be paid back after what she did to his sister. It’s what she deserves. Troy asks what he’s talking about, and Crane says, she let Shrike get bit over and over. Her and Nightingale let it happen. Troy says he wants to get his daughter, and Crane says, that’s why the right people need to protect them from themselves, and especially from the kids. Why does Madison think they saved her at the stadium? They heard her on the radio; no one is gone til they’re gone. They found her in the water truck, gasping for air, surrounded by zombies. They didn’t hesitate to pull er out. If she was willing to die for them, they knew they could get her to do just about anything. She thought her beliefs would save her kids, but in the end, it’s what got them killed. Madison yells, come on! to the zombies toddling around in the woods, and Crane’s so busy being full of himself, they get him down and he’s out. Troy says he’s sorry, but Madison says, that’s not going to get them out. Troy says, they’re not that different, but she says she’s nothing like him. He says, the northwest corner is where he was leading them, to the swamp. He was hoping the current would sweep them to the island. She asks why he’s telling her this. Maybe she doesn’t deserve a second chance. Troy says, she does, but not if they’re not found in time. He didn’t want it to end like this. Madison says, the truth is, PADRE is better off without people like them, and they duck underwater.

Victor tells Madison, stay with them, and she coughs up water. She says, they found them and saved her, but he says, Daniel and Luciana found them. Luciana says, they’re not the ones who saved her. Tracy did. Troy says she grabbed a root and pulled them out. They used Crane’s ax to snap the cuffs. Troy says he wasn’t telling Madison the truth about what Serena said, that she regretted following Alicia. After Alicia helped Serena, Alicia gave Serena the medal and said it would bring them luck. Tracy says, he told her… He says, he knows: he lied. Serena made him promise to let Alicia believe she was alive, so she’d always know what she was fighting for. He broke that promise. Daniel says, he’s a liar, and Luciana asks why they should believe him. Troy says, he knew what it was to believe hard in something and not want to let it go. He saw it in Serena’s eyes. She never let go. She believed in it even though it got her killed. When she was going under, something in her eyes, the look of someone dying believing in nothing. He couldn’t let that happen, not for Tracy’s sake. He didn’t do what Serena asked and keep it alive. Maybe he could if he was given a second chance. Madison gets up and says, like Troy did for Alicia? He said he’d take them to the herd. It’s time for him to hold up his end of the deal.

The song Hair of the Dog plays, and Russell radios Troy. He says he’s here. He caught up to the herd. Troy should see it. Troy says he does, and Russell might want to get down. The MRAP barrels in, and the machine guns open up on the zombies. Russell says, it’s going to take more than that, and Madison says, they know. A truck caravan pulls by, with Dove in the last truck bed. The caravan leads the herd away, and big baby Russel whines, nooo.  

Madison takes some oxygen, and Victor asks how she is. June says she has fluid in her lungs, and they need to get back to the island. Dwight says, they broke up the herd, and June says, they have to get back to PADRE. Victor thinks they should give Troy the benefit of the doubt, but Luciana asks how they can trust him. Victor asks, what about second chances? He and Daniel are just as guilty for what they’ve done. Daniel asks if willing risk that. Troy tells Tracy that it worked. It kept him safe. He gives her back the medal. He did what he said and found them a home and kept her safe. He’s sorry he lied for so long. Madison says, they have to get ready to head out and help the others and tells Tracy that she wants to talk to her dad. Tracy goes to help, and Madison says she’s been thinking about Alicia and how she gave Troy a second chance despite everything. She shows him Alicia’s mechanical arm and says, it’s all she has left. Troy says, it doesn’t have to be. He’ll do everything in his power to make sure he’s worthy of a second to everyone on the island. Things have changed. She has to believe him. She says, that’s just it. She doesn’t. She stabs him with the arm, and Tracy yells, no! and runs off. Victor wonders about second chances, and Madison says, Troy was right. That’s what got Alicia killed. If she hadn’t done this, she’d be putting them at risk. It’s how they survive. As he’s dying, Troy tells Madison to fight for Tracy. She’s not his daughter. Serena died before the baby was born. Madison asks who her mother is, and he says, Alicia. He took her child to make up for what he lost. Madison yells, no! and Troy dies. She asks where Tracy has gone, and everyone looks confused or lost or both.

🐊 See You Later, Alligator…

Since this thing got away from me, come back again for Part 2. Until then, stay safe, stay remembering family is worth fighting for, and stay believing no one is gone until they’re gone.