Tag Archives: The Beatles

August 2, 2023 – Cyrus Gives Martin a Task, Shannon’s Not Riding That Train & Penny

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

On the phone, Laura says she’s been updated on Curtis’s condition. She’s sorry she left Jordan with so much to deal with, but she also knows Jordan is perfectly capable of handling it…. Laura thanks her and says, goodbye, when there’s a knock at the door. It’s Valentin, who asks what time they’re leaving for the airport. Laura says she and Doc are leaving in an hour, but he’s not coming with him.

Martin is let into Cyrus’s hospital room, and Cyrus says, you’ve come to see thy brother. Martin says he’s only here because he was informed it was a matter of life or death, and Cyrus says, it is. Like their Savior, he’s faced death only to embrace life in all its glory. Martin says he’s truly sorry to hear about the heart attack, but comparing himself to God is definitely going too far, even for Cyrus.

In the nook, Tracy asks when the wandering warbler walked in (try saying that 3 times real fast), and Olivia says, Dante brought him here last night. He was out bar hopping at all hours. Tracy’s got to help her. She doesn’t even recognize her husband anymore. Tracy says she’s sorry. She has to deal with reality today. Olivia is going to have to deal with fantasy. As Tracy walks out, Olivia says, he’s still her son. Leo comes in and says, Eddie slept here last night. Leo was watching him sleep. He snores. When is dad coming back? She says she wishes she knew, when Ned/Eddie walks in and says, so that’s where I am.

Brook calls Chase at the hospital, and asks how he is. He says he’s busy. Her? She says, same. She was thinking maybe they could have lunch. He says he’s going to be tied up at GH, and she asks why he’s there, but he says he’s sorry. He’s got to go, but he misses her. Maxie watches her, as Brook says she misses him too, but he’s already hung up. Brook says, be careful, and looks at The Invader headline: MURDER AT GH. Maxie says, it never gets any easier, and Brook says she didn’t know Maxie had come in. What never gets any easier? Maxie says, being in love with a cop.

Sam goes into Kelly’s, and tells Carly, it looks like somebody had a busy morning. Carly says, it’s amazing how many people are at that door at 6 am, waiting for her to flip the sign. Does Sam want some breakfast? Sam says, actually, she wants a coffee to go. She wondered if Carly knew how Drew was doing. Carly says she thought Sam took Scout to see him, and Sam says she tried, but they wouldn’t let them in. They said there was some sort of an incident.

Austin picks up Cyrus’s chart, and Chase gets his attention. Austin asks if he can help Chase with something, and Chase says he’s working on a case. Can Austin answer a few questions about this guy? He shows Austin a picture of Gordon’s dead body.

On the phone in his office, Sonny says, he took two bullets to the chest at GH, in his territory… He thinks they’re trying to send him a message. So he might just send them a message. Frank comes in, and Sonny asks if the job is done. Frank says, yes, boss, and Sonny says, and? Frank says, in the trunk. Sonny tosses down his phone and says, let’s go make a delivery.

Ned asks how he got here, and Olivia says, Dante saw him staggering around some random bar. Lucky he didn’t get arrested. She hands him some coffee, and he says he’d better tell Sonny, but she says she already called him. He’s sending Ned’s things. Ned says he guesses that’s a hint. He’s crashed in worse places. She says, he ought to be drinking water; he’s going to dehydrate. She’ll make him some eggs. He says, no. He would hurl. Leo asks if he’s sick, but he says he’s just a little hung over. Leo says, hung over what? and Olivia says, it’s a condition that adults get when they’ve spent the entire night making fools of themselves. Leo asks if that’s why his eyes are red, and Olivia suggests he get Ned an ice pack from the freezer. Leo tells Ned, that means she wants to talk to him alone, and leaves. She asks if Ned’s had a look in the mirror and realized he’s a little old for this.

Valentin says, okay, but doesn’t Laura need his help getting on to… She says she doesn’t actually. They needed his help before, and he was very helpful. They really appreciate it, but she and Doc have it from here. Doc walks in, and Valentin says, he’s behind this, isn’t he? Doc says he hopes so, and Laura says she was just explaining to Valentin that they’re going to go on, just the two of them. Doc says, yes, well the only reason Valentin came along was because Laura had information Nikolas might be in Chechnya. Valentin knows the country and the language, but Nikolas isn’t there. They don’t need him anymore. Valentin says he knows Doc has no use for him, but shouldn’t his wife’s safety be more important than hatred?

Cyrus asks Martin, where is his beautiful sister? He was hoping she’d come as well. Her aura guided him through his darkest hours. Martin says, Laura and her aura are somewhere in Europe right now, and Cyrus says he hopes she’s having a wonderful time. God has given him a gift, and an important message. Martin says, don’t open til Christmas? and Cyrus says, normally, he would welcome Martin’s humor, but this is a serious issue, and Martin’s lack of faith in him breaks his heart. Martin says he hasn’t got time for this. What’s so damn urgent? Cyrus says he needs Martin to give all his money away.

Brook says she was just calling Chase to say hello, and Maxie asks if he’s working that murder case at GH. Brook says she thinks so, but he won’t talk about it, and Maxie says, he doesn’t want to worry her. Brook says she thinks she’d worry less if he talked about it, but Maxie says, she wouldn’t. Is that why she was so desperate for Chase to be a singer? Brook says, no, but she can’t help but think it would have made her life easier, and Maxie says, really? All those girls fawning over him? Brook says, they still fawn over him when he’s not singer, and Maxie says, that’s a whole other issue. Brook asks if it gets easier, and Maxie says, not really, but you learn to live with it. Then when you’re phone rings in the middle of the night… Brook says she’s sorry and suggests they drop it, but Maxie says, it’s okay. Brook is her friend and she loves her. Brook says she loves Maxie too, but Maxie lost Nathan. Maxie says she did, but he was doing a job he loved, and that made him the man that she loved. Would Chase ever have been really happy being a singer? Brook says, no. She guesses she just has to accept this is his calling. He’s so passionate about it, and she knows how much it means to him. Maxie says, and when we love someone, isn’t that what we want for them? Brook says she’ll get there, and Maxie says, she will. Brook asks what Maxie has in her hand, and Maxie says, a list of arguments so their major distributor doesn’t drop all of their products. Brook says, what? Did it work? Maxie says she was able to talk them off the ledge when Lucy came back from the dead, but the main Face of Deception going homicidal? They couldn’t take that.

Austin suggests they talk privately, and Chase says, he’s a tough guy to track down. They’ve been trying to find Austin since the shooting the other night. Austin says, after working a double shift, he just crashes. He has to decompress. Chase says he bets. So what about this guy? Austin says he does recognize him because he treated him here at the ER, and Chase asks if Austin can tell him what for, but Austin says he can’t. Patient/doctor confidentiality. He’s sure Chase understands. Chase asks if that’s the only time Austin saw him, and Austin says, as a patient, yes, but he tracked Austin down after that at the Port Charles Grill. He was upset about his bill. Chase asks, when was this? and Austin says, a couple days ago. Chase asks if Austin was the only one there when this happened, and Austin says, no. He was with Ava Jerome and Nina Reeves and Sonny Corinthos. Chase says he has one other question, and shows Austin another photo. It’s Dex.

Carly says she’s so sorry that Scout and Drew didn’t get to see each other, and Sam says her too. Scout was really disappointed, but she told her that she’d ask Carly how her dad was doing. Carly says, their visit was great. She couldn’t believe it took such a long time to see him, and of course (🍷) Drew wanted her to wait even longer. Sam says, he can be a martyr like that, and Carly says, in a good way. Sam says she is kind of worried about him. It’s the kind of people he’s in there with. Not that she doesn’t think he can take care of himself, because she knows he can, but still. Carly says, he’s okay. Tell Scout not to worry about her daddy. Sam thanks her, and says she knows this has to be hard on Carly. She and Drew just started their relationship. Now they’re separated. Carly says, Sam knows what it’s like; her and Dante. It’s the beginning. You want to find out every single thing you can about that person, and want to grow with them. It’s hard. Sam says, it’s really a special time, and Carly says, it is, and being away from the person you love the most… Sam turns around to see Sonny walk in.

Brook says, they both know Sasha didn’t realize what she was doing, and Maxie says she knows; she was there. Sasha had no idea what was going on. But the optics still stink. And so does being moved to the bottom shelf of every major department and cosmetics store. Brook says, no, but Maxie says, yeah. If it wasn’t for The Deceptor, this company would be doomed. Thank goodness they didn’t put Sasha’s face on the Deceptor box. Does she sound heartless? Brook says, no. She sounds like a good businesswoman. She knows how much Maxie loves Sasha, and would do anything for her to get better, but she also has a responsibility to the company and the stockholders. There’s a knock at the door, and Tracy walks in. She says, there Brook is, and Brook says, they’re in the middle of a business crisis, but Tracy says, it will have to wait. They need to have a private conversation where they won’t be disturbed by Brook’s father.

Ned tells Olivia, old? How does someone old manage to hit The Savoy – which, by the way, is a little too fancy for his taste – and then… Well, a couple of the bars that are definitely more his style. Loud, rocking music, down to earth, the right kind of crowd… She says, dive bars, and he says, exactly. He loves dive bars. She says, tell her something. When he looked around these wonderful dive bars, how many grandfathers did he see? I’ll bet more than you would think.

Martin says, no doubt any money Cyrus has was illegally obtained, but by all means, which victim would Cyrus like him to make the check out to? Cyrus says, Martin has to understand. The warmth of that white light was incredible. It was flowing through his entire body, and he was moving right into it, as if to become a part of it, but the love of his dear sister and brother and their beloved mother pulled him back, both emotionally and spiritually. Martin says, the money, and Cyrus says, it was Drew Cain who performed the CPR that kept him alive. The man didn’t have to do that, but because of Drew’s heroics, he’s still here. And now he’ll be able to do the work God has tasked him with. Martin says, what exactly is that?

Austin tells Chase, this guy is certainly more alive. Is he supposed to know who he is? Chase says, he was spotted outside Austin’s office door by a member of the staff before he came across the victim later that night. Austin says, it sounds like that guy would know more about what’s going on than he would, and Chase says, they’re questioning everyone who was here that night. It’s routine, for now. Austin says he has a patient he should get to, so if Chase has no more questions… He starts to walk, and Chase says, call him if Austin remembers anything. Austin says, absolutely, and Chase notices the chart. He says, Cyrus Renault. Is he one of Austin’s patients? Austin says, he will be as soon as he meets him, and Chase says, watch your back.

Sonny says hi to Carly and Sam, when the phone rings, and Carly says she’s got to take this. Sam asks how the wedding planning is going, and Sonny says, it’s going. He hopes Dante realizes how lucky he is. She says, it’s a two-way street, and he says, Dante isn’t the only one who’s crazy about her. He had a heart-to-heart with Rocco, and he thinks she’s terrific, and he’s a lot like his grandfather, a tough sell. Sam thanks him for telling her, and he says, don’t expect him to… She says, he’s right. It’s good to see him. He says, it’s good to see her, and she leaves. Carly apologizes, and Sonny says, it looks like business is good. She says, it’s picked up a bit, and he says he’s not surprised. The owner has a solid reputation for running a good establishment. She thanks him, and says, if it keeps up at this pace and she manages the books just right, she’ll be able to keep the house. He says he can help her out with that, but she says she doesn’t need anything. Besides, she can’t take money from anyone. He says, got it, and she asks why he’s here. He says he came to make her an offer she can’t refuse.

Doc says, Valentin thinks he’d put Laura’s life in jeopardy because he has a grievance with him? It was a long time ago; he can get past it. Unless Valentin has an issue with that. Valentin says, no issue, and Laura asks if she can have a word alone with Valentin. Doc could tell the front desk they’re checking out. Doc says he’d be delighted to do that. Valentin is right about one thing. Doc doesn’t particularly like him, but he does appreciate Valentin’s help in Chechnya. He leaves, and Valentin says, Doc must really love Laura to put up with him. Doc hates his guts. She says she really wouldn’t go that far. Doc has some issues with him, but he’s come to understand Valentin’s value, as has she. And he’s also begun to understand that she’s come to care about Valentin. It’s because of that, she’s telling him that he needs to go back to Port Charles.

Martin says he’s waiting with bated breath, and Cyrus says, as Martin knows, he’s not legally able to handle any of his assets while he’s in prison. Therefore, he’s granted the authority to Martin to access his trust. Martin asks when he did that, and Cyrus says, very early this morning. He’ll find the papers right there. Martin picks up an envelope from the tray and asks, for what reason is he now in control of Cyrus’s money? Cyrus says, so Martin can help his brothers and sisters held in that purgatory called Pentenville. He’s spent enough time there to recognize that within those walls there is no rehabilitation for the vulnerable or weak. Martin says, this is supposed to help them? and Cyrus says, used properly, they could help them learn to lead productive lives, so they can help others when they get out, not hurt them. Martin says, when Cyrus had the heart attack, he didn’t fall and hit his head on anything, did he? and Cyrus laughs. He says, this is his calling. God has let him survive for this reason and he will not let Him down.

Ned tells Olivia, no, no, no. He is not a grandfather. She says, actually, he kind of is. Technically, he’s not. He says, that’s good, because what he is, is an artist. He’s free and he’s wild, and that’s how he’ll always be. She says, maybe he’s free and wild up here, pointing to his head, but this is not going to last if he’s hanging out all night drinking and partying. He’s going to give himself a damn stroke. He says, you know what’s going to give him a stroke? Her nagging. What he can’t figure out is how the guy she says he used to be could somehow be married to her, because no way any part of him would marry such an uptight shrew. He takes his coffee, and leaves her with her mouth hanging open.

Tracy tells Brook, Olivia doesn’t even know her own husband. At least he came home last night. Brook says she saw him, and Tracy says, not of his own accord; Dante had to drag him. It’s ridiculous a man of his age is running around pretending to be some alter-ego. Brook says, she doesn’t know that he’s pretending, and Tracy says, if he’s not, he really needs some serious help. Olivia is so tense, she’s snapping at everything, and poor Leo… What does Maxie think? Is Ned being fair to his family? Does she think he’s faking? Maxie says she thinks she needs to get some coffee. Does anybody want anything? No? Great. She jets, and Tracy closes the door, saying, she never thought Maxie would leave. Now. What does Brook have for her on The Deceptor?

Frank brings in a humongous sack of coffee, and Carly says she already has a huge supply of Corinthos Coffee… but business is picking up. So Sonny is right. How could she possibly refuse? Sonny tells Frank to put it in the kitchen, and tells Carly, it’s a good luck gift. Not that she needs it, but he wanted to thank her for picking up Avery last night. He knows how busy she is. She says she’s never too busy for the kids. They had a great time. Ava stopped by. She said she was just coming by to give Avery a goodnight kiss, but she could tell something was wrong, and it’s not just that she hates Avery’s new nanny. He says, Betty is an acquired taste, and she says she knows there’s something fishy about the last minute sleepover. So why doesn’t he just tell her what’s going on? He says he’s handling it, when Chase comes in and asks Sonny if he can have a word.

Austin goes into Cyrus’s room and asks how he’s feeling. He looks extremely healthy for the man who had the heart attack described in his chart. Cyrus says, God works in mysterious ways, and Austin says, He sure does. Cyrus says he was mere seconds away from shedding this mortal coil, and now he’s here feeling no pain and ready to do God’s work. Austin says, right. How about they start with him just taking a look at Cyrus?

Valentin says he cares about Laura too, and she laughs, telling him, that was really hard for him to say. He says, she’s a good person. Doc’s a lucky man. Doc’s got a lot of strong qualities, but he thinks over here he can protect her better than Doc can. She says, there are other people who need him. Charlotte’s back from summer camp; she needs her father. And he’s a wonderful father. As a matter of fact, she was going to ask him a favor; if he could check on Spencer for her when he gets back. He says he doesn’t think Spencer is going to appreciate that, but she says, there are other people, like Anna. He says, when Victor exposed her, he made her vulnerable, but he’s in touch with Anna every day and she’s handling it. Laura asks if she’d admit it if she weren’t, and he says, no. She says, so he knows she was at the MetroCourt pool when Curtis was shot and that he might not be the actual target. Anna needs him.

Leo asks, where’s Eddie? and Olivia says, hopefully, he’s sleeping it off. Leo says, sleeping what off? What did he have on? She says she just means getting over his headache. He asks why she’s sad, and she says she can’t keep anything from him, can she? He shakes his head, and she says she just misses his dad. He says, him too, and she asks what he thinks of Eddie. Leo says, he’s funny. Eddie thinks he’s smart. Olivia says, Leo is smart, but he says, some people don’t think so. She says, that’s their problem, isn’t it? What else does he like about Eddie? He says, Eddie likes when he smiles. He can tell. She says, then he can’t be all bad, can he? and hugs Leo.

Carly looks puzzled as she watches Chase and Sonny go outside. In the courtyard, Chase thanks Sonny, and says, it’s quieter out here. Sonny asks what he can do for Chase, and Chase says he wants to talk to Sonny about the shooting outside General Hospital a few days ago. Sonny says he heard about that, and Chase says, everyone did. Someone takes two bullets to the chest outside their biggest hospital, people talk. Sonny says he’s not sure how he can help Dex, and Chase shows him the picture of Dex, saying, this guy works for him, right? Sonny laughs, and says, Chase knows he does. Chase says he’s just confirming, and Sonny says, it’s confirmed. Chase says, Dex discovered the body, and Sonny says, Chase knows he knows that too. So if Chase has real questions, he’ll listen. Chase asks, what was Dex doing at GH the night of the murders?

Maxie brings in a list and hands it to Carly, telling her, coffee and pastries, and Carly asks why Maxie would bring the order here. This is for Deception, right? They always order from the MetroCourt. Maxie says she needed some air, and Carly says, and Maxie found out she took over Kelly’s, huh? Maxie says, that too. Is that a bad thing? Carly says, of course (🍷) not. She just hopes Nina doesn’t get upset… How did Maxie find out she was running Kelly’s? Maxie says, Nina.

On the phone at the hospital, Martin says he wouldn’t bother her, but she did make him promise to call, and Laura asks, how’s Cyrus? Martin says, he’s definitely worth the price of admission. Apparently, her aura helped him connect with God. She rolls her eyes and says, whatever. How’s he doing physically? Martin says, he’s doing remarkably well for a man his age who’s just had a heart attack. And get this. He’s assigned Martin the task of giving away all his money. She says she’s not even going to ask. She’s sorry she left him to deal with all of this on his own. He says he’s not on his own. No matter where she is, she’s always in his heart. He just hopes she’s safe. And he’ll continue to keep her posted. She says, please do, and thanks him for the update. Doc says, he assumes her convict brother will survive, and she says, it sounds like it, yeah. He says, relieved? and she says she is. He says, good. Where’s their friend? She says, Valentin’s on his way to the airport. He wants to get back to Port Charles as soon as possible. Doc says he’s glad Valentin is gone. He may be better trained to protect her under certain circumstances. She says she doesn’t need that kind of protection where they’re going.

Leo reads his Photo Ark Wonders book in the nook, and Ned says he guesses there’s no more coffee. Where’s Leo’s mom? Leo says, she’s putting the ice pack in the freezer. Ned says, darn it. He could use that ice pack. Is Leo going to tell him about another cool animal? Leo closes the book and says, his mom was trying to help Eddie. Why did he make her feel sad?

Brook asks what Tracy is talking about. She already risked her job and her friendships to give her that flashdrive with all the information on The Deceptor. Tracy says, that was weeks ago. She needs to be brought up to date. She looks through papers on the credenza, and Brook says, any new information on The Deceptor is hidden in a secure location, and she’s not wiling to jeopardize her job again. Tracy laughs and says, come on. Lucy Coe is a birdbrain. She couldn’t install a security protocol if her life depended on it. Maxie’s a smart cookie, but Brook is a Quartermaine. Brook holds up her tablet, showing her The Sun headline: The Face of Evisceration. She asks if Tracy can see it, or does she need her glasses? Tracy says, she stabbed the stableboy by the pool. What’s the big deal? Brook says, she was at Michael and Willow’s wedding looking completely normal and beautiful and smiling, and Tracy says, people change? Brook says, she’s the Face of Deception, and this, right now, is killing the company. The only thing making a profit is The Deceptor, and she isn’t willing to risk it for Tracy.

Carly asks if Nina told Maxie to come here, but Maxie says, no. Nina didn’t tell her not to either. She understands that after everything that’s happened, Carly hates Nina, but Carly says, they’re not going to do that because that is in the past. She’s realized that hatred and anger and resentment is just a vicious cycle. It can pull you down, and she’s not going to let that happen to her. Maxie says, wow. She doesn’t know if anyone would recognize this Carly. Carly says she’s not sure she would recognize this Carly, and Maxie says, she does seem really driven though. It’s not easy to run a place like this. Carly says, it’s not. you’ve got to keep your eye on everything. Maxie says, and the long hours, but Carly says she doesn’t mind that. She intends to prove to certain people that she’s not dependent on anyone. Maxie says she never thought Carly was, and Carly thanks her for that. She never thought she was either. Maxie says, if anyone can make a place like this even better, it’s Carly, and Carly says, yeah, and Kelly’s is just the first step.

Sonny tells Chase, from his understanding, the first detective on the scene was Dante. That makes it his case. Chase says, they’re partners; they share cases. And since Dante is Sonny’s son, they thought it better if Chase questions him. He looks at his notebook, and says, before he discovered the body, Dex Heller was seen lurking outside an office building at General Hospital. Was he working for Sonny that night? Sonny says, Chase said lurking? Is that like the guy who was outside his office when he came here this morning? So probably the same guy who told Chase he was here. Because he considers that lurking. Chase asks if that’s his answer, and Sonny says, Chase is going to have to ask Dex why he was at the hospital. Chase says he spoke to Dr. Gatlin-Holt. He said the murder victim, Gordon Stevens, approached him at a restaurant with Sonny present. Does Sonny care to comment on that? Sonny says, Chase will have to contact his lawyer if he has any more questions. Good luck, detective. He goes back inside.

Tracy says, so the only thing keeping this ridiculous business model afloat is The Deceptor? and Brook says, yes. So please, don’t do anything to hurt her friends. Tracy says, there are no friends in business. They’re family. Brook will use her inside access to get Tracy all the information she possibly can. Now she’s going home to check on Brook’s father. Who knows what trouble Eddie Maine is stirring up, or if he’s even out of bed yet.

Ned drinks some water, and Leo says, the National Academy of Sciences recommends 3.7 liters of water a day for a man like him. Ned says, how much is that in English? and Leo says, 15.6 cups. Ned says he has a long way to go, when Olivia comes in. Leo says, Eddie’s drinking water to get hydrated, and she says she sees that. Ned says he was wondering if her offer for some breakfast still stands, and Leo says, yay! A second breakfast. His mom makes amazing frittatas. Ned says, sounds good, and she says, coming right up. Leo asks if Ned knows what a frittata is, and Ned says he doesn’t, but he bets Leo is just the guy who can tell him. Aww. I’m liking this storyline.

Doc says, maybe it would be better if he were to go alone, but Laura says, absolutely not. He says, what she experienced on Cassadine Island is a kind of long term trauma, and she says she can handle that. He says, but what Helena, Stavros, Mikkos did to her… She says, they’re all dead. They’re all gone, and she survived. They can’t hurt her now. Besides, if Nikolas wants to find a place to hide from the rest of the world, that is the perfect spot. He says, all right, but he’ll be with her every step of the way. Promise him if anything starts to come up again, just tell him. She says she promises she will, but she’s not going to let that stop her from finding her son.

Cyrus says, what’s the good word, doctor? and Austin says, the good word is that he wouldn’t recommend Cyrus run a marathon any time soon, but he’s doing extremely well. Cyrus says, God makes miracles, and Austin says, sometimes the human body does too. Cyrus says, and God made us all, and Austin starts to leave, but Cyrus grabs his wrist. He says, Austin is looking at a man who shattered every Commandment in his previous life. Does he have any idea what that’s like to turn completely away from God? Austin says, it’s probably not great, and Cyrus says, yet here he is, given a second chance. Austin says he does hope Cyrus can take advantage of it, and Cyrus says he has every intention of doing just that. Austin extracts himself, and starts to leave, when Cyrus says, may the Lord bless Austin and protect him. And his family. Austin leaves, and Cyrus smiles.

Carly asks if everything’s all right with Chase, and Sonny says, yeah. Chase is a good guy. She’s doing a good thing. She says, Kelly’s? and he says, she took a lot of hits and she bounced back. It’s not easy to do that. She asks if he thought she’d just roll over, but he says, not in a million years, because she’s a survivor. It’s one of the first things he learned about her. She says she’s doing what she has to do, and he asks if she’s seen Drew. She says, yes, and he asks if Drew is okay. She says, he’s okay, and Sonny says, good. Is she waiting for the lunch crowd? She says, yeah, and he says he’s got to go. She thanks him, and he says, it’s the best coffee in town. He leaves, and Sam calls Carly. She says she called the prison to see if she could take Scout to see Drew, and they said he wasn’t allowed any visitors until further notice. Carly says, why? What’s going on? Sam says, because he’s locked up in solitary confinement.

Tomorrow, Ned says he doesn’t see that changing anytime soon; TJ tells Molly, it’s their first step to having a family; Ava says, Austin killed him, didn’t he; and Curtis tells Stella that he doesn’t think he can do this.

The Real Shrew Housewives of Orange County

Shannon pitches a low-key fit to the production crew about how John is super private, and if this is aired, her relationship is over. I’m still not sure what the big deal is exactly. In Shannon’s interview, she says she made the decision to confide in Fancy Pants Heather when she was vulnerable. She was stupid to assume it would be kept between them. In Tamra’s interview, she says, Fancy Pants said Shannon and John’s relationship is sh*t, and they’re not good. She must not remember the last time she talked about Shannon’s relationship, and it blew up in her face. We flash back to that, and Shannon says she feels 100% betrayal. People who live in glass houses… Vicki says, we should shoot stones at them, but Tamra says, shouldn’t throw stones. Vicki says, that’s not it, but it’s something about stones.😐

 Emily, Shane, and the kids go pumpkin picking, so I assume Halloween is around the corner. Shane corrects Emily about something or other that I wasn’t paying attention to, and in Emily’s interview, she says, one of the biggest issues between her and Shane is their parenting style. Shane likes to check her in front of the kids, and it takes her authority away. She grew up without many rules, and to her it’s monumental. She’s trying to give the kids structure and safety. Shane grew up differently, with a mom and dad. In Shane’s interview, he says he feels he can do things as well or better than Emily. He has a lot of patience, but he’s guilty of giving too much grace. He wants to be the fun dad.  

Jenn and Tamra meet for frozen yogurt or something, and Tamra apologizes for being an a-hole. In Jenn’s interview, she says she’s confused. How long is she supposed to be a punching bag and forgive? Tamra says her head’s not in a good place. The gym closed and Eddie’s grandmother isn’t well. She doesn’t deal with emotions and explodes. She wants to be in a trusting place with Jenn. In Tamra’s interview, she says she hasn’t changed her mind about Jenn and Ryan, but she was an a-hole. She wants Jenn to be happy. She tells Jenn that she wants to move forward, and would love to sit down with Ryan. Shannon asked her and Eddie to go on John’s boat and then to a restaurant, and she recommended Jenn and Ryan come too. Jenn says, Tamra can throw a napkin in her face and say horrible things, but at the end of the day, she’ll always take care of their friendship. In Jenn’s interview, she says she’ll always fight for their friendship. She wants to believe Tamra means it, but she still feels guarded. Here’s where Jenn and I differ. Throw a napkin in my face and scream at me, and we’re  done. Tamra says she’s going to lay off the tequila too. She can’t control tequila. No, she can’t control herself on tequila.

Heather meets with Mark Cuban and his business partner Falon Fatemi, and in her interview, she says, years ago, Terry became enamored with Mark, and they invested in his company. She loves that he’s normal and laid back. He and Falon are co-founders of Fireside, an indirect streaming app. She’ll be able to do whatever in her slot. New eyeballs means more work and maybe readings. It might be the hole for her to integrate herself back into the acting world. It’s a business filled with rejection, and that’s a mind f***. It’s scary and daunting, but she’ll be showing she’s still alive. She tells them that she needs for this to work, and Falon says, Heather will make it work.

Gina meets Jenn for some shopping, and Gina says she thinks she’ll have her real estate license in two months. They agree the hustle is real. In Gina’s interview, she says she has more respect for Jenn now. It’s a comfort to talk with a woman in the same position. Jenn tells Gina about her truce with Tamra, but says, it’s like waiting for the ball to drop. I think she means the other shoe. Gina says, Jenn doesn’t have to tell anyone anything. Jenn’s being attacked and Gina can’t watch it happen. Maybe Jenn’s friends have to step up for her. In her interview, Gina says, Jenn has done nothing wrong to anyone but herself, and she paid for it. Jenn tells Gina about the boat/dinner invite, and says, it’s nice, but she’s worried about Eddie and Ryan. She doesn’t know Shannon and John. Gina says, from what she’s heard, things are not great, and Jenn says, Shannon told her that John was an amazing partner. Gina says she thinks it’s easier for people to talk about others, so they don’t have to talk about themselves.

I have to insert this. As I’m editing, they’re showing a RHOC from 2014, and Tamra is exactly the same. Screaming, acting like an a-hole, then apologizing.

Fancy Pants, Jenn, and Tamra take a class from boxing instructor Andre. Afterward, Heather tells them that she and Terry have a penthouse in L.A. that’s in escrow. It’s going to be their pied-a-terre. No surprise she has to explain this word to Tamra. In Fancy’s interview, she says she and Terry had been looking at apartments in L.A., and it was the most perfect ever penthouse. It’s the first step back to a career in Hollywood. Tamra says, Shannon and John seemed happy when she last saw them, and in her interview, she says she wonders if Heather forgot what she said in the past. She’s going to see if she can catch her. In her interview, Fancy Pants wonders why Tamra wants to know her opinion about Shannon and John, and why in front of Jenn? Tamra has a big mouth, and even if she had an opinion, she wouldn’t tell Tamra. Both Tamra and Fancy Pants play a round of I don’t know.

Emily and Shane go out to dinner, and in Emily’s interview, she says the reason she was attracted to Shane was because he was funny. But sometimes she wants to talk about real issues, and it can be frustrating. They’ve been married 14 years, and would probably have divorced a long time ago if he wasn’t so funny. I totally understand this. I think Shane’s funny too. She tells him that they need to have an important conversation about parenting. She doesn’t think they’re on the same page. He corrected what she said in front of the kids. He says he just meant to add to what she said, but she tells him that she felt marginalized. He says he’s sorry, and she says she wants to feel he respects her as a mother and the kids see that. He’s sincerely apologetic, and in her interview, she says she loves that Shane takes ownership of the things he’s done that are hurtful. They’ll always have issues, but that’s how you grow.

Gina meets with her realtor mentors, and says she’s getting more excited. She asks Travis to role play as a buyer, and in her interview, she says she’ll be helping people make probably the biggest purchase in their lives. They have to feel comfortable with you. She loves talking to people, and Travis will be doing the paperwork and contracts. Travis thinks she did well, and she says she feels good about it that they’re doing it together.

John asks Shannon how the dinner was with Vicki, and we flash back to that. Shannon says, they had a lot of laughs, and in her interview, she says she’s not telling John anything. They’re about to have a fun night and she doesn’t want to put a black cloud over tonight. John’s not going to be happy about this. Tamra is nervous seeing Ryan after she talked sh*t about him. Before Jenn and Ryan get there, Tamra tells John about Ryan saying he wanted to hit on her, and in Eddie’s interview, he says, the rumors about Ryan made him concerned. He cares about Jenn, and sees the trainwreck. It’s none of his business, but it is. The best person in the room is John’s dog Banks, and in Shannon’s interview, she says, the tension is rising. The last time she was on a boat with these women, it didn’t go so well. We flash back to Tamra screaming liar, liar, liar, and Jenn and Ryan arrive. Ryan is wearing one of those white jackets with black writing all over it. I guess you’d call that a vibe.

Terry tells Fancy Pants that the L.A. penthouse is in escrow, and in Heather’s interview, she says, their house wasn’t on the market, but they got a cold call from Josh Altman. We see a clip where Josh says someone he knows is interested, and he’d ask $55 million. Fancy Pants says she’s open to change. It’s like the universe is speaking, but it’s still a long road from here to packing boxes. They’ll see if it’s meant to be. Terry says, 22,000 square feet is a lot of house for four people, and Heather says, not that she’s not grateful, but it represents a job she doesn’t want anymore. In her interview, she says, it’s been amazing. They built the house. We flash back to some of that, and a producer asks if she’d like to live in a house where the staff doesn’t outnumber her family. She says, yes. She and Terry have built so much together and it’s a ton of money, but signifies their next chapter as a family and as a couple. Terry thanks Heather for the home and thanks her for the next step. It’s going to be a good one.

The boat passes Nobu, and Tamra says, the scene of the [napkin] crime. In Tamra’s interview, she says, it’s awkward. She doesn’t want to look at Ryan. He always dresses silly. Why is there leopard on his collar? I hadn’t noticed, but yep, it’s leopard. They go to a restaurant where the food looks amazing and there are deviled eggs like I’ve never seen them. Ryan brings up the infamous d*ck pic, and in her interview, Jenn says she’s talked until she’s blue in the face on Ryan’s behalf. The rest of them need to figure stuff out on their own. In Shannon’s interview, she says she never hopped on the d*ck pic train, and we hear a train whistle. She says she’s not even comfortable saying d*ck. John says he wants to use the restroom, and suggests that Shannon does too. They leave, and Tamra says, they have a chance to talk more privately. Ryan says, Eddie owes him an apology. If something was told to him, even if he found out it wasn’t true, it’s not cool. He could see how hurt Jenn was dealing with it on his behalf, and he feels betrayed.

Eddie says he was told that Ryan goes after married women, and he came to the conclusion it was the truth. Tamra says, they’ve known Jenn longer, and John and Shannon silently slip back into their seats. Eddie asks if Ryan cheated on his wife, and Ryan admits he did. Eddie says, now he’s stuck with the cheater label, and tells him that the other Heather heard him say he wanted to f*** Eddie’s wife (i.e. Tamra), but Ryan says, absolutely not. Heather told him that Tamra thought he was hot, and he said he thought Tamra was hot. End of story. Tamra asks if he’s saying Heather is lying, and he says he is. Shannon says she doesn’t know them, but she’s been around Heather and doesn’t think she’s a liar. Why she’s putting in her two cents, I’m not sure. In Jenn’s interview, she says she thinks Heather is in love with Ryan, and their relationship is none of her business. Eddie asks if Ryan cheated on Jenn, and Ryan says, a few months in, he said it was too much, and they separated. Tamra says, if he slept with someone else when they were on a break, did that mean he loved her? and he says he does love her. In her interview, Jenn says, she felt cheated on, and Ryan tells the others to see their love and make their own judgement. Tamra says, they don’t need to talk about this again, and they agree to move forward. In other words, until it comes up again. In Shannon’s interview, she says she knows how difficult it can be when other people discuss your relationship. It’s nobody’s business except the people involved. Tamra asks, what’s next? A vacation? Marriage? Ryan says, they’re definitely getting married, and in Tamra’s interview, she says she’s not holding her breath, and doubts she’d get an invite if it happened. It will be hard to find bridesmaids Ryan hasn’t f***ed. John says he felt like he shouldn’t be here, and Tamra says, cheers to clearing the air and moving forward.

This season, a lot of screaming and whooping it up; Fancy Pants and Terry get their 55 million (so is she taking the etched window with her?); Shannon screeches that someone owes her boyfriend an apology; Emily calls out Shannon for being two different people; and Fancy Pants says, just because Emily is emphatic about it, doesn’t make it true.

🍸 Shaking, Not Stirring…

Come on by tomorrow for soap and a tea party. Until then, stay safe, stay treating others with humility, and stay not letting the vicious cycle of hatred, anger, and resentment pull you down.

April 25, 2023 – Holly Gives Anna Information On Victor, New Jersey Has a Hen Party In Ireland, Boring Awful People Make Stupid Decisions, A Thought & Garden

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Robert is about to kiss Diane, when Holly walks in. She says, sorry to keep him waiting, and he hugs her.

Alexis goes to Anna’s hospital room, and says she’s sorry to barge in. She knows Anna’s recovering. Anna says she’s grateful for the company, and Alexis says she just got a call from Valentin. She thought he’d be here. He left her this cryptic message. She texted him back and called him, but it’s radio silence. Anna says, he doesn’t have any choice, and Alexis says, it sounds like Anna knows where he is. Anna says, he’s with Laura and Curtis and Drew. They’ve gone to find Victor and get the hostages back. Alexis says, it sounds risky, and Anna says, it is, but Valentin was determined to go, no matter the risk.

Willow looks her and Michael’s wedding rings, still in the box, and Wiley asks what she’s looking at. She says, it’s a very special gift, but Wiley says, it’s not her birthday. She says, even better. It’s a gift she and his daddy are going to give to each other tonight, but they can’t do that without his help. He asks what she needs him to do.

Olivia says, family is about coming together; celebrating the good times, and comforting each other through the bad. Brook says, today’s a little bit of both, and Carly says she thought they weren’t going to cry. They heard Drew. He’s going to find Liesl, Willow’s going to have her bone marrow transplant, and before they know it, they’re going to be celebrating Michael and Willow’s tenth wedding anniversary. Ned says, hear, hear, and Olivia says she likes the sound of that. And this family is going to come out stronger, because their bonds are unbreakable, no matter what life throws at them. They hear a door slam, and Ned opens the living room doors. Tracy stomps in, asking, what on earth was Monica thinking, planting daffodils all up the drive? It looks like the Easter Bunny threw up out there. Thank God she’s home to put things to rights. Everybody just stares at her, and she says, hello? Isn’t anyone going to welcome her home? Olivia says, welcome home, and Tracy says, that’s better. Brook says, granny, what a nice surprise, and moves to hug Tracy, who pushes her away, saying, what has she told Brook about calling her that? Ned asks why she doesn’t give them some advance notice, and she thanks him for the heartfelt greeting. Michael tells her, welcome home, and she thanks him, and says, that’s much better. Now. What is she doing here? She points to Carly.

Sonny kisses Nina, and she says, not that she’s complaining, but what was that for? He asks how soon she can drop everything and get away with him somewhere, and she asks what he’s talking about. He says, she needs sandals and sunglasses, a bikini and sunblock. Forget the bikini. They’ll travel light. She tells him, slow down, but he says he doesn’t want to. He wants them to fly to the islands and soak up some sun. He kisses her again, and says, they’re going to have a moonlight dinner on the beach, and let the world just go right by them. Is that a deal? She says she loves him so much, but she also knows what he’s doing and why he’s doing it. So the answer is, no deal. He says he just wants to spend some time alone with her. He knows they’re both busy. Her with Crimson and the hotel, and he has a business deal coming in, but he thinks they can carve out a weekend in the Caribbean. He knows Willow is a factor, but they have their phones. If her condition changes, they’ll get on a plane and be back to Port Charles in a few hours. She says, he’s really thought of everything, and she loves him for that. He says he loves her. They both need a change. She says she’s not arguing with that, but she says, be honest with her. Is he suggesting this because he was invited to Michael and Willow’s wedding, and she, very specifically, wasn’t?

Carly says she was invited here today. What about Tracy? Tracy says she doesn’t need an invitation; this is her house. Everyone says in unison, it’s Monica’s house; Alan gave it to her. Tracy says, because he was an idiot, and Ned says, they’re thrilled to have her here, but as usual, she didn’t let them know she’d be visiting, which makes him wonder, why now? Is she concerned about ELQ’s latest share price? She says, if she lives to be 100, she hopes she never hears those three letters ever again. As a matter of fact, there are a lot more important things happening in the world, while they were spending time entertaining AJ’s worst mistake. Michael says, also known as his mother, and Tracy says, her sympathies. While they were wasting time, she was risking life and limb to rescue Luke’s son Ethan.

Holly says, Robert won’t believe what she’s just been through. It feels so good to be back. She tells Diane that it’s nice to see her again… Oh, did she just walk in on some high stakes legal negotiations? Robert says, forget about that. He can’t believe he’s looking at her in the flesh. Diane looks like she might explode, and Robert says, Holly took quite a risk, but Holly says, it was worth it. There’s nothing Victor can hold over her head anymore, but he already knew that, didn’t he? He says, Felicia went down South America on an errand, according to Mac. He never heard any more after that. He’s assuming the two of them found Ethan and set him free. She says, it took more than the two of them. They ended up needing some extra help and got it from the most unexpected source.

Olivia asks if Tracy took on Victor Cassadine’s goons all by herself, and Tracy says, it started out as a solo mission. Then she ultimately got a little help. Carly asks if she’s saying she found Victor. Where is he? Was she able to stop him? Tracy says, he was unfortunately not at the auction, so much to her dismay, she didn’t get to put an end to his miserable life.

Robert says, Tracy Quartermaine is back in town? That explains the creepy feeling he got this morning, like something was crawling over his grave. Holly says, she and Felicia were able to locate Ethan, but if it weren’t for Tracy and her sizeable bank account, Ethan would still have a bullseye on his back. Fortunately, Tracy came through for Ethan, so there’s no reason to hide anymore. Ethan’s free, and so is she. Diane says, at some point, she has to ask Holly who her plastic surgeon is, because she sees no traces of burns or even a scar. In fact, she looks good as new. Holly says she realizes that she has some explaining to do, but Diane says, let’s see if I’ve got it. Holly fooled Victor into thinking she was toast, literally, in that cabin fire. Of course (🍷) this was after Diane had been duped into thinking Holly had drugged Robert’s drink so she could steal the Ice Princess. In other words, for Holly’s brilliant plan to succeed, she needed a witness – otherwise known as a stooge – and Diane was cast in the role.

Anna says, Valentin texted her right before he got on the plane? and Alexis says she’s sure Valentin was thinking about Anna. She’s also sure Anna is wondering why, at such a fraught moment, he was thinking about her, so she’ll just let Anna see for herself. She hands Anna her phone, and Anna reads: I must be quick. I don’t know where or when… or if I’ll be coming back. But as the executor of my will… Anna says she didn’t know Alexis was the executor of Valentin’s will, and Alexis says, keep reading. Anna continues: I trust you will make sure Charlotte is well taken care of and loved. I’ll be CC’ing Martin on this too. Gotta go. She hands the phone back to Alexis, and thanks Alexis for showing it to her. Alexis says, of course (🍷). Anna and Valentin are a real thing. That’s nice. Anna says, if she wasn’t stuck in this bed, she’d be with him. She’d have his back, but she can’t, and it feels awful not being able to do anything. Alexis says, it’s awful when you feel powerless. Like when you feel like you’re failing someone when they need you. Anna says, Alexis isn’t failing Valentin though… She guesses that’s not what Alexis means. If Alexis wants to talk about anything, she’s not going anywhere. Alexis thanks her, but says, it’s not her story to tell. She is worried about Valentin, but the two of them have learned to trust each other. It’s funny, because she used to lump him into being one of the horrible, homicidal Cassadines, but it turns out, he’s one of the good ones. She thinks it’s because of Anna. Anna says she thinks they’ve changed each other, for the better.

Robert tells Diane that he apologizes if she feels used; that wasn’t the intent. Holly says, Diane is right. They needed an unimpeachable witness, or Victor never would have believed she’d stolen the necklace. All she can say in her defense is, it bought her time to find her son and kept the real necklace out of Victor’s hands. Diane says, until now. Don’t get her wrong. She’s thrilled Holly’s son is safe, and that fire was as fake as the necklace Holly tried to pass off as the real thing, but their brilliant plan didn’t prevent Victor from getting his hands on the actual Ice Princess and keep him from taking all those hostages. Word of advice. Nex time, trust her a little more and use her a little less. She picks up her coat and bag, and Robert says, let him walk her to her car. Diane says, that’s special. She can find her car by herself, thank you. She leaves, and Holly asks if it’s her imagination, or did Diane take that rather personally?

Sonny tells Nina that he didn’t plan this getaway because he feels guilty. If anything, he wants to thank her. She says, for what? and he says, for urging him to go to the wedding when she can’t. She tells him not to give her too much credit, but he says he knows how important it is for her to have a daughter, and how much she wants to go to the wedding. But instead of being resentful and bitter, she put Willow first. Nina only cares about her. Nina flashes back to Carly saying, all she cares about is that Willow is hers. No wonder Willow doesn’t want to be around her. Nina just wants to blame it all on her. Nina tells Carly that it’s her fault she doesn’t have time to earn Willow’s forgiveness. They’re running out of time because her daughter’s dying. Nina tells Sonny not to make her out to be a saint; she’s far from it. She’s glad Michael put his anger aside, at least for the day, for Willow. There’s no promise for tomorrow for any of them, but she truly wants this to be the happiest day of her daughter’s life. He says, it will be, and they hug.

Willow tells Wiley, how it works is, she gives one ring to daddy, and he gives one ring to her. And it means they promise to love each other until… He says, until when? and she says, until forever, but like she was saying, they need his help. So before Uncle Drew walks her down the aisle to stand beside his daddy, the flower girls, Avery and Donna, will go first, and he’ll follow them, carrying the rings. Does he think he can do that? Wiley says, whatever she needs, and she says she knew she could count on him. He asks if he has to wear a tie, and she says, he gets to wear one. That’s because he’s a big boy now and mommy can count on him. He says, until forever, and she says, yes, until forever.

Tracy adjusts a lamp, and Olivia asks how long this little visit might last. Ned tells Tracy not to let them keep her. They know what kind of whirlwind life she leads. Here today, gone tomorrow. Tracy asks what she walked in on, and Michael says, there’s actually going to be a wedding tonight. Tracy says, a family wedding and she wasn’t invited? Who’s getting married? Michael says, him and Willow, and Tracy laughs, and says, because the first one was such a rousing success? He says, the first time they got married, they weren’t in love. They were just trying to protect Wiley from Nelle. Tracy says, not her fault Monica left that out of the Christmas letter, and Michael says, the point is, now they’re so very much in love. They just had their second child together, so it’s time to make things official. Tracy tells him that she can’t say she’s surprised. Serial marriage seems to run in Michael’s family. She can’t count the number of times Carly said I do to Sonny, and then got divorced because she didn’t. Carly says, Michael and Willow are getting married for the right reasons. Can Tracy say that about her six trips down the aisle? Ned says, that sounds like a fun parlor game; counting his mother’s former husbands. Let’s start with her first husband, his father, Lord Larry Ashton. Olivia says, Dylan’s father was Paul Hornsby, and Ned says, then Tracy married Mitch Williams, even though she caught him in bed with Susan Moore, who would later become Jason’s biological mother after her affair with Uncle Alan. That makes three… Tracy says, all right. She admits her marital track record isn’t exactly spotless. Michael says, that’s putting it mildly, and Carly says, as fun as this has been, she has to go tell the bride-to-be about one more shock. She leaves, and Tracy asks what she meant by one more shock. What else have they been keeping from her?

Alexis’s phone dings, and she tells Anna, it’s her friend Diane. It’s kind of urgent. Anna thanks her for the visit, and Alexis says, Diane is usually very unflappable, so she can’t imagine what this is about, but duty calls. She’ll let Anna know if she hears from Valentin. She tells Anna, be well, and leaves.

Robert says, a lot’s happened in Port Charles since Holly was here last, and Holly says, so she sees. What exactly did she walk in on? He says he and Diane were deconstructing a dinner they had last night, and she says, a working dinner? He says, something like that, and she says, at the very least, she hopes it was productive. He says, yes, and she says, the DA and the defense attorney have learned to co-exist. How very modern and enlightened of him. He says, without cooperation, it’s just words, but she says she doesn’t know what that means. He says, there’s no spirit behind it, no soul, and she says, no heart. I dunno. He lost me here.

Carly goes to the gatehouse, and Wiley hugs her. She says, he’s so handsome, and he says, guess who’s going to be the ring bearer tonight? She asks if it’s him, and he nods. Willow says she told him that he’s a big boy now, and that comes with responsibilities. Carly says, he’d better go practice, and he runs upstairs. Willow says she was so afraid this day wouldn’t happen. Now that it’s here, she’s putting all her worries aside, and she’s going to soak up every moment. Carly says she hopes tonight is everything Willow wants it to be, even if… Willow says, even if what? and Carly says, for starters, Tracy’s here.

Tracy asks if anybody is going to tell her what she missed, and Michael says, Willow is sick. She says, all brides get last minute jitters, but he says, Willow has Stage IV leukemia. She was diagnosed shortly after she found out she was pregnant. Tracy asks why he didn’t tell her. And she had phone conversations with Brook. It didn’t occur to her to mention this? Ned tells her not to blame Brook. Michael and Willow wanted to keep this news private at first. By the time they were ready to share the news, Tracy was unreachable. She was on her way to Ethan. Tracy asks what she can do.

Sonny tells Nina that it’s going to be nice, especially since the Quartermaines will go all out since they’re letting him in. She says, the Quartermaines have some nerve, lording it over him. They managed to keep their hands clean this time, but that doesn’t mean the Quartermaines don’t play dirty, especially if their precious ELQ is at stake. Drew and Carly… He says, don’t stop. What about Drew and Carly?

Alexis meets Diane at Charlie’s, and asks, what’s wrong? Sitting with a martini in front of her, Diane asks what she means. She just wanted to see Alexis and catch up. Alexis says she was worried Diane was upset with her because she cancelled their last dinner plan, and Diane says, must be something about her and dinner plans. Alexis asks what she means. What’s wrong with her? Why is she drinking so early? Diane says, if Alexis must know, it’s about Robert Scorpio, and Alexis says, she was supposed to have a date with the DA. Diane says, dinner, just dinner, and Alexis says, that’s her story and she’s sticking with it. Diane says, okay, it was kind of a date, but then he ended up having car trouble, and it ended up with him receiving an extraordinary dry cleaning bill from her. Alexis says, it potentially could have been a lot of fun, and Diane says, okay, they kissed. Alexis gasps, and Diane says, they might have kissed today had they not been interrupted by – wait for it – his ex-wife, Holly Sutton.

Robert says, Holly might have saved her son, but there’s still a lot of good people in trouble, and Holly says, Felicia told her about Anna. How’s she doing? Robert says, she’s lucky to be alive, no thanks to Victor, and she asks, what about Laura? He says, she kind of dropped off the grid with Curtis and Drew. She wants to corner Victor and rescue the hostages. Holly says she always knew Victor was dangerous, but he’s spinning out of control, and Robert says, that’s because he’s getting close to implementing his plan, whatever it is. She says she knows he wishes he could be with Laura and the rest, and he says he feels so bloody useless being chained to this desk. He can’t help anyone. She says, maybe he can. Can Anna have visitors? He says, sure, why? and she says she needs to apologize to Anna. And they both need to hear what Ethan told her.

Michael thanks Tracy, but says, they’re already doing everything they can, and Brook says, the problem is, they don’t know if Liesl Obrecht will be found in time. Tracy asks what that frau from hell has to do with this, and Olivia says, she’s a donor match for Willow. Ned says, they were all set for a bone marrow transplant when Obrecht disappeared from the Nurses Ball, and Olivia says, the police think Victor kidnapped her. Michael says, but they’re not losing hope. He and Willow are getting married tonight, and it’s going to be everything Willow wants. He gets up, excusing himself, and Tracy tells him that she meant what she said. She has contacts everywhere. If there’s anything they need. He’d be surprised what she can accomplish when she puts her mind to it. He thanks her, and leaves.

Nina tells Sonny, it’s no secret how she feels about Carly and her holier-than-thou attitude. And Drew is just an enabler. She’s been thinking about what happened the other night; a lot about how Carly had to be the one to go to Willow and tell her that Nina’s Aunt Liesl was missing. Sonny says, she told Willow because she didn’t want Willow to hear it from somebody else, and Nina asks if he’s on her side. He says he is. Isn’t that the same night Nina asked him to do what he could to find Liesl? Nina says, he did everything she asked him to and more, and he says, then she has to let go of this resentment she feels against Carly and Drew, because it doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is them.

Willow tells Carly that she knows Tracy can be a handful… okay, more like two handfuls, but she loves her family. And after tonight, that makes Willow her family too. Carly says, Willow can’t help but see the good in people, even Tracy, and Willow says, she’s welcome to be there. All she wants to do is walk down the aisle on Drew’s arm… What? What is it? Michael comes in, and asks if Carly told Willow the news. Willow says, what news? and Carly says, Drew’s not going to be able to walk her down the aisle. Willow asks, what’s wrong? It’s not like Drew to back out at the last minute. Carly says, no. He has a location on Victor Cassadine, and they know wherever Victor is, Liesl is too. Michael says, Drew’s gone to find Liesl and bring her back.

Olivia says, somebody needs to tell Maxie that Drew isn’t going to be at the wedding. They know how sensitive she is about her seating chart. Unless Tracy wants to fill the empty seat. Ned says, maybe mother has other plans, but Tracy says, no. She wouldn’t miss it. Her wedding gift is going to be her contact list of specialists from Manhattan to Mumbai. Ned says he knows she means well, but if she really wants to help, she’ll make this day all about Michael and Willow, and she asks if he’s implying she’ll try to steal the spotlight. He says, her? Never. Brook suggests she show Tracy to her guest room, but Tracy says she has her own room. Olivia says, actually, that’s Drew’s room, and Tracy asks why he’d take her room. Olivia says, that’s the room with the best view, and Tracy says, that’s why it’s her room. Brook says, they can share her room, and that would be great because they have a lot to catch up on. She hustles Tracy out, and in the foyer, Tracy says, it is so like Monica to give her room to yet another one of Alan’s illegitimate offspring. What is wrong with her? Why doesn’t she just pay them off and show them the door? Why does she ask them to move in? Brook starts to talk, but Tracy says, don’t give her another lecture on this is Monica’s house. Brook says she’s not trying to lecture Tracy. She’s trying to thank Tracy.

Willow says she doesn’t want Drew risking his life for her; somebody has to stop him. Question. Why aren’t they actively looking for another donor in the meantime? Carly says, they’re not going to stop Drew. He’d be so proud to walk her down the aisle, but he’s doing what he thinks is right. For her, and for all of them.

Nina says, Sonny is right. Nothing matters more to her than what they have. They kiss, and Sonny says, don’t temp him. If he doesn’t go… She says, he’s going to be late for the wedding, and they don’t want that. Because if he’s late, who’s going to be blamed for that – she points to herself – this guy. She’ll let it go, as long as she doesn’t have to let him go. He says, never, and they kiss some more.

Alexis says, Holly’s back in town, and Diane says, and even more beautiful. Alexis says, what happened to the… Diane says, the third degree burns? That was all part of an elaborate scam to fool Victor. Robert and his ex work seamlessly together. Alexis says, they haven’t been together in years, but Diane says, you could have fooled me. Alexis says she’s sure Robert was glad to see Holly, but it was Diane’s dry cleaning bill he was picking up, and Diane says, that was guilt. Nice try, my friend. But the more she thinks about it, she thinks Holly came back to town just in the nick of time, just before she risked having a second date.

Robert goes in to see Anna, and she says she was just thinking about him. She needs him to use his connections to track a plane without anyone knowing. Can he do that? He says, before he does that, there’s someone he thinks she should talk to. Holly walks in, and Anna says, it’s good to see her. Holly says, that’s incredibly generous, given what she put Anna through. Anna says, Victor put Holly in a very difficult situation, and Holly sits next to the bed, and says, but she could have resisted. Instead, she helped him frame Anna for a murder that never happened. She donned a wig and Anna’s overcoat, and shot Lucy with Anna’s gun. Anna says, not her best moment, but she used a rubber bullet, and knew Lucy wouldn’t be hurt or die. Holly asks why Anna is making excuses for her, and Anna says she’s been backed into corners before, and forced to do things she didn’t want to do to help someone she loved. It’s called a devil’s bargain; you suffer either way. Holly thanks her for understanding, and Anna asks, how’s Ethan? Holly says, alive, in one piece, and on his way to Australia. When Victor faked her death in Monte Carlo and killed her sister – her half-sister Paloma – God knows where he was holding her. She kept waiting for him to interrogate her, but he never did. He didn’t want her to talk; Victor just wanted her. Anna says, to get close to Robert, and Holly says, yeah, and then one day, he had Ethan. She had no idea where he was holding Ethan. He could have been in the cell next to her or in a compound on the other side of the world, but Victor made one thing very clear. Her son would only live if she agreed to cooperate. Anna says, so Holly agreed to play along until she could figure out her next move, and Holly says, exactly, at Anna’s expense. Anna says, it happened to her, so she gets to choose who she blames for that, and she doesn’t blame Holly, and Holly should really stop blaming herself. Holly thanks her again, and Robert says, now that they’ve gotten that out of the way, they can have a strategy session. He was expecting to see Valentin here, since he’s been next to Anna’s bed through this whole ordeal. Anna says, he’s not here. He’s with Laura and Curtis and Drew. They’ve gone to find Victor. Holly looks at Robert, and Anna says, what? Holly says, when Ethan was Victor’s captive, he persuaded Victor’s guards to play cards with him; Ethan’s very good at cards. He can make any hand come out exactly the way he wants. He let his marks win just enough so they’d keep on playing, and talking, which is how he learned that Victor plans to revive a technology that the Cassadines developed in the 80s.

Alexis asks if Diane is a quitter, and Diane shrugs and says, maybe. Alexis asks why she’s giving up, and Diane says, there’s nothing to give up. She’s just going to go back to doing what she does better than anyone else, and that’s besting Robert in court. He can have Holly Sutton if he wants. Alexis says, what if he wants her? Life is too short to stand on ceremony. If you feel something, say something.

Olivia asks if Ned is okay, and he says, it’s a mixed blessing, having his mother home with them. She says her feelings are also mixed. It’s the blessing part she’s not clear on.

Tracy says, gratitude isn’t Brook’s best event, but have at it, and Brook says she turned to Tracy when Chase was really in trouble, and she came through. If Tracy hadn’t pulled all the right strings, Chase might have never gotten his badge back. She owes Tracy. Tracy says, Brook is right, and don’t forget it, because she won’t. She heads upstairs, and calls down, bag please.

Nina and Sonny almost start getting busy, but Nina says, he’s going to be late for this wedding. He kisses her one more time, and says, hold that thought. She tells him that she wants lots of pictures, and he says, and wedding cake, because it’s good luck. She says she doesn’t need any luck, because she has him, and he goes to get ready. She takes out her phone and calls Martin. She says she needs to know if he’s had the conversation with the SEC about Carly and Drew.

Willow says, since Drew can’t be here, she can’t think of anyone she’d rather have give her away but Carly. Carly says she’d be honored, and asks if Michael is okay with it. Michael asks what she thinks, and Carly says, if she’s going to play her part, she’d better get changed. She goes upstairs, and Willow says, Michael’s mother is putting up a brave front, but if something happens, and Drew doesn’t come back… He says, don’t lose hope. Drew will come back, and he’ll bring Liesl, okay? She says, okay, but it could be doubly heartbreaking for Carly if it all goes wrong. She’s so in love with Drew.

Nina tells Martin, no. She hasn’t changed her mind. She looks around to make sure Sonny can’t hear, and says, just the opposite. She wants him to go all out and expose Drew and Carly for engaging in insider trading. Just make sure to keep her name out of it.

Tomorrow, Sonny asks why Nina was talking to her lawyer; Maxie says, they have a major problem; Ava says, Nina did the right thing; Anna wonders if their friends are walking into a trap; and everything Victor has ever worked for is behind this door.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey

Dolores herds the women out of the restaurant and onto the bus. Melissa says she likes when someone takes over, and wants to drunk dial her ex. In Teresa’s interview, she says, Melissa seems a little sauced. Melissa also sleeps in the next morning, and at breakfast Jen wonders where the boogawolf is. Danielle says she comes in peace, and in her interview, she says, being around these women is a mind f***. When it’s bad, it’s horrible, but they’ve been having a good time, and she’s not ruining the trip more than it’s been ruined already. Dolores says, Paulie’s mom Claire might be coming by, and in Dolores’s interview, she says, she saw this cute little lady on Paulie’s Instagram, and fell in love with his mom before him. Claire arrives, along with Jennifer and Sharon, Paulie’s niece and sister respectively. There are lots of hugs, and in her interview, Dolores says, when she and Paulie were first dating, she felt funny sleeping over in front of his mom, who was the last one to bed and the first one up. Claire asks if Dolores is still a hussy, and Dolores tells us that she did the walk of shame when Claire was having her tea and biscuits, and Claire would say, hussy. Dolores introduces everybody, and they sit down to breakfast. Everyone talks about how amazing Paulie is, and Jennifer says, they’ve been planning Dolores and Paulie’s wedding. She asks what Claire thinks, and Claire says she loves Dolores. Dolores made her feel welcome. Dolores says, Paulie’s whole family is here, and Danielle starts crying about the family dynamic. In Danielle’s interview, she says she wishes she and her brother had that. The way Paulie’s sister was talking about him with such love and adoration is the way she would talk about her brother. Sharon tells them about Claire saying Dolores is a hussy, and Teresa says, her dad was like that. Right, Melissa? Melissa says, the first time she slept over with Joe #2, when they were in the DR, their mom asked, why is this puttana lying in bed with you? Teresa says, Melissa was great with her parents, and in Melissa’s interview, she says she’s hungover, but she might be still be drunk. She can’t remember the last time Teresa said something positive about her. Dolores shows Claire the husbands calendar, and Claire checks out the picture of Frank in bunny ears. Jennifer asks if Claire thinks he’s hot, but Claire says, no. They all laugh, and Jennifer says, they have to get ready for Teresa’s hen party; it’s like a bachelorette party. In Jennifer’s interview, she says, Teresa is old school like her, and doesn’t want a ding-a-ling in her face. She googled what was good to do in Ireland for a bachelorette, and found a farm where they can be silly and do activities. When they’re working together, they’re not fighting.

It’s beautiful out, and Dolores says, it’s not typical Ireland weather. They’re sad it’s their last day, and Rachel says she had a great time, despite being called a rat. Jennifer suggests they concentrate on the good, and they take the bus to Causey Farm. Jennifer tells them to all be team players, and in her interview, she says, the minute they find out it’s dirty muddy farmland, she’ll see them rushing for the door. Everything is going to be a surprise. Farm hand Peter greets them, and says, they’ve got a number of activities. In Teresa’s interview, she says she’s not a farm person. This is definitely not what she expected to be doing today. They follow Peter to some chicken pens, and he says they’re going to play a game called Catch the Cock. Dolores says, she’s not pointing fingers, but it should be no problem. Peter explains that it’s a sign of good luck, and the Irish are all about good luck. He asks who Teresa wants to bring in with her, and Teresa says, Melissa, confusing us all. Melissa says, she already caught Teresa’s brother’s cock (BA-DUM-CHH!), and Peter demonstrates how to grab the chicken, who seems like he’s done this before. There are a lot of cock jokes, so we’ll just leave it there. They take turns, and Danielle is especially leery. In her interview, she says, she’s not afraid, but animals lick their balls and stuff. I don’t think chickens do that, but okay. In Marge’s interview, she says, it’s just chickens. The girl is from Staten Island, and Marge is sure she’s been around them. I’ve only been in Staten Island a few times, and have no idea what she means, if anything. For the next activity, the women are taken to a barn, where there’s a humongous piece of white paper hanging up. Peter tells them to grab brushes and paint the story of Teresa’s life; any memories they have. Teresa tells them, that made her think of jail. No bars; only happy memories, happy or funny.

In Teresa’s interview, she says, when she went to jail, it wasn’t easy to leave her daughters behind. She missed milestones like Gia’s 8th grade graduation, and Audriana graduating from kindergarten. It was traumatic, and she’s decided to act like that part of her life never happened. Melissa paints the family coming from Sala Cosolina in Italy, and starts to cry. In Melissa’s interview, she said, in drawing it from the beginning, it shocked her to see where they are now. Teresa starts crying and hugs Melissa, and Melissa says she loves Teresa’s family so much. In her interview, Teresa says she wishes it was like the way it started; a happy beautiful family that loved each other. She’s grateful for the beautiful memories everyone drew. Jackie paints Teresa’s Montville home when the girls were little, and Jennifer includes the iconic table flip. Danielle paints Teresa’s wall of success, and Jen does Teresa meeting Louie. In Teresa’s interview, she says she has a beautiful life story, and hopes for a happy ending. She thanks everyone, and says it made her emotional watching Dolores with Paulie’s mom. Her dad used to say old school stuff. She thinks maybe the tension is misunderstood sometimes, and Melissa says she was upset with Teresa bringing up something that happened a year ago. Teresa claims she wasn’t saying anything bad about Antonia, and loves Melissa’s children. Her brain shorts out, and she tells Melissa that she wants some part of them in the wedding. Jennifer brings her back to reality by asking if she’s saying she wants all of them to be in the wedding, and Teresa backtracks and says, she just want happiness and peace. In her interview, Melissa says, Teresa is talking such nonsense with whatever she’s asking… if she’s asking, since she’s barely asking. Putting an Irish spin on it, Teresa says she wants the gold at the end of the rainbow, and in Melissa’s interview, she says, they’re not Teresa’s props in the final hour. Sorry. Peter says, let’s roll. He has a surprise. He takes them to a beautifully set picnic table, and the food looks amazing. Dolores says, tonight, they’re having a classic Irish dinner at the castle; fancy schmancy. There’s also going to be a whiskey tasting. Oh yeah, just what this bunch needs. Dolores asks about Teresa’s wedding plans, and Teresa says, it’s insane. She has a dress fitting, as well as the girls. The other shoe falls when she says that Louie asked Bill to be in the wedding. In Marge’s interview, she says, who they’ve known literally 12 months. To add insult to injury, Teresa says, he’s been supportive, and she doesn’t have any family. In Melissa’s interview, she says, this is why it’s hard for her to believe anything Teresa says. She’s talking about putting Gino in the wedding, and with the next breath, says she has no family. Teresa says, it’s a new beginning with a new man, and Melissa wipes some tears away. Danielle says, it’s eerily similar to her own situation, and sniffles. In Rachel’s interview, she says she feels bad for Danielle, regardless of their issues. She’d never want to go through what Danielle is, and she clearly hasn’t fully worked through it. Danielle says, nothing else matters if you don’t have family, and Teresa says she wants freaking peace. Melissa says, same, and in Danielle’s interview, she says, they need to get over it before it’s too late. Peter asks if they’re ready to go  to the Irish spa, and Jennifer wonders if they should be worried.

Peter takes them to the bog, where the natural exfoliator for the spa is found. It’s basically a big mud pit, and Marge says, it has Jurassic Park vibes. He tells them to take off their shoes and socks, and go for a whoo into the bog. He assures them there’s no cow poop in it, and it won’t go past their waist. Dolores says she’s done a lot worse and asked less questions, and jumps in first. In Danielle’s interview, she says, it feels like muddy, loose diarrhea, and I wonder why she knows what that would feel like. They all get in except for Melissa and Teresa, and Marge calls them princesses. They join hands and jump in, and Marge tells them, until they make up, they have to stay here. Jen says, this is the best bachelorette party ever, and in Jennifer’s interview, she says, see how rolling in a pile of mud brings everyone together? You’re welcome. They leave, and Marge says, Joe (#3) is having the guys over, and they’re smoking pot. I wonder if I heard right.

Back at the castle, they get dressed up, and we assume they’ve showered. Danielle calls home, and Nate says he’s headed guys night. She tells him that Teresa and Melissa had a heart-to-heart. She related it to her brother, and got emotional. Everyone’s been awful to her on trip. In her interview, Danielle says, her husband is like her rock. She misses her family, Rachel and Marge have been coming at her, and she’s been watching Teresa and Melissa go at each other. She wants off this merry-go-round. Marge calls Joe #3, who’s giving Lexi a ride, and she shows them the castle, saying, they have to come here. Lexi says, it’s 30 minutes by plane to her hometown, and Marge says, they’ll all go. In Marge’s interview, she says, Lexi and Nino are keeping Joe company. They’ve moved into the guest house. When Lexi got separated, Marge told her to move in. Lexi helped her through her breakup with Jan, and she’s Marge’s closest relationship next to her kids and husband, and probably her healthiest relationship. She tells Joe about Bill being in the wedding, and he says he bets Nate will be next. Lexi says, it’s nobody’s first wedding, and wonders why the bridal party is so huge. The women meet for the whiskey tasting, and Dolores says she loves whiskey. It’s an acquired taste, like us. I love whiskey too. Them, not so much. Marge asks how Melissa feels, and Melissa says she feels emotional. She got flashbacks from when the family was together, and can’t believe this is them. She’s upset for Joe #2.

Back at Marge and Joe’s, Lexi says, since they can’t smoke inside, she’ll put flowers on the outside table, but Joe says, this is guys. Put axle grease there. The guys convene, and Joe #3 says, Frank has a new pot business, and wants to test it out on them. Joe #2 says he doesn’t smoke pot or he’ll see snakes. Lexi says, this would be the worst house to smoke pot in, since the animals in the paintings will come to life. I wonder what kind of weed these people are smoking. Louie is still recovering from covid (maybe), and Joe #2 asks Bill about being in the wedding party. No disrespect, but they just threw him in. In Joe #2’s interview, he says he thought the mailman was next. Bill is like Jennifer, panting to be in it, but it’s in two weeks; it’s a joke to them. They toast to Frank’s new business, and in Frank’s interview, he says, three years ago he was contacted about opening a pot business, but he didn’t smoke. Now, ever since it’s been legal, he eats, drinks, and sleeps weed. He likes to feel good, and that’s what weed does. He wants to try it on his friends who need relaxation. Even though Joe #2 doesn’t smoke, Frank makes sure to blow enough at him for a contact high. The guys do a lot of laughing, and Joe #2 says he’s starving. Joe #3 tells them, Lexi got a food truck, and they run over to it. In Frank’s interview, he says, Joe #2 is high and he loves it. Bill suggests Joe #2 smoke weed and have a heart to heart with his sister. He must be really high, since I don’t think that would work unless Teresa smoked weed too. Joe #2 says, the women are in Ireland, and his sister brought up his daughter. He knows his nieces have a lot to say about him. He doesn’t want the children raised in hate and anger. He wants them to love everybody. He loses his train of thought, and says, it’s because that guy blew sh*t in my face. Nate says, Danielle is still learning the personalities, and John asks, what’s up with her calling Rachel a rat; she had her friend’s back. Nate says, they can’t take what the women say seriously, and Joe #2 says he bets the girls aren’t having this much fun. I’ll bet not.

Whiskey expert Andrew oversees the tasting, telling them to take a sip and then have some chocolate, which coats the tastebuds. Somehow this gives you a better experience. I’ll take his word for it. I don’t like to consume any other sugar when I’m drinking alcohol. It just doesn’t sit well with me. Except cheesecake. Cheesecake seems to be okay. He tells them that the whiskey is 43% alcohol (holy!), and Marge tells them to be careful. They don’t want to pass out before the night has started. You’re supposed to take a sip, and then pour the rest into a glass, but a few of the women guzzle it all down, mostly Jennifer. Dinner is served, and Jennifer says she’s totally drunk. Dolores says, it’s their last night, and asks if they liked it. Teresa thanks everyone for honoring her. She’s all about having a good time. Marge says, the weekend was special, and they’ll have great memories. In Danielle’s interview, she says she didn’t enjoy her trip, and she asks Rachel how they are. She asks why she’s the bad guy, and Rachel asks what Danielle’s intention was in repeating what she said. Rachel isn’t even loud, but Danielle escalates everything, banging the table, and telling Rachel, calm the f*** down. She doesn’t know when Rachel’s ass went from normal to changing everything she said to make her out to be the bad guy. She’s not allowed to do that. Melissa says, Rachel only repeated what she’d heard, and in Melissa’s interview, she says, Marge should really be furious at Jennifer and Teresa. They were the ones who met with her best friend. We flash back to Jennifer discussing what Laura said with Teresa while Danielle listened in, and Melissa says, they started all this. Danielle says, Marge should be mad at all the people who are saying sh*t about her, and Marge asks what they’re saying. In Jennifer’s interview, she says, please don’t say anything. She’s not even looking at Danielle in case it reminds her. Realizing she’s said too much, Danielle tells Marge, a lot of stuff, and Jennifer says, it’s coming from other places. Marge says she loves how they’re obsessed with her, and in her interview, she says, she’ll give them Laura’s phone number, and they can hang out together and obsess about her. Danielle says, it’s Marge’s fault that Jennifer’s kids found out about Bill’s affair. She forgives, but doesn’t forget. Marge says, that’s why she’ll always have problems with her family. They’ll never have a clean slate, so she’ll never move past anything. In her interview, Marge says, Danielle is crying about her brother non-stop, but how can they make up if she can’t forget? Jen says, it’s their last f***ing night, and Marge says she can’t have this discussion one more second. In her interview, Jennifer says, Marge is implying it’s Danielle’s fault, and wonders if she gets joy out of being a mean girl. You’re drunk, Jennifer. Go home. Teresa says she knows what it feels like when people question what they don’t understand, and in her interview, Danielle says she knows Marge can be mean, but how dare Marge hit her where it hurts most. Dolores suggests they go to bed, since they’re being picked up at 6 am. In Danielle’s interview, she says, she has no more fight in her. She doesn’t want to waste the energy. She’s done. She cries, but all I can say is, boo-f***ing-hoo.  

Next time, Antonia gets a car; Teresa video chats with Joe #1; Frank wants Dolores to tell him what happened to their dynamic, and gets emotional; Rachel and John talk to an attorney about Rachel adopting Jaiden; and Jennifer throws Teresa a shower. And if you think a lot of people came to your shower, you’d be wrong.

🤽‍♀️ When we last left the most awful people on land in Summer House, Danielle asked if Carl wasn’t ring shopping. He said he was, and she screamed into a pillow. She said, it hasn’t been a year. Not that she was against them as a couple; that’s not where she was coming from. Carl said he’d been thinking Danielle had an issue with his past or their own relationship. In Danielle’s interview, she said, it was long ago. She and Carl met in 2015, and dated briefly. It didn’t end well, and it was laughable if anyone thought she still had feelings for Carl. Danielle said she felt like she was being cut out, and Carl said he hoped the four of them could do more things. Danielle asked, why only the four of them? Why couldn’t they be the amigos they were? She was glad Carl and Lindsay were evolving into a serious relationship, but her relationship was different. She was also a start-up founder, and under a lot of pressure and stress. It would be nice if the people closest to her checked in. Lindsay was at the top of the list, but if they were going in separate directions, then she needed to manage those expectations. Carl asked if it was frustrating that it wasn’t the same dynamic, and Danielle said, a phone call or a  text asking what’s going on would be nice. Carl said, Danielle wanted to feel like she was getting support, and thought Lindsay would want do that. His worry was that Danielle thought he’d do crazy sh*t again, but she said, not at all, and he said he felt better. In Carl’s interview, he said, it would be hard if Lindsay still won’t mend fences, and hoped his positivity helped them. Danielle wants to be heard in the friendship. They hugged it out.

Kory, Sam, Ciara, and Gabby went to a bar, where Sam and Kory made out. Amanda, Paige, and Lindsay joined them at some other bar, and when they got back to the house, Amanda ate black olives out of the can. Kyle said, like beans, but they’re olives. As usual, the soul of brilliance. Carl told Lindsay about his talk with Danielle, and no surprise, she didn’t take it well when he suggested she and Danielle have a conversation. She got loud, saying that she was being blamed, and had to be the one who figured things out. It was like a game. He said he felt good about the conversation, and was glad to hear that Danielle didn’t have an issue with him. Lindsay said she was glad he could move forward with Danielle, but she couldn’t. Carl said he thought she’d be able to, and she said, he thought it was all her fault. He said he didn’t think that, and she asked if he actually had an opinion. He said he told Danielle that he thought Lindsay would want to be supportive, then made the mistake of mentioning again that Danielle didn’t have an issue with him. Lindsay told him, so he felt good, but didn’t give a f*** if she had an issue with Danielle. Carl said he wasn’t getting into this; everything he was saying was wrong. Lindsay said he only cared about how he was perceived, and didn’t care about her, and he told her that she was being difficult. Elsewhere in the house, Kyle told Danielle, something happened, but he doesn’t know what. Danielle said, they’d worked it out; Carl just wanted to hear that Danielle supported them. Kyle said he thought Lindsay was hammered. Lindsay told Carl that he always got so mad, and he said he wasn’t mad, but she insisted he was very mad. She was just asking questions. He told her, whatever he said was wrong, and he didn’t want to keep it going. She said that was on him. Why was he mad? Carl said he was exhausted, as was I by this point. Lindsay asked why they couldn’t have a normal conversation, and Carl said, she wasn’t acting normal. She said she wanted him to tell Danielle, you POS, apologize to my girlfriend, and Carl told her that she was being rude, and to stop looking for a fight. She said she’d be happy when he understood, and he said, all he told her was that he thought she and Danielle should have a conversation. She said that she tried, and he said he hoped his conversation helped hers. She said, it wasn’t on him; it was on her. He said she needed to figure out if she wanted to be friends with Danielle, and she said she was glad he was good; she wasn’t. He might feel better, but she felt worse. Everything was on her, and clearly he hadn’t helped. Carl said, yes, he was a horrible person, and she said he always wanted a pity party. Did it ever occur to him that she had feelings? He left the room, and Paige and Amanda were listening in.

Lindsay said, blah-blah-blah even on her birthday. She couldn’t have the day before her birthday or the day after her birthday either. I’ll bet she’s one of those people who has a birthday month. She said, it was all about Carl. Kory came in downstairs, carrying Chris on his back, and Chris complained that his balls were smushing. In Kory’s interview, he said, growing up, he was always the cute friend. He was skinny, and didn’t want to be cute. He wanted to be hot, sexy, and handsome. He was still that cute skinny guy in his head, and never aggressive. He made the girl chase him. In Carl’s interview, he said, since Lindsay had been drinking, he was trying to navigate things. They got twisted, then Lindsay got upset when she was drunk. Danielle told Kyle that she and Carl had a good conversation, and covered everything. It ended in a hug. Kyle said, after dinner, he could hear Lindsay yelling.

In the morning, Gabby asked how Lindsay’s night was. They heard raised voices. Danielle said she needed a morning cocktail. When Danielle was out of the room, Lindsay told Gabby that she’d had two conversations with Danielle, and she’s even more confused, since Carl said they should talk again. Chris announced that he had a variety of games for today, but Amanda, Paige, Gabby, and Ciara said they were going shopping. Ciara said to start without them… and finish without them. Carl came in from a run, and in Danielle’s interview, she said, apparently, they were pretending like nothing happened. She wants them to go the distance, but if they want to move fast, they can’t sweep everything under the rug.

Chris started the games with a relay race, reminding everyone that he was a Marine. They had to take a drink, flip the cup, run laps, and do crunches, then stop when he told them to. Kyle and Kory sort of competed. In Sag Harbor, the girls continued to shop, and Gabby said she was excited for Sam. She explained that she hated hugs and holding hands, and Paige forced her to hold hands. Paige said her arms were so long, Craig had to hold her by the wrist, and it made people think he was kidnapping her. They went back to the house as Chris was explaining the next game, where they’d spin a bottle. This got the guys all excited since they’re in 7th grade, but Chris said, whoever the bottle pointed to would have to take an egg and the others had to run for their dear life before getting nailed with it. Carl was the first to be hit, but it turned out the eggs were hardboiled, and they realized they were using Amanda’s breakfast, so they switched to water balloons. Amanda asked Ciara and Paige if they got their fertility results, and they gathered in one of the bedrooms to reveal the results. In Paige’s interview, she said, they all took the tests last week, and we flashed back to that. She said she and Ciara really took the tests to help Amanda take one, since when Amanda felt uncomfortable in a situation, she avoided it, hoping it would go away. But when it came to health issues, they had to be dealt with at some point. Paige went first, and the results said she’d hit menopause around age 51, and had an average number of eggs for her age. Amanda then opened hers.  

Amanda’s test said the same thing as Paige’s, and Paige asked if it made her feel better. Amanda said it did, but she still had no idea what the f*** was going on. In her interview, she said she wasn’t having a period, was losing weight, and she could tell her hormones were out of whack from her skin.  Ciara looked at her results, and they said she would hit menopause slightly earlier than 51, and had fewer than average eggs for age. She said she wasn’t going to lie. It was scary to think she didn’t have enough eggs. It wasn’t what she wanted to hear. Paige asked if she was spiraling, and Ciara said she was. Paige told her, seriously don’t, and Amanda said she felt like it was her fault, but Paige said Amanda needed to know. In Ciara’s interview, she said, the choices she was making now with her career and finances were to prepare herself for the best situation when she found a relationship. She wanted to have a family, and the possibility of not being able to have kids was freaking her the f*** out. Kyle asked Danielle how things were going between her and Lindsay, and Danielle said she thought she’d had a good talk with Carl. She thought he’d wanted to hear that she supported their relationship 1000%, but he thought she should talk to Lindsay again. Kyle asked if she’d been as direct with Lindsay, and she said she thought so, but she felt like she’d been cut out with Lindsay. She was happy for them, but wanted Lindsay to check in with her occasionally. It didn’t have to be World War III. Lindsay joined the group, and asked what she missed. Danielle said it seemed that Lindsay didn’t feel she supported them as a couple, and it was going far beyond what was actually happening. She didn’t want to get defensive, but wanted more from the friendship. She said, they’d always hung out, but Lindsay said, Danielle wasn’t in the city. Danielle said, Lindsay could still check in with her, and Kyle said that Danielle wanted to be seen by her best friend. Danielle didn’t understand why it always got like this with Lindsay; it wasn’t a blame game. She just wanted to go back to the sisterhood they’d had. Lindsay said it wasn’t fair to put it on her, and Danielle started to cry, saying, she’d die for Lindsay, and never blamed her. Lindsay said, Danielle kept listening to other people, and Danielle got up and went inside. Because the way to fix things is to always run away.

Paige and Amanda followed Danielle in, and after Danielle cried in the bathroom for a while, Amanda gave her a hug. Danielle said, just when she thought she was breaking through, Lindsay played the blame game and was talking to everyone else about it. Outside, Lindsay told Kyle that it wasn’t fait to put it on her. Two days ago, Danielle said she felt weird about Lindsay and Carl being together, but now she was supportive. It was contradictory. Good Lord, does this woman listen to anything but herself? Danielle had said, at first, she thought it was weird. Kyle said, maybe it would always be weird. Lindsay, Danielle, and Carl had been like a three legged stool, and Danielle was trying to make sense of it. How did Lindsay not understand? When Kyle is the voice of reason, I don’t understand. Danielle said she was trying, but didn’t think Lindsay wanted to try. If she needed to marinate on if she wanted to be in the friendship, take a moment, but if she didn’t want to anymore, fine.

Ciara started the bonfire, and in her interview, she said she could do anything a dude could do, but better, and on her period. They made some barbecue, and Chris went inside to put on some music, saying, Journey might be right up my dingleberry, whatever that meant. Ciara was talking to Paige in the bedroom, when the rest made a conga line and danced in. Lindsay and Carl joined them, and Carl flipped the light switch on and off. After things broke up, Chris danced to music in his head while he brushed his teeth. I’m going to remind you again. Kyle just turned 40, and these are his peers. And this is how they’re spending their weekends.

In the morning, Chris wondered where Kory slept, since he’s s no rocket scientist. He blew a whistle to wake everyone up, and pulled Kory out of Sam’s bed, dragging him down the hall by his feet, and saying they were going to the gym. Ciara told Paige that Kyle had been humping her, and Paige said Kory had taken a running jump and landed on her wrist. Ciara said they’d been missed so much, the party had been moved to their room. It was time to leave for the week, and in Sam’s interview, she said, Kory hadn’t made it below her collarbone yet, but they were going to Montauk to see how far the chemistry took them. In Carl’s interview, he said, all the things that had happened to him led him to this summer. An inner voice was screaming Lindsay, and he couldn’t hold back anymore. He picked up the engagement ring he’d ordered, which was classic and pretty.

Next time, Chris’s new girlfriend Lexi comes to the house; Mya finds out Kory is interested in Sam; Carl goes to the hospital; Kyle says, Carl is realizing that real relationships take real work; and Carl proposes to Lindsay.

🤯 Just like with Gary (Below Deck Sailing Yacht) and Kory, there must be something to Lindsay I’m not seeing. Is this dude out of his mind? Does he want to start drinking again? She’s alcoholism and your worst PMS nightmare going someplace to happen.

🌷 You Don’t Send Me Flowers…

Boomerang back tomorrow for soap and the hunt for VanderClues. Until then, stay safe, stay seeing the beauty in all ethnicities, and stay saying something if you feel something. Life is too short to stand on ceremony.

May 27, 2021 – Carly Meets Cyrus At the Pier, He’s Back, Road Trip To Pine Valley, KJ Breaks a Townhouse Streak & Beatles Garden

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Peter lies at the bottom of the stair landing, blood pooling around his head, and his and Maxie’s new passports beside him. Someone sees him (it looks like one of the hospital staff), and runs down the stairs.

Four hours earlier. On the phone, Peter tells Chloe to check in with him as soon as she gets to the house. He wants to make sure they’re on schedule for Louise’s birth. He checks out the new fake passports for him and Maxie.

Chloe comes at Maxie with a syringe, and Maxie raises the fireplace poker, saying, you’ll never get my baby, bitch! She whacks Chloe in the knee, and Chloe drops to the floor. Maxie runs outside, screaming for help.

Sam is at the baseball field when Dante shows up. She says, first the PCPD. Now he joins the softball league. She’d say that’s a pretty major comeback. He sees she has a bottle of water, and asks if she has another one of those. She puts her foot on the cooler and says, team rules. She takes a sip, and says, it is refreshing though. He puts down his equipment, and says he’s been watching her out there. She says, scouting out the competition? and he says, maybe a little bit. She really takes her pre-season training seriously. He’s never seen anyone practice sliding as much as she does. Or was she just tripping over herself?

Britt says she never pegged Jason as the love ‘em and leave ‘em type. He says, that’s not… She says, that was fun; bye, and he says he’s not leaving. She asks if he didn’t say he had to go back to Port Charles, but he says, just for a few days to figure things out. She says, two days, two weeks, he’s still leaving, and he takes her hand. He says he just needs her to trust him and stay there. He promises he’s coming back for her. She kisses him.

At the hospital, Carly gets a call from Unknown. It’s Cyrus, who says she has something he wants, and as it turns out, he has something she wants even more. We see he has Spinelli, and she says she has no idea what he’s talking about. He says by all means, let him explain, and tells Spinelli, say hello. He holds the phone up to Spinelli, who tells Carly not to worry about him; he’ll be fine. She says, Spinelli? and Cyrus says, her friend speaks the truth. He’ll be fine… as long as she hands over Gladys.

Sam tells Dante, she’s sorry. A lazy, tragically confident PCPD would have no idea what it’s like to be a committed player. He says, commitment? Is that what she calls that slide? She says, head first, baby. Practice hard, play hard. He asks if that’s the Aurora model, and she says, it should be, but just so he knows, they do intend to win this year. He laughs, and she asks, what’s so funny? He says it’s just that they kind of suck. They’ve been in the basement ever since they came into the league. She says, there’s a first time for everything, and you know what they say about the underdog? It gives you the mental advantage. He asks if she knows what would give them the actual advantage. Someone on their team who knows how to hit.

Jason tells Britt, it doesn’t have to be there. He can have Spinelli fly her to the island. She says, so the options are Puerto Rico or Canada. She’ll stay in Canada. He says, so she’ll stay? and she says, for now, but let’s be clear. She’s not some package he can deposit somewhere, or a damsel in distress just waiting for his orders. He says he’s not ordering her to do anything, and she says, really? He says he’s asking her to stay there until he can make it safe. Please. Just give him a chance to make this right. She says, make what right? and he says he’s the one who got her involved in this whole Cyrus investigation. He opened the door, and she was there. He knows she took him up on the chance – she says, really – but he still feels responsible. She says, truth? She would like to think that she would have figured out Cyrus was using the hospital on her own, and she would have made the choice to work against him, not turning a blind eye. And maybe she would have, but what she knows is, when Jason showed her who Cyrus really was, when he opened that door, she walked through. Not because he forced her, but because she wanted to. He says he gets that, and she says, okay. And she gets that he was a professional rescuer, but that’s not how she operates. Sitting around while the big strong man fixes things. And not to mention, sexual performance notwithstanding, he’s not fully healed. On top of that, he’s the fugitive. Maybe she should be the one going back to Port Charles. He says he’s a fugitive running from the law; she’s running from Cyrus. She says, Cyrus wants him dead, and he says, no question, but that’s not why those guys were in her office that night. They were there to kill her, sent by Cyrus, in his own hospital. Does she know how risky that is? That’s how bad he wanted her gone. So please, stay there, stay safe. Give him enough time to end this.

Carly tells Cyrus, Gladys is a woman, not a library book. She’s not sure if she can even get access to Gladys. He says, for her friend’s sake, she’d better figure it out. Pier 55, one hour; her, not one of her minions. She’d better not keep him waiting. He hangs up, and Carly says, son of a bitch. Nikolas and Ava, who have been just standing around watching all this time, walk over to her. Nikolas asks, what happened? and Ava says, that didn’t sound good. Carly says she can’t talk about this right now, and Ava says, let her guess; Cyrus. He has some kind of leverage on Carly. Most likely holding someone for ransom? It’s written all over Carly’s face, and it’s how the man does business. They have a couple of very important interests in common – keeping Avery safe, and stopping Cyrus. They can do this together. Let her help. Carly says, Cyrus has Spinelli. He wants Gladys in exchange, and she has one hour. Nikolas says, Gladys is in surgery, and Carly says she knows. Ava says, what she needs is a stand-in for Gladys. Carly asks if she has any ideas, and Ava says, her.

Peter peruses the passports.

Maxie stumbles through the woods, and tells Louise that she has to find a road… or any semblance of human life actually. Where are they? Just stay put until she can find someone to help them. She leans on a rock, and says, or better yet, a hospital. She has contraction, and says, Louise can’t be born yet.

Britt asks what Jason means by, it’s on him. Getting leverage over Cyrus, or getting Cyrus arrested? He says, he’s going to end it. She’s a good doctor, right? That’s what she does? She says she tries, and he says, this is what he does. Not as often as people think, but he’s capable, and it’s time. She thinks he’s underselling himself, and he motions for her to sit with him. He says, when Sonny first gave him a job, he was grateful, not just for the work, but to have someone treat him like a competent human being. He figured out pretty fast how well he could use a gun, and it was a skill he could develop. Sonny needed an enforcer, somebody he could trust. She says, he needed somebody to do a job, and Jason did it well. Jason says he never questioned if it was the right choice to make; he just made it. But now the choice is, when and how to use that skill, and when the circumstances call for it. This is one of them. She asks if he’s proud of that skill. He doesn’t say anything, and she puts her hand on his knee. He says, no, but he’s grateful for it. He’s able to use it to protect the people he loves. She says it’s given him a lot of grief. Don’t worry. There’s more where that comes from. An endless amount actually. She sees now that people make a lot of assumptions about what he does, and how he lives his life. They think he doesn’t feel, but she thinks he does. He takes her hand.

Nikolas tells Ava, this is insane. She’s not standing in for Gladys. She says, the only way to stop Cyrus, is to stop him, and he asks what that even means. She says, look at the situation. He’s taking hostages. He tried to kill somebody, and he failed. So this man, who hasn’t made a single mistake until now, is spiraling out. He’s getting sloppy. He’s leaving himself open. This is their chance. Nikolas says, no, and she says, all she has to do is fool him long enough for Carly’s people to make their move; isn’t that right? Carly says, that’s right, and Nikolas says he doesn’t care how vulnerable she thinks Cyrus is, this isn’t happening. Carly says, if Ava is serious about this, she can set it up so Ava isn’t in any danger. Nikolas asks if this is some kind of a joke. Carly isn’t a mob boss. She’s a widow, and she’s making it up as she goes along. They think Cyrus is spiraling? How did he get his hands on Spinelli or Gladys in the first place? Because Carly is out of control. He tells Ava, come on, but Ava  says she’s not going anywhere. She loved him, and she supported him when he did what he thought he needed to do with Cyrus’s mother, even if she didn’t agree with it. Now it’s his turn to support her. He says, excuse him if he’s not going to stick around and watch this, and walks out. Carly says Ava doesn’t have to do this, and Ava says she knows. Carly says she needs some time to iron out some details. She asks if Ava knows Sonny’s guy Trent, and Ava says she does. Carly tells her to meet him at the hospital entrance. Ava starts to leave, and Carly says, thank you. Ava says what Carly doesn’t seem to understand is, she wants this bastard taken down just as much as Carly does. She leaves, and Carly gets on her phone. She tells Brick to stop whatever he’s doing, and assemble a team right now.

Chloe struggles to get up, grabs the poker, the syringe, and her phone, and limps out of the house. I’d limp on into hiding if I were her.

There’s a knock at Peter’s door, and he opens it to find Valentin, looking grim. He says, what do you want? and Valentin asks if Peter doesn’t have his hands full, toying with Chase. Why does he have to torment an innocent pregnant woman on top of it?

Maxie cries out, wondering why she has to have her children in the great outdoors. First James, now Louise. Can’t Louise wait a hot minute to discover nature? She has to be born there? She has another contraction, and says, okay, okay. She hears her. Louise is ready to be born. This is happening, but trust her, it’s better than what Louise’s father had planned.

Carly says, great. Brick understands her instructions?… She’ll let him know when everything’s in place. She looks at her phone, and her hand hovers above the screen.

Sam says Dante seems to know an awful lot about a softball league he hasn’t played in for years. He says he missed it, and she asks if he doesn’t want to get out there. He asks if she’s making fun of him, and she says he’s cute. He says she means tough, but she tells him that she said cute. He says he can’t wait to play them. He really hopes she tries to steal third base. He’s going to tag her so hard, she won’t know what hit her, but she will know because it’s going to be this glove. She says, he’s playing third base? but he says, no; shortstop. She says she plays shortstop. Maybe she can actually give him a few pointers. He says, that would be great, and she says, gotcha. She would never do that. He’s her enemy. He says he was just humoring her, and she says he’s so full of himself. He says he should be. He literally has thousands of hours of baseball under his belt. From stickball to little league, to JV, to varsity. She says, ooh, wow. Is there a bomber jacket? He says she knows his mom has it. Not to mention the lifetime he’s spent watching minor league and major league baseball. He can literally rate and rank any player within ten minutes of watching them. She asks how he rates her.

Jason asks if Britt understands now why she has to stay there, and she says, she sees that’s how she stays safe, but what’s the point? He asks what that even means, and she says, she fully accepts the fact that Cyrus is trying to kill her, and could kill her, if she goes back to Port Charles before he ends this. But if they’re honest, Cyrus would be doing her a favor. Jason says, no, and she says, he would. She has a death sentence; not just any death sentence. The most horrible, agonizing, horrific death a person could possibly experience. So Cyrus shooting her, or drugging he, or whatever he plans to do, would be a picnic in comparison. He asks if she really believes that, and she says she does. She finally gets what it means to live like you’re dying. When she thinks about all the fries she didn’t eat, or the wine she didn’t drink… all the chances she didn’t take. She’s not fearless like he is. The idea of being in pain or uncomfortable, no thank you. And death was the scariest of all, but she’s not afraid of it anymore. Now that she knows what’s coming, it makes everything – and she means everything – that’s coming look better. He says, what if between now and then is thirty years? and she says, it could be six months. He says, all that time, she could have lived. She wipes away tears, and he says, it’s her life. It’s her choice, but for what it’s worth (🍷) he’d still like to get to know her six months from now. She says she’d like to get to know him too. His phone rings, and he says, Carly. Carly asks how healthy he is, and he says, what happened?

Valentin tells Peter, Brook is being watched, and Peter expects him to believe he’s not responsible? Peter asks what use he’d have for Brook and her child? and Valentin says Peter finds use for a lot of random people. Detective Chase for instance. Peter asks how Chase is feeling, and Valentin asks if Peter thinks he has him over a barrel because he’s toying with Chase’s life. Peter says, doesn’t he? and Valentin says, to a point. If Chase dies, Anna will be devastated, and he doesn’t want to see that. But if Peter starts messing with his daughter or her mother, he’ll kill Peter. Peter says, killing Chase in the process, and Valentin says, so be it. Peter asks if Valentin thinks he’s an idiot. He knows Valentin could end him. Anna’s wracked with guilt, but he knows Valentin. The rest of the world be damned, what he wants is his children. Valentin says, damn right, and Peter says, there are two things he knows for certain. One, he’s still breathing because of Valentin’s sentimental attachment to Anna, and two, making trouble with Valentin would be a death sentence. So if someone is following Brook, it’s not him.

Maxie says, this is all going to work out. She’s going to get Louise born, and figure out what to do next. So whatever that is, she’s going to do everything in her power to protect Louise. She puts her robe on the ground in front of a rock, and gets down on it, leaning against the rock. She says, this is good actually. They say that the third baby comes faster than the first two, right? It’s just you and me. Let’s do this. A light shines in her face, and says, no.

Carly tells Jason, put Britt on the phone. He hesitates, and she says, put Britt on the phone or she’s hanging up. Jason hands Britt the phone, and Carly asks, how’s Jason? And before Britt asks, this is life or death. She’s begging Britt to tell her the truth. Britt says, he’s remarkably healed. Carly asks if she’s sure, and Britt says, his wound is clean and closing. She wouldn’t recommend lifting anything heavy, or getting into a boxing ring, but he’s not in danger of bleeding out anymore. Carly says, okay, and asks Britt to put Jason back on the phone. Britt hands the phone to Jason, who asks, what’s going on? Carly says, Cyrus has Spinelli, and Jason asks what Cyrus wants. Carly says, he wants Gladys. She was going to exonerate Jason, and Cyrus grabbed her. There was a gunfight, and Gladys was hit. He asks if Carly is okay, and she says she is, but Gladys is in the hospital. She couldn’t give Gladys to Cyrus if she wanted to. He says, that’s fine. All that matters is that she agree to an exchange. She says, it’s not like Cyrus gave her much choice. She’s supposed to meet him on Pier 55 in less than an hour. He says they can work with that; have Trent handle the trade. She says they can’t do that. Cyrus made it clear he only wants to deal with her. Jason says she has to make it clear that she won’t give Gladys to Cyrus until she sees Spinelli for herself. She says she’s got it, and he asks if she has somebody who can be the decoy. She says it’s all set, and he tells her, don’t get too close. Whatever happens with Cyrus or Spinelli, don’t get within fifteen feet. She says, okay. Brick’s on another line; she has to go. They hang up, and Britt says she hopes Jason knows she lied for him. Everything she told Carly was a load of crap. One punch to his stomach, or anything else, and he’s definitely bleeding out. He says he won’t get punched in the stomach, and she shakes her head and smiles. He says he has to go. She says she knows, and he kisses her goodbye, and leaves. She goes to the door, and watches.

Dante says Sam is actually pretty good. She has good mobility, she’s quick. She could use some accuracy help, and her hitting is a little weak. She says, weak? She hit every single one of those balls tonight. He says, exactly, and she asks what he means. He says her pitcher is either throwing her easy pitches because he knows she’s the boss, or he’s a bad pitcher. Either way, she’s going to get smoked out there because her stance is all wrong. She picks up a bat, and says, show her. He says, no way; she’s the enemy. She says, pleeease. Show me. Please? He gets behind her, and tells her to bend her knees more. Sit, sit, sit. Arms up. Put her hands back by her shoulder. All right. He touches her chin, making her look at him, and says, the most important part is, don’t take her eyes off the pitcher. How’s that feel? She says, good, and he says, good. Forget everything he just said. She might actually start hitting the ball now, and they’ll get out of the basement. She says they’re headed to the finals, and he says he’ll believe it when he sees it. She says, keep your eyes peeled, Falconari, and hands him back the bat. She leaves, and he says he will.

Maxie squints, and sees it’s… Roger Howarth! Finally! She says, thank God he’s not Peter. He says, thank God she’s not a bear, and she says, there are bears out here? He says, tons of them. They love themselves some blueberries. He was coming around the bend the other day, and saw the most beautiful mama bear, and she had these adorable three baby cubs, and he ran the fastest mile he’s ever run. She tells him, you don’t say, and he says, so who’s Peter? She has another contraction, and asks if he wants to call 9-1-1, or call someone, anyone; she doesn’t care who. He says, cell service is a little spotty out there. So how long has it been between contractions? She says she’s not really sure, and he says, okay. Her choice. He can wander around and try to find some spotty cell service, or he can deliver her baby for her. She says, oh yeah? He happens to be a doctor? He says he is, and she says, seriously? He says he happens to be a doctor, and she says, he’s not some crazy mountain man nutjob? He says, you’re the one having a baby in the forest, ma’am, and she says, he makes a good point, and don’t call her ma’am again. He says, noted, and holds out his hand, saying, Austin. She shakes his hand, and says, Maxie. He says, nice to meet you, Miss Maxie. Is she ready to have this baby? She says, not even a little bit.

Peter says Valentin has always been good at prioritizing, and Valentin says, thank you. Peter says, top of Valentin’s list, Charlotte and the baby. Then Brook, because she’s carrying said baby, and Anna and Nina, women he supposedly loves. But at the end of the day, they all get sacrificed… for the children. He knows that about Valentin. That’s why he would never go near Charlotte, or the baby, and therefore, Brook. Valentin says, strange. For the first time in months, he feels Peter is telling him the truth. Peter says he is. Now if Valentin is through threatening his life, there’s the door. Valentin says, not yet. Anna’s left town for the funeral of an old friend. Peter says, that’s bold, and Valentin says he knows, but if she hadn’t gone, it would have raised eyebrows. In the meantime, he’s watching over Chase, and there’s something he wants from Peter. He’d like a dose of the antidote on hand. Peter asks why he’d do that, and Valentin says, Chase is staying at the Quartermaine mansion. As it happens, he and Charlotte are also staying at the Quartermaine mansion. Should Chase fall ill, he would like a dose of the antidote on hand, ready to be administered. Or would Peter prefer Chase dead? Peter says, and as Valentin so aptly pointed out, lose his upper hand.

Cyrus waits at the pier, when Carly arrives with her bodyguards. He asks, where’s Gladys? and she says, not before she sees Spinelli. He gives a sidelong glance, and two of his guys come in, one on either side of a bound and gagged Spinelli. Cyrus says, and now? She says, Gladys wasn’t feeling very cooperative. Outside, Trent gets out of a limo, and walks around to the other side, where Ava is sitting in the back seat.

Carly tells Cyrus, Gladys is locked up in the car, and Cyrus looks at one of his guys, who leaves. Cyrus says Carly should be grateful he’s taking Gladys off her hands. She is a piece of work. Carly says, before the exchange takes place, she has an alternative she’d like to discuss. He says, oh? and she says, there’s another way they can resolve this. He smiles.

Peter says he doesn’t have the antidote on him, but he’ll have a vial prepared for Valentin. Valentin says, good; he’ll go. He heads for the door, when Peter says, there is one thing he still admires about Valentin. Valentin says, what’s that? and Peter says, that he’s a good father for Charlotte. He’s somehow managed to make himself a better man for her. Probably only for her, because in every other facet of life, Valentin is an awful person. (Pot, meet kettle.) Valentin asks if Peter has a point, and Peter says, his point is, Valentin showed him that it’s possible. And he intends to do the same with his child. Be a better man – for her. Don’t get in his way. Valentin says, good luck with that, which we all know means, all the luck in the world won’t help you. Peter may find it’s more difficult than he thinks. We see Valentin was carrying a weapon as he closes the door.

Maxie has another contraction, and Roger Howarth Todd Franco Austin says, the contractions are coming more quickly now, and Maxie says, and monumentally more painful. He says, it’s no big deal. She just has to breathe. She says, easy for him to say. He sits cross legged and tells her, in through the nose and out through the nose. She breathes with him, and says she bets he wonders why she’s out there. He says, not at all. It’s his job to keep her calm and focused. He asks if she has other children, and she says, this is her third. He says, so a little medical history. The other deliveries were easy? and she says, it depends on what you consider easy. He asks how far along she is, and she says, full term. Her doctor actually recommended she induce. She’s been doing pre-natal yoga, and taking her folic acid religiously. He says, folic acid, awesome! This is all great news. She says, except for the giving birth in the woods with a stranger part. He says, that’s the best part. It’s going to be a great story she can tell her little… Does she know what she’s having? She says, a girl; Louise. A contraction comes, and he claps his hands, and says, they’re going to bring baby Louise into the world. Is she ready? He says, on the E of three, he wants her to bear down. Can she do that? She nods, and he says, one.. two… three. She bears down, and yells.

Carly tells Cyrus, look around. The wheels are coming off his bus. He says, is that right? and she says, yeah. He barely managed to grab Gladys, the police know she was abducted now, and there was a shooting at a warehouse. Everyone knows he’s losing control, and about to be exposed for the criminal that he is. He says, and she has a solution he gathers. She says, cut your losses, and disappear. It’s his best bet. Hand over Spinelli, and walk away. It’s not like he doesn’t have the money and the resources, and he’ll get no pushback from her. Just a clear path to the exit. He’s a smart man; take the out.

Ava tells Trent, something’s wrong. This is taking too long. He needs to move his people into position. He says he doesn’t work for her. They go when Carly says they go.

Cyrus says Carly is very good, very persuasive. She even threw a compliment in there. But if anyone’s out of their depth there, it’s her. He’ll hand it to her husband and Jason. They commanded a great deal of loyalty. The men they worked with continue to follow her orders, but that won’t last. The horrible botch she made of this will show them that she’s no leader at all. So he’s offering her this out of the goodness of his heart. Get her friend and retreat, because if she comes at him again, he will show… no… mercy. Or he could keep Spinelli, and send her a couple of his fingers. She tells one of her bodyguards, get Gladys. Outside, Trent tells Ava, show time, and opens the car door. Ava puts on her humongous black sunglasses.

One of Cyrus’s guys shoves Spinelli front and center. Another comes in and tosses Nikolas to the floor, saying, he found Nikolas lining up a shot. Cyrus grabs Spinelli, and takes out his gun. Carly says, don’t.

Peter picks up his overnight bag, and says he will get the happiness he was denied his entire life, and he will give his daughter everything he never had. He takes a gift box out of his bag; the soap opera wrapping, where you can just take the top off, and not mess it up. He takes out a silver rattle, and I notice that his manicure is better than mine. In his mind, Maxie hands him an infant, and says, say hello to your daddy, sweetheart. He takes the bundle of joy, and Maxie says, isn’t she beautiful? He says, just like her mommy. Out of his daydream, he puts the rattle back in the box, and puts the top on it. He puts it in his bag, and zips the bag up.

Valentin leaves a message for Anna to call him back when she gets the chance. He has a sneaking suspicion Peter is about to make a run for it.

Austin holds the baby wrapped in a blanket, and tells Maxie, she’s here. She’s here and she’s beautiful. Maxie asks if he can hold her up so she can see her. He looks concerned, and takes a towel out of his bag. Maxie says, Austin? What’s wrong? Why isn’t she crying?

Dante’s phone rings, and he says, Falconari… Tell the Commissioner, he’s on his way.

Britt sits on the hearth with the fire going, and thinks about getting busy with Jason.

Carly says, no, and Cyrus asks if this is her big plan. Setting up an ambush with this fool. She says she has no idea why Nikolas is there, but they had a deal. Cyrus says, she blew the deal. Now he and her friend are leaving. Carly will be seeing Spinelli in pieces.

Tomorrow, Maxie asks if Peter sent Austin after them, Chase hears Michael and Willow talking, Sasha says that train has left the station, and Jason tells Cyrus to let Spinelli go, or he’ll drop him.

🎭 New Old Face…

This has been a stellar week on GH for me.

🏞 Children Reuniting…

E!’s new show, Reunion Road Trip, reunites some of the All My Children cast on June 10th.

https://daytimeconfidential.com/2021/05/06/watch-all-my-children-stars-to-reunite-on-e-s-reunion-road-trip

Million Dollar Listing New York

We started off with some NYC trivia, and Ryan explaining that the first Duane Reade, a drug store chain that’s a staple in NYC, was between Duane and Reed Streets in what is now Tribeca. Ryan was looking at an apartment in the area, and met with owner Jeff, who was also a developer and investor. He’d renovated the humongous 4000 square foot space to move his family into, but after 24 years in their Upper East Side apartment, his wife decided she loved living in that neighborhood. Now he wanted Ryan to sell it. Built in 1855, it had been a wreck of offices, and Jeff created a 4 bedroom, 4 and a half bath apartment, with nearly 10 foot high windows imported from Switzerland. He’d exposed the original detail and original steel columns, and put in luxury appliances along with dual islands in the kitchen. The master bedroom was 17 feet, and had a 14 foot closet. He’d also put in an indoor/outdoor space called a loggia, and yet another shower that could probably fit a dozen people. But wait, there was more. Jeff said he had a secret to show Ryan. In Ryan’s interview, he said he’d seen weird things in Tribeca, like a seller who had a pet kangaroo, also on Duane Street, but this topped them all. Jeff took Ryan through a door  to another apartment that he wanted Ryan to sell. It was also 4000 square feet, making a total of 8000 square feet between two buildings. It was similar in design, but not exactly the same. In his interview, Ryan said the building spanned the entire block, and each apartment had its own lobby and elevator. One apartment was furnished, and ready to go for photos and videos. Ryan explained to Jeff that they should only put the furnished one on the market; he didn’t want to compete with himself. If he listed both, he’d cannibalize his buyer base, and potential buyers and brokers would wonder if something was wrong with the property. He said he was going to surprise buyers the same way Jeff had surprised him. Jeff was thinking along the lines of $12 million for both, but Ryan said Tribeca had changed. In his interview, he said, a couple of years ago, you couldn’t buy in Tribeca for under $2000 a square foot, but now it was closer to $1000, because of excess inventory. Jeff agreed to Ryan’s suggestions; keeping the unfurnished apartment off-market, and lowering the price. The potential commission for Ryan was $165K, and he said it was Jackpot Tuesday. In his interview, he said it was as if he was on a date with a beautiful girl, and she surprised him with a friend. He then asked the producers to cut that part, since his wife would be watching.

Steve headed to look for a property at the Ansonia, which had once been a hotel. I knew this building, since I had a friend who used to live there. It was one of the tiniest apartments ever, but it was absolutely charming, with a round window. Steve gave a little history to his driver, saying there had once been a swingers bar in the basement, and at one time, the Continental Baths had been there. Music buffs might recall that Bette Midler got her start there, along with Barry Manilow, who played back-up for her. Steve said when that was gone, the swinger’s club Plato’s Retreat moved in. I have some vague recollection of reading about it closing down. Steve said the Ansonia was legendary, and went on to talk about other renowned buildings like the Chelsea and the Dakota. He asked the driver if he knew what famous person had died in front of the Dakota, but the driver didn’t know it was John Lennon, and then had no idea John Lennon was one of The Beatles. When Steve asked him, he said Led Zeppelin. I not only felt old, I wanted to cry over the lack of this dude’s knowledge. When I was a kid, I knew who people like Bessie Smith and Frank Sinatra were. The seller Ehud took Steve on a tour of the apartment, and Steve said it was like walking through an old film. I loved this apartment so much. It was 2600 square feet, 4 bedrooms, and 3 baths, with 12-foot ceilings, and some round rooms; Steve said it was classic architecture. There were antique fixtures and herringbone floors, and a round room even had a curved door, which Steve had never seen before. In Steve’s interview, he said, with charm came quirks. The layout was funky, the galley kitchen was dark and small, and the previous owner had taken the dishwasher. Ehud said he did investments for the family who bought it. They’d acquired it during a bankruptcy for $3.8 million, and were selling at $3.5 million. We also found out that Babe Ruth had lived in the building, and Single, White Female had been filmed there. Steve told Ehud that the apartment needed sprucing up enough for a buyer to believe they could take it from there. He thought if they spent smartly, the family could actually make some money. Ehud agreed that what they’d done so far wasn’t working, but balked at Steve’s estimation of $200K. He asked if Steve could get it done for $100K, and Steve said it would be tight, but he’d make some calls. He was looking at a potential commission of $105K.

In those little filler scenes, they included an amusing clip of Ryan trying to get his voice-activated trash can to open. I could have done it manually a dozen times by the time it finally worked. 

KJ was doing a relaunch of the Greenwich Street townhouse, and said all the work was paying off. Team member Zach had an interested client, and KJ was giving her a private showing. KJ’s client was husband Stefano, and in her interview, she said because Zach was on her team, she was able to get inside info about Rachel, the potential buyer. The asking price was $8.25 million, and Rachel loved the townhouse. It checked most of her boxes, but her problem was timing. Zach was selling their existing apartment, and she didn’t want to do a short term rental. She asked if they could rent there in the interim, and Zach asked KJ if they could be creative. My husband and I actually did that when we sold our apartment in Queens, and moved to a house. There was a gap between closings, and our buyer let us rent from her for that time. In KJ’s interview, she said it wasn’t an ideal scenario to present to Stefano. If Rachel changed her mind, there would be wear and tear on the apartment. Rachel asked what if they gave her a big deposit, and KJ said they could figure it out.

Steve began the renovation on the Ansonia apartment, and got estimates on removing wallpaper ($5000) and staining the floors ($2500). In his interview, he said it was always the extras that got you when you renovated, but in this case, it was better to go over budget than over time.

Ryan had armoire put in between the apartments on Duane and Reade Streets. In Ryan’s interview, he said the apartments were like Narnia, and he’d never been this excited in his entire life. His ideas were genius, but the way might not be easy. He had some workers take the back off a wardrobe, and put it in between, which he explained was some kind of fire escape hallway. He put on a lion costume, citing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe for his theme. In his interview, he said, of course he was dressing up. He had to give the people what they wanted, or it would be like salsa without chips. He was fully aware that he looked ridiculous, but also fully aware that his company sold more real estate than anyone else. He was selling enthusiasm. He welcomed the brokers and potential buyers to The Ryan, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and a look at a classic, but modern Tribeca loft. It was a lion of a deal. Everyone was extremely impressed with the property, and after the tour, Ryan said he had a surprise. He told them to growl like lions in order to see the surprise, and when they did, he told them to follow him to a fantastical land. He took everyone through the wardrobe into the empty apartment, where he’d let loose 1000 balloons of various colors that clung to the ceiling. The effect was pretty fantastical. He told them it was a different apartment that was for sale, but not on the market yet. In his interview, he noted that a lot of people were taking pictures. They’d put them on social media, and sharable content would turn into clients. If this didn’t work, he’d just spent more money on balloons than anyone ever had ($6000), and got hot and sweaty for nothing.

KJ knew that at the price point of the townhouse, buyers were super picky. Rachel had to sell her current home, but live somewhere in the meantime. KJ and Zach had a private meeting, and she told him that $100K would be enough to cover rent and any touch-up costs if necessary. Zach said Rachel should be good with the $100, but wanted to make an offer of $7.5 million. KJ said they’d already come down in price by a million, and Stefano would flip on her, by which I assumed she meant get angry, but Zach said it was an offer in hand. In her interview, KJ said that the market at that price point was saturated, and it had taken two years to find a buyer. She called Stefano, who was okay with the rental and $100K, but balked at the offer, KJ told him to think of it as an opening bid, and to come back at $8.1 million. KJ presented to Zach the fact that Rachel would have a hard time getting another seller to agree to a rental. They’d also be taking out the staging, and bottom line, Rachel loved it. Zach spoke with Rachel, and told KJ that her best and final was $7.950 million. Zach told KJ that they couldn’t get to $8 million in their minds, and he didn’t think that was going to change. KJ told Stefano that with the $100K, they were basically getting 8, and Stefano said, lock them up. In KJ’s interview, she said the apartment had been on the market for two years, and she closed it. Her commission would be $268K. She’d taken a break to have kids, but now that her youngest was 2½, she was unstoppable.  

Next time, a tree grows in property in Brooklyn, KJ looks at an apartment that spans an entire floor, and the pandemic begins; offices begin to shut down, and everything is canceled.    

💃🏽 Dancing In the Supermoonlight…

The long weekend is coming up, or an actual excuse for eating forbidden special food, and drinking, depending on how you look at it. Regardless of your viewpoint, stay safe, stay remembering what Memorial Day is really about, and stay knowing the basics. Like who The Beatles are.

March 31, 2020 – Jordan Involves the DOJ, Two Pranks Are Played, Loving Is Back, a Last Season, New GH Schedule, Soaps Rate, Okay Andy & Tired

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

I missed the very beginning, because I was running early. Why, Lord, why?

At the MetroCourt, Lulu sees Brook. Dustin asks if Lulu is sure this is a good idea. Does she remember what happened the last time? She says she remembers exactly what happened.

Trina apologizes to Cameron for being late. She lost track of time talking to Ava. Cameron says, it’s totally fine. Everything good? She says, yeah. Him? He flashes back to the kiss, and Trina saying, if she’d lost him, she wouldn’t be able to do any of this, and him saying, neither could he. He tells Trina, it’s all good.

Portia tells Curtis, she knew there was a lot Taggert couldn’t tell her, and frankly there was a lot she didn’t want know. Even when they were breaking up, she still cared about him, and he did everything he could to reassure her. Curtis says, she suspected it was Cyrus when Taggert was killed. He must have told her something about the investigation. She asks why it’s important, and Curtis says he and Jordan are always trying to figure out what to bring home, and what to leave at the office. It must have been the same with them.

Laura goes to the station, and sees Mac. She asks if Jordan is in her office, but he says she’s in a meeting. Laura asks if Mac means Jordan is interrogating a suspect, and Mac says he means she’s in a meeting. Laura gets that Mac isn’t used to her being mayor, but she has to ask him what’s going on.

In the interrogation room, Cliff sets up a recorder, and says, it’s an interview with Jordan regarding the arrest and conviction of Cyrus Renault. He asks if Jordan consents to the recording. She does, and he tells her to please explain her involvement in the arrest and conviction of Cyrus Renault.

Alexis says Finn doesn’t seem surprised to hear that she fell off the wagon. He says he feels terrible that he missed her call, but she says it’s not his job to keep her sober; it’s hers. Last night, she let her team down. He says they’re on the same team. If she has some time, he’d like to talk. She says she had one drink, but he says they both know it’s never just one. Alexis says, it’s all she had, and he says she’s been sober almost three years. What changed? She says, apparently, she did, or that’s what she was told. It’s the truth. He says, and that’s bad because… She says, because she stopped fighting for herself and what she believes in. Instead, she protected someone and crossed the line. He says she’s not first person to ever do that. What’s so horrible that she would end three years of sobriety? She says she slept with the person she protected, and she knew it was wrong, but the worst thing is that she’d do it again in a heartbeat. He says he believes her, and asks if she slept with them because she had a drink, or did she drink because she slept with them?

Julian and Britt cuddle in bed, and Julian says, he can get used to this. She tells him to remember their deal. It’s just fun, and at the end of the day, he goes his way and she goes hers. Britt says she probably should go, and he asks if it’s visiting hours at the jail. She says she’s already seen her mother, and once is enough. He asks if Obrecht is still claiming Peter framed her, and she says her mother lives by the motto, deny, deny, deny. She never takes responsibility for her crimes. He says, unlike Britt’s best pal Brad. He can’t believe Brad was involved in a baby switch, and she says Brad isn’t the villain Julian wants him to be. Julian knows Brad is Britt’s best friend, but Brad did betray his son’s trust in the worst possible way. She says, things are not always black and white. If he took the time to understand… He says, like her? She says she and Brad are kindred spirits. Now Brad is in prison, and they can only interact through a glass partition. She’s lost her best friend, and doesn’t know how she’s going to replace him in her life. Brad is the only person who got her, and without him, it feels pretty lonely.

Ned tells Brook, no one would be thrilled with a rematch, and she says, Lulu is a smug self-righteous, spoiled brat. There’s no way she’s letting Lulu win. He says, it’s not a competition. Blame him. He shouldn’t have forced her to work at ELQ. He’s going to find her a job more suitable to her talents. She says her talents belong on stage, and that’s exactly where she’s going.

Dustin says, the mess with Brook is over, isn’t it? and Lulu asks why she should go easy on Brook. He says, Brook is social media’s new punching bag, and she’s been beaten enough. She says, tell her that he doesn’t feel sorry for Brook, and he says he knows the reason Lulu resents Brook; she was desperate to become a success, like him. She says Brook dumped him because he couldn’t help her, but she has better things to do than scratch Brook’s eyes out, as much as she’d like to. He says, name one, and she says, this. They kiss, and Olivia approaches their table. She asks if anyone would care to hear the specials.

Trina asks Cameron how practice is going, and he says, good, but weird. It kind of freaks him out. When he’s playing, his focus is totally on the ball. She says, it’s not weird. She gets the same feeling at the gallery. It’s all about the work. She forgets the drama, and the questions that have no answers. He says he thought her mom didn’t like Ava, and Trina says, her mom doesn’t, but she does. She can talk about anything to Ava. He says that’s like him and Franco, and she asks what they talk about. He says, they were just talking about his last session with Dr. Bern. She says, Dr. Bern? Isn’t he… Cameron says, a therapist, yes. His mother thought he needed someone to talk to because… She asks if he thinks he needs a therapist, and he says, now she sounds like Dr. Bern. He agreed to go so his mother would stop treating him like a basket case. Trina says, he’s entitled to be a basket case, but he says she went through a lot more. She tells him not to compare their tragedies. She’s glad he can talk to Franco, and he says he’s glad she has Ava, but be careful; Josslyn doesn’t trust her. Trina says she gets why, but her experience is completely different, and Ava has been supportive. She wonders why something awful has to happen before they realize they’re not alone. He says that’s a good question, but he doesn’t have an answer.

Curtis asks Portia if Taggert was the kind of guy who brought his work home with him, and she says, sometimes. He says, even when it came to Cyrus? and she asks why he cares. He says he’s just curious because she mentioned balancing work and married life. She asks why it matters now.

Jordan says she was part of a four member team at the DEA. They were a task force assigned to Cyrus. Her, Bob, Mark, and Taggert. All three died in a three month period. Two from overdoses, who had no history of drug use, and Taggert was murdered. She became concerned and went over the DEA files. That’s when she realized there were discrepancies in the evidence. Cliff asks her to elaborate, and she says, upon further examination, she saw the material evidence used to convict Cyrus may have been fabricated. He asks if she knew they’d been obstructing justice, but she says she just had a sneaking suspicion.

Laura knows Mac was working on figuring out how Cyrus got messages from prison out to the street, but Mac says, so far, they have nothing. Laura wonders if the lead is in front of him, and he asks if she’s suggesting they have a dirty cop. She hopes not, but somebody is helping Cyrus. Jordan and Cliff come out of the interrogation room, and Jordan looks at Laura.

Cliff says, now the DOJ will have to be involved, and trusts Jordan won’t leave town. She says, of course (🍷) not. Mac asks, what’s going on? and she says, long story. It will have to wait. He says what’s more important if it involves the people he works with? but she says, it doesn’t. It’s about her and Cyrus. She leaves, and Mac and Laura look at each other.

Trina and Cameron walk as they talk. Trina says Josslyn and Dev can’t leave the property without a security guard. It would make her rip her hair out. It was bad enough with her mother texting her ten times a day, and monitoring where she is. He asks if her mother has backed off yet.

Lulu tells Olivia, she’s sorry about trashing the restaurant, but Brook started the fight. Olivia asks if that was before or after Lulu doused Brook with champagne. Lulu says Brook has done nasty things to her, but Olivia says Lulu has done the same. Like printing Brook’s careless post in The Invader. By the way, that’s not even her beat. Lulu says she didn’t tell Brook to post it in the first place, but even if she hadn’t written about it, someone else would have. Olivia says, it wasn’t someone else; it was Lulu. She gets that Dante is gone, and Lulu is acting out. What she doesn’t understand is that in moving on, why Lulu has turned her back on Olivia and the family. She says she thought Lulu was part of the family, and walks away.

Ned knows Brook has a plan to secretly write and record until she gets her creative property rights back, but does she think it’s a good idea to go on stage? Brook says she doesn’t need to be secretive anymore. She found a way out. He says Diana and ELQ”s lawyers couldn’t break Brook’s contract, and Brook found a way? She says she didn’t need to. After Ned decided to embarrass her, she decided to give Linc what he wants. He says, she’s not going to have… and she says, no. All he needs to know is that she’s now free and clear of her soul-sucking contract. He says it’s not all needs to know. What did she give Linc to make him walk away?

Julian tells Britt, there are way more appropriate candidates for best friend than Brad. She just looks at him, and he says he’s sorry she lost her best friend. Would she like a drink? She asks if by other candidates, he means like him, and he asks if that’s so horrible. Does she have something in common with more upstanding citizens in Port Charles? She says her alleged crimes were an act of love. She doesn’t think holding a knife to his ex’s throat is considered an act of love. Julian says he and Alexis are in a better place now, and she asks if Alexis forgave him. Julian says Alexis got therapy, and Britt says her therapist must be good. As she remembers, Alexis doesn’t forgive so easily. He says, so good, Alexis fell for him. She’s stopped therapy, but hasn’t stopped seeing Dr. Bern. Britt says, Dr. Bern? and Julian asks if she knows him.

Alexis tells Finn, her reasons for drinking are complicated, and he says, they usually are. Would one of the complications be Julian? She doesn’t blame him for coming up with that, but Julian was a good guy, and picked her up the bar. Sam called her coward. He says, and Alexis believed her? She’s fearless and courageous, but Alexis says she lacked courage when the going got rough. Maybe she drank because she can’t be with the guy. Finn says it sounds like she cares about him very much, and she says, it’s just… Neil walks in, and a lightbulb comes on over Finn’s head.

Neil says he thought there was a staff meeting there. Alexis says, it was an AA meeting, and Neil says maybe he got the meeting wrong. Finn says he’s got the wrong room, and tells Neil where it is. Neil says he’s going to bring a GPS next time, but Finn says, when he’s been there a while, he’ll figure it out. Finn kept thinking the supply closet was the on-call room. Alexis says she has to take off, and Neil says he does too, but Finn asks if he can asks a couple of questions. It will just take a minute. He wants to pick Neil’s brain about a patient, and it might have legal complications. Alexis says she has a meeting, and Neil says he’ll be late, but Finn ignores them. He says he’s been treating a patient who’s taken a series of experimental drugs, and is now confessing to bizarre crimes. Maybe the crimes are real; maybe they’re the patient’s imagination. Or maybe it’s their mental illness. Neil and Alexis look at each other, and flash back to their night in the hotel. Finn asks what Neil thinks. Side effects of the medication, or should he investigate if these are true confessions?

Britt tells Julian, she knew Neil looked familiar, but now she’s heard his name in context with Alexis. She had a layover in New York City, and went shopping. She stayed at the nicest hotel, and when she was on her way back to her room, she saw a man about to knock on a door. She didn’t think anything of it, but when the door opened, Alexis stepped out. She was about to say hi, when they fell into each other’s arms, and went back into the room. The guy was Dr. Neil Bern.

Lulu asks Dustin if Olivia was right. Was she desperate to punish Brook, and didn’t care who she hurt? Don’t be the supportive boyfriend, but tell her the truth. He asks if he can’t be both. He tells her, she’s caring, passionate, and impulsive, which aren’t bad things. They’re all reasons why he can’t get enough of her. But in her moving on, the hard part is, sometimes her impulses get out of control. She didn’t have to publish Brook’s post. It could have disappeared into the blogosphere, and no one would have been the wiser. She did it to get back at Brook.

Brook says, Ned likes to keep his business dealings private, and so does she. Her phone rings, and she says it’s her new PR guy; she has to run. As she heads to the elevator, on the phone, she says she has good news for him; he’s going to love it. Olivia asks Ned why every time she sees his daughter smiling, she knows all hell is about to break loose?

Trina tells Cameron, she and her mother have established some ground rules. They made them together. Her mom will give her space as long as Trina doesn’t scare her with radio silence. He says, sounds like a plan, and she says she knows his mom has rules; what about Franco? He says, Franco isn’t big on rules. Trina gets a text from Josslyn, and says she was supposed to text yesterday, and forgot. He asks what Josslyn said about… The last time they were all together, trying to study Shakespeare, Trina left. He knows why she left, but Josslyn didn’t. Unless… Trina didn’t tell her that they kissed, did she?

Portia doesn’t get why Curtis cares so much what went on between her and Taggert. Why is it important? There’s a knock at the door, and Jordan pops in. She says she’s sorry. She didn’t know Curtis would still be there. Portia says Curtis was just asking if she and Taggert talked about his work. Curtis says he was wondering about the Cyrus investigation, and Portia says she told him that Taggert really didn’t talk about his work at home. Jordan says, good. The less Portia and Trina have to do with Cyrus, the better. Portia says, it’s a little late for that. Her daughter was already kidnapped, and her father was shot in front of her. Jordan says she’s sorry. She’s afraid she has more bad news. Portia says, it’s not Trina, is it? but Jordan says, no. Trina is fine as far as she knows. She just met with a detective from Internal Affairs, and he’s asked the Justice Department to open an investigation involving Taggert’s handling of the case against Cyrus.

Alexis tells Finn, from a legal standpoint, policies would have to be investigated. Neil says he’ll work on whether it’s delusion or medication. Finn thanks them both, saying he appreciates it. He asks Alexis, lunch tomorrow? and she says, coffee. He says, sounds good, and leaves. Alexis walks into the office, and Neil closes the door. He says he knows it’s none of his business, but Finn seemed concerned about her. She says it was a post AA meeting; a double-checking thing. Neil says, he’s concerned, but she says she’s fine. Really. He says, every time a patient feels compelled to use the word really, it makes him concerned. She says she’s not a patient anymore, and he says, as one friend to another, can he help?

Julian tells Britt, Alexis’s therapist took advantage of her, but Britt says, Alexis is a grown woman, and as far as she could tell, wanted it as much as Neil did. Julian says, there are rules against that, and she says, it’s ironic that Julian has rules. He says, if Neil is ignoring that, he’ll have to remind him. He’s heading over to GH now. She says, to do what? Ride Neil? She doesn’t think that’s a good idea. Alexis can take care of herself. He says, if she wants to worry about someone, worry about Neil. She says, all she wants to know is if he’s giving her a ride, or does she have to call Ride Share? He says, let’s go, and they leave.

Dustin says, too much honesty? but Lulu says, no; he’s right. So was Olivia. She was acting out, but Brook goes out of her way to be antagonistic, and she wanted to get back at her. She’s a bad person. He says, she’s a wonderful person, but she says, with so many flaws. He says, perfection is overrated.

On the phone, Brook tells her PR guy, if they ask about the big blow up, say no comment, and move on. The less said about it, the quicker it will blow over. She’ll be posting behind-the-scenes footage of her new material. Lulu approaches, and says she knows Brook heard her. Brook says, she’s ignoring Lulu. Take the hint. Lulu asks Brook to hear her out.

Trina says, Josslyn has no idea she and Cameron kissed, and he says, thank God. It would make things awkward. She says, a little bit, and he asks what she ended up telling Josslyn. She says she told Josslyn things were weird because of what happened to her dad, which is actually true. They were all traumatized, and none of them is thinking clearly. Josslyn understood completely. He says he’s glad to hear it, and she says she’s got to run. She promised to meet her mom at the hospital. He says he has  to meet his mom too; can he join her? She says, sure. What are friends for? I’m disappointed.

Portia doesn’t understand. She says Cyrus was found guilty, and sent to prison years ago, and Taggert is dead. Why revisit the case? Jordan says the other two members of the team were also killed in the last three months. She questioned the circumstances of their deaths, and searched for why they were singled out. She found proof that they fabricated the evidence that put Cyrus away. Portia says, they falsified evidence? and Jordan says, they were desperate for a conviction, and Cyrus was too good at not getting caught. She’s sure they felt it meant saving lives. Portia says, that could explain a lot about what happened in the marriage. With Taggert, everything was black and white; there were no grey areas. If he violated his own code, it would have eaten him up inside. I note that Jordan has officially replaced Jason in making the best worried face ever.

Laura thanks someone on the phone, and says she’ll be in touch. She tells Mac, it’s true. The DOJ is doing an investigation. They’ve ordered a complete review of the evidence that put Cyrus in prison. Apparently, Taggert worked with the other two agents to plant evidence against him. Mac says, no. He worked with Taggert for years, and Taggert never bent the law. He had a deep loathing for any officer who did. Laura says, if Jordan thinks there’s a possibility he crossed the line, they have to take it seriously.

Portia says, Taggert and his colleagues were killed for putting Cyrus in prison. What about Jordan? Where does she factor in? Curtis says, Jordan worked inside to gain Cyrus’s confidence. Portia says, so she was working independently of the team? and he says, right. Portia says, Taggert didn’t tell her; they left her out? He says, that’s right. Jordan knew nothing about it.

Olivia wonders how Brook got out of her contract, and Ned says she wouldn’t tell him, and he didn’t push her. He had the feeling no amount of pressure would make her talk. Maybe grandfather had the right idea about tough love. Olivia says that would let him off the hook. Now he doesn’t have to feel guilty about firing her.

Brook sits with Lulu and says, make it quick; she has a meeting with Lucy. Lulu says she didn’t know Brook was interested in real estate, and Brook says she’s not. Lulu says, skin care and cosmetics? Brook says, no. Her career is back on track. She’s launching her rebrand at this year’s Nurses ball. Dustin says, congratulations, and Lulu says, absolutely. She tells Brook, she’s not sorry she did her job as a journalist, but she could have contacted ELQ first, and given them a chance address the pharmaceutical branch that was closing. And it was wrong of her to spray Brook with champagne. So, are they good?

In the elevator, Britt tells Julian, take a deep breath, and do some quick elevator meditation. Don’t do anything he regrets.

Neil tells Alexis, there’s no rule that says she can’t turn to him for help. Alexis says, when she considers that, alarm bells go off inside her head. Neil says she called him last night, but she says, it was a mistake. She wasn’t in an appropriate state to see him. He asks, what state would that be? She shows him her one-day chip. Julian and Britt look through the window.

Mac tells Laura, there has to be more to the story, and she says, maybe there is, but she doesn’t know why Jordan wouldn’t have shared that. Mac says, she took the investigation at face value, but she knew Taggert better than anyone. Why would she have gone straight to IA? Laura says, maybe she couldn’t believe Taggert did something illegal. Mac asks if they just sit back and watch it play out, but she says, no. If something else is going on, she wants him find it.

Jordan tells Portia, she had no idea when Cyrus was originally tried that evidence was planted. Portia says, it’s not going to stay quiet for long. She has to find Trina and tell her what’s going on. Trina knocks on the door, and Portia says, better now than later. She opens the door to Trina and Cameron, and Trina asks, what’s going on? Why are they here?

Ned tells Olivia, Brook is his daughter. From the moment she was born, he started to feel guilty. She says, he had to fire Brook; he had no choice. The mess Brook brought back, she did by her lonesome. He says if Brook is back on track, he won’t feel so guilty, but she says if Brook isn’t willing to tell him exactly how it happened, she has some scheme or epic machination that’s going to blow up in everyone’s face.

Brook accepts Lulu’s apology, and they shake hands. Brook says she wants something in return, and Lulu says, name it. Brook says, Lulu’s boyfriend.

Alexis tells Neil, it’s the first day of her new life. She shows him her chip, and he takes her hand. He says he’s proud of her. Julian busts into the room, and grabs Neil, throwing him up against the wall. Alexis asks what Julian is doing.

Tomorrow, Valentin says Brook’s ELQ shares are officially his, Trina tells Portia not to believe Jordan’s lies, and Carly asks Brando when the other shoe is going to drop.

Vanderpump Rules

Ariana meets Lisa for riding. Lisa says she taught Prince to talk, and Ariana says she’s ready for this. Lisa calls Tardon, parlay! and Prince whinnies.

Katie visits Stassi, who’s on the couch, wearing a sleep mask. They have wine and burgers, and Stassi says, it’s just what she needed. The hangover struggle is real.

James makes bacon, and tells Raquel that he had the weirdest dream. Lala was in it. Raquel asks, why? and he says, because he was having an annoying night. We flash back to Tom’s birthday, and Raquel relaying to James that Logan had said he was at a party where people were getting effed up. Raquel says she has to ask; was James drinking at that party? He says, no. If he had, it would be a serious problem. He swears he hasn’t had a drank in six days, In his interview, he says he used to think if bad things happened, it was a good reason to drink, but hit doesn’t solve anything. He’s happy he didn’t.

Lisa tells Ariana that James quit drinking, and he’s getting help. Ariana says, it’s like déjà vu or Groundhog Day, but Lisa says she thinks the difference is that Raquel put her foot down. Ariana says you never know when James is going to snap, and Lisa says it’s when he has his first drink, but she thinks the tide has changed.

James tells Raquel that he’s been talking to Lisa every day.

Stassi can’t believe Katie is having a girls wine night party, but Kristen isn’t invited. Katie says, it’s happening. She’s met some new people, but hasn’t gotten to know them, so she’s invited Dayna, Danica, and Charli. She also can’t not invite Raquel if she’s invited the others. In Stassi’s interview, she says Katie has invited every single girl in West Hollywood, and Kristen is going to be pissed. Katie tells Stassi, if Kristen is going to act like that, she’s not inviting her.

Lisa says, when it gets to be too much, she goes to the stable. Ariana complains that her horse has a small wiener, and it’s embarrassing.

In his interview, Jax says he swore he’d never be at SUR when he turned 40, and at 40, he’s still there. Tom comes in, hungover and struggling. Jax suggests the hair of the dog. Raquel sees Scheana outside in the back, and Scheana says Raquel looked cute at Tom’s party. Raquel says Scheana looked hot, and Scheana says she had fun with her whip. Katie calls Raquel, and invites her to wine night tomorrow with the ladies. Raquel says she’d love to. In Raquel’s interview, she says, Katie has never been intentionally mean to her, but she’s never gone out of her way to be kind either. Scheana wonders how it’s going to be with Lala, and tells Raquel that she’ll have friends there. She can mediate if need be.

Brett has invited Scheana to make a YouTube video with him. In his interview, he says he does personal training, and has been successful on YouTube by being his authentic self. A lot of women follow him. He tells Scheana that he thinks women will identify with her, and what she’s been through as a young divorcee. He trusts her and she’s a friend. Scheana thinks they’ll become better friends, because this woman cannot take no for an answer. He thinks she’s awesome, but says he’d never want to hurt her by making her think there’s something that’s not there. He looks at her like a guy friend. Scheana, who only hears what she wants to, says, who knows; maybe one day. In Brett’s interview, he says he loves her as a person, but has no intention of taking he home. Scheana suggests they see where the world takes them.

Schwartz goes to Tom’s place, where Max has arrived ahead of him. In Tom’s interview, he says, people give him a hard time about not having furniture, but they have a couch and a credenza. They’re good. Tom says, it’s Jax’s birthday, and Brittany is taking him out to lunch. Now that they have houses, it’s open to the possibility of TP’ing them. Schwartz says, talking about it ruins it; it has to be spontaneous. In Schwartz’s interview, he says he’s all for a good prank, but because of the dynamic between Tom and Jax, he doesn’t know if they’re in a good enough place for that. Schwartz says he can’t do it today, as Tom pours beer in a funnel. He doesn’t mind pissing Jax off, but not on his birthday. Tom wants Schwartz to funnel beer, and Schwartz asks, what for? Tom says, for Jax, and Schwartz says, Jax isn’t here. Tom points to his heart, and says, Jax is here. In Max’s interview, he says Tom wants to beer bong and TP a house in the afternoon, but he has to go to work. He doesn’t think it’s the best idea. They sit by the pool, and Tom brings out shots. They toast to Jax’s birthday. Schwartz thinks instead of pranking Jax, they should lift him up, and show how much they love him. Tom says he’ll be back in fifteen, and Schwartz says, what if it rains? Tom and Max leave, but Schwartz stays behind. He can’t, he won’t, and he’s not doing it.

Tom and Max TP Jax’s house, and Tom says, it feels good. In Max’s interview, he thinks Tom is releasing some frustration against Jax; he’s fired up. The leave OLD FART in toilet paper letters on the street in front of the house. Jax and Brittany come home to trees laden with toilet paper, and Jax says, WTF? Are you effing kidding me? Who does that? Brittany says, what the hell is this? Jax sees the message, and says, these a-holes. This is going to suck. In Jax’s interview, he says, it’s not that funny. He knows one of his friends did it, but doesn’t know which one.

Jax starts making calls. Tom says he didn’t have anything to do with it, and claims they got him too, and shows Jax his front yard with a few streams of toilet paper hanging from a tree. In Toms’ interview, he says, there are three things you need to get away with a prank. Confidence, an alibi with plausible details – Jax says it doesn’t look like as much in Tom’s yard, and Tom says they must have hit Jax’s house first –  and a couple of gullible friends. Brittany says Schwartz swears he didn’t do it. Jax says he knows Beau did it. Brittany shows Stassi the yard, and Stassi says, it’s so insane. In his interview, Jax says he’s going to find how who did this, and get them back.

Scheana tells Brett she went home with some guy from Tom’s party, but not the one she came with. She’s excited to be YouTube’ing with him. He sets up the camera, and says he’s there with a good friend; a homie. He introduces Scheana, and says she’s 34, and looks great. She highly recommends Botox. He says, she’s a middle-aged woman, and in her interview, Scheana wonders in what world she’s considered middle-aged. I too, am wondering. Brett says she’s been married and divorced, and she’s freezing her eggs, because right now, she’s not trying to have a baby. She says she’s not getting in another relationship or getting married unless the guy blows her mind. She’s been dating f***boys, and it’s fun. Brett says, you attract the energy you put out, and asks if she’s a f***girl. In Scheana’s interview, she wonders why she’s doing this interview. He stops filming, and she says she can be happy, single, and getting laid, or fat desperate and looking for love. I guess there’s no in-between? She says she doesn’t want a relationship. He calls her middle-aged again, and she says he keeps aging her. He clearly doesn’t know the definition because she has at least another ten to fifteen years. I get the feeling Brett isn’t the brightest bulb in the box, which is saying a lot since Scheana is no Einstein either.

Lisa explains to her housekeeper that she’s going to her mother’s funeral, staying one more day, and then coming back. In Lisa’s interview, she says the funeral was delayed, and it’s been overwhelming. Puffy! She tells Puffy not to be nervous. She’s going to call her other rescue boy, and see how he’s doing.

James asks Raquel what she’s going to say at the wine party when Lala comes at her. It’s going to be a feeding frenzy. Lisa calls, and asks if he’s doing okay, and he says he’s doing really well. He has a meeting tonight. She says she’s going out to London tomorrow, and just because she’s on the other side of the world, doesn’t mean she won’t know what’s going on. He says he’s taking it seriously. In her interview, Lisa says she doesn’t need another child, but James’s vulnerability tugs at her heartstrings. She’s invested a little in helping to get him there, and he’s going to do it. I want her to adopt me.

Katie makes charcuterie boards for the party. Stassi says, a lot of people are coming; Kristen is going to sh*t her pants. Katie says, life goes on without her, and Stassi says she understands Katie’s logic, but Kristen won’t.

Scheana can’t wait to call Kristen, and give her the news. Kristen says she’s prepping for Jax’s birthday party, and Scheana whines that Brett called her middle-aged. She tells Kristen that she’s heading over to Katie’s for girls wine night. Kristen says, that’s precious. Katie is her wine partner, and not inviting her. Scheana says, Katie has literally invited all of SUR. I forgot to mention, literally is literally every other word with this group, and I’m literally tired of it. If it was a drinking game, we’d be smashed in the first ten minutes of the show. Kristen asks if Lisa is going to be there, and Scheana says Lisa is in London for her mother’s funeral, but maybe she was invited. In Kristen’s interview, she feels like this is bullsh*t. Katie wants crazy Kristen, so she can justify it. She tells her dogs that they’re her two best friends. Which I actually (literally?) don’t think is a bad thing.

The girls start arriving. In her interview, Dayna says she grew up on Mad Dog 2020, and vodka from a box (is that a thing?), so she’ll drink whatever’s there. Scheana says she came in her pajamas; it’s been a long day. She did a YouTube video with Brett, and he called her middle-aged. Stassi says, he’s only two years younger than Scheana. They toast to girls night.

At TomTom, Max tells Tom, everything is good. Jax arrives, and says, the party’s here.

Brittany tells the girls that they’re having Jax’s birthday party at Rocco’s. It’s going to be an 80s theme.

Tom gives Jax a paper shopping bag. Jax takes out some toilet paper. In his interview, he says, if Tom wants to surprise him, show up with a fifth of vodka. There will be consequences.

Brittany wonders who TP’d the house. Jax thinks it’s Beau and Stassi. Stassi thinks it’s Tom, but Ariana says someone came to her house too. Brittany is still friends with Kristen, and asks if they’re still going to be able to hang out. Katie says they still have a wine inventory, but the friendship is off. Lala talks to Scheana on the porch, and says Raquel should feel lucky to be graced with her presence. In Lala’s interview, she wants Raquel to stay in her lane, and let people like her run sh*t. Lala goes inside, and says she wants to have a real talk with Raquel. Because a party is definitely the place to do that. She says she pulled Raquel aside because she as genuinely concerned about James, and wanted to make sure he was okay. Raquel says Lala turned it into an ugly thing, and focused on Logan. Lala says she was speaking; let her finish. Raquel forgot her place, but Lala will steer her back. Raquel says, Logan is obsessed with James. In her interview, she says, this is raw Lala. Lala sees her as vulnerable, and preys on it. If they can’t all agree Lala is a bully, they can agree she’s a bitch. Lala says she set up James with studio sessions, and wouldn’t say anything if she didn’t care. In Charli’s interview, she thinks maybe Lala still likes James, but you can secretly still like someone and secretly hate their girlfriend. I don’t see Lala as still being interested in James that way, but okay. Raquel says, James didn’t drink, and Lala says she’s missing the point, and ran off after she told Lala STFU. At her worst, Raquel is like a yapping chihuahua. Raquel says, Lala is a Rottweiler, and Lala says, no; she’s a Pitbull. Brittany says, they’re scaring her, and Stassi laughs. Lala tells Stassi, stay in her bubble. In Stassi’s interview, she says Lala is her girl, but right now, she has no leg to stand on. Lala says, don’t project on her what they want her to reflect. Huh?

In the car, Raquel tells James that she’s tired; it was a lot of wine. It was awkward. She and Lala argued, and everyone else was quiet. It’s been a week. James says it was weird before the meeting; he felt overwhelmed. He hasn’t shared yet. In his interview, he says he wasn’t sure what to expect, but he’s in a room full of cool people who have realized alcohol isn’t a cool solution to problems. Raquel drives him to a meeting.

Everyone gathers for Jax’s birthday party. Brittany thinks it’s weird how Jax wanted a theme, but he’s not willing to dress up for anyone else’s. Jax comes in looking like a poor man’s Brett Michaels. In his interview, he says he’s a huge 80s buff; it’s his decade. He would have dressed like this anyway. Tom gives Jax a gift, and it’s a samurai sword signed by Randy Jackson. In Tom’s interview, he says when he, Schwartz, and Jax lived together, they watched Step Brothers all the time, and the Will Ferrell character has a samurai sword signed by Randy Jackson. He called Randy’s assistant and had it signed. A producer asks what Jax got Tom for his birthday, and he says, um… He doesn’t think Jax got him anything. Schwartz gives Jax a fake, very lifelike, female foot. In his interview, Schwartz says, Jax likes dirty, filthy, stinky feet. He’s worried there’s a paper trail leading to him buying the foot, and he’s now on a list. Jax tells Brittany that she’s been replaced. Brittany tells Kristen, it was weird with her not being at wine night. It was fun, but crazy. In Kristen’s interview, she says Stassi and Katie were her L.A. family, and she doesn’t understand how you can cut family out. The point is that you stick together no matter what. She tells Brittany, they don’t want anything to do with her. Brittany says she sees both sides, but Kristen doesn’t know what their side is. She’s said things she didn’t mean and apologized, but she thinks they say things they mean.

Raquel waits for James after the meeting. When he gets in the car, he tells her that he shared for the first time. Raquel says, that’s amazing, and in James’s interview, he says his persona is DJ James, the life of the party. It’s been seven years of non-stop partying. Being vulnerable is difficult for him, and it’s going to be a day by day thing. He tells Raquel he was nervous. He felt like she did back in the day, giving a speech to her college class. He’s blessed to have figured it out now.

Randall tells Jax that when you’re in the 40 club with him, it’s not about TP’ing a house. He’s a prank specialist, and tonight a prank cop car is going to be pulling up at Tom’s house and arresting him for vandalism. They’re going to cuff him, put him in the car, then they’ll jump out and say it’s a prank. Lala tells Jax his birthday gift is happening tonight. In her interview, she says, Randall is a prankster specialist. He’s done over 100 films, and pulled a prank on all of them. It’s always epic. Randall says, no one can know.

At Tom’s house, Ariana says she rented a table and chairs. She thinks she might want to stick with rented furniture, since she doesn’t trust anyone not to eff up her house, including Tom. The guests arrive, and she says, RIP her house. Jax brings his own chair, since he won’t sit on the cushions. They have cat hair on them, and he hates cat hair. He yells for music, when two cops come in, and ask to talk to Tom. They pat Tom down, and Jax acts shocked. The cops take Tom outside, and in Jax’s interview, he says they’re genius actors, and look like real cops. For a second, Jax thought he was in trouble. One of the cops asks what Tom knows about a vandalism report, but Tom says he didn’t do anything. The guests move outside, and Schwartz is sure it has to do with parking tickets. The cops tell them to stand back, and put Tom in the car. Ariana asks what it’s about, and one of the cops tells her, it’s about vandalism. Jax insists he didn’t say anything, but one of his neighbors may have. In his interview, Jax says, this is how you do a prank when you’re an adult. Tom will never be number one. He tells Ariana, he didn’t call anyone; it wasn’t him. Randall goes over to the car, and tells Tom, here’s the thing. When you f*** with Jax on his birthday, you f*** with them. Lala says he got them all, and they dance around and high-five each other. Ariana says her heart is beating out of her chest.

Jax thanks the actors, and Katie says she hates them all. Scheana tells Tom that he’s really sweating. In Katie’s interview, she says she doesn’t think it’s funny. Just turn on the news. She asks if she’s the only one who thinks it’s not funny, and Jax says, Tom’s not mad, and that’s all that matters. In Tom’s interview, he says it was one of the best pranks ever, and he’s honored to have it pulled on him. Ariana says she understands where Katie is coming from. In Ariana’s interview, she says some people have a different perspective than others when it comes to their relationship with the police. Joking around like that is in poor taste. Tom says, it’s not a big deal. Katie says they can’t expect no one to react, and Schwartz tells her to shut up. She says she doesn’t think it’s funny, but Schwartz says it was a great moment. They’re laughing, and no one gives a sh*t about her opinion. Tom tells him not to talk to his wife that way.

Katie wonders if she’s the only person who associates this with something really terrible, and Ariana says she gets where Katie is coming from. Schwartz says he’s never been more turned off in his life. This is why he doesn’t have sex with her. Beau says, don’t do this, and Schwartz says he’s not looking for Beau to agree with him; she’s a moron. In Beau’s interview, he says, it’s one thing to have a drunken argument with your significant other – he’s experienced that – but the way Schwarz is talking is venom. In Katie’s interview, she says, the last time Schwartz spoke to her like that was in Mexico. We flash back to Schwartz saying her voice is a cacophony. She says, the only difference is, this time he’s being mean and degrading in front of all their friends. Schwartz walks out, calling Katie an idiot, and Tom says Schwartz is being an a-hole. Schwartz tells Katie, let’s go, but she says she’s not going with him.

Next time, Beau tells Stassi that he’s doing everything on his time, Schwartz says things are still tense, and Brett wants to hang out with Dayna.

If Loving You Is Wrong

Ian asks if there’s any chance Alex had his baby. Talk to him. She says, no, and he says he’s not judging. She says, goodbye, and starts to walk, but he calls her back. She says she doesn’t want to talk about this, and tries to go into her house, but the door is locked. She says she left her keys, but he says he has them. She asks what the hell is wrong with him? and he says she left them on the grass. She says she doesn’t want to wake her kids up; give her the keys. He says he wants answers. Can the baby be his? She says, that’s impossible; they never slept together. He asks if she really wants to do this. He knows a lawyer. Don’t make him go that route and request a DNA test. She asks why he’d do that, and he says he wants answers; that’s all. She asks if he’d really get a court order, and he says, if he has a child out there, he would. She says, no way the baby is his, and he asks how she knows. She says they only had sex once.

He says she’s admitting it, but she says she doesn’t want to talk there. He suggests they go in her house, but she says, no. She’d rather go to his. They go inside, and it’s not unlike Tom’s house on Vanderpump Rules, since he has no furniture yet. He says, so? She says, it was her, and he thanks her for being honest. She says the baby’s not his, and he says, he gets it. He doesn’t want it to be either, but they should know. Alex says she doesn’t need this now, and Ian says, him neither. He asks if she wants a drink, and she says she does. He brings out a box, and says he wants her to promise first that she’ll talk. She starts to cry, and he asks if she’s okay. She cries harder, and tells him, just find the alcohol. She doesn’t care what it is at this point.

Natalie feels bad, but Lushion says, Alex made her bed; it’s done. He looks out the window, and says, what the hell? Someone is over at Kelly’s. He’s going to check, and she tells him, be careful. He tells her to stay there, and goes outside. He sees a man holding a paper bag, and looking in Kelly’s front window. He draws his gun. He tells the guy, put his hands up and put the bag down. The guy says he lives there, but Lushion says he doesn’t. He says he’s just moving in, and Lushion says, somebody else lives there. What’s his name? The guy says, Durrell; he’s Justice’s father. Lushion asks if he’s got ID, and Durrell says it’s in his back pocket. Lushion says, slowly, and Durrell holds out his wallet. Lushion looks at the ID, and puts away his gun. He asks why Durrell is snooping around, and Durrell says his mother told him that Kelly left the key; he knows the alarm code. Lushion asks if Justice can ID him, but he says Justice doesn’t really know him. Lushion tells him, hands behind his back. Keep it easy, and they’ll clear this up. Lushion cuffs him, and says, relax; take a seat. Durrell sits on the curb, and Lushion calls Natalie, asking her to come out. He meets her halfway, and she asks, what’s going on? He says the guy says he’s Justice’s father. Does she know him? She says, no, but he looks like Justice. Lushion says, he just got out of jail, and she asks how he knows. Lushion says, slippers and a paper bag. She says Kelly did tell her that he was in jail, but Justice doesn’t know him. He asks if Kelly said anything about leaving a key, and she says Kelly did say she was worried and told him he could move in. Maybe it is him. Lushion tells her, stay there. He asks Durrell if he’s got proof he knows Kelly, and Durrell says there are pictures in his wallet. Lushion looks at them, and says, that’s a long time ago. Durrell says he’s been away a while, and Lushion unlocks the cuffs. He asks if Durrell was in jail. Durrell says, yeah, and Lushion says, yes, sounding like Judge Judy. He says he can’t let Durrell in until he finds out it’s okay. Durrell asks where he’s supposed to go tonight; he just got out, and doesn’t have money. Lushion says he can’t let Durrell in until he makes sure he’s supposed to stay there. In a couple hours it will be daylight, and he can come back. If Kelly says it’s okay, he’ll let Durrell in. If Durrell was Lushion, he’d do the same thing. Durrell picks up his bag, and says, all right. He strolls off, and Natalie says, Lushion isn’t letting him in? Lushion says he thought she was from the hood. She says she is, but she thinks it’s him. Lushion says, Kelly has been through enough. One night at a bus station won’t kill him. She says, that’s cold. She feels bad, but Lushion says he doesn’t.

Ian says Alex doesn’t want another, does she? She says she does, and he says, it’s strong, but she says she doesn’t care. He thinks she needs to lay off the liquor, but she thinks he needs to stop telling her what to do. He says she’s drunk, and she says he’s not drunk, and pours more into his glass. He says, fair enough, and they clink glasses. She says she remembered him the moment she saw him, but was hoping he wouldn’t remember. He asks, why? Because she was married? She says, it’s not that. She hates being a wife (surprising us all), but she’s not a bad person. He tells her, he didn’t say she was, and she says she doesn’t want kids. He says she has three, and she says, because she did everything her father, mother, and Brad wanted her to do. She felt trapped, so every time Brad was at work, and she was supposed to be at a PTA meeting or whatever, she met men like him. He asks, how many? and she says, a lot. Go ahead. Judge all he wants. He says he’s not; it’s fine. She says she never wanted this life. She didn’t want to be married. She wanted to be an actress. He says she’s pretty damn good, and she says she has to be now. Her father told her it was stupid, and she should get married and have babies because she had no talent and no chance. That was after he raped her every night. Ian is shocked, and she says he wanted to talk; let’s talk – about all of it. She pours herself some more, saying, she grew up with a backwoods country-ass way of thinking. Her mother actually said it was okay. He says he’s so sorry, and she says she watched her family nearly murder Black people. They hated that she went to school with them. Ian says maybe she was sleeping with Black men to get back at them, but she says, it has nothing to do with that. She thinks they’re beautiful, and loves how their skin is gorgeous and soft. He says, no more for her, and she says he’s right. No more talking about this bullsh*t; she’s done. He says she’s not doing anything stupid, and she says, why the hell should she deal with this, raising Brad’s kids. He says they’re her kids too, but she says she’s tired of all this sh*t. She’s had enough. She’s going to be free, and go do whatever she wants with whoever she want to do it with. He says when she wakes up sober, she’s going to realize she said too much. She asks why he isn’t drunk, and pours more into his glass. He says he’s buzzed, but she says, not enough; drink. She downs hers, and he moves the empty glass away. He suggests she let him take her home, but she says she doesn’t want to go right now. He says, what about her kids? and she says, they’re fine with the babysitter. He takes her hands, and she pulls him toward the kitchen island. She says, please, she wants this. It was so good; she wants to do it again. She unzips his pants, and gets on her knees. He says, no, but…

Larry gets home, bringing along another guy, and Eddie is waiting. He says, what are you ladies up to? and Larry says Eddie was there ahead of him, and knows when he left. The other guy goes inside, and Eddie asks who this one is. Larry says Eddie isn’t ready for that. Why is he there? Eddie says he wants to talk about some things. Andrew, Joe, and Pete. Larry asks if he’s been drinking, and Eddie says, more than drinking. He did some good blow tonight. Larry says he must be pretty high, and Eddie says he could say that. He saw Larry’s wife leaving; is there a problem? Larry says she goes to the country house on weekends, and he brings home the boys when she’s gone. Eddie thinks it’s sick, twisted sh*t, and Larry says, it is; they love it. Almost as much as they love each other. What does Eddie want? To come in? Eddie says, hell no, and Larry asks why Eddie is wasting his time. Eddie says he’s there to find out about those specific names, and Larry asks what he wants to know. Eddie asks if they’re with the FBI, and Larry says he doesn’t know. Eddie asks if Larry is playing games with him, and Larry says he doesn’t play games. He invites Eddie in again, but Eddie says he’s not into that kinky sh*t. Larry says Eddie is pretty sick too. It was the last reason Eddie was there, and the only reason he’s there now. He gave Eddie the privilege of taking control and making him beg. He respects that. Is Eddie ready to beg? Let him know. Eddie acts mad at the world, but what he wants is to be punished. Let Larry punish him. He’ll make him feel so bad by making him feel good. Eddie says the only reason he’s there is Esperanza and the dudes who came against him. Nothing is going to stop him. Larry says, sounds like fun, and Eddie says, keep pushing him, and see how much fun he is. Larry says he can’t wait, and goes inside.

A nurse whose name I can’t remember, tells Rick to go home. He says he wants to talk to her about Kelly. She’s back in jail, and going through a hard time. She says she’s not helping any more, and don’t tell Kelly to fake chest pains. He asks if she doesn’t talk to Sister Margaret, the chaplain. Did Margaret tell her the names of the girls? She says she’s not talking to him, and starts to walk away, but he grabs her arm. He says, they got her too, but she says she’s not talking. He gives her a piece of paper, and says, it’s Lushion’s phone number. Help them. She says that church is crazy, and they know everyone; the mayor, the garbageman, even her ex=boyfriend. She can’t tell him anything. He says she can’t let Kelly go down, but she says she doesn’t know Kelly, and Kelly shot him. Rick says she doesn’t know what he did to Kelly, and she says not to use her name. He says, fine, coward, and she says, call her whatever he wants. She’s not messing with that church. On second thought, if he takes her out and buys her some drinks, maybe she’ll talk. He tells her, bring her dancing shoes and a nice dress.

Margaret visits Kelly, but Kelly says she doesn’t want to talk to her. Margaret says she wants to say a prayer, and the guard lets her in. Kelly tells her, get away from her cell. The guard leaves, and Kelly calls him back, but he ignores her. Margaret tells Kelly, come sit, but Kelly says she won’t. Margaret says, before the guard comes back, and Kelly sits. She asks what Margaret wants, and Margaret says she’s helping Kelly; praying for her. Kelly laughs, and Margaret hands her a Bible, telling her, read this. It’s her gift to Kelly. Margaret calls to the guard, and Kelly says she knew Margaret didn’t want to pray; hypocrites. Margaret tells her, open the bible, and she does. Kelly flips through it, and takes out several pictures. She looks on the backs of them, and Margaret says, God bless you. Wrong is wrong, and she is praying. Kelly thanks her, and hugs her. Margaret says, she’s going to be all right, and when she is, don’t look back. It’s time for Kelly to get back to church. Get back to praying and believing again. She’s stronger than all this. Stop being sorry for herself and being a victim. Take it by force. The kingdom suffers violence, and the violent take it by force (Matthew 11:12). Kelly says she hears her, and Margaret says, good. God bless her.

Tanya and husband Bennett watch TV. Tanya asks Bennett why he keeps looking out. (Refresher: Bennett trashed Randall’s house at the end of last season.) She says, stop looking at him. He’s looked enough at her already. Bennett says he’ll tell Randall to stop, but she says he’s not going to. She already told him to stop. Bennett says he can make Randall stop, and she asks, how? He says he just will, and she says, like in the last neighborhood? He tore that man’s house apart. He says they were talking about her, and she says he can’t get mad. She gives them enough to talk about. He tells her, don’t worry. Randall won’t bother her again, but she says he’s not the kind that will stop. Bennett says, he will, and she says she’s going to bed. He tells her that he’s staying up a little. He promises Randall won’t bother her. He looks out the window.

Steven and Esperanza cuddle on the couch. He says, it’s her night, and she says, after they watched his movie. He asks if she wants him to stay because of Eddie, or because she wants him to stay. She asks if she looks afraid. He says he’ll stay every night, or he can be out sleeping in his car. She says that would defeat the purpose, and he says he can sleep on the couch. She tells him, read between the lines. She wants him to stay in her bed, naked. He says, as good as it sounds, he doesn’t want her kicking him out in an hour. She says he’s living in the past. She wants to spend time together, and not worry about what happened before. He says, what about her daughter? and she says she’s been thinking about that. The best thing is for her to bring her daughter to her mom’s until this thing with Eddie is over. Does he want drive up there to Columbus? He says they’ve got themselves a road trip, and they kiss. He gets a text, and she makes him give her the phone. She reads, what’s up, stud? and asks who Anna is. He asks if she’s jealous, and she says, a little bit, and deletes Anna’s number because she doesn’t like her name. He says he doesn’t think his sister is going to like that. She wants him to call his sister, and he says, no. He’s sleepy, and they’re not exclusive. They’re just enjoying each other very much. They get busy.

Randall calls Marcie, who answers, yes? He asks if that’s all she’s got to say. She destroyed his house. She asks what he’s talking about, and he asks if she got Brad to do it. She says she doesn’t know what he’s talking about. She only picked up because she likes to taunt him. He says she did more than that, and she says he’s talking crazy. He tells her, don’t hang up, but she says, bye. A car parks in front of Randall, and Brad gets out and goes inside.

Brad asks if Marcie is okay. She says she is, but Randall keeps calling. He asks why she keeps answering, and she says she likes to taunt him. He says she shouldn’t do that. He asks if Randall has been there, and she says, no; why would he be? Brad says, someone destroyed Randall’s house, but she says she doesn’t know what happened. He tells her that Alex signed the divorce papers. That means he can officially pursue her. He kisses her, and she says she hasn’t seen his full court press. She tells him, she’s starving, and he says he’ll make something. He gets up, but his phone rings. He says it’s Chelsea, his babysitter, and he asks, what’s going on? Chelsea says his wife was supposed to be back hours ago, and she has to leave. She tried calling, but Alex isn’t answering. He asks if the kids and baby are asleep, and she tells him they are. He says he’ll be right over. He tells Marcie that Alex still isn’t home, and she says Alex is probably trying to trick him, but he says she knows better than that. She asks if he’s going, and he says he has to. Otherwise, the kids will be there by themselves. She tells him to try Alex again, but he gets voicemail, and hangs up. Marcie tells him to try from the landline, but he still gets voicemail. Marcie calls and leaves a message that Alex’s kids are looking for her. Where the hell are you, bitch? Brad says, she’s not helping, and Marcie thinks Alex knows they’re together. He tells her to relax; it’s about his kids. She apologizes for making it about her, and he leaves. She says, bitch.

Randall sees Brad leave. Marcie says she hopes the bitch is dead, and calls Alex. She says Alex thinks she’s going to win this thing by dragging Brad out in the middle of the night, but it’s not going to work, ho. She hangs up, but decides to fill up Alex’s damn voicemail. Randall watches as Brad pulls away. He gets out of the car, and goes in the side door. He knocks, and Marcie asks if Brad forgot his key. Randall busts in, and grabs Marcie.

Next time, Esperanza finds Eddie in bed with her and Steven; Kelly tells Lushion the Bible had pictures of women and information on settlements in it; and Lushion and Brad go to Ian’s house looking for Alex.

😥 Sniff…

It looks like this will be the final season of If Loving You is Wrong. After we waited a year. It’s like Game of Thrones all over again.

https://tvline.com/2020/02/05/if-loving-you-is-wrong-cancelled-season-5-premiere-date-own/

🏥 Scheduling Details…

The skinny on how GH is handling this new normal.

https://www.soapoperanetwork.com/2020/03/abc-changes-up-gh-scheduling-due-to-coronavirus-encores-to-air-fridays

🧼 On a High…

More than one kind of soap seems to be popular these days.

https://www.soapoperanetwork.com/2020/03/days-and-gh-hit-ratings-highs

📯 FYI, Andy Cohen is apparently none the worse for the wear, and back at work, doing Watch What Happens Live from his home office.

😴 Good Thing I Don’t Need Sleep…

Oh, wait… Stay safe out there.

March 10, 2020 – Sonny Pays Brad a Visit, Kyle Plots Against Candace, Kristen Is Not Number One, Good Karma & Hard Day

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Alexis and Neil bask in the afterglow. They smile at each other.

Michael builds a dollhouse. Sasha comes in, and says he was awfully quiet last night. He says Diane gave him a lot to think about, and Sasha asks if he wants to talk. He says he’d appreciate her take on this. To bolster his case for custody, Diane suggested he get married.

Ava runs into Julian at the hospital, and asks what he’s doing there. He says, looking for his son, and she asks if Lucas is talking to him again. He says, first, Lucas loses Wiley, then has to kick his husband to the curb, and he rushes back to work. Ava asks if he’s worried about Brad’s arraignment, but Julian says it doesn’t have anything to do with him. She asks if he’s not afraid Brad is going to give him up. He says if Brad makes him the bad guy, he could go prison for aiding, abetting, and kidnapping.

Scotty tells Brad to untie his hands; give him something. Brad wonders what else he can give Scotty to make it better, and Scotty says something to blur the lines and give reasonable doubt. Something to get the guilty off of him.

At The Floating Rib, Mac stands next to Taggert’s picture, and says they’ve gathered to celebrate the life and memory of Marcus Taggert. He suggests Jordan go first, but she says, what is there to say? Taggert was the bravest man she ever knew. She raises her beer bottle, and says, to Marcus Taggert, and everyone else follows suit. Trina thanks Cameron for coming, and Elizabeth tells Portia that she’s sorry. Portia says she appreciates it. It means a lot to Trina that they came too. Trina says she’s right, and hugs Cameron.

Laura sees Curtis at the hospital, and asks if he’s okay. He says he gave blood, and she says doing his civic duty. He says he’s just in it for the cookie; helping others is a bonus. She finds that hard to believe, and says he was missed at the funeral. He says, that’s another reason why he’s there. He thought he could do more good donating blood after all that’s been shed. She tells him to stop beating himself up about what happened to Taggert. He says, if he’d had more time or a better plan… but Laura says Taggert had a plan. He wanted Curtis to get his daughter out alive, and Curtis did it. She tells him, Mac is hosting a wake at The Floating Rib, and he should go. He says he’d feel out of place, but she says, if anyone should be there, it’s him.

Mac asks if anyone else wants to say something. Sonny says he does, but Jordan says, the memorial is for friends, family, and cops. He says he just wants to pay his respects. He asks if he can have a glass, but Mac says, it’s for cops only. Sonny says he can do it without one, and walks up front. He says, if he had a glass, he’d raise it to Taggert. It’s no surprise they didn’t like each other. They had a lot of battles, but in the end, he respected Taggert. He was a brave man; loyal to the people he loved, and committed to the code of honor. He says, to Marcus Taggert, but no one responds. I feel sad for Sonny.

Brad says he told Scotty a billion times. The only other person who knew about the baby switch was Nelle. It was her idea. Scotty says Nelle insists Brad stole the baby while she was passed out, and Brad says, she’s lying. Scotty says he needs prove it. He needs to know if there’s somebody else mixed up in this with Brad.

Ava says Brad knows Julian is his only friend. He says, when a ship sinks, that kind of friend takes the raft. Brad is the person he’s least concerned about. If Sonny finds out… She says, there’s one solution; Sonny can’t find out.

Michael tells Sasha, on one hand, it might help to show he’s more qualified to care for Wiley. She says, living in a mansion with a full-time staff might help. He says, it doesn’t hurt, but a nanny isn’t a substitute for a mother’s love. In the meantime, Nelle has money from the sale of her ELQ shares. She says, what about character witnesses? Does Nelle even have any? He says, he has more stability, and Wiley will be loved and nurtured. It’s not even close, but it’s Nelle. Sasha says, she’s a master manipulator, and Michael says she’s turned playing the victim into an art form. She asks, what about him? What does he think about this marriage thing?

Alexis and Neil kiss. She says she needs a therapist, and he says he thinks she just had one. She says, it was really great, but a mistake, since he has a hearing in less than an hour about what they just did. He asks if they can forget about the hearing for the next five minutes. She asks what he wants to talk about, and he says, the opera, and the fact they ended up in the same box. And it wasn’t just any opera. It was Aida, a story of forbidden love. She asks if they’re not all like that, and he says, only 80%. Then there was the walk home; a romantic stroll through Manhattan. The bar, the ride in the elevator, and them struggling to say goodnight. Alexis says, it can’t happen again. When he goes before the board, his license is at stake. He says he needs to tell the truth that they’re more than friends.

Jordan says, Port Charles was Taggert’s home, and he did everything he could to keep it safe. She’s not sure if everyone knew, but he was planning to move back full-time, so he could be closer to his daughter. Now he’s a part of her – and them – always. Everyone raises their bottles again. Sonny tells Trina that he’s sorry, and she thanks him. He says he and Carly have her in they’re prayers. He tells Portia that Trina is great, and if they need anything, let him know. Portia thanks him, and says, it’s kind of him to come. She knows Taggert would appreciate it very much. Sonny says, he was a good man, and Portia says, yes; he was. Sonny asks how Cameron is, and Cameron says, he can’t complain. Well, he guesses he could… Sonny asks how his left hook is, and if he’s ready to come back to the gym. Cameron thinks so, and Sonny asks how Elizabeth is. She says, glad the kids are safe and sound. Sonny tells her, make sure to keep them safe. Josslyn wants to ask Sonny something, and they step away. She asks if it’s okay if she stays a little longer. She thinks Trina might need her. He says he’ll tell Michael and Wiley that she said hi. He leaves, and Josslyn says she hopes it was okay with Trina that Sonny came. Trina says she’s glad he did, and she’s not just saying that. Even though they were on opposite sides, like Sonny said, they respected each other, and that’s important.

Laura says Taggert asked Curtis to help him. He wanted Curtis to protect his daughter while he did what he knew he had to do. Curtis says he shouldn’t have left Taggert alone, but Laura says, according to the kids’ statements, it’s obvious if he hadn’t been there, they’d be having funerals for Cameron and Trina. He says he knows that, but… She says, no buts. When Taggert found out Cyrus had his daughter, he knew how it would play out. He put his daughter’s life in Curtis’s hands, and Curtis got her out of there. He says he doesn’t think Trina sees it that way, and Laura says, that’s the good thing about facts. It doesn’t matter how others see it. Curtis might not be a cop, but at the moment Taggert needed him most, Curtis was his partner.

Alexis asks if Neil is insane. He says, legally or psychologically? and she says, it’s not funny. If he tells the truth, he can kiss his career goodbye. He says if he doesn’t, he undermines his colleagues, and she says there won’t be anything to undermine. He tells her, say he lies, and they put whatever they’re calling this on hold for two years. He doesn’t think they can, but she says they have no choice. Someone reported him, and if they keep this up, they’ll report him again. He says he’ll tell the truth, but she says, no. He’s a great doctor, and this is coming from a patient he fired twelve times. He’s good at this. it’s who he is, and she’s not letting anyone take that away from him, including him.

Neil tells Alexis, like it or not, he has to tell the truth. Alexis says, the truth is, while he was treating her, they had an attraction, but didn’t act on it until she stopped treatment. He says, but they did, and she says, please don’t do this. He says he has to get ready, but before he does, he wants her to know, no matter what happens or what the board’s decision is, he doesn’t regret last night. He kisses her and leaves. She says, wow.

Ava shows up at the memorial, and Trina says she’s glad Ava is there. Ava says, of course (🍷); they’re friends, aren’t they? On a day like this, they all need friends. Portia watches Ava, and Jordan watches Portia.

Sonny goes to visit Michael, but says he’s not staying long. He just stopped by to see how Michael is doing. Sasha greets Sonny, but says she has to make some calls, and excuses herself. Sonny asks how Michael is doing, and Michael says, so far, so good. He’s spending every minute he can with Wiley, who’s napping right now. Sonny says, Michael will be a good father, and Michael says he learned from best. Every minute feels like a gift, especially since Wiley was taken away from him for so long. He knows he spent a lot of time with Wiley, but knowing Wiley is his son… He has to be sure Wiley stays with him.

Julian stands outside the door, listening to Scotty and Brad. Scotty says, it’s never too early to prepare a good defense. He needs to know if there’s someone Brad can share the blame with. Julian walks in, and Scotty asks what brings him by. Brad says he and Scotty are discussing legal stuff, and Julian asks Scotty if he can have a word with Brad. Scotty tells Brad to think about it, and don’t take too long. He tells Julian, the check cleared, and Julian asks if there was ever any doubt. Scotty says, yeah, especially with his clientele these days. He’s surprised Julian is there, since Brad isn’t Lucas’s favorite person right now. Julian says, like it or not (phrase of the day), Brad is still his son-in-law, and he’s here for him. Scotty says, touching, and leaves. Julian asks Brad if he gave Scotty any names, and Brad says, not yet, but they’re running out of time. Scotty thinks someone else is involved.

Jordan follows Portia to the bathroom, and asks if she’s okay. Portia says she’s fine, and Jordan asks if she’s sure. It can’t be easy. Portia tells her, she never said anything was easy. She loved Taggert very much, but he was never going to let go of his work. Jordan says, Taggert loved her and Trina; she has to know that. Portia says, she does know that, but so what? When it came down to choosing between them and his job, she and Trina never stood a chance.

Trina tells Josslyn and Cameron to talk to her about anything; college volleyball, even soccer, which is only interesting every four years when they compete for the World Cup. Josslyn says she wants a distraction? Something right in front of her to keep her focused? Trina says she does, and Josslyn says, college visits. She’s looking at schools in Florida, but her mom isn’t happy about that. Trina sees Curtis, and asks what the hell he’s doing there.

Trina says Curtis is the reason her father is dead. Because of him, all she has left is the burial flag. Everyone says she should be grateful to him for saving her life, but he should have saved her father. Portia comes over, and asks, what’s wrong? Trina says she wants him gone. She says, Curtis? and Curtis says, Portia? Trina says, they know each other? Jordan is like, hmm…

Sonny says he heard as soon as the charges were dropped, Nelle sued Michael for full custody. Michael tells him not to worry. He saw it coming, and he was ready. He took a leave of absence from ELQ, so he could focus on his son, and providing a home that no judge will want to take Wiley away from. Sonny understands where Michael is coming from, but says he loves running ELQ. Michael says it’s nothing in comparison to his son. There’s something else. He’s been dreading Brad’s trial, and having to listen to Nelle justify taking his son away. Sonny tells him not to worry. Things have a way of working out.

Julian tells Brad that he’ll do what he can, and Brad asks what Julian wants in return. Julian says he wants Brad quiet. If Brad cares about Lucas, don’t take one more thing from him. Brad says, meaning Julian, and Julian says Lucas has lost Wiley and Brad, and he’s the last thing Lucas has. Brad says, so Julian gets away with keeping Wiley from his family, while he takes the fall.

Alexis goes to the hearing. Dr. Crouse introduces herself and thanks Alexis for coming. Alexis says she’s happy to clear things up. Neil arrives, and Dr. Crouse suggests they get started. They’re here to review a complaint against Neil. She’s read their statements, and asks if Neil has anything to add. He says, not at this time, and she says, then they’ll be hearing from the other party first.

Trina says, Curtis and her mother know each other? Portia says, they used to, and Curtis says he didn’t mean to interrupt. He’s just there to pay his respects. Laura says, it’s her fault. She thought Curtis should be there. Portia thanks her, and Laura says she knew Taggert twenty years ago. He was a wonderful man and a dedicated cop. Trina says, now he’s dead. Why is everyone being nice to this man, when he’s the one responsible? She’s done. She runs off, and Cameron and Josslyn say they’ve got this, and follow her. Mac asks if Curtis wants a drink, but he says he’s good. Mac asks what about Ava? and she says, her? Yeah. A vodka martini with three olives. Jordan watches Curtis and Portia look at each other.

Portia tells Curtis, she’s so sorry. Forgive her daughter. Curtis tells her, Trina said nothing he hasn’t been telling himself. Portia says Trina owes him her life, but he says Trina’s father saved her life. He was just backup. She asks how long it’s been since they’ve seen each other, and he says, years, adding, he’s sorry for her loss.

Outside the bathroom, Cameron says they’re taking too long; he’s coming in. He asks if everything is okay, and Josslyn says, it’s all good, more or less. Trina says the less is that her father is gone, and the man responsible is an old friend of her mom’s. How twisted is that? Cameron knows she doesn’t want to hear this, and she says, then don’t say it. He tells her, he’s glad she’s alive, and she says he didn’t see what happened. Her dad against all those guys. Curtis dragged her away, and she can’t be grateful. Josslyn says, she got to say goodbye. If she can’t be grateful that she was saved, be grateful for the extra time she had with her dad. She doesn’t have to pretend. Cameron guesses he’s pretending too, but he’s not doing half as good a job. The whole morning was terrible. He’s glad he’s there, but knows it’s terrible for them too. Josslyn says, it is, and hugs Trina. Cameron comes in from the other side for a three-way hug.

Elizabeth tells Portia, they were so close to losing their kids, and Portia commends Trina’s support system. Ava says, Trina has a lot of people she can count on, including her. Portia says, what a wonderful role model. Ava says, it’s her husband’s memorial, and Portia can say what she wants. Curtis asks if Jordan is okay, and she says, it’s another reminder of life cut short. She asks how come he never mentioned he knew Trina’s mother, and he says he hadn’t realized who Trina’s mother was until just now.

Laura approaches Ava, and says she wondered if Nikolas would be joining her. Elizabeth says she was just asking about him. Ava says, Nikolas. Poor man, moping around that big house, looking like he lost his best friend. She’s hoping Elizabeth and Franco can join them for dinner sometime.

Brad tells Julian, the best thing to do for Lucas, is tell him his father lied every step of the way. Julian says he wouldn’t say every step. He’s kept Brad’s secret for the last few months, but he’s not the one who stole Wiley; that was Brad and Nelle. And he wouldn’t be part of this mess if Brad hadn’t begged him to keep the secret. He tells Brad, stick to the script, and he’ll take care of the rest.

Michael asks how Lucy is, and Sasha says, the same as always. She asks what his dad wanted, and he says Sonny was just checking on him, and wanting to solve all of his problems. Sasha says, everyone thinks they know what’s best for him and Wiley, and he says, it’s the story of his life. She says, he knows better than anyone what’s best for Wiley, and asks if he has any thoughts about Diane’s advice. He says, in olden times, the primary purpose of marriage was a business transaction – property, armies, money – it wasn’t about love. Sasha says she’s practically swooning, and he says, to a degree, it’s still like that. Maybe what Diane is expecting is for him to get down on one knee. As a lawyer she thinks marriage will help his custody case. Sasha wonders if he’s asking her.

Brad wonders where to begin, when Sonny walks in.

Dr. Crouse says, a complaint was filed that Neil and Alexis have a personal relationship, and asks if there’s any factual basis. Alexis says, the facts are as follows. They found themselves in the same venue – Bingo. She won, and doesn’t typically win that kind of thing, so she was super excited and kissed him impulsively. Nothing romantic; it was strictly out of joy. Dr. Crouse says, from winning at Bingo? and Alexis asks if she’s ever won. Dr. Crouse says she has, and there’s nothing like it. Does they have anything else to add regarding the relationship? Neil says, no, and Alexis says, actually, yes. She asks the board to take into account, Neil’s acumen as a therapist. Her daughter Kristina ended up in a cult, Dawn of Day. Dr. Crouse says she’s familiar with it, and she’s sorry to hear Alexis’s daughter got embroiled in it. Alexis says, Kristina’s father hired Neil to extricate her, and he was very successful. He led Kristian back to her family, and she has a healthy relationship with herself again. If not for Neil, Alexis would have no relationship with her daughter today. Dr. Bern is a very good therapist. He helps people; sometimes in sessions, and sometimes as a friend. After their sessions ended… Dr. Crouse says, they became friends? Alexis says, it’s a small town, and they run into each other, and frequent some of the same places. It would be ridiculous if when one of them walked in, the other walked out. They’ve chatted, and she wouldn’t say they’re friends, but friendly. Dr. Crouse says the board recognizes that Neil is a gifted therapist, which is why it’s even more imperative that he do what’s right. She asks Alexis to tell them in her own words, of what nature is her relationship with Neil?

Ava tells Elizabeth, let’s have dinner soon, and moves on. Laura tells Elizabeth that she guesses it wasn’t the place to say she wouldn’t be taking Ava up one it, and Elizabeth says she’d be fine blowing it off, but it will be hard to talk Franco out of it. Ava and Nikolas are up to something. Laura says, of course (🍷) they are. Trina comes back, and Portia asks if she’s okay now. Trina says she’s feeling better, and Portia suggests they go home. Ava tells Trina, it’s okay for her not to rush back to work, and Portia says, how kind of her, allowing Trina to mourn her dead father. Ava says she knows what a terrific multi-tasker their girl is. She’s sure Trina had it in her head to come in tomorrow. Trina says she was going to come by today, but Ava says she’ll do no such thing. Take her time. Her internship is waiting. Trina says they’ll talk later.

Elizabeth asks if she can give Josslyn a ride, but Josslyn says, Sonny has a car waiting. Cameron says, and bodyguards, and Elizabeth says, you can never be too safe. They look at Taggert’s picture, and Josslyn tells Cameron, she knows she’s said this a hundred times, but she’s glad he’s okay. They hug. Elizabeth tells Josslyn, be careful and stay safe. Jordan looks at her phone, and Curtis asks if it’s a text from TJ. She says, yeah, and the text reads that he needs time away to think things over. Don’t worry. Curtis says, TJ is licking his wounds. He’ll work it out. She says she’s not worried, but texts back for TJ  to call and leave a message. She wants to hear his voice. She tells Curtis, she’s just verifying.

Dr. Crouse says, before they answer, she wants to emphasize that the patient review board is relying on their honest, concise, and forthright answers. She’s asking for what she hopes will be the last time, what is the nature of their relationship? Alexis says her relationship with Neil is strictly professional. Outside of the incident she told them about, their relationship has been cordial. She was his patient, and he was her therapist.

Michael tells Sasha, he’s willing to protect his son by any means necessary, but a marriage of convenience isn’t fair to anyone, especially her. Sasha appreciates him saying that, but if he was considering it, she would understand. He says he has no desire to create an instafamily for appearances sake, and she says she’s glad they’re on the same page. He says, but if the day ever came that he decided to get married, he would want it to be for the right reasons. Wouldn’t she? I wonder if I’m watching The Bachelor for a moment, and Sasha says absolutely. They can’t let anyone else dictate how they live. How they live is up to them, not Diane, and certainly not Nelle. They hug.

Brad asks what Sonny is going to do to him. Sonny says, that depends on what Brad says in the courtroom.

Tomorrow, Laura says they’ll use Cyrus’s own tactics against him, Brook visits Mike, and Sonny tells Brad to plead guilty.

The Haves and The Have Nots

After all he’s done to his mother and father, Wyatt thinks he wants to. Kathryn says she’s heard all of this before. She thinks he’s in jail and safe, and tells him to leave her alone. He asks if she knows how easy it is for him to kill himself there. He shows her a shank made from a toothbrush, and says, you can easily get a shank like this; it has a razor inside, and you can slit your wrists. She tells him, don’t do anything stupid, and he says, it’s just a way out. Doesn’t she think they’ll be happy if he does this? She says she’s not playing around, and he says neither is he. She calls for the guard, but he says he timed it so they’d be on shift change. Tell dad he’s sorry. He cuts his wrist, and she yells again for the guard.

Wyatt says, it shouldn’t be too long, and Kathryn tells him to put pressure on it. He says, it’s all too much, and she says she loves him. He says he knows, but he just can’t do this anymore. She continues to call for the guard, and Wyatt says, tell dad he loves him. Kathryn says he’ll be able to tell his dad himself; don’t do this. He tells her, don’t panic. They’ll all be much happier. She says they both love him, and he says he thought she said she didn’t. She says she gets upset sometimes. She cries, saying she gets angry and says things. He says, the truth always comes out. When he was seven, she always blamed the banana fosters. He loved those. She begs him to put pressure on it, and calls for the guard, but he says, doesn’t she want their last conversation to be one of peace? He loved those banana fosters; they were so good. He’d come home from boarding school, and be so excited to see her and dad, and asked her make him a banana foster. After a week, she’d start yelling at him; they’d get sick of him. Does she remember that? They were screaming because of something dad made her do. That’s the day the priest did to him what he did, and all he wanted was a banana foster to make him feel better. He just wanted her to hug him, but she looked at him, and made him feel so sad. He starts to slump, and falls. She screams his name, and sinks to the ground, sobbing. She calls for the guard again. I guess it must be a long shift change.

Jim’s thug comes into his hospital room, and says, Jim wanted to see him? Jim says it’s his lucky day; he’s giving another chance. The thug says, sorry, but Jim says, don’t be. This has nothing to do with the Malones. This one is easy. Veronica Harrington. He wants her. The thug asks how long Jim wants her held, and Jim says he wants her killed. He wants her dead, and he wants it to look like an accident. How does he think he’ll do it? The thug says he’s not sure, and Jim says, understand. It needs to look like an accident. The thug says, a car accident? but Jim says, something big; catastrophic. She hangs around with thugs. Come up with something plausible. The thug leaves, and Jim’s phone rings.

It’s AG Kyle, who says he heard Jim had an issue. Jim says he’s as well as can expected, and Kyle says Jim’s colleague said Jim wanted to talk to him. What’s going on? Jim asks if it’s a secure line, and Kyle says it is. Is Jim’s? Jim says, yes, and tells Kyle that he wants to talk about the situation. Kyle says he’s all over that, and Jim asks when he’s reaching out. Kyle says, tomorrow, but he can’t do anything about the other part. It’s a murder charge. Before, it was just conspiracy. Jim asks if Kyle is sure there’s nothing he can do, and Kyle says, it’s highly unlikely, but Jim says, at least try. Kyle says the little favor Jim did about Candace doesn’t pay this kind of debt. Jim says he can be helpful to Kyle if given the chance, and Kyle says, okay; he’ll consider it. Jim thanks him, and Kyle tells him, try to stay out of trouble. Jim says, not a chance in hell, and Kyle says he’s learning that about Jim. They’ll talk soon. Jim hangs up, and wonders, what the hell is going on?

Kyle tells Scott that Jim was calling in a favor, and Scott asks what Jim wants Kyle to do. Kyle says Jim wants him to help his wife, and Scott says, it’s a murder charge. Kyle says, Jim is something else. He thinks the little info he gave Kyle on Candace is enough. Scott tells him, be careful with Jim. These are the kind of people he has to watch, and not take for granted. There’s something going on with Candace. The press has turned the tide; they’re murdering him, and consoling her. Someone is behind this. Kyle has a gut feeling Scott knows who it is, but Scott insists he doesn’t. He tells Kyle, be careful with that Cryer guy, and Kyle says, just do his job.

Benny finds Mitch waiting for him as he drives up in his new truck. Mitch asks what the hell he’s doing with that thing, and Benny says it’s his. Mitch asks, how? and Benny says Candace set him up, so he bought two. Let’s get back in. Mitch asks where Candace is, and Benny says, she had to make a stop, but said she’d be back before she left. He wants to get the towing back up, and get at it with Mitch. Mitch asks how he got the money, and Benny says, don’t worry. Candace gave him a lot. Mitch says, it was nice of her, and Benny says Hanna is going to be mad as hell, but it’ll be all right. Mitch hopes the both of them will be all right, and Benny says, Hanna will be mad, but he’s not worried about Jim. If Jim comes after him, he’ll be ready with his badass truck. A horn beeps, and Candace pulls up, also in a new truck. Mitch says they all got big boy trucks, and Benny says they’re doing big boy things. Mitch asks if he can borrow Candace’s truck, and she says she bought it for him. She tosses Mitch the keys, and says she’s tired of seeing him drive around in that… He says his car is vintage, and she says, it’s a piece of junk. Mitch thanks her, and Benny wonders why Candace got the truck for Mitch; he didn’t do nothin’. Candace says, he saved Benny’s life; be happy for him. Benny says, all right. Candace says she has to pack for the airport, and they go inside.

Mitch says his new truck is bad as hell, and he and Benny fist bump. Benny says, they’re back in action. He realizes Hanna is there, and she says, so this is how it is. She asks what Candace got, and Candace says, nothing. Hanna says, no red bottoms? Her brother was kidnapped, and her baby was killed. Benny says, mom, but she tells him, shut up; she’s talking. She asks what they’re going to do when Jim comes for him, but Benny says, he won’t. She asks how he knows, and Benny says, he just knows. She says he’s crazy, and asks Candace, did you do something gansta, princess? Candace says, no, and Hanna says he’s coming, but Mitch says, he won’t. Hanna asks if he was in this conversation, and how does he know? Mitch says he talked to Jim. His family can be persuasive. Benny says, Mitch talked to Jim? Mitch says he did, and Benny asks what he said. Mitch says he told Jim that he can’t mess with them anymore. Hanna says her family is now gangster talking kids, and Benny says he knows she’s upset, but she’ll get over it. Candace gave him a million dollars.

Hanna says, a million dollars? and Benny says he’s keeping every dime. She says, then get out. He says he knew she’d say that, and if she likes, he’ll be glad to leave. Hanna says, so this is how it is, and Benny says, sorry. She tells him, get his sh*t, and get out. He says he thinks he’ll get a house; something small, around $200K. When Hanna calms down, she can come live with him. She wants no part of his gangster lifestyle, and he says when she’s tired of freeloading, let him know. She says she’s tired of her children not knowing how to do the right thing. They’re grown. She tells Benny, it won’t last, and he says he’s going to enjoy it while it does. She says she expected it from Candace. She was holding out hope, but wondering how long before Candace went back to her old ways. Candace says she couldn’t pass up the opportunity. Sorry. Hanna tells her, get her stuff and leave. When she comes back, she wants them both gone. And if they come back, the police will be there. She’ll have them arrested for stealing money. Candace says they didn’t steal it, and Hanna says they’ll let the police decide. She’s always said, she’d rather see Candace alive and in jail, than dead in the street. She can’t believe them. She leaves, and Mitch says, she is pissed. Benny says, she’ll be all right, and Mitch wants to take a spin in his new truck. He goes to do that, and Candace sits on the couch, with her head in her hands. Benny says he knows she’s not feeling bad. He suggests they get her stuff, and get hell out.

David goes back to his house. Jeffrey is lying on the couch, and asks if he’s sneaking in. David says, no, and Jeffrey says, it looks that way. He’s tiptoeing around like the Grinch. David asks if Jeffrey was sleeping, and Jeffrey says, this early? David says he knows Jeffrey likes to nap, but Jeffrey says he wasn’t asleep. Does David want to talk about it? David says, what? and Jeffrey says, what he saw. David says Jeffrey is a grown man, and Jeffrey asks if he minds that it was in the house? David says, no, and Jeffrey asks if he minds that it was Madison. David repeats, Jeffrey is grown. He does have a problem with what he saw, but it’ll be fine. Jeffrey asks why David is avoiding him, and David says he didn’t expect to see all that. Jeffrey asks if it weirded him out? and David says, to be honest, yes. Sorry. Jeffrey says, don’t be sorry, but David says, it’s who Jeffrey is. He’s just never seen it before. Jeffrey says, not even in college? and David says, no. Jeffrey says, damn, and David says he grew up in a different time. Jeffrey asks what gay people did back then, and David supposes they hid their sexuality; a lot of them were in the closet. Jeffrey guesses they had to be afraid, and says, it’s sad. David says he doesn’t want that for Jeffrey. He wants Jeffrey to be free. He says if Jeffrey had been with a girl, he wouldn’t feel this way. Jeffrey asks, what way? and David says he doesn’t know how he’s feeling. He needs time to deal. He tells Jeffrey that he loves him, and Jeffrey says he loves David too. David says, no matter who Jeffrey is sleeping with, just make sure they’re a consenting adult. He says he bought Jeffrey something, and Jeffrey says he saw it, but he doesn’t need a fifty pack of condoms. David says, they were on sale, and Jeffrey thanks him. I loved this scene. There was just the right amount of uncomfortable, and lots of love.

David asks if Jeffrey really likes Madison, and Jeffrey says, he’s still getting to know him. He knows what it’s like. David can’t tell him that he never had sex with someone he was still trying to get to know. David says he does, and he likes Madison better than Justin (said everybody). He’s happy for Jeffrey. Jeffrey says he and Madison are supposed to go out to dinner, and asks if it’s okay if Madison comes over afterward. David says, sure, but please, lock his door. Jeffrey and I laugh, and Jeffrey says, make sure to knock next time. David says he loves Jeffrey, and he’s a little embarrassed, but he’ll get over it. He tells Jeffrey, enjoy his dinner. Jeffrey says security phone him, and David says not to panic. It’s necessary. Jeffrey asks if David thinks Veronica will try it again, and David says he knows she will. Jeffrey says, damn, and David asks if Jeffrey loves his mother. Jeffrey says, she makes it harder every day. Why is he asking? David says he just wants to be sure. Jeffrey asks what he’s thinking, and David says he’s not thinking anything; he’s just asking. Jeffrey says David doesn’t ask if there’s not a reason. Is he going to do something to her? David tells him, have a nice time, and tell Madison he said hello. Jeffrey says, should something happen to his mother, he understands. He asks if a guard is going to follow him, and David says the guard will keep his distance. He’ll keep an eye out, and look out for his mother’s henchmen. Relax and enjoy himself. They’ll talk more later.

Scott says, Kyle wanted to see him? Kyle says they may have an issue. Senator Connelly Westlake. Charles wants to make him the AG. Scott says they were expecting it, but Kyle says they weren’t expecting him to get up in his bonnet over Candace. He was really upset. Scott says, Connelly has no reason to be upset about a whore, and Kyle says, well, he is. Kyle wonders if Charles is in love with Candace; impossible. Scott says, he’d be a fool, as would anyone who falls for a piece of ass. Kyle says the reason he called is, they need to make sure everything was done by the book, especially the last eight years. He doesn’t want Connelly opening an investigation about them. Scott says he’s on it, and Kyle says, it should already be done. Scott says he’ll make sure it’s done correctly. Kyle says he thinks Scott might need to get rid of any evidence. He thinks she recognized him when she robbed him. Clean it up, and make it look like accident. Make it look a suicide. Charles will be heartbroken. Make sure it’s on Federal property, so they can make a Federal case out of it. Scott says, say goodbye to the President’s mistress.

Laura tidies up, and Veronica says she likes it a lot; Laura is good. She tells Laura that she needs to pick up the dry cleaning and to take her car. Laura protests, but Veronica says Laura isn’t taking her five grand suits on the bus. She says Laura is a sweet girl, and Laura tells Veronica, her mom… Veronica interrupts, and tells her she has a job to do, and Veronica just expects her to do it. Laura says, sorry, and Veronica says, don’t be sorry; be better. There’s a knock at the door, and Laura answers it. She tells Veronica, he said his name is Rondell (yay! a name!), and Veronica says, let him in. Rondell walks in, and Veronica asks, what’s going on? He says he just came to holler at her. They’re out for her. She asks, who? and he says he doesn’t know; a foreign dude. She says, it’s probably David, and he says she needs to watch her back for real. She says her back is fine, and he asks if she’s sure she doesn’t need muscle around, but she says he’s not muscly enough. She sort of flirts with him, and takes his hand, asking if they’re good, now that she paid for his brother’s funeral and his kids’ tuition. He says they are, but she needs to lay low until this blows over. The dude who’s looking for her ain’t a good dude. She says she can handle it, and he says she ain’t scared of nothing, is she? She says, not really. Except the whore he’s sleeping with. He says he’s been checked, but she says he’s not touching her until she sees the blood test. He says he’s glad they’re cool now, and to let him know if she wants anything. He leaves, and she says, damn. Weed and malt liquor. Veronica has to do better than this. She calls for Laura, saying, Lucy bring the air freshener please.

Madison and Jeffrey go out to dinner, and Madison thanks Jeffrey for asking him out. Jeffrey says he didn’t really ask Madison out, and Madison guesses he’s right; he demanded it. Jeffrey says he hopes Madison brought his wallet, and Madison says he hopes Jeffrey brought his appetite. Jeffrey says he did, and Madison says, how about his sexual one? Jeffrey says, that was lame, and Madison says, don’t act like he didn’t want to finish. Jeffrey asks if they’re really talking about that right now, and Madison says they can talk later. He tells Jeffrey, for someone who’s trying so hard to resist, he seems to be getting excited. Jeffrey asks how Madison knows that, and Madison says, when Jeffrey is excited, he acts like he’s not interested. He needs to lighten up. Jeffrey asks, what’s on the menu? and Madison says, him. Jeffrey asks what’s wrong with him? and Madison asks if Jeffrey can blame him. Since day one, when he saw Jeffrey, he wondered, who is that? Jeffrey says he did too, and Madison says, then don’t act like he didn’t want the same thing. Jeffrey says he did, and asks if they can order now. Madison asks if Jeffrey is in a hurry, and Jeffrey says, the sooner the meal is over, the sooner they can leave. Madison calls, waiter! and they order.

Laura goes home to her apartment, and her boyfriend? husband? asks where she’s been. She says she got the job. He says, with Veronica? and she says, yes. He says, it’s the score they’ve been looking for. He asks how Veronica is, and Laura says, she’s a bitch. He wouldn’t believe it. She needs him to case the place, and he says he could do his pool boy thing. She doesn’t like it, but he says, it’s the best way in. She agrees, telling him to do what he’s got to. He says he loves her, and she says she loves him too. He says they’re about to be so rich. She says, they are, and she’s so horny. She tells him, take his clothes off, and he asks if she’s got dollars. She says, it’s on credit. Tonight’s a good night, and she’s going to cash in. He takes his shirt off, and she grabs his belt, pulling him closer. He kisses her, and carries her to the bedroom. Since she never once called him by name, I picked up one character’s name, only for a nameless one to negate it.

Candace tells Benny, Hanna is pissed. Benny says he knows, and she says they were just getting on good terms. Benny says, it’s crazy for her to think they weren’t taking the money. Candace says she almost didn’t, and Benny says she would have regretted it for the rest of her life. She says she’s not looking back, and Benny picks up his laptop. He says he’s looking up Derrick, and Candace says, for what? He says Derrick pissed mom off, but Candace says, let it go; she’s serious. He shows her a mug shot, and says, dude is in jail. He reads something, and asks if the man who raped Hanna didn’t have a lion tattoo on his chest. He and Candace look at each other, and I think he knows Candace knows who Derrick is.

The Haves and The Have Nots returns in the fall.

Vanderpump Rules

Fingers crossed that James does something stupid. Oh, wait. If he’s in this episode, he’ll be doing something stupid. No finger crossing necessary.

Kentucky Castle, Versailles, Kentucky. Brittany thanks everyone for coming. Jax says, they’ve come a long way, and he and Brittany appreciate it. A guy walks through the guests to the front, and says he’s a Junior Detective with the New York Police Department, and wherever he goes, murder seems to follow. In her interview, Brittany says, it’s a murder mystery party. The guy says he’s recruiting them be amateur detectives. In Stassi’s interview, she says everyone who knows her, knows she loves murder and solving mysteries. This is the role she was born to play. We see what looks like an old black and white film, with the title of The Case of the Kentucky Castle Killer. The guests try to solve the mystery, and in her interview, Stassi says, it’s legit the most romantic thing she’s ever seen.

One hour later. The pseudo detective asks, who had the most motive? and Lala guesses correctly. He says, Lindsay killed her brother, and the person playing her says she had no choice; he was running the business into the ground. In Lala’s interview, she says Lindsay’s dad wasn’t leaving the company to her because she’s a woman, so she killed her brother. Lala tells Stassi, you can’t overthink the game; she never asked one question. Brittany’s niece Presley, comes over to where Stassi and Lala are sitting, and switches her wristlet for Stassi’s designer purse.

Lala tells Katie that she’s confused about Carter. He and Kristen aren’t together, but he’s coming to the wedding. Katie says, he was only invited as a guest, not on his own. Lala asks Kristen if Carter is her date, and Kristen says he deserves to be at the wedding. He’s her best friend. We flash back to their train wreck of a relationship, and Stassi asks if Kristen can’t be real for one second. She’s tried to have conversations with Kristen, but she won’t be honest. Lala says they care about her well-being. Kristen tells Katie that she’s a bitch, and she knows it’s hard for Stassi. Because Kristen is conflicted, Stassi doesn’t know where she stands, and she’s being obnoxious. Brittany swoops down on them, and says, no more fighting. In Kristen’s interview, she says she feels like she’s on a friendship peninsula that’s turning into an island. Her two best friends want nothing to do with her. She can’t imagine doing that to anyone.

At SUR, Dayna and Adriana (not Madix) commiserate about the restaurant being busy. Adriana asks what’s the deal with Dayna and Max, and Dayna says they’re exclusive and dating. Adriana says, this is awkward, but she saw Max with another girl. He didn’t see her, but he was with a girl, and they seemed friendly. It was right after Pride, and she told Danica about it. They stalked the girl on Instagram, and she thinks she found her. She shows Dayna a picture, and Dayna says, that’s TomTom’s Pride shirt. In her interview, Dayna says the shirts were made for Pride at TomTom’s, and Max was the only person who had them. He didn’t even give her one. Adriana says Dayna knows what happened with her and Max, right? It’s the same pattern. Dayna says she literally (she loves that word like Christian Siriano loves awesome) feels sick. In her interview, she says, everybody was right about Max. He’s a f***boy. Adriana says, Max is not a good guy, and Dayna says, wow.

Stassi’s mother is there for the wedding, and in Stassi’s interview, she says, Brittany is so into family, she let them invite anyone they were related to. Brittany says they’re getting mani/pedis tomorrow, and she’s so excited. Lala tells Brittany that she’s marrying the love of her life, and they’ve gone through some sh*t. In Brittany’s interview, she says she and Jax planned everything together, and it’s weird he’s not there tonight. She’s hoping he’s okay. In Jax’s interview, he says he stayed in. He needed time to himself, and to spend with his father. He knows his father is out there, and when he thinks about him too much, he goes into a hole. He wants to make his father proud. Getting hammered isn’t it, which is why he’s not going. He’s doing what he thinks is right. Lala asks Brittany about Lisa, and Brittany says she texted Lisa before they left L.A. She told Lisa not to stress about the wedding.

Beau wonders who will cry. Tom says, if Brittany cries, he’s going to cry, and they hug. Kristen asks Beau if he’s having fun. He says he is, and she says they were friends even before he met Stassi. He says he’s still her boy, but it’s different now. He and Stassi are in a relationship, and Stassi is his number one. At this point, Kristen leaves the real world, and says she’s tired of everyone coming down on her about Carter. She and Stassi were arguing earlier, and she wants to know why she’s being dragged for something that’s hard for her. No one is asking if she’s cool. She calls him self-involved, says, screw you, and goes off on him for favoring his girlfriend over her. In Beau’s interview, he says Kristen is giving him anxiety just listening. She talks to you and over you, and doesn’t get it. Beau suggests they get unselfish, and focus on Brittany and Jax. They clink plastic cups.

Brittany tells Jax, one more day. She wishes he would get a pedicure, but he says he wouldn’t do that to someone. Wedding planner Mitchell knocks on the door, and brings in what looks like a small woodgrain upscale cooler. In Jax’s interview, he says his dad has been in a box for two years. He talked to Mitchell about what to keep him in. He likes to take him out, and put him in the front seat for a drive, or take him out in the backyard. Jax gets all emotional, and thanks Mitchell.

Everyone nurses their hangovers, and gets ready to go to the pool. Lala stops by Scheana and Kristen’s room She asks if Kristen is grumpy, and Scheana says Lala was kind of yelling at Kristen. Lala thinks they have a different point of view about yelling. Kristen says she’s tired of it. You don’t treat the people you love like that.

Katie tells Schwartz that Kristen makes her feel psycho, and he says he lived with Kristen. She’s the only person he’s ever wanted to murder. Beau tells Stassi about how Kristen got upset when he told her that Stassi was number one in his life. Stassi says, Kristen needs to understand that she’s not number one in someone else’s boyfriend’s life. In Stassi’s interview, she says, when Kristen slept with Jax, she had to get over it. She doesn’t like when Kristen texts Beau to discuss a falling out with her. She thought nothing could shake their unbreakable bond, but no, sh*t can. She tells Beau, Kristen is a psychopath, and Beau suggests they stay on opposite sides of the pool. Stassi says, once the wedding is over, she’s saying goodbye to Kristen.

Schwartz and Jax stop by to get Beau on their way to the pool. The guys ask what Jax did last night, and he says he watched Friends. He can’t do three nights in a row of drinking. Schwartz says he was never legally married, since there was no license. Stassi is shook. In Schwartz’s interview, he says it was his duty was to make sure the license was in a secure place, and he lost it. It was a piece of paper, and he didn’t understand it was important. He let it slip to the one guy he shouldn’t have let it slip to (Jax?), and now that the cat is out of the bag, he needs to tell everyone first. Stassi asks how he and Katie do their taxes, and he says, married, separately. She says, but they’re not married. In his interview, Jax says he never thought he’d be the first guy out of the group to be married.

At the pool, Stassi says she’s upset with Katie. She thought they had no secrets, and Katie isn’t married. In Katie’s interview, she says she planned the entire wedding. This is on Schwartz. We see a clip of them with Lisa at their wedding, and Lisa asking about the license. Tom says he doesn’t know where it is. Stassi shouts that Schwartz and Katie are single.

Scheana tells Lala about James blowing up her and Raquel’s phones, after Raquel went out drinking with her and some other friends. She had twenty-two missed calls. Ariana says, James was texting Raquel messed up stuff, and she warned Raquel that she was going to start believing what James was saying if it continues. Scheana says Raquel and James talked, and James said he’d go to an AA meeting. Lala asks if she’s sure he said he’d go to a meeting, and Scheana tells her, he’s never said that before. Lala says, it’s the first step. In Lala’s interview, she says she’s seen James at his best, and she’s happy for him. She tells Scheana, she’d be more than happy to talk to him about her experience, and Scheana thinks that would mean something. Lala says she’ll reach out. Right now, she has to pick Rand up.

Tom asks Brittany if they’re going to Lexington tonight, and she says they’re going to a cool speakeasy for a meet and greet, then the girls and guys are separating. Stassi sees Kristen talking to her mom, and says Kristen is tainting her brain. In her interview, Stassi says Kristen latches on to her friends and family, and talks to them and texts them. She sees Stassi’s mother more than she does. She tells Katie about how Kristen got mad that Beau wouldn’t put her first, and Katie thinks it’s weird. So do I. He’s not her brother for God’s sake.

Max comes by Dayna’s apartment, and she asks if he has anything he thinks he needs to tell her. He says, no, and she says, he’s not dating this girl? She shows him the picture, and he says, no, but he sure looks guilty. He said he’d been seeing her in San Diego, and then she moved there. Dayna asks if she moved there for him, and he says he was easing her off of him (oh please). Dayna asks why she has a Pride shirt, and he says he gave one to everyone. She asks when was the last time he saw her. He says after Pride, and Dayna asks if they went out alone. He says they did, and Dayna asks if he screwed her. He says, no, and in his interview, he says he’s tired of defending himself. They went to lunch, and it was like lunch with his mom. He threw a shirt at her before they parted company. It’s not like she was naked in his bed and had no shirt to wear. He tells Dayna, he feels awful about how she feels, but he’s wondering if this is a good idea. Dayna says, screw it. She’s not into this bullsh*t; this is done. Max says, that’s it? In Dayna’s interview, she says she’s hurt right now. This is not how she saw things going with him. She has sensitivity to someone wasting her time or not valuing her. She puts his necklace in the litter box, and swirls it around. She tells the cat, when she sees him at TomTom, hitting on every girl and their mother, she’ll know he’s wearing a poo necklace, and she’ll feel better about that.

At the speakeasy, Stassi and Katie try to avoid Kristen. Ran arrives, and there are hugs all around. Everyone goes into shock when they see he brought Lisa. Brittany starts crying, and hugs her. Lisa hugs Jax, and says, it was last minute. She thought she’d be in London, but the funeral was delayed until next week. In her interview, she says the funeral was happening later than she thought it would, and she realized she could make the wedding. She called Rand, and said they needed to get there asap. Puffy! She’s there to support Brittany and Jax, and show how happy she is for them. She can stand in the gap, since Jax’s mother isn’t there. In the light of losing her own mother, she understands the importance. Jax says, it means so much to him.

Jax sit with Lisa, and outside the window, Lexington’s Gay Pride is going on. Jax says he’s got to laugh. Lisa asks if his mother had any reaction to the wedding weekend, but he says he doesn’t know. His godmother Jane is giving him away. He chokes up, and says they’re the family he has, since he only has his sister Jenny. He appreciates Lisa being there. In his interview, he says she’s been like a mother to him since they met. He looks up to her, and since he has no parents there, having an alternate parent is wonderful.

Brittany keeps up her mantra of I’m getting married. Stassi can’t believe Lisa is there, and says Lisa won’t believe what she found out. Lisa asks if it’s something important, and Stassi says she thinks Lisa might laugh. Tom and Katie aren’t legally married. Lisa asks what she’s talking about. In Lisa’s interview, she says, you’ve got to be effing kidding. All the effort she put into writing the vows – we flash back to the ceremony – and they’re not even married. She put more into it than they did. Everyone looks out the window to see Beau line dancing. Stassi says she loves it so much. In her interview, she says it warms her heart that he’s extra. It makes life lively, and he brings the energy up wherever he goes. She’s not like that.

James goes to TomTom, and orders a Coke. He tells Max it’s weird that no one is there except them. Max says, someone has to run TomTom. They marvel at Jax getting married, and Max says he’s clearly not happy about what happened with Dayna. James asks if they were going official, and Max says they weren’t official, but he liked hanging out with her. Someone brought out an old girlfriend, and created a story when they saw them at lunch. Now they’re kind of ending it, and it’s a mess. In his interview, Max says it would have been fine if everyone had stayed out of their business. Max tells James, Danica has been saying negative stuff. In his interview, he says, Danica has been effing stuff up since day one. He doesn’t understand why she wants to sabotage him. He tells James, he wants to 86 Danica. James says Raquel gave him an ultimatum. She wants him to quit drinking; he thought she was about to whip him. Max can’t see Raquel mad, and James says he agreed with what she said. In James’s interview, he says he and Raquel talked about his drinking. He hasn’t gone to a meeting yet, and doesn’t want to. He doesn’t want to drive across town, and talk to a bunch of people, eating donuts in a cold room, and listening to their stories. But if Raquel wants him to go, he’ll go. She means everything to him. Yeah. I can tell by the way he treats her.

20 hours until the ceremony. Jax asks if everything is okay, and Brittany says they’re getting married tomorrow. He asks if she wants to call it off, and she says, never. Tom says, it’s surreal that their boy is getting married. It’s a moment he never thought would happen. In Tom’s interview, he says, this isn’t just any guy. It’s Jax-effing-Taylor. He’s banged at least 300 women, and that’s just at SUR. He was a f***boy before it was a phrase. Brittany tells Jax, it’s the last time they’re going to see each other before they walk down the aisle. Schwartz says, Jax used to do full-on speeches about not getting married, and called him a chump. In Schwartz’s interview, he says when he flash backs to when they lived together, and fast forwards to now, it’s surreal. Brittany tells Jax, the big day is tomorrow. He says he’s going to hang out with the guys, but he’s not drinking anymore. Brittany says, let’s party, but be good.

The girls gather. In Brittany’s interview, she says she told them all to being onesies of something that would live in a castle, like a princess, unicorn, or mermaid. She loves the fantasy world, and was raised on everything princess. Kristen walks around with her onesie half falling off, and in Stassi’s interview, she says, Kristen is oblivious, and can’t keep it together. Stassi says Brittany is going to be part of a new family, and Brittany says she gets a new sister tomorrow. They have a twerking contest. In her interview, Stassi wonders how everyone suddenly became twerking masters. She feels she’s at a disadvantage with her flat ass. The girls screech over Brittany getting married, and she hopes Jax isn’t still drinking. She thinks it’s time to call it a night.

At the guys’ party, Beau shows up dressed as a knight. In his interview, he says, they are in a castle. He’s Sir Ladles-a-lot. He slays soups, and drinks shots. When Jax comes in, they all chant his name. Tom says he has everything. He even brought tampons – top of the line tampons. In Jax’s interview, he says, Jax doesn’t want to go away quietly. This is his last dance. He drinks out of the bottle, and says he probably should stop drinking. He tells the others, he’s not going to lie; he’s pretty sh*tfaced. He never thought in a million years he’d get married, but Brittany is the best woman for him. We flash back to the beginning of their relationship, and in his interview, he says she’s his best friend; his partner in crime. He 100% believes the person he was before, wasn’t good enough for her. We flash back to all the problems they had, and he says, when he cheated, it was typical Jax, sabotaging his relationships. He didn’t make the best decisions. Brittany could have left at any time, but she didn’t. He put her through hell and back, and she deserves the world. Tom says he’s about to be married for the rest of his life, and Jax says he’s super happy. In his interview, Jax says he’ll have to work on the relationship for the rest of his life. It’s not as easy for him as it is with other people. His life is in a good place. He thinks he’s grown, and doesn’t see himself going down that road again.

Katie says Brittany is a princess in a tower, and Jax is the Beast. Brittany says, he’ll be a prince tomorrow. She says she’s excited, and it’s time for lights out. In Jax’s interview, he says he’s scared. His worst fear is Brittany not being happy anymore.

Next time, the wedding is here! Stassi tells Beau, a proposal is the one part of her life she doesn’t have control over; Kristen calls out Carter for being abusive; and Dayna asks if Max still has feelings for her.

💃🏾 I checked out Family Karma, and although I couldn’t give it my full attention, it looked like fun. I love seeing how other cultures live, and they seem like a colorful bunch. No doubt there will also be marvelous food porn throughout the season. You can check the cast out here:

https://www.bravotv.com/family-karma/about

🎱 It Certainly Was…

I wish I could say I’m glad this day is over, but technically, it was over hours ago, yet somehow still kept going.

March 2, 2020 – Two Shocks In One, Awkward Flirting, Jules Who, Goodbye Joe & Long Road

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Carly asks Sonny how Dev is, and Sonny says he and Josslyn are arguing about whose turn it is to pick a movie. Carly says, so they’re back to normal, and Brando says, speaking of which… Sonny says, normal depends on what you’re used to. He wants Brando and Dev to stay under his protection, and Brando says, the kid can stay. He’s not going to.

Michael tells Willow, she can still be her; wonderful, sweet, loving, and caring her. Wiley needs this, and to be honest, so does he. She says she loves Wiley so, so much. That’s why she has to let him go.

At the hospital, Elizabeth wonders what’s taking so long, but Franco says Curtis told them Cameron wasn’t hurt. She says she knows that in her head, but won’t know it in her heart until she sees him. Cameron and Trina comes out, and Cameron hugs Elizabeth, who says, thank God. Trina says she has to find her father. Jason tells Epiphany that Trina is Taggert’s daughter, and Epiphany says, they’re stabilizing him, and prepping him for surgery. She asks Trina to come with her. Jordan runs in and hugs Curtis. She asks if he’s all right, and he says, he’s fine. It’s her buddy Taggert who’s hurt. She says she knows; they’re working on him. She asks, what happened? and he says, it was crazy. She says, crazy is right. Both of them, and the kids, could have died. Never mind that she’s his wife. She’s the Police Commissioner; she should have been his first call. Instead, he and Taggert cowboyed their way in, guns blazing, on their own. They could have been killed.

Curtis tells Jordan, he wanted to call and fill her in, but Trina’s not his daughter, and she was caught in the crossfire. Taggert was told if he involved the cops, Trina would be killed. Jordan says Curtis knows better. The best thing to do in a kidnapping, is to call the police first. She would have made sure Taggert was protected. He says, maybe that’s what Taggert was afraid of. She’d try to save them both, and Trina would pay the price.

Willow says she appreciates Michael wanting her to be in Wiley’s life, but he isn’t hers; he never was. Now, knowing the truth about her son – that he died, that Nelle used him as a weapon to hurt Michael, and that Nelle and Brad treated her baby boy like a prop – it’s all she can think about, especially when she sees Wiley. Michael says he’s sorry she’s going through this. And here he is… She says, he’s thinking about his son. She’d love to stay a part of Wiley’s life, but children are sensitive to the people around them. She doesn’t want Wiley picking up on her feelings. It’s not good for either one of them. Michael wishes him getting his son back didn’t mean Willow losing hers all over again.

Jason asks Curtis how he got involved, and Curtis says, he was helping a friend. Jason tells him, Taggert wanted to team up with Sonny to take Cyrus down. Whatever is going on between Cyrus and Taggert isn’t just business; it’s personal. Where does Curtis fit in? Curtis says, he told Jason. He was helping a friend.

Epiphany says Taggert is stable, and will be in surgery soon, but Trina can stay with him. Jordan asks if Curtis squared everything with Jason, but Curtis says, not really. He wanted to know about Taggert’s personal connection with Cyrus. Jordan says she’s sorry she came at Curtis like that. He says he knows it’s not him, and she says, it is, but not just him. She’s mad at a lot of people, and at the whole situation. Taggert is fighting for his life because someone leaked the names of the original task force to Cyrus. Curtis says that’s not on her, but she says, they knew it was coming. If she can’t keep one man safe, how is she going to protect a whole city? Laura comes in, and says she was briefed. She asks how Taggert is, and Jordan says, he’s being prepped for surgery. Laura asks if it was Cyrus, but Jordan says she doesn’t know. Laura asks if the gunmen acted on Cyrus’s orders, and Jordan says, yes.

Carly tells Brando, he has to stay in Port Charles. Sonny says, like it or not, he’s a part of it. Brando says, if anyone asks, tell them that he’s out of town on a job. As for his son, he’s finishing the school year there. Sonny asks, what’s in Chicago that’s so important? and Brando says, just his job, his home, and his life. Carly asks, who says he can’t have that there? and Sonny says he’ll set Brando up. Brand asks if Sonny is going to put in a word to someone at a garage, and Sonny says Brando can open his own shop. Anything he needs, Sonny will get. Brando says, what if he needs to leave? and Sonny says, anything except that.

Cameron tells Elizabeth, the driver took him and Trina to a warehouse, where there were four other guys waiting. Trina’s dad showed up, and it was obvious they weren’t going to let any of them go. He started to fight, and so did Trina. Guns were drawn, Curtis came in, and there was gunfire; it was crazy. He broke away, and Taggert told him to run, so he did. He doesn’t think he ever ran faster in his life. One guy came after him, and he tripped. The guy was standing over him with a gun, and he thought the guy was going to kill him. He heard a gunshot, and the guy dropped. He looked up, and saw Jason. Elizabeth says, thank God Jason got there, and Cameron says, Jason saved him, but the guy… He was a bad guy, but he’s dead. Elizabeth says she’s sorry he had to go through that, and that it happened to him, but he’s there and safe. She hugs him.

Brando says he did as Sonny asked, and backed Sonny’s story, but that’s as far as he goes. Sonny says they’re family, and Brando says they’ve been family for five minutes. Sonny says, they’ve always been family, even though they just met, and family takes care of family. Donna cries, and Carly goes upstairs. Sonny says, five minutes or not, what Brando did at the warehouse, saving Carly, makes him a target. He’s not leaving Brando unprotected. Sonny’s phone rings. It’s Jason, who tells him, Cyrus used Taggert’s Daughter and Cameron as bait. They’re okay, and safe, but Taggert is going into surgery. Sonny says, keep him posted, but Jason says, there’s something else. The Commissioner and Taggert are connected somehow. Sonny says he’s on his way.

Elizabeth sees Jason, and asks if he has a minute. He asks how Cameron is, and she says, all things considered, he’s okay with just having had a brush with death. He told her that Jason saved him, and she can’t thank him enough. He thanks her for calling him. She says she needs to know; is Cameron safe? Jason says, they were after Taggert. Cameron was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. She asks, whoever is doing this, what do they want with Taggert? Jason’s phone rings.

Jordan tells Laura, the PCPD is running with everything they have. Laura says she has every faith in them, but what Jordan is describing are pretty straightforward police tactics. It’s clear Cyrus is capable of working around their methods. Jordan says, shootings, explosives, kidnappings; he’s leaving a trail. Laura says, he is, but his next attack won’t be conventional. They need to think of a better plan of attack.

Willow tells Michael, since she never knew her son was gone, she never mourned him, and it haunts her. Part of her feels like she should have known. The mother in her should have looked at Wiley, and known he wasn’t her child, but she didn’t know the difference. What kind of mother doesn’t know her own child? Michael says, what kind of father doesn’t? They were lied to; it’s not their fault. She loved Wiley the best she could, and he loved Wiley the same. He grieved her son as his own, and she fought to protect his son as her own. It kind of makes them brothers. He asks her, please don’t shut Wiley out. If anyone deserves a place in Wiley’s life, it’s her.

Trina says Taggert is waking up. Lucas and Epiphany run in, and Epiphany tells Trina that the police need to speak to her father. She can see him again before surgery. Jordan promises they won’t be long. Outside the room, Curtis says he’s going to tell Trina’s dad how brave she was, and Trina says he wouldn’t have gotten shot to being with if they hadn’t ditched him in the first place. Lucas comes out, and says they can go in now. Jason watches.

Jordan asks if Taggert can talk, and he says he guesses he’s in trouble. She says, not as long as he’s breathing. If he’d gotten himself killed, he would have been. Taggert thanks Curtis for making sure Trina got out okay. Curtis says, at least someone appreciates him. Taggert asks who’s been giving him a hard time, his wife or Trina, and Curtis says, all of the above. Taggert says Trina is everything to him, and he can’t repay Curtis for making sure she’s safe. Curtis says he was happy to help. Jordan asks what the hell he was thinking, going into the situation without backup. Taggert says he couldn’t involve the police, but Jordan says he could have involved her. Cops or not, she could have worked with him. He says his one thought was getting Trina out, and she says, two attacks, back to back, and he’s still alive. Be ready for the third. From now on, no exceptions. They work together as a team, and finish this together.

Cameron thanks Jason for saving his life, and Jason says he’s just glad Cameron is safe. Sonny says, Cameron told him what happened, and he’s glad Cameron is in one piece. Cameron thanks him, and says he’s sure Sonny and Jason have a lot to talk about. Sonny asks where Taggert is, and sees Curtis and Jordan come out of the room. He goes in, and asks if Taggert is up for a visit. Taggert says he’s still breathing; sorry to disappoint Sonny. Sonny says Trina’s life was on the line, but if their arrangement is going to work, Sonny has to be his first call. Taggert asks if they’re working together. Sonny never answered. Sonny says, this once. Don’t make a habit of it. Taggert says, it’s definitely a one-time thing. Sonny says, so Trina is his daughter. He never took Taggert to be a family man. Taggert says he got lucky, and Sonny says, Trina is the best. She’s smart, and always there for Josslyn. Always. Taggert beckons Sonny closer, and says he knows this isn’t over. Look out for Trina. Sonny says, that goes without saying.

Sasha walks in on Michael and Willow’s conversation, and says, sorry. She knows they have a lot to talk about. Michael says they’re not necessarily finished, but is everything okay? Sasha asks if he remembers their conversation earlier about training Wiley to sleep through the night. She’s a pushover. Wiley woke up crying, and she went in. She turned off the monitor, thinking she could get him back down, but she’s having trouble. Michael tells Willow that he’ll support whatever choice she makes to help herself heal, but she’ll always have a place in his family. He goes to tend to Wiley, and Sasha asks if Willow is okay. Willow says, not really, but she’s better than she was. It looks like Michael is adapting quickly. Sasha says, don’t let him fool her. He’s constantly doubting the transition from fun uncle to dad. Willow doesn’t think that should be a problem, and Sasha says neither does she, but it’s adorable watching him think it is. Willow says Michael will be a great father, and she’s glad he has Sasha in his life. Sasha thanks her, but as much as she can cheer Michael on, and pitch in to help with Wiley, she’s not his mother. Willow says, it turns out neither was she. Sasha says Willow is more of a mother than a lot of real, biological moms. The two greatest mothers Sasha has seen in Port Charles are Nina with Charlotte, and Willow with Wiley. No biology, and all the love. Willow says it’s kind of Sasha to say, but Sasha says she’s calling it as she sees it. Since she’s gone that far, she might as well go all way. Wiley isn’t the only one who needs Willow; Michael does too.

Jordan leaves a message for TJ, saying she’s checking in. She wonders how his big night went, and asks him to call her. Curtis asks Jordan if everything is okay. Jordan hopes so. If Cyrus is willing to kidnap Trina, he might do the same to TJ. Laura is right. Cyrus isn’t going to be stopped with them going by the book. He asks what she’s going to do, and she says, for starters, tell Laura the truth.

Sonny asks if Laura is okay, and she says it’s lucky Jason showed up to save the kids. Lucas tells Trina that Taggert is waiting to see her, and Trina runs in. Laura tells Sonny, she couldn’t help but notice that he visited Taggert. Was it about burying the hatchet, or more like an the enemy of my enemy kind of thing? He says, a little of the first, but mostly the second. She says, Cameron almost died. She’s grateful to Jason for saving him, but it’s a temporary fix. This guy is dangerous. If Sonny retaliates, God only knows what he’ll do next. As the mayor of this town, Cyrus is now her problem.

Trina says she was so scared she was going to lose him, and Taggert says, he knows. He’s sorry. She says, now that he’s there, maybe he can stay in Port Charles longer. She wants her friends to meet him. He says he’d like that, and bets she already has an itinerary for him. She says she has a debate this week, and a track meet next week. Maybe he could come. He says he’ll do his best. He tells her that he feels like having some malted milk balls, and she says, they’re gross, like candy chalk. He asks, who’s the one in the hospital bed? and she says he can choose the candy this time. He says she knows how much he loves her, right? She says, of course (🍷) she does, and kisses his cheek, saying she loves him too. She leaves, and he says he loves that kid.

Carly asks Brando where Sonny is, and Brando says, he had to take off after he got a call. She says it will give them a chance to talk. Brando wonders what’s left to say, and she says she always has more say. He says he’s getting that impression, and she tells him, Sonny offering him a garage isn’t a bribe. Maybe a little, but it’s a way of letting Brando know he understands the sacrifice of Brando leaving his life to stay there. Brando says he hasn’t changed his mind, and she asks what the real problem is. He says he doesn’t want to be beholden to Sonny.

Jordan tells Laura, she and Taggert worked on the DEA team to bring down Cyrus. There were four of them, and now two have turned up dead; murdered, and it was made to look like an OD. The attacker got away, and when the ambush failed, Cyrus went after Taggert’s daughter. Everyone is fair game. Laura asks if Jordan thinks Cyrus orchestrated everything from behind bars. Jordan says, he’s got people working on the outside, and Laura says, not if he can’t get in touch with them. Jordan says, the warden won’t move Cyrus to solitary without cause, and Laura says she’ll give him cause.

Trina tells Cameron that they need to stock the vending machines better. She had to go to the cafeteria to get malted milk balls. Cameron says, that matters because… She says her dad asked for them. He’s awake and talking, and promised to stay in Port Charles indefinitely. She and Cameron hug.

Alarms go off in Taggert’s room. Lucas runs in, and Epiphany follows. Everyone watches, holding their collective breath.

Carly says if Brando is afraid to be beholden to Sonny, he has it all wrong. Brando saved her life. If not for him, Donna would be growing up without a mom. If anything, they’re beholden to him. Brando says Donna is beautiful.

Willow tells Sasha, as much as she loves Wiley, it’s too painful. It’s not good for her, and she doesn’t think it’s good for Wiley either. Sasha wants to level with her, and says, after all Willow has done to fight for Wiley to have the best life possible, why stop? He deserves someone as fierce and selfless as Willow in his life. Willow thanks her, but says she can’t. Sasha asks how she knows if she hasn’t tried. Isn’t it important enough to try? Willow has so much love to give children. Anyone can see that; even Charlotte came around. And when Willow thought she was pregnant, it was profound. She doesn’t mean to strongarm Willow… Willow says she does, and Sasha says, okay, she is. Willow says, it’s okay. Sasha is looking out for Michael and Wiley. She’s glad there’s someone in their lives who cares about them.

Lucas comes out, and tells Jordan, he’s sorry. She says, no. He’s told  them Taggert was stabilized. Lucas says they’ll do an autopsy, but it appears there was a blood clot.

Trina tells Cameron that it’s unrealistic to think her dad will make the debate, but he can probably come to her track meet. Cameron says, awesome. They turn the corner, and everyone turns and looks at them. Elizabeth asks Trina if they can talk, and Trina asks, why? What’s wrong? Elizabeth says she’s sorry, but Trina’s dad is gone. Trina asks what she’s talking about; they were taking him to surgery. She asks Lucas to tell her that her dad is going to be okay. Lucas said he’d be okay. Lucas says, sometimes with gunshot wounds, and blood clot is formed quickly, and goes to the brain. They did what they could, and he’s sorry. Trina collapses onto Elizabeth, weeping. Elizabeth holds her.

Jordan goes into Taggert’s room, where Trina sits next to him. She tells Trina that she doesn’t know how much her dad told her, but she had the privilege of working with him a long time ago. Trina says she didn’t know that, and Jordan says, sometimes on a job, you spend a lot of time doing nothing but waiting. Besides football, all he ever talked about was his little girl. He was proud of her. Trina says she was proud of him too, and Jordan says, she should be. He was the best agent she ever worked with.

Jason tells Sonny, when he asked Curtis what he was doing at the warehouse, Curtis said he was helping a friend. He barely knows Taggert. Sonny wonders what the connection is, and Jason says, Jordan. The whole time they were talking, Curtis was looking at her. Sonny says she’s Curtis’s wife, and Jason says, it turns out Jordan and Taggert have a DEA connection. Sonny says he knew Taggert didn’t come to Port Charles on business. Jason says, it was personal reasons. There were two attempts on Taggert’s life in the same day. This vendetta is as personal as it gets, but what if it doesn’t end with Taggert?

Sasha tells Willow, shutting Wiley out may be what she needs right now, but it’s going to hurt people. Not just Michael and Wiley, but her. They all deserve better. Willow says she hears what Sasha is saying, but sorry, she can’t. She jets, and Michael comes in with Wiley. He asks if Willow is gone, and tells Wiley, sorry, buddy, but look on the bright side. Michael brought him downstairs. Sasha asks, what happened with getting Wiley back to sleep? and laughs, saying, she couldn’t resist either. Willow watches them through the window.

Laura and the warden walk to Cyrus’s cell. The warden goes inside, and Laura gets a text saying Taggert died from his wounds. Cyrus tells the warden, he asked not to be disturbed, but the warden says he has a visitor. Laura goes in, and says she doesn’t think they’ve been properly introduced. Cyrus says she’s Laura Collins, the mayor of the great city of Port Charles. She says, correct, and he says she’s looking well after her recent ordeal on the docks. He asks if they ever found the gunman, but she says she doesn’t have the patience for a game of cat and mouse. A friend of hers died tonight. He says he’s so sorry, and Laura says, he was a good man. He was a good cop, and left behind a daughter. Cyrus says, how tragic. She must be devastated. She says he has no idea how she feels.

Carly tells Brando, to be honest, she’s scared. She doesn’t want him to be a target because he risked his life to save her. Is she clear enough? He says, if it’s that important, he guesses he’ll stay. Carly says he’s learned an important lesson. Don’t waste time arguing with her. When she wants something, she gets it. She takes Donna back upstairs, and Brando kind of smiles. I think he has a crush on Carly.

Trina holds Taggert’s hand, and Epiphany comes in. Trina puts the candy box on Taggert’s chest, and walks out. Jordan tells Taggert that she’s going to protect his daughter and make this right. She leaves, and outside, Trina walks past Curtis without saying anything. She tells Elizabeth, when they were kidnapped, their phones were thrown out. She needs to call her mom. Has Elizabeth been able to reach her? Elizabeth says she hasn’t, but in the meantime, Trina can wait at their house for her to call. Franco asks if Cameron is okay, and Cameron says, yeah. He was just thinking… When he thought they were going to lose Franco, Trina was there for him. He couldn’t shake her. She said there was always hope to hang on to, and Franco would come back, and here he is. Trina’s dad is gone, and there is no hope. He’s not coming back. Franco says, now is Cameron’s chance to be there for Trina. Cameron says he will. He just hopes he can be as good a friend as she was to him. Curtis comes by, and Franco shakes his hand. Curtis touches Cameron’s shoulder. Jordan tells Curtis that they’ll talk later. TJ is safe, and she knows what she has to do to keep him that way. Disappear. She’s going to resign.

Laura tells Cyrus that she and the warden were talking, and she persuaded him that part of rehabilitation is the ability to enjoy the solitude of one’s own thoughts. Cyrus says they can’t send him to solitary without cause; it’s a violation of his rights. She says there’s evidence potentially linking him to several violent crimes, the most recent one tonight. They can no longer afford him to have opportunity to contact the outside. He asks how he could possibly do that, and she says, give orders from behind bars? Let her count the ways. His attorney, visitors, other inmates and their attorneys, via code, and cell phones smuggled in. He says, if only she had proof, and she tells him to look around him. He’s in prison, not a court of law. She doesn’t need proof. He says, abuse of power on her part won’t stand. She says, if he doesn’t like it, file a complaint. He says, by the way, about her friend, he is sorry for her loss. She says, no, he’s not, but he will be. Cyrus is taken away.

Tomorrow, Anna asks Finn what he told Jason exactly; Maxie says if she and Peter don’t tell each other everything, there’s no relationship; Julian says Brook is bluffing, and Brook says, try her.

😥 This was not fair. Although it seemed like Taggert was dead at the end of Friday’s episode, the preview hinted that he would live, and so he did. Only to die of a blood clot. They lifted us up, just to bring us down. It was heart wrenching, especially when Trina left the candy with him. I’d already been calculating him into the cast equation. Was this really necessary?

Below Deck Sailing Yacht

Jenna tells Adam about Georgia being slow on turndowns, and acting disrespectful. He says, break her down to a pulp. He would can her ass personally. In Georgia’s interview, she says Jenna talking behind her back is becoming a bit of a pattern. It’s unfortunate she came across as disrespectful, and she’s going to have to watch her back. Adam says it’s good Jenna held her ground.

Some of the guests go to the beach for the campfire picnic. Madison says it would be nice to know where she’s going beforehand. Jenna and Georgia have one job; she has five. Paget takes the guests to the beach, where Madison is waiting. She welcomes them to their private beach. In Georgia’s interview, she says, face to face she thinks she and Madison are on the same team, but she doesn’t know if she can trust Madison at this point.

The beach looks so pretty in the firelight. The guests roast marshmallows, make s’mores and drink wine. One of the dudes says he hates sandy feet and wet kneecaps. I’m wondering why he wants to go to a beach then. After finding out he’s a 34, Georgia tells Paget that she doesn’t think he’s fat; he’s the manliest man on the boat. He jokes that she always upsets him, so he’s going. He leaves to bring the guests back. Jenna asks how the beach was, and all of the guests are happy. Ciara tells Paget that she’ll clean up, and he can go to bed. In her interview, she says they’ve been bickering a lot, and she doesn’t want to deal with it. There’s not that much stuff on the beach, so she can do it on her own. When she was little, her nickname was, I Do It. She just wants some space right now.

Jenna cleans up, and Georgia tells Madison that she hates to be the bearer of bad news, but the laundry isn’t finished. In Madison’s interview, she says, laundry is Georgia’s job. Either she’s bad at it, or Jenna is bad at giving instructions. This mystery needs to be solved. Madison is finally in bed at 4:30 am, saying, it’s been a long day. Some of the crew are getting up, and I once again despise the sound of their alarm clock, since it sounds like mine. I want to smash it.

Parker tries putting new covers on the tender cushions. Jenna asks how the guests slept, and tells them breakfast will be between 9 and 10. In Georgia’s interview, she says the laundry hasn’t been completed, and she has enough problems with Jenna. She doesn’t want to lose her job on the premise of someone else’s mistake. In Adam’s interview, he says he’s enjoying the flirtatious banter with Jenna, but he knows how quickly and easily he can be infatuated. We flash back to one of those infatuations, and he says, if it goes belly-up, it could be a disaster. He asks Jenna if it’s warm in there.

Breakfast is served. Jenna says, there are pastries galore (and there are!), and guest Adam says he’s going to need a major diet after this. Paget tells Parker that he needs to change into his polo shirt while they’re sailing. He doesn’t want Parker to look bad in front of the guests. In Parker’s interview, he doesn’t think the guests care if he’s wearing a polo shirt or T-shirt. They just care what they’re getting for breakfast. Georgia whines that Madison didn’t help her with laundry last night, and Madison says she understands what it’s like, and it’s frustrating. She’s doing the best she can, but even though she’s the middle person, Georgia needs to watch how she speaks to her.

Parker suggests to Parker that they wear ascots. Jenna tells the guests that Paget is going to take them cliff jumping, and Captain Glenn plans on doing some sailing later. Along with Ciara, Paget takes the guests on the tender to a beautiful little island with an old lighthouse on it. Georgia tells Jenna that she can get the cabins done, but has to do it uninterrupted, and in her interview, she says she doesn’t care who gets the gold star, she just wants to get through the day with no complaints. Jenna isn’t trustworthy. Byron asks what Jenna is bitching about. Jenna says she wasn’t bitching, and he jokes that he saw her lips moving.

The guests come back, and guest Adam says, it was solid. Captain Glenn notes the wind is 22 knots, more than was forecast. In the captain’s interview, he says he has to be cognizant of the guests’ safety, especially with a baby. As captain, he’s always a little worried, but they should be fine. Fingers crossed. The sails go up, and in Paget’s interview, he says, once the sails go up, they’re in the hands of the gods, so to speak. They sail a while, the guests marvel at how big the sails are, and anchor is dropped. In Parker’s interview, he says, there are endless things to learn, and he wants to learn them all. He’s a visual learner. Lunch is served, and primary Sylvia asks Captain Glenn to join them for dinner. She tells him that he has a great life. In his interview, the captain says, in the yachting industry, it’s hard to be in a relationship. He’s fine with it, and not having a partner to do things with doesn’t stop him from doing anything. The crew eats, and when Ciara sits down, Parker tells her that Paget wants one of them on deck. If she wants, he’ll go. In Ciara’s interview, she wonders why Parker is telling her what her boyfriend wants her to do. If Paget wants her to do something, he’ll tell her. Parker says, it’s a precaution to always have a person on deck. She gets up, and heads upstairs, saying, he’s the boss.

In her interview, Ciara says she’s pissed. She’s Paget’s number two. She doesn’t take orders from a deckhand. Adam flirts with Jenna in front of Madison. Ciara tells Parker that they have to put the covers on the tender cushions, and he says he did that already. She checks the tender, and says, they’re still wet. She wants to wring them out, and put them in the dryer, so they’re fresh. In Parker’s interview, he says he knows he’s green, but he knows what she’s talking about, Ciara thinks because she’s Paget’s girlfriend, she can boss him around. The guests see a little shore town, and ask if they can go inland for a drink. Paget tells Georgia that he loves hearing her voice; it’s sensual. In Georgia’s interview, she says she dates emotional unhealthy guys, and likely psychopaths that will leave her for her best friend.

Ciara asks Paget if they can talk. She’s pissed that Parker is telling her what to do and how to do it. And he doesn’t listen. The guests prepare to leave. Paget tells Parker to take Ciara’s lead. Parker says he and Ciara were eating at the same time. Paget says he wants one of them on deck. Parker says he was just telling her what Paget said, and asks if she thinks that’s undermining her. Ciara says, don’t tell her what to do; just tell her what he’s doing. Ciara asks Jenna to stall, while she puts the covers back on. Paget tells Parker that speaking directly to other people about what he wants them to do gets their back up. They’re adults, and have to work together and be a team. Parker says they’re on the same page; he’s not disagreeing. In Parker’s interview, he says, working for a couple, he can’t win. He did everything that was asked, and he’s still the one getting scolded. He tells Paget that Ciara put the covers back in the dryer when he said not to, and Ciara tells Paget, they were soaking wet.

The guests get on the tender with baby Angelica. In the crew mess, Parker asks if he can have some club soda, and Jenna says it didn’t come with the last provisions, and she needs to make sure they have it for the guests. Parker points out that Byron has one, and Jenna says Parker’s attitude is heavy. If he wants something, put it on the list. He adds it on the dry-erase board, and says he’s not trying to piss her off; he just wanted a club soda. Jenna says, if she tells him, no, let that be the end of it. His commentary puts people off. She says she’ll give him an example, but he says, that’s okay, and jets. Adam says, clearly, it went in one ear and out the other.

Paget picks up the guests, Adam makes dinner, and the table is set. Madison starts turndowns before dinner, and Jenna isn’t happy. In Jenna’s interview, she says they don’t start until the guests sit down to dinner. You need to be a magical fairy, who cleans the rooms, but the guests never see. In his interview, Captain Glenn says, dressing up for a fancy dinner is not his forte. He’s more of a burger, ribs, and pizza kind of guy. Jenna tells Madison that she should have waited, but Madison says there were no guests there. The captain says, wish him luck, and joins the guests for dinner. Madison goes to help with turndowns, and Georgia tells Madison that she should have waited until the guests were sitting down to dinner. Madison tells her, no one was there, and Georgia snarks that Madison is the boss. Madison says, no, she’s not; she’s trying to be proactive. Jenna radios for Madison to be on service. In Madison’s interview, she says, if you want respect, don’t flirt with the chef when you should be working. Jenna asks Ciara for help with service.

Captain Glenn tells Sylvia that he bought a sailboat in ’92. In his interview, he says he feels awkward, but he has to do his best to keep it going. It might be a nice rapport, but he doesn’t like being the center of attention. It makes him feel self-conscious. Dinner is served, Mmm… yellowtail… seared… Captain Glenn says he loves Adam’s food, and the guests agree. They discuss cooking, and Angelica cries. Jenna tells Adam that she likes the way he’s spreading the strawberries on the dessert, and he says he’s good at spreading things out. Jenna says, they’ll see, and in Madison’s interview, she says something like, errggh. Sylvia toasts to a great trip, and Angelica.

The captain says he’ll see them in the morning, and everyone goes to bed. If I was shelling out the kind of money it takes to go on a trip like this, I’d be up 24/however many days the trip was. Jenna tells Adam, it’s a calm charter, and Madison tells Georgia to go to bed; she’ll finish. Georgia says she needs to be up to make sure the laundry is done, and Madison asks if that’s a jab at her. Georgia tells her, stop making drama, but Madison says she’s not. Don’t say she has to get the job done as a jab at her. Jenna tells Adam that she’s going to bed, and he massages her shoulders. Madison tells Georgia, just let her know where the laundry is at. Georgia tells Madison that she started the drying cycle, and wrote down what’s needed. She goes to bed, and Madison mumbles they’ll have to work on that. Captain Glenn asks Georgia if everything is okay, and she says, it’s always good.

In the morning, there’s a glorious sunrise. Georgia sees that she finally got some help, and says, thank God. She did it. Paget’s hair is slicked back, and she tells him, she likes his wet look. Breakfast is served. Mmm… eggs benedict… with a crab cake underneath… The captain tells the crew, ETA, five minutes. In Paget’s interview, he says he and Parker have been butting heads the whole charter, and the last docking was a disaster. One screw up can cost tens of thousands of dollars in damage. They dock uneventfully.

The guests say goodbye. Sylvia says Captain Glenn is their favorite captain. They did a great job; the crew kept their rooms up, and the food was amazing. She gives him a fat envelope, the captain blows the horn, and everyone waves goodbye. Adam says they nailed it. The crew cleans up the boat, and Captain Glenn calls for a charter debrief. He says he thinks it was another great charter. The tip is $14,000 or $1550 each. In Paget’s interview, he says, the tip is the icing on the cake. Knowing the guests had a great time is what counts. Ha-ha-ha! I’m so sure I believe that. Captain Glenn says they’re on a roll, but he’s starting to see a grinding of the gears. It’s a lot of pressure, and they’re working long hours in small spaces. In his interview, he says the crew is starting to get on each other’s nerves. It’s like running a floating foster home. He needs to alleviate the tension before it blows up.

In Jenna’s interview, she says she’s excited to go out. She’s getting along great with Adam, but since the hot tub debacle, she’s going to let him make the first move. She tells him, she can’t wait to get out of there. The crew gets ready to go out. In Madison’s interview, she says she and Georgia are like sisters, but more like bro’s. They’re ready to kill each other, and the next moment, they’re bro’ing out. The crew goes to shore.

Why do so many cafés and bars have swings? Do people bring kids? I don’t think the option of a swing is a great choice where people are drinking. They eat at a table right next to the water. In Ciara’s interview, she says she hasn’t connected that well with the other girls. When she was younger, they moved a lot, and  there wasn’t much of a chance to make friends. She’s very self-sufficient, but it’s lonely at times. After dinner, the crew moves on to a bar. Ciara doesn’t feel like drinking, but Jenna wildly swings her ponytail in a way that might be some kind of mating ritual. Paget asks if Ciara is going to be wiggling her butt, but she’s not having it. Adam and Jenna flirt, and in Madison’s interview, she says, she’s an awkward flirt. If she’s awkward and weird, she’s flirting, but Parker hasn’t noticed. He probably thinks she’s having a seizure or something. In Ciara’s interview, she says all she needs is a little alone time with Paget. Ciara tells Paget that she doesn’t want to be there; she’s tired. He asks if she’s crying, but she says she doesn’t want to talk. She’s not having fun, and just wants to sleep.

Ciara puts her head in her hands, and Paget walks away. Madison wiggles around next to Ciara, and Ciara asks what she’s doing, and laughs. Madison says Ciara isn’t going to cry; she’s going to laugh. She puts her boobs in Ciara’s face. In Madison’s interview, she says she wants everyone to be happy if it kills her. The crew goes back to the boat. In Parker’s interview, he says he’s aware that Madison might have a crush on him, but falling in love takes a very long time for Parker (he literally talks about himself in the third person). Adam and Jenna sit in captain’s chair, and curl up together. Adam says, it’s the best seat in the house. He likes her; she makes him laugh. She makes his day easier. She says she could tell he liked her, and he says, it’s not every day he’s attracted to his chief stew. She says, sh*t happens. Why question it? They kiss. In Adam’s interview, he says, the texual shension [sic] is high. Jenna says she really likes him, and Adam asks if she wants to go on a road trip. She says, yeah, and in her interview, Jenna says she can’t think of a better night. Adam says, round two, and they go to bed. Separately; not with each other.

Adam comes up behind Jenna while she makes juice, and they hug. Georgia sings as she does the laundry. There seems to be something about doing laundry on boats that inspires song. It happens a lot. Captain Glenn tells Madison that he’s going off the boat, and she tells him to enjoy his time. He leaves for who-knows-where. Ciara looks out, and notices the boat is hitting the dock. She calls for Paget, and then Byron, but no one is around. The boat continues to scrape the dock, and she runs through the boat, looking for anyone. She says she doesn’t know where he f*** anyone is.

Next time, Adam wants to take it slow, the guests are chest bumping Long Island dudes (looks promising!), Captain Glenn says hitting the dock is a big deal, and Madison says it’s absolute insanity on the boat.

🕶 Remember Her…?

No reason you should. I didn’t. I think she’s the one with the eating disorder.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/rhony-jules-wainstein-arrested-battery?cid=soc_tw_Bravo_Dish

I think they mean she kicked his window. Or she’s got a whole other disorder.

https://pagesix.com/2020/02/24/former-rhony-star-jules-wainstein-arrested-for-battery-in-florida/

🛒 Say It Ain’t So About Joe…

Mourning the passing of the founder of the greatest grocery store ever. Hopefully, it loses none of its integrity without him.

https://www.grubstreet.com/2020/03/trader-joes-founder-joe-coulombe-passes-away-at-89.html

🦨 When It’s Already a Long Week On Monday…

The struggle is real.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjdf_w1JcSQ

October 2, 2019 – Two Party Fails, Conclusions In Mexico & Morning Beatles

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Nina tells Valentin that she just needs him for a few minutes before he goes out with the boys. He says, with the exception of Peter, he and the boys can’t stand each other. He’d rather stay there with her. He would go to great length’s to avoid this stupid ritual. Nina tells him not to tempt fate. Besides, Peter and Maxie went to so much trouble to put everything together, they don’t want to disappoint. Valentin says, then they won’t.

On the phone, Maxie says, timing is everything. Tell her they understand. She thanks them, and hangs up. Peter walks in and says he hopes Nina appreciates all the work she’s been doing. She says it’s no trouble, and her sister-in-law deserves the very best. She asks what about his plans for Valentin? and he tells her that he’ll never be the event planner extraordinaire that she is. She says, no, he won’t; she’s amazing. He agrees, and says, the hardest part was filling out the guest list. How do you throw a bachelor party for someone who has no friends?

Michael arrives at The Floating Rib, and orders a beer. Curtis comes in next, and says him too. He says, let him guess. Peter called in a favor. Michael says he’s doing it for Sasha. And him? Curtis is doing it for Nina. Finn joins them, and orders club soda. At one of the tables, Willow asks Chase, what is it? He says he thinks his brother might be going golfing. She asks if he wants to say hello, but he says tonight is all about her.

Laura sits with Lulu in the café, and Doc comes in, apologizing for being late. Laura says, perfect timing, and Lulu says she’s on her way to Nina’s bachelorette party. Laura says, at least Maxie will be there. Lulu says if Maxie hadn’t twisted her arm, she’d be home in fuzzy socks watching old movies. Nina is going to be Charlotte’s stepmother, so she’s going to get out there and celebrate. Laura says, if it’s any comfort, she and Doc will be watching Charlotte at Windymere tonight. Doc says, really? Lulu wonders why they’re not watching Charlotte at her place, and Doc says, that’s a good question.

Charlotte asks Nina if she can go to the party, and Obrecht says she tried explaining it’s for grown-ups. Charlotte says she is grown up. See? She shows Nina the earrings she’s wearing, and Nina asks if Charlotte has been in her jewelry box again. Charlotte says she wanted the right accessories for the party. Nina wishes Charlotte could go, but not only is it a grown-up party, they agreed she was going to get rest tonight, so she can perform her duties at the wedding. Charlotte thinks she can do both, but if she can’t go, can she keep wearing Nina’s necklace? She promises she didn’t break it. Nina says, it’s not broken; just incomplete. The other half belongs to her daughter. Sasha comes in, and everyone looks at her. She says, what?

Sasha asks if something is wrong, but Valentin says, everything is very right. Obrecht says all is right in her mother’s world tonight. In no small part because of Sasha. Nina says, it’s because of everyone in the room; her once and future husband, her loving aunt, and her two sweet, loving girls. How lucky can one bride get? Charlotte asks if Sasha has the other half of the heart necklace, and Sasha says, no. Charlotte thought Nina said her daughter had it, but Nina tells her that she said it belongs to her daughter. Her mother had told her that her daughter had the other half, but for some reason, Sasha never received it. Valentin says they might never know what happened to it. Nina says they don’t need it. All she needs are her girls.

Maxie says, transportation, and Peter says, check. Entertainment. Check. Food and beverage. Check, and he knows Finn doesn’t touch the hard stuff. She says it sounds like he has everything covered. He says he thinks he does, and she says, including his search? He’s puzzled, and she says the search he needed all the cash for; finding his perfect apartment. He says he hasn’t found anything that speaks to him yet. She says, good, because she’s been thinking. He wonders if he should be worried, and Maxie says, no. It’s a normal thought. Not a let’s infiltrate a government installation thought. She doesn’t think the lofts are the right place for her, James, and Georgie. They’re too mass market trendy, and they’re more boutiquey. Peter says he was thinking the same thing, but not in those words. More like, it’s not the right fit. She says, good. She thought he had his heart set on it. He says, no worries. He’ll start a new search after the wedding. She says maybe they can look together.

Michael asks how Finn got roped in, and Curtis says, Valentin’s best man is… Michael says, Peter, and Finn says, exactly. Peter is his future stepson. Not what he pictured. Curtis asks what he pictured in a stepfamily, and Finn says, a puppy, maybe a goldfish. As much as he wanted to, he couldn’t say no. Curtis says, hanging out with Valentin isn’t his idea of fun, but he’s there for Nina. Finn asks Michael if he’s okay, and Michael says more than okay. He has a new baby sister, Donna, named after a great and gracious lady. Curtis says, to Donna Corinthos, and they clink glasses. Finn is happy for Michael. He had a scare with Sasha, and deserves some happiness. Michael says thanks to Finn, Sasha made a full recovery. Cheers to that. They clink glasses again. Curtis says Nina was terrified she was going to lose her daughter. Michael says, if there’s anything he can do to repay Finn, let him know. Finn says maybe he could explain why otherwise reasonably intelligent people spend hours hitting a little ball into a little hole on a green lawn. Curtis says Finn is the only doctor he’s ever met who doesn’t like golf. Chet asks if they’re at the Rib for karaoke, but Michael says they’re here to celebrate the marriage of a man they dislike to a woman who deserves better. Chet says they get a lot of those.

Chase says it must have been hard for Willow to tell her mom about Shiloh. Willow says she had a lot of feelings about it, but it was mostly relief. Chase says now she can get on with the rest of her life, which brings him to the surprise he has for her. He asks if she’s ready, and she says, go on; surprise her. He says the surprise isn’t happening here. He gets up, holds out his hand, and leads her out.

Laura tells Doc, no matter what she thinks of Charlotte’s father, Charlotte loves Sasha and Nina, and she’s excited about the wedding. She wants to take part in everything, from the breakfast to the reception. Lulu says her daughter is a born romantic. Doc wonders where she gets it from, and Laura says, maybe it’s a family trait. Laura asks if Lulu doesn’t have party to get to. Lulu says she’s just going to focus on the activity, and forget the reason for it. Doc says, that’s the spirit. Lulu leaves, and Doc says, okay. Tell him the real reason they’re looking after Charlotte at Windymere.

Nina asks if Sasha is feeling all right. Maybe they should play it safe, and stay home. Sasha says she’s just overwhelmed. Weddings make her emotional. Nina says she doesn’t want to push it so soon. Obrecht reminds them that she’s a doctor, and she’ll be at Sasha’s side all evening, just in case. There’s nothing to worry about. Sasha says she feels perfectly fine. Nothing is going to spoil this night for Nina. Obrecht smiles, but Valentin looks grim.

Maxie suggests she and Peter find a place big enough for all of them together. Peter doesn’t say anything, and she says maybe she spoke too soon. Forget she mentioned it. He says he loves the idea of finding a place for all of them. It’s just… She says, don’t tell her he doesn’t deserve it. She sees a man who’s completely turned his life around. It was no accident that he was on the pier when Wiley and Dev needed him. He was meant to be a hero. She tells him, now go. Have a good time, but not too good. The Crimson phone rings as Peter leaves.

Doc says, this has something to do with Spencer, doesn’t it? and Laura asks how he knew. He says Valentin, Windymere, what else would it be? She says she’s worried that Spencer found a way to go after Valentin without putting himself directly in harm’s way. Doc says, is he astral projecting? Laura asks if she can tell hm on the way over. He says he can’t wait, and remember, he has her back.

Lulu finds Maxie, and says she doesn’t want be late, since she’s hosting. Maxie says she’s not working. She’s looking for a place, a place for her and Peter, as in our place. Maxie expects a protest, but Lulu says, that’s wonderful. Is she ready to go? Maxie says, before she forgets, is Lulu inviting Dustin as her plus one? Lulu says she and Dustin aren’t even a thing, and Maxie tells her, that’s what she said about Peter.

Peter thanks everyone for showing up. He knows Finn is there for his mom, and says he owes Finn one. Finn says they’ll see how much by the end of the night. Curtis hates to be a mood buster, but isn’t Peter forgetting something? Peter says he triple-checked the list, but Curtis says, where’s the guest of honor? Michael wonders how they can have a bachelor party with no bachelor.

Valentin tells Nina to have the best bachelorette party. Nina says her mom thought they were declassee, now she’s having one. He tells her to have one to shame her mother for all eternity. She likes the way he thinks. Apparently, one of the writers really likes that phrase. He says he’ll try to shame her mother also. They kiss goodbye, and Obrecht tells Sasha, it’s enough to give you hope for the rest of them. The doorbell rings, and Charlotte answers, greeting Doc as step-grandpa in German. Obrecht says, something she taught Charlotte. Laura loves Charlotte’s jewelry. It’s so sophisticated. Charlotte says Nina let her borrow it. Nina thanks them for coming, and Laura says, this is where Charlotte wants to wake up. Obrecht hustles them out, and Charlotte asks if Laura wants to hear a story about the necklace. Laura says she does, but thinks it would also be fun to play games.  Charlotte asks if she plays. She and her papa play all the time. Doc says, it’s a game of strategy. Who better to teach her? Laura says she was thinking of something more fun, like hide and seek.

Charlotte thinks hide and seek is a great idea. They play it in the garden, but it’s getting dark soon. Laura says, it’s a big house with so many rooms. Charlotte probably has a favorite hiding place. Charlotte says she likes the trophy room. She loves talking to the animals, even though they’re just heads on the wall. Laura thinks they’re fierce looking, but Charlotte says some of them are sad. She tries to get the fierce ones make the sad ones less sad. She thinks the animals are happier now that papa removed his wicked stepmother, Helena Sophia Angela Cassadine. She walks over to the covered painting, and Doc uncovers it.

At the Rib, Valentin knows they probably have places they’d prefer to be, and they’re only there because Peter asked them, but he appreciates the effort, despite their differences. Peter says there’s a car waiting to take them to the club. Their first tee awaits. He goes to the bar, and Chet asks how Maxie is. Peter says she’s good, and Chet says they go way back. Her happiness means a lot to him. Peter says, to him too. Valentin tells Curtis that Jax is awfully forgiving. He noticed they were getting along today, which is odd since Jax fired Curtis. Curtis says it’s like Valentin said. They should all be able to get along despite their difference. Look at Valentin and Nina. Valentin says they had a rocky start, but they found their way to their happy ending. Curtis says, good to hear… for Nina’s sake. Valentin says nothing is going to come between Nina and the happiness she deserves. When he’s gone, Curtis says, yeah, right.

At the spa, Obrecht says no one does it better than the Swiss. Nina says it’s pure indulgence; just what she needs. Maxie says, just wait. After this, she’s having a party bus take them to Le Chant du Claire (or something like that). Nina is thrilled. She thanks Maxie, and thanks the magnificent women who came. She can’t imagine life without them. A woman comes in, and Maxie says Astrid if there to grant their every wish. Astrid says there’s a slight problem. Maxie says she called ahead to make sure there were no problems. Astrid says they have a new reservation system, and it accidentally double-booked the spa. Maxie starts to get angry and loud, and Astrid says the champagne and refreshments are on the house, and their spa package will be ready in an hour. Maxie says if they take an extra hour, they’ll miss their reservation. She suggests the take a relaxing steam, and the other people can wait. Astrid says the steam room is already occupied. Maxie suggests they unoccupy it, but Astrid says she can’t do that. Nina says she will.

Nina goes into the steam room, and says they’ve double-booked. The people there have to leave. The steam clears, and she sees it’s Willow and Chase.

Charlotte says Helena reminds her of the wicked queen in Snow White. She’s smiling, but you can tell her heart is cold and cruel. Doc says Charlotte is perceptive. Some people would be misled by the superficial, but she sees underneath. Laura says, it’s just a painting. It can’t hurt her. A thunderstorm begins, and Laura suggests Charlotte put her jammies on, and she’ll come up to help with homework. Charlotte says she has a book report due tomorrow, and asks if Laura will read it before she has to turn it in. Laura says she’d love to. I’m confused. What happened to hide and seek, and how is Charlotte turning in a book report if she’s at the wedding? Charlotte goes to change, and Doc says he gives Laura’s granddaughter credit. She knows a wicked queen when she sees one. Laura says the painting was a bequest to Nikolas. Helena said something about it being a reminder that they’ll never be finished, or they had unfinished business. Doc says, one good thing about that. If Helena hadn’t sent Laura on a scavenger hunt, they might not be together. She says, it’s beyond ironic; Helena getting them together. She’s never been happier. Doc says Helena is spinning in her grave. Laura feels terrible about Charlotte being frightened by the painting. Helena has been dead for years. Still… Doc asks if she’s okay, and she says she was just wondering if the unfinished business Helena referred to was passed from father to son.

The guys go back to the Rib. Peter says the forecast said clear. He can’t believe their game was cut short by a cloudburst. Valentin says, Peter is as relieved as he is. Valentin tells Michael that he’s glad see him and Sasha back on track. Michael says he thought Valentin would want Sasha to leave as soon as the wedding was over. Valentin says he thought wrong. What makes Nina happy makes him happy. That’s why he was concerned about Sasha and Michael’s misunderstanding. What was that all about?

Sasha looks out at the rain. Maxie says she planned this excursion down to the last detail, and it’s all falling apart. Obrecht asks if Astrid is Swiss, and Astrid says, Norwegian. and Obrecht says, close enough. She says something sternly to Astrid in German, and Astrid beats it out of there. Maxie says, what she said.

Nina says Willow and Chase are ruining her spa night, and Willow says Nina is ruining her spa night. Nina says the steam room was booked for her bachelorette party. Willow says, that’s right. She and Valentin are finally tying the knot again. Good luck. Nina says she’s not leaving, Willow is leaving. Chase says he booked the spa for the night, and they’re staying. Maxie walks in, and says she booked the spa, and they’re leaving. Chase says, it’s a private celebration, and Nina says she already told them it’s her bachelorette party. Maxie says so they understand. Whatever little occasion they’re celebrating, a bachelorette party trumps it. Willow says, Shiloh is finally dead; the man who kidnapped her child from his adoptive parents. Maxie tells Nina they need to get out of there, or they’ll lose their reservation. Nina says nothing and no one is ruining her night, and tells Willow and Chase, have a it. By the way, Charlotte loves her new teacher.

Michael tells Valentin, what happens between him and Sasha… Valentin says, is none of his business. He didn’t mean to pry. Michael doubts that, and Valentin says Michael is right. He did, but that’s what one says when one gets caught. Michael says, not if you’re being honest. He tells Michael that if Nina is ever made to suffer by something her daughter does, no matter how noble, he’ll hold Sasha personally responsible. Michael says Valentin is very protective of the ones he loves, and Valentin says, fiercely. Michael says they have that in common. His family is like that, especially his father. It’s good to know they’re on the same page.

The girls troop into the Rib. Maxie tells Peter, all her plans went down the drain, literally. The spa was double-booked, the party bus broke down, and they look like drowned rats. Peter says she always looks beautiful, and she says, a beautiful drowned rat. Sasha tells Michael, it was a complete disaster. Michael says maybe he can brighten her evening with some good news. He has a brand new baby sister – Donna. She hugs him, and says she’s happy for him. Valentin asks if Nina is okay, and she says, now she is. Her night took a turn for the better. Everything that could possibly go wrong, went spectacularly wrong. She had a close encounter in the steam room with Willow. She needs a drink. Sasha asks Michael if she’s mentioned how much she hates keeping the lie going. Michael says it’s a necessary evil to put Cassandra away. Sasha says she doesn’t want Cassandra to slide because she wants to be honest, and Michael tells her, Valentin knows he knows.

Doc asks if Laura still thinks Spencer had something to do with it, and she says she does. The way Hayden dodged her questions, he may have orchestrated the whole thing. What she wants to know, is where he got the idea there was a codicil at all. And if there is, where is it? Doc says, which brings them to now. Charlotte’s book report awaits. The sooner Laura gets finished reading it, the sooner they can get looking.

Nina is sure hanging out with the groom is breaking every convention, but it works for her. Maxie tells Lulu, at least the bride and groom are enjoying themselves. Lulu excuses herself, saying there’s only so much of Valentin’s joy she can stomach.

Obrecht ask Finn how he’s enjoying the return of his faithless emorata. She almost feels sorry for Anna. Has Finn informed her that Hayden returned? Finn says even a favor from Peter isn’t worth a conversation with her.

Michael asks if Sasha is okay, and Sasha tells him to look at Nina. The happier Nina gets, the worse she feels. She goes to the bathroom, and Obrecht watches.

Maxie asks Peter, what’s wrong? What does he see? He says, everyone is having a good time. She says, exactly. Despite a tsunami of disasters, they pulled it off. They’re a great team. Peter says, and they’re just getting better. They kiss.

Curtis tells Finn, maybe he’s a sucker for romance, but if Nina loves Valentin, he can’t be all that bad. Finn says, really. Curtis says, who’d have thought between the two of them, he’d be the sentimental one. Finn guesses he misses Anna.

Obrecht tells Michael to stop eye-stalking the lavatory. He says he’s worried about Sasha, and Obrecht says she’ll check on her.

Chet says, karaoke is open. Stardom awaits. Nina tells Valentin he can still salvage the bachelorette party. He thought it was already salvaged, but she says he must have a little karaoke somewhere in him. He says, no, and she says, please? Or does he only sing at the Nurses Ball? He says he only sings looking at her. Consider it an early wedding gift.

Doc takes a photo of the painting. Laura says she looked around the trophy room, but she didn’t see anything. Doc says, that’s okay. He did.

Willow tells Chase, just when she thinks she’ll never have to deal with Nina again, she walks in. She walked in like she owned the place, then had to throw it in Willow’s face that her daughter has a teacher she likes. How is she supposed to respond to that? Chase asks what Nina did next, and Willow says, she didn’t do anything; she left. Chase says, she’s gone; let her go. Relax and be there with him. She likes the sound of that (and probably the way he thinks), and they kiss. Chase says, where were they? and their towels drop to the floor. Really? Do they steam clean the steam room after every usage? Not only does it sound uncomfortable, it’s kind of gross.

Valentin says this is for his bride-to-be, and everyone applauds. He sings, and I have no clue what this song is, but it sounds like the title might be You’re Lovely, My Dear. The really amazing part is, there are no lyrics being shown to him and he remembers everything. Not like real karaoke, where you could be singing Happy Birthday, and still have to be glued to the lyrics. Curtis texts Laura, how goes the search? Little hearts float through the air between Nina and Valentin, as he sings to her. He takes her hand after the final chorus, and everyone applauds again. They kiss.

Obrecht gives Sasha a tissue, and tells her, use it. Sasha thanks her, and Obrecht tells her, dry her eyes, straighten her back, put on the pretense of a smile, and get back out there. Sasha says she doesn’t know how much longer she can keep this up. Obrecht says she made the choice – they both did. They chose to protect Nina, and make her happy. Nina must never find out that Sasha isn’t really her daughter. Inside one of the stalls, Lulu hears.

Tomorrow, Lulu tells Dustin that she found out someone’s being lied to, Obrecht says they’re both in too deep to get out, Michael tells Ava about the baby, and Carly asks if the baby is okay after surgery.

The Real Housewives of Dallas

Careyes, Mexico; Day 3. Brandi says it was the most fun ever last night. D’Andra says she can’t do anything today. Her head hurts so bad.

LeeAnne and Kameron meet outside, and sip orange juice. Kameron says she felt disgusted when she went to sleep last night.

Kary asks if Brandi is ready for today. They wonder where everyone else is. D’Andra joins them. In her interview, she says she feels like she was hit by a Mack truck. (Why is it never a Ford or a Chevy Trailblazer?) She has the worst hangover. Worse than anything she had in college or in the Bush administration. Kameron tells LeeAnne that she didn’t want to room with Stephanie last night, but thought she’d just start more drama if she left. She doesn’t know if Stephanie even slept there. In Stephanie’s interview, she says she woke up extra overwhelmed, and poured her heart out to Kary. When Kameron called Brandi trash, she felt like she was called trash too. Then Kameron implied she wasn’t being a good friend. D’Andra says, the last she remembers, a napkin was flying in the air.

Kameron tells LeeAnne, she thought everything was fine, but when she talked about her feelings, she got her head chopped off. We flash back to the altercation between Kameron and Brandi. Kameron asks if they can’t talk about mature things, or should they just be fake? She’s insecure about the group, and at dinner, Brandi was getting in her face. In Kameron’s interview, she says her using the clique word was no excuse to throw the eff word in her face. LeeAnne says, when she was with the carnival, they would go to a restaurant, and people would stare at them and talk about them until they left. Manners, class, and trash are Brandi’s trigger words. She has a problem feeling good enough, so when you describe her in words that aren’t good enough, she loses it. Kameron says, Brandi’s behavior was trashy. It was the first word that came to mind.

Brandi tells D’Andra and Kary, that Kameron has a double-standard. She doesn’t see her own faults. In Stephanie’s interview, she says, even if Brandi lived in a trash can, don’t call her trash. It’s rude. Oh my Lord. I can think of about a billion worse things to be called, and since when are any of them Miss Manners? Maybe Kameron. A little.

Kary says they’re having a beach day. They’re going to have lunch, and clay mask treatments. They get in a limo bus, and D’Andra say she forgot to bring a plastic bag. Kameron says she heard Stephanie leave last night, and wondered where she went. She thought Stephanie slept outside. Stephanie says she woke up at 7:30. Kary says they’ve got to do lot of tequila shots, and D’Andra says, God help her. They go to a beach called Playa Rosa. Kary is sad that it’s almost over, but they’re going to have a good time today. They clink glasses. In Kary’s interview, she says she’s going to get them to have fun, and no negativity. These have been trying days, with them pushing each other’s buttons. You never know what you’re going to get. Kary asks, who wants to go to the sweat lodge?

Shaman Antonio and shaman Debbie greet Kary, D’Andra, and Stephanie them at the lodge, which is a hollowed out clay mound. Debbie explains they’ll do chanting, and going to be leaving behind what they don’t want anymore, like their toxins. She says, the lodge is like the Mother Earth’s womb. In Stephanie’s interview, she’s concerned they’re Hansel and Gretel, and Debbie is going to try and eat them. Debbie smudges them with sage or whatever, and they put mud all over themselves. Debbie tells them to ask the spirits’ permission to come in, and walk to the left. Well, more like crawl. The ceiling is pretty low. Debbie says they go into the womb to be reborn and refreshed. She tells them to talk about whatever comes from heart; why they’re grateful. D’Andra says she just hit a turning point; she just turned fifty. She’d like better relationships with her girlfriends, husband, and mother. She wants to do more with her life. She’s grateful for her friend. Stephanie says she’s just searching right now, and wants to release a little bit. She gets weepy, and in her interview, she says she’s been depressed, and wants to release the shame of being back on antidepressants. She wants to reclaim her life.

Kary is thankful for new friendships, her kids, and their health. She wants to be a better mom. She’s the mother of a teenager, and sometimes forgets to really listen. In her interview, she says, after the divorce, they split time with the kids 50/50. She missed out on all the time when they were little. Sometimes she struggles to connect with them, and wants to let them know how much she loves them. They’re the most important thing in her life. Chanting happens, and Debbie tells them to thank the spirits that are there sharing with them. Antonio bands a drum, and Debbie pours water on the rocks to make steam. There’s more chanting.

On the beach, Kameron says, it sounds wondaful, and Brandi says, peaceful. Kameron asks how late they stayed up. LeeAnne says she slept like a baby. Kameron says she couldn’t sleep at all, and Brandi says she couldn’t either. Because of them. Kameron agrees, and says she felt bad for what she said. She felt icky. Brandi asks if she wants to talk away from LeeAnne, so there isn’t another voice. Kameron asks LeeAnne to babysit her hat, and LeeAnne says she’s getting used to this.

Brandi tells Kameron that she’s not trying to fight. In the moment, she was pissed off, and threw the napkin. Brandi says Kameron called her trash, and Kameron says Brandi was going, eff, eff, eff in Kameron’s face with her finger. She was getting close, and it felt like Brandi was coming at her, so in defense, she threw the napkin to give her time to get out of her chair and run. Brandi understands Kameron felt attacked, and Kameron says Brandi was intense. That’s never happened to her before. She’s never been in a situation like that. Kameron cries, and says she feels like an icky person. She wonders why she’s hanging out with this group when she’s attacked like that. LeeAnne approaches them, and Brandi says she and Kameron are trying to talk. LeeAnne says she’ll let them finish their conversation, although she tried to have one with Kary last night, and they made her stay at the table. She thinks they should not try to make each other cry. Brandi says she’s not trying to make Kameron cry. She pulled Kameron aside so no one else was chiming in. That’s how this all happened in the first place. LeeAnne says, let her finish. She wants to let Brandi know that Kameron feels bad about this. Brandi says she can see Kameron crying. She knows, and they’re sorting it out. Kameron says everyone thinks she’s always running off to LeeAnne, but she wants to have relationships with everyone. From her beach chair, LeeAnne says, this is childish and stupid. Brandi says she woke up thinking Kameron thinks she’s trash. Kameron says she apologized. What else can she do? Brandi says don’t call her that again. Kameron says she wondered what was wrong when Brandi came at her face. Brandi says when she was young, they lived in a trailer, and no one wanted to visit. That’s why it hurts her. She doesn’t open up, because in some ways she’s still ashamed. Kameron says she shouldn’t be. She’s a strong, amazing woman, because of what she’s gone through. They both apologize, and hug. LeeAnne mumbles, it’s effing dumb. In her interview, Kameron feels bad that she triggered a bad memory for Brandi, but Brandi is allowing Kameron to understand her more. She loves this. LeeAnne says this is the worst trip ever, and she got a flesh-eating bacteria last time she was in Mexico.

More chanting is heard. Stephanie says she feels hot and lightheaded, but it was cool. She’s there to find peace, happiness, and a purpose. They should support and love each other; it’s a magical thing. Deb tells them to take it easy for a while. She tells them to ask permission to be reborn, and leave anything they don’t want to have. So you can be a new you.

Kameron and Brandi got back to where LeeAnne is, and LeeAnne gets up, saying she’s going to walk on the beach. Brandi says LeeAnne is probably mad at her. Kameron thinks LeeAnne understands that they wanted a private conversation, but Brandi isn’t convinced.

The girls run back full of mud, and run into the water. Stephanie says it was cool, and thinks LeeAnne would want to do it. LeeAnne wants to walk on the beach. In Kameron’s interview, she says it’s obvious LeeAnne needs space. Just when they put one fire pit om the group, they have another. Debbie tells Kameron and Brandi to put the mud on themselves. Kameron says it’s like what a spa must have been in the olden days. They go inside. Kameron wants to have more love for her friends and family, and be the best person, wife, and mom she can be.

Stephanie asks if LeeAnne felt left out when Kameron was talking with Brandi. LeeAnne says, no. She saw Kameron crying, and went over to tell Brandi how bad Kameron feels. It wasn’t well received. She doesn’t know how long she should keep trying. If he starts a conversation, she ends up getting her face bitten off, but she gets the same treatment for not having one. She’s damned if she does, and damned if she doesn’t. She feels like every time she tries, she gets knocked down. LeeAnne tells Kary that her mother abandoned her, and it hurt. Stephanie says LeeAnne isolates herself, and then feels alone. It makes her sad, and she doesn’t know if LeeAnne realizes she’s doing it. Kary says if they’d shared a room, it could have been a different trip. Stephanie says, sometimes people’s actions put them where they are. LeeAnne says she’s well aware she’s her own worst enemy. She’s not trying to cause problems; she’s trying to fit in. Kameron and Brandi come out of the sweat lodge, and go into the water. In Kary’s interview, she says she’s disappointed that LeeAnne didn’t partake. She still has so much anger, which doesn’t help her heal.

They go back to the villa, and Stephanie suggests they shower together to save water. They have a group shower in their bathing suits. In LeeAnne’s interview, she says she’s taking Stephanie’s advice, and altering her behavior. She’s doing what Kary said, and fitting in. Brandi thinks she and Kameron should do a prank. Kameron has an idea to put flour in a blow dryer. In her interview, Brandi says, pranks help build and solidify a friendship, especially when they’re executed well. Her pranks are more X-rated, while Kameron’s are more G-rated, but a prank is a prank, so she’ll take it. Her roll is to distract the others with shots. Kameron asks the kitchen for some flour.

LeeAnne doesn’t like shots. In her interview, she says, they’re the same as BJs (not the warehouse). Why should she swallow all that, and that fast, when don’t want to swallow any of it? Kameron rigs the dryer, and cleans up the mess she made doing it. D’Andra is proud of herself for managing to stay out of stuff this time, and Stephanie says it’s because she stayed drunk. Kary tries to use the dryer, flour goes everywhere, and Kameron and Brandi die laughing. In Kary’s interview, she says Kameron surprised her. She’s funny, a girl’s girl, and classy all the same time. Kameron plus tequila equals fun.

It’s the last night. They take pictures, and head out to eat. On the way there, Brandi says she and LeeAnne should have done the sweat lodge thing, but LeeAnne says she didn’t feel like Brandi wanted her there. Brandi says she wanted to have a conversation with Kameron, and LeeAnne says she feels like there’s a double standard. She saw Kameron crying, and it hurt her feelings. Stephanie says they didn’t allow LeeAnne to have a private conversation with Kary. In Brandi’s interview, she says she thinks LeeAnne is jealous that she and Kameron are making up, and she’s throwing a fit for attention. Brandi says a lot of alcohol was involved, but LeeAnne says, not a good excuse. In D’Andra’s interview, she says this group can’t go five minutes without a confrontation  lee not being mad evil bad trying to

At the restaurant, they’re led to a candlelit outside table, near a bonfire that’s very Burning Man-ish. In Kary’s interview, she says, it’s the last night, and this is a special place. It’s where she got married ten years ago. She hopes the napkins stay on the table tonight. Kary makes a toast. She says she’s gone on many girls trips, and this one was full of surprises, and new friendships. She tells Stephanie that she loved their talk this morning. In Kameron’s interview, she says, so Stephanie went to Kary. She sees how this is going.  Kary says they have their differences, but she loves that they’re able to talk through them. They clink glasses. She can’t wait doe the next trip. Brandi blows air, and LeeAnne plays with her straw. Brandi feels that she and LeeAnne need a moment away from the others. Including other opinions creates drama. They decide to take a walk on the beach. Kameron tells them to raise a hand if it gets crazy, and they’ll save them. In LeeAnne’s interview, she says she’s educating Brandi in her boundaries. Someone doesn’t know if they’re hurting you unless you tell them.

Kary tells Kameron that she’s so much fun. Kameron says she’s always been fun, but doesn’t think some of the women have tried to get to know her. She’s tried, with Stephanie and Brandi in particular, but there’s been no reciprocation. It got to the point where she was like, screw that. She’s done. In Kameron’s interview, she says Brandi and Stephanie have had walls up since she met them. Kary is accepting and inclusive, and has no walls up. Stephanie says they’re different people, and need to figure each other out

Brandi tells LeeAnne, she doesn’t want people to feel sorry for her. LeeAnne asks if Brandi thinks she does, and Brandi says she tends to deflect. Brandi has been through sh*t too. LeeAnne says she knows. That’s why she relates to Brandi. Brandi says the difference is, she bottles it up, holds on to it, then moves past it, and grows from. You can’t live in the past. LeeAnne brings it up, makes people feel bad, and makes it everyone’s problem. She’s a grown-ass woman. At the table, Stephanie doesn’t know if it’s good or bad. LeeAnne tells Brandi that she lived in shame. She tried to kill herself. She’s not asking for pity; she’s telling people what shame does. Brandi doesn’t want to fight, but feels that LeeAnne doesn’t listen to her. LeeAnne feels the same way, but Brandi insists she does listen. She knows everything about LeeAnne. LeeAnne says, if she does, when’s her period? Kameron thinks they need to interfere, and Kary nods. Stephanie walks over. Brandi says she’s trying to be open, and LeeAnne says she is too. D’Andra yells for them to come back. No three person chats allowed. They go back, and in her interview, Brandi says, LeeAnne is good at making you feel like you’re the crazy person or the a-hole. 

The women ask LeeAnne, what happened? and LeeAnne says Brandi thinks she wants people to feel pity for her. She asks D’Andra if that’s what she wants, and D’Andra says, no. In her interview, she says, yes! She tells LeeAnne that she’s passionate about things. and sometimes it’s a lot. D’Andra doesn’t talk about things that way. In Kary’s interview, she thinks LeeAnne should quit being a baby, and grow up. D’Andra says she was upset that LeeAnne didn’t go to the sweat lodge. LeeAnne says it’s hurt her feelings that the focus has been on D’Andra’s 50th birthday, and it was two weeks ago. LeeAnne has an event in her life coming up.

D’Andra doesn’t know anything about LeeAnne’s event. She hasn’t been invited. In her interview, LeeAnne says D’Andra tried to separate her and Rich as a couple; why would she want to celebrate their union? It makes no sense. She tells D’Andra that they have things above and beyond difficult that they’re trying to get through. D’Andra says she’s trying, and LeeAnne says she knows. And LeeAnne is trying her best to give grace and be present and thoughtful. She adds, and try to eat dinner, since the waiter is putting it on the table. She says she and D’Andra never get to the point where they communicate. D’Andra walks over to the beach, and LeeAnne says she can’t change D’Andra; it’s her nature. She wants to win. She’s a cheerleader; it’s her thing. LeeAnne’s thing is to survive. She guarantees, at the end of the day, she won’t be the bitch eaten by the dinosaur. In Stephanie’s interview, she wonders if the dinosaur in this analogy is Brandi. LeeAnne says D’Andra can’t win by being LeeAnne, and vice versa. If it’s on the surface, things are fabulous, but when things are intimate, D’Andra is uncomfortable. LeeAnne says, that sounds sexual, and Kameron focuses on her spaghetti, saying she never knew spaghetti in Mexico was so good, but it is.

Kameron toasts to such an amazing trip. She can’t thank Kary enough. Kary took them in, and they’re all crazy. She’s brave to take them on. She’s one strong lady. She also toasts to D’Andra’s 50th, and Kary gives D’Andra a necklace from her line. LeeAnne says, it looks like anal beads, and Kary says, Brandi told her the same thing. LeeAnne says, see? She knows Brandi.

Next time, a lingerie/circus themed shower, D’Andra whines that she’s 50 and has to start over, and Jeremy thinks D’Andra should close down the shop.

🌅 I Know, What’s Good About It…

Time for me to go to bed, and for you to wake up.

September 3, 2019 – Too Real For Kim, Gina Avoids Another Arrest, Carly’s Foot & the Sun

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

On the phone, Carly tells Jax that she fell on the steps, and her foot is definitely broken. The baby is okay. He asks what the prognosis is, and she says a minimum of six weeks of resting it. He hopes she’s resting at home, but she says she’s at the restaurant. Josslyn is super excited to give him her surprise. Jax tells her to go home. If not, he might have to carry her there.

Josslyn asks Dev why he’s complaining. He got to drive Sonny’s car. He says that was cool, but he had to cart her around to find her dad a perfect present. She says, it’s Australian Father’s Day. Dev says, he’s like the richest man in the world; he can buy what he wants. She asks if he’s never heard it’s the thought that counts. He says that thought carried her to the other five stores. Why can’t she just be normal, and shop online? She says she thought it would be nice to shop local. Okay, she forgot.

Jax visits Hayden, and he asks, what’s on her mind? She tells him that they’re taking too long finding the codicil. They’re not getting anywhere, and sneaking around Windymere isn’t sustainable. He tells whatever she thinks he’s not going to like, just say it.

At the MetroCourt, Jordan tells Curtis, told you so. She knew it was a bad idea to work for Jax and Valentin. She’s not surprised he got canned. Curtis says, sorry, not sorry? and she says, pretty much. He says, she was right. Not working for Valentin in the future is the way to go. She asks if he’d care to elaborate, and he says, no. She says, sorry, not sorry? and he says, pretty much.

Carly asks what Mike is going at the MetroCourt, and he asks where else he’d take family to lunch? Carly says she doesn’t think she’s met the woman he’s with. Mike introduces his daughter-in-law Carly, and tells Carly, this is his cousin Gladys, from Bridgeport, Connecticut. They’ve been out of touch until recently. She’s Dev’s grandmother. Carly is like, huh.

Sonny walks into Charlie’s, and finds Olivia measuring. He asks if she’s considered an exorcism, and she tells him, don’t be mean. He says he’s being practical. He had to make sure the rumor was true, and that Julian is leaving Port Charles. Olivia says since Lucas and Wiley are there, Julian will be visiting frequently, but as soon as the papers are signed, Julian and Kim are headed for NYC. She hopes Kim gets the peace she deserves.

Elizabeth thanks Cameron for doing back to school shopping with his brothers. Cameron says they had fun. She’s sorry she’s been distracted, but he says no one expects her not to be, especially after Franco.

Franco tells Kim that he carefully chose every song on the CD he made for her. She says, this was a bad idea. He says he just wanted her to know he’s leaving Port Charles, as soon as the ankle monitor is off. He can’t be the man everyone wants him to be. They look at him, and hope to see the man they love looking back. It’s painful for them, and he doesn’t want to be the cause of their pain. She asks where he’s going, but he doesn’t know. The only thing he knows is the Navy, but the body he has is too old to enlist. He’ll figure it out, but before he takes off, he’d love it if she’d tell him more about their son.

At the hospital, Julian asks if Epiphany has seen Kim. She says, not this morning, but she’s sure Kim will turn up.

Curtis tells Jordan not to worry. He’s not going to be an unemployed bum. He already has a lead on a new gig. She asks who brought him the lead. He says, one of his contacts, and she asks if they have a name. He says, Hayden. Jordan says, ugh, and he says he doesn’t have any details yet, but he’s going to hear what she has to say. Jordan has his word, if he smells anything funky, he’s out of there. Jordan’s phone dings, and she says she just got called to GH. She’d better hustle. He tells her, be careful, and she says, him too.

Carly asks if Gladys checked Mike out of Turning Woods, but Mike says he got his friend Ricky to bring him. Carly looks toward the bar, and Ricky waves. Mike says, he’s a great guy; always willing to lend a hand. Gladys says coming there was Mike’s idea; he’s been talking her ear off. Stories about Carly, the family, and his successful son. Carly says, nothing is more important to Sonny than family, and Gladys says, as it should be.

Sonny tells Olivia, Kim is struggling, and she says, the bond between Kim and Oscar was beautiful. Kim did everything in her power to make sure his life was full of as much joy and peace as possible, and Oscar did everything he could to shield her from his pain. She’s been thinking about Dante non-stop, and Sonny says, him too.

Jax tells Hayden, get it over with, and she says she’s bringing Curtis in on their project. They need help with the investigation. She asks what the problem is, and he says, Curtis is already working for Valentin. Curtis was getting paid to spy on him, and she just dumped their objective in the lap of Valentin’s mole. That means the job is over; done, finished, kaput. It’s time to cut their losses and move on.

Elizabeth tells Cameron, Franco might be lost, but they haven’t lost him. She’s working hard to help him find his way home, and know where he wants to be. Until that happens, she needs help manning the ship. Aiden and Jake need to know it will be okay, even if it doesn’t feel like it. She hopes he’s not shouldering too much, but Cameron says he has to be strong until Franco comes back. Elizabeth promises it will be okay.

Kim tells Franco that she doesn’t want do this; it’s too hard. Franco says, thinking like a soldier is selfish. If you’re in the Navy, and ask someone to wait for you, you could cause grief. He didn’t want to do that to anybody, especially her. That’s the reason he wanted to break up before he was deployed. She says she agreed, and he says, it was easier said than done. He looks her over, and touches her hand. He says she made him rethink everything. For the first time in his life, he envisioned a scenario where he came home. He wishes he’d had the chance to tell her before he left. She says, so does she.

Mike tells Gladys that he wants a handball rematch with her boyfriend, but she says, Frankie’s not there anymore. He asks what she means. He just had beers with Frankie the other day. Carly says, she means he’s out of town right now. Carly says she’s going ask Sonny if he wants to stop by. Gladys says, the more the merrier. The waitress comes, and Carly texts Sonny that his cousin Gladys is at the MetroCourt. She thought he’d want to know.

Sonny asks if Olivia has had word from Robert. She says she hasn’t been given clearance to see Dante yet, but she’s hoping he can come home. When he does, she’s throwing the biggest pizza party the New York area has ever seen. Sonny asks if she’s getting her oven, and she says she had to buy a restaurant to get it. The people of Port Charles will thank her. Sonny doesn’t doubt that. He has to go, but tells her that when she’s up and running, Corinthos Coffee on the house. She calls him a big shot, and hugs him, saying she’s going to hold him to that. He says he’ll deliver.

Josslyn tells Dev that she’s been sidetracked; Carly and Sonny’s vow renewal, school starting, helping him sign up for classes. He says he’s just giving her a hard time. He asks if she’s excited to start school again, and she says, no. She’ll deal with it like she deals with everything else. She asks if he’s nervous, but he says, no. She tells him, people will ask him questions since he’s the new kid. He’d better have his story straight. He says he’s sure he has it all down, but maybe he should practice a little. Josslyn asks if this means she’s forgiven for making him drive her around. He says, consider it her penance. She says, he’s a brat, and he says, cousin brat to her.

Hayden tells Jax that he can’t walk away. They’re in this together, and he’s forgetting the huge payoff. The Cassadine fortune doesn’t belong to Valentin. Jax says she should have asked first before opening her mouth to Valentin’s spy. The doorbell rings, and Jax opens the door, walking past Curtis. Hayden says they can make this work. Just hear her out. Curtis and Jax look at each other.

Julian tells Elizabeth maybe he had the timing wrong, but Elizabeth says she just spoke to Kim earlier. He asks how it went, and she says, not well. She’s worried about Kim, and asked if she understood that, even though Franco has Drew’s memories, he’s not the same man she used to know. She thinks Kim told her what she wanted to hear. She knows what it’s like to miss someone so much you physically ache for them. She senses it’s harder this time than Kim admits. She’s afraid Kim has feelings for her husband.

Kim tells Franco, she made a deal with herself when she fell for him. She was going to love him with everything she had for as long as they had, and she’d let go when the time came. Then, as soon he was gone, she kept playing the what if game. He thinks everyone is familiar with that game. She says what if she had just written? As soon as she found out she was pregnant, she wanted to tell him. Not in a letter or through a third party. She convinced herself to wait, and a month turned into a year. By then, she could rationalize it. She made the wrong choice, and would do anything if she could get it back.

Franco asks Kim to tell him what Oscar was like. She says it was a lot of her and Oscar time; they were very simpatico. They liked the same food, had the same interests, and just got along easily. When he was little, he was into Bob the Builder, and she tried to paint a mural on his bedroom wall. When she was halfway through, she heard his voice say, uh-oh, and Oscar was just standing there, covered in paint because he’d spilled a can. The mural didn’t look like what she’d wanted, so she scrapped it, and told Oscar to choose a color. He asks what Oscar went with, and she says, blue, like the night’s sky. She could handle that. Franco says he would have loved to have been there for that. Kim isn’t so sure. It was a disaster. Franco thanks her. He can see it in his mind. He touches her face, and says, beautiful.

Julian tells Elizabeth, the situation is… He can’t find the right word, and she says, indescribable. He says, trust him. He understands her concern, but is she possibly overreacting? She says, Franco having Drew’s memories is difficult to accept. Kim talked about how it makes her feel conflicted to hear the details of a relationship she’d thought was over. Coming from a man Kim barely knows, it’s difficult for her to wrap her head around it. She made sure Kim understands what’s happening is temporary, and she’s doing everything she can to restore Franco. But what if Kim can’t see it for what it is; a fleeting moment? Julian says, memories are the ghost of a life that no longer exists. Elizabeth says everyone will get hurt, and Julian says, it will be easier once they’re gone.

Josslyn quizzes Dev, who confuses Bridgeport for Bridgetown. She tells him, Bridgeport is on the water. Just think of a port. Cameron and Trina arrive, and Cameron tells Trina, she’s so OCD. It’s not their first rodeo. They’ve done this before. Trina says, as underclassmen. Junior year is a big deal.

Jax says the conversation is pointless if Curtis is working for Valentin, but Curtis says, not anymore. They officially parted ways. Jax asks if he’s supposed to take Curtis’s word . Curtis says he didn’t know Jax would be there, and Jax says he’s leaving. Hayden says hear her out. If it doesn’t work, he loses nothing, but if it does work, Jax gets a huge reward for just continuing to go along. Curtis asks her to clue him in on what the hell is going on. She texted him about cutting him in a deal for finding something in Valentin’s house. Hayden asks, what’s unclear? and Curtis says he cares about Nina, and Valentin loves her. Don’t try to play him. Why shouldn’t he and Jax both walk out?

Jordan arrives at the hospital, and thanks Epiphany for her text. Epiphany thought she should be prepared, and Jordan asks where he is. Epiphany takes her to a room, and Andre is in a bed, unconscious, and hooked up to oxygen. (It’s only mentioned later that it’s Andre, and it’s a different Andre. Since the oxygen mask is covering a lot of his face, at first, I thought it was TJ, except Jordan wasn’t reacting that way. So basically, momentary confusion.)

Hayden says, Valentin is not the Cassadine heir. He was at one point, but that wasn’t the final will. The rightful heir is eager to bring  it back to life. Curtis asks if Valentin knows, but she’s not sure. She wouldn’t put it past him. Curtis says it would kill Nina. It’s not about the money – she has plenty of that – but if he has to lie to her, it’s a problem for him, and if it has the potential to hurt Nina. Jax doesn’t like it, but Hayden says, if she messes up, he has nothing to lose, but if the plan succeeds, he can still walk away. He says perhaps Curtis will have more success where they failed. Curtis gets a text from Jordan to meet her at GH asap. Hayden asks if they can call it a deal.

Trina shows Dev a map she’s made of the school. Josslyn says she has to meet her dad for lunch, and needs her chauffeur. Trina gives Dev the map, and he says, it’s cool of her. She says, no problem, and Dev and Josslyn leave. Cameron says Trina is super into Dev, and she says, we have to make Dev into me. Cameron says, we?

Julian walks into Charlie’s, and Olivia says she’s almost done. He tells her, take the time she needs. Whatever gets the deal closed. She asks if he wants to talk, and he says he’s just ready to move on. Not from Leo, obviously, but he wants to get going with the woman he loves. Olivia is happy for him, and he thanks her. He says it feels good to be out from underneath his past mistakes. Olivia says, it’s a gift, and Julian says, it is.

Franco says it sounds like Kim had a good life in Cleveland. Why did she leave? Kim says, Oscar started to have headaches. He was about thirteen, when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Franco says he’s sorry, and Kim says she missed him so much in that moment. She wished she had told him when she had the chance. She wishes so many things were different, but there wasn’t much she could do. She decided to give Oscar the best life in the time he had left. She did an ancestry test, and found out he had a bunch of relatives in Port Charles, so they moved here. Franco is glad, and Kim says, it was a blessing. Meeting the Quartermaines was wonderful. They opened their arms to Oscar, and embraced him – and her. She hasn’t voiced it, but she’s relieved that she was right for loving him. Franco says, she’s always been right about him.

Kim asks, what happened all those years? but Franco says, that information was redacted. She says, that ugly? And he says, necessary. Sherman was right; war is hell. He sits next to her on a bench, and says he wrote to her. Kim say, for two years, and Franco says, when he didn’t hear back, he invented an imaginary future for her. She had a husband and two children. He wanted her to be happy without him. She wipes tears away. He says he wanted that for her. That could have been her life. She says, it almost was, and he says, almost? She says she couldn’t because of him.

Hayden tells Elizabeth, she seems relaxed, and Elizabeth says, more like optimistic. She thinks she’s figured out a way to keep Franco in Port Charles. Hayden asks, how? and Elizabeth says she convinced Scotty to go to court, and have Franco declared mentally incompetent. Hayden says, good for her. If there was ever a situation that required it, this is it. Elizabeth says, as his wife, she can have him committed to Shadybrook, and keep him there until Andre can get back and reverse the procedure.

Gladys tells Carly, the restaurant is great; it’s a lucrative business. Carly says she worked hard for it. She asks if Mike shouldn’t get back, but Gladys says, Ricky is in no rush. Carly says Yvonne must miss Mike; he doesn’t want to leave his wife hanging. Jax approaches the table, and asks Carly if that’s taking it easy. She says, company is the best medicine. Happy Australian Father’s Day. He asks how Mike is going, and Mike says he can’t complain, and introduces Gladys. Jax tells her, welcome to Port Charles. Joslyn and Dev arrive, and Carly quickly introduces Cousin Gladys. Dev calls her Nana, and says he didn’t know she was coming. She says, surprise, and tells him to give grandma a hug. Carly tells Jax that Josslyn is super excited to spend time with her dad, and she’s reserved a table for them. They move to it, and Gladys says Dev had gotten big. Tell her everything about life in Port Charles.

Jax asks if Josslyn was home when Carly broke her foot. Josslyn says she was, and Carly yelled loud. She was hurt, but she’s getting better. Jax tells her to keep an eye on Carly, but don’t push it. She says she’ll try. He starts to ask about Dev, but then says he doesn’t need to know. He just wants to focus on them today. Josslyn says, her too.

Cameron asks Trina how he’s supposed to help. Trina tells him become bros with Dev, and steer him in her direction. Like her Maverick. He says, she likes Top Gun? and she says, doesn’t everybody? Well, no.

Sonny joins Carly, and greets Gladys, saying, what a surprise. She’s nothing if not unpredictable. Mike asks if he can use the office phone to call Yvonne, and Sonny tells him, go ahead. He tells Dev to take care of what he told him to. Dev leaves, and he tells Gladys that he doesn’t know what she’s doing there, but she’d better not try to renegotiate their deal.

When Sonny is done talking to Gladys, Carly says, that was almost a disaster. She asks if Gladys is trouble, but Sonny says he gave her a message loud and clear. Carly says, this is one big mess. She can’t have Josslyn lying to her dad.

Josslyn asks if Jax remember the Father’s Day in Australia that she made him an awful cake. I made one of those for my father’s birthday once. I was about ten years old, and iced it before it cooled. My advice: never do that. Jax says, it wasn’t that awful; it was like a delicious, more dense brownie. She’s sorry they haven’t celebrated the last few years. He supposes it’s a good lesson. If you’re not careful, life gets away. She has a tournament; he’s closing a deal. The truth is, it’s not that important. What’s important are moments like this. A cake is brought out, and Josslyn says she made it, an actual cake, executed better this time. He says, it’s beautiful, and thanks her. She tells him, happy Australian Father’s Day. He says he loves her.

Olivia says she and Julian are being civilized, like ladies and gentleman. He asks, why so civilized? and she says, everyone deserves happiness. Kim deserves a double dose. He says, if everything goes according to plan, she will.

Hayden says Franco is going to hate Elizabeth for locking him up. Elizabeth hates that she has to do it, but when his memory is restored, he’ll be glad she did everything in her power to get him back. Hayden says, is it possible? Can Andre give Franco his life back? Elizabeth says, he has to.

Curtis gets the hospital, and finds Jordan. He sees Andre in the bed, and says, what the… He asks, what happened? but she says, he hasn’t regained consciousness since he stumbled into the ER. Curtis says, Drew will explain, and she says, he was alone. No Drew.

Kim tells Franco that she’d finally decided to go on a date. Oscar liked Jim, and when they kissed, it was fine; comfortable and pleasant, but no fireworks. Not like with them. She didn’t think she could get serious, knowing there was more out there for her, and for Oscar. Jim deserved to have a woman who loved him the way she loved Drew. Butterflies that tingle. Franco says, passion, and Kim says he had a big impact on her. Franco says, irreplaceable, and she says, yes. He says he feels the same way about her. He kisses her, and she kisses back.

Tomorrow, Maxie doesn’t want Mac to look for trouble, Elizabeth tells Jason that his disappointment is her dream come true, and someone grabs Cameron from behind.

The Real Housewives of Orange County

The train talk continues. Kelly says she’s getting it from all ends, and I can’t believe her choice of words. In Shannon’s interview, she says, it’s a sh*t show. It’s supposed to be Gina’s day in Beverly Hills. Now it’s all about Kelly’s sex rumor. It shouldn’t have been brought it up in the first place. Shannon says she has a surprise, and hands out visors, disposable cameras, and Hawaiian shirts. In her interview, she says. life is always more fun in costume. I agree. We flash back to Shannon’s many kooky outfits. She has a final surprise. They’re going to get on a double-decker tour bus dressed as tourists. They get on the bus, and tour guide Christian welcomes them to Hollywood. In Gina’s interview, she says, it’s one of those things you have to do when you live in California. It’s like going NYC, and not going to the Statue of Liberty. Although she’s never done that. Neither have I. She says she’s a bad New Yorker. Hey, we’re not taking up space a real tourist might want. Shannon orders everyone to take pictures. She takes Christian’s mic, and tells them they’re stopping for a shot at the Pig and Whistle.

In the bar, Tamra asks if Braunwyn is a troublemaker or a girl’s girl. Braunwyn says Lizzie’s (season whatever) best friend is friends with her best friend, or something like that, and wanted to introduce her to Gretchen. Tamra says they were part of the group trying to take down her husband, like they’re all gangsters. We flash back to that dude saying Eddie was gay at some party a million years ago. Tamra doesn’t want anything to do with that, or the people who hang out with them. In her interview, Tamra says she wants to give Braunwyn a chance to explain, but it’s a fact she ran to Kelly with something she was told not to repeat. Now she’s talking to toxic people, and it makes her feel like Braunwyn is a troublemaker. Shannon tells everyone, back on the bus.

Shannon tells Emily about Tamra calling out Braunwyn. In Emily’s interview, she says she’s good friends with Lizzie, and knows Braunwyn reached out to them. Shannon says she saw the text, and Braunwyn says they have a mutual friend. Tamra, eager to get as many receipts as she can, checks out the text. In her interview, Tamra says she read the texts to Lizzie and Gretchen, and reads them to us. Braunwyn basically says they have kids the same age; do they want to get together? Braunwyn says she’s transparent, and Shannon says she’s been nothing but kind, and feels stupid. Tamra says Braunwyn told her that they reached out to her, and that makes her feel like Braunwyn is a liar. Braunwyn admits she effed up, but didn’t lie on purpose. Tamra asks if she lied on accident. Braunwyn says, fine, and changes her seat. She starts crying. Tamra is such an a-hole, but like an a-hole from middle school. She goes up to Braunwyn, saying she can’t stand to see her cry, and Braunwyn says she’s so sorry. Braunwyn says she liked Tamra, and has no memory. She didn’t do it intentionally. It happened, and she feels like sh*t. In Braunwyn’s interview, she says she just moved there. She had no idea there was bad blood between them. She lied a little because she didn’t want to get into trouble with them. Emily gets a text that Shane is back, and needs to get home. She gets off the bus.

Braunwyn says she was called out, and Gina says she’ll be okay. Braunwyn tells her, she cried, she got yelled at, but she still had fun. Not one to ever let anything go, Shannon says it’s her one no-no; not telling the truth. Braunwyn wishes she’d been honest, and Shannon says she did it. Braunwyn apologizes again, but that’s not genuine enough for Shannon. She saw the texts. Christian thanks them, and I’m sure is glad to see them go.

Tamra says Emily’s departure was only fifteen minutes before theirs, and Gina says, there’s something going on. Kelly agrees, and Gina ask if she means in the marriage. Tamra says she doesn’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure that out. Shannon says when the reports came out about David’s having a girlfriend, and she found out people knew, it was like a knife in her heart. She was so emotional. Not because she wanted him back, but that she was so easily replaced. In her interview, she says, when it first happened, it was the darkest thing. She didn’t know how to crawl out. She tells Gina that she’s there to say, Gina can do it. Gina cries, and says she doesn’t want to talk about it. Shannon knows it sucks. In her interview, Gina says she’s been holding onto a lie. She has to confide in somebody. Shannon tells her, it’s not the right place. She’ll help Gina get through it. They’ll find a place to talk.

When Emily gets home, the kids run to her, but Shane barely hugs her. He asks if she’s ready to clean up and cook. He asks what she did today, and she says she was in L.A., but she wants to hear about him first. He says he did fine, and she asks how he feels. He says, ready for dinner. He doesn’t want to jinx it, and asks how was her day? She asks again how he feels, and he says he doesn’t feel anything. She says, never mind. In her interview, Emily asks, who else can he have a conversation with about the bar exam? And if they can’t have that conversation, what else can they talk about? They might as well take separate roads now. She wants a hug, but Shane wants to eat. He says she can watch him eat. I’m not kidding. Inappropriate as it might have been, Kelly was right when she called Shane a little bitch. In Emily’s interview, she says they haven’t seen each other in ten days, and he doesn’t care. It makes her question what’s going on in the marriage. Why is he not excited to see her? She tells him, she and Gina are going to have their nails done tomorrow, and he asks if that isn’t Gina’s court date, but she says it was continued. She says she missed him helping with the kids, and he says it gives her an idea of how much he contributes. She tells him, she never said he didn’t contribute, but it’s a lot of work bathing three kids by herself. In Shane’s interview (proving he is really a Housewife), a producer asks if he missed Emily. He says here’s where sarcasm comes in. He certainly did miss her. If he tells her the truth, she’ll be pissed, but he does want to fib. His word. Who uses that word? He didn’t cry himself to sleep because he missed his family. He’s just doing what he’s got to do. When he’s done, he’ll come back, and there will be time with the family.

Braunwyn and mom Dr. Deb go to a restaurant on the water. Deb tells Braunwyn that she looks intelligent. (BTW, Dr. Deb looks just like Betsey Johnson or Cindy Lauper circa 1983.) Braunwyn says when she’s not around the kids, she’s smarter. She also slept last night. They order, and Braunwyn says she went to L.A. to see a friend, and they went past the Whiskey A-Go-Go. We flash back to her telling the others it was where she was raised. Deb says she’d give Braunwyn’s bottle to the bartender, and he’d fill it with milk. She’d sit in front of the stage, looking up at the band. Braunwyn says, it should have been a great day, but she said she hadn’t reached out to a person that she had reached out to, and felt ganged up on. Deb asks if she actually lied, and Braunwyn says she thought it was the easy out. Now she has new friends, and she effing lied. Deb says if they called her on it, they’re good friends. I don’t have an issue for what they do as much as how they do it. It’s always mean, and they do gang up. Deb asks why she lied, and Braunwyn says she didn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings. She wants to be liked. Deb sighs, and Braunwyn says it’s hard for her. She asks if Braunwyn thinks she doesn’t like her, and Braunwyn says, maybe.

In her interview, Braunwyn says, growing up, she wanted a mom who put her first, but Deb was focused on her own career. No matter how much she loves Braunwyn, Deb will love herself more. Braunwyn tells Deb, the outward her is fun and funny, but she has good walls. Deb asks where that came from, and Braunwyn says she was shuffled around a lot as a kid, and built protective layers. It was always new schools and new people, In Braunwyn’s interview, she says her mom wasn’t around much. At four years old, she took the bus to school by herself, and wore a housekey around her neck, letting herself in. She tells Deb that she didn’t have a typical, stable two-parent house. Deb says, that’s not typical, and Braunwyn says she learned young to take care of herself, and to protect herself. In Deb’s interview, she says Braunwyn has animosity toward her because of a perceived unconventional childhood. Um… I think that would be most people’s perception. She was with family and friends, and might think she suffered, but in the grand scheme of suffering, when Deb looks at refugee camps, Braunwyn was treated well. Great reference point.  😕 Braunwyn says she doesn’t let people in. Maybe that’s why she had so many children. Deb says she expanded her friend group. Braunwyn says she loves them, and isn’t complaining. In Braunwyn’s interview, she says she loves her mom, but they’ve never spoken about her childhood. She tells Deb it’s easier for her to have superficial relationships. It’s easier for her to be the fun or crazy one. In her interview, Braunwyn says, because of her upbringing, she puts shields up. She wants to let go, and become the person she wants to be. She’s working on being her own person. She’s been an amazing mom a long time. It’s time to be an amazing Braunwyn.

Kelly and Brian go to lunch. They order eight carrot soup, and Kelly says, it’s the only eight carats he’s going to get. In her interview, she says she sees Brian three times a week, and every other weekend. She tells him about going to the jewelry store with the women, and how she was asked when she was getting engaged. It was an awkward position. He says she’s blushing. In Kelly’s interview, she says she’s in love, and has found the perfect match. She’s ready to lock it down. She tells him, Braunwyn called her, and told her Vicki has been spreading rumors that she did a train. Brian says, sexually? and Kelly says she was married, and has only been dating a year. She hasn’t even had sex on a train. In her interview, she says Brian is good at putting things in perspective. He’s not into the drama. He tells her the best way to handle it is, let it go. When it comes up, make a joke. And talk to her daughter. Tell her it’s total lies. In her interview, Kelly says Brian gives her the fulfilment she’s lacked for years. She wants Jolie to see what a loving relationship looks like. Brian tells her not to let her friends distract her. Keep her eyes on the prize. He’s part of it, right?

In the car, Tamra confirms with Shannon that they’re taking a hip-hop class. She asks if Shannon will be in costume, and Shannon asks, what does she think? Tamra thinks it’s weird that Braunwyn lied, and doesn’t understand it at all. Really? Braunwyn didn’t want to deal with the nonsensical fallout. I don’t find it that hard to understand. In Tamra’s interview, she says she likes Braunwyn. She lied. Let’s move on. At the studio, Tamra says she borrowed her daughter’s clothes. She can’t dance, but she might as well look like a dancer. Shannon comes in wearing hip-hop clothes and a huge (I assume fake) gold chain, and saying, yo, yo! She’s glad Braunwyn suggested a hip-hop class.  In Braunwyn’s interview, she says she loves dancing and breaking it out. The instructor shows them some basic steps.

Emily and Gina go for pedicures. Emily says she saw champagne, but Gina passes. She drank enough everyone last night. In her interview, she says she was supposed to have her court case today, but her lawyer asked for a continuance. She’s never going to sip and drive again. Emily says Shane is exhausted, and they didn’t talk much. Gina says they’re off because of  the bar; it’s situational, and they’re very disconnected. Emily says she’s falling apart for real. Gina says she’s supposed to be the one with the problems, and Emily says, it normally is her.

Braunwyn says she’s never taken a class, but she’s watched her kids on stages; she’s been watching her whole life. Shannon asks how she is, and Braunwyn says, better. She felt a little ganged up on. Shannon says she felt a little pot stirring, and Braunwyn says she’s never had that happen. Tamra asks if she’s ever been caught in a lie. Braunwyn says she didn’t want to hurt any feelings, so she ran. She’s been a  runner her whole life. She grew up moving from house to house, and school to school. Tamra says Braunwyn talked about her mom being a musician. Braunwyn says, then she went to med school. It was hard, and Braunwyn got very good at fitting in, and putting on a smile. They were pushing, and she felt vulnerable. She never learned coping skills, and needs to work on that. In Braunwyn’s interview, she says, normally, she’d run away, but she’s taking the hard road. Tamra says she never learned to cope, and would get explosive. It took being in a bad marriage to show her that. Braunwyn says, most of her friendships were surface. You don’t hurt people’s feelings if you’re not having an intense conversation. It’s easier to be fun. Tamra says it’s good she acknowledges it; she’s not in denial. Braunwyn says she learned not to complain or talk about it. Shannon says, only good can come of it. In her interview, Braunwyn thinks, if they work on them, these friendships could be worth it.

Emily and Pary take Annabelle to a petting zoo. They sit and talk, while Annabelle feeds the animals. Emily says Annabelle loves the petting zoo. The ones she can’t pick up, she can feed. Pary says they used to have chickens, and Shane would gather eggs. Somehow, I can’t picture him doing that. Emily says she and Shane have had some issues since he came back. She thought it would be easy for them to come back together, but it’s been really rocky. He’s mad at her; she’s mad at him. she thought it would be a smoother transition, but it’s been bad. In Emily’s interview, she says Pary is amazing. She feels Pary provides the emotional support she doesn’t get from Shane. No matter what she’s gone through, Pary has been there for her. She tells Pary, Shane internalizes, and she yells; they’re not communicating well. In her interview, she says, communicating has always been an issue. Shane sets her off, then she gets out of control. Pary tells her, let it go. Emily says, she feels like she needs to say something all time. Pary says, at the bank, they were told, smile, go to the bathroom, and tell the toilet what they need to say. In Emily’s interview, she understands that she shouldn’t verbally lash out, but she can’t spend her whole life in the bathroom flushing her thoughts down the toilet. Pary says, life is tough, but Emily has to be tougher.

Shannon calls Tamra, and says her attorney friend that Gina never spoke to, just called her. He was in court today, and someone told him Gina missed her court date. The judge has issued a warrant for her arrest.

Gina tells dad Gino that she knows enough to show up. She wasn’t wiggling out of it; she doesn’t understand the process. In Gina’s interview, she says her attorney put in to postpone it, but didn’t confirm, and it was denied. As far as the court was concerned, she didn’t show up. She tells her parents, she could have gotten arrested. She cries, and says she feels like a loser. She would never do that. Tamra tells Shannon, it’s crazy, and Shannon says she can’t blame Gina. She hired an expert. Why didn’t Emily tell her to be there? Why isn’t Emily representing her? In Emily’s defense, maybe she didn’t know about it, and maybe she doesn’t practice that kind of law. Mom Susan tells Gina, there are so many worse things. Shannon calls, and asks if Gina is crying. Gina says she’s upset, and Shannon says she’s sorry. Gina says she’s trying to deal with this the right way, and she was told not to go. Why wasn’t he there on her behalf? She feels vulnerable, and says she could have gotten arrested. Enough is enough. Shannon says, maybe it’s a good thing. She can make a break with her attorney, and get better representation. In Shannon’s interview, she says she knows rock bottom. This has to be taken care of right away. Shannon tells Gina that she’ll make sure it’s taken care of. Gina tells her parents she’s done with that attorney. In her interview, she says, it’s not something you play around with. It’s the law. If they want, they can bring to jail, and there’s nothing you can do. It’s not a place she wants to go back. Gino says, they’ll take care of it.

Shannon goes to a swanky furniture store to look for a bed. She’s done the whole house, but still hasn’t done the bedroom. Gina joins her. She thanks Shannon, and hugs her. Shannon says she’s glad everything worked out. We see a clip of Gina talking with Shannon’s attorney friend Michael. He tells her, the warrant was recalled, but they were going to arrest her today. Gina nearly freaks, but Michael says, it’s been called off, so today is a good day. In Gina’s interview, she says it’s terrifying to think her kids could have seen that. She can try to let the lesson be, what you do after you make a mistake. She and Shannon sit on a couch. Shannon says Gina has told her twice that stuff is going on, and Gina says, like a lot. Last year, she and Matt split up. Before she met them, he’d had an affair. They were working it out; trying, but it wasn’t working. She didn’t tell anyone. In Shannon’s interview, she says, you hear about affairs, but when it happens to you, it’s the most painful thing. We flash back to David telling Shannon that he had an affair. She tells Gina that she knows what that pain feels like, and doesn’t want anybody to go through it. Gina says, last year, she had some animosity toward Shannon. She was so open, and Gina was going through the same pain, but no one could see it. Like how Shannon said she was jealous about Gina’s perfect divorce. We flash back to that, and Gina says she wasn’t expressing how she felt. Shannon says she’s so sorry. When she was fighting to keep her family together and reconcile with David, she didn’t tell anyone. She knows how much it hurts. She takes Gina’s hand, and says Gina has been put through the wringer. When – not if – when she comes out of it, she’ll know what a survivor she is. Shannon never thought she’d be sitting there saying this, but she’s never been happier. And it’s going to happen for Gina. Anything she needs, Shannon is there for her. In Gina’s interview, she says the more she shares, the more it feels like a weight has been lifted. She says Shannon is her damn hero. Who knew? The more she releases her feelings and emotions, the more she realizes how sick she was feeling, holding them in. Maybe there’s a reason they’ve come into each other’s lives. Shannon says they will both meet someone who will be head over heels in love with them, and respect them. Gina says, and be super-hot.

Next time, Gina tells Emily that Shannon is her best friend, Braunwyn has dinner with her mom and Kelly, Emily gets ready for Vegas and Shane is a little bitch about it, and Tamra’s sons aren’t getting along.

🚑 The Break Is Real…

WTH is up with these people at GH? Scotty, Monica, and now Carly.

https://www.abc.soapsindepth.com/posts/general-hospital-laura-wright-broken-foot-172034

☀ Not Quite Yet, But…

Seriously, I don’t know where the day goes. Or the night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 30, 2019 – Lulu Films Ryan’s Obsession, Dorit Won’t Budge, Ben Trashes Randal’s Place & Long Winding Week

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Sorry, missed the first minute or two.

Stella finds Jordan unconscious. She asks if Jordan can hear her, but there’s no response.

Elizabeth tells Finn that she hasn’t heard from Hayden in quite a while. Why? Finn says there’s something he wants to tell her. The last number he has for her is disconnected. Stella calls for help, and Finn and Elizabeth run to her. Finn takes a look at Jordan, and asks for a gurney. He asks Jordan if she can open her eyes.

Curtis says, so Timmy doesn’t remember the name of the woman who hired him? Timmy says, offered to hire him. They didn’t exchange names. She was hanging out by the docks, and he found her there. Curtis says, it’s a small town. He was under the impression that everyone knew each other. Timmy says she was obviously not from around there. Curtis shows him the money.

Ava answers her phone, and says she can’t hear them. Who is this? Mac takes the phone, and asks who it is. He says, okay. No problem. He tells Ava it was a wrong number. It sounded like the woman was near a shipyard, which was probably why Ava couldn’t hear her. He thinks he scared her.

Doc tells Ava, it’s all right, but she says, a wrong number to a blocked line after the video was posted? She doesn’t think it’s a coincidence. Doc says, Occam’s Razor. In the absence of other evidence, the simplest explanation is the most likely.

Shiloh shows Sam his office, and says, nothing of interest. She asks why it’s locked. Isn’t DOD’s main tenet transparency? The full truth, no matter what the cost? He tells her office contains DOD’s chronicles, and it would be inappropriate to share them with her. She understands, and asks if the Trust members are allowed in. He says Trust members are afforded special privileges, and tells her that she needs to temper her inquisitive nature with patience. She says it means so much that she’s worth consideration. She wants to prove herself to him any way she can.

Valerie makes a call, and tells someone she’s getting creepy calls from a blocked number. She thinks her ex might be stalking her. She says, it’s not an official police request. She wants to keep it on the DL, but thinks they should be able to trace the call. She thanks them.

Alexis asks how long before she’s arrested for conspiracy and kidnapping? Sonny says he’s not the one who left his phone so Kristina could get it. Alexis says, sorry. She’s not experienced in kidnapping. Neil says Kristina wasn’t on long enough to tell Valerie where she was. Alexis asks what she said, but Neil says it’s privileged information. She asks if he doesn’t think the lines are blurred at this point. It would help to know what she communicated. Neil says they need strategy for their next session, but Alexis isn’t sure there will be one. Now that Valerie knows what’s going on, she thinks their time is about to be up.

Franco tells Drew it’s no secret the Quartermaine’s hate him, but he wanted to pay his respects to Oscar. Realizing his wording isn’t the best, he fumbles around, then says he’s the worst at this. Drew says he’s doing great, and tells him to go back inside. He says everyone in there hates him. He thought he’d just drop this off, and run away. He gives Drew a wrapped canvas, and Drew asks if he can open it now. Franco says he can hang it in Oscar’s room while he’s staying there. Drew unwraps a painting of a sunset with a tree in the foreground. He asks if Franco painted it. Franco says it’s kind of a departure. He had some paintings in the basement that Oscar and Cameron saw, and Oscar really liked that one, so he wanted him to have it. Drew thanks him, but Franco says, it’s just a gesture. He wishes could do something that counted. He’s sorry. Drew is too.

Curtis tells Timmy that he can have all of it if he tells Curtis what he needs to know. Was the woman American? Timmy says it didn’t sound like an American accent. He noticed a bumper sticker on her cat that said, North Madison High School, Class of ’94. It’s a few towns over, and this isn’t a destination for them, unless there’s something they have that the people can’t get there.

In a hospital bed, Jordan opens her eyes. Stella tells her, relax, and Jordan asks, what happened? Elizabeth says she collapsed, and Stella found her. Stella says she picked a fine place to faint. Finn comes in, and Stella and Jordan thank him. He’s glad she’s awake. He’s going to be the consulting doctor on her case now. Stella says he’s an infectious disease specialist, and he says her body is reacting to an infection in the remaining kidney. She asks what the course of treatment is. He says she’s allergic to penicillin, so they’ll try a different antibiotic, and see if it’s affective. Stella asks what happens if it’s not.

Sam says Shiloh told her that she might be ready for the next level, and he’d contact her. Shiloh asks if she’s being impatient. She says, maybe, but she wants him to know she’s willing and ready. Mark asks if he’s interrupting, and Shiloh says, no. Mark says he got distracted talking to other members, and asks Sam if they’re still on. He tells Shiloh that Sam offered to go to lunch with him, and help him choose courses. Shiloh tells them to go. He’ll talk to Sam later.

Neil tells Alexis and Sonny that he wants to talk about how they’re going to approach Kristina. The technique is called motivational interviewing. They can’t criticize DOD or the members. Kristina is too wrapped up in it, and if they criticize the group, they criticize her. The goal is to get her to realize for herself that DOD can’t meet her needs. Sonny says the sooner they clear Kristina’s head, the better. There’s a knock at the door, and Alexis answers.  It’s Valerie and Chase. Valerie asks if they can come in.

Alexis ask to what she owes this unexpected pleasure. Neil hustles into another room. Valerie tells Alexis they want to talk to her, and Alexis asks if it’s official business. Do they have a warrant? Chase says there’s no need for one; they just have a few questions. Alexis says she’s in the middle of something, but lets them in. Valerie says she didn’t expect to see Sonny, and he says, likewise. Alexis says they were just going over some legal business. Chase asks if Diane is indisposed, and Sonny says he has different lawyers for different business. And I say, man, for this being unofficial, they sure are nosy. Valerie says Alexis claimed Kristina was out of town visiting a friend, and clearing her head, but she got a call from Kristina from an unknown number. She had the call traced, and the phone is registered to Alexis.

Finn says, most patients respond well to antibiotics, but Jordan says, most patents have another kidney to fall back on. Finn suggests they not get ahead of themselves. Stella tells Jordan that she’ll give her some privacy to get settled. Jordan says, give it to her straight. If can’t beat the infection, what does it mean? Elizabeth gives her something to make her more comfortable. Jordan says, hopefully, the antibiotics will clear up the infection overnight, and no one will need to worry. If that happens, she’ll be an anomaly, since it usually takes at least a week. Curtis calls, but she doesn’t answer.

Timmy says Curtis promised him a hundred dollars, but Curtis says he asked for the name, not a high school in another town. He calls Jordan and leaves a message that he’s got a new lead. It might keep him out of town a while. He’d rather be with her, but hopes it leads to Ryan. I thought the high school was actually a pretty good lead.

Jordan tells Elizabeth, she might not want to be there, but she’s reasonably comfortable. Elizabeth says she couldn’t help notice that Jordan ignored the call from Curtis. Won’t he want to know what’s going on with her? Jordan says Stella probably already told him, but Elizabeth thinks he’d want to hear it from her. It’s our instinct to help the people we love, and the people we love are in the best position to help us.

Curtis starts searching online for the high school. Jordan calls, and he says he turned up something. He asks if it’s okay if he sticks around and follows up. She thinks he should get back, and he asks if everything is okay. She wishes she could say yes, but she has to tell him something.

At the MetroCourt, Lulu says Ryan’s memorial is getting a lot of views. Doc says, if Ryan is one of them, he believes they think he’s dead, and will come out of hiding. Felicia says, then he’ll do something rash, and make a mistake. Mac says, don’t count on the timeframe. He’ll need recovery time. Felicia says, don’t count on Ryan recovering. When he sees Ava is with someone else, he’ll come running. Lulu says they have to reinforce the idea Ava and Doc have bonded. Ava says, let’s do it, and Lulu takes her to where there’s better lighting. Felica tells Doc that Ava’s not the only one with a target on their back. What he’s doing is really brave. She hopes he’ll be ready for when Ryan returns.

Lulu asks if Ava is ready, and starts to film. She says this is part one of her exclusive interview with Ava Jerome, the object of serial killer Ryan Chamberlain’s obsession. She thanks Ava, and asks what she can tell the viewers about her relationship with Ryan.

Franco says he thinks he’s done there, doing the thing he does best, making everything worse, but Drew asks Franco to stay a while, and keep him company. He doesn’t need one more person who wants to put a positive spin on things. He might snap on them. His son is dying; there’s no positive there. He just found out he had a son, a piece of his past he can’t remember. The worst part is his son has worse, losing every inch of his future.

Valerie asks Alexis if she has any idea how Kristina was calling from her phone. Alexis goes into her purse, and says she knew it. She has Kristina’s phone. Valerie says, she had it without knowing? and Alexis says, it happens a lot. They have the same phone, model, and case. Chase says she didn’t notice? Sonny says Alexis avoids her cell phone. She forgets it or doesn’t charge it. It’s hella frustrating, and if you text her, you’re not getting one back. Valerie suggests Alexis activate the tracking on her phone, but Alexis says she already knows where Kristina is. Is she under investigation? Chase says, not at all. They just wanted to verify her whereabouts. Sonny says they know where she’s at. Alexis says they’re respecting Kristina’s privacy, so unless there’s a compelling reason, they’re not disclosing it. Valerie says they’ll be in touch, and they leave. Alexis asks Sonny what the odd are that they bought any of that. Sonny says, not a chance. Alexis is going to be under surveillance, and can’t go to the session tomorrow.

Lulu says, it’s tough to understand. Ava’s feelings for Ryan were genuine? Ava says, yes. He was there for her when she needed him. He picked her up when she fell off course. She had no idea Ryan was behind what happened to her daughter. She came to rely on him completely. The irony of all of this is, she thought it was Doc who she’d developed a deep powerful connection to. Doc, who accepted her as she as. He saw the good in her. Now she knows it was Ryan imitating his brother. That’s how she came to fall in love with him. She fell in love with a man pretending to be his brother. The real Ryan murdered her daughter. We see someone watching the interview. Lulu says, it must be hard to live with. Ava says, if there’s any silver lining, she’s not alone. There is someone Ryan hurt almost as much; his brother. His brother is remarkable. Now that she’s getting to know the actual Doc, not an impersonation, he’s a remarkable man, and an invaluable source of support. Lulu thanks her.

Mac says, Felicia has a point. If it works, Ryan is coming after Doc. Is he ready? Doc says he has to be. He wants to do whatever he can to capture his brother. Felicia says she wishes… never mind. Doc finishes, turned him in? So does he. He looks at his justifications and excuses, and can’t believe his arrogance and how foolish he was. Three people died because of him. His greatest loss was just as devastating other loss just as devastating. People lost their faith, trust, and belief in him as a friend. Mac says he can’t help anyone by being a martyr himself. Luring Ryan out is one thing, but being a target is something else. Doc says if it helps capture his brother, he’ll do it; no hesitation.

Lulu says, that concludes part one in the series, The Object of Obsession: Surviving the Monster I loved. Ava downs her drink.

Franco tells Drew not to let anyone tell him how to process grief; it’s different for everyone. He grieves every day, but doesn’t talk about it. What’s the point? He has to go through it. Go through the motions, and stay present for the people he loves and who say they care about him. He misses Kiki – until he paints. He’s waiting for the time when he sees everything Kiki accomplished and gave of herself. Someday, Kiki’s life will no longer be overwhelmed by her death. It will happen. It’s hard, but he does it because it’s what she would want. It’s slow going. Drew says, yeah. Franco says he’s making the worst of everything today, but Drew appreciates it, and says he’s been a lot of help. Franco says he’d like to be a help to Drew. He doesn’t always have to talk so much. Drew laughs, and Franco says they might not be blood, but they’re still brothers. He’ll always be there for Drew. Drew says he’s grateful.

Alexis tells Sonny, it’s not an official investigation, but Sonny says they suspect something is up. She’s in their sights, and can’t go to the safe house. Neil says he can’t stress how important is for them both to be there, especially her. She has the most contentious relationship with Kristina. It’s a critical time. Sonny says they’ll be trailing her with the phone, and they can’t risk it. He has experience distancing himself from cops. Alexis says, it’s not a bragging point. Milo calls, and Sonny has to go. Alexis asks what about Kristina’s therapy, and Sonny says they’ll discuss other options. He leaves, and Neil asks Alexis says, it could mean anything. He could put her in the trunk of a car to take her to the safe house, or take them all to a private island. Neil says, that would be a disaster. She says, the whole thing is. She asks which one of them is right? and Neil says, unfortunately, both of them.

Mark – who I didn’t realize is Milo, since he hasn’t been on the show since the earth cooled – says he’s sorry he pulled Sam away, but he had to make sure Shiloh didn’t catch her. Sam is glad he texted her when he did. She got distracted by something she found. She should have stayed on point. He asks what she found, and she says a picture of her and Shiloh that she didn’t know he was taking. Nothing damaging, but it reminded her that she can’t trust a word he says. Even if he believes she’s all in about joining the Trust, she needs to watch her back.

Shiloh goes into his office, and opens a file drawer.

Doc asks how it went, and Lulu thinks it was convincing. If he’s out there, they got his attention. Ava wishes everyone would stop saying if he’s out there. He’s out there. Now, the public needs to think she and Doc have actually fallen for each other.

In the fastest trip back from Canada ever, Curtis goes to Jordan’s bedside. Stella is so glad he’s back, and he says Jordan was just about fill him in on what happened. Stella says she found Jordan on the hospital floor, and called for help. Finn walks in, and she says he can hear the rest from the expert. Finn says, first, they have to see how Jordan responds to the antibiotics. If she doesn’t, given the condition of her remaining kidney, she’ll need a transplant as soon as possible.

Franco finds Elizabeth at the reception desk. She asks where he disappeared to. He tells her that Cameron told him about Oscar liking one of his paintings, and he dropped it off at the Quartermaines. Elizabeth says that was generous, but he says it was just a gesture. He talked, and Drew listened, but he wishes he could help. Elizabeth thinks he just did. They hug.

Drew looks at the painting.

Valerie and Chase go to the MetroCourt for lunch. Valerie is surprised Chase wanted to eat there. He thinks they should eat some good food while they can, and drink some triple espressos. They’re going on a stakeout to keep an eye on Alexis. Maybe it will lead them to Kristina.

Alexis looks out the window. Neil says she has an elaborate tea collection, and she says she can never have enough calming tea. She doesn’t see anyone outside. Not that she would have. Neil says they have to try a different approach. They can’t risk leading the police to Kristina, and they’ll be monitoring Alexis; watching her every move. Alexis said they’ll be watching her car, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be following her.

Milo tells Sonny that he tried to keep Shiloh talking, but he got brushed off. Sam says, thank God that Milo texted her when he did, but It wasn’t a total waste. She knows where Shiloh keeps his secrets. Shiloh told her members of the Trust have more privileges. That means she’ll have to become a member, but she’ll do whatever it takes.

Shiloh looks at the picture of him and blindfolded Sam. He says he knows all of her secrets, and can’t wait to see what she reveals,

Tomorrow, Ned asks what someone is doing there, Drew says maybe Oscar isn’t fighting a losing battle, and Oscar tells Josslyn that he feels better.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Erika and LisaR drive to Erika’s friend’s studio, Merge. In her interview, LisaR says she loves their relationship. They built it over time; it didn’t just happen. There’s a survivor and hustler in Erika that she relates to, and she gets a kick out of Erika. She tells Erika about the TV show she did called Merge. In Erika’s interview, she says LisaR is fearless, and admits her faults. That’s a real friend. Not someone who will never admit they do anything wrong.

At the studio they get on the rowing machine. The instructor says LisaR’s ass is weak. In her interview, she brags about an exercise video she made ten years ago, and we see a clip. It’s not super professional. So what have you done lately? Cardigans? They do an exercise that actually looks harmful for the lower back.

LVP and Ken look at marble for the kitchen. It’s like a lumber yard, except there are huge marble slabs all around. Giggy! Puffy! In LVP’s interview, she says they’re in the middle of a kitchen remodel, and it’s getting expensive. She has to keep a lid on the budget or she’ll be in trouble. She says she’s going to choose the one Puffy lifts his leg on. Sure enough, Puffy pees, but she says that one isn’t quite right. She tells Ken that PK called her. We see a clip of them on the phone, saying they miss each other. PK tells her to have her people talk to his people. LVP says she is her people. She says it’s hard having a conversation about something you both disagree on. It just goes around and around. In her interview, she says she hasn’t seen Dorit since the wedding, and they all think LVP gave the story to Radar Online. If Dorit is going to call her a liar, there is no friendship.

Dorit needs a Beverly Beach office, and has designer Mat whip something up for her. She says she can’t operate out of her house anymore. She’s ready for the next level. Growing the business has been like having another child, and she loves that the kids can play together. It’s bigger and more gorgeous than most people’s apartments. PK arrives, and Mat is off to his next design emergency. PK tells Dorit that they’re having lunch with LVP. Dorit says she never thought something would happen and the friendship would be dissipated. In her interview, Dorit says they have a history. We see clips from the past, including LVP defending Dorit at a reunion. The loving part of her wants to make things right, but she’s not doing it at the expense of her integrity. PK says Ken wants to put things back together. Dorit tells him that his throwaway comment to Kyle was a tad insensitive. He says he’s happy to apologize, but he’s not discussing it for weeks on end. And they will.

In the car, Kyle tells Teddi that Sophia is coming home for weekend. She asks if Teddi has talked to anyone, and Teddi asks if Dorit reached out. Kyle asks if she’s wrong, and we flash back Teddi saying anyone who knows Kyle, knows she would be hurt, referring to PK’s remark. Kyle says it cost her friendship with LVP. He implied she did something wrong, when she spoke up and told the truth. He should be thankful. She says she’ll survive. They park the car, and walk around Lake Hollywood. Deer! Kyle says this is what she loves about living in LA. Like you can’t see wild animals anywhere else. Teddi says she loves doing things she wouldn’t normally, like the RV trip. She doesn’t know how far they’ll get. it’s the size of a tour bus. Kyle jokingly asks, how many bedrooms? In her interview, Teddi says she loves camping. It’s living the simple life, even if it’s only 24-hours. Kyle says they’re the only ones who think it will be fun. In Teddi’s interview, she says she’s trying again to take them out of their comfort zones, and see if they can relax together. The worst case, one of them doesn’t make it home. She and Kyle take a selfie with the Hollywood sign in the background.

Denise meets Camille for lunch. Camille tells her that it’s been a hectic time; raising teenagers, and blending a family. Denise asks if she feels differently about getting married now. Camille says it was David’s idea to have a big wedding. She wanted something small, but she’s glad she agreed. In her interview, Denise says she and Camille met when Camille was married to Kelsey, and they’ve compared notes on public divorces. They’re definitely survivors. Denise asks how the concert was, and if she needs a drink to hear about it. Camille says she might, so Denise orders a martini. Camille says the concert was great, but afterwards, PK said something to Kyle backstage about how she can’t keep a best friend. Dorit tried to explain later, but Teddi jumped in. She feels like Teddi is a bit of a know-it-all. In her interview, Camille says, Teddi needs to take a seat. Her youth is getting the best of her, and she sounds like an entitled millennial. She tells Denise that she’s getting to like Dorit more, but thinks something is off. Denise spaces out as Camille talks about everyone. In Denise’s interview, she says Camille wont shut up. It’s making her feel like Camille will be talking about her next. It puts her in a compromising position. She loves everyone, and doesn’t want to tell them what Camille is saying. She doesn’t want everything to blow up. She asks Camille if everyone is going to be fighting on the RV trip. Camille says, it’s going to be the RV from hell.

Aaron and Denise watch the sunrise while having coffee. In Denise’s interview, she says they wake up at five am, have a little hanky-panky, get the kids ready, coffee, gym, and get the kids off to school.

Kyle makes Portia breakfast, leaving it on her bed. She tells the dogs not to touch it, which would be meaningless in my house. In her interview, she says they’ve always done attachment parenting, and Portia still sleeps with them at ten-years-old. Okay… She says they want it, need it, and they’re happy. Okay… again. She doesn’t think she’s spoiling Portia. She’s just taking care of her. It’s her job. Just a thought, but her kids also seem to have a hard time leaving home, and part of a parent’s job is to prepare them for that. Maybe they’re a little too attached.

Denise says her girls love Aaron, and like his cooking better than hers. Parenting teenagers is challenging. The girls fight over who’s wearing whose clothes. In her interview, Denise says they’re pushing the boundaries for independence, and it’s hard to figure out what battles to pick. Sometimes it’s better to let them work it out. There’s no real handbook.

Kyle thinks it’s important for children to know they’re the most important people in your life.  Her world revolves around them. Kyle puts Portia’s socks on her, as Portia picks at the tray. Omg, I was getting myself ready by the time I was eight.

At Villa Blanca, LVP tells Ken that Dorit and PK are coming by. Since they’re not open for lunch, Ken suggests getting sushi. In her interview, LVP says the lunch might be a conduit for putting the friendship back together, if they can find a middle ground. If Dorit says she believes LVP, they can move past it, and be in harmony again.

PK insists this will make things better. Dorit says she still has be true to herself. Friends can have a difference of opinion, but if they both want to find a way to move forward, they can work it out. PK wants them to find a compromise, and is leaving that to them.

The restaurant is all decked out for a celebration about gay rights in India, where homosexuality has just been decriminalized. Puffy! They sit down outside, and PK says it was cold this morning. LVP says she’s felt frozen out for a few weeks. They clink glasses, and Dorit wonders why LVP doesn’t seem very welcoming to her. LVP says everybody is focused on the Radar Online article. Dorit asks why LVP called TMZ instead of calling her, and saying it’s not true. LVP thought it would make a bigger statement. In her interview, Dorit says LVP should have called her to see how she was doing, instead of telling TMZ it was an outrage. Dorit tells LVP that they don’t talk via the media. LVP says one day Dorit is going to realize she was defending her, but she’ll find out too late that LVP was in her corner. In Dorit’s interview, she thinks LVP planted a false story, and then swooped in and defended her. LVP wants to say she was the one who saved Dorit. Dorit says it’s difficult to believe LVP didn’t do it. LVP says if Dorit believes she gave the story to Radar Online, they don’t have a friendship. Does she want LVP to take a lie detector test? PK wonders why they can’t just say things got effed up, and move. Ken says they can only move on if Dorit understands LVP didn’t lie, and is the best friend she’ll ever have. If she doesn’t, there’s no friendship. PK says Ken is trying to control their thoughts, but Ken says he’s trying to convince them that LVP is the most honest person they’ll ever meet. In LVP’s interview, she wonders why Dorit would want to have lunch with a liar. She wouldn’t want to be friends with a liar. Why would they? Dorit says she can’t believe LVP wants to throw away a friendship that she thinks is stronger and more powerful than this incident. LVP says everyone is bringing the gavel down on her just because they want to believe something. Dorit says LVP can say it happened, but Dorit loves her enough to put it behind her. Ken says she’s still saying she doesn’t believe LVP. Dorit says they can agree to disagree, but Ken says they can’t. PK thinks they’re looking at it too black and white. Ken says he knows PK is trying, but his wife isn’t. If she thinks LVP is lying, they can’t be friends. Dorit says she can only hear that someone doesn’t want to be friends with her for so long. PK believes someone in LVP’s camp leaked the story. LVP swears on her kids’ lives that she didn’t, and doesn’t know who did. PK accepts that, but Ken says his wife doesn’t. PK says he’s a trusting and forgiving person, and he can’t control his wife. Dorit says he’s asking her to dig deep, and not be true to herself. PK says he believes LVP. Dorit says, it’s painful. She cares about the friendship, but believes LVP had something to do with the initial story and the Johns. Ken says he’d like to be friends with PK, but… He and LVP go inside.

PK tells Dorit that she wasn’t helpful. She doesn’t think it’s fair. She doesn’t want a conditional friendship. Inside, LVP tells Ken that she doesn’t care. Dorit comes in, and tells LVP that she respects LVP and loves her. LVP wonders how, since friendships are based on honesty. Why would she want to move forward with someone she thinks lied to her. She gives Dorit cheek kisses, and says she loves her. Dorit wonders how she can say that, and LVP says, actually, she doesn’t. This is the first time she’s lied. In Dorit’s interview, she says it’s clear that LVP is still holding a grudge about Dorit saying she’s needy, and needs attention. We flash back to Dorit saying just that, and that LVP’s parents didn’t fulfill her love and attention needs. She says she apologized seven million times. We flash back to that too, but’s it’s more like three times. She says, it’s payback. Remember last year? There you go. A huge question mark hangs over my head about how she came to this conclusion. LVP tells Ken it would be easier to address Congress than talk to that bloody cow.

Yuk! Kyle cuts Mauricio’s toenails. She says as long as her husband is in the house with her, her job will never be done. A photographer comes to take holiday card photos. In her interview, Kyle explains that when she was growing up, her mother always did photo cards. They weren’t professional, but when she had kids, they became a big thing. And she’s going to keep doing it when they have kids. She asks if this is the most Sophia has slept since she went off to college, and Sophia says, yes; she goes to bed at 6 am. In Kyle’s interview, she says she’d worry if she didn’t think Sophia was a responsible kid. The equipment is set up. Kyle goes to get dressed, and tells Mauricio she needs him in jeans and a white button-down shirt.

Everyone sits on the stairs, and gets ready for the photo. Kyle suddenly realizes someone left the gate open, and they all run outside. Romeo is on the loose, and Kyle drags Storm back to the house. In her interview, Kyle says she always feels that her life is like Whack-A-Mole, and I totally relate. Somehow, the photos get taken.

In Teddi’s interview, she says her M.O. for having a catered dinner where the women are taken care of is – news flash – when they go camping, they’ll have to do it themselves. LisaR can’t believe the RV sitting in the driveway. She’s stressed out about it. In her interview, she says she doesn’t like to be uncomfortable. We flash back to her aversion to Harry’s tent. And that’s not a euphemism for anything. She says she doesn’t like to be trapped with anyone, and feels like she will be. In Kyle’s interview, she says she doesn’t like the awkwardness with her friends. She doesn’t want her anger toward PK to trickle down. She thinks she had every right to be angry.

Kyle says there are three tents with room for two and the RV. She’s assuming LVP isn’t coming. Teddi says she didn’t hear from her about tonight, and asks if anyone has talked to her. Erika says LVP texted her about the celebration of Indian gay rights. We see clips from the party. Ken dances with Giggy. Dorit says she and PK had lunch with LVP and Ken. The essence was that either Dorit believe LVP had nothing to do with the article, or they’re not friends. Everyone gasps, and this is so shocking, why? Denise says LVP needs to apologize, and Kyle asks if she’s a comedienne now. In LisaR’s interview, she says, you need to realize you can’t be perfect, and LVP can’t do that. Kyle asks why Dorit is trying so hard. Erika asks how PK feels, and Dorit says PK is the eternal optimist, and wants to continue trying. Kyle brings up PK’s remark to her, saying one of them should have called her. Dorit says PK didn’t mean anything by it, and he apologized to her. Kyle says it wasn’t really an apology. We flash to PK saying, sorry, it was just a joke. Dorit says PK wants to continue to be friends with Ken and LVP, and she’s the one who got tossed aside. Erika asks how that’s working at home. If it was Tom, she’d be showing up there. Dorit says the friendship isn’t more important than their marriage. Kyle thinks something else is going on. In her interview, Kyle thinks it’s odd that PK is protecting the friendship. Maybe it’s business or London secrets. She can’t put her finger on it. It’s probably nothing except he doesn’t want to lose his friends of thirty years. These women are so ridiculous. Dorit says, it’s a deep friendship, and Kyle says she’s better friends with LVP than PK. Dorit knows Kyle thinks so. Camille says she never heard about Dorit and PK until two years ago. Dorit says the people who have known LVP and Ken for thirty years know them. In Erika’s interview, she says here they are again, with these two arguing about who’s a better friend to LVP. We see a clip of the Dorit-Kyle-LVP triangle. Erika says LVP isn’t home worrying about either of those two. Dorit says their friendship isn’t based on whether Kyle heard of them. Kyle says friends know each other’s friends. Dorit says she doesn’t know all of Kyle’s friends, and Kyle says maybe they’re not that close of friends. Dorit can’t believe where the conversation is going. Kyle is hurting her, and she’s asking her to stop.

Denise says she can’t wait for the effing trip they’re going on. Ha-ha!

Next time, the RV trip – which is probably enough – grocery shopping, Teddi thinks PK is acting out, and Teddi confronts Camille about being two faced.

My two cents. I half-jest when I say LVP can do no wrong, but I totally get what she’s saying. If someone clearly stated they didn’t believe me about something – and this is kind of a big something – but still wanted to be friends, I’d wonder why too. What are they getting out of being friends with someone they think is a liar? It’s weird. I’m also with LVP on that I wouldn’t want to be friends with a liar. That’s actually a deal breaker for me. Obviously, it depends on the lie, but it’s definitely a cause for breaking up. She’s also not saying that someone from her camp didn’t leak it. She just doesn’t know who. Even Radar Online has said she had nothing to do with it. While they’re certainly not credible, the bottom line is, there’s no proof. There’s only a bunch of women speculating, with no real evidence. A guest on Watch What Happens Live tonight, Dorit said it was just a feeling she had. Dorit doesn’t get that LVP would always be thinking that someone who’s supposed to be her friend, believes she’s a liar.

If Loving You Is Wrong

Alex tells Ian to get off of her. He thought it was what she wanted, and she tells him, get out. He says, okay, Jennifer, and she says her name is Alex. He says she really doesn’t remember him? She sent him text messages. She says, it wasn’t her, and he says they met. They’re adults. If he’d known she was married, he wouldn’t have said anything. He was married too. She asks what he’s talking about. He says they met at the Maxine hotel. She told him about the break-up. She was so nervous, she kept looking over her shoulder. He doesn’t know why. She says, that never happened. He must be drunk; get out. He says he wouldn’t have said anything if he knew she’d be upset. He talks her down, and says he’ll take the divorce papers home, and bring them back tomorrow. She says he can call her with any advice; he doesn’t need to come. Well, she could do worse. He’s divorced. she’s about to be. and Marcie isn’t interested. so why not?

Eddie comes over to Lushion’s desk with to-go (empty) coffee cups. (I have this thing about actors not making it look like the cup is full. Where is the direction when it comes to this?!) Lushion says Eddie is a fool if he thinks he’s going to drink it. Eddie says he’s trying to be nice. Lushion says, no. Eddie doesn’t know how to be nice. What’s going on? Eddie says, when he’s being normal, Lushion thinks he’s up to something. Lushion says he’s always trying to raise hell. Eddie says, no secrets. He knows they’re FBI, and he’s DEA. They both want to take down the cartel. Instead of hiding stuff from each other, they should work toward a common goal. They should share information. Lushion likes it, and tells Eddie, go first. Eddie starts talking, and Lushion asks what this is about. Eddie asks why Lushion stopped asking him about Andrew. Lushion isn’t a quitter. Lushion asks if Eddie wants to tell him where Andrew is. Eddie says he knows as much as Lushion. He asks if Andrew is in protective custody. Lushion asks if he’s worried about something. He asks again if Eddie knows where Andrew is. Eddie says he has no idea. He came to extend an olive branch, and it’s not happening. He’s still trying to take Eddie out. Lushion says, with everything inside him. Eddie says, enjoy his latte, and Lushion dumps it in the trash. Eddie says, that’s $4.95, you son of a bitch, and leaves. Rick walks in and says he hates that guy. That was weird, Eddie was behaving like we’ve never seen him, and even his voice sounded different. What’s up with that?

Lushion tells Rick, join the club. Rick has something. He gives Lushion a file, and says he talked to Margaret. She gave him that. It’s a file of the women the church tried to hide, who were being stalked by Travis. Lushion says it’s exactly what they need. Will they talk? Rick says, they’re afraid to. Lushion says what they have should be enough. Rick asks if he can tell Kelly, but Lushion says, not yet. Rick says he’ll just tell her that they’ve got something good, and Lushion says, okay. He appreciates rick, and tells him, great work. Rick asks if he’s saying they’re going to get her off. Lushion says, they’re going to try.

Lushion calls Ian, and says he’s got something. Nine women who Travis stalked, and proof the church settled. Ian asks, how did he get it? and Lushion says, he got it. Ian says, does he know it’s legit? and Lushion says, he knows it is. Ian says it’s too close. If they go down that road, Larry already thinks it’s him. He’s still in, but has to think it out. Lushion says he’s trying to trust Ian. Be straight up. Ian says he’s in. Give him some time to figure it out. Lushion wants Kelly out, and Ian says he’ll call when he’s out of court. He asks how long Lushion has known Alex, and Lushion says, a while; why? Ian asks if she’s the type to step out on her husband. Lushion wonders if he’s asking if she’s available, but Ian says he’s just. Lushion asks him to come over with the kid lawyer later, and Ian says he’s on it.

Ian calls Carl, and says he wants to talk about a case. It has to stay very private. He knows Carl met with Kelly; it’s about her. Don’t tell a soul. He’ll text Carl with the address.

Rick beings Kelly some pudding. He says they got it. Several other women at the church, but they’re afraid to talk. Kelly says she could be stuck in there, but Rick says Lushion is talking to a lawyer, and they’re both going to talk to the DA. Kelly asks if there’s a chance they’ll know she’s not lying, and Rick says, yeah. She asks, how long will it take? He doesn’t know, but not long. They’re working on it. She thanks him for the pudding, and he thanks her for not hating him for not believing her. She says he didn’t know, but he says he should have; he’s an officer. Kelly says, she slept with him. She should have known. Rick says, it’s over now, but she says, no, it’s not. She’s in jail. He says they’re getting her out. She loves his confidence, and he says that’s how he feels. He tells her, if she likes pudding, she can always hit him up.

Dr. Raston calls Alex, to make sure she’s on time for the board meeting. In the time it takes for me to think, geez, she doesn’t ned a babysitter, the phone rings again. It’s Brad, who reminds her that he’ll be over today, and she needs to sign the papers. She says she hasn’t had a chance for the lawyer to look them over. He says he gave her 24-hours. Ooh, what a prince. She promises to sign them, and he says, nothing is changing. She has something to tell him first. He doesn’t care, but she says the baby’s not Randal’s. Brad laughs, and asks if she expects him to believe that. She thinks it might be his, and he says she’s out of her mind. There’s no way it’s his baby. Alex says the doctor told her sometimes genes skip a generation. He says there’s no one of that ethnicity in his family, and she asks if he’s sure. He wonders what kind of game she’s playing. She ask him to please double-check, and he says she’s insane. She better be there tonight to sign the papers. He hangs up, and Marcie asks what that was about. He tells her Alex says he’s the father. The DNA test said Randal isn’t the father. Marcie thought the results were switched, and Brad says he just wants the divorce. She’s out of her mind. He just wants to be free. Marcie says they’re almost there.

There’s a knock on Alex’s door. It’s Ian, who asks if he can come in. He promises whatever happened, it won’t happen again. He was drunk, and he’s very sorry. She lets him in. He tells her that Brad is pretty much taking everything. She gets the house, 50% of his income, and joint custody for two of the kids. He can get her more, but she says she only wants what’s fair, and Brad is being fair. Ian says, he’s only providing for two of the kids, and she says, it’s fine. She’ll sign. He says if she changes her mind, let him know, He’s really sorry, and asks her to please forgive him. He leaves, and she sits down.

Natalie gets the mail. Ben is driving by, and says, hi. She says she needed talk to him. He asks, what happened? and she says, nothing. His wife was saying Randal was looking into their house, and she was on her way to the store and saw him. He was looking with binoculars, and she wanted to let him know. He thanks her, and she says maybe they could close the curtains. He says his wife likes the light, but he’ll talk to Randal. Natalie doesn’t think that will do any good, but Ben says he can be convincing. She says she’s never known anyone who can stop Randal, and Ben says she’s never met him. She says, no, she hasn’t. She offers to get Lushion, but he says he’ll handle it, and thanks her.

Ben asks Tanya how she is, and sees the painting of Randal at the window. Ben says, it’s beautiful, and she says she’s been working on it all day. He asks what it’s about, and she says he’s just looking at the girl across the street. Ben asks if this really happened, and she says, no. He asks why the man is naked, and she says, he just is. She tells him that she made dinner. He looks beyond annoyed, and says he forgot something in the car. He leaves, picking up a spray can of paint on his way out the door.

Ben bangs on Randal’s door. There’s no answer, so he goes around the back, and kicks that door in. He grabs a bat, and goes absolutely apesh*t on the house. Throwing things out of the drawers, ripping up artwork, taking the bat to whatever is on the counters and tables, smashing things, and turning over furniture. There go a couple of glass tables. On the wall, he paints, bitch, next time I burn this down 😊 Smiley included.

At the meeting, Alex says Dr. Raston didn’t switch the tests. It was totally her. She lied to cover up something she did. The judge asks if she’d testify to that in court, and she says, yes. The doctor says, she also signed an affidavit. The judge says he’s heard enough; bring in Randal. Alex freaks, and Dr. Raston says he had to be a part of it. Larry comes in with Randal, and Randal says he’s going to fry this bitch for his pain and suffering. The judge says the board is satisfied that Dr. Raston did nothing inappropriate. He asks who the hell switched it, and Alex says they weren’t switched. Alex asks the doctor to explain it to him. The doctor says there were three remaining samples. No one switched the DNA. Randal asks, what went wrong? and she says there’s no way he can be the child’s biological father. Randal laughs, and says that’s why he’s suing the hell out of this place – for lying. Dr. Raston says he’s welcome to take the child to his own lab, and Larry asks to see the results. He looks over the paperwork, and Randal says, it’s his kid. Larry says he never saw a hospital put themselves under this much scrutiny. These tests are legit. He knows the hospital’s reputation. He asks if Alex would like to share., Randal goes cross-eyed, and guesses it’s not his baby. He says, okay, so she was cheating on him. He laughs, and says she’d do this to him. He starts getting manic, and Larry pulls him toward the door. He yell, this is my kid, and laughs some more. Larry pushes him out.

Esperanza calls Larry. She really wants the papers filed. He’s in his car, and says the office can file for her, but he needs to be present when she signs. She asks when Eddie will be served, and he says, today. He wants to make it easy for her. She asks if they can prepare them and shell call when she wants him to be served, but Larry thinks it’s a good time now. There’s a knock at door, and Steven comes in. She tells him that she didn’t want to talk at the station. She’s about to do something that could ruin Eddie. He’ll be mad as hell. She’s going to take full custody, and take his job away. He’s not going to take it well. Steven asks if she’s afraid of him, and she says, no. It’s how he’s going to act and react when he loses his job. Steven says it’s not her problem, but she says his job all Eddie has. Steven says, the guy is horrible, and she asks if she can count on him. He asks if she’s scared of Eddie, and she admits she is, a little. He’s going to flip out. Steven asks if Eddie has hit her, but she says, no. She just wants to know that Steven has her back. She asks if he’ll come with her to the courthouse, and he says, let’s go. She hugs him, and he says she’s shaking. She says, it never gets easier, and he says, that’s going to change.

Ben watches as Randal pulls in. Randal’s phone rings, and he asks what the hell they want. It’s Marcie, who says she heard it’s not his baby. How does it feel? She guesses he can’t make a baby either. How does it feel to lose every hope? He calls her an evil bitch, and she says, he’s the evil one. He’s the devil. Who was that whore sleeping with? He says she thinks it’s funny, and she says, yes. He has to live next door to her. It looks like now, neither one of them have kids. He says he just got started, and she says, her too. He hangs up, and goes inside.

As soon as Randal walks in, he starts yelling. He screams, Alex! although why he assumes it’s her and not Marcie, I have on idea. He paces around saying, are you serious? Stupid bitch! He says, okay. All right, bitch. He laughs, and says, you’re done. he paces some more, and storms out. Ben watches as Randal gets in his car.

Ian gives Larry some papers. Larry says Ian wouldn’t believe the day he’s having. Randal found out Alex’s kid isn’t his. Ian says, they had a kid? Larry says, so he thought. Today Randal found out that’s not the case, and he’s going crazy. Larry asks, what’s going on? and Ian thinks they have a problem. He thinks some officers are on to the settlement with the women in the church. Larry asks if Ian said anything, but Ian says, no. Lushion has been asking him to help Kelly out. Naturally, he said no, and Lushion said they’d found something. Lushion thinks he’s on their side, and he thinks he should play it in the middle. Larry says it’s hard to believe the loyalty is there if he is in the middle. He tells Ian, stay on top of it. Otherwise, it’s his ass. Ian says he’s all over it.

Lushion comes home, and tells Natalie that Ian and the kid lawyer are coming over. She needs to tell him something. Randal has been staring at the woman across the street with binoculars. There’s a knock at the door, and she says she’ll let him handle it. Ian comes in with Carl. Lushion tells Carl that he wants him to rep Kelly. Carl thought he didn’t want that, but Lushion says he changed his mind. Carl asks, what about Ian, but Ian says he can’t; there’s a conflict. Carl is going to walk into the DA’s office, lay out the evidence against Travis, and convince them to drop the charges. Carl says the DA is tough, but Ian says he’s tougher. He’ll give Carl all of his notes. Just pay close attention. Lushion tells him, just breathe. Ian says someone gave him a shot; now it’s Carl’s turn. They shake hands, and Carl leaves.

Lushion asks if Ian thinks he’ll be okay. Ian says, he’ll be fine. It’s textbook. The DA is a bulldog, but he’ll be fine. There’s a knock at the door, and this time it’s Brad, his lawyer, and Alex. They need a witness. Natalie tells Lushion that she said she would. Lushion didn’t know this was happening there. Alex signs, Natalie signs, and Brad gives the papers to his lawyer. He tells Alex, now she’s free to screw anyone she wants to. Randal or a random guy on the street. Don’t say that’s his kid again. She says he should take the DNA test, but he says he’s not doing a damn thing. He leaves, and Natalie says she’s sorry. Alex says she’s got to go, and Natalie promises to check on her later. Ian says he’ll see them later, and Lushion says he hopes it works. Ian says, it will be fine.

Alex cries on the way home, Ian runs after her. He asks how many men there were, and she says, excuse me? He asks how many men she slept with. She says, go to hell, and he says he knows it was her. He looked at all the profiles he got with a screen grab. It was her. He shows Alex her profile picture on his phone, and says, Jennifer. Is there any chance the baby could be his?

This was the finale. I think we’re going directly to The Haves and The Have Nots next week.

🚵 Like My Week…

And we’re only just starting day three.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjdf_w1JcSQ