Tag Archives: Lisa Rinna

July 6, 2022 – Sonny Gets a Refusal, New Low In Beverly Hills, Excuses & Given

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Drew says he did something, and Carly’s not going to like it. She says that’s her favorite opener to any conversation, and he says he wishes he had a different one. She says, lay it on her, and he says he had an idea to mitigate the financial hit she took on Aurora stock, and generate enough capital for her to hold on to the hotel. She says, that doesn’t sound too bad. What part is she not going to like? He says, the whole plan is contingent on Nina.

Sonny asks what Carly did, and Nina says she’s sorry; she just assumed he already knew. He says, knew what? and she says, Carly invested heavily in Aurora, and when the merger didn’t happen with ELQ, she lost quite a bit of money. He asks, what’s quite a bit? and Nina says, she lost her half of the MetroCourt.

At the stables, Willow tells Michael that she loves horses. When she was a little girl, she had one. Technically, he wasn’t hers, but she loved him like he was. He says, she’s been holding out on him; he didn’t know that. Just say the word and he’ll get her a horse of her own. She thanks him, but says, they should probably wait a little bit. She’s pretty sure horseback riding isn’t a recommended prenatal activity. He says, right, she’s pregnant, and she says she is. He says, with their baby, and she says, that’s correct. He says he doesn’t think he’s ever felt so grateful in his life, and she says, her either. They kiss, and Cody comes to the door, clearing his throat. He apologizes, saying, he’s never been known for his timing. He’s the new stable hand, Cody Bell.

At the hospital, Doc says he appreciates Britt’s help with this, and she says, it’s the least she can do after his clutch play at the all-star game. He says, it was pretty clutch, wasn’t it? It was fun. She says, probably because they were there for a good cause. No cynical ulterior motive behind it. He says, as opposed to… and she says, that nightmare – air quotes – charity mixer – end air quotes – Society Set-Ups put on. He says he hadn’t heard about that, and she says, he might literally be the only person. He asks what he missed, and she says, just the lowest moment of her life that now resides on the internet for all of eternity.

Flora holds up her papoose, and says, it keeps the baby secure, promotes mother/child bonding – Felty snaps more pictures – and it’s so easy to use, which many of you moms know, isn’t always the case. She asks Sasha to help her demonstrate, and Brando says he has to stop this, but Lucy says he can’t. This is live TV; he’ll only humiliate Sasha. Haven suggests Flora demonstrate it herself, but Flora tells Sasha, don’t be intimidated. It goes on in three easy steps. Haven says, it sounds amazing, doesn’t it Sasha? and Sasha says, it sure does. Please show her how it’s done. Flora puts the papoose on Sasha, and tells the viewers that she can’t say enough about the benefits of carrying your child close to your body; it actually soothes them. Maxie tells Lucy, this is more than Sasha can or should handle, and Lucy asks what they’re supposed to do. Maxie walks in view of Haven and waves her arms, but no one pays attention, and Haven asks, what inspired Flora to create this baby carrier? Flora says she just couldn’t abide some of the contraptions she saw well-meaning parents toting their babies around in. She knew she could come up with something better. Haven says, and she did. She asks if it’s Sasha’s first time wearing a baby carrier, and Flora says, she put it on like an old pro. Sasha says she might have practiced with another product, but this one is much simpler, and Flora says, now they’re going to show everyone how securely it holds the baby. She takes a doll out of the box, and asks if Sasha is ready for her little bundle of joy. Haven asks if Sasha is ready for the baby.

Britt tells Doc, she might have had a few too many cocktails; they were free. He says, understood, and she says, there she was, holding court about the romance industrial complex, when out of nowhere, a skydiver came down and knocked her into the pool. She could have drowned under that stupid parachute. He says she seems no worse for wear, and she says, maybe, but it was ugly, and now it’s a GIF; a never-ending reminder. He says, hardly ideal, and she says, no, it’s not. He says he takes it she’s cut all ties with that particular dating service, and she says, you would think, wouldn’t you? But no, she’s decided to give Society Set-Ups another try. It’s not their fault they hired a shoddy skydiver with lousy aim. He says, actually, that’s exactly what they did, when an orderly comes out, and tells Britt that a patient left this behind after an exam. He shows her Cody’s belt, and says, Britt was listed as a contact on his paperwork. She says, he’s got to be kidding.

Michael introduces himself and Willow, and Cody says, Olivia told him that they were going to show him around. Willow says she thinks the term Olivia used was, get him settled; make him feel at home. Michael says, always a mother hen, and Cody says, it’s a nice set-up. Michael says, Cody’s room and bathroom are upstairs. There’s a boathouse and a pool on the premises, so Cody can use either for his leisure. Cody says he appreciates the hospitality, and Willow tells him, Olivia said he and Dante went to summer camp together. Cody says, glory days. He thinks he’s actually the first person to get Dante up on a horse, and Michael says, and the last. Cody says, probably. He can’t even picture it. He asks if Michael and Dante are close, and Michael says, yeah. They’re half-brothers through adoption; it’s complicated. But since Cody and Dante are old friends, it’s no surprise Olivia trusted him with the family horses.

Nina tells Sonny, she guesses Drew feels guilty because Carly lost all that money investing in the success of Aurora. He’s trying to raise capital, and even asked her if she wanted to buy Crimson outright. Sonny says, and? and Nina says, she turned him down. She doesn’t feel it’s right to take advantage of Drew’s sudden reversal of fortune. She knows what he’s going to say. He says, doubtful, and she says she didn’t say no because the outcome would have benefited Carly, but he says, that’s not what he was going to say. She tells him, she said no because if she pays what Crimson is truly worth, she’d have overinvested in herself. He asks what that means, and she says, he knows she loves her magazine, but investing in print media right now is really risky, and there’s no guaranteed long-term return. Plus, on top of that, she doesn’t want to be editor-in-chief and owner. She wants Crimson to be taken seriously; not viewed as some vanity project for a real estate heiress with nothing better to do. Those are her reasons for saying no. He says, very astute, and she thanks him. He says, she clearly has a head for business. Carly used to as well. It looks like something has clouded her judgement.

Carly says, Drew is right. If Nina’s involved, she doesn’t like it. Drew says, don’t worry; it didn’t happen. Nina wasn’t interested. She says, in what exactly? and he says he offered to sell her Crimson. Carly asks, why? and he says, so he could use the proceeds to reimburse Carly for her losses. She asks if Crimson isn’t the most profitable title in their print division, and he says, yeah. She says, and Aurora’s stocks have flatlined, and he says he’s aware. She says he’s going to need every asset to stay in business, so why on earth would he try to sell his best one? He says, because he got her into this and it’s on him to get her out.

Willow introduces Cody to horse Comet, and Cody tells the horse, nice to meet you. She says, Comet belongs to Leo Quartermaine, and Cody says, Olivia told him that her son’s on the spectrum. He can’t imagine anything better than horses to help with a kid. Help anyone for that matter. Horses are a lot like people They have individual personalities, and when you gain their trust, it’s a bond like no other. Sorry. He gets sentimental when he talks about these things. Willow says she doesn’t blame him, and Michael says, his understanding of horses will be great for Leo. They’re glad to have him. Cody says, not half as glad as he is.

Carly wonders if she asked Drew to come to her rescue, and he says, is that what she heard? She says, yeah, and he says, the failed merger is on him. When the executive consult suggested it, he jumped at the idea. He pitched the idea to Michael, and they developed a strategy around it. She says, and Ned betrayed them, but he says, he should have seen that coming. Because in-fighting is what the Quartermaines do best. He should have at least factored in the possibility that Ned would turn. He and Michael probably wouldn’t have mentioned the merger to Ned in the first place. She says she doesn’t believe that because it would make him like Ned, who’s exactly like Edward, and they had this discussion. He’s Lila. He’s Lila’s side of the family. He says, maybe he needs to lean more to Edward’s example; look where his high ideals have gotten him. She tells him, don’t do that. Don’t take responsibility for her choices.

Nina tells Sonny that she’s surprised too, that Carly would risk her stake in the hotel. He knows as well as she does, that Carly and Olivia made the MetroCourt a five-star destination; it’s a huge success. He says, it’s definitely a bad business move, which makes him think Carly’s investment move isn’t just about business. Michael’s lashing out at him, and Carly wants to back Michael, so she overinvested. She asks how he feels about that, and he says, that Carly’s been drawn into Michael’s vendetta? Not good. He’s just trying to live his life, but he’s not going to let her twist. Nina says, of course (🍷) not, and he says, Carly is the mother of his children. She says she gets it, and knowing him, she’d expect nothing less. He thanks her for understanding, and says he’ll catch up with her later. She says, sounds great, and he leaves.  

The stage manager holds Maxie back, as Flora says the doll (now in the carrier on Sasha) weighs 15 pounds, but the carrier can hold 8 to 33 pounds; ideally covering infancy to age 3. Flora (who I consistently want to call Luna) asks Sasha to move a little bit, and Haven (who I consistently want to call Morgan) says, it looks secure. The stage manager keeps Maxie, Brando, and Lucy at bay, while Flora and Haven go on about the benefits of the carrier, and Sasha moves very slowly across the stage. Haven asks Sasha how it feels, and Sasha suddenly sees a real baby in the carrier. She says, she knew it couldn’t be true. Sweetheart, you’re alive.

Carly says, she knows Drew doesn’t mean to sound condescending, and he says, but he does. She says, it’s not his fault she bought all that Aurora stock. In fact, he went out of his way to discourage her, and she didn’t listen. In true Carly fashion, she went all in. He says, but this place… and she says, she knows. It’s heartbreaking, the thought of losing it, but it’s her loss, and it’s her fault; certainly not his. Sonny walks in and asks if she’s got a second, but she says she’s in the middle of something. Drew says, it’s okay; they’ll talk later. He leaves, but forgets his phone, and lingers outside. Sonny says, he heard she could lose her half of the MetroCourt, and she asks, who told him? Olivia? Nina? It doesn’t matter; the public will know soon enough. He says, they don’t have to. That’s why he’s here. Let him help.

Michael asks what Willow thinks of Cody, and she says she thinks he’s charming, and he knows it. Michael says, not more than him, but she says, never. He says, he likes Cody, and she says, her too. She doesn’t think you can fake how you feel about horses. It’s clear to her that Cody’s care and concern are real, and what he said about gaining their trust… She remembers how special that felt; that bond she shared with Hector. He says, Hector? and she says, he was an old cow pony, and he’d been through God knows how many riders, but she was 12, and fell in love with him. She gave him so much attention, it was ridiculous. And he came to the fence when she whistled for him. Other people would try, but he would only amble over for her. He asks, what happened to Hector? but she says she doesn’t know. When her mother became disenchanted with that community, they moved on. She got to say goodbye to him and give him one last apple, but that was it. She never saw him again. He asks how many times they moved, and she says, too many to count. He says he’s sorry. It’s not going to be that way with their kids; not Wiley or their new baby.

Cody says he’ll tell Comet a secret, if Comet will keep it between them. He’s a hustler. He’s in it for the money, but what he really wants is a place of his own, where no one can steal what he loves… assuming he ever lets himself love anything again. Britt walks in with his belt, and says, lose something?

On the phone, Nina says, just call her when it’s done… Thanks. She hangs up, and says, Sasha. She turns on the TV, as Sasha is saying, my baby boy, I’ve missed you so much… Liam.

Flora asks if Sasha is okay, and Sasha says, she’s perfect. Her sweet Liam. She almost forgot how beautiful he is. Brando says, that’s it. Stop the show. He walks onto the set, and Sasha says, it’s Liam. It’s okay; their son is here with her. He says he sees, and Felty tries to take pictures, but Lucy gives him the bum’s rush, saying, get out! Get out! Brando asks if Sasha knows where she’s at, and she suddenly freaks out, and says, where’s Liam? He tells her to look at him, and she cries as he holds her. Lucy and Maxie cling to each other.

Okay I just have to say it do you mean no one knew about the loss of Sasha’s baby? She was also the Face of Conception. Where do they think the baby went? This is pissing me off big time. I also doubt some big-time host would be so unprofessional.

Sonny tells Carly, it’s not a time to be proud; use her head. She asks what her head is telling her, and he says, she waived her claim to any community property, and walked away with just the house when she had every right to those assets. He’s going to have his accountant valuate them, and she’ll get what she should have gotten in the beginning, 50%. She says, no. They’re divorced. She got exactly what she wanted; what they agreed on in the settlement. She wanted the house and nothing more. He says, nothing more from him? Is she going to be that stubborn, and let her anger keep her from what she’s owed when she needs it? This is the MetroCourt; it’s her baby. She says, it’ll be fine, and he asks, how? She says she doesn’t know; she’ll figure it out. She doesn’t want to talk about this anymore. He says, okay, if that’s how she wants it, and she says, it is. Drew listens, and Sonny says, he just wants to say one thing. There’s going to come time a when she’ll have to come here and pay to sit at the pool she used to own. He offered; she turned him down. He walks away.

Flora tells Lucy, she’s so terribly sorry. She had no idea Sasha lost a child, and so recently. Haven strides over, and tells Flora, don’t apologize. Any responsible representative should have been able to improvise when Flora dropped in. Lucy assured her that Sasha was camera ready, that those problems with emotional instability and drugs were behind her. Lucy says, excuse me? It was never stated anywhere that Sasha was required to promote a baby carrier. They would never have agreed to it in a million years. Flora says, of course (🍷) not. She can’t imagine how much pain Sasha’s in, and Haven says she doesn’t have to imagine; Sasha just showed their entire viewership. Lucy says, Haven really has no heart, and Haven says, their fans tune in to enjoy themselves, to be cheered up; to escape from the hum and drum of the mundane and maybe acquire some beautiful and useful things. Right now, they’re showing reruns. This is a nightmare. People are calling in for items that were sold out months ago. This is a disaster, and it’s all Lucy’s fault. So buckle up, sweetheart, because Home & Heart is going to sue. Selina appears, and says, she’d strongly advise against that.

Michael says, while they have their flaw, and they are many, the Quartermaines are a settled family. She asks what he means, and he says, when Alan bought this property and built the house and gave it to Monica… Willow says, he did? She’s kidding. He laughs and says, Port Charles has been the Quartermaines’ home, and it’s going to be their children’s home… If she wants it to be; they’re not mandated to live here. She says she knows, and he says, their hearts aren’t going to break like hers did. They’re not going to have to leave what they love behind. She says she never dreamed in a million years that she’d get to live somewhere so beautiful. The lake, the homes, the gardens; it’s all so breathtaking. But the buildings and property mean nothing without the people in them. Her home is with him, Wiley, and Wiley’s little brother or sister. They could live in a bunker for all she cares. He says, this is better, she says, much better, and he kisses her.

Cody thanks Britt for bringing his belt back. It’s one of his prized possessions. He got it at a rodeo in Cheyenne. She says she can see how much it means to him, seeing he left it behind in an exam room, and he says, so sorry for being a tad distracted. Not knowing where you’re going to live, or where your next meal is coming from can do that to a guy. She says he seems to have solved that problem, and he says, sure did; room and board included. Comet whinnies, and he says, and he gets to work with the horses; it’s a win-win. He pets Comet, and says, right, bud? She asks, is it’s just her, or are horses fonder of him than humans? and he says, only certain humans. She says, like the ones who left him beat up in that alley? and he says, that was all a misunderstanding. She says, a misunderstanding that cracked his ribs? and he says, and look at him now; gainfully employed and doing what he loves. There’s a pool here, and a boathouse, and apparently, he’s allowed to use both. She says, living the good life. She’s out. That belt was her last goodwill gesture. For future reference, she’s not his emergency contact. He says, who else was he supposed to put down? (Um… Dante?) and she says, she barely knows him, and wishes she didn’t know him at all. She starts to leave, and he says, no wonder she has to rely on a matchmaking service. She comes back, and says, what was that? He says, her interpersonal skills could use some work, and she says, don’t put her name on his paperwork again. He says he’s sorry, and she says, which part? He says, all of it. He owes her big time for helping him in that alley, and now returning his belt. He just… actually, he thinks he has the perfect way to repay her.

Willow says, it’s amazing how different it feels this time, and Michael says, being pregnant? She says, the love is just as strong, but when she realized Shiloh had gotten her pregnant, she was so scared and so desperate to save her baby, every decision was about making sure Shiloh didn’t find him. Michael says, so she gave him up. It’s the bravest thing she could have done. She says, and the hardest, but now she gets to experience the good parts; the excitement and the dreams for his or her future. Because this time, she gets to be a part of that future. Their baby, conceived in love. He says, losing Jonah will be a heaviness they’ll always carry, but it’s also a reminder of how blessed they are. She says, with Wiley, and now this little one on the way, how lucky are they? He says, the luckiest.

Brando brings Sasha into the hospital, while Maxie follows, and Sasha says she swears, Liam was right there in her arms. Brando thanks Doc for meeting them, and Doc says, of course (🍷). He asks Sasha how she’s doing, and Maxie says, she was asked to demonstrate a baby carrier on live TV. Brando says, it was just too much for her after losing their son, and Doc asks if there were any indications before the broadcast that Sasha was struggling. Brando says, nothing that stands out to him, but his mom has been concerned Sasha was using again. Maxie says she doesn’t know if this is protocol, but here’s her purse. She hands it to Doc, and Doc says, he’d need the spouse’s permission to open it. Sasha says, no, please, just give it to her, but Brando tells her, it’s okay. He tells Doc that it’s okay to open it, and Doc takes out the pills. Sasha cries.

Sonny goes back to Nina’s Crimson office, and finds her crying. He asks, what happened? and she says, Sasha was doing an appearance on live television and had a complete meltdown. It was awful. Sonny holds her as she cries.

Carly looks at the pool and gets weepy. She sits at the edge, puts her feet in, and cries. Drew comes in, and holds out a beer. She takes it.

Cody asks if Britt likes to ride, but she says, no. He asks if she’d like to think about it for a minute, and she says, sure… yeah… no. He asks if she’s ever tried, and she says, when she was a kid. She ended up on her butt, and realized it’s one of those things that looks better in the movies than it does in real life. He says he can’t even begin to tell her how wrong she is about that, and she says, yet he just did. He says he can teach her to ride so she’ll love it, but she says she’s all set, thanks. He says, it will change her world, and she asks if he didn’t hear her say she didn’t want to. He says, what he heard was that she’s afraid to. Those are two very different things. Does she know the expression, get back on the horse? She says, everybody knows that expression, and he says, the only way to conquer your fears is try again. Lucky for her, he’s an experienced teacher. She says, he’s had this job all of 10 minutes, and he’s already offering lessons on a property and horse he doesn’t own. He says, excuses, excuses. If she’s ever willing to push past her cowardice and rise to the challenge, she knows where to find him. She says she’ll do that, and leaves. He tells Comet, she likes me. I can tell.

Selina says she admires Haven’s commitment to simplicity and sustainability, and apologizes for this unfortunate accident. Flora says she’s the one who should be apologizing. Had she known that poor woman had lost a child… Selina says, but she didn’t, through no fault of her own. Flora says she thinks she might take a break from Home & Heart altogether, and walks away. Haven asks who Selina is, and what she’s doing here, and Selina says, she’s a shareholder in Deception. Haven asks how she got access to the studio, and Selina says she was watching the broadcast and saw how Haven mangled the situation. Haven says, please. She did everything possible to stave off this disaster; one that Deception created. Flora is their biggest seller. Her appearances are always best sellers. She’s sure Selina realizes that’s a little more revenue her company has just cost them. Selina says, that’s nothing compared to the negative publicity Haven will receive when Deception calls her out for the callous treatment of a grieving mother. The way she sees it, Haven has two option. One; Deception can thank her for her support, and laud Home & Heart for its kindness. Or they can file suit for damages because Haven didn’t do her homework and subjected Sasha to emotional duress. Which works better for her? Haven says, please give Sasha her best wishes for a very swift recovery, and Lucy tells her, don’t you worry. I sure will. Haven leaves, and Lucy tells Selina that she’s actually speechless. Selina just saved their bacon. Selina says she was dismayed when she saw Sasha’s meltdown. She paid good money for her Deception stock. She expects an equally good return. Keep better control on her talent, or there will be consequences.

Brando asks how long Sasha’s been taking the pills, and she says, it was just to help her through; just a few. She’s sorry. He says, don’t be sorry, but she says she shouldn’t have lied to him. She’s just so tired. Can they go home? He asks what Doc thinks, and Doc says he recommends keeping Sasha for observation. Brando asks, for how long? and Doc says, they could start with a 72 hour hold. Brando tells Sasha, Doc thinks she should stay at the hospital for now, but she says, no. She wants to go home. She’ll be better; she promises. Doc says, as her husband, Brando can authorize the hold, and Brando asks if Doc thinks she needs it. Doc says, he does. It’s the best first step to starting to heal. Maxie says, they can trust Doc; he’s the best there is. Does Brando really think it’s safe for Sasha to go home? Brando says, okay, and Doc says he’ll take Sasha to her room. An administrator will walk Brando through the paperwork. Sasha reaches for him, and says, no, don’t leave her. She wants to go home with him. She doesn’t want to be here. She wails, please, as Doc wheels her away.

Nina tells Sonny, Sasha was demonstrating a baby carrier. The carrier had a doll in it, and when Sasha looked down, she started talking to Liam. She insisted that her little boy had come back to her. Heartbreak is not strong enough a word. Sonny says he’ll call Brando, but she says, Brando was there; he came from behind the camera to help her. Nina talked to Maxie, and Sasha’s at GH right now. He says, that’s good; they’ll know what to do, right? She says she’s just grateful Brando is there to support Sasha. She knows what that grief is like, waking up and finding out that your baby is gone. And she felt that feeling again when she found out Nelle was her daughter, and it was too late to help her. She cries, and Sonny says, Nina didn’t have anybody to help her her grieve. It’s okay. She doesn’t have to be alone anymore. He’ll be there for her every step of the way. He holds her while she cries.

Drew puts his feet in the water, and Carly says, he wasn’t supposed to see that. He says, nothing wrong with a good cry. He would even venture to say it helps. She asks if he cries a lot, and he says, all the time; every chance he gets. She says she put so much of herself in the MetroCourt, it’s hard to say goodbye. He says, but she didn’t have to. He forgot his phone earlier, and when he came back for it… She says, he heard her talking to Sonny. He asks why she turned Sonny down, and she says, does he really have to ask that? He says he guesses he doesn’t, and she says, it’s her problem. It’s her responsibility, and she’s certainly not going to let Sonny bail her out. Drew says, it wouldn’t be a bailout; she’s entitled to those assets. She says she doesn’t want them. Not after what Sonny did at the hearing. He comforted Nina after her attorney attacked his own son. That’s not a man she knows, and certainly not a man she wants to be indebted to. She’ll figure something out… He thinks she’s an idiot, doesn’t he? He says, that is literally the last thing he thinks. Carly Corinthos may be down, but she’s never out. She says, some people might say the same thing about him. he raises his bottle and says, to her. She says, to us, rising again. He says, hear, hear, and they clink bottles.   

Brook asks Ned if she’s just supposed to just give up; Laura tells Anna, she’s got to start eliminating a clear and present danger; Gregory says, Alexis hasn’t seen his best yet; and Victor says he’s counting on Valentin.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Garcelle’s party is still going on, and Erika wants to know where her drink is, while Kyle horns in on… whatever is going on with Sutton and Diana. Kyle tells Sutton that she can’t say Diana is soulless; she just lost a baby. Like one of those things must cancel out the other. Sutton says she’s sorry Diana lost her baby. She understands because she’s lost two. Kyle says, she’s never heard that before, and Sutton says she had two miscarriages. It’s a personal thing. Kyle says, she loves Sutton, but that feels like bullsh*t. Sutton says, Kyle is being strange (as compared to what?), and Kyle says, Sutton’s not being honest. She lost two babies out of the blue? Sutton says she was trying to reach Diana on a human level. Does Kyle want her to have compassion or not? Diana says, Sutton called her soulless, and Sutton says she was reaching out to say she was sorry, and Diana blew her off. Diana says, I see you, like she’s some kind of wicked witch, and Sutton says she’s being real. Kyle literally grabs Sutton, and comes short of shaking her. My mouth literally falls open. Kyle tells Sutton not to talk to Diana like that, and Diana laughs. This is apparently a thing with Diana. She laughs to show her superiority, but IMO, it’s creepy. In Diana’s interview, she tells us, like the Americans say, Sutton has hit a new low. I tell her, the only new low here is this entire show and it’s only five minutes in. Sutton says, Kyle is saying she didn’t know about her miscarriages, and Kyle says – wait for it – Diana lost a baby. Sutton didn’t. Maybe years ago. We don’t know. WTF??? In Sutton’s interview, she says, Kyle is insinuating she’s lying. It’s breaking her heart, and disappointing her about the friendship. Sutton says, Diana was looking at her like she was the devil, and Diana says, is she? Sutton says she’s so sorry, and Diana says, it’s all good. It takes time to know people. In Diana’s interview, she says, with her understanding of human nature, she feel something is off with Sutton. Until she figures out what it is, it’s best not to poke her. She does that weird laughing thing, and says, it’s all good. Sutton hugs her, but she just makes a snoring noise and doesn’t hug back. In her interview, Diana says, a fake hug. Bleh. Kyle says she can’t with these two, and leaves. I can tell Diana, who has less understanding of human nature than she thinks, what’s off with Sutton. One, her father committed suicide, and this has affected her a lot more than she lets on, because two, she’s a Southern belle, and approaches things differently. The same way say, someone from another country like Bosnia might look at things differently. And three, probably the most important, these idiot women are making her a nervous wreck.

Kyle goes back to where the others are sitting, and says, Sutton and Diana are fighting. Garcelle asks if Sutton is crying, and Kyle says, always. Diana and Sutton both try to escape in different directions, but Crystal intercepts Diana, who insists she’s great, and jets. Sutton tells assistant Joshua, get the f***ing car. Erika calls Garcelle’s son Oliver over, and says he’s hot. Garcelle says, they’re going to eat him up, and Erika throws her leg in the air. Dorit says, Erika is trying to hit on Garcelle’s son, and Erika asks if he’s married. Dorit says, he has four children, and Erika suggests he have his baby momma contact her in her DMs. They can have a threesome. Alrighty then. She tells him, be a man, and sit down. He comes over to them, and she says she just wanted to bullsh*t with him. Garcelle says, let’s go, rounding up her crew, and in Garcelle’s interview, she says she gets it. Erika is letting her hair down and having a good time, but it doesn’t feel like it. It’s more like time to reassess her life. It doesn’t feel okay. Everyone is picking up the flowers, like they sometimes do at a reception, and Garcelle tells her son Jax to get them. He comes over to the table, and Erika tells him, get the f*** out of here. In Dorit’s interview, she says she knows Erika drunk and joking around, but Garcelle’s son is 14. Jax tells Garcelle that he just got violated (would Crystal agree?), and tells Garcelle what Erika said to him. Garcelle is like, she said what? but he says he’s okay. She tells him, hold on, and goes back to the table. She says Erika hurt her son’s feelings, and it’s not okay to talk to him like that. In her interview, Garcelle wonders how many of her family members Erika is going to go after tonight; first Oliver, now Jax. She’s done. She tells Jax, that’s not okay, and he says, it’s fine, but she says, it’s not fine.

Garcelle has two more shows of The Real left, and meets with her hair stylist Robear. He says, her birthday party was lit. Kyle was mopping the floor. We see a clip of Kyle doing the splits, and Garcelle says, it was so much fun. On the way home, Olivier said his brothers had aged years in one night. One corner was the good corner; then there was the Erika Jayne corner. Erika’s got to figure out her meds and cocktails. In Garcelle’s interview, she says, on the way home, she explained that Erika was drunk, and not paying attention to what she was saying. She’d like for Erika to apologize. She was wasted in Mexico, and wasted at Garcelle’s party, and Garcelle is sick of her. Robear says he loved seeing Erika lit, and Garcelle says, maybe he did…  

Crystal brings Dorit to a session with her self-defense trainer Rashad. In Crystal’s interview, she says she’s never been in a situation like Dorit, and Dorit is holding it together incredibly well, but trouble always catches up. She introduces Dorit to Rashad, and Dorit says, she’s a big believer in having the tools to defend herself. Rashad says he’s going to go through some simple self-defense moves, and they do some stretching first. Dorit tells Crystal that PK is leaving for London, and he was in London when the home invasion happened. Crystal says, it must be triggering, and Dorit says she has to get used to it. It’s still very raw, but for her kids, it’s a normal day. In her interview, Dorit says she doesn’t know if it makes any sense, but she can feel the trauma in her blood. Fear, anxiety, rage, hurt, and sadness. Rashad tells them to go for the eyes, and use their nails, but in her interview, Dorit says, even though she’s visualizing her attackers, she doesn’t think she’d hurt anyone. Rashad says, her inner strength is there.

Kyle and Sutton meet for dinner. I can tell you something else about Sutton; she’s more forgiving than I am. I’d be telling Kyle… take a hike. Sutton says her house is driving her insane. She hasn’t passed inspection yet. She will, but she’s waiting on a stove hood. Kyle says she wants to talk about the party, and Sutton says, Kyle came in halfway through a strange conversation she was having with Diana. Kyle asks how it was going, and Sutton says, not well, but it was just the two of them, and she wasn’t at the part she wanted to discuss with Diana. Kyle swooped in and was harsh with her. Kyle says, Sutton was talking about her miscarriages, and Sutton says, Kyle didn’t understand what they were talking about. She’d apologized first. Kyle says, she doesn’t think Sutton made it up, and Sutton says, and don’t push her. Kyle says, it was a knee-jerk reaction. She was just coming off some odd behavior on Sutton’s part, and she’d thought it was convenient timing. Sutton says, she was relating to Diana on a visceral level, and Kyle says she apologizes. Sutton tries to interject, but Kyle says she’s sorry she was insensitive; she’s apologizing. Sutton says, that means a lot to her. She’s a loyal friend. Kyle says, she doesn’t know, she’s seen moments, and Sutton says she told Diana that she was right. Kyle says, it’s hard to apologize to Sutton, since she doesn’t shut up, and Sutton tells Kyle to give her some love, hugging her. WTF? over and over.

The day before Thanksgiving. Kyle tells Mauricio that she needs to buy another small turkey, since Alex and his mom are coming. Their family is expanding. In Kyle’s interview, she says, Farrah and Alex had been dating a few years, and it was definitely time they got engaged. What are they waiting for? Kyle tells Mauricio that she’s going to make the top floor a playroom for the baby, but the baby will sleep with them. In her interview, she says, they were fortunate to have their grandmother living with them. She helped with transport when she and Kim had to be on film sets, and she grew up close with her grandmother. She’s not going to live with her grandchildren, but she wants a close relationship. She’s really going to be annoying. Is she kidding? She’s already annoying

We see some quick clips of everyone’s Thanksgiving. Garcelle and sons are dishing out Thanksgiving dinner at the Los Angeles Mission. Dorit’s father joins them for dinner, and Crystal also celebrates at home with her family. At Kyle’s, there’s also an anniversary for Kathy and Rick, and unaccountable Teddi is there.

LisaR visits Diana. It’s no surprise they’re friends since they’re both fake as hell. LisaR asks about Thanksgiving, and Diana says, it was Eli’s birthday. We see clips of that, and I have to admit, as much as I’m disliking Diana, that baby is very cute. She tells LisaR, when the party was over, she wanted everyone back, and in her interview, she says, Eli is a party animal. She loves ABBA, Dancing Queen in particular. Diana asks if LisaR hears the hummingbird; you hear them before seeing them. LisaR says, that’s Lois. She’s been invoking Lois a lot, even as an excuse to be nauseating (see below). She tells Diana that the holidays are hard. You don’t think about that when a death happens. Every day is different, and she’s processing differently every moment. She was in NYC for Harry’s show, but she only did it for him. She asks how Garcelle’s party was, and Diana laughs. She says, the party itself was good fun, but then Sutton caught her, and did her Sutton thing. She makes faces, and made one when she asked if Diana wasn’t on bedrest. In LisaR’s interview, she says, she knows that look. We flash back to Sutton saying she’d never something or other, and giving LisaR a pointed look. Diana says, Sutton called her soulless and a mother***er. If a foreigner literally translated that, it would seem stupid. Kyle was trying to tell Sutton that Diana had lost her baby, and Sutton said she’d had two miscarriages. It wasn’t like she was saying she understands, but like they were at a gambling table, and Sutton was raising her two miscarriages. LisaR says, narcissistic, and Diana says, Sutton is a grade up from that. In her interview, Diana says, how can someone behave like that and not understand they’re hurting others? It’s not empathetic. She tells LisaR that Sutton brings her down to her level. The next trip, they can go commercial. See? This is like a little I-have-lotsa-money dig, as well as obviously not knowing Sutton has enough money to get a PJ.

PK and Dorit go to Kyle and Mauricio’s for dinner. Kyle and Dorit discuss house décor, and Dorit says she wants to move, but Kyle says she doesn’t want Dorit to move, since they live close by. She was almost ready to move after the burglary, even though it wasn’t as bad as what happened to Dorit. We flash back to Kyle talking about it at the Reunion, and she tells Dorit, that she feels comfortable and happy now, and Dorit will too, in time. Dorit says, Kyle is the biggest reason she wants to stay, and in Dorit’s interview, she says she’s sure she’ll feel better eventually, but as for still feeling like she wants to move, she doesn’t know. Kyle tells them about Erika telling Jax to f*** off, and Mauricio thinks it’s great. He likes seeing Erika more relaxed. Dorit says, she agrees 100%. She gives Erika a major pass, but then again, it wasn’t her child. What’s wrong with these people??? Dorit says she doesn’t remember a time she saw Erika that loose. In Kyle’s interview, she says, the first few years, she wished Erika would loosen up. We flash back to a million years ago, when Kyle was questioning whether or not Erika was having fun. She says, clearly, Erika has been holding a lot in. Seeing this side, even if it’s not her best side, at least it’s genuine. PK says, Erika is entitled to a blow up.  

Sutton gets ready for her party, and in her interview, she says she thought it would be fun to have everyone over to see her new house, even though it’s not anywhere near done. It’s been two years and a lot of money, and she’s proud of what she’s doing. Garcelle’s friend Sheree (not that one) meet before the party at Garcelle’s house, and Garcelle asks if Sheree is ready for a luncheon with the ladies. Sheree says, as much as she can be, and in Garcelle’s interview, she says she’s known Sheree for so long, it’s easy. They have a great time, and there’s no judgement, although Sheree will call you out if she needs to. She tells Sheree that Erika was crushing on Oliver, and talking threesomes, She asked Jax to pick up some flowers, and Erika told him to f*** off. She told Erika that she can’t talk to her son like that, but she wants to discuss it when Erika is sober and can hear her. It’s happening today. Sheree asks how old Jax is, and Garcelle says, he just turned 14. Sheree is like, oh no, and in her interview, Garcelle says, Erika was drunk, but it’s not an excuse. She doesn’t know if Erika is used to talking to people like that, but Erika’s not talking to her kid like that.

Sutton says, her yard is a mucky mess, and in her interview, she says, contrary to popular belief, it does rain in southern California. She’s trying embrace that not everything has to be perfect, but why does it have to rain on her party? Joshua says, someone’s here, and she says, let the fun begin. LisaR says she’s always the first one, and tells Sutton that her house has great energy. She loves the vibe. The others trickle in, and we get a semi-tour of Sutton’s house, which has Christmas decorations up, and of course everything is beautiful. Property manager Avi plays waiter, and Garcelle postpones having alcohol, saying, she wants to be clear before she talks to Erika. In Erika’s interview, she says she’s not worried about Sutton’s house; she’s worried about the Haitian mom she offended. We see a clip of Erika and Crystal on a hike, and Erika telling Crystal that she was sh*t talking, and treating the teenagers like adults, but Jax is 16, and no baby. Crystal says, he’s 14, and Erika says, that’s a new perspective. Back at Sutton’s party, Sutton is explaining her house was built in 1930. Erika arrives, and everyone is loving her leopard coat. I don’t think it’s real leopard, but who knows? Erika says, they’ll have to fight her for it. Erika says she’s only having one drink; one and done. In Garcelle’s interview, she says, they’ve all had many a drink. How you behave is really who you are. Erika sidles up, and Garcelle asks if they’re waiting for Kyle; Diana is sick and not coming. Sutton gives them the kitchen tour, where they have caviar and oysters, and I’m jealous. Kyle arrives last, and they head outside for lunch, Sutton apologizing for the muck. LisaR makes a huge fuss about her ridiculously expensive shoes, and Kyle tells Joshua, it’s like a swamp. In LisaR’s interview, she says, it’s a symbol for Sutton. A beautiful table that gorgeously set, sitting in the muck; that’s Sutton.

LisaR asks Joshua for flip-flops. They’re dealing with a swamp, and she doesn’t want to ruin her shoes. Joshua passes out heel covers and flip-flops to those who want them, but Kyle says she’ll walk on toes. In her interview, she says, she’s not about change into flip-flops with her look. She’ll deal with the mud later. LisaR calls to Joshua that she might need a coat with the flip-flops; something chic. Joshua brings out an armful of furs, and in Garcelle’s interview, she says, that’s luxury. You get a fur coat, and you get a fur coat, a la Oprah. LisaR asks how Dorit has been, and Dorit says, there have been certain challenges can’t seem to overcome. She can’t drive. Garcelle asks how Dorit correlates that, and Dorit says she can’t be alone. She used to value her alone time in the car, but she’s not comfortable. In Dorit’s interview, she says, you know when you’re not in control of your own emotions, and when you’re vulnerable like that, you don’t put yourself in situations where you can hurt yourself or someone else. Dorit says she hasn’t taken her kids to the park, and won’t let them go. Sheree says, it’s a small moment in time, but worth it to take care of herself. In her interview, Dorit says, she hopes this mama bear can continue to allow her kids to live normal lives, despite what mom went through. Garcelle asks if Sutton knew Diana wasn’t coming, and Sutton says, no. LisaR says she spoke with Diana, and we see a clip of Diana telling LisaR, it’s one thing when your doctor tells you bedrest, but another when your body tells you to lie down. Garcelle says she calls that rude not to tell the hostess you’re not coming, and Kyle says she texted that she’d be late. Gold star for her. Sutton says she appreciated that. She doesn’t like passive/aggressive behavior. LisaR asks if that’s not the pot calling the kettle black, and Sutton says she doesn’t act passive/aggressively. LisaR asks if she called Diana a motherf***er and soulless.  

Yep, new low.

Next time, a $9800 pair of sneakers; Garcelle says, Erika’s drinking is becoming a lot; Sutton explains the conversation with Diana, and LisaR says, Diana didn’t get the same takeaway; and Sutton meets with Diana.  

👠 Can’t Help Herself…

Then after the apology that was nothing but an excuse, she called the naysayers hoes. Is this really how she’d like Lois to live on?

https://people.com/tv/lisa-rinna-says-grief-over-mom-lois-death-caused-online-rants/

🤸🏽‍♀️ While the Gettin’s Good…

Come by tomorrow for soap and some Charmers. Until then, stay safe, stay never saying it’s not that bad to anyone, and stay remembering that buildings and property mean nothing without the people in them.

June 24, 2022 – The Shareholders Vote, Stopping By, Ultimate Ex, Grand Slam, Confirmation, Sorry Diana, Kim Spills, Shah Spin, Who’s That Lady, New West, Confirmation, Nearly Nine Quotes & Radio

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

At the hospital, Brad holds out a bag to Britt, saying, croissants from Eckerd’s. She says, almond or chocolate? and he says, one of each. Whichever one she doesn’t want, he’ll take. She snatches the bag from him, and he says, or she can have them both. So is he forgiven… even a little bit? She says she knows he didn’t intentionally set out to make an ass of her, and he says, never. She says, fine. She forgives him. He says, and he promises to never, ever… wait a second. That was way too easy. She says she has ulterior motives, and he says, great. By all means, use him. What does he have to do? She says, all he has to do is listen. She has a little mystery she’s dying to talk to someone about. He says he’s dying; spill. She says, the parachute guy? and he says, Cody. She says, whatever. She found him in an alley the other night; someone had beat the spit out of him. Brad asks if he said who, but she says, no. She’s been going through possible scenarios, and… He says, she can stop. He knows exactly what happened.

Cody sees Dante having breakfast at Kelly’s, and asks why Dante didn’t invite him. Dante asks why Cody is talking about. Cody spent the day on the couch, barely forming any words. Why would Dante think today would be any different? Cody says, it would be nice to be invited, and Dante asks if Cody is sure he should be up and about. Cody says, it’s hard to leave town if he’s just going to be laying on Dante’s couch the whole time, and Dante says, so he’s feeling better? Cody says, stellar, and Dante says, excellent. Maybe now Cody can answer some questions he’s been avoiding.

Linc sits in Jordan’s office, and says he’s honored the Commissioner herself wants to speak with him. She says, any incident involving a civilian and one of her officers warrants her attention. She understands he’s pressing charges against Detective Chase. Linc says, he’s got a mean right hook, that one. He was under the impression Chase is already on suspension for punching a guy, just like Chase did to him. Jordan says, that’s correct, and he says, obviously, the detective hasn’t learned his lesson.

Outside Kelly’s, Brook asks when Chase is meeting with the Commissioner, and he says he’s just waiting for a call. Just like he was five minutes ago. She says she’s sorry, and he says, that’s okay. She says, he’s going to be okay, right? Especially since he’s still on suspension, it’s not like the Commissioner can punish him, right? He says, it doesn’t work that way, and she says, so he’s had two strikes, so to speak? He says, yeah, and she asks if he gets a third strike. Or is he already out?

Olivia and Carly sit by the pool, and Carly looks through a binder, saying, they have a full house. Between wedding receptions, seminars, and conventions, they’re booked through the fall. Business is good. Olivia says, meanwhile, her hair is falling out by the fistful, and Carly asks what she’s talking about. She’s handled busy seasons before; what makes this time any different? Olivia tells her, let’s just say, the energy at the crazy house is up to eleven this morning. With the ELQ shareholder meeting this morning, everyone is just wired. She’ll be so happy when this whole thing is over. Drew and Michael have bent over backwards to get Valentin out of ELQ finally, once and for all. Carly says she thinks it’s exciting, and Olivia says, she must be so proud of Michael for pulling this off. Carly says, she is, but she has a personal stake in this as well. They see a casually dressed Valentin come in and set up a chaise lounge. Martin walks in, and asks Valentin if they’re here for a morning business meeting or some poolside R & R? Valentin says, maybe a little bit of both. How’s the day going? Martin says his day is going just fine so far; how about Valentin’s? Is he ready for his day of reckoning?

Michael asks if Willow wants coffee, but she says, no thanks. Is he sure he needs one? He’s literally bouncing. He says, it seems like he’s been waiting for the shareholder’s meeting forever. He can’t wait to see Valentin ousted as CEO. She yawns, and he says, not everybody is as excited about the family business. She says, sorry. Wiley had her up early this morning. Michael says he didn’t hear Wiley, and Willow says, that’s because their son knows she’s a light touch, and she’ll get up to make him pancakes, even if it’s at the crack of dawn. Drew comes in, saying, good morning. It’s a beautiful day. Michael says, it certainly is, and gives Drew a cup of coffee. He says, to today, and Drew says, the day everything changes.

Britt leads Brad into her office, and says, is this better? He says he doesn’t mean to seem paranoid, but she says, that’s fine. You never know what judgy eavesdropper is lurking in the halls. Now tell her, how does he know what happened to parachute boy? He says, Cody, and she says, whatever. Who beat him up, and why? Brad says, he really only knows some of it, and she says, and that would be…? He says, Cody was at his Aunt Selina’s poker game, and she says, of course (🍷) he was. Let her guess. He made bets he couldn’t cover, and now… Brad says, Cody won big, and his aunt was furious. She asks if he’s saying his aunt ordered Cody’s beating.

Cody says he’s an open book. If Dante has questions, fire away. Dante says, how about if they start with how Cody ended up on his doorstep, beat up, with Britt Westbourne? Cody says he saw a way to make some fast cash, and it didn’t exactly work out. Dante says, so Cody still plays cards, and Cody says he’s better than he was when they were in summer camp. He had an off night. Dante asks if Cody knows who did this to him, and Cody says, they didn’t exactly introduce themselves. Dante asks if Cody can identify them, and Cody says he’d love to. Dante suggests Cody come down to the station, and they’ll get some photos out, but Cody says, it was really dark. Dante wonders how he knew Cody was going to say that, and Cody says, Dante is an excellent detective, clearly. Dante asks if Cody thinks they’re still after him, and Cody says, maybe. He’s not going to stick around and find out. Dante asks if they let Cody keep any of his winnings, and Cody says, they did. Dante asks, how much? and Cody says, fifty dollars. Dante takes out his wallet, and says he’ll spot Cody some cash until he gets back on his feet, but Cody asks if they didn’t already have this conversation. He’s not letting Dante pay his way. Dante asks if Cody wants to get his ass kicked again, and Cody says, yes, he would, taking a piece of bacon from Dante’s plate. Dante says, stubborn idiot, and Cody suggests that’s why they get along so well. He laughs, then grabs his side, and Dante says, they worked him over pretty good. Cody says, Doc Westbourne said he should be fine, and Dante says he still can’t believe Britt stopped to help Cody. Cody asks if that isn’t what doctors do, and Dante says, typically, yes, but Britt usually does whatever’s best for Britt. Cody says, it sounds like there’s some history there, and Dante says, there is, and none of it good.

Drew says, the market has already reacted to the potential merger; Aurora’s stock just keeps going up. Their first priority should be to talk to the VPs, and confirm the merger. Just get everybody up to speed. Ned walks in, and Willow tells him, good morning. He says, good morning, all. He sees the two of them are already making plans, and Michael says, they are. In fact, now is a perfect time to loop Ned in. Lucy joins them, and says, Quartermaines; what a sight to behold. Michael says, it’s good to see her too, and Drew thanks her for coming. She says, it’s her pleasure. She always loves revisiting the Quartermaine manse; she loved living here. And it’s so lovely to see all the heads of the family together. Look at them. My how times have changed.

Valentin tells Martin, they’ll be a reckoning all right. He just doesn’t think it will take all day. Martin sits down, and says, Valentin looks really calm. Does this mean he’s heard from Ned?

Olivia asks Carly, what’s Valentin doing? The meeting is in less than an hour, and he’s lounging by the pool. Carly says, he’s bluffing, to give the impression he knows the vote is going his way. Olivia says, he looks pretty convincing; like he knows something they don’t.

Chase tells Brook, cops don’t usually get a third strike when it comes to altercations with civilians, and she says, he could be fired? He says, maybe. He’d probably fire him. She say, absolutely not. How can a good guy like Chase get in trouble for slugging a sleaze like… She gets up, and says, maybe not. He says he knows that face; that is her plotting face. she says, this is the face that’s going to fix everything. Problem solved. She knows exactly what to do. She starts to leave, but he grabs her arm, and says, whoa. What? She says she can’t tell him because he’ll try to stop her. He says, only if it’s a bad plan, and she says, just trust her this time, but he says, tell him. And then he can poke holes in it. She says, another reason she can’t tell him, and he says, but if he pokes holes in it, she’ll know where the flaws are, and she can cover them up, and exonerate him in the process. She says, all right; here it is. She goes to the PCPD and amends her original statement. She’ll make sure all of his colleagues know he saved her from a violent criminal. He says he can’t let her lie to the police for him, but she says she’s not lying. It’s just that now that the initial shock is wearing off, she realized that her original statement didn’t covey how terrified she really was when Linc attacked her. He says, terrified? Really? She says, if she’s lying, she’s dying, and he says, but to him, and presumably Rory, she just seemed mad. She says, which is how she copes with extreme fear. She puts on a façade of extreme rage. The bottom line is, if Chase hadn’t stepped in to save her, she could have been abducted by Linc. He says, Brook Lynn… and she says, okay, abducted is a strong word, but the point is, it was Chase’s civic duty to defend her from a predator. Case closed.

Jordan says, throwing a punch in a club doesn’t usually rate criminal prosecution, and Linc says, it’s still battery though, isn’t it? She says, it is, and he says, and shouldn’t police be held to a higher standard? She says, of course (🍷). She doesn’t condone what Detective Chase did, but she’s also not convinced it’s worth pressing charges. He says, why not, may he ask? and she says, judges are cracking down on nuisance lawsuits. He won’t be doing himself any favors if the court feels he’s wasting its time. He says he only wants to see justice be served. So if he drops the charges, what are his options?

Cody says, how is this even possible? and Dante says, Britt is a fertility expert, and her mother is a scientist. So they stole his and Lulu’s embryo, and implanted it. Cody says, then she carried the baby, Dante’s baby – Dante says, Rocco – to term. Then tried to pass the kid off as her own child. Dante says, mm-hmm, and Cody says, how is she still a doctor? Dante says he doesn’t know, but she had her license taken away when she went to prison, and when she got out, they gave it back to her. Cody says, prison? He thought Britt was this morally upstanding outraged citizen. Dante laughs, and says, the only person who would probably think that’s funnier than him is Britt. Britt’s been involved with some shady stuff, and that’s not even talking about her being on the run with her father. Cody says, back it up. On the run like a fugitive from justice? Okay, who’s her father? Dante asks if Cesar Faison rings a bell, and Cody says, Britt’s father is Cesar Faison? Dante says, was. He died about four years ago. Cody says, it’s a lot to take in; the whole embryo stealing thing, and to top it off, she’s Faison’s daughter. Dante says, it kind of explains things, doesn’t it? He tells Cody that he has to go, and Cody says he’ll come with Dante. He starts to get up, and sits back down, saying, that hurt. Dante asks if he’s sure he’s all right, and Cody says, Britt told him these are just ribs that are bruised, but he’s wondering. Dante says, they’re going to GH, but Cody says, Dante knows he doesn’t like hospitals. On second thought, yeah. The hospital sounds like a great idea.

Britt says, if Aunt Selina had Cody beaten up over a poker game, what will she do to Brad if he screws up? Brad says, the beating wasn’t her doing, and Britt says, she didn’t think Selina did it herself. Then again, what does she know? He says, she just had Cody thrown out of the game, but he’s totally fine. She says, right, and he says, now that he’s solved the Cody mystery, maybe she can answer a question for him. What was that look between Britt and her mother? The look that passed between them right before Obrecht kicked him out of Britt’s room. Clearly he said something that upset her, but he has no idea what. Does it have anything to do with what’s been bothering her? Britt says, yes.

Valentin says he hasn’t spoken to Ned, and Martin asks how Valentin can be sure Ned will throw over his family, and vote with him. Valentin says, because if he remains CEO, Ned maintains a shot at keeping some influence, so Ned will vote to keep him. Martin says, far be it from him to question a sure thing, but as long as they’re on the subject of family, he has an important update on Valentin’s. Valentin says, the Cassadines? and Martin says, as far as he knows, that’s the only family Valentin has.

Carly tells Olivia to stop staring, but Olivia says, don’t interrupt her; she’s in the middle of a curse. Carly tells her not to let Valentin get in her head. Drew, Michael, and Ned know what’s at stake. They’re all going to come together and oppose Valentin. Everyone’s doing their part, including her. Olivia asks, what’s going on? This is the second time Carly mentioned herself. Carly says, she didn’t have a chance to tell Olivia. The merger isn’t just going to be good for ELQ; it’s going to be good for her. She’s now a major shareholder in Aurora.

Ned gives Lucy some coffee, and she thanks him. She says she takes this to mean that Valentin is on his way out, and Ned says, yes. If they all vote against him, there’s absolutely nothing he can do. She says, from her perspective, she thinks the Quartermaines owe Valentin a great big huge thank you, and Ned chokes on his coffee.

Drew tells Michael, he knows this family loves him as much as he loves them, but he and Sam created Aurora to have something of their own. The merger between ELQ and Aurora kind of feels like two separate parts of himself coming together. Michael says he gets it. It’s like a union of sorts, between Drew’s past and the present he fought to get back to. And now there is no escape. Settle in, because he’s not going anywhere.

Brad says he’s been waiting for Britt to open up about this, whatever it is, and she says she knows. She just hasn’t been ready to talk about it; not a lot of people know. He says, not a lot of people know, and one of them isn’t him. It must be pretty heavy. What’s going on? Britt’s phone rings, and she tells them, she’ll be right there. She tells Brad that she has to go, and he says, come on, but she says, she has a patient, and this isn’t a conversation she wants to rush, and she leaves.

Valentin sits up, and says, what does Martin know about the Cassadines? Martin tells him, relax; it’s a good thing. Valentin says, let him be the judge of that, and Martin says, Valentine’s Victor problem will soon be over. His sister thought of a brilliant, but simple way of getting rid of him. She’s pulling strings to have Victor deported. Valentin asks if that isn’t a little outside of her reach, but Martin says, not at all. Laura is both well-connected and determined, and it makes perfect sense. Victor has a criminal record that goes back decades, which is ample reason to deport him for – wait for it – moral turpitude. Valentin’s phone beeps, and he says he has to go. The Quartermaines await. He jets, going past Carly and Olivia’s table. Olivia says, Aurora’s stock price is climbing, and Carly says, on the rumors of a merger. Once the merger is officially announced, they’re going to skyrocket. Olivia says, and the Q’s will once again be in charge of ELQ. She has to say, Drew’s idea to merge companies was brilliant. Carly says, which is why she sold her half of the MetroCourt to raise the capital to help Michael and Drew, and Olivia says, I’m sorry. You did what now?

Lucy asks if Ned is okay, and he says, he’s fine, but what in God’s name would this family possibly have to thank Valentin for? She says, ELQ has thrived under Valentin’s… tenure. Not to mention the fact, he’s united them together against a common foe. Ned says, yes, and that unity deserves to be fought for and protected. She says, the Quartermaines are nothing if not excellent fighters. Just think what they could do if they all worked together for once.

Willow tells Michael that she’s going to check on Wiley, and she’ll be right back. She starts to go upstairs, but has to stop and sit down.

Britt comes out of the elevator, and Cody says, Dr. Westbourne. She says, oh God, you? and he says, there’s that bedside manner she must be famous for. She says, all the doctors in this hospital, and he asks for her? and he says, she’s the one most familiar with his case. She says, he has bruised ribs. It’s not like he’s a case study the medical world is going to marvel at. He says, turns out he might be more banged up than she thought, and she says, the ER is right down the hall. She’ll call an orderly to wheel him over. He says, come on. Can’t she just check him out? She says, she’s an OB/GYN, and he says he’s heard. She says she’s sure he has, and looks at Dante. He says, here’s the problem. As he told her the other night when she was kindly taking him to her car, a trip to the ER isn’t in the budget right now. She says, right, and he doesn’t have insurance, and whoever beat him up, took his money. She can’t treat him off the books. Dante says he’ll cover Cody’s bill. They can’t put him on a bus out of here if he’s got broken ribs, right? She says, he’s leaving town? and he says, that’s the plan. She says, right this way, and leads him to an exam room, as Brad watches.

Chase says he can’t let Brook lie to the police, and she says, it’s a valid interpretation of the events of that night, but he says, it’s not. She asks, who’s going to contradict her? and he says, a club full of witnesses? She says, please. A bunch of hipsters who were three sheets to the wind? She’s not worried; it will totally work. He takes her hands, and thanks her. It means the world that she would do this for him. She says, he pretended to be Bailey’s dad; it’s the least she can do. He says, the bottom line is, he got himself into this mess, and he’s ready to face whatever happens next. His phone rings, and he says, he’ll be right there. He tells Brook, it was Jordan’s assistant. The Commissioner is ready to see him.

Lucy tells Ned, the Quartermaines united to run ELQ. That would be so incredibly formidable. That’s never going to happen though. He asks what she means, and she says, when Valentin leaves, all that infighting that Edward so successfully cultivated, is going to resurface, which is really a shame. Her phone rings, and she tells Ned that she has to take it. He says, of course (🍷), and she steps away. She pauses, seeing Willow on the stairs, but Willow continues on up. Lucy says, okay; she’s alone. Martin says, now she knows how he feels. He missed waking up to her this morning. She says she misses him too, so much, but with this slot coming up on the Home and Heart Shopping Channel, she has so much work to do for Deception, and she had to come to the shareholders meeting, which is going to be a total waste of time. Martin says, you never know, but she says, Michael, Drew, and Ned are all united on this crazy Valentin front. She doesn’t get to vote unless there’s a tie, which there’s not going to be, which means she’ll just sit around, twiddling her thumbs. She’s going to feel totally superfluous. He says, that is nonsense. She’s definitely the center of his world. She thanks him, and tells him that he says the sweetest things. He says, she’s more important than she knows. Far more.  

Carly tells Olivia that she sold her half of the MetroCourt to Stillwater Venture Group to get the money to help Michael and Drew. Olivia says, so now she’s partners with Stillwater Venture Group? but Carly says, no. She would never do that to Olivia. She has 30 days to buy back her half of the hotel. The price has already been set, and she’s going to have more than enough money. Aurora’s stock is gaining value by the hour. Olivia says, sounds risky, but Carly says, no way. She has faith in Drew, and she’ll always bet on Michael.

Brook goes into Kelly’s to get a refill on her coffee, when Linc walks in. She wonders if they don’t make an ointment to get rid him, and he says he doesn’t like the tension between them. She says, this isn’t tension; this is hatred. He says he sold another one of her songs, and she asks, which one? He says, Morning Rain, and she says she wrote that when her cousin died. He says, that’s very touching. Sof-T paper towels thinks it’s perfect for their new commercial. She says, her song is going to be used in a paper towel commercial? and he says, a national paper towel commercial. So when anyone in the entire country hears it, they’ll think absorbent. He’ll be making a nice chunk of change from it too. He bets if she tried, she could come up with some catchy jingles. Then they could make money together. She says, she’d rather never write another song… Does he really want to work with her again? He says, he does. Why? She says, fine. She’ll do it, if he recants his accusation against Chase.

Chase goes to Jordan’s office, and she tells him to close the door and have a seat. She hopes he realizes how disappointed she is to find him in this position again, and so close to the end of his suspension. He says he’s sorry; he acted in haste. He was provoked, but it’s still no excuse. She says, if there’s no excuse, why say he was provoked? and he says, accuracy. Of course (🍷) now that he’s facing assault charges, she can’t bring him back to the force. She says she spoke with Linc, and he’s agreed to drop the criminal charges. Chase won’t be facing prison time. He thanks her for going to bat for him, but she tells him, he can save his thanks. Linc still wants him to lose his job.

Dante says he hears Brad is working for his Aunt Selina now. What is he doing for her? Brad says, this and that; entry level stuff. Errands and whatnot. It’s super boring. Dante says, Brad has no idea what he’s getting himself into, does he?

Britt walks into the exam room, and sees a shirtless, bruised Cody. She says, colorful, and he asks if it’s okay that it hurts to breathe. She says, that would be a sign a rib punctured his lung, and he says, it doesn’t hurt that bad. She puts on gloves, and says, we shall see. She puts the stethoscope on his back, and tells him to breathe. She listens, and he says, it hurts. She says she should send him for an x-ray, but he says, if she just wraps him up, he’ll be fine. She says, a moment ago, it hurt to breathe, and now he’s fine? He says, she must have the healing touch.

Drew says, they’re all set. The proxies are here; they’re good to go. Willow comes in, and Michael asks if everything is all right. She says, Wiley is fine, and he says, what about her? Is she okay? Before she can answer, Ned walks in with another man, and says he thinks they all know Pascal. Pascal shakes Drew’s hand, saying, they spoke several times on the phone; it’s a pleasure to meet him in person. Drew says, it’s good to be seen, and Pascal says hello to Michael. Michael says, they’re just waiting for… There he is. Valentin walks in, and tells them, what say they begin? He doesn’t think it will take too long. Michael says, it certainly will not.

Britt finishes wrapping Cody, and he says, he and Dante were talking about her earlier. She says she’s sure Dante had a lot to say, and he says, Dante’s definitely not a fan. To him, it sounds like she got a raw deal. She asks how he figures that, and he says, her mom and dad weren’t the easiest role models to live up to. She says he can get dressed, and he says, he just meant, it must be hard to live up to her dad’s legacy. She says, meaning what?

Linc says, let him get this straight. He drops the assault charges, and Brook will write songs for him again. Brook says, no charges, no civil suit, no complaints or demand for an apology. No comment to any reporter that Chase attacked him. This never happened. He goes to the DA and the Commissioner, and tells them that he lied. He makes this go away forever, and she’s all his. He says, it’s a tempting offer, but no deal. All he cares about is that her detective friend loses his job for good. But look on the bright side of things. He’s come around to her way of thinking. Some things truly are priceless. He gets his takeout order, and leaves.

Cody tells Britt, he just means, it must be tough to live down Faison’s reputation. He was one of the WSB’s most wanted, wasn’t he? She says, continue with the ice packs. If the pain persists for more than two days, see a doctor. Have a nice trip. He asks, what just happened here? and she tells him, Dante said he was getting on a bus. Bon voyage. She walks out.

Jordan tells Chase that Linc is filing a complaint with the Civilian Review Board. As he knows, the outcome of the Board’s investigation could be censure, or even dismissal. He says he knows he was in the wrong. In the heat of the moment… She says, this wasn’t a life threatening situation. No one was in eminent danger, except Mr. Brown. Once again Chase has proved he can’t keep his head in a situation, especially when Brook is involved. So answer her this. Why shouldn’t she fire him right now?

Carly tells Olivia that she’s planning a deluxe family vacation in a few months. She feels like they deserve it. So, should they go to the beach or some foreign city? Olivia says, that depends on who all is going, and Carly says, her and Donna of course (🍷). She’s hoping Michael, Willow, and Wiley, and she was going to ask Ava if she could take Avery. Olivia says she wouldn’t hold her breath on a yes for that question, and Carly says, she and Ava… Olivia says, hate each other, and Carly says, but they will move heaven and earth for Avery, so maybe there’s a possibility. Olivia says, listen to the optimist, and Carly says, after the year she’s had, things are finally going her way.

Valentin says, as CEO, he’s calling this meeting to order. Everyone sits down, and he says, any new business? Drew makes a motion to remove Valentin as CEO of ELQ, and Michael seconds it. Valentin asks if anyone wants to make a statement supporting his removal, but Michael says, he thinks they should just get this over with. Valentin says he’ll take that as a no, but he wants to make a statement on his own behalf. ELQ has grown significantly during his time as CEO. It’s no secret, the rumored merger between Aurora and ELQ, but it’s also no secret it has nothing to do with the strength of their company, and everything to do with making Drew a majority shareholder. And that’s a dangerous reason to make this decision. Anyone else want to say something? No one does, and Valentin says, then he’ll entertain a motion to put this to a vote. Ned says, so moved, and Drew says, seconded. Valentin says, then they’ll vote on the motion, and turns the procedure over to their chief counsel Pascal. Pascal says, a motion to remove Valentin as Chair. Before they get to those present, are there shareholders represented by proxy? Drew says, there are, and hands the proxies to Pascal, saying, these are the family members who couldn’t attend in person, authorizing him to vote on their behalf. Pascal asks how they vote, and Drew says, they all vote yes on the motion. Pascal says, very well. Then to those present. Chairman Cassadine? Valentin votes no, and Pascal says, Mr. Drew Cain. Drew says, yes, and Pascal says, Mr. Michael Corinthos III. Michael says, yes, and Pascal says, Mr. Ned Quartermaine.

Britt comes out, and says, Brad is still here? Brad says, they weren’t done, and she says, about that… He says, it’s okay. He knows now is not the right time for whatever this conversation is, and she thanks him. He says he does want her to know he’s here for her. Whatever’s going on, she can count on him. They hug, and she says she knows, but she had a chance to think about it, and she’s fine. If anything changes, she’ll let him know, but for now, he should focus on his fabulous new job. Brad looks like he’s not really buying this.

Brook waits for Chase outside of Jordan’s office. He comes out looking grim.  

Cody comes out and tells Dante, bad news. Dante says, broken ribs? and Cody says, just badly bruised, but the doc ordered him to take it easy, so no hours on a bus right now. Dante says, so he’s sticking around? and Cody says, if that’s okay. Dante gives him a key, and says, he’s got to go, but he’ll call Cody a Ride Share. Cody says, he’ll take the bus. It’s just a ten minute ride to Dante’s; he thinks he can gut it out. Dante says he’s in awe of Cody’s courage. Seriously, he’s happy Cody is sticking around. he leaves, and Cody thanks Britt for the TLC. She says, he’d better hurry. She doesn’t want him to miss his bus again. He says he is taking a bus, but it’s local, to Dante’s. She says she doesn’t care where he’s going, as long as he leaves her hospital. He says he found a reason to stick around Port Charles, so see her around, and leaves.

Olivia says, Carly is going to be sitting pretty when this merger goes through. Her whole life is going to be a vacation. Carly says she’d be bored in a month, maybe two, and Olivia says, maybe a business trip. World domination. Carly says, Olivia is right. She’s going to build a hotel empire. The MetroCourt will become an international brand. They clink mimosa glasses.

Pascal reminds Ned that the motion on the floor is to remove Valentin as CEO of ELQ. Does he vote yes or no? They wait, and Ned finally says he votes no. Pascal says, very well. Between Mr. Corinthos, Mr. Cain, and the proxy votes voting yay, and Mr. Cassadine and Mr. Quartermaine voting nay, we have a 50/50 split. Michael tells Ned, what the hell? It was his idea. He’s the one who started this. He wanted to force Valentin out. Valentin says, the meeting will come to order. They have not finished voting. Pascal says, Miss Coe, as bequeathed by your late ex-husband, Alan Quartermaine, you have the tie-breaking vote. Lucy laughs, and says, would you look at that. The last time she had a vote, she felt a wee bit of pressure, but this time, she gets to vote her conscience. She votes a no-no. Pascal says, the motion fails. Valentin Cassadine remains the Chief Executive Officer of ELQ. Valentin says, excellent, and thanks Pascal for his time and service. Pascal says, always a pleasure,  and leaves. Valentin says, on to the next order of business, namely the rumored merger between Aurora Media and ElQ. It is not happening.

On Monday, Brook says she’ll do whatever it takes to get Chase out of it; Valentin asks for a show of hands; Carly says, her family’s future is brighter than ever; and Brando asks Sonny if he’s sure someone got the message.

🏥 Touching Down…

Soon to be visiting Port Charles. I love Morgan Fairchild.

And I actually remember Susan Batten from OLTL.

🏰 Ultimately Nice…

Sometimes it’s hard to tell whether Dorinda actually works for Bravo, or she just works for Bravo in her mind.

https://ew.com/tv/dorinda-medley-the-real-housewives-ultimate-girls-trip-ex-wives-club/

💎 Yet Another Apology…

All of them should just have I’m Sorry tattooed on their foreheads. On another topic, I can totally see the resemblance in Diana’s photos. I don’t think she’s had any serious work done.

🐇 Let’s Talk About the Husband…

If I spring for that book, there had better be something.

The Beard speaks.

🥼 Thirsty As Ever…

What is up with Kyle? Even the stuff she makes up is boring.

💰 News On Sunset…

Yes! I would love a spin-off with these three.

I see they’re on Trevor Noah’s page of counsel not cancel.

🕶 Excuse Me, Miss…

How funny.

https://ew.com/tv/leslie-jordan-thought-lady-gaga-extra-american-horror-story-roanoke/

In other Gaga news, I love how they have room for everyone. They just make it another universe.

https://ew.com/movies/lady-gaga-harley-quinn-joker-2-joaquin-phoenix/

🐎 Difference In the West…

Returning on June 26th.

https://ew.com/tv/evan-rachel-wood-playing-different-character-westworld-season-4/

🐉 Write Faster, George…

I love that he’s involved with the spin-offs, but I wish he’d speed it up finishing that last GoT book.

https://ew.com/tv/george-rr-martin-confirms-game-of-thrones-sequel-jon-snow-kit-harington/

👄 Quotes of the Week

Each of us must decide whether it is more important to be proved right or to provoke righteousness. – Bernice King

Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. – Ovid

No matter how wonderful things used to be, we cannot live in the past. The joy and excitement we feel here and now are more important. – Marie Kondo

You can’t get rich in politics unless you’re a crook. – Harry Truman

Those are my principles, and if you don’t like them… well, I have others. – Groucho Marx

As I get older, I am becoming more selective of who I consider a friend. I find that I would rather have 4 quarters then 100 pennies. – Steve Maraboli

The border to eternity is never ahead of us. It runs parallel to life and can be crossed over at any moment by old and young. – Reinhard Bonnke

It takes two to tango, and he doesn’t want to dance. – Dr. Phil

👠 Don’t Be a Drag, Just Be a Queen…

Give your all to the next two days, and when you’re done, come by for some soap and a Deck Reunion. I almost wrote D*ck, which might actually be more accurate. Until then, stay safe, stay expanding your vocabulary, and stay knowing, no matter how well you plan, the motion still might fail.

May 27, 2022 – The Hearing Concludes, Claudia, Temp Brando, Bye Chet, Is It On, Kyle Fills Us In, Staging Harry, NJ Changes, Moving, Evil Randall, Deserved, 80s Best, 7 Whole Quotes & Rock

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Scotty asks Michael, cat got your tongue? and Judge Foster tells him to just repeat the question. Scotty asks, what happened between Michael and Claudia Zacchara? (see below if you don’t know/remember) and Michael says, Claudia abducted his mother. Scotty says, Michael didn’t like Claudia much, did he? So what was it like to kill her?

Trina says, Rory’s career is just getting started. She’s not going to let him risk that for her. He says, okay, if she insists on making it all about him, and she says, that being said, she appreciates that he offered. He says, there’s no risk in him checking out a few paintings while he’s here, is there? They look at a painting as Spencer walks in, and Rory says he never paid much attention to art before. He thought of The Chuck as a good spot to eat his lunch, but then he stated looking – really looking… They realize Spencer is behind them, and Spencer says, is this not a good time?

Nikolas asks when Victor got back, and Victor says, his favorite nephew. He’s missed Nikolas. Nikolas says he wishes he could say the same. Whatever the two of them are discussing, it’s going to have to wait. He needs to speak to his wife alone. Victor asks if that’s a good idea. He’s sensing tension between husband and wife here. He’s thinking they might need a referee; that, or a field medic. He thinks he should stick around.

Terry tells Chet not to keep her in suspense. What’s the big news? He says he just got a big job offer. She says, amazing. She didn’t even know he was looking. He says, he didn’t either, and she says she doesn’t understand. He says he didn’t apply for the job. Someone recommended him to a headhunter. She says, sounds like he has an angel somewhere looking out for him, and he says, no kidding. Amy approaches the door, and he asks if Terry ever got a dream job she didn’t apply for.

Diane objects, saying, her client is not on trial, and Judge Foster asks what Scotty’s purpose is with this line of questioning. Scotty says, Michael and Willow contend that his client isn’t fit to have a relationship with her sole grandchild. Let’s see what their fitness is. The judge says she’ll allow, but tread lightly. He says he’d like to submit the autopsy report of Claudia Zacchara. It says that she’s five foot, five inches tall, several inches shorter than Michael, and she was clutching a newborn baby. He hands the judge the report, and Michael says, she was in a basket. Claudia put his newborn sister in a basket. Scotty says, so instead of asking for help or trying to talk her out of it, or any number of things, Michael decided to pick up an ax handle and cave in her head. How did that make him feel? Michael says, when he saw his sister was back in his mother’s arms, he felt relief. Scotty says, some people just get a massage.

Spencer says he’ll get out of their way, and start restituting, but Trina says, he can’t. Spencer says he’s sorry, but a judge disagrees with her; it’s part of his punishment. She says she meant he can’t work at the gallery today. Ava told her to close up early. He asks if Ava will tell that to the court, or will she? Spencer’s phone rings, and Rory says he’s going to bounce. Trina tells him that he doesn’t have to go, and Spencer wonders which crazy is calling him. Rory says he’s going to catch some rays, and thanks Trina for giving him some art to appreciate. He leaves, and Trina looks at Spencer. He says, what? He said he’d get out of her way.

Esme gets Spencer’s voicemail, and says she was just wondering how his talk with Cameron went. If Spencer is still with him, tell him that she’s thinking good thoughts. He didn’t say how long he’d be working at the gallery; hopefully, not too much longer. She’s just finishing packing up, and tooling around Windymere by herself. Come home soon. She hangs up, and says, before she gets into trouble.

Victor says, there’s no shame in admitting Ava and Nikolas are going through a bit of a rough patch right now. All couples go through them. The important thing is, the two of them are better than their low moments. Nikolas tells Victor, he’s been saying something similar for a while now, and Ava says, is that so? Because all she’s heard from him are weak excuses and non-apologies. He asks why he would apologize for doing everything in his damn power to fix things with his son? and she asks if doing everything in his damn power to fix things with Spencer includes being indifferent to her feelings. He says he’s crystal clear about her feelings, and she says, he heard her, didn’t he? Victor asks what all this is about, and Nikolas says, it’s simple. Just as he was getting close to Spencer, Ava managed to drive him away.

Amy listens outside, as Terry says, clearly, the recruiter saw Chet’s resume and thought he was a great fit. So tell her about the job. He asks if she has the time; he knows she’s working. She says she doesn’t think the boss will mind, and he says, it’s in mental health; director of mental outreach at the VA hospital. She says, director? That’s a big deal. He says, it’s one hell of an upgrade from managing a gym, and she says, it’s cause for celebration. Why don’t they hit the MetroCourt after she gets off work. Is he free tonight? He says he can make that happen, but before they make any plans, they should probably have a talk first about the job. She says she’ll be happy to tell him everything she knows about hospital politics, because trust her, there always is some. She actually knows an administrator at the VA. She can call and get the lowdown. He says, that’s the thing. The VA job isn’t in Port Charles; it’s in Chicago. Amy walks in, and says, no. Yes, there is a job, but Chet’s not going to take it.

Ava says she did not drive Spencer away; far from it. She just offered Spencer financial incentive to move out of Windymere and take his sociopathic girlfriend with him. Victor says, Esme, and Nikolas says, who Victor helped him rescue from Sonny Corinthos. Ava says, if only the two of them had left Esme where she was, and Nikolas says, at Sonny’s non-existent mercy? She says, Nikolas and Spencer are the only people in the entire world who believe Esme is some kind of victim. Spencer is young, and infatuated, and stupid. What’s his excuse? Nikolas says, compassion, but she says, no, it’s arrogance. Nikolas wanted to be the one to thwart Sonny, so he invited Esme into their home without even consulting her. He says, while Spencer and Esme were at Windymere, he was starting to build good will with Spencer, and she says, he certainly wasn’t building any with her. He says, so as punishment, she manipulates Spencer, and gives him access to his trust fund, provided he and Esme move out of Windymere. Ava says she didn’t give Spencer access to his trust fund. She tells Victor, she’s giving Spencer an allowance, and he will learn very quickly that his life of ease is directly tied to his ability to satisfy her wishes. Victor says, it sounds like she’s doing obedience training, and she says, then Spencer will earn his first treat when he breaks camp, and takes the minx with him. Victor says, congratulations. He just wishes she’d been a bit more patient. She says, patient? She didn’t chuck Esme off a parapet, so she thinks she’s shown plenty of patience. She tells Nikolas, she also secured the breathing room it will take to save their marriage. He’s welcome. Nikolas says, she thinks she did them a favor by orchestrating his son’s departure? She says, all she did was give Spencer a chance to show Nikolas who he really is. And if he chose to leave the house, he has.

Bringing in some boxes, Spencer says, Trina doesn’t need to stick around to supervise him sending out these mailers, or doesn’t she trust him? Does she really think he’d take off with a Monet? She says, they don’t have any Monets, and he says, whatever. Did she show him the new DeCarlo? She says, who? Rory? Why does he care? He says, because it’s the best thing Ava has. He’d love drawing something like that one day. She says, so chiaroscuro is his thing, and he says he doesn’t know if it’s his thing, but he likes the light and the dark together. If you don’t have the shadows, how do you appreciate the light? He wonders how much it’s worth, and she says, more than he makes at Kelly’s. He says, for her information, his income just got a major boost, and she says, Cam already gave him a raise? He shakes his head, and says, Ava opened the spigots, so to speak. She’s going to let him draw from his trust fund again. Trina says, that doesn’t sound like something Ava would do. Wait. What did he have to do in exchange? And don’t tell her it’s nothing. He says, in order to access his trust fund, he and Esme have to move out of Windymere, and she says she thought he was trying to fix things with his dad. He says he is, and she says, and he still let Ava buy him off, but he tells her, by leaving, he’s helping his father too.

Diane objects, saying, counsel is badgering the witness, and Judge Foster says, sustained. She tells Scotty to perform his stand-up somewhere else, and Scotty asks Michael if anyone was present at the time of Claudia’s death. Michael says, his mother, and Scotty says, surely his mother told the police that he was protecting his sister and her, and Michael says, it’s a matter of public record, and his mother’s name is Carly. He made a full confession and went to prison. Scotty asks how long Michael’s sentence was, and Michael says, five years. Scotty asks how much time Michael served, and Michael says, several months. Scotty says, wow, that’s faster than he gets his dry cleaning back. Diane says, while they’re all enjoying the comedy stylings of opposing counsel, her client paid his debt to society. Scotty asks, what about the debt he owes to his baby sister Avery? Why doesn’t Michael tell the court how snatching a kid from their loving family is his M.O.?

Rory goes the pool, which we haven’t seen in a while, and tells the desk clerk that he has a day pass. He asks if there’s a discount for members of the PCPD, and the guy says, he just needs to see ID. Rory shows him, and he asks if Rory wants a lounge for one; they’re going fast. Rory says, make it two. Someone is joining him.

Spencer stuffs envelopes, and Trina asks how it helps his dad if he leaves Windymere. He says, he has issues with Ava, and Ava has issues with him. She and his dad will have a better shot at fixing their marriage if he and Esme aren’t constantly in the way. Is it so hard to believe he’d do something for someone else? She asks if his dad is aware he’s not leaving just because of the money, and he says, they haven’t discussed it. She says, in other words, no, and he says, it’s a normal thing at their age to be on their own. She and Joss live in the dorms; it’s time for him to move on. He’ll work out things with his dad on the back end. She says, what if his dad holds it against Ava? and he says, then that’s on them. Right now, this is the best he can do. She says she doesn’t believe that, and he asks why she even cares. She has bigger things to worry about, and she says, right. What is she doing here… She starts to leave, but he says, wait. What is going on? Talk to him. Please. She says she has a life. That’s all he needs to know. So stuff those mailers and lock up when he’s done. She leaves, and he swipes the boxes onto the floor.

Esme writes to Maggie that her worry is misplaced. Everything in Port Charles is going swimmingly. Okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration. I don’t have everything I want just yet, but I’m well on my way.

Victor tells Ava, he concedes that Spencer has quite a bit of maturing to do, but he thinks the closer Spencer is to his family, the faster he’ll do that maturing. He thinks they can all agree Spencer’s stubborn streak and obvious attachment to Esme present difficulties, but this family’s weathered worse than that. He refuses to let a little infighting derail a perfectly good marriage. It’s time they came to a compromise. Ava says she doesn’t compromise on trust, and Nikolas says, they appreciate Victor’s interest in bringing them all together, but Esme and Spencer are just on the surface of their issues, and their issues aren’t Victor’s. Victor says, he’ll take that no-so-subtle hint as his cue to leave. He suggests they meet again soon for a proper reunion, with the whole family. He leaves, telling Nikolas, don’t muck this up, nephew. Nikolas says, Ava didn’t need to come between him and Spencer to hurt him; the distance between them did that. She says, it’s not exactly doing her any favors either, and he says, the question is, what are they going to do about it?

Terry says, Amy’s not making any sense, and Chet says, ten minutes ago, she was all fired up about him taking this job. Now she’s not? Terry says she’s guessing Amy loves her big brother and wants him to stay close, but Amy says, Terry is wrong. Of course (🍷) she loves Chet and wants him to stay, just not stay around everyone. Chet says, she’s losing him again, and Amy says, the headhunter who got his resume didn’t get it from one of his buddies. She got it from Amy. Chet says he’s flattered she has so much faith in him, and Amy says, of course (🍷) she does. She knows he can do anything he makes his mind up to, but sending in the resume wasn’t just about helping him. She did it for herself too. When she found out he was dating her boss, she put him up for the job, hoping to keep the two of them apart.

Scotty asks if Michael took his baby sister Avery away from her father, and Michael says he was granted custody. At the time, Avery’s mother was believed to be dead, and her father couldn’t provide a stable home. Scotty says, so Michael swooped in with his money and his lawyers, and stole Avery, but Michael says he didn’t steal her. He thought she was at risk, so he took the steps to protect her like he’s doing with his son right now. Scotty says, maybe Michael’s son needs to be protected from him, and Diane objects, but Michael says, the only person Wiley needs to be protected from is Nina. She’s caused nothing but misery to his family, including Wiley. She’s incapable of acting in Wiley’s best interests because she’s so invested in pitying herself. Nina claims the world has made victims of her and her daughter, but the truth is, Nina and Nelle are nobody’s victims except their own. Scotty says, that’s not the truth. They’re victims of Michael.

Diane says, opposing counsel is again badgering the witness, and the judge tells Scotty, if he has a question, ask it, otherwise, wrap it up. Scotty says, when Nelle found out she was pregnant, is it possible she tried to protect Wiley from him? Is it possible she was afraid he might do to her what he did to Claudia? That he might use Wiley to hurt her, the same way he’s using Wiley to hurt Nina? Diane says, objection, pure conjecture, and Judge Foster says, sustained. She tells Scotty to drop this now, but Scotty asks the judge to look at the anger on Michael’s face. Does she thinks it’s the look Claudia saw right before he bashed her head in?

Chet says, Amy manipulated this whole job offer because she doesn’t like who he’s dating? but Amy says, it’s not that she didn’t like who he’s dating. She didn’t like that the person he was dating was also her boss. Sometimes, she and Terry clash; the truth is, they clash a lot. When she found out they were dating, the only thing she could think was, great. Now she’ll never be able to escape her boss. At work, holidays, and vacations, and family reunions, and double dates, and karaoke night. It’ll never end. And what if she doesn’t suck up to Terry? Will Chet tell her to buzz off? All she could think about was herself, until ten minutes ago. He asks, what happened then? and she says, he started telling her how much he was missing in his life, and how much genuine potential Terry had to offer him.

Ava tells Nikolas, his move. She’s done her part. He says, by luring his son away from him? She says she’s providing them the time and space they need to patch up their marriage, without the interference of two people who didn’t want them together in the first place. He says he believes Spencer was beginning to accept them, and she says, then why was he so eager to go? Spencer obviously has bigger priorities than reconciling with Nikolas. And let’s be honest. They have bigger problems than Esme and Spencer, and where they’ll be living. He says, as she proved by sticking it to him, and going after Spencer on her own. If she only would have come to him to him first… She says, like he came to her before he invited Esme into their home? He says she keeps wanting to make this a choice; her or his son, his marriage or his family. Ava gets teary, saying, and here she thought she was his family too. If anyone has a choice to make, maybe it’s her choice. She can stick around and watch him dither over Esme, or walk away.

Esme hears a door open, and puts her letter writing stuff away. Spencer comes in, and she asks if he got her voicemail. How’s Cameron? He asks how she thinks he is? His mother is having a nervous breakdown. She says, that’s something that should make him sad, but he’s angry. Did he get into it with Ava when he was doing his indentured servitude? He says, not Ava, and she says, oh, of course (🍷). Trina.

Trina arrives at the pool, looking very cute in a sundress, and tells the clerk that her family has a membership under Dr. Portia Robinson. Does he think she can get a lounge? He says, sorry. They’re all taken, but feel free to have a seat at the bar. She says she should have come earlier. Thanks anyway. He leaves, and she says, she wonders if… Rory gets out of the pool, and Trina lowers her sunglasses to watch him towel off. He smiles at her, and she smiles back.

Diane says, just a couple of questions for Michael. Does he know the significance of March 19th, 2021, and September 23rd, 2021? He says, not off the top of his head, and she says, March 19th is when Nina left Port Charles for Nixon Falls, and found his father who had lost his memory. The second date is when Nina returned to Port Charles after her deceit had been uncovered. That’s six months. During those six months, how many times did Nina Reeves ask to see Wiley? He says, twice, and she says, wow, great grandmother. Scotty objects, saying, that’s not a question; that’s commentary. (He might have added that they made it difficult for her to see Wiley in the first place.) Diane says, next question. How did the visits go? Were there any issues? Michael says, the timing of the second visit. It happened the day after his father returned. Nina showed up and asked to visit with Wiley. She asks if Nina told him that she where his father had been for the past six months, but he says, no. In retrospect, they realized she was just trying to get in one last visit before the truth of what she’d done came out. She asks if there were any other visits that prompted concern on his part, and he says, earlier, when she first met Wiley. She told Wiley that Willow wasn’t his real mother, that Nelle was, and he was far too young to understand that kind of information. It immediately had a negative impact. She asks if he’s opposing Nina’s petition for visitation to punish her, but he says, no. She asks if it’s some kind of payback or spite for the harm she’s caused Michael and his family, and he says, no. She asks, then why is he opposing Nina having contact with Wiley? and he says, Nina has been consistently untruthful with him and Willow. She has a history of emotional instability, and seems far more invested in redeeming Nelle than in Wiley’s well-being.

Rory says, she made it, and Trina says she did. He says he was worried. Things seemed kind of tense between her and Spencer when he left. Since she’s busy looking at his bangin’ bod, she doesn’t hear him, and says, what? He asks if things are okay with Spencer, and she says, things are the same with Spencer. They don’t communicate very well. He asks if that’s all. He hopes she doesn’t mind him saying this, but she seems a little off. She says, it’s her first time back at a pool; she’s not used to so much sun. He suggests they have a seat, but she says, they’re all taken; she got here too late. He says, but he didn’t. He snagged her one, and don’t get out her wallet; he already got her a day pass. She says, that’s sweet, but in the future, her family already has a membership, and he says, good to know. She asks how he knew she was coming here; she didn’t even know she was coming here. Why did he get her a lounge? He says, he dropped a hint that he was going to be catching some rays, and this is the closest pool to the gallery. What can he say? He’s an optimist.

Spencer says, he doesn’t want to talk about Trina, and Esme says, that’s a first. He says, what was that? and she says, Trina isn’t her favorite subject either, but whatever Trina did is obviously bothering him. She hates to see him like this. He asks, how is this not talking about Trina? Besides, Trina has nothing to do with her. She says, got it; noted. But she has to wonder what Trina has to do with him. They’re no longer close, right? He no longer cares about her, right? Trina threw vile accusations out there about his girlfriend, so she has to wonder why every encounter triggers something. He says he doesn’t know, but it does. So just drop it, and he will too. She tells him, easier said than done, and he says, let’s go for one last ride. It will surely help; it’s a gorgeous day. She says she’s not looking for a distraction; she’s looking for answers. He says, fine. Come, don’t come; he doesn’t care. She says, they’re not finished with this conversation, and he says, they’re not having a conversation. She’s ripping into him. Esme says, she’s trying to figure out why he keeps going back to this girl who keeps looking down on him, when the person right in front of him is winning to do anything for him. He says he’s going for a ride. They can talk after. She says, walk out that door, and she may not be here when he gets back.

Nikolas says, Ava is already sleeping in another bedroom. What is she threatening? Separation? Divorce? She says she’s not doing this anymore. She’s not going to be second in his life; she deserves better. He asks if she honestly thinks another man is going to give that to her. They both know they’re difficult people and a very acquired taste. She asks if he’s saying she should just put up with his disregard and thoughtless treatment, and he says, it was never perfect between them, but it was good, and it worked. She says, it doesn’t now; not for her, not anymore. He says, she loves him and he loves her, and she says, it’s true, but what are words without deeds? She’ll give him time to think about that, but not too much. He asks if she thinks it’s all on him; that she doesn’t have any part to play or amends to make? That he’s just going to come crawling back to her. She says she does. Because she’s the best thing that’s ever happened to him. He’ll see it. She just hopes it’s not too late.

Diane says she’d like to enter two exhibits into evidence. The first is the criminal record of Michael Corinthos. The second is the criminal record of Nelle Benson-Jerome. Nelle’s record is considerably bigger, and Diane tells the judge to interpret it as she will. No further questions. Judge Foster gives them a thirty minute recess, and asks to meet the attorneys in her chambers. Michael and Willow hug, and Nina says she hopes Scotty isn’t in too much trouble. He says, trouble? By the time this is over, he’ll be lucky if he can practice in a food court. Everyone disperses, and Nina looks at Sonny.

Rory says, this is nice, and Trina says, very. She asks if he knows her friend Joss, and he says, Joss is unforgettable. She says, Joss’s mom co-owns the MetroCourt, so she and Joss came here pretty regularly last summer. He says, it’s his first time here. He’d heard about it, but up to today, he was more of a lake guy. A waiter brings them drinks, and Rory tells Trina, non-alcoholic of course (🍷). He took the liberty of ordering for them both. She says, he thought of everything, and he says he thinks he could get used to this lifestyle. They clink glasses, and he tells her, don’t worry about the cost; PCPD officers get a discount. She thanks him, not just for the drink, but everything. He asks, what’s everything? He got her a drink and a lounge chair. She says, taking her mind of the Title IX report and Spencer, and he says, he must be doing a poor job if she’s still it bringing up. She says, good point. Let her try again. Thank you for the lounge chair, and the drink, and mostly the company. He says, that, he will drink to, and they clink glasses. They steal looks at each other when the other isn’t looking.

Spencer asks if Esme is threatening him, and she says, of course (🍷) he would see it that way. No, she’s not threatening him. She’s standing up for herself. He doesn’t get to just walk out and ignore her because she’s asking hard questions. He says, the way he sees it, she didn’t get her way, and resorted to an ultimatum. That’s never going work for him. She says, being taken for granted doesn’t work for her. He acts like she’s disposable, and she’ll always stand by him, no matter how poorly he treats her. He should know better than to think everyone’s still going to stick around. He says he just can’t talk to her when she’s like this. He’ll be back after he takes a ride. They can try to talk again after she calms down. She says, wait, but he closes the door behind him.

A martini is slid in front of Ava, and she says, she didn’t order… He’s back. Victor says, he never left. He was concerned things might not go so well with her and Nikolas. She says, his instincts were spot-on. Nikolas left. He says he saw, but he does think Nikolas will be back. She shrugs, and says she thought so too, but she’s been wrong before. Maybe this time she’s overplayed her hand. We see Nikolas go into Windymere and pour a drink, and Ava says, maybe Nikolas just doesn’t see her for who she is. By the way, their marriage may truly be at an end. Esme watches from the doorway as Nikolas downs his drink.

Amy says she’s so sorry. She wishes she had minded her own business and left well enough alone. She tells Chet, please forgive her, or don’t. Just please don’t take that job. She leaves and Terry shakes her head, and says, his sister takes go big or go home to new heights. He says, she was always dramatic. He just doesn’t see how he can take that job now. Terry says she doesn’t see how he can’t.

Nina tells Sonny, Michael turned The Invader against her. He dredged up all her past mistakes, and her mental illness. She wanted to take the high road, but there was no road to take. She did what she had to, and hopes he understands, even if he can’t forgive her. Carly watches from the hallway, and Sonny touches Nina’s face. Carly moves on, and after a moment, Sonny leaves.

In the hallway, Michael says, Nina got what she wanted. Scotty made Nelle look like a victim, hiding Wiley from him. Sonny comes out, looks at Michael, then keeps going. Carly tells Michael, it doesn’t matter. Scotty was just trying to take the attention away from Nina. Michael says, it’s still out there, and one day he’ll have to answer for it to Wiley.  

Nina calls Obrecht, and says, they have a short recess. Willow walks in, and Nina says, she probably has time for a quick cup of coffee. She tries to pass Willow, who grabs her arm and says, she’s not going anywhere.

On Monday, Esme tells Nikolas that her relationship with Spencer is over; Michael says, one day he’ll have to face the bad parts of his life with Wiley; and Willow tells Nina, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.

⚖️ Scotty’s Question…

All about Claudia Zacchara. I don’t remember this, but I might not have been watching at the time. There were a few times I was pissed off and took a break.

⚙️ Interim Mechanic…

Brando is the latest in temporary recasts.

🔌 But We Hardly Knew Ye…

Sadly, just when I was getting used to Chet and liking him with Terry, poof! he’s gone.

📺 Memorial Day Viewing…

What soaps are on. GH is a no.

💎 Much Ado About Not Much…

Backlash and found unseen footage.

💋 All About Harry…

Did anyone seriously think anything LisaR does isn’t staged?

📉 Changes Maybe…

How come it’s always Frank that has the skinny?

🐎 And Stuff…

Somehow I don’t see Jax lasting long in Kentucky.

🍸 He’s a Creep, He’s a Weirdo…

Lala dodged a serious bullet.

🏆 It’s About Damn Time…

I’ve always admired Angela Lansbury. Her genius career is to be envied. She started off as a big screen ingenue, was a Broadway baby, and even became an old lady detective on the small screen. And at 96, she’s still going strong. I saw her in Sweeney Todd and she was magical. I doff my cap.

https://people.com/theater/tony-awards-2022-angela-lansbury-to-receive-lifetime-achievement-award/

🎧 In the Background…

I love 80s music, but no Fast Times at Ridgemont High?

https://ew.com/movies/the-best-80s-movie-soundtracks/

🎺 Quotes of the Week

Animals are such agreeable friends — they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms. – George Eliot

To bear defeat with dignity, to accept criticism with poise, to receive honors with humility — these are marks of maturity and graciousness. – William Arthur Ward

It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength. – Maya Angelou

Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you.Friedrich Nietzsche

If God sends us on stony paths, He provides strong shoes. – Corrie ten Boom

A hero is someone who understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom. – Bob Dylan

By hero, we tend to mean a heightened man who, more than other men, possesses qualities of courage, loyalty, resourcefulness, charisma, above all, selflessness. He is an example of right behavior; the sort of man who risks his life to protect his society’s values, sacrificing his personal needs for those of the community. – Paul Zweig

🦅 Honoring Those Who Served…

As you sail off for Memorial Day weekend, enjoy yourself, but keep in mind the point of the whole thing. That said, see you at the usual Deadtime, because they don’t care about the long weekend. Until then, stay safe, stay appreciating those who serve, be it our country or behind the fast food counter, and stay not compromising when it comes to trust.

May 24, 2022 – Nina’s Petition Hearing Begins, Final Bow, Maybe Leaving, Dubai Talk, Feuding Diamonds, VanderSilence, Lots Of Money, Halloween Already & Modern

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Chase tells Brook that he needs more context. He’s going to help her take back her life how? She says, Linc not only owns the rights to her songs, he’s turning them into trash; just imitations of what they were meant to be. He says, the hell with Linc. Write some new songs; better songs. She says, because it’s just that easy, and he says, she makes it look that way. She says she doesn’t want to start over from scratch. She wants her old songs. She poured her heart and soul into them, and she’s not giving up until she gets them back.

Outside the courtroom, Carly gets a text saying the DNA test results are ready, and she can pick them up at her earliest convenience. Inside, Nina tells Sonny that she’s grateful he’s here. He tells her that he said he’d be here, and she says she knows he did. It’s just the looks he’s getting from Michael and Willow, maybe it’s best he goes. If he takes her side today, he’s burning the last bridge that connects him with this son. He says, there’s too much at stake; he ain’t leaving. Carly comes in, and says, he’s right about the stakes. Everything else can wait.

At the park, Violet asks Gregory when they can see Aunt Elizabeth, and he says, when her daddy tells them it’s okay. In the meantime – he takes out a frisbee – have at it. He unpacks some food, and picks up a copy of The Invader. He looks at the cover, where there’s an article about the hearing, and Violet tells him to put that down and come play with her. Seriously, what is she going to do with a frisbee by herself? He says, her wish is his command, and she says, Uncle Chase taught her; he’s really good. He asks who she thinks taught Uncle Chase, and takes the frisbee, telling her, watch and learn. He tosses it, and says, oh. Did he hit someone? Alexis brings back the frisbee, and says, good thing she isn’t a lawyer anymore, or she might be tempted to sue him.

Laura sees Cameron at the hospital, and hugs him, saying, she’s sorry she couldn’t be here sooner. How’s his mother? He says he doesn’t know. She’s in there with Finn and Doc. At least she’s not talking about ghosts anymore. Laura says, that’s a good thing, but he says, is the real thing any better? All the weird stuff that was happening, how scared they all were; that was just mom stalking herself the whole time?

Finn says, there’s nothing to be afraid of anymore, but Elizabeth says, there’s her. He says, that’s not true, and she says, yes it is, and he knows it. She started a fire that could have burned down a whole building, a whole block, and landed Chase in the hospital. Who’s next? Her boys? Violet? She’s a threat to everyone she cares about. So she has to go away, and stay away.

Marshall wakes up in a panic, and Curtis says, it’s him; it’s your son. Marshall says he must have been dreaming, and tries to get up, but Curtis says he’s going to get the doctor. Marshall tells him to wait, and asks how long he’s been out. Curtis says, ever since he got jumped, ever since he was in that alley, and Marshall says, Curtis means since he came out of nowhere, and beat those guys’ butts. Curtis says, TJ’s the real hero. If he weren’t there, it could have been a whole lot worse. Marshall says, they’re both his heroes. He pats Curtis’s hand, and says, his son and his grandson. To think he could have lost them both. Curtis says he’s not going anywhere, and neither is Marshall.

Carly goes to Michael and Willow, and Michael thanks her for coming. She says, where else would she be? and Nina walks over. She says, it’s not too late. Can they just try to settle this between them? Willow says, after Nina threw Harmony in her face, and Carly says, that’s nice. Diane tells them, don’t engage, and Scotty leads Nina away, saying, don’t fraternize with the enemy. This is war. Diane says, she told Michael and Willow, if they want to win, there’s only one way to play this thing. Are they in? Scotty says, so Nina is in, no matter where it leads? Michael takes Willow’s hand, and says, they’re in. Nina tells Scotty, all or nothing.

Finn says, Elizabeth needs more time with the people who care about her, not less, and she asks, what if she hurts them? He says, she won’t, but she says, he doesn’t know that. What if she can’t stop herself next time, and she does more than rip up one of Violet’s drawings? She burned down Franco’s art studio. Who’s to say she won’t do that to her own house? Laura and Cameron come in, and Laura hugs her. She says she knows Elizabeth is scared, but trust her, it will be okay, if she just faces whatever it is inside and deals with it. Can they agree on that? Doc says he’d listen to Laura if he were Elizabeth, and Elizabeth says she always does. She just doesn’t know how to do this. Laura says, that’s why she has all of them to help her, and Elizabeth says, what if the resources at GH don’t cut it? Laura says, then they’ll find a place that will; a place where she feels safe and can get the care she needs. Elizabeth asks if Finn heard that. He’s going to have to let her go. It’s the only way she’ll find her way back.

Brook tells Chase, she doesn’t know what’s worse, the watered down lyrics or the generic techno beat, which any twelve year old can produce on an app, and probably did. He asks what she’s going to do. Sue Linc to get her songs back? He knows an attorney who specializes in intellectual property, who helped Gregory get one of his academic papers back. She says, unfortunately, that’s not an option. She spoke to Diane a few years back, and the contract is airtight. He says, that was a few years ago, but she says she double-checked this morning. She can’t sue Linc. They need a Plan B. He says, and that’s where he comes in?

Curtis says he’s done a lot of soul searching. It would have been easy to blame Marshall, like he did the first time Marshall walked out, but when he looked in the mirror, he didn’t see a scared little boy anymore, holding his mother’s hand; he saw a grown man, who was so bound and determined to get answers, that he essentially drove Marshall away. Marshall says, it wasn’t Curtis’s fault. He wasn’t able to, or couldn’t be honest with Curtis, or himself. So he ran away – again. Curtis says he has questions, and Marshall says he’s sure Curtis does. Curtis says, but whether or not he gets answers, he just wants Marshall to come home, to his family. No strings, no conditions, just a chance to start fresh for all of us. He really hopes Marshall wants that too.

Gregory tells Alexis that he’s sorry. He was trying to make Violet’s frisbee boomerang. It didn’t quite work out as planned. She says, he might want to work on that, and he says he will. He suggests Violet show off her bubble blowing skills, and Violet runs off. He tells Alexis, why don’t they start over? What brings her to the park today? She says she was just finishing up a Tai Chi class down at the duckpond, and he says he’s always wanted to try Tai Chi; the movements look so beautiful, therapeutic. She says she needs all the therapy she can get. She doesn’t know if Finn told him, but it’s been quite a year. He says, his son’s not a talker; she might have noticed. She says, he would enjoy the Tai Chi; the silence is deafening. Gregory picks up the paper, and asks if this is her way of expressing her opinions these days. She says, he’s a reader, and he says, he is. He can’t quite say he’s a fan.

Scotty says, nice work, getting Sonny here today, but Nina says she didn’t do anything. Scotty says, what’s she talking about? If he gets Sonny up on that stand, he’s not going to be in her corner? She tells him not to put Sonny in that position, and he says, come on. She told him to do what he needed to do, let him do it. The bailiff says, all rise, and Nina looks at Sonny, who shakes his head. The bailiff says, the honorable Judge Foster presiding, and Michael takes Willow’s hand. Nina looks at Sonny again, and he gives her a nod. Carly sees them and doesn’t like it, and looks at the text again. The judge tells Scotty to present his petitioner’s request, and he says, his client, the mother of Nelle Benson, is seeking visitation with her grandson Wiley Corinthos, as permitted by state law. He’s presenting a precedent in the Abercromby versus Higgins case. Diane interjects, saying, as the court is aware, there are numerous other precedents to deny visitation, and her clients are going to explain why that’s the case. Judge Foster says, they’ll get their turn. She’s read the petition, but she’d like to hear Scotty’s client’s request in her own words. She calls Nina to the stand, and she’s sworn in.

Alexis says, she guesses she just assumed that as a professor of history and journalism, Gregory might approve of the changes she made at The Invader. Unless of course (🍷) it’s her inexperience that’s giving him pause. He says, experience doesn’t equal talent, and she says, agreed. He says, look at Dickens and Hemmingway; they both started out as journalists in their teens, and she says, something to aspire to. He suggests she might aim smaller, maybe local coverage, specifically her feature on Nina Reeves. She says she finds that interesting. She was very proud of that story; it was very truthful and unbiased. He says, was it? and she asks if he preferred The Invader the way it was before; tabloid fodder opting for the sensational? He says, at least as a reader, you knew where you stood. It seems like she wants her journalism both ways.

Cameron says, Laura wants to send his mom away? but Laura says, no, that’s not what she wants, but if it’s what Elizabeth needs to get better, they’ll do it. Elizabeth thanks her for being realistic, and tells Cameron that she’s a danger right now, to herself and everyone around her. It’s just not safe for them to be together right now. He says, she would never hurt them, but she says, they don’t know that for sure. She knows it’s awful and scary, and makes her feels so out of control, but it’s the truth. She just loves him so much. He says he loves her too, and she says she refuses to let whatever’s doing this to her harm him or his brothers; it’s just not an option. She tells Finn that she needs him to have her back on this, and he says he does. Always. He just can’t see the benefit of locking her away from the people who care about her. Laura tells him, she knows how hard this is, but right now, they have to do what’s best for Elizabeth.

Marshall asks if Curtis knows what he’s setting himself up for, and Curtis says he does. Marshall says, he ran away not once, but twice. Who’s to say the next time he feels the walls closing in on him, he won’t lace up his sneakers yet again? Curtis says, because there won’t be any walls, at least not between them. There’s nothing Marshall can say that will scare him off or turn him against Marshall. He’s Curtis’s father, Marshall Ashford, flesh and blood. Nothing is going to come between them unless they let it. TJ comes in and says, granddad, you’re awake, and Marshall says, it’s going to take more than a couple of muggers to get the better of the Ashfords. Curtis says, damn straight, and Stella walks in. Marshall says, oh Lord, and she says, Marshall better be thanking Him too. Curtis hugs her, and asks what she’s doing here. She says, taking care of her family, since it’s obvious they need her. Curtis asks, how? and she says, Portia told her, and she was on the first flight out. Does Marshall know how lucky he is that it wasn’t worse? Marshall says, no luck was needed. He had his son and his grandson by his side. He takes Curtis and TJ’s hands.

Scotty asks Nina to tell the court why they’re here today, and Nina says, they’re here in court because Wiley’s her grandson and she loves him. It’s really that simple. He asks how well she knew Nelle Benson, and Nina says, not really well. Nelle worked with her in different capacities. Nelle was a troubled soul. She made countless mistakes and damaged a lot of lives, but no life was as damaged as Nina’s daughter’s. He asks when Nina found out Nelle was her daughter, and she says she didn’t know Nelle was her daughter until after Nelle died, and that’s when she realized Wiley was her grandson, all that she had left of Nelle in this world. He asks if she got to see him, and she says, she did. He asks how that was, and she says, it was great. Love at first sight, at least for her. He asks how Wiley felt about her visits, and she says, Wiley made it really easy; he has such a warm, inviting spirit. They built block houses, colored together, read together. Every moment she got to spend with that little boy was a precious gift. Scotty asks, what happened? Why did Wiley’s parents cut her off? She says, because they decided she was a bad influence for Wiley. She’s not perfect, far from it, but she is a good grandmother and she loves Wiley, and he loves her. It’s that simple. Wiley is her family, and no matter how much they want to, they can’t change that.

Finn suggests they all get on board with this plan. Where would Elizabeth even go? Doc says, Shadybrook. It’s perfect. It’s excellent, it’s close, it’s comfortable. Cameron says, they’re not going to lock her up in a padded cell or something? but Doc says, it’s not that kind of place, and Cameron asks, what kind of place is it? Doc says, Elizabeth can expect a week or two of intensive conversation and exploration, then hopefully she can transition to outpatient care. Laura asks how that sounds, and Elizabeth says, she’s more concerned with what Finn thinks. She wants to do this with his support. He asks if she really thinks this is what’s best, and she says she does. He says, okay, let’s give it a shot. He’ll take her there, and come visit as often as he can. She says, he can’t. She has to do this on her own.

Brook says, she was thinking, since Chase has two weeks on his suspension, he could shadow Linc; catch him doing something shady they could use to get her music back. What does he think? He tells her that she’s crazy.

Stella says, three strangers to three amigos. When did this happen? Curtis says, he’s just trying to convince Marshall to come back to Port Charles with them. TJ says, is that even a question? and Curtis says, apparently. Stella says, she didn’t fly all this way to let Marshall go back to a loner life, and Marshall says, some people like to be alone, but she says, he’s not one of them. He’s a fool if he doesn’t grab this chance with both hands. The doctor asks if it’s okay for him to take a look at the patient. He won’t take long. They leave, and outside, Stella asks if Marshall ever explained why he left… this time, and Curtis says he didn’t want to push Marshall. He takes the prescription bottle out of his pocket, and says, but TJ may have answers based on what he found in Marshall’s hotel room. TJ says, these aren’t for his blood pressure; they’re anti-psychotic medication. Curtis says, but Stella knew that already, didn’t she?

Alexis says, if by both sides Gregory means telling the truth and turning a profit, guilty as charged. She’s not a professor, who sits in an ivory tower. She’s the editor-in-chief of a paper, so she has to tell stories about real people with real problems. He says, so she thinks he doesn’t know anything about real life? but she tells him, that’s not what she said. He just used Dickens and Hemmingway as an example, and this is the 21st century. She’s competing with 24 hour news cycles. She’s competing with social media. She’s competing with instant – and she means instant – information. He says, and he admires he for that, but she says, she’s not getting that impression. He says, isn’t there a danger in mixing titillation with the truth? It seems to him that you end up accomplishing neither. She says, if he bothered to read the latest article, which he clearly did not, he’d see she bent over backward to be objective and not take cheap shots like his ex, Jackie. He says, they’re talking about Alexis’s journalistic integrity, not Jackie’s, when Violet comes over, and says she doesn’t think Gregory is playing nice

Scotty asks if Nina is Wiley’s only grandparent, and she says, no. He asks if she can tell them who else is, and Diane says, relevance? Scotty says, he’ll tell her the relevance. His client is being denied access to her grandson. It seems like there’s a standard for her, and another for everybody else. Judge Foster says she’ll allow it, and Nina says, Wiley has two other grandparents who are here in the courthouse, Carly Corinthos and Sonny Corinthos. Scotty says, so Sonny Corinthos can see his grandson any time he wants, but she’s been deemed a bad influence. Diane objects, and Scotty says, withdrawn. Is that it as far as grandparents go? Nina says, Wiley had another grandmother, Harmony Miller, but she recently passed away, and Scotty says, Harmony Miller who killed Neil Byrne and his brother, and attempted to kill two other people? Nina says, that’s correct, and he says, so Harmony was able to see Wiley, and Nina’s not. Wow. They’re done. Diane says, if it please the court, she has a few questions for the petitioner. Carly smirks, and Sonny looks grim.

Diane says, Nina testified that she didn’t know Nelle was her daughter until after her death. Did anyone else know Nelle was her daughter before she did? Nina says, yes. Carly Corinthos and Jasper Jax. Diane asks if they knew Nelle was her daughter before her death, and Nina says, Carly claimed she didn’t know, but she has her doubts. Diane says, that’s probably upsetting, and Nina says, to find out she had a daughter only after she died? Yeah, it was upsetting. Diane says she imagines Nina regretted all the time she didn’t spend with her daughter, and Nina says, of course (🍷) she did. If she had known… Diane says, what? and Nina says, things would have been different. She could have raised Nelle, and given her the love she deserved to have, and Nelle wouldn’t have turned out the way she did. None of this would have been set in motion. Diane says, correct her if she’s wrong, but wasn’t Nina in a coma from prior to her daughter’s birth until she was in her 20s? and Nina says, yes. Diane says, so this regret is all just a delusional twisted fantasy? and Scotty objects. He says he doesn’t hear a question in there, and Diane says, how’s this for a question? Isn’t this petition of Nina’s an act of revenge? Scotty objects, and says, leading the witness. Diane says, she’ll rephrase. Isn’t this petition of Nina’s yet another act of revenge? She doesn’t have Wiley’s best interests at heart at all, does she?

Laura suggests they give Finn and Elizabeth some privacy, and Doc says he’ll call Shadybrook. He, Laura, and Cameron leave, and Finn says he’s not second guessing her decision. She asks if he’s sure, and he says, if he is, it’s because he’s part of this too. His presence in her life has played a part in bringing forth this… She says, crisis? and he says, they’ll go with that. She says, doesn’t he see? That’s why he can’t be a part of this. He was so convinced there was someone out there trying to split them up, and she was equally convinced it was Franco’s ghost. They were both really wrong. Is it her? Is there something buried deep down that feels threatened by her feelings for him? As scary as this is, as much as she wants him to hold her hand through all of this, they can’t. She has to do this on her own.

Brook says she thought Chase was on her side, and he says he is, but she says, obviously not. He asks if she has any idea how many laws she’s asking him to break. One, they have no warrant; two, she’s talking about blackmail here. And four… She says, he was on three, and he says, and three, yes, he’s on suspension, but he’s still a cop. Not for long if he goes along with this highly unethical plan of hers. She says, she’s unethical? and he says, in this moment. She’s asking him to coerce a suspect into committing a crime; it’s called entrapment. She says, she doesn’t care what it’s called. She can’t sit back and do nothing. He says he gets that, but she says, he doesn’t. These songs are her babies, and she will not let someone take them away from her. He says, babies? and she says, yes. She created them and nurtured them. She cried when they failed and celebrated when they were genius. That’s how much they mean to her. He says, that explains it. She’s not just mourning her songs; she’s mourning Bailey.

Curtis tells Stella, there’s a story here; a story that started about 40 years ago. TJ says, and if he still has a prescription for these kind of drugs, the story continues to this day. Stella says, she knows they want answers, and they deserve them. And yes, there’s a story, but like she said, it’s not hers to tell. The doctor wheels Marshall out, and says, it looks like a concussion, but he wants to run a few more scans before approving Marshall’s discharge. TJ says, if he’s afraid Marshall will be alone… Curtis says, don’t worry; he won’t be.

Gregory tells Violet, you know how sometimes you go to the playground, and get on one end of the seesaw? Alexis says, and someone gets on the other end of the seesaw? and Gregory says, then they lift you up and don’t let you down. Violet says she doesn’t like that, and Gregory says, you get upset, then they get upset. Alexis says, and then you’re arguing about a silly seesaw. Violet asks if they were being silly, and they say that they were. Gregory tells Alexis that he apologizes for his criticism, and she asks if he retracts it. He says, no, and she says, no retraction necessary. She has an idea. Why doesn’t he put his money where his mouth is? Why doesn’t he state his opinion in print, on the record? Unless he’s all talk.

Scotty says, this is character assassination at its worst, and the judge tells Diane to get where she’s going. Fast, or drop the line of questioning altogether. Diane says, Nina’s character is the sole reason they’re here. But of course (🍷). Is Nina familiar with the series of articles in The Invader? Nina says, yes, she skimmed it, and Diane says, so she knows, in addition to the other details of her rich and full life, it speaks about the time she spent in a little town called Nixon Falls. Is that portion of the story a lie? Nina says, like she said, she skimmed it. Diane says, is it a lie to say, while Nina was in Nixon Falls she ran into Wiley’s grandfather, Sonny Corinthos, when everyone else presumed him dead? Nina says, that’s true, and Diane says, and did Nina keep the knowledge from Mr. Corinthos that he was presumed dead, and at the same time keep the knowledge that he was alive from his wife and family, including precious Wiley, knowing the pain and suffering it caused? Scotty says, badgering the witness, and Judge Foster says, sustained. Nina says, at that moment, she wasn’t thinking about the pain and suffering, and Diane says, of course (🍷) not. Nina was thinking about revenge; getting back at Carly Corinthos because she possibly kept Nelle’s existence a secret from her? And isn’t it that same revenge that’s driving her today?

Finn says, Elizabeth is right, and she says she loves it when he says that. He says, he’s not crazy about the idea of letting go, and she says, her neither. He says, but in this case, he has to. He doesn’t want to impede her recovery. Would it be okay if he said he’s really going to miss her? She says, she’s going to miss him, but he heard Doc. It might only be a few weeks. He says, she’ll be back in no time, and she says, good as new. He says he liked the old version, and she says, then good as old. He says, even better, when Doc comes back with Laura and Cameron. He says, she’s all set, and Laura says, she and Doc will drive Elizabeth over. Cameron says, just get better. He’ll make sure Jake and Aiden stay in line while she’s away. Elizabeth says she knows he will. She’s never been more proud of him than she is right now. He says he’s proud of her too, and Laura says, they all are.

Gregory asks if Alexis is inviting him to submit something for publication, and she says, The Invader welcomes all kinds of opinions. Unless he’s afraid to hear from the readers. Violet says, grandpa’s not afraid of anything, and Gregory’s phone dings. Violet asks if that’s daddy. Are they going to see Aunt Elizabeth? Gregory says, let’s do it, and starts to pack up. Alexis tells him to give her best to Finn and Elizabeth. She hands him the newspaper, but he says, no thanks. Have a good one. She says, him too, and he and Violet leave.

The doctor tells Marshall that he’s going to set up the tests, and leaves. Marshall sees the prescription bottle in TJ’s hand, and says, he’s been less than honest about a lot of things. Stella says, it’s time; time to let go of the past. Curtis says, that can wait, and TJ says, what matters is getting Marshall better. Marshall says he appreciates that, but Stella is spot-on. Curtis deserved an explanation a long time ago. He wasn’t able to get it right with Tommy, but he can get it right with Curtis.

Nina says, what happened in Nixon Falls was more complicated than Diane is making it, but Diane says, not really. Nina either lied or she didn’t; which is it? Nina says she lied. Who hasn’t lied in here? That doesn’t make her a bad grandmother. She loves Wiley. How can she prove to Wiley how much she loves him if she’s shut out of his life? How can she prove it, not just by her words, but by her actions? Diane says, with all due respect, she had her chance, and threw it in the garbage. No further questions. The judge tells Nina to step down, and Michael says he thinks Diane did it. Diane says, let’s hope, and he tells Willow, that’s the end of that. Judge Foster asks if there’s anyone else prepared to speak for or against the petition, and Sonny tells Scotty to get him on the stand. Nina says, no, he doesn’t have to, but he says, yes, he does.

At GH, Finn tells Violet that Elizabeth is going to a place where she can get the care she needs. She’ll be home soon. Violet says she hopes Elizabeth Feels better, and Finn says he hopes so too. Elizabeth comes out, and Violet hugs her. She tells Elizabeth that she can take the frisbee, but Elizabeth tells her to hang onto it. They’ll play when she gets back. She asks for a hug for the road, and tells Violet that she loves her. She tells Cameron, don’t think he’s getting out of another one, and he says he wouldn’t want to. They hug, and she says she loves him. He says he loves her too, and Finn says, he’s not saying goodbye. Violet says, see you later, and Finn says, he’ll see Elizabeth later. Elizabeth says, not if she sees him first, and he hugs her. She says, tell the boys she loves them, and she’ll be home as soon as she can. Elizabeth gets in the elevator with Doc and Laura, and Finn holds her hand until the elevator doors start to close.

The doctor asks if Marshall is ready for the scans, and Stella tells him, be careful. He has precious cargo. The doctor says, as soon as they’re clear, Marshall can go home, and Marshall says, that’s exactly where he’s going – home with his family.

Brook says, this has nothing to do with Bailey, and Chase says, no? She says, no. It’s about her taking her life back, and everything she’s worked for. Is he going to help her or not? He says he’s sorry; he can’t. She says she’ll do it herself, and gets up.

Judge Foster says, if Scotty and his client have no more witnesses to call… Nina looks at Sonny, then nods to Scotty. Scotty says, they have one more witness to call. He calls Sonny Corinthos to the stand. Sonny gets up, and is sworn in. Everyone sits stone-faced.

Tomorrow, Josslyn tells Cameron, she finally figured out a way to stop Esme; Victor tells Ava, welcome home; and Diane asks why they should trust Sonny’s judgement.

🥀 Soap’s Loss…

I only watched Guiding Light for a hot minute, but I remember her from the soap magazines.

🌬 Time’s Up…

I think Kyle’s storyline ran out when LVP left. If she ever really had one.

https://people.com/tv/kyle-richards-considers-whether-to-return-to-real-housewives-of-beverly-hills/

💰 Dishing On Dubai…

The skinny on the new Wives, and a cameo from Phaedra.  

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/rhodubai-andy-cohen-caroline-stanbury-phaedra-parks-preview

💋 Bye Wig…

It’s about time someone stopped kowtowing to LisaR’s BS.

🍸 I Wouldn’t Either…

Brittany is never going to understand that her close association with Jax is doing her no favors.

🍾 Champagne Taste…

And I still don’t know WTH these people do, or why they’re on TV.

https://www.cinemablend.com/television/the-incredible-amount-of-money-chrisley-knows-best-stars-allegedly-needed-in-order-to-break-even-every-month-according-to-former-partner-who-committed-bank-fraud

🧹 Rushing the Season…

What you need to know about the Sanderson sisters latest.

https://ew.com/movies/hocus-pocus-2-release-date-announced-disney/

🌷 Tra-La It’s Still May…

While the spring continues, generating pollen for all, join me tomorrow for soap and what’s happening with those who hold the diamonds. Until then, stay safe, stay letting your conscience be your guide, and stay keeping in mind, experience doesn’t equal talent.

January 28, 2022 – Peter Sees His Daughter, Subbing, Connections, Parry’s Start, New Venture, Rinnafish, Salty Talk, Unfollowed, Calendar, Puppies (!), a Countdown’s Worth Of Quotes & 28th

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brook backs into an examining room with Bailey in her stroller. Chase is there in his briefs, and she says, sorry to interrupt. TJ said he’d be in here, and it’s really important. She turns around, and says, oh, hi.

Esme asks if Spencer heard what Josslyn just called her. Trina’s a lightweight when it comes to alcohol, and somehow that makes her a manipulative bitch? Josslyn asks if she wasn’t clear. Esme’s always been a bitch from the moment she got into town. Playing that stupid drinking game is just her stupid way of proving it. Cameron thinks it’s settled; the bar is closed for tonight. No more alcohol for any of them. Josslyn says she’s not going to let Esme blame alcohol for what happened tonight. She’s jealous of Spencer’s friendship with Trina, so Esme deliberately set out to humiliate her by dredging up the past. Trina ran out of here in tears, but she’s guessing that’s exactly what Esme wanted. Esme says, really? Josslyn thinks it was her goal to hurt Trina? Josslyn says, hurt her, embarrass her, one or the other. Josslyn looks at Spencer, and says, and what about him? Can he finally see Esme for who she really is?

Stella meets Curtis at Charlie’s, and he says she looks fantastic. She thanks him, and sits down. He says, her time at the wellness center agreed with her, and she says she can’t thank him enough for arranging that. She feels better than ever. Catch her up on everything. She doesn’t need to hear about him and Portia; she can tell by the look on his face. He says, that obvious, huh? and she says she’s happy for both of them. TJ’s been texting her about the latest doings at GH, but there’s at least one empty space in her family album. How are things going with him and Marshall? He says, improving. Kind of. But at least he’s not in the dark anymore. Marshall told him everything. She says, he did what?

Marshall (temporary Marshall – see below) walks into Kelly’s, and puts a little plant on the table Epiphany is sitting at. He says, he was told he could find her here, and sits down. She asks, what’s up with the plant? and he says it’s to thank her for looking out for him after he spoiled their date. She says, he didn’t spoil anything. He had a health crisis. She’s just glad it wasn’t anything serious. He says, it was his serious chance to get to know her better. He just hopes he gets another crack at it.

Martin sees Laura at the Bistro, and she says thanks for meeting her. He sits down, and says he’s just sorry he missed Luke’s memorial. He never met the man, but he wanted to be there to support her. You know what they say about the life of an attorney; it’s either feast or famine. She says, right now, as she understands it, he’s feasting on Peter August’s retainer, and he asks, who told her? She says she’s the mayor, remember? The DA is a good friend of hers. Does he have any idea what he’s in for?

Peter pulls at his handcuffs, and flashes back to talking to Victor saying, Brook and Maxie conspired to pass off Louise as Brook and Valentin’s child, so Peter would be convinced his child had been kidnapped and disappeared into thin air. Dante comes in, and Peter asks if it’s an official visit, or is Dante just dropping by as a concerned friend? Dante laughs, and says, he’s there to tell Peter that he’s now being transferred to Pentenville tomorrow. They want to do some more tests; make sure they dot all the i’s and cross all the t’s. Peter says, they already cleared him to go, and Dante asks, what’s a few more hours? Does he have someplace to be? Peter laughs.

Valentin shows the reception nurse his driver’s license, and says, she can check Bailey’s file and see he’s her father. The nurse leaves, and Victor says he couldn’t help but overhear. What does Valentin want with Bailey’s medical records? She’s not his daughter. Valentin says, legally, she still is. For whatever reason, Brook hasn’t updated Bailey’s birth certificate or medical records. Victor says, makes you wonder, doesn’t it? and Valentin says, wonder what? Victor says, whether Brook is hiding something.

Chase puts on his pants, and asks if Brook ever knocks. She says she’s sorry. When the nurse said he was in this room, she didn’t mention he’d be doing a strip routine. He says, that tends to happen when you’re having a physical, and she asks if he’s all right. Did he have a setback? He says, no. His blood pressure’s stabilized, and he passed with flying colors. She says, good, and he says, which is ironic. If he wasn’t suspended, he’d be cleared from desk duty and back out in the field. But the upside of being suspended is, he gets more time with Bailey. He tells Bailey that she’s the best little workout buddy. He’s never run so many miles so fast. Brook says it’s too bad Chase is her father in name only. Bailey could get used to having him around.

Esme tells Spencer to say something, and he asks, how’s Trina? Is she okay? Josslyn says, no, she’s not okay. He saw her; she ran out of the room in tears. She won’t even come out of the room. Josslyn had to talk to her through the door. Cameron says, the alcohol hit her hard, but Josslyn says, the problem was not what was in the mug. Cameron says he’s never seen Trina drink before, and he thought that might have been it. Josslyn says, the problem was Esme implying Trina had feelings for Cameron, but Cameron says, it doesn’t make sense. It’s ancient history. Why would it bother her now? Esme says, maybe it never stopped bothering Trina, or she didn’t want to bother them with it. Or maybe Trina’s just a drama queen. They had plenty of those at boarding school. Spencer says he doesn’t think Trina’s a drama queen. He thinks she’s legitimately upset. Esme says, Josslyn and Cameron must be thrilled. Now they’ve even got Spence doubting her. All roads lead to Trina. Trina has Spencer wrapped around her little finger, and he doesn’t even see it. She stomps off, and Josslyn asks if Spencer heard her; how she’s trying to make this Trina’s fault. What is wrong with him? Trina is his friend. She’s given him chance after chance. Why can’t he call Esme out for the snake she is?

Stella asks Curtis, when he said Marshall told him everything, what exactly did he mean? Curtis tells her, he said he got mixed up with some shady characters, and he was afraid they were going to use his family as a bargaining chip to keep him in line. So Marshall decided, in order to keep his wife and kids safe, he would disappear and make everyone think he was dead. She sighs, and he asks if she’s okay. He knows it comes as a shock. She says, he has no idea, and he tells her, Marshall didn’t say it in so many words, but his father was in the Witness Protection Program. She says, he believes that? and he asks if she’s saying he shouldn’t.

Epiphany says, Marshall needs to keep taking those new pills the doctor prescribed, and focus on lowering his blood pressure, and she needs to get back to work and finish her shift. He says, the medication is working already; he can feel it. But why does she sound like the one with a problem? She says, no problem. The doctor that wrote him the prescription reminded her of something. That there are some dreams, no matter how sweet, that deserve to die.

Peter tells Dante, the only place he’s going is the courtroom, and the sooner, the better. His attorney is going to get all these charges dismissed, and he can move on with his life. Dante says, the only life Peter is going to have is inside a prison. The question is, is it going to be in Pentenville or Steinmaur? Peter tells Dante, he’s going to beat these charges. Then he’s going to do what everyone, including the PCPD, failed to do. Find his daughter. Dante asks, what makes him think he’s going to find Louise when no one else has? Peter says he has some resources that have yet to be tapped into, and Dante says, like what? Peter says, he could tell Dante, but then he’d have to kill him, and Dante asks if he’s threatening a police officer. Peter asks if Dante is trying to entrap an innocent man. Come on. Don’t they have some tests to run to initiate his transfer? Or is Dante going to risk getting charged with police brutality by compromising Peter’s mortality?

Valentin asks, what makes Victor think Brook is hiding something? and Victor says he’s not the one looking into Bailey’s medical records. Think about it. He starts to leave, but Valentin says, hang on. If he tells Victor something, can he trust him?

Spencer asks what Josslyn wants him to say. Esme’s his girlfriend. Back in boarding school, when he thought his father was dead, she stood by him. When they came to Port Charles, she repeatedly had his back. She thought she was going to be living at Windymere, and when he told her that he’d decided they were living at his grandmother’s house, she didn’t complain at all. Josslyn and Trina made it well-known that they don’t like Esme. She hasn’t felt accepted by any of his friends. Josslyn says she knows that Esme has some kind of hold over Spencer, but he’s got to wake up and see all the hurt she’s done. When she’s not burning down a car, she’s burning down his friendship with Trina. He asks what Cameron thinks. Cameron has always tried to mediate, and see Esme’s perspective. Cameron says he can’t believe Spencer has to ask him that. Cameron saw how Esme treated Trina. The question is, did Spencer?

Esme goes into the master bedroom, and says, perfect.

Stella tells Curtis that she’s not saying he should doubt Marshall’s story. It just really surprises her. He says he’s sorry if it upsets her, but at least now they know why Marshall felt the need to disappear. But when he tries to find out more, like who those guys were and if they’re still a threat, Marshall tells him to back off. It’s funny to him, since he was the one who wanted no part of Marshall. Now Marshall is telling him to lay off. She tells him, maybe he should do as Marshall says, and set aside his interrogation for a while. He says, wait a minute. She’s his Bible scripture quoting auntie, who’s always reminding him that the truth shall set you free. So where is it written that Marshall gets a pass?

Marshall tells Epiphany, dreams don’t die, unless you give up on them. He doesn’t know her well, but she doesn’t strike him as a quitter. She says, that’s the thing. She thought she knew what kind of treatment he needed, but that wasn’t her place. He says, her place was to speak her mind, and he’s grateful she did. She thanks him, but says, it’s the last time she’s going to tell a doctor what to do. He says, even if the doctor is wrong? but she says, that’s the thing; Dr. Rose wasn’t wrong. Marshall just needed to adjust his blood pressure medication, right?

Martin tells Laura, every defendant is entitled to legal counsel. It’s right there in the Constitution, and Peter August is no exception. She asks if he’s saying he took the case in the spirit of justice under the law, and he asks, why shouldn’t he? His little sister isn’t the only person who cares about the public good. She says, how noble of him. And does doing the public good come along with a big, fat check made out to Martin Grey, Esquire?

Victor says he’s Valentin’s father. Of course (🍷) Valentin can trust him. Valentin says, but he’s a one-time ally to Peter August, and Peter says, it was strictly a business arrangement that terminated on the Island of Crete, when Peter crossed the line. Doesn’t he remember? It was the first time he and Valentin teamed up together. And when he got back to the states, he provided information to help track Peter down. What does he have to prove? Whatever’s troubling Valentin, he shouldn’t carry this burden alone. It’s too bad lovely Anna isn’t here by his side. And why this interest in medical records of a child that’s not even his, and what has it got to do with Peter?

Chase says, he could get used being around… Bailey, and Brook says, he missed a button. She fixes it for him, and says she hopes he gets to be a real father someday. He’s got the touch. He says, so does she. She didn’t tell him why she was looking for him. Did she hear from Maxie? She says, no. She’s been sitting on pins and needles. What if being in Pawtuck somehow jars Austin’s memory, and he remembers Maxie handing Louise off to her? He says, Maxie knows what’s at stake; keeping her precious little girl away from Peter. Come on; let’s go home. They leave, as Peter is being wheeled around the corner. Peter looks at Bailey, and I wonder, did Peter get a perm???  Peter says, what a beautiful baby, and Brook says, they think so. Chase says he’s one proud dad, and Peter says he’s sure Chase is. Chase asks Dante what Peter is doing here, and Dante says, a final bit of clearance before Pentenville. Peter says, he never saw the resemblance before, but now he gets it. Bailey looks just like her mother. Chase says, get him out of here, and Dante says, sure thing, and they wheel Peter into the elevator. He stares at Bailey until the last possible second, and then gives a creepy smile.

Martin tells Laura, they were in hiding for months. He couldn’t work. It’s not like he doesn’t have expenses; his mother’s around the clock care for one thing. Then there’s the herd of ex-wives, none of whom will ever get married, because they’re having way too much fun playing the alimony mambo. Of course (🍷) there’s his private wine collection. It should be a tax deduction, since he only has it to impress his clients, but try telling that to the IRS. She asks if he’s going to tell them about the expenses of courting Lucy, and he says, no, and neither is she, especially when Valentin is around. He’s got this thing about conflict of interest. She says, as the mayor, and defender of their Constitution, she wholeheartedly believes in Peter’s right to competent legal counsel, but as his sister, does it have to be him? Peter has hurt so many people; Maxie and her baby. He says, about that. She doesn’t think Peter will ever get his hands on that little baby girl, does she? Nobody’s known about her whereabouts for months. She says, that’s her point. The only way Peter will get his hands on that little girl is if someone as smart as Martin finds a way to exonerate him. Martin says, fine. Laura is going to make a play for the cheap seats.

Valentin tells Victor that Brook used Bailey to help the Quartermaine family regain control of ELQ. He would say, turnabout is fair play, wouldn’t Victor? Victor says, so Valentin is hoping to find something in the medical records he can use to his advantage. Like what for instance? Valentin doesn’t know; he’s fishing. He’s throwing a line in the water and seeing if anything bites. Victor tells him, happy fishing. He hopes Valentin catches something. The nurse comes back with Bailey’s folder, and asks if there’s something in particular Valentin is looking for in Bailey’s records.

Marshall tells Epiphany, changing medications isn’t going to heal the family he abandoned. She says, but he came back. He’s here now, and the longer he lives, the better chance he stands of making his family whole again. He says he’d rather talk about her dream of becoming a doctor, and she says, while she appreciates his interest, she thinks he should save some of his concern for that family of his.

Stella says she’s not giving Marshall a pass. She’s just asking why Curtis can’t accept his father’s version of events, and move on. Or is he using this as an excuse to keep from letting his father into his life? He says, Marshall’s already got one foot in the door. This is about his family’s safety; him, her, and TJ. What if the trouble that caused him to leave all those decades ago is still out there? If he opens that door just a little more, and trouble follows Marshall in, doesn’t she think he deserves to know what to expect? Or is none of this news to her? Does she know something he doesn’t?

Esme comes out with her coat, and says she’s leaving, but Spencer suggests taking a minute to cool off. She says she’s not spending another minute with small-minded people who have never, and will never, accept her for who she is. Josslyn says, the problem is, they know who she is. That’s why they don’t accept her. Esme asks if Spencer is coming or not, and he says, they all had those hot toddies, and with icy conditions, he doesn’t think it’s safe for either of them to drive right now. She says she ordered a car, but it seems he’s made his choice. He’s choosing them over her. Spencer says he’ll go with her, but first, he’s going to check on Trina. Then he’ll get their bags, and he’ll meet her outside. Esme says, Trina’s asleep, and they can send for their things; let’s go. Spencer says, sorry, guys, and follows her out. Cameron says, so much for their weekend getaway. He’s so sorry this all blew up. Josslyn says she’s not. She can’t stand Esme, and she’s thrilled that she doesn’t have to pretend otherwise. She feels horrible for Trina, but remember when they got drunk on the Haunted Star? The only cure is to sleep it off, so she guesses for now, it’s just the two of them.

Outside, Cameron tells Josslyn, the stars are very beautiful tonight; very close. Josslyn says, the more she thinks about it, this whole getaway was Esme’s idea. He says, so? and she asks if he thinks this was Esme’s plan all along; to embarrass them, and humiliate Trina? He says he hopes not. The funny thing is, he always thought Esme was so sure of herself, but after tonight, he realizes how insecure and terrified she is of losing Spencer. She says, here’s hoping by the time they’re down from the mountain, Spencer realizes Esme was trying to hurt his friends, and he dumps her. Cameron says he’s tired talking of talking about Esme, and Spencer. He thinks they should stop talking altogether. They kiss, and she nods, and they go inside. 

Stella tells Curtis, honestly, until this moment, she never suspected Marshall was mixed up in dirty business. He says he’s not trying to upset her, but now that she knows, does it ring any bells? Can she think back 40 years ago, and remember any names or faces that might have been mixed up with Marshall? She says she wasn’t even there, and Irene is no longer with them. All the more reason to consider what Marshall is saying, and leave things alone.

Marshall says, things are good with TJ, and getting better with Curtis, but Epiphany says, that’s not what he said when they went out to dinner. He says, while Curtis owns a nightclub, he still thinks like a P.I.; he questions everything. But he’s sure in time, Curtis will come around. She says, remember what she told him about her son? and he says, yeah, that they don’t always have as much time as they think they do. But doesn’t that apply to her as well, with her dream of becoming a doctor?

Brook asks if Chase saw the way Peter was smiling at Bailey. It’s almost as if he knows the truth. He tells her, Peter said she looks just like her mother; he meant her. She says, did he? What If he suspects the truth? What if he was saying Bailey looks like Maxie? Chase says, she has to remember, that’s just who Peter is. He wants to get under your skin, if not with poison, than with words. But Peter can’t possibly know. Laura approaches them, and says, Peter can’t possibly know what?

Peter says he can’t wait to get back to Pentenville, and Dante says, really? The place where he was poisoned, and it almost killed him? Peter says he’ll take the risk of lax security if it means getting to trial faster. (Ha Security doesn’t get any less lax than at GH.) Martin walks in, and Peter says, speaking of which, here’s his attorney. Martin asks if Dante will do him a favor, and give him five minutes with alone with Peter. Dante says he’ll be right outside, and leaves. Peter asks, what brings Martin here? Good news he hopes. Martin says, that depends on which side of those handcuffs you’re on. He’s sorry, but he finds it necessary to recuse himself from Peter’s defense. Peter says he sees. If Martin no longer wishes to represent him, they’ll go their separate ways; no hard feelings. Martin asks, what’s the catch?

Valentin asks if he and Victor can meet later, and Victor says, of course (🍷). He’ll make a reservation at the PC Grill. Valentin thanks him, and he leaves. Valentin thanks the nurse for getting his daughter’s file, and she tells him that the file can’t leave this floor. He says, understood. He’s looking for a sonogram from the third trimester. He’s a bit of a sentimental, and wants a copy. He’ll treasure it for always. He flips through the file, and says, there’s no sonogram in the file. How’s that possible? He was there when it was taken. Did somebody deliberately remove it? She says, no, it was never in here, and he says, of course (🍷). It would be in her mother’s file. He doesn’t suppose she could let him have a look at Brook’s information without permission, and she says, no. He says, so he can be prepared in case of an emergency, his daughter’s blood type is O negative, right? She says, no, his daughter is O positive, and he thanks her.

Brook tells Laura, they were just talking about what an awful human being Peter is. How much harm he’s caused to Maxie, and Elizabeth; to her family, especially to Monica. Between Jason dying, and Drew being locked away in that prison for all that time, Peter deserves to be locked up until the end of time. Chase says, they’re hoping when Peter goes to trial, he’ll be convicted, and sentenced to life. Laura says she has the same hope. It’s really easy for young adults, new parents, to lose their sense of faith with all the responsibility, but they can’t let that happen, for Bailey’s sake. Because she will grow up in a better, safer, kinder world, where Peter can’t come back to haunt any of them. Brook says, amen to that, and Chase tells Brook, anything to protect Bailey

Peter tells Martin, there’s no catch. If Martin can’t give his defense the time and attention it deserves, he’ll find someone who will. Martin thanks him for being so understanding, and Peter says, naturally, Martin will be returning his retainer. Martin says, ordinarily, he’d deduct the time he’s already spent working on Peter’s case, but what the hell? It’s a small price to pay for his conscience. Peter says he didn’t know Martin had one, when Dante comes back. He asks if everything is okay here, and Martin tells him, he’d say so. Peter no longer requires his services. He wishes them both a good night, and leaves. Dante says, Peter fired Martin? but Peter says, no. Martin walked away from him. Dante says, smart man. He’ll leave Peter with Officer Bridges in case he gets scared. Peter tells him, sleep tight, and Dante says he’s sure he will, and leaves.

Epiphany tell Marshall that she doesn’t have time for dreams, and her break is almost over. He says he was about to go too, but not before she hears him out. Whatever Dr. Rose told her, he had his reasons, but he wants her to know that he trusts her with his life any day. He knew he was in good hands that night because she was there. He puts some money on the table, and tips his hat. He leaves, and Epiphany smiles.

In the car, Spencer asks Esme, was Joss right? Did she get everyone to the cabin to humiliate them, and blow up his friendships? She looks at him coldly.  

Cameron and Josslyn go into the bedroom, and there’s a song part. They kiss, and he asks, is she sure? She says, she’s so sure, and they get busy. I used to work at a women’s clinic, and a brochure popped into my mind that had a cartoon condom saying, wait! Stop! Put me on!

Esme asks Spencer, what difference does it make what she says? He’s so ready to believe the worst of her. He says, that’s not an answer. He needs to know if what Joss accused her of is actually true. Esme remembers going into the master bedroom, and looking in the mirror. She wipes some tears away, and takes out her phone. She sets up the phone behind some plants on a dresser, pointing the camera toward the bed, and putting it on to film. In the present, she tells Spencer, all she wanted to do was get to know his friends better, and for him to make great memories before he goes to prison. Does he think she planned this weekend to be something diabolical? It just makes her sad.

Basking in their first afterglow, Cameron tells Josslyn, wow. Don’t get him wrong. He’s glad they waited, but…  She says she’s glad they waited too, but she’s also really glad they had this moment. To think how close they came to letting Esme ruin this for them… He says he doesn’t want to think about Esme right now. He wants to focus on her. They start getting busy again, and we see the phone camera filming. I have to say, I don’t see the purpose. They’re exclusive and in college, for Pete’s sake. Even if Esme was going to doctor it in some way, both Cameron and Josslyn are sober, and who would everyone believe?

Stella says, Curtis clearly has a choice to make. Does he want answers that might tell him things he doesn’t want to know, or does he want his father back in ? Marshall walks in, and says, small world. Do they mind if he joins them?

On the phone, gliding through the hall, Martin says, la Lucy, his sexy, sexy thing. His schedule just opened up. What say they catch a flight to the Big Easy and get themselves a nice heaping helping of Mardi Gras?

Laura goes into Peter’s room, and he says, madame mayor. To what does he owe this honor? She says she just saw Martin, and he was smiling ear to ear, because he no longer represents Peter. He told her that Peter didn’t argue or put up any fight to try and keep him. She had to wonder, why so magnanimous? Peter flashes back to seeing Bailey, and saying she looks just like her mother. He says he has faith in the system. Somehow, he just knows things are going to work out for the best.

Valentin walks through the hospital parking lot, leaving a voicemail for Anna. He tells her to call him. He’s got a lead on Louise. A thug runs up behind him, chloroforming him, and knocking him out. Someone picks up Valentin’s car remote, and we see it’s Victor. He says, be careful; that’s his son. He opens a hatchback, and a fancy – and very clean and spacious – trunk opens up. He tells the thug, oh, and cancel his dinner reservations. The thug puts Valentin in the truck, and it’s closed up.  

On Monday, Phyllis asks if she knows Stella, Esme says she doesn’t want to go home with Spencer, Carly says that happiness seems further away, and Ned tells Sonny that he should reconsider whatever he’s planning.

👨🏽‍🔧 Filling In…

For how long, no one knows.

https://www.soapoperanews.net/2022/01/damien-leake-books-role-on-general.html

👥 Shared Experience…

I love how Maurice Benard has mastered his illness, and used it, and his position, for good.

🎬 First Time Out…

Before he was Brad, he danced. Sort of.

🧼 Nuevo Suds…

This looks pretty good, and it’s got some great people in it.

💋 Checking Motive…

I tend to agree that it’s probably a bad spray tan job.

https://screenrant.com/rhobh-lisa-rinna-blackfishing-image-erika-jayne-instagram/

🧂 Bringing the Salt…

What went on in Salt Lake City last week.

I have the feeling she’s not coming back.

The cast keeps getting smaller.

https://people.com/tv/bravo-fires-jennie-nguyen-from-rhoslc-after-racially-insensitive-posts-resurface/

🚫 Next Comes Blocking…

I can’t believe people keep track of this stuff.

https://people.com/tv/rhobh-sutton-stracke-garcelle-beauvais-feuding-with-erika-girardi-source/

🏆 All the Awards…

This year’s calendar of events.

https://www.etonline.com/sag-awards-grammys-and-more-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2022-awards-season-177460

🐕 Pup Alternative…

I can’t think of better hosts.

https://people.com/pets/martha-stewart-and-snoop-dogg-hosting-puppy-bowl-2022/

A sneak peek.

https://ew.com/tv/puppy-bowl-xviii-first-look-penalty-french-bulldog/

🐘 Quotes of the Week

When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a manner that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice. – Indian Proverb

It’s like a summer camp for drunk third graders. – Kate Chastain, referring to some guests on Below Deck

Always look at what you have left. Never look at what you have lost. – Robert H. Schuller

If you always put limit on everything you do, physical or anything else. It will spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits. There are only plateaus, and you must not stay there, you must go beyond them. – Bruce Lee

There are no regrets in life. Just lessons. – Jennifer Aniston  

Maturity is achieved when a person accepts life as full of tension. – Joshua L. Liebman

Speak out on behalf of those who have no voice, and defend all those who have been passed over. – Proverbs 31:8 (TVT)

Not what we have but what we enjoy constitutes our abundance. – Jean Antoine Petit-Senn

Painting is poetry that is seen rather than felt, and poetry is painting that is felt rather than seen. – Leonardo da Vinci

All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another. – Anatole France

🚙 Am I There Yet…?

I’ll be stepping out until another month is ripped off the calendar, if you’re still using one of those. Three sunsets for the rest of you. See you then for some soap and the Deck. Until we meet again, stay safe, stay bending, but not breaking, and stay remembering, dreams don’t die, unless you give up on them.

November 16, 2021 – Esme Stirs the Pot At the Exhibit, Greg Wants Katie On Board, VanderPups, What’s Growing, Farewell Lois & Tom’s November

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Drew hears something, and tells Jason, heads up. A guard comes in, and undoes Drew’s shackles. Drew asks where he’s going, and the guard says he’ll know soon enough. Drew flashes back to telling Jason that he can’t stop himself; Jason has to stop him. He remembers Jason saying, it won’t come to that, and him telling Jason, if it does, he’d rather die at Jason’s hands, than carry out another one of Peter’s orders. In the present, he says, Jason knows what he wants, and said he would do it. Jason says, it’s not going to come to that, and Drew is hustled out.

Valentin says he hates that Robert struck a deal with the WSB, and Anna asks why Robert didn’t give them a heads up that this deal was imminent. Robert says, it was the Bureau’s call; Victor didn’t give them much choice. He knows all manner of damning information. Besides, his attorney threatened a press conference. Anna asks who his attorney is, and Robert says, Scott Baldwin. Valentin says, Scott Baldwin is an ambulance chaser, and Robert says, the ambulance chaser is smarter than he looks. He didn’t give them any room to negotiate. Anna says, the Bureau would have negotiated if Robert had told them sooner, and Valentin says, he and Anna know where Peter is, and it’s a place he knows like the back of his hand – Cassadine Island.

Peter tells Britt that he still hasn’t heard from Victor. It’s possible he’s alluding the WSB now too. She treats his hand, and he tells her that it’s not safe there anymore. They need to leave. She says, leave the island? And go where? There’s a knock at the door, and Peter says, come in. A guard comes in with Obrecht, and Britt asks if she’s allowed to greet her mother. Peter says, go ahead, and Britt and Obrecht hug. He says, you’re welcome.

Cameron asks Trina how many books she wants on the display table, and she says, as many as they can carry. They’re selling like crazy. He says he’s so sorry for dropping postcards on the floor, but she says, it’s fine. She nearly dropped a pitcher of water on herself before she came in. He says, nerves? and she asks if he can tell. He says she looks calm, cool, and composed, and she says, liar, but she appreciates the support. Cameron says, if Josslyn was here, she’d say the same. They’re both extremely excited for her. She says, thanks for the love, and hugs him. He says, anytime, and Esme lurks in the doorway.

Nikolas tells Joel Sartore, theses photos are amazing, and Joel thanks him, saying, if he likes these, look at the frog over here. Nikolas says he loves frogs, and follows Joel.

Ned tells Ava, he can’t decide which of these photographs he admires more, and she says, there wouldn’t be any photos at all if he hadn’t underwritten the exhibit. She thanks him for making this more than just a dream for Trina, and he thanks her for thinking the photo exhibit was worthy of her gallery. ELQ always welcomes the chance to champion a worthy cause. She says, and if it helps him score points with Olivia, all the better, right? Olivia comes in with Leo.

Sasha says she did a bad thing, and Brando says he knows. When she left his apartment last night, he noticed some butter pecan was missing from his freezer. She says, okay, two bad things. She knows they didn’t want to know the sex of their baby until he or she was born… He says, she found out, and she says, she didn’t ask, but she knows.

Gladys says Kip isn’t fooling her. He’s no more Bailey’s father than Valentin is. He says, he is the father. He’s just posing as a cater waiter and amateur actor to keep an eye on Gladys. If she slips up, there will be consequences. She laughs, and says, like what? He’s going to spill his tray on her? Don’t bother staying in character. That gun he threatened her with was fake, wasn’t it? Brook sees them talking, and says, Pauly. She didn’t expect to see him there tonight. Gladys tells her, next time, don’t pick out somebody who has to pass out canapes to pay his electricity bill, and Brook says, Pauly has two jobs. It’s called a side-hustle. She’s sure Gladys is familiar with the term, considering she’s been hustling her entire life. Gladys says, and the fact that his fellow cater waiters call him Kip? That’s only question number one. She has so many more about Brook’s baby daddy. Kip says, these kabobs aren’t going to serve themselves, and jets. Brook tries to hand Gladys her credit card, but Gladys says, this little charade she tried to pull, just upped the stakes.

Anna says, she’ll establish a team to raid the island, and Valentin says, the place is a fortress. The WSB is going to need help; he’s going with her. Robert tells him, says the man who was shot, and can’t get to the bathroom without help, and Valentin tells him to go file a brief. Anna says, she doesn’t think there’s room enough on the plane for both their egos. She’ll be going to Cassadine Island, and she’s not taking either one of them.

Ned says he’s glad they came, and Olivia says, Leo wanted to see the animals. Ned says he can’t wait to show Leo the photographs; he’s going to love them. Olivia says, hopefully, Leo’s favorite animal is here, and Ned says, what about her? What is she hoping for tonight?

Trina and Cameron come out, and Esme asks what they were up to. Trina says, what does it look like? Cam’s helping her. Esme says, it looks like he was holding a lot more than her books, and Trina asks what she’s talking about. Esme says she just thinks it’s so sweet that Cameron supports her, and Cameron says he’s right here. Trina says, that’s what friends do. Not that Esme would understand.

Nikolas says he’s surprised to see Spencer, and Spencer says he’s there to support Trina. No other reason. Nikolas says, Ava’s fine with that, and Spencer says, and him? Nikolas says he went by Kelly’s the other night, but Spencer wasn’t there. Spencer says, now is not a good time. He’s not going to ruin the night with their family dysfunction. It’s nice to have a night off serving tables. He’d like to enjoy the peace. He leaves, and Ava tells Nikolas, baby steps, my love.

Britt tells Obrecht that she’s okay, and says she wants to check Obrecht’s bandages. Peter says her mother was very well taken care of, and Britt says, there’s no sign of infection. She thanks Peter for giving her and her mother this time together, and Peter says, see? He’s not really the monster people think he is. Now that he’s done this little favor for Britt, she can repay him. He takes a paper out of his pocket, and says, Britt and Jason will be recorded reading this statement, verbatim. She looks at it, and says, please tell her this is a joke. Obrecht asks what it says, and Peter says he doesn’t trust Jason. He was much to docile during his demonstration. Britt remembers that, right? The part where Drew almost killed Jason, but decided to hurt himself instead? Britt says she has to give it to their late and unlamented father, he was the best at mind control. He really messed up Drew, and now Peter gets to reap the benefits. Kind of like finding a sportscar waiting in your garage that you did nothing to earn, and probably don’t know how to drive, but you take it anyway. He says, just make sure Jason says what’s on the paper, or this next time, Drew will kill Jason, and he’ll make her watch. The guard comes in and takes Britt. Obrecht tries to follow, but Peter grabs her arm, and she tells him not to touch her. If he harms her daughter, she will kill him. He tells her, calm down. He’s now secured the lab, so no more throwing any dangerous substances at him. Which now brings him to the part where he tells her, there’s not anything she or anyone else can do to stop him.

Britt is brought in to join Jason, and the guard gives her the paper, saying, stick to the script. She tells Jason that Peter wrote it, and the guard takes out his phone to film. Britt reads, today in Port Charles is Tuesday, November 16th. She’s Britt Westbourne, and she’s being held with Jason Morgan and her mother Liesl Obrecht. 

Obrecht says, Peter craves power and control, just like his father, but Peter says, the only thing he craves is his family. She laughs, and asks if he really thinks Maxie would take him back after everything he’s done. How many people has he killed? How many lives has he destroyed? He says she’s not here for her opinion; he needs her medical expertise. Drew is brought in, and Peter says he needs another check-up. He wants Drew in tip-top shape. Drew asks, why? and Peter says, because Drew has another job to do, where failure is not an option.

Looking at a bird photo, Olivia says, it’s so striking the way he’s captured the gold in the feathers, and Ned tells her, it says dancing is part of their mating ritual. She says, it’s breathtaking. She doesn’t know how Joel Sartore does it. Ned wonders if she’d like to ask him herself, and she asks if he can make that happen. He says, doesn’t she know by now, he’d do anything for her.

Brook asks what Gladys wants. A raise? A spectacular vacation package? Shares in Deception? Gladys says, how about a controlling interest? and Brook says, not only is that outrageous, she doesn’t have the power to do that. Gladys says, then make it within her power, or Valentin learns he’s not the biological father of his beloved Bailey. Olivia approaches with Ned and Leo, and tells Brook that Ned is going to introduce them to Joel. Would she like to join them? Leo says he wants to show Brook his favorite picture, and Olivia asks if he doesn’t want to meet the photographer. Leo shakes his head, and says he wants to look at the picture, and Ned says, sounds like Leo has his priorities straight. Brook tells them to go ahead; she’ll show Leo his picture. Olivia tells Leo to stick with Brook, and leaves with Ned. Brook tells Leo to give her a second, and tells Gladys, they’ll talk terms later. Gladys says she doesn’t think so. She doesn’t like Brook’s attitude, and her friend Valentin deserves the truth. She’s sure he’ll be appropriately grateful. Gladys walks off, and Leo pulls at Brook.

Esme says, Trina is right. She doesn’t always understand friendship, especially since she hasn’t had any close friends in her life. Cameron says, not even at boarding school? and Esme says, it was just Spence and her. She thinks the other girls were jealous. Cameron says he’s going to put the books on the display table, and Trina says she’ll be right behind him. Esme tells Trina, congratulations again on the exhibit, and getting ELQ to underwrite it. Very impressive. Trina thanks her, and Esme says, Spence could bankroll future exhibits, if only he had his trust fund. Trina says, Spence will make his own money by not relying on his dad, and working hard, but Esme says, Spence isn’t going to generate much of revenue stream working at a diner. Trina says, he’s making an honest living. Something Esme knows nothing about.

Brando asks how Sasha knows the sex of their baby, and she says, by accident. She fully intended to stick to their agreement, but a nurse accidentally revealed the baby’s sex when she scheduled an appointment by email. He asks if she’s disappointed it won’t be a surprise, but she says, actually, now that she knows, she’s even more excited. The baby seems more real to her. He puts his hand on her bump, and says, this isn’t real enough? What about the constant trips to the bathroom and butter pecan cravings? She says, true, but now she can really picture their baby. Does he want to wait until the baby is born, or should she tell him what they’re having?

Nikolas tells Trina, congratulations on the exhibit; it’s fantastic. Trina says she couldn’t have done it without Ava’s support, and Ava says, it’s her pleasure. She saw Trina’s mother, and she loves the photos. She’s so proud of Trina, as is Ava. Nikolas asks if Trina is at least going to enjoy her moment in the sun, but Trina says she can’t relax until after the presentation. Does Ava still want her to give it; it’s her gallery. Ava says, it’s Trina’s exhibition; Trina takes the credit. Nikolas’s phone rings, and he excuses himself to take the call. Trina tells Ava, her art professor came by earlier, and said she aced the class, and Ava says, her hard work and dedication have already paid off. Please do herself a favor and enjoy this moment. Trina says she’ll try, but can’t make any promises. How about Ava? This is as much her night as Trina’s. Is it going well? Ava looks over at Nikolas on the phone, and says, it seems her night might be taking a turn for the worse.

Britt reads that she, Jason, and Obrecht haven’t been harmed. They’ve been treated fairly, and have been assured by Peter August that they’ll remain safe as long as his instructions are followed. Peter has no interest in hurting them. He just wants justice for himself. While Peter works to attain that justice, these are his requirements to all of them. She shows Jason the paper. I always think these statements are so useless, since it’s always obvious the hostage is just reciting what they’ve been told.

Olivia tells Joel, the photographs are spectacular… fantastic. She asks Ned to help her out; she’s running out of adjectives. Ned says, he thinks she’s trying to say she loves Joel’s work. Olivia asks if those are his books on display, and Joel says, indeed. That’s Photo Ark Wonders; it’s celebrating diversity in the animal kingdom. She says she’ll have to pick one up for her son Leo; he’s fascinated with animals. Joel says, he might also like the children’s book they do, Photo Ark ABC. It’s never too early to get kids involved in conservation. Ned says he couldn’t agree more, which is why he already purchased both of the books. Joel says, outstanding, and excuses himself to sign some books. Olivia says, just incredible, and Ned says he couldn’t agree more. Mr. Sartore’s mission is truly incredible. She says she was talking about him. She knows he was thinking about her and Leo when he underwrote the exhibit. Then he bought the books. She’s running out of adjectives to describe him too. He says, that counts for something, and she says, that counts for a lot.

Brando tells Sasha, he’s torn. He wants to know the sex of their baby, but was looking forward to the surprise. She says, he doesn’t have to make up his mind right now. They have a little time before her due date. He says, so she’s going to be planning for the baby in secrecy? She says, like buying baby clothes, thinking about names… He says he thought they were coming up with names together, and she says, they will. What about Charlie? Or Parker? He says, those names can be used for boys and girls.

Spencer looks at a tiger photo, and Esme says, isn’t he beautiful? Spencer says, so proud; arrogant even. She says, like the Cassadines, and he says, he thinks they’re both on the verge of extinction. She says, he’s in a mood. Let her cheer him up. Guess who she saw snuggled up in the back room of the gallery? He says, he should care why? and she says, because it was Cam and Trina. Poor Joss. Her best friend and her boyfriend? He says, whatever she thinks she saw, it couldn’t have been that deep. Cameron and Josslyn are happy, and Trina would never betray a friend. She says, Trina’s not as perfect as he thinks, and he says, but she is honest. She doesn’t deal in dirty tricks. Esme says, unlike her.

Ava asks if everything is okay, and Nikolas says, apparently, Scotty convinced the WSB to cut Victor a deal. She says, what kind of deal? and he says, the kind that grants him full immunity. It’s possible Victor gave up Peter or something else of value, but whatever it was, Victor is walking the streets of Port Charles a free man.

Anna asks where Victor is now, and Robert says, the Bureau has him under surveillance. She says, he’s the former director; he created the surveillance protocol. He knows how to evade them. Valentin says, they can’t risk Victor warning Peter, and Anna says she’s leaving now. Her phone beeps, and she looks at it. She says, they have to see this, and they all look at the screen. Jason says, do not attempt to find Peter August and apprehend him. Do not attempt to find Britt Westbourne, Liesl Obrecht, or himself. Peter has the ability to monitor the activities of the WSB, as well as rogue individuals who attempt to find them. Any attempt to catch Peter or free his hostages will result in their deaths.

Britt hugs Jason, and says she hates leaving him. He says he’s got this, and she says she knows he does. She walks out, and the guard follows.

Drew says he refuses to feel like a trained lap dog anymore, and Peter says, refuse all he wants; it won’t make any difference. He’ll still do what Peter says; he literally holds all the cards. Drew says, go to hell, and Peter shoves Obrecht’s medical bag at her, causing her to double over. She says, he’s incapable of earning loyalty. He believes the stick is better than the carrot. How alone he must be, surrounded by minions instead of friends. Drew says he heard Maxie can’t even bear to be around Peter, and Peter says he and Maxie will be reunited. Drew will be the one to make it happen, or he’ll die trying.

Ava says, so much for Nikolas’s assurances that Victor won’t be a problem, but Nikolas doesn’t think Victor threw him under the bus, or he’d be in custody already. She says, what about mercenary being treated at GH? Does he know anything that could implicate Nikolas in any way? Nikolas says he’s fine. He just wishes he knew how Victor managed his immunity deal. What’s that look on her face mean? She says, it’s not the best time right now, and he asks if she’d feel better if he found out what Victor offered for his immunity. It means he’ll have to leave now. Ava tells him, go. She can’t be looking over her shoulder. If it’s not Spencer stalking her, it’s some other Cassadine crawling out of the woodwork ready to wreak havoc in their lives. He promises that’s not going to happen, and kisses her. He tells her, congratulations again on the exhibition, and leaves.

Spencer says, when he said Trina didn’t deal in dirty tricks, he wasn’t implying Esme did. She asks what he did mean, and he says, that Trina isn’t wired the way most people are; she’s not petty. She tells him, he should have heard what Trina said to her about not knowing what it’s like to work a real job. It sounded kind of petty to her. He says, Esme doesn’t know what it’s like to work a real job. He says he has no interest in fighting with her, especially when they have the opportunity for a rare night out. She looks incredible, not to mention there’s free food and the champagne is flowing, and they don’t have to pay for any of it. She says, the exhibit’s not so bad either, and he says, it doesn’t get any better than this. She says, and Trina arranged all of it, and he says, she probably had help from Ava. He can give credit where credit is due. Why can’t she? She says, he’s right. She hopes Trina has a night she never forgets.

Brook asks what Leo likes about the photo of the octopus, and Kip comes out. She goes over to him, and he says he’s really sorry about what happened. She says she told him to lie low. Working as a cater waiter at an exhibition isn’t lying low. He says he knows, but you never know who you’ll meet at these things. Chris Pratt was discovered working at a shrimp restaurant. She says, Chris Pratt has talent. He asks if she smoothed things over with Gladys, and she says, don’t worry about it. It’s not his fault. Who’d have thought Gladys would show up here? Her idea of good art is kitten videos. He says, so she’ll recommend him to her friends? She says, don’t push it, and goes back to the picture, but Leo is gone.

Sasha asks if Gladys is enjoying the exhibit, and Gladys says, you betcha. Sasha wouldn’t believe what she’s learning. She leaves, and Brando wonders why he gets the feeling his mother is up to something. Sasha says, maybe because she always is up to something. They look at the panda photo, and Sasha suggests buying a print for baby Riley or Billie’s nursery. He says, why not? The truth is, he doesn’t need to know who or what their baby will be, to be prepared for the baby’s arrival. All he cares about is that little Reese or Jamie or Blake turns out just as magnificent as their mother.

Trina asks if Ava is okay, and Ava says she’s fine. Isn’t it about time for Trina to make her presentation to Mr. Sartore? Trina says she just needs to grab the flowers and check from ELQ in the back room. Ava tells her, do that while she makes the introductions.

Esme starts to follow Trina, but Cameron intercepts her. She says she can’t talk right now, but he asks if she has a minute. There’s something he needs to clear up.

Joel tells Ned, the Arabian cobra was the 12,000th species in the Photo Ark Project. He didn’t like Joel too much. It was photographed two weeks ago in the Arab Emirates at the Arabian Wildlife Center. Only 8000 more to go. Ned says, Joel’s going to be busy, and Joel says, he is.

Trina gets the flowers, and opens the door to find Gladys. She tells Gladys the ladies room is in the other direction, but Gladys says she was hoping to make a call in private, but Trina says, the back room is off limits to visitors. Gladys says, it’s a matter of life and death, and paternity. She promises not to steal any of the artwork. It’s not her taste anyway. Trina says, all right, but please be quick. Gladys thanks her, and goes inside, but her phone says, no service. She frets that she needs to reach Valentin.

Valentin says, apparently, it’s a rescue mission now, and Robert says they have to make sure they’re not walking into a trap. Anna says, of course (🍷) they are. She wonders how Peter got Obrecht, Britt, and Jason, and Robert says he has to make a call. He leaves, and Valentin says the WSB will have ground plans and schematics, but he knows the island better than they do. Anna says he just got out of surgery, but he says he thought she knew him better than that. She says she does, and knows he’d risk his life for the hostages, but she prefers him alive, if it’s all right with him. He says he hates to say it, but if she’s not going to take him, take Robert. He can make a contribution though. He knows how to get on the island undetected.

Brando asks if Sasha is all right, and she says, it was just a twinge; she gets then once in a while. He says, they can leave, but she says, this is probably one of their last nights out before the baby comes. She’s not ready to cut it short. However, she does need the ladies room. She hands him her phone, and says, the email from the nurse is in her inbox, should he want know what their future looks like.

Cameron thanks Esme for all the planning she’s done for the weekend trip, and she says, they can talk arrangements later, but he says, there’s something he wanted to get clear. He doesn’t want her opinion or advice on whether he and Josslyn should share a room. She says, whatever, and jets.

Ava asks for everyone’s attention. She thanks them for being there. The Jerome Gallery is honored to present the National Geographic Photo Ark, led by National Geographic explorer and photographer Joel Sartore. Everyone applauds, and she says, the National Geographic Photo Ark is an extraordinary multi-year effort to document all species living in zoos, and aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries. And these awe inspiring images around them are just a fraction of the Photo Ark. In fact, Joel announced today that he’s taken portraits of 12,000 species of animals on this planet. There’s more applause.

Gladys keeps trying to get service, but it’s not working. She opens the door, and Sasha is there. Sasha asks what Gladys is doing there, and Gladys says she’s trying to get a phone signal. Her? Sasha says she told Brando that she was going to the ladies room, but she really needed a place to sit quietly for a minute. Does she mind? Gladys says, be her guest, and Sasha sits. Gladys asks if she’s okay, and Sasha says, she just can’t seem to get comfortable anywhere. Gladys says she remembers those days. Brando was a very active baby. She couldn’t wait for him to be born. Brook opens the door, and Gladys says, she’s off the clock. Brook jets, and Gladys says, for the life of her, she doesn’t know how Sasha, Lucy, and Maxie put up with Brook. The three of them actually make a contribution to Deception. BLQ just swans around, giving everyone orders, and wasting everyone’s time. In the hallway, Esme kicks something under the door to keep it from opening, and smiles. Wow, girl. You stupid.

Joel thanks everyone for being there, and says, unfortunately, about a million species are threatened with extinction. He and National Geographic partnered about fifteen years ago to start documenting all 20,000 they think are in the world’s zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, and aquariums. They turned a big corner with their 12,000th species recently, the Arabian cobra that they can see around the corner. The goal is to engage the public, and to also fund long-term conservation efforts. He wants to take this opportunity to thank Trina Robinson for reaching out to their staff, which led to all this, and also Ava Jerome of Jerome Galleries, also all of them for being there today and caring. Everyone applauds, and he thanks them. Spencer asks Esme where she was, and she says, long line at the ladies room. Ava is sure everyone is eager to buy a print or two for this worthy cause, but first, she knows Trina has something she’d like to present to Mr. Sartore. As many of them know, Trina was the first to make her aware of the Photo Ark Project, and it’s thanks to her efforts that this exhibit is happening at all. She calls for Trina to come out, and they all applaud again.

Drew asks how he’s going to reunite Peter with Maxie, and Peter says he’s going back to Port Charles, and bringing her to him. Obrecht asks if he’s out of his mind. He’s going to kidnap Maxie and bring her back to this godforsaken island against her will? Then what? He says, then Obrecht will use his father’s methods to influence Maxie on his behalf, but Obrecht says, Faison never told her how he did it. Peter tells her, don’t be modest. He knows she’s up to the task, and when she’s finished, Maxie will know she belongs to him.

Ava calls Trina again, and Trina says, she’s here. She comes out with the flowers, and thanks Joel for allowing the gallery to display his fabulous photos. He thanks her, and also wants to thank ELQ for underwriting this. Trina says, ELQ Industries would like to acknowledge the great work he and National Geographic are doing by making a donation to the Photo Ark. Joel thanks them, and says he’s sure it’s generous. Donations are critical to their work. Trina says, all species deserve to be protected. No matter how big or small, they are all beautiful. Brook pulls Ned and Olivia away, and says, she thought Leo might be with them. Olivia says she thought he was with Brook, and Brook says, he was, until he wasn’t. He was looking at a photo, and she only looked away for one second. Olivia says, one second is all it takes for a little boy to disappear, and Ned says, let’s not panic. He has to be somewhere in the gallery. Brook says, she already looked, top to bottom. Elsewhere, Brando looks at Sasha’s phone, and smiles.  

Gladys asks how Sasha is feeling, and Sasha says, better, thanks. The quiet helped. She’s ready to get back to the exhibit. Is Gladys coming? Gladys says she is; maybe she’ll get better service outside. She tries to open the door, but it’s locked. She says, the door is stuck. Don’t sweat it. She’ll get them out in a jiff. She tries again, with no luck, and bangs on the door, asking, is anyone out there? The door is stuck. Let them out.

Anna tells Robert, all set. The Bureau is sending a rescue team to Cassadine Island under her command. Her flight is arranged, and Valentin is working on the intel for how they breach the island undercover. He says he’s secured time off work, unless she thinks his ego is too big for the mission. She looks at him, and he says, come on. She knows he has certain skills and expertise useful on this adventure. She says, then it’s just as well she saved him a seat next to her on the plane, isn’t it? Let’s end this. Let’s really end this once and for all.

Obrecht says, there’s no way Maxie is coming back to Peter, when the guard comes in with Britt. He asks Peter for a word, and Peter tells them, feel free to search the room for lethal weapons to use for their escape. They won’t find any. He leaves with the guard, and Drew asks Obrecht if Peter is right. Can she condition Maxie? She says, she can, and Peter knows it. He threatened Britt to force her to cooperate. Britt says, he’s not going to get that far. Jason is going to stop Peter.

The guard says, preparations are underway for relocation, and Peter says, excellent. Begin the countdown for leaving Cassadine Island. They won’t be coming back. Is that all? The guard says, they’re not sure about the restraints on Jason, but Peter says, Jason won’t be a problem. He’s not coming with them. Jason puts The Chariot tarot card in his pocket.

Before the preview, Sydney Makala (Trina) and Joel Sartore plug the National Geographic Photo Ark. You can visit it at https://www.nationalgeographic.org/projects/photo-ark/ or natgeophotoark.org. And you should.

Tomorrow, Carly thinks she and Phyllis should get to know one another, Ned thinks he knows where Leo is, and Sasha’s water breaks. Like we didn’t figure that was going to happen.

Vanderpump Rules

Lala told Ocean that she was going to meet James today, and James came bearing gifts; a super soft bunny and Ocean’s very first pair of Uggs. I’m sure they were way more than you should ever pay for shoes that will never see the ground, and will be grown out of in three weeks, but they were really cute. Lala asked about the party at Charli’s that was really at Tom and Ariana’s, and he said, Raquel ended up falling asleep on the floor. She was really wasted. Lala asked if that was tough for him, and he said it didn’t affect him, but couldn’t play drinking games. In his interview, he asked if he was that annoying when he drank. How embarrassing. Ariana told Raquel that James’s fuse seemed short, and he was being a bit of a brat. At Lala’s, James said, if Raquel’s nose job didn’t go right, what was going to happen to the relationship? Raquel admitted to Ariana that James often thought about himself before he thought of other people. Ariana asked if Raquel could bring it up to James, and in Raquel’s interview, she said all she wanted was for James to recognize his mistakes. He couldn’t act like that and be impatient when they had kids. James told Lala that he didn’t want a fiancé with a botched nose. Which, if that happened, would be really ironic, since Paul Nassif (Botched) was the surgeon being considered. In James’s interview, he said when he met Raquel, all he knew was that she was a super model from California. Lala said he couldn’t weigh in; it was Raquel’s face. He told her that he’d gotten his face by not doing a single thing, and she said, not all of them were that blessed.

The Toms met with Lisa at Villa Rosa. Puffy! Schwartz said they felt great about the concept for the new bar, but wanted her take on it. They were having trouble selling Greg on it. We flashed back to Greg saying, if they couldn’t tell him what her vision was, how could they move forward? In Schwartz’s interview, he said, Lisa was the only one who could help them nail it. Greg was going to wash his hands, and walk away if they didn’t have something. They showed her a fabric swatch they wanted for the bar stools, and Lisa asked how much it was. Sandoval said, thirty, but was unsure if that was a square foot or yard. In Lisa’s interview, she said, if you’re ordering 100 yards, you can’t afford to be off by 900%. Tom went on a tangent, telling her that it was a funkadelic dive lounge, where you could check your worries at the door. An escape from reality, where they bridge the reality of your best night out with the déjà vu of your future fantasies. He talked about archways on the way to the bathrooms, and conflicting colors with lights that highlighted the hard edges. Then he went on to vines and hanging plants. Lisa said they had to trust her. She knew they had great intention and vision. It wasn’t that she didn’t like what they were telling her, but there was nothing definitive. Greg wasn’t going to put his money and confidence behind something unless he knew it would be a success. When they wanted to deviate, think of her foot firmly up their ass.

Brock explained how to make a baby dress from an old shirt to Scheana’s mom Erika, and in his interview, he said his mom had sewn clothes for him and his siblings. He wanted to teach his family that something old could be turned into something new. Ariana came by, and asked if Scheana wanted to have another baby. Scheana said she’d like Summer to have a sibling, but was concerned about putting her body through pregnancy again because of the issues she’d had. She was thinking of freezing her eggs like Ariana had. In Ariana’s interview, she said, yes, she’d frozen her eggs. She and Scheana were going together, but then Scheana became pregnant. It didn’t mean she was jumping on the baby train, but it was about agency over her own body. And also a f*** you to those who questioned her values or choices. Scheana asked if Ariana was going to use a surrogate, and thought it would be fun if she and Ariana did that at the same time. Ariana was like, no. Katie sent Scheana a  text, saying she was throwing a soiree, and the theme was Man of Mystery and Femme Fatale. Ariana thought it was a ruse to get Scheana and Lala in the same room, and Scheana wished Lala was still the cool chick from five years ago. In her interview, she said, Lala had ruined every friendship, but she continued to come around because she had no other friends. Ariana googled Man of Mystery and got Austin Powers.

Raquel told James it wasn’t cool to call her and Charli dumb at the party, and he said it had been the peak of his tantrum. She told him that he thought about himself before he thought about others. The comment that had most disturbed her was when he said he was the one who had to look at her effing face for the rest of his life. In his interview, James said he saw how the Beverly Hills moms got work done, and didn’t want Raquel to turn into that. James told Raquel that if his nose got botched, she’d leave him, and she said, would he leave her? He said no, and she suggested he not vocalize whatever was in his head. His number one job as her fiancé should be to support her, not add to her stress. He admitted he was wrong, and said it was a learning curve for him. The Toms were meeting with Greg and designer Lucinda at the new bar, and Schwartz brought Katie. In Schwartz’s interview, he said he wanted her to be impressed. In Sandoval’s interview, he said, Katie invited herself. She thinks it’s a seat in the boardroom, but she’s just there for bring your wife to work day. Greg asked if everything was ready, and Sandoval went on a mini tangent, saying it was going to be a vibrant, funky dive lounge; featuring Americana food, and simple, fresh, and playfully unique mixology. Greg said he liked the concept, and they showed Greg some expensive décor choices. Sandoval said it was all about the details, but Greg said, give him the same wow for less. He wanted a mission statement, and Sandoval said it was a funkadelic dive lounge, where you could check your worries at the door. An escape from reality, where they bridge the reality of your best night out with the déjà vu of your future fantasies. They clearly didn’t understand the concept of a mission statement, and Greg said it was a word salad; he got lost. Katie asked what did they want to accomplish, and how were they going to accomplish it. Greg thought Katie should take their place, which pissed Sandoval off royally. In Katie’s interview, she said she knew what she was doing, saying, and talking about. To piss Sandoval off even more, Greg said Katie was going to help them.  

Everyone got ready for Katie’s soiree. James figured his London accent was half the costume, and he didn’t need to wear a shirt. In Katie’s interview, she said they’d all been wearing sweatpants for the last year and a half. She wanted to class this bitch up. Katie mentioned Scheana having been in a show called Femme Fatales, and said it was very racy. There’s a word I haven’t heard in a long time. In her interview, Katie said they’d all come there to get into entertainment. While the rest of them were pulling double shifts at SUR, Scheana was doing what she could to make her dream come true. In Scheana’s interview, she wondered why it had to be brought up. Now everyone would google it, and see her boobs. Which was really her way of saying, google it so you can see her boobs. Everyone looked fabulous, and in Schwartz’s interview, he said it was like being in his own spy fantasy. He wished Lisa was there. Ariana asked about the meeting, and Sandoval said it went well. Katie told them about her part in it, and in James’s interview, he said Katie knew what buttons to push when it came to Sandoval, and it was spectacular to watch. Carry on. Lala asked to borrow Scheana to talk in private. She said she know Scheana had pent up issues that she’d thought they squashed, and Scheana said she needed to know where Lala was coming from. They were good, and she’d moved on, but at Lisa’s, Lala decided to be a mean girl effing bitch. Lala said Scheana was villainizing her and then playing the victim. Scheana had brought around a lot of sh*tty guys, and Lala had been concerned about her and the baby. Scheana said she thought Lala hadn’t been genuine, and in her interview, she said it was hard to trust Lala after being the butt of Lala’s jokes for years. They had a pattern of Lala hurting her, then Scheana forgiving her. She said she needed to know that Lala genuinely cared about her, and it wasn’t an act. Lala said she was trying to make changes. She was realizing how her words affected people. Scheana was willing to move past it, and they hugged it out. In Scheana’s interview, she said she thought Lala was coming from a good place, but her delivery was f***ed up. Lala told Brock that she’d talked to Scheana, and they were good. Since he was Scheana’s SO, she wanted to make sure they were straight. She didn’t mean to come for him, but thought her concerns were valid. Brock said he hadn’t liked how she said she was sorry, but that’s just the way she was. He thought she was condescending. She said she was like a fine wine; some people liked it, and others wanted wine from a box. He said he preferred scotch.

Hanky and Panky! Schwarz visited Villa Rosa – Schnookie! – on a mission to pick up a serving platter. It took him ten minutes to explain what he wanted, and in Lisa’s interview, she said it was going to be hard to be a restaurant owner if he didn’t know what a serving platter was. She took him to the basement to look around, and in his interview, he said he was disappointed there wasn’t a sexy pink dungeon down there. He told Lisa that he was developing guilt about putting work before his family. He wanted to help them financially. In Schwartz’s interview, he said his family was having a rough go. His parents had separated, and his brother hadn’t been working since the pandemic. He’d been sending them a few hundred dollars a month to help keep their heads above water, but he was strapped. Lisa said it wasn’t his responsibility, and should wait until the business was up and running. He said he was also stressed about the loan; it hadn’t come through yet. In his interview, he said he and Sandoval were in different places. Sandoval’s parents were investing in the bar, while he was pinching pennies. It was like a cash register in his head, adding up the accumulating debt.

Brock told Charli about Lala and Scheana making up, and Scheana said Lala had seemed genuine. Brock said he’d put Lala in her place, but was still wary. In his interview, he said he wanted to give Scheana the opportunity to be friends with Lala, if that’s what she wanted. In Charli’s interview, she said she couldn’t imagine talking sh*t about someone, and being friends with them the next day. And if she knew someone who did that, she’d think they were going to do it to her too. Everyone met for drinks, and Schwartz told Katie about his finance anxiety. She said he’d just won $900, and in her interview, she said Schwartz’s gambling had been problematic. He’d gambled away the naming rights of their first born. We saw a clip of Randall saying the baby’s name would be Pickle. Katie said he needed to get it under control immediately. She thought he was putting too much pressure on himself about the family, and had to let her in to his thoughts and feelings. Charli said all the girls had WikiFeet profiles, which is new to me, but apparently it’s a feet rating. Or as Charli put it, a beauty pageant for your feet. I’d score a minus something. I wondered if Jax invented it, and Charli said they should submit Raquel’s nose, which is a terrible idea, considering Raquel’s insecurities. In Lala’s interview, she said that she didn’t want Brock to have to defend himself anymore, and she was sick of defending herself. He was the dude that her friend chose, and she’d have to trust Scheana’s judgement. Brock apologized for not moving past the situation, and Lala said she’d had some bad timing. Charli talked to Sandoval about Brock confronting Lala, and Lala wanted to make sure she and Charli were good. I guess it was some sort of mini apology tour. Charli said her problem was with not knowing what she would get. Tom said all the fights were ones Lala picked. She’d talked sh*t about Ariana, and then Brock. Lala said she’d dealt with it, but Tom said he wanted her to grow, and stop picking fights. She was being immature. In Tom’s interview, he said Lala was the one lighting the fuse, then played the victim. It was getting really effing old. In Lala’s interview, she said, the only thing growing on Tom was the heinous mustache that prepubescent boys got. (See more on that below.) She said she was going insane, and was going to have to shut him down.

Next time, swimming, shots, James goes to therapy, and Lala talks to Schwartz about Sandoval.

🐶 Vanderpump Dogs was back on at 11:30 pm for a marathon. This is the best show in the world. Lisa in her element, and dogs, dogs, and more dogs. The highlight of one episode was a pregnant pup who’d been found in a parking lot, giving birth to 13 (!) babies. The nicest bee farmer ever gave her a forever home. I wanted to go with them.

👨🏻 The Heinous Stache…

The one Lala said prepubescent boys get.

🥀 Last Dance…

While I am not a LisaR fan, I did like her mom, and this is a great tribute.

https://people.com/tv/rhobh-star-lisa-rinna-pays-tribute-to-mom-lois-after-her-death/

🧝 What’s Sleep Got To Do With It…?

Stop by tomorrow, for soap, that godawful House I can’t stop watching, and who knows what? Until then, stay safe, stay separating the wheat from the chaff, and stay not being a cater waiter if you’re trying to lie low.

October 15, 2021 – Jason Agrees To Help Britt, Amber Remembers, a Wedding, Busy, a Refusal, Poor Thing, Harry Rumors, an Attack, VanderTalk, Girls Trip, Magnificent Digs, Close To a Dozen Quotes & Mash

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny comes in, and Carly says, howdy, stranger. He says, howdy to her too. He’d think after twenty years they’re no strangers. She says, no, they’re not, but the man who wore this hat is a mystery to her.   

Britt says Jason got there fast, since she just sent the text. Was he already at the hospital, or did he fly here? Where are her manners? Let her take his cape. He asks if everything is okay, and she says, no. She’s at a standstill, and doesn’t know how to move forward. As much as she hates to ask, she could really use his help.

At Windymere, Doc tells Nikolas, he’s sorry it took a while. He had clients back to back. What does Nikolas need? Nikolas says he needs to discuss his mother; she’s not answering his texts. Is everything all right? Doc says, she’s tied up in a meetings all day, but they’re going to speak tonight. He can let her know Nikolas wants to reach her. Is this an emergency? Nikolas says he’s having a hard time processing something that happened last night. He and Ava found out who was stalking them. Doc says, don’t tell him that his brother found a way to do this, but Nikolas says, sadly, it was his son.

Spencer asks if Ava is there to gloat, and she says, he still doesn’t get it, does he? She derives no pleasure in his situation. He asks where his father is? Arranging bail? She says, no. If it were up to her husband, the PCPD could keep him locked up and throw away the key. She’s all he’s got.

Anna tells an officer, the gunman was a professional; he knew exactly what he was doing. The shots were targeted and precise. This wasn’t some local feud gone wrong. It was an ambush. Dante and Sam arrive, and Dante says, it looks like they showed up late to the party. Sam asks, what the hell happened here?

Drew looks at the bullet wound in his arm, and says, what the hell? What happened?

Peter drags Obrecht down the hall, and she throws his hand off her arm. She says she’d sooner die than help him, and he tells her not to tease him.

Sonny says, he’s still him; he’s still Carly’s husband. What about her? Is she still the same as she was nine months ago, or has something changed? She says, that’s an odd question, and he says he spoke to Jason about what he walked in on the night he came back. She said it was her wedding, but he didn’t know it was her actual wedding night… in every sense of the word. Did he interrupt something? She says, if he hadn’t come back, she and Jason would have slept together, as husband and wife. He says, give him one second. He doesn’t know how he can be okay with that.

Jason asks if Britt is in trouble, because she can tell him anything. She says, this isn’t not about her; it’s about her mother. Rescuing her doesn’t seem to be a top priority at the WSB. It is with her and Scotty, but they’ve hit a brick wall, and they’re out of options. Jason is their only hope of finding her mother alive.

Obrecht asks if Victor is aware Peter is giving her orders, and threatening her. He says, she rejected Victor, then she tried to kill him. So she’s been downgraded from her swanky accommodations to this dank cell. She’ll see how much Victor gives a damn about her. She says she doesn’t care. Nothing can get her to help him. He says, we shall see, won’t we?

Anna says she’s glad they’re here, and Sam asks, what happened? Anna says, she and Robert were ambushed. The gunman was a professional who knew what he was doing. They managed to return fire and drive him off. Robert joins them, and asks if Anna filled them in. Dante says, she was starting to. They don’t know who the shooter was? Robert says, nothing yet. There are no prints, no footprints. They’ve got some ballistics the police are checking on. Sam says, Peter is the obvious suspect, and Anna says, he is, but they have no proof. Robert says, Peter might not have pulled the trigger, but his stench is all over this, and Dante says, Peter is the reason for Drew’s disappearance. They’re getting too close for comfort. Anna says, he seems sure of that. What do they have? Sam says, Dallas Kirby confirmed that Drew’s plane crash was staged, and Dante says, the flight that Drew was on sent a fake distress signal, turned off its beacons, and flew away. Dallas Kirby was paid two million dollars to dump a bunch of plane parts into the Gulf of Adan, and the plane flew off radar. Anna says, that tracks with what Chloe Jennings told her, that Drew is alive and being held against his will. Sam says, then where is he? And where’s Valentin? Wasn’t he with Anna? Anna says, there’s been a complication. Robert says, of the Cassadine nature.

Doc tells Nikolas, Laura is going to be devastated. She believed Spencer when he insisted he wasn’t responsible. Nikolas says, they all did, and Doc says, he’s sorry. He saw glimpses that something was amiss, and he didn’t voice his concerns. It’s difficult to reconcile the prankster they know Spencer can be, with the calculated intimidation Nikolas and Ava have faced. Nikolas says, that’s why he wants to talk to his mother. He’s not sure he took the right actions when Spencer confessed. Doc asks what he did, and Nikolas says, he threw Spencer and his girlfriend out of Windymere. He cut Spencer off from his trust fund and credit cards, and Spencer had no access to any of Nikolas’s financial resources. Doc asks if Nikolas is comfortable with that, and Nikolas says, for now. Alexis doesn’t like it. She’s urging him not to abandon his son. Doc says, what about Ava? and Nikolas says, Ava is all for Spencer facing the consequences of his actions, but not at the expense of their relationship. Doc asks what Nikolas wants, and Nikolas says he appreciates where Ava is coming from, but he’s still confused. Doc says, punishment and enforced guidance don’t need be mutually exclusive, and Nikolas says, no offense, but that didn’t work with Ryan. Doc says, Spencer’s no Ryan, and Nikolas asks if he’s sure. Doc says, it’s true that the extremes Spencer took things to is disturbing, but Spencer knows right from wrong, and he feels remorse. So how did he think it was a good idea to convince Ava she was being stalked? And how did he find the time to even pull it off? Nikolas says, he had help. Spencer didn’t do it alone. The doorbell rings, and Esme is there. She tells Nikolas that he needs to get to the police station as soon as possible. He asks if something happened to Spencer, and she says Nikolas’s wife had Spencer arrested.

Spencer says he wants nothing to do with Ava. He didn’t ask her to come, and certainly doesn’t want to talk to her. She says she’s not keen on talking to the sullen young man who terrorized her for months, but here she is. He might want to shut up and listen for once. He asks what she could have to say that would be useful to him, or what he could say that would be useful to her. She says, for starters, he’s welcome. By all accounts, he had nowhere to sleep and now he does. He says, thank you, stepmother. He’ll never forget she made it possible for him to experience a night in jail, and she tells him not to act so put upon, or has he forgotten he’s guilty of the crimes for which he’s been arrested? He says she’s going to lecture him about his criminal acts? Let’s talk about hers. Let’s get Josslyn in here and ask her about how Morgan died. Ava says she’s not the one in custody, and he says, that’s kind of his point. All the misery she’s inflicted, people who’ve died, and she’s walking free. He allegedly played a few unkind pranks and she had him arrested. She says she knows deep down, Spencer’s father still wants him in his life; he just needs reminding. She can do that. She can remind him that he has the resources to hire Spencer the very best counsel. She can remind him of his connections in the justice community, and his considerable sway. She can remind him that Windymere is Spencer’s home. All of which he thank her for later. He says, should he remind her that his grandmother is mayor of Port Charles, and she can do all of that? Ava says she doesn’t see Laura anywhere around here. Does he? Laura’s not coming to Spencer’s rescue. Nobody but her – with conditions. He can take his chance in court, or she can offer him a way out.

Peter tosses Obrecht into Drew’s cell, and Drew says, Peter looks frazzled. Did his sinister plans go off the rails lately? Peter throws Obrecht’s bag in the cell, and tells her to take care of Drew’s wound. Make sure it’s clean. He leaves, and Obrecht digs furiously in her bag. Drew asks if she has anything they can use, but she says, no. Might as well get to work. She looks at his wound, and says, it’s from a bullet. Fortunately, he was only grazed. Who shot him? He says he has absolutely no idea.

Peter runs into Victor in the hallway, and Victor asks him, what’s wrong? Nervous? He should be. He has a lot to answer for.

Anna tells Sam and Dante that after she came back from seeing Chloe, Valentin was missing. They questioned a local musician she’d seen the night before. Robert says, who promptly lied to their face, and Anna says, he tried to convince them that Valentin faked being drunk, and took off with an accomplice in a car. Robert says, something he was all too willing to accept, and Anna says, well, she wasn’t. After that, things got heated, and they discovered the musician had a tattoo, the Cassadine crest. Sam asks if he was a Cassadine, and Anna says, affiliated with the family somehow, but before they were able to question him further, the gunman opened fire and all hell broke loose. By the time the shooting had ceased, they decided to take the musician in for questioning. Robert’s phone rings, and he says, now?… Okay, he’s on his way. He tells them, it’s his turn with the musician. Maybe now they’ll get some real answers.

Esme follows Nikolas into the living room, whining, didn’t he hear her? Spencer’s being interrogated at the police station. He says he heard her. He already knew. She asks why he hasn’t shown up to help Spencer, and he says he’s helping Spencer take responsibility for this actions. She says, by kicking him out of his home, and sitting back and watching while his wife uses the police as an instrument of revenge? That sounds like abuse, not help. Doc says he’s not sure Esme is seeing the entire picture here. What Spencer did to Ava is criminal behavior. Nikolas says, Esme knows better than anyone. She’s lucky she’s not getting booked at the PCPD right along with Spencer.

Spencer tells Ava, he won’t do it. If this is what she calls an olive branch… She says if anyone is owed an olive branch, it’s her, but she knows better that to expect that. He’s far too attached to his resentment, so she’ll settle for a transactional agreement. They don’t have to be friends; they just need to coexist. She needs to know he’s learned his lesson, and won’t mess with her marriage again. A show of good faith would be to agree to her terms. He says he trusted her once and she stabbed him in the back. Never again. She says, suit himself, and gets up. But a word to the wise. The lobby for the holding cell, the one with the torn mesh in the window; it has its share of bedbugs, but the tear lets in the tiniest bit of sunlight and provides ventilation when the drunk and disorderly show up and puke their guts up. Goodbye; good luck. She leaves, and the door closes. 

Sonny tells Carly, Jason said the same thing, but it’s different hearing it from his best friend, than hearing his wife say if he hadn’t interrupted, they would have slept together. She says, because they didn’t know. For nine months they didn’t know he was alive. Losing him was hell. They searched and searched for him, and waited and prayed; she couldn’t let go. Cyrus and Sonny’s enemies were circling like vultures. The nights were the worst; lying in bed or cradling Donna night after sleepless night. She held it together because she had to, and she and Jason got married for the same reason, because they had to. They had to show a united front. He says, so that’s all it was, a message? I just have to say, they searched and searched not all that hard. Sonny’s picture was apparently never on the news or passed to police departments in Pennsylvania.

Jason says, of course (🍷) he’ll help Britt. He said it that morning at the gym. She says, and she turned him down. She can be stubborn that way… He could pretend to disagree with her. He says, she is stubborn, and a very reckless driver. She says she’s an excellent driver. She supposes there’s some misplaced pride wrapped up in this. She wanted not to need him. He says, they all need someone, and she says, she feels guilty. Her mother was on her way to St. Lucia to attend a conference on hereditary diseases. He says, like Huntington’s? and she says, yes. It was a fake, a ruse to get to her mother. He says, she told him it was a set up at the gym, but didn’t give him any details, and she says, Scotty agreed to go with her mother. He got a deal on a private jet rental, also a ruse. Scotty took an impromptu parachute ride, and her mother just vanished. He asks her to go back to the conference. He thinks someone set it up to trick her mother, but she says, that means they know she has Huntington’s. That’s impossible.

Victor tells Peter, he heard there’s been a gunfight in a tavern in Panapolvia (sounds like; I have no idea if that’s the right name). Robert Scorpio and Anna Devane were inside. A masked gunman showed up, and started firing. Peter asks if anyone was injured, and Victor says, Robert and Anna walked away, but one of his men was taken into custody. Thanks to Peter, the WSB can compel that man to reveal their location. Peter asks, what was he to do? Robert and Anna were sniffing around, and he had to stop them. Victor says he’s lived there for years without giving anyone the slightest provocation to look his way. Now, suddenly, the place is crawling with WSB agents, combing the area and asking questions. Then he discovered that Drew’s ex-wife has shown up, with Detective Dante Falconari in tow. Peter says he’ll take care of it, but Victor says, Peter will stay out of it. He’ll handle it.   

Sam asks if Chloe told Anna anything about Drew’s physical being or state of mind, but Anna says, nothing she hasn’t already told Sam. Chloe said Drew sacrificed his opportunity for freedom to get her out. Sam says, what if Peter, or whoever’s holding Drew, wants to kill him because he helped Chloe escape? Anna says she doesn’t think so. Chloe said he’d already been roughed up a few times, and received medical aid, which is how Chloe got to meet him in the first place. That leads her to believe Drew’s tried to escape before. Otherwise, why keep someone patched up for two years if they’re not useful to you? Dante joins them, and says, as a bargaining chip, and Anna says, they know Peter is dangerous, but he’s also an opportunist. If Drew serves a purpose, Peter is going to keep him alive.

Nikolas asks if Esme wants to explain her involvement to Doc, or should he? She says, she didn’t mean any disrespect. Spencer didn’t mean for it to go that far, but Spencer loves Nikolas so much. Back at school, he talked about how saddened he was, despite the distance between them, and her heart went out to him. When he asked her for help, she couldn’t say no. Truly, she only wanted to help them reconnect. Nikolas says, help by setting his wife’s car ablaze, and taunting her with a memento from her dead daughter? Doc says, that was Esme? and she says, she shouldn’t have given in to Spence’s worst impulses. She rationalized it because she knew the ultimate goal was for him to make up with his father. Spence was so melancholy at school. He covered it, but the more she got to know him, the more she realized how much he missed Nikolas. She’d never seen him happier than when he moved back home. He told her that even if Nikolas never forgave him, at least he’d cherish the time they got to be a family. Nikolas says, that meant a lot to him too. That’s why this is so disturbing. She says, of course (🍷) it is, but there are good times still ahead. Just give Spencer the help he needs. Nikolas knows Spencer doesn’t belong in a cell. She asks if Doc doesn’t think someone as confused and vulnerable as Spencer needs protection, not punishment? Doc says, what he or anyone else thinks is immaterial. Nikolas is Spencer’s father, and this is a family matter. Nikolas says, Spencer’s lucky to have such a loyal girlfriend. He’s going to need all the support he can get. Esme stomps out, and Nikolas asks if Doc thinks Esme is right about Spencer needing his protection. Doc says, she’s selling a bill of goods.

Carly tells Sonny that she and Jason decided to get married as a last resort. It was the only way they could handle the pressure from the Five Families canned Italian wedding soup. He says, it makes sense, but there was a lot more going on. She says, not at first, but by that night, yes. She and Jason decided they could have a real marriage, and it would be safe to fall in love, and they were headed in that direction. He says, that’s a lot. I’m not a Carly supporter by any stretch of the imagination, but really, Sonny? Did he expect time stood still? I think if the moss bowl 🎍 were still there, it might absorb some of the tension.

Sonny says, so Carly is telling him that she was falling in love with Jason, not some stranger she met while she was grieving, or Jax. She was falling in love with his best friend. She says, yes, but then the door opened and he walked in. Since he’s been home, she and Jason just went back to the way it’s been, best friends. He says, now she has no leftover feelings? and she says, Jason’s her best friend. That’s all she wants from him; that’s all he wants from her. Sonny says, so they were falling in love, and she expects him to believe that now they’re not in love? She says she’s not in love with Jason; she loves Sonny. He’s her husband, and the father of her kids. He says, does she know Jason is like a brother to him? She says, they weren’t cheating on him or going behind his back, and he says he knows that. They thought he was dead. She says, they did, and have Nina to thank for that, and he says, but it doesn’t feel like that. He doesn’t know how to explain it, but it doesn’t feel great.

Jason asks how anyone would know to exploit Obrecht’s interest in Huntington’s, and Britt says she doesn’t know. She got her diagnosis in Canada using an alias, so it’s not on her medical records. Only a few people know; her, her mother, him, and Scotty. He says, they need to take a closer look at Scotty, but she says her mother swore him to secrecy. She knows he’s not the most reliable person, but Scotty and her mother… She hesitates to use the words in love, but they’re very much infatuated with one another. She doesn’t think he’d risk it giving away her mother’s most closely guarded secret. He says, okay, so what do they know? She says, fake conference, missing plane, Scott made it to safety in a parachute, and a possible Peter involvement. He says, she told him Peter wasn’t involved in this, but she says, that’s what she thought, until she found out her mother was going to kill Peter in St. Lucia.  

Obrecht tells Drew, congratulations. He’s obviously skilled at dodging bullets. He says, he got hit, didn’t he? and she says, he was grazed. He lost some blood, and he’s dehydrated. His greatest risk is infection. He guesses that means another shot, and she says, one can’t be too careful. She prepares the shot, and asks what he remembers. He says he remembers Peter finally showed his face, and held him at gunpoint. As she gives him the shot, she says, typical, threatening to shoot a man in handcuffs, and Drew says, Peter told him that he should be grateful he’d been kept alive, but he called Peter out on that. He told Peter that it was the same crap he did to Jason; make the world think he’s dead and keep him on ice. Peter said there were problems with Jason that there wouldn’t be with him. She asks if Peter said why, and he says he told Peter to screw himself. He was a Navy SEAL, and Peter couldn’t screw with him that way. She asks how Peter took it, and he says he doesn’t know. That’s all he remembers until he was getting a bandage put on him. What time is it? She looks through the small window, and says, it’s early; perhaps 2 am. He says, so he lost an entire day? and she says, it’s not unheard of. He says he left his cell, got shot, and retuned without a single recollection. She says, they’re talking about Peter and Victor. Has this ever happened to Drew before? He says, where he’s lost time, woke up with injuries he can’t explain, smelling like gunpowder? Yeah. That happened a lot to him in Port Charles when Helena Cassadine was controlling him, but that’s supposed to be over. Obrecht fears it is not.

Esme goes back to the interrogation room, and Spencer says she’s been gone a long time. She says, sorry, but he hasn’t been taken to his cell. That’s a good sign. He says, for now. Ava came by. Esme says, to drop the charges? but Spencer says, no. She offered him a lose-lose proposition.

Nikolas asks Doc if he’s being too hard on Spencer. Esme told him that Spencer just wanted his family back. Doc says he recalls warning Nikolas about Esme. Every time she tries to she express Spencer’s remorse, she’s just manipulating everyone. Nikolas should follow own conscience. Nikolas says he doesn’t know what to do. That’s why he wants to speak to his mother. She has a way of cutting  through the noise. Doc says he’s there, and he’d be happy to be Nikolas’s sounding board, but Nikolas says, no offense, but every time he asks Doc a question, Doc does the shrink thing and turns the question back around. Doc says, fair enough. He’ll give Nikolas this. He thinks Nikolas doesn’t want to turn his back on his son completely, so he has two options; to bail spencer out literally, or give him the support he needs to take responsibility and face the consequences of his actions. Ava walks in, and says, it’s his call. But his son hasn’t learned his lesson yet. Not even close.

Nikolas says, Ava saw Spencer? How did he seem? She says, unrepentant. Something is just not clicking with that kid. He says, meaning…? and she says, she offered Spencer the deal they discussed. She’d help dig him out of the hole he dug for himself, for the assurance that he not mess with them again. He made it clear that he’s disinclined to cooperate.  

Carly tells Sonny, she and Jason didn’t get married because they wanted to. They got married because Nina lied. For nine months. She lied to them, and lied to Sonny. He says, Nina’s not the real problem, and she asks what that means. He says he went to visit Nina at Crimson, and he told her if she wanted to stay in Port Charles, she’d better stay away from his family. Carly says, after what she did, leaving them alone doesn’t seem nearly enough.

Britt tells Jason, Nina said Peter had been warned about her mother’s plan, and he says, Peter had an accomplice. She says, but who? How did they know her mother was going to lure Peter to St. Lucia and kill him? He says, they have to assume someone working for Peter knew her mother’s agenda. Maybe they set up the fake conference to lure her mother to St. Lucia. She says, and when they knew her mother was headed there, they realized it was a trap and warned him. Maybe she should fly to St. Lucia and do a little research.

Robert returns, and says, send the right man, and you get the right answers. Sam asks if the musician said anything, and Dante asks, who’s he working for? Anna says, hold on, and asks if Robert got the musician to talk, and Robert says, he talked. He told the musician that he was potentially in a lot of trouble, but Robert saved his miserable neck, and he became quite chatty. Anna asks if he got a location, because wherever Drew is, Valentin is going to be. Sam asks if she thinks Valentin is alive, and Anna says, she does. If they were going to kill Valentin, he’d be dead. Why go to the bother of capturing him? Robert says he has a location, but more important, he got another interesting piece of information. The secret compound is owned by none other than Victor Cassadine.  

Esme says, Spencer’s pride isn’t worth going to prison. Just tell Ava what she wants to hear. Remember what they learned about Napoleon? Continuer avec deux options; proceed with two options. Let Ava think she’s won. She’ll relax her card, and they’ll swoop in and beat her at her own game. He says he won’t let Ava control him the way she’s controlling his father. An officer comes to take Spencer to a holding cell for the night, and says his arraignment is in the morning. Esme asks Spencer to let her call Ava, but he says, no chance in hell, and the officer cuffs him.

Nikolas tells Ava, there’s only one thing he can think of to do. He doesn’t want this for his son’s future, but he’s standing with Ava. If Spencer won’t own up to what he’s done, a night jail might scare him enough to do so tomorrow. She says, maybe this will be his turning point, and he says, he’d like to think so, but the Cassadine arrogance, and that trait of never backing down, is hard to overcome. But if he doesn’t reach his son now, his family’s worst pattens will live on in a new generation.

Anna says, Victor Cassadine, the former director of Creighton-Clark and the WSB? and Dante says, no way. He saw that place blow up. And that was after Obrecht shot him. There’s no way Victor made it out of there. Robert says, apparently he did. Victor is back in business. Anna says, of course (🍷) he is. What about Valentin? Sam says, and Drew, and Robert tells them, they’re both alive for the moment, but there’s more. Vic is not working alone. He’s thrown in with Peter; they’re allies. Anna says, that certainly explains why Peter keeps escaping, if he’s got Victor backing him up. Robert says, precisely. Faison meets Cassadine. Everybody strap in, because we’re in for a bumpy ride.

Victor tells Peter, the gunman retreated; maybe he was hit. Interestingly enough. Obrecht isn’t in her cell. So if he was to visit Drew’s cell, what are the odds she’d be tending a gunshot wound? Peter’s been lying to him. Two guards come out, and Victor says Peter has known all along how to activate Drew. He sent Drew on an op, twenty miles from Victor’s compound, without his knowledge or permission. Did Peter really think that would go unanswered? The two guards move in on Peter.

Drew tells Obrecht, the doctor said the procedure got rid of the conditioning, and she says, yes, but it was Cesar who did the original conditioning. He must have installed a second level that only he could access. He asks, how would that work? and she says, a shortcut, if you will. A simple code phrase or image that would reactivate the conditioning. He says, but Faison is dead, and she says, but his son is not. Drew says, Peter is controlling him.

Jason tells Britt, if they go to St. Lucia, it could be a dead end. There are definitely steps they can take first. She says, if the accomplice set up the fake conference, that means they wanted her mother on the island. Since the plane disappeared, they figure it’s the last place anyone would look. Like hiding in plain sight. Her mother could be there right now. He says, she’s getting ahead of herself. If we go to St. Lucia, we could be wasting valuable time your mother doesn’t have. She tells him, he said we. Is he coming with her? He says, wherever this leads

Carly tells Sonny, they’re standing in their kitchen, trying to piece their lives back together, because they’ve been apart for nine months. It doesn’t have to be this way. She didn’t choose to think she was a widow. He didn’t chose to stay in Nixon Falls. Nina did that to both of them. So why should she get to pick her life up where she left it, and move on, when they can’t? This hat isn’t some souvenir he picked up while he was away. It’s a symbol of everything they don’t know about each other; of time lost they’re not getting back. She’s not going to give Nina one more minute. She’s going to focus on their marriage, and their kids, and their life together. Please tell her that he wants the same thing. He says, yeah, but she’s right. They’ve had nine months of separation. They have to rebuild. She says, she wants to start. She loves him. She holds out her hand, and says she cherishes him, always. He takes her hand, and says he cherishes her too.

We see the hat, that’s now replaced the faux lily pond, that replaced the sacred moss bowl 🎍.   

On Monday, Portia says there’s something Curtis needs to know, Peter says killing him is the last thing Victor wants to do, and Anna asks someone not to put her in this position.

🏥 Sharing…

She was great on Watch What Happens Live. Keep scrolling for a tribute to Stuart Damon.

More tributing.  

👰🏻 They Do…

I’m glad to see she’s bouncing back from covid. She looks amazing.

https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/20211010123642/bbc-news-simon-mccoy-marries-emma-samms/

🏋️‍♂️ The Once & Former AJ…

Sean Kanan is a busy guy. And a film with Bruce Willis? I’m impressed.

👠 How Many Do I Give…?

I dunno about being friends in the future.

💸 Oh Boo Hoo…

If all else fails, she does know how to waitress, right?

https://people.com/tv/rhobh-reunion-erika-girardi-says-show-is-her-main-source-of-income/

💋 What Did Harry Do…?

I actually don’t quite get her comeback, but it doesn’t really matter anyway.

Back Off, Sistas…

Garcelle is only under attack because she’s part of the very small percentage called voice of reason.

https://people.com/tv/rhobh-reunion-garcelle-beauvais-claims-lisa-rinna-took-issue-with-her-bringing-race-into-the-show/

📴 Revealing…

Is there an off button? Some of this I did not need to know.

🛥 They’re Tripping…

I don’t know if I’d call it the ultimate girls trip, but it’s something.

🏰 Sending You Off In Style…

These homes have to be seen to be believed. I don’t know what I liked more the private island, the house with a moat, or Patrick Duffy’s Airstream.

https://www.lonny.com/25+Unconventional+Celebrity+Homes+You+Need+To+See+To+Believe

🖋 Quotes of the Week

Maybe this world is another planet’s hell. – Aldous Huxley

Progress is not possible without deviation. – Frank Zappa

Do you think she’s infected? ** Not infected. Just crazy. – Characters from the Korean Netflix series, Sweet Home

Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world. – Miyamoto Musashi

Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes. – Oscar Wilde

Dare to be true: nothing can need a lie: A fault, which needs it most, grows two thereby. – George Herbert

To thrive in life you need three bones. A wishbone. A backbone. And a funny bone. – Reba McEntire

Study is the bane of childhood, the oil of youth, the indulgence of adulthood, and a restorative in old age. – Walter Savage Landor

To achieve great things, two things are needed: a plan and not quite enough time. – Leonard Bernstein

That food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison. – Ann Wigmore

What did Columbus discover? People were already here. It’s like crashing your car into Starbucks & saying you discovered coffee. – Jimmy Kimmel

🃏 Folding My Cards…

Another seven day stretch has come to a close, or six, depending on when you start counting. If your bored with the status quo, do something different. Or at least change your screen saver. See you when the Dead are feared. Until then, stay safe, stay being the change you want to make, and stay not being too attached to your resentments.

October 6, 2021 – No Soap Or Radio, Dallas Rides In, a Goodbye, Celebrating the Ox In Beverly Hills, Rumors, Dropped, Liar, Defending Erika, Going Down, Dead Talk, New Halloween & the Countdown Begins

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

No GH today. All it said on their FB page was that it was due to ongoing news coverage, but no indication as to coverage of what. It was a network decision, since there was nothing new online either. I was pretty surprised when I turned it on, and there was Cyrus playing Chairman of the hospital, and Todd Franco was walking around. Instead, a little soap news…

🐴 Austin Was Taken…

So who is Dallas Kirby anyway?

🥀 Another Goodbye…

The soap world has had a lot of losses so far this year.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Crystal was preparing for a Chinese New Year party – the Year of the Ox – she was throwing at an Asian restaurant she’d rented for the occasion. She took Erika there for a looksee, and Erika said something about it being in Kill Bill. LisaR said the same thing later, but while it looked similar to restaurant where O-Ren (Lucy Lui) hangs with her crew, I’m pretty sure that place is in Tokyo. In her interview, Crystal told us that whatever happens on New Year’s Day (or maybe Eve; it was unclear) would represent the next year. Since Erika was still mad at Sutton, Crystal was concerned. Kathy met with architect Jesse and builder Aiden at a ginormous 18,000 square foot house she was having built. She and husband Richard were originally going to move in, but Richard reminded her of all the good times they’d had in the house they were already in, and she changed her mind. My guess is, he probably just didn’t want the hassle of having to move in his 70s or whatever. Not to mention they’d be putting the new one on the market in the $52 million range. Maybe the guys from Million Dollar Listing can broker that. In Sutton’s interview, she said she could fit three of her houses into Kathy’s new one. She and Kathy discussed the trip to Del Mar, and Sutton admitted she thought things with Erika had been a little strange. In her interview, she said, it would be nice to think things were back to normal, but wondered how that was possible when it had been so volatile. Garcelle wasn’t sure if she wanted to continue with her dating coach. She’d gone on a tailgate date with her match – who’d brought sushi and champagne – but he wasn’t her type. He wasn’t as spectacular as his photos. She wondered where his abs were. She’d expected him to show up shirtless.

Because she’s dense, in LisaR’s interview, she thought she and Garcelle had progressed. I thought it was more like Garcelle was proceeding with caution. We flashed back to when the women poked at Garcelle at dinner until she finally cried, which LisaR called being vulnerable and said was beautiful. It would be if they were all decent people. Garcelle wanted LisaR to reach out to Denise, but in her interview, LisaR said her relationship with Denise was her business. She’d do what she wanted when she felt like doing it. It would be when it felt organic and natural, which was ironic, since nothing about LisaR is organic or natural. She told Garcelle, when it was time, she’d do it, which probably meant, never. In Garcelle’s interview, she said, if LisaR reached out, it would show her growth. She wanted to see more action and less talk with LisaR. Good luck with that.

Everyone trickled in to the party, which began with cocktails outside. In Sutton’s interview, she said she was willing to let go of Erika threatening her, but not so much what she’d read and heard about the situation. She didn’t need to worry though, since Erika had turned the tap back to cold, and ignored Sutton. In Garcelle’s interview, she said she’d thought Sutton and Erika were doing better, but that was a hi/bye for sure. Mauricio, who was most likely stoned, banged on the Chinese gongs at the front of the restaurant. The coolest thing was a dude making candy zodiac animals, and putting them on sticks. I want to know where to get those. Kathy brought her friend Elliot (who we’ve seen before) as her escort, and for a moment, I thought she’d sprung Tom. They look an awful lot alike.

The décor was absolutely beautiful, and Crystal said she wanted to transport everyone to Asia. Everyone sat down, and Rob raised his glass, and said, true friends didn’t make problems disappear, but they didn’t disappear when problems came. Crystal said the women had little red envelopes with money in them, and they would get it back a hundredfold after feeding the animal. Or something to that effect. Kyle looked like she was starting to panic, asking, what animal? over and over. Then she nearly hit the ceiling when a Chinese percussion band began to play in the balcony. Chinese dragons came out, and the women put the envelopes in their mouths. I would have loved to be at this party, except not with this group. No surprise, the food was fabulous, and dumplings are one of my all-time favorite foods. For whatever crazy reason – i. e. screen time – Kyle said Sutton swept things under the rug. Sutton didn’t think so, but said she didn’t want any ill will between her and Erika. And then there were crickets. Lots and lots of crickets. In Erika’s interview, she said she didn’t need an apology from someone who was willing to condemn her. Sutton said she thought she could speak for everyone in that they all wanted Erika to come out of this shining bright. Erika told them that she had nothing to say.

They went back outside where there was a dessert bar, where there were many impressive confections. In Sutton’s interview, she wondered why she was trying so hard with Erika. Then she wondered what these women even saw in Erika. I told her, thank you. I wanted to like Erika. I tried to like Erika. But even before this, she ran hot and cold, and got irrationally angry at times. Sutton told Kyle that Erika made people afraid to say anything. While everyone had a last cocktail, Erika told Sutton that she’d thought they were friends, and she’d needed Sutton to have more faith in who she was. Sutton wanted a one-on-one, but Erika said she needed time to trust Sutton. Sutton said she also wanted to be able to trust Erika, and know she could speak freely and not get the lion’s claws. Erika said that’s why she was waiting. Erika said, this life is not for wimps, but I wasn’t sure if she meant that collectively, or was just talking about her so-far-above-our life.  

Since it was the finale, everyone had their final say, and there was text on what they’d been doing, none of which was all that interesting. Sutton was still waiting on that talk with Erika, but had moved out of Kyle’s house. Six months after her six week deadline. Kyle put the house on the market after Sutton’s departure. She was still tight with Kathy, and had finally gotten Kim’s new phone number. Knowing Kim, it’s possible she might have just forgotten it. Dorit had added some ready-to-wear gowns to her collection, and designed a special reunion gown for herself. PK named it, The Reunion, because he’s so original.

Due to Harry’s influence, LisaR was adding acrylic nails to her beauty line. I don’t want to know. She also now approved of Scott and Amelia’s relationship, since they’d called it quits. Garcelle was back in the studio to film The Real, and was taking a break from dating. Unless Brad Pitt called. Freshman Housewife Crystal said it had been fascinating to see how the friendships among the women morphed. Which I guess was her way of saying, wow, these women are close, then stab each other in the back, then forget what just happened. She was still color-coding her life, and hoped to visit her pop-star brother Jeff in China. Erika claimed she’d faced down everyone’s questions to the best of her ability, and was never going to apologize. Her way of saying, she managed to avoid answering any questions too directly, and back off, bitch. The text said she appreciated the support of her ass kissers true friends, although her friend circle had gotten smaller.

I would have liked a little less crap, and more of Crystal’s party.

Next, the Reunion. I believe it’s in four parts, so it should be a doozy.

🍾 After-party note. On Watch What Happens Live, people voted online about the level of Erika’s honesty from one to ten. She got a four.

📰 Spreading the News…

Camille stirs the pot of tea Kyle’s been making.

🎥 The Camera Don’t Lie…

I think sometimes they forget the world is watching

🗣 Opinions Are Like…

No surprise Kelly put her two cents in.

👯‍♂️ Last One Standing…

The Chief Brownnoser has spoken.

She did say she didn’t know the whole story, but I don’t think she’s looking all that hard either.

🍸 Say It Ain’t So…

Although I really think Jax is the only one who should have gotten the boot.

⚰️ Jerky McJerkface…

Angela Kang tells us what’s up with the citizens of the Commonwealth.

https://ew.com/tv/walking-dead-sebastian-milton-promises-broken-angela-kang-interview/

🎃 It’s Coming Closer…

Twenty-four days til Halloween, Halloween, Halloween!

https://people.com/movies/jamie-lee-curtis-picks-up-kyle-richards-halloween-kills-featurette/

🏂 Slip Sliding Away…

Hopefully, soap tomorrow, and perhaps even some high-priced property. But for now, stay safe, stay going big or going home, and stay the hell out of Erika’s business, lest you get the lion’s claws.

September 16, 2021 – Sonny Makes a Choice, Wedding Blessing, L.A. Highlights, Research, Second Goodbye, Fan Fear, Another Take, Beyond Housewives & Pocket

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Music plays way too loud as Mr. Novak walks into the chapel. He and Jason give each other the eye. Spinelli asks Jason if he’s sure about this. He’s not referring to the wedding, but the other thing. Jason says, sure, and Spinelli says, let fate take its course. Monica comes in, and tells Jason that he looks so handsome. The bride is a lucky woman. He says he thinks he’s the lucky one, and she says, they disagree; that’s good. What’s a Quartermaine wedding without a little conflict? He says, true, and she asks if he’s nervous. Who is she talking to? Of course (🍷) he’s not nervous. He says he’s glad she’s there, and she says, he’s her son. Where else would she be? They hug.

Bobbie comes into Carly’s dressing room, and says she’s dazzling. Jason won’t know what hit him. She’s going to take his breath away. Not that she’ll be able to tell. Carly says she will, and Bobbie says, that’s true. If anyone can read what Jason is feeling, it’s her. Carly says he can read her too, and Bobbie says, no bridal jitters? No second thoughts? Carly says, no, and Bobbie says, because she happens to know Carly disappeared for a couple of hours this morning. She thought Carly might have a case of cold feet. Carly says, no. She was feeling nostalgic. She was remembering how she and Jason first met, and everything they’ve been through. Jason tracked her down, and they had a long talk. Bobbie says, good. She can actually get Jason to talk. If that’s not love, she doesn’t know what is. Carly says she was late for the makeup artist, but Josslyn helped her pull everything together. How did she get such an amazing daughter? Bobbie says, circle of life. One day, they come into town, hellbent on destroying you, and all of a sudden you blink, and they don’t need you anymore. Carly says, that’s not true. She’s always going to need Bobbie. They hug, and Josslyn walks in with the bouquet. She says, Maxie asked to deliver these, but she made Maxie let her. She hands the bouquet to Carly, and asks if she’s ready. Carly holds the bouquet and asks what they think. Bobbie says she’s one beautiful bride, and Josslyn tells her, what grandma said.

Cameron looks at his phone, when Trina snatches it out of his hand. She says she thinks it’s time for a digital detox, and he says he was just waiting for her. They hug, and he says, Josslyn told him that Trina’s mom was in an accident. Is she okay? What happened? Trina says, thankfully, yes. She doesn’t want to get into it right now, but let’s just say, it’s been quite a day. He says he’s glad she’s all right. He’s also glad Trina is there. Josslyn’s been so busy with her maid of honor duties, he’s been at major risk of boredom. She says, and now that she’s here? and he says, it’s time to have some fun. Or, they can be bored together. She says, sounds like a plan.

Ned tells Olivia to stop giving Austin the evil eye, and she asks how else she’s supposed to put a curse on him. He asks if a curse isn’t a little extreme, and she asks who the hell Austin thinks he is, telling her there’s something wrong with her child. Ned says, a doctor?

Maxie tells Austin that she needs to check in with the bride. Can she trust him to be on his own for ten minutes? He says he hopes so, but realistically, there’s probably one or two people left in Port Charles that he hasn’t unsettled. She asks, what Olivia is miffed at him about anyway? She usually stays out of ELQ business. He asks how she knows that, and she says, because Olivia often says, ELQ, not my business. He says, that’s probably a pretty good clue. Olivia isn’t upset at Austin the Quartermaine; she’s upset at Austin the doctor. She says, so this has to do with whatever he and Ned were talking about after he found Leo. He tells her, here’s what he’ll say. He can hardly blame Olivia for being defensive; she just cares about her kid. Maxie says, of course (🍷) she does, and he says, so do I.

On the phone, Brando tells Sasha to put her feet up, and he’ll bring her a slice of cake. He wants her and the baby to take it easy, and he’ll see her soon. Gladys walks in with Novak, and she says, he remembers her son Brando. He says, of course (🍷). It’s a pleasure to see him. They shake hands, and Gladys says, wasn’t it kind of Mr. Novak to bring her as a guest to her dear, departed cousin’s widow’s wedding? My Lord, what would Sonny make of his wife moving on so soon after meeting his maker?

Nina tries to go back inside the Tan-O, but Jax says he’s not letting her go in there. It’s too dangerous. She says, Mike’s still in there; they have to help him. She yells, Mike! and struggles with Jax.

Lying unconscious in the middle of the burning Tan-O, Sonny coughs.

Diane tells Jason that she’s happy for him and Carly. Jason says they’re happy too, and she says she’s glad to hear it. Carly was full of substantial misgivings when she first approached Diane about it. He says, she was afraid it would ruin their friendship, but Diane says, it was a little deeper than that. Carly thought it was the first step in losing him, and Diane told her it was patently absurd. He says, she did? and she says, of course (🍷). She told Carly, with all the stunts she’s pulled, all the plans gone wrong, and the messes Jason has gotten her out of, if she hadn’t lost him by now, she never will.  

Brando imagines Novak has gotten to know Sonny pretty well over the years, and Novak says, as well as you can know a respected colleague. Brando says, then well enough to know what was important to Sonny, and Novak says, the late Mr. Corinthos always said, nothing was more important than family. Brando says, then they agree that Sonny would want the two people closest to him to find happiness, and Novak says Brando makes an excellent point. Gladys says, her boy is so loyal; Sonny valued that. Novak says he couldn’t place Brando when he saw him earlier with his lovely lady at the MetroCourt, then it occurred to him – Cyrus Renault’s driver. Is that right? Brando says, that’s right, sir, and Novak says he heard what Cyrus did to Brando and his enchanting mother. An unscrupulous man; no honor. Brando says, then Novak must remember, if it weren’t for Carly, Cyrus would have killed him and his enchanting mother. Gladys says, don’t give Carly all the credit, and Brando says, Jason deserves his share as well. She says, Jason? and he says, Renault was still trying to force Carly to hand Gladys over, but Jason came back at the risk of his own freedom. If Jason hadn’t shot Renault when he did, who knows what would have happened? Novak says, true. Cyrus was a difficult man, as he’s sure Brando knows. By the way, if Brando is looking for work, the Novak association appreciates dedicated men. Gladys is all happy, and says that’s very generous of Vincent, but Brando says, considering they both barely escaped with their lives, he thinks it’s best if he and his dear mother steer clear of any association with his former line of work. He hopes Novak understands.

Ned tells Olivia, he’s just saying, she went from zero to sixty with Austin. She says, for good reason. Austin was willing to take advantage of poor, sweet, innocent Chase to his own ends. Chase was practically dead, he could barely walk, and his heart was broken into a million pieces. Then this nice guy manipulated Chase, a guest in their home, to get Edward’s papers. Ned says, this isn’t about ELQ, but she says, what if this game he’s playing with Leo is just about jockeying for position at ELQ, trying to ingratiate himself? Why take it on faith when this guy did nothing to deserve it? Ned says, they shouldn’t, but they should also leave room for the possibility that he’s on to something. She says, he’s not the doctor Leo is seeing, and Ned says, he’s not, but Leo has a connection with him, and that should count for something. Olivia gives Austin another evil eye.   

Michael tells Willow, that’s quite a dress (eh), and she says she doesn’t think anyone will be looking at her. All eyes will be on the bride. He says he’s not too sure about that, because whenever she walks into a room, he finds it impossible to look at anyone else. She says, it’s almost showtime. Shouldn’t he be getting ready? He says, what’s to prepare? He just has to stand next to Jason while Jason does all the work. Besides, after months of having to steal time with her, he doesn’t want to be rushed. She says, if she has her way, they have a lifetime ahead of them. She wants to make sure he’s okay. He says, about? and she says she knows he’s happy for his mom, but he’s got to be thinking about his father right now. He says she really does know him inside out (like this would be a hard call), and she says she’s been paying attention. He says his dad has been on his mind a lot, but right now, he doesn’t feel sad. He feels like his dad is with them.

A fireman tries to get everyone to move, but Nina says she’s not going until she knows Mike is safe. Jax says they will move, but they want to stay close until they know their friend is safe. The fireman says, fine. Follow him.   

Inside, Sonny coughs. He seems to be regaining consciousness, and sees the vision of Carly from behind. He says he knows this woman.

Carly thanks Josslyn and Bobbie for standing beside her, and Bobbie says, always. Josslyn says, and forever, when Maxie comes flying in, asking, where’s the bouquet? She trusted Josslyn with it. She better not have lost it. Carly produces it, and says, it’s right here. Maxie says, the bride is a vision, the groom is dashing, and the chapel is full of love. Let’s get this show on the road.

Gladys tells Brando, he blew that, and he says he told her, he’s only pursuing legitimate business ventures now. She says, he calls stripping a legit business venture? and he says he calls it a paying job. She says, there are jobs that pay better, and he tells her, stop. First she tries to get Carly and Jason to hire him, and now Novak? She of all people knows what that world is like, or does he have to remind her of the bullet wound she’s got to show for it? She says she was just trying to set him up for success. He claims he wants to move in with Sasha, and support her and his child, this is his chance. Vincent is clearly interested, and he’s a man with influence. He says he promised Sasha that he’d stay away from Novak’s kind of influence. She says, where is Sasha, by the way? and he says, the OB appointment didn’t go as smoothly as planned. Sasha’s blood pressure was a little elevated, so the doctor decided to put her on bed rest. Gladys says she’s sorry to hear that. Is the baby all right? He says, both the baby and Sasha are fine. It’s just a precautionary measure to protect them both. She says, if there’s anything she can do… and he says, actually there is. If she’s really concerned about Sasha’s blood pressure, stop trying to get him a job in organized crime.

Buscema asks Novak if it’s set, and Novak nods. Woo says, so there’s been no deviation from the plan? and Novak tells them, let’s just say, it will be a wedding to remember.

Diane goes over to Spinelli and says, let’s see if she’s got this straight. The rather heavyset gentleman is Vincent Novak. The other gentleman is Charles Buscema. The very elegant woman is Ms. Woo. He says he believes so, and she says, he believes so? He’s hacked into every device known that holds their secrets. He says he can neither confirm nor deny, and she says, now that they’ve established that, let’s sit back and watch the two people she never thought would, get married. He says he has to agree it surprised him at first, but now it seems inevitable. She tells him, don’t count your chickens. They watch Monica head toward Jason, and Diane says, it looks like the groom’s mother is going to make one last attempt to talk him out of it.   

Monica tells Jason, she noticed his lawyer is here. Does he think she brought a prenup for him to sign? She’d sorry. She should never have asked that. Jason says he knows it’s not ever going to be easy for her and Carly, but Carly told him that she showed up to offer them her blessing, and it meant a lot to Carly. Monica says she’d do anything for him, and they seem genuinely happy. He says they are, and she says she noticed he’s also very magnanimous; he invited his brand new cousin. He says, actually, he didn’t, when Epiphany joins them. She says, he cleans up nice.  Carly is the most obstinate, high-maintenance woman she’s ever known, but the two of them together, it works. They deserve happiness, especially him. He was always kind to her son, and always had her back. Jason says she’s always been good to him, and she says, even when she shouldn’t have been. She tells Monica that she’s not referring to anything specific, and Monica says she’s not listening. Jason says he’ll always have Epiphany’s back, and he knows she’ll always be straight with him. She says, always. Good luck. With that bride of his, he’s going to need it. Monica laughs.  

Novack approaches Jason, and says he heard there was another dust-up with his nephew Joey. Jason says Joey crashed his bachelor party, and Novak says, that boy is out of control. Which is why he got Joey a one way ticket to Gdansk. He offers his sincere regrets if any offense was taken, and Jason says, it almost sounds like an apology. Novak says, it almost was. These things have a way of working themselves out. Jason says he can be sure of that, and Maxie says, excuse me. If everyone could please be seated, the ceremony is about to begin.

Canon in D major – otherwise known as the theme from Ordinary People – plays, as Josslyn walks in. Cameron smiles at her. Here Comes the Bride starts to play. 

Nina is coughing her head off, and Jax tells her that she should see the paramedics. She won’t budge though, and he asks, what the hell happened? Nina grabs a fireman, and says, there’s one person in there. A beam collapsed, and he’s under it. The fireman says they can’t get in, but Jax says, there’s a delivery entrance where he can get to the bar. It was smoky, but clear enough for him to get Nina out. The fireman tells the others, go, and asks if they know how the fire started. Phyllis says, it was set deliberately, and he asks Nina what her friend’s name is. Nina says, his name is… Sonny, but he answers to Mike.    

Inside, Sonny sees the back of Carly like he did in the beginning. She walks away, and he says, Nina. You’ve got to help me. Please. Come back.

Carly walks down the aisle.

Sonny says, wait. Who are you? Come back.

Carly gets to the altar, and Spinelli and Diane are all giggly. Novak, Buscema, and Woo exchange looks. Carly gives Josslyn her bouquet, and winks at Michael. Everyone is smiling, and Carly and Jason join hands, eyes twinkling.

The minister says they’re gathered for the wedding of Caroline and Jason, who are long time friends. So rather than bearing witness to a new love, Jason and Carly are affirming the latest chapter in their lives together. They open with a reading from Josslyn, which I later find out is the Apache Wedding Blessing (see below).  

Sonny is by the river again, and Mike tells him to get on his feet. Sonny asks who Mike is, and Mike laughs, saying, he thinks Sonny already knows. Sonny says he remembers Mike, and Mike says, of course (🍷) he does. Who could forget a face like this? Sonny says Mike helped him when he washed up. Mike gave Sonny his jacket. Mike says, that’s a good first step. What else does he recall? Sonny says, it seemed like time stopped. He looks at his wrist, but his watch is no longer there. Mike asks if he managed to get it working, and Sonny says, yeah, he did, but he let the watch go. Mike says, well, he let go of a lot. What would Lenny say about leaving loved ones behind? Sonny says, Mike knows Lenny? He doesn’t understand. Mike shows him Lenny’s dog tags, and says, Sonny was in a bad way. He made sure Sonny got somewhere he knew he’d be safe; to a brother in arms. Sonny says he owes Mike and Lenny a lot. They helped Sonny survive and come to Nixon Falls. Sonny says, Lenny was one of the reasons why he settled down there, and Mike says, that’s beautiful, but it’s time to go home now.

A fireman says, they’re doing everything they can to rescue their friend, but the building is likely a total loss. Nina says she’s so sorry; it’s her fault. If she hadn’t lied, the Tan-O wouldn’t have gone up in smoke with Mike inside. Phyllis says, it hurts to lose the Tan-O, but it’s brick-and-mortar. As for the lie, that discussion can wait. The important thing is saving a man they both care about. A police officer asks who owns the property, and Phyllis says she does. He says the captain told him, the fire was started intentionally. Can they tell him who torched the place? Nina says she can tell him exactly who did it. His name is Peter August, and he’s a wanted man. Jax is like, huh?

Phyllis goes with the fireman, and Jax says, Peter did this? Nina says, Peter confronted her about where Maxie is keeping the baby. Then he ran into Sonny, and used that information to blackmail her. He says, she knew Peter was stalking Maxie and searching for her baby, and didn’t tell anyone? How long did she allow Peter to operate unchecked? She says, it wasn’t like that, and he says she could have died; Phyllis too. And all to keep Sonny’s identity a secret? She says, Peter threatened to kidnap James, and he knows as well as she does, as far as Peter is concerned, Maxie’s other children are expendable. Jax says, all the more reason to let go of Sonny, and she says she was going to do that exact thing, but thought she had another out. He says, Valentin? and she says she set Peter up on a false lead; Obrecht was supposed to ambush him. He says she’s kidding. She conspired with Obrecht? She says she didn’t ask for details. She just knew that when Obrecht got done with Peter, he would never hurt anyone again. Jax asks how that worked out, and she says, it worked out great. She’s proud of what she’s accomplished. Thanks for pointing that out. It really helps. Peter alluded to the fact that something happened to her aunt. Does he know anything about that? if she loses one more person she loves because of her actions, she won’t be able forgive herself.

The minister invites the bride and groom to share their vows with one another. Wake me when it’s over. Jason says they know and accept each other. They trust each other, and there’s nobody he’d rather build a life and future with. So with her hand in his, it starts the rest of their lives together.

Sonny tells Mike, Nixon Falls is his home; the Tan-O, his friends, Nina. He’s happy there. He’s got everything he needs. Mike says he knows something about embracing life and love after the slate’s been wiped clean. He found it’s possible to make new memories and find happiness without the baggage from the past. Sonny laughs, and says, this guy gets it. He doesn’t have to justify his decisions to anyone. Mike says, another thing he’s learned is that you can’t run away from the past and who you are. Not really. Sonny says, it’s working for him, but Mike says, you can’t turn away from who you are, and the past will always find you. Sonny asks, what if he doesn’t want to be found? and Mike says, he knows Sonny likes his life in Nixon Falls, and loves being Mike, but there’s only one problem with that. Mike is dead.

Nina tells Jax, obviously, she made a terrible mistake, but she had her reasons, and she’s doing her damnedest to fix them now. He says he hopes it’s not too late, because Peter is still out there, putting pretty much everyone she knows in danger. She says, laying blame doesn’t help anyone, and he says she’s right. Only one thing will help, and that’s getting the word out. Nina goes over to Phyllis, and says, waiting for… Sonny is tortuous. She asks if Phyllis needs anything. Does she want Nina to call a paramedic for her? Phyllis says it’s not herself she’s worried about. She tells Nina to listen to herself. Even now, she can’t decide what she wants to call him. Nina says, when  he comes out, she’s going to tell him the truth. Phyllis says, and if he doesn’t make it? Nina says she can’t think about that, but Phyllis says she has to. If Sonny dies in there, which man will she mourn? (I’d hazard a guess, it won’t be Sonny.) A fireman says they were able to reach the building, and Nina asks if they found him. He says, unfortunately, the hallway was engulfed. There was no way to reach the bar room. Nina asks, what exactly does that mean?

Sonny says he doesn’t know why Mike is pushing him like this. Life is good here. He’s fine. Mike laughs, and says, he can’t be fine, not until he knows his past, and knows who he is, and embrace it. Once he knows the facts, he can move forward in any direction he chooses, but he needs to know. Close his eyes. Sonny just looks at him, and Mike says, do you trust me? Sonny closes his eyes, and remembers when he was first in Port Charles. Omg, he looks like a child. He flashes back to shooting Dante, visiting Morgan’s grave, and catching Julian on the bridge. He sits down on the ground, and asks, what the hell was that? Mike says, his past, his life, and Sonny says, he’s supposed to embrace that guy, whoever he was? So much hurt, so much death because of him. Mike says, he was also generous, and loyal, and at times, even heroic. Sonny says he didn’t see a hero, and Mike crouches down in front of him. He says, despite Sonny’s flaws and sins, he was pretty damn proud of who he was. Sonny says, there’s no way he should have been, but Mike says, yes, he should. He made mistakes… Sonny says, he thinks they’re called crimes; he killed people. Mike says, he did what he did to protect his family, and Sonny says, if his family was targeted because of him, then they’re better off without him. Mike says, it’s not for him to say, and not for Sonny to say either. Those painful memories are just part of his story. Why did he stop looking for the rest of the picture? Sonny says, because he’s seen his bad side, and Mike says, so he thinks the man he was, has nothing to do with the man he thinks he is now? How did Nixon Falls Mike sniff out that con artist? How did he hustle a poker game, or handle a gun with ease? The best parts of that Mike, come from who he really is. The protector, the friend, come from who he really is. Sonny says, Mike told him that he knows something about this, and Mike says, yes. Sonny asks, what would you do? and Mike says, given the choice, he’d always choose to remember. He’d fight for everything he was. There’s a bright light, and Sonny sees Carly’s back, but this time, she turns to him and smiles.

Carly says, Jason, my dearest friend. When they met years ago, playing pool at Jake’s, there was an instant connection. She couldn’t describe it then, and still can’t. What she does know is, this isn’t chance; it’s a choice. She chooses to stand by him for the rest of their lives. Her determination isn’t as quiet as his, but it’s just as fierce. She cherishes their past, and can’t wait to step into their future together.

The fireman says the Tan-O is structurally unsound, and the hallway’s impassible. There’s no way they can reach the bar room. Nina says, their friend is still in there. They have to get him out. He says, he’s sorry. They’re doing their best they can, but there’s no way to reach him. Jax makes a call, and says, come on; pick up.  

The minister says Jason and Carly are going to light a remembrance candle; honoring those loved ones who can’t be there in body, but are with them in spirit. Maxie looks at her phone, and sees a call from Jax coming in.  

Carly walks to Sonny and Mike, and Mike says, Sonny may have found love in Nixon Falls, but he found it as someone else; as Mike. Sonny asks if Mike is saying his love isn’t real but Mike says, of course (🍷) it’s real. But there’s real love in the world he chose to forget; the love he has for others, and the love others have for him. Is he still willing to turn his back on what’s right in front of him? It’s up to him. Which home does he want to go to? He can die as Mike, or live as the man he really is. (When you put it that way…) Sonny asks if Carly is a part of that life, and Mike says, the best and the brightest.  

Jason and Carly light the candle. The minister says, this candle burns in memory of those we’ve loved and lost.

Sonny goes to Carly, and she holds out her hand. He takes it, and I feel sad. Sonny flashes back to telling Carly she’s his wife and the mother of his children. He’ll always love her. She says she loves him too, and they kiss. Back when we were all in diapers.

Sonny opens his eyes, and says, Carly.  

Tomorrow, the old speak now or forever hold your peace, Maxie wonders why Jax was calling, and Nina says they have to get Sonny out before it’s too late.

🙏 What She Read…

The prayer Josslyn read at Carly and Jason’s wedding.

💰 In this week’s highlights from Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, Fredrik got a listing for an incredibly ornate house, complete with custom-made furniture, which was included whether the buyer wanted it or not. I didn’t catch the square footage, but one of the 11 bathrooms was 1200 square feet, so that gives you an idea. It was filled with beautiful touches like handmade fabric wallpaper, and a floral wallpaper that matched the floral headboard and footboard of a bed. It also had a view to die for, but don’t they all in L.A.? Fredrik thought the 6 bedroom house had a suggested retail price of between $26 and $28 million. No surprise, the representative for the seller insisted on 28. Also included was a bright orange kitchen island, and the rep said, everyone loves orange. Um… I’d still take it though. It was built in 1987, but I would have thought it had come from the Downton Abbey days. While Fredrik was afraid he’d lose a deal over the flowered bed or too much marble, he hoped the caché would offset the orange. The only catch was, the rep wanted him to co-list it with JoshA. Fredrik sucked it up and made the call, and Josh agreed. Because of the pandemic, the usual open houses and events were out of the question, so Josh and Fredrik created a YouTube video, showcasing not just the house, but their different styles. To get even more eyes on the property, they were going to have viewers vote for who they liked best. That ought to be good. I can’t see either one of them accepting being second best.

In the meantime, since Tracy’s buyer had backed out because he felt he was too tall for the house, she had to explain that one to the seller. The seller, who was weird to begin with, not wanting anyone inside the house, got weirder, wanting a buyer with no contingencies. I was fuzzy on exactly what contingencies were in regard to real estate, so I saved you the trouble of googling. See below. Tracy ended up getting the deal done with one of the buyers with a back-up offer. JoshF got a listing for a Rat Pack throwback house, built in 1956. While the house was around 2400 square feet, and only 2 bedrooms, the lot was nearly 18,000 square feet (it’s the land, Katie Scarlett), and the view included the Hollywood sign. I loved the house, but I’m enamored of the 50s/60s/70s real estate. The owner loved the house too, but was recently divorced, and wasn’t keen on living there alone. It was kind of out of the way. At first, she was open to offers from developers, but then decided she was willing to wait for the right buyer; someone who appreciated the vibe. If she could take about $3,499,995 off the price tag, I’m her buyer.

Next time, Fredrik meets Dolph Lundgren.

🏡 What They Are…

Everything you wanted to know about real estate contingencies, but were afraid to ask. Or not.

👮🏾‍♀️ The Commissioner Has Left the Building…

It took me a while to get used to new Jordan, and then she became just Jordan. I got to like her, and now I’m back to square one.

👠 Intentional Slip…

Apparently, a tease about Ava got the interest that was hoped for.

🚗 Accidents Run In the Family…

This was pretty amusing. They left out the part where an extra roll was added to Erika’s son’s car though.

https://ew.com/tv/recaps/the-real-housewives-of-beverly-hills-season-11-episode-17/

💋 Of Course They Did…

It’s the ultimate crossover.

https://ew.com/tv/days-of-our-lives-beyond-salem-stars-housewives-bdsm/

🌜 Goodnight, My Someones…

We inch toward another week’s end, and ponder, just how many times did Erika’s son’s car roll? I don’t have all the answers, but I do have soap, tea, and maybe some answers for you tomorrow. Until then, stay safe, stay paying your fair share, and stay knowing you can’t turn away from who you are. The past will always find you.

September 9, 2021 – Jax Confronts Nina, Listing Quickie, Quite a Dame, Neff House, Wedding Photo, New Move, Only Friend, Dancing Cast & Wedding

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Portia sits at the bottom of the basement steps with Jordan’s head in her lap. She says Jordan isn’t the only one with secrets. She has one too. Trina doesn’t know the truth about her father; who he really is. Portia knows she waited way too long to tell her. She says she’s not going to leave Trina, and lies Jordan gently on the floor. She runs up the steps.

At the hospital, Maxie asks Brook why they’re still waiting; her appointment is over. What’s the point of sticking around? Brook points at Austin, and says, that, right there. Maxie is going to follow him. Go. Maxie asks why she’s following him, and what does she do if he sees her. Brook says, say something nice, something to cover. Maxie asks if Brook is trying to set her up with Austin.

Jason finds Carly at the renovation site, and asks if she’s thinking about Jake’s. She says, Jake’s, that time in their lives… Sorry she took off. He says Spinelli tracked her phone and he found out where she was hiding. She says she wasn’t hiding, just nostalgic. She’s not sure if that even describes this feeling. He asks, what’s going on? and she says, it started the other night at the pool (🍷). They were dancing, and it was like she was right back there, at Jake’s, dancing with him, feeling everything she used to feel, and it scared her.

Sonny asks who Jax thinks he is, coming there and talking about the truth. He lied to Nina. He betrayed Nina. This is the truth; their truth. It’s all they need to know. Jax says what Nina is doing is wrong, and Sonny asks what he thinks Nina is doing. Jax says, doesn’t he get it by now? He’s not Mike, and Nina knows it.

Maxie says when Brook offered to come with her to her postpartum appointment, she thought, wow, she’s being a good friend, but as usual, she has an ulterior motive. Brook says, of course (🍷) she does; she’s a Quartermaine. And this was a doctor’s appointment, not a night out on the town. Maxie says she gets Brook’s point, and Brook says now that they know Maxie has a clean bill of health, Maxie has to go spend some time with Austin. Maxie says, no, she doesn’t, and Brook says she doesn’t understand what the problem is. Maxie says, yes, she does, and Brook says, Austin delivered Maxie’s baby in the woods, and was in the woods with them the night Maxie gave Brook her daughter to protect her from Peter. Maxie says, which is exactly what they don’t want him to remember, so quit pushing her in his direction. Brook says he might be a good distraction for Maxie; lift her spirits a little bit. Maxie says her spirits are fine, but Brook says they’re not. And spending time with a guy who thinks she’s charming might be the perfect little pick-me-up.

Portia bangs on the basement door, and screams for help. She begs Jordan to keep breathing. Someone will hear. They’re not going to die down there. She yells, somebody! Please!

Maxie says, first of all, she’s so not ready for another man in her life, and if she was, it so wouldn’t be Austin. She’s had to listen to Brook go on and on and on about Austin’s claims on ELQ. How he could possibly back Valentin, and prevent her father from becoming CEO again… Ooh, that’s it, isn’t it? Brook said she had an ace in the hole when it came to Austin. She was talking about Maxie, wasn’t she? Oh my God. Ned comes by, and asks how long Brook has been there. Maxie says, too long, and Ned asks if Brook has seen Leo. He needs to find him.

Jax says, Sonny doesn’t want to know his real name? and Sonny says, he told Jax; this is his life now, and he doesn’t want anything to interfere with that. Jax says, so he doesn’t care that he has a whole family out there who loves and misses him? Sonny says he thought about it, and he could have been digging a little deeper, but he hasn’t. Jax asks why he didn’t, and Sonny says, that family Jax mentioned, who love and miss him so much, where are they? Why haven’t they come looking for him? Jax says he doesn’t know, and asks Nina why she thinks Sonny’s family hasn’t come looking for him. Sonny says Jax has no business butting into their business. Jax lied to Nina. He chose his ex-wife over her, and has no right to come there and accuse her of anything. Jax says, Sonny has no idea? and Sonny says, he might not know who he was, but he knows who he is now. And he knows Nina, and she’s been nothing but good to him. She’s his life. Nina asks Jax to just leave them alone. Please. Can he just do this one last thing for her? Jax says he’s sorry, he can’t, and Nina tells Sonny that she needs to talk to Jax alone.

Jason says, ever since he and Carly started talking about the wedding, even before they actually decided, it’s like she’s been in this fight with herself. Carly says, because she has been. She knows why they should get married. She knows it’s the best way to keep the family safe. It’s great from a business standpoint, but is it what Sonny would have wanted? Jason says, Sonny’s gone. He misses Sonny every day, but this is about them. They’re the ones getting married. If that’s still what they want. She asks if he’s backing out, but he says, no. He’s just saying they do have the option to call it off. She says, what about the Five Families baked baccala? and he says, there will be a huge fallout. It won’t be good, but he’ll deal with it. The business is important, but who they are to each other is more important.

Sonny says he doesn’t think it’s a good idea to leave Nina alone with Jax, but she says, she’s fine. He asks if she’s sure, because when he came in there, she seemed pretty upset. Maybe Jax is the one who should go, before he gets shot again. Jax says he’s still the same person he was before, and Sonny asks why he says that like it’s a good thing. Nina tells Sonny, stop. This isn’t him. This isn’t the man she’s come to know and love. He says, now she’s going to use the L-word to soften him up. She asks if it’s working, and he says, maybe a little bit. She says she’ll straighten it out. She’ll get Jax to understand how much they mean to each other. He says he’ll be in the back, but she says, he can’t be there. Let her work it out. Trust her. Sonny says he trusts her with his life, but he doesn’t know what Jax is capable of. Nina looks at Jax, and says, Jax wants what’s best for her, right? and Sonny asks if she means Jax wants what he thinks is best for her. Nina says that’s her point. She’s going to help him understand that they get to choose what’s best for them, and she can’t do that if she’s worried he’s going to bust in there any second and rescue her. Sonny says he knows she’s perfectly capable of rescuing herself, since she rescued him. He walks up to Jax, and says, if he does anything to Nina, Jax is going to have to answer to him. Jax says he had a feeling Sonny was going to say that, and Sonny says, trust that feeling. He leaves, and Jax asks how long Nina has been keeping Sonny from his family.

Curtis goes back into the house, and calls for Jordan. Portia starts yelling again, and he opens the basement door. He sees Jordan at the bottom of the stairs, and runs down. Portia says Jordan has a head wound; he’s going to have to carry her. Be careful; there’s a gas leak. He asks if Portia is going to be okay, and she says she’s going outside. Just hurry.

Maxie tells Ned to breathe. It’s going to be okay. They’ll find him. Ned says, it’s a big hospital; he could be anywhere. Brook says she just spoke to hospital security, and they’re all over finding Leo. Ned thanks her, and says he turned his back for ten, fifteen seconds, to talk to the pediatrician, and when he turned around, Leo was gone. Maxie says, kids do that. She thinks Georgie can teleport. Brook says, with Spinelli as a dad, she’s not surprised, and Maxie says, Leo is going to be fine. Ned says he hopes she’s right. He’s going to call Olivia.

Austin walks into an examining room to find Leo playing with his fidget spinner. Leo says he likes this, and Austin says he thought Leo might. He was so brave when he was there to get his tetanus shot. How’s his finger? Leo says, good, and Austin says Leo isn’t scheduled to visit him today. Does his mom know he’s there? Leo shakes his head, and Austin says, what about his stepdad? Leo says, nope.

Nina says she came to Nixon Falls because she wanted to see her friend Phyllis, and Jax says he knows. She says, please don’t interrupt her. He wants to know what happened, right? She’s trying hard to tell him. He says, go ahead, and she says she was really hurt and heartbroken when she found out what he and Carly did to her, that they hid the identity of her daughter. She’s really sorry she made a scene at Sonny’s funeral, and she’s really sorry she confused Wiley. He says, speaking of Wiley… and she says he doesn’t have to tell her that Wiley is Sonny’s grandchild; she already knows that. He says, but somehow she’s justified keeping him from Sonny. She says she came to Nixon Falls to be with Phyllis because Phyllis cares for her. Phyllis doesn’t judge her. She saw Phyllis, and was on her way out of town, and ran into Sonny. She couldn’t believe it, just like Jax right now. She couldn’t believe it, and then after talking to Sonny, she realized he’d lost his memory, and the only clue to his identity was his watch that he still wears. It said, To Mike, Never enough time, Love, A. Now he calls himself Mike. Jax says, his watch, and his father’s name. When she realized Sonny was alive, why didn’t she tell Carly?   

Carly tells Jason not to put himself in an impossible situation just to make things easier for her. He says, why wouldn’t he? Look at where they’re standing. It’s Jake’s, where it all began. She was the first friend he made on his own, who knew nothing about who he was before the accident. She always talks about what he does for her. Why don’t they talk about what she does for him? She accepted him, and believed in him. She fought for him. She says she sure did that, and he says he doesn’t know who he’d be if he hadn’t met her. He’s just lucky he did. He trusts her; he trusts her instincts. If she thinks they shouldn’t get married, then they shouldn’t do it.

Curtis brings Jordan outside, and lies her down on the porch, saying, come back. Portia checks Jordan’s pulse.  

A security guy tells Ned that they haven’t been able to locate Leo yet, but they’re actively looking. Ned wonders if they should bring in the police, when Austin comes in with Leo. He says he thinks they might be looking for something, and Leo runs to Ned and hugs him. Ned says, they’ve been looking all over for him, and Austin found him. Austin says, actually, Leo found him. Leo was waiting for him in the examining room where he got his tetanus shot because he wanted to tell Austin how much he liked his fidget spinner. Ned asks why Leo didn’t tell him that he was going over there, and Leo says, because he wanted to see Dr. Austin.

Nina tells Jax, she did call Carly, the second she found out what was happening to Sonny. She tried to tell Carly, but before she could get one word in, Carly lit into her. She said if Nina sued for any rights to see Wiley, she’d dredge up every horrible thing Nina had ever done in her life. She was relentless, and kept pounding the hammer on Nina’s coffin over and over, until Nina couldn’t take it anymore. She starts to cry, and says she knew it was wrong. She knew she should have told Carly, but in that moment, she couldn’t bring herself to even care. He says, let him get this straight; she kept quiet out of revenge? She says, no… yes… no… Maybe in the moment she did. he says, what about other moments, like when he came to visit her, or when she went back to Port Charles when he arranged for her to visit Wiley? How could she just stand there, holding Wiley, when she knew she was keeping Sonny from his entire family? They were still grieving him. How could she do that for all those months?

Carly says it doesn’t feel wrong to marry Jason. She knows he’ll treat her with respect. She knows he’ll be great with the kids, and would never lie to her. It’s not a question of him being a good husband; he’ll be a great husband. The problem is Jake’s. She fell in love with him back then, and realized that she could fall in love with him all over again.

Sonny sits on a bench near the water, and flashes back to Jax saying he has a whole family who love and miss him. He says, the family Jax mentioned, where are they? Why haven’t they come looking for him? Jax says, doesn’t he get it? He’s not Mike and Nina knows it. Sonny looks at his watch.

Nina tells Jax that she tried to come clean with Carly. She thought about coming clean when she went to Port Charles. He asks why she didn’t, and she says, because when she was visiting Wiley, Carly showed up again. Then all of a sudden, her visitation is over. It’s Wiley’s bedtime, and it’s enough with playing with Grandma Nina. She thought, back in Nixon Falls, there’s this a lovely man waiting for her. He says, Sonny, but she says, Mike. He says, they’re the same person, but she says, they’re not. Sonny is a ruthless mob boss. Mike is a simple guy who wants what he has there, a simple life with his friends Phyllis and Lenny. He says, and her? She says, and her, and he asks if she’s told Sonny that she knows who he is; that the answers he seeks are right in front of him? Here’s where Jax is wrong though; Sonny isn’t seeking them. She says, no, and he asks, why not? She says she thought about it a lot of times, but knew if she told him, he’d look up who he was, he would discover all the crimes Sonny committed. Even though Sonny was okay with it, Mike wouldn’t be able to live with it. It would change him. Jax says, or he’d want to return to his old life whether he remembered it or not. But she didn’t want that because she’s in love with Mike. She says she is, and from what she’s heard, Sonny is not a good guy. He says he agrees with her there, and she says, Mike is a good man. He’s devoted and kind, and she got something from Mike she’s never gotten from any man – honesty. He asks how much honesty she’s given Mike in return, and she asks if he has any idea what a difficult decision this has been for her every single day. So the question is this. Who is better for this world; Sonny, who kills people, or sweet, kind Mike? He says it’s not her decision to make because there is no Mike. There is only Sonny, and he’s married to Carly. She says, Sonny found himself there, who he truly is. He’s Mike and he’s happy… and she’s happy. Does Jax want to take that from her again?

Brook asks how long Leo was with Austin before he decided to tell someone, and Austin says, 58 seconds. She says her stepbrother goes missing, and just happens to show up with him? and he says he knows this one; she’s implying something. She says, kind of convenient when he’s trying to ingratiate himself with her family. Leo goes missing, and when they’re just about to call the cops, he shows up and he’s the hero? Ned says, Austin treated Leo for the cut on his finger a few weeks ago. Leo liked him, so it makes sense that Leo would seek him out. He just wishes Leo would have asked him first. Austin imagines he did, and Brook says, it’s just Leo being Leo. Austin agrees, and asks if he can talk to Ned for a second. Ned asks Brook to keep an eye on Houdini, and Austin says he has something he thinks Leo will get a kick out of, and shows him a gyro wheel. Leo seems fascinated.

Portia tells Curtis, Jordan’s breathing is getting better, but she isn’t regaining consciousness. She breathed in more of what was in that basement than Portia did. He says, she’s only got one kidney; that has to make it worse. Portia says, the gas puts her in danger of renal failure, and the remaining kidney could be compromised. Let’s get her to a hospital right now. They pick Jordan up, and carry her to the car.

Ned and Austin go into an examining room, and Ned says, if this is about ELQ… but Austin says, this is way more important than ELQ. Ned may recall he asked Olivia to bring Leo back to see him. Ned says he does, but Olivia thought Leo was okay, so he took Leo to his own pediatrician for the all-clear. Leo’s finger seems to have healed nicely. Austin says, it looks great, but he didn’t need to see Leo about the cut. Ned asks, then why did he want the follow-up?

Carly says she was so surprised when she fell in love with Jason. She was so busy chasing after Tony, and lying to AJ, and one day it dawned on her that he was the one she wanted, and she was so, so in love with him. Of course (🍷) she had to get him to fall in love with her, which wasn’t easy since he had his guard up, but little by little, she found a way. They were so close, then she met Sonny, and everything changed. Jason left Port Charles, and she and Sonny fell in love. When he came back, the feelings she felt, she couldn’t let herself feel them, so she locked them away, and woudn’t let herself think about them to the point where she believed they were gone. Now she’s starting to feel them again. She’s not in love with him yet, but she’s on the way, and just can’t go there alone.

Sonny looks his watch, and takes it off. He remembers Nina saying, this watch is the evidence of a life he used to have. He has to learn who he was before he came to Nixon Falls. Until he does, she can’t give him all of her.

Jax says, all he wanted was for Nina to be happy, and she says, then can he leave, and forget what he saw there? He says he wishes he could. He honestly means that. Everyone at home is grieving Sonny, and his absence has put everyone in Port Charles in danger, including Josslyn. She asks what he means, and he says, she asked him a while ago who the world would be better off with, Sonny or Mike. It pains him to say this, but Port Charles needs Sonny. She says she thought everyone would be safer with Sonny gone, and he says she has no idea what she’s done. The lives that have changed. The things she set in motion.

Austin says he’s observed some behavior from Leo that he thinks warrants attention. Ned asks, what behavior? and Austin says, there’s no cause for concern. He just wants to observe the kid a little bit more. Ned asks, why? Does he think there’s something wrong with Leo? Austin says he doesn’t think anything’s wrong with anyone. He just thinks Leo might benefit from seeing a specialist. Ned says, in what? and Austin says, every human being is different, and every child is different. He’s seen a lot of kids and what he’s trying to articulate is that he thinks Leo would enjoy learning a more effective way of communicating. At least discuss it with Olivia. Ned says, actually, he has. He’s mentioned Leo’s quietness concerns him sometimes, but Olivia won’t hear it. Austin says Ned needs to try again because some kids really benefit from treatment. Ned says, for introversion? and Austin says, if he’s shy, he’s shy, but it could be a range of other things; none of them is bad. This is great. What human being doesn’t deserve the right to learn the skills to connect to the world a little bit better? Ned says he’ll talk to Olivia about it, and Austin says, tell her to reach out to him if she has any questions, and the same goes for Ned. Ned starts to go, and Austin says, this has nothing do with anything other than Leo, and Ned leaves.

Brook says Austin is so into Maxie, and Maxie tells her, so she keeps saying. Brook says, he may be an interloper, but Maxie may see him in a different light. Maxie says, stop pretending this has anything to do with her; it obviously doesn’t. Brook would do anything to protect the family business. Exhibit A: faking a pregnancy to save ELQ from Valentin. But hey, she gets it. That’s what the Quartermaines do. But her pregnancy faking days are over, and she’s not a Quartermaine. She doesn’t want to get mixed up in whatever plan Brook has going on next. Brook says, just invite him to Carly and Jason’s wedding. Just spend a little time with him; put her toe in the water. What harm could it do? Ned comes back, and thanks them for looking after Leo, and Maxie says, of course (🍷), like anyone was even looking in Leo’s direction. He could have disappeared again ten minutes ago. Brook asks if Austin tried to weasel his way into the family business, or what? and Ned says, something like that. Brook tells Maxie, all the cards are out on the table. Could she just spend some time with Austin, and see where it goes? Could Maxie do that for her?

Sonny looks at his watch, and remembers Nina saying, there are a million reasons why they shouldn’t be together. With all those reasons, and the fear that what they have will collapse when he finds out who he is, she’s still here. And if that’s not love, she doesn’t know what is. He asks what she’s saying, and she takes his hand and tells him that she’s saying she loves him too.

Jax tells Nina, when Sonny disappeared, his business became vulnerable, and by extension, so did Carly and her family, including Josslyn. Nina says she doesn’t know the ins and the outs of mob business, but she assumed Jason could handle things, and Carly would benefit from it. He asks if she’s read about Cyrus Renault, and says, things escalated from there. Jason was either behind bars or on the run, so Carly felt that she needed to take over the family business. And Carly’s only way to maintain power, or keep this illusion of peace, is to marry Jason. Nina says he told her they were engaged, but she thought it was just for show. She didn’t expect them to actually get married. He says, well, it’s happening. And it’s a little tricky, because the bride-to-be is married to a man who’s alive and well, and being hidden there by Nina.

Carly says she and Jason can stop, take a step back, tell everyone they’ve reconsidered and they’re not getting married. It will be awkward for a while, but they’ll be fine. She cherishes his friendship, and can’t live without it. The butterflies she’s feeling will eventually go away, but if they get married, she’ll keep falling and won’t stop. When he doesn’t return the feelings, she’ll be angry, resentful, and hurt. She can’t have that between them. He asks why she assumes she’ll be falling alone. <gag>  

Maxie tells Brook, it’s very disconcerting, and Brook says, what? Maxie says, Brook, and her plan. Brook says, what plan? She’s simply encouraging Maxie to spend time with a guy who’s clearly interested. Maxie says, that right there is exactly what she’s talking about. Brook is pretending there’s no plan, when obviously, there is a plan. On one hand, Brook is a total lifesaver. She’s great with the baby. She’s keeping the baby safe, and she’s loving and protective. Brook says, her pleasure, and Maxie says, and just when she thinks she can relax, that everything is under total control, Brook starts plotting and scheming, all over these stupid ELQ shares. Brook says, first of all, they are not stupid ELQ shares. They’re very valuable, and they’re her great-grandfather’s legacy. And second of all, who is Maxie to talk to anyone about scheming, Miss Schemer McSchemerson? She could give a master class. Maxie says she’s scheming to save her baby, but Brook sys, it’s still a scheme. That’s okay. They’re not mutually exclusive. Maxie tells her, says the woman with a blatant ulterior motive, and Brook asks if it isn’t possible for her to protect Bailey/Louise while at the same time safeguarding her family’s company. Maxie says, and by <air quotes> safeguard <end air quotes> she means cutting Austin out, and Brook says, maybe. Maybe not. Maybe Austin is a really nice guy, with a legitimate claim. What would help her out is someone she could trust – like Maxie – spending time with him. Maxie says, okay. Fine. She’ll do it. Brook thanks her, and Maxie says, but if it happens to jog Austin’s memory about what happened in the woods the night Louise was born, she’s going to blame Brook. Brook says she takes full responsibility… whatever that means. Austin comes by, and Brook calls his name. He says, no thank you, and keeps walking. Brook follows him, saying, they didn’t offer him anything. He says what she has to offer him is unfounded accusations, but he’s full up. Try again tomorrow. She says, definitely. In the meantime, Maxie has something she wants to say to him. Maxie says, well… um… and Austin says, it’s okay. She said she didn’t want him to bother her again, and he won’t. She says, it’s not a bother. She wondered if he’d like to attend the wedding of the century. And by that, she means the wedding of Carly Corinthos and Jason Morgan. She planned most of it, and it came out really nice if she does say so herself. He says, weddings aren’t his thing, and she says he could be her plus one. Curtis comes in carrying Jordan, and says they need some help here. Jordan coughs.

Sonny remembers saying, he may not know who he was, but he knows who he is now. And he knows Nina, and she’s been nothing but good to him. She’s his life. He puts the watch to his lips, gets up, and tosses it into the water. I so want this to work, and I so know it won’t. I’m not into the romance stuff, but this makes me want to cry.

Nina tells Jax, as far as Carly knows, she’s a widow. And she’s not too far off. The man she married is gone. Mike doesn’t even know her, and he doesn’t fit in her glamorous life any more than she fits in his. Jax says, there’s no justifying this. There’s no rationalizing this. So much damage has been done because of her lies. If she continues to keep this secret about Sonny, things are only going to get worse. She asks what he expects her to do. Sonny doesn’t know who he is. He says, because she hasn’t told him. She has to come clean. She has to make this right, and tell Sonny who is right now. Because the wedding is tonight.

Jason says he did fall in love with Carly when Michael was a baby. Then she was with Sonny, so he would only let himself see her as a friend. A friend who he loved, and a friend he’d die for. That’s how he justified putting her first, because he wasn’t in love with her, and it wasn’t about having her. But now the feelings are coming back. It’s like she said. They can stop it now, and it will be awkward for a little while, but it will pass, because they’ve definitely been through worse. Or they can get married for real; spend the rest of their lives together. She says, can he make that promise? and he says, yes, he can. She asks if he’s not just saying that because he thinks he should, and he takes her hands. He tells her, he’s saying it because it’s true, and they kiss. Bleh.

Tomorrow, Brook asks if Maxie is saying she’s a bad mom, TJ tells Jordan that she can’t stay there, Curtis says Austin’s face tells him the news isn’t good, and Sonny tells Phyllis that he’ll respect her wishes for now.

🥜 In a Nutshell…

On Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles, David and/or James said Fredrik would never get another listing from them, since he bragged about a sale when the client had asked for it to be on the DL. Derek told Fredrik that the LA guys were just threatened by him, since he was encroaching on their territory. But it was a legit complaint, since we saw a clip of the client sounding pretty pissed. JoshF teamed up with Nikki Haskell to broker a deal on one of the most beautiful homes I’ve seen on here. It had been owned by Peter Bogdanovich and Diane Keaton (not at the same time), and George Washington Orson Welles had also slept there. Designed by Wallace Neff, it was 8200 square feet, with 7 bedrooms and 9 baths, and Spanish tiles to die for in the kitchen. The asking price was $17.4 million, and the deal was done at $16.455 million. A bargain! In the meantime, JoshA was busy with a house in Bel Air, near the Playboy mansion and the late Aaron Spelling’s place. On the flipside, Tracy had a buyer who backed out because, at 6’5”, he felt he was too tall for the house.

Next time, a client wants Fredrik to team up with one of the Joshes, JoshF lies to a client, and Tracy’s client says she can’t go through it again.

💃🏻 Go, Go, Girl…

I knew I’d heard Nikki Haskell’s name before. And she was also a stockbroker before she became a real estate broker. She’s had a busy life.

🏯 Amazing Place…

The Wallace Neff house from tonight’s MDLLA episode.

👰🏼 Don’t Look…

Tradition says it’s bad luck for the groom to see the bride in her dress before the wedding, but it looks like Carly and Jason didn’t listen. We all know that marriage is doomed anyway. Maybe. You never know.

https://ew.com/tv/general-hospital-carly-and-jason-wedding-photo/

🎥 Congrats To Chloe…

The late Nelle seems to be doing quite well with her next chapter.

👄 Of Course She Is…

Does it surprise anyone that LisaR would be like a suckerfish on Erika?

Including his link because he did do that apology tour.

👠 Latest Dance…

It’s not exactly my thing – I’d rather be dancing than watch dancing – but both Martin Kove and Mel C? I might actually watch this season.

The hosts.

https://abc.com/shows/dancing-with-the-stars/cast

🐄 Cows Officially Home…

If you listen real hard, the sound of the weekend, which is hopefully becoming a clearer concept these days. Unless you don’t want it to be. Then feel free to march to a different calendar. See you tomorrow for soap, tea, and a few wise words. Until then, stay safe, stay counting your blessings, and stay not being a Miss Schemer McSchemerson. It always ends up weaving a tangled web.