Tag Archives: quotes

May 12, 2023 – Michael Changes Terms, Goodbye Barbara Jean, Molly Sub, Social Feud, No Comparison, Just No, Fear’s Return, Cool Dead, Sweet Renewal, 3 Awards, Dogs Of Anarchy, Good Boy, 2 x 4 Quotes & Mama

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Nina meets Ava at The Savoy, where a martini is waiting. Ava says, let’s get the party started, and Nina sit next to her at the bar. Ava says, Trina and Liesl are home, which means Willow has a donor. What should they drink to first?… She says, Nina doesn’t look like she’s in the mood to celebrate anything. What’s wrong?

Carly and Drew walk hand in hand at the hospital, and Carly tells him, she has to say, their relationship being out in the open… He says, makes the whole SEC investigation worth it? and she tells him that she wouldn’t say that, but it is the one silver lining. They hug, and Josslyn walks in. She says, don’t mind her, and hugs Drew, telling him, welcome home. He says he’s so glad to be here; she has no idea. She says, seeing him is like confirmation everything is going to be okay, and thanks him.

Dex comes out onto the hospital roof, and checks a text: Need to meet ASAP. GH roof.

Michael looks in on Willow, when his phone rings. A text says: I’m here. He flashes back to Willow saying the conflict between him and Sonny affects everybody they love. He remembers telling Sonny that eventually Sonny will be forgotten, like he never existed, Sonny replying, he’ll always love Michael, but if he wants Sonny to forgive, he’ll have to pay.

Frank lets Valentin into Sonny’s office, and Sonny says, hail the conquering hero. Valentin says, Sonny can just call. He doesn’t have to send his staff. Sonny says he doesn’t want to inconvenience Valentin, but there are some matters they have to discuss, and no one’s leaving this room until they do that.

Carly asks if Josslyn talked to Trina, but Josslyn says, she’s with her mom and dad. Trina texted her that she and Spencer are alive and back in Port Charles. She thanks Drew, saying, he rescued her best friends, but he says, it was a huge team effort. Spencer and Trina were pretty heroic themselves. Josslyn says, they’re so grateful he was able to get Dr. Obrecht back in time to save Willow. Seriously, he’s a hero. Drew tells her not to get carried away, but Carly says, Josslyn’s right, even though he didn’t get the hero’s welcome he deserved. Josslyn asks, why? What happened?

Nina says she really appreciates Ava coming out with her tonight, but maybe she should go see Trina. Nina knows how worried Ava was. Ava says, she’s safe and with her parents. They should celebrate. At the very least, they should raise a glass to Nina’s Aunt Liesl. She survived being kidnapped by Victor Cassadine – again – and she made it home in time to save Willow’s life. Nina says, yes. Her Aunt Liesl had the procedure to donate her bone marrow, and Willow’s going to have the transplant as soon as she completes her chemotherapy. Ava says, that’s wonderful. Why so glum? Nina says, this morning, Willow offered a way for her to make peace, and Ava says, another reason to celebrate. Nina says, it would be, except she already screwed it up.

Obrecht knocks on Willow’s window, and the phone next to Willow’s bed rings. Willow picks it up, and says, hello, Aunt Liesl. Obrecht says she’s sorry she kept Willow waiting, but she was abducted by a homicidal madman, and Willow tells her, don’t let it happen again. Obrecht says, don’t worry; it won’t. Willow says she’s just glad Obrecht is all right, and Obrecht says, she, too, is quite pleased by her survival. It was a great relief to donate her bone marrow today. Willow says, so it’s done? and Obrecht says, yes. Willow asks if she’s okay, and Obrecht says she had the easy part. She was under anesthesia. Aside from some mild soreness, she feels absolutely fine. Willow tells her that she doesn’t know what to say. Thank you doesn’t even cover it. She starts to cry and says, she’ll be able to watch her children grow up… Grow old with Michael. She’ll be alive, all thanks to Obrecht. Obrecht says she did what she had to. After all, Willow is her family.

Michael comes out on the roof, and thanks Dex for helping Josslyn bring Wiley and Amelia to the hospital. It meant a lot to the both of them. Dex says he’s glad to help. How’s Willow doing? Michael says, she’s tough. She’s determined to pull through for her family. But true to form, she’s more concerned about others than herself, which is why he called Dex here. Dex says he thinks he knows what Michael is going to say. He’ll admit, he thought Michael would want to wait until his wife was better to turn Sonny in… Is there another problem?

Sonny says, he spoke to Anna, and she told him how Valentin got Trina and Spencer and Liesl home. Valentin says, Victor was his father. It was kind of on him to stop Victor, and Sonny says, he’s the reason Nina got her aunt back, and now Willow’s going to get her bone marrow transplant that he hopes saves her life. Valentin says he’s just glad Liesl made it back in time, and Sonny says, Valentin stepped up. He’s not going to forget that. Valentin says he appreciates that, and Sonny says, now can they get to how Valentin’s associates nearly go him and his people killed?

Valentin says he’d never get in the way of Sonny’s operation, much less harm his people, and Sonny says, let him explain the new developments in the Pikeman deal, which Valentin facilitated. It seems like he left out a few important details. Valentin says, with respect, he told Sonny everything he knows. He’s just a middleman; they’re not going to give him specifics. Sonny says, Valentin went on the run after that, so let him fill Valentin in. He was preparing for the first shipment, and a sniper tried to take him out. Fortunately, he missed. When they were discussing this deal, Valentin said something about there being significant risks. Was that code? Did he or did he not know that Sonny could have a target on his back? Doesn’t Sonny always have a target on his back? He is a mob boss.

Willow says she’s grateful for everything Obrecht is doing and has done, and Obrecht says, Willow doesn’t really know her, certainly not well. She understands Willow’s fear that accepting her into her life means accepting Nina, who she thinks she does know well. But she wants Willow to know she has no agenda. Regardless of how Willow feels about her, she considers Willow family. Obrecht has lost almost all her relatives. When that happens, we tend to latch on to whatever family we have left. Sometimes we even put too much pressure on those relationships. Willow asks if that’s a hint for her to be more receptive to Nina, but Obrecht shakes her head, and says, there will a time and place for Willow to consider what role, if any, she wants Nina to have in her life. It doesn’t matter right now. The important thing is that Willow heal, so that someday she may have the opportunity to make that decision and a lifetime of other, happier ones. Willow says she can’t make any promises about Nina. Right now, she’s just praying she comes out the other side of this. Obrecht says, she will, and Willow says, she sounds so certain. Why? Obrecht says, because she’s aware of the tribulations Willow has endured in her life. Tell her. Does it annoy Willow when people assume she’s fragile? Or does she use it to her advantage, so they underestimate her? Willow says she doesn’t know that she’s ever thought about it that way, and Obrecht says, no matter. She sees Willow for the strong woman she is. Even in this weakened state, it’s obvious. She is a survivor. She knows, because it’s in Willow’s blood.

Nina tells Ava, her daughter asked her for a favor, which she’s never done before, so she thinks that’s a step forward. Ava says, it sounds promising. What was the favor? Nina says, unfortunately, it’s something she can’t give Willow, and Ava asks what she wants. Nina says, Willow wants her to drop her vendetta against Carly, and Ava says, that’s all? She fails to see the problem here. She knows how much Nina hates Carly, but compared to having a relationship with her daughter… Do this for Willow. Lay down her arms. Nina says, it’s too late. She made sure of that when she ratted out Drew and Carly to the SEC.

Drew says, then Diane showed up, and she kind of shut the whole thing down, at least for now. Josslyn says she can’t believe they dragged Drew out of there after he risked his life to rescue Victor’s hostages, and he says, the important thing is, they haven’t been charged with anything; this is an ongoing investigation. Carly says, that’s right, and Diane’s on her way here now to discuss the case, and Josslyn says, if Diane’s on it, she’s not going to worry too much. Carly says, Josslyn needs to know, while the SEC is conducting the investigation, her accounts and assets are frozen, and Josslyn asks if Carly needs her to get money from her trust fund, but Carly says, no. She just wants Josslyn to be aware. She doesn’t want Josslyn worrying about her, because Diane is on it, and they’re going to figure it out. Josslyn wonders how long it’s going to take, but Drew says, unfortunately, there’s no way to tell. His phone rings, and he says, it’s the lawyers from Aurora; he has to take it. He steps away, and Josslyn says, it’s really great to see Carly and Drew together out in the open. She can tell Carly is happy, despite everything. Carly says, they are. Speaking of a secret relationship being out in the open, does Josslyn want to talk about showing up here with Dex?

Michael says he’s decided he’s not using the Pikeman evidence against Sonny, and Dex asks if Michael found something else to use against him. Michael says he’s not turning Sonny in at all, and Dex says, why not? Michael says, Willow helped him realize, by sending Sonny to prison, he’ll just be tearing his family apart, and Dex says, Michael told him that he’d be willing to accept that. Michael says, for himself, but not for his siblings. Josslyn wants to see Sonny face justice, but Kristina would never forgive him. And Donna and Avery will be stuck in the middle. It’s not fair to make them choose between Josslyn and Kristina, or him and his father. Dex says, Michael is the boss. He has the right to change his mind. But he was hired to do a job. A job he’s risked his life for a year now getting done. He’s been shot, hung from a meat hook, and threatened with torture. He’s had to spend every day with the knowledge that if Sonny finds out he’s working against him, he’s dead. He knew there were risks when he started working for Michael, but decided it was worth it. (Well, shut up then.) He’s since come to understand Sonny better, but that doesn’t change anything for him. His options are limited here. Michael says he knows he put Dex in a tough spot, and he’s sorry, but for his family’s sake, he can’t turn Sonny in. Dex says, great. He’s really happy for all of them, but where does that leave him? The way he sees it, he only has two options here. He keeps working for Sonny indefinitely, or he puts Sonny away. Michael says, there is one more option. He disappears. Um… How about Dex tells Sonny that he can’t work for him because of Josslyn? I hate when they give Sonny no credit for being a somewhat understanding guy.

Valentin says, Pikeman has a lot of enemies. The kind of people who are going to want to keep Pikeman’s merchandise out of their own enemies’ hands. He didn’t know Sonny was going to be targeted, but he can’t say he’s entirely surprised. Sonny says, the Pikeman rep is cagey any time he tries to ask them for any information, and Valentin says, as with any Pikeman employee. It’s all need to know. Sonny says, the sniper was a ghost, but here’s the thing. He wasn’t a mob hitman; he was black ops. From the espionage world. Valentin’s world. Valentin says he’s not going to get Pikeman to confirm or deny that, but he has good news. He spoke to his source at Pikeman, and they’re happy with the way the shipment went down. They want to work with Sonny again. Sonny says, tell them he’s not interested.

Scotty sees Obrecht going down the hall at the hospital, and says, she’s back. She says, yes, and he says, in one piece he might add. She says she’s unharmed. She should be… He says, he moved heaven and earth to find her, and got chloroformed for his trouble. She says she heard, and he says he’s sorry he almost got her blown up, but he had to do something. She says, on the bright side, his misguided efforts to save her, effectively blew up Victor, and Scotty says, good riddance to him. She says, yes. As she said she should be… She starts walking away, but he says, wait a second. He knows they had a lot of problems before Victor grabbed her, and a lot of stuff to work out, but he thinks about her – she turns around to face him – in the morning when he wakes up, and he thinks about her before he goes to sleep, but the trouble is, he doesn’t sleep anymore. So he was wondering if she feels the same way. Not that she doesn’t sleep. He wouldn’t wish that on anybody, but maybe they could get things back on track. Is there any way things might work out with them?

Josslyn tells Carly, Dex was a big help getting the kids here, and there’s no real reason to hide their relationship anymore now that Sonny knows. Diane comes out of the elevator and walks over to them, and asks if she’s interrupting a mother/daughter catch-up. Josslyn says, nothing they can’t talk about later, and Carly says, and they will. She thanks Diane for coming here, since she didn’t want to stray too far from Willow, and Diane says she understands. Josslyn says she’ll leave them to it. She knows they have a lot to talk about. Now that she knows Diane is the one helping out, she’s sure it will be okay. Diane says she appreciates the vote of confidence, and Josslyn leaves. Diane asks, where’s Drew? and Carly says, he’s making a call. She thanks Diane for getting him released, and Diane says, it was a little too easy… Drew comes back, and thanks Diane for coming. Let’s hear it. What are he and Carly looking at? Diane says, unfortunately, it’s going to get worse before it gets better.

Nina and Ava go to a table, and Nina says she hates that she turned in Carly and Drew to the SEC. She let her jealousy get the better of her for Carly becoming more of a mother to Willow. Now she did something she can’t take back. Ava says, when Willow asked her to make peace with Carly, did Nina tell her it was too late? and Nina says, not exactly. When Willow asked her to make peace with Carly, she lied a little bit, and said she wouldn’t get into it with Carly anymore. Ava says, technically, it’s not a lie though. Nina talked to the SEC before she promised Willow. Nina says, it won’t matter to Willow that she took revenge on Carly before Willow asked her not to. That loophole is not going to work for her here. Ava says, Carly will weasel her way out of it somehow. Hopefully after she’s suffered a little bit. In a way, Nina bought herself some time to find her way out of this. Nina says, that doesn’t change what she did to Drew. That man went to Greenland, he faced off with Victor Cassadine, he brought Aunt Liesl back so Willow could get a bone marrow transplant. Almost as soon as he brought Aunt Liesl back to GH, he was intercepted by the SEC. Ava says, that is not ideal, and Nina says she was there; it was horrible. Ava says, there’s nothing Nina can do. What’s done is done. She can’t change it now. Nina says, maybe so; maybe not. Ava asks what she’s thinking, and Nina says she needs to mitigate the damage here. So the only thing she can do is tell Willow the truth.

Diane says she’s been working to get Carly’s private bank accounts unfrozen. Unfortunately, the judge has ruled that they’ll remain frozen for the duration of the investigation. Drew says he’s sure he can arrange for a loan from the Quartermaine assets, but Diane says, no. She strongly advises against that. While the SEC is deciding whether he used his private relationship with Carly to divulge business secrets, how’s it going to look if he loans her money? Carly says, Diane’s right. She doesn’t want him to get in any more trouble. He asks what she needs for money, and Carly says she has some liquid assets to keep her afloat. Besides, Diane is going to get their names cleared. Diane says, about that. Unfortunately… Carly says, no. Diane’s been saying that word a lot today. Diane says she knows. She’s sorry. However, she can’t represent both of them.

Obrecht says she’s just been through a harrowing experience with Victor, and Scotty says, he knows. That’s why… She says, please, let her finish, and he says, anything you want, my schnitzel. She says she dreamed of him calling her that. She confesses that in moments her survival was in question, she did think about him. He has her heart. He takes her hand and says, she has his as well. So with that, they can probably get through anything. She says, if only it were that simple, and pulls her hand back. Her heart doesn’t belong to him alone. He shares that space with her children who are no longer with her; Nathan and Britta. He says he knows that he hurt her, and he’ll do everything he can in his power to make it up to her, but she says, sadly, he cannot. She was a captive on the Haunted Star, the very vessel where her Britta breathed her last breath. When the air strike destroyed it, she thought, it’s gone, the place where her Britta had the best night of her life, and she had her worst. She didn’t know what to think, how to feel, but Scotty was involved, no matter how inadvertently, in its destruction. And it felt like a gift. He says, maybe he did do something right, and she says he’s done many things right, but as much as she loves him, it’s hard for her to even look at him right now. All she can see is Elizabeth, and how he sided with her. And while she understands he sees Elizabeth as a daughter, she must side with the memory of hers. That is our truth, mein Lieber, and unfortunately, it doesn’t set us free. She walks away.

Michael says he’ll give Dex all the money he needs to start somewhere new. Somewhere Sonny can’t touch him. It’s the least he owes Dex. Dex says, that’s not what he agreed to. The deal was, he’d get enough evidence for Michael to put Sonny away forever, then get out of his business. Michael says, Dex did everything he asked Dex to do. He gained Sonny’s trust, he braved the brutality of Sonny’s world. He can’t thank Dex enough for all he’s done. He realizes changing the terms comes at great risk to Dex. Dex says, but Michael’s not going to change his mind, is he? and Michael says, no, he’s not. Dex says, then he’s screwed, and Michael says, Dex knew this job could go wrong a million different ways; he signed up for that too. Dex says he signed up for exactly two possible outcomes. Either Sonny goes to prison, or Sonny catches him and he winds up dead. And since option one is off the table now, the only other one is him not breathing. Michael says, there’s a way for Dex to escape with his life if he lets Michael help him get away. He’ll protect Dex from Sonny. Dex says, if he disappears, he has to say goodbye to his life, and he’s grown very attached to… to this city. Michael says, he’s grown attached to this city or attached to Josslyn?

Josslyn stands at Willow’s window, and on the phone, Willow says she’s happy to see her. Josslyn says she’s surprised Willow is even awake. How’s she feeling? Willow says, if she’s being completely honest, the chemo’s taking a lot out of her. But it will all be worth it, providing Liesl’s donation takes. Josslyn says, it will, and asks if there’s anything she can do for Willow. Willow says, tell her what’s going on. What’s happening in the outside world? Josslyn hesitates, and Willow says, it doesn’t have to be anything big. Tell her something small and personal. Like how she’s studying for her finals. Is she a flashcards or an outlines student? Josslyn laughs, and says, Willow’s lowered the bar. They can do better than that. She’s sort of seeing someone. Willow says, Michael and Carly sort of hinted she was, but didn’t give her any details. She was very annoyed they respected Josslyn’s privacy like that. So tell her. Is Josslyn seeing anyone she knows?

Sonny says, the cargo was a lot riskier than they discussed, and Valentin asks, what was the cargo? Sonny says, just one of the most powerful plastic explosives in the world. Did Valentin know that? Valentin says he knew they dealt in explosives, but he didn’t expect them to ask Sonny to traffic it. Not on his first job with them anyway. Sonny says he’s not in the market of arming terrorists, but Valentin says, he’s not. Their main client is the US military. They make limited covert exports to small countries that need to defend themselves from larger, better equipped military forces. Sonny says, meaning countries that have a vested interest in making sure Pikeman doesn’t move their merchandise, and Valentin says, and would go to extremes to eliminate anyone facilitating the move of said merchandise. Sonny says, there’s no way he’s going to sit back and be Pikeman’s collateral damage, and Valentin says, so Sonny wants him to tell them no deal?

Ava says she loves Nina, but that is a terrible idea, and Nina says, it’s the only thing she can think of. This whole thing is horrible. They froze Drew and Carly’s assets. Ava laughs, and Nina says, it’s not funny. Ava says, it’s not funny when it comes to Drew, but Carly? Considering she lost her shirt in the very deal she’s being investigated for, it’s lucky she has any assets to freeze, and it’s delicious. Nina says, Willow’s not going to see it that way. They could be facing serious prison time, and if there’s any way of salvaging this, building any kind of relationship with her daughter, she’s just going to have to come clean. She’ll have to apologize to Willow for all the pain that she’s put her and her family through. Ava says, let her remind Nina of something. None of the former or current members of the Corinthos family are forgiving people. That includes Willow. If Nina comes clean, Willow will be furious with her. Nina says, what if she finds out later? and Ava says, then she’ll be furious later. If Nina admits what she did, Carly will be out for her blood. Not to mention Michael and Drew, and the whole Quartermaine clan. And of course (🍷) there’s Sonny. Nina, who certainly can’t foresee the consequences of her actions, says, what about Sonny? and Ava says, Carly’s the mother of his children. Does Nina think he’s really going to be fine with her turning Carly over to the Feds? Nina says, he loves her, and Ava says, he does now, but when he finds out she threw Carly to the wolves, she promises Nina, that will change. Nina says she knows there’s going to be consequences. Shouldn’t she face them? Ava says, when Nina dropped the dime on Carly and Drew, was she lying? Nina says, no, and Ava says, exactly. What they did was illegal. All Nina did was report it. If they didn’t want to go to prison for insider trading, maybe they shouldn’t have done it. All Nina will get for her honesty is lifelong and very powerful enemies. She’ll lose Willow, and she’ll lose Sonny forever. Does she really want to throw away everything that makes her happy?

Willow asks Josslyn if she’s happy, and Josslyn says she is. Willow says, good, and thanks Josslyn for sharing at least that much with her. Josslyn promises to share everything eventually with Willow, and Willow says she’ll hold Josslyn to it. She thanks Josslyn for being here; it means the world. Josslyn says, it’s not just her. It’s Michael and her mom and Drew; they’re all here. All of them are going to be here for her every step of the way. Willow says, love and support from the whole family has kept her going through all of this; the way everyone’s coming together. Josslyn says, they love her, and Willow says she loves all of them too. And as nervous as she is about the transplant, she’s also feeling hopeful for all of their futures again. Josslyn tells Willow, goodbye, hangs up the phone, and then says she feels the same way.

Sonny says he wants Valentin to deliver a message from him. He might be open to another deal, one that would facilitate another shipment; the way it was before, not under these circumstances. Pikeman needs to get their affairs in order, and figure out who came after him. Then they can move forward, but not until then. Valentin says he’ll convey that message and get back to Sonny, and leaves.

Nina says, Ava brings up some good points, and Ava says, that Nina obviously hasn’t considered. Nina says, but where does she go now? Does she just go forward with this huge secret hanging over her and everyone she loves? Ava says, yep, and Nina says, what if she gets caught? Ava asks if anyone else besides her is aware Nina knew Drew and Carly were romantically involved prior to the merger, and Nina says, Martin Grey. Ava says, attorney/client privilege; he can’t say anything. Nina says, he assured her that there’s no way to trace the tip back to her, and Ava says, great. She’s not going to say anything, so good news. Nina’s already gotten away with it. She’s the last person anybody would suspect. Nina asks why Ava says that. Her animosity toward Carly isn’t a secret. Ava says, whose animosity toward Carly is a secret? Aurora’s assets were frozen too, right? And Aurora owns Crimson, so why would she undermine her own business? Nina says, that’s true, and Ava says, Nina’s gotten away with murder. Don’t tell anyone where to find the body.

Diane says she was happy to step in and get Drew released, but moving forward, it wouldn’t be in his best interest to have the same representation as Carly. Carly says she doesn’t understand. Won’t it help if they both have the same strategy? Diane says, the SEC is going to pit the two of them against each other. If this goes to trial, they’ll be separate defendants, so they should have separate attorneys fighting their respective cases. Drew says, then Diane should represent Carly, but Carly says, no. He’s the CEO of Aurora. He engineered the merger. He should have the better representation. He says, the Q’s have a shark tank full of lawyers he can use. Carly should have somebody that knows her implicitly and has represented her and her family for years. Carly asks what Diane thinks, and Diane says she thinks Drew is a very smart man who makes a compelling argument. Carly says, okay. Then that’s what they’ll do. Diane says, now that that’s settled, she’ll be in touch. In the meantime, the two of them look great together. She leaves, and Carly puts her head on Drew’s shoulder.

Nina asks if that’s Scotty, and Ava says, he has that lost puppy dog look. As he passes the table, Nina asks, what’s up? and Ava asks if he’s all right. He says he tried to mend some fences with Liesl, but they’re finished. Nina says, she’s just been through a lot, and he says he knows. He thought she might come to his waiting arms, but no such luck. Nina says, just give her some time, and Ava says, the woman obviously loves him. If she didn’t, she wouldn’t be so mad at him. What did she say exactly? He says, she told him that their truth does not set them free, which it seems to him means, if you love somebody and mess with the family, there is no coming back.

Carly asks how Drew thinks the SEC is going to pit them against each other, and he says, if they want to play dirty, let them. They can handle whatever the SEC throws at them. The way he sees it, they can take on the world as long as they’re together. They hug.

Scotty tells Nina and Ava that he’s not good company. He’s going to go have some martinis. He heads for the bar, and Ava asks Nina, so what are we doing here? Celebrating, or is Nina planning on ruining her relationship with Willow? Nina says, Ava’s right. She can’t tell Willow that she turned in Carly and Drew to the SEC. Ava says, exactly. Trust her. Nothing good will come of Nina clearing her conscience. Ava lifts her glass, and says, to seeing reason. Everything is going Nina’s way. Liesl is going to save Willow’s life; Carly and Drew will face the consequences of their actions. The best thing for Nina to do is to keep her mouth shut and her eyes forward. Nina lifts her glass, and says, and hope for the best. They clink glasses and drink.

Josslyn comes to the roof, and hugs Dex, asking why he needed to see her. What’s going on? He tells her that he has to say goodbye.

There’s a knock at Sonny’s office door, and he says, come in. Frank says, Sonny has another visitor, but Sonny says he’s not expecting one. Frank says, he’ll want to see this one, and Sonny says, send him in. Frank leaves, and Michael walks in.

On Monday, Lucy asks if Sasha is absolutely sure she’s ready for all of this; Josslyn says she’s going with Dex; Drew tells Nina, it’s just not an option; and Michael tells Sonny that they need things to change before it’s too late.

🥀 Farewell To a Legend…

This made me so sad.

⚖️ The ADA’s Temp…

We’ll be having a temporary Molly for a bit.

📱 Oh For Pete’s Sake…

Is it me, or is this all as stupid as it seems?

🍸 Wrong As Usual…

No. It’s not all the same. Actually, this is apples and oranges territory.

🚫 Can’t Blame Her…

There probably are more important topics.

https://okmagazine.com/p/the-view-under-fire-whoopi-goldberg-refuses-discuss-forced-vanderpump-rules-topic/

⚰️ Happy Mother’s Day…

Fear the Walking Dead will be back on Sunday, May 14th.

https://www.thedigitalfix.com/the-walking-dead/fear-the-walking-dead-season-8-release-date

🗽 City Trailer…

This one is a must watch for me.

🦌 Third and Final…

I love this show. I’m almost done with Season 2, and it’s even better than Season 1. It can be borderline Disney, but not in a bad way. And it’s something different.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/sweet-tooth-renewed-for-third-and-final-season-at-netflix/

🎭 Not This Time…

You can check out the nominees here as well.

https://playbill.com/article/2023-tony-awards-will-not-broadcast-as-announced-wga-strike-waiver-denied

🐎 A Lot Bit Country…

The ACM Award winners.

https://people.com/country/acm-awards-2023-complete-winners-list/

The ACM Award fashion.

https://parade.com/tv/acm-music-awards-red-carpet-fashion-outfits-2023

🎥 Not Your Mom’s Awards…

The MTV Movie & TV Awards winners.

https://www.mtv.com/news/wlwids/mtv-movie-tv-awards-winners-list-2023

The non-fashion.

https://www.lofficielusa.com/film-tv/mtv-movie-tv-awards-2023-red-carpet-winners-writers-strike

🐶 Bikers and Dogs Reunion…

It doesn’t get cooler than this.

https://ew.com/tv/sons-of-anarchy-reunion-peta-psa-emilio-rivera-theo-rossi/

🐩 Going To the Dogs…

Westminster winner. Click on Rummie the Pekingese for a tweet treat.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/09/us/westminster-dog-show-winner-cec/index.html

🥠 Quotes of the Week

We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals. – Immanuel Kant

I’ll join this conversation on the proviso that we stop bitching about people, talking about wigs, dresses, bust sizes, penises, drugs, night clubs, and bloody Abba! – Bernadette (Terrence Stamp), Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better. – Robert F. Kennedy

Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and above all confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained. – Marie Curie

A leader is a dealer in hope.Napoleon Bonaparte

The pendulum of the mind alternates between sense and nonsense, not between right and wrong. – Carl Jung

His first word was a paragraph. – Rosetta McMillan (Cleo King), Mike & Molly

I believe in Liberty for all men: the space to stretch their arms and their souls, the right to breathe and the right to vote, the freedom to choose their friends, enjoy the sunshine, and ride on the railroads, uncursed by color; thinking, dreaming, working as they will in a kingdom of beauty and love. – W.E.B. DuBois

🤹🏽‍♀️ A Mother Of a Day…

Follow the breadcrumbs back on Monday really Tuesday for soap, Sailing, and Summer smack talk. Fear the Walking Dead begins Sunday, so we’ll see on that. Mondays is rough. Until then, stay safe, stay loving your mom even if it has to be from a distance, and stay not messing with the family of somebody you love. There might be no coming back.

May 5, 2023 – Lots Of Action In Greenland, Behind It, Her Why, Happy Anniversary, Almost, Snub Drama, It’s Her, Closing, VanderKarma, Baby Off Deck, Accused, Brave Pets (!), 10 Quotes To Ponder & Listen

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny says, they heard about Willow; how’s she doing? Carly says, Michael’s with her now, and Nina asks, what happened? Carly says, she collapsed. They’re waiting to hear from Dr. Randolph, but they talked to TJ, and her condition has deteriorated. Nina asks, how bad? and Carly says, hopefully, they can find Nina’s Aunt Liesl, and Drew can bring her back here in time to have the bone marrow transplant. But in the meantime, Willow has to stay in the hospital.

Michael thanks Willow for agreeing to stay, and she says, the whole, if you go home you might not make it argument was pretty persuasive. Michael says he guesses he pulled out all the stops, and Willow says, he made her see she needs a controlled environment for now, so she can go home to him and their kids later. She’s fighting with everything she has to stay with their family.

Somewhere in Greenland. Trina asks if Jordan can hear her, and Jordan says she can. Where is Trina? Trina says, on the Haunted Star with Spencer and Ace, and Jordan says, they have to get off that boat now. Trina says, they know, but… Jordan says, no buts. There are drones on the way with orders to drop bombs on the entire island. They have no way to stop them. Take the baby and get to the seaplane before it’s too late. Spencer says, he can’t leave his grandmother behind, and Trina says, or Curtis. She asks Jordan, what about the others? and Jordan says, every second counts. Take the baby, and get off that island. Spencer tells Trina to take Ace and get to the seaplane; he’ll look for the others. She says, what if he runs into Victor, or his guards? She’s not leaving him. Felicia takes the phone, and tells Spencer, they both know his grandmother would want him and Ace to be safe. Jordan says, exactly. Their job is to get themselves and the baby to that plane before it takes off.

Holly tells Victor to drop his gun, but he asks why he would do that. Especially if she’s going to drop her gun and let him pass. Holly asks why she would do that? Obviously, he’d shoot her if she did. Obrecht says, stop talking, and shoot him, and Victor puts Obrecht in front of him, saying, be careful or she might shoot Liesl. Obrecht tells her not to worry about that, and shoot him, but Victor says, what about poor Willow? She’ll die. Obrecht says she’ll instruct Holly how to harvest her marrow. Now pull the trigger! Victor holds up the cannister, and says, if anything happens to him, they all die. This makes no sense, since if he’s dead, he can’t release it, never mind the sunlight part, but we’ll let that pass.

Anna looks at Valentin through the window of the isolation room, and calls to him. He says, she’s not real; she’s an illusion. She’s just like Helena; he’s imagining her. She says, no, she’s here. She’s absolutely real. He has to hang on.

Alone in her office, Portia says, God, if You can hear me, please keep Trina and Curtis safe. Just bring my family home. There’s a knock at the door, and she says, come in. Elizabeth says she hopes she’s not interrupting. She just wanted to check on Portia. Portia says, Marshall was here with her earlier, but she sent him home because he needs his rest. Elizabeth says, he’s not the only one, and Portia says she knows. She’s so tired, but she can’t stop thinking, what if she never sees Trina and Curtis again?

Laura tells Curtis, wait a minute. The display on this computer… The program it’s running; she’s seen that before. He asks, where? and we see a map on the screen with a spot that says, Target Area. She says, forty years ago, in another underground bunker, also owned by Mikkos Cassadine. She sits, and says, look at this. He says, it’s a map of the mid-Atlantic states, and she says, it’s all the same. He says, same as what? and she says she thinks there might be another weather machine.

Trina says, they hear what Jordan is saying, but the others have to be warned. Robert says, he promises they’ll tell everyone in the bunker about the drone strike, and Felicia says, they have to get to the seaplane now. Otherwise, they’re putting themselves and Ace in grave danger. Spencer says, they’re right, and Trina tells Jordan, please tell her mom and dad she loves them. Jordan says she will, but they can tell them themselves when they get home. Now get herself to the plane. Good luck, and stay safe. Spencer says, they have to hurry. They can do this. Trina says, together.

Portia says, it’s one thing for Trina not to speak to her. She guesses Trina is angry; she should be. She’ll take the silence, but for Trina to listen to Spencer, someone who’s been known to hurt every single person who’s cared about him… Elizabeth says, Spencer can be difficult, and Portia says, all she was trying to do was give Trina some time and space to process everything that had happened, and now the window she might have had to make things right is gone forever? Elizabeth says, no, and Portia says she doesn’t know why she waited. Why didn’t she just go to Trina, and do everything in her power to make things right when she had the chance? Elizabeth says, Trina is as big-hearted as she is stubborn. When she comes back, they’ll be able to work things out. There’s another knock at the door, and Portia says, come in. Jordan walks in, and Portia asks if there’s any word. Jordan says, they just heard from Trina and Spencer.

Anna calls to Valentin, and tells him to focus. Look at her. He says, the real Anna’s in the hospital. His father shot her. She told him to come and get Victor. Anna says she knows she told him that, but she came after him. He looks at her, and says he wishes she were really here, so he could hold her against him one last time; tell her how much he loves her. He cries, and she says she loves him too. Listen. She loves him. That’s why she’s here. To help him. She’s going to get him out of there. He says, no, she can’t.

Robert calls to Agent Hursley (I’ve been spelling it wrong), and Hursley says, it’s brave of Robert to speak to him without a lawyer present. Robert says, unless Hursley is here to tell him that the Bureau now realizes how stupid it is to bomb an island with ten people on it, get out of his face. Hursley says, but he’s on orders to stay and monitor the situation, and Robert says, do it where he can’t see him. Hursley says, let’s keep each other posted, shall we? and walks off. Robert tells Felicia that he’s going to talk to this director himself, and see if he can get through to him, and leaves.

Curtis tells Laura that he’s heard stories that the Cassadines had a machine that could control the climate. He thought it was just an urban legend. Laura says, no, it wasn’t. It was absolutely real. It was based on something called carbonic snow. The weather machine was capable of creating an artificial blizzard in a targeted area, and in the summer of 1981, Mikkos Cassadine aimed that thing right at the city of Port Charles. A group of them – Luke, Robert, Tiffany Hill, and Laura – managed to stop him. That weather machine was destroyed, but this is the same program. He says, the computer’s from the same era. If it’s the same program, is it hooked up to another weather machine?

Sasha arrives at the hospital, and goes over to Sonny and Nina. She says, Brook told her that Willow was here, and Sonny hugs her. She turns to Nina, and Nina says she’s so scared. They hug, and Josslyn and Carly see them while walking down the hall. Josslyn says, Michael is not going to like that Sonny and Nina are here, and Carly says she hopes they have sense enough to keep their distance. Nina thanks Sasha, who asks, how is Willow? Nina says, the updates are not good. Her condition is deteriorating. Sasha says she knows this must be agony for Nina; for everyone. Is there any word on Liesl? Nina shakes her head.

Holly tells Victor, give up. Back-up is on the way; there’s nowhere to run. He says, come on. That old trick. She disappoints him. Holly says, it’s not a trick, and he says she’s wasting her time here. Just let him go, and she can get on with looking for her son Ethan. Apparently, he didn’t get the memo, and she says, Ethan’s perfectly fine, thank you. She found out about the auction – sick little affair that it was – and Ethan is now safe and far from his reach. He failed – again. He says, it doesn’t matter. Once he releases this pathogen, it has an 80% mortality rate, and he’s the only one with the antidote. Holly says, at this point, why bother? and he says, why bother try to save the world? Why bother living? She asks, what’s to live for? For him? Bearing in mind his unfortunate condition. He asks what she means by that, and she says she would have thought by now he’d have figured out that it was her who arranged for the little addition to his cocktail. Obrecht says, she’s not too good at it. He’s still alive and kicking. Holly says, alive, yes. Kicking? Not so much. She’s glad they’re finally face to face, because she really wanted him to know it was her. Obrecht says, she doesn’t mean… and Holly says, no more heirs for Uncle Victor. In fact, he can’t even try, can he? Victor says, you bitch! and aims his gun at her, but Drew pops out of nowhere, grabs Victor’s arm, and karate chops his neck. Victor falls face down in the snow.

Carly goes into Willow’s room, and says she doesn’t want to interrupt. Michael asks, what’s up? and she says, Sonny and Nina are here. Michael asks if she can tell them… but Willow says, wait.

Drew checks Victor’s pulse, when Holly calls to him. Obrecht also lies in the snow, and Drew says, no, no, no! Holly asks if Obrecht can hear her, and when she takes her hand away from Obrecht’s head, there’s blood on it.

Valentin says, Anna can’t open that door; he’s infected. She says she knows. They’re here to help him. He asks, where’s Victor and Obrecht? They have the cure. She says she doesn’t know; the others are looking for them. He says, the others? Oh God. She tells him not to worry about them. She’s going to try and find him a hazmat suit or something that they can put on him, and get him to safety. She’ll be right back. He says, no, don’t go, but she says, there’s no use arguing. They don’t have time. He says, it’s already too late.

Curtis says, they could be looking at an electronic ghost. An old program that started up when the computer booted up. As long as it’s not connected to an actual weather machine, it’s harmless. She says, except Mikkos Cassadine was never harmless; he was relentless. He was obsessed and absolutely thorough, and he knew there were agencies, including the WSB tracking him, trying to stop him. Curtis says, seems like a guy like that would have back-up, and she says she thinks he’s right. He says, that would explain this, indicating all the machinery. He says, why would someone like Mikkos Cassadine equip a bunker in literally the middle of nowhere without telling his brother? So he could retreat if he needed to with two weapons; two ways to hold the world hostage. The pathogen and the weather machine. This is real and it’s running. They have to stop it. He’ll find a way to cut the power. He starts looking around, but she says, don’t do that. They can kill the power to this computer, but that doesn’t mean they’ve killed the power to the weather machine. He says, she’s right. If they interrupt the power, the computer might shut down, lock them out entirely, and they’ll never find them. She says, it’s calibrated its target… the same as last time. He says, Port Charles.

Jordan tells Portia, Trina and Spencer agreed to head straight to the plane. With any luck, they should be home before daybreak. She moves toward the door, but turns, and says, Trina said to tell Portia that she loves her. Portia thanks Jordan, and Elizabeth looks outside. She says, is that snow? Man, I’ll bet longtime watchers are going out of their minds. Portia says, oh my goodness, and they all look out the window.

Sonny asks if they can just go, but Nina wants to stay a while longer. Just in case. Michael comes by, and Sonny asks how he’s doing. Michael says he’s okay, all things considered. He says, Nina… and she says she’s not here to cause trouble. He says, no. Willow wants to see her.

Drew says, come on, Liesl. Please. Holly says, she’s got a pulse, and asks if Obrecht can hear her. Drew asks, how bad is it? and we see Victor’s hand move.

Curtis says, there must be a way to stop the process, and Laura says, it’s already begun. (Where is Spinelli when you need him?) It will only get worse as it slowly works its way up to full power. The longer the machine is in operation, the greater the devastation will be. Curtis says, they have to try something. He has an idea. He pulls the keyboard over, and types. He says, suspend operations, and hits enter. He reads, to terminate functions, enter chemical formula and operation. Chemical formula for what? She says, carbonic snow. She told him, that’s how the machine works. It creates a blizzard by using carbonic snow. He says, who has the formula for carbonic snow? and Laura says she does.

Trina follows Spencer, who’s carrying Ace, and she asks if he’s sure this is the right way. He says, they’re heading east. She says she didn’t take him for a Boy Scout, and he says he learned it in prep school. They hear something, and he says, someone’s coming. She says, maybe it’s Curtis, but he says, maybe it’s not. They duck down behind a rock with this amazingly good baby, and Victor stumbles past, carrying the cannister. He says, Uncle Victor still has the pathogen, and Trina wonders where Curtis is. He says he doesn’t know, but he has to go after Victor. She says, he can’t.

Felicia says, any luck? and Robert says, yeah, all bad. Hursley was right about one thing; this new director is definitely not going to take any of his calls. Anybody he managed to get through to pretty much said the same thing. She says, they have to follow protocol in the even of a bioterror threat; she got the same drill. He says, they’re dealing with ten people here, as far as the Bureau’s concerned, and not billions. She says, even if those ten people are their friends, and he says, speaking of which, he was hoping to have heard from Anna by now. Felicia says, well, she’s a little busy.

Valentin asks Anna to please tell Charlotte how sorry he is, and that he loves her. And she was always the best thing in his life. Anna says, she still is, and he says he should have known better. When he looked into Alex’s eyes, he should have known she wasn’t Anna, because there’s no kindness there. Anna has compassion in her eyes. Even all those years ago when she rejected his affection, she still knew his heart, and she still had compassion in her eyes. He wishes he could have held onto that. Then Alex couldn’t have poisoned what they had. But she did, and he let her, and he wishes he hadn’t let anger and spite control him. Because then they might have found each other sooner, and he could have been the man he is with her. He likes the man he is with her, so if this is how he dies… Anna says, no, this is not how he dies, but he says, it’s okay, because she redeemed him. Thank you. I love you, Anna Devane. I’ll always love you. He chokes, and she calls his name.

Carly tells Willow that she’ll check on Wiley and Amelia, and make sure Tracy and Brook aren’t teaching them any bad habits. Nina walks in, and says, Michael told her that Willow wanted to see her. Willow says she did, and thanks Carly for everything. Carly says, remember, she needs to rest; no excitement. She leaves, and Nina asks how Willow is feeling. Willow says, the fluids are helping, and Nina says, that’s good. Willow says she wants Nina to do something for her, and Nina says, name it. Willow says, leave Carly alone.

Holly tells Drew, it’s not a bullet wound; she must have hit her head when she fell. Drew says he needs Obrecht to open her eyes, and she moans. He tells her to take it easy, and he and Holly start to help her up. She says, where’s that vile insect? and Drew says, wait. He’s gone. He’s gone, and so is the cannister. He might be headed back to the Haunted Star. Holly says, she’ll go. Get Liesl to the plane. Obrecht says, nein. Valentin is dying. He needs the antidote.

Victor walks into the main salon, and asks, what happened? Where’s Spencer? Goon32 says, some guy showed up out of nowhere. They did their best to fight him off. He took out Ivan, the only guy with a name and knocked him out. Victor says, what about Sir Ace? I make a mental note to name my next pet Sir Ace, and Goon32 says he checked the stateroom; both he and the nanny are gone. Victor says, the hell with the nanny. Find his nephews… Wait. Get the ship underway first. They’re leaving, with or without his family. He puts down the cannister and rubs his head.

Trina says, Spencer can’t go after Victor. They agreed to get Ace to the plane. That’s the plan. Now let’s go before one of Victor’s men sees us. He says, you go. He’s not going to let his Uncle Victor escape. Not when he has a pathogen that he intends to release and kill half the planet. Take his brother and go. He’ll be right behind her. He hands her the baby, and she asks if he promises. He says he does, kisses her, and jets.

Jordan says, snow in May, and Elizabeth says, it happens. The last time was three years ago – Aiden even did a report on it – but this is especially bizarre because it was in the 70s this afternoon. Portia tells her, what she said about Aiden’s report makes her think about Trina. All the reports and homework they helped the kids with over the years… until Trina said she was old enough and could do it by herself. They’re both mothers, so she knows they understand, but even though Trina’s in college, she’s always going to be Portia’s little baby girl. When she looks at Trina, she sees this little trace of a grin that she had when she was in her terrible twos. They laugh, and Portia says, sometimes she thinks Trina never grew out of them. But that smile. No matter how old Trina gets, that’s what she’s going to see. They watch the snow fall.

Laura says, right after they stopped Mikkos, she found the formula in the stateroom, and she studied it as she was falling asleep (as we all would). When she woke up, she realized no one should ever have access to that information, so they burned the paper, but the formula is seared into her memory. Robert was always afraid about that. He was afraid if someone found out, that they might come after her for it. She flashes back to when we were all children, and a very young Robert says, it’s not the kind of information she should have rattling around in her head. It could be dangerous. Laura tells Curtis, but this might be the very thing that saves everyone.

Anna stands in front of Valentin and says his name. She touches his face, and he asks what she’s doing. She can’t be in here. She says she knows, and he asks why she’d do that. She says, because she loves him. He says he’s contagious (something not even hinted at before); he’s infected. She caresses his face.

Laura types, and Curtis says, that was over forty years ago. How sure is she that she memorized that formula exactly? If she gets it wrong, the whole system could lock them out. They’ve got one shot at this. She says she knows. Does he trust her? He says, absolutely. She hits enter, and some beeping happens. She says, it worked! and they hug.

Victor slugs back a drink, and says, Valentin’s not his son after what he did to him. But Victor supposes he’ll just have to take his chances with the rest of humanity. He finishes the drink, and says, right. Let’s get this pathogen somewhere safe and the antidote somewhere safe. He opens the cannister, looks inside, and says, no!

Drew helps Obrecht stand upright, and tells her, take it easy. She says she stole the antidote when Victor wasn’t looking. I’m not sure how, since he had a death grip on that cannister, but she’s pretty resourceful. She says, if he releases the pathogen, there’s an 80% chance he’ll be killing himself as well. Drew asks if that wouldn’t stop him, and she says, Victor is both an idealist and an extremist. The Cassadines are willing to go down with the ship, so to speak.

Curtis leads Laura through the ship, gun drawn. Holly pops out, and Laura stops him from shooting her. She says, it’s Holly. What’s she doing here? What’s going on? Holly hands Laura a phone and says, she needs to call Robert and Jordan. Tell them Victor’s getting away. He’s got the pathogen with him. Last she saw, he was heading toward the Haunted Star. Where’s Valentin?

Valentin asks what Anna has done, but she says she doesn’t know. She thought she could find some kind of suit or protection. She just didn’t want him to be alone. He says he doesn’t know if dying together is all it’s cracked up to be, and she laughs. She tells him to look at her. She wants to tell him about someone; Valentin Cassadine. He’s a man who’s not going to die in some obscene plot of his father’s, because he – you – have a destiny. He’s going to be an even greater father to Charlotte. He’s going to be her partner. Because he knows her darkness. He knows what she’s capable of, and he’s capable of those things too. She knows it sounds a little twisted, but it’s not really, because she thinks that kind of connection elevates them in a way. It allows them to love the people they love, without any kind of restraint or restriction. She cries, and says, including each other. She thinks that’s why she came into this room. He says, but she’ll die, and she says, not necessarily. There’s a 20% chance she’s immune to this thing. She can beat those odds, and she’s willing to risk them just to be with him.

Sonny and Sasha stare at Willow’s closed door, and Sasha says she’s sure everything is fine. He says, really? and she says, no, but they haven’t heard any yelling yet, and Nina hasn’t bolted out of the room in tears. Sonny says he appreciates her optimism, but when his dad was at Turning Woods, he hated to wait. They’d pace back and forth and wait. They’d hold his hand, and wait. He just felt hopeless. She says, even though he didn’t know Sonny was there, she thinks Sonny just being there helped Mike. Sonny says he hopes so.

Josslyn doesn’t see what Willow could possibly have to say to Nina, and Michael says, maybe it was a mistake letting Nina in there. Carly says, he did what his wife wanted him to, and he says, his wife. He and Willow are married. He just wishes the day hadn’t been so hard on her. Carly says, next time, she promises to wait until after the reception to be called in for questioning, and he says, what next time? She says, birthdays, anniversaries, vow renewal. He has a lifetime of celebrations ahead; she knows it. As for his wedding day? Willow doesn’t regret a second of it. He says, even now?

Nina says, Willow wants what? and Willow says she wants Nina and Carly to make peace. Nina says she can try, and Willow says she knows Nina and Carly will never be friends, or even friendly, but promise she’ll at least keep her distance? Stop keeping score of who wronged who when, and just let it all go. Nina doesn’t say anything, and Willow says, wow. Nina hasn’t changed at all when she claims to care about her? Nina says, no, she cares about Willow a great deal… Willow says, then promise her. Whether she survives this or not, Nina will drop her vendetta against Carly.

Jordan comes out with Portia, and asks Robert if there’s any word. He says, not yet, when Jordan’s phone rings. Curtis says, it’s him; he’s got her on speakerphone. Jordan says she’s putting him on speaker, and Portia asks if Trina is with him. He says, not at the moment, but he’s seen her. She’s okay. Jordan says, he’s got to get out of there. The WSB has ordered a drone strike on the island. Curtis and Laura both say, what?! and Jordan says, they can’t risk the pathogen getting released on the world. The drones are already on their way. Curtis says, but the pathogen isn’t here, and Robert asks, where is it? Laura says, they ran into Holly, and she said he was trying to escape on the Haunted Star, and he took the pathogen with him. Bombing the island is not going to do any good. They’ve got to stop the airstrike. Robert yells over to Hursley, and says, tell his boss to call off this airstrike. Hursley says, for the millionth time… and Robert says, change in circumstances. Victor’s left the island, and he’s taken the pathogen with him. All they’re doing now is killing innocent people, and helping Victor escape.

Nina tells Willow, okay. She won’t get into it with Carly anymore. Michael walks in, and Willow thanks Nina. Michael says, Willow needs her rest, and Nina tells Willow, she’s not perfect. She makes mistakes all the time. She’s going to try to be a better person. If there’s anything else Willow needs, just ask. Willow says, keep her promise.

Robert hassles Hursley while he’s on the phone, telling him to hurry up. Jordan tells Curtis and Laura that the drones are on their way. They don’t know exactly when the strike will happen, but it could be any time. They need to get out of there. Robert joins them, and says, Laura, you’re okay. The Bureau listened this time. The strike’s been called off. Everyone looks relieved, and Laura says, what about Victor?

Victor locks the cannister again, and says, Liesl double-crossed him. He is not having a very good day. He has another drink, and hears someone come in. He says, they need to turn the ship around. They’re going back. Spencer says he doesn’t take orders from Victor anymore, and Victor says he thought Spencer might come crawling back. If Spencer thinks he’s going to forgive… Spencer says he’s not here for forgiveness. It’s over, uncle.

Outside, Trina finds Curtis and Laura, and says, thank God she found them. Curtis asks what she’s doing here, and Trina says, they have to get out of here; there’s going to be an airstrike. Curtis says, they know all about the airstrike. They’ve got it under control. Laura says, it’s okay. They got in contact with the WSB. They told them that Victor’s trying to escape on the Haunted Star. Curtis says, the airstrike has been redirected, and Trina says, redirected where? Curtis says, the new target is the Haunted Star, and Trina says, but Spencer’s on that ship.

Victor says, now calm down, dear boy, and Spencer says, he’s not Victor’s boy. He walks up to Victor, and says, give him the pathogen, and they can both walk out of here alive. Victor says, how dare Spencer threaten him? He’s the head of their family. This is finished when he says it’s finished. Spencer tells him, he said, give him the pathogen. Hand it over. Victor says, Spencer will have to rip it out of his cold, dead fingers, and Spencer says, fine. He spins Victor around, cracking Victor’s head on the bar. Victor drops to the floor. Well if it was that easy, why didn’t Spencer do this long ago?

Nina comes out of Willow’s room, as Carly and Josslyn are walking toward it. Carly’s phone rings, and it’s Drew. Wow. These calls are going to cost a fortune. He asks if Carly can hear him, and she asks if he’s okay. What happened?

Michael asks, how was Willow’s talk with Nina? Did Willow get what she wanted out of her? Willow says she hopes so. Who knows? She wants to believe Nina’s sincere. Carly bursts in, and says, there’s someone who wants to talk to Willow, handing her the phone. Drew says, Willow? and she asks if he’s all right. He says, not only is he okay… Obrecht says she’s okay too. Not that anyone has asked. Willow says, Dr. Obrecht… Aunt Liesl. She’s so glad Obrecht is all right. Obrecht says, they’re on their way back. Then Willow can literally suck the life from her bones. Carly says, they can’t wait, and Drew says, he and Obrecht are on their way back. He’s not sure who’s joining them, but everyone should be back soon. Carly says she can’t wait to see him, and he says, him too. He and Obrecht move on.

Valentin says, Anna, and she says she loves him too. The door opens, and Anna says, get out. You’ll get infected. Holly says, kind of her to care, but don’t worry. She’s got the antidote. She holds up the vial, and Valentin smiles.

Hursley says, their satellite has eyes on the Haunted Star. It’s on the move. Robert says, Victor is trying to escape, and Hursley’s guys are going to stop him.

Spencer checks Victor’s pulse and says he’s glad he didn’t kill Victor, but that might not be a good thing. He bends down to get the cannister, and suddenly looks up.

Trina, Curtis, and Laura all look up, and Laura says, Victor’s on the Haunted Star, and Trina says, they have to call the WSB. Suddenly, the sky lights up, and Laura gasps.

On Monday, Michael says, that’s not going to happen, but Willow says, he doesn’t know that; Dante tells Carly that he thinks they have a case; and a body is recovered from the wreckage.

❄️ Building an Island…

It’s definitely impressive.

🤸🏽‍♀️ Pursuing Other Goals…

You can’t blame her. It must get old after a while when you have other things on your to-do list.

💐 Celebrating Amy…

A bouquet of gossip makes the perfect gift.

🎭 Close to Quitting…

It took me a while to warm up to her, since I really liked the other Trina, but she’s really made the part her own.

👠 From Her Arsenal…

Maybe Veronica is a psycho.

📠 Common Denominator…

Normally, I wouldn’t waste space on this harpy, but it struck me how she leaves a trail of unhappiness no matter which side of the Housewives fence she’s on. And if everyone else is an a-hole, maybe it’s time to look in the mirror.

🥀 Bringing Down the Curtain…

But where will everyone go on Gay Pride Day? Does she have to close down half of her name as well? Has James gone back to drinking heavily yet?

https://people.com/food/lisa-vanderpumps-la-restaurant-pump-is-closing-down/

🍸 The Karma Keeps On Comin’…

Check out the empty seats photo. I would say it’s sad, but it’s just not. He’s a pig.

Another gem from the Most Awful Human Being On the Planet. Maybe. He has a contender now.

She’ll give Howie some Lala and a run for his money. He’d better brush up on his VanderKnowledge.

👶🏻 Ahoy, Little Matey…

That kid looks full of mischief already. And he does kind of look like Chef Ben.

💸 Real Housewives Of Deadbeat…

I love the attorney’s pic.

🐕 Don’t Touch the Dog…

It’s about time for a salute to the ones who made it.

https://the-line-up.com/final-pets-horror-movies

🔥 Quotes of the Week

Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us. – Susan L. Taylor

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. – Ralph Waldo Emerson

It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt. – Mark Twain

When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself.Wayne Dyer

Never confuse movement with action. – Ernest Hemingway

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit. – Aristotle

Honest towards ourselves and towards anyone else who is our friend; brave towards the enemy; magnanimous towards the defeated; polite always: this is how the four cardinal virtues want us to act.Friedrich Nietzsche

Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.Henry Ford

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you. – B. B. King (They can’t take integrity away from you either.)

People are making apocalypse jokes like there’s no tomorrow. – Ellie (Bella Ramsey), The Last of Us

🏃🏾‍♀️ Going Ahead and Jumping…

Boomerang back on Monday really Tuesday for soap, what’s on Deck, and the nightmare that won’t stop, Summer House. Until then, stay safe, stay not taking the last cup of coffee without making more, and stay letting it all go. Stop keeping score of who wronged who.

April 28, 2023 – Anna Gets Some Familiar Help, It’s Crazy, Weird Reunion, Probable Return, Two Awfuls, Binge Wives, Pets (!), 8 Concise Quotes & Doctor

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Somewhere in Greenland. Curtis asks if Valentin thinks they were seen, and Anna adds, or heard. Valentin says, the Haunted Star is docked. Let’s hope their radar’s off. Drew says, If it’s not, radar is usually used to detect debris, other ships, icebergs, things like that. They came in low, beneath the hills, and landed on the opposite side of the island. Curtis says, they took the scenic route, and Valentin says, it’s the safest way to approach the island undetected. Curtis says, and for bringing home Trina and Liesl, and Laura’s grandsons.

Holly goes to Anna’s hospital room, and says, Robert’s busy lobbying the Bureau about stepping up the rescue. Anna says, whatever it takes. The island is in international waters, so not any government can claim it. Holly says, no sovereignty to answer to; you’d think that would make it easier. Anna asks if he said anything else, and Holly says she was hoping on reflection he’d decide they were crazy to think Victor’s in possession of a biological weapon, but he does think that is the likely scenario. Anna says, he’s going to have to convince them of that, and give them airtight evidence to convince them to take any action. Holly asks how they find airtight proof, and Anna says she called in a favor. There’s a knock at the door, and Holly opens it. Andre says, Anna Devane, what have you gotten yourself into this time. I love Andre!

Jordan calls Curtis, but gets voicemail. She says, it’s a long time to have his phone off. Call her.

Josslyn walks into the squad room, and asks Dante where her mom is. He says, she’s in the interrogation room with the SEC, and Josslyn asks if they said what it was about. He says, all he can tell her is, her mom’s in a bit of trouble.

In the interrogation room, Diane says her client is absolutely willing to cooperate, even though they dragged her out of her son’s wedding to bring her down here. SEC guy 1 says, they apologize, but it’s a very serious matter. They have reason to believe Carly colluded with Drew Cain to raise the stock price of Aurora Media. SEC guy 2 says, and it could send her and Drew to prison.

Michael says, how are you feeling, Mrs. Corinthos? and Willow says, happily married, Mr. Corinthos. How about him? He says, same. He’s just sorry this business with his mother interrupted their night. She says, interrupted, but didn’t derail. They got married; that’s what matters. She is worried about his mom though. He says he’s sure this will all get sorted out, when Sonny comes in, and asks if they spoke to Diane. The SEC got a tip that Carly colluded with Drew during the ELQ/Aurora merger last year. Michael says, that merger didn’t even happen. What’s the big deal? Willow wonders what it means for Michael. He had a division at Aurora, and he’s a major shareholder at ELQ. Will they bring charges against him too?

Frank tells Dex, sweep’s done. There are no bugs in the warehouse. Dex says, great. Boss wants him to check the perimeter while he gets everything set up. Frank leaves, and Dex takes out a tiny camera. Brick walks in and says, got you now, kid.

Portia looks at a photo of her and Trina from the wedding on her phone, and flashes back to Trina saying I love you on the phone call from the Haunted Star. Scotty says, Dr. Robinson, or is it Dr. Ashford? and Portia says, it’s still Dr. Robinson. She asks how she can help him, and he says, she’s here by herself. He thought she could use a little company, since they’re kind of in the same boat. She thanks him, and says, that would be lovely, and she’s told him before, please, it’s Portia. He must be so worried about Liesl. He says he is, but she’s a tough cookie, and if you cross her, she’s kind of dangerous. He finds that comforting right now. Not to make things worse… She says she doesn’t think he can, but he says he can. Just ask anybody. Trina’s not a mad scientist like Liesl. Those Cassadines… Portia must be scared about what they have up their sleeves. Portia says she is, and Scotty says, she must be worried sick, which brings him to his million dollar question. Why is she here at the hospital and not at home? She says, simply put, work is the only thing keeping her from losing her mind right now.

Anna introduces Andre to Holly, and Holly wonders why she knows that name… Oh, right. He was involved in the Anamnesis Project. He says, and he’s been trying to right that wrong ever since, and Holly says, he has her empathy. A short time ago, she got mixed up in something deplorable, and ever since, she’s been trying to help the Bureau in any way she can. Anna says, Andre’s been doing the same. Thankfully, he’s been backchanneling into the Bureau’s records without raising any alarm. Andre takes out his tablet, and says, unfortunately, he doesn’t have access to any files directly related to Project Demeter, but he’s hoping he got them the next best thing. Back when he was doing psyche evals for the Bureau, he had access to the complete dossier of the original operation against the Cassadines. Holly says, the crazy weather machine? That was… He says, forty years ago. Holly says she’s amazed they didn’t delete all those files with Victor in charge, and Andre says he’s sure they did. Fortunately, the WSB is an institution of many failsafes and redundancies. So he just downloaded it off the server. Holly asks if that isn’t traceable, and he says, oh yes. When they realize he did it, they’re going to come looking for him, and he’ll have a lot of questions to answer. Anna says, they’d better find something quick.

Jordan leaves a message for Laura, saying, she just called Laura’s office, and they said she was taking personal time. Give her a call back please.

Josslyn says, insider trading? and Dante says, in the Aurora/ELQ merger. She says, but her mom lost money; she lost her hotel. He says, the SEC doesn’t care whether her mom lost money or not. They care about the timing of the stock mergers. Jordan comes by, and Josslyn says, her mom didn’t do anything wrong. Jordan says she hopes that proves to be true, but at the moment there are far more pressing matters going on in Port Charles than some business deal. Josslyn says, exactly. Like finding Trina and Spencer and Ace, and nobody is sure how much longer Willow can wait for Liesl Obrecht. Jordan says, she’s right there with Josslyn, and hopes their colleagues at the SEC treat her mom fairly. Josslyn says, she does have Diane, and Jordan says, with any luck, and Ms. Miller’s skill, they’ll release her mother as soon as they’re done questioning her. Dante says, they’re looking for Drew as well. Carly’s not going to give him up. Jordan says, Drew went radio silent too? and Dante asks if someone else went off grid. Jordan tells him to hold down the fort here. She needs to go check in on somebody.

Dex says he thought Brick was overseeing things on the west coast, but Brick says, it wasn’t a problem to fly out. The deal’s important, and it’s a good thing he came; Sonny’s been delayed. Family matters. Sonny shouldn’t be too long, but he’s here just in case.

Sonny says, the tip that the SEC got only concerns Carly and Drew. They’re working under the assumption that Michael was in the dark about any conversation as far as the merger. He asks Michael if that’s true, and Michael says, of course (🍷). Willow says, maybe Michael should go to the station and be with his mother and Joss, but Michael says, there’s no way he’s leaving her side. She says she’ll still be here when he gets back, and Sonny tells them to have fun on their wedding night. Eat cake, do whatever they have to do. He’s going to see if Carly and Josslyn are okay. He leaves, and Michael looks guilty, as he should.

SEC1 says, Carly and Drew have a close relationship, and Carly says, they’re members of the same extended family, and Drew is her son’s uncle. SEC2 says, they look pretty friendly right here, handing her a picture. Diane laughs, and we see it’s a picture of them hugging. She says, as her client stated, they’re members of the same extended family, and another member of that extended family, namely her client’s daughter-in-law, was recently diagnosed with Stage IV leukemia. When did it become a violation of SEC standards for family members to comfort each other? SEC1 says, they’re not unreasonable – Diane says, yes they are – and they don’t want to make an example out of her. She’s a public citizen, and it will go easy for her if she cooperates, and tells them where they can find Drew Cain.

Michael says he’s sorry this went down on their wedding day, and Willow asks if he called in the tip. He says, no, and she says, then it’s not his fault. She kisses him and seems a little dizzy for a moment. He asks if she’s okay, and she says, he’s never made a woman swoon before? He suggests she go upstairs, and get comfortable. There’s still plenty of food and champagne. No reason they can’t still celebrate. She says she likes the way he thinks. Let’s do it. He helps her up, and she leaves. Ned says he’s sorry. He really hates that things went down like this today. Michael asks what he means. This is exactly what Ned wanted.

Carly asks if they’ve checked Drew’s office, and SEC1 says, they know where he isn’t. Tell them where he is. Carly says, go to hell, and SEC2 asks Diane if she has any advice for her client at this juncture. Diane says she thinks they all just heard her client make her position abundantly clear, and as for this tender moment caught by the GH security cameras, they could have footage of her client and Mr. Cain making out like hormonal teenagers, and they still have no indication of the actual substance of their conversation. So they’ll have to do a hell of a lot better than that. She slides the picture back across the table, and SEC1 says, her client, who had no previous investments in Aurora Media, made a seven figure stock purchase immediately prior to the proposed merger between Aurora and ELQ. The timing alone presents a strong enough argument of collusion and insider trading. Although they are within their rights to hold Miss Spencer for 24 hours without charging her. Diane asks, can her client at least get some coffee if this is going to turn into a staycation for her, or is that an upcharge? SEC1 throws up his hands, and Diane goes into the squad room with Carly.

Josslyn hugs Carly, and says she’s worried about her. Sonny walks in, and says, they all are.

Drew asks if Valentin has anything, but Valentin says he’s still trying to get a satellite signal; give him a second. Drew says, keep at it, but in the meantime – he unfolds a map – the plan remains the same. The Haunted Star docked here – he points – on the west side of the island about 14 hours ago. Curtis asks how far they are from the boat, and Drew tells them, he’d say less than an hour. The island is small; less than one square mile. They just have to cross the land mass without getting caught. Valentin says, good thing they’re dressed warmly, and Curtis says, just so they’re on the same page, they’re not here to take down Victor Cassadine. Whatever he has planned is between him and the Bureau. They have to stick to their original plan of rescuing Trina, Spencer, Obrecht, and the baby. This is no time for anyone’s personal vendetta. Are they clear? Valentin says, crystal.

Anna says, some of this is redacted, when there’s a knock at the door. Jordan walks in, saying, she needs to talk to Anna about… She stops short, and says, Andre. He says, it’s been a long time, and she says, years in fact. What is he doing in Port Charles? Anna says, he heard about her ordeal, and wanted to check on her. Jordan says, of course (🍷) he did. She’s sure this has nothing to do with the fact no one can reach Laura, Curtis, or Drew. And since Valentin isn’t here by Anna’s bedside, and Andre is, that means something’s going down. Please tell her that they haven’t gone off on some half-baked rescue mission of their own. Holly says, they can neither confirm nor deny a rescue mission, half-baked or otherwise, and Jordan says she was afraid of that. Anna says she should have looped Jordan in. Her bad. Sorry. Jordan says, so Valentin, Curtis, Laura, and Drew all went out to rescue Trina and the others, and cause an international incident in the process? Holly asks if it would help to know where they’re going doesn’t technically belong to a sovereign nation, and Jordan says, just tell her how she can reach them. Holly says, so she can wish them luck? and Jordan says, so she can tell them to stand down. Anna says, Valentin does have a sat phone, but the reception is dodgy at best, and Jordan says, give her the number. Anna says she will, but she thinks it’s important to let them at least try to bring the hostages back. Jordan says, convince her. Why is this their only option? Anna says, because while a world government is sitting around debating what they’re going to do and what action to take, they can run out of time saving them. Jordan asks what she means, run out of time, and Andre closes the door. Anna says, they believe that Victor has been searching for a weapon of mass destruction. Holly says, and she thinks she knows what kind of weapon… the end of civilization.

Michael ask if Ned remembers what he said to him and Drew last fall, and Ned flashes back to saying, Michael’s mother knew about the potential merger; that’s why she bought the stock. That’s called insider trading, and it’s illegal. Martha Stewart went to prison for much less. Luckily for them, no one’s looked into it. It’s something they need to consider. Michael says, Ned threatened Drew that he could tip off the SEC. Now he has. Ned says, if Michael really thinks so little of him that he would send Michael’s mother to prison while his wife is dying, then Michael doesn’t know him at all. Michael says he guesses Ned is right. He really doesn’t.

Diane asks if Dante has any idea where Drew is, and he says, Drew was supposed to be at the wedding, walking Willow down the aisle. He guesses Drew’s plans changed. She asks if he thinks Drew got wind of the SEC’s interest and bolted, but he says, Drew doesn’t strike him as the type. She says, at least Carly isn’t antagonizing two federal agents for someone who ran off and left her holding the bag.

Carly says, the SEC knows about her and Drew; does Sonny know who might have said something? He says, the only people he knows who know about this are Brick and Olivia, and they would not say anything. Josslyn asks if they’re still holding Carly, and Carly says, yes. They think she knows where Drew is. Sonny says, does she? and lowering her voice, she says, he went after Victor to find Liesl, so he can bring her home to save Willow. And if the authorities find him, and get in his way… Sonny says, excuse him for a second, and leaves.

Brick says, Dex was with Sonny when he was ambushed. What was his take on the shooter? Dex says, he was a pro. He only missed the first shot because Dex saw movement out of the corner of his eye. Once he had them pinned, he was methodical. Brick says, so ex-military, and Dex says, almost certainly. Brick says, but a ghost. No fingerprints, DNA, nothing showed up on the database. Someone invested a whole lot of money to make this guy invisible. Dex wonders why he was after Sonny, and Brick says, that’s what Sonny wants to know. Brick’s phone rings, and he says, speaking of the devil. He asks Sonny, what’s up? and Sonny says, Carly and Drew are in a jam. He needs a favor. Brick says, name it, and while he’s talking, Dex sets the tiny camera up. Brick says he’ll get his people on it asap. No problem. Brick tells Dex that he has to take care of something for Sonny. Is he good here? Dex says, all good, and Brick leaves. A guard or whatever comes in, and Dex looks around nervously. Remind me not to send him to spy for me.

Scotty tells Portia that he knows what it’s like trying to distract yourself so your mind doesn’t go to bad places. Hell, he hasn’t been able to sleep in a while. He also knows what it’s like not to be able to help your child. Not that this is the same thing. She says, he doesn’t have to justify his fear. He loves Liesl, and they’re both here because the fear for their loved ones right now. He says, it’s the helplessness he can’t stand. Ever since Trina and Liesl were kidnapped, he has the sneaking suspicion he’s been kept in the dark. Robert, Anna, Felicia, and Laura. He thinks they know exactly when Victor has his martinis, and this whole Holly coming back to town… He thinks it’s all connected to Luke Spencer’s death. She asks why he says that, and he tells her, because Luke ended them in ’81, and they’re sore losers. So Victor got rid of Luke, and now Luke’s family wants to get rid of Victor, but who’s their collateral damage? Her and him… Trina, Liesl. God forbid you cross the Cassadines or the Spencers. Portia says she wishes she didn’t agree with him, but she’ll tell him one thing. She’s going to do everything in her power to make sure Spencer Cassadine does not come near her daughter ever again. And when Curtis brings Trina home… He asks what she means. Does she know something?

Andre asks what Holly found, and she hands him the tablet. He looks at it with Anna, and Holly says, the original dossier on the Cassadines from 1981. It’s got conversations between senior directors at the Bureau that even Robert wasn’t privy to back then. Anna says, so what they’re looking at are the psyche profiles of the three Cassadine brothers; Mikkos, Victor, and Tony. Ha-ha-ha! Tony? Which one of these things is not like the others? Anna says, Tony was more interested in living his playboy lifestyle than pulling off any kind of grand scheme. Jordan says, so no mastermind, and Holly says, unlike Mikkos, who was a megalomaniac, entirely fueled by greed and power. Jordan asks how this is different from Victor, and Anna says, while their actions might be very similar, their motivations were very different. Victor has always been an idealist, and evil certainly. Where Mikkos wanted to control the world, Victor was always determined to fix it. He really believed that these weapons they were developing would curtail the developing population that he believed was draining the resources of the world. Jordan asks if this is what Victor is trying to do now, and Anna says, Project Demeter. Demeter, the goddess of the harvest, who was so brokenhearted over her daughter Persephone; that’s what gave us the seasons. Holly says, in Greek mythology, one prayed and worshiped Demeter because she was responsible for the weather, and Andre says, is that the threat they’re dealing with? Could Victor be trying to reverse the climate crisis, and if so, why would he need hostages? Anna tells them, it says here that weather related tech was only one of the brother’s endeavors… Could Project Demeter be the Bureau’s attempt at retrieving all those weapons forty years ago? Holly says, scroll down.  There’s another weapon that hasn’t been accounted for yet. Anna scrolls down, and Jordan asks what it is. Anna says, an engineered virus, one that only a small portion of the population would be immune to. Jordan asks, how many wouldn’t be immune? and Anna says, according to this, the pathogen would be lethal to 80% of the population. Holly asks if this is what Victor’s idealism has led him to; saving the planet at the expense of 80% of the population? They have to get the WSB. She takes out her phone, but Andre puts his hand over it, and says, no. They can’t.

Ned says, Michael is dangerously close to saying things he can’t take back. Things that will make him look very bad when the truth comes out. Willow and Brook walk in as Michael says, the truth is, Ned is the one who pitched coming together to force Valentin out. Then when Drew put his company on the line, Ned double-crossed him. But Ned still thought he was a threat, so he turned Drew over to the SEC, and Michael’s mom was collateral damage. They all know Ned has no qualms about selling any of them out if it keeps him in power at ELQ. He even threw his own daughter out. Brook says, that’s enough, and Ned says, she’s right, it is, and walks out. Brook follows him, and Willow looks at Michael.

SEC1 tells Carly, good news. She’s free to go. Diane wonders what’s prompted this sudden change of heart, and he says, they found Drew Cain. He boarded a flight from San Diego to Maui fifteen minutes ago. In the meantime, the investigation is still ongoing, and charges could be pending. Diane says, understood, and she leaves with the SEC guys to finalize details. Carly tells Josslyn, the hell? Why does the SEC think Drew’s on his way to Maui? Sonny walks back in.

Valentin says he’s going to scope the area to see if he can find a satellite signal, and Drew says he’ll go to, to keep an eye out for Victor’s men. They leave, and Curtis asks how Laura is holding up. She says she’s cold, but also sort of energized. He asks if it takes her back to a more adventurous time, and she says, something like that. She’s trying to remember a time before all this madness began. Before the Cassadines infiltrated her life and tried to take it over. The first time she crossed paths with Victor and his brother, she was Trina’s age, and now Trina is on the Haunted Star. That’s the ship Helena gave to her and Luke for a wedding gift and then she cursed it, and she liked her curses. He says he’s not sure he much believes in curses, and she says she didn’t think that she did either, but Helena’s words have been looming over her for decades, and every time she thinks she’s gotten past it, it comes right back to haunt her again. He says, okay, so Helena’s dead. Hasn’t she won? Laura laughs and says, has she? The Cassadines keep finding ways to hurt her and her family, and now it’s her grandsons. It’s got to stop. Curtis says, then they stop it. If she says it’s a curse, it’s a curse. Then they break it, once and for all. She says she likes the sound of that.

Andre says, they can’t share their theory with the Bureau. Not now. Anna says she thinks they have more than just a theory, and Holly says, there’s a biological agent that could wipe out most of the world’s population. If not now, when? Andre says, let him put it like this. If she were the WSB and received this intel, what would she do? How would the Bureau react and respond to this information? Jordan says, clue her in, and Anna tells her that she thinks what Andre is saying is, if the Bureau finds out there’s a large scale weapon on the island, they’ll do everything in their power to neutralize it. Jordan asks if that’s not what they want, and Andre says, not if they send an aerial assault team to contain the virus. Anna says, they have to make a choice between saving eight people – Jordan says, including a babyand saving eight billion. They’ll just bomb it. They’ll just wipe that island off the map, killing everyone. But might that not release the weapon? Just saying.

Carly asks what Sonny did, and he asks what she means. She says, the SEC found evidence that Drew’s heading west? Sonny says he hopes Drew can stay ahead of them, and she says, Drew wasn’t in San Diego, and he definitely wasn’t headed to Maui. He says, as long as it keeps the SEC busy, that’s all that matters, and she says, he didn’t have to do this. He says, do what? He knows things haven’t been great between them, but they’re still family; all of them. He tells her to keep him posted, and leaves.

Michael says he’s sorry he lost his cool like that, and Willow says, he’s worried about his mom, for good reason. He says, she’d be the first one to tell him not to waste this precious time, and Willow says, she’d be right. Willow wants to get back to the gatehouse, and spend some time with Wiley and Amelia. Let’s celebrate the start of our marriage with them. His phone rings, and he says, it’s his mom. Carly asks, how’s Willow? and he says, she’s fine. She’s just anxious for Carly. Carly says, it was dicey for a while, when they asked her where Drew was off to, and he asks what she said. She says she didn’t have to say anything. They’re under the impression Drew is headed to Hawaii. He asks, how? and she says, Michael’s father.

Jordan says, they couldn’t possibly, but Holly says, the Bureau’s focus is the greater good; protecting the many over the few. And as heartless as it may sound, they’d consider Trina, Spencer, and the baby expendable. Anna says, they must remember though, that Victor did take Obrecht to that island, presumably to make the pathogen viable. If she knows anything about Liesl, she won’t make it easy for him. Andre says, which means they have some time, and Jordan says, time for what? Holly says, time for Laura and the rest to bring the hostages home before they alert the Bureau to the situation. Andre says, it’s a calculated risk; Victor could still release the pathogen. Jordan says, well what’s the point in saving the world if they can’t save the people they care about?

Portia tells Scotty that she doesn’t actually know much. She just knows Curtis left town because he left her a note. Scotty says he doesn’t think Curtis would leave town by himself. Who went with him? She thinks he should speak to Anna, and he says he will. He thanks her, and leaves.

Valentin and Drew come back, and Valentin says, good news. He got a sat signal. They’re about half a mile from the Haunted Star. Curtis says, that’s good. Let’s go. They start to walk, when Drew says, whoa, and they all stop. He says, footprints. Would Victor have his guards patrolling this far? They hear voices, and hide behind a huge rock. A man says, so far no timetable on how long this thing is going to last. Two men come by, and one says, it’s deserted. The other says, we’re getting paid a lot more than a standard fee. We see Valentin’s phone in the snow.

Carly asks if they’re done here, but Diane says, not quite. There’s another matter Carly needs to be made aware of. Pending the SEC investigation, all of Drew’s accounts and assets have been frozen. Carly says, that’s ridiculous, and Diane says, so have Carly’s.

Ned says, can Brook believe it? For Michael to accuse him like that? Insinuate that he would… She says, double-cross Drew? Secure his own position as CEO and make sure Drew isn’t a threat? Sounds like his standard tactics to her. She walks off.

Willow says, Sonny sent the SEC down the wrong trail to buy Drew time, and Michael says, he really stepped up for her. Willow says, not just for her; for Michael too.

Dante says he’s got the feeling Sonny had something to do with this hit on Drew’s location, and Josslyn says, no comment. He asks why she’s not celebrating then… because it was Sonny. She says, no comment, and he says he knows she thinks Sonny did wrong by her mother and Michael, but maybe this is a sign that one day he’ll make things right.

Brick says, they’ve got company, and Pikeman’s guards come in. In a low voice, Brick tells Dex that their boss is fashionably late. Dex says, we’re ready. Where’s their boss? A guard asks, where’s his? and Sonny says he’s here. Are they going to get this started, or what? Dex glances at the camera. Again, he is no spy.

Anna says, so they’re in agreement. They’re going to wait for Valentin and  the crew to bring everyone back. Jordan asks, how much time? but Anna says she doesn’t know. They’ll have to figure it out. They can’t stall forever obviously. Andre says he has some contacts in the Canadian military; people he trusts. He’ll get word that they might want to get within striking distance. Anna thanks him, and Holly says she’ll try to reach Valentin. He needs to know about this. They leave, and Jordan asks if Anna needs something else. The worst she can say is no, so ask. Anna says, the Bureau is probably going to run its investigation through Jordan’s department, and if they find out the location of the island or what Victor’s really up to… Jordan says she’ll run interference for as long as she can, and Anna thanks her.

Anna’s room door is open a crack, and Scotty listens outside. Jordan says, they have to keep this under wraps. People would panic if they knew Victor had a biological weapon.

Jordan looks at the picture of her and Trina from the wedding, and says, come home, baby girl. Please, please come home.

On the phone, Holly says, come on Valentin. Please pick up.

One of the Greenland guards suggests they go back, and the other says, sounds good to him. They start to move on, when Valentin’s phone rings. A guard says, hear that?

On Monday, Laura says, they give Victor exactly what he’s looking for; Anna says, Scotty does understand people’s lives are at stake; Martin asks, what was so important Nina needed to see him the moment he landed; and Victor has complete faith that Obrecht can do just that.

🥳 Like a Bad Penny…

I don’t blame her. I wouldn’t want to run against Betty White for anything either.

👠 Bursting the Bubble…

Of course it would be weird. Most people don’t act like total lunatics when it comes to their brother, especially after they’ve served a prison term.

💎 All Hail the Queen…

Actually, I think she’s too good for RHOBH, but whatever she wants.

🍸 Can’t Look Away…

When the worst human being on earth has something to say about his competition, even I have to listen. I disagree though. I don’t think Katie would have stood for Schwartz’s wishy-washiness forever. At least I hope not. He was a terrible husband.

🦘 Coming Soon To an Australia Near You…

I remember being surprised this even existed the first time around. Secret Housewives.

🐕 Let’s All Squee Together…

There’s some serious adorableness going on here.

https://www.rover.com/blog/favorite-celebrity-pets/

🐳 Quotes of the Week

Quitting can be a hard choice to make, but it’s also a brave one as well.Susan David

The safe way to double your money is to fold it over once and put it in your pocket.Kin Hubbard

The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress. – Frederick Douglass

I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice.Abraham Lincoln

You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist. – Indira Gandhi

Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest. – Mark Twain

When you change your thoughts, remember to also change your world. – Norman Vincent Peale

He’s a Libra moon. That says a lot. – Alice (Rachel Sennott), Bodies, Bodies, Bodies

🎋 Seeing If the Grass Is Really Greener…

Circle back on Monday really Tuesday for soap, Sailing, and the never-ending reality of the House that shall not be named. Until then, stay safe, stay giving more than receiving, and stay never hiring Dex to be your spy. His face is a dead giveaway.

April 21, 2023 – Drew Finds a Map, Messy Already, VanderShame, Craving Awful, One-Night Accountability, More Dead, Tiny Pet (!), When In Rome VIII Quotes & Wonderful

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brook lets Cody into the nook. He’s holding a bowl, and says he’s out of cereal. Mama Q said he could just… but she says, don’t bother. She knows why he’s really here. He wants to know if he’s going to get fired.

At Charlie’s, Gladys tells Sasha not to waste a single second feeling sorry for a lying grifter like Cody Bell. Sasha says, Cody’s always been very nice to her. She’s having a hard time seeing him the way Gladys does. Gladys says, that’s because Sasha is a sweet child. Gladys has seen his type before. When she used to go to Atlantic City, sharpies like Cody were a dime a dozen. They flex their muscles and flash their pearly whites, and saunter off before you even realize they’ve made off with your wallet. Sasha says, Gladys paints quite a vivid picture. She can’t wait for Gladys’s memoirs. Gladys says, her point is that you can’t trust someone like Cody. So if he comes around, spouting nonsense… Sasha asks, what kind of nonsense? and Gladys says, who knows? He’d say anything to stay in Sasha’s good graces… and close to her money.

At the hospital, TJ asks if Molly is sure she doesn’t want him to stay. He can get Dr. Michaels to cover for him. She says she’s sure. It’s just a routine follow-up. Dr. Navarro will tell them that they have to keep trying. He tells her, always listen to your doctor’s advice. Can she believe it? This time next year, they may have a baby Lansing-Ashford. She says, or is it a baby Ashford-Lansing? and he says, negotiations set to resume later tonight. They kiss.

Drew brings Curtis to a storage unit containing a bunch of boxes, and Curtis says, this is Kim Nero’s stuff? Drew says, when she moved to Manhattan, Kim kept some of his stuff in case he made it home. He sees a sports cap, and says, this is Oscar’s Browns hat. The only thing he loved more than his music was his favorite football team. He wore this all the time. Kim said this was going to be hard seeing his boy’s things. Losing a child is hard enough, but losing one right after you find out you’re a father… Curtis says, is absolutely his worst nightmare.

Laura sees Alexis at the hospital, and Alexis says she’s in a bit of a fog today. Laura says, the last few days have been pretty surreal. She just came from visiting with Anna; she’s recuperating very nicely. Alexis says, that’s great news. Any word about Spencer and Trina?

Dressed in mismatched sweats and an old cardigan, Trina is tossed into Spencer’s stateroom, and he asks what she’s doing here. What is she wearing? Trina says, stuff from the lost and found. The guard said she could take her pick, but it’s not her personal style or choice. He laughs, and she says, it’s definitely warmer than her ballgown. He says he can’t believe they left her with him. He thought Uncle Victor wanted to keep them separated. She says, maybe that was his original plan, but with all this commotion on deck, she even overheard one of the guards saying they need all hands. He says, they’re consolidating areas to guard. They might be bringing Dr. Obrecht in here next. Trina says she’s scared.

Dex asks Sonny if the Pikeman shipment conflicts with his son’s wedding, but Sonny says he’s not letting anything interfere with Michael and Willow’s big day. Dante knocks at the penthouse door, and asks if he’s interrupting. Sonny says, they were just finishing up some business, and hands Dex a manila envelope. He says, deliver this, and take the rest of the day off. He leaves, and Sonny says he didn’t expect Dante to come by. What’s up? Dante says he wanted to know if Sonny wanted to get lunch with him later, and Sonny asks, why today? Dante says, it’s as good a day as any other. Why? Does Sonny have plans? Sonny says, yeah. He’s going to Dante’s brother’s wedding. Dante says, no, he’s not.

Spencer says, whatever his uncle has planned next, he’d never let Victor hurt Trina. She knows that, right? She says she knows Spencer would do everything he can to stop Victor; he proved that on deck. But what if there’s a reason Spencer can’t help her? What if he hurts both of them? He says, his Uncle Victor is out of his mind right now. He’s drunk on power. He’s emboldened by his own savior complex, but Spencer does believe there’s still a shred of humanity left inside of him. She says she knows he doesn’t want to hear this right now, but they can’t count on that. Right now the only thing they have to rely on is each other. He swears to her, as long as they have each other, there’s nothing they can’t face, and they hug.

Drew says, they’re going to find Trina, and Curtis says he wants to believe Drew, but the longer it’s taking… He just found out Trina might be his daughter. He can’t lose her. Drew says, he’s not going to. They’re going to have lots more time together. Curtis says, his bad, bringing up his stuff in the middle of Oscar’s things. He knows it can’t be easy for Drew to be here, but Drew says he thinks it’s worth it. The key to finding Trina might be in one of these boxes. He gave Oscar some of his things in the hope it might tell Oscar his story. It’s a long shot, but maybe they’ll come across something from his days as a SEAL. Anything that tells them about Project Demeter. He digs through a box, and asks Curtis what he’s got. Curtis says, military stuff. He’s got bedtime stories… music theories… Greek mythology… Drew takes the book, and says he used to tell Oscar how much he loved these stories. Curtis says, it looks like that one’s pretty well thumbed through. He takes out a paper, and Drew says, it’s a map.

Alexis tells Laura that Victor hasn’t included her or her daughters in any of his plans. She’s never been privy to the inner workings of the Cassadines; she’s Cassadine adjacent. Laura says, that’s probably why Alexis is sane. Does she have any childhood memories of Victor? Alexis says, there was always tension between her father and Victor. Her father was a monster – he was into power and greed – and Victor fancied himself having loftier goals. Laura wonders what those goals were.

Dr. Navarro goes in to see Molly, who’s wearing a hospital gown. Molly says she’s a little confused. She thought she was just getting the results of her ultrasound. Dr. Navarro says, after reviewing Molly’s ultrasound, she’d like to get some more thorough testing done. Molly asks, why? What did she see? The doctor says, nothing to be overly concerned about at this stage. Molly has been experiencing irregularity and pain with her monthly cycle. She’d like to get to the bottom of what’s causing it. Molly asks if she wants to do more testing now, and the doctor says, yes, and this time, she’d like to do a biopsy.

Cody asks Brook, why would he be fired?… Okay. He has been a little worried about what they’re thinking since the incident. Brook says, he means the incident where he was arrested, charged, and arraigned, and he says, that’s the one. She takes the bowl out of his hand, puts it on the counter, and says, he should be thanking her. He says, for the cereal? but she says, no, for pleading his case. Her dad wanted to fire him. It wasn’t so easy changing his mind. He’s been in a bad mood with all this ELQ stuff. Cody asks what Mama Q thinks, and Brook says, he’d have to ask her, but if he wants to know Brook’s opinion, she thinks Gladys Corbin is a walking disaster. She’s a mess. She’s always misplacing important things. She wouldn’t be surprised if Gladys left that bracelet lying around backstage at the Nurses Ball. He says he’s glad someone’s on his side, but she says, not quite. How did that bracelet end up in his pocket?

Sam goes into Charlie’s carrying a garment bag. Seeing Gladys, she flashes back to Cody saying, Gladys set him up because he told her that he was going to tell Sasha she’s not to be trusted. Kristina tells Sam, if looks could kill, as Gladys tells Sasha, some people just can’t be trusted. Cody is one of those types, and trying to take advantage of Sasha’s good nature. Sam asks if Kristina ever wished she could know someone’s secrets with a single glance, and Kristina says, it’s probably better for everyone in this town that they can’t. She asks if that’s her dress for the wedding, and Sam hesitates giving it to her, saying, this is her dress for the day. Kristina asks when she’s ever kept anything of Sam’s, and Sam says, her brown leather jacket, those really cool biker boots that have the zipper on the side, and her leather pants.

Sasha says she appreciates Gladys looking out for her, but Cody has had a really rough go in life. Gladys says, so has Sasha, which is why she’s been thinking they could both use a vacation. Sasha says, that’s an abrupt change of topics. What prompted that? Gladys says she thinks they could use a little getaway, and Sash asks if there’s another reason Gladys needs to leave town.

Cody tells Brook, no one was more shocked than him when that bracelet showed up in his tux jacket pocket, which at the time he wasn’t even wearing. He was on stage, taking his clothes off for a worthy cause. Brook asks if he’s been stealing from her family, and he says, no. She says she had to ask. He’s been given free reign in this house. Should she be checking her jewelry case? He says, no offense, but her stuff isn’t exactly his style. No, he’s not a thief; he was framed. He left the tux jacket in the dressing room. That had to be when someone planted it in there. Brook says, let’s say she believes him. Where’s his proof?

Dante says, the way things are with Sonny and Michael, Sonny crashing the wedding is just going to fan the flames. Don’t do that. Sonny says, that’s not what he’s doing. Michael invited him. He’s going to be celebrating with the family tonight. Dante says, that’s great. He knows how much not being there was probably eating Sonny up. He and Nina are making some progress. Sonny says, Nina’s not invited.

Sam says she’s happy the wedding was moved up, and Kristina says, with what Michael and Willow are going through, they deserve one perfect day. Is it giving Sam and Dante any ideas? Sam says she and Dante are good with the way things are right now, and suggests they look at Kristina’s life for a change. Dex walks in, and Kristina says, perfect timing. She needs back-up here. He says he’s actually here for Sonny, and Sam guesses that’s her cue, and steps away. He gives Kristina the envelope, and says, Sonny wanted him to give her this. She takes out some paperwork, and says she can’t believe her dad did this.

Gladys asks why she would need to get out of town, and Sasha says, next month is the two-year anniversary of when she got shot. Gladys says, after Brando refused Cyrus Renault’s order to shoot her. If she hadn’t gotten involved with those shady people, her son wouldn’t have been in that position. She’ll always regret that. Sasha says, but look at how far she’s come. She should be really proud of herself. Some memories are hard to face. She knows that better than anyone. She can’t get away right now, but Gladys should book a trip for herself. Use her credit card. Gladys says, that’s very generous, but Sasha’s paying her a salary. She can pay. Sasha says, then how about if she pays for any upgrades (I would be so upgraded if someone told me that)? and Gladys says, the resort she’s been looking at does have an incredible spa package. Sasha says, then consider herself all pampered. She tells Gladys that she’s got to run, and leaves. Sam looks at Gladys from across the room.

Alexis says she has to tell Laura, this is the first time she wishes she were in the inner circle of the Cassadines. Then she could help. Laura says she knows Alexis is doing as much as she can, and Alexis says, what about Nikolas? Has Laura heard from him? Laura says, the international news picked up this story, so even if Nikolas left the country, he would still be aware of what’s happening here. Alexis says, and still he hasn’t been in touch, and Laura says, no. Nobody’s heard a word from him. It’s fine for him to walk away from her, but from his two sons? For him to be missing in action, knowing how much danger Spencer and Ace are in? Alexis says, what if he doesn’t have a choice?

Curtis asks if this is Oscar’s handwriting on the map, but Drew says, no, it’s his. Curtis says, good. Is this a travel map, or something more? Drew says he doesn’t remember this map at all, or why it’s hidden in this book. So if he had to guess, he’d guess something more. Curtis holds it up, and says, there’s a mark in the corner, and Drew says, that’s the sign for Virgo. Curtis takes a canteen out of the box, and it has the same symbol. He says, first the canteen, then the map. He never realized Drew was so into astrology. Drew says he’s not. He was born in September. Curtis says, on the canteen, it makes sense; it’s Drew’s. But why would it be embossed on a map? Drew says, maybe there’s something else here that can help them, and flips through the book. He says, here you go. The versions of mythology differ, but the most popular cites that Virgo has ties to Demeter, the goddess of fertility and agriculture. Curtis says, Demeter, as in Project Demeter, and Drew says, the assignment Victor was so keen on knowing everything about. This is the link.

Spencer holds Trina, and says he bets she wishes she never followed him on this doomed ghost ship. She says she’s afraid for their lives, and she wishes his baby brother wasn’t at risk. They sit on the bed, and she says she’s glad she’s with him. Any doubts about being with him are gone. He says, that’s a big mistake, Miss Robinson. The man you’re crushing on is a non-reprobate. He’s a convicted felon. She says, oh no, and he says, he’s a spendthrift, an entitled bourgeois, hot tempered, good-for-nothing. She says, that sounds about right… except for one detail. He’s not the man she’s crushing on. He’s so much more than that.

Drew tells Curtis, there’s nothing else in here marked with the symbol for Virgo, but that’s not a coincidence. Virgo, Project Demeter, and a map. Maybe they should take this to the WSB. Curtis says, no. He knows what to do.

Alexis wonders if Nikolas could be one of Victor’s captives, but Laura doesn’t think so. Trina didn’t mention seeing him on the Haunted Star. And if she’s being honest, she hates to admit this, but she thinks her son fled town to avoid his legal problems. Alexis says, Laura knows how much she loves her nephew, and she also knows he’s made a lot of mistakes, but there’s still time for him to do the right thing. Laura says she hopes Alexis is right, but even so, she’s determined to find her grandsons, and bring them home. She wipes some tears away, when TJ comes by, and tells them, his mom is completely focused on finding the Haunted Star. Laura says she knows. He doesn’t have to convince her how hard his mother works. Port Charles is very lucky to have her. Alexis says, Victor is not going to get away with this, and Laura says, no, he is not. She gets up, and says she has some calls she needs to make. Let her know if they hear anything. She leaves, and I notice Alexis’s white sweater looks like a robe. For a moment, I get confused, wondering if I missed something and she’s a patient. She tells TJ that Laura is justifiably worried, and he says he has the feeling Laura isn’t the only one.

Dr. Navarro says, all the symptoms Molly is having, combined what she saw in Molly’s ultrasound, could indicate endometriosis, and Molly says she’s heard of it, but what exactly is it? The doctor says, a condition in which the endometrial tissue grows outside of the uterus. Often it leads to cramping, heavy menstrual flow, and pain during intercourse. Molly asks if it’s rare, but the doctor says, actually, it affects 10% of all women. Molly says, and a biopsy would confirm if she has it, and Dr. Navarro says, it’s more effective than imaging. She’ll scrape off a few cells, send them to the lab, and a technician will look at them under a microscope. Don’t worry. It’s a quick procedure with relatively little discomfort. But they don’t have to do it today if she needs a little time to think about it. Molly says, let’s just get it over with. She needs to know what’s happening in her body. And not just for her sake.

Dante asks how Nina is taking it, and Sonny says, she wanted him to go to the wedding, even though she’s not invited. Dante says, that’s gracious of her, and Sonny says, Nina’s gracious, but he knows it hurts her not to be at her daughter’s wedding. He also believes Michael isn’t the one who wants him there; it’s Willow’s idea.

Kristina spreads the papers out on the bar, and tells Dex that her dad knows she’s been wanting something more for her life, and he found a way to get it to her.

Sam approaches Gladys’s table, and on the phone, Gladys says, you’re right. Unlimited drinks by the beach is important. What’s the differenced in price… You know what? It doesn’t matter. They sold her, and she’ll call them back. Sam says, taking a trip? and Gladys says, sure am. Sam says, it sounds pretty grand, and Gladys says, they all spend on what matters to them. Apparently what matters to Sam is Cody Bell. Did she hear right that Sam bailed him out?

Cody tells Brook, if he had any kind of proof, he could get the charges dropped. All he has is his word, which he knows doesn’t get him very far in this town. Brook says she knows what it’s like not to be trusted. For everyone to assume you have some ulterior motive. But for what it’s worth (🍷), she doesn’t think he’d steal anything. He asks if Sasha thinks so, but Brook says she doesn’t know. Gladys Corbin is her mother-in-law, and they are really close. She’s sure Sasha’s upset. He says he hates this. She’s the last person in the world he wants to hurt. Brook tells him, say he was right, and he was framed. Does he have any idea who set him up? Sasha walks in.

Sam sits with Gladys, and says, yes, she posted Cody’s bail. Gladys asks, why? They had him dead to rights. They found the missing bracelet in his pocket. Sam says, so she heard, and Gladys says, then why bail him out? Sam says, because she’s not sure he did it.

Brook asks if Sasha brought her all the Deception goodies, and Sasha says, yeah, putting a train case on the counter. Brook takes the case, and says she’s getting out of here, and Cody says he really hopes Sasha doesn’t think he did this. Sasha says she doesn’t know what to believe, and he says he didn’t steal anything, especially some bracelet Gladys was wearing. He wouldn’t do that to Sasha; she’s his friend. She says, is she? Or is he just using her? He says, using her for what? and she says, you tell me. He says he’s not going to deny he’s made some mistakes; the way he treated Britt, for one. Which Sasha knows, since he trusted her enough to tell her. She saw how much he regrets what happened with Britt. He’s grown a lot this year. She says she thought he did, and he says, she doesn’t now? She tells him that she’s not sure. Gladys made some good points. He tells her not to listen to anything that woman says, and Sasha asks why she shouldn’t. He says, because she’s the one who set him up.

Kristina tells Dex, these are the properties that can be used as homes for transitional youth. The other day when she went to see her dad, she told him that she was thinking of opening up a restaurant, and he pointed out that it would be so time consuming, it would interfere with her job here and her volunteer time at the youth center. He’s right, but he also knows she’s been searching for a greater sense of purpose and responsibility. Dex looks at a card, and reads, Corinthos-Davis House. Her dad’s opening a charity in her name? She says, he even highlighted the ones that have industrial kitchens. He found a way for her to combine all her interests in one place. Dex says, it’s a very thoughtful gift, and she says, it doesn’t surprise her. Her dad gets her. He sees what’s in her heart, and he protects his own. She just wishes everyone could see the Sonny Corinthos that she does. Dex looks guilty, as he should.

Dante asks if it really matters who invited Sonny, and Sonny says, a little bit, but it’s a good first step. He knows it matters to Nina. Dante says, this could be the last time she gets to celebrate anything with her daughter, and Sonny says, the grandchildren will be at the wedding. She misses seeing Wiley and Amelia. Dante says, it’s going to get tougher the sicker Willow gets too, and Sonny says, it’s really hard for Nina to see her suffer. Dante says, they’re all praying for Willow’s recovery, but whether it’s Michael and Willow raising their kids together, or God forbid Michael doing it on his own, that doesn’t mean Nina is going to be accepted. What is that going to do to Sonny and Nina’s relationship, if he’s back in and she’s left out?

We see Alexis has a pamphlet on ALS, and she tells TJ, it seems they’re all on edge. He sees the pamphlet, and asks if it’s something she wants to talk about. She says, it’s not for her, it’s for a friend, and puts the pamphlet in her bag. He says he’s sorry about her friend, and she says, from what she understands, the progression is brutal. He says, no two patients are the same, but ALS is a rare and devastating neurological disease with no cure. She says, what she’d like to know is, is there any hope?

Curtis and Drew find Laura at the hospital, and Drew says, they may have found something to lead them to the Haunted Star. She asks what it is, and Curtis says, they think it has something to do with Drew’s past… and Victor’s future.

Spencer says, Trina means a lot to him; more than she’ll ever know. He just wishes they’d had this conversation anywhere else. She says, he challenges her, and with him, she wants to experience everything she never has. He says, everything? and she says, everything. They can start new experiences now. He says, this is not how he pictured their first time. He just doesn’t want her to regret it. She says, losing her virginity? and he says, it’s a big deal for her, and it should be special. She says, where she does it and when isn’t what makes it special. What makes it special is that it’s him and her. She kisses him, and says, this could be their only chance to be this close again. They don’t know what tomorrow will bring. They kiss, but I keep thinking, what if someone walks in?

Drew, who always sounds like he’s teaching a class, tells Laura that they were going through some of his old things. They found this book of mythology, and found out that Virgo has ties to Demeter, as in Operation Demeter. Laura says, which is what? and Drew says, which is a black op he was involved in when he was a Navy SEAL, but he doesn’t remember anything about it at all. But in the book of mythology, there was a map hidden in there, and you can see this symbol. He shows her the map, and says, this map is embossed with the symbol of Virgo. Curtis says, obviously, there’s something of value to be found in one of those circled locations, and Laura says, or at each of them. What kind of mysterious treasure could this be?

TJ says, it depends on how Alexis defines hope. He’s sure the neurologist he’s shadowing would be happy to answer questions for her and her friend. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and on the forefront of research on diseases like ALS. Alexis thanks him, and the reception nurse tells him that Dr. Navarro is finishing up with Miss Lansing-Davis. Alexis says, Molly’s seeing Dr. Navarro? Isn’t she an OB? TJ nods.

Dr. Navarro says, she sent Molly’s cells to the lab. They should have the results in a few days. Molly says, it sounds like the doctor thinks it’s just a formality though, and Dr. Navarro says she wants to hold off on an official diagnosis until she sees the results. Molly says, unofficially? and the doctor says, based on Molly’s symptoms, her examination, and the imaging, it’s highly likely Molly does have endometriosis. In less severe cases, it can be treated with hormone therapy and pain management. Molly says, and in more severe cases? and the doctor says, commonly a laparoscopy or laparotomy. Molly says, surgery? but Dr. Navarro tells her not to worry about that right now. They’ll cross that bridge if they come to it. Let’s just take this one step at a time. Molly says she has one more question. How will this diagnosis affect her plans to have a baby with TJ?

Dex says, it’s great that Kristina’s father is doing this for her, and Kristina says, she’s very lucky. Her mom and her sisters are amazing, and love and accept her completely, but no one gets her like her dad. He’s always been her biggest champion. She doesn’t know what she’d do without him. Another guilty look on Dex’s face. Good.

Gladys asks what more proof Sam needs. Cody was caught red-handed. He’s a low-class crook, spinning lies and tall tales, and using the fact that Sasha sees the good in everyone to cozy up to her vulnerable daughter-in-law just when she lost her husband. Sam says, it’s in the hands of the authorities now, but the bracelet wasn’t even Sasha’s, so the real victim here is the jeweler. Gladys says, a crime is a crime, and Sam says, yes, it is, but why is Gladys taking it so personally?

Cody tells Sasha, he was dancing on stage with Magic Milo, and his tux was in the dressing room. That’s when Gladys planted the bracelet on him. Then she led the search backstage. Sasha says, she would never do such a thing, but Cody says, she would, and she did. He’s sorry. He really didn’t want to tell her this way, but Gladys framed him. Sasha asks why on earth she would do that.

Sonny says he’s been seeing a real growth in Nina and Willow’s relationship, and Dante says, that’s great. He’s hoping the same thing for Sonny and Michael. Sonny says, it’s all going to work out. Call him an optimist… Dante says he doesn’t think he can do that, and Sonny says, then call him a realist. He laughs and says, someday, when this is all over – and that includes Nina – they’re going to be a family again.

Outside somewhere on the phone, Dex says, the Pikeman shipment arrives tonight. He’ll call and let them know what he comes up with.

Sasha says, give her one good reason Gladys would frame Cody for stealing that bracelet, and he says he could give her several thousand. She says she’s sorry, but he says, no, he is, because he can’t tell her. He flashes back to telling Sam about informing Gladys that he was going to let Sasha know she wasn’t to be trusted. But he can’t tell Sam exactly why though, because he likes his kneecaps where they are. He says he’s telling Sasha the truth. Please believe him. Sasha says she’s supposed to believe him over her mother-in-law. The woman who held her when she was sobbing over the loss of her child, and stepped up to be her guardian when her husband died. Gladys has been there for her through some of the worst times of her life, and he expects Sasha to take his side over hers? He says, this is all his fault. He should have told her his suspicions weeks ago, but he didn’t want to hurt her feelings. She says, what suspicions? and he says, remember how he told her, with Gladys, you need to trust, but verify? He’s sorry; he was wrong. She can’t even trust Gladys. She says, no, the person she can no longer trust is him, and walks out. Brook comes back and asks if everything is okay, and Cody says, just great, picking up his empty cereal bowl and leaving.

Gladys tells Sam, she was wearing the bracelet. It would have been her responsibility to replace it. As a cop’s girlfriend, Sam should be more discerning. Supporting Cody is a mistake. Sam laughs, and asks if it would be a mistake for her, or for Gladys, and Gladys walks out.

Molly comes out of the elevator, and says, she didn’t expect to see Alexis here. When was she admitted as a patient? TJ asks how it went, and Alexis asks, what’s wrong?

Laura says, if they go by what Trina told them when she was able to call on the satellite phone – Drew says, the Haunted Star’s heading – it would be moving in this direction, right? She points to a spot on the map, and says, just to this one circled location on that very likely course. Curtis says, then they may know where the ship is headed, and Drew says, and stop Victor. Laura says, and get their loved ones back home.

Trina and Spencer get busy, and he asks if she’s okay. She says, what was that? and he asks if she heard that. She says she didn’t hear anything, and he gets up and looks out the window. He says, they’ve docked. They’ve reached land.

On Monday, Michael says he’s getting married today; Robert says he thinks he’s figured out how to find them; Valentin says his attorney will be handling that; and Tracy tells Felicia that she won’t rest until she proved  than man killed Luke.

👠 Reunion Rumbling…

Andy is starting to age like every President during their time in office.

More Louie weirdness.

🍸 You Know You Want It…

Why Howie Mandel indeed. Even Dorinda can’t make this nice.

Subplot.

Victory lap.

🤽🏾‍♂️ Pending Awfulness…

This is just sad. It’s kind of like the zombie apocalypse, but they turn into perpetual whiny teenagers.

💎 So Who Hasn’t…

What does she want, a medal?

⚰️ Latest Spin…

No surprise, more Walking Dead spin-offs keep on coming.

https://movieweb.com/another-new-walking-dead-spin-off-show-announced/

🐶 Tiny But Competitive…

Another precious nugget to gaze upon.

https://people.com/pets/demi-moore-submits-chihuahua-worlds-shortest-dog/

☄️ Quotes of the Week

The most virtuous are those who content themselves with being virtuous without seeking to appear so. – Plato

Confidence comes not from always being right, but from not fearing to be wrong. – Peter McIntyre

Aerodynamically, the bumble bee shouldn’t be able to fly, but the bumble bee doesn’t know it so it goes on flying anyway. – Mary Kay Ash

Even though you may want to move forward in your life, you may have one foot on the brakes. In order to be free, we must learn how to let go. Release the hurt. Release the fear. Refuse to entertain your old pain. The energy it takes to hang onto the past is holding you back from a new life. What is it you would let go of today?Mary Manin Morrissey

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Mead

Technological progress has merely provided us with more efficient means for going backwards. – Aldous Huxley

How do you use your rage? Is it your superpower or kryptonite? – Kathleen (Leslie Uggams), Nanny

The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life. Rarely do members of one family grow up under the same roof. – Richard David Bach

🏞 Don’t Fence Me In…

Join me on Monday really Tuesday for soap, getting off the Deck dock, and that trainwreck of a House I can’t stop watching and loathing. Until then, stay safe, stay looking after your patch of the earth, and stay always listening to your doctor’s advice.

April 14, 2023 – Trina Calls For Help, New Gig, NYC Morph, Never Again, Wrong City, Scandoval Stuff, Another Prequel, Oblivious, Two Pups (!), Not Eleven Quotes & Clean Water

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

At the gym (not Sonny’s), Finn spots while Chase lifts weights, and he asks if Chase wants to take a break, but Chase says, no. Gregory tells Chase, go easy. The last time he overdid it, he ended up in the hospital with a bum shoulder. Finn says, half of that was Chase’s fault; the other half was Brook.

On the phone, Brook says she’s watching Wiley and Amelia while Willow rests upstairs. Drop everything and get over here… She doesn’t care if they’re at the hair salon. She has a critical mission for them, and they have to accept it.

On the phone in her office, Alexis says, Allison has an in with the coastguard, so she needs Allison to find out whatever she can about the Haunted Star. Sam walks in, and Alexis says, same thing with government leaks, If they’re credible, find them. Sam says, this is actually why she’s here. Dante’s been working hard on the investigation, but hasn’t said anything about Victor. Has Alexis heard anything? Alexis says, the Haunted Star is gone from its mooring, there’s no accounting for it. They believe there’s three hostages, but that’s all she knows. Sam says, if anything new comes in, will Alexis please keep her updated? and Alexis says she will, if Sam does the same for her. She heard Sam was in court this morning. What’s up?

Curtis says, Trina is coming home, even if he has to bring her home himself, and Portia thanks him for being here and wanting to help find Trina. He says he can’t just sit around, knowing all the danger that faces his daughter… her daughter.

Jordan says, she and Laura are friends as well as colleagues. This plan she’s been working on with Felicia and Robert to take Victor down, what is it? And why didn’t Laura tell her about it? Laura says, Anna was a fugitive at the time. If she’d involved Jordan, Laura would have compromised her. They all talked about it, and decided the smart thing to do would be continue with the plan until they could find proof that it was Victor who was behind Luke’s death. Jordan asks how that worked out for her, and Laura says she knew she was dealing with a dangerous man. She didn’t know he’d disappear on the Haunted Star, and make her grandsons and Dr. Obrecht and Trina Robinson all disappear with him.

Obrecht says, if Victor thinks she’s going to help him, he’s truly lost his geist (mind), and Victor says he does love it when she speaks German to him. But let’s be honest, she has done worse, and if she chooses not to cooperate, he promises the consequences will be dire. Spencer jumps up, grabs Obrecht in a headlock, and drags her out of her chair, putting a knife to her throat. Victor asks what he’s doing, and Spencer says, he needs Obrecht to protect his family? No Obrecht, no plan. Watkins holds a gun on him, and Obrecht says, do something. Victor sits back, sips his coffee, and says, have at it. Is he from New Jersey?

Trina hides outside the communications room, and says, what’s taking so long with the diversion, Spencer? She bumps into the fire extinguisher, and one of Victor’s goons says, what was that?

Sam says, Alexis had a reporter at the courthouse, and Alexis tells her, he said Cody Bell was arrested for grand larceny, and Sam bailed him out. Why? Sam says, because Cody is Dante’s friend, and he needed help, and Alexis asks why Dante didn’t help him. Sam says, because he’s busy searching for Victor, and Alexis says, so Sam thought she’d just step in? Sam says, if Alexis wants to hear the whole story, she’ll tell her. Sasha Gilmore had a very expensive bracelet on loan, and Gladys Corbin was wearing it at the time. Gladys, who’s not the most reliable narrator, said the bracelet just magically disappeared off her wrist, and said bracelet appeared in the pocket of Cody’s jacket, which he was not wearing at the time. Alexis says, that doesn’t mean he’s innocent, and Sam asks, what happened to her mother the lawyer, who believed all defendants were innocent until proven guilty? and Alexis says, she got disbarred. She was under the impression Sam didn’t trust Cody. Sam says she told Alexis that she’s handling this. Alexis has enough to deal with. Alexis says, fine. She’s not going to interfere where she’s not wanted. Sam asks if she really means that, and Alexis says she’s trying. If Sam really doesn’t want her involved in this business with Cody, she won’t be involved. Sam asks if she’s been hit in the head, but Alexis says she’s just been told off. Sam says, by Gregory, and Alexis nods.

Chase says, if he’s pushing it, it’s because of his nerves. The CCRB meets later today. Gregory says, Finn told him that Brook had something to do with him getting a second chance, and Chase says, Brook got the Board to take another look at his case. Gregory says, that’s good news, right? and Chase says, maybe. Or maybe he wouldn’t have needed a second chance if Brook submitted her letter the first time the Board met.

Maxie walks into the gatehouse with her new darker hair, and says, this better be good. She had to skip the conditioning treatment. Brook says, her hair looks amazing (I like it), but they’ll talk about that another time. How are James and Georgie doing? Maxie says she had to tell them that their oma disappeared because she wanted to make their magic act a success. Georgie didn’t buy it, but James believes it, so Georgie is pretending to believe it too. Brook says she’s so sorry about Liesl. She knows how much Maxie cares about her, and it must be driving her nuts. Maxie says she can’t believe it’s happening. She keeps telling herself that Mac and the PCPD will leave no stone unturned, and if anyone can take care of themselves, it’s Liesl. Brook says, she’s a formidable woman, and Maxie says, but still, Victor Cassadine is a scary guy, and how long can Willow wait for the bone marrow transplant? Brook says, speaking of Willow, Maxie is going to plan her wedding to Michael.

Portia says, Curtis always cared for Trina, and he says, Trina is a remarkable young woman, and he was looking forward to being a part of her family, officially. Portia says, he is a part of her family. She and Trina are very lucky they have him on their side. He asks if she’ll be okay, and she says she refuses to fall apart, but she’s far from okay. He says he feels her, and leaves. She heaves a sigh, and says, please, please, please.

Victor’s goons draw their guns, but they hear their radio say, all units come to the main cabin. They keep moving, and Trina slips into the communications office.

Spencer tells Victor not to underestimate him. He’ll do anything to save his brother from Victor. Victor says, doesn’t he understand? If he kills Dr. Obrecht, he simply seals his baby brother’s fate.

Maxie tells Brook, back up. Michael and Willow rescheduled their wedding until after the bone marrow transplant. They’re getting married in July. Brook says, because Willow’s bone marrow transplant was supposed to be today, and Maxie says, oh my God. She doesn’t think she’s going to make it until Liesl gets home. Brook says, no one knows when Liesl is going to be found… and Maxie says, or if she will, but Brook tells her, stay positive. Liesl will be found, but she understands Willow’s concern. She and Michael want to be married. They don’t want to risk waiting, so they moved the date up. Maxie says she’ll help in any way she can. What are they thinking, end of the month? Brook says, tomorrow, and Maxie says, I’m sorry, what? Brook says, too soon, she knows, but everybody is pitching in, and they need her. Maxie says, to plan a wedding? In less than 24 hours? Brook says, Maxie planned the Nurses Ball in record time, and Maxie asks if she should count all the ways it went wrong. Brook says, count all the ways it went right. Compared to the Nurses Ball’s 60th anniversary, planning a wedding in less than 24 hours is a literal piece of cake. Maxie says, brew some coffee, and make it strong. She’ll plan this wedding… Brook interrupts her with a hug and runs to the kitchen.

Gregory says he’s sorry he brought up Brook, and Chase says, forget it. Who wants to do more reps? Finn says, no thanks, and Gregory tells him, what his brother said. Chase says, Gregory has barely broken a sweat today, and Gregory says, because he doesn’t actively need to avoid his feelings. Chase wonders why Gregory cares so much about him and Brook, and Finn says, maybe because Gregory loves him? Gregory says he loves both his boys, and wants them both to be happy. So sue him. Chase says, Brook did make him happy. She also hurt and disappointed him. She held off on writing her letter of support because she didn’t want him to get his badge back. She wanted him to focus on music. Supposedly, the plan was to expose her manager as a predator, so he couldn’t extort or harass any other women; and for Brook to get her songs back. Instead, she signed a non-disclosure agreement with Linc. He gave her songs back, and she agreed to keep quiet. Brook sold out. Finn says, that’s pretty tough to get past, and Gregory says, from what he understands, Brook more than redeemed herself at the Nurses Ball. She broke the non-disclosure agreement, and outed this Linc Brown as a serial harasser. Chase says, she did, and he respects that, but as long as he’s known her, Brook has always put her own interests first, and apologized afterward. And no matter how he feels about her, he can’t trust her.

Alexis says she and Gregory had a run-in, and Sam says, another one? Alexis says, that, compounded with the mess she made the first time when she went to Gregory’s boss behind his back, and Sam says, maybe she shouldn’t have called his boss, but that’s what a good friend would do. Alexis says, speaking of, let’s go back to Cody and Dante. He seems to know as much about Cody as he doesn’t know. Sam says she told Alexis that she’s dealing with this; they’re talking about Gregory now. Whatever happened? Does he have a drinking problem? Alexis says, Gregory doesn’t have a drinking problem, and Sam says she knows Alexis has been concerned about him. If not a drinking problem, then what is it?

Jordan says she knows better than anyone that the best of intentions can have unforeseen results, and while she’s not thrilled Laura chose not to involve the PCPD, she does understand. But things have changed, and she needs Laura to keep her in the loop. Laura says, Felicia is tracking someone down who may be able to help them find Victor, and Jordan asks, who is it, and does she need back-up? Laura says, not yet. Jordan will be the first one to know if they do. All hands on deck. Curtis comes along, and says, if that’s the case, count him in.

Spencer says, without Liesl, Victor’s plan is a non-starter. If she’s not around to make a vaccine, Victor risks his own life, as well as that of Spencer and his little brother. Victor says, it’s a sacrifice he’s willing to make. All that matters is, the world is set to right, so go ahead, kill Liesl. Is Spencer wiling to risk his baby brother will survive what’s coming next? His blood will be on Spencer’s hands. Spencer sees Watkins and Ambrose have their guns on him, and begins to drag Obrecht toward the exit. The other two guards run in, and Victor tells them, cover the exits. Your move, Spencer. Spencer lets Obrecht go, and she says, Cassadines are demented; one has her abducted, the other holds her at knifepoint. Steinmaur’s too good for the pair of them. Victor says he knew Spencer would see reason. Get rid of him.

Trina looks around, and finds a radio, but gets nothing but static. She picks up a portable phone from the 80s, and begs it to work. Apparently, the equipment hasn’t been updated since Luke and Laura’s wedding.

On the phone, Maxie thanks Leah, and says, let’s do that. She’ll be in touch. She tells Brook, it’s a little early, but she has peonies. She’ll make all the flower arrangements, and the rose petals for the flower girl. Brook says, flower girls, plural; Donna and Avery. The only family member slated not to participate in the wedding is Amelia. Maxie asks if Olivia is going to bake the cake, and Brook says, try and stop her. She is determined to cook all the food for this wedding. Maxie is sure it will all be delicious, and says, they need something to elevate the occasion; make it special. Does Brook think it’s too late to get monogrammed napkins for Portugal? Brook suggests they take some of the pressure off this thing. All Willow really wants is a joyful and happy day with her friends and family. Maxie says she’s got it. A special song just for them. Brook could write it; Chase could perform it. Brook says she’d be happy to write a song for Willow and Michael, but she doesn’t think Chase would perform it. Maxie asks, why not? It’s for Willow. Brook says, but that would mean he’d have to work with her.

Gregory says, Brook might have the capacity to change. History has shown them… Finn says, please, no lectures, but Gregory tells Chase, all he’s saying is, Brook made a huge personal sacrifice when she exposed Linc. She put other people ahead of herself when she ignored the NDA and outed him. Doesn’t that show she’s changed? Chase says, Brook has a big heart, no question. That’s why he fell in love with her, but she has a habit of acting on her worst impulses and hurting everyone around her. Gregory says, it sounds like Chase has made up his mind about her, and Chase says, don’t make him sound like the bad guy. Gregory says he thought he taught his sons to be open to second chances, and Finn says, he did. So when does Alexis get hers?

Alexis says, Gregory told her on no uncertain terms that his life is none of her business, and that whatever he’s going through, he’s determined to go through it alone, and Sam says, sometimes people need to figure things out for themselves. Maybe the best thing Alexis can do right now is offer Gregory her support, and trust he’ll reach out to her if he needs her. Alexis says, he won’t, and Sam says, it drives Alexis crazy, doesn’t it, because she sees someone who needs help and wants to help them. Alexis says, it’s a curse. It’s why she became a lawyer. Sam says, he doesn’t need a lawyer, and he doesn’t need Alexis’s help, so why can’t she just let this go? Alexis says, because it doesn’t matter what he says, he does need her help. As far as she knows, she’s the only one who knows that he has a problem. So what is she supposed to do? Just sit back and do nothing?

Curtis says he’ll do anything to make sure Trina gets home safely, when Laura’s phone rings. She steps away, and Jordan says she appreciates the offer. He says, but? and she says, Victor Cassadine is dangerous. Curtis says, and he has Trina. Believe him. Victor won’t see him coming. Jordan says, just trust that they have every available resource looking for Victor and his hostages. If there’s something he can do, she’ll let him know. The truth is, there’s not a lot any of them can do right now. They don’t even know where to look for the Haunted Star, so for now it’s best that he just sit tight. He says, not while Trina’s in trouble. If she won’t let him help the PCPD, there are others he can turn to. She says, he means like Sonny Corinthos? Or Selina Wu?

In her office, Portia tries to record some patient details, but throws down the recorder, and puts her head in her hands. She cries, looking at a photo of her and Trina, when her phone rings, saying, unknown caller. She puts it down, but picks it up again when it continues to ring. Trina says, it’s her, and Portia says, thank God. Where is she? They’ve been so worried about her. Trina peeks out the door, and says she’s on the Haunted Star. Victor took Spencer, the baby, and Dr. Obrecht. He’s taking them somewhere. Portia says, and he took her too. Is she okay? How is Trina calling her right now? Trina says, he doesn’t know she’s here. She followed Spencer and got stuck on board. She doesn’t know where they are. She needs Portia’s help. Portia tells her, hang on. Help is on the way. She runs out of her office.

Maxie says she doesn’t understand. Brook outed that creep Linc at the Nurses Ball. Brook asks what that has to do with her and Chase, and Maxie says she saw the look on Chase’s face when Brook laid into that skeevy manager. He was so proud of her. She assumed when it was all over, Chase would sweep Brook into his arms, and say, all is forgiven. Brook says she didn’t break her NDA and expose Linc to get back together with Chase. She did it because she couldn’t keep quiet for another second and let that creep exploit another woman. Maxie says, and that’s a side of her that Chase hasn’t seen before. She knows Brook didn’t out Linc for Chase, but it is what Chase wanted. And maybe now he realizes his life is empty without Brook, and they can live happily ever after. Brook says she’s done it too many times. Chase thinks she’s selfish. Maxie says, Brook is selfish, and Brook tells her, says the pot calling the kettle black, but Maxie says, selfish with good intentions. She always does the right thing in the end. She just makes some questionable decisions along the way. Chase knew that. He fell in love with her anyway. He will again. Brook says she doubts it. The CCRB meeting is today, and Chase will get his life back; a life she’s not a part of.

Chase says he thinks Finn has a good point, but Gregory says, Chase’s situation with Brook is completely different from his with Alexis. Finn says, of course (🍷). Of course (🍷) it is. How? Gregory says, because his situation with Alexis was never romantic. Love doesn’t come around often. He’d hate to see Chase throw it away. Chase says, love is more complicated than friendship. It requires complete vulnerability to trust another person with your heart. He doesn’t know what Alexis did that was so bad Gregory can’t be friends with her anymore. Gregory flashes back to telling Alexis that he quit his job, and her begging to help him. He says, Alexis overstepped. Chase claims Brook violated his trust, while Alexis did the same to him. Finn says he really doesn’t want to get in the middle of this, and Gregory says, but he will because Alexis is his friend. Finn says, Alexis oversteps because she is who she is. She won’t be deterred if she thinks she’s doing the right thing. But he thinks she’s also proved that she can respect boundaries. Gregory says, that hasn’t been his experience, and Finn asks if he’s not going to give her the chance to show him that she can.

Sam tells Alexis, sometimes that’s what a good friend is all about; just waiting for them to come to you. Alexis says she’s not very good at waiting for people to come to her. It just doesn’t feel natural. She doesn’t have a lot of good friends, but the ones she has, she has this connection with, and she and Gregory have a connection. They have common interests and ethics, common worldviews, and he’s been very supportive of her. She wanted to return the favor, and when she did, she sort of destroyed any connection they did have. So maybe they didn’t have as solid a connection as she thought.

Curtis asks if Jordan is accusing him of something, when Laura comes back, and says, they’re all on the same side, right? He says, right, and Jordan says she promises he’ll be the first to tell if he can help, but she’s asking him for now to back off before he gets himself in too deep. If something were to happen to him… Jordan runs to them, and says, it’s Trina. She has Trina on the phone. Curtis asks, where is she? and Portia says, she’s on the Haunted Star, like they were afraid of. Laura tells Portia to put Trina on speaker, and she does. Jordan tells Trina, this is Commissioner Ashford. She’s here with Curtis and Mayor Collins. Trina says she’s so glad her mom found Jordan. She’s calling from a satellite phone. They’re in open water. She doesn’t know where they are or where Victor’s taking them. Curtis asks if she’s okay. Are Spencer and Ace okay? Trina says, yes. Victor doesn’t know she’s on the ship, and he has Spencer and Dr. Obrecht under armed guard. Jordan says she’ll call IT to pinpoint the location of Trina’s phone, and steps away. Trina says she’s not sure how long she has before the guards come back, and Laura tells her to only stay on the phone as long as she safely can. Trina says, she was trying to find a radio to call for help, but it doesn’t seem to be working, and Laura asks if she’s in the communications room now. Trina says she thinks so. There’s a lot of equipment here, but she doesn’t know what it does. Curtis says, but Laura does, doesn’t she? and Laura says, that ship was her wedding gift.

Spencer and Obrecht are seated in chairs with their hands tied behind their backs, and Obrecht says she wants to know the meaning of this. She didn’t do anything. Victor says, his great nephew reminded him that one can’t be too careful. Spencer disappointed him. Spencer says, the feeling is mutual. He trusted Victor, and then Victor tricked him into meeting on this ship. He’s abducted Spencer’s baby brother, and abducted Britt’s mother. What’s worse is, Victor wants to unleash hell on humanity, including the people Spencer loves. Victor says, tsk, tsk. He’d hoped Spencer had the stomach for this. It turns out, Spencer’s just as weak as his father. Spencer says he’s not weak, but there has to be another way. Victor said it himself, Dr. Obrecht is brilliant, and he thinks between the three of them, they can come up with a solution that will be amicable to everyone here. Victor asks, just why would he believe anything Spencer had to say now? He puts his face a few inches from Spencer’s and says, Spencer betrayed him, and he has to face the consequences.

Victor tells Ambrose to take Dr. Obrecht back to her cabin. He prefers to deal with his family in private. As Obrecht is taken away, Victor says, he’ll have all the information he’s collected on the pathogen sent to her cabin, so she can see he’s right. He tells Spencer, this gives him no pleasure, and Spencer says, forgive him for not believing Victor. Victor asks why Spencer can’t understand that love of family has always been his driving force. It really hurts him that Spencer can’t see that he’s not doing this to him; he’s doing it for him and his brother. Spencer says, let’s work together, but Victor says, it’s way too late for that now. Spencer left him no choice. Spencer says, Victor can’t kill him. Whether Victor likes it or not, he needs Spencer as much as he needs Liesl. With his father and Valentin out of the picture, he is Victor’s heir. Victor says, Spencer is half right. He does have an heir and a spare. He’s allowed his love of family to cloud his judgement too long. All of them have forgotten what it is to be a Cassadine. But it’s not too late for the baby. Victor will raise him and educate him – as a Cassadine. Spencer says, over his dead body, which is probably a poor choice of words, and Victor says, that can be arranged.

Laura tells Trina that she hasn’t been in the communications room in years, but from what she remembers, there was a radar screen. It shows a round circle in the center, and there will be some lines. Can she see something like that? Trina says she sees it, and goes over to the screen. Laura says, in the upper right hand corner of the screen, there will be some numbers. Does she see something that looks like coordinates? Trina says she does, and reads them, but Curtis says, that could be the coordinates from the GPS device Victor tied to the buoy. Jordan asks if Trina can find the heading, and Laura says, it’s the numbers right at the very top. Trina says, 29.369 degrees, and Jordan says she’ll update IT. Trina hears, all units return to posts, and says she’s got to go; she’ll call them back. Curtis asks if that’s the only satellite phone there, and Trina says she thinks so. He says, they’ll notice it’s missing. Whatever she does, do not take it with her. Trina says, got it, and Portia says, it’s gonna be okay. They’re going to find her. Trina tells Portia that she loves her, and Portia says she loves Trina too. Now please just be very, very careful. Trina says she will, and she puts the phone back where she found it. She looks to make sure the hallway is clear, but then looks back and decides to take a radio. Because they won’t notice that’s missing. She checks the hallway again, and jets. The two goons come back.

Sam tells Alexis, if a friend truly knows you, eventually they’re going to realize you have good intentions, and they’ll come back to you. Alexis says she’s not sure it matters what Gregory thinks about her; she’s worried about him regardless. She wishes he’d talk to his sons about whatever this is. And if he’d listen to her, she’d tell him, if you cut your children out of your life, it just causes you more misery. Sam says, Gregory told her what’s really going on, didn’t he? Alexis doesn’t say anything, and Sam says, maybe he’s going to come around, but Alexis says she doubts highly she’s going to see him again. Sam says she’s so sorry. Is Alexis going to be okay? Alexis says, it’s going to take more than this to keep her down.

Finn says he’s taking a shower and picking up Violet, and tells Chase, good luck at the meeting. He’s rooting for him. Chase thanks him, and Finn leaves. Gregory says he’s sorry he pushed Chase, but Brook was good for him. Chase says he knows. He thought Alexis was good for Gregory. Gregory says he just wishes things were different, and Chase says he’s going to hit the showers. He doesn’t want to be late for the CCRB. He just realized, if all goes well, he’s going to be the one seeing more of Alexis, and Gregory asks, how so? Chase says, not only is she a journalist, the PCPD’s biggest case is tracking down her Uncle Victor, who kidnapped her nephews, and Gregory says he heard. Chase says he’s sure Alexis is anxious to hear news of her family, and leaves.

Brook tells Maxie that she and Chase were friends, but didn’t get close until after he was suspended… because of her. Maxie says, Brook didn’t ask him to punch a civilian, let alone two. Brook says, with Linc and Valentin she was in a situation of her own making, and Chase stepped in to defend her. Maxie says, because he cares, and Brook says, his caring cost him a lot. Now he has the chance to be a detective again; reclaim his old life and everything he had in it before she came along. Maxie says, but what she and Chase had was real, and Brook says, until she messed it up – more than once. Maxie says, Brook tried to make it up to him. She wrote that letter to the CCRB. So why is she giving up now? Brook says she shouldn’t even be thinking about getting back together with Chase. What she really owes him is helping him get his badge back. Maxie says she thinks Brook’s done all she can do there, but Brook says, maybe she could do more. Maxie says, then what is she waiting for? Go to that meeting. She’ll stay here with Willow and Amelia; work on wedding prep until Michael gets back. Brook says, there’s one more thing. What if she’s the last person Chase wants to see?

Portia, Curtis, and Laura sit in the waiting area, when Jordan comes back, and says, IT’s working on the coordinates Trina gave them. Portia asks if Jordan has any idea how long it will take to find her daughter, and Laura takes her hands and says, Trina can do this. The fact that she has evaded Victor for this long, actually gives her and Spencer a little bit of an advantage here. Curtis says, think about this. Trina snuck onto the Haunted Star without even being noticed. That’s brave. And it’s that level of courage that will carry her through. Portia says she just prays this nightmare will be over soon, and Laura holds her as she cries.

Victor tells Watkins to double the guards outside Dr. Obrecht’s room. She’s a brilliant woman and not easily intimidated. She’s bound to try and escape. He tells Spencer, time to go, and Spencer says, if Victor wanted him dead, Victor would have killed him already. Victor says, of course (🍷) he doesn’t want Spencer dead. It would pain him no end to harm family. Call him sentimental, but he can’t allow Spencer’s transgressions to go unpunished. So from now on, consider himself Victor’s prisoner. Spencer asks what he’s been up to this point, and Victor says, he’ll no longer be afforded the privileges of family, including food. Spencer says, Victor is going to starve him? and Victor says, believe him. This won’t hurt Spencer nearly as much as Spencer has hurt him. He tells Watkins to take Spencer to his cabin, and Watkins takes an obvious bite of a strawberry before taking Spencer by the arm and leading him out. Spencer turns as Trina peeks out, watching Victor take a sip of those inadequate martinis he makes. He should have brought a bartender.

One of the goons sees the radio is missing, and tells his fellow goon, get in here. Goon #2 takes a look, and asks if one of the walkies is missing.

Alexis flashes back to Gregory telling her that he’s sick, and then goes back to work. There’s a knock at her door, and she says, come in. Gregory walks in, and they soap stare at each other.

Chase straightens his jacket and tie as he waits for the meeting to start. Brook runs in, and says, right on time. He smiles.

On Monday, Gregory says he’s hoping Alexis is feeling the same way; Josslyn tells Michael that Sonny knows about her and Dex; and Sonny says, if he tells Nina, she can’t unknow it.

🦚 Needs To Pay the Mortgage…

Jason goes beyond Salem.

🗽 Start Spreading the News…

Another makeover for RHONY.

💞 Outside the Love Bubble…

I can’t say I blame her. She does seem almost sane.

https://people.com/tv/caroline-manzo-vows-to-never-join-real-housewives-again/

🎷 Borrowed Background…

I haven’t watched this one in a while, but I’m just wondering why they’re using a background from the Chicago when this is about Atlanta.

🍸 Here It Comes…

Because I’ve been sucked into the Scandoval void. Queen Lisa speaks.

https://extratv.com/2023/04/13/lisa-vanderpump-calls-vanderpump-rules-finale-astounding/

I would never judge someone for getting mental health help, and I have no doubt Sandoval was manipulative. He’s always seemed a little slick to me, and I would never date, much less live with, a man who took up more mirror time than me. But she had to know what she was doing was wrong, so it just seems kind of convenient that now she’s concerned about her unhealthy relationship choices.

https://www.etonline.com/vanderpump-rules-star-raquel-leviss-checks-into-facility-for-mental-health-treatment-exclusive

Scheana weighs in… on a lot of things.

It must be love if you have matching necklaces. And eww! the FaceTime thing.

https://www.etonline.com/kristen-doute-reveals-when-ariana-madix-discovered-tom-sandovals-affair-with-raquel-leviss-200541#taboola_organic

While I’ve vowed to never lay eyes on the worst human being in the world again, I might make an exception. He’s perfect for this.

I didn’t hear this interview, but Andy is right. I write questions for celebrity interviews, and do a lot of homework. I can’t stand when it’s obvious that an interviewer doesn’t know their subject at all. So unprofessional

https://www.etonline.com/andy-cohen-roasts-howie-mandel-for-tom-sandoval-interview-says-he-didnt-watch-vanderpump-rules

Howie tries to stay relevant.

🐉 More Thrones Please…

Even though I have yet to watch all the Dragon episodes, but I’m here for this.

https://ew.com/tv/game-of-thrones-prequel-knight-of-the-seven-kingdoms-the-hedge-knight-series-order/

✈️ Little Did He Know…

This is too funny.

https://people.com/travel/rainn-wilson-video-seatmate-watching-the-office-next-to-him-on-flight/

🐕 The Latest In God’s Best Invention…

She doesn’t look real. Animation come to life.

https://people.com/pets/snoopy-look-alike-bayley-mini-sheepadoodle/

I would be terrified to own this little nugget, but I sure would love to hold her for a hot minute.

https://people.com/pets/pearl-chihuahua-named-worlds-shortest-dog-guinness-world-records/

🐦 Quotes of the Week

The elevator to success is out of order. You’ll have to use the stairs… one step at a time.Joe Girard

Learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears, and never regrets. – Leonardo Da Vinci

The most effective way to do it is to do it. – Amelia Earhart

Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity. – Henry van Dyke

Opinion is the medium between knowledge and ignorance. – Plato

That’s what technology does. It means well, then it ruins your life. – Jen (Krista Marie Yu), Last Man Standing

Honesty is the 1st chapter in the book of wisdom. – Thomas Jefferson

If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down. – Mary Pickford

You’re voted guilty, sh*thead. – Margaret Josephs, The Real Housewives of New Jersey

In a world where you can be anything, be kind. – Jennifer Dukes Lee

Not the Weakest Link…

Join me again on Monday really Tuesday for soap, some Sailing, and the House that won’t go away. Until then, stay safe, stay fighting for the underdog, and stay being a good friend by sometimes letting them come to you.

April 7, 2023 – A Surprise Guest Crashes the Ball, New Life, Bad Cop, Joisey Tawk, Daisy’s Pick, House Spin, VanderChatter, Happy Place, Exactly Eleven Quotes & Sun

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Valentin brings Victor the necklace, and Victor says, finally; that’s more like it. He whips out his jeweler’s loupe and checks it out, saying, to think they could have done this together, father and son. Instead, he’s had to choose another heir to carry on the Cassadine name. Valentin’s betrayal broke his heart, so he thinks it’s only fair he return the favor. He shoots Anna, who slumps to the floor.

The audience applauds the magic act, even though Obrecht disappeared and never came back. Molly says, Georgie and James were so adorable, but where did Obrecht go?

Esme watches the Nurses Ball at Laura’s apartment, bouncing Ace on her knee.

Backstage, Nina asks Maxie where Georgie and James are, and Maxie says, in the dressing room. Georgie is trying to figure out what went wrong, and James keeps insisting magic is real. Nina asks, what happened? Did Aunt Liesl get stuck or something? Maxie says, that’s the mystery. Liesl vanished from the vanishing cabinet.

Bobbie tells the audience not to go anywhere. The next act is the act they’ve all been waiting for, and they don’t want to miss it. The audience applauds, and the bracelet bodyguard asks Sasha where Gladys is. Sasha says, she was here a second ago. Maybe she went to the ladies room? We see Gladys sneaking around backstage, sans bracelet.

Josslyn asks if Trina is still upset that Spencer talked to Dex like that, and Trina says, Josslyn was pretty annoyed with him too. Josslyn says she’s still furious, but she’s not dating him.

Sam says, Spencer is brooding at the bar. Is he just being a Cassadine, or did something actually happen? He says he blew it with Trina – again.

Gladys comes back to the ballroom, and Sasha says, the bodyguard was looking for her. Gladys wonders if a lady can’t powder her nose in peace, when Sasha asks, where’s the bracelet?

Victor leaves with his goons, and Valentin runs to Anna. She tells him to go after Victor.

Gladys says, a bazillion dollar piece of jewelry has just been stolen, but Sasha says, it probably just fell off. Look around. The bodyguard comes back while they’re looking, and asks, what’s wrong? Where’s the bracelet? Gladys says, that’s what she’s trying to tell Sasha; somebody stole it. Sasha says, maybe it’s just missing. Maybe the clasp broke. The bodyguard asks, when was the last time she thought she had it? and Gladys flashes back to putting it in Cody’s tux pocket backstage. She says she doesn’t remember, and just prays they find it soon.

Trina tells Josslyn, it’s not just the way Spencer spoke to Dex. It’s like he went out of his way to pick a fight. Josslyn says, maybe he’s just being an entitled jerk. He’s overcompensating for his own insecurities by lording his imaginary status over those who actually work for a living. Trina says, but he wanted to do better. She really believes that. Spencer was lashing out, and Dex was the nearest target. Something’s going on with him. Josslyn says, like what? and Trina says she doesn’t know, but she’s going to find out. She’s not letting Spencer hide this from her anymore.

Obviously in pain, Anna struggles to breathe. She tells Valentin, if his father gets away, they’ll never find him, but Valentin says he’s got to get her to a hospital. He calls 9-1-1.

Walking into the Haunted Star, Victor tells Watkins, that was nice work with Miss Devane. Watkins provided just enough incentive to get his son to talk. Watkins says, it’s Victor’s new strategy, and Victor says, and an effective one, if he does say so himself. He asks if Watkins has followed up on Holly Sutton, and Watkins says, she’s still listed as a patient in the Swiss burn unit, but she’s not there. She doesn’t have a room, she’s not being treated. There’s no patient there matching her description, so she’s not using an alias. Victor says, all the more proof that fire was a ruse. Miss Sutton has been looking for her son when she should have been recovering. Watkins asks if Victor wants them to move him, and Victor says, in a manner of speaking. It’s time to offload Ethan Lovett… at a profit. Victor’s phone rings, and he says, when it rains… taking it out of his pocket. He asks if they’ve found Lucy Coe… He wants her home, the PCPD, and the MetroCourt under constant surveillance. That’s probably where she’s going to run to. She’s one of their remaining loose ends – he messes with the necklace as he talks – he needs to have tied up, now that he has everything he wants.

Gladys wonders who would steal the bracelet, and at a charity even no less, but Sasha suggests Gladys retrace her steps. Did she leave the ballroom, other than going to the bathroom? Gladys says, she’s been here the whole… wait… she went backstage to tell Maxie what a great job she’s doing. The bodyguard asks if she talked to anyone else when she went backstage, and Gladys says, now that he mentions it, she did see Cody Bell.

From the stage, Maxie asks for everyone’s attention. They have another anniversary to celebrate. Ten years ago today, at the 2013 Nurses Ball, there was a performance that not only brought down the house, it set this place on fire. It’s been a few years since we’ve seen them, but they are now back. She’s so happy to introduce The Magic Wands. The Magic Wands, including Milo, and is that Yuri? dance to Devil in Disguise, going out into the audience and back, and ending with showing the audience Nurses Ball 2023 on their behinds. The dancing is pretty good, with some unknown dudes doing a lot of flips and old school break dancing.

Backstage, Maxie tells Milo, once again, he blew the room away. He says, the guys were really good, but she says, every football team needs a quarterback, and every heart-stopping, jaw dropping all male review needs a centerpiece, and that’s obviously him. Some little girl runs through, nearly colliding with them, and Milo says, break a leg. She looks at him, and he says, that means good luck. She gives him a thumbs up. I can see no conceivable reason for this scene, so I’m wondering, who is this kid related to? Maxie says, her performance is going to be darling, which reminds her, she has to tend to the performers. She thanks Milo for coming, and he thanks her for having him. He leaves, and she says, now if she could only find Liesl. Nina walks in, and Maxie asks if she’s seen Liesl. Nina says, no, and this is ridiculous. She knows she has a bone marrow harvest tomorrow.

Laura comes home, and asks if the Nurses Ball is still on. Is Esme enjoying the show? Esme says, there’s certainly a lot of local talent on display. She asks if it happens every year, and Laura says, almost. She loves how their community comes together to raise money for a good cause. Esme says, it certainly seems like everybody… yes, and Laura says, Ace looks a little bit tired. She reaches for him, and Esme says, don’t touch him.

Sonny comes backstage, and Nina tells him that they can’t find Obrecht. Maxie says, they questioned Georgie, James, the stage managers, but everybody says the same thing. Liesl stepped inside the disappearing cabinet, and never stepped out. Sonny asks how it works, and as he looks it over, Maxie says, there’s a false back that the assistant hides behind to disappear. Then they slide back to reappear. He says, there’s a trapdoor at the bottom? Is there a trap door on the stage? Nina says she’s not sure, and Maxie says she’ll text the stage manager. Nina says, maybe she fell through the trap door. Aunt Liesl could be hurt. They all walk out.

Spencer asks Trina to tell him that he hasn’t screwed up the best thing that’s happened to him. Can they talk please? She says, okay. Tell her, what is going on with him?

Felicia fans herself, and Robert asks what she thought of Magic Milo. Mac says, those Magic Wands have her all flustered, and she says she’s not apologizing for enjoying the act, but the one who always gets her flustered is her Mac. Robert says his brother’s a very fortunate man, and Mac says, doesn’t he know it.

TJ comes back to the table after getting out of his Magic Wand skivvies, and Molly says, he was so good. He says, the things he does for charity, and she says, what about her sacrifice? She had to share him with a ballroom of thirsty women. He says, okay, the things she does for charity, and they kiss.

The bodyguard says, the bracelet’s been found, and Gladys asks, where was it? The bodyguard says, one of the people in wardrobe found it when she was moving some clothes. It fell out of a tux pocket. Gladys says she told them it was stolen, and Sasha says she can’t believe someone would actually do this. Who was it? Cody comes in and asks if anyone’s seen his… What’s going on?

Victor’s messenger, now dressed in sweats, comes onto the Haunted Star, and tells Victor, everything went fine on his end. Victor says, excellent. Now he wants messenger guy to check the state rooms; make sure they’re appropriately prepared for their guests. He asks if Tobias is back, but messenger guy says, there’s been a complication.

Valentin tells Anna, please stay awake, and she says, if anything happens… He says, nothing is going to happen, but she says she’s glad they found each other. He says he doesn’t know how he got so lucky, and she says, he’s a good man. He says he doesn’t know about that. He thinks there are plenty who would disagree with her. She says, they don’t know him like she does. They don’t know his heart like she does. He says, she knows him better than anyone, and she says she loves him. He says, and he loves her, and he hears the sirens in the distance. She starts to fade, and he calls her name.

Esme says she’s sorry. She didn’t mean to snap at Laura like that. Laura says, that’s okay. Esme knows she’d never hurt the baby, right? Esme says, of course (🍷) she knows that. Did Laura ever hate leaving her kids out of her sight for even a second? Laura says she has, and Esme says she feels like everyone is making some claim on Ace, and he’s all she’s got. Laura says she understands, but babies pick up on the emotions of people around them. How does Esme think her constant anxiety is going to affect him? Esme says she’d never hurt her son, and Laura says she knows that; that’s not what she meant. Laura’s phone rings, and she says she has to get this. She answers, Laura Collins…  Oh my God… Where is she?… Okay, she’ll be right there. She tells Esme that she’s sorry, but she has to go right now. They’ll talk later. She rushes out.

Spencer says he’s sorry about what happened with Dex, and Trina says, sorry because he treated Dex like dirt, or sorry because she’s disappointed? He says he’s sorry he upset her. That’s the last thing he wants to do. She says, he does know that’s the wrong answer, and he says, Dex is not a good guy. Whatever is going on with him and Josslyn… She says, is none of his business. He says, Cam is his best friend, so it is his business, but she says, Cam is in California, living his dream, and that is not the reason he went after Dex. Spencer was spoiling for a fight, and Dex was there. And Spencer knew Dex works for his uncle and wasn’t going to fight back. That is the definition of a coward. He says, she’s right. He’s sorry. He’s trying to do better. She asks if he means that, and he says, of course (🍷) he does. She says, good. Apologize to Dex. His phone rings, and he sees it’s Victor. She asks if he’s really going to answer the phone right now.

Robert’s phone rings, and he says he’ll meet them at the hospital.

The bodyguard asks if that’s Cody Bell, and Gladys says, that’s him. Cody says, or the guy could just ask him, and the bodyguard asks if this is his jacket. Cody says, all tuxes look the same, and the bodyguard asks, so where’s Cody’s? Cody says, it went missing when he was on stage, so it may or may not be his. What’s going on? Sasha asks, did he maybe find a bracelet on the floor, and put it in his pocket for safekeeping so he could return it later? Cody says, no, and the bodyguard asks, then why was it found in his pocket? Gladys says, because he stole it, but Cody says, if it was in his pocket, it’s because someone else put it there. Maxie blows through, and asks them to take this conversation elsewhere. She’s trying to put on a show. Sasha says she’s sure they can clear this up, but Cody says, there’s nothing to clear up. He has nothing to do with the bracelet, but the bracelet’s back, so no harm no foul. He starts to walk away, but the bodyguard stops him, and Mac walks in. Mac asks, what’s going on here? and the bodyguard tells Mac, arrest this man.

Dex and Josslyn make eyes at each other, when Sonny calls Dex over. Dex asks, what’s up? and Sonny says, they have a problem.

Cody says this is a mistake, and the bodyguard says, a million-dollar bracelet was found in his jacket pocket. Cody says, but he didn’t steal it. Mac has to believe him. Mac says he’s just following the evidence, and Cody says, Sasha please. Gladys says, this guy’s been hanging around her all night, insinuating himself with her daughter-in-law. Following her, and apparently casing her so he could strike at the perfect moment. Does Cody deny following her in here? Cody says he doesn’t deny it, and Mac says, so he admits to following Gladys.

Trina says, they’re right in the middle of something, but Spencer says he’s sorry. It’s his Uncle Victor. He has to. He steps away, and says, yes, uncle? Victor says, it took him long enough, and Spencer says, sorry about that. Now’s not a good time. Victor says, it doesn’t matter. Does Spencer want to get his brother away from Esme? Spencer says, Victor knows he does, and Victor says, then come to the Haunted Star immediately, and tell no one.

Laura walks into the hospital, and asks Valentin, where’s Anna? He says, she’s in there, pointing, and Laura asks, what happened? He says, Victor shot Anna in the abdomen. Robert comes out of the elevator, and Valentin says, the bullet’s still inside of her. She coded in the ambulance – he starts to cry – but they were able to bring her back. Laura says, Anna is very strong; she will make it through this. Robert asks where Victor is now, but Valentin says he doesn’t know. He got away. Laura asks, what about Lucy? Where is she? Valentin says, she was able to get out of the house, but he doesn’t know where she is now.

Slipping into the Ball backstage area, Lucy says, if she can just find Mac and tell him that Victor found the safehouse. A muscley dude comes up behind her with a gun, and says, don’t move. She turns around, and muscle man says, if she screams, he’ll shoot her. She says she’d really rather he didn’t, and he says, good. Let’s go. She says, this is just a whole case of mistaken identity… Actually, it’s not, but she’s not a spy. She doesn’t know how to decode anything… He tries to grab her arm, and she says, one thing she does know how to do its this, and kneecaps him. He doubles over, holding his knee, and she runs.

Robert tells Laura, when Valentin called from the ambulance, he said Anna had been shot. Did he offer any other details? She says, Valentin didn’t call her; the hospital did. Robert says, when? He was under the impression Anna and Valentin arrived at the hospital… She says, right before her. She asks Valentin if Victor gave any clue as to what his next move might be, and Valentin says, he only said he’d chosen a new heir. Robert wonders what he meant by that, when the doctor comes out. Valentin asks, how’s Anna?

Accompanied by messenger guy, Spencer walks into the Haunted Star, and says, so this is where Victor is staying. Victor says, it suits his current needs. Did Spencer tell anyone he was coming here? Spencer says, no. He followed Victor’s instructions to the letter. So tell him, what’s happening with Ace? Is everything all right? Victor asks why it wouldn’t be, and Spencer says, when they spoke this afternoon, Victor told him to sit tight. Has something changed? Is there something Victor needs him to do?

Nina tells Sonny that Obrecht’s bag is still in the dressing room, her car is still in the garage, and no one’s seen her. Dex comes in, and says, no sign of Dr. Obrecht, and Nina says, she’s scheduled to have that stem cell transplant tomorrow. Willow cannot wait, and if Aunt Liesl is missing, or if she’s hurt somewhere… Sonny says, they’re going to find her Aunt Liesl, and everything’s going to be fine, and he holds Nina.

Mac says, so Cody admits to following Gladys tonight, and Cody says, yes, he followed her, but not to steal some bracelet. Mac asks what reason he’d have. How does Cody even know Gladys? Cody says he and Gladys have crossed paths a few times, and Gladys says, there’s no big mystery here. Cody saw that bracelet on her wrist, and thought it was an easy payday. Mac asks if Cody has anything else to say, and Cody says, he didn’t steal the bracelet. He guarantees his fingerprints aren’t on it. Gladys says, that doesn’t prove anything. You can wipe off fingerprints, and I oughtta know. Mac puts handcuffs on Cody, and tells him his rights.

Jordan says she knows TJ and Molly are still in the trying stage, but can she probably expect a grandchild within the year? TJ says, they’re still in the seltzer solidarity stage. They have a long way to go. Jordan says, they’re two of the most efficient people she knows. It probably won’t take too long. Her phone rings, and she says, ugh. It’s the station. She steps away to take the call.

On the phone, Jordan says, Anna Devane’s at GH?

The doctor says, they’ve prepped Miss Devane for surgery to remove the bullet, and Robert asks, how bad? The doctor says, she’s critical, but they’re trying to keep her blood pressure up enough to affect her organs, including her brain. Gunshots can create considerable damage from the bullet fragmenting. They won’t know the extent of the damage until they’re inside, and can assess what they’re dealing with. He leaves, and Laura says she has to make a call. She goes down the hall, and says, come on, Esme, pick up.

Felicia runs into the hospital, and asks Valentin what the doctors said. Robert says, this is your fault, Cassadine. She wouldn’t be in this state if it wasn’t for you. Felicia says, stop it. Did Valentin shoot Anna or did Victor? Don’t take this out on Valentin. Valentin says, Robert’s right. Victor shot Anna to hurt him. This is all his fault.

Lucy tries a door on the next landing, but it’s locked. She squeals, and turns around, but muscle man is there, and says, it looks like she has nowhere to go. She says, he has great big muscles, and a tiny little gun… but she has this. She pulls down a boa from a costume box, and starts smacking him with it. As he’s dodging the feathers, Sonny comes up behind him, hitting him with a large cane. He drops, and Sonny says, a boa? Really? Lucy shrugs.

Mac asks if Cody understands his rights, and Cody says he always does. Mac starts to take him away, when Sam runs in, and asks, what’s going on? Cody says, it’s a frame-up. This time, he’s innocent. Mac leads him away, with the bodyguard following.

Carly takes the stage, introduces herself, and says she doesn’t work at GH, but her mother is an integral part of the hospital. She asks Bobbie to come out, and everyone cheers. Bobbie says, for the few who don’t know her, this is Barbara Jean Spencer; she’s nursing officer at General Hospital. More cheers, and Carly says, they’re not just celebrating General Hospital’s 60th year, they’re celebrating Bobbie. This beautiful woman has been helping people and saving their lives for the past 45 years. What makes General Hospital so special is its people; the passion and tradition of helping communities and making the world a better place. No one embodies that more than her mother, Nurse Bobbie Spencer. More applause and cheers, and Bobbie flashes back to when she was practically a baby nurse; telling Monica her cancer prognosis; giving BJ’s heart to Maxie – I remember that, and even though I had no investment in the storyline, it made me cry anyway; with Laura; giving Elizabeth the morning after pill when she was raped, even though she wasn’t authorized to do it; threatening to bitch slap Tracy to the Canadian border; making peace with Carly. Carly says, she is a consummate healer, infinitely kind and loyal to those she loves, and equally fierce to her adversaries. Carly should know; she’s been both. Bobbie found Carly when she was at her worst, and loved her until she was her best. And she’s not the only one.  That’s what she does to anyone whose life she touches. That’s what Nurse Bobbie Spencer does for General Hospital. Bobbie is given a standing ovation.

Sonny asks if Lucy is okay, and she says she’s not dead. He says he can see that. Good for her. She says, thanks to him, and he says he does what he can. How can he help her? He holds out his hand, and she steps over muscle man. She tells Sonny that she has this really important errand, but what does she do with… She looks at muscle man, and Sonny says he’ll take care of it. She thanks him, kisses him on the cheek, says, ta! and dashes out.

Victor says, Spencer’s already done his part. He called on Spencer, and voila! Here he is. Spencer says, so now… what? He hears something, and asks, what’s that? Victor asks if he doesn’t recognize the sound of ship’s engines, and Spencer asks, what’s going on?

Laura sees a pacifier in the hallway outside her apartment, and picks it up. She lets herself in, and the place has been tossed. Esme lies unconscious on the floor, and there’s no Ace. Laura says, oh my God.

Jordan says, she was told Valentin died in Paris, and Valentin says, the reports of his death are… exaggerated. She says, clearly. Here he is. Meanwhile, she has reports of multiple shots fired at a house in a quiet suburban neighborhood, and now one of her best friends is fighting for her life. So why doesn’t he tell her what the hell is going on. He says his father shot Anna, and she asks, where is Victor? Valentin says he doesn’t know, but he does know, whatever insane plot Victor is hatching is going to be unleashed on them very soon. They have to stop him.

Bobbie thanks Carly for the beautiful and unexpected tribute. It’s an honor. And it’s also an honor to be involved with General Hospital’s first 60 years. She’s also been given another honor this evening; the chance to speak about Lucy Coe. The curtains part, and there’s a giant photo of Lucy. Bobbie says, it might seem counterintuitive that she’s up here, because she and Lucy were never friends. She and Lucy were tearing each other’s hair out – Lucy arrives backstage, and listens – long before the word frenemies was even invented. Lucy came to town dressed as a librarian, and seduced the man Bobbie loved. That was only the beginning. Lucy lied. Lucy cheated. She even married a Quartermaine. Backstage, Lucy says, Bobbie’s one to talk. She started off by lying to Laura that she slept with Scotty. Lucy heads up the stairs to the stage, and Bobbie says, somewhere along the way, in 1994 to be exact, Lucy shocked everyone, especially her, by discovering a passion for giving. Lucy finagled herself a place as Mistress of Ceremonies at the very first Nurses Ball, and it transformed her. All of that willfulness, all of that guile, the conniving, the deceit, the vanity… In the wings, Lucy says, vanity? Bobbie’s red hair hasn’t been natural for a hundred years. Bobbie says, Lucy cajoled, she arm twisted, she blackmailed to get all of them there, either onstage or in the audience the first year, and many years thereafter. From 1994 to the early 2000s, and 2013 to the present, the General Hospital Nurses Ball has raised millions of dollars for HIV and AIDS related charities. She turns to the photo, and says, and Lucy Coe was the leader, the inspiration, and yes, the relentless nag that made it all happen. Lucy Coe isn’t here tonight, but none of us would be here… Lucy stomps toward the stage, but slips on something on the floor, and busts right through her photo, faceplanting. Everyone is shocked, and Lucy gets up. She says, what the hell did Bobbie call her? Bobbie says, she’s alive, and Lucy says she’s back. Deal with it. Bobbie says, welcome home, and moves to hug Lucy, but Lucy backs away. The audience gives Lucy a standing ovation, which is only fair.

On Monday, Portia thinks something wasn’t such a great idea; Victor says he’s not abducting Spencer, he’s saving Spencer; and Carly asks Nina where the hell Obrecht is.

✈️ From Across the Pond…

She took a big step, but we only regret the things we don’t do. Or so  they say.

🚓 At Least He’s Honest…

I wouldn’t want to be a patient at the hospital either. The security there leaves a lot to be desired.

👠 Really, We’re Good…

This sounds like as good of an explanation as any.

So, are we good?

⛵️ Green Is Not His Color…

Gary wouldn’t have been just a step down from Colin. More like several stories.

🏖 Desire To Be Awful…

Actually, it remains to be seen whether this show will rival the Hamptons in immaturity, but I trust nothing after seeing a 40-year-old in a mullet.

🍸 Don’t Leave Home Without It…

Reunion prep.

I don’t know about must see. I doubt it will get the show any new viewers, but for those already watching, it adds a fresh level of interest.

https://www.avclub.com/scandoval-has-made-vanderpump-rules-must-see-tv-1850280936

And how is LVP friends with this guy?

https://www.aol.com/entertainment/steve-o-calls-scandoval-greatest-215315189.html

Schwartz’s word salad.

https://jezebel.com/andy-cohen-tom-schwartz-tom-sandoval-raquel-leviss-scan-1850306803

🦩 And In This Corner…

What more do we need when we have pets and Barbie?

https://people.com/pets/drew-barrymore-loves-7-pets-4-cats-exclusive/

I so can’t wait for this film.

https://ew.com/movies/dua-lipa-joins-barbie-movie-posters/

🐣 Quotes of the Week

You have the need and the right to spend part of your life caring for your soul. It is not easy…To be a soulful person means to go against all the pervasive, prove-yourself values of our culture and instead treasure what is unique and internal and valuable in yourself and your own personal evolution. – Jean Shinoda Bolen

For those who fight for it, life has a flavor the sheltered will never know. –Wise Man (Scott Glenn), Sucker Punch

Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. – Robert Louis Stevenson

On Love: Even while we kill and punish we must try to feel about the enemy as we feel about ourselves—to wish that he were not bad, to hope that he may, in this world or another, be cured: in fact, to wish his good. That is what is meant in the Bible by loving him: wishing his good, not feeling fond of him nor saying he is nice when he is not. – C.S. Lewis, from Mere Christianity

A river cuts through a rock not because of its power but its persistence. – Jim Watkins

Accept me, Lord, as I am, and make me such as thou wouldst have me to be. – Mary Livingstone, African missionary

Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes. – Oscar Wilde

Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.Arthur Ashe

Never let the future disturb you. You will meet it, if you have to, with the same weapons of reason which today arm you against the present. – Marcus Aurelius

A wise man can learn more from a foolish question than a fool can learn from a wise answer. – Bruce Lee

Though force can protect in emergency, only justice, fairness, consideration, and cooperation can finally lead men to the dawn of eternal peace. – Dwight D. Eisenhower

🐇 Hippity Hopping Down the Bunny Trail…

A Happy Holiday to all celebrating both Passover and Easter (aka Resurrection Sunday). After the festivities, stop in on Monday really Tuesday for soap, setting sail, and the original awful Housemates. Until then, stay safe; stay taking a spring break, even if it’s only in your mind; and stay never overcompensating for your insecurities by lording your imaginary status over those who actually work for a living. In other words, don’t be an entitled jerk.

March 31, 2023 – Nurses Ball Prep, Ball Preview, Uneven, Awful Eric, Back Then, Go Already, Rankings, Bad Business, Scandovaling, New House, Dead Talk, 90 Match, Pup (!), Half a Dozen Quotes & Because

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Anna says, they never should have let Eileen go without wearing a wire, but Valentin says, it’s not like they had a choice. She refused to go otherwise. She was just supposed to drop off the counterfeit necklace and get out of there. Anna says, she pushed her luck. Now she’s dead. Drew says, assuming Victor killed her, and Valentin says he doesn’t think the Deputy Mayor went swimming fully clothed. The real question is, how much information did she give up before he killed her? Anna says, she couldn’t have told Victor where they are; she didn’t really know. Drew says, either way, they can’t stay here. It’s not safe. Valentin says, they’ve got to get out of here, but Sonny says, if they leave now, they’ll be signing their death warrants.

Lucy gets her popcorn ready, and turns on the TV. Reporter George says, we’re here at the MetroCourt hotel, when in just a matter of a few hours, the curtain will rise on Port Charles’s benefit of the year, the annual General Hospital Nurses Ball. Lucy looks wistful. And adding to the significance of this year’s ball, is the hospital’s 60th anniversary. It’s safe to say, tonight is a can’t miss event. Lucy says she’s missing the can’t miss event, and George says, with us now is the co-chair of the Nurses Ball Planning Committee, Maxie Jones. He asks Maxie what it’s like being part of this spectacular event, and she says, it’s been an honor planning this night’s festivities. The Nurses Ball is known for philanthropy, and entertainment; their contribution to GH’s 60 years of caring for the community will be talked about for years to come. George asks how it’s been, organizing this even without the guidance of the late Lucy Coe, who was known of course (🍷) as the force behind previous Balls, and Maxie says, Lucy is irreplaceable, and tonight is dedicated to her. She believes Lucy is with them in spirit, trusting her, and her co-chair Bobby Spencer, to make her proud. George says, on that note, there has been some backstage buzz. What does she think Miss Coe would make of the talk there’s been a hiccup in tonight’s acts? Lucy gets up, the popcorn bowl falling from her lap, and says, what hiccup?

Near a bench in the park, Spencer thanks Victor for meeting him, and Victor says, anything for him. Mystery man skulks around, and Victor asks if he’s to understand from this that Spencer is willing to do what needs to be done. Spencer says he’s not willing to sit back and let Esme call the shots. She was less than cooperative when they took Ace to the hospital. Victor asks if anything is wrong with the baby, but Spencer says, according to the doctor, Ace has cholic, and it’s nothing serious. Grandmother thinks they should be patient, exercise caution, and gain Esme’s trust. He’s done waiting. Victor says he needs to hear Spencer say it. He needs to hear Spencer say the actual words. Spencer says, let’s move forward with your plan. Esme must be dealt with.

Esme comes out of the exam room to see Ava coming out of the elevator. Ava says, hello, and Esme says she hasn’t seen Ava since… Ava says, since the night Esme’s lovely parents held her hostage, but Esme tells her, she was going to say, since the night she went into labor and gave birth to this guy. Ava says, what’s his name? and Esme tells her, Ace. Ava says, he looks like his father… my husband.

Carly strides into the gatehouse, seeing Willow on the sofa, and Nina standing over her, saying, please, answer me. Carly asks, what the hell happened?

Maxie laughs, and tells George, there are always hiccups for any live performance, and their performers and team members behind the scenes at the Nurses Ball are committed to executing tonight flawlessly, and giving a performance that’s worthy of it’s reputation. He asks if she’s found a dancer to replace the one that dropped out of the popular Magic Wands act, and she says, Dex Heller has agreed to step in, and he’s going to be great. George says he’s sure, but he was referring to the latest vacancy – the one yet to be filled. Lucy wonders, who dropped out? She doesn’t even know who’s in. She kicks the popcorn bowl, sending kernels everywhere, and says, the Nurses Ball is toast.

Maxie says she doesn’t know where George is getting his backstage buzz, but she guarantees tonight’s Nurses Ball will be the best yet. She thanks him for his time, tells him that he looks very nice, and jets.

Lucy makes a call, and says, Maxie, pick up the phone. She gets voicemail, and hangs up. She says, this is not what they’d said they’d do. Not what they’d planned. And she’d better answer the phone. Lucy calls again.

Nina says she was just asking Willow if she needed to call an ambulance, and Willow says she’s fine, really. Carly asks what Nina is doing here, and Nina says she was dropping off a care package of Deception products for Willow. She was putting it at the front door, and Willow asked her in. Willow says, to tell her that the bone marrow transplant’s a go, and Nina says she heard it from Aunt Liesl, but hearing it from Willow is wonderful. Carly says, Willow’s very generous, and Nina says, she is, and she doesn’t need Carly jumping to the wrong conclusions. Carly says she thinks she’s in a better position to know what Willow needs than Nina.

Esme says she heard Ava divorced Nikolas, and Ava says, he was her husband when Esme conceived their child. Esme says she doesn’t regret having Ace, but she’s sorry about what happened, and Ava says, what about everything else she did? Setting fire to Ava’s car, leaving behind a hospital ID belonging to her late daughter. Framing Trina Robinson. Those things didn’t just happen. Esme says, if those allegations are true from the old Esme, it’s some truly awful acts, and Ava says, referring to herself in the third person. How grandiose. Esme says she’s no longer that Esme Prince. Does Ava think it’s easy, constantly apologizing for some person she used to be? Ava knows nothing about that. Ava says, they’re all judged by their worst mistakes. It can be possible to overcome them. Esme asks if Ava has ever had to live with someone who constantly reminds her of all the wrong things she’s done. Spencer thinks he can’t forgive her past, and he thinks she’s a liar, and that Nikolas is some deadbeat runaway dad. Ava says, Spencer is basing his impressions on his experience. His father is not here for him, or for Esme’s baby. She’s truly sorry that Nikolas isn’t here to help Esme raise her child. Esme says she’s not. As far as she’s concerned, he can stay gone. She walks off with Ace.

Victor says, the last time he and Spencer met to discuss the Esme dilemma, Spencer was loathe to employ alternative tactics. What changed his mind? Spencer says, Esme mentioned getting a job. When she’s got a little bit of money saved up, she’s going to move out; maybe move on. He’s not sure about leaving the country, but he thinks she can legally leave the state, and he doesn’t love the idea of this brother being 2000 miles away from him. Victor says, Spencer may not have a choice, especially if Esme manages to acquire a veneer of respectability, and Spencer says, a judge may buy it, and look on Esme favorably when granting custody of her son. Ace is his brother. Victor says, and he’s willing to try this less than orthodox route? and Spencer nods. Victor says, Spencer shouldn’t hesitate for a second to prioritize the welfare of his baby brother. Should they talk about broad strokes? Spencer says, here? and Victor asks if he has a problem. Spencer says he’s used to meeting at the MetroCourt, but Victor says, that’s not possible, and Spencer says, why not? Why are they meeting here?

Sonny says, it’s too risky to make a move now, but Valentin says, it’s too risky to stay here. Victor’s already left the MetroCourt; he could be on his way here. Sonny says, give him time to make arrangements for a new place. When it’s safe, he’ll get them. They only want to relocate once. Valentin says he knows how to disappear, and Anna says, they have Lucy with them. Drew says, Eileen definitely didn’t know the location? and Anna says she doesn’t know. They were very careful about this, and took every precaution. She was blindfolded, they took different routes to get here, the phone was switched off. She doesn’t know what to say. Valentin says, it’s not impossible that she picked up some information she gave to Victor. Are they willing to risk their lives finding his father before his father finds them?

George tells Maxie, good luck, and she thanks him for all the Nurses Ball support. He leaves, and Felicia says, congratulations. She really kept her cool with that reporter. Maxie tells her, Lucy always says, never let them see you sweat, and Felicia wonders how he knew there was another Magic Wands drop out. Maxie says, before she did? She wishes she knew who was blabbing backstage. Who is she kidding? She knows it’s Amy Driscoll. That girl is so sweet, and has a killer voice, but she couldn’t be discreet to save her life. Felicia says, Maxie has bigger problems, like finding a Magic Wands replacement, when Maxie’s phone rings. She sees her phone says, crazy person, do not answer, and says, and maintaining her sanity.

Leaving a message, Lucy says she knows Maxie sent the call right to voicemail, and that’s not the deal they had… Never mind. She hangs up, and says, why does she even bother? She throws the phone down, and says, okay. Deep breath… and eat a gummi… Deep breath, and eat a gummi. She puts a gummi bear in her mouth, and says, mmm. You’re overreacting. So Bobbie and Maxie are going to be just fine. They know exactly what they’re doing and the Nurses Ball is fine. It’s in good hands. She turns and says, it’s not. You’re the only one who has the connections. You’re the one with the imagination. And they need you. She eats another gummi bear, and makes a call. She says she needs a car, and they can put it on the Deception Cosmetics account… They don’t need an address. Have the driver meet her at the corner of Marigold and Chestnut. She’ll be the striking woman in the fake fur coat… and tell them to hurry please. Ta! Wow. Deception’s car service isn’t too discriminating. No money, no name, no address, from an unknown number, and she’s getting a ride.

Carly says, Nina knows about the transplant and dropped off the care package. As she can see, Willow’s really weak. Willow says, it took her forever to settle Amelia for her nap, and Carly suggests she rest. Willow says she will, when Michael and Wiley come back from the store.  They’re getting snacks for when they watch the Nurses Ball pre-show. Carly says, why doesn’t she nap until then? She can show Nina out, and wait for Michael and Wiley. Nina asks if that isn’t for Willow to decide.

Anna says she has to make a couple of calls. Robert’s going to know by now that Eileen is dead, but Felicia may not be aware. Sonny says, tell them to stay away, and after he and Drew leave, no more visitors. Drew says, Sonny’s right. What’s most important now is not risking more exposure.

Victor says, spring has sprung in all its glory. Doesn’t Spencer appreciate the fresh air? Spencer says he should have brought his binoculars so they could birdwatch, and Victor says, Spencer must be relieved to be rid of the stultifying air of his grandmother’s apartment, and Spencer says, Victor Cassadine, nature enthusiast. Will wonders never cease? Victor says, Spencer can mock, but he really appreciates all the park has to offer. Besides, it’s really more secure than the MetroCourt, particularly now that it’s teeming with guests for the Nurses Ball. Spencer still thinks they should have met in Victor’s suite, but what are the next steps in getting his brother away from Esme? Victor says, they need to find evidence in all the dormant cases against Esme; evidence compelling enough to force the District Attorney to prosecute her. (Really? This is the guy with the big plan, and that’s all he can think up?) Spencer asks what Victor needs from him, but Victor says, just sit still. Leave it to him. If Spencer’s father had trusted him, they wouldn’t be in this mess, would they?

Ava asks if Esme is sure she’s not upset that Nikolas is out of the picture. At the very least he could have helped her out financially. Esme says, Nikolas didn’t want to help. Actually, he tried to get her to sign away the rights to her son. Nikolas came to Spring Ridge, all smiles and sweet words, and paperwork to legally strip her of her parental rights. She and Ace are better off without him. As far as she can see, so is Ava. Ava says, Esme doesn’t know anything about her marriage to Nikolas, and Esme says, she knows that Nikolas slept with her while married to Ava. Ava says, doesn’t she mean he slept with the old Esme? and Esme laughs, saying, touché. She knows she sounds insane, trying to distance herself from… herself, but she has changed. And she intends to do what she can to make up for the things she’s done. Ava says she’s glad to hear it. So how does Esme plan on making it up to her?

Willow asks how preparations for the Ball are going. Are Bobbie and Maxie losing their minds? Carly says, they insist that everything is under control, but she just got a text from Josslyn who said it was unorganized chaos, which is no one’s fault. Even if Lucy were still with them, she’d have a lot less time to prepare. The Ball is usually the last week in June or the second week of September. Nina says, she and Olivia had to do a lot of juggling to get the ballroom at such short notice, and Carly says she’s sure they did. Willow struggles to get up, and they both fuss over her, but she says she’s fine. She wants to do a little prep before showtime. Carly says, if she needs anything… Willow says, she’ll be sure to yell, and goes to the kitchen. Nina says, it breaks her heart seeing Willow try to appear normal, and Carly says she prays the bone marrow transplant goes well and is a success. Willow deserves all good things. Nina asks if it wouldn’t benefit Willow if they put aside their personal differences with each other, and presented a united front for Willow.

Maxie says, what about the one who works with Mac with the amazing arms? but Felicia says, he moved to Las Vegas two months ago to dance in an all-male review. Maxie says she should have been a career counselor, and Lucy slips in, wearing sunglasses and a faux fur coat. Felicia’s phone rings, and she says she has to take this, but don’t worry. They’ll think of someone. She leaves, and Maxie flips through a binder. Lucy comes up behind her, and says, no. Maxie yelps, and says, Lucy? Lucy says, shush, and Maxie asks what she’s doing here. Lucy says, what she was born to do, and Maxie puts her hand to her forehead.

Felicia says, dead? and Anna says, yeah. So as she can imagine, they’re reevaluating their safety measures. Felicia says, but Eileen couldn’t have told Victor their location because she didn’t know it. They were extremely careful. She had a blindfold and a bag over her head every single time they took her to the safehouse. They even confiscated her devices. Anna says she knows, but they have to err on the side of caution. They have to assume that Eileen told Victor that they’re all working together. To that end, no one can come to the safehouse in the next few days. Felicia says, they could be followed.

Victor tells Spencer, building a case against Esme will solve their problem, particularly if she’s basically friendless and without resources. He’s concerned Spencer doesn’t look convinced, and Spencer says, if Esme goes to prison, she’ll take his brother with her, but Victor says, only for the first eighteen months. Or would he rather wait until the boy’s too old to go with her to prison? But then he runs the risk of her suddenly deciding to take him with her and run to another state, or changing her name and both of them disappearing. It’s still his first choice to take Esme out of consideration altogether. Spencer says, no. His friends need to see justice done in the form of a trial and a guilty verdict. Victor says, fine. They’ll just have to find good enough evidence before Esme decides to leave town. Spencer says, let’s do that, and Victor says, but if they can’t find evidence compelling enough for the DA to rearrest Esme, he’s going to go with his first instinct. Whatever happens to Esme, baby Cassadine will remain in the family fold.

Esme asks how she can make it up to Ava, and Ava says, the change in her has to be genuine. Esme says, it is, and Ava says, and permanent. Esme tells Ava that she can’t say her memories will never come back, and Ava says, that’s why she can’t be trusted. She believes Esme really lost her memory, and she’s sorry for the ordeal Esme’s monstrous parents put her through. Esme even cares about her little baby. Esme says, but Ava still doesn’t trust her, and Ava says she’ll never forget what Esme did. She believes the old Esme, the one who delighted in inflicting pain on others, is still inside her, and Ava believes one day, she will come back. She doesn’t wish Esme ill, but the moment Esme remembers who she really is, she will recognize it, and she’ll finish what Esme started. Austin walks up, and asks if he’s interrupting something, but Ava says, no. She and Esme have said all they need to say. Esme asks if the bag he’s carrying is for her, and he says, it sure is. There are samples of the formula they talked about, and the probiotics. Call him if it’s not working, or if she has any questions. She thanks him for treating her son after everything that happened, and he says, his pleasure. Esme tells Ava that she knows Ava and Spencer don’t believe her, but she has changed… for good. All she wants is what’s best for her baby. She leaves, and Austin asks what Ava thinks. Does she believe people can change? She says she does… for the worse. Look at them. He asks what she means, and she says, they’re covering up a crime. He says, oh, that. He has a confession. He doesn’t always recycle. She says, normally, she would think that was funny, but nothing is normal. They’re constantly lying and looking over their shoulders, and there’s no end in sight. She just lied through her teeth to the wife of the Chief of Detectives.

Maxie pushes Lucy down the red carpet, and asks how she got here. Lucy says, the same way she got here the other night. She climbed out a window, walked a half a mile, and took a car. Maxie says, only cats have nine lives. Every time she escapes the safehouse, she increases her chances of getting caught. She heard what Anna said. If Victor Cassadine finds out, he’s not going to pretend to shoot her; he’s going to really shoot her. Lucy says, okay, but if Maxie would have just answered her texts, answered her phone calls, taken an email from her, she wouldn’t have had to risk her life. Maxie asks why she’s here, and Lucy says, she was watching the TV and saw Maxie talking to that reporter, and she came up with the perfect solution to Maxie’s Magic Wand conundrum. An older man with a cane hobbles up, and Maxie asks how she can help him, as Lucy quickly turns away. He says he has lunch plans with his niece, but the garden patio’s deserted, and Maxie says, the garden patio is closed today for a special event, but the MetroCourt restaurant upstairs is open. She sees Felicia, and calls to her. She asks if Felicia will help this nice gentleman up to the MetroCourt restaurant, and Felicia says, sure. If he’s never been up there, he’s in for quite a treat. She leads the man away, and Lucy says, that was so close. What if Felicia had seen her and known it was her? Maxie says, she would have notified Anna that Lucy had gone rogue – again. But that’s the least of their worries. All the people coming to the Nurses Ball know who she is. She has to leave now. She grabs Lucy’s arm, but Lucy won’t budge, and says she’s not leaving now. Not until Maxie hears her out. She does have the perfect suggestion for a Magic Wand. This is a man who’s used to coming to the rescue.

Carly says she has no intention of letting her feelings about Nina impact Willow, and Nina says, again? Carly asks if she didn’t just suggest to play nice, and Nina promises to do better if Carly will. Carly doesn’t say anything, and Nina pretends to be busy with stuff. She says, it must be disappointing for Donna not being able to stay at her daddy’s, but Carly says, she just explained to Donna that her father’s busy and she won’t be visiting Sonny for a while. Nina says, it must be hard for a child to understand, and Carly says, that’s life with Sonny; constant conflict and danger. Nina is a long way from Nixon Falls, isn’t she?

Valentin says, as long as they’re in possession of the necklace, Victor is dead in the water. He has the decryption key, but nothing to use it on. Drew says, which is only going to make him more desperate. If he wasn’t following Robert, Laura, and Felicia before, he will be now. Anna says, they need to find Victor before he finds them, and Drew says, the man is not an island. Somebody’s got to know where he is. Who is he close to in Port Charles? Anna says, his great nephew; Sonny’s nephew. Sonny says he’ll speak to Spencer and see if he’s heard from Victor, and Valentin says, assuming Spencer will cooperate. Victor Cassadine is a master manipulator. Spencer’s young. He’s not match for Valentin’s father. Sonny says, Spencer’s made a lot of mistakes, but he’s got a good head on his shoulders. He’ll do the right thing. Did Sonny just come to Port Charles?

Spencer looks at his phone, and tells Victor that Esme’s probably wondering where he is. He’s supposed to pick up her and Ace at the hospital. Victor says he’ll put their plan in motion. When he has an update, he’ll give Spencer a time and location to meet. Watkins (mystery man gets a name!) will supply Spencer with a number to reach him; he’s going to dispose of his old phone. Spencer says, Victor’s avoiding the MetroCourt, setting new meeting locations, and now he’s changing phones. He’s ramping up security, isn’t he? Victor says, you can’t be too careful, and Spencer thanks him. He owes Victor one, and won’t forget it. Spencer leaves, and Victor says he’s counting on that. Watkins says, Victor didn’t tell Spencer that he’d be leaving Port Charles, and Victor says his intentions are always on a need to know. It’s more imperative than ever. Watkins says, his nephew’s custody fight? and Victor says, will soon be irrelevant. His great nephew is giving himself all kinds of anguish about something that will never see the light of day. If he knew the truth of Victor’s real plan, he’d never go along with it. If he has to keep lying to the lad, so be it. He needs Spencer on board.

Maxie tells Lucy, wait just a second. Lucy wants her to ask Mac to perform with the Magic Wands? Lucy says she can’t very well do it, and Maxie says, because she’s dead. Lucy says, think about it. Mac is such a well-known, well-respected member of this community. And to be perfectly honest, he’s a fox too. She’s often what’s underneath those button-down… Maxie says, stop. Mac’s her stepdad. Lucy says, he’s a daddy all right (missing the opportunity to use mack daddy), and Maxie says, that’s so inappropriate. Why couldn’t Lucy just text her requests instead of risking her life and coming in person? Lucy says, she tried. Instead of yelling at her, Maxie could thank her for saving the Nurses Ball. Maxie asks why she can’t stay away. Is it her need to control, or does it go deeper? And don’t hide behind some inappropriate remark or dumb excuse. Lucy says, okay. She does realize how everybody sees her, including her current roommates. That she’s vapid and silly, and selfish – she takes off her sunglasses – but the Nurses Ball, when she’s putting on that show, it’s the one time of year everybody takes her seriously. Despite all her business success, she’s running that show. She feels like she has a purpose. Like she’s fulfilled, like she’s needed, like she’s useful. It’s magic, and it’s so incredible that every single person in Port Charles is somehow putting on the show, or performing in the show, or donating to their cause. It’s like that one moment we all come together. She tears up, and says, Maxie knows there’s nothing else like it. Maxie says, the Nurses Ball is very special, and it’s mostly due to Lucy, and Lucy thanks her. So… Mac? Maxie says, what part about Mac is her stepdad does Lucy not understand, and Lucy says, what part doesn’t Maxie understand about, the show must go on? Maxie says she knows who would be a perfect fit, and Lucy says, who? Maxie asks if Lucy’s car is waiting for her, and Lucy says, of course (🍷). Who? Maxie says she’ll walk Lucy to her car, and Lucy follows her out, saying, who?

Sonny says, when he finds another safehouse, he’ll have his people come and get them, and Anna thanks him. Drew walks out with him, and Sonny says, Luke Spencer was his great friend. He loved Luke, and respected him. Victor is going to pay for Luke’s death, and Sonny has to stop him before he does any more damage to Spencer. He’s going to make sure of that. He gives Anna a quick smile, and he and Drew leave.

Nina says she knows who Sonny is and what he does, and Carly says, intellectually, sure. But when Nina was so eager to have Sonny all to herself, did she stop and think about what she’d have to give up? Nina says she’s not discussing her relationship with Carly, but Carly says, Nina doesn’t have to; she can see it in her eyes. And eventually Sonny will too. Nina bit off more than she can chew, and she’s not the first. Nina says she’s going to say goodbye to Willow. She has to get back to the hotel and oversee preparations for tonight. Carly says she’s only going to say this because Sonny’s the father of her kids, and if Nina is going to be with him, there’s something she needs to know. Sonny needs to be with someone who knows the good, bad, and ugly about him and his business. Who will stand beside him no matter how dirty things get. Does he share his entire life with Nina, or does he shelter her? Nina says she and Sonny have an understanding that works for them. It’s not the same relationship Carly had with him, and that’s what appeals to Sonny. Carly says, Nina didn’t want Mike to know his real identity when he was in Nixon Falls, and now that Sonny’s back, she wants to turn a blind eye to his business. Ignorance isn’t always bliss, and in this case, it looks like it’s the beginning of the end. Wow. Carly reads a lot into not much.

Willow comes back, and says, preparation finished. Is everything good? Nina says she was telling Carly that she has to get back to the hotel and get ready for the Ball. Is Willow going to be okay? How is she feeling about tomorrow? Willow says, nervous. The Nurses Ball will be a nice distraction. Still, she can’t stop thinking about everything that could go wrong. What if the transplant doesn’t take? What if Liesl’s bone marrow isn’t compatible with her after all? Carly says she’d be feeling the same way if she were Willow, but that doesn’t mean any of that’s likely. Nina says, Willow’s come too far to be disappointed. And if success can be guaranteed by sheer will, she and Carly have Willow covered. Tomorrow’s a fresh start, and she won’t be alone.

Anna says, it’s all going wrong, and Valentin says, every operation has it’s fair share of unknowables. He takes her hand and they sit on the sofa. She says she enlisted another civilian as an asset, and it’s too dangerous. She doesn’t know what the hell is wrong with her. He says, she tried to steer Lucy clear of this, and she wouldn’t go. Eileen Ashby was on borrowed time the moment she started working for Victor Cassadine. In fact, he thinks they gave her the best chance at survival. She couldn’t follow instructions. It isn’t Anna’s fault. Anna says, it is her fault, but he says, don’t do that. There’s only one person who’s going to pay for all of this, and he’s Valentin’s father. And he will. Somehow.

Spencer goes back to the hospital, and Esme says, there he is. He’s been gone forever. He says, not quite that long, and tells Ace that his mother’s a very impatient woman. She says, the doctor was very helpful, but they’ve been waiting a while; he said he’d be back. Spencer says, here he is. He had to take care of something. She asks, what’s more important than his brother? and he says, nothing, magically getting the elevator as soon as he presses the button.

As they walk through the halls, Ava tells Austin that Felicia was asking what he was doing on Spoon Island the night Ryan, Heather, and Esme showed up. They need an explanation as to why he was there. A good one; one they can sell. He says, any idea of what that explanation might be? and she asks if he owns a tux.

Lucy pulls of her coat, and says, unforgivable, Maxie. You shoved me in that car before even telling me who the replacement for the Magic Wand was. She bets Maxie doesn’t even know who the replacement is. She slumps down in her chair.

Maxie asks why she ever agreed to plan the Nurses Ball, and Felicia says, because she’s the best event planner in New York state, and nobody handles a crisis better than her. They will find a suitable replacement for the Magic Wand act. Maxie says she thought of a replacement… and it’s better than the alternative. Felicia says, alternative? and Maxie says, it’s a story for another day. Hopefully, it never comes to that. They leave, and the guy with the cane comes back. He straightens up, leans the cane against the wall, and makes a phone call.

Victor says, you have something for me? and cane spy says he tailed Felicia Scorpio to the MetroCourt. Victor will never guess who showed up in the lobby. Victor says, do tell, and cane spy says, Lucy Coe. She left here twenty minutes ago in a luxury sedan; hired car judging from the stickers. Victor thanks him, and says he’ll take it from here. He tells Watkins, once again, Lucy Coe proves herself invaluable. He’s got them. Anna and Valentin can hide no more.

On Monday, Willow says, tonight, she’s exactly where she wants to be; Sonny says, he and Nina are a long ways from dancing in Nixon Falls; and Lucy says, without her? She doesn’t think so.

🎤 Welcome To the Nurses Ball…

A little pre-show preparation.

💵 And We Work Twice As Hard…

Obviously though, everything worked out.

🤦🏽‍♂️ Once a Dipstick…

Not sure what this guy’s problem is, but every once in a while he comes out from his cave and causes a ruckus.

https://ew.com/tv/eric-winter-roselyn-sanchez-defend-eva-longoria-eric-braeden-drama/

📆 Yes, I Know the Date…

I’m including this because it includes a great picture of alien Casey and a very small Robin.

💎 Hasn’t Left the Building…

That’s what I keep saying.

💬 Love Bubble Language…

These are pretty funny.

🍕 Nonna Is Rolling…

A blow-by-blow about the pizza oven incident.

https://people.com/tv/rhonj-joe-gorga-claims-teresa-fiance-louie-screwed-me-250k-business-deal/

🍸 In Today’s VanderNews…

More on the Scandoval front and the Reunion.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1369980/lala-kent-shares-details-on-explosive-vanderpump-rules-reunion-taping

https://www.etonline.com/scheana-shay-says-ariana-madix-assassinated-raquel-leviss-at-vanderpump-rules-reunion-201958

What drove them to make these decisions is, they’re awful people.

https://people.com/tv/tom-sandoval-raquel-leviss-at-center-very-loud-very-enraged-vanderpump-rules-reunion/

I don’t blame her.

And the good news.

https://people.com/pets/ariana-madix-plans-on-keeping-dog-she-shared-with-tom-sandoval-sources/

🏖  Why Oh Why…

Here’s hoping Awful People Syndrome isn’t catching, and these people act like grown-ups.

https://www.essence.com/gallery/summer-house-marthas-vineyard-cast-exclusive/

⚰️ They’re Coming…

Mark your calendars: June 18th, after the mid-season finale (please) of Fear the Walking Dead.

And after that…

💍 Random I Know…

But I was wondering.

🐶 It Beats the Gym…

Technically, she did not break the rules.

https://people.com/pets/woman-carries-white-samoyed-dog-backpack-new-york-subway/

🐣 Quotes of the Week

I’d rather see my face aging than a face I don’t recognize at all. – Cameron Diaz

Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers, the successful people with their heads in the clouds and their feet on the ground. Let their spirit ignite a fire within you to leave this world better than when you found it. – Wilferd Peterson

Persons of high self-esteem are not driven to make themselves superior to others; they do not seek to prove their value by measuring themselves against a comparative standard. Their joy is being who they are, not in being better than someone else.Nathaniel Branden

Whatever women do they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult. – Charlotte Whitton, Canadian Politician

A person is not given integrity. It results from the relentless pursuit of honesty at all times.Unknown

I want to ride a camel with you every day. – Debbie, 90 Day Fiancé: The Other Way

🛴  Cash Me Inside…

If you’re in the neighborhood, stop by on Monday really Tuesday for soap and trash talking the awful people on Summer House. Until then, stay safe, stay away from making excuses, and stay knowing that it’s possible to overcome your worst mistakes, even if people have judged you by them.

March 24, 2023 – Victor Gets the Necklace, Not Being Nik, New New York, Not Quite Fatal, VanderTalk, Second Jackets, Kitty (!), Enough Quotes For an Octopod & Cornflake

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Valentin plops a hooded Eileen down, and takes off her hood. He says, welcome back to the safehouse, and she asks if all this cloak and dagger is still necessary. He and Anna say, yes, but Eileen says she doesn’t think it is. She thinks it amuses them to torture her by having Felicia Scorpio put a bag over her head, like she’s some… Anna says, like she’s someone who would sell them out, but Eileen says she wouldn’t do that. Valentin asks if they’re supposed to take her word on that, and she says, of course (🍷) not, but they have other leverage. So their best interests are her best interests. Anna says, they’d like to keep that imbalance of power in their favor for now, and Eileen says, fine. Tell her what they want her to do, and she’ll do it. They can at least rely on her for that. Anna says she hopes so, because they can’t afford to make one single misstep, and neither can Eileen.

Spencer says, if Esme isn’t hungry, she can at least stay hydrated. He sets a cup on the coffee table, and says, it’s an organic herbal tea said to promote healthy lactation. She tells him, so he says, and he tells her, don’t worry. Drugging people is kind of more of a you thing. Laura comes in, and Spencer says, good morning. She says she’d like it to be for everyone, including Esme, so let’s not forget Esme is their guest, and he asks how he can. Laura says she expected this to be a bumpy transition, but they want Esme to feel welcome, don’t they? and he says, of course (🍷). Forgive him. Esme says she won’t stay anyplace she feels unwanted or unwelcome, so wherever she goes, Ace goes. There’s a knock at the door, and Spencer opens it to Victor. He asks what brings Victor by, and Victor says, what else? He’s come for his nephew.

Trina is on her way upstairs, and Marshall says, stop right there, young lady. She says she thought the house was empty, and he says, she hoped it was empty. Why is she sneaking in here like this isn’t her home? She says, because she’s not sure it is.

At Kelly’s counter, Cameron looks at his paycheck, when Josslyn comes in and says she was hoping she could still find him here. He says he’s picking up his last paycheck, and she says, end of an era, huh? He says, yeah, and asks why she was looking for him.

Outside on the phone, Sonny says, thanks for the update, and tells Dex, Brick couldn’t ID the contractor from the warehouse. Dex says, so that’s it, dead end? and Sonny makes another call, asking someone to meet him on Pier 55 in an hour. He tells Dex, for you to survive in this business, you never give up. When somebody’s coming after you, they’re not going to stop at the first attempt. You have to keep digging. Dex asks if Sonny thinks his family is at risk, and Sonny says, he’s taking precautions; he doesn’t know. Dex asks, why not? Sonny says, because when it’s a hit like this, a hired gun, the only thing that matters is taking out the target.

Josslyn says she was thinking about her and Cameron’s conversation about Dex, when Sonny and Dex walk in.

Marshall says he knows there’s a lot up in the air with Curtis and Trina’s mama, but one thing he can say for sure, on behalf of them and himself, she’ll always have a home with them. She says, it doesn’t feel much like home, does it? and Marshall says, it is looking mighty grim. With Portia constantly working and Curtis at the MetroCourt, to avoid the quiet, he’s been staying out. She says, out with Miss Epiphany? but he says, she’s still out of town. She got accepted to a whole slew of medical schools out of state, including… Johns Hopkins. Trina says, that’s amazing. That’s really good for her. Marshall says, it is, and she says, Maryland isn’t all that far, is it? He says, the fast train usually takes nine and a half hours, and she says, so an airplane is out of the question? He says he could do that, but that’s not what’s really troubling him. Epiphany moving to Baltimore or somewhere, and everything that’s happening here, he doesn’t know quite where he fits in. She puts her head on his shoulder, and says she knows the feeling.

Spencer tells Victor, it’s not the best time, and Laura says, he’s not welcome here. She’s going to have to ask him to leave. Victor says, at least she’s giving him a choice in the matter this time, and she says she’d prefer he leave on his own, but she can and will have him physically removed by security. She takes out her phone, and Spencer says, that’s not necessary; he’ll handle this. Victor says, Spencer of all people should know he’s not one to be handled, and Spencer says, if Victor doesn’t mind, he’d like to talk in the hallway. Victor says, very well, lead the way, but Spencer says, after you. I insist. He closes the door behind them, and Laura apologizes to Esme. She says she’ll do her best never to have Victor bother her again, and Esme says she gets this really bad feeling every time Victor Cassadine is around. Laura says, that’s because Victor Cassadine is a very bad man.

Spencer says, when he told Victor that Esme and the baby were staying here, he didn’t expect Victor to just show up, and Victor says, the baby is a Cassadine and belongs with Cassadines. He’ll go wherever he wants, and take what or whoever he wants, and woe betide anyone who gets in his way. Spencer says, including him?

Anna says, Eileen is going to call Victor and set up a meet for today, and Valentin says, and she has a very special delivery. He opens a jewelry box, showing her the fake necklace, but when she reaches for it, he snaps it shut. He says he can’t stress this enough; this is the most critical juncture of their plan. Anna says, it’s imperative that Victor believe Eileen is delivering the thing he’s been looking for, and Eileen says, something’s gone wrong, hasn’t it? Some kind of setback. Anna says, not that it’s any of her business, but they’ve had to widen their circle of trust, and Valentin says, time is no longer on their side. Eileen says, don’t worry, she won’t double-cross them, but Valentin says, she’s thrown in with Victor before. How do they know she hasn’t struck a deal with him already? She says, because she values her own life. Victor has proven anyone is disposable, even his own son. She’d be a fool to betray the only people willing to give her a chance to survive. Valentin gives her the box, and says, people have died for the information engraved on what’s left of the Ice Princess. Now they’re giving Victor what he wants. Anna says, or so he thinks. It’s actually a very good forgery. Eileen says, how very good? They know Victor will have an expert authenticate this. Anna says, that’s why Eileen has to set up the meet for today, so Victor doesn’t have a chance to call an expert in, and Valentin says, hopefully, she’ll have left before questions are raised She asks how they’re going to protect her. They know Victor doesn’t like to meet in public spaces. Anna says, they’ve taken every precaution. DA Scorpio will be nearby the location, and he’ll have back-up. Valentin says, and if the whole operation goes south, the cavalry will ride in. But to offer her that protection, she has to be wired for sound. Eileen asks if they’re insane. First they send her in with a fake necklace, and then they want her to wear a wire? If Victor catches on, he’ll kill her. Valentin says, they need to know everything that’s happening in real time, but Eileen tells him, keep that wire, or the deal is off.

Marshall says, it’s a shame Trina’s buddy Cam is leaving. Seemed like a good kid. Loyal, reliable… She says, unlike Spencer, and he tells her, nobody said anything about Spencer. She says, Marshall didn’t say his name, but she knows how they all feel about him. Marshall says, at this point, he’s not sure how he feels about Spencer, except that he seems to tie Trina up in knots. Trina says, maybe it’s best they don’t talk about him. She’s just going to grab some photos and be on her way. He tells her, sit down and tell him what’s on her mind. What’s troubling her? She says, Spencer’s living with his ex-girlfriend again. I’m not sure what she’s worried about since Esme doesn’t trust Spencer and he’s mean to her. I don’t exactly see them socializing.

Spencer says, Victor of all people understands nuance and diplomacy, and Victor says, usually. Spencer says, well this is a very complicated situation. There are many people involved, and they all want the same thing; to protect Ace. Victor says, that name, and Spencer says he knows. It’s got to go. (What? I love that name!) Despite their common goal, they all have different methods. Victor asks what Spencer’s method is, and Spencer says, putting Esme back in prison where she belongs and away from that baby. Then, as next of kin, he’ll retain custody, and he’d never dream of keeping that baby away from his Great Uncle. Victor says, a long time ago, Spencer asked for his help in this matter. Does he still need it? (Is Victor senile? That was like, five minutes ago.) Spencer says he does, but they can’t talk about that here.

Laura asks if Esme wants coffee, and Esme asks if she’s sure. Spencer said caffeine isn’t good for breastfeeding mothers. Laura says, Spencer means well, but mothers need caffeine to deal with their kids he’s no expert. Coffee is fine in moderation. She gives Esme a cup, and tells her, enjoy. She says she hopes Esme knows she’s protected here, and Esme says, even from Spencer? Spencer comes back, and says, he’s so sorry for his Great Uncle’s intrusion. It won’t happen again. He talks nonsense to the baby, and Laura asks where he’s off to. He says he’ll see them later, and asks if Laura will be there. She says, of course (🍷), and he leaves. Esme says, Cameron Spencer? and Laura says, her grandson has been accepted to a very prestigious athletic program in California. Esme says she’s glad she didn’t ruin his life too, and Laura says, the person Esme used to be did an awful lot of damage. Esme says, damage you can never forgive.

Sonny congratulates Cameron on getting into Stanford, and Cameron asks how he knew. Sonny says, Spencer told him more than once; he’s very proud of Cameron. Cameron says, it’s kind of hard to tell. Spencer makes fun of him every time it’s brought up. Sonny says he knows Spencer is very proud of him, and tells Cameron, have a great time at Stanford. He’s going to be missed. Cameron  thanks him, and says he doesn’t actually work here anymore, but he can take down their orders and let the waiters know. Sonny says, two cups of coffee to go, and Cameron leaves. Sonny asks if he can talk to Josslyn for a second, and she follows him. As he opens the door, he tells Dex to wait inside. Cameron comes back, and he and Dex stare at each other.

Outside, Josslyn asks, what’s this about? and Sonny says he’s just rooting out his enemies.

On the phone, Victor asks if Eileen has what he asked for, and she says, he knows she wouldn’t let him down. He says he sincerely hopes not. Bring it to him tonight. She says, the longer they wait, the better the chances of them noticing it’s missing, and knowing she’s the one who took it. Unless he wants it to end up back in the secure evidence locker, with zero chance of getting it out again, they need to do this now. There’s a knock at Victor’s door, and he says, his suite, the MetroCourt, forty-five minutes. Not one second later. He opens the door, and Spencer strides in, saying, sorry about earlier, but Victor says he understands. He has a business meeting starting soon, so let’s get down to brass tacks. What exactly does Spencer want to happen to Esme?

Josslyn says, what enemies? Sonny has so many. He tells her, just keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary when she’s with her mother and her sisters. She asks if he’s going to tell her why, but he says he’s not giving her any details. She says, don’t worry about it; she already knows. He says, how?

Dex says he’ll go as soon as Sonny comes back, and Cameron says, but while he’s here, there’s some stuff he wants to say to Dex.

Esme says, the fact that she doesn’t remember what she did to Laura’s family doesn’t absolve her. She’s hurt both Cameron and Spencer, among others. Laura says, yes, she did, and Esme says, but Laura’s letting her stay here? Laura says she’s letting Esme stay here because she wanted her newest grandson to be safe and well cared for, not in a prison. That’s not entirely true; there’s another reason. She knows the pain of being separated from your child. She was separated from her son Nikolas for many years because of the Cassadines. Esme says, which is exactly what Spencer is trying to do to her, and Laura says, but Spencer has a lot of good reasons not to trust Esme. Laura is a mother, and she knows how much having a new baby can change someone. She also happens to believe in redemption. Esme asks if that means Laura believes in her. Laura says she wants to. She’s trying to. Esme says, but she’s not there yet? and Laura says, that doesn’t mean she won’t be. What about Esme? Does she believe in Laura? Can she accept Laura wants what’s best for her?

Trina tells Marshall that Esme and the baby are living with Spencer’s grandmother in her apartment, while Spencer also lives there. She knows Esme doesn’t remember all the terrible things she did, but Trina still doesn’t trust her. Marshall says, good for her. Trina shouldn’t trust her. That girl should be behind bars. He’s furious they dropped the charges, and denied Trina justice. She says, actually it was her idea to get the DA to stop pursuing the case, just for now, and he asks, what in the Lord’s name possessed her to do that? She says she’s having second thoughts about it now, even though she convinced Spencer there’s a better chance of getting the charges to stick if they wait. He says, Spencer again. Why is she the only one making concessions in this friendship?  She says, Spencer’s been there for her too. His life is just… complicated. Marshall says, and no sign of it getting simpler. Please tell him why she needs to remain friends with Spencer Cassadine.

Victor says, when Spencer first came to him for help, he was concerned Esme was going to raise her child in prison, and Spencer says, thanks to Trina, they got the DA to stop pursuing the case. Victor says, good for Trina. It’s best to keep the law at bay, at least until you know they’re on your side. Spencer says, the problem is, now that Esme is a free woman, there’s a chance she could disappear and take his brother with her. He can’t let that happen. Victor says he’s sacrificed a great deal trying to make this world a better place, and preserving their family’s legacy to the bargain. (Has he?) Sadly, Spencer’s father had neither the faith nor the resolve to help him in his aims. Does Spencer trust him? Spencer says he knows there’s nothing Victor wouldn’t do for this family, and Victor says, then understand this. There’s no way in hell Esme is raising a Cassadine heir. Not while there’s a breath left in his body.

Trina says, it’s really worth it, and Marshall asks, but is he worthy? How does he make her feel? She says, he makes her feel like she’s the best thing that’s happened to him, and Marshall says, it sounds like Spencer’s become special to her. Is that why she’s so bugged out about Esme sharing the same space? She says, it’s not like she doesn’t trust Spencer around Esme. It was strange seeing them all together, looking like a family. Marshall says, stop him if he’s wrong, but this sounds like more than just friendly concern. She says, Spencer’s more than a friend. Their relationship has evolved over a couple of weeks. She just hasn’t told anybody about it. He asks, why not? and she says, everybody’s been busy… They’re avoiding each other. He says, perhaps. Or is it because she’s not quite sure of it herself?

Esme says, from the first time she saw Laura, and definitely when Laura helped deliver Ace, Laura’s been nothing but kind to her. But Spencer is Laura’s grandson and doesn’t think she can raise her own son. Laura says, so she doesn’t know who to trust, and Esme says, even if she could trust someone, why would they trust her? Laura says, so she needs someone to take the first leap of faith. She’s willing to do that. Let’s start right now. Laura gets up and gets her bag, saying, everything is all new to Esme, and she’s got to get adjusted to her surroundings. So she’ll go out for a bit, and Esme can stay here on her own, relax, and bond with Ace. Esme says, by herself, with no one looking over her shoulder? and Laura says, yes, unless she’s worried about being alone with the baby, but Esme says, no. She’s just surprised Laura trusts her on her own. Laura says, she’s not a prisoner here, and Esme says, maybe this time. Laura hands her some cash, and says, in case of emergency. Esme says, Laura knows she can just take this and take off (it doesn’t look like enough to get her too far) , and Laura says, she could, but since she has faith Esme wants what’s best for her baby, so she knows that means staying right here. She wishes Esme a lovely morning, and leaves.

Eileen says she’ll take the necklace to Victor, but the wire is a no go. Valentin says he thought she might feel that way, and Eileen asks if he has a back-up plan. One that doesn’t involve her wearing a neon sign that says, Victor, I’m betraying you. Valentin says, if she doesn’t wear a wire, they won’t know she’s in trouble, but they have arranged for DA Scorpio to call her on official city business. Anna says, if anything feels off, raise the alarm, and he’ll come in and get her. Eileen says, fine, but she wants their promise, their guarantee that once she delivers this necklace, she’ll be free to move on. Valentin says, this isn’t over until they crack the code; find out what it’s for. Anna says, until they find out what Victor is after, none of them are free. Valentin puts the hood back on Eileen’s head.

Cameron says, after he found out about Dex and Josslyn, there were a lot of things he wanted to tell Dex. There were a lot of things Cameron wanted to do to him. Dex says he gets it, and Cameron says, despite all his anger and feelings, he realized it doesn’t matter, because all that matters is Josslyn. She’s been his friend for forever – she still is. But if Dex hurts her, he’ll tell Sonny about them, and Dex will find himself back on that hook so fast, he’ll wish he’d never met her.

Sonny asks how Josslyn knows someone’s targeting him, and she says, her mom told her there was an incident. One big enough for him to beef up security and keep Donna from spending the night? He says, temporarily, and she says she knows the drill. And Donna and Avery are young, but they’re starting to get used to it too, and think this is normal. She wishes it broke his heart half as much as it breaks hers.

Dex says, Cameron made himself clear, and Cameron says, Dex doesn’t think he’s serious. I swear, these two look like they’re on the verge of laughing. Dex says he knows Cameron’s serious, and he’ll never hurt Josslyn, and Cameron says, good. See to it he doesn’t. Dex says he means it. Cameron has no idea how much he cares about Josslyn. Sonny and Josslyn come back, and Sonny tells Dex, time to roll. Sonny reaches for his wallet, but Cameron says he’s got it. Sonny says he appreciates it, and Cameron says, of course (🍷). (I just included that exchange because of the of course – 🍷have one on me.) Sonny tells him, good luck at Stanford, Cameron thanks him, and Sonny leaves with Dex. Cameron asks what Josslyn and Sonny talked about, and she says, the usual; how his business affects the rest of them. How about him and Dex? Cameron says, they talked, and she says, sorry; that was awkward. He says, awkward is kind of their M.O., and she says, that’s what she wanted to talk to him about it. If he doesn’t want her at his goodbye party, she understands. He says he wants all his friends there. She is his friend, right? She says, it’s nice to hear him call her that, and he says, what else would he call her? She says, they’ve been friends forever, and that’s not going to change because of her feelings for Dex. He says, they’re pretty serious now? but she says she could never be with someone so soon after their break-up if it was meaningless. He says, he’ll see her, and leaves.

Victor says, if the DA doesn’t have enough proof to convict Esme, then they’ll just have to produce it, and Spencer says, he means, frame her? Victor says, they both know she’s guilty. If Spencer’s father hadn’t imprisoned her, she would have never lost her memory. Evidence can be… Spencer says, manufactured, and Victor says, the bottom line is, Esme is going to have to face the music, and Ace will be in the custody of those who love him best. Him, Spencer… Spencer says, grandmother. Does Victor mind if Spencer gets back to him? Victor tells him, take all the time he needs, but as Spencer said, Esme is a free woman, and could decide to take off at any time, taking with her Spencer’s innocent and defenseless little brother.

Esme asks Ace what he thinks. She sounded pretty sincere, didn’t she? Here they have food, warmth, and relative freedom. What more can they ask for? The baby throws us some cute smiles, as he/she desperately looks around for IRL mom. Esme says, they really don’t have any other offers, do they?… Ace is right. What’s stopping them from keeping him, and tossing her out on the street? She won’t let that happen. She looks at the money Laura left with her.

Trina tells Marshall that she trusts Spencer and the connection, but this is all new. And let’s just say some of her views are evolving. She guesses that’s part of growing up. He says, that never stops, and takes her hand. He says, learning who we are is a lifelong process. He doesn’t have to tell her, there’s circumstances in life that make us question everything we thought about ourselves. You’ve got to have good people in your corner to support you along the way, that’s all. Friends are great; family is better. She says, what if you don’t know who your family is? and he says, DNA doesn’t determine family; connection does. She puts her hand on his.

Outside Kelly’s on the phone, Laura says, Eileen has a lot to lose here… She doesn’t think Eileen ever had any real loyalty to Victor. She thinks Eileen’s always been in it for herself… She thinks Eileen will follow their instructions to the letter. Valentin says, she’d better. Because if she screws up or turns on them, this is over. Laura says, he doesn’t sound confident, and he tells her, all he’s saying is, they can’t let their guard down. Not where Victor Cassadine is concerned.

Victor opens his hotel room door to Eileen, and asks if she’s done as he asked. She says she’s a woman of her word. He says, where is it? and she takes the case from her bag. She says, as promised, and he snatches it out of her hand. He opens the case, and says, at last.

Sonny meets Selina next to a dumpster, which is maybe appropriate, since it looks like she didn’t comb her hair again, although her coat makes up for it. She says, he summoned her? and he says, someone is trying to take him out. She says she heard of his recent trouble, and he asks if she has any idea who’s behind it. She says, if only. An unprovoked attack is an unforgivable breach of decorum, and a threat to them all. Any leads? Dex takes out his phone, and Sonny says, whatever’s left of him. Does she recognize him? She looks at the phone, and tells him, not that she can say. What does Sonny want to know about him? Sonny says, if she doesn’t know, somebody in her organization must know, and Sonny heard he was spotted at The Highsider. That’s her bar, right? She says she does own it, but she’s afraid she can’t help him, and he says, can’t, or won’t?  She says, it’s purely an investment; one of the establishments she owns a stake in. She doesn’t keep tabs on the customers. Surely as a businessman, he understands. He says he’s disappointed, and don’t call him Shirley. That’s the second time she’s let him down in a couple weeks. She bought his late cousin Brando’s garage, right? She says, it was a good investment, and Brando’s mother was eager to sell. Sonny says, Gladys told him. What he wants to know is, why didn’t Selina? She says, he’s absolutely right. In fact, she should have let him know she was considering it before negotiating with Miss Corbin. Please accept her apologies. He says, let him tell her something. You mess with my family, you mess with me. Classic mob boss talk. She says, of course (🍷). All of that said, she hopes he’s pleased. The garage can be beneficial for them both. He says, the garage is the least of his concerns, and she says, the shooter’s connection to The Highsider is of concern to her as well. Her people never do business there, but regardless, she’s sure someone must know the man in the photo. She’ll make inquiries. He says, you do that, and she says she hopes he knows how much she values their association. Rest assured, this enemy is one they share. She leaves, and Dex asks Sonny, can she really be trusted?

Valentin says, Anna isn’t nervous, is she? but she says, of course (🍷) she’s nervous. Lucy just almost got herself killed. Now they’re sending Eileen back into that same lion’s den. At greater risk, with just as little protection. He says, look on the bright side; nobody likes the woman. She says, that’s very unkind, and he says, they’re this close to figuring out the insanity his father’s been cooking up, and ending it. And if anyone can finish the job, it’s them. Anna tells him, you know what they say, that most car accidents happen within a ten-mile radius of your home. They’re very close to home. He says, then he guesses, buckle up.

Victor says, Eileen did well, and she says she’s glad he’s pleased. He asks how she managed it, and she says, you don’t ask a magician her tricks. She heads for the door, and he asks where she’s going. She says, her office. She has a day’s work ahead. He says, nonsense. She can’t leave now. Not when they’re about to get to the most important part. She says, what’s more important than procuring the necklace from police lock-up? She got it. He has it. He says he wants them to inspect this masterpiece together. Come on. Take a seat. He starts to look at the necklace with a jeweler’s loupe.

Marshall says he knows Trina doesn’t know where she stands with her mom and Curtis, but whatever happens, they’ve forged their own relationship. He’s here to talk about anything. She says, even if she wants to talk about Spencer? and he tells her, he said anything. Whatever she says will stay between them, and he promises to always be honest with her. She says, thanks, she appreciates that, and he says, and in his honest opinion, if Spencer Cassadine’s life is going to remain so damn dramatic, maybe it’s time for her to exit stage left. They laugh, and the doorbell rings. Marshall opens the door to a sullen-looking Spencer.

Laura sees Josslyn at Kelly’s, and Josslyn says, she just missed Cam. Laura says she guesses she’ll see him at his party. How is Josslyn doing? Josslyn says she’s having a lot of trouble about Cam leaving, and Laura says she is too, but she’s also really proud of him. Josslyn says she is too. To play soccer at Stanford is huge, and it’s about time one of Cam’s dreams came true. Laura says, Josslyn was his first love, and Josslyn says she broke his heart. What if he never forgives her? He says they’re friends forever, but… Laura says, he’s hurt right now, and he feels alone. Josslyn says, because of her, but Laura says, Josslyn did what she had to do, and Cameron has to accept that no matter how painful it is. He just needs a little time. He’ll remember who really cares about him.

Esme picks up Ace, all swaddled up, and says, Grandmother Mayor might be on the up and up, but she’s not willing to wait around to find out. She puts the money in her knapsack, and picks up Ace’s blanket, throwing it over her shoulder. She opens the door, and Cameron is there, about to knock.

On Monday, Elizabeth tells Laura, there’s a deeper reason for someone’s silence; Josslyn says, anything Maxie needs, she’s in; Victor tells Eileen, they’re just getting started; and Cameron asks Esme, going somewhere?

📽  The Better Nikolas…

This actually sounds pretty good.

🗽 Who Are These People…?

The all new cast of RHONY. I dunno. I doubt it will have the same drunken energy as the original. It was one of the few in the franchise I still liked. Maybe the only one. Too bad the Legacy thing didn’t work out.

🧂 Look Out For That Cliff…

Maybe they needed more salt on the road. BA-DUM-CHH!

🍸 Those Crazy Kids…

I can’t wait for this.

Keep her away from the matches and lighters.

Just to emphasize how awful Raquel nee Rachel is.

🐝 Premiere Buzz…

Warning: SPOILERS AHEAD.

🐱 Not Last…

Well of course he got adopted.

https://people.com/pets/rescue-cat-named-after-pedro-pascal-gets-adopted/

🦜 Quotes of the Week

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

The elevator to success is out of order. You’ll have to use the stairs, one step at a time.Joe Girard

We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies. – Martin Luther King, Jr.

I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers.Kahlil Gibran

If you’re trying to achieve, there will be road blocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. – Michael Jordan (Or kick it down.)

In the history of men, it always emboldens them to get away with this sh*t. – Nancy Costello (Amy Landecker), Your Honor

Often any decision, even the wrong decision, is better than no decision. – Ben Horowitz

Once you face your fear, nothing is ever as hard as you think. – Olivia Newton-John

🛞 Catching the Dream…

Take the next two days off, but return refreshed on Monday really Tuesday for soap and more candidates for most awful people on Summer House. Until then, stay safe, stay dancing like no one’s watching, and stay remembering that DNA doesn’t determine family; connection does.

March 17, 2023 – Diane Makes Robert’s Day, Softball In Jersey, VanderAwful, Season 2 Buzz, Non-Reaction, Festival News, Pets (!), O’Quotes & Decide

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Valentin jumps several of Lucy’s men in checkers, and says, king me. She says she’d like to crown him. Fine. Here’s his king me crown. She slaps her checker on top of his, and he says he thinks they have Parchisi. Someone knocks at the door, and Lucy slips into the back. Laura says, it’s her, and he opens the door. Lucy runs out and hugs her, and Laura says, it’s good to see her. Lucy says, tell her there’s an end to this nightmare in sight. Please.

Eileen tells Robert, it’s too risky. She could end up dead. He says, that’s what happens when you bunk in with a Cassadine. There’s a knock on his office door, and Diane comes in. She says she knows she’s interrupting, but he’ll be glad she did. He asks why specifically he’s glad to see her, and she says, because she’s about to make his day.

Dr. I-Don’t-Know-His-Name brings Victor to an exam room, and says he can understand why Victor wants his issue resolved quickly. Victor says, any man would, and the doctor says he read Finn’s report. Unfortunately, he agrees with Finn’s assessment. Victor’s condition is likely irreversible. I laaaugh, and Victor flashes back to confronting Laura. She says, when his life falls apart – and it will – he’ll have more than her to blame, and he says, but she’ll the one who will pay most dearly. He tells the doctor, it means everything to him. He recently lost his son, and the rest of the family’s in crisis. He can’t afford to be distracted right now. He has to focus. He needs to ensure his family’s survival. Nothing can jeopardize that.

On the phone, Nina tells Maxie, of course (🍷). Crimson always supports the Nurses Ball. If she needs anything, just ask. She tells Maxie that she loves her and to give James a big hug from his Aunt Nina. She looks at a picture of her and Sonny, and flashes back to telling Sonny that she didn’t think she wanted to know about his business, but now she’s not so sure. There’s a knock at the door, and Nina opens it to Phyllis. Nina says, you’re back, and they hug.

Carly brings Donna to Sonny’s, and sees the guards outside. She asks Frank how it’s going, and he says, it’s going well. He lets her in, and Sonny says, look who it is. Donna runs to him, and he says he wasn’t expecting her. Carly asks, who was he expecting?

Laura says she does have an update, and Lucy says, please tell her it involves the word Victor and incarcerated, incapacitated, or dead. Laura asks, where’s Anna? and Valentin says, she’s in the bedroom trying to crack the Ice Princess codes. Does Laura want him to get her? Laura says, he can bring Anna up to speed later, and Lucy asks if this means she can go home, but Laura says, no; she’s sorry. Lucy says she really is grateful for being rescued and just being alive, but tick-tock, people, come on. Laura says, on the bright side, she thinks they’re starting to get to Victor, and Valentin asks, how? She says she ran into his father last night at the MetroCourt, and he was seething with rage. He said he knew what she’d done. Valentin asks if he got more specific, and she says, no, but he said she was stripping him of his power, and she was determined to rob him of his dignity in the process. Lucy says, it sounds like what they’re doing is working, so just keep doing what’s working, and Laura says, Victor is definitely fraying. He believes they’re all dead, and has no idea where Nikolas is. Spencer is actually defying him by going to live with his Uncle Sonny, so he’s lost control of his family, and it seems he’s having some kind of a medical issue. The kind that makes a man realize he’s not as powerful as he used to be. She doesn’t think it will be much longer before they bring Victor down for good, so Lucy doesn’t have to be patient much longer. Lucy says she doesn’t do patient, and the world right now needs Lucy Coe.

Robert asks how Diane is going to make his day, and she says, by offering this office the chance to save time and effort, and the chance to save the taxpayers of New York considerable expense. Eileen takes photos of a folder with her phone like there’s no way Diane would notice, and Diane says she knows Robert is intent on streamlining this office, so he’s going to want to hear her offer. Of course (🍷) if this is a bad time, she can come back… He says he and the Deputy Mayor are done, and Eileen agrees, adding, for now. She leaves, and in the hallway, she texts Victor: Need to meet. Urgent. She flashes back to offering Victor a copy of the unredacted file on Holly’s accident, and saying, it contains useful information on the necklace.

Carly tells Sonny that Donna’s ear drops are in her bag if she needs them, when Dex comes out. Donna asks, who are you? and Sonny says, he works for daddy, and introduces them. Dex shakes her tiny hand, and says hello to Carly. Donna asks if he lives here, but he says, no; he’s just visiting. Sonny says, they’re getting some work done, and Dex is going to be staying a couple of days. Dex says he was just going out to grab some things and he’ll be back soon. He leaves, and Sonny says he guesses Carly didn’t get his message. She says, no, she didn’t. What’s going on?

Lucy tells Laura, the Nurses Ball is always the event, but this year, it happens to coincide with General Hospital’s 60th anniversary. Laura says she knows, but it’s going to be televised this year, so Lucy can watch it, but Lucy says she doesn’t want to watch it. She is the Nurses Ball. She’s chaired every single Nurses Ball that ever was. Laura says, and every single one of them was magnificent, and Lucy thanks her, but says, she wants this one to be magnificent. It takes a certain type of expertise; there’s no substitute. Laura assures her that Maxie has everything under control, and Lucy says, define everything. Spare no details. Laura says she knows Maxie’s got financing from ELQ and Aurora, and Lucy says, super, but those are Quartermaine companies, and the family lives for the hospital, so really, they couldn’t refuse. Laura says, she’s meeting with more sponsors tonight, and Lucy says, super, but she might run into a snag because those sponsors can be pretty prickly. Valentin says, she can handle it. He hopes the sponsors do give her a hard time. She’ll squeeze them for every cent, and they’ll thank her for it. He just wishes he could be there to see it. Lucy says she needs to be there to see it, but Valentin says, no, she doesn’t. If she were, Victor would know what they were up to. He would make them all pay dearly, so what she needs to do is, settle down and accept the situation, because there’s nothing she can do about it. She blows a raspberry at him, and plops on the sofa. Laura says she knows how hard this must be for her, but fortunately, she has something that might make her feel better.

The doctor says, they can try to treat Victor’s symptoms, but it’s not guaranteed to work. Victor says, anything worth trying. He’s ready and willing to put up a fight. The doctor says, they’ll start with a prescription. He’ll get it from the hospital pharmacy himself. He leaves, and there’s a knock at the door. Victor lets Eileen in, and she thanks him for replying to her text. He asks, what couldn’t wait? and she says she has reason to believe Laura and Robert think she’s connected to him. He says, what better way of disabusing them of that notion than to come looking for him in a well-populated, brightly lit building with security cameras around every corner? She says she’s often at the hospital in the course of her official duties, and he says, good for her, but don’t contact him again unless she has something he can use against Laura… Unless that’s why she’s here. She says she doesn’t have anything about that, but she does have this. She shows him her phone.

Nina shows Phyllis a picture of Amelia, and Phyllis says, isn’t she a beauty. Nina says she loves Amelia already, even though she’s not allowed to be around her, and Phyllis asks if Willow is still keeping Nina at arm’s length. Nina says, not exactly. As it turns out, her Aunt Liesl is a viable bone marrow match to be a donor, and convinced Willow to keep Nina updated on her health issues. It’s a start. Every other subject is off-limits, including Wiley and Amelia. Phyllis says, if Willow sees Nina made an effort to respect her wishes, when she’s better – and Phyllis does mean when – she’ll let Nina in. She asks what Sonny’s take is on this, and Nina says, he told her pretty much the same thing, but she thinks Sonny is trying to convince himself too, because his son Michael doesn’t want to be around him. Their children have formed a united front against them. Phyllis says, it’s a shame when families shut each other out. In the meantime, it’s wonderful Nina can rely on Sonny… can’t she?

Sonny tells Carly that Donna’s in her room. The reason he called her was about Donna staying tonight. She says she’s sorry she missed his call. She was at the Quartermaines’ helping plan the Nurses Ball with Maxie, Willow, and Michael. He asks how Michael and Willow are holding up, and she says, worried, but they’re holding it together. What’s going on? Why does he have two bodyguards and Dex for protection? He says, Dex isn’t protecting him; he’s keeping an eye on Dex. She asks, why? and he flashes back to the shootout. He says, there was an incident.

At his apartment, Dex hears something and draws his gun, when Josslyn walks in. He says, she can’t just show up here without letting him know. He could have hurt her. She says she doesn’t know whether or not to text him; whether Sonny will see it or not. Why is he staying there? He says he was going to reach out, but hadn’t gotten the chance yet. She asks how he hurt himself. What the hell is going on?

Nina brings out some wine and charcuterie, and tells Phyllis, in regard to her relationship with Sonny, she’s reevaluating things. Phyllis says she thought things were good with Nina and Sonny, and Nina says, they are. It’s just that she thought she could separate Sonny’s livelihood from their relationship. Now she’s wondering if she was just fooling herself. Phyllis says, Nina knew who Sonny was when she encountered him in Nixon Falls. She knew before he did. Nina says she heard all the stories about Sonny Corinthos by reputation and in the news; that he was fearsome, and he was a violent man. Then she got to know Mike, and fell in love with Mike. Then when Sonny regained his memory, it seemed like he really changed. Phyllis says she doesn’t think Nina’s wrong about that, and Nina says, even when they went back to Port Charles, all the violence she was worried about and the reality of Sonny’s world seemed theoretical. So it was easy for her to move forward with Sonny. Phyllis asks, what’s changed? and Nina says, it turns out, peace was only temporary. And now that peace has broken.

Sonny says he doesn’t think it’s a good idea for Donna to stay here for a while, and Carly asks, how bad is it? He says, he and Dex went to the warehouse; they weren’t alone. She asks if he’s okay, and he says he’s fine. Dex got a little banged up. Nothing serious. He just wants to keep Dex close while he’s on the mend. She asks who it is this time, and he says, she’s out of this now. She says, really? Because she feels like she’s right back in it.

Diane tells Robert that she’s spoken to Trina about the criminal charges against Esme Prince, and he says, she can assure Trina that they’re doing their best to build an airtight case. She asks if he’s certain of a conviction, and he asks why he wouldn’t be. She says, Esme now presents as a very sympathetic defendant, and he laughs, saying, she’s about as sympathetic as an alligator chasing a pup. Diane says, not anymore. Now she’s a young mother who nearly died escaping captivity after literally being locked in a tower. Of course (🍷) she’s professing traumatic memory loss. Esme is something like six or seven fairytale princesses all rolled into one. Rapunzel… Snow White… Anyway, all she has left in the world is this innocent little baby. So now Esme is a traumatized, frightened young woman, and a caring mother. He asks what she suggests he do, and she says, drop the charges.

Lucy says, unless Laura has a time machine that can take her back to before she got involved with this, she doesn’t think there’s much Laura can do for her. Laura says, is that so? taking an envelope out of her bag. She says she guesses Lucy wouldn’t want this letter from Martin after all, and Lucy snatches it out of her hand, kissing it. She says she misses him so much, and Laura says she thinks the feeling is mutual. Lucy thanks Laura, and says she’s going to take her letter, run a very hot bath, grab her glass of wine, and read every single word a thousand times that her beloved wrote to her. Ta. She leaves, and Laura says she’s welcome. She asks how Valentin is, really, and he says he’s fine. Lucy’s alive, even when you’re not trapped in a confined space with her. He does have Anna, and he’d endure anything to get rid of Victor Cassadine. She says, it’s not going to be much longer. She can bring Charlotte for a visit… but he says, no. That’s the last thing he wants.

Victor wants to see what Eileen found, but she says she needs his assurance this will all be over before it blows back on her. He says, once again, she forgets how their arrangement works, and she says she found it in the DA’s office. Use it to achieve his goal quickly, so she can end her involvement before she pays for this alliance with her freedom – she hands him the phone – or with her life. He looks at it, and says, so the necklace made from the Ice Princess still exists, and Robert has it.

Valentin says, given his father’s current agitated state… Laura says, he doesn’t want to take the risk. He says, it was great when Felicia brought her by, but he’s sure Victor is watching her. It would do him a world of good to see her. Laura says, it would do them both good. Charlotte misses him terribly. He says he misses her right back, and asks Laura to make sure she tells Charlotte that. She says, of course (🍷) she will, and he says he’s grateful to her and Doc for everything they did to get Charlotte away from Victor. She says she’d do anything for Charlotte, and he says he knows she would, even if it means by extension helping him. She says, life is full of surprises.

Dex says he was with Sonny, when they were ambushed, and Josslyn says, he got shot? but he says, just creased. She says she can’t stand that word, and he says, it’s not like last time. It bled a lot, but he didn’t even need stitches. Sonny just wants Dex to stay with him until he’s healed up, but her mom and Donna came by, and he figured he’d give them some space. He just came by to grab some things. He’s sorry he didn’t tell her sooner… Please say something. She tells him to take off his shirt.

Sonny says he knows Carly is worried about the kids, and she says she’s worried about him too. He says, she saw security. He’s going to take care of it. She asks, how’s that? and he says he has a good team. She knows most of them. Dex is new, but he’s doing excellent work. Sonny is going to find out what’s going on, and he’s going to stop it. She says she’d loved to believe that, but they both know he can’t make that promise.

Nina tells Phyllis, all of a sudden, Sonny is on high alert. He assigned protection to all of his loved ones, including her. Phyllis asks if she feels safer with a bodyguard, but Nina says, oddly enough, no. She’s glad someone is there to protect her, but she’s constantly on guard that something’s going to happen. Phyllis says she can see why they would be unsettling; not just in the day to day, but in Nina’s relationship too. Nina says, to be fair to Sonny, he’s never lied or tried to hide the realities of his work, but if she didn’t know, it would be a buffer between their relationship and his… organization. Phyllis says, now Nina’s realizing there is no buffer, and Nina says, there are sides of Sonny she didn’t know that are starting to emerge. Phyllis says, now that Nina’s seeing these sides, she has to be honest with herself. Is this a relationship she can sustain?

Valentin says, Laura watching over Charlotte and taking care of her is everything to him. He couldn’t do any of this without her. He thanks her, and she says, Charlotte’s safety and future is one of the biggest reasons they have to stop Victor. He says, his father’s obsessed with his family; enriching it, controlling it. Has she heard from Nikolas? She says, no. He vanished without a trace, and she’s assuming it was intentional. She doesn’t really know, but Victor doesn’t seem to know. Valentin says he’s sorry. No matter how old they are, there’s no hell like worrying about your child. She thanks him, and says, what’s even more worrisome is that Victor seems to be focusing more on Spencer, and on Spencer’s baby brother. He says, they’ve got the name; they’re Cassadine heirs. That means they factor into Victor’s plans, whatever they are. Victor’s plans are kind of like Sonny’s mob boss job, or what the Chrisleys did for a living. If anything.

Victor says, so Robert managed to retrieve the necklace from the fire, and he’s been covering it up this whole time. Eileen says, he went through a lot of trouble to make sure no one knew it survived, and Victor says, it’s almost as if Robert knew he was looking for it. She says, that was her impression. Robert was convinced Victor needed something from the Ice Princess, and that’s why he was keeping its recovery a secret. Victor says, he and Holly were always thick as thieves. He wonders what else is in the file, but she says she doesn’t know. Robert was still in the room when she snapped the picture. She couldn’t sit there and read it in front of him, but she does know the necklace is being stored in a secure evidence locker in the PCPD. He says he has to commend her; excellent work. He hands back her phone, and she says she can’t wait to finally be done with all this, and he says, why on earth would she be done? She says, because he has everything he needs to send his men into the PCPD to retrieve the diamond, and he chuckles, saying, if only it were that simple. If he were to send his men in to storm the PCPD, it’d be a tip off. He’s afraid she’s going to have to retrieve the necklace for him. She asks how she’s supposed to get in the evidence locker, and he says, as Deputy Mayor, he’s sure she has connections who can find a graceful way to get in and retrieve the necklace. If she wants this to be done with, she’ll bring him the necklace. Don’t fail him. He opens the door, she says, understood, and leaves.

Robert asks Diane why they would they drop the charges against Esme Prince? They can prove everything they’re going after her for. She asks if the jury is going to care. Because if Martin Grey can work up enough sympathy for acquittal, Robert will lose his one and only chance to bring Esme to justice for her crimes. He asks why she’s bringing this to him now. What’s in it for her? She says she’s crushed… Okay. In addition to Trina, she also represents Spencer Cassadine. Esme is determined to keep her baby with her in prison, and Spencer doesn’t want that for his little brother; neither does Trina. He says he doesn’t give a damn what Spencer wants, and he respects Trina, but she isn’t even in the video. What does he tell Esme’s other victims? She says, Josslyn and Cameron both agree with Trina. Right now, they’re only thinking of the baby. Of course (🍷) they want justice, but some say, justice delayed is justice denied. The worst-case scenario would be to let Esme walk away Scot-Free, but justice delayed… Bring the charges, try her, when she can no longer claim traumatic memory loss. He says she might be right, but he’s not convinced, and she says, remember, she defended Trina. That young woman was dangerously close to going to prison because Esme Prince is a nasty piece of business. So as excited as she is to bring this proposal to him, it galls her to have to make it to him. Like she’s sure it galls him to have to consider it. He says, still, it might be best for all involved, and she says, he’s a smart man. He says, just because they put the charges aside doesn’t mean they take their eyes off little Esme for one second.

Dex takes off his shirt, hands it to Josslyn, and says, all yours. Does she want him to autograph it? She says, shut up. Let her see the wound. She looks under the bandage, and says, Sonny’s doctor did a much better job than she did. She gives him back his shirt, and he puts it on. He takes her hands, and says, Sonny’s doctor may have skills, but he doesn’t have her bedside manner. They kiss, and she says she should thank the doctor for bringing him back to her in one piece, but he says, the man she should thank is Sonny.

Nina says she loves Sonny, and Phyllis says she knows. Nina says, he’s been her rock. She doesn’t know if she could have gotten through this past year without him. Phyllis says she’s sure he feels the same about Nina, and Nina says, they’re good together. Phyllis says, she knows. Nina doesn’t have to convince her. She’s seen them together; both as Mike and Nina, and as Nina and Sonny. Nina says, there’s a huge part of her that thinks love is everything. She has a daughter now, and a granddaughter – grandchildren. It’s more than just her now. She’s not sure she can wrap her head around the idea of us being in constant danger. Phyllis takes her hand and says, not everyone was built for Sonny’s world, and everything that comes along with loving him. Nina says, like Carly was?

Sonny tells Carly that he doesn’t know what she wants him to say. She knows how his world is. She says she does, better than most, and he says, then she knows he’ll do everything he can to protect the family. She says, his family needs more than his protection; they need him. He says he’s not going anywhere, and she says, he doesn’t want to go anywhere. She remembers the last time she had to tell Donna and Avery that their daddy wasn’t coming home. She can’t go through that again.

Robert tells Diane, you win. As usual. She laughs, and he says he’ll drop the charges, as long as he can talk to all the victims and get them on board. She says she knows this isn’t an easy decision to make, and he says, she made a compelling argument. They can always refile the charges should evil Esme resurface. And he gets to keep his conviction record. She says, everybody wins. For what it’s worth (🍷), she has every faith that one day the justice system will hold Esme accountable. He says he hopes she’s right, and she says, in the meantime, she knows a way they can both work off their frustration. He asks what she has in mind, and she says, has he ever thrown a hatchet? He says, only in anger, and she says, why doesn’t he join her at the hatchet range? He can show her what he’s got, but she’s equally as lethal with an ax as she is with a brief. He says, Killer Miller strikes again, she laughs, and walks out.

On the phone at the MetroCourt bar, Victor tells someone that he needs them to check on Miss Sutton. He wants to know how far along she is on her road to recovery.

Robert says, back so soon? and Eileen says, not fast enough. He says, did Victor buy it? and she says, every word. He did have questions about the night Holly Sutton and the necklace supposedly went up in flames. He says he anticipated that, and notified the appropriate parties. Let’s move on to Phase Two.

Valentin tells Laura, there was a time not that long ago, if someone had told him that he and Laura would be having a conversation like this… She laughs, and says, united for a common cause. He says, if they can form an alliance… She says, then anything’s possible.  He says, Victor has no idea what he’s up against. He, Lucy, and Anna are alive and working against him, and he hopes Laura is right, and things are working against Victor. She says, now that Eileen is working for them, they finally have the upper hand, and he says, it won’t be long now.

Victor looks at his drink, sniffs it, and takes a sip. Lucy walks out of the elevator, looking like a frumpy librarian from the 1930s, and sees Victor at the bar.

Josslyn asks why she’d thank Sonny, when he’s the one who got Dex shot, and Dex says, they were checking the warehouse; getting ready for the Pikeman shipment. There was an ambush; a sniper. He saw movement before the shot was fired, and he got Sonny out of the way. She says, so he saved Sonny, and he says, they were pinned down, and Tony… She knows Tony. She says, he’s Sonny’s most experienced bodyguard, and Dex says, he gave covering fire from the entrance so Sonny could get away. Josslyn says, Sonny left him? and he says, Sonny was the target. Once he was gone, the shooter should have left. She says, obviously, he didn’t, and Dex says, the sniper took a shot at him, creased him, and he took cover, but he wasn’t going to last long with a handgun against a rifle. So he made a run for it, and that’s when Sonny came back and shot the sniper. Sonny probably saved his life… What? She says, nothing. It just almost sounds like Dex admires him.

Sonny says he knows it was hell for Carly, and for the girls, and she says, it was hell for everybody. He says he’s not going to put her through that again, and she says, a bridge went out from under him. He didn’t choose that; it just happened. Things happen. He can’t control everything. He says, he knows that. If he could control this, it wouldn’t be happening. The only thing he can do is take things as they come. As it is, he’s going to find out what’s going on and put a stop to it. She asks if there’s anything she can do, and he says, she can just stay out of it. He can deal with anything as long as she and the girls are safe. Okay? She says, okay, when Nina walks in.

On Monday, Valentin says, Anna screwed up and can’t own up to it; Josslyn says, Dex will be signing his own death warrant; and Sonny tells Nina, his children won’t be visiting him, and neither will she.

⚾️ Playing Ball…

Up close and personal at the RHONJ charity softball game.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/rhonj-charity-softball-game-behind-the-scenes-moments-pics-recap

🍸 #Scandoval…

Like Andy, I’m girding my loins for the Reunion.

LVP wouldn’t have to ask me to move in twice.

https://www.etonline.com/kristen-doute-says-tom-sandoval-still-refuses-to-leave-home-he-shares-with-ariana-madix-201104

Kelly Clarkson be damned.

https://www.etonline.com/ariana-madix-releases-first-statement-on-tom-sandoval-raquel-leviss-affair-what-doesnt-kill-me

I always appreciate a timeline.

https://www.etonline.com/tom-sandoval-and-raquel-leviss-a-timeline-of-the-vanderpump-rules-stars-cheating-scandal-200333

More proof Sandoval is an awful human being. If Jax shames you, you know it’s bad.

It’s even better than The Slap. Although TBH, I can’t imagine Scheana giving anyone a black eye. Not to mention, that’s a pretty odd-looking shiner. I agree with the opinion that it’s to remove herself from the Reunion.

https://www.etonline.com/scheana-shay-slams-raquel-leviss-restraining-order-filing-amid-vanderpump-rules-drama-200621

🐝 Don’t Get Stung…

I binged season one not long ago. I can’t wait.

https://mashable.com/article/yellowjackets-season-2-review-showtime

🐲 He Knows Nothing…

His reaction? He talks about everything but.

https://extratv.com/2023/03/15/kit-harington-reacts-to-possible-jon-snow-game-of-thrones-spin-off-series-exclusive/

🎸 If You Palooza…

The latest info on Lollapalooza. You can get tickets at a lot of websites. I’m not endorsing getting them through this one. They just had some good, basic intel.

https://www.songkick.com/festivals/1235-lollapalooza/id/40682629-lollapalooza-2023

🐕 Neverending Cuteness…

Adorable pets. Who cares who owns them?

🍻 Quotes of the Irish

This week, I’m taking the easy way out. Moving info, downloading programs, whatever needs to be done on a new device is a real pita. If it was the only thing I had to do, it wouldn’t be as much of a headache, but it’s not. And I keep going, oh yeah, that too. So rather than going quote hunting, I found a link that’s apropos for the week.

https://ottawacitizen.com/life/life-story/top-50-irish-proverbs-and-sayings-you-should-know-for-st-patricks-day

🍀May the wind always be at your back & may you be at the gates of heaven an hour 🍀🍀before the devil knows you’re dead.🍀

🩰 Riverdancing Away…

Make a return trip on Monday for soap and the St. David’s final charter. Until then, stay safe, stay challenging the status quo, and stay knowing things happen. You can’t control everything, but life is full of surprises.

March 10, 2023 – Drew Gives Ned a Proposal, Dear Diary, VanderMore, Southern Smarm, Awards Talk, Vegas Cat (!), Slightly More Than a Dozen Quotes & Lift

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Gladys says she doesn’t know why Sonny is so worked up, and he says he’s not, but he can be if she doesn’t give him an answer.

Nina sees Ava in the restaurant, and Ava says she was hoping to have lunch with one of the owners, and doesn’t mean Olivia. Does Nina have time for her? Nina says, they’re overdue for a proper catch-up, and she wants to hear about all the developments in Ava’s life. Ava tells her to be careful what she wishes for.

At the Quartermaines, Mac tells Michael, this form states that the PCPD has returned all the items taken from the boathouse when Ava was attacked. He just needs a signature, and he’ll be out of Michael’s hair. Another phrase they use a lot, but I never hear it IRL. Michael says he’s glad to have it behind them, and thanks Mac for catching the killer. Mac says, his sympathies for everything Michael’s family is going through, and the challenges still to come.

In the foyer, Maxie says, it’s perfect that Ned answered the door, and he invites her in. He asks, what brings her by? and she says, as a matter-of-fact, him.

Walking into what used to be Sonny’s kitchen, Carly says she and Drew made quite a mess last night. I guess she stepped over everything to get him that brownie. He says, it’s not every day they get the house to themselves. He feels they’re obligated to take advantage of that, and kisses her. She says, sooner or later, they have to clean this up, and he suggests later, kissing her again. I still don’t see the moss bowl🎍. What did she do with it???

Dex says he has to leave soon, and Josslyn says, right. His mystery boss needs evidence against Sonny. He flashes back to Michael saying, if Sonny is telling Dex about his past, he’s got nothing to worry about. He tells her that he can make a lot more than grilled cheese. He can make grilled salmon with grilled asparagus marinated in truffle oil. She says, so he can cook, and he’s just now telling her. Why was he holding out? He says, after what he ate when he was in the Marines, he promised himself he’d learn to cook when he got back to the states. The meals keep them fed, but they weren’t exactly fine dining. He’ll make her grilled asparagus sometime. He kisses her neck, and she says, it’s too cold to grill, having never heard of doing it indoors, and he says, this summer. She asks if he thinks they’ll still be together this summer, and he says, the job should be over by then, and he can spend every minute getting closer to her without worrying about Sonny. She says she can’t wait, and asks if she’ll see him later. He says, she can count on it, and kisses her again.

Mac says he’s so sorry about everything Willow is going through, especially so soon after the birth of that adorable baby. She says, hopefully, there might be some good news on the horizon. She might have a match with a bone marrow donor. He says he’ll pray everything works out, and she says she’ll take all the prayers she can get. She wants to spend as much time with her family as possible. Mac congratulates her on Amelia; she’s beautiful. Michael says he thinks so too, but he might be a little bias. Willow says, no. She’s gorgeous. Mac says, children are a blessing. Enjoy your time with them. It goes by really fast. Maxie walks in with Ned, and Mac says, case in point. He blinked, and Maxie’s all grown up. Maxie says, moral of the story; don’t blink. She asks what he’s doing here, and he says he had police business to finish up. Maxie says, good thing because she has a big announcement for all of them.

Cody says he ran into Sasha’s mother-in-law, and she asks if they’ve even met. How did he know it was her? He says, at some time in the conversation, it came out that her last name was Corbin. She was talking about selling a garage that belonged to her daughter-in-law, so it wasn’t hard to put together. Sasha says she’d been afraid Gladys would sell the garage without consulting her, but she thought she was just being paranoid. She can’t believe Gladys actually did it. Cody asks if there’s anything he can do, and she says, he can tell her who Gladys was selling the garage to.

Sonny says, Gladys was so eager to sell the garage, she wanted him to convince Sasha to get on board. How does he know she didn’t badger Sasha into taking the offer? She asks if that’s what he really thinks about her, and he says he knows how Miss Wu operates when she sets her sights on something, and if she’s pressuring Gladys, he can help her, but she has to tell him what’s going on.

Nina says she’s sorry she didn’t stick around last night, but Ava says she knows Nina wanted to see Willow. Nina says she spent the night with Sonny, but she’s glad Ava decided to stay at her place with all the drama happening at Windymere. Ava says, even with Ryan dead, she didn’t want to be on the island all by herself, and Nina says, anyone in their right mind would need a little break from Windymere for a while, and Ava says, Nina doesn’t even know the whole story. Nina says, Ava is welcome to stay with her for as long as she wants to. Sonny mentioned Nikolas threatened to take Avery. Ava says, it was a miscommunication really, and asks how things went with Willow. Nina says, better than she’d hoped. Willow opened up to her about the affects of her health issues. Liesl asked her to do it, and Willow’s grateful to Aunt Liesl, so she honored her request, but she doesn’t care. Maybe this little thaw is a step in the right direction. Ava asks, how are things with Sonny? and Nina says, they’re fine. Ava says, is there trouble in paradise? and Nina says, yes. Only it’s not her paradise. Ava asks, whose? and Nina says, Carly.

Gladys says, Sonny doesn’t have to worry about Selina Wu for her. He knows how much she loves her daughter-in-law, and she wants to do right by Brando. She always has Sasha’s best interests at heart. Dex comes in, and Sonny motions him over. Sonny tells Gladys that he has some business to take care of. She’d better know what she’s doing. Gladys smiles, and leaves.

Sasha asks, who owns the garage now? and Cody says he really doesn’t want to get anymore involved, but he doesn’t want to lie to her either. He just heard part of a conversation, and really thinks she needs to ask Gladys herself. Sasha says she intends to, and sends a text to Gladys. She says she knows he feels bad, but don’t. She appreciates him being honest with her. At least someone was.

Maxie holds up a binder, and says, the Nurses Ball is back. She wanted to commemorate GH’s 60th anniversary, and celebrate how much GH’s workers have meant to the community. She thought, what better way than the Nurses Ball. Mac says, that is a great idea, and Ned says, normally, he’d say the should skip it – the year of Lucy’s death – but 60 years of General Hospital is too big of an anniversary to ignore. Michael agrees, and Maxie says, since Lucy isn’t here to run things, she’s going to attempt to step into Lucy’s shoes and chair the event. As they can imagine, it’s a big undertaking financially, which is where Michael and Ned come in. Mac says he has some things to take care of, so he’ll leave them to it. He congratulates Willow and Michael again, and leaves. Ned says, whatever Maxie needs, she can count on ELQ and the entire Quartermaine family. She thanks him, and says she imagines things are pretty crazy at ELQ right now, with Valentin being gone also. Of course (🍷), Aurora Media will be at her service. He’s sure Drew will be on board too. She thanks them, and says, they really need sponsors for this event, not to mention musical acts. She looks at Ned, and he says he might be able to help with that, but he has to deal with this text. He leaves, and Willow asks, what about Michael? but he says his performance days are gone, so no thanks. Maxie says, that’s okay. She has a much better plan for him.

Carly thanks Drew for helping, even though he made the mess, and he says he put the mess on the floor. The mess was on the kitchen island from her. She says she doesn’t do a lot of baking or cooking, so she doesn’t see a lot of cleaning up the kitchen in their future. He says, their future; he likes the sound of that. She says, her too, and they kiss. He says he’s confident that his plan to get Charlotte’s ELQ shares and step away from the company is going to pacify Ned, and she says, Ned’s the only person they have to worry about turning them into the SEC, so they’re good.

Ava says, spill it, the dirt on Carly, and Nina says she hasn’t really been able to process it with everything that’s going on with Willow and her new grandchild… Ava says, just tell her. She could use the distraction. Nina says, remember when she told Ava about Drew and Carly hiding whatever’s going on with them? Ava says, vaguely, and Nina says she saw them hugging pretty intimately, and she heard them say they couldn’t show how they really feel about each other in public. Ava wonders why, and Nina says she’s sort of figuring it out, but it’s raising more questions than answers.

Cody sees the paper that dropped on the floor, and picks it up. He wonders if it’s the invoice he was looking for, but he sees it’s his paternity test, and wonders how it got here. He puts it in his pocket, and asks Comet if he’s pulling tricks again, when there’s a knock at the door. It’s Mac.

Gladys asks bartender Jamie why she can’t book a spa appointment from the bar. She really needs a massage. Sasha asks, why is that? Is she stressed out about something? Like Deception?

Drew says, besides Ned, the only people who know he and Carly are romantically involved are people they trust; Sonny, Olivia, Michael, and Joss. The SEC isn’t going to have any reason to look into the timing of their relationship, unless Ned tips them off. Carly says she can’t believe Ned, and Drew says, she’s an investor in Aurora, but the merger never happened. She didn’t actually profit from any inside information, and it was like, six months ago. He thinks they’re good. She says she hears him, but she can’t wrap her head around them being seen as a couple out in public. She’s used to the hiding. The majority of the time they’ve spent together is stolen moments at her house. He says, they’ve been pretty great moments, and she says, amazing moments. She suggests they enjoy the last few moments of secrecy before the whole world finds out, and he says he plans on it, when Josslyn walks in. She apologizes for interrupting, but Drew says he was just getting ready to go. Josslyn tells him not to leave on her account. It looked like they were having a good time. He says he’s going to make sure they have plenty of good times, and leaves. 1) I don’t think the SEC would care if she profited or not, it’s still a crime, and 2) they’ve been together in public plenty. The only difference will be, they’ll be holding hands now.

Dex wonders why Sonny isn’t including him in the Pikeman deal, and Sonny says, if he doesn’t, he’ll have no reason to blame Dex if the deal goes sideways.

Gladys says she doesn’t know what Sasha is talking about; she has the day off work. Sasha says, please don’t tell her that she sold Brando’s garage, and Gladys asks how Sasha heard about that. Sasha says, so it’s true. She actually sold it. Gladys says she did, and Sasha says she can’t believe Gladys would sell her husband’s garage without asking her. Gladys didn’t even tell her. How could she do that? Gladys says, it was time, and Sasha says, Gladys told her that they were going to hold off until she was ready. Gladys tells Sasha that she doesn’t have the final say; the court put her in charge. Sasha says, forget about the damn court. They had an arrangement as family, and in the spirit of that arrangement, Gladys should have consulted with her. Gladys had no right to sell Brando’s garage behind her back. Gladys says she was just trying to do what’s best, and Sasha asks, how was that best for her? Gladys says, it’s not all about Sasha. She did it for herself.

Cody asks what brings Mac here, and Mac says he had some police business with the Quartermaines and thought he’d visit. Cody reached out a few times, and he feels bad for not responding. Cody says he thought Mac might want to talk after what he went through with Ryan Chamberlain. It’s dumb. Mac’s a cop, and obviously dealt with killing a criminal before, so he’s sorry if it seemed like he was hounding Mac. Mac says he should have called Cody back, but Cody says he’s not much of a talker either, especially when it comes to emotional stuff. When he has a lot of things on his mind, he tends to hop on the back of a horse and go for a ride. Did Mac ever try it? Mac says, in his younger days, he spent some time at a ranch in the Outback. Cody asks why he stopped riding, and Mac says he hasn’t had much of an opportunity since he left Australia. Cody says, there’s nothing like it, and Mac says, something tells him that he couldn’t get this old leg over the saddle. It’s not like riding a bike. Cody says, of course (🍷) it is. Horses are just like giant bikes with minds of their own. Mac says, those were the days. Riding out into the bush with his friends, and at the end of the day, go to the pub and put back a few Bludger pale ales. Cody says, Mac drinks Bludgers? and Mac says, Cody’s heard of them? Cody says he did a stunt gig with a guy from Australia, and that’s all he drank. Cody developed a taste for them. Mac says he didn’t think anyone in the United States drank them, and Cody says, don’t tell Mama Q, but he might have put a case of Bludgers on the grocery order. He still has a couple. Does Mac want one? Mac says he’s off the clock.

Michael says, Aurora Media will be at Maxie’s disposal for the Nurses Ball, and he’ll make a personal donation as well. She thanks him, and says, she’s not just here for the money. Don’t get her wrong; she’s taking the donation. But she was hoping he’d join the planning committee. He says, she’s kidding. What about Brook? She’s the one with entertainment experience. Maxie says, but he’s a respected figure in the community. He has tons of connections to local businesses because of his work at Aurora and ELQ. Not to mention, both sides of his family have close relationships with the hospital, so he’s just the person she needs for this committee. Willow says, it is a good cause, and he says, it’s a great cause. It’s just he can’t with everything that’s going on right now. Willow says, before he rules it out, she thinks he should consider it.

Drew comes in, and Ned says he should warn him. Maxie is in there hustling up support for the Nurses Ball. Drew says, hard to imagine without Lucy, but he’s sure Maxie will do a wonderful job. Ned agrees, and Drew says, the family managed to come together for Willow and Michael’s sake, but obviously ELQ is still the elephant in the room. He’s got a proposal to make all this tension a thing of the past.

Nina tells Ava, something’s wrong; Sasha’s not happy. Ava looks over at Sasha arguing with Gladys, and asks if Nina is going to go talk to her, but Nina says, not right now. Sasha knows she’s there for her. If Sasha needs her, she knows where to find her. Ava says, then back to Carly, and Nina says she’s never thrilled when Carly and Sonny have an interaction, but she’s come to terms with the fact that, unfortunately, Carly is always going to have a presence in their lives. And despite her feelings for Carly, she can’t really blame Sonny for wanting to protect her, especially from the Feds. She is his ex-wife. Ava says, so Ned has some kind of trouble that could get Carly and Drew in trouble with the SEC. She wonders what it could be, but Nina has no idea. Ava says, they’re smart; they’ll figure it out. She knows Carly and Drew woudn’t keep their relationship quiet to spare anyone’s feelings. There’s got to be a compelling reason that they’re not going public. Nina wonders if the legal consequences Sonny mentioned could involve jail time. She’s guessing fines woudn’t matter with the Quartermaine money, but what she doesn’t get is the secrecy. The reason Nina owns half this hotel is because Carly was trying to help out Drew and Michael during that whole Aurora/ELQ merger. Ava says, that’s it. She knows what Carly and Drew are so afraid of.

Sonny says he’s leaving Dex out of the Pikeman deal because he sees Dex has potential, and wants to bring him up in the business. He wants to make sure Dex does it well. Dex says he appreciates the faith, but he’d think if Sonny saw potential, Sonny would want to give him more responsibility, not leave him out. Sonny says he just needs to be careful how he brings Dex up, because if the deal goes south, he’ll know Dex had nothing to do with it. Dex says, makes sense, and Sonny says, that doesn’t mean Dex still can’t help him.

Michael agrees the Nurses Ball is a worthy cause, and under normal circumstances, he’d do it in a heartbeat. But Willow’s bone marrow transplant is coming up… Willow says, they can’t do anything about that except wait, and he says, what about the wedding? She says she has the wedding under control, along with help from his mom, his sister, Sasha, Brook, and Olivia. Michael says, what about their newborn baby? and Willow says, they’re lucky enough to have help. Maxie says, it sounds like he’s out of excuses, and Willow says, the community really needs this, and so does she. Do it for her?

Cody and Mac clink bottles, and Mac says, this brings him back. Cody says, him too. It reminds him of simpler times in his life. Mac wonders when things got so complicated, and Cody says he can only imagine how difficult it must be, having to take someone’s life in the line of duty. Mac says he’s been a cop for about 30 years. Killing Ryan, even though it’s not the first time he’s had to take a life while on the job, this was different. He and Ryan had a complicated history. This was a man who terrorized his family for decades because of his obsession with Felicia, but he was also the twin brother of Mac’s best friend, Doc. Even as twisted and downright evil as Ryan could be, it wasn’t that many years ago, Ryan actually managed to switch places with Doc. He had Doc locked up and drugged up in Ferncliff Asylum. Ryan pretended to be Doc. Cody says, this guy sounds degenerate, malevolent, nasty, and a real piece of work pretty messed up, and Mac says, he was, but he was also Doc’s brother. He doesn’t think Doc ever gave up hope that Ryan would change one day, but that day will never come because Mac killed him. Cody says, Mac did that to save Ava and himself, and Mac says he knows they’re all better off, and the shooting was justified, but he killed his best friend’s twin brother, and he knows in some small way, Doc still loved Ryan. He hates that he caused his friend any pain. Cody says, sometimes it’s easier to talk about heavy stuff with someone you barely know, and Mac says he’s glad they’re getting to know each other. They clink bottles again, and Cody says, him too.

Gladys says, the truth is, she had every right to sell the garage, not just as Sasha’s guardian, but as Brando’s mother who’s grieving him. Sasha says she’s grieving him too, and Gladys says she knows. She’s sorry for the tough time Sasha had, but the guardianship has protected her in way she doesn’t even know. She has no idea what it’s like trying to manage all these finances. Getting bills every single month, for the garage, each one with Brando’s name on it, and then there’s when Chamber of Commerce calls the office phone and asks for Mr. Corbin. She gets faced with daily reminders that Brando isn’t here with them anymore. Sasha says she had no idea. Why didn’t Gladys tell her any of this? Gladys says, because her job is to literally protect Sasha as her guardian. Sasha lost her husband; she lost her son. It’s been hard on her too. So she needed to get rid of the garage for many reasons; not the least of which is getting on with her life. She’s sorry if that makes Sasha hate her. It’s just a chance she had to take.

Drew tells Ned, Valentin’s death opens the possibility to get ELQ back in Quartermaine control. Ned says, technically, it’s in Quartermaine control now, and Drew says, Ned is CEO, but this is an opportunity for the family to regain majority ownership of the company. Valentin’s stock went to Charlotte, which means Laura controls it. He’s sure they can negotiate to reacquire the stock that Valentin poached from them. (I’m not so sure about that, but go on.) Ned says, so Drew and Michael can ice him out again? and Drew says, Valentin drove a wedge between them, but he’s gone. The way he sees it, it’s a chance for them to start over. So in the interest of putting the family back together, he’s willing to step away from ELQ entirely. Ned says he honestly wasn’t expecting that, and Drew says, he’ll run Aurora full time; he’s okay with that. The most important thing is making this family a united front again. Last summer, they were all at each other’s throats, then they came together for Willow, and it reminded him how right it feels for them to all be on the same team. He knows they’re Quartermaines, and they’re going to bicker and backstab, but at the end of the day, when it matters, they band together. They have to do whatever they have to in order to make this family whole again, and part of that is to get ELQ back. So what does Ned say?

Ava says, Carly invested in Aurora when the plan was to merge that company with ELQ, and Nina says, right, to get ELQ under the Quartermaines’ control. It was Drew and Michael’s plan and when Carly tried to help them, she invested heavily. When the merger didn’t happen, she lost it all. Ava says, but if Carly bought Aurora’s stock knowing there was a merger on the horizon, isn’t that insider trading? And she and Drew could be open to prosecution if anybody finds out. Nina says, that’s why they have to keep their relationship at a distance, because they don’t want anyone investigating to think they discuss these sensitive business matters. Otherwise, they’re facing jail time.

Dex says, anything Sonny needs, he’s good for it, and Sonny says he wants to take Dex to the warehouse where the Pikeman shipment is going to be stored. He’s not going to tell Dex when it’s going to land; the date’s been changed. Dex asks, why take him to the warehouse? and Sonny says he wants Dex’s assessment of the place. He wants to see how good Dex identifies vulnerabilities. Sonny says, think of it as training, and leaves, Dex following.

Josslyn says, sorry for crashing Carly’s time with Drew, but Carly says, this is Josslyn’s home. She’s always happy to see her. Josslyn says she knows, but Carly and Drew don’t get to spend a ton of time together since they have to keep things on the downlow. Carly says, that may be changing, and Josslyn says she’s so happy to hear that. Carly says, it’s still in the works, but she’s cautiously optimistic. Josslyn says she hopes it works out. Carly deserves to show the world how happy Drew makes her. Carly says, so does Josslyn. A secret relationship’s a lot of fun, but it comes with baggage. Josslyn says, and we’re back to Dex, and Carly says, she’s Josslyn’s mom, and she’s always going to want to protect Josslyn and stop her from getting hurt. Forget about what Sonny would do if he found out Josslyn has been seeing Dex behind his back, but Josslyn grew up in that world. She saw Carly deal with it every day. Is she sure she wants that for herself? Josslyn says, Dex is planning on getting out of Sonny’s organization, and Carly asks if Josslyn is going to hang her future on a vague promise. Josslyn flashes back to Dex saying, option three. He gets evidence on Sonny, turns it over to his real boss, who turns it over to the Feds. Sonny goes to prison; he’s in the clear. Josslyn says, option three it is, and he says, no matter what happens, he can’t walk away from her. Josslyn tells Carly, it’s not like that. Dex has a real plan. Carly says, like what?

Ned says, Drew brings up some good points, and Drew says, it’s a win-win for Ned. They regain Valentin’s stock and he extracts himself from ELQ. Ned says, Drew’s given him a lot to think about.

Willow says, if Michael helps plan the Nurses Ball, it will give them something to look forward to. They won’t be focusing on the transplant, and have something positive to pour their energy into. Something that benefits them, GH, and the entire city. He asks how he can say no to that, and Maxie says, awesome, and thanks him. Their first meeting is tomorrow, and she’ll call him tonight to go over the details. She jets, and Willow thanks Michael. He says, she’s his world. There isn’t anything he wouldn’t do for her. They kiss.

Mac asks if Cody is up for another one, and Cody says, no reason not to. He gets up, and Mac says he thinks Cody dropped something. He picks up the paternity test, and starts to unfold it. Like people do when it’s not their stuff.

Sasha says she doesn’t hate Gladys, and Gladys thanks her. Sasha says, but she doesn’t like that Gladys went behind her back, and Gladys says, understood. Sasha says she gets where Gladys was coming from, and she’s probably right. Left to her own devices, Sasha probably would never have parted ways with the garage. She couldn’t bear it. I guess running it as a profitable business wasn’t an option? Gladys says, just so Sasha knows, it wasn’t easy for her either, and Sasha says she guesses in maybe a not-so-good way, it worked out for the best. Instead of hanging over them, the garage is gone, and they’re forced to move forward. Gladys says she sees why her son fell for Sasha, and Sasha starts to cry. She says she misses him, and Gladys says she does too. They hug.

Nina says, Ava’s theory is good, but that’s all it is; a theory. Ava says, a theory that can turn the tables. Nina has important information about Carly, just like Carly had important information about her. The question is, what is she going to do with it?

Josslyn says, Carly and Drew are figuring out a way they can be together out in the open. She and Dex want that too, and she knows Dex is going to get out of the mob for good. Carly says she knows Josslyn believes that, and Dex probably believes he can leave that world, but take it from someone who has been very close to it most of her life, once you’re in, it’s really hard to leave. Josslyn says, but it is possible, and Carly says, it is, but the way out is usually death.

Sonny and Dex go into the warehouse, and Dex says, Sonny is going to have to put up cameras outside. Someone trains a gun on Dex, and Sonny says he’s got somebody on that, and Dex says, ports of entry? Dex realizes there’s a gun with a gun above them, and pushes Sonny down as the guy shoots.

On Monday, Victor says, he and Elizabeth are finished when he says they are; Cody says he’s the last person Mac should be helping; Josslyn tells Carly that Dex is willing to do what it takes; and Dex tells Sonny, the longer they stay here, the worse their chances.

Already Making Friends…

Special K? Really? By next year, she’ll be running the place, and have a Ponzi scheme involving the commissary.

https://people.com/tv/jen-shah-adjusting-to-life-in-prison-second-journal-entry/

🍸 And It’s Just the Beginning…

You’d think this was the biggest news since the moon landing. No kidding she was a wolf in sheep’s clothing. I can’t even fathom having an affair with a friend’s boyfriend, and looking them in the face every day.

If LVP says it, it must be true.

I forgot all about Miami Girl.

https://www.etonline.com/vanderpump-rules-star-tom-sandoval-threatens-to-stop-filming-after-scene-with-raquel-leviss-200441

🍹 Charming Taylor…

Does he have BDE? I just don’t get it. And this show is way too incestuous.

🏆 About Uncle Oscar…

The nominees. I’m kind of surprised about Everything Everywhere All At Once. Don’t get me wrong. It was an amazing film, although a long way of basically telling me to be nice and find happiness in the small things. But it doesn’t seem like the kind of film that becomes so mainstream.

https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/24/entertainment/oscar-nominations-list-2023/index.html

How to watch. (Turn on TV or streaming service. Watch.)

https://people.com/movies/oscars-2023-how-to-watch-what-to-expect/

The carpet.

https://people.com/movies/oscars-2023-red-carpet-wont-be-red-this-year-details/

The gift bags. My God how I want one of these.

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/03/10/2023-oscars-gift-bag-whats-inside.html

No Gaga. Hey, she’s a busy woman.

https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Culture/lady-gaga-perform-2023-oscars/story?id=97740301

Break points.

https://people.com/movies/oscars-2023-best-actors-nominees-big-breaks/

🐱 Viva Las Gato…

What are the odds the next guest would be a vet?

https://people.com/pets/lost-cat-found-in-las-vegas-hotel-room/

🥠 Quotes of the Week

We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies. – Martin Luther King, Jr.

I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers. – Kahlil Gibran

If you’re trying to achieve, there will be road blocks. I’ve had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. – Michael Jordan (Or kick it down.)

If you are insecure, guess what? The rest of the world is too. Do not overestimate the competition and underestimate yourself. You are better than you think. – T. Harv Eker

Apologizing does not always mean that you’re wrong and the other person is right. It just means that you value your relationship more than your ego. – Unknown

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.Ralph Waldo Emerson

You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. – Dr. Seuss

In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years. – Abraham Lincoln

Life is never fair, and perhaps it is a good thing for most of us that it is not. – Oscar Wilde

Life is a long lesson in humility. – James M. Barrie

Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. – Thomas A. Edison

In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: it goes on. – Robert Frost

I think you’re Mozart. – Amy Slaton, 1000-Lb. Sisters, referring to her son’s painting

💌 And the Award Goes To…

Make a return trip on Monday for some soap, what’s on Deck, and smack talk about the awful people on Summer House. Until then, stay safe, stay surrounding yourself with those who uplift you, and stay remembering, a secret relationship’s a lot of fun, but it comes with baggage.