Tag Archives: Jane Elliot

October 24, 2025 – GH Weekdays, Drew Pays Ronnie a Visit, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, Watching Soon, A Rarity, An Ending, Spooky Viewing, All Dressed Up Plus a PSA, One Dozen Quotes & A Thrill

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…                                                                           

Monday:

Carly had wine with Jack and asked how his business trip was, even though the moss bowl🎍was probably more interested than she was. He told her about Charlotte’s visit with her father, and she said she hoped he got what he wanted from Valentin. He said he didn’t see the flowers he’d sent, and she said she had to throw them out.

Marco told Nathan that the arraignment was going to be handled by ADA Lansing-Davis. Marco saw Molly come in and went to talk to her.

Nina was brought into the courtroom and hugged Nathan. Willow was brought in, and she stared at Nina.

Michael asked why Dante thought he’d framed Willow. Dante said his grandfather’s gun had been found at Elizabeth’s and Willow said he put it there.

At the tea party, Olivia introduced Lucy to Ronnie, and Lucy immediately gave Ronnie a real estate spiel and her card, but Olivia intercepted it and said it wasn’t a business meeting. They were hoping Ronnie would make Port Charles her permanent home. Lucy said she was also the town historian. Ask her anything. Fun fact. This used to be her house when she married Monica’s husband Alan.

Tracy told Brook that she was glad to throw the party for Ronnie. What better way to demonstrate that she didn’t belong and never would?

Portia saw Elizabeth outside the Quartermaines and said she wasn’t just having morning sickness in the morning. Elizabeth asked if she told Curtis, but Portia said she wasn’t going to until she knew for sure he was the father. They went inside and Stella greeted them. Elizabeth asked, how’s the vibe? and Stella said there were a lot of ladies, tea, and tons of finger food. She hoped they were hungry.

Olivia introduced Felicia to Ronnie and said she was an Aztec princess. Ronnie curtsied, but Felicia said she gave up the title a long time ago. Tracy laughed, and Brook told her not to be mean. She suggested Tracy welcome Ronnie.

Jack asked why Carly threw out the flowers, and Carly flashed back to smashing the vase. She said they’d slipped out of her hands and shattered, and it seemed best to throw them out. He said he was afraid she was still mad about Josslyn and Vaughn, and she said he wasn’t wrong about that.

The judge said, first up, was The People vs Willow Tate, and Willow said she thought she and Nina were going to be charged together. Willow pled not guilty to conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder, and they moved on to bail. Molly said Willow had a history of erratic behavior and her mother had ample means to spirit her away, but Martin said that was absurd. Willow had strong ties to the community, was a nurse, and had two children in Port Charles. She had no criminal history and the victim was there in support of her. But the judge agreed she was a definite flight risk and bail was denied.

Martin saw Lulu in the hallway, and she said she’d been covering for someone from the Port Charles Press. They’d arrived and she had to go to a tea party to meet Monica’s long lost sister. They’d been estranged, but Monica left the house and most of the estate to her. Martin said it must have made Tracy furious and that made him happy, and Lulu left for the party.

Ronnie met Portia, and Tracy told Stella that she was staying out of the way in case she got blamed for stirring the pot. Stella said she took it that Tracy wasn’t a fan, and Tracy asked, what’s not to like about a gold digging grifter? Stella said there still might be trouble. Portia and Jordan were in the same room and on the brink of open warfare. Tracy said as long as Brook couldn’t blame her.

Ronnie said Jordan was absolutely stunning (truth!) and wondered why she was single – not that there was anything wrong with that. Jordan said she’d been focused on her career, and Portia said she had a hunch Jordan wouldn’t be single long. She asked Brook if there was herbal or decaf tea and Brook went to get it.

Jack said he knew something was off, and Carly said she’d been struggling. He said he thought she understood he had no choice, and she said she thought she did, but had time to think about it. Did she really want to be with someone who was basically required to keep things from her, even if they involved the people she loved? He asked if she was ending things.

Nina said she felt terrible, but Nathan said there was nothing she could do. Focus on her own situation. Was she going to take the plea deal?

Drew wondered what the judge was thinking, and Martin said Willow would be transported to Pentenville as soon as Nina was arraigned. His hands were tied. He had to leave and suggested Willow get a lawyer to represent her at trial. He was already representing Drew, and she needed an actual criminal defense attorney, a damn good one.

On the patio, Dante told Michael that he wasn’t there as a cop, but convince him that he didn’t shoot Drew. Michael said the police had evidence that proved Willow was guilty, and Dante said Michael wasn’t there when Chase and Anna came back with the second warrant. Where did he go? Willow said he was in Elizabeth’s house. Michael said Elizabeth told him that he could wait, and Dante said he had ample opportunity to plant the gun. Michael said he didn’t. He wanted to talk to Willow about family therapy. He’d noticed that the visitation hearing was moved to January, and it was too long for the kids to go without seeing their mom. If he framed Willow, that meant he shot Drew. Did Dante think he could? Dante said between Michael and Willow, Michael had the stronger motive.

Carly said, when they met, she and Jack had an easy rapport, even though he’d been keeping secrets from her, big ones. She came to him for help with Lucky and he called in an air strike. He said he knew how important she was to him even thin, more than any woman had ever been. He’d do anything for her. She asked how he could keep her in the dark about daughter.

Felicia said Stella took no guff from difficult patients, and Ronnie said she had her share of nasty customers at the diner. Stella said she had the feeling Ronnie wasn’t a guff taker either, and Ronnie said, nope. Tracy said, et tu, Stella?

Martin found Lulu in the foyer and said she left her phone at the courthouse, but she said it wasn’t hers. She had it in her bag. He was about to leave, when Stella told them to come in and meet Monica’s sister.

Michael told Dante that Willow had every reason to shoot Drew. He’d lied to her from the beginning and slept with her mother. Dante said they’d reconciled, but Michael said maybe she had second thoughts. Dante said Michael and Drew were at odds. Drew blew up Michael’s family and was trying to get his kid, and Michael had a history of violence. Michale said he was protecting his mom and sister, and Dante said they would still use it against him. He should turn himself in. Michael said Dante gave him the same advice last time, and even though he was under 18, he was sentenced as an adult and went to Pentenville. Why would he ever take Dante’s advice again?

The judge called The People vs Nina Reeves. The charge was conspiracy to commit murder, and she asked how Nina pled. Molly said the prosecution was amending the charge to making a false statement, and Nina pled guilty. Willow asked Martin what Nina was doing.

Jack said when he and Carly started getting serious, they discussed parameters and he was clear about his work. Carly said they’d been through so much since then and she learned to trust him. She was convinced he’d never do anything to hurt her, but he did. Nothing was more important to her than her kids and he knew that, but he let Josslyn be pulled into his world and said nothing. Why didn’t he tell her that Josslyn was in danger?

Martin met Ronnie and explained he was a party crasher. He’d thought his niece left her phone at Willow’s arraignment. Stella asked how it went, but he said, not well, and Lucy asked if it was true that the gun was found in Elizabeth’s house. Elizabeth said, unfortunately, yes, and Lucy asked if she thought Willow was capable of shooting Drew. Tracy said she thought Willow would be a poisoner, but she must have thought that took too long, and Elizabeth said it wasn’t the time or place for gossip. Lucy said, it was merely conversation, and Lulu offered Portia some finger food. Elizabeth intercepted the tray and said she’d see if the other guests wanted some, and Portia looked sick. Jordan looked at Portia.

Dante said he’d never forgive himself for the part he played in Michael going to prison, but Michael said he shouldn’t have brought it up. Sorry. Dante said, don’t apologize. He knew that and wasn’t trying to upset Michael or make Michael think he didn’t believe in him, but since he’d been back from Germany, Dante had seen a different side. Michael always had the ruthless thing going on, but seemed harder and colder. Michael asked if Dante could blame him, and Dante said he couldn’t, but he’d be lying if he said he didn’t worry or wonder what Michael was capable of. Maybe shooting his uncle in cold blood.

Stella told Ronnie that everything in the house told a story, and Ronnie said, if the walls could talk. Stella said she was sure the Quartermaines were happy they didn’t, and Ronnie said she got the sense that when the Quartermaines were quiet, that’s when you had to worry. Stella said it didn’t take Ronnie long to figure them out, when Martin said he was going to get while the gettin’ was good. Stella walked him out while Ronnie sipped her tea.  

Molly said the DA’s office had a plea deal that they were ready to present. In exchange for Nina pleading guilty, she’d get probation for one year and a $10,000 fine. Willow said Nina was recanting and helping the DA to save herself, and Drew yelled, bitch! How could she do this to her own daughter? The judge banged her gavel.

Jack said he didn’t tell Carly because there was nothing to tell. Josslyn was unwittingly dating an agent, but she was never Vaughn’s target or part of his mission. She was never in any danger, but he could understand why Carly was angry. Carly said it was a betrayal like no other, and he said he hated that and felt worse because he caused it. He cared about her and couldn’t lose her. Please tell him that he hadn’t. She asked him to promise one thing, and he said he’d try. She said she knew Vaughn and Josslyn broke up, so it wasn’t an issue, but in the future, if he found out Josslyn was at risk, promise he’d tell her. He promised, and she said he hadn’t lost her. She kissed him and he said, thank God. Did she want to have dinner with him tonight? She said she had a girls’ night with Donna, and he said he couldn’t beat that offer. She suggested a raincheck, and he said, absolutely, as long as they were really okay. She said they were, and he said he didn’t know how it happened, but she was his whole world. She said she felt the same, and he left.

The judge shouted for order, and Drew said Nina backstabbed her own daughter. He hoped she felt good about it. The judge said, another outburst, and she’d have him removed. Molly said Nina had signed a sworn statement, but needed to recant vocally on record. Nina asked if it was really necessary, and Nathan said she had to, for her sake and Willow’s. Nina said, on the night of September 2nd, 2025, between 9 pm and 10:33 pm, she was in her apartment at 979 Carlyle, alone. She didn’t see her daughter until later at General Hospital after Congressman Cain was shot. Willow began to cry.

Michael said if that’s how Dante thought of him, how could he stand to be in the same room? and Dante said he couldn’t ignore what he’d seen. Before the accident, Michael let Willow take the kids. Michael said Dante was ignoring what Willow had done while he was gone and was condemning him, and Dante said the old Michael was more compassionate. Michael said Willow proved herself unfit in his absence and stalked Daisy, but Dante said he didn’t have any proof that Willow targeted Daisy. Maybe he was framing her for that. Michael said he sent his newborn to another continent. Did Dante think he’d do that if he didn’t believe she was in danger? She was growing up without him. Every time Daisy’s mom sent a picture, it was like a knife in his heart. Dante said if he was so sure it was Willow, bring Daisy back, and Michael said he’d love to, but as Dante said, he had no proof. He wasn’t risking Daisy’s life like that. Even if Willow hadn’t been the one targeting Daisy, it wouldn’t matter. He could still prove his children weren’t safe with her. Dante said Willow loved those kids. She loved Wiley like her own. Michael said, letting her adopt Wiley was his first mistake. Wiley was scared and confused because of Willow. Her needs and feelings came first, even if it hurt her children. No more. Dante said it was all just a shame, and Michael said, like Dante told him, he’d changed, and so had Willow. She’d been in a downward spiral for a while. If Dante didn’t think she was capable of putting a bullet in Drew’s back, he was grossly underestimating her.

Olivia insisted that Portia try a stuffed mushroom, and Portia ate one. She said it was so good, then dashed out. Jordan followed.  

Lucy said the house was so beautiful, but felt stuffy, and Ronnie said when she fits got there, she couldn’t tell the difference between the crypt and the main house. Lulu told Lucy that she thought Ronnie had something stronger in her tea, and Lucy said they were going to grab a water for her. Ronnie said, sounds good, and Olivia asked how she was feeling. Ronnie said, good, so good, and Olivia said she knew it was a lot. Maybe Ronnie should lie down for a little bit. Ronnie said, why? They were in the middle of a party. Besides, things are gonna get fun now. She tapped on the teapot with a metal utensil, and asked, who wanted to cut loose and have fun? They could start with the music and play something less snoozy. Who was in charge of the music? She banged on the teapot again, and Tracy said, stop banging. That was her mother’s teapot, and Ronnie could break it. Ronnie said, who cares? It wasn’t a museum. It was a home, and it was her home. She laughed and said, so, ladies, please. In her home feel free to let their hair down and just do whatever they want to do. Kick off their shoes and take off whatever they wanted. She sat on the couch, took off her shoes, and said, that’s better. She put her feet up on the coffee table.

Carly called Spinelli and said she needed his help. But if he did this, he couldn’t tell anyone, not even Jason… Yes, it was that important. Please. She didn’t have anyone else to turn to… She thanked him and said she appreciated this. He needed to create a new identity for her, starting with a fake passport with a digital trail that could stand up to an extreme background check. Can he do that, please?… Don’t ask. Just make it good.

The judge said Nina was free to go. Arrangements were being made to transfer Willow to Pentenville. Willow said, this can’t be happening. It’s not fair. Nina forced her to lie. It was Nina’s idea. Nina said she was trying to help Willow, and Willow said she was going to prison because of Nina’s help. Nina said she’d explain later, but Willow said, don’t bother. It won’t matter. She hated Nina for this. Leave her alone. She was innocent and Nina should be behind bars. Drew had to help her. He said he promised, and as she was taken away, Willow said, he promised.

Dante said Michael would do anything for his kids, wouldn’t he? and Michael said he thought he knew what Dante was getting to. He was going to ask if Michael would kill for them. The answer was yes, but he thought Dante would say the same thing. Dante said it sounded like Michael would have no problem framing Willow – Lucy and Lulu almost walked in, but listened from the hallway – and Michael said if he’d shot Drew, Drew would be dead. He wished he had framed Willow. He’d make damn sure she was guilty and his children would never have to see her again. Lucy looked at Lulu.

In the foyer, Jordan asked if Portia felt better, but Portia said she felt fine. Jordan said she saw Portia run out and she seemed nauseous, but Portia said she was perfectly fine. Jordan said Portia was pregnant, wasn’t she?

Tracy said Ronnie was clearly inebriated, but Ronnie said she was relaxed. Had Tracy ever in her whole life been relaxed one time? Tracy said, not recently. She wasn’t surprised that Ronnie had a drinking problem. Ronnie said she did not have a drinking problem, but Tracy had a problem, a big problem. Did Tracy want to hear what it was? Felicia said this wasn’t going to end well, and Elizabeth said, but she couldn’t look away. Ronnie said she’d tell Tracy anyway, and Tracy said, of course (🍷). Ronnie said Tracy was uptight, frigid, and completely undersexed. She needed to go out and find herself a debaucherous, degenerate guy to take care of them for her. Stella dropped her cup and it shattered on the floor, and Ronnie laughed, flopping onto the sofa.

Tuesday:

Drew walked into Alexis’s house and said he was making her an offer she couldn’t refuse.

Kai met Curtis at Bobbie’s and said he was getting back Trina’s trust. Curtis said that would make it easier for him to ask this.

Trina and Josslyn were at the Brown Dog Bar and Josslyn said she sensed something was weighing on Trina. She was here for Trina, always. Trina said her parents were getting a divorce.

Portia said she wasn’t pregnant, but Jordan listed everything pointing to it. She asked if Curtis knew.

Tracy asked Ronnie to repeat what she’d said, but Olivia thought they got the gist. She left to get coffee, water, or anything, and Brook suggested Tracy go out for some fresh air. Ronnie said Tracy was full of hot air, and Tracy said Ronnie couldn’t speak to her like that. Ronnie said she’d speak how she wanted to in her house, and Tracy said she was three sheets to the wind. She took flowers out of a vase and was about to throw the water on Ronnie, and Ronnie said, don’t you dare.

Trina told Josslyn about Portia altering Heather’s test results. Somehow Drew found out and had been blackmailing her parents. Josslyn said there wasn’t a hole deep enough for Drew to fall into, and Trina blamed herself, but Josslyn said none of it was her fault and there was nothing she could have done to change it. Trina flashed back to telling Kai that she wished she could let them know the evidence was gone, and told Josslyn that she might have one thing that would turn it around.

Lulu came into Bobbie’s and told Curtis that she was pursuing a lead. Curtis introduced her to Kai, and she said she had a new angle on the Congressman Cain shooting. Curtis said when she was ready, he hoped she brought her article to Aurora first.

Felicia told Tracy, put the vase down, and Tracy said it wasn’t worth ruining. Ronnie said Tracy was mean spirited and abruptly sat down, saying the room was spinning. Olivia gave her water, and Tracy said she thought the party was over. Brook wanted everyone to meet Ronnie, and they did. She was a sloppy drunk who used alcohol to give her a personality. Stella said, enough, and Tracy said she was just trying to sober Ronnie up. They could all agree Ronnie Bard in this house was an insult to the Quartermaine family.

Portia said she didn’t have to answer Jordan’s questions and told her to back off. Jordan said she couldn’t pretend not to see what she saw, and Portia said, then don’t pretend. Mind her own damn business. Portia left, and Jordan called Anna. She said she was sending out the bat signal. Meet her at the Brown Dog.

Drew told Alexis that Willow was charged with premeditated murder because Nina lied, giving her fake alibi that she went along with because she thought Nina was guilty. ADA Turner made a deal Nina in exchange for recanting the alibi. Alexis said she didn’t see what this had to do with her, and Drew said Willow had been sent to Pentenville, and Alexis said that was the risk you took when you shot someone, but Drew said Willow was innocent. Michael planted the gun in her things. She didn’t have a lawyer and needed the best. He’d double Alexis’s retainer. Alexis said, absolutely not. It was never going to happen.

Curtis told Kai that he and Portia were filing for divorce. Trina had been blindsided and he was worried she’d need support. Kai said he’d do everything he could to help her get through, and Curtis said he didn’t want her to feel like she had to take sides.

Josslyn told Trina that it sounded like other things were going on, but the blackmail didn’t help. Relationships were hard and sometimes things just didn’t work out.

Anna had a glass of wine waiting for Jordan, and Jordan said she’d just found out Portia was lying to Curtis – again.

Portia saw Isaiah at the hospital and said she’d just been at a tea party from hell.

Ronnie said the room was still spinning, and Elizabeth asked if she was on any medication. Ronnie said, no, and she hadn’t had one drop of alcohol. She wasn’t drunk. They could check her tea. Felicia sniffed the cup and said, no alcohol, and Tracy said, that’s what alcoholics did – deny. Ronnie said she wasn’t drunk and had no idea what happ… Oh wait a minute. Somebody slipped her a micky.

Drew asked why Alexis didn’t want to defend Willow. Michael separated her from her kids and wasn’t it Alexis’s duty as an officer of the court to make sure justice prevailed? Alexis said she couldn’t believe his audacity when he’d kept Scout from her family. She felt sorry for Willow. Because of his selfishness and bad advice, she’d been influenced into making bad decisions, but that was on them. She didn’t want to deal with him in this mess even if he tripled her retainer. He said he had something even more valuable.

Jordan said Curtis held on to the bitter end and finally said it was over, and Anna said she wasn’t surprised. Jordan said they were filing for divorce and now this, and Anna asked what Portia was lying about. Jordan said Portia was pregnant.

Portia told Isaia that Jordan should mind her own damn business. They’d agreed to only telling Trina, but she was convinced Curtis told Jordan. Isaiah said, like she’d told him, and Portia said Curtis running to Jordan all the time made her furious, but Curtis would have custody of Jordan in the divorce and Jordan would finally leave her alone. Isaiah said he had a sure-fire way to improve her mood.

Kai said he hoped Curtis and Portia weren’t divorcing because of Drew. He knew Drew was responsible for Stella’s investigation and targeted her just to hurt Curtis. That opened his eyes to who Drew really was. He was sorry it took so long. Curtis tried to warn him, but he didn’t listen. For that, and a lot of other things, he owed Curtis an apology.

Lucas saw Lulu at Bobbie’s, and she asked him to join her. He said Elizabeth told him that there was a tea party at the Quartermaines, and he assumed she was invited. Lulu said she went briefly, and he said, tell him everything. What did Tracy do? Lulu said she wasn’t there long, but she and Lucy walked in on Michael having it out with Dante. Michael said that if he’d shot Drew, Drew would be dead, and he wished he’d framed Willow. He would have made sure she was guilty, so she never saw her children again. Lucas said, that meant Michael didn’t do it, but Lulu said Michael was so cold and calculating. He was too smart to tell a cop that he did it, but she was convinced Michael was capable of shooting Drew and framing Willow. Lucas said he thought she liked Michael, and she said, of course (🍷) she did, but who was more likely to shoot Drew in the back, Willow or Michael? Lucas said, in his opinion, Willow was more capable of violence than most people thought.

Tracy said, someone drugged Ronnie? Ridiculous. Ronnie said she’d been a waitress all of her life, and before that, she served cocktails. She learned to tell the difference between someone being drunk and someone who’d had something slipped in their drink. The drugged ones always said the same thing. They felt free, detached from their bodies like they were outside, seeing everything that was happening. That’s exactly how she felt now, like her mind was wrapped in cotton. Tracy said, drop the victim act and sleep it off, and Ronnie said she wasn’t drunk, but Tracy was working hard to convince everybody she was. Somebody wanted to humiliate her, and Tracy was the only person miserable enough to have done it and drugged her.

Anna asked if Jordan thought Curtis would stay with Portia because of the baby, and Jordan said Curtis didn’t get to raise Trina. It looked like Portia found another way to hang onto him. Anna said, then why hadn’t Portia told him that she was pregnant?

Isaiah said the renovations on his cabin were done and it looked amazing. It was the perfect weekend getaway for him and Portia. They could go on a day trip to the village, hold hands, and stroll. No one would know them or care. They could make a fire and open up a bottle of wine, and he might be persuaded to make his famous three-cheese omelet and serve her breakfast in bed. Portia said she’d love that, but wasn’t sure right now was the best time to get away together. He said if she needed to get away and be alone, he could give her the key, and she said, he’d give up his cabin time for her? He said, if she needed it, nothing would make him happier, but she said she didn’t want to be alone. She wanted to spend time with him. They kissed.

Curtis told Kai that he knew how easy it was to fall for Drew’s lies. Drew fooled him. He’d considered Drew a good friend until he saw Drew’s true colors. He’s glad Kai wasn’t taken in. Kai said he could barely look at Drew. He was ready to resign, but then Drew was shot. Was it wrong of him to keep working for someone he had zero respect for?

Lucas told Lulu that Willow needed to be a mom. She was consumed with it and blind to everything else. She needed to be with Wiley and Amelia regardless of what was best for them. Lulu said Willow thought she was what was best for them, and Lucas said she was delusional. The things she’d done to the kids were not okay just because as a mommy she decided they were. She wasn’t thinking like a mentally healthy person or a good mom. Lulu said she couldn’t disagree, and Lucas said Willow blamed Drew for not getting visitation and sleeping with her mom when he was seducing her away from Michael. As a mom, it was enough of a motive for her to shoot Drew. She was unwell and Lulu should think twice about going after Michael in the press. Carly would never forgive her, and she’d be helping a guilty woman go free.

Drew said he’d life the restraining order on Alexis and she could spend time with Scout if she agreed to defend Willow, and Alexis said he was going to use that sweet little girl as a bargaining chip? That was the textbook definition of extortion. He’d denied Scout’s family access to a child who loved and needed them and was using it to dangle in front of her so she’d do what he wanted. He didn’t care about what was good for Scout. He only cared about what was good for him. He asked what she thought Sam would want her to do.

Brook said Tracy wanted to prove Ronnie didn’t belong and spiked her tea to make sure that would happen. Tracy said she would never, and Olivia laughed. She said they all knew Tracy got Alexis drunk, then framed her for drunk driving, and Ronnie said, that’s horrible. Tracy did that to someone else? Tracy said she did not drug Ronnie, and Ronnie said she had it with Tracy. Tracy had a lot to say today. Now shut up and let her have her turn.

Lulu told Lucas that she was just trying to report the facts. She couldn’t keep the facts from the public because Carly would be upset. Whoever shot Drew needed to be brought to justice. Lucas agreed, and she said, what if the PCPD had the wrong person in custody? Lucas said Michael was a good man, and Lulu said, so was Sonny, but he could also be completely ruthless at heart. Michael was like his father.

Alexis said she couldn’t believe Drew brought Sam into it, and he asked how many times she’d criticized what he was doing and used Sam. How would Sam feel if she rejected the opportunity to spend time with Scout? Alexis said she hated him, and he said all he was asking was for her to do her job defending an innocent woman. She said that’s why she didn’t want to take the case. He’d do anything to get what he wanted and she refused to be part of it. He said she wouldn’t be dealing with him at all. Willow would call all the shots. She said, fine. She’d take the case. On one condition.

Jordan told Anna that she couldn’t say for sure if Curtis knew, and Anna asked if she thought it was possible Portia didn’t want the baby. Jordan said she had no idea, but it could definitely be the reason she was keeping the pregnancy a secret. Portia was doing what she wanted and not thinking about Curtis’s feelings. Should she?

Kai told Curtis that he liked the work and made great contacts who would consider him for a job after graduation, but it wouldn’t happen if he quit. Curtis said, then stay. He wouldn’t be a hypocrite. A lot of people hated their bosses (truth!), and if he could create a brighter future, why not stay and learn what he could. But be sure to maintain his own sense of right and wrong while he does it.

Ronnie said she tried to get along with Tracy, but from the minute they met in the crypt, where she was trying to say goodbye to her sister, Tracy had been a complete witch to her. In her letters, Monica had said Tracy was mellowing over time, but if this was an improvement, she couldn’t imagine. When Monica sent her letters, she was so impressed with the life her sister had made for herself. A big house, a loving family, she thought Monica had it so damn good, but coming here and meeting Tracy and seeing her in action, she pitied Monica. She would rather be dead broke and sleeping in the streets that put up with Tracy’s nasty insults and temper tantrums. Tracy asked if everybody was just going to stand around and let Ronnie speak to her like that, and Olivia said it was Ronnie’s house. Ronnie said Tracy treated her like someone who snuck in to steal the silver. All she ever wanted was to find out more about Monica. She had no expectations when she came there other than to share stories about her sister, who she avoided most of her life because she stupidly let her angry teenage self, with her whole 16 years of life, determine how the rest of her life was going to go. For that, Tracy attacked her every time she could. Brook was kind to organize this party for her, and it meant a lot. She thanked Brook for that, but Brook’s grandmother had used her kindness to humiliate her. Tracy wasn’t just vindictive, but she was spiteful and cruel. She wasn’t putting up with it anymore. Get out of her house and don’t come back.

Trina asked if Anna would mind her talking to Jordan, and Anna said, of course (🍷) not. She left, and Trina asked if her dad told Jordan that he was getting a divorce. Jordan said, he did. She was sorry. She knew it was hard for Trina. Trina said it was, but they still loved each other. She thought they could work things out, but it couldn’t happen if Jordan didn’t keep her distance from Trina’s dad. Jordan said she and Trina’s dad had known each other a long time, and Trina said she knew, but Jordan needed to give her mom and dad the space to realize they still had so much that tied them together.

Anna sat down across from Josslyn, who said, please sit. Anna said, so Josslyn was a WSB agent, and Josslyn nearly choked on her drink. She said that conversation is not for the Brown Dog, and Anna said Josslyn needed to tell her one thing. When she was at the Five Poppies, did she hear anyone mention the name Cesar Faison? If Josslyn did, she needed to know. Josslyn said she couldn’t tell Anna that information. She wasn’t WSB anymore. Anna said no one knew Faison better than she did. If he was somehow involved in any of this, the situation was going to get very dangerous. Not just for Josslyn, but for a lot of people. Make no mistake, Josslyn was going to need her.

Isaiah asked if that was a yes to going away this weekend, and Portia said she’d absolutely love to spend time alone with him. It would give them a chance to talk about everything going on between them.

Curtis told Kai that Drew would do everything in his power to exonerate Willow. Don’t let Drew drag him into anything illegal, and if Kai needed anything, call him.

Lulu told Lucas that Michael was raised by Sonny and seen Sonny do whatever it took to get what he wanted. It had to have an effect on who Michael was as a person. Lucas said he wasn’t a fan of Sonny’s, but Carly and Monica countered his influence, and Lulu said she hoped he was right. The last thing Michael said was that he hoped Willow never saw her kids again. He seemed to justify anything he did as long as he thought he was acting in the children’s best interest. Lucas said, if that was true, heaven help the kids. Willow was the exact same way.

Alexis said she’d represent Willow if Drew lifted the restraining orders on her, Molly, Kristina, Rocco, and Danny, but Drew said, not Danny. Alexis said Scout missed her brother. She had the right to see Sam’s kids. He said Willow needed a great lawyer and he could ask another one. He would not have that hit man’s son anywhere near his daughter. She said Danny wasn’t Jason. It was ridiculous to pretend he was. Drew said he didn’t care, and Alexis asked, what the hell was wrong with him? How could he be horrible to Sam’s kid? He said it wasn’t his kid, and she said he was a petty little man. He said it was his final offer. Scout could see everyone except Danny. Alexis said she wanted to see Scout tomorrow, and he said, fine, after she met with Willow.

Tracy said Ronnie couldn’t throw her out. They were all okay with this? Olivia said she loved Tracy, but she’d been horrible since day one. Now she drugged Ronnie’s tea. Of course (🍷) Ronnie was throwing her out. She didn’t want Tracy at the MetroCourt either. Tracy said, wow. Thanks for that. She’d been kicked out of the house before, but always made it back. Why? Unlike Ronnie, she was a Quartermaine. Olivia said, don’t start, and Tracy said she couldn’t believe her own family siding with a con artist, whom she did not drug. Brook said she loved Tracy, but Tracy did it to herself, and Tracy told Ronnie that she said it herself. She walked away from Monica. And despite all the correspondence they supposedly shared, Monica didn’t want Ronnie in her life. So didn’t she think they would have met in person if Monica wanted Ronnie in her life? What was cruel was Monica giving this beautiful house to her sister in name only and leaving the woman who spent 45 years with her a jar of relish. Tracy seemed on the edge of crying and said, Ronnie wanted to know about her sister. She was never cruel. Something was very wrong here. This was not Ronnie’s house and would never be her home… but she was going to leave now and she was going to take every framed photograph of her family and every prized possession with her. She’d call for her things in the morning. She left.  

Wednesday:

Lois went to see Sonny and said she hoped he’d show her the same grace as last time. Sonny said, after he found out she’d lied to him and the family for over 20 years.

Josslyn saw Emma outside Bobbie’s and wanted to talk. Emma said it better be good.

At Bobbie’s, Gio told Ronnie that she was the first person to order tomato juice, coconut water, and hot sauce. She said it was the perfect antidote to… a tea party. Brook said breakfast was on her after the stunt Tracy pulled, and Gio asked what Tracy did now.

Tracy woke up on Lulu’s couch and suggested Charlotte and Rocco hit the mute button. Lulu told them, keep it down. Tracy had a rough night.

On the phone, Britt said she was aware she was late. That’s why she was calling. She didn’t know when she’d be in. She’d been detained. Anna let Britt into her office, and Britt said if she lost her job, she was holding Anna responsible, but Anna said that was the least of Britt’s problems and present her with a bill for the manpower and resources used involving her supposed death.

Nathan went to Jack’s office and Jack asked where he’d been for the past seven years.

Steinmauer. Valentin was brought into the visiting area and sat across from a woman. He said when they told him that his lawyer was there, he didn’t expect her. Carly – in a dark wig and glasses – said, Barbara Saunders. She was asked to review his case and recent developments may result in his early release.

Lois said she couldn’t change what she did, but wanted to right as many wrongs as she could. So was Sonny going to invite her in or ask her to kick rocks? Sonny told her to come in and they hugged.

Josslyn said she heard Emma got her job with Dalton. She wasn’t looking to work for him, but Emma shouldn’t be either. Emma said he hadn’t tried anything, and Josslyn said, not yet. He wasn’t the average creep. He was a lot more dangerous than Emma thought and Emma needed to trust her. Emma said Josslyn was the least trustworthy person she knew. Josslyn being unreliable worked in Emma’s favor and she planned on taking full advantage of it.

Ronnie said she’d shared words of wisdom with Tracy, who didn’t take kindly to them, and Gio said he wished he’d been there. Brook said he didn’t, and Ronnie said Tracy accused her of being drunk and she knew she wasn’t drunk, but knew something was off. It hit her that her tea had been spiked. Gio said, Tracy drugged her? and Ronnie said, uh-huh.

Lulu said Tracy was staying a little while, and Charlotte asked, how long? Tracy said it was open-ended. She’d been kicked out. Charlotte stifled a laugh and wondered why, and Lulu said Tracy was a guest and they’d treat her as such. Rocco said he needed help with his French homework, and he and Charlotte went upstairs. Tracy asked if they didn’t go to school, but Lulu said it was an in-service day and they were off. Before Tracy settled in and sent out change-of-address cards, they needed to get a few things straight.

Carly said she’d like to speak to her client alone, but the guard said they needed eyeballs on the inmate all the time. Carly said her client had the right to privacy in this situation and asked if she needed to elevate the matter. The guard left, and Valentin said her credentials must be unimpeachable. She said she had help from a friend, and he said, Jack could have gotten her in with no pretense… unless she was keeping the meeting from him. Why?

Jack told Nathan that they had footage of him getting off an exit before the accident. He’d been on the phone, but no phone was found on him or in the car. Nathan said he didn’t remember, and Jack said there had been a ping from a burner phone before the accident and it was likely from the phone he’d been using. With any luck, they’d find the person he’d been talking to. Nathan asked why he was going through the trouble, and Jack said when someone resurfaced who was presumed dead, it warranted investigation, especially if it was the son of Cesar Faison.

Lois said sitting on the boardwalk in Atlantic City with Brook was one of the best days of her life, and Sonny asked if it was the first time they’d been alone. Lois nodded and he asked if they’d spoken since. She said, no. She’d never ask him for help with that, but needed help with repairing Brook’s relationship with her son. Gio was pushing away and she had to make that right.

Brook said she thought Tracy saw the tea as a chance to show that Ronnie didn’t belong, and Gio said it wasn’t just bad. It was illegal and dangerous. Ronnie thanked him for his concern, but said she was okay today and more than got back at Tracy. She evicted her. Gio said he didn’t expect that, and Brook said, neither did her grandmother. Gio said it was good to set boundaries. If you didn’t, people walked all over you.

On the deck, Rocco said he’d lied to get Charlotte away from Tracy, and Charlotte said Tracy couldn’t just order them around. He said he knew Tracy was a lot, but she could be nice, and she was just kicked out. Be easier on her.

Lulu said Tracy was welcome to stay as long as she needed to, but Charlotte and Rocco were teenagers. That meant they were loud. Tracy said she lived with Rocco and Danny. She knew their ways. Lulu said, not in quarters this close. If she couldn’t deal with their ways, it was best she found someplace else. Tracy said she wouldn’t have to deal with their ways if Ronnie Bard hadn’t gotten loaded and convinced the entire family that she was to blame.

Josslyn asked what Emma meant by taking advantage, but Emma said it was none of her business. She was done talking. Josslyn grabbed her arm and said she knew she’d screwed Emma over and it was fine that she was mad. But don’t let herself get in deeper. She wouldn’t hurt Josslyn, but she’d hurt herself. Trust her when she said Emma didn’t want to be near what Dalton was doing. Emma asked what made her so sure Dalton was bad, and Josslyn flashed back to talking to Jack. Her phone rang, and she told Emma, don’t say I didn’t warn you, and left.

Valentin asked what the state of Carly and Jack’s relationship was, and Carly said, as far as Jack was concerned, she was knee deep work and wouldn’t see him for a few days. He said, Sonny and Jason wouldn’t be happy. She must have a very good reason to see him.

Britt said told Anna that she couldn’t afford it. It was ridiculous. Was it even legal? Anna said Acting DA Turner could find a way to make it legal, or she could feed the bill to the shredder and forget about it. Britt asked how much the memory lapse would cost, and Anna said, who helped fake her death? What was she doing at the Five Poppies and who was in charge? She needed every detail.

Sonny told Lois that Gio had moved in with him and had a job at Bobbie’s, and she said knowing Gio was there made her happy. By any chance did he get a new violin? Sonny shook his head, and she said, what about school? He said, Gio didn’t want to go right now. He was figuring out who he was and what he wanted minus the input of the people who loved him and wished him well. She said she understood why he wanted her and Gloria out of his life, but music was a big part of who he was. It was a gift from Camilla. He said, Gio associated it with the lies he’d been told his whole life, and she said she couldn’t stand it. Gio was giving up something he loved, and her daughter couldn’t have a relationship with her son. The two people she loved most were hurting because of her.

Emma told Gio that Josslyn tried to convince her to quit working for Dalton, and Gio wondered if she had a good reason. Emma said she thought Josslyn wanted her job back. They’d put Dalton on the back burner for too long and it was time to show the world who he really was.

Ronnie told Brook that her son was a good kid, but Brook said she couldn’t take credit. Ronnie said Gio mentioned he’d just found out she and Dante were his parents, and Brook said, they all did, and it came out in the most traumatic way, driving a mile wide wedge between them. They were hoping if they gave Gio some space, he’d come back, but at this point, she didn’t know if he would ever let her be a part of his life.

Nathan said his mother left her past behind and Faison was dead, and Jack said so were Nathan and his sister. He got Nathan’s brain scans and there was nothing there. No trauma or lesions. Nothing that would impair his memory from the time of his supposed death until he woke up in the hospital. Nathan asked if Jack was calling him a liar, and Jack said they had reason to believe Cesar Faison’s syndicate was still in operation. Now was the time for Nathan to tell him if he was involved.

Valentin told Carly that he was content living abroad in relative peace, when Jack tried to shoot him three feet from his daughter. Carly was collateral damage when he’d tried to kill Jack and if Jack was around her daughter, she wasn’t safe. Carly said she planned on destroying Jack Brennan and asked if he wanted to help.

Nathan asked if Jack thought he was part of a syndicate run by a dead man, but Jack said he didn’t know who was running it. He’d exchange full immunity for answers, but if Nathan declined, he would charge Nathan with the same crime – conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and treason. How would his son feel about that? Nathan said he just met his son for the first time and lost seven years of his life. Faison was a criminal who’d threatened the mother of his son and shot him. Faison was no father to him. Ask Anna. Unlike Jack, Anna knew him and would tell Jack that he’d help if he could. He was glad he met Jack because now he knew who Jack was. Jack could threaten him all he liked, but don’t push him around.

Britt said the Five Poppies was out of Anna’s jurisdiction. Anna had no right to question her about something that happened thousands of miles away. Anna said she did if it affected the safety of the people there, and Britt asked if she had evidence connecting it… She didn’t think so. It was time for Anna to let go of her delusion of being an international agent and accept the fact she’d been demoted. Anna said the reason Britt was there was because she sent Jason. He’d assumed Britt was in Croatia because she was going to die and he was willing to let her live out her last days as she saw fit. She told him that the WSB was looking at the Five Poppies and that suggested Britt’s presence wasn’t voluntary. So Jason went to rescue Britt. She wasn’t trying to take Britt down. She was trying to help her.

Lulu asked if Tracy was saying Ronnie framed her. Admit she spiked Ronnie’s drink. Tracy said she didn’t. This was the second time she’d been accused of drugging someone. Where did people think she got this stuff? Lulu said people knew she was resourceful. Was she saying it was someone else? Tracy said Ronnie over imbibed, and she was an easy scapegoat, and Lulu said Tracy had set her sights on taking Ronnie down since she came to town and had her investigate Ronnie. Ronnie lived a quiet, law-abiding life. Tracy said she didn’t believe it, and Lulu asked why she was so convinced otherwise. Tracy said she knew Monica as well as she knew herself. There was no way Monica would give Ronnie a doghouse much less the family estate. That woman was hiding something and she knew it.

Charlotte admitted that maybe she was harsh. She was jetlagged and the visit with her dad was weird. Rocco asked if she meant bad weird, but she said, just weird weird. It was good seeing him, but in a huge creepy prison, it was hard. Rocco said maybe he’d get out on good behavior, and Charlotte asked how dinner with his other family was. He said, good. Liesl and Nathan were cool. She said, what about Britt? and he said she was hard to read, but he thought she cared about her mother and brother. She asked if he noticed anything off, but he said he didn’t know Britt well enough. Why? She said when she was with her dad, he asked her to pass along a message to him. He said Rocco shouldn’t trust Britt.

Valentin said now Carly saw Jack as the son of a bitch he was. What changed her mind? Obviously, Jack had done something to one of her children. She asked what he’d do if Jack recruited his daughter, and he said he wouldn’t rest until Jack was six feet under. How long had Josslyn been a WSB operative? Carly said she thought eight months, but didn’t know how Jack lured her in, and he said there were two kinds of recruits. Those who were interested and those who had to be convinced, exploited. Those prospects were vulnerable and there was leverage – money, a misguided sense of patriotism, a personal tragedy they wanted to avenge. She said Josslyn’s boyfriend Dex was murdered, and he asked if the murderer was found. She said it was Cyrus Renault who disappeared. Josslyn left town afterward. He asked if she thought Jack possibly had something to do with it.

Lois told Sonny that she kept the secret, but could have told Brook before everyone found out and given her a chance at a real relationship with her son. Sonny said she could have also given the family a chance, and she said she was happy Gio let Sonny be a part of his life. Sonny said he thought she was leaving the past in the past and moving forward, and she said that’s what she was trying to do, but needed his help. Gio needed to stop blaming Brook. He needed to know it was all on her, but he wouldn’t talk to her. She needed Sonny to get them in the same room. He said, even if she talked to Gio, it was no guarantee it would change anything.

Ronnie said she thought Gio was trying to make sense of his part in the family, and Brook said she didn’t know why he wanted to be part of the family. He knew the Quartermaines were a bunch of liars, and now he thought they’d drug your tea too. Ronnie said, what’s a family without a little dysfunction? and Brook said, that was a generous take. Ronnie said Tracy wasn’t the only Quartermaine. The rest had been so lovely since she walked in the door, including Gio, who had an open invitation to come back. The problem was, finding a way to draw him back in. Brook said she thought she may have that covered.

Emma said she thought the master key would get them in the lab, and Gio said it would have if Dalton hadn’t taken extra security measures. Between that and her grandma trying to stop them, they were up against it. She said she thought they were in luck. Her grandma had been distracted and was busy. Now what the best chance they were going to get.

Tracy told Lulu than Monica never mentioned her sister, but as soon as she died, Ronnie showed up with letters as evidence. Lulu asked if she didn’t have them looked at by a handwriting expert, and Tracy said, they could be wrong. She was getting a second opinion. She had been closer to Monica for the last two years than anyone and Michael was the center of Monica’s universe. There was no way she’d disinherit him in favor of a sister she hadn’t spoken to in a decade. The will was a forgery. Charlotte wondered what a moving truck was doing pulling into their driveway.

Britt said she didn’t need rescuing, and Anna said the evidence suggested otherwise. Britt said she’d been working in a lab on developing an exfoliant scrub, but Anna said she didn’t think they’d use a bomb to cover up a spa treatment. Britt said it was a competitive market, and Anna said they forgot to add the toxicity screening. That ran up Britt’s bill by 10K, but she’d settle for Britt telling her who she was working for. Britt flashed back to finding her meds with the note signed C, and said, that Eurocreep Pascal, but Anna said, he was the middleman. Who did he answer to? It wasn’t Cesar Faison, was it? Was her father still alive and running the Five Poppies?

Jack showed Josslyn the video of him talking to Nathan, and Josslyn asked if he thought Nathan knew something. He said, didn’t she? and she said she hardly knew Nathan, but heard he was a total Boy Scout. She didn’t think he’d do anything connected to Faison. He said, so he should take Nathan’s memory loss at face value? And she said, look at Jason, but he said, Jason’s answers were less convenient than Nathan’s.

Valentin said he assumed Josslyn felt vulnerable after Dex’s death, and Carly said, she was devastated. She told herself that Josslyn was lost in a personal vendetta, when all the time, Jack used it as a test to recruit her. Valentin said, maybe Jack pointed her in Cyrus’s direction to see how far she was willing to go and she figured it out. Carly wondered if Josslyn murdered Cyrus, but Valentin said maybe she tracked Cyrus down on her own and it was part of Jack enticing her to be a recruit. Jack couldn’t resist, especially if Josslyn finished the job herself. Carly asked if he was telling her that the man she’d been falling in love with turned her daughter into a killer.

Sonny said Lois needed to live with the possibility that things may never be the same with Gio and Brook, but she said she had to try. She was begging him to please help her make this right.

Gio asked Emma to promise that whatever they did, they did it together, and she said, obviously. She needed him for back-up. He said he preferred being her partner in crime, and they kissed.

Brook smiled, and Ronnie said she was guessing that lovely young woman was part of Brook’s plan. Brook said Emma rescued Outback. Dogs weren’t allowed in the stable, but she told Emma that Outback could stay since she figured Emma would come visit. Ronnie said, and Gio would come with her. Not bad. She guessed that Brook was Tracy’s good granddaughter.

Gio’s phone rang, and he told Emma that it was Sonny. Sonny told him that he needed to come back to the house when he got off work, and Gio asked if everything was okay. Sonny said Lois was there and it was important that Gio see her.

Lulu said, everyone knew how much Monica loved Michael. Edward left him a fortune, and she didn’t need to demonstrate her love with more money. Maybe she felt Ronnie needed both. Charlotte and Rocco brought in two big boxes, and Lulu asked what was in them. Tracy said a few items she rescued from the house, and Lulu looked out the window. She said, a few? There was a giant moving truck parked in her driveway.

Britt said she was tired of hearing that name. That man had been a blight on her entire life. Her mother was obsessed with him and ignored her. Now she might lose the only good thing she had going in her life – her job – because Anna dragged her in. She hated to disappoint Anna, but her psycho ex had nothing to do with the Five Poppies and he was dead. She answered Anna’s questions and wasn’t paying the bill. Anna could burn it or bill her, but she just wanted to move on with her life. Anna said Britt thought she was protecting herself by staying silent, but she was making herself vulnerable, and Britt said she was done. She had to see if she still had a job. Thanks for nothing. She left.  

Josslyn told Jack that she was at the Brown Dog with a friend and Anna was there. Anna made a point of interrogating her about the Five Poppies and Cesar Faison came up more than once. Jack said Anna was probably jumping at shadows. However, she did know Faison better than anyone else and they couldn’t discount that. Two of Faison’s dead children showed up in Port Charles alive while they were investigating his last project. That wasn’t a coincidence. They were connected somehow.

Valentin said maybe Jack stepped in and took care of the rest, but Carly said Josslyn was a participant in Cyrus’s death. She may not be able to get Josslyn out, but she could get Jack out of Josslyn’s life before she did something worse or he got her killed. Valentin said they couldn’t do it alone, but together they had a chance. They had the one thing that could destroy Jack. Carly asked, what? and he said, her. She was the only one Jack trusted. Anyone else he’d spot from a mile away. He’d never see it coming. She asked what she was supposed to do, and he said, the first thing was to make Jack think she loved him more than anything or anyone in the world.

Thursday:

Chase saw Michael in the steam room and asked if he saw the headlines in the Port Charles Press. The article said other suspects might be at large. Did Michael really believe Willow was capable of shooting Drew?

Cody went to the main house and introduced himself to Ronnie. She said she had to tell him that she always had a weakness for cowboys. (Nice nod to OLTL.)

Brook knocked at Lulu’s door, and Tracy opened it. Tracy told Brook that she had nothing to say to her, and slammed the door in her face.

Gio went to Sonny’s house, and Lois said she was hoping he would come. He said he almost didn’t.

At Bobbie’s, Martin told Drew that the press did a good job casting reasonable doubt on Willow. He’d do whatever possible to find her a good attorney. Drew said there was no need. He took care of it.

Willow saw Alexis in the visiting room at Pentenville and asked if Scout was okay. Alexis said she was there for Willow. She was Willow’s new attorney.

Jacinda met Kristina outside Bobbie’s and said her agency told her that Kristina requested a meeting. Kristina said she didn’t want to pry, but was going to. What did Jacinda have going on with her brother? Jacinda asked, why? and Kristina said she was concerned. She loved her brother, and he’d been through the ringer. He’d had a difficult recovery, and his ex had told the court that he’d abandoned his children. He might appear to have it all together, but deep down, he had a big heart and had been hurt badly. She was worried that he and Jacinda were getting more serious and moving too quickly.

Chase insisted Willow wasn’t a murderer, and Michael said he didn’t think they should get into this. Chase said he knew Michael and Willow had problems, but it had gone too far. An innocent woman had been arrested. Michael said Chase didn’t know Willow as well as he thought he did.

Alexis said Willow deserved the truth. Drew didn’t leaved her a choice.

Drew said Alexis agreed to defend Willow on one condition, that she be able to see Scout, and Martin said he was glad it worked out. He’d talk to the judge about lifting the restraining order. Drew said he still needed the restraining orders as leverage. He wouldn’t enforce them unless he felt Alexis wasn’t doing what she could to free Willow. Martin asked, what about the rest of the family? and Drew said, the Davis women, but not Danny or the Quartermaines. Martin said that meant Scout wouldn’t get the privilege of meeting her new great aunt. The Quartermaines had a new relationship to play with – Monica’s long lost sister Ronnie.

Ronnie said Monica had written that she was pleased the family finally found a wonderful head groom, and Cody said she loved the stable, but not every horse was hers. Ronnie said, Tracy made that clear, and Cody said the name of Tracy’s horse was Hades. Ronnie said, hard to handle, bad tempered, and bites, but Hades could stay, and Cody said he heard Tracy moved out. Ronnie said she evicted Tracy, and he said he’d gotten to know Tracy and was sorry to see her go. Ronnie said she thought Tracy would be rough to work for, but if there was another side to Tracy, she’d like to hear it. Cody said Tracy was cold, mean, and thought she was better than everybody else, but she could be extremely generous, loyal to a fault, and would literally do anything for the people she loved, and she loved Ronnie’s sister.

Brook continued to bang on the door and said, open up. She would just get louder. Tracy told her, get in here. What did she think they had to talk about? She didn’t drug Ronnie at the tea party. Brook said that wasn’t why she came, and Tracy said Brook had known Ronnie for an hour and a half and known her for her whole life. Why was Brook taking that hash slinging harridan’s word over hers?

Lois said she wanted to take the chance to clear the air, but Gio said he’d rather move on. She said she wasn’t there to explain anything. She’d heard he took time off from school and wasn’t playing music anymore. He said he was working and figuring stuff out, and she said she was worried about him. He was pushing the things he loved out of his life, like music. Music didn’t betray him and neither did Brook or Dante. The person who betrayed him was her.

Lois said he had every right to be mad at her, but she was asking him to put his anger where it belonged – on her, not Brook or Dante, and especially not on himself. Gio said he wasn’t angry, but she said, of course (🍷) he was. He said he didn’t want to be and he wasn’t mad at himself, and she asked why he was waiting tables. He said there was nothing wrong with it, and she said he should be playing concert halls or even the park. He was so incredibly talented. It would hurt Camilla to know he wasn’t playing music, but it would hurt more knowing it was because of her. He said he was still trying to make sense of his whole life, his childhood, his mom. Nothing was what he’d thought it was. She said she knew it would take time to figure all that out, but he also needed to figure out how Dante and Brook fit into his life as well. She knew he was angry, but Dante didn’t even know, and Brook gave him up because she was so young. She came to her mother for advice, and she was the one who told Brook that he’d be better off – she started to cry – if he was adopted out to a young family. She was with Brook when Brook gave birth, and giving him up for adoption was the greatest sacrifice of her life.

Brook asked Tracy, why not make peace? She wasn’t asking her to apologize for the tea party, but for treating Ronnie like dirt. Tracy said she wouldn’t give Ronnie the satisfaction, but Brook said she’d already lost her mother and grandmother. She didn’t want to lose Tracy too.

Ronnie gave Cody some snacks and said she’d gotten the recipe from her line cook, and Cody said he’d kill for the recipe. She said, tell her more about Monica, and she’d give it to him, and he said he didn’t know her as well as everybody else, but he was told that before Monica and Tracy became close, it was the clash of the titans. In the end, Tracy was Monica’s mouthpiece, bodyguard, and attack dog. She stood up to Drew Cain when Monica couldn’t do it herself. Ronnie asked why she kept hearing that name. Michael had a lot of things to say about Drew, and she was hoping he was exaggerating. Was he really as bad as Michael said? Cody said, if anything, he was much worse.

Martin said Monica left her estate to her long-lost sister, not Michael, and Drew said he didn’t realize Monica had a pattern. She cut him out of her life like she did her sister.

Jacinda told Kristina not to worry about her and Michael, and Kristina said Jacinda came to see him after his grandmother died. Jacinda said she came to offer her condolences. There was nothing serious between them, but she got why Kristina was protective. She’d do the same thing. Kristina offered to get Jacinda coffee, and they went inside. Drew said, if it wasn’t the call girl that was paid to drug him. He bet the police would love to hear about her and Kristina’s meeting of the minds.

Alexis said she agreed to defend Willow because Drew offered her access to Scout, and Willow said she was truly sorry Drew put her in this position. Scout wanted to see her aunt and brothers. Alexis said, her brothers weren’t part of the deal. At least not Danny. Willow said she’d do what she could to help change Drew’s mind about the restraining orders. She also wanted Alexis to defend her because Alexis believed she was innocent, not because she was forced to. Alexis said, coercion or not, she’d defend Willow to the best of her ability. She would listen to Willow and Willow only, but if Willow didn’t want her services, say it now.

Michael said Willow was more traumatized by Dawn of Day than anyone knew. She’d made huge mistakes. Chase asked if he honestly believed she’d shot Drew, and Michael said anything was possible. Chase said there were other suspects, and Michael said, like him. Chase said, yes. Him, his mother, and anyone else who went in and out of the Quartermaine mansion. Michael said, Willow was in and out of the mansion, but Chase said she’d moved out months ago. Michael said they hadn’t changed the locks and she was the one who’d stalked his daughter Daisy.

Lois said, giving up Gio for adoption was the hardest thing his mom ever had to do, and Gio said he thought of Camilla as his mom. Lois said he was right. Sorry. Camilla was his mother and always would be. She’d never take that away from him. He asked why the family wanted something from him that he couldn’t give. He knew Brook and Dante were his biological parents, but they weren’t much more than that. They were people he kind of knew growing up, but it wasn’t like he had a relationship with them and he wasn’t sure he wanted one.

Brook said if Tracy told Ronnie that she was sorry, Ronnie would give her another chance. She knew Tracy was angry at Monica. Tracy said she knew in her bones that Monica didn’t do that, but Brook said, don’t exile herself to make a point. A house could be replaced. She couldn’t.

Drew threatened to tell the police about Michael paying Jacinda for a fake alibi and told Kristina not to mess up the deal he’d made with her mother. Jacinda suggested he watch his step, and he said he could still press charges. She said, do it. She’d love to explain to the police how he was loaded with ketamine and hired her for the evening and night, then got caught. Next time he hired an escort – and there was always a next time – don’t do body shots in a room of people with phones. He said she didn’t want to push him, and raising her voice, she said he got a lawyer to give her $50K to stay in Australia. That wasn’t something you did when you were looking for justice. He said she knew the justice system, having been arrested three times, and she said she had a record. So big deal. He said he paid her good money to stay away, and she asked if it was taxpayer money. He said the next time he saw the police, he was pointing them straight to her.

Willow said if Alexis was willing to help, she accepted, and Alexis told her about the paper suggesting suspects had been overlooked. They had a lot of ground to cover and when she asked questions, she needed Willow to answer honestly. Did she shoot Drew? Willow said, no, and Alexis asked why the weapon was found in her belongings. Willow said, Michael put it there, and Alexis asked why he’d do that. Willow said he was framing her to keep her away from her children. Michael shot Drew, not her.

Chase said that was insane. Willow didn’t stalk Daisy. Michael asked if he remembered the night Daisy was missing, and Chase said she’d been in her bassinet the whole time, but Michael said she hadn’t. And there was the other incident after Daisy was born. There were things that never made sense. She’d been moved from her crib and was facing a different direction and wearing a different onesie. Chase said, Sasha just forgot, but Michael said, she didn’t. Then there was the first incident when Sasha was brought the wrong baby. Willow was there because of her meltdown at the courthouse. Chase asked why Michael didn’t tell him when it was happening, and Michael said he had no proof. Willow likely broke in to terrify him and Sasha. She could have easily gotten her hands on the gun.

Ronnie asked why this guy hated the family, and Cody said, after Drew seduced Willow, Monica turned on him and threw him out. He claimed all he did was fall in love. Ronnie said, with his nephew’s wife? and Cody said, exactly. After that, Drew was out for payback from Monica and the Quartermaine’s, especially Tracy. He was using his political power and money to attack them. She said, that’s a lot, and he said, there’s more. Drew went too far. He had Tracy arrested for drugging him with ketamine. She said, Tracy drugged him too?

Brook said Tracy might consider the possibility of being nicer to Ronnie, and Tracy said she wasn’t apologizing for something she didn’t do. Brook said she was asking Tracy to try and make Ronnie feel welcome, but Tracy said she couldn’t. She knew Monica did not want that woman to have that house. She wasn’t going to pretend otherwise to get along. Brook said Tracy was needlessly rude and now she was camped out in Lulu’s living room. Was that what she wanted? Tracy said if her family turned their backs on her for standing up for Monica’s wishes, so be it. At least she’d know she took a stand.

Lois said she knew Gio’s walls were up and it was all on her, but maybe someday he’d find a way to let the walls come back down. Gio said he needed to get going. He was meeting friends and stuff. Lois said, have fun, and keep his heart open to music and whatever, and he said he got it now. She never meant to hurt him. She was just doing the right thing. She said she still was. All she could do was try. Gio asked how things were with Brook, and she said, not good. He said he was sorry to hear that. He knew how close they used to be. He hoped they got back to that someday. She said, her too, and he left.

Jacinda told Drew, do your worst, and Kristina said, let it go. A public official hired a woman for her time and embarrassed himself. Let’s go. It’s a congressional scandal, nothing special. Outside, she told Jacinda that she had no idea Drew would be in there, but Jacinda said he was just a jerk. No wonder Willow took a shot at him. Kristina asked if she wanted to go somewhere else for coffee or a drink, but Jacinda said she’d take a raincheck. There was something she had to take care of. She left, and Kristina looked inside at Martin and Drew.

Willow said she prayed Drew remembered what happened the night of the shooting, and Alexis said, if he did, she hoped it was for his sake, not Willow’s. Willow asked what she meant, and Alexis said, in this instance, a sudden memory would look suspicious to the court and be exploited by the prosecution. They’ll think he was making it up to exonerate her. Willow said, so if he did remember… and Alexis said, it wouldn’t help her case. She thought she had what she needed, and they’d pick this up tomorrow. Willow thanked her and said she felt a lot better knowing Alexis was fighting for her.

Chase said Michael was being malicious, accusing Willow of stalking a baby. He had no evidence. Michael said that’s why he didn’t file charges, but it showed what Willow was capable of. Chase said, the one most capable of shooting Drew was Michael. He had more access, bigger motive, and the resources to protect himself. Willow was on her own. That was the definition of injustice. Chase walked out.

Cody told Ronnie that he didn’t know what happened at the tea party, but Tracy didn’t drug Drew. He did it to himself and when he got caught partying, he tried to put the blame on Tracy. Tracy had done a lot of things, but she didn’t do that. Ronnie asked if she should give Tracy the benefit of the doubt, and Cody said, if Tracy did drug her and she called Tracy on it, he thought Tracy would say to her face, you’re damn right and I’d do it again. Ronnie said she worked hard to get along with Tracy, and Tracy humiliated her in front of everybody. When she left, Tracy took the family photos and possession and looked like a walking estate sale. The movers left a box, and she had to call them. Cody said he’d run it over, and she thanked him. He said he was happy to help. He had to make himself look good for the new boss. He picked up the box and left.

Brook told Tracy, fine. Sit in Lulu’s house, surrounded by her pride and relics. But before she left, she needed Tracy to know she loved her and that would never change. So call her anytime. She left.

Lois called Brook.

Cody went to see Willow at Pentenville and asked how she was holding up. She said, better now. How were the kids? He said, fine, and she asked if there were any developments in the case, but he said, not yet.

Jacinda thanked Michael for meeting her at the coffee bar, and he said she wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t important. What happened? She said his sister Kristina asked her for coffee and to check on them, and he wondered if she’d asked about anything. Jacinda said, no. She was sweet and very protective of him. That wasn’t the problem. Drew was. He threatened to send the cops after her for drugging him. Michael said, let him. He had no proof. She said she had priors and took money from the congressman to stay out of town. Nothing seemed to touch him. Michael said he couldn’t argue with that. How could he help? She said she needed to disappear – again.

Brook went to Sonny’s, and Lois said, she came. Brook said just because she came didn’t mean she was going to stay.

Alexis met Kristina at Bobbie’s and asked what was going on. Kristina said Drew was there earlier and said the strangest thing. She should check in with Alexis before she ruined the deal. Don’t worry. She didn’t lose her temper. Alexis said she would have understood, but before they got into it, she had to tell Kristina that she was defending Willow.

Chase said he was going to investigate Drew’s shooting as a private citizen until Willow was exonerated, but Willow said, don’t. It would cause nothing but problems. He said she was his friend and he had to help, but she said, not if it cost his job. He said he’d do it on his own time, and she wondered if he’d get into trouble for undermining the DA’s case. He said he had every right and the department couldn’t stop him. She said she didn’t want him to risk his neck, but he said someone had to. A person should not go to prison for a crime they didn’t commit.

Jacinda said she knew Michael was counting on her, but she had to watch her own back, and he said running wasn’t the way to do that. They were each other’s best option, and she should stay put and stick to the original story. It was a terrible alibi, but he thought he had a solution that would work for both of them. He’d pay her to fall in love with him

Cody brought the box to Tracy and asked how she was doing. She said she was living with two teenagers. How did he think? He said she could impart her worldly wisdom on them, but she said what she wanted to impart involved duct tape and chloroform, but Lulu wouldn’t approve. How was Hades? He said, fine. Once this had blown over, she could see for herself. She said she should probably board Hades somewhere else, and he asked what was in the box. She said, Alan’s train set. He would put it out every Christmas for the children, but he was the only one who played with it. She thanked him for bringing it, and he said it wasn’t his idea. Ronnie… She said, do not extol the virtues of St. Ronnie, and he said they weren’t so different. She said she hated him for saying that, and he laughed. He said they were both strong women. Ronnie was just nicer about not letting people push her around.

Ronnie opened the door to find Drew and she said, thank you, but I have a nice relationship with the Lord. He said that’s not why he was there. Did she happen to be Veronica Bard? She said she was. How could she help him? He said the question was, how could he help her?

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

Brook asks when Lois got into town, and Lois says, this morning. There were a few things she needed to take care of, and Brook was at the top of her list. Brook says, the last time they saw each other in Atlantic City, they shared a nice moment. Let’s not ruin it. Lois says she knows things are still bad between them, but there’s something Brook needs to know.

Carly walks into the steam room and sees Britt lying on a bench with her eyes closed. Britt says she’d like to have another cucumber water and eucalyptus towel, and Carly wings a towel at her head. Britt sits up and asks what the hell Carly thinks she’s doing. Carly says, teaching her an important lesson – how to share.

Spinelli thanks Jason for meeting him at the Brown Dog Bar, and Jason asks what he needs. Spinelli says he was hoping Jason would be so kind as to impart his parental wisdom, and Jason asks, why? Spinelli says he has the utmost respect for Jason’s relationship with Danny despite their regrettable time apart. They seem close. Jason says, and? and Spinelli says he loves James like is own son, but now that James’s father is back, he fears James may be taken away.

Nathan visits Lulu, and she says she was wondering when she’d finally see him. He says he needs to thank her for saving his life, and they hug.

At Bobbie’s, Kristina says, Alexis is defending Willow after everything she’s done to Michael? and Alexis says, if they want to see Scout, yes. She’s going to defend Willow, and in turn, Drew will drop the restraining orders against them. Kristina says, that’s good news. She’s sick of Drew punishing them all. Alexis says, unfortunately, he’s still punishing one of them, and Kristina asks what she means. Alexis says she doesn’t want to get into details. Scout will be here any minute. But Drew refuses to drop the restraining order against Danny. Kristina asks if Danny knows, but Alexis says she didn’t have the heart to tell him or that theirs have been lifted. Kristina says she doesn’t blame Alexis, and Alexis suggests they cherish their time with Scout… and there she is. Scout walks in and Alexis hugs her and says it’s good to see her.

Jacinda asks if it isn’t suspicious that Michael happened to be with an escort when Drew was shot, and Michael says, it’s a terrible alibi, but he thinks he has a solution that will work for them both. She says she’s listening, and he says he wants to pay her to fall in love with him. She says, to be clear, her time is for rent, but her emotions are not. Maybe he needs to find another alibi.

Ronnie says she’s not into politics, but she knows she’s definitely seen Drew’s face on the news, and Drew says he wishes the reporting was more accurate. He’s doing what he can to right that. How is she settling in? She says, it’s an adjustment, and he says, everybody in the house was born with a silver spoon in their mouth except them. They have more in common than she thinks. She says, really? and he says, give him a chance to prove it to her.

Britt says she got here first. If Carly has a problem with the way she seems, Carly can leave. Carly says she owns the hotel, including the spa and steam bath. She’s not going anywhere. Britt says she gets it. Carly is rich and owns everything. But does she have to remind everyone every five minutes? Carly says she doesn’t want Britt here and can throw her out when she wants, but Britt says she doesn’t think Jason would like it.

Spinelli says, the situation with James’s father is tricky. That’s why he needs Jason’s guidance. He possesses valuable insight into what Nathan is thinking because he’s worn similar shoes. Jason says, when Danny and Jake thought they’d lost him until he came back, and Spinelli says, yeah. And in the wake of his absence, he had to rebuild the relationship with his sons and it’s gone well, right? Jason says he’d like to think so, and Spinelli says, good. That’s what he wants for him and James. He wants them to have an unbreakable bond like Jason has with Danny. What he doesn’t want is for James to be taken away by the father he already has.

Nathan says he’s been meaning to come by and see Lulu. He couldn’t talk at the arraignment because his sister needed him. Lulu says she’s glad he was there for Nina. If Britt got locked up, they could throw away the key. He says he sees her antipathy with his other sister, and she says she’s not going to let Britt ruin the moment. She can’t believe he was the guy in the crashed car. He says he’s grateful, but wishes he knew how he ended up there, and she asks how it is being back. He says, it’s hard not remembering the last seven years of his life. The last he remembers, he and Maxie were married and Maxie was pregnant. Now Maxie is gone and James has grown up. Lulu says, it’s a lot. Maxie has them spinning. He says he just wants to take care of James and make a good life. Get his old job back at the PCPD. Lulu says she wants him to get his job back, but he doesn’t need that to be a good dad to his son. James will love him no matter what. Nathan says he hopes so, but he’s not sure what he’s up against here, and she says she understands better than he thinks.

Scout says it’s been so long since she’s seen them, but Alexis says, it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that they’re together and today is a Davis Girls fun day. Kristina says, except for Aunt Molly. She got stuck at work, but they can video chat with her later. Alexis asks Scout’s nanny if she thinks they can spend time alone, and the nanny says she can keep an eye on things from the counter. Alexis says she’s sure, and the nanny leaves. Alexis says she wanted to make sure to tell Scout how brave she’s been and how proud of Scout she is. She was very brave when her dad was in the hospital. Scout says she’s glad he’s home, but the police made a mistake and took Willow away. Her dad said Alexis was going to help bring her home.

Drew says he’s sure Ronnie got an earful about him and just hopes she doesn’t take what she hears at face value. The Quartermaines don’t take kindly to outsiders like them. He’s been part of the family for a long time and if they can smear his name as easily as they have, imagine what they could do to somebody like her. Ronnie says she doesn’t have to imagine. Tracy says it right to her face. He says, let him guess. Tracy says she’s not good enough to be here and says she’s an opportunist just after the Quartermaine name and fortune. She’s very quick to shame and name call, isn’t she? Ronnie says, Tracy probably just hates everybody, and Drew says she’s probably right. There’s something else they have in common – Monica.

Michael tells Jacinda that he’s sorry. Every word came out wrong. She says she hopes so, and he says he didn’t mean to imply he could buy her feelings. Quite the opposite. He really liked her the night they met. That’s why he wanted to buy her a drink. He had no idea she was… She says, that she was an escort? and he tells her that he was going to say he had no idea she was the woman involved in Drew’s ketamine scandal. Now she’s involved in something a hell of a lot bigger. If they want a believable alibi, they need to find a way to have a real relationship, something other people believe because they believe it themselves. She asks if he thinks people would believe a man like him fell for a woman like her, and he says, why wouldn’t they? She’s smart, beautiful, and magnetic. No one would be surprised that he’d be with her. The real question is, why would someone like her be with someone like him? She says, maybe because he’s sexy, intelligent, and successful, and he says, they sound pretty great and pretty believable as a couple. She says, who is she to argue? and takes out her phone. He asks what she’s doing, and she says, taking a selfie. If people are going to buy this, they need to leave a social media trail. She takes the photo.

Brook asks why Lois is at Uncle Sonny’s, and Lois says, Sonny graciously let her use this place to take care of a few things. Gio was just here. Brook asks, why? and Lois says she was giving him a gentle nudge toward her and Dante. Brook says she wishes Lois hadn’t done that, and Lois says she knows. It’s her butting in again, but she had to try. Brook says she didn’t have to do anything, but she chose to anyway, and Lois says she doesn’t want to argue. She doesn’t want to leave the country with them in a bad place. Brook asks why she’s leaving the country, and Lois says, an opportunity fell into her lap and if she takes it, she’ll be leaving the country.

Lois says, because she was with L&B Records and Miguel Morez, somebody reached out and offered her a job as tour manager, and Brook says she’s happy for her. She’s a great tour manager. Lois says she didn’t expect Brook to tell her that, but it may not even happen. Not without Brook’s blessing. Brook asks what she means, and Lois says it’s for Brook’s client, Blaze. Brook says, right. Blaze finished opening for Miguel. Lois says, Blaze did such a great job, she made an even bigger name for herself. She gained so many new fans that Miguel’s people want to capitalize on it and send her on a tour all of her own. They asked her to manage it, but she’s not taking the opportunity away from Brook. So it’s her call.

Alexis says she promises to do everything in her power to help Willow, and Scout says, good. She likes Willow and hopes Willow marries her dad for real one day. Kristina says she wants to know how Scout is doing. The last time they talked, Scout was trying out for the swim team. How did it go? Scout says she made the team, and Alexis applauds. Scout says her first meet is next Tuesday, and Alexis promises she’ll be there. Kristina says she’ll be right next to Alexis, and they’ll be cheering Scout on. Danny and Rocco come in, and Scout hugs Danny. The nanny’s beady eyes watch them.  

Drew tells Ronnie that Monica was the person who welcomed him into the family. She didn’t know anything about him, but as soon as she found out he was Alan’s son, that was all she needed. He’ll always be deeply grateful for her being there during the toughest time of his life. Ronnie says, that sounds like her sister, but not from personal experience. They were not close. He says, they weren’t very close either, at least during the last year. They’d had a serious falling out. He made some mistakes and was trying to fix them, but because Tracy interfered, Monica wouldn’t even give him a chance. He wishes he’d had the opportunity to deal with it before she died. It’s painful to have to live with for the rest of his life. He’s sure that’s something Ronnie knows all about too.

Michael tells Jacinda that Willow has been charged with Drew’s shooting, but he’s still on the suspect list. He’s much, much higher than her, so he needs her a whole lot more than she needs him. She says, true, but he gets points for being honest, and he says he’ll always be honest with her. It’s the only way to make this thing work, if they have trust, and he needs her to trust him. She says, because? and he says, if they want it to work and for people to believe them, she needs to get a different job.

Outside Bobbie’s, Danny says, whatever he did, he’s sorry, but Alexis says he didn’t do anything. Drew did. Danny asks why Drew can’t just leave them alone? and Alexis says, because he’s an ass. He agreed to lift the restraining orders on all of them, except he kept Danny’s in place. Danny asks if that means everyone can see Scout except him, and she says, yes, but it’s not going to last long. She’s going to fix it. She hates this so much, but in the meantime, they need Scout to spend time with the rest of them to balance the bad influence Drew has. Rocco says, everyone but Danny, and Alexis says she knows it’s not fair, but at the moment, they need to go by Drew’s rules. It’s unconscionable, she knows, but she’s going to take care of it. Danny says he knows she will. She always does.

Drew tells Ronnie, sorry. He’s texting his daughter’s nanny. Ronnie says, that’s fine. She can certainly see how he’d made his life in politics after the speech he gave her. He clearly has a way with words. He says he was just telling the truth. He loved Monica. That didn’t stop because they weren’t speaking. She says, one thing she knows about Monica, once she made up her mind about you, it was really hard to break through. Anyway, she’s glad they had the chance to chat. He says him too, and she says she’s sorry, but she can’t shake the feeling he came to her with an ulterior motive. He says he wouldn’t call it an ulterior motive, but there was something else he was hoping to talk to her about.

Jacinda tells Michael that she’s not saying he’s wrong. Her continuing work as an escort will give people a reason to doubt their relationship, but not having an income is not an option. She has bills to pay. He says he totally gets that, but he can get her a job that pays well, and who knows? Maybe she’ll like it more than the place she’s at right now. She says he’s going to a lot of trouble to make this work. That makes her think he has something pretty serious to cover up. She wasn’t actually with him that night, so she has no idea what he did or didn’t do. He says he didn’t shoot Drew, but he did come dangerously close. He was mad that night and drove over to confront Drew, but then he got out of his car, and it hit him. What Drew was going to do was escalate things. That’s what he always does. Nothing good would come of it and he decided to move forward, for him and for his kids, and leave Willow, Drew, and all that behind. Jacinda says, every time he talks about his kids, he lights up. She can tell how much he loves them. You’re a complicated man, Michael Corinthos, but underneath it all, you’re a good guy. He says he really wants to be, and she says, by the way, she does. He says, does what? and she says, believes him about not shooting his uncle.

Lulu tells Nathan, for her, it felt like a good night’s sleep, but for everyone else, four years had passed. Her little boy and girl were teenagers, her father was dead, and so was her Aunt Bobbie. She felt like she was living in another world, an alternate universe. Nathan says he’s really sorry, and she says, yeah, so is she. He says, that stuff messes with your head, right? and she says, it’s hard to explain the anxiety, the questions, the displacement, the guilt. Dante had to raise Rocco, and her daughter went with her father, so she knows all too well what he’s going through. He says he guesses she does. He has so much guilt about Maxie. She might be the only one who can walk him through it.

Spinelli tells Jason, before Maxie was transferred to the hospital in Boston, he promised to keep the family together and James is an integral part of the family. He needs to play this exactly right. Jason says he doesn’t know Nathan too well, but everybody thinks he’s a good guy. He’s sure Nathan will respect everyone’s feelings when he gets to know his son. Spinelli says, he’s right. Nathan is a good guy. That’s why Maxie… loved him. He was arguably the love of her life, and Nathan made it clear he still loves her. Jason says, stop. He has to stop. That was the past. Maxie loves him and James has plenty of room in his life for him and Nathan. Spinelli thanks Jason for saying that. He doesn’t want to lose James.

Carly says, funny. Britt acts like she wants as little to do with Jason as possible, yet she finds a way to drop his name in every conversation they have. Britt says, exaggerate much? and Carly says she and Jason have been best friends for a very long time. She’s in his life and that’s not going to change. Jason wouldn’t care at all if she threw Britt out of the hotel. He’s seen her be way pettier and never blinked an eye. Britt says she gets why Carly would brag about that, and Carly says she tells it like it is. Britt says Carly talks a big game, but she knows it’s driving Carly crazy that Jason flew all the way to Croatia to find her. How hard did Carly try to convince him not to go after her? She’s sure it made Carly mad that he didn’t listen, and she knows Carly is upset that Jason still can’t stop thinking about her after all this time.

Brook tells Lois that she has a lot going on right now. Gio, Chase’s job, Monica’s estate is in limbo. She could never take on a position like that, even if it was offered to her. Lois says, Brook has a lot on her plate, and Brook says she usually does. Blaze just lost her mother. Even though she and Natalia didn’t have the best relationship, she can understand why Blaze would want maternal energy around right now. Things aren’t great between her and Lois, but she trusts that Blaze will be in great hands. Lois says, that means… and Brook says, take the job. Lois has her blessing. Lois thanks her and says, that means a lot. Brook asks when she’s leaving, and Lois says, today.  

Michael says it’s likely both he and Jacinda will be called to testify at Willow’s trial. So there can’t be a traceable money trail between them. She’ll still get paid a sizeable amount, just under the table. Jacinda says, that’s fine, and Michael says, good. She needs to have a reason that she left her last job. He’ll cover her expenses, and she’ll need a legit title and position. She asks what kind of job he has in mind. Does it come with health insurance?

Alexis comes back and asks, who’s ready to order? and Scout asks, where are her brothers? Alexis says she’s sorry. They had somewhere to go. They wanted to stay and said to tell her how much they love her. Kristina says, Scout hardly saw them. They didn’t get to talk.

Drew says he loves that Monica left Ronnie the estate. Keeping the house in the family is a great way to preserve Monica’s legacy. He also understands Port Charles is not her home and she might have a life she wants to get back to. If that’s the case, he’d love the opportunity to make and offer on his family’s home. If that’s what she decides, he hopes he’s her first call. Danny and Rocco come in, and Danny tells Drew, get the hell out of our house.

Carly says she’s not surprised Jason can’t stop thinking about Britt. He’s loyal to a fault, even to the people who lie to his face. Or did she tell him what she was really up to in Croatia? Britt says, who’s asking? Carly or her WSB agent boyfriend, Jack Brennan? Carly says she doesn’t do Jack’s dirty work, and Britt says, just Jason’s. Carly says she and Jason have been through things Britt can’t even imagine. Once again, the reason alludes her for Jason putting himself on the line for Britt. Why not do something to justify his faith in her, like be a decent person? Britt says she really misses the Five Poppies spa. It was so much quieter. Carly says, then she should go back… Unless she can’t.

Spinelli tells Jason that the other day, he tried to hint that what James needs is routine and consistency in his life. In other words, James should stay with him and James’s sister, but Nathan mistook that and thought he meant that James needed him to consistently be a hands-on father. Jason tells him, all he can say is, when he came back to town, he saw Sam and Dante had built a blended family and Danny loved being a part of that family. He didn’t want to disrupt that, so who knows? Maybe Nathan will feel the same way. Spinelli says, even so, things changed with Danny and Jason is with him full-time, and Jason says, only because Sam died. Spinelli says, that’s exactly his point. What if the worst happens and Maxie doesn’t make it? What happens to his family then?

Nathan tells Lulu that he can’t stop wondering if things had been different, if he’d never left, would Maxie feel the same? Maybe to him it didn’t feel like seven years had gone by, but they had. Maybe in all that time, she fell out of love with him. Lulu says, no. Maxie never stopped loving him. She was devastated when he died and mourned for a really long time. Then she moved on with her life. In true Maxie style, she made big mistakes along the way. Nathan says he heard about it from Nina, and Lulu says, Maxie never would have gotten involved with Peter August if she hadn’t been spinning out over losing him. It took years for Maxie and Spinelli to reconnect. She loves Spinelli and he worships Maxie, but she truly thinks Nathan was the love of Maxie’s life. And when Maxie wakes up – and she will wake up – she’s going to be stunned, then thrilled that he’s alive. But if he’s wondering if Maxie will choose him or Spinelli when she comes back to him, only Maxie has the answer to that.

Lois says she’s flying to Seoul later today, and Brook says, that makes sense. Blaze has a lot of fans there. How long is the tour? Lois says, TBD. She’s adding new dates all the time. It’s part of the job description. Brook says she’s sorry. She knows things aren’t great, but she hates to think that Lois won’t be here and waiting when she’s finally ready. Lois says she’ll always be there for Brook. It doesn’t matter how long they’ve gone without speaking – days, weeks, months, God forbid years – the second Brook needs her, she’ll drop everything and come running. Lois starts to cry and says, Brook is her heart, beating outside her chest. She always has been. Brook starts to cry too, and says she needs Lois, every single day, a thousand times a day. Not an hour goes by that she doesn’t wish she could call Lois, but something in her isn’t ready to move on from this. Lois says, don’t feel bad about the way she feels. She kept a secret from Brook that wasn’t hers to keep. She swears she’s learned from her mistake. She just hopes she gets the chance to prove it to Brook someday.

Scout asks if she can come over for a sleepover, and Alexis says she’d love that, but they’d have to ask her dad. The nanny says, it’s time to go. Scout’s dad wants her home. Kristina says, they haven’t even ordered, but Alexis says, that’s okay. They’ll see each other soon. Scout says, okay. She loves them. Alexis hugs her and says she loves Scout too. She’ll see Scout at the swim meet. Kristina says, they’ll be the ones cheering the loudest, and hugs Scout. The nanny says, let’s go, and she leaves with Scout. Kristina says, what the hell was that? and Alexis suggests they not make a scene. She’s sure Drew’s little spy called and told him that Danny was here. Then their time with Scout was over before it got started.

Drew says he was just here to talk to Ronnie about adult business. It doesn’t concern Danny either. Danny says, it does. He lives there. Drew isn’t even allowed on the grounds. How did he get past the front gate? Drew says, Ronnie decides who gets to be here now, and Ronnie says, okay. Let’s just cool it, okay? She and the congressman were just having a chat, but Danny is obviously upset about something. Maybe they could discuss it and work out some kind of understanding. Rocco says, she doesn’t know Drew like they do. He’s a bad guy. He’s been keeping their sister away from them and still won’t let Danny see her. Drew says, it’s a long story, and Danny says, Drew filed restraining orders against Scout’s entire family to keep them from seeing her. Ronnie says she doesn’t understand that. The way he was talking, he seemed like someone who really values family. Why is he keeping his daughter away from hers? Drew says, Danny put Scout in danger. He kidnapped her… Danny says, that’s a lie. He was bringing her home. The doorbell rings, and Ronnie says she’ll get it. When she’s gone, Drew says he’s just about had it. They’re both entitled little punks that don’t know when to shut up. It’s time that they get something straight.

Lois opens the door, and Brook says, ma, and goes to her. They hug and cry, and Lois says, hey. When Brook was growing up it was them against the world. She hopes they’ll be that way again someday. She loves Brook so very much. Brook says she knows. Safe travels. Lois says, okay, and leaves. Brook watches as she walks away from the house.  

Nathan thanks Lulu for what she said about Maxie. Most people say if she wakes up, but Lulu said when. It helps. Lulu says she can be this confident because it happened to her. She fought her way back. Maxie is a fighter, like they are, and Maxie is going to come back for James, like she came back for Charlotte and Rocco. Nathan says he hasn’t met Charlotte yet, but Rocco’s a great kid. He’s smart, interesting, and polite. She thanks him and says she thinks so too. When did they see each other? Nathan says, they had dinner last night, and she says, him and Rocco? He says, him, Rocco, his mom, and Britt.

Jason says, Spinelli has to stay strong and positive for Maxie and the kids, and Spinelli says, he’s right. Jason says he knows how hard it is on him. If there’s anything he can do to help… Spinelli says, actually, he could talk to Nathan. Tell Nathan his story and that he knows what it’s like to want to reconnect with his son, but he held back and took it slow for Danny’s sake. Convince him it’s the right thing to do in this situation. Jason says he doesn’t know why Nathan would listen to him. He barely knows the guy. Spinelli says, Jason did save his sister’s life. That should give him an in. Jason says, okay. If it will make Spinelli feel better, he’s happy to do it. But Nathan’s not a dumb guy. He may think Spinelli sent him and think Spinelli is trying to keep him away from James. Spinelli says that should have occurred to him, and Jason says, so why not be more direct? Why not invite him over and let him see James as part of a big loving family? Then he’ll see with his own eyes how happy James is. Make Nathan a partner in parenting. Spinelli says, it’s not only wise, but surprisingly full of heart. Perhaps Jason is becoming less stone cold and a little more warm and fuzzy. Jason just looks at him, and Spinelli says, or not. They get up, and Spinelli almost hugs Jason, but Jason is like, no. Spinelli says he’ll let Jason know how it goes leaves.

Carly says they all know Britt is hiding something. Between her, Jason, and Jack, they’ll figure out her dirty little secret. Britt flashes back to the note that came with her medication, and says, this place sucks. It doesn’t even have a cold plunge. She leaves.

Kristina says, what if Drew thinks they had it planned to have Danny show up and takes Scout away from them again? and Alexis says she’ll have to make sure he knows it was a coincidence – and it was, by the way. Kristina asks, what if he doesn’t believe her? but Alexis says, Drew wants Willow acquitted and knows she’s the best person to do that. But if she fails, he’ll keep Scout away from them for good. Kristina says, if anyone can get Willow free, she can, and Alexis says, the problem is, if Willow claims she’s innocent, she has to give the jury someone else to find guilty. Kristina says, please tell her that she’s not trying to pin Drew’s shooting on Michael.

Jacinda tells Michael that she has one stipulation. She doesn’t want the job to just be her cover. She wants to actually do the job, learn something new. She’s a hard worker. Who knows? Maybe this will be her next career. Michael says, don’t worry. She’ll have full autonomy. He doesn’t want to micromanage her. He wants her to succeed here. She says, good. Then she’s in. He says, okay, and holds out his hand, but she says, please. They want this to be convincing. He says, done, and they kiss.

Drew says, Scout’s nanny told him what Danny did. He showed up at Bobbie’s earlier while Scout was there. That cannot happen again. Danny says, or what? It doesn’t matter how many restraining orders he hits them with. They’re seeing their sister. He can’t watch her every second of the day. She’s not his prisoner. Rocco says, Scout is smart and she loves them. He can’t keep them away without making her hate him. Drew says he doesn’t want to play these games with them. If he feels Scout isn’t safe here in Port Charles, he will take her and relocate to DC. How often do they think she’ll see them then? In the meantime, he’s going to have both delinquents arrested and thrown in jail, just like Danny’s dad and just like Rocco’s Uncle Lucky. Ronnie brings in Laura, who says, I beg your pardon. I believe you’re out of your depth now. You have a much bigger problem than my grandson and his brother. You’ve got me.

On Monday, Curtis says, Jordan isn’t the reason his marriage is over; Trina asks if she’s interrupting Isaiah and Portia; Kristina tells Sonny that he might not be so happy when he hears what she has to say; and Drew says, all Ronnie had to do is name her price.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

This doesn’t surprise me one bit, and she’s blowing up on Instagram.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospital-star-scarlett-spears-donna-will-star-as-young-glinda-in-wicked-sequel/

Failed retirement looks good on her.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/why-failed-retiree-jane-elliot-is-thrilled-with-her-general-hospital-resurgence-as-tracy/

At first, I was leaning toward him actually being Faison, but now I’m not so sure. I don’t think evil twin, but it’s not unheard of.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/is-nathan-really-back-on-general-hospital-fans-weigh-in-on-his-mysterious-return/

Daytime Emmy stuff.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/the-52nd-annual-daytime-emmy-awards-the-complete-winners-list-as-it-happens-live/

https://ew.com/daytime-emmy-awards-2025-winners-list-11831588

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/daytime-emmys-2025-inside-the-winners-circle-with-stars-of-general-hospital-young-and-restless-and-more/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/the-2025-daytime-emmy-awards-what-you-didnt-see-behind-the-scenes-during-and-after-the-ceremony/

💉 A Dose Of Reality…

Below Deck

The captain told Nathan that he had some people who didn’t get it, and in Nathan’s interview, he said he’d given them the benefit of the doubt first charter, but now it was looking like a joke. Primary Grant wanted something to eat at some ungodly hour and Aesha stepped in, suggesting fries. Of course, he insisted on truffle being added, but by the time they were served, he wasn’t hungry anymore. He wasn’t belligerent or even demanding, but he was idiotic and insensitive to the fact that the crew members were human. After being told no swimming, guest Jack also tumbled, or rather bounced, into the water while drunk. The guests did leave a $20K tip, $1818 each, which kinda, sorta made up for a charter of idiots. Looks like a deckhand might be headed for walking the plank though.

Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City

The Below Deck trip was planned, but Heather said she couldn’t enjoy herself on a superyacht. They were savages. Lisa was annoyed that she couldn’t bring her glam squad and tried talking smack about Angie to Heather, but Ozempic Face wasn’t having it. Heather told Meredith that Lisa was never going to own it and apologize, but Meredith preferred giving Lisa the benefit of the doubt. Todd suggested Bronwyn stop getting in the gutter and rolling around in the slime. She assumed she’d be fighting with Lisa and was setting herself up for it. Whatever happened was on her.

Housewives Wife Swap

This is what reality TV should be about – learning how other people live who aren’t you. Angie from RHOSLC swapped with Lindsay, a wife living off the grid. In the 24-hour period when the swapped wives play by their rules, Mary showed up when Lindsay was demonstrating how to gut a fish. Seeing Mary’s face was priceless and was one of the many moments that made it worth watching.

Real Housewives Of Orange County

These women should always stay high. Gina and Fancy Pants did mushrooms and romped through fields of tulips, while Shannon tried her hand at riding a plaster horse. Gina was mesmerized by clogs with flowers in them! While there weren’t any knockdown drag outs, there was plenty of behind the back gossip, which I find tedious since it’s always rehashing the same stuff over and over. In Gretchen’s interview, she said if Tamra hadn’t changed when she accepted Jesus, what made them think she’d changed now? Good point. I could see why Tony Geary moved to Amsterdam. It looks amazing and so much fun – the markets! the canals! the flowers – weed included!

Random Reality Items

I smell desperation.

Tease is right. There’s not much to see there.

Yikes. It’s so creepy that people do this.

Looks promising. I was totally surprised when I realized how much I like this show. Those who can’t do watch it on TV.

Getting some Lala.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

The Perfect Neighbor. Netflix. A documentary about someone who is very far from being the perfect neighbor. When the entire neighborhood hates you, they can’t all be wrong. Racist and antagonistic, Susan Lorincz is a neighbor you don’t want to have, constantly berating the neighborhood children for being children. Hand to God, I had a downstairs neighbor like that when I lived in an apartment, and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone. Lorincz takes things too far, fatally shooting a mother of four through a locked door and then using Florida’s Stand Your Ground law as a defense.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1424110/the-perfect-neighbor-what-happened-to-susan-lorincz-ajike-owens

I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025). Netflix. The reviews weren’t good, but I didn’t hate it. It is what it is. A slasher film with all the tropes. There was a more complex plot than the original, which only led to unanswered questions, but does it really matter? This is the kind of mindless film where you just kick back with your popcorn and not think too hard. Probably the best thing about it was the inclusion of actors from the original film and an amusing fantasy sequence with one of them.

https://decider.com/2025/10/17/i-know-what-you-did-last-summer-2025-digital-streaming-movie-review

https://www.splicetoday.com/moving-pictures/i-know-what-you-did-last-summer-ages-gracelessly

🔮 Watch Of the (Near) Future…

Genius casting!

https://ew.com/wicked-for-good-casts-colman-domingo-cowardly-lion-11832887

Airing November 6th, 8 pm on NBC, streaming on Peacock the following day.

https://ew.com/first-look-at-cynthia-erivo-ariana-grande-in-wicked-for-good-tv-special-exclusive-11834430

It’s almost here.

https://ew.com/welcome-to-derry-on-set-it-prequel-tracing-pennywise-origins-exclusive-11830263

👠 Over At the Frankenstein Place…

I can’t wait to read his memoir.

https://www.aol.com/lifestyle/tim-curry-makes-rare-appearance-045437579.html

🐝 Time To Buzz Off…

One of those good things that will be coming to an end.

https://www.inverse.com/entertainment/yellowjackets-ending-season-4

🎃 Halloween Watch…

Obviously, best and scariest are a matter of opinion, but there are some good ones here.

https://ew.com/best-halloween-movies-streaming-11832026

https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/scariest-movies-of-all-time

🐈‍⬛ Casting a Spell On You…

🍄 Omg, the mushroom Pug.

🗽 These costumes make me feel guilty for not being more ambitious.

https://nypost.com/2025/10/19/us-news/costumed-canines-strut-stuff-at-nycs-halloween-dog-parade/

https://hyperallergic.com/1050567/the-goodest-boys-of-nyc-halloween-dog-parade-2025/

🐕 And of course, ways to keep your pets safe.

🦉 Quotes of the Week

I don’t want to pinch your bubble. – Jasmine Pineda, 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?

You can waste your lives drawing lines. Or you can live your life crossing them. – Shonda Rhimes

A good character is the best tombstone. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble. – Charles Spurgeon

Whatever you are, be a good one. – William Makepeace Thackeray

The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any. – Alice Walker

The road to success is always under construction. – Lily Tomlin

Leaders who win the respect of others are the ones who deliver more than they promise, not the ones who promise more than they can deliver.Mark A. Clement

No man can tell whether he is rich or poor by turning to his ledger. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has. – Henry Ward Beecher

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. – Maya Angelou

Success is defined as the ability to go from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm. – Unknown

You can never leave footprints that last if you are always walking on tiptoe.Leymah Gbowee

We’re married now. My hell is her hell. – Mike Biggs (Billy Gardell), Mike & Molly

🪄 Magic In the Night…

Until next week, stay safe; stay keeping your pets out of the mix on Halloween; and stay not doing body shots in a room full of people with phones if you hire an escort.

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

Standard

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.

September 19, 2025 – GH Weekdays, The News Of Monica’s Death Is Not Premature, Soap Suds, This Week In Reality, Weekend Watching, The Emmy Went To, Happenings In the Wild, Quotes Of Three Squared & Song

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

🥢 Weekday Bites…

Monday:

Drew thanked Martin for coming to see him. Drew said he needed a lawyer, and it had to be Martin.

Chase told Anna that he didn’t know if anything had been taken from Drew’s safe, but he noticed something pertaining to a completely different crime.

While Sidwell and Marco waited for the launch, Marco asked if Sidwell had killed Judge Haran. Sidwell said he didn’t, but Marco did.

Jason went to Sonny’s office, and Brick said, long time, no see. Sonny told him, welcome back, and Carly said it was about time he showed up.

Josslyn wondered about getting information from Colette, and Jack said she hadn’t caved, but there might be a workaround. He told Josslyn and Vaughn that their getaway was against regulations, and Josslyn asked, since when did he care about regulations? Jack said he’d earned the right, and their little stunt was going to cost them both.

Nina said it had been an emotional evening. She was sure Obrecht didn’t mean to slap Britt, but Britt said it was the mother she’d always known. Shoot first. Obrecht was about to  react, when Nina said, stop. They were family, like or not. They’d all grieved when they lost Nathan, and she and Obrecht grieved when they thought they lost Britt, but she was back with them. It was like a miracle. Could they focus on that and could Obrecht say she was sorry… please? Britt asked if Obrecht was sorry, and Obrecht said she was. Sorry she’d wasted a second of time grieving for Britt.

Jack said personal relationships were strictly forbidden, and Vaughn said it wasn’t Josslyn’s fault. Jack said it mad agents emotionally compromised, which affected their judgment, and they became vulnerable and made bad judgements as a result. Like Jason needing to rescue them. Vaughn said he wouldn’t have needed to if there hadn’t been a double agent working under Jack’s nose for months, and Jack asked if he’d made his point clear. He should send them to opposite hemispheres, so they never worked together again, but it would be inconvenient for him. He needed them both close to home. So regardless of their bad judgement… He told Vaughn, congratulations. You’ve been promoted.

Carly asked where Jason was, and Sonny asked if he found Britt. Jason said he did.

Obrecht said she’d just spent the last two years reliving Britt’s death, holding Britt in her arms, sensing her slip away, and exactly the moment she was gone. She would imagine what would have happened if Britt had lived. Now she found out Britt’s death was a lie, and she was living it up. She could never imagine Britt could be this cruel. She was selfish, just like her father. Britt said she was exactly like Obrecht.

Marco said he had nothing to do with Judge Haran’s death, and Sidwell said Marco killed her when he went behind his back and told Drew about the payoff. She had to be silenced. There were other factors, but he couldn’t risk her folding under pressure. She’d called, telling him that a detective was asking questions about the Corinthos custody case. If she was worried over something minor, imagine if real pressure was applied. Even though Marco’s actions caused her demise earlier than planned, she dealt her fate the moment she took the bribe.

Martin said, if Drew remembered, he’d quit, but Drew said he was pretty sure he fired Martin. Martin said, six of one, and Drew said Martin couldn’t afford not to take the job. Martin said there were some things more important than money, and why would Drew want him to be his counsel? Drew said they’d known each other a long time (I thought, aww, a nod to AMC) and despite their differences, Martin had a certain flexibility that he appreciated. Martin said he’d never work for Drew again, and Drew said, even if it meant saving Stella Henry?

Martin asked what exactly Drew was offering, and Drew said he could make the whole investigation go away. He could get the charges dropped and get Stella reinstated at GH like nothing happened. In return, he’d have access to Martin’s unprecedented legal services, and he’d give Martin a raise. But he needed to know right now what it was going to be. Martin said he’d start right after Drew got off the phone with the Insurance Fraud Division.

Anna said it put a new spin on things, and Chase said it could be a set-up to implicate Drew in the judge’s death. Anna called Turner and asked her to come to the office. She thought Turner should see something that was brought to her attention. It had to do with Judge Haran’s murder.

Vaughn wasn’t sure how anything Jack said led to him being promoted, and Jack said he wasn’t happy about it, but Colette was at the Hague being charged with treason, he needed a second in command, and Vaughn knew the players. His undercover days were over. Josslyn asked if she’d finally get to tell her friends and family that she was an agent, but Jack said, not yet. He had a different assignment for her.

Carly asked if Britt was alive, and Jason said she was. He thanked Brick for his intel on the Five Poppies, and Brick said there was a rumbling in Dalmatia. Was that him? Carly asked where he was, and Jason asked if she remembered that he’d seen Britt at the airport in Paris. She said she thought he let that go, but Jason said he tracked her to a resort in Dalmatia, the Five Poppies. Brick said Jason had reached out and he gave Jason a rundown on the place. There were rumors it was more than it seemed. Carly said she guessed Sonny must have known and wondered why they didn’t let her know. Jason said he’d asked Sonny not to say anything because someone went to a lot of trouble to fake Britt’s death. If she didn’t want to be found, he was going to respect that and leave her alone. Sonny said, Britt could have been forced, like Jason was with Jagger and the FBI. Carly said, so Jason found her. Did he leave her there? Jason said, no. He brought her back to Port Charles.

Britt said Nina bought Obrecht’s act, but she knew the real her, the one who thought birthday presents made a child soft. Obrecht said, apparently, she was right, and Britt said, Obrecht was never satisfied, and she was always an afterthought, merely to be endured, especially when Obrecht was running around with Cesar. She was sickeningly desperate for that man’s attention. Britt learned who was important and it wasn’t her. Obrecht said she was tough on Britt to make her strong, to help her survive, and Britt said, then Obrecht should understand why she made a life when she still had one. She couldn’t watch Obrecht be sad and waste more of the little time she had left to make Obrecht feel better about her diagnosis. Obrecht said, that was a monstrous thing to say, and Britt said she was the monster Obrecht raised her to be.

Marco said he didn’t want murder to happen, and Sidwell said he didn’t make the decision lightly. If she’d taken the money, maintained her composure, and kept her mouth shut, everything would be fine. Cracks eventually spread. What was done, was done, and Marco should think of the bigger picture. Think about his mother and how Sonny made her suffer.

On the phone, Drew said he appreciated it. So they’d call HR at General Hospital and get Stella Henry reinstated… Wonderful. Thank you. He asked if Martin was happy now, and Martin said, ecstatic. Stella should never have been persecuted for sticking up for patients, but he appreciated Drew getting involved. Drew said, close enough. He needed an injunction. He didn’t want the PCPD going through the contents of his safe. Martin asked what he was afraid they’d find, reminding Drew that he now had attorney/client privilege. Drew said his safe contained evidence that Dr. Portia Robinson tampered with test results. It could cost her medical license, and she could even be sent to prison. Martin said blackmail was a bad look and asked if Drew realized it could be considered a crime, and Drew said, make sure the police never see the evidence.

Obrecht said Britt pretended to die a hero’s death, then ran like a coward, and Britt said she needed a break from Obrecht making everything about herself. If she was having such a wonderful life, why would she come back? Obrecht said, something went awry, and Britt said, the WSB got wind of her research and stuck their nose in. Silly her. She thought she was happy. Obrecht thought for a moment, then laughed. She asked if Britt was broke, and Britt said she didn’t need or want their money. Nina said if the WSB was poking around, Britt was in trouble, and Britt said, no. She just had to leave Dalmatia quickly. She’d appreciate it if Nina could float her a short-term loan. Obrecht said, there it is. When the WSB shut down her research, they blocked her funds. Nina told Britt, of course (🍷), and Obrecht said, don’t you dare. Nina gave her a look.

Jack said Josslyn was going back to school, but Josslyn said she left so abruptly, she doubted Dalton would let her in the lab. Jack told her not to worry about Dalton. He wanted her in place in PCU. Vaughn asked what they should tell people, and Josslyn said her mom would have a lot to say about her dating an agent. Jack said he assumed Carly knew, thanks to Jason, but Josslyn said she didn’t think so. She’d asked Jason not to say anything and he’d respect that. Even though her mom and Jason were close, he made it a point to stay out of other people’s business, and he knew it wasn’t his secret to tell. It was hers.

Jason said, the WSB arrived, and Britt wanted out, so he brought her back. Brick said, nicely done. He liked how Jason kept things interesting. Carly said she hoped Britt was grateful, and Jason said, she was Britt. Carly said, a lot happened when he was gone. Did he hear someone tried to kill Drew? Jason asked if they knew who did it, and she said, not yet, but they were looking at Michael. He asked if Michael had an alibi.

Anna told Turner that they’d found a wire transfer to a Swiss bank, Judge Haran’s personal in Drew’s safe. Turner said, on its own, it was shaky, and Anna said, it was dated a day before the judge granted Michael custody and denied the mother visitation, which was highly irregular. Turner said she agreed, but why pay the judge to go against his fiancé? Wouldn’t he pay to ensure she won? Chase said Drew didn’t care what Willow wanted. He was manipulating her because he wanted to have her all to himself. Anna said, Willow agreed to marry him only after she’d lost custody, and Chase said, she was desperate. Turner said, if the bribe was exposed… and Anna said, Drew would be highly motivated to stop Haran from implicating him.

Jack said if Jason kept their secret, Josslyn would be in the clear. If he told Carly, he’d have to inform her of the State Secrets Act. Josslyn can’t tell anyone she’s WSB. Josslyn said she highly doubted that would be Carly’s first concern, but she’d throw herself over that bridge when the time came. If she was needed at PCU, she’d be at PCU. Jack said, good. There would be a setback for whoever Pascal, Britt, and Dalton were working for, but they were still a long way from solving the problem. They’d Dalton was at the end of the pipeline, so Vaughn would focus on him. Vaughn said he thought they’d decided Dalton was a small player, but Jack said he was still their best lead. It was no coincidence that Britt was back in Port Charles. Dalton’s research was in cold fusion, which could be dangerous if the application was misused. They ran the risk of a catastrophic error. Vaughn had to establish a connection and do it fast.  

Britt said she didn’t expect anything. They could keep their pride and their money. She could earn a living as a doctor. Obrecht said, without her license? and Britt said she thought Obrecht liked her better when she was dead. Then she could imagine Britt the way she wanted her to be instead of dealing with the person she actually was. Obrecht said Britt was right. As far as she was concerned both of her children were dead. At least Nathan deserved her tears. Nina said, don’t do this, but Britt said, no, it was good they both knew the truth now, and walked out.

Sonny said the cops didn’t have much at the moment. He had an appointment to see them. Diane was representing Alexis. Before Drew was shot, he served Alexis, Kristina, and Molly with restraining orders to stay away from Scout. Carly said he also served Rocco, and now that Jason was back in town, he’d probably get served. Brick said he’d take Drew down himself if he had the chance, and Carly said she already gave Anna an alibi. She was with Jack. She said she needed to get home and hugged Brick. Jason asked if she was okay, and she said she was still mad that he and Sonny left her out, but she was glad he was home. They hugged and she left.

Sidwell asked about the suspects in Drew’s shooting, and Marco said Alexis was one and Diane was representing her. He was representing Michael. Michael had reservations, but agreed to have him at the initial questioning. Sidwell asked if he said anything of interest, and Marco said Michael’s alibi was that he was with an escort. He doubted it would hold up under scrutiny. Brook called him during that time, and it proved Michael wasn’t home. Sidwell said the Judge Haran subject was closed, and Marco agreed. Sidwell said, very good. Never betray him again.

On the phone, Turner said, when? and told Anna, two minutes ago, the PCPD was barred from examining the contents of Drew’s safe. It would be an illegal search. Anna said, it was open and in plain sight, but Turner said, everything would be inadmissible. Anna said they couldn’t use it, and Turner said it seemed Drew’s lawyer wasn’t aware it had been inventoried. She was going to interview Drew before a judge said she couldn’t. Anna thanked her and Turner left. Chase said the document would incriminate Drew, but Anna said, forget him. He’s Turner’s problem now. They had another one – him.

Jason asked what they were doing about Michael’s cover, and Brick said he had an idea. Sonny asked if Jason had checked in with his son. Did Danny tell him that he and Rocco had found a dead body. They weren’t in danger, and they called him. It was Judge Haran, and he didn’t think it was a coincidence that her body was found near his piers. Jason said, Sidwell, and Sonny said, right. Jason said he had to get going.

Josslyn said she wasn’t sure how significant Jason and Britt’s connection was, but Jason was the only reason Britt came back. Jason got her out of a bad situation that had nothing to do with what was going on at the Five Poppies. Jack said, she might know about the work going on there. She’d have to be debriefed or taken into custody. Josslyn said they were alive because of Britt. She told Jason where to find them. Vaughn said, Pascal was ready to kill them and considered Britt a traitor, and Jack said, good. More incentive for her to cooperate.

Britt sat on a bench at Pier 54 and flashed back to several tender moments with her mutter. Britt said Obrecht was right. She was dead.

Turner went to see Drew, and he said she’s the woman who could have prevented this nightmare. She should have arrested Michael after the assault. Now Michael tried to kill him. Turner said the PCPD was investigating the shooting. She was here to discuss the contents of his safe. He said he was filing an injunction and wasn’t answering any questions, but she said his lawyer must not know the injunction was too late.

Anna said Chase’s conduct confirmed her concerns. He was too emotionally invested in taking down Drew. Chase said, Willow had been through hell. She had a breakdown and went to the hospital. She had to know that Drew was the one who had her kids taken away. Anna said, maybe she already did. If Willow knew Drew was responsible for the judge ruling against her, that could give her a motive to shoot him. Chase said, she’d never do that, and Anna said, there was his bias. He said he thought Willow had a right to know how far Drew was willing to go, and she said if Willow even sensed Drew was involved to the point he’d bribe the judge, it would be a motive to kill him. He said, anyone who knew Drew had a motive to kill him, and she told him that she was only going to say this once. Do not tell anyone.

Turner said they found an interesting document, and Drew said she knew they couldn’t act on what they found if they obtained it during an illegal search. She said she’d be challenging that. The injunction remained to be decided. If he didn’t do anything wrong, it was in his best interest to clear up any misperception. He asked what document she was referring to, and she said, a receipt for a wire transfer of one million dollars to Judge Eve Haran. Why would he have it unless it was his money? It looked like a bribe that came from him.

Brick said he had to get going. He had business in LA. Sonny asked if his business had to do with the beautiful model he heard Brick was hanging with, but Brick said, hearsay. Sonny said he appreciated everything Brick did, and Brick said, don’t worry. He planted evidence that would hold up. Sonny said if he heard the cops were focusing on Michael, Brick was going to hear from him again, and Brick said he’d do what he had to so it would stop. Sonny had his word.

Jack asked if they were both clear on their assignments, and Vaughn said he was returning to Port Charles an official WSB agent. Josslyn said she’d stay there and resume her normal life, and Jack said, that didn’t include them dating. He was headed to the airport. Vaughn said he’d grab his things, but Jack said he wasn’t coming. Personal relationships were a violation and would cease to exist the moment they left. that’s why he’s giving them 24 more hours together. Enjoy it. It was never going to happen again. He left.

Obrecht said Britt would come crawling back for money. Nina would and must say no. Britt deserved nothing. Nina said she knew Obrecht was hurting. Obrecht was a mother like her, and she got it. Britt deceiving her was terrible, but she knew Obrecht still loved her daughter. Obrecht said she did love Britt. She always would, but she would never forgive her.

Britt said it was an epic fail. Only her mother could make her miss Pascal. She tried her phone, but there was no connection. Jason joined her and asked if she was okay. She said, no. It was a mistake coming back here at all.

Tuesday:

Gio asked the Brown Dog bartender to put up a flyer about Outback, then sat down with Emma. He suggested there was one other thing they could do.

Elizabeth met Molly at the bar and Molly asked if she’d heard from Ric.

Kristina told Ava that Elizabeth responded Ric’s email. She said she understood why he was away, but what if she went looking? Ava said Elizabeth didn’t have the time or income, and once she talked to Willow, Elizabeth wouldn’t want anything to do with Ric.

Willow went to see Nina and said there was an issue with lawyer. Nina was the only one who could help her.

Brook went to Maxie’s to take her turn looking after the kids, and Lulu said, James insisted on seeing Cody and was at the stables. Brook had no idea what their truce was costing her. The Britch was back.

Britt asked why Jason was at the piers. Was he stalking her? He said no, and she said, good. She wanted him to stay away from her.

Felicia said Cody was the only person James wanted to see, and James said he dreamed he was looking for his mom. It was his fault his mom wasn’t waking up.

Brook asked if Lulu saw Britt, and Lulu said she had. Brook asked if Rocco had seen her, and Lulu said no, but he would. She was still angry, but Brook was right and had just moved up the inevitable. Now Rocco was even more curious about Britt.

Britt said, so of all the piers in all of Port Charles, Jason just happened to walk onto hers. Admit it. He was keeping tabs. Jason said his son found a dead body in the water two days ago, and Britt asked, how? Jason said, Danny and Rocco were taking his boat out, and Britt said Rocco was a stupid name. He’d always be Ben to her.

Ava told Kristina that she’d bcc’d Willow on Ric’s invoice. He told everyone that he was representing Willow pro bono, but Nina was footing the bill. Willow was going to be furious and would go to Elizabeth, who wouldn’t look for him after that. Kristina said it was genius, and Ava said, as an added bonus, Willow would fire Ric. Kristina said, but wasn’t Nina Ava’s friend?

Willow told Nina about Ric’s email and confronted her about hiring Ric.

Gio suggested a cash reward, and Emma thought they could get Tracy to do it, but he said he’d ask his grandfather, Sonny. Tracy was honest and he’d considered her a friend, but now that she was his great-grandmother, she’d totally changed.

Elizabeth told Molly that she’d been concerned, but after reading Ric’s email, it made sense. She was starting to think it would do him some good. Molly said Ric never made it a secret that he cared about Elizabeth, and she was good for him, better than Ava. Elizabeth said, before Ric left, he’d said things were over with Ava, and Molly said it was because of Kristina.

Ava told Kristina that she didn’t feel good about outing Nina, but if it kept Ric on ice and got them what they needed, sometimes you had to make a deal with the devil. Kristina agreed, but said they had to make sure no one found Ric, get their money back, and not be discovered. Lucas came in and was surprised to see Ava and Kristina together.

Willow asked if Nina was paying Ric, and Nina said, yes. Willow explained how she found out, and Nina said she wasn’t going to let Willow lose her children. Willow could be angry, but all Ric was doing was trying to get her children back. Willow wondered if Ric’s legal advice for her to stay away from Drew was from him or Nina.

Felicia said James had nothing to do with his mother being sick, and Cody asked where he got the idea. James said, when he broke his arm, his mom said he nearly gave her heart failure, but Cody said, that’s not how it worked. Felicia agreed and said they didn’t know the reason, but James had nothing to do with it. His mother always loved that he was up for an adventure. Cody said she would want James to keep adventuring, and he could tell her about it when she woke up.

Jason said Dante and Sam had been raising Rocco and Danny together and they considered themselves brothers, and Britt asked if he spent time with Rocco. He said, a fair amount, and Britt asked what he was like. Jason said, Rocco was thoughtful, perceptive, kind, and asked deep questions. He loved baseball and was pretty responsible. He tried to do the right thing. Britt said he was nothing like her, and laughed.

Kristina said she was just going and thanked Ava for letting her take Avery to dance class. She left, and Lucas said, no bullets or bloodshed. What was going on? Ava said they were making baby steps to peace, and he asked, why? She said it was better for Avery, and he said it seemed like a giant leap. She asked if he’d had a tough day, and he said, a dead woman walked into the ER.

Cody said James had to plan his next adventure. He suggested arranging for James to ride Comet, and Felicia said she thought it was a marvelous idea. Cody said he, James, and Comet this Friday, and he and James spit shook on it. Felicia asked if James was ready for a good night’s sleep, and James said he was going to dream of riding Comet for practice.  

Gio told Emma, before the truth came out, he’d earned Tracy’s respect, but now he could feel how much she wanted him to be her great-grandson. Sonny always treated him like family and he could always go to Sonny for help. Emma said Sonny chose Gio before he knew Gio was family, while Tracy did afterwards. Emma’s phone rang, and she said, they had information about her dog? They were on their way.

Brook asked if Lulu told Rocco that Britt was alive, and she said she wand Dante told Rocco what they knew. Brook asked how he reacted, and lulu said he wanted to meet Britt and see what she was like. Brook asked what she was like, and Lulu said, she was the same. The nightmare part was she hoped Britt was her same awful self and Rocco would want nothing to do with her. But what if Rocco opened up like he did with Obrecht and Britt rejected him? What if he got hurt?

Britt told Jason that Rocco wasn’t really her son. She didn’t even raise him. She was just his surrogate, or thief if she was honest. Was he a good kid? Jason said he was a thinker and planner. Danny was a risk taker. She said, they balanced each other out, and he said they were good for each other. Britt said, if Danny was like his father, she knew he was good for Rocco. Jason asked what she was doing there in the middle of the night. He wasn’t leaving her out there alone. Where was she staying?

Nina told Willow that Michael said he’d never let her see her kids as long as Drew was in the picture, so she instructed Ric to advise her to keep her distance. She needed to stay away. Willow asked why she should take advice from Nina. All Nina had done was lie to her. Nina said she didn’t know how to tell Willow because she didn’t want to hurt her, and Willow said Nina always had good reasons, but the real reason was that Nina wanted to control her. Nina said the only person calling the shots was Drew because Willow kept letting him.

Lucas told Ava that he’d been stitching up Rocco when Elizabeth ran in going on about a non-existent protocol. He picked up on her stall, and afterward, she told him that Britt was alive and well. Ava asked why Britt’s resurrection interested him, and he said she had a bigger part in his life than he wanted thanks to Brad.

Molly told Elizabeth about Kristina hiring Cody to seduce Ava and said Kristina was hoping Ric would into Elizabeth’s arms. Elizabeth said she cared about Ric, but they were better as friends, and Molly promised not to be like her sister. Even if they weren’t together, Elizabeth was still a good influence.

Kristina found Cody at the stables, and he asked if she was there to ream him out for telling Ava about her plan. Kristina said she didn’t love that, and he said, sorry for killing her plan. She said, apology accepted. It still worked out, but that wasn’t why she was here. She was here about Molly.

Lucas told Ava that Brad and Britt were literal partners in crime. They schemed and brought out each other’s worst impulses. Ava said, maybe Brad felt he could be honest with Britt ways he couldn’t be with Lucas, and Lucas said probably, but they both contributed to their relationship failing. After Britt supposedly died, Brad grief dialed him, but after the conversation Brad would ask to meet up and he would say he couldn’t. If Brad knew Britt was alive the whole time, what if Brad was using his sympathy for fake grief to get him back?

Lulu told Brook that Britt was self-centered and didn’t give a damn about Rocco. The only reason she’d stolen the embryo was to trap Patrick Drake. Brook said it was beyond a violation, and Lulu said, now that she was back, it was bringing that back up again. Brook said, on the bright side, Rocco knew how much Lulu and Dante loved him and wanted what was best for him, and Lulu said if she tried to keep them apart, in Rocco’s eyes, she was the bad guy. It would just make him more curious than before.

Britt said she didn’t want Jason to take her anywhere, but he said since she was on the pier in the middle of the night, he was guessing she had no place to go. She said maybe she wanted to look at the skyline and the water, and he asked why she wasn’t at Nina’s or her mother’s. She said her mother wasn’t happy to see her. She didn’t have a long friend list, but Brad would be happy to take her in. He said Brad didn’t live there anymore, and she said, fine. She was resourceful and would figure it out. He said, stop. She may not think so, but she still had a friend in Port Charles.

Kristina said Cody agreed to help Molly, so she knew he still cared. Tell her how they left things. Cody said Molly was cordial, and Kristina said, cordial Molly was the worst. He said she asked him not to call unless it was an emergency, and Kristina said nothing scared Molly more than feelings. That’s how she knew Molly cared about him. He said Molly made it clear she didn’t want to hear from him, and he was leaving her alone. He left to check on the horses, and Kristina said, the cowboy protests too much.

Emma said she should have gotten Outback chipped, and Gio said, the person who called found her collar. He’d talk to his grandfather about the reward. Emma was worried Outback was taken to a kill shelter. All Outback wanted was love, and she screwed that up like she screwed up everything. What if Outback was lost or hurt? Gio sat next to Emma and put his arm around her.

Nina said Willow refused to see what was right in front of her face, that she threw her life away for a terrible man. She wasn’t the first and wouldn’t be the last. Willow said it wouldn’t have happened if Nina told the truth, but Nina said she used to believe it would have made a difference, but all anyone heard over and over from Willow was that Drew was a good man.  Willow continued to blame her and everyone else for her own failure to see what was in front of her. Drew’s daughter ran away from camp twice to see her family. Willow said she didn’t agree with that decision, and Nina asked if she told that to Drew… That’s what she thought. Willow said Drew was Scout’s father, and Nina said she was still making excuses for him. She could find a freezer full of heads in Drew’s basement and still go on about him being a good man. Willow said that was true once, but she saw who he was, and Nina asked why she let him control her. Willow said he’d promised to get her children back, but Nina said he used her children to get Willow to do what he wanted. Willow said he had power and influence, and Nina said, over Willow. Willow said, if Nina was right and she’d given up control of her life to Drew, Nina was the one who stood by and watched him do it. (Wow. Zero accountability.)

Brook said, Britt might hurt Rocco, but whatever happened, he’d be fine with Lulu and Dante backing him. It sounded like Rocco needed his mom.

Gio wiped Emma’s tears as they sat side by side. He said he didn’t buy that she’d given up. She didn’t do that. She said he was right and she damn sure wasn’t going to start now. Grab a flyer. They were going to find Outback.

Cody came back with a sandwich and said Kristina didn’t know what she was talking about. He got a beer from the cooler, and when he turned around, his sandwich was gone. He looked around and laughed when he saw Outback eating it.  

Lucas told Ava that it was possible Brad knew Britt was alive and might have helped, but how could he know for sure? If Brad denied it, he couldn’t believe him, but if he admitted it, he couldn’t believe him. Ava asked why Brad would lie about helping Britt, and Lucas said because in Brad’s mind, if he told the truth, he could push Lucas away to protect him. She said she got it, and he said Brad was in the past and he was moving on with Marco. She said if Britt’s best friend was in town, how long did Lucas think he’d stay away?

Britt told Jason, of course (🍷) she wasn’t friendless. She had options and enough for a room at the Pinecone Hotel. He said it was condemned last year – black mold – and she said, then it was free, but he said he wouldn’t take no for an answer. She said, fine, but just for one night.

Molly said her dad would never try to change, but Elizabeth said she thought Molly was selling him short. He’d made some terrible choices, but since he’d been back, he was trying to make better ones. Molly said, for example… and Elizabeth said he was fighting hard for Willow. She knew it was his job, but he was doing it pro bono, and she thought it spoke well of him.

Nina said Willow still blamed her for her own terrible decisions. People said she only cared about what she wanted and never took responsibility for her own actions. Like mother, like daughter, she guessed. Willow said she was nothing like Nina. She could try to blame Drew, but Nina was the one responsible. Nina said they were back where they started. Drew sleeping with her and destroying Willow’s family and marriage and committing adultery. Willow ignored the warnings of everyone about what a bad man Drew was, but it was still her fault. Willow said Nina and her secrets and lies had taken everything from her. Maybe someone should do that to Nina. She left.

Wednesday:

Cody read the headline in The Invader about the judge’s murder. Outback barked and he told her if Tracy found her, there would another murder – him.

Britt woke up in Jason’s room wondering where the hell she was. When she realized, she said, it wasn’t just a nightmare.

Jason met Carly at Bobbie’s, and she told him that Drew was going to blame Michael for his shooting. She needed him to find a way to protect her son. There was chance he may be guilty.

In Australia, Josslyn and Vaughn came back from surfing and kissed.

Kai met Trina at the coffee shop and Trina asked what was going on with Drew.

Dante found Chase in the nook and asked about the Judge Haran investigation. Dante said they had proof Drew bribed her. Maybe he killed her to cover his tracks.

It was Wiley’s first day of school, and Tracy said he’d set a new standard for style, brains, and character. Minds were going to be blown. The doorbell rang and Willow was there with Scout. Wiley hugged her.

Britt complained to herself and said the place didn’t even have a bathroom. She got her towel and headed out.

Jason asked if Carly thought Michael shot Drew, and she told him about Michael punching Drew at the MetroCourt and no one corroborated Drew’s story and the charges were dropped. She asked him to see if he could get Michael to come clean. He owed her. He’d kept the secret about Sasha’s baby, but if he found out something else about her kids, he had to tell her. No more secrets.

Vaughn demanded a rematch on neutral ground, but Josslyn said she’d still beat him. He said she might, but they’d never find out. It was the end of the line for them.

Dante told Chase that they didn’t know for sure. The wire was to a Swiss bank account, but the receipt was in Drew’s safe, and the money was deposited one day before her ruling. They couldn’t do anything because of Drew’s lawyer’s injunction. Chase said it sounded counterintuitive, but Drew would want Willow all alone.

Willow said she thought she’d bring Scout to see Monica on her first day of school, and Scout said it was a tradition. Monica wished her luck, and they had a hug swap. Willow asked if she could take both of the kids to see Monica.

Cody told Outback that he wasn’t always a rule follower, but they were both screwed if she was found there. He’d be forced to take her to the pound. She jumped on him, and he said it wasn’t going to work… Okay. She could stay, but just for a little while. If anyone found her, she didn’t know him. She barked in acknowledgement.

Kai told Trina that he thought Drew bought his loyal intern act. If he hadn’t, he didn’t think Drew would have asked him to clean out the safe and bring him the contents. Trina said, he didn’t, did he? and he said he wanted no part of where Drew was going in his head. When he said he didn’t feel comfortable with it – plus, it was a literal crime scene – Drew backed off. She asked why he didn’t tell her last night, and he said he thought he might be a suspect. The police knew he had access to Drew’s house and he thought it was better to limit contact with her. He didn’t think they should meet up anymore.

Josslyn said, way to kill a mood, and Vaughn said their 24 hours was almost up. She said she was happy for him. He deserved it. He said he wished they could be together, and she said, at least they were in the same city. He said, unless she was exposed, but she said, Jason promised not to say anything. He said, what about Britt?

Britt came back to Jason’s room in a towel, with a towel around her hair. She found the door locked and yelled, why do you hate me? She stomped off, and we saw there was a camera in the hallway.  

Jason said, if Michael did it, he’d make sure Michael didn’t go down for it, and Carly said Michael couldn’t go back to prison. She wished he’d been there to be the voice of reason instead of on the other side of the world finding Britt. Why didn’t he tell her that Britt was alive? Britt came down in her towel and asked why Jason didn’t tell her that the door locked automatically.

Tracy told Willow, no way, and Brook said she had to ask Monica something anyway. She hustled the kids upstairs, and Tracy said, a word. She, Michael, and Willow went into the living room, and Tracy said what Willow did was unconscionable. She used Monica’s first day of school tradition as an excuse get in. Willow said, Scout wanted to see her grandmother. Judge Haran was gone, and a new judge was likely to sympathize with her. It was Michael’s chance to make nice and for his sake, she hoped he took it.

Carly said she heard Britt was alive and here she was, in the flesh. Britt said no one told her that she needed a key, and Jason told Carly that his room was empty, and he let Britt use the room to crash. Britt said it was a dumpy room above a greasy spoon, and Carly said the dumpy room in the greasy spoon was hers. She owned it.

Josslyn said the one person who could convince Britt to keep her secret was Jason, but Vaughn said it seemed like Britt did what she wanted. Josslyn said, if she was exposed, did he think Brennan would relocate her? and he said part of her value was that she looked like a college student. If people found out, her value was gone, and Jack would think she was better off in a different town. She said she didn’t want to leave. They may never see each other again. He said, that might be for the best.

Trina said Kai had no motive. Drew thought he was amazing, and he’d proven his loyalty. He was the last person they’d suspect. Kai said that would change fast if the police knew they’d been there, but she said they hadn’t figured it out yet and there was no reason to think they would. He said he didn’t want her to get in trouble, and Trina said they broke in because of her family and they had a legit reason to hang out, but he said people knew they broke up. She said maybe they were trying to work things out, but he said he didn’t want her to have to lie. She said, maybe it wasn’t a lie.

Dante said if Drew got Willow’s children back, he’d be her hero, but Chase said he wanted to isolate her, leaving her nothing but him, completely dependent, while Michael was the bad guy. Willow only agreed to marry him after she lost the kids. Dante said it was risky. She could find out and not forgive him. Chase said it gave him motive to take the judge out, and Dante said, if Willow found out, it gave her a motive to shoot Drew.

Tracy said Willow had nerve using Monica’s granddaughter… Michael said he’d make his argument in court. Until then, Judge Haran’s ruling stood. He’d felt bad for Willow for a while after the ruling. Now he wouldn’t change it if could because she was an unfit mother. Willow said Drew told her that he thought Michael shot him. When the police proved it, he’d go to prison, she’d get custody, and she’d make sure he never laid his eyes on Wiley and Amelia again.

Vaughn told Josslyn that it was against the rules for good reason. It made it easier for an enemy to force an agent to do what they wanted. She learned firsthand when Pascal threatened to torture him. For the sake of the WSB and their careers, they had to find a way to sever their feelings. Josslyn said a different city wouldn’t make it easier. She couldn’t think of anything that would.

Michael said that was pure fantasy and Willow was the only one living in it. He didn’t shoot Drew and wasn’t going anywhere. Brook came back with the kids and said, Monica was thrilled. Scout said she loved being there and seeing Grandma Monica, and Willow said she was glad she could make Scout’s day special. Wiley asked if they were going to school together, and Willow said, no, but it wouldn’t be long before they could spend time together.

Dante knocked at the stable door, and Cody said, the law. Quick, hide! Outback ran to the back and Cody said he didn’t think that would work. Dante came in and asked Cody to do him a favor. Stop him from doing something stupid to Jason.

Britt said she wasn’t surprised Carly owned the place, and Carly asked how long she was staying. Jason said there was a time Carly had no place to go and stayed there. It was a great place to crash. Britt was surprised Carly wasn’t more welcoming, since she saved her daughter’s life, and Carly said she was grateful, especially when she thought Britt had sacrifice herself, but it turned out she didn’t. Britt said as soon as she was on her feet, she’d be out, and Jason said Carly told him that he could do what he wanted with the room and Britt had no other options. She wasn’t going anywhere. His phone rang, and Tracy said he needed to come home now. She’d explain when he got there. Jason said he had to head home and asked Carly to handle the key situation.  

Chase flashed back to telling Willow about talking to the judge at Bobbie’s, and Willow saying she had already come up with a way get her kids back. Brook told Chase about Willow using Scout to see her own kids, and he asked if Brook could blame her. Brook said, kinda, and Chase said none of it would have happened if Drew hadn’t coerced Willow into making horrible decisions and Drew had done something Willow didn’t know about. Brook asked, what? but he said he couldn’t talk about it because the investigation was ongoing. But if Willow knew, she’d leave him for good. He couldn’t tell her because it would violate his duties as a cop.

Kai asked if Trina was sure they shouldn’t keep their distance, and she said she was. She was sorry she dragged him into this. He said he wanted to help, and she said, thanks to him, her mom was free of Drew, even if she didn’t know it. She was going to tell her, but her mom said she was no longer doing Drew’s bidding and if he outed her, she’d face the consequences. She’d taken back her power and wasn’t stressing, so Trina kept it to herself. They’d keep this between them. He said he hoped they covered their tracks, and she said she was worried they missed something.

Brook told Chase to consider that everyone tried to talk sense into Willow, so she’d see what Drew really was, but even when she found out he’d slept with her mother, she stayed with him. Why would he think this was different? Chase said it was different. Willow would never forgive Drew for this. She asked if he was willing to stake a career he loved and lose his job. If Willow stayed with Drew, he’d have done it for nothing, but whatever he decided, she was with him.

Cody asked if Dante had a new beef with Jason or was he back to the Danny/Rocco thing, and Dante said it was new. Britt Westbourne was back in Port Charles and Jason brought her there. Cody said she was dead, but Dante said, no, she was alive and living in Europe. They were with Rocco at the hospital, and she walked in. He was glad Rocco didn’t run into… Sorry. He forgot she and Cody had a thing. Cody said, it was short lived. He got why Dante wasn’t happy Britt was back. Dante rehashed the embryo story, and Cody said, it worked out. They got an amazing kid. Dante said it didn’t change what Britt did and he couldn’t forgive her, and Cody said, she knew she was wrong and was trying to turn her life around. Dante said Britt let her mother believe she was dead for two years and was still just as twisted and deceitful.

Carly said, funny how Jason rescued Britt when she was in trouble, and Britt said, unless Carly was in trouble. She was Jason’s top priority, which made Britt wonder why Carly thought she was threat. Carly said she’d never been threatened by Britt. She couldn’t hold a candle to her and Jason’s history and trust. Britt said, them and their unbreakable trust, and Carly asked what that was supposed to mean.

Jason asked what was going on, and Tracy said, while he was out of town, Drew was shot. He said he knew, and she said, what he didn’t know was, she saw Michael fleeing the scene of the crime. He was parked up the street and was pulling out when she arrived. She wasn’t planning on telling the police. She didn’t know if he was guilty, but couldn’t let him get convicted. Jason said he was on it already, and she said she’d managed to keep Monica from finding out, but it was just a matter of time before she did. She was thinking it was probably the best idea if Jason told her. He said he’d do it right now and break the news as gently as he could.

Willow snuck into the nook and remembered Michael saying she was an unfit mother. Chase asked what she was doing there, and she said Scout panicked because she’d left her favorite water bottle there. she said she’d find it and bring it to her. She was hoping not to run into anyone. There was drama earlier. He said Brook told him, and she asked if he had any new information on the judge’s murder, but he said, sorry, no.  

Trina said she and Kai heard Drew come in and hid. Drew went the safe and then back to the living room. Kai said, not long after, they heard two shots, and she said she felt like there was something else, something out of place at the time. He said, like a little kids’ song. Like Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. She said, that was Scout’s ringtone. Scout must have been calling Drew. Kai said they went out the back door, closed it, then he decided to check on Drew, and Trina said he told her to stay, but she followed him anyway almost tripping over the baseball bat. He said, the bat. He left it and it had his fingerprints all over it.

Josslyn said she didn’t want to pretend like they never happened, but Vaughn said they had no choice. Brennan was clear. Their feelings had to stay in this room. She said they would, but not yet, and they got busy.

Britt said Carly and Jason made everyone painfully aware of how close they were, and she had zero desire to compete with their bond. As soon as she was on her feet, she was out. If she was lucky, she’d never cross paths with Carly or Jason ever again. But first, she needed to get back in the room. Carly said the rent was due on the first of the month, and Britt went upstairs.

Drew told Cody that it was like a knife to Lulu’s heart. He’d thought things were more civil with him and Jason, but Jason wasn’t thinking about the effect on the family. He just brought Britt back into their lives. It was thoughtless. He had to stay clear of this guy.

On the phone, Tracy asked how Willow made it onto the property… She made it clear that Willow was to be nowhere near the house unless she told them different. Understood?… Good. Jason came back, and she asked, how did Monica take it? Jason said he never had to tell her. She was already gone.

I was torn between feeling sad and thinking, thank God. Finally.

Thursday:

Britt tried to get Elizabeth to get her prescriptions cleared without being on the waiting list, but it was a no. Britt asked about Ben, and Elizabeth reminded her that his name was Rocco. Britt said he was still the boy she gave birth to.

Charlotte met Lulu at Bobbie’s after putting out flyers for Outback. Lulu said something had come up with Charlotte’s father.

Cody told Outback to get used to co-existing with the horses. Otherwise, someone from the main house would catch him and she’d be on her own again – or worse. Molly came in and fussed over Outback.

Gio went to Sonny’s house and Donna asked how her favorite nephew was. She said he looked sad, and Sonny invited him in.

Tracy refused to believe Monica was gone and told Jason that Monica said Wiley reminded her of him at Wiley’s age. He said, she wasn’t breathing and had no pulse. He took her hand, and she was cold. It probably happened in her sleep. He called 911 and said he needed to report a death… No. It wasn’t an emergency. He gave the address and said, unfortunately this was expected. He and Tracy hugged and cried.

Jason found Monica’s DNR and Tracy was grateful no one else was home. Everybody would take it bad and she was relieved it was only them. He said, Monica wouldn’t like a fuss, and Tracy said it was a battle she was going to lose. The ambulance came and brought a gurney upstairs.

Sonny said they were having a cookout and Donna said, Kristina, Molly, and Dante were coming. Sonny asked her to set up games with Pilar, and she left. Sonny asked what brought Gio by, and Gio said he needed $10,000.

Charlotte asked if something was wrong with her dad, but Lulu said her dad was fine. She was surprised Charlotte called him dad, but Charlotte said it felt babyish to call him papa. Lulu said she guessed he was fine, but he’d be better once he saw her, and Charlotte asked if they were going to video chat. Lulu asked how she felt about a visit in person.

Molly asked what the dog’s name was, but Cody said he hadn’t figured it out. She said the kids would love to give him suggestions, but he said he didn’t loop the main house in. Technically, he wasn’t allowed pets and didn’t want to risk it. She said his secret was safe with her and she owed him an apology.  

Elizabeth put Britt’s name on a list and said a doctor would see her as soon as one was available. Britt argued and wanted to speak to the head nurse, but Elizabeht said she was the head nurse. Britt said, of course (🍷), and wanted to talk to Terry. Elizabeth said that Terry would tell her the same thing, and Britt sat down to wait.

Elizabeth told Lucas to brace himself, and pointed at Britt. He said there had to be another doctor, but she said she just told Britt that no one got special treatment, and he took an oath. He asked what he could help Britt with. If she preferred someone else, she could go back on the list. Elizabeth said nine more patients had checked in, and Britt said, let’s get it over with.

Lulu asked if Charlotte remembered when she met with Agent Brennan, and Charlotte asked if that’s why he’d been there. Lulu said, yes, and Charlotte was surprised she’d said okay. Lulu said she didn’t at first, but she realized it was Charlotte’s decision to make. Charlotte wondered what Brennan got out of this, and Lulu said, from them, nothing, but from Charlotte’s father, she didn’t know. No one was forcing her to do it, but if Charlotte decided to go, Lulu would be with her the whole time.

Gio told Sonny about Outback, and Sonny said the money was his. He’d also have his have guys look out for her too. Gio said he’d find way return favor, and Sonny said Gio could do him a favor by sticking around. He wasn’t pressuring Gio and would give him the money, but he wanted Gio to think about it. He didn’t expect Gio to make up with Dante – it would take time – but they were family and had to spend time together. Kristina came in with Dante.

Lucas said he couldn’t prescribe anything without examining Britt, and she said she had Huntington’s and was taking an experimental drug to keep it in check. She no longer had access to the drug and had been off of it for three days. She needed it asap to keep her symptoms at bay. Lucas suggested Britt cooperate. No gown, no meds.

Tracy gave one of the EMTs the contact at the funeral home, when the doorbell rang. Jason said it was probably the sheriff. The dispatcher said he needed to be present. Tracy said she’d talk to him since Jason was allergic to law enforcement, and went to the door. The sheriff said he’d been notified of an at home death, and Tracy said it was her sister-in-law, Dr. Monica Quartermaine. He said he was sorry for her loss, and she took him upstairs. Jason looked around the living room and picked up a photo of Monica.

Lucas said, before he gave Britt a prescription, he was obligated to tell her that she had no symptoms, and she said, give it time. He said he’d phone it in to the pharmacy, but there was one hiccup. He wasn’t sure the undead had insurance plans. Britt said she’d find a way to cover it, and he said he hoped so. These meds cost a pretty penny.

Cody asked what Molly had done for him to warrant an apology, and she said she talked about his private business behind his back. She needed to vent and told Elizabeth about Kristina paying him to break up Ava and her dad. It spilled out and she was sorry. Did he accept her apology?

At the desk, Elizabeth asked Britt if there was something else, and Britt asked if Dr. Randolph and Dr. Robinson were there.

The sheriff told Tracy that Monica was a wonderful person and a figure in the community. She would be missed. Tracy agreed and thanked him. He left, and Jason said he’d never known this place without her. Tracy said, of course (🍷) he hadn’t. It was Monica’s house. She touched his face. (I was conflicted, feeling sad about something I’d felt sad about almost a year ago.)

Terry said it was hard to believe Britt was there and they were talking to her now, but Britt said, believe it. She was alive and it was good to be back at GH. She’d save them the time and hassle of asking. Of course (🍷) she’d come back to work.

Rocco joined Charlotte and Lulu, and Charlotte wondered if he’d had better luck, but he said he wished he had. He was mad at himself. Outback wouldn’t have gotten away if he hadn’t been distracted. Charlotte told him not blame himself, and Lulu said Outback was a stray and knew how to survive on her own. He couldn’t change what happened. All he could do was try to fix it and he was doing that. She was proud of them.

Sonny went with Donna to put dessert in the freezer, and Dante asked Gio how it was going. Gio said he’d been better, and Kristin asked, what’s up? Gio said Outback was missing, and Kristina said she was sure they’d find her. Donna came in and hugged Kristina. She asked if Kristina brought the buns with seeds, and Kristina said she did, enough for seconds, thirds, and fourths. Donna said, then Gio had to stay.

Terry said they were thrilled Britt was alive and back safe and sound, but she’d been gone over two years. Dr. Robinson had taken over for her. Britt said she wasn’t after Portia’s job. She’d be happy to go back to her regular job and specialty as an OB/GYN. Terry said they couldn’t just hire her back. Serious medical fraud had been committed. She’d been declared dead and someone was responsible for carrying on that charade. Portia said they needed more information about what really happened.

Tracy said, it’s Monica’s house. It was the stupidest stunt her brother ever pulled. No community property. No joint ownership. It belonged to Monica and Monica alone and she never let anyone forget it. Jason said, especially her, and Tracy said especially her. Every time they’d clash, Monica would hold it over her, acting like she was doing her a favor allowing her to live in her family home. Jason said it wasn’t her home. It was Monica’s. Tracy said, because her moronic brother gave it to Monica. We flashed back to Monica and Tracy fighting over how things should be decorated for Christmas, and Tracy said, on a good day, they could barely stand one another. On a bad day, they’d practically come to blows. But through it all, and maybe because of it – she didn’t know – her respect for Monica just kept growing.

Britt said she wished she could tell them everything about the last project she was working on, but it was considered top secret. Her employer insisted on total discretion. Terry said, they insisted she fake medical records and  commit fraud? and Britt said, yeah, pretty much. Technicaaly, she didn’t do that. Terry said they still couldn’t have her back, and Portia said there would be a lot of sensitivity about her showing up again. Terry said Britt was a good doctor. If she worked hard to get her medical license back, she could apply at Mercy. Britt said she knew she and Terry had their problems, but admit it – she crushed it, especially when Monica made them Co-Chiefs. She wanted to be at General Hospital. It meant something to her, and she believed in this place. She wanted back in. Terry said Britt did change a lot of lives, but she couldn’t get past the fact Britt falsified records. Portia said it was a serious matter, but she thought they all understood that life put them in difficult situations. She thought she and Terry should have sidebar and see if they could find something for her.

Cody said Molly thought he was a money grubbing himbo, so she could talk trash about him, and Molly protested. He laughed, and she said he was evil. She genuinely felt awful. He said, why? She wasn’t lying. She said she gossiped and it wasn’t cool, but he said if Elizabeth hadn’t heard it from her, she would have heard it from Ava. Remember this moment for the next time he screwed up. She asked if they were good, and he said they were. She won’t tell anyone about the dog? She said, no, but he should.

Sonny said he’d love to have Gio stay, and Donna said, please. (No one, even me, could possibly resist this child.) Gio said he’d stay for a minute, and Donna told Sonny, fire up the grill. She, Gio, and Sonny went to the backyard, and Kristina asked if Dante could be any stiffer. He said, probably, but he thought he was doing okay. Gio was sticking around for Donna. Who cares? Kristina said, baby steps. It was a chance to spend time with his son. He should find something they had in common, like movies, sports, baseball. Dante said they had serious stuff to unpack, and she said, baby steps. They had to start spending time together, share some mustard. There would be time to unpack the serious stuff later.

Tracy said they knew Jason moved back in for Danny, but she couldn’t tell him how happy it made Monica. It meant the world to her. He said, it meant a lot to him too, and she said, they had a special relationship. He said, not always. He had a hard time after his accident, but Monica wanted him to be something he wasn’t. It took him a long time to figure out that she loved him no matter what. Tracy said, she did, and we flashed back to that time, when Jason was practically a baby and Monica wasn’t far ahead. He said he never cared about what he couldn’t remember, and Tracy asked if that changed. With tears in his eyes, he said, yes. He wished he had the memories of growing up with Monica. He should have asked her. Tracy said he could ask her. Monica told her practically everything.

Britt watched everyone bustling around, when Terry said they were ready for her. She went back into the office and said, so, what’s the verdict? Terry said she had to consult the board, but the agreed to give her a chance. There was a position available, but she’d be on probation for a year. Britt said she’d take it. They wouldn’t regret it. She’d be the best doctor. Portia said it wasn’t for a physician. It was for an intake supervisor. Terry said, in the ER, and Britt said that was practically entry level and insulting. Terry said it was a major step to getting her medical license restored, and Portia said if she really wanted to be there, it was the only option and hers if she wanted it. Britt said she did want to be there. Okay. She’d take it. Terry said, welcome back to General Hospital.

On the patio, Donna said she learned the back stroke and wanted to teach Outback, but Kristina said she wasn’t so sure dogs could do that. Dante said, unfortunately, Outback was missing, but Gio said they’d definitely find her. Her dad put up a reward. Dante said, the PCPD was keeping a look out. Rocco appreciated everything everyone was doing to help. Gio said they’d find her, and Dante said, yeah, they would.

Rocco said he was going to put up flyers, and Charlotte said she’d help. Lulu said, text her when they finished and she’d pick them up. She hugged them, and Charlotte said Lulu was the best.

Molly said the Quartermaines obviously loved Cody. There was a good chance if he told them, it would be totally fine. Cody said, or force him to get rid of her, but Molly said, if that happened, she was sure they’d give him time to find her a good home. The only person making it hard right now was him.

Tracy told Jason that it took her and Monica decades to become figures in each other’s lives. Since she came back, they’d had tea almost every evening. They talked about anything and everything. A lot of the time, they talked about him. Jason asked, why him? and she said, Monica was hurt deeply by Alan’s affair with Susan Moore and even deeper when the affair resulted in a pregnancy. When Jason was born, Monica wanted nothing to do with him. She wouldn’t even let him live in the house. He lived at the gatehouse with Susan and Scott Baldwin. But one night, he got sick, and Monica was called in to take care of him. We flashed back to Monica picking up Baby Jason, and Tracy said, when Monica walked into the gatehouse, she saw the child her husband had with another woman, but when Monica left, she said – and she quotes – you are my son. Jason thanked her, and Tracy said, Monica loved him very much. He said he knew, and Monica loved Tracy too. Tracy said she knew, and hugged him.

🫔 Friday’s Enchilada…

There’s been a car accident and Lulu asks the driver is okay. Can he hear her? She calls 911 and said she needs help. She’s on route 415 and just passed exit 21B. There’s been an accident. Single vehicle, one person inside, and he’s unresponsive. Hurry.

At the hospital, Lucas asks, is the coast clear? and Elizabeth says, sorry. Not only is Britt still here, she’s in a meeting with Dr. Robinson and Dr. Randolph. One guess what that could mean.

Cody tells Outback, you’re such a good girl. Yeah. You’re probably one of the only females in my life who can stand being around me cuz you’re not a judger, no. Molly comes in and says, hi, and he says, back so soon? She says she did a search for missing dogs when she got in her car. Look – she shows him her phone – I found her. I found the owners.

Laura thanks Anna for squeezing her in, and Anna says, no, not at all. She hopes Laura doesn’t mind, but she asked Detective Falconari to join them. Laura says, of course (🍷) not. It’s nice to see him. Dante says, it’s nice to see her too, and Laura says she thought Mac taking the lead in the Judge Haran murder case, but they just told her it was transferred to Anna. Anna says, yes, correct, and Laura says, that’s good. She needs to be briefed. She needs to know what progress the PCPD has made in solving her murder. Anna says, right. Okay. So they have new evidence that’s come to light that suggests Judge Haran’s murder and Drew Cain’s shooting may be related.

Danny walks into Drew’s hospital room and Drew asks if he really thinks it’s a good idea for him to be here.

Jason walks into a dark gatehouse and we hear Tracy’s voice say, you were living at the gatehouse with Susan and Scott Baldwin, but one night you got sick, and Monica was called in to take care of you. She walked into the gatehouse, and you were the child her husband had with another woman, but when she left – and I quote – you were my son, she said. Jason sighed, when Michael walked in and said he’d seen Jason heading down here. When did he get back? Jason says, late last night, and Michael asks if he’s okay. Jason says he got some upsetting news.

Brook asks Ned if there’s any chance he got a text from granny too, and he says he was summoned with a rather enigmatic message. She says, any idea what it’s about? and Ned says, no, but it seemed important, so he got here as soon as he could. She says, her too. She had a meeting at Deception. She hopes everything’s okay. Tracy comes in, and Ned asks if she’s all right. What is it? What happened? Tracy says, Monica died, and starts to cry.

Molly tells Cody, the post has the lost dog’s name on it. Are you Outback? Outback makes dog mumbles, and Molly says, she knows her name. Cody says he didn’t hear anything, and Molly says, oh my God. She totally did. She got all excited. This is definitely her. Same ears, same nose… Cody says, a lot of dogs look alike, and she says, yeah, alike, but these two are identical. There’s no name for the owner, but she’ll call and tell them that they found her. He says, no, no, no. Don’t.

Anna says, obviously, it’s imperative we find Judge Haran’s murderer as soon as possible, but she thinks the location where the body was found is also a problem. She was found in the water off of Pier 55. Laura says, Sonny’s piers. As they know, the Measure C people, one of their talking points is that Sonny’s piers are a magnet for criminal activity and for violence. So finding the body, wouldn’t she say, sort of plays into that narrative? Anna says, yeah, it might, and Laura says, so she wonders of the location of Judge Haran’s body was an intentional choice. And Drew is one of the biggest supporters of Measure C. Dante says they can’t rule it out, and Drew says, speaking of Drew, Anna said Drew’s shooting and the judge’s murder might be connected somehow. What evidence does she have to suggest that? Anna says, Drew had a very strong motive to kill Judge Haran.

Danny says he’s here because of Scout, and Drew says, that much he figured. Danny says, Carly told him that Drew wouldn’t change his mind about the restraining order, and Drew tells him that he rarely says this, but Carly is right. They’re all staying in place, especially now. Danny says, the thing is, his dad’s been out of town and he’s a minor, so his order has to go to his dad. He hasn’t been served yet, so technically he’s not breaking any rules if he went to see Scout. Drew says, look at you, finding ways to circumvent the law. You are your father’s son. Danny says he doesn’t want to break the law or use some loophole. That’s why he came to talk to Drew. Scout is scared. She still misses her mom and now he’s in the hospital and she’s not at home or with her family, which is what she needs more than anything right now. He just wants to help her and doesn’t want to sneak behind Drew’s back to do it. So doesn’t him coming to talk face to face mean something? Can he just see his little sister?

Lucas says, let him guess. Britt wants her job back. Elizabeth says, if she had to guess, she would say, yeah, and he says, of course (🍷) she does. This is so like Britt. She thinks she can play dead for two years and just waltz right back in here and have everything be just the same like the world revolves just around her. Eliabeth stares at the computer screen, and he says, what is it? She says, Monica Quartermaine died.

Ned says he was just visiting with Monica yesterday. She asked about Leo. She was so happy he’s doing so well in school. She gave him a hard time about not finishing the Sunday crossword puzzle faster than she did. They’ve had a friendly competition about that for years. Tracy says, sounds like Monica. Did he ever beat her? He says, no, and she says, sounds like Monica too. Brook asks, what happened? She just saw Monica this morning with Wiley and Scout. She was joking with them and slipped them money and winked at her. She seemed a little tired, but otherwise okay. Tracy says she’s so grateful that Monica’s last moments were spent with her granddaughter and great-grandson and they were filled with laughter.

Michael tells Jason, so yeah, someone did shoot Drew, and the PCPD has been scrutinizing his every move from the night it happened, but there’s nothing to worry about. It’s not his first round with the PCPD. Everything is under control. Jason says, it’s not that, and Michael says, then what is it? Jason says, it’s Monica. Monica died.

A paramedic says, still unresponsive, and Chase asks if Lulu is okay. Does she need to sit down, or does she need water? She says, no. She’s okay. It just really isn’t something she wanted to see. He says he was in the area, and the dispatcher sent him to the scene. Is she the one who called it in? She says, yes, and he asks her to walk him through what happened.

Rocco and Charlotte find Emma at Bobbie’s and Emma says, please tell her that they found Outback, but Rocco says, sorry. Emma wonders, where could she be? but he says he doesn’t know. He really thought they would have found her by now. Emma says, yeah, her too. She must be scared all alone. Charlotte says, if they didn’t have to meet their mom here now, she and Rocco would have kept looking, and Emma thanks them for not giving up. She’ll search all night if she has to. She came to get caffeine first, but Gio is already out there investigating a lead, so hopefully it all pans out.

Cody tells Molly that the dog is all settled in. She has food, water, and her favorite pillow. Molly says, now tell her why she shouldn’t contact the owner, and he says, she told him it had no name, just a phone number. That’s weird. Maybe it’s a scam. Maybe they want her for some kind of underground dog fighting ring. Molly says, that darling dog? She doesn’t think so. He says, there’s got to be a reason she ran away, and Molly says, maybe she just accidently got out, and he says, and stayed out. She went on the run because her owners are not very nice to her. Molly says, or maybe because she’s a dog and that’s what dogs do, and he says, her owners obviously don’t care about her. She isn’t chipped, she doesn’t have a collar, and why wasn’t she on a leash? He goes in the back, and Molly follows. She says she knows the dog is cute and he’s taken to her, but she’s not his dog. Pets get loose for all kinds of reasons. And he said it himself, he can’t have a dog in the stables. He sits down dejectedly, and she joins him. She says she knows he and the dog have developed a rapport, but she’s healthy, well fed, and taken care of, signs someone loves her. Someone who’s probably really missing her right now. Does he really want to be responsible for keeping that sweet dog from her owner? Gio comes in and says he didn’t mean to interrupt, but Cody says, trust him. It’s no problem. He’s probably looking for one of the Quartermaines. They’re in the main house. Gio says, that’s okay. He’s here to see Cody.

Michael tells Jason, Wiley just saw Monica this morning before his first day of school. He was so excited when he left. Monica said she was going to help him with his spelling words, like last year. He loved it. Jason says he’s sure she loved it too, and Michael says, he was wearing this outfit that he picked out himself. Monica said he looked handsome and the compliment meant a lot. It made him a foot taller today. She sounded just like herself. Jason says, she was, according to Tracy, but you know… Michael says he should have been there. He should have taken Wiley and Scout to see her so he could too, but Willow showed up and he had to deal with that. Jason says, that’s understandable, but Michael says, no , it’s not. He talked to Monica every morning before work. He never skipped a day. He’d bring her fresh juice and tell her that he loved her. He’d ask if he needed anything and would kiss her goodbye. Why didn’t he do that today? He should told his grandmother that he loved her today. Jason says, she knew, and puts his hand on Michael’s shoulder. He says, Michael showed her all the time in a million different ways. Trust him. She knew.

Ned asks why Tracy didn’t call right away. They would have come over to help and she wouldn’t have had to deal with this all alone. As Tracy speaks, she periodically cries, then composes herself. Tracy says she wasn’t alone. Jason was with her. He was actually the one who found her. She’d asked if he would go up and tell her about Drew. Then he came down and told her that Monica was gone. She went up to see Monica… Oh my God. She was so still. She told Monica that she didn’t have to worry. She was going to take care of everybody Monica loved, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. So many people that I have loved are gone. Daddy, mother, Alan, my Luke, and now Monica. What am I going to do without Monica? Brook and Ned surround her in a hug.

Dante tells Laura that one million dollars was deposited into the judge’s bank account the night before she granted full custody to Michael Corinthos, and Laura says, that’s a lot of money and the timing can’t be ignored. Dante says, no, it can’t, and not a lot of people can afford to give away that kind of money. Anna says, the most obvious suspects are Sonny and Michael, and Laura asks if there’s any evidence to support that. Anna says, no, and Laura asks, who then? Dante says, when they inventoried Drew’s safe after he was shot, in the paperwork, they found evidence of a wire transfer of one million dollars to Judge Haran.

Drew says, yeah, he doesn’t think so. He can’t let Danny anywhere near Scout. Danny says he knows Drew is hurting him as a way to get back at his dad, but the only person he’s hurting is Scout, and Drew says he doesn’t see it that way. Danny says, then look again. Scout is hurting a lot. She’s the one who called him and Charlotte to pick her up from camp – two separate times. She just wants to be with them. Drew says, the thing is, Scout is a little girl and doesn’t know what’s best for her. As her father, that’s his job to know. He knows at Danny’s core he’s not a bad kid and he knows Danny loves Scout. Really, none of this is his fault. It’s his father’s.

Emma says, Gio texted her that Sonny is offering a reward for Outback’s return, and Rocco says, that’s really cool of grandpa. Charlotte, asks, how much is the reward? and Emma says, 10 thousand dollars. Can they believe it? Rocco says, no… yes. He knew his grandpa was a generous guy, but that’s way above and beyond, even for him. He should update the online post, and the flyers he’s been handing out are out of date. They should print new ones. Emma says she’ll pick up printer toner on her way home, and Charlotte says she doesn’t know. If they put that there’s a reward on the flyer, she doesn’t think they should say how much. They don’t know what kind of scam someone might come up with to get their hands on that kind of money.

Cody asks, what’s up? and Gio says, Rocco’s dog Outback is missing. They’ve been looking all evening for her and he got a tip that a dog that looks like her was seen down the road from the Quartermaines. Cody spends more time walking around the grounds than anyone in the family. Can he keep an eye out and maybe tell the Q’s, Yuri, and the groundskeeper too? He’d really appreciate that. He hands Cody a flyer, and Cody asks how the dog got lost. Gio says, Rocco was untangling her leash when a car backfired and startled her, and she took off. Molly gives Cody a side-eye, and Gio says, Rocco is crushed. They all are. Outback is the sweetest dog ever. Hopefully, they’ll find her soon and Cody can see how great she is for himself.

Lucas tells Elizabeth that he doesn’t get it. How can Monica Quartermaine just be gone? Elizabeth tells him, it says she died earlier today in her home, and he says he heard she had health issues. Still… She says she knows. This place will not be same without her. Even though she’s not walking the halls, you could still feel her presence, especially with the new atrium. He says, and she was Jake’s grandmother. He’s so sorry for her loss and for Jake’s. She thanks him and says, when Monica first found out about Jake, she couldn’t have been more welcoming to her. And she was so encouraging of Jake and his dream to be an artist. Did Lucas know she was his first paying customer? Lucas says he didn’t know, and she says, Monica commissioned Jake’s first piece of art and insisted on paying for it. She wouldn’t take no for an answer. He says, that sounds like Dr. Quartermaine. She was incredibly generous with her time and money. Elizabeth says, and her heart. She was really an inspiration. He says, as a cardiologist, she was a total legend and her surgical skills were just brilliant. He couldn’t begin counting all the lives she saved. It’s a huge loss for General Hospital and Port Charles. Elizabeth says, yeah. There will never be another Monica Quartermaine.

Ned says, mother… but Tracy says, it’s not necessary. He says, no. She needs to hear this. He loves her. He always has and always will. He needs her to know that. None of them know how much time they have in this life. Every second is precious and he’s so grateful that she is his mother. He knows their journey is not always easy, but it’s always cherished. They don’t express affection enough in this family and always think there’s time in the future for that, but as they know, that’s not always the case. So just the same way she knows the sun always rises in the east and knows that gravity exists, know that he loves her. She says, thank you. She loves him. She loves both of them tremendously. Brook says she loves them both too, and takes their hands. Every day, she’s so grateful to be part of this family. Tracy laughs.

Michael asks, what happened? Was anyone with her when she passed away? Jason says, no, and Michael says he hates that. He hates thinking of her being all alone. Jason says, yeah. He thinks she just fell asleep and didn’t wake up. She’d been sick for so long and was a lot more frail than any of them wanted to admit. Michael asks if Jason thinks Drew getting shot played a part, but Jason says, no. Brook and Tracy made sure she didn’t hear about it, but Tracy knew it couldn’t be kept quiet forever. She insisted he be the one to tell Monica. Michael says, she must have been upset, and Jason says, but he never got the chance. When he walked into the room, the air felt different, like her energy and spirit were just… gone. He checked her pulse, but deep down, he knew… He checked her breathing, but… he just took her hand and sat with her for a while. She looked at peace.

Gio says he can’t believe it. We’ve been looking everywhere for you, Outback. Hey baby. Cody says, she didn’t have a chip or collar or anything. He didn’t know who to call. Gio says, this is amazing. He doesn’t even know how to thank Cody… Maybe he does. Does Cody know there’s a reward for finding her? 10 thousand dollars. Cody says, seriously? He had no idea there was a finder’s fee. Gio says he didn’t have a chance to update anything yet, but his grandfather, Sonny, will be very happy pay. Cody says, it wouldn’t feel right to take it, and Molly says, really? Gio says, Cody should take it. He definitely deserves it. Cody says, nope. Technically he didn’t even return her. Outback came to him. Why not take the reward and donate it to an animal shelter?

Tracy says, the sheriff and paramedics got here quickly. Monica had advanced directive, and all of her paperwork was in order. So she just stayed with Monica until they left to make sure she was well taken care of. Brook says, Tracy’s been so strong for every second through this. Tracy doesn’t have to do this alone anymore. She can make some calls, so Tracy doesn’t have to keep repeating herself. She can help write the obituary. Tracy thanks her and says, the next step is dealing with the funeral home. Monica will rest in the family crypt of course (🍷), but there are other arrangements to be made. She’s sure Monica’s paperwork indicted whether she has to find an urn or casket for her, but whatever she chose, she… Oh God. She wants to be the one to make the final selection. However, Brook’s company would be greatly appreciated. Brok says, of course (🍷). Nobody knows what Monica would want better than Tracy.

Jason tells Michael that it took him a long time to understand Monica, but in all fairness, he didn’t make it easy for her at all. After his accident, he pulled away and stayed away. Michael says, it was all so long ago now, and Jason says he knows, but he and Carly worked so hard to make sure the Quartermaines couldn’t control Michael like they tried to control him. He didn’t even invite them to the christening, but of course (🍷), they just showed up. Michael says he heard that story once or twice, and Jason says, when he looks back… he just has a lot of regrets, the biggest one is keeping Michael from the Quartermaines. Michael says he may have not grown up with his grandmother, but he came to know her as a teenager and that was special. They had a really strong bond and talked all the time. She loved to text. They used a lot of emojis and that made her really happy. She loved having Jason and Danny under the same roof as her, so no matter what happened in the past, know that Monica had nothing but love for him.

Drew says, it’s unfair that Danny’s father has rubbed off on him like this. The truth is, Danny does a lot of reckless things. Danny says he doesn’t agree with that, but let’s say Drew was right. What about Rocco and the Quartermaines? They’re Scout’s family. She loves being at their house. She loves the horses. That’s why she asked them to bring her there. Drew says he understands, but Monica barred him from the estate, so he’s not going to let his daughter go someplace that he can’t go. He’s sorry, but it’s got to be this way. Danny says, fine, and starts to leave, but turns around. He says his mom wanted nothing more than him, Rocco, and Scout stay together. She would hate that Drew was doing this. It would break her heart. He hopes Drew can live with that. He leaves.

Laura asks if they’re certain the wire transfer originates with Drew, and Anna says, the only thing they’re certain of is that Judge Haran’s bank account did receive that money. The Swiss banking laws are such that they’re prevented from identifying the owner of the paying account. Dante says, so they don’t know that Drew actually sent the money. He might have just gotten proof of the transfer. Laura says, then why wouldn’t he report it? and Anna says they don’t know. Honestly, this evidence of a bribe has just given them more questions than answers because it casts suspicion for Drew’s shooting on anyone who cares about Wiley and Amelia’s custody. Dante says, so until they know who paid her off, they won’t have a viable suspect in Judge Haran’s murder, and Laura asks if Drew has been brought in for questioning about the wire transfer. (Um… He’s been in the hospital.) Anna says, ADA Turner interviewed him, but she would like to talk to him directly just to see what he has to say. She doesn’t expect him to tell the truth. Laura says, but he might reveal something while he’s lying, and Anna laughs. Laura says, okay. Please keep her in the loop about everything. Drew is their congressman for God’s sake. If it turns out that he was actually involved in something like this, it could have a huge impact on the future of Port Charles.

Michael says, they’re gathering together up at the house. Does Jason want to come? Jason says, no. He’s good. He’s just going to stay here a while longer. Tracy told him a story about… He guesses he lived here with his biological mother when this was a cottage. One night, he was sick, and Monica took care of him, so he thought being here might make him feel closer to her. Michael says, Jason knows where he’ll be, and leaves. Jason sits down and says, I’ll miss you, mom… I love you.

On the phone, Gio asks if Emma can meet him at the Quartermaine stables. There’s something he wants to show her. She says, first, tell her what happened with the lead, but he says, it’s a long story. He’ll explain when she gets there. She says she’s on her way.  She tells Rocco and Charlotte that she’s got to meet Gio. Text her with any updates. She leaves, and Rocco asks if Charlotte thinks they should have told Emma that Britt is alive. Her dad dated Britt for a while, and Emma was the first person he went to when he was asking about Britt. Charlotte says, Emma is dealing with enough right now. Remember when they talked about Britt and her dad? She’s thought about it and doesn’t think he should be afraid to talk to their mom. Their mom told her that she wouldn’t stand in the way of her seeing her dad. Their mom is okay with her having a relationship with him, so she might support Rocco meeting Britt too. Rocco says, maybe, but he’s not sure that’s what he wants.

Lulu tells Chase that she was on her way to pick up her kids and saw the car. She didn’t see the accident, but when she saw the car, she pulled over. Chase says, then what happened? And she says she checked to make sure it was only the driver inside. Then she tried to see if he was conscious or responsive, but he wasn’t answering, and she couldn’t see his face. Chase asks if she has any idea how long vehicle had been there, and she says, no but it was still smoking when she pulled over. He asks if she saw any other cars or people around, but she says, no. No other vehicles and no one fleeing from the scene. She just tried to keep talking to him. She wishes there was something more she could have done, but she wouldn’t have moved him in case of a head or spinal injury. Chase says, smart, and she says, oh, and the airbag had been deployed. He says, right. Look, she did everything she could. Now he’s on his way to the hospital. All they can do is hope for the best.

On the phone, Elizabeth tells Jake, it’s mom. How is he?… Nice. It sounds like he’s having fun… She’s calling because she has some bad news. Grandma Monica passed away. Danny is there and says, what?

Ned asks how Tracy is holding up. Honestly, he thinks he’s still in shock. She says, that’s not surprising. He and Monica had a complicated relationship. He tells her, you could say that. Monica was just so resilient. He assumed she would recover from her latest struggles because she always did. Her breast cancer, losing Emily, AJ, Alan. She always came through stronger than before. She says, this time was different, and he says he just can’t wrap his head around it. Brook says, her either. Monica welcomed her when walked through the door and every minute thereafter She was their rock and it’s hard to imagine this family without her. Michael walks in.

Michael thanks Tracy, and she says, for what? He says, for everything she did for his grandmother, how she took care of her. He knows she probably didn’t say it, but Tracy was her best friend. She loved her. Tracy says, they never talked about things like that. They developed a mutual appreciation over the years. She truthfully never thought Monica was worthy of the Quartermaine name, but she was wrong. Monica was the foundation of this family, and he was her pride and joy, which was why it was fitting this should all be his now.

Elizabeth asks how Drew is feeling, and he says his nephew was just here. She says she just saw Danny, and he says, Danny wants to see his sister. The thing is, the Quartermaines used to be such a safe place for all of them to be there, but Jason and Michael just ruined all of it. They’ve got Monica wrapped around their finger. Elizabeth says, please just stop. She’s here because she has something to tell him. Monica passed away.

Jason cries, when Danny comes in and sits next to him. Jason puts his hand on Danny’s knee, and Danny puts his arm around Jason’s shoulders.

Molly says she knows it was hard, but Cody did the right thing telling Gio the truth about Outback. Cody says, if he didn’t, she would have, and she says, sorry, no. He did it because it was the right thing to do. He might not know that about himself, but she does. She leaves and Emma arrives. She asks if he’s seen Gio, and Cody says, yeah. He’s inside. She goes in and says, he found her? She runs over to Outback and says, hi, puppy. She’s so happy to see her. They missed her. She can’t believe Gio found her. He says him neither, and kisses her.

Chase tells Lulu, great. That’s all he needs. He thanks her for calling it in and waiting for the first responders. Does she think she can give them a statement? She says, of course (🍷). She just hopes whoever it is, is going to be okay. Does he think it would be okay if she goes now since he has everything he needs? She’s supposed to be picking up her kids at Bobbie’s and she’s late.

Charlotte says she thought for sure Rocco would want to meet Britt. He wanted to know more about her ever since he found out she gave birth to him. He even got in touch with her mom. Now if he wants to know something, he can go directly to Britt. Rocco says, asking questions when she wasn’t around felt safe, but now that she’s alive and in Port Charles, it changes everything. That makes it feel a lot more real.

Anna tells the nurse at the desk that she and Dante are here to see Drew Cain. Is he still in the same room? The nurse says, he’s still up on 10, and Anna thanks her. As they head for the elevator, a gurney is brought in. Lucas says, what do we have? and the paramedic says, male, single vehicle crash, unresponsive on the scene. Possible head injury, 15 liters a minute right now, facial lacerations, responsive to pain. Anna looks at Dante who looks at a shocked Lucas. The car accident victim is Nathan.

On Monday, Molly thinks she has feelings for Cody; Anna tells Dante that they have to keep this completely quiet until they know what’s going on; and Lulu says she and Britt have to make peace for Rocco’s sake.

🧼 All the Soap News Fit To Print…

I smell a Daytime Emmy coming up.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-rory-gibson-previews-powerful-performance-by-steve-burton-over-monicas-death-excl/

All the Q goodbyes.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/photos/general-hospitals-quartermaines-how-the-show-said-goodbye-to-alan-edward-and-more-beloved-characters/

Almost the whole gang is here.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/when-does-ryan-paevey-return-to-general-hospital-his-first-airdate-revealed/

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-ryan-paevey-promises-to-stir-the-pot-with-his-return-to-port-charles/

Star of the show. I wish I could get mine to be so well-behaved.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-josh-kelly-on-his-adorable-new-co-star-outback-the-dog-exclusive/

I didn’t know she was on OLTL. Good for Erika sticking up for her. She is a true OG.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-nancy-lee-grahn-dishes-about-her-reunion-with-erika-slezak-a-true-joy/

This would be awesome. I loved when they watched the Nurses Ball together on TV.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/is-general-hospitals-brad-returning-kelly-thiebaud-and-head-writers-tease-a-comeback-excl/

Brava and Bravo.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/general-hospitals-jane-elliot-dayss-james-reynolds-among-honorees-at-2025-daytime-emmys/

Another legend leaves us.

https://www.soapoperadigest.com/content/soap-alum-patricia-crowley-dies-at-91-actress-starred-on-dynasty-and-port-charles/

💉 A Dose of Reality…

Below Deck

Chef Anthony managed to finish the season without spiraling to the point of no return. Fraser felt like he’d been chased by a feral dog with rabies, but they’d pulled it off. In Rainbeau’s interview, she said Solene was the worst person she’d ever worked with. I’m not sure if she’s the worst of all the Below Deck crews, since there’s a lot of competition, but yeah, she was definitely up there. The tip was a fat $28K, and Captain Kerry said they’d made $195,490 for the whole season. In Fraser’s interview, he made a chart for the boatmances like a detective board with strings all over the place, many of which led back to Solene. I wasn’t sad to see this season over with. Captain Kerry and Fraser are fine – although, sorry not sorry, they can’t hold a candle to Captain Lee and Kate – but I just couldn’t get into the focus on the crew’s interpersonal relationships. It was hard to keep track of and got old quickly.

Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City

For whatever insane reason, the group decided to go camping and took an RV to get there. They began the trip with the RV being surrounded by a SWAT team looking for Whitney. No surprise, it was a prank by Whitney, and they were strippers. Like Angie, I thought they looked kind of young, and in Mary’s interview, she wondered, where were the muscles? In Whitney’s interview, she said it had been harder than she thought to find male strippers in Utah. And no judgement, but Whitney’s face is looking a little plastic. We found out Bronwyn was a germophobe, which surprised me. Once they got rolling, the women did shots, but I dunno if I’d want to do shots in a moving vehicle. Lisa passed on the trip, saying she had to work, but we saw a clip of her telling Angie that she couldn’t stand Bronwyn. Of course she was talked about since she wasn’t there, but Bronwyn had a point in saying Lisa had a lot to say about their lives, but never shared her own messiness. When they hit the campgrounds, Heather reminded them of a local legend, Molly Sorensen, who punished young sinners. In her interview, Mary said, if something was really coming for them, in scary movies, the Black person always got killed first. (Absolutely true in the older films, not so much anymore.) Everyone got camcorders, and it looks like we’re headed for their take on The Blair Witch Project. Maybe The Salt Lake Bitch Project? It actually looks to be a good season. Plus there’s the Below Deck crossover.

I don’t think Molly Sorensen is a real thing, since all I get is an actress and singer when I google it. And don’t bother adding legend. I tried.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/meredith-marks-reveals-shocking-unaired-rv-trip-moment-exclusive

Real Housewives Of Orange County

Heather had a fancy pants sleepover with Emily and Gretchen, complete with a butler and canopied beds adorned with fairy lights. In Emily’s interview, she said she liked fun, drunk Gretchers best. I thought if Emily called Gretchen Gretchers one more time, I was going to go out of my mind. Meanwhile, Gina, Shannon, and Tamra went swimming and smoked a joint, except for Shannon whose had a cough for over a decade. What? Go to the doctor and not Dr. Moon. Did Katie leave? Did Tamra eat her? Stay tuned.


Real Housewives Of Miami

I was busy with something else, but I did get three takeaway points. 1) Lisa was smart to take the art when she got divorced. I was once told if you were going to invest in anything, invest in art, and sure enough, when the stock market tanked, the only stocks that didn’t were in art. 2) Adriana needs a dictionary because ratchet is not synonymous with racist. 3) And shame on Kiki. Adriana had made it loud and clear how much she wanted to ignore her age. There was no way it wasn’t age-shaming to put it on the cake. Although Julia did have a point in saying, what goes around, comes around aka karma.

Random Reality Items

This looks like a maybe.

Jill didn’t say a million was not what she asked for.

The Housewife who never sleeps.

👀 Last Weekend’s Watch…

aka Charlie Sheen. Netflix. This documentary was endlessly enlightening. Charlie grew up with Sean Penn, who had a good deal of interview time. They grew up in Malibu, and I was surprised to see from home movies that it was basically rural/blue collar, no mansions, and not much different from where I grew up in Ohio. As Penn described it, Huckleberry Finn on the water. Denise Richards again proved why I like her when she asked why Charlie’s hookers shouldn’t get a share of her white trash, turkey sandwiches. They had to eat too. Although I wondered what was white trash about a turkey sandwich. Heidi Fliess was a bit of a surprise, very real and very smart. Charlie’s father told him, your word in this business will take you further than any big movie. Charlie must have been quite the disappointment, although there seems to be hope for him yet. Sober Charlie comes off as a self-depreciating, honest, and decent human being.

https://deadline.com/2025/09/aka-charlie-sheen-director-explains-documentary-revelations-1236530783/

https://people.com/charlie-sheen-ex-wife-brooke-mueller-addiction-netflix-documentary-11811473

Tales from the Apocalypse. Amazon Prime. An anthology of five stories. Mostly in outer space. I was bored. I kept hoping the next segment would be better, but that didn’t happen. If you like a space opera, you might enjoy it.

The Amaranth. Amazon Prime. I always appreciate a tale of a Shangri-La that isn’t what it seems to be. A man and his wife move to a retirement resort where life is nothing but rainbows and unicorns. He’s into it, but she’s much younger and bored and wondering what exactly is going o behind the scenes. A case of be careful what you wish for. I wanted to like this more than I did, but it wasn’t a total waste of time.

https://nofilmschool.com/2018/10/amaranth-interview

🏆 Roll Out the Carpet…

The Emmy winners.

https://ew.com/emmys-2025-winners-list-11806047

The best and worst moments.

https://ew.com/emmys-2025-best-and-worst-moments-11807003

The red carpet fashion.

https://ew.com/emmys-2025-red-carpet-photos-11809563

I’m personally offended by them leaving out Tony Todd.

https://ew.com/emmys-in-memoriam-leaves-out-hulk-hogan-jerry-adler-danielle-spencer-11808661

🫏 Breaking the Status Quo…

🐻 Hibernation is in the air along with rotund bears.

https://people.com/fat-beat-week-2025-everything-you-need-to-know-11813934

🪽 More confused than you.

https://people.com/rare-bird-spotted-texas-first-time-64-years-11813219

🦤 Along with purse charms, they’re coming back.

https://people.com/colossal-biosciences-makes-breakthrough-in-dodo-bird-de-extinction-exclusive-11811466

🫗 Quotes of the Week

Sometimes I lie awake at night and I ask, Is life a multiple choice test or is it a true or false test? …Then a voice comes to me out of the dark and says, We hate to tell you this but life is a thousand word essay. Charles M. Schulz

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less. – Marie Curie

Thinking is a habit, and like any other habit, it can be changed; it just takes effort and repetition. – John Eliot

You’re only as young as the last time you changed your mind. – Timothy Leary

Originality is the fine art of remembering what you hear but forgetting where you heard it. – Laurence J. Peter

Words are the clothes thoughts wear. – Samuel Beckett

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dream. – Eleanor Roosevelt

She buys makeup and keeps buying makeup, and gets more makeup. – Aaron Phypers talking about Denise Richards (His point?)

Fondant doesn’t float on air. – one culinary artist to another on Halloween Wars

🤸‍♂️ Collapsing Into Fall…

Until next week, stay safe; stay keeping some of those warm weather clothes out (I learned the hard way the first time it went to 80* in October); and stay saying what you need to say to whomever you need to say it. None of us knows how much time we have in this life.

August 14, 2024 – James Disappears From the Park, Oh No, Two For Tea, This Week In LA, NYC Comeback, Next Squid, Witchy, No Cameo, Cover Girl & Goes

Standard

What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts, recaps, and the whole GH enchilada on Fridays)

General Hospital

Mac and Spinelli play frisbee in the park. James wanders off, and Mac wonders what he did.

At the stables, Cody flashes back to Sasha kissing him. Tracy comes by, and he asks if she wants him to prep Hades, but she says she’s planning on taking him for a ride. So buckle up.

Sasha flashes back to Cody saying he loves James, when Willow comes in and tells her that Cody left his hat. She suggests Sasha take it back to him, but Sasha says she has to be on a call with the caterers. Willow says, Olivia isn’t here. She must have forgotten. Sasha says, it’s not with Olivia. It’s with Drew and he’s MIA.

Drew wakes up next to Nina and asks, what time is it? She says, too early to get up, but he says he’s got a call he can’t miss with Sasha and the caterers. It’s for the campaign. Nina tells him to skip it, but he says, it’s too late to bail. She says, Sasha can handle it, but he says, she can’t make decisions without him. Nina kisses him.

Brook, Lois, and Gio eat on the patio, and Lois asks if Blaze got off okay. Brook says, she got on the plane, and Gio says he has to get going. Lois says, pretty soon, he’ll be focusing on concerts, but he says, there might not be as many as he thought. He was counting on the gallery concert for exposure, but who’s going to go to a gallery owned by a murderer?  

On the phone, Sonny says he needs to find Clement. He opens the door and Natalia is there. She says she came to say goodbye. She’s going home to Puerto Rico.

Tracy says she plans on testing Cody’s mind, not his body, and Cody says, fair warning. He has a finite set of skills. She says she’ll go easy on him, and he says, it doesn’t sound like fun. She asks if he can count and differentiate between black and white, and he says he can. She says, then he can play backgammon.

Lois tells Gio that she’s sure the show will go on in spite of Ava, and Brook says, it might bring more people out of curiosity. Lois says, artists would jump at the chance to attach themselves to Ava’s notoriety. He’s too good and has too many positive things in his life to play background music for the upper-class bourgeoisie. He says he doesn’t care what people think about him, but there are a few people whose opinions matter. Like Uncle Sonny.

Natalia tells Sonny about Blaze’s tour, and says, she and Kristina broke up. Sonny says, Kristina didn’t tell him, and Natalia says, it was difficult for both of them. Maybe Kristina is still processing. She saw Blaze off, but they didn’t part on good terms. Sonny says he’s been there. It’s not easy, but they love each other and he’s sure it will work out. Natalia says, hopefully, but their potential reconciliation won’t take place here. Sonny says, so it’s a permanent move, and she says, that’s the plan. Alison doesn’t want her on tour, and she came here be with her, so she has no reason to stick around. He says, what if he gave her one.

Drew says, it’s a great way to start the day, and Nina says, it was a great way to spend the night. He says he thinks they set a new record. It’s been 10 hours, and they haven’t said anything nasty to each other. Now his would-be constituents await. She says, duty calls.

Michael asks if Willow has seen Drew, and she flashes back to her and Drew being in the elevator. She says, not since last night, and he asks if she’d mind calling him. He’s sure Drew will pick up for his star fundraiser. She says she doesn’t know where he is and doesn’t want to call. They hardly cross paths, and from now on, they won’t see each other at the foundation at all. Michael asks what that means.

Spinelli finds James sitting under a tree and asks if James wants to play frisbee, but James says, no, and asks how long they’re going to stay. Spinelli says, they just got here, but James says he’s bored. Spinelli asks what he wants to do. It will just be between them. James says he wants to ride horses with Cody, but Grandpa Mac said no.

Mac tells Felicia and Maxie, Two Trees is amazing, but Maxie says, there’s no Cody. She knows Mac has his own issues with Cody, but forbidding James to see him wasn’t Mac’s call. Felicia says, they discussed this at home, and Mac says, summer is almost over. James will be back in school before he knows it and he’ll forget about Cody. Maxie says she doubts it and asks if he doesn’t think he’s punished Cody long enough. She leaves, and Felicia says, Mac messed up big. She hopes he plans on fixing it, since she’s not doing it for him.

Maxie meets Nina as she walks into the park, and Nina thanks her for texting. It’s a lovely day. Maxie says, Nina is in a good mood. Did she have her teeth whitened? Nina says, no, and Maxie asks if she did her hair. Something is definitely different. Lucy would say her aura is glowing. Lucy would say, when Scott… Did she sleep with Drew again?

Drew comes in and tells Sasha that they’ll have to reschedule. His campaign strategy session went late and he overslept. She tells him, no problem, and Drew apologizes for barging in. Michael tells him that he and Willow were talking about her work at the Institute, and Willow says she’s come to a decision. She’s decided to go back to nursing. She’s resigning.

Tracy says, Cody gets the first roll, and Cody says, she must have been playing for a long time; she’s so knowledgeable. She says she played with her boys when they were young, then picked it back up when she was in the hospital for a while. He asks what she was in the hospital for, and she says, that’s a little forward. He says, she brought up, and she says she was infected with parasitic brain worms on a tropical vacation from a treat fed to her by Ned’s con artist father, Larry Ashton. Cody says, sounds scary, and she says, it was. He says, there are worse ways to spend time in the hospital than playing backgammon, and she says she remembers it fondly. He says, because she got to be the center of attention, but she says, because she made a friend. (I went through a backgammon phase years ago, so I get why Tracy loves it. It can be addicting.)

Brook says she thinks Sonny would respect Gio for sticking to his word, and Lois says, he has to do what’s best for him. Sonny isn’t his keeper. He’s his own man. Gio says he doesn’t want to let Sonny down, and what’s best for him right now is to get to work. He leaves, and Brook says, Lois is usually Sonny’s biggest defender, but she’s telling Gio not to care what Sonny thinks. What’s going on?

Sonny asks if Natalia wants to stay in Port Charles, and she says, it has its charms, but in her current situation, she lacks the income to sustain a bicoastal life. He says, this is where he can help, but she says, the only thing she knows about coffee is that she’s useless in the morning without it. (Same.) He says, she knows numbers, and he calls Brook. He says he was wondering if she could come over. He’s got a proposition for her. Brook asks, what kind of proposition?

Willow tells Drew and Michael that she agonized about it for weeks. She missed nursing. It fulfilled her and she feels she has a purpose as a nurse more than doing PSAs. Michael says he would have understood, and she says she wanted to be sure. She didn’t want to disappoint anyone. Nina has been helpful, and they won’t be working together anymore. Neither will she and Drew, and he’s been so supportive. Drew says he’ll always believe in her. She’s got his faith and support whether she works at the Institute or GH. He and Michael feel the same way. She should do what makes her happy. Willow says she appreciates him making it easy. She has to get the beach stuff together. She’ll meet Michael back here. She and Drew leave in opposite directions, and Sasha says, Michael rolled with Willow’s decision, but he says, what choice did he have?

Nina says she thought Drew would ditch his plans. They had an amazing time. Maxie says she knows. They had great sex. There were fireworks. Drew spending the night was unexpected. Nina says, it’s not like they’re in love. They’re two consenting adults enjoying each other. The more Drew sees it as enjoyable, the less he’ll intrude on her daughter’s marriage.

Spinelli tells James that he knows it seems unfair, but disagreements happen sometimes. Like how he has fights with his friends. James says, they usually make up, and Spinelli says he’s sure Mac and Cody will too, but it will take time.  

Mac says he’s not apologizing to make it easier on Cody. He’s a liar and a sneak. He doesn’t need or want Cody in his life. Felicia says she’s not convinced Cody shouldn’t get a second chance, but it’s Mac’s decision and she’s good with whatever he decides. He says, thanks, and she says, but don’t drag their grandson into it. The longer he keeps James and Cody apart with no explanation, the worse his and James’s relationship will be. Is that a price he’s willing to pay?

Tracy tells Cody that she was not a model patient. Her doctor weathered her ill humor with grace and got to know her. He was gentle and kind, but he was tough. And don’t get her started on how prickly he could be. Cody says, he sounds like an interesting fellow, and she says she clicks with few people the way she did with him. He says he’s glad the doctor was there for her, and she says, her too. Finn is one of a kind. He says, she misses him, and she says, very much.

James sneaks around and watches the others from behind a tree. Spinelli asks if Nina and Maxie want to play frisbee.  

As they sit on a bench, Mac tells Felicia that he’s trying to shield James from disappointment, but sooner or later, he’ll realize Cody is not the hero he pretends to be. She says, what if he’s wrong? What if Cody lives up to James’s expectations? Sometimes people can be better if they know someone believes in them.

James slips behind another tree and watches Mac and Felicia.

Lois and Brook go to the penthouse, and Sonny says he didn’t know Lois was going to show up. Lois says she was with Brook when he called and it piqued her curiosity, so she thought she’d come along. She and Brook greet Natalia, and Lois asks, what’s the idea he’s got them so eager to hear? Sonny says he was investing in a new record label, and Brook says, don’t get her wrong. She’s happy that Blaze is living her dream on tour, but she’s disappointed their idea got shelved. Sonny says, the money he set aside is still there, and he thought of a better use for it than it sitting in a bank collecting interest. Brook asks what he has in mind, and he says he’d like to invest in Deception.

Drew goes to the boathouse where Willow is getting the beach stuff together and asks if Willow needs some help. She says, thanks, but no thanks, then slips moving a box and falls on her behind. He holds out his hand, but she says she’s got it. She gathers what she needs and says she doesn’t want to keep Michael waiting. Drew says he doesn’t want her to make a big mistake.

Sasha says she knows Michael was excited about Willow’s job at the Institute, but he says, only because Willow was. If he’s learned anything from her, it’s that time is precious, and he doesn’t want her wasting it being unhappy. He doesn’t have to tell Sasha how precious time is with the person you love. He’s sorry. He wasn’t thinking. She says she’s made as much peace as she’s going to with Brando’s death. Now she smiles most of the time, rather than cries, when she thinks about him. She doesn’t think she could survive another heartbreak. He says she’s stronger than she thinks. Life doesn’t come with guarantees. You can wonder if you missed out on something great or risk being hurt.

Cody asks if Tracy has heard much from Finn, and she says she thinks he’s been concentrating on his recovery. He says it sounds like they have a special relationship, and he’s sure they’ll be happy to see each other when Finn comes home. She says she doesn’t know how happy Finn will be to see her, and he asks, why not? She says she may have been too hard on him. He hugged her when he left, but she hasn’t heard from him. He says he’s had friends go through rehab, and when Finn is thinking clearly, he’ll understand. She says she hopes so. Her only goal was to help him. He says, it sounds like underneath that tough shell, she’s pretty warm, fuzzy, and compassionate. Did he just win? She says, what? How? He says, beginner’s luck.

Sonny says, Deception has been struggling since last summer. He thinks the cash will take them over the hump and they’ll expand their audience. He’ll structure the deal, but be a silent partner. Brook says, this could be a game changer, and he says, on one condition. They hire Natalia.

Maxie brings Nina over to the group, and Nina says she wanted to come by to see them and James. Mac says, if James is still hellbent on taking riding lessons with Cody, he won’t stand in his way, and Maxie says, finally. She calls to James, but there’s no answer. She wonders where he is and yells, answer me right now!

Sonny says he wants to invest a lot of cash in Deception without taking an active role, but he wants a representative to handle his interests. Natalia is great with finances and negotiating. Brook says, Natalia’s haggling over Blaze’s contract kept Lucy awake at night, but Lois says, the music business is different than a cosmetics company. Brook says, she and Lucy lean more toward the creative side rather than financial, and Sonny says, Natalia knows numbers and will work in his best interest. Lois says, what about when his best interests don’t align with Deception’s? and Natalia says, that’s a fair question. Deception’s best interests are identical to Sonny’s. If he succeeds, then they do. Brook says she needs to discuss it with her partners. She’ll start with Tracy.  She suggests Natalia come along, since she thinks Natalia is her own best advocate, and Natalia says she’d love to. Brook thanks Sonny and says she’ll be in touch, and Natalia tells him, what she said. They leave, and Sonny asks Lois to stick around. He has a few words to say to her. She says she has a dictionary she’d like to break over his head, and he tells her that he just wants to say he’s sorry.

Spinelli suggests they split up to search for James, and Nina says, he’s a smart kid. Maxie says, too smart for his own good, and Spinelli says, it’s the first time he’s taken off like that. Maxie says she thinks she knows where to find him, and leaves, when Nina gets a call from Michael. She asks if everything is all right, and he says, everything’s fine, but he needs to talk to her about Willow.

At the boathouse, Willow tells Drew that her role isn’t what she expected. She’s not feeling fulfilled. He says, then they’ll make her feel fulfilled, but she says, they can’t. Being there at all is the problem. He says he had no indication, and she says she didn’t realize until she visited Kristina. When she was helping Kristina, she remembered why she fell in love with nursing and realized she missed the work. He says, she’s so good. He’s seen the numbers and she’s driving up donor registration. She says she’ll keep doing it until the Institute finds a replacement, but she can’t commit to anything else. She’s going back to GH. He says he’s happy for her, but wants to make sure her motivation is honest. Does her resignation have anything to do with him?

Tracy says, Cody cheated, but he says, how could he? She was watching him the whole time. She says, he’s not a beginner, and he says he never told her that he was. She assumed. It’s only hustling if you’re playing for money. She says she could have won if she hadn’t been distracted by his questions about Finn, and he says he wanted to know more about her. If he happened to win in the meantime, good. She says, next time, she won’t be so benevolent, and he says he expects nothing less. Sasha comes in and says she doesn’t want to interrupt, but Tracy says she arrived just in time. She was about to beat Cody senseless. Rematch? He says he looks forward to it, when Tracy’s phone rings. She walks out while talking to Brook, and Cody tells Sasha, backgammon is a bloodsport around here. She says she found this, and hands him his hat. He puts it on, and she says she found something else – her senses. He asks what she means, and she says she’s tired of being scared and playing it safe. Life is short. She thinks they should do this. He says, do what? and she kisses him.

Mac says he saw James and Spinelli with their heads together. What were they talking about? Spinelli says, James is distressed about Mac’s antipathy toward Cody, and Felicia says, this isn’t the way she wanted to be proved right.

Sasha asks if Cody can take a break, and he says he can take the whole day. He has to shower too. She says, he doesn’t smell bad. They can get dirtier together. They start to get busy, when Maxie walks in. She says she’s sorry. She doesn’t need to see this. Congratulations. She’ll let them both get back to it, but she has a question. Have they seen James anywhere?  

Nina asks Michael, what’s wrong? and Michael tells her that she and Willow won’t be collaborating on the New Tomorrow Institute anymore. Willow is resigning and returning to GH. He’ll let Willow be the one to tell her why. Nina says she can probably guess.  

Drew says, Willow’s work at the Institute is important to them and she’s changing lives. Don’t give up because he made it complicated. She says, it’s the only way to make it better. She loves Michael, and she’s committed to him and her family. But she can’t stop thinking about Drew. It’s wrong, and she wants as much distance put between them as possible before she does anything else she regrets. She takes the beach stuff and leaves.

Sonny says he found out that his meds had been off for a while, and Lois says, that’s a big deal. Is he okay? Did they fix the dosage? He says he’s back on track. He wants her to know she means the world to him. She always has and always will. Lois says, he means the world to her too, and thanks him for telling her. She saw he was off. Now she knows why. He asks if they’re friends again. Are they square? She says, they’re always friends. Square, not so much. He asks what she means, and she says, the infusion of money to Deception. Where is it coming from? (Didn’t they have this conversation? It’s the same money.) He says, every dime is legit. She can call his accountant. She says she believes him, but even the appearance of impropriety will be more damaging than maleficence. He asks what’s worrying her, and she says she loves him, and his personal life is his own, but she doesn’t want the business under federal scrutiny because he’s trying to impress a woman.

Brook tells Tracy, it’s a large infusion of capital that could fund Research and Development for five years. They can finally break ground on that. Tracy asks what Natalia thinks her title should be, and Natalia says she thinks CFO is appropriate. Tracy says she’s surprised the financial institution didn’t contact her, and Brook says, it’s a small bank, but the money is vetted and secured. Tracy asks, what’s the name of the bank? and Brook says, the Bank of Sonny. Tracy says, over my dead body

Tomorrow, Lucy says she thinks it’s a great idea; John tells Ava that he’s got Sonny where he wants him; Maxie says, nobody is going to find James unless he wants them to; and Cody dives into the water, presumably looking for James.

🍽 Eating My Words…

I have no words. Actually, I do, but this blog is rated PG-13.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/jacqueline-grace-lopez-says-goodbye-to-general-hospital-2

🫖 Striving For Elegance…

Love these two together.

https://www.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital/ghs-jophielle-love-on-violet-and-tracys-tea-party

💰 Hard Times In Listings…

Not only does the market still stink, buyers are also pulling out of deals; JoshA saying the fallout was around 25%. He came close to getting a new house for JoshF, going so far as to forego his commission, but JoshF wasn’t willing to come up even another $200K. I always figure, when you’re talking millions, what’s another couple hundred thousand? Tracy, playing the role of JoshF’s broker, had already agreed to no commission since JoshF had done the same for her. Since they were at an impasse, Tracy suggested they finish the tequila and call it a night. JoshF then began to lean toward rebuilding his gutted dreamhouse. In an interesting panty twist, Tracy found a pair of satin undies amongst the rubble and threw them over the fence. Nice. She’s going to be exiled to Summer House if she’s not careful.

🗽 Returning To New York…

That pigeon décor is pretty impressive.

https://extratv.com/2024/08/13/watch-erin-lichy-confront-husband-abe-about-lying-in-rhony-season-15-trailer/

🐙 Your Post Christmas Present…

A new Game is coming December 26th.

https://comicbook.com/anime/news/squid-game-season-2-new-players-trailer/

🧹 Channeling Those Before…

Instead of WandaVision’s sitcom approach, Agatha will be using the witches of yore to tell her story.  

https://ew.com/agatha-all-along-trailer-kathryn-hahn-joe-locke-d23-8693175

🦸 Not Done Yet…

The ones who didn’t make it.

https://ew.com/halle-berry-says-ryan-reynolds-never-asked-me-to-cameo-in-deadpool-and-wolverine-8695666

https://people.com/robert-downey-iron-man-cameo-deadpool-wolverine-8693208

🐶 What a Dogue…

Pilaf deserves her own magazine cover. She’s an unbelievably cute little nugget of pup.

https://people.com/demi-moore-tiny-dog-pilaf-gets-her-own-vogue-cover-8695515

🍫 Love You S’more…

Join me tomorrow for soap and the OC in LaQuinta. Until then, stay safe, stay understanding that integrity and character are what really matter, and stay not wasting time being unhappy. Time is precious.

July 19, 2024 – Lulu Has Visitors, Wave Hill, She’s a Legend, Previewing Dubai, Considering It, He’s the Worst, Arrested Mom, New Dance, Almost Here, Fur ‘N’ Fins, Just Over 8 Quotes & Time

Standard

What I Watched Today

(rambling, random thoughts, recaps, and the whole GH enchilada on Fridays)

General Hospital

Carly says she would have lost her mind if she’d seen Jason jump from the footbridge, and he says, then it’s a good thing she wasn’t here. She says, nothing’s better than having him back home. Did she tell him how grateful she is? He says, yeah, and she says, two and a half years for her. She’s never going to be able to repay him for that. He says, there’s no debt, and she says, he gave up his freedom so she could have hers, but he says, no debt. Not ever. Not between them.

Tracy says, no, and we see James standing in the stable doorway. Cody asks what he’s doing here. It’s a little late for him to be out, isn’t it? James says, Grandpa Mac says he can’t take riding lessons from Cody anymore. Mac says he has to go to Two Trees Ranch now. Cody says he’s heard good things about that place, but James says he hates it there. Cody asks if he’s even been, and James says, no. Tracy says, let her ask the obvious question, where’s his mother? James says, at home, and Tracy asks, where’s Spinelli? James says, home too, and she asks how he got here. James says he took a Ride Share.

Josslyn meets Trina at the pool and says, it’s so good to get out of her uniform. Trina says she bets. Is Josslyn ready to head out? Josslyn says, in a minute, and sets her bag down. She has something for Trina. She’s been meaning to give it to her for the last few days. She found it when they were moving. Trina asks, what is it? and after digging in her bag, Josslyn says, it’s this little bird guy. She shows Trina the dove Spencer gave to her, and Trina takes it and says, it’s a turtle dove. Josslyn says she guesses she has to brush up on her ornithology. She can’t believe she knows that word. (I can’t believe I spelled it right on the first try.) She asks if Trina is all right.

Laura sits at Lulu’s bedside and says, her kids are doing beautifully. Charlotte is the happiest she’s seen her in months. She’s just gallivanting all over the globe. And Rocco continues to school her in video games – his words. She laughs and says, little does he know she lets him win half the time. But they’re growing up, and fast. And beautifully. She thinks Lulu would be really proud of the people they’re becoming. As for her – she massages Lulu’s hand – she’s really been missing Lulu a lot lately. She could really use Lulu as a sounding board. She’s got so much going on in her life, she’s got a lot of reasons to need her sweet, thoughtful, receptive daughter. Dante stands in the doorway, and Laura says, sweet girl. That’s got to feel better, doesn’t it?

Cody says, what does James mean, he ordered a Ride Share? He doesn’t even have a phone. He says, Georgie does, and Tracy says, the benefit of having an older sibling. Cody says, or the curse. Georgie ordered a car for him? James says, no. He stole her phone and got one himself. Tracy tries not to laugh, and Cody asks how James physically got out of his house without his mom or Spinelli knowing. James says he climbed out the window, and Cody says, from his bedroom? Tracy says, tell her it’s a one-story house, and Cody says, it is. James says, but it would be cool if it wasn’t, and Cody says, James knows he’s going to have to call his mom, and she’s probably not going to be happy. Tracy says, probably? and James says he’s not happy either. He wants to take riding lessons with Cody, not some stupid ranch. Cody says he knows, and James asks if he did something wrong. Was it too annoying having him here? Cody says, no, not at all. He loves every minute he gets to spend with James. James says, then why? and Cody says he wishes he could answer that, but where James rides and who he rides with isn’t up to him, as much as he wishes it was.

Carly says she just can’t get over Jason doing this for her, and he says, she’s going to have to try. Please. She says, he sacrificed everything, relationships with everyone, and he says he’d do it again. She says, he means that, and he says he does. Because the alternative would have been her paying the price for something she never would have been involved with if it wasn’t for him and Sonny. She asks if he’s saying she’s not cut out for gangster life, and he says, she’s a lot of things – she says, careful – but mob boss should not be one of them. She says she missed him so much, and he says he missed her too, and takes her hand. She says, now they don’t have to anymore.

Josslyn says, that was a gift from Spencer, wasn’t it? (why doesn’t she know this?) and Trina says, it was a set of two. He has… He had the other one. Josslyn says, Trina never told her, and Trina says, it was just their little thing. She just doesn’t understand why. Josslyn says, why what? and Trina says, why it’s still like this. Why it’s still so hard. Why Josslyn giving her a figurine is so upsetting. Josslyn says, because she’s still grieving, and Trina says, but when does it end? Josslyn says, it doesn’t, and Trina says, good pep talk. Thanks. Josslyn says, it’s true. Grief is a ride that you don’t get off of, but the ride morphs. It can change and eventually, it’s not going to be so painful. It can even be beautiful. Trina says she just wants to get there so badly, and Josslyn says, she will.

Dante knocks at the door, and Laura wipes her tears away. He says he can come back, but she says, don’t be silly, and hugs him. He goes over to Lulu and smooths her hair, saying, hey, you. Laura says she was just catching Lulu up about Charlotte and Rocco, and he asks if there were any Ace stories in there. She says, they didn’t get there yet, and he asks how Ace is doing. She says, he’s good. He’s meeting all his milestones, and she thinks he’s settling into life with her and Doc really well. Dante says, he should. He kind of won the lottery with them. She says she doesn’t know about that. They were pretty rusty, but they’re finding their way now. He says he didn’t get a chance to tell her how incredible he thinks what she’s doing is, being a mother to her grandson. She says, it’s not exactly what she saw for herself at this stage, and he says he bets not. She says she loves Ace and he’s family. She’ll take care of him as long as she’s able. He says, it sounds like it’s a no-brainer for her. He doesn’t know if it would be for everyone. She says she doesn’t know about that, but he says he does. She says, who knows? Maybe Lulu will wake up just in time to meet her newest nephew. He says he prays for that every day, and takes Lulu’s hand.

At the stable, Maxie says she can’t believe James snuck out of the house, and James says, she’s the one who took out the screens from the windows. Spinelli says, that was in case of a fire or another emergency, and James says, this was an emergency. Maxie says, seeing Cody was an emergency, and James nods. She says, he cannot, A, leave their house alone without telling anyone; B, steal his sister’s cellphone; C, use it to order a Ride Share. She’s sure there must be a D. Spinelli says, exiting their home via the windows, and Maxie says, there you go. Tracy and Cody must think they’re the worst parents. Cody says he doesn’t think that, and Maxie says, Tracy can refrain from answering that. Tracy says she’s headed back to the house, and Maxie says, speaking of, does she hang out at the stables often? Tracy says, goodnight, and leaves. Maxie says, now that they have the answer to how, let’s focus on why. Why was it so important for James to see Cody tonight? James looks at Cody, who says, it’s okay, buddy. Just tell his mom what he told him. James says, Grandpa Mac says he can’t do riding lessons here anymore, and Cody says he’ll abide by whatever the family says, but he needs James to know the decision isn’t coming from him. He loves teaching James. Maxie says she knows he does, and tells James that nobody loves Grandpa Mac more than she does, but he’s not in charge of where James takes riding lessons. James says he is? but Maxie says, no. She is. James asks if he can keep on taking them here, and Maxie says, that’s a conversation for another day. That is unless she’s decided he’s grounded for life. Spinelli says, then said conversation would be moot, and James asks what moot means. Spinelli says he’ll explain it on the way to the car, and guides James out, patting Cody’s shoulder as he passes. Maxie thanks Cody for calling her. She doesn’t even want to imagine the heart attack she would have had if she went to check on him in his room and his bed was empty. He says he’s glad they avoided that scenario, and she says her too. And she’s glad he’s still here. He says, a promise is a promise, and she says, make sure he keeps it, and leaves.

Trina tells Josslyn that she asked Spencer why he wanted her to have turtle doves. He said, because every time she saw them, she would be reminded of him. So she told him that she was keeping one and gave the other one to him for the same reason, because she wanted him to know she was always thinking of him. Josslyn says, that’s because they’re a pair, a perfect match, and Trina says, yeah, a perfect match. Josslyn sits next to Trina and puts her arms around her.

Laura asks, how are the kids? and Dante says, they’re good. Busy. Everyone’s busy, right? Scout was just saying she wanted to have a visit with Ace. She says she’s sure Ace would like that, and he says, she’s really into this babysitting thing. Not that she’s old enough to be left alone with the kids, but she’s really good at entertaining little kids. Laura says, then she’d be welcome any time, and they laugh. He says, it must be cool having a little one running around the house again, and she says, it’s exhausting. But it’s more fun than she could have imagined really. (I identify, having recently got a new puppy.) He says, it probably gives her an excuse to throw one of her kitchen floor country music tea parties, huh? and she says, he knows about that? He says, Lulu told him all about it. It was one of her favorite things as a kid, coming home from school and seeing everything set up, and Laura says she forgot about that. He tells her that Lulu always said she was the best, most creative mom, and Laura says, she made it easy. He says, now Ace gets to experience that, right? and she says she hasn’t thrown a tea party for him. Who knows? Maybe she should. He says he does have one question though. Why the kitchen floor? She says, easy clean up, and he says, it all makes sense why Lulu is such a great mom. She takes after her own.

Carly asks if Jason has decided how he’s going to get through to Sonny, but he says he’s not sure. Up until now, he hasn’t been able to tell Sonny anything. It just makes him angrier. She says, which is completely unfair, and he says, not completely, but she says, yes, it is. She gets that Sonny wanted answers – they all did – but the fact that Sonny refused to give him the tiniest benefit of the doubt after all Jason’s done for him… Jason says, it wasn’t like him, and she says, nothing Sonny’s been doing lately is like him, but this is good, right? Jason gets to explain everything to him. Where he’s been, what he’s been doing, and why he’s been doing it. Jason says, you know what’s funny about this whole thing? and she says she doesn’t think anything is funny about it. He says, all this talk about transparency and him being able to tell Sonny the truth… It’s going to come down to two words. She says, John Cates. Thank God he’s not going to be a problem anymore. Jason says, John may not be his problem, but he’s Sonny’s.

Maxie and Spinelli bring James home, and Georgie says, what took them so long? And why does James have to be such a brat? Maxie thanks her for staying here in case Bailey Lou woke up. She didn’t wake up, did she? Georgie says, no, and Maxie says, great. And don’t talk to her brother like that. Spinelli says, that tone is reserved for them, and gently pushes James toward Georgie. Georgie says, steal her phone again and he’ll be sorry, and Maxie asks what she just said. Georgie says, it slipped out, and James says he still doesn’t get why everybody is so mad. Maxie says, because it’s not safe to go out alone and get in a stranger’s car, but James says, she uses Ride Shares all the time. Maxie says she’s a grown-up, and Spinelli says, please tell them that he knows what he did was wrong. Maxie says, and that he will never ever do that again. James says he knows, and he won’t, and he’s sorry. She thanks him, and he asks if he’s grounded, but she says, undecided. Georgie says, if she did that, she’d never see the outside world again, and James says, okay, but he really did need to talk to Cody. Georgie says, about riding lessons? and he says, it’s more than that. He thought Cody might tell him the truth. Maxie says, about what? and James says, something weird’s going on, but nobody’s saying. He can tell. Spinelli says, smart boy, and Maxie says, you know what? James is right.

Sasha says she came as soon as she got Cody’s text. What’s wrong? He says, everything.

Tracy walks into the nook to find Gio eating a sandwich. She says she thought Sasha was done for the night, and he says, she is. He made this. She says, really? He just made himself at home in the kitchen. He asks if that’s a problem, and she says she doesn’t know. Did he make a mess? He says he always cleans up after himself. The kitchen’s spotless. She says, it better be, and he asks if she’s hungry. He can make her one too. She says, no. She already had her dinner. He says, so did he, but that was over an hour ago, and she laughs. She says, he must be ravenous. No sandwich, but a cup of tea sounds good. He says, she should have chamomile. It will help her sleep. She says, thanks for the tip, and he says, she’s welcome. She makes her tea and says, he would be smart to be afraid of her. It is her house after all. He says he thought it was Monica’s house, and she throws up her hands. He says, didn’t Tracy’s brother Alan give it to her? and Tracy smiles.

Dante says, Rocco told him how wonderful Laura was with him when he was in the hospital. She was a real comfort to him. She says, he was trying to be strong for Scout. It was so sweet, but he was terrified. Why wouldn’t he be? He says, Rocco told him that she went to the Quartermaines and sat with him and stayed with him. She asks if he told Dante about the video games, and Dante says, he certainly did, about a thousand times. He was very appreciative. As is he. She says, honestly, Rocco is a very special kid. He’s very perceptive and very sensitive. Dante says, thankfully, he doesn’t have that flying off the handle Falconari gene, and she says, or the brash Spencer gene. He’s quiet, she thinks, and treads lightly. He clearly thinks and feels things really deeply. He says, you know who Rocco reminds him of? Her.

Maxie tells James, when Grandpa Mac came home, something happened that upset him. It’s not a secret, but it’s private. Georgie says, that clears things up… Sorry. James asks if Grandpa Mac is mad at him, but Maxie says, no, not at all. Sometimes when people are upset, they don’t want to talk about it. Spinelli says, or they don’t know how to, and Georgie says, Grandpa Mac isn’t sick like Violet’s grandpa was, right? Maxie says, no. Grandpa Mac is fine. He’s just going through something and the best thing they can do is be patient. Georgie says she’s headed to bed, and Spinelli says, sweet dreams. She leaves, and Maxie says, it’s time for James to go to bed too – again. Spinelli says, and stay there this time, and James says, but it doesn’t make sense. What does any of this have to do with his riding lessons? Spinelli says, he can still take his riding lessons. They just might be in a different location. James says, but he wants to do his lessons with Cody. He’s the best. Maxie says she knows. They just have to take a break from the Quartermaine stables for a little bit. James says, until when? Until he’s back in school, the summer’s over, and it gets dark before 5 o’clock? Spinelli says, the timing isn’t ideal, and Maxie says, they know he’s disappointed. Spinelli says, James must be very confused, and James says, very. Maxie says, just give her a little bit and she’ll figure it out, okay? and James says, this stinks. He walks to his room, and Maxie tells Spinelli, yet another thing he’s right about.

Sasha says, James really ordered a Ride Share and came here by himself, and Cody says, he sure did. She says, Maxie must have been so freaked out, and he says, she definitely wasn’t pleased, but luckily, he called her before she realized James was missing. Sasha says, but why? What did James need to see him about? He says, apparently, Mac told him that he couldn’t take riding lessons here anymore. So James was obviously upset, but he’d thought he did something wrong. It killed him. It’s one thing for Mac to take his anger out on him, but to drag James into all of this? Although he can’t really blame Mac. If he was Mac, he wouldn’t want his grandson hanging around him either. But James keeps borrowing this hat. He picks up a black cowboy hat and says, it’s way too big for him. It keeps falling down over his face, covering his eyes; he’s riding blind. But James keeps insisting it’s perfect. She says, because it’s Cody’s, and he says, yeah. He just loves that kid. James is like family to him. She says, James is his family. He’s Maxie’s son, he’s Mac’s grandson, which makes him Cody’s nephew. Cody says, and now James is hurting and it’s totally his fault.

Josslyn asks if anyone knows what happened to Spencer’s turtle dove. Did anyone find it in his things? Trina says, when they were in Paris, he saw that she brought hers and showed her that he brought his too, and Josslyn says, that is beyond sweet. Trina says, he pulled it out of his pocket and told her that he brings it everywhere. Josslyn says, you know how people are always telling you that grief is bittersweet? and Trina says she’s heard that more than once. Josslyn says, Spencer being gone, that’s the bitter part, but he’s also still with Trina, and Trina says, that’s the sweet.

Jason tells Carly, Cates is fixated on Sonny. Cates came to his room, pressuring him for information. She says, about Sonny? and he says, there was nothing about Pikeman at all. It was all about taking Sonny down, and now Cates is using Ava. He thinks she’s Sonny’s next victim and wants to help her keep custody of Avery. Carly says, this is a problem, and he says he knows it is. She says, Cates has already proved he’s like a dog with a bone. If Sonny… He says, that’s why he has to get Sonny to let him back in, so they can figure this out together.

Dante says, Rocco wanted to visit, but his buddy Charlie got tickets to the Woodchucks game, and Laura says, just as well he’s there and not here. He says, is it? and she says she thinks so. It’s hard enough for him to see his mother like this. Dante wouldn’t want him to miss something fun because of it. He says he guesses so, and she asks how often Rocco visits. He says, often enough he guesses, whatever that means, and she says, it means whatever he needs it to mean. He says he doesn’t know what Rocco needs anymore. This just gets harder and harder. She says, for Rocco? and he says, yeah. He just knows his mother being in this bed than he does of her being out of it. He wants Rocco to know Lulu like he does. Strong and funny and energetic. He tells Rocco stories about her all the time, but it feels like he’s talking about some long, lost relative, not his mom. She says she gets that. She doesn’t like that for him either. He says, it gets to the point where, by Rocco coming to see her, he’s doing more harm than good.

Trina says, sometimes she feels so guilty, and Josslyn asks, why? Trina says, because of course (🍷) she loves and misses Spencer, but there are times she’s so mad at him. Josslyn says, for leaving her, and Trina says, he told her that he’d never do that to her. That whatever happened, they’d face it together. Now he’s gone and she’s alone. Josslyn says, she is not… and Trina says, Josslyn knows what she means. She just feels like Spencer lied to her and she knows that sounds insane. Josslyn says, she’s not insane, and Trina says, really? She’s mad at her dead boyfriend. Josslyn says, does she know what Spencer would say? You should be mad at me. I’m an idiot. Trina laughs and says, he would say that, wouldn’t he? (Yes, and he’d be right. I don’t really miss Spencer, and I’m all for Trio.)

Gio suggests Tracy join him, at least while she’s having her tea. She says, all right, and sits down. How’s his sandwich? Besides large. He says, delicious. All that’s missing are the amazing roasted red peppers he used to get on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. She says she thought he was a Brooklyn boy, and he says, through and through, but he went to college in the Bronx. She asks, where? and he says, Fordham University. She says, that’s a good school, and he says he loved it. She asks why he transferred to PCU, and he says, the music program’s better and when they offered him a scholarship… She says, they made him an offer he couldn’t refuse, and he says he’s so happy he’s here, but he does miss the city. She rolls her eyes, and he says, what? She says, New Yorkers call New York City the city, as if there are no other cities around (she’s right, but the whole tri-state area does it), and he says, well, it’s the best one (he is also right). She says, since he’s from Bensonhurst, she’s going to assume Brooklyn is the best borough, and he says, it depends on what you’re looking for. She says, concert halls, and he says, Manhattan. Lincoln Center. She says, really? Better than Carnegie Hall? He says, for him personally, yeah, and she says, huh. Pizza. He says, that’s a tough one. Luigi’s in Brooklyn is hard to beat though. She says, sports stadium, and he says, Citi Field, hands down. She says, and with that goes baseball teams, and he says, the Mets (agreed). He doesn’t look good in pinstripes. She says, so they’ve covered four of the five boroughs. She knows nothing about Staten Island. She’s never gone there. He says, don’t worry. No one does. (Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! I love this conversation.)

Carly says, it’s ironic, and Jason says, what is? She says, by isolating himself and pushing everyone who cares about him away, Sonny’s getting it from all sides. He put his trust in Ava. Shockingly, a bad move. Now he’s about to be consumed with a nasty custody battle. And Agent Cates is willing to use anything to take Sonny down. Jason says, what’s scary is, Cates has hated Sonny for a long time and he’s never had an opening before. Now he does.

Maxie asks if everyone is accounted for, and Spinelli says, accounted for and fast asleep. She hands him a glass of wine, and they clink glasses. She says she still can’t believe James climbed out his window, and Spinelli says, he was a man on a mission and wouldn’t be deterred. She says, that is a very generous and Spinelli way of looking at it, and he asks how she’s doing with all this. She says she’s frustrated… sad… happy… excited... Did she say frustrated? He says, she did, and she says she knows she and Cody don’t share DNA, but he’s family. He says he’s sure Mac will come around, and she says she knows he will. She just wishes he would speed up the process. Not just for himself, but for James too. He says, and for her? and she says she lost a sibling once already. She’s not going to lose another one. He says, she had no control over what happened to her sister, and she says she knows, but she has control over this. She at least has sway over Mac. Think of all the kajillion times he forgave her when she lied to him. He can forgive Cody for this one.

Sasha says, so Maxie shows up… Cody says, with Spinelli, and she says, and they collect James. Did he tell them why he came here? Cody says, he did, and she asks what Maxie said. He says, basically that while she loves Mac, it isn’t up to him to decide where James takes his riding lessons. She says, or with who, and he says, pretty much. She says, that’s good, and he says, how is any of this good? She says, Mac is angry, and he has every right to be, and he says, absolutely. She says, but it doesn’t sound like Maxie feels the same way. And James obviously still thinks Cody hung the moon or he wouldn’t have come here. He says, but it’s Mac’s opinion that matters, isn’t it? and she says, to an extent. He’s having the reaction he’s having. Don’t overreact in response. She really doesn’t think he’s about to be banished from James’s life. Maxie and James clearly have faith in him. And for the record, she does too.

Tracy says, okay, last one. Parks. Gio says, Central Park is amazing for sure, and she says, but he prefers Brooklyn Botanic Garden. He says he’s a bigger fan of the one in the Bronx actually, and she says, New York Botanical? He says, it was right next to Fordham, and he used to go all the time. It’s enormous. So much to offer. But if you’re looking for gardens specifically, Wave Hill is out of this world. She says, never heard of it, and he says, it’s in the Bronx actually, but it overlooks the Hudson River. The view is – he kisses his fingers – and it might be one of the most relaxing places in the city. Sorry. New York City. She laughs and says, there are beautiful gardens here. Her mother gifted them to Port Charles. He says, really. Maybe she could show him sometime. She says, maybe I can.

Trina thanks Josslyn for letting her talk about Spencer and just being patient and understanding. These feelings have her feeling completely confused. Josslyn says she remembers that well. She remembers feeling so all over the place, but they can talk about Spencer whenever Trina wants. She misses him too. A lot. Trina says she hopes she’s not making Josslyn feel like she can’t talk about Spencer. She knows she’s not the only who lost him. Josslyn says, Trina doesn’t make her feel like that at all. She hesitates sometimes to bring him up because she doesn’t know if it’s going to make Trina feel better or worse. Trina says, that changes by the hour, and Josslyn says, how about this? If she brings up Spencer and Trina doesn’t like it, just tell her to stop talking and she will. Trina says, deal, but today is not one of those days. Josslyn hugs her and says she loves Trina. Trina says she loves Josslyn more, but Josslyn says, not possible.

Dante says he sounds like a jerk, not wanting to bring his kid to see his mom, but Laura says, he doesn’t. He says, it feels pretty awful, and she says, of course (🍷) it does. It’s an awful situation, but he’s handling this with grace and strength, like he does everything. But she thinks the question he raised is actually quite important. He asks if she’s got any answers for him, but she says she doesn’t think she has answers. She could offer some advice though, if it’s welcome. He says he’ll take whatever he can get, and she says she thinks Rocco is at an age where he knows what feels right and what doesn’t. She thinks when it comes to visiting his mom, she would leave that decision up to him. Dante hugs her

Carly says, if Jason wasn’t here, she’d be going through this on her own. Watching Sonny spiral, worrying about him, worrying about her kids, and she wouldn’t have him to bounce things off of. They make a good team. He says, they always did, and she says, nobody wants to be in a situation like this, but if she has to be in one, she’s so, so grateful she’s in one with him. He says, him too, and they clink beer bottles.

On Monday, Laura asks Anna to please tell her that she knows some way to get in touch with Valentin; Carly asks if somebody is having John Cates go after Sonny; and John says, Jason’s days as his informant are far from over

🌊 Ride the Wave…

TBH, I’d never heard of it either, but now it’s on my radar. It looks gorgeous.

https://www.wavehill.org/

🍻 Quite a Pair…

Everyone should have a Tracy in their life. I love her character and Jane Elliot sounds wonderful to work with.

🐪 Camel Extra…

For whatever reason, I don’t mind these Housewives as much. Besides loud fights being frowned upon, it’s just fun to look at the richest of the rich places. RHOBH have nothing on these women.

🍑 Too Bad They Haven’t Asked…

Kenya’s character may be flawed, but is Kim really the one who should be pointing that out?

🍸 Most Awful and Most Lowest IQ…

He should have done his due diligence? How about just reading the room. Seriously, are we being punked or is there a human being really this stupid?

https://people.com/tom-sandoval-drops-lawsuit-against-ariana-madix-8680565

Where do I sign?

🍹 Dancing In the Drunk…

Why does no one remember Uber when they’re drinking? Better yet, how about taking one there if you’re going to be drinking?

https://www.eonline.com/news/1405011/dance-moms-christi-lukasiak-arrested-for-dui

https://people.com/dance-moms-alum-christi-lukasiak-arrested-dui-charge-8678992

🩰 A New Set Of Moms…

This looks promising. The teacher seems kinder and gentler than Abby Lee, but a lot of dance teachers are kinda mean.

https://people.com/hulu-dance-moms-a-new-era-official-trailer-exclusive-8679808

🐺 Counting Down Now…

The final trailer, Easter eggs, a yellow suit that makes grown men weep, a joke, and of course, Dogpool.

https://comicbookmovie.com/deadpool/deadpool-wolverine/deadpool-wolverine-final-trailer-spoiler-breakdown-lady-deadpool-a-shock-return-and-some-big-easter-eggs-a212194

https://comicbookmovie.com/deadpool/deadpool-wolverine/deadpool-and-wolverine-get-serious-in-emotional-final-trailer-as-spoiler-makes-their-mcu-debut-a212193#gs.bv8le5

https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/deadpool-wolverine-hugh-jackman-yellow-suit-b2582775.html

https://people.com/blake-lively-jokes-husband-ryan-reynolds-is-trying-to-get-me-pregnant-again-8677044

🐼 Bringing Joy To the World…

I saw pandas in person (or bearson as it were) years ago when they were here on loan. They are unbelievably cute and don’t look real.

https://people.com/san-diego-zoo-shares-first-video-of-its-2-new-pandas-from-china-8680830

🦈 Sharks get a bad rap. Fish are friends, not food.

https://people.com/shark-facts-for-shark-awareness-day-8677521

🐕 A little more Messi.

https://www.filmwendy.com/post/hollywood-s-top-dog-of-2024

🐦‍🔥 Quotes of the Week

If you just go with the flow, no matter what weird things happen along the way, you always end up exactly where you belong. – Tom Upton

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

A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.Colin Powell

Those boos were from the heart. – Terry Moran, Republican National Convention

It isn’t what you have, or who you are, or where you are, or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about. – Dale Carnegie

Today is a new day. Hiding from your history only shackles you to it. We can’t undo a single thing we have ever done, but we can make decisions today that propel us to the life we want and towards the healing we need. – Steve Maraboli

Forever is composed of nows. – Emily Dickinson

Wrong turns are as important as right turns. More important, sometimes. – Richard Bach

You and I are like oil and vinegar. Oil and vinegar don’t mix.John McManus, 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After?

🧸 Gummi Bear’s Picnic…

Be adventurous this weekend, or at least switch up your streaming genre. Then join me on Monday for soap and troublemakers on Deck. Until then, stay safe; stay enjoying the great outdoors, even if it’s just your backyard; and stay not overreacting to someone else’s reaction.

November 10, 2023 – Spencer Explodes At Trina, Lolly Lover, Not Gone, Soap Fun, Final Date, The Best, Resilient, VanderNo, Not Yet, Downhill, Dead Revival, Roommates, One More, Nonagon Of Quotes & Battle

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Olivia gets to Eddie/Ned just in time, and extracts him from the tangle of seaweed and netting he’s in. Although I wonder why he’s wearing shoes when he left them at the boathouse.

At the MetroCourt, Alexis says, another precious minute lost. Where are you, Kristina? Blaze comes by and introduces herself as a friend of Kristina’s. She says she was supposed to meet a friend, but it seems fate has other ideas today; they just cancelled. She was on her way out, saw Alexis, and thought she’d introduced herself. Alexis says, that’s nice… Not that Blaze’s friend cancelled, but that Blaze introduced herself. Would Blaze like to join her? Maybe it’s fate. Blaze says, maybe it is, and sits down.

Drew sees Curtis at another table, and says, it’s nice to see him. Curtis says, likewise, and they hug.

Carrying a takeout bag, Trina joins Spencer outside Dex’s apartment, followed by Josslyn and Dex. She says, sorry he had to wait, but they have extra crunchy prawn, and Josslyn says, there was a delay in ordering because someone – she looks at Dex – had to weigh out the whole Marvel movie to catalog Monica’s powers. He says, in the last edition… and she says, yes, she understands. Trina asks Spencer, what happened? and he says, Esme happened. And this time she has his grandmother on her side.

Anna sees Valentin outside of Charlotte’s room and asks, how is she? He says, sleeping. The doctors say she’s going to make a full recovery. She says, thank God. There’s something he needs to know. He asks, what is it? but she says, not here, and they go to the stairwell.

Olivia gets Eddie to the surface and struggles to bring him to shore. She tells him, don’t make this hard. He’s got to be okay. She pounds on him, trying to get him to cough up water, then does chest compression and mouth-to-mouth. He coughs and she asks if he’s all right. He’s alive. He sits up, and she says he’s alive. He says, it’s her. She saved him. She says, of course (🍷) she did. She’d do anything for him. He says he should have always known this, and she says, it’s okay, Eddie, hugging him. He says he’s not Eddie; he’s Ned.

Kristina walks into the MetroCourt and sees Blaze talking to Alexis. She goes to the table and says she didn’t know Blaze knew her mother. Sorry she’s late. Alexis says, only forty-five minutes, and Blaze says her plans were a no-show, and she saw Kristina’s mother. Alexis says, Blaze introduced herself. That was so 1990s. Blaze says, and a lot of fun. She tells Kristina to sit, and says she was grilling Alexis about her job. Alexis says, actually, Blaze was keeping her company while she waited for Kristina… and waited… and waited… Kristina says, okay. Sorry about that. She got caught up with some planning commission things at the youth center. Alexis says, she’s here now and Blaze is here, so why don’t they all have dinner together?

Curtis says, it must be strange, being about to get up and go to sleep when he wants to and turn off his own lights, and Drew says, absolutely. But there are a few things he can think of that he missed more than that. Curtis says he knows that must have been hard. He’s sorry he didn’t visit Drew. Drew says, Curtis had a few things going on. What he went through is nothing in comparison to what Curtis went through. Curtis protests, but Drew says he’s serious. Doesn’t he think it’s silly for either one of them to feel they need to apologize to each other? They’ve been through it. Curtis has been there for him more times than he can count. This friendship is forged in fire. It’s brotherhood born in battle. Curtis says, wow, and raises his glass. To the battle… and to freedom. Drew says, and to survival, and they clink glasses.

Josslyn says, Esme again, and Spencer asks if Josslyn and Dex can give him a minute. Josslyn says, gladly, and she and Dex go into his apartment, Josslyn touching Trina’s shoulder as she passes. Trina asks what Esme did, and Spencer says, it’s nothing that Esme did; it’s what she’s going to do. She’s going to take Ace and she’s going to move into another apartment. Trina says, finally.

Laura looks in the window to Charlotte’s room. Elizabeth is with Charlotte, sees Laura, and comes out. Laura says, she looks so fragile in that bed, and Elizabeth says she knows, but Charlotte’s just sleeping right now. It’s best to let her rest as long as possible because her system is still fighting. But her vitals are excellent. She’s on track to make a full recovery. Laura breathes a sigh of relief and says, that’s fantastic. Where’s Valentin? She can’t imagine he’d leave her alone. (Geez, the poor guy doesn’t even get a bathroom break?) Elizabeth says, no. He’s been here the entire time. In fact, she just saw him walking down the hall with Anna just a little bit ago. Laura asks how Jake is handling all of this. She knows they all went trick-or-treating together, and heard he was the first one back to Anna’s house right after it happened. Elizabeth says she’s never seen him like this. It’s like he’s caught in this loop of feeling upset and feeling guilty that he lost track of her. He promised Valentin they would stick together, and that’s why he went looking for her. And now he’s scared and confused and doesn’t understand how Anna could have shot Charlotte. And honestly, neither can she.

First of all, didn’t anyone notice Charlotte was wearing a huge, dark, hooded robe and the apartment was dark? And on another topic, Jake knows that Charlotte had the keys and what she’d said about them getting her everything she wanted. This hasn’t come up yet, but I’m thinking it might give him a clue she was up to no good.

On a landing in the stairwell, Valentin asks Anna what it is he needs to know. She says, he has to believe her when she tells him, what happened with Charlotte was an accident. She had no way of knowing Charlotte was in that apartment. He says he knows that. She says she’s not making an excuse, because she understands this is killing him, and he says, there’s nothing she could have done. She says, when she left the apartment, she locked it, and when she returned, it was unlocked. So she knew there was someone inside there, and she thought she was going to be ambushed. That’s why she pulled her gun, and that’s when she made a terrible mistake. And she wishes she could make it all go away. When she saw Charlotte lying on the ground like that, and his face when he came in… He says, it was an accident. It was a tragic accident. She says, yes… How did he know to come to the apartment?

Ned and Olivia are dripping wet and sitting on the ground. Olivia asks what Ned is saying. Her Ned? Is it really him? He says, it’s really him. He saw her. He doesn’t even know how it happened. His mind was rushing like a whirlwind. Literally. The next thing he knows, he’s in the water, and stuck. And there she was. And now they’re here. She says, Lois told her that he was depressed. She went to the boathouse and saw his guitar and his shoes(🤷🏽‍♀️), and she thought… She cries, and he takes her face in his hands and says, it’s okay. They made it. She made it. They’re going to be okay. She says she thought she lost him, and he says, but she didn’t. She found him. It was her all along. She says, what? and he says, in the song. He knows how it ends. She asks what he’s talking about, and he says, the siren song. He knows how to finish it. She says, Eddie… Ned, let’s not do this right now, and he says he’s not Eddie. He’s Ned. She says, if he’s not Eddie, how did he remember the song? He says he remembers everything, and they kiss. So is he going to kind of be like Sonny/Mike now?

Spencer says, finally? Trina didn’t really just say that. She says, yes, she did. She knows he’s going to miss living with Ace, but it’s way past time that Esme go live on her own. He yells, who cares about Esme? He’s talking about Ace. Ace is the one he’s worried about in this instance. Josslyn and Dex come out, and Josslyn asks, what the hell is going on out here?

Kristina asks if Alexis knows that Blaze just signed with BLQ Management, and Alexis says, Brook Lynn Quartermaine. Blaze says, makes a refreshing change from that sleaze Linc Brown, and Alexis says she remembers his public takedown at the Nurses Ball. To Catch a Predator anyone? Blaze says, oh, we caught him, and Alexis says, and then he disappeared, and as she recalls, the whole thing went radio silent. She’s curious. How long before the abuse started?

Curtis asks how it feels to be back in the real world, and Drew says, he has no idea. Although he has to say, some things are more challenging than he anticipated. Curtis says, Drew has been out of the mix for a while, but Drew says, compared to when he broke out of captivity in Greece, the life he came back to this time hasn’t changed nearly as drastically. But Curtis’s has. What about him?

Elizabeth tells Laura that she knows Anna would never intentionally hurt Charlotte. Obviously, it was just a terrible mistake. But what was she doing carrying a gun around on Halloween? With people in costumes and kids jumping out at each other, acting all crazy. Laura says, she’s right, and Elizabeth says, and you add a gun in that mix? It only increases the odds that something tragic is going to happen. Yes, Charlotte is going to recover physically, but what about her emotional scars? And Jake is going to have to deal with this as well.

Valentin says he was supposed to pick up Charlotte and the other kids after trick-or-treating. Apparently, Charlotte went off on her own, and according to Georgie and Danny, Jake went after Charlotte in the direction of Maxie’s place, so he thought she was heading there. Anna says, well, he was right. She couldn’t figure out why Charlotte would come to the apartment. The police found her backpack, and in it was the keychain she showed him to Maxie’s apartment. Remember the one that had the shoe on it? In there were also these two cans of spray paint that were the same color that was used to paint the word murderer on her door. He says, Charlotte told him about the keychain; she didn’t tell him about the paint. She says, that doesn’t matter. What she’s trying to tell him is, she’s figured out who’s after her. He says he’s so sorry, and she says, and it is the WSB. Former WSB. She figured out the connection, and it’s a man called Jameson Forsythe. Old guard Bureau. They crossed swords ages ago. He says, no. She doesn’t understand… but she says she does. She found evidence, and Forsythe is trying to discredit, destabilize her, and somehow he’s involved Charlotte. She doesn’t know how he’s done it, but he’s using Charlotte to get to her.

Olivia and Ned go into the boathouse, and Ned puts a towel around her shoulders, then takes one for himself. She says she’s a little behind the curve. He has to catch her up. He’s not Eddie Maine anymore. He says, no. He’s just plain old Ned, her husband. She says, they have to get back to the house. They have to get him to a doctor. He says, you know what? He doesn’t want to go to the house. He wants to stay right here with her because it’s been too long. He just wants to enjoy this moment with her, okay? She says, okay, and they sit down. She says she doesn’t understand. He remembers everything? He says, it’s a bit fuzzy, a little disjointed, but he was here the whole time, like he was on autopilot. Or like playing one of Leo’s video games. He’s Ned, but he’s a little fuzzy. She asks if he remembers his daughter, and Tracy, and Leo. He says, yeah. He remembers everyone. He’s a Quartermaine. They were married in 2017. It’s now 2022. She says, 2023, and he says, right. He told her that things were fuzzy. She says, that’s just the small stuff. The important thing is that he’s here. They hug, and she says she was praying so hard for this, and he came back to her. He says, but she was willing to let Eddie stay, wasn’t she?

Blaze tells Alexis, at first, she was starstruck around all the beautiful people, all the glitz and glamour of the industry. She was so lost in it. When Linc began to overstep, she thought, maybe that’s just the way this world works; maybe he’s that way with all his artists. She didn’t want to seem uptight, so she stayed quiet and avoided being alone with him. Alexis says, Blaze made it her problem, not his, and Blaze says, exactly. One more layer of pressure to being in the public eye. Backstage, where you’re supposed to let your guard down, she was constantly looking over her shoulder. Alexis says, so she’s spending her downtime dodging him, and Kristina says, no one should have to do that. Alexis says, women are conditioned to normalize that kind of behavior, and then that message gets passed down to other artists. Blaze says she gets that entirely. By keeping her mouth shut, she was basically endorsing him.

Curtis tells Drew that his life is upside down for sure. Simple things like walking, running, even standing up, he can’t take for granted anymore. Drew says, but he’s not alone in this. He has family, friends. Curtis says he does and he’s grateful for that, but everything has shifted. The dynamic is different. Hell, he’s different.

They all go into Dex’s apartment, and Josslyn says she gets it. Spencer’s upset. One thing she’s learned about living in the dorms is, you have to be considerate of your neighbors and your own business. The whole building doesn’t need to know what’s going on right now. Spencer asks if she really thinks he cares what the building thinks. He gets louder, and says, Esme just told him that she’s taking Ace and moving into a new apartment, and his grandmother is going to co-sign the lease because they think Ace shouldn’t be a part of his life anymore. And when he comes to Trina with this, saying he’s going to be losing his baby brother, all she can say is, finally.

Anna tells Valentin that this is her past catching up to her. And somehow, it’s caught up to Charlotte, and she never wanted that. Forsythe has gotten to her somehow. Valentin says, there is no Forsythe. At least not the way she’s thinking. She asks what he’s trying to say, and he says his daughter’s been stalking her for months. And he’s been covering for her.

Laura sits next to Charlotte’s bed and says she’s here. How does it feel? Charlotte says her stomach hurts, but not too bad, and Laura says, she’s such a brave girl. Charlotte asks, where’s papa? He promised to be here. Laura says, he’s been here the whole time. He just went for a walk with Anna. Charlotte gets agitated, and says, it’s dangerous. They can’t trust Anna. She’ll hurt him.

Olivia tells Ned, every waking moment, with every beat of her heart, she was fighting for him. He says, no… and she says, he’s got to hear this. He needed to find his way back to them. She couldn’t push him. He needed to choose to come back to them. If he thinks she preferred Eddie Maine… He tells her, stop. She misunderstands. He’s not accusing her of being disloyal. He knows she was supporting him, and he loves her all the more for it. She says, Eddie… and realizes her mistake. He laughs and hugs her. He says he needed that space. After the accident, when he woke up in the hospital, everything was so confusing and unfamiliar, he grabbed the first thing that made him feel safe and comfortable. She says, Eddie Maine, and he says, it was his escape to a time when life was less complicated, and he wasn’t feeling the weight of his family and business suffocating him. To a time when it was just him, on stage, playing his music, no restraints, no judgements, just freedom.

Blaze says she didn’t mean to open a vein here, but Alexis says she’s the one who pried. Old attorney habits die hard. Kristina says, Blaze doesn’t know her mother; this is like catnip for her. Alexis says she’s more than curious. She’s outraged. Her nerve endings are twitching thinking about the lawsuit Blaze could file. Blaze says she doesn’t know… and Alexis says she’s serious. Kristina says, if Blaze doesn’t want to go the legal route, how about collaborating together on a piece about sexual harassment in the music industry? What does Alexis think? A feature with Blaze as the focus? Alexis says she thinks it’s a great idea; shed light on a rampant issue. Is Blaze willing to go on the record? Blaze says, it’s no secret what happened what happened to her. Anyone who was at the Nurses Ball or who saw it on television knows about it, but she wants to move forward with her career. She doesn’t want to go backward. Kristina tells her, what about what she just said? What about all of the artists who could fall into the same trap? Here’s her chance to show that predators aren’t the only way to do business. This is an opportunity for her to break that cycle.

Curtis tells Drew that sometimes he actually feels fortunate. There’s this guy, Devon, his gym buddy. Devon has it way worse than him, but this guy always stays positive. He has the most amazing outlook on life. Drew says, that’s incredible. He’s so glad to hear that. Curtis says, but to be perfectly honest, there are moments, split seconds, where he forgets about his new reality and tries to do normal things like get out of bed and stand up. Then reality slams back, so he’s learning to adjust.

Trina tells Spencer that she never meant to say it was a good thing losing Ace. She just thinks that Esme moving out is healthy for her, and ultimately for him. He says, healthy for him, to be separated from Ace. He’s losing a member of his family, and he thought she would understand that. Josslyn says, it’s not like Esme’s moving to another planet. She’s still going to be in Port Charles and so will Ace. He can see them whenever he wants. Isn’t that a good thing? Dex says, but it won’t be the same thing, and Josslyn and Trina look at him, as I would. Thanks, Dex.

Valentin says, Charlotte’s the one who vandalized Anna’s hotel suite. Security footage showed her breaking into that room with a backpack. Anna says, what? and he says he had Nina delete the footage from the server. She asks why he would have Nina do that. Why would he hide that from her? He says, the moment he saw it, he knew she was the one who spray painted Anna’s front door, that she was the one who set Anna’s house on fire. Anna says, no, but Valentin says, she knew how to get in Anna’s house. Her camp was less than an hour away. She could have gotten there easily. Anna says, it’s not possible, but he says he doesn’t know what Charlotte is capable of anymore. She says, so he knew his daughter was terrorizing her and he just let Charlotte keep doing it? and he says he was protecting Charlotte because he failed her so many times as a father. And he thinks he was protecting himself… She says, what about protecting her? Didn’t she have a right to know?

Laura tells Charlotte, it’s okay. Her father isn’t in any danger from Anna. Charlotte says, she’s wrong. Grandfather Victor warned her about Anna. He told her to protect papa. Laura asks what Victor said about Anna, and Charlotte tells her, he said she was a double-agent, and everyone would know about it soon. He visited her at school and told her to stay there where she’d be safe from Anna. He even wrote her a letter. She grabs her side, and Laura tells her, try to be still. She doesn’t want to reopen the wound. Charlotte says, Laura doesn’t understand. Grandfather told her that Anna was going to use her and pretend to be nice to her so she could trick papa. Laura says, he told her all of this in a letter? and Charlotte says, yes. He said that papa was so in love with Anna, he wouldn’t realize she was using him. Anna’s done a lot of bad things in the past, and made papa take the blame. She’s going to do it again and this time, papa’s going to end up in prison forever. He’ll be killed if she doesn’t keep Anna away from him. Laura says, shhh. It’s okay.

Olivia says she can understand Ned getting nostalgic for the past, for simpler times. So she’s got to ask him. Does Lois figure into this equation? (I laugh because Lois likes math.) He asks why she would bring Lois up, and she says, Lois was the last one he talked to before he jumped in, and everything changed. Is Lois the reason he came back to them?

Kristina says she’s sorry. She didn’t mean to put Blaze on the spot. Her mother can vouch that is something she does. Blaze says, don’t worry about it. She appreciates Kristina’s passion. Alexis says, there’s no pressure here at all. It was a just an idea. She sees Drew and Curtis, and says she sees two friends over there who she’d love to say hello to. She’ll be right back. She leaves, and Kristina tells Blaze, that was not her place. Here she is, lecturing Blaze about her story when she knows better than anyone it’s an intensely personal decision. Blaze says, Kristina’s fire, her commitment to justice is infectious. It’s okay to want to make a difference. The thing she’d hate is if Kristina started editing herself and only told her what she wanted to hear.

Curtis says, Drew told him the whole story. Alexis is one gutsy reporter. Threatening to expose that judge like that? He’s glad it all worked out. They really missed Drew and he’s glad Drew’s back. Drew says he appreciates that, and there are smiles all around.

Ned tells Olivia that he was talking to Lois before he came down here to the boathouse. She was giving him a pep talk about finishing the song. Olivia says she wanted him to finish the song too, and he says he guesses he needed Lois’s no-nonsense bullying, and Olivia laughs. He says, Lois told him to take a leap of faith and go find the siren. She says, the siren, and he says, maybe she knew that was the key to getting him back to his real self. Or maybe not. But Olivia. She’s the one who actually pulled him back. She cries and he kisses the top of her head, pulling her to him. He says, turns out, she’s the siren. Hers is the only voice that could have brought him back. Lois may have had the idea, but Olivia made it a reality.

Dex says he understands where Spencer is coming from. Up to now, he and Esme have been raising Ace together. Obviously, living apart changes that dynamic, like a divorce. Spencer says, yes, a divorce where, if he wants to spend time with his own brother, he’ll have to act like a visitor. And it’s not the same as living together. He tells Trina, it’s just not, and Dex asks, what if they could get shared custody? and Spencer says, Esme’s not going to do shared custody with him, not with grandmother on her side. Trina says, Esme doesn’t have to share custody. He’s Ace’s brother, not his father.

Laura says she needs Charlotte to help her understand. She’s trying to keep her father away from Anna to protect him? Charlotte says, yes. Maybe move to London or somewhere near her granddaughter Emma. Anywhere really, as long as she’s away from papa and papa is safe. Laura says, okay, but this is what Victor wanted her to do, right? Charlotte tells her, he said it was the only way. Anna must have figured out she knew about her. That’s why Anna shot her, so she wouldn’t ruin Anna’s plans. Laura says, no, that was a terrible accident, but Charlotte says, it wasn’t. Anna saw her in the apartment. She knew it was her. Anna shot her on purpose. Anna wanted to kill her. Just like she’ll do to papa.

Valentin says he loves Anna, but Charlotte is everything to him. He couldn’t bring himself to tell her that Charlotte was targeting her. She says, so he just lied to her over and over again, and he says he wanted to tell her the truth. She says, but he didn’t. What did he think? That he could fix this? That he would just stitch this whole mess together and they would live in separate worlds, and it would all work? He says he was hoping by moving her into the house and giving her a home with him, that for once it would end her destructive behavior. They met with Doc. She was willing to have… Anna slaps him in the face, then pushes him, and says, shut up. If she’d known Charlotte was the one after her, she never would have pulled a gun. She shot a child. His child. She has to live with that for the rest of her life. She’s never going to forgive him. She storms out, and he can’t believe how stupid he is.

Ned and Olivia leave the boathouse, and he picks up his guitar. He says he thinks he knows the way the song ends now. She says she can’t wait to hear it, and they look out over the water, his arm around her. He says, she saved his life – literally and figuratively. She says, they save each other. That’s what love is. They kiss.

Drew and Curtis’s food comes, and Alexis says, that’s her cue to leave. She has to get back to her dates over there. It was such a pleasure to see Curtis, and he says, good to see her too. Drew says it was good to see her, and she leaves. Curtis tells Drew, sometimes it is so hard to just have a conversation without everyone trying to help when they know good and well they can’t. So that’s why it’s good to just hang out with a good friend who gets it. Drew says, any time, and Curtis asks what he thinks of the Nets’ chances this year, but Drew says he’s not falling for that. Curtis got him last time. Although they do have some good games coming up. Curtis agrees, and says, Boston tomorrow. Drew says, Curtis’s couch, his beer? and Curtis says he’s in… Portia may have other ideas. Drew says, then he’ll have to bring some wine, and Curtis laughs.

Alexis sits down, and Blaze says she’s decided. Kristina says she doesn’t want Blaze to feel pressured, but Blaze says, she’s in. A complete interview; nothing off limits. Alexis says, really? and Blaze says, yes. Kristina brought up some really good points. She can’t complain about what happened to her on one hand and not do everything she can to change it on the other. This is something she can do to stand up for those coming after her. Her contribution to their art, and to their voices. Kristina says she didn’t put it nearly as poetically as that, and Blaze says, that’s what collaboration’s all about. Someone comes up with an idea, someone comes up with the words, put it together, you’ve got magic. She has to make a quick call, but they can talk details when she gets back. She excuses herself and leaves, and Kristina asks what Alexis thinks. Alexis says she thinks Blaze likes Kristina, and Kristina says she likes Blaze too; she’s cool. Alexis says, no. I mean she likes you likes you.

Spencer says, Trina… but Trina says, no. Let’s unpack this. The only way he gets to be Ace’s father is if he’s with Esme, in a relationship. If the two of them are a couple, then they get to raise him together. That is a sure-fire way to solve his problem. Is that what he wants? He says, no, of course (🍷) not. He doesn’t love Esme; he loves her. But he also really loves his little brother, and he knows in his heart that Ace needs to be in his life. Trina says, he will always be in Spencer’s life, just not in the house, but Spencer says, no, because that would be abandoning him, and she knows he’s not going to do that. She says, then he knows what the solution is for that, but where does that leave them? He tells her not to ask him to choose between her and Ace. She’s not going to like the answer. She says, don’t worry. She’ll save him the trouble. She grabs her bag and walks out.

Laura tells Charlotte, don’t worry. She’ll make sure Charlotte’s papa is safe. They’re going to figure all of this out. Charlotte says, Anna can tell that she knows she’s bad. That’s why Anna shot her. Papa can’t trust her. Laura has to tell him. Laura says, it’s going to be all right, she promises. Close her eyes and get some rest. It’s going to be okay. She kisses Charlotte’s forehead and leaves.

In the hallway, Anna says she really needs to talk to Charlotte, but Elizabeth says, it’s only family. Anna says, it will only take one minute, but Elizabeth says, it’s not possible. Laura comes out of Charlotte’s room and Elizabeth goes in. Valentin comes out of the stairwell, and Laura tells Anna that Charlotte’s just fallen back to sleep. Anna says, she doesn’t understand. It’s imperative that she speak with Charlotte right now. Laura says she really thinks Anna should wait… but Anna says, it can’t wait. She has to tell her… Laura says, Anna can’t go in there. Charlotte is terrified of her. She thinks Anna shot her on purpose. Anna cries and says she didn’t, and Valentin hangs his head, as he should.

On Monday… they show scenes from several days ago, so I’m not sure what that means. Either it’s a mistake, or we’re going to be forced to watch news-not-news.

💣 He’s Just Misunderstood…

They’ll have to dig deep to find some redeeming qualities.

🍕 Didn’t Think So…

What would the Q mansion be without her? My money’s on her coming back for Thanksgiving pizza.

👻 Fun And Games…

The kids always look like they’re having a good time off-camera.

🏆 For Real This Time…

As predicted, the main event of the Daytime Emmys will be aired on December 15th.

👖 It’s Not The Pants…

I knew there was a reason I liked Sutton so much. This is it.

👠 Bouncing Back…

Hopefully, she can keep the momentum going. Talk about making (hard) lemonade out of lemons.

https://extratv.com/2023/11/08/ariana-madix-on-fan-support-at-bravocon-and-her-resiliency-exclusive/

🍸 Her Calendar Is Full…

Why would she come back? Just to be harassed by Erika and get offers of fake friendship from Kyle? It’s not like she has nothing to do.

And while we’re on the subject.

🌁 Lasting Long Enough For Last…

2025? Really? Although I can hardly blame Pedro Pascal.

https://ew.com/tv/the-last-of-us-season-2-everything-we-know/

https://collider.com/gladiator-2-filming-start-pedro-pascal-last-of-us/

🛟 Like They’re On A Water Slide…

The short answer: yes. The golden years with Captain Lee and Kate are over, but we’ll always have Couch Talk.

⚰️ A Diabolical Plot…

Of course, he’s not against reviving the original series. It’s got to be a billion dollar franchise by now. And brilliant idea to merge all the Deads into one big kumbaya Dead.

🦥 This Guy…

I’m obsessed with 90 Day Fiancé and all its spin-offs. I don’t include it here because I already give it too much time. If this guy’s mother wasn’t living in the closet, it might be fun to live there. For about a week. I love the annoyed chihuahua.

https://people.com/90-day-fiance-clayton-introduces-5-roommates-including-two-guinea-pigs-exclusive-8386660

🐩 You Didn’t Think I Was Done…

Oh, come on, just one more.

https://www.homecrux.com/celebrity-pet-halloween-costumes/181675/

🍿 Quotes of the Week

Never trust humans just to let things be. – David (Mike Colter), Extinction

I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion. – Alexander the Great

Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow. – Ronald E. Osborn

It is never too late to be what you might have been. – George Eliot

It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters, in the end. – Ursula K. Le Guin

With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts. – Eleanor Roosevelt

Many things—such as loving, going to sleep, or behaving unaffectedly—are done worst when we try hardest to do them. – C.S. Lewis, Studies in Medieval Literature, compiled in Words to Live By

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. – Thomas Edison

An idea is a fart your brain makes. But if you patent an idea, it’s an asset. – Rufus Griswold (Michael Trucco), Fall of the House of Usher

🍠 Keep Your Yams To Yourself…

On Sunday, stop the scaries by dropping in for some Fear. Until then, stay safe, stay considering going out for Thanksgiving dinner (nothing says Thanksgiving like Oysters Rockefeller!), and stay toasting to the battle, freedom, and survival.

March 16, 2023 – Obrecht Gets Good News and Bad News, Happy Returns, Guesting, They’re the Top, Everything Academy, Holiday & Unicorn

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Spencer asks why Dex is staying at Sonny’s, but Sonny says he doesn’t have to explain anything to Spencer. They’re both his guests. Dex leaves the room, and Spencer says he can’t deal with Dex right now. Sonny says he knows Spencer has a lot going on, but he has to watch his tone. Sonny’s not his enemy; he’s here for Spencer. Sonny says he appreciates that and he’s sorry, but he’s a bit of a mad mood right now, and Dex is the last person he needed to see.

Josslyn says she doesn’t want to fight with Cameron, but Cameron says he’s asking her to listen to him. She told him so many times that she hated living her life around Sonny’s business. All the times she was in lockdown or had bodyguards trailing after her, that’s her future with this man. She flashes back to Dex telling her that he was hired to work his way into Sonny’s inner circle to gather evidence his employer can use against Sonny. She tells Cameron, Dex is different than Sonny. She doesn’t want him to worry about her. She wants him to go to Stanford and be the star that he is. She’ll be fine. He asks if she promises, and she says she does.

Esme comes back to the rec room with Ace, looking for his binkie, when Trina says, looking for this? and holds it out to her. Esme says, she’s Spencer’s friend, and Trina says, that’s right; she’s Trina. Esme says, Trina Robinson. She knows who Trina is.

Alexis cleans up the drink Gregory spilled when he stumbled, and asks if he’s all right. He says he just lost his footing. Isht no big deal. She asks if he’s been drinking, and he says, it’s 11 am. She says, it never stopped her, and he says, it’s orange juice; period. He had a momentary attack of clutch… klutziness. She says, he’s slurring his words. Drinking just orange juice doesn’t do that.

Nina lets Obrecht in to her apartment, and asks if she’s heard from Terry, but Obrecht says, not yet. She’s waiting on the results of the last round of tests. The lab ran much faster when she was in charge. Nina says, they already know she’s a match. She doesn’t understand the hold-up. Obrecht says, they can’t take chances for Willow’s sake. They have to be patient. Nina says she feels like she’s unraveling, and feels guilty because Willow is the one going through this. Her body is shutting down. How long is she going to be able to hold on?

Carly comes into the Quartermaine sitting room with Amelia, and Maxie says, next on their list is vendors. Did Carly send her the list of vendors who have donated to the Nurses Ball in the past? Carly snuggles Amelia, and Maxie says, hello? Willow tells her, give it up. It’s a fight she won’t win.

Brook comes downstairs when the doorbell rings. She opens the door to Chase. He asks if she’s seen Willow and Michael, then says, who is he kidding? He came to get a peek at Amelia. Brook tells him, get in here. She’s the cutest little thing. She reminds Brook of Bailey when she was that age.

Maxie suggests they take a break. She can’t compete with all that cuteness. She’ll go check on Olivia, and then it will be back to business… Right? She goes over to Carly and Amelia, and Carly asks if Amelia isn’t the cutest.

Brook says she can’t believe Chase didn’t realize he’d shampooed with Bailey’s bubble bath, and he asks if he doesn’t always smell like lavender and chamomile. Besides, it was an honest mistake. Between her and Bailey, there were 50 bottles on the bathtub. Maxie comes out and asks if she’s interrupting, but Chase says he came to see Willow and the baby. Maxie says, the lovefest is in there, and he goes in. She tells Brook, it looks like there was a lovefest going on out here too.

Sonny asks, what’s going on? and Spencer says, Cam’s leaving. He got a scholarship to Stanford to play soccer, and they want him there spring quarter. Sonny says he knows Spencer is going to miss him, and Spencer says, for sure. Cameron’s been there for him despite their stupid rivalries, and now he’s leaving, and Dex is staying here? Sonny asks what this has to do with Dex, and Spencer says, because Joss broke up with Cam to get with Dex.

Alexis leads Gregory to a private area, and says, this is a nice spot. Nobody can see or hear them. Why doesn’t he talk to her? If he’s not drunk, why is he slurring his words? He says he wasn’t aware he was slurring, but he can assure her, he hasn’t been drinking. She says, well, there’s something off with him, and she’d like him to talk to her because she’s his friend. This is a safe space, and she’ll understand. He says, this is ridiculous, and insulting. He’s not drunk. She asks if they can just sit down and talk about this, but he says, no. He has an appointment. She says she’ll drive him. Why doesn’t he just give her his car keys? She holds out her hand.

Obrecht tells Nina, when Britta revealed her diagnosis, she had to sit by and watch her deal with the symptoms, even when Britt pretended not to have them. It was hard, but she had to follow Britta’s lead and respect her choices, and give her the support she needed whenever she needed it. Nina says, of course (🍷) Obrecht is right. She’s so sorry. Obrecht’s phone rings, she looks at it, and puts it down. She says, it’s Scotty; the tenth call today. Why won’t he get the hint? Nina says, Scotty loves her, and Obrecht loves him, but Obrecht says, if he loved her, he would have told her about Elizabeth’s role in harboring Esme Prince. Her silence made the police waste too much time believing Esme was The Hook, instead of looking for the real killer. Her Britta paid with her life. Nina says, Scotty only knew after the fact, but Obrecht says, it doesn’t matter. He helped Elizabeth get away with it. He chose Elizabeth over Obrecht and her family. Nina says, Obrecht just got done giving her some sound advice, so allow her to return the favor. Don’t shut out people who love her. Scotty can support her during this time she’s dealing with Britt’s death. Life is so fragile. They need to spend the little time they have with the people they love.

Sonny says, Josslyn broke up with Cameron, that’s her decision, and Spencer says, maybe he just wants someone to be mad at, and Dex is a convenient target. Sonny asks why Spencer needs a target, and Spencer says, because Cam is leaving, Britt is dead, and his little brother’s in prison bonding with Esme when he should be bonding with his real family. Is that long enough of a laundry list for Sonny? Sonny says, Spencer has Diane working her magic. She’ll get him custody of his baby brother. Spencer says, it can’t happen soon enough, and Sonny puts on his coat. Spencer asks if he’s leaving, and Sonny says he’s going to see Nina. Lay off Dex. Spencer asks how long Dex is staying, but Sonny says he doesn’t know. It’s open-ended, but he wants both of them to co-exist peacefully. Got it? Spencer says he’s got it, Sonny says, good, and leaves.

Trina says, Esme knows who she is? and Esme says, Trina’s one of the people she did terrible things to. Trina says, so she remembers? but Esme says, not even a little. Her lawyers told her about the charges she’s facing, and the people she’s hurt. Trina says, Esme framed her, and she almost went to prison, and Esme asks why she hated Trina so much. Trina asks if Esme is admitting she’s guilty, and Esme tells her, she can’t say that, but people told her about the person she was before. Everybody says she was a terrible excuse for a human being. Trina asks what Esme thinks, and Esme says, if she really did what she’s accused of, she thinks they’re right. But it’s like they’re talking about someone else, someone who terrifies her, and she’s glad she doesn’t have to think what that person thinks or feel what they feel anymore, and she prays to God she never has to. She doesn’t want to hurt anyone. She just wants to be free so she can raise Ace. Trina says, Spencer’s baby brother; he’s a real cutie. Esme says, he’s her baby, not Spencer’s. Spencer can’t have him. She asks if Spencer sent Trina. Is he outside? Trina tells her to chill. Spencer isn’t outside. He doesn’t even know she’s here. Esme asks if Trina’s his girlfriend, and Trina says, they’re friends. Esme says, if Spencer didn’t send Trina, what is she doing here? and Trina says she wanted to see how Esme and the baby were doing for herself. Esme asks why she cares, and Trina says, they all want what’s best for the baby. Esme says, his name is Ace. Doesn’t she think it’s best for a baby to stay with its mother? Trina says she thinks Esme is really lucky that Spring Ridge is letting her have him with her, but is it really the best place for Ace to be raised in a prison? Esme says, of course (🍷) not, but she’s not giving up her baby. He needs her, and she needs him. She can hardly believed he’s hers, but he is, and she can’t imagine life without him. She loves him so much. Trina says she can see that, and Esme says she’s sorry for everything she did to Trina and her friends, but she’s not that person. She doesn’t even remember who that person was, so to go to prison now for something she doesn’t even remember doing, it doesn’t seem fair, to her or Ace. Trina says she wishes they could all forget that too, and Esme says her parents were insane, and her lawyer says she’s not responsible because her dad was influencing her. Trina says, no one forced Esme to drug her, or to record Joss and Cam having sex, and Esme asks if she knows that for sure.

Gregory says, Alexis wants his car keys? and she says, if he doesn’t want to talk about it, that’s on him, but she doesn’t think he’s in any condition to drive. He says, for the last time, he’s not drunk, and she tells him, which is what she said every time she was drunk. He says, not everyone is a drunk like her, and she says she’s not trying to embarrass him or cause a scene… and he says, but she will, won’t she? Because Alexis Davis never admits when she’s wrong. He gives her his keys, and says, he’ll call a car. She says, they’ll be in her office when he wants to pick them up, but he says, leave them with the concierge. He never wants to see her again. He walks out.

Dex asks if Sonny left, and Spencer says, yeah. He asks where Sonny went, and Spencer says, Dex is off duty; it’s not his problem. Dex says he won’t get in Spencer’s way again, but Spencer says, don’t worry. He promised Sonny that he’d play nice. Dex says he’s not worried, and Spencer says, then why is Dex lying to his uncle.

Chase says, Amelia is so beautiful; she looks just like Willow. He’s so happy for her. She’s so lucky… He’s sorry. Willow says, don’t be. She is lucky. She has so much love in her life. Two beautiful healthy children, a family that’s embraced her, good friends and co-workers wishing her well, and a team of doctors doing everything they can. The least she can do is do her part and keep the faith. They should know today if Dr. Randolph approves using Liesl Obrecht as a stem cell donor.

Nina lets Sonny in, and they hug. Obrecht says, before he asks, there’s no word yet. Would he like some tea? He says he’s more of a coffee guy. Corinthos Coffee. Nina asks why there are two bodyguards outside, and he says, they’ll talk about that later. Has Obrecht seen Michael or Willow? Obrecht says, not recently; nothing to report. Obrecht’s phone rings, and Nina says, she’s going to have to talk to Scotty sooner or later. Pick up the phone. Obrecht looks at it, and says, it’s not Scotty; it’s the hospital.

Esme asks Trina, what if her father really was threatening her? He’s dead, and she can’t remember anything. How will they ever know the truth? Trina says, without Esme’s memories, it’s definitely a complicated situation. Esme says, it’s time for Ace’s nap, and Trina says she’ll go. Esme asks if she passed the test, and Trina says, what test? Esme says she may have lost her memories, but she’s not stupid. (She also said that to Doc, but it’s still just as amusing.) Trina came here to see if she was lying, didn’t she? Trina says, Esme’s always been an excellent liar, and she’s never been stupid, and neither has Trina. So yes. She came here to judge Esme for herself. Esme says she appreciates Trina’s honesty, and hopes Trina can appreciate hers. She’s not lying. She doesn’t have any memory of her life before this, and doesn’t think she ever will. She’s not wrong. I’ve read amnesiacs usually recover their memories quickly or not at all. Esme leaves with Ace.

Cameron says he should get back to work, and Josslyn says she should leave. They look at each other for a moment, and he says, awkward. She says she’s getting middle school flashbacks. She asks if they’re good, and he says, be happy. She says, him too, and her phone rings. It’s Trina, who asks, is she still with Cam? Josslyn says, he’s finishing up his shift, and she’s about to leave. What’s up? Trina says she has something important to tell Josslyn, Cam, and Spencer. Spencer said they could come to Sonny’s place. Can they meet her there? Josslyn asks, what’s going on? and Trina says she’ll tell Josslyn when she sees her, then hangs up.

Maxie tells Brook, everyone’s got their assignments, so she’s going to head out, and Brook says, they’ll talk tomorrow. Maxie says, one quick question before she goes. Why isn’t Brook in the sitting room? Brook says she just wanted to give Chase a little alone time with everyone, and Maxie says, this isn’t residual weirdness about him and Sasha, because she thought they cleared that up. Brook says, sort of. She knows nothing was going on; she talked to Sasha. Maxie says, not Chase? Why doesn’t Brook just be honest with him? Chase comes out, Maxie says, here’s her chance, and jets. Chase says, Brook is still here, and she says she wants him.

Willow is asleep on the sofa, and Carly tells Michael, mother and baby are down for a nap. How is he? He tells her not to worry about him, but she says she does worry about him. She knows it’s not easy playing the waiting game, or watching Willow struggle to do the simplest things. It’s got to be heartbreaking. He says, sometimes he has to leave the room, just for a moment, long enough to get himself back under control, so he can be the partner Willow needs him to be. She says, he is, and he says he can’t lose her. They can’t lose her. She has to be okay. Carly hugs him, and says, it’s going to be okay.

Dex asks what Spencer thinks he’s lying to Sonny about, and Spencer says, Joss for starters. He was told to stay away from her, correct? But as soon as he heard she broke up with Cam, there he was, moving right on in. Dex asks where he’s getting his information, and Spencer says, he’s denying it? and Dex says, yeah. Spencer says, so Dex hasn’t been sneaking around with Joss, and Dex says, Spencer’s known Josslyn a long time. Spencer says, that’s correct, and Dex asks if she seems like the type to sneak around. Spencer says, no, and Dex says, there’s his answer. There’s a knock at the door, and Dex opens it to Josslyn and Cameron.

Obrecht is still on the phone, and Nina asks how long it takes to say you can donate or you can’t. Sonny says, Liesl’s a doctor; she’ll want to know the details. Obrecht thanks Terry for calling her personally, and she has a really serious face. I don’t love Willow all that much, but I want Obrecht to saved the day, and Nina doesn’t need any more daughter heartache. Nina says, well? and Obrecht says, she’s going to be Willow’s stem cell donor. (Yay!) Nina squeals and says, oh thank God, grabbing Sonny’s hand. Obrecht says, but (uh-oh) there’s a problem.

Alexis tosses Gregory’s keys on the table, and Sam asks, whose are those? Alexis says she took Gregory’s car keys, and Sam says, Alexis doesn’t want him driving? Alexis says she doesn’t think it’s a good idea when you’re intoxicated, and Sam asks if he was over the legal limit. Alexis says she doesn’t know; she doesn’t have a breathalyzer with her. He was slurring his words, and he was unstable on his feet. I hate to tell her, but that could be any number of things from a diabetic attack to a stroke. Sam asks if Alexis smelled alcohol, and Alexis says, no, but she didn’t think he was in any condition to drive. Sam asks if she’s seen him like this before, and Alexis says, never. It’s completely out of character. Sam says, maybe Alexis is seeing another side, and Alexis says, maybe she never knew him in the first place.

Josslyn asks why there are so many guards here. Is Sonny in? Dex says, no, he’s out, and in a regal voice, Spencer says, don’t just stand there. Show his guests inside. Dex moves his arm, and winces, and Josslyn almost says something, but doesn’t. She asks if Trina is here, and Spencer says, she texted; she’s on her way. He asks Dex to give them some privacy, and Dex says he’ll be in his room. Spencer asks if they know what this is about, but Cameron says, no clue. Is Dex living here now? Josslyn looks like she has a headache, and Spencer says, yeah, unfortunately. Sonny invited him; can they believe it? Josslyn tells him, Trina said she had something important to tell all three of them, but she hung up before Josslyn could find out what it was. Spencer says, when she texted, he assumed she was still at Kelly’s with them, but Cameron says, she took off right after Spencer left. Spencer asks if she said where she was going, and Cameron says, no. Spencer says, did she sound okay? when there’s a knock at the door, Spencer opens the door, and asks if Trina’s okay. Trina strides in, and says she’s fine. She went to see Esme. Josslyn asks, why? and Trina says she wanted to see the new and improved version for herself. Spencer says, a delight, he’s sure. Is his baby brother okay? Trina says, he’s adorable. She’s holding him, and rocking him, and loving him. Spencer says, she makes a big show of that, doesn’t she? and Trina says, he doesn’t believe she loves her baby? He asks what she thinks, and Trina says she thinks it’s amazing how differently Esme acts now. He says, acts being the operative word? and Trina says, if Esme is acting, she’s very convincing. Which is why she wants to go to the DA, and asks him to drop the charges against her.

Chase says, Brook wants him? and she says, for the Nurses Ball. She’s organizing the musical acts, and she wants him and Blaze to perform for free. He says, of course (🍷). He can only speak for himself, but he’s in, with or without Blaze. The Nurses Ball is a great cause. She says, and he’s a great guy, when the doorbell rings. It’s Obrecht, and Brook invites her in. She says she has to speak with Willow, and Brook says she’s in the living room. I was calling it a sitting room. There’s no TV that I can see, so how can it be a living room? Obrecht goes in, and says she’s sorry to disturb them, but Michael says, not at all. Willow sits up, and asks if it’s good news. Obrecht says, yes. Dr. Randolph has cleared her to donate. However, they can’t harvest her stem cells right away. The transplant has been put on hold. Willow asks, for how long? and Michael takes her hand.

Sonny tells Nina, the good news is, Willow still has a donor. It’s huge. Nina agrees, but says, every second counts, and now they have to wait for Aunt Liesl’s medication to get out of her system. She didn’t even know Obrecht was taking anti-coagulants. He says, the doctors are taking her off of it, but it’s not safe to donate until it’s completely out of her system. Nina says, they’re running out of time. Her daughter needs a transplant now. They can’t afford to wait.

Alexis tells Sam that Gregory is furious with her. He accused her of being self-righteous and not being able to admit when she’s wrong… which is not wrong. He said she was projecting her alcoholism on everyone else because she’s one. Sam says, she doesn’t do that, and Alexis admits she does. She’s hyper sensitive about problem drinking for obvious reasons. Maybe she just went too far. Sam says, he did seem unstable, but one day of day drinking doesn’t mean you’re an alcoholic. Alexis says she knows, but something’s not right. What triggered her instinct was how he reacted when she asked if he’d been drinking. He was immediately hostile and defensive. That’s a classic alcoholic trick; self-righteousness, then a stormy exit. Sam says she knows it well, and Alexis says she’s sorry. Given her history, she’s telling Sam, he’s hiding something.

Josslyn tells Trina, the DA isn’t just going to drop the charges against Esme because they asked. He certainly didn’t drop them against Trina when they asked. Trina says, as long as Esme’s in prison, so is Ace. They have to do something. Spencer says he is doing something, and it doesn’t include dropping the charges against Esme. She needs to pay for what she did to all of them. Trina says, that’s exactly why she can’t be charged right now.

Esme sits down to read in the rec room, and a guard hands her a letter, saying, she’s got mail. Esme sees it’s from Heather in D’Archam, and literally drops it like it’s hot.

Nina tells Sonny that she wishes she could talk to Willow. Don’t worry; she’s not going to. Willow doesn’t want to talk to her, and she’s not going to upset her. She asks if Sonny wants to tell her why there’s two bodyguards out front, and he says he’s adding extra security. She asks, why? and he says, they can talk about it later. She says, they can talk about it now, and he says, there was an incident last night, and she asks if he’s hurt. He says, she can see he’s not, and she asks, what happened? He says, she’s the one who said she didn’t want to know anything about his business.

Cameron says, Trina lost him, and Josslyn says she’s in no way anxious to sit through a trial, but she’ll happily do it. Esme needs to face justice. Trina says, what if justice is impossible right now? Think about it. Esme is this poor, young, single mother who doesn’t remember anything about her crimes or the person she used to be. What if the jury feels sorry for her, and lets her off? And if that happens, and Esme goes back to being the old Esme one day, she can’t be tried for the same crimes a second time. Josslyn says she gets it. If the DA holds off on prosecuting Esme, Esme will still have her old crimes hanging over her head. One slip-up that shows her memory is back, she can be tried and convicted. Trina says, exactly. Prosecuting her right now is too big of a risk. Besides, there’s Ace to think about. Esme could be stuck in Spring Ridge until the trial starts, and that could be months from now. Spencer says, months of his brother being raised by security guards and surrounded by criminals. Is Trina sure she wouldn’t mind seeing Esme walking around free? Trina says she’s sure, and asks what Cam and Joss think. It’s their call too. Cameron says he’s in, and Josslyn says, her too. For Ace’s sake, Esme needs to go free.

Brook says, Dr. Obrecht didn’t seem so happy, and Chase says, does she ever? Brook says she hopes it’s not bad news. Willow and Michael couldn’t take another disappointment. He takes her hand.

Obrecht says, when her medication is out of her system, they can proceed. Willow says, but is it safe for her to donate? and Obrecht says, once her blood can clot again normally, there’s no danger to her. She’s so sorry for the delay. Willow says, don’t apologize. She already owes Obrecht so much. Michael thanks her for coming by in person, and Obrecht says, full transparency. She was with Nina and Sonny when she got the news; they know. Willow says, that’s okay. She agreed to keep Nina in the loop about her health. Obrecht says, Nina is very grateful, and gets up. Carly asks if Willow wants to go to the gatehouse and get some rest, but Willow wants to wait until Amelia wakes up. Carly says she’ll walk Obrecht out, and Willow asks Carly to fill everyone in. Carly says, of course (🍷), and Obrecht says she’ll be in touch. They leave, and Michael asks how Willow really feels. Willow says, fine, really, and Amelia makes a cute sound. Michael goes over to the bassinette.

Brook walks Chase out, and he says he’ll let her know what Blaze says about the Nurses Ball. Is she okay? She says, sure. Him? He says, take it easy, and leaves. She looks at him longingly.

Carly asks if Willow wants her to take Amelia, but Willow says, she’s enjoying having Amelia with her. Could she bring Wiley down from the playroom? Carly says, that’s a great idea, and Michael asks if she needs help, but she says she’s pretty good at bribing little boys away from their toys. She’s also good at listening. If he’s ready to talk, she’s here. She leaves, and Michael watches Willow with Amelia.

Sam tells Alexis that she talked to Trish, and she said, Gregory was served no alcohol here today. Alexis says she doesn’t know what it is. Maybe it’s pills… something. He’s hiding something. Sam says, it’s true he lied to her about not working at PCU anymore, and Alexis says, that’s what addicts do. They lie – a lot. Must. Have. Alexis’s. Plaid. Duster.

Trina thanks someone on the phone, and she tells the others that Diane has time right now. Spencer says, let’s do it, and thanks her for trying to help his baby brother. He and Trina gaze at each other, and Josslyn tells them, when Diane says now, she means now. Trina says she’ll meet them in the lobby, and Spencer tells Cameron not to think for a second he’s leaving without a goodbye party. Cameron and Josslyn leave, and Spencer tells Trina, he can’t believe he’s doing this for his brother’s sake, but prison is no place for an infant. She says, at least from what she can tell, Esme’s not a threat to anyone, and he says he sure hopes she’s right.

Esme looks at the letter on the floor, approaches it cautiously, and picks it up. She tears it open, and reads it.

Michael tells Willow that his mom said Wiley needed a quick clean-up; he was fingerpainting. Willow says, that’s all right. This is nice. She meant what she said about keeping the faith. She’ll hang around as long as necessary. Her family gives her strength.

Nina says, something happened that worried Sonny enough to increase his security, and he says, he’s not worried; he’s handling it. She says, if she knew the details, would she be worried? and he doesn’t look at her. She says she takes that as a yes, and he reminds her, she said she didn’t want to know. She says she didn’t think she did. Now she’s not so sure.

Tomorrow, Laura says, life is full of surprises; Diane is about to make someone’s day; Phyllis asks Nina if this is a relationship she can sustain; and Carly tells Sonny, they both know he can’t make that promise.

🐑 Return To the Soap Fold…

If there was ever a time for the heads of GH fans to explode, it’s now.

🚑 After the Hospital…

They just missed Britt.

🔪 Bringing Their Knives…

The latest season of Top Chef started last week, but it’s not too late to ketchup.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/top-chef-season-20-cast-premiere-date-trailer

https://parade.com/tv/top-chef-season-20

🏆 All About Oscar…

Better late than never. The winners.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/12/entertainment/oscar-winners-2023/index.html

The best and worst moments. I’m sure it’s debatable. There seemed to be a bunch of flack about Lady Gaga singing the song from Top Gun with too much passion for a song about a plane. Maybe it means something different to her.

https://mashable.com/article/oscars-2023-best-worst-moments

The parties.

https://ew.com/oscars/oscars-2023-after-party-photos/

https://deadline.com/gallery/2023-oscars-parties-photos/

And of course, the fashion.

https://people.com/style/every-must-see-outfit-change-from-the-2023-oscars-photos/

🍀 Top O’ the Mornin’…

All about St. Patrick’s Day. When I worked in NYC, I hated it. Not just because the parade would block 5th Avenue for half the day, but teenagers would be sitting on the curb getting drunk sick at 11 am. I think they’ve put an end to a lot of that, but I still get flashbacks.

https://www.history.com/topics/st-patricks-day/history-of-st-patricks-day

🍺 Making My O’Exit…

On the menu tomorrow is soap, tea, words of the wise (or not), and the joy of music. Until then, stay safe, stay in the eye of the hurricane mentally, and stay remembering that life is fragile, and you need to spend the little time you have with the people you love.

January 12, 2023 – Carly Finds Out There’s No Donor, Tribute, Coming Back, New Ball, Final Bow, Details, Bravoliance, What Now, Après Globes, Historical Pets (!) & Ice

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Carly and Drew walk into the hospital, and Josslyn thanks Carly for calling her. She asks if Willow is okay, but Carly says she doesn’t know; she just got here. Drew says, there’s someone who might know, and they walk over to TJ at reception. Carly asks if Willow is okay.

Elizabeth comes into Kelly’s while Cameron is cleaning up for the night. She says, he missed a spot, and he asks what she’s doing here. She says wondering why she has to track him down at work to find out what’s going on with him. And don’t say nothing.

Alexis finds Gregory in her office, and he says he wasn’t expecting to see her here. She says, he wasn’t expecting to see her in her own office? and he says he spoke to her assistant. She said Alexis had some family matter to attend to, and he didn’t think she’d be back tonight. She says she didn’t think he would have made himself at home in her office. Why doesn’t he tell her what’s going on.

Cody comes back with Sasha, and says, he told her it was a good idea to raid the kitchen. The Quartermaines literally have everything. He has to give this biscotti another try once he soaks it in some wine. She wonders where Chase and Brook went.

Outside the gatehouse, Brook tells Chase that Michael said they had to rush Willow to the hospital, and he was forced to leave Wiley with Nina. Wiley is clinging to Nina’s side, and Michael woudn’t like that. What should they do? He says, the most important thing is to keep Wiley happy. She doesn’t have to kick Nina out. Just thank her for watching Wiley, but she can take over. Brook says she’s just hoping Nina plays along.

Inside, Wiley asks, what’s wrong with his mommy? and Nina says, his mommy’s going to be okay. His daddy will make sure his mommy is being taken care of. He took her to the hospital, and the doctors there will make sure she’s better. He says, his baby sister too? and she says, his baby sister too.

Brook says, Nina is really taking advantage of this crisis to get closer to Wiley. This is the last thing Willow would want. They have to put a stop to it. Chase says, she’s right. They just have to hope if they’re calm and upbeat, Nina will play along too. Brook says, calm and upbeat. She can do that. She thinks. Geez, they act like Nina is luring the kid into her car with some candy.

Michael looks in the window of Willow’s room, and says, don’t leave me. Come on, fight for us.

On his phone and getting in the car, Sonny says, everything’s okay. He’s on his way.

TJ says he’s not the best person to ask about Willow’s admission; he just got here. But he’ll make sure someone updates them soon. He leaves, and Josslyn says, Willow and the baby have to be fine. Carly hugs her, and says, Willow is going to be fine; the baby too. She looks at Drew.

Gregory says, Alexis sets a high standard. He always wants to impress her, so he’s here double-checking. She says, diligence and proper documentation are a way to her heart (mine too), and he says he would assume that’s especially true on a good day like today; the return of Esme Prince, the tragic demise of Dr. Westbourne. He figured it was all hands on deck. She says, which is why she needs his help. She knew that when she got that call. He says, lucky for him that he was there when she got it. It was a right place, right time kind of thing. She says, not that she doesn’t enjoy his company or his instinct, but he’s gone above and beyond. He says, the way he sees it, he owes her one, and he always repays his debts. She asks how he owes her, and he says, the night she talked his son off the proverbial ledge. She got through to him when Gregory couldn’t. So if he can lend a helping hand, it’s the least he can do. Plus the added benefit of spending more time with her. She says, consider us even. He doesn’t have to stick around if he doesn’t want to. He says, here’s your hat; what’s your hurry? She says, no, because if he’s going to stick around, he’s going to tell her why he wants to stick around. So sit down and spill, professor. They sit, and Gregory says, after all these years teaching journalism at colleges, he’s finding the actual work invigorating. Being here when a big story breaks. Telling the truth and a strong narrative; separating fact from speculation. He’s really enjoying being in the thick of things. She says, that’s because this is his first time. Tell her about it a month from now. He asks if she’s telling him that she’s not feeling any of the adrenaline rush he is, and she says she is.

Cameron says, nothing’s up with him. He’s just taking a couple of extra shifts at Kelly’s so he can pay for a new guitar amp. She says she knows when something’s wrong. Is it because Esme’s back in town? She’s sure it was a shock to find out Esme had been found. She knows she was shocked. He says he doesn’t care if Esme is pregnant or has memory loss. He hopes she goes away a long time after what she did to him and Joss. Elizabeth says, he certainly has right to be angry. Esme did unspeakable things to him and his friends. He says, and to her; Esme attacked her. She says she wouldn’t really call it an attack. Esme went for her phone and she fell. It was more like an accident. He says, nothing Esme has ever done has been an accident. Everything she’s done has been deliberate; from the revenge porn to framing Trina… Setting Ava’s car on fire. He hopes she gets what she deserves and he hopes they take that baby far away from her. She says, this is so not like him. Please tell her what is going on.

Michael joins the others, and Carly asks, how’s Willow? Josslyn asks, how’s the baby? and he says, Willow is stable and the baby seems fine. Dr. Navarro is doing an ultrasound as a precautionary measure. How did Carly know they were here? Carly says, Nina called her, and he says, right. Nina said she’d call Carly and watch Wiley until someone from the main house could come. He’s sorry. He’s just been so focused on Willow, everything else is a blur right now. Carly tells him, the only thing Nina said was that Willow collapsed. What happened? Drew tells Michael, it’s okay; it’s not a secret anymore. He told Carly about the leukemia. Josslyn says, and Sonny told her, and Michael asks how Sonny knew. Josslyn says she doesn’t know. She asked, but he didn’t say. Carly asks if it matters. They’re here for him. What does he need? Michael promises he’ll explain everything, but right now, he has to take care of something.

Sonny comes into the gatehouse through the back, and Nina tells Wiley, look who’s here. Sonny says he told her he’d be here in no time, and tells Wiley, get over here. Wiley hugs him, and he says, grandpa’s here. Everything is going to be okay. Brook walks in, and asks what Sonny is doing here. Nina says she called Sonny to let him know what happened, and she thought Wiley would like to see his grandpa. Sonny says he rushed over, and asks what Brook is doing here. Brook says, Michael texted, and wanted her to check up on Wiley. Wiley says he’s okay, and Chase asks if either one of them know what’s going on with Willow. Brook suggests Wiley brush his teeth and get ready for bed, but Wiley says he already did. She says, do it again, and she’ll give him five bucks, and he says, deal. He runs upstairs, and Nina asks if they should tell them. Brook says, they should. Willow’s baby is her family. Chase asks if there’s a problem with the baby. It’s too early for her to go into labor, right? Sonny says he hasn’t heard anything since they went to the hospital, but there’s a lot more going on than Willow just being pregnant. She has leukemia. Brook says she had no idea. Poor Willow. Poor Michael; he must be going crazy. Sonny says, they just found out, and Chase says, she’s going to be okay, right? Willow is going to be treated and be okay. Nina says, they don’t know the details, but from what they can tell, Willow’s leukemia is in Stage IV.

Cameron says he’s fine, really, but Elizabeth says her mother’s instinct tells her differently. He says, maybe he’s not fine, but there’s nothing she can do about it. There’s nothing anyone can do. She says, talk to her. Whatever it is, they can figure it out. He says, Joss broke up with him, and she says she’s so sorry. He says, and it’s all Esme’s fault. Her plan to send Trina to jail failed, but she succeeded in ruining his life. He and Josslyn never got back to where they were before. Everywhere they went, people were staring at them, talking, and laughing at them. Even when things died down, that feeling between them stayed. Elizabeth asks if that’s what Josslyn said.

Cody says, still no word from Chase? and Sasha says, nothing since he texted they were at the gatehouse, and Michael and Willow went to the hospital. She hopes Willow and the baby are going to be okay, and he says he’s sure everything will work out. He asks where she thinks Ned keeps the good wine. He looks in the credenza, and says, supposedly biscotti is better if you dip it in there. Is this even the kind of room you’d keep wine? What kind of a room do they call this? She says she believes Michael told her that they call it the solarium, and Cody laughs, saying, rich people and their fancy names. In that case – he puts on a British accent – would she care to join him for some biscotti in the solarium? She says, first of all, he’s very good at distracting people from their worries. Secondly, she’d love some biscotti.

Drew tells Carly, Willow and Nina deserve to know the truth. If Willow has taken a turn… She asks him to keep his voice down. She’s not going in there and telling her right now; Willow’s unconscious. Besides, he said they found a match. He says, Carly still has to tell her, and she says she knows that. She’s just not going to do it right now; now’s not the right time. He says, there’s never going to be a right time, and let him be clear. He’s not going to sit on this secret forever. She says she doesn’t expect him to, but right now, can’t they just pray for Willow and the baby? Because Willow making it through is all that matters.

Wiley comes back downstairs, and asks Brook, where’s his five bucks? Brook says, a promise is a promise, and gives it to him. Sonny tells Nina that he has to go to GH. He needs to see Michael, even though Michael doesn’t want him to. Michael’s his son, and he has to be there for him. Nina says, of course (🍷). She’ll go with him. Sonny asks Wiley to give him a big, big hug, and they say goodbye. Wiley tells Nina goodbye, and she tells him, even if he doesn’t see her for a while, she’s always with him. She touches her heart, and says she loves him so much. They hug, and she and Sonny go to the door. Nina turns for a moment, Wiley waves at her, and they leave.

Alexis says, Gregory is a natural at this type of work, and he says he hopes so. He taught it long enough. It’s nice to know he can put what he teaches into practice. She asks why he’s always taught journalism, and not gone out into the field. His wife was a journalist. He says, it’s just the path he took. He felt the adrenaline rush a couple of times, helping Jackie with her stories, but they were raising Chase. One of them had to have a more grounded job. She says, that was the past. He’s certainly not raising Chase now. Has he thought about giving up the lecture hall, and becoming a reporter? He says, does it sound exciting? Of course (🍷). But he thinks boots-to-the-ground reporting is a young person’s job. These days, he’s content watching from the sidelines. She says she thinks that’s bull. She thinks he’s being self-deprecating, and she thinks he doesn’t believe that. And he’s talking to somebody who found a second act. She didn’t have any choice. She blew up her first act, but that’s another story. He says, point taken, and she says, if he wants to teach, teach, but if he wants a change, go for the second act, third act. He can go for as many acts as he wants. She’s just trying to say he’s really good at this, and she would hate to see him write off possibilities for his future without ever having gone there. He says she’s definitely given him something to think about, and she says, good. If he’s going to stay here, he’s going to work. So take a look at the layouts, and tell her what he thinks.

Brook tells Wiley that he’s been through a lot tonight. Talk to her. He asks why mommy said Grandma Nina was bad, and Brook says, she actually said that? Wiley nods, and says he loves Grandma Nina. Is she bad? Brook says, his Grandma Nina has made some mistakes, but that doesn’t mean she’s bad. She and mommy just want the best for him, even though she messes up sometimes. He says he misses mommy, and Chase says, his mommy misses him too, and she’s doing everything she can to get back to him. Brook suggests Wiley make Willow a get well card.

Sonny and Nina come into the hospital, and Carly looks like she wants to disappear. Sonny says, Nina still hasn’t told him why she was at the Quartermaines, and Nina says she was worried about Wiley when they heard about Willow’s diagnosis. Unfortunately, she had words with Michael. She knows she should have stayed away. Michael comes out of Willow’s room, followed by Dr. Navarro and Terry. Terry says, they just wanted to give them and update, and Dr. Navarro says, the baby is fine. They’re going to keep monitoring her, along with working with Dr. Randolph on Willow’s treatment. Terry says, Willow is critical, but in stable condition. She’s going to look into clinical trials for her, but they’re running out of options. She wishes she had better news. Her pager goes off, and she excuses herself. Josslyn says she knows Michael is only focused on Willow right now, but she’s here if he needs anything, or Willow needs anything. Carly tells him, it’s going to be all right. They have to believe that. Drew asks why they’re looking into clinical trials. He thought Willow already had a match for a bone marrow donor. Michael says, she did. They found out at her last appointment that the donor isn’t healthy enough to go through with the transplant. Carly looks at Nina.

Cody says, Sasha lost her baby. She entered into a guardianship, and lost her husband. And he thought he had some problems. He asks if that was insensitive, and she says, pretty much, but also weirdly refreshing. She’s so used to everyone treating her with kid gloves, it’s nice to know she won’t fall apart if someone sets her off. He says she looks pretty tough to him, and she says she’s guessing he doesn’t watch the Home & Heart Shopping Network. He says he never heard of it, and she says she went on it to plug some products for Deception. They spontaneously added her to the next segment, about a papoose style baby carrier, and she wound up having a nervous breakdown on live television. He says he’s guessing that’s where the guardianship came in, and she says, originally, it was Brando, but when he died, his mother Gladys took over. He says, her mother-in-law’s name is Gladys? and she says, why? He says he knows a woman named Gladys, but it’s probably not her mother-in-law. She says, he’d know if he met her mother-in-law. She’s pretty memorable.

Brook says, Wiley’s mommy is going to love this picture. It’s just what she needs to brighten up her hospital room, and remind her of how much he loves her. Wiley says, all done, and asks if Chase will read him a story. He tells Wiley to pick one out, and Wiley runs upstairs. Chase says, Brook is really good with him, and she says, so is he. The kid loves him. He says, they shouldn’t be surprised. Does this feel familiar to her? It wasn’t that long ago, they were living together, taking care of Bailey. She says, they make a good team… He doesn’t have to stay.

Cameron tells Elizabeth, it doesn’t matter what Joss said. That sex tape was when all their problems started. She asks him to stop calling it that. It makes it sound like they made it willingly. He says, she’s right; they didn’t. It’s revenge porn, which is a crime, which Esme should rot in jail for. Everything was perfect before that. She says, he’s right in that she can’t fix this for him, but he knows she’s had her fair share of experience with heartbreak. She’s not going to pretend to know how things were with him and Josslyn. Maybe things were perfect before that video came out, but in her experience, rarely is it just one thing that breaks up a couple.

Josslyn asks why someone would put themselves on a bone marrow transplant list if they can’t go through with it, and Michael says, they must have had a condition they weren’t aware of when they signed up. Carly asks what this means for Willow and the baby, and Michael says, Willow needs a bone marrow transplant period. The doctors are just buying time until they find another match. He’s got to take a walk. Nina tells Sonny that she’s going to the chapel to say a prayer for Willow, and he says he’ll go with her. They leave, and Drew tells Carly, they need to put an end to this madness now. She nods, and says she knows what she has to do.

In the chapel, Nina asks how Sonny is doing. It must be pretty devastating for him to know what Michael is going through. He says, it’s never easy watching your kids suffer. He and Michael are estranged, and he wants to give Michael a hug, but Michael doesn’t want it. They’re just going to concentrate on Willow. They care about her so much, and she and Michael are good together. He’s just feeling like he doesn’t know what to do. She says, Sonny’s going to be there for them, and that’s enough. That’s a lot. He says he can’t abandon his son. He needs to let Michael know that. She says she’ll be here for him, and as much as they don’t want it, she’s here for Michael and Willow too.

Chase says, Brook’s the one who called him over about changes in a song he’s going to be singing tomorrow. Now she’s kicking him out? That makes perfect sense. He gets up, and she says, come on. She wasn’t born yesterday. She knows the only reason he came over was because he was worried about Willow, and wanted more information. Now they know Willow has leukemia, and she knows he wants to go to GH and see her. He says, when Nina and Sonny told them the news, his initial reaction was to rush over there, but is that what’s best for Michael and Willow? It’s already got to be awkward over there because of how Michael feels about Sonny. Not to mention how Carly and Joss feel about Sonny and Nina. Do they really want Willow’s ex-husband in the mix? He doesn’t think so. She says she knows how much he cares about Willow, and he, Michael and Willow are friends-ish again, right? He says, something like that, and she says, his mind must be going crazy with worry. Go be with them. She can take care of Wiley by herself, and cancel tomorrow’s performance. He asks if Linc won’t throw a fit, but she says she’ll handle Linc. Do what he needs to do. He says, if he goes to GH, he’ll only be in the way. If the best way to help Michael and Willow is to help her keep Wiley happy, then that’s what he’ll do

Elizabeth tells Cameron, maybe it’s easier to blame Esme for the break-up. God knows she played a big enough role. It must feel like she’s responsible for everything. It’s easy to look at one catastrophic event, and say that was it. Trust her; she’s been there. It will only drive him crazy if he keeps asking himself, what if this never happened? He says, if Esme never made the revenge porn, if Trina had never gone to trial, if none of those things would have happened, he’s certain he and Josslyn would still be together. She says, but if he really thinks about it, there were other issues too. Didn’t he keep Spencer’s secret that he was only pretending to believe Esme, and didn’t tell Josslyn? Regardless of the reasoning, that hurt the communication between them. He says, maybe, but it still doesn’t make it hurt any less. She says she knows Josslyn was his first girlfriend, and his first love; it’s going to hurt. But she also knows that one day he’ll be able to look back on the time he had with her, and instead of all this pain, he’ll feel grateful for what he did have.

Josslyn hugs Michael, and he thanks her for being here. She asks, where else she would be? Why didn’t he tell them? He says, first of all, because Willow didn’t tell him. Chemo is dangerous for a baby in the first trimester so she decided to wait. She didn’t want him to worry, so she didn’t tell him. By the time she told him, it was safe to start chemo, but the leukemia had already advanced. She says she’s so sorry, and he says, it’s Willow’s fight and she can do this the way she has to, but even after she told him, she didn’t want anyone else to know. She thought it was the best way to protect Wiley, so he wouldn’t be afraid. He’s reaching that age now where he’s more perceptive. She thought if Josslyn or their mom looked at her with worry, Wiley would pick up on it and realize something was wrong. She says, it makes sense; he’s a smart little boy. Her phone dings, and she sees a text from Dex: Thinking about you. Hope everything is okay. He says, Cameron? but she says, no, someone else. Is there anything she can do? She knows it feels like an empty gesture, but she’d do anything. He says, just be here with him, and she says, done. He puts his arm around her, and she puts her head on his shoulder.

Carly goes into Willow’s room, and asks TJ, how is she? He says, her vital signs are stable, but they’re not sure when she’s going to wake up. She’d appreciate Carly being here either way. He leaves, and Carly sits by the bed. She says she needs Willow to wake up. She’s so sorry. If she had known… She never intended for anything like this to happen. She loves Willow like a daughter. Please wake up. She has to tell Willow something that may save her life. Willow stirs a little, and Carly says, if you can hear the sound of my voice, it’s Carly. Please wake up. Visibly uncomfortable, Carly leaves.

Carly tells Drew, Willow’s still sleeping. She tried to wake Willow up. He says, she can tell Willow later, but she says, they’re past that. Will he stay with Michael? He says, of course (🍷), and she says, will he tell him? Tell Michael she’s so sorry… please. She starts to leave, and he asks where she’s going. She says she’s going to do what she has to do.

Chase reads, all you need is confidence in yourself. There is no living thing that is not afraid when it faces danger. True courage is in facing danger when you’re afraid, and that kind of courage, you have in plenty. He looks at Brook and Wiley sleeping, and says, goodnight, Wiley. Goodnight, Brook Lynn. Don’t worry. He’ll stand watch.

Cameron thanks Elizabeth for the talk, and she says, even if he didn’t like what she had to say? He says, she was just telling him the truth. If he continues to blame Esme for the break-up, it’s just going to fuel his anger. Now that he realizes he and Josslyn both played parts in them ending, it’s just making him sad. She says she’s so sorry, and he says he’s got to finish up, and she says, before he goes, she wants to remind him that she loves him. She’s always here for him. She starts to leave, and he says he loves her too, and they hug.

Sasha tells Cody, she read in The Invader that Britt died because she stepped in to rescue someone from The Hook. She actually saved a life, and not just by being a doctor; by being a kickass hero. He says, and that was just a week after she delivered a miracle baby on Christmas in the Quartermaine house. She says, Brando died protecting someone too. He was following Josslyn Jax to make sure she was safe. Cody says, sounds like he was a hero also. He’s grateful Britt was in his life, even if it was for a short time. She says she and Brando survived a lot of problems, but she still loved her life with him. Even knowing how it ended, she’d do it again in a heartbeat. He says, to Britt and Brando, and they clink their biscotti.

Gregory says, finished. He’ll get out of Alexis’s hair. She thanks him for his help, and says she couldn’t done without him. He says, now who’s being falsely modest? and she says, okay. She could have done it without him, but she’s glad she didn’t have to. He says, it was a pleasure. He likes spending time with her. This was fun. Have a good night. She says, him too, and he leaves. Her phone rings, and she says she just got back in the office. Can this wait?… Well now you’ve got my attention.

Josslyn sits by Willow’s bedside, and says she’s so sorry this is happening to her. She and Michael are so good together, and Wiley is such a happy little boy. This baby could not be born into a better family. And she will be born. And she will be healthy. And Willow will be there with her. Willow’s got to believe that. All of this, the doctors, the medicine, is all important of course (🍷), but so is believing. She’s going make it, and they’ll all be here for her. Her phone rings, and she says, right now?… Okay, she’ll be there.

Michael thanks TJ, and says he knows TJ has done a lot to support Willow. TJ says, that’s what friends do. If he needs anything at all, don’t hesitate to ask. Michael says he appreciates it, and TJ leaves. Michael sees Drew, and asks if Drew knows where his mom went. Drew says, she went to see Nina, and Michael says, this night’s bad enough already. Why would she want to talk to Nina of all people? Drew says, there’s something Michael needs to know.

Still turning herself inside out, Carly goes to the chapel. She asks if she can talk to Nina alone, and Sonny leaves. Carly closes the door.

Tomorrow, Jordan asks why someone didn’t come forward; Alexis tells Spencer that she’s looking for the truth; and Carly tells Nina, she may be the only person on earth who can help. I can’t wait.

💟 Glad To Hear It…

That little tribute at the end of yesterday’s episode must have been to keep the fans at bay until they could put together something more befitting Epiphany.

🧨 And Don’t Call Her Granny…

Good soap actors never really retire.

💃🏽 Welcome To the Nurses Ball…

It’s going to be quite a spring in Port Charles.

🥀 First Farewell…

Passions was a great show – so much fun.

🍊 Close, But No Cigar…

Good thing Ramona is on the east coast.

🕶 Traitors Among Traitors…

I love it. There are 20 contestants comprised of 10 reality stars and 10 normal people.

👠 Life After Housewives…

Do we care? Here it is anyway.

👗 After the Ball Is Over…

Golden Globes afterparty fashion.

🐊 And Of Course There Was a Peke…

No Corgi for Queen Victoria.

https://www.historyextra.com/period/tudor/anne-boleyns-lapdog-and-john-quincy-adamss-alligator-10-famous-people-in-history-and-their-bizarre-pets/

🧺 Housekeeping Stuck In 2023…

Will Carly spill her guts tomorrow? Come back and find out, as well as enjoy some tea, quotes, and music. Until then, stay safe, stay asking for help when you need it, and stay going for as many acts as you want.

November 21, 2019 – Yesterday’s Today, GH News, Wives Gossip, Vanderpump Still Rules, Gone To a Better Stage & Next Week’s Friday

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Yesterday, I went into the future and recapped the episode that was aired in most places today. Magic! However, it’s my understanding that it was again preempted in some areas today. There are no words, except to say, if you missed it altogether, you can catch up here:

https://tvwiththeresa.wordpress.com/2019/11/21/november-20-2019-not-preempted-for-me-or-you-everyone-gets-a-baby-elephant-quick-take-on-jersey-jax-dream-the-white-christmas-of-thanksgiving/

Hopefully, Friday’s episode will be on Friday, but who knows what’s going to happen in this topsy-turvy world we now live in, where low-rated hearings are forced on us and Franco is a nobody. Or is it Drew?

🍵 Tea For You…

Since there were no new evening episodes for the usual programs, enjoy some trash talk. I mean, articles on the world of entertainment.

👠 New Old Girl In Town…

A refresher course on Brook Lynn.

https://www.abc.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital-brook-lynn-ashton-173590

🎁 Home For the Holidays…

Hard to believe it’s been two years.

https://ew.com/tv/2019/11/21/general-hospital-jane-elliot-returns-port-charles/

🏆 General Honor…

So glad props were given to Maurice Benard.

https://www.abc.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital-honored-ruderman-family-foundation-173588

🔄 The Divorce Is Back On…

I think.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2019/11/meghan-edmonds-divorce-jim-im-sick-abuse-split-rhoc/

🚫 Apparently, She Does Say No To Some Jobs…

But someone tried to make it a yes.

https://pagesix.com/2019/11/15/phony-publicist-falsely-uses-paris-hilton-lisa-rinna-amazon-to-promote-book-party/

💰 You Can’t Keep a Rich Bitch Down…

She’s ba-a-ack.

https://extratv.com/2019/11/18/nene-leakes-sets-the-record-straight-on-her-rhoa-return/

💍 Watch All About It…

More on Kelly’s rebound engagement.

https://extratv.com/videos/bdhuftreoeq/

🌴 Desperation…

Some people will do anything to reunite with those who hate them.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2019/11/vicki-gunvalson-drops-lawsuit-kelly-dodd-defamation-allowed-film-rhoc-reunion/

🍸 Vanderpump Returns…

In case you missed it. Although it’s hard to take someone’s argument seriously when they’re in costume.

https://www.bravotv.com/vanderpump-rules/season-8/videos/the-official-vanderpump-rules-season-8-trailer-is-here

📣 The First Roll Call Of the Dead…

Those entertainers we loved and lost in 2019.

https://www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/life/people/2019/01/03/2019-stars-celebrities-weve-lost-entertainment-industry/2467952002/

😱 It’s Coming…

I shopped on Black Friday once. It wasn’t worth it.

May 4, 2017 – Best Good-By Ever & Six Small Chefs

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

 General Hospital

The time has come for Tracy to step out of her father’s shadow and make a life of her own. She can’t do it in Port Charles, so she’s leaving. Ned asks what that means (someone, get that man a dictionary), and she says she’s called them there to say good-by.

Nathan comes home to an empty place. He picks up the welcome home card he’s made for Maxie, and tears it in half.

Carly takes her ring off, and says let’s get started. When her lawyer shows up, Sonny is surprised to see it’s Martina. He flashes back to five minutes ago. She and Sonny act like they’ve never met. Diane suggests getting down to business. She thinks it’s possible to avoid a lengthy arbitration.

Monica tells Tracy that if she wants dramatic effect, it’s not working. Tracy says she wants to make a worthwhile life for herself. Her father is going to bankroll her, since the proceeds of the sale of the painting will be more than enough. $20 million? Yeah, I’d say so. The doorbell rings. The food has arrived. It’s pizza.

Ned explains the Thanksgiving pizza tradition, and says it sounds like it’s the last time they’ll be a family for a while. He tells Tracy she doesn’t need to travel the world to find meaning. Hayden asks what she’s going to do, and she says she has no definite plans. Ned asks if they can talk her out of it, but she says no. She’s not happy about leaving him and Dillon, but they’ve been living their own lives for years, and it’s time for her to do the same. Dillon says they’ll come to visit her wherever she is. They all say they’ll miss each other, and I’m trying to rise above crying over this.

Amy 2.0 knocks on Nathan’s door. She wonders why Maxie has flaked about the Nurses Ball. Lucy wants her to handle it, but she’s a talent; she doesn’t work behind the scenes. Nathan explains that Maxie is in Portland. Amy says she’s still the same self-centered witch she always was. Nathan is like, excuse me?

Diane talks about Sonny’s various assets that have been transferred to Carly. Martina says they were signed over months ago, and Sonny has no claims on them. Diane says they’re still married, so technically, Sonny has equal rights. Martina says the assets were put into Carly’s name to keep the government from seizing them. She says if he fights it, she’ll have to bring up his overseas businesses. Sonny claims they’re legit, but Martina tells him that she’s surprised at how low the casino proceeds are. She says it’s as if he has secret offshore accounts, and reminds him that would be a felony.

Dillon says he’s used to him being the one leaving for parts unknown. Tracy says he has a big heart, and is more than capable of dealing with life. She tells him that his heart makes him the strongest Quartermaine.

I hate you, George Stephanopoulos. We’ve been interrupted. On Tracy’s last day. Fie on you, Washington DC! Although I have to admit to being interested in the insurance topic, since I got totally screwed over with Obamacare. Looks promising, but we’ll see.

And we’re back. Tracy tells Michael that if the company tanks, they’ll be hell to pay.

Carly doesn’t want to bring the legality of Sonny’s offshore holdings into question. Martina says Sonny should thank her, and to quit fighting about the rest. Carly says he lost his temper and made bad decisions. Now he has to pay the consequences.

Tracy tells Ned sorry to steal his thunder, but he’s always been a Quartermaine whether in name or not. Ned says that the house needs an Edward Quartermaine under its roof. She tells him that he’s her rock, always has been, and always will be. Crap. Ned is starting to cry. I’m sure this was an emotional day for everyone involved.

Monica tells Tracy that the jet is fueled and ready to take off, and her car will be there shortly. Tracy says it’s real now. Monica says she doesn’t know what she’ll do without Tracy. Tracy suggests celebrating, but Monica says somewhere along the line, Tracy she went from being her sister-in-law to her sister. She never hated her. She loves her. Here come the waterworks.

Nathan tells Amy II about being caught off guard with Maxie staying in Portland. The only thing not there for her is him, and he wonders if he still fits in her life.

Diane thinks they’ve painted themselves in a corner. Martina says they need to compromise, and Sonny makes noises about them keeping what they came with, and throwing Carly a few bones. Carly says see you in court; they’re done here. She walks out, and Diane follows, leaving Sonny and Martina alone. Martina says it was unexpected, and Sonny asks what kind of game she’s playing. Actually, if he was up for it, Sonny could make a stink about this being a conflict of interest. If nothing else, Carly would have to get a new lawyer.

Amy2 says Nathan is coming up with reasons why his marriage won’t survive, but a case could be made for the opposite. If he really loves Maxie, he’ll find a way to make it work. He tells her she’s good at the advice thing. She says to think of her as his bartender, and that she gave her four brothers advice when they were growing up. Nathan goes to change, and Amy looks at a picture of Nathan and Maxie on the sign he ripped.

Carly tells Diane that until the divorce is final, she should talk to her attorney. Diane says she’s approaching her as a friend. She says they’re not the first to divorce after a child’s death, and she understands that Sonny has provoked her, but what part of any of it surprises her?

Sonny asks if Carly put Martina up to this. Martina says that Carly has no idea. He was just a stranger she met in a bar, and she was as shocked as he was. He says there has to be a violation here somewhere, and she stops him from continuing.

The car has arrived. Tracy tells Lulu and Laura to take care of each other. She tells Hayden and Finn that they taught her something important – we don’t have unlimited time. She says to stop wasting it. She warns Michael to remember that she expects ELQ to keep turning a profit. From Dillon, she expects to be invited to a premiere sooner than later. She says that if he needs a patron, to go to Michael. It’s time for ELQ to branch out. She tells Olivia-F that Ned has a bad habit of trying to take care of everyone, and she’s grateful that Olivia is the one who’s going to take care of him.

And Monica. Tracy is worried about her decorating ideas. Monica says she’ll leave their house the way Tracy wants it. Tracy points out that she said our house instead of my house, and Monica says that she knows what she said. Tracy takes Monica and Ned’s hands, and says she cherishes them all. She turns and flies out the door, and we’re all left with tears in our eyes. She runs back in for a four-way hug, with Ned, Dillon, and Monica.

Nathan tells Amy2 that he’s sorry Maxie flaked. Amy says the show must go on, and they’ll make it bigger and better than last year. Nathan offers to help. Amy thanks him and leaves. In the hallway, she takes the picture that she was looking at out of her purse. She tears it, detaching Maxie. I’m guessing that Amy is interested in Nathan now, but wasn’t she interested in Dillon literally a few weeks ago? What happened with that? She doesn’t strike me as the type who would give up easily.

Diane tells Carly that she understands Sonny better than anybody. His first reaction to being hurt is to lash out, and she can choose to compromise. If not for him, for everybody else, including herself, who doesn’t want to watch them tear each other apart. Carly asks if Diane has said this to Sonny, and Diane says that he’s less than reasonable on the best of days. Carly has to be the bigger person here. Carly says that’s not going to happen; she can’t do that. Diane says she’s legally obligated to carry out her client’s wishes, and regrets what’s about to happen. She thinks Carly and Sonny will regret it too.

Martina tells Sonny that she could be disbarred. Sonny says she just got done telling him he was a stranger, so what’s the big deal? He says she’ll just get a warning from the bar. She wants him to do nothing; anything before today was a chance encounter between strangers that he’ll never speak of again. Carly comes in, and asks what’s going on. Martina makes something up. I just thought of something. Why is it that Sonny keeps getting new babes, but Carly just gets recycled Jax?

Monica says the house won’t be the same. Dillon offers to insult her every morning at breakfast. Olivia asks Ned how he’s doing. He says better than expected, even though it seems like his family is getting smaller by the day. Olivia says she was going to keep her last name, but Olivia Quartermaine has a nice ring to it. The Quartermaine family is the heart of Port Charles, and Port Charles is her home. Someone has to look after it, so why not them?

They look at the family photograph.

Tracy arranges a sale for the painting. The dealer tells her that there’s been an offer of $60 million from a private collector. Tracy wants to close asap. He says they can close as soon as she fills out the paperwork. She signs the contract, and the dealer says he thought she’d be reluctant to sell it. Tracy tells him that she gained more parting with it than keeping it. He gives her a moment alone with the painting, which is kind of funny. Tracy tells the painting that she doesn’t know who she is or what kind of life she lived, but she knows she’s going to live her life on her terms. The dealer comes back, saying the money has been wired to her account. She says she could use a good cup of coffee, and he says he’ll show her a place across the street.

We see clips of Tracy and how she’s grown. Excuse me while I bawl.

Good-by, Tracy. Hopefully, you’ll stop by now and then.

The dealer takes Tracy to the coffee shop. Where Luke is waiting.

I don’t even know what’s happening tomorrow – I was too busy crying. Kudos to GH for giving Jane Elliot a beautiful send-off. It was also everything a fan could have wanted. And thank you, God, for not making the news break too long. It had to be God. It certainly wasn’t out of the goodness of any politician or newscaster’s heart.

🍟 There are six chefs still cooking on MasterChef Junior. Tonight, they made a lamb dish for first responders and construction workers. I don’t even like lamb, and I would have eaten this, it looked so heavenly. A female police officer said if she wasn’t in uniform, she would be chowing down on the chops. I hear you, sister! This evening’s mystery box contained a couple of Muppets. Miss Piggy and the Swedish Chef paid a visit, causing the kids to go out of their collective minds, especially when Miss Piggy called Gordon every name except Gordon, and he kept correcting her. Kids love an ongoing joke. She also took up the challenge of preparing steak frites along with the young chefs, and was voted out, so really, no one went home. Next week, the kids cook for critics, chefs and journalists in pop-up restaurant on the beach.

An Applicable Quote

🍨 A person holding a grapefruit in one hand and a blowtorch in the other has let the world know they won’t be putting up with any of their malarkey today.Allison Robicelli, Why You Should Set Your Breakfast on Fire

GHTracy