Tag Archives: The Real Housewives of Dallas

January 20, 2021 – No Soap Or Radio, a Dallas Version Of St. Tropez, More On Moon, OC Reunites, Mormon Girls Taste the Dark Side, Sonny’s Savior, One Chris Too Many, Renewed Engine, DC Style & New

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

I tried, but alas, it was not to be. The video was there, but Skeletor from Castle Grayskull the powers that be restricted access. So tomorrow it is.

The Real Housewives of Dallas

Kameron and Fancy used side-by-side treadmills, since Fancy was supposed to walk an hour every day. Kameron was planning  a 50th birthday party for Kary, and met with some party planners. She wanted a white-themed party, evocative of St. Tropez where Kary had wanted to spend her birthday. D’Andra told her that she was pushing it, requesting they wear white bathing suits. In Kameron’s interview, she said she was shocked about Tiffany’s hosting skills, since she’d tried to force them to eat chicken feet. If I know the Housewives, this will never, ever be forgotten.

Travis took the kids fishing, and in her interview, Stephanie said she hated worms, fish, and hadn’t even eaten fish growing up, except for fish sticks. She’d started the Hollman Foundation to manufacture lockers for needy schools, and said she’d forced Travis to get involved. In her interview, she said she has a vagina, so he does what she wants most of the time. She felt that she didn’t have the facets to life that he did, and said the person with the money controls the situation in a relationship. The power wasn’t equal.

Tiffany’s parents were super quarantining, since her father suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and her mom was afraid of bringing it home to him. Tiffany went grocery shopping for her mom, and said running errands with the kids was spending quality time. She called it having an adventure. She brought a ton of groceries to her mom, who seemed disappointed that there were no chicken nuggets. In Tiffany’s interview, she said she’d once surprised her mom with a Porsche, and the first words out of her mouth were, it’s not purple?

D’Andra meditated, while Brandi’s daughters acted like the spoiled brats they are, as opposed to Tiffany’s children, who seem like a delight. In her interview, Tiffany said her mother was a better grandmother than she’d been a mother to her. There was tremendous pressure on education and to get a good job, so she could pay them back for being her parents. She said her mom was the muse for the Asian mother segment of her Tik Tok. We saw a clip, and I definitely want to see more. It looked like something Margaret Cho would do. Tiffany said her mother didn’t even know what Tik Tok was, and she intended to keep it that way.

Kameron told the party planners that Kary had wanted to go to St. Tropez for her 50th birthday, and they said they’d bring the beach to Dallas. Like one of the preference sheet instructions on Below Deck, Kameron said Kary wanted to dance on the table and be sprayed with champagne, and she wanted hot models to spray her. Meanwhile, Kary did a sexy photo shoot for her jewelry line, and Stephanie came by to give support. In Kary’s interview, Stephanie said she thought she was good cheerleader for Kary. Stephanie told Kary that she wanted something for herself after leaving her career to be a wife and mother. Kary said she hadn’t had much of a childhood, and wanted to make up for it.

Kameron used her father-in-law’s house for the party, since her house was on the market. She couldn’t afford red wine being spilled. Kameron said a pet phrase of Kary’s was, this is a situation, and it was stenciled across the front of the bar, and there were a lot of balloons and gorgeous flowers. Kameron was concerned about the seating, since Brandi had flown to Florida recently. In Kameron’s interview, she said, that wasn’t exactly socially smart. Brandi and Stephanie shared a ride over, and Brandi said she’d been super cautious, carrying a tub of anti-bacterial wipes with her. She’d laminated her test results, and put them on a lanyard to wear, and also wore a shield and gloves. She said it was time to party.

Kameron’s friend Jen was the first to arrive, and I wondered if she was bucking for a Texas star to hold, since she keeps popping up all the time. In Tiffany’s interview, she said when she got home from work at the hospital, she went through a full decontamination procedure, taking an outdoor shower, and putting on clean clothes before hugging her kids. Kameron told Jen about the chicken foot situation, and said she’d hid it under the table, Tiffany had belittled her, and tried to pressure her into doing something she didn’t want to. I’ve said it before, I’m very adventurous about food, but if someone tried to force me to eat something I didn’t want to, I’d tell them I’ll gladly do it, if first, they bend over, and I’ll force it somewhere else. I hate that kind of behavior.

Brandi also had a tape measure with her, which was pretty funny. In her interview, Kameron said she wasn’t the type to have shirtless waiters, but they couldn’t have a St. Tropez party without hot, shirtless guys. The waiters were indeed shirtless, and wore white shorts with white suspenders. Tiffany handed Kary a gift bag with a bottle of tequila, and said she didn’t know what it was, but they’d said it was good sh*t. In her interview, she said, growing up, it was all about grades and success, and this was everything she’d missed out on; parties, friends, and life. She wished she was more like Kary, and could enjoy the moment without worrying. Tiffany joked about being near Brandi, the covid girl, and in Kameron’s interview, she said she got her head chopped off when she’d made a remark at Tiffany’s dim sum party. The rules didn’t apply to her. Brandi kept trying to eat and drink through her shield, and in her interview, she said if she could make a shield with windshield wipers, she’d be a millionaire. The chicken foot struggle came up again, and Brandi thought it was the dumbest conversation she ever heard. I agreed. In Tiffany’s interview, she said she had no idea it would become Feetgate. She told Kameron that she was sorry a food her culture ate grossed Kameron out, but Kameron said it had nothing to do with Tiffany’s culture. Kary said the chicken foot situation was full of sh*t. Again, agreed. Tiffany said Kameron needed to loosen up, but Kameron was insulted, and said Tiffany didn’t respect her. She shouldn’t push people to do things they weren’t comfortable with. In Stephanie’s interview, she said the only way to get Kameron off the wheel was to apologize and move forward.

In Kary’s interview, she said it meant the world to her that Kameron had put together the party. She believed she was where she was supposed to be on her 50th.  The waiters brought out the cake, and champagne bottles with sparklers. Kary got on the table, and was sprayed with the champagne. In Tiffany’s interview, she said Kary was partying like it was her 21st birthday. Her 35 year old self was going to keep up if it killed her. Kary pushed Tiffany in the pool, and then found out Tiffany couldn’t swim. In Stephanie’s interview, she said, you can’t push someone who can’t swim in the pool after they’ve had several shots of tequila. In Kary’s interview, she said, in the Latin culture, they want to include their friends. I really hate when someone says something is their culture, when it’s something pretty much everyone does or feels the same way about. As Kid Rock so wisely said once, dude, there’s more to life than just you. Kary said when she got pushy, it meant she wanted to have fun with you and accept you. Which really means, she wants them to have her fun. In Tiffany’s interview, she said she wanted to loosen up, but at a certain time, it was her responsibility to go home and be rested so she could be a doctor the next day.   

Next time, a trip to a vineyard, Tiffany talks to her kids about being away a lot,  Kary discusses her daughter’s anxiety with her, and D’Andra and Kary argue.

🌜 Moon Over Dallas…

How Tiffany does it all – wife, mother, doctor, Tik Tok star.

The Real Housewives of Orange County – The Reunion – Part One

Can you believe it’s season 15? I rarely like the reunions though. Most of the time, they’re all talking or yelling at the same time, and I can’t understand half of what they’re saying.

No one had cool masks – they were generic – so I assumed they were provided by Bravo. There were the usual opening niceties, and then Andy said a viewer thought Shannon had seemed fake when touring Gina’s sad and depressing house. She kept saying everything was nice. This led to Shannon saying Braunwyn was good at deflection, and they started fighting two seconds in. Another viewer asked why Gina thought Sean was coming on to her, when his text hadn’t been NC-17. Shannon said Sean had to walk Gina out, and she thought he was just concerned because she was hammered. Gina said she’d thought he was trying to communicate that he’d just banged his wife in their love shack. Wow. She must have had to dig deep for that one, or it was Gina with her mind in the gutter. Emily said when Braunwyn made socio-economic comments, she felt she had to defend whoever Braunwyn’s target was, and Braunwyn said, no, you. Emily said Braunwyn’s big excuse was, she was lashing out because she’s an alcoholic. Shannon said Braunwyn had put effing lies in her mouth, but Braunwyn insisted Shannon had said it. Sean was there. Shannon said Sean was an enabler, and Andy asked where Gina and Braunwyn were now. Braunwyn said she’d gotten a text from Gina, saying Gina thought she was an a-hole, but would always be there for her. Gina said the relationship was one-sided.

Shannon said she and John had been together a year and a half. Andy asked if John and David had ever met, and Shannon said they hadn’t, and at this point, it would be awkward. David wouldn’t communicate and co-parent. Emily said when Shannon drank and called them up, they got concerned. Andy asked why Braunwyn thought John had a problem, and we flashed back to Braunwyn’s comment that a drunken John had to be taken off the golf course by his father. Shannon said John hated golf, didn’t play golf, and hadn’t seen his father in years. It wasn’t good or fair to talk about him, since he’d been nothing but kind. Andy said he’d invited John to the reunion, but he chose not to come. Shannon said he was a private person, and hadn’t even seen the show when they met. It was a lot to be in front of a camera all the time. A viewer asked Braunwyn if she thought Shannon had a problem with alcohol, and Braunwyn said she did.  

While getting a touch-up during the break, Shannon called John, and said Braunwyn was mean and crazy. She was walking around like she was in a flipping music video, and was naked under her dress. John had said she was a sobered alcoholic, and wanted to point fingers to make herself feel better. When they reconvened, we flashed back to all the pandemical stuff during the season. Kelly thinking it was no big deal; Shane getting sick; Shannon going insane. Andy asked what they were most excited about doing after it was over, and the consensus was seeing people and traveling. Andy asked what Emily’s biggest fight with Shane was, and she told him that Shane had said something about her parenting in front Annabelle. She got in the car and drove away, then realized she had nowhere to go, and came back. He asked what was Kelly’s stance on masks? and she said she hated wearing them, like probably most people, but she wore them because she had to. She didn’t know whether they were really helping, and posed the question, do pants protect you from a fart? I dunno about that, but probably more than a fart with no pants. Andy said Braunwyn did an interview, where she said Kelly wasn’t taking it seriously, and asked if Kelly said some things she regretted. Kelly said she thought it was horrific. She was taking it seriously, but she was also frustrated. Andy said he got messages saying she was uneducated, and spread misinformation. Kelly said she got messages too, saying Andy is anti-American, and yapped about his political views when people didn’t want to watch a political show. Andy brought up her remark about God thinning the herd, and she said it was a stupid thing to say, but she didn’t mean to hurt people. Andy said they got a lot of negative comments on social media. People wanted to boycott the show. Kelly said she felt horrible, but Andy was making it worse. He asked if she felt she’d be on wrong side of history, and she asked what he wanted from her. I think Kelly can be a little out there too, but I’m glad she stood up to Andy. I admire his business acumen, but he can be effing annoying. Kelly said she was sorry for hurting anyone’s feelings. It wasn’t her intent. Braunwyn said Kelly had an amazing opportunity to say that she’d learned something, and Kelly said she’d seen the adverse effects of the virus; businesses that were not coming back, suicide, alcoholism, and divorce.   

Emily talked about Shane being so sick, and said he’d texted his oldest daughter, basically saying goodbye. She said Shannon had shown concern for her, her family, and Shane, and had texted every day. It meant a lot, and she’d always be grateful. Andy introduced Elizabeth, the richest bitch in Newport, and we saw an Elizabeth highlight reel, ending with the women saying her story wasn’t adding up. Andy said Elizabeth had known Emily, Kelly, and Braunwyn before she started filming, and asked how she felt meeting the Gina and Shannon. Elizabeth said she wasn’t sure what to expect. She was warned on social media that she’d be eaten alive. A viewer asked if she’d gotten around to donating the Ferrari, and she said she will. Andy asked, now that the divorce was finalized, how was Elizabeth and Jimmy’s sex life? Elizabeth said they were having a hard time. Jimmy was an introvert, but had been there for her when no one else was. It was hard seeing everyone dogging their relationship, and questioning their sex life. It was no one’s business. He came from a conservative Mexican family, and his mother watched the show. Andy asked Elizabeth if she still loved her husband, and she said she would for the rest of her life. They’d known each other for twenty years, and he’d been very generous to her when she was broke, and given her structure. He’d changed her life. Braunwyn, who can’t stand to be left out, said a friend of hers was a friend of Elizabeth’s ex’s fiancé. Elizabeth said she wasn’t aware her ex had a fiancé, and maybe it was a girlfriend, but Braunwyn said they’d been together five years. She’d spoken with Elizabeth’s ex, and the story was very different. Emily said it had been a contentious divorce, and Elizabeth said Braunwyn was mean, and didn’t know the truth because she didn’t want to. Braunwyn said Elizabeth had lied to her, and Elizabeth told Braunwyn, don’t Judge her with her cynical behavior, backlashes, narcissism, and two-faced personality. Wow. Then she told Braunwyn, f*** you. It was wrong, and Braunwyn wasn’t her friend. She hadn’t wanted to be on the trail with Braunwyn in Arrowhead, because she knew Braunwyn was a backstabbing bitch. Andy asked why Braunwyn had looked into Elizabeth’s finances, and Elizabeth said Braunwyn was jealous. Braunwyn said she’d heard from Shannon that Elizabeth was a nice girl, but full of sh*t. Shannon said that was wrong, and when Elizabeth had been announced as a cast member, she’d gotten phone calls and texts saying that Elizabeth was full of sh*t, but she didn’t want to judge. She and Elizabeth got along great, but Gina and Emily had thought it wasn’t adding up. Braunwyn said, all she did was google Elizabeth, and Elizabeth said Braunwyn wasn’t building up women; she was tearing them down. Braunwyn claimed that she supported women, but held them accountable. Elizabeth said Braunwyn was the worst lesbian ever. After screaming at everyone to shut up and move on, Andy promised they’d get back to Elizabeth’s time in the cult later. Elizabeth said she was out, got up, and started to walk off, but then said she was kidding. That was funny.

We flashed back to Braunwyn’s climb out of alcoholism; or her journey, as we say these days. Andy asked how Jacob was doing, and if he was bullied in school. Braunwyn said he was great, and went to art school. When he wore heels, the kids said, nice shoes. He asked how the show helped her sobriety, and she said it was her third time trying to get sober, and it held her accountable. Emily said she would have thought coming from a pregnancy would have been an easy transition, but Braunwyn said, not drinking and being sober were two different things. She wasn’t dealing with her reasons for drinking, and she’s not just an alcoholic. She’s an addict who can get addicted to anything. Kelly said a lot of people were like that, and her alcoholism was for the story plan. Braunwyn said Kelly had seen her at BravoCon drunk at 7 am, and Kelly said she’d done that too. I literally lol’d. Kelly said Braunwyn was a liar, and Braunwyn said Kelly was disgusting, and it was vile, even for her. Andy said someone could be a functioning alcoholic, and Kelly had seemed to be against Braunwyn’s sobriety. Kelly said, it was contrived. Braunwyn’s agent told her to clean up her act. Braunwyn said her mom told her if she didn’t take back what she’d said about her, she’d tell everyone about Braunwyn’s drinking. Shannon said she’d blocked Deb on Instagram. Andy suggested that there were parts of her mother’s narcissism that Braunwyn shared, and Braunwyn said she had been tested, and just has a large ego. Shannon said Braunwyn was only concerned with how to make herself more famous. She’d said her and Sean’s favorite thing was to go out and get recognized. Andy said during the first season, it’s not surprising, and Kelly said the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Andy pointed out how nice Gina had been to not drink with Braunwyn, and accompany her to meetings, and Gina said no one in AA was pretending. Emily agreed with that, and said they saw a different person. Gina said Braunwyn was really an alcoholic, and Shannon said she wasn’t sure she was going to mention this, but as a mother she was going to. When Stella was 14 and at her first beach barbecue, Braunwyn went up to her, and said if Stella wanted the good stuff, to text her. What kind of good stuff? I guess we’ll have to wait and see…

Next time, the conclusion, Emily says everybody feels bad for Sean, Elizabeth talks about getting out of the cult, Kelly screams that she’s Black, and Braunwyn needs a moment.

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City

At the cash register in the grocery store, Brooks mistook dog treats for people food, and I identified. Some of them sound damn good.

Whitney’s half-brother came by, and in her interview, she said they weren’t your typical Mormon family; the dynamic was complicated. They had multi-marriages and children, and when her dad became addicted, it created a bigger divide. Will had been on the fence, but her sister Shaylee wanted nothing do with their father. We saw a clip of Whitney inviting Shaylee to dinner. Shaylee joined them, and dad Steve said by being there they’d showed that their family means something. In Whitney’s interview, she said Shaylee and Will had felt hurt and abandoned, and it was important they shared those feelings with their dad. Steve told them it was a huge motivation, and Whitney said, the point was, this time he’d taken action. He asked them if they’d participate in a process group at the sober living facility, and they agreed. It sounded like group therapy, although I’ve never heard that term before.

Jen wanted Heather to know she loved her, so she was setting her up with Sharrieff’s  friend, Big Daddy. Sharrieff told Jen that he wanted get this thing with Heather and his friend sparked out. The four of them went out to dinner, and Sharrieff said he’d known Big Daddy for 30 years; they’d played ball together. In Heather’s interview, she said he was tall, dark, handsome, and alive. Jen knew what she was looking for. He reminded me of Tyler Perry, but burlier. He ordered a Shirley Temple, and in her interview, Heather said Big Daddy was drinking like a big baby, but she’d get drunk enough for both of them. She wasn’t looking for anything long term, and it wasn’t going to be a problem. It was a big effort from Jen, who did a good thing, but… She shook her head.  

In Whitney’s interview, she said, after the party, they needed a break from each other to process, but she’d learned from her family, the longer you leave things, they get worse. She knew she wasn’t a fan favorite right now, and taking a risk, but she thought it was time to have a fun girls trip to Vegas. In Mary’s interview, she said she had a beautiful home there, but would rather be on a plane full of mice, than in Vegas with Jen. Meredith told Lisa, it wasn’t her scene, but she was game. In her interview, she said she wasn’t thrilled with Whitney engaging on any level, but it appeared to her that Whitney might just be messenger. Lisa wondered why she’d been invited when she hadn’t gotten an apology, but had business to do in Vegas.

The women met at the airport. Whitney found out Lisa had gone ahead because she had business there, but hadn’t bothered to call her. In Heather’s interview, she said it felt so good to be a bad Mormon. In Vegas, there was gambling, drinking, and debauchery; everything that was the opposite of Mormon. It was a Mormon girls taste of the dark side. Whitney called Lisa, and went to voicemail, but then Lisa called back – to Meredith. In Whitney’s interview, she said she knew Lisa was trying to make a statement, but it was rude and selfish. In Jen’s interview, she said she knew Lisa was still pissed at Whitney. She wasn’t 100% okay with Whitney. We saw a clip of Lisa telling Jen, she wanted to go just to hear how Whitney came to the conclusion she’s afraid of Jen.

They were greeted at the hotel with champagne and roses. Whitney said they were going exotic car racing, but Jen said she had a special surprise for Heather that was by appointment, and this was the only time they could do it. In Whitney’s interview, she said, first, Lisa didn’t meet her at the airport, and now her plans were being hijacked. The intention of the trip was so they would be together. If she’d wanted them to pair off, they would have stayed in Salt Lake. The suites were beautiful, and looked like small houses. Lisa met Meredith in her hotel room, and in her interview, she said she didn’t owe anyone an explanation. It wasn’t like Whitney was flying her to Italy. Whitney told Heather that she’d been excited to put the trip together, and wanted the opportunity to talk to Lisa and Meredith. Lisa told Meredith that she could chalk it up to Whitney having too much to drink, but she didn’t know what Whitney was talking about. It seemed like every time they were together, Whitney had a problem with her, and they were weird problems. We flashed back to a couple of past issues, and Lisa said Whitney had caused a problem at Jen’s party, and didn’t take accountability. Whitney told Heather that Lisa just didn’t show up, and Heather said, then she called Meredith back. Clearly, there’s an issue. Meredith told Lisa that she wanted to see what kind of a friend Heather was, and suggested they ride the trip out and see.    

When Jen’s plan of a new man didn’t work out, she decided to buy Heather a new outfit, and set up a private shopping experience. Jen tried on this dynamite tropical print pantsuit, and modeled for Heather, who was taking social media photos. While posing, Jen took a spill off the bar onto a chair with casters that she couldn’t have choreographed better, and they went back in slo-mo. She told Heather that Whitney, Meredith, and Lisa were the oddest trio for driving. The three women met at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and in Whitney’s interview, she said, it was awkward AF. She’d rather be at church. In Lisa’s interview, she said despite Whitney being the last person she wanted to be with, she was into this. She could put up with Whitney for a Ferrari. Whitney apologized to Lisa, who told her, instead of repeating what someone thinks was said, talk to the source. Meredith said it had nothing to do with Whitney, and Whitney apologized again. In her interview, Lisa said she was choosing to accept Whitney’s apology. She suggested they move forward, and have fun.

Heather asked how Jen thought Whitney was surviving, and Jen said, probably not well. Lisa wasn’t happy, and she was adamant she’d never said anything. Heather said Whitney was just looking out for Jen, but Jen said she couldn’t bring something up, and then not put closure to it. She, Lisa, and Meredith would chew Whitney up and spit her out. If she came to them with information, Whitney had to take it to the end. She couldn’t just throw something out there, and say, just kidding. In Heather’s interview, she wondered why they were talking about this again. She saw Whitney and Jen apologize, embrace, and move on. Why were they back here? Jen said, the second Whitney opened her mouth, she picked the wrong party. She was still hurt. Heather asked if Jen was blaming Whitney for throwing the glass, and Jen said it was her husband’s birthday party; the first party she’d thrown him in 25 years. In Jen’s interview, she said she was confused as to why Heather was covering for Whitney, and not understanding the pain she was feeling. Heather needed to let Whitney be a big girl. And if Whitney wanted to be a big girl, stop sitting at the kids’ table eating chicken nuggets. She told Heather that Whitney had ruined her husband’s birthday, and in Heather’s interview, she said she thought Jen’s version of a good friend was being her henchman. Whatever mood she was in, they should help pile on that person. There’s no opportunity to be objective or helpful. You were either on her team or dead to her. Jen said the only reason she hadn’t bitch-slapped Whitney was because she was Heather’s friend. Heather suggested Jen talk to her. Heather thought they were good and things were settled, and so had she. Jen said if Heather was signing up for this girl, make sure Whitney acted right. Heather was putting her name and reputation on the line for Whitney. It was only because the women cared about Heather that they were putting up with that sh*t.

Next time, Heather talks to Whitney, Meredith says no one tell her who to be friends with, Jen comes at Whitney, and Whitney beings in someone to help the women find their inner voice.

🚙 Hey Mikey…

It’s lucky he came along. Hopefully, Sonny remembers the favor when he remembers he’s Sonny.

🤯 Too Many Chrises…

It’s worse than when he messed up Ineeda Pretzel’s name.

https://people.com/movies/arnold-schwarzenegger-confuses-chris-evans-with-chris-pratt/

🚝 The Eternal Engine Returns…

Not only is Snowpiercer returning to the small screen on Monday, January 25th, it’s also been picked up already for a third season.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/snowpiercer-season-3-renewed-tnt/

👗 Inaugural Fashion…

Because it’s all that really matters.

https://www.vogue.com/article/history-of-inauguration-day-fashion

🥾 Hitting the Road…

Hopefully, balance is brought back to the soap world tomorrow, and all is right with the world. Or at least as much as it can be. Until then, stay safe, stay sociable from a distance, and stay wanting more for your birthday than being sprayed with champagne by shirtless waiters.

January 15, 2021 – Tracy’s Story Gets Shaky, Reilly Farewell, a Hoax, Double the Fun, Shannon Compares, Two Wives Down, Stalled Awards, OLTL Memories, Broadway On Soap, OctoQuotes Plus Three & I Know

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Phyllis tells Sonny, welcome to the Tan-O, the best place town. Not that there’s much competition. Sonny says he likes it, and she says she thought he would. She made him an appointment with a neurologist tomorrow, a specialist in memory loss, but for now he needs a warm place to stay, and some friendly faces. He says he appreciates her kindness, but he’s got no money. She says she covered him at the clinic, and as for this place, the bartender has a soft spot for her; he’s her husband. Sonny laughs, and Phyllis introduces her husband Lenny. Lenny tells Sonny not to let the door hit him on his way out.

Tracy sees Finn, and says, hello stranger, but Finn says he’s not the stranger. He’s been there the whole time. She’s the one who skipped town on him. She says she’s back, and taking him to dinner, and he says he’d love that, but… She says she has the feeling a paltry excuse is coming. Finn says he’s monitoring a critical patient. He heard she’s been busy since she got back, and she asks who’s been telling tales about her. He says, Alexis.   

Alexis looks over Julian’s photos again.

Sam tells Olivia, if Alexis doesn’t remember disarming the alarm, maybe it’s possible they didn’t come to the house. Olivia says she realizes she dragged Sam there to listen to Alexis’s story, and Sam asks if Olivia is having second thoughts. Olivia says she doesn’t want to believe that Tracy deliberately lied, and Sam says, then quit. Olivia says, without knowing the truth? and Sam tells her, then she has to be willing to follow where it leads, even if it’s to her own family.   

Chase sits at the MetroCourt bar, and Michael asks if the seat next to him is taken. Chase says be his guest, and Michael tells the bartender, he’ll have what Chase is having.  

Willow opens the door to Sasha, and says she wasn’t sure Sasha would come. Sasha says, to be honest, she thought about bailing a thousand times, and Willow says, since they’re being honest, part of her wished Sasha would. She asks what convinced Sasha to show up, and Sasha says she tallied the reasons to stay away, and avoid what her counselor calls emotional complications. That took time. On the other side of the ledger, she could only find one reason to come. Willow says, and that was? Sasha tells Willow that she didn’t have anything better to do.

At Pozzulo’s, Cyrus asks, how about that nightcap? and Brick says, they have hemlock and arsenic. Name his poison. Cyrus laughs, and says it’s good to see Brick again, and Jason asks what he wants. Cyrus says he wants to celebrate the life of their fallen comrade. His deepest condolences to both of them about Sonny. In this moment, he’d like nothing more than to set their differences aside – and there are many – and raise a glass to their friend. Brick says, as if Sonny was ever Cyrus’s friend, and Cyrus says all their friction is in the past. He almost said water under the bridge, but that would have been in poor taste. Now is the time for them to join together before the wrong people fill the void left behind be Sonny. May he rest in peace.

Olivia says, before she commits to anything, she wants to know how Sam is going to prove Tracy lied. Sam says the security company that installed the alarm also monitors it 24/7, and Olivia says, so they’d be able to tell her if anyone activated the alarm that night. Sam says, or if it was disarmed the night the car went off the road. Olivia says, which supports the theory that the two of them were never at the house, and Sam says, leaving Tracy’s story up for grabs. Olivia asks if they shouldn’t get Alexis involved, and Sam says, normally, she’d say yes, but her mom is walking an emotional tightrope right now. If they get her hopes up… Alexis comes downstairs, and Sam asks if she’s okay.

Tracy and Finn go into his office, and Tracy says they were talking about Alexis. Did Alexis tell him that she was with her the night she got hammered and drove her car off the road? He says, Alexis swears she never got behind the wheel. He guesses she’s in some pretty deep denial. Tracy says, they both know from bitter experience, denial can be your worst enemy. He says, tell him about it, and she says, maybe he should tell her about it. He’s about to get married, and suddenly has this grim look on his face. What’s that all about?

Chase asks if Michael is just a guy having a beer, or is this a cover for a sneak attack? Michael tells him not to worry. He thinks he made his point at the gym. Chase says, something tells him, they’re not even. He hasn’t seen Michael since the authorities called off the search for his father, and he wants Michael to know how sorry he is. Michael thanks him, and says he knows the PCPD did what they could. Chase says, what they could inside their jurisdiction. Michael says he went there, and saw what was left of the bridge. He saw where his father went into the river. It was surprisingly still on the surface, but the water is cold, and deep, with a strong current. The more he looked for a way out for his father, the more he searched for a sign of hope, it became clear that nothing short of a miracle could have saved him. Chase says, as his friend – or at least his former friend – Michael and his family have his condolences. As a cop, he’d be remiss not to caution Michael to please, watch his back. He and everybody close to him could be in immediate danger.

Willow says she was glad Sasha was there for Michael the night he found out about Sonny. She knows it meant a lot to him. Sasha says, it goes both ways. Michael was there for her too. He visited her when she was in the hospital. Willow says he told her, and Sasha says he encouraged her to go to counseling; drug counseling. Willow asks how it’s going, and Sasha says, so far, so good. She’s not doing drugs, and she’s learning a lot about herself. Before they go off on a tangent about counseling, she needs to clarify something. The night they called off the search for Sonny, she wasn’t there at the house for Michael. She was actually there for Carly. She wanted to thank Carly for lighting a fire under her when she needed help. She just happened to be there when Michael got the news, but she’s not the one who’s supposed to be comforting him. Willow asks, what if she’s wrong? What if she is supposed to be the one?

Phyllis says, Lenny Caulfield, where are your manners? Mike showed up at the clinic, half frozen to death. Lenny says he’s not in the mood for another one of Phyllis’s strays. She tells him, the Tan-O has a reputation for hospitality. So stop being a grouch, and be hospitable. She tells Sonny, don’t worry. He talks tough, but her Lenny is a puddy-tat. Lenny says, and she’s always picking up strays. He asks Sonny what line of work he’s in, and how he ended up in the woods. Sonny says Lenny isn’t going to like the answer, and Lenny says, try him. Sonny says he doesn’t know.

Cyrus tells Jason and Brick, he’s been trying to track down his mother. He doesn’t suppose they have any information as to her whereabouts. Brick asks if Cyrus tried looking for her the last place he saw her, and Cyrus says, apparently Jason hasn’t kept Brick apprised. His mother is an invalid. She was receiving the best care possible, until someone removed her from the facility. The Vermont police are looking into this, but Jason already knew that. Jason says Cyrus mentioned it in a previous conversation, and Cyrus says, and he’s still not received any reassurance. How does he know she’s all right, and hasn’t met a terrible fate? Jason says, like the Novaks? and Cyrus says, the who? Brick says, the Novaks are one of the five families. They were bringing a shipment of their product through Port Charles. Cyrus says, that’s distressing, and Brick says, it was for them at the warehouse down by the docks. Everybody dead, and the place turned upside down. Does Cyrus know anything about it?

Alexis says, everything is not okay, especially with the photo album. It’s just begging her to get hammered for its own amusement. Olivia offers to take it off her hands, but Alexis says she has a better idea – the fireplace. Olivia says, what if Sam or her grandkids want to look at it? but Sam says, go ahead; throw it in. Think of it as purging. Alexis says, it’s more like an exorcism, and Sam says it might make Alexis feel better. Alexis says Julian bought the house. Maybe they should burn that down too. Olivia says it’s a nice idea, but it’s called arson. Alexis says, okay, let’s do this, and Sam says she’s going to check on the kids. Olivia says she has Sam covered, and asks Alexis where she wants to start. Alexis takes out a picture of her and Julian, and says, this one, putting it in the fire. Taking out another, Olivia says they look so happy in this one, but Alexis says, all lies. She rips it up, and Olivia asks if she’s sure. Alexis throws it in, and Olivia says, arrivederci.  

Outside, Sam phones Forrester Home Security. She explains that she has a question about one of their alarm systems, and hopes they can help.

Finn tells Tracy, they scaled back from the big top circus event to something more manageable. She says it sounds like it’s up his alley. What’s the problem? He says, just when it got good, things got complicated. She says, it’s a wedding, and he says, it was a wedding. Now it’s a double wedding with Maxie… and Peter. Tracy makes a face, and he says, exactly. His father is planning on staying for the wedding, and maybe indefinitely. She says she knows how complicated fathers can be, and Finn says, it’s not just him. His step mom is coming. Did he mention they were separated? Tracy asks if she’s invited or has to crash it, and he asks which she prefers. She says, crashing it, and she wants the chicken. He says, good choice, and she tells him to start with his stepmom. Does she know her? Finn says she’s Jackie Templeton, and Tracy says, Jackie Templeton is his stepmother? He says, and Chase’s mother. She asks how come he never mentioned his father was married to Jackie? He doesn’t like her? he says, that’s not what it is, and she asks, then what is it?   

Michael tells Chase, it’s not the Corinthos family’s first rodeo. Jason will make sure they’re protected. Chase says he respects Jason, but there was an incident in the warehouse district. He says he can’t talk about an ongoing investigation, but Michael says he gets the picture. Was it his dad’s warehouse? Chase says, it was leased through a holding company; they haven’t ID’d the exact tenants. Michael says he’s guessing the owner is in Panama and untraceable, and Chase says, probably. He tells Michael, be careful. He’d hate if anything happened to Michael, or anyone close to him. Michael says he’ll make sure Willow is protected too. Chase wonders if Michael needs safety protocols, and Michael asks if Chase and Willow talked safety protocols when they had dinner.

Willow says she knows how much Sasha cares about Michael. Even though he’s strong, he needs someone to turn to. Sasha says he has Willow, his wife. Willow says, of course (🍷) he does. They’ve always been friends, and she’s sure they always will be. Sasha says, hold on. Willow is talking like still it’s still a marriage of convenience, but it’s not, right? They got married to keep Wiley safe from Nelle. Nelle is gone now, and Wiley’s safe, but they’re still together. Willow says, yes, but… and Sasha says she doesn’t have to pretend. She knows they’re sleeping together. Willow sits down.

Brick says, what happened at the warehouse was strictly amateur, and Cyrus says, fascinating. In what way? Brick says, it was sloppy and unprofessional, an open invite for reprisal. Jason says, the Novaks are one of the five families, and when you attack one, the others unite against you. Cyrus says, then he’s glad he’s not the one who’s set to incur their collective wrath.  

Lenny says Sonny doesn’t remember what he does for a living, or how he ended up in the woods? Sonny says, both are a mystery, and Phyllis says, the doctor thinks his injury messed with his memory. Lenny says, so he could be anyone; a grifter or a criminal. Sonny asks if Lenny has a Marine tattoo, and Lenny says, he remembers what the tattoo stands for, but not his name? Phyllis says, that’s how memory loss works, and Lenny says, fine. What about his tattoo? Sonny says he thought the Marines never leave any men behind. Lenny says, they don’t. Did Mike serve, or doesn’t he remember? Phyllis suggests Lenny shut up and give Sonny some coffee already, and Lenny says, why not a four-course meal? She says she already fed him the bolognaise. Just give him some coffee, and friendly conversation. Lenny says, no, and Sonny says he’s not there for a handout. If Lenny gives him some coffee, he’s willing to work in the kitchen. Phyllis says, sounds like a good offer, and Lenny tells Phyllis, fine. Inform the kitchen they have a new dishwasher. Phyllis goes to the kitchen, and Lenny says, listen up, Mike. If whatever he can’t remember brings them trouble, he’ll have to answer to him.

Sam asks if Alexis feels better, and Alexis says she actually does. It felt good to purge. She thanks Sam for encouraging her, and Sam says, it’s later than she thought. Maybe Alexis wants to head up to bed. She and Olivia can clean up and lock up. Alexis says she appreciates that, and tells Sam the security code is Scout’s birthday. She thanks them, tells them goodnight, and goes upstairs. Olivia asks what Sam found out, and Sam says, according the security company, it was set in the early evening, probably before Alexis left for the MetroCourt. It wasn’t disarmed until days later. Olivia asks if there’s any other way Alexis and Tracy could have gotten inside without setting it off, or if it was set off in error, but Sam says, no. And Olivia clearly saw the coffee on the counter? Olivia says, all it needed was a neon sign saying caffeine. None of Tracy’s story holds up. Sam says, they have her, and Olivia says, except for one thing; motive.  

Finn tells Tracy, his mom had just died, and his dad remarried in a couple of months. She asks if things smelled rotten in Denmark, and he says he had a hard time accepting it. He acted immaturely, and did things he wished he hadn’t. Right now, he should feel like the luckiest guy in the world, but all he can think about are the things he should have done differently. She says, what a spectacular waste of time, and he says he knew she’d be sympathetic. She asks, what’s the point in second guessing himself now? and he says he’s thinking of coming clean and telling the truth. She asks, why now? All of the people involved are grown-ups, and his brother wasn’t even born. He says, Chase came along later, and she says he needs to ask himself, would he be helping the people he loves by easing his burden, and putting it on their shoulders? He says he knows how to answer, and she says, does he?

Chase asks how much Willow told Michael, and Michael says, they agreed to be honest, but it’s no secret she still cares. Chase says they talked about that, and decided… He doesn’t really want to hear this, does he? Michael says, no, but he probably should, and Chase says, it felt good talking with her, as if nothing had happened. Even though everything has. Michael says, things got more complicated than expected, and Chase says, some things are more clear. Willow is married, and she’s not that kind of girl… Michael says, okay. He knows what happened.

Willow says Sasha isn’t wrong. Something did happen between her and Michael that they didn’t expect. Sasha says, they consummated the marriage. Good for them. She knew it was a possibility. She and Chase pushed Willow and Michael together for Wiley’s sake, but they figured sooner or later the marriage would become real, and it has. Willow says, it’s not that simple, and Sasha asks, why? Willow says, when she’s with Chase, the feelings come back like they never left. Like how Sasha’s feelings for Michael come back when she’s alone with him. Because they never left either, did they?

Cyrus guesses he’s not getting that drink, and heads for the door. He says, look on the bright side. Regardless of whoever did the housekeeping, the problem was corrected. He thought what happened tonight might be considered a good will gesture for the unfortunate misunderstanding on the pier. Jason says he thinks they understood each other perfectly.

Lenny says, Sonny had no ID? and Sonny says, they checked his pockets, but there was nothing, and his wallet got lost. Lenny asks if he checked his wedding ring or watch, and Sonny takes off his watch, telling Lenny, it has an inscription. Check it out. Lenny reads, Mike, never enough time, Love, A. He says, that’s how they came up with Mike, huh? He’s one lucky s-o-b if he survived a winter night like this. Phyllis says, someone is looking out for him, and Lenny says, she’s always thinking there’s a guiding light looking out. She says, that’s because there is, and he says, some medical professional. Phyllis sits down with them, and says she’s had patients who thought they’d lost everything. One even lost her precious child, but the child was taken away from her, and there was nothing any of them could do about it. Sonny asks if they found the child, and she says, not yet, but as long as there’s life, there’s hope. Lenny says, see what he means? and Sonny says, there should be a lot more Phyllises in the world. A guy walks into the bar, which is not the start of a joke. He looks like a troublemaker.    

Olivia asks Sam why Tracy would frame Alexis with a DWI. What is she trying to get? Sam has no idea. She can’t think of a reason, but knows how they can figure it out. They’ll go to Tracy. They’ll be calm and firm, and just ask for her side of the story. See if she’s honest. Olivia says Sam is Leo’s half-sister, and she loves Sam, but it’s a terrible idea.   

Finn looks at his phone, and tells Tracy, duty calls. Tracy says, just as she was about to solve all his problems. Too bad. He says he’s glad she stopped by, and she says, of course (🍷) he is. Dinner and backgammon soon. He says he hopes she makes the wedding, and she asks if he doesn’t mean weddings, plural. He says he’ll be glad to have a friendly face on his side of the aisle, and she says she wouldn’t miss it. He tells her, the whole family thing is a work in progress. Violet is the best thing that ever happened to him. If he let her down, he doesn’t think he could live with himself.   

Chase tells Michael, he never intended… Just talking felt so familiar, and it happened. He’s sure Willow explained. Michael says, he’d found out they might be calling off the search for his dad; there was no time to explain. Chase says he thought Michael knew, and Michael says, he knew they’d find a way past the hurt and the lies, and it sounds like they did. Chase asks if Michael is mad, and Michael says, he’s not sure, but what he is, is late. The beer is on him.   

Sasha tells Willow, she’s never denied still being in love with Michael. She doesn’t get why Willow is telling her this. Wait. Willow has feelings for Michael and Chase, and she wants Sasha to be the reason she gives up Michael. Willow admits she doesn’t know. She hopes not. Sasha says, nothing would please her more if Willow got back with Chase, and she got back with Michael, but she doesn’t know what Michael wants. She knows she wants Michael to be happy, even if it’s not with her, and Willow says she wants that too. Sasha says, Willow and Michael need to figure out if they belong together. She’s not going to make the decision for Willow. She did that once, and look how it worked out.

Sonny asks if Phyllis knows that guy, and she says, no, but she knows the type. They come in occasionally to stir up trouble. Sonny asks what they do, and she says, Lenny used to toss them out on their ear, but he’s got a bad heart now, and worries about her. She looks at Lenny, and says, so maybe it’s best to try and get along. Lenny gets up, and goes to bar. He asks what he can get the guy, and dude takes out a gun, saying, he’ll give Lenny one guess.

Olivia tells Sam, the worst thing would be to come at Tracy too strong and too fast, and for Sam to let Tracy know she’s on to her. Sam says, doesn’t Olivia doesn’t mean we. Olivia is the one who came to her with the suspicion. She’s just doing this because of Olivia, and she’s right. Why would she want to back out now? There’s a knock at the door, and Sam wonders who it could be at this hour. It’s Tracy.  

Willow thanks Sasha for coming by, and Sasha says she knows Willow is confused and conflicted. Willow says, an understatement. Sasha says she’s sorry she didn’t help, but Willow says she did. She’s not sure how, but she’s knows Sasha helped. Sasha says she knows Willow pretty well, and knows Michael. She doesn’t think the two of them would have become as close as they did if they didn’t have something real. Willow needs to figure out if she wants to fight for it. Michael walks in.    

Cyrus says, it seems Jason’s differences with the Novaks have been addressed, yet his mother is still missing. Jason says, that’s not his problem, and Cyrus says, his problems are Jason’s problems. If he does something for Jason, he expects the favor to be returned – with interest. Brick opens the door, and Cyrus squeezes past him. Brick closes the door, and tells Jason, sorry, but he has to ask. Since when has Jason been in the business of snatching old ladies from nursing homes to use as leverage? Jason says, sometimes bad things happen to bad people.

Lenny says he doesn’t want any trouble, and dude says that makes two of them. So why doesn’t Lenny open the cash box and show him how generous he can be? Sonny looks at dude, and dude asks if Sonny has a problem.

Alexis wakes up, and looks through some documents.

Tracy is surprised to see Sam there, and Sam says Olivia was helping her out with her mom. Tracy asks how Alexis is, and Sam says, she’s not doing that well. She hasn’t been great since she ran her car off the road. Tracy says, that’s why she’s there. She was with Alexis that night, and thought she’d stop by to check on her. Sam says she’s surprised. She didn’t think Tracy cared. Tracy says, she does. Is Alexis available? Sam says, no; she’s in bed. Olivia says, after everything that’s happened, Alexis isn’t up to visitors. Tracy says, give Alexis her best, and asks if she can give Olivia a ride. Sam says they still have things to do, and Olivia says, it won’t take that long. Sam tells Tracy, she’ll drop Olivia off, and Olivia says, they’ll lock up when they leave. Tracy asks, why wouldn’t they? and Olivia says she assumed if Tracy cared enough to come by, she obviously wants Alexis to be safe and sound. Sam asks if Tracy knew that her mother got a state of the art alarm system, and Tracy says, good to know. Tell her mom she said hello. Sam closes the door, and Olivia says she’s absolutely certain Tracy never laid eyes on that keypad in her life. Sam says, another indication that she was never there. More and more her story doesn’t add up.

Finn phones Anna, saying he’ll be home soon and he loves her. Chase tosses some money on the reception desk, and Finn says, billing is on another floor. Chase tells him, take it anyway. Doesn’t he recognize it? Finn says, currency? and Chase says it’s Finn’s money from poker night. Finn asks why Chase is giving it back, and Chase says, it’s a symbol. His luck is changing. He has a chance to get Willow back. Finn says he likes the odds, but keep his winnings. Chase says he owes it to Finn. He couldn’t have gotten better advice from their dad.

Sasha tells Michael, hello and goodbye. She was just leaving. He tells her, she says that every time they run into one another, and she says, maybe next time, she’ll say something else. She jets, and Michael says, what was that? Willow says, can’t a girl be in a good mood? She asks how his meeting went, and he says, it ended early. He tells her, they need to talk, and she says she thinks so too.

Brick tells Jason, Cyrus made it sound like quid pro quo. It sounds like if his mom is safe and sound, Port Charles will have peace. If not, he thinks the message is clear. What is Jason going to do? Jason says, nothing. If Cyrus gets what he wants, he’ll just start taking more, and he’s not letting that happen.  

Dude sees Sonny looking at him, and asks if Sonny’s got a problem. Sonny says, no problem, and dude says, that’s what he thought. He’s not going to tell Lenny again; open the cash box. Phyllis gets up, and asks why he doesn’t leave them alone. They’re hard working people. He tells her to shut her mouth, and Lenny says leave his wife alone. Dude asks what he’s going to do about it. We see the gears whirring in Sonny’s mind.  

On Monday, Ava gets a terrific idea, Jax asks if someone has second thoughts, Josslyn asks why Cameron would think she’d throw away her journal, and the gunman tells Sonny, now would be a good time to shut up.

🎐 Saying Goodbye…

John Reilly’s comrades in arms pay him tribute.

So will GH.

👕 Swickard Swindled…

Apparently, someone has been using his likeness on their side hustle.

💓 Be Still My Heart…

A soap vet plus a V.C. Andrews movie times two? My head might explode. Watch V.C. Andrews’s All That Glitters and Hidden Jewel, premiering on Lifetime on Saturday, March 27th and Sunday, March 28th, respectively, at 8 p.m. ET, starring Kristian Alfonso (Hope, Days of Our Lives).

💏 He Really, Really Likes Her…

It might not be the fairytale she thought, but it’s better than that hell she had with David.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/06/shannon-beador-compares-new-relationship-to-divorce/

😷 In Covid News…

Another two Housewives were hit with the virus.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/06/dandra-simmons-grateful-to-be-alive-after-covid-19-hospitalization/

https://people.com/tv/rhonjs-dolores-catania-says-family-contracted-covid-19-over-the-holidays/

🎶 In Case You Were Going…

The Grammys have been postponed.

🏘 Llanview Memory Lane…

Who the blip were Fish and Kyle?

💃🏽 Tap Your Troubles Away…

This sounds like a fun time. Streaming one night, February 11th, at 8 pm, ET.

🦉 Quotes of the Week

I would rather walk with a friend in the dark, than alone in the light. – Helen Keller

Life is not so much about beginnings and endings as it is about going on and on and on. It is about muddling through the middle. – Anna Quindlen

If you want to become a real New Yorker, there’s only one rule: You have to believe New York is, has been, and always will be the greatest city on earth. The center of the universe. – Ellen R. Shapiro

I’m no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I’m changing the things I cannot accept. – Angela Davis

The reason I talk to myself is because I’m the only one whose answers I accept. – George Carlin

People will do anything, no matter how absurd, to avoid facing their own souls. – Carl Gustav Jung

Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.Carl Gustav Jung

People get addicted to feeling offended all the time because it gives them a high; being self-righteous and morally superior feels good. – Mark Manson

📜 And Three From Dr. King

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

The time is always right to do what is right. – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

📍 In Conclusion…

Wrapping it up for this week in television, but I’ll see you when it’s time to be Below Deck. Congrats if you have a long weekend, a smaller congrats if it’s the usual two days off, and my sympathies if you’re just X’ing more days off the calendar. Or the biggest congrats if you’re happy about that. Regardless, there seems to be real light at the end of what seems like a never-ending tunnel, so think good thoughts. And while you’re at it, stay safe, stay emboldened, and stay not opening any invite for reprisal when it comes to the five families. I still say that sounds like a spaghetti sauce brand.

January 14, 2021 – Today’s GH Was Yesterday, Island Drama Begins, Late For Dallas, News Of the Moon, New New Jersey, Gia Grows Up, Possible Return, Ken Gets the Shot, Twinsies, Dunder Mifflin Blunders & Push

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Today’s GH was the same as the one I posted yesterday, which had been preempted on ABC in the US. Sonny’s storyline had a nice twist, so if you need to catch up, you can find it here:

https://tvwiththeresa.wordpress.com/2021/01/14/january-13-2021-sasha-calls-cyrus-out-on-his-mommy-issues-emily-ends-the-season-with-a-beach-party-whitney-apologizes-for-her-appalling-timing-good-kyu/

Tomorrow, Tracy asks Finn who’s been telling tales about her, Willow wonders if someone is the one, and Jason thinks he and Cyrus understand each other perfectly.

Southern Charm

John called Shep, who asked if the party was intense; he hadn’t been paying attention. John said Shep and Taylor had been in love jail, but from his point of view, he felt it was a lot of drama for Kathryn. He told Shep that the boys were leaving tomorrow, and he was going to be a mess. He was sad, but Shep had an idea.

At John’s house, he tried to get the kids packed, and asked what they wanted to do for their last day of summer with dad. Summer was coming to a close. They’d spent 43 days in a row with him, the most time they’d spent with him since the divorce. He told them his favorite thing was going to the beach every day. In his interview, he said what he’d miss most was hearing the kids running around when he woke up in the morning. He couldn’t put into words how it felt for his kids to be going back to the other side of the country. He hoped no one ever had to make the decision. He did, and it was the worst thing he ever had to do. He knew it was the right choice though, since he was building a future for them.

Madison visited Austen, who was like, what the hell? She said he seemed somber, and he asked why she was there. She admitted that she’d screwed up getting so mad. She regretted being a bitch, and was upset about her bad attitude. Austen got her a glass of wine, and she said she should have taken a deep breath, been a big girl, and not said anything. It annoyed her that he came off boat, and said he wasn’t there to get her back. Holy! Talk about rewriting history. He said that after she randomly told him he wasn’t going to get her back. He reminded her that she’d said she just wanted him there as a friend, and asked if she wanted him to date other people. She said, no, and asked him if he wanted her to date other people. He said he didn’t, but he’d been clear about how he felt and that he wasn’t over her. He still loved her. Madison said she love/hated him, and Austen said he was confused. She told him that he didn’t have her permission to date anyone else, and in his interview, Austen said he was seeing more and more that what Madison wanted was control. He told her, there was no resolution. I don’t even know what to think about this. Madison is coming off like a real asshat, and it’s a shame they’re in the same friend group.

We saw a clip of Shep and John going to one of those places where you smash stuff, and Shep said it was like Office Space. Shep told Danni that John was going through turmoil with the kids leaving, so he was having a party at the house of John’s friend on the island. Which island was unclear, but it had a dock and a pool. He told Danni that he and John had both hung out with Kathryn independently, but she always said the right things. He’d been weighing the options, and wanted to have everyone at the party. Danni said she’d hit her breaking point with Kathryn, and  thought Kathryn knew it. Kathryn claimed she wanted to fight for the friendship, but Danni didn’t feel there was anything to fight for. Shep said he wanted the party to begin on a positive, fun note, and for Danni to bring her best attitude. Danni said he didn’t have to worry about her.

Kathryn opened a soda can using her teeth, and I wanted to scream at her not to do that. Her friend Jacque called, and Kathryn said she was shopping for Thomas’s new baby, who’d been born a month ago. She wondered if she was related to the newborn, and Jacque said Kathryn’s children would be his step-siblings, but she wasn’t related at all. She told Kathryn that she’d asked Madison about the party, and Madison said, call Kathryn. Kathryn said the party turned into a catastrophe, and we flashed back to that. She said she felt like all her friends were seeing her as someone she wasn’t, or were making her out to be someone she wasn’t. In Kathryn’s interview, she said the only person to whom she owed an apology, was the women she’d sent the emoji to, and she did that. She was getting death threats, and needed her friends, but no one stood up for her. She felt betrayed, manipulated, and taken advantage of. Jacque said it was really effing sad.

Craig went rowing with Natalie in a gorgeous swamp that had all those plants that hang down. In his interview, Craig said he felt like a teenager again. He didn’t know if he’d ever fall in love again like he did with Naomie. He and Natalie hadn’t said I love you, but he thought she could be the one. They saw an alligator while they were rowing, which was very cool, and then they had a picnic near the water. The whole thing was very romantic. Natalie said, a good way to get to know someone was to lock them in a house during a pandemic, and Craig wondered if they’d be fine outside of quarantine. Natalie told him, people were finally focusing on things that really mattered. Craig said, it was scary, but fun, and in his interview, he said he’d made a promise going into the relationship that he wouldn’t hide anything. Then, with her having to move in, he didn’t have a choice. She was all about him being him. He thought it was badass that he sewed, and cool that he cooked. We flashed back to Naomie criticizing Craig, and they toasted to their relationship.

Leva and Danni private shopped for dinner dresses. The manager asked what the theme was, and Leva asked if it wasn’t redneck. Danni said it would be redneck chic; they would define it. Leva asked Danni, what the hell happened? and Danni said it was like she was in another dimension, and she and Kathryn didn’t resolve anything. Craig only added to it. Leva said she didn’t know why Craig treated Kathryn with velvet gloves, and went in on Danni. She didn’t appreciate it. Danni said she felt like she owed no one her time, and told Leva she’d gotten a call from Jacque, who said Kathryn thought Leva was trying to convince the others to hate her. Danni said it was classic Kathryn, not looking deep enough to care. Leva thought it was out of Kathryn’s depth, which she might be right about. Danni said when she thought about what Kathryn did, she was like, f*** you. Leva said Kathryn spun the narrative, and made her a bully, when she felt she’d gone out of her way to be gracious. We flashed back to the argument on the boat, and Leva asked Danni why they were coddling someone who’d said something so viciously racist. They had to be uninformed.

Austen got a call from Alexandra, and old college friend. In his interview, he said she made him laugh, and gave good advice, and we saw a clip of Alexandra helping him pick out clothes. She asked how his birthday party was, and Austen told her, long story short, he was uninvited. Let that sink in. He said he went anyway, and had to field shots and jabs from Madison, who was being mean. Alexandra thought Madison got mean when she felt backed into a corner, and she hated hearing how sad it made him, and how much anxiety it gave him. She told him that he didn’t stick up for himself. It was a blessing when people showed their true colors. Austen said he was being forced to move forward. Madison had proved her point of how little he meant to her. In Austen’s interview, he said it was time for him to re-find happiness, and move on in life.

Everyone got ready for the party, and in this show, the guys definitely take just as much time as the girls with their hair. Well, maybe not Shep. John went with Shep ahead of time to help set up. It was raining while the sun was shining, and Shep said it didn’t make sense.

Venita had a kiki with Madison, and Madison said Austen wasn’t cool with just being friends, yet she wanted him to notice her in a big way. WTF? The only time that would be acceptable is if he’d broken up with her. She told Venita about an article she’d read on Kathryn’s new boyfriend Chleb, that said it was a plotted relationship. Venita said you couldn’t help who you loved, being the level-headed young woman that she is, but Madison wondered if the timing wasn’t weird. In Madison’s interview, she said her advice to anyone in a relationship was, don’t listen to her. She put on one of the tiniest dresses (or was it a bathing suit?) I’ve ever seen – a barely there halter top with a fringed mini skirt – and said she didn’t want to get back with Austen, but he could look. Again, WTF? I don’t particularly like Austen. I think he’s immature, and wants the big boy stuff before he’s ready, but Madison is officially acting even less mature, and I’d thought better of her. She is mean too, although she’s admitted that, and John was certainly put off last week.  

John said he was happy for Shep, and asked if Shep was in love with Taylor. Shep said, of course, like we should all just know that after all the women he’s gone through, and John asked if he told her. He said, only when he was really drunk. John asked what Shep was getting her for Christmas, but Shep said he wasn’t that guy, and John told him that he was going to lose her. In John’s interview, he said the house belonged to a friend of his parents. Y’all come over. Take a dip in the pool. Have a few cold ones. Leva was impressed, and I have to insert here, how much I’m always impressed with Leva’s earrings. She seems to be like me; the bigger and bolder, the better. She told Shep that she didn’t have a problem with Kathryn, but she didn’t like how Austen had butted in. She felt the boys were coddling Kathryn. She didn’t believe in cancel culture, not believing it leaves room for growth, but thought people should be held accountable (thank you). In Shep’s interview, he said, you don’t ruin someone’s life for a mistake. He was once in a similar situation. We saw a clip from Tik Tok of him making fun of a homeless person, and he said he showed a complete lack of self-awareness. He hoped Kathryn changed her ways, but didn’t expect anything from her. John told whoever would listen that he missed the boys. Leva pressed Shep about putting the pressure on Kathryn, but he told Leva that he didn’t know what she’d said, and he didn’t want bad blood with anyone. In Leva’s interview, she said, it doesn’t affect you, so you’re just going to go party, was the definition of white privilege. She told Shep that she expected him to hold Kathryn accountable, but he said he was trying to get out of the holding accountable game.

Madison and Venita brought a Funboy pool floatie as a party offering. Craig wondered if Danni would hug him, but she backed up when he approached her. John told Madison that his kids said the number one fun thing they did was hitting baseballs with her and her son. Austen wondered why no one was in the pool. He offered John one of his personal beers, and they walked off together, Austen ignoring Madison, but making a point of hugging Jenny. Madison couldn’t tolerate that, and hunted him down, asking him what was going on. He’d come in and ignored her deliberately. In Craig’s interview, he said, Austen and Madison’s relationship is just bizarre. Why do either one of them care? Austen asked if anything pissed her off more than not getting all the attention. Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Leva told Craig that she didn’t appreciate Austen yelling on the boat. Craig said, it was an intimidating ferry ride. She said, Austen thought he looked chivalrous, but his chauvinism was showing. John said Kathryn had looked like a deer in headlights, and Leva said she thought she and Kathryn had a positive conversation, but John said, it was three on one. We flashed back to that, and John told Leva, coming at someone over and over, right or wrong, isn’t going to get you the response you want. Leva asked if they were even aware what happened; it wasn’t just about the emoji. Leva gave him the low down on what Kathryn had said, and Venita told him, Kathryn even had the nerve to ask if the woman knew who her father was. In his interview, Craig said he was blown away. It made sense now, and it was bad. He told Leva that he’d been Kathryn’s protector, but she couldn’t make excuses for her behavior anymore. It made people think, maybe she did mean it like that.

To be continued…

Next time, a shark, Kathryn arrives at the party, Leva wants Kathryn to be accountable, Danni confronts Austen about seeing someone else, Danni wants to smack Madison off the dock (I’ll help!), and Kathryn is called out by Leva and Venita.

The Real Housewives of Dallas

Yes, I know this is way past it’s time, but this was the soonest I could watch it. There are just too many Housewives for me to juggle these days, but here’s a mini-cap of the highlights.

Tiffany told Brandi about how difficult it had been, not knowing any English and immigrating at 6. The racism she’d experienced was beyond, and just the other week, someone had asked for a doctor who didn’t have coronavirus. The sad little girl was still inside her. She wanted to have an open dialogue, and use the moment for her and Brandi to educate each other. In her interview, she said it was America in 2020. We could do better.

Kameron was annoyed that Cord was shielding her from what was going on with selling the house. She told Cord to protect her from burglars, not her emotions. Not being included made her feel invisible. They put up a For Sale sign that she was sure would spur neighborhood gossip. She wondered if Louie’s spirit would come with them when they moved, and at that moment, I kind of got why Cord felt the need to keep details to himself. Kameron put a tiny pink tutu on Fancy, who is the most precious thing in the world. Except for my dogs.

Tiffany gave D’Andra and Stephanie a tour of her house, which the word impressive doesn’t even come close to covering. In her interview, she said, she and husband Daniel have their own wine label, and she showed them a literal wine cellar. Like a cellar under the cellar. Her closet had a fingerprint lock, and in Stephanie’s interview, she said the only room worthy of that was the bathroom. She thought Tiffany showing off her closet was obnoxious, but Tiffany said she planned on being buried in her closet when she died, so isn’t it her crypt as well? Tiffany wondered about Kary being so pushy, and wanting Tiffany to have her kind of fun, and Stephanie said when Kary was drunk, she acted like the fun police. It was nothing personal. Tiffany told the women that she was going to have a dim sum party, which was similar to brunch.

Kary said it was great having the kids home during quarantine, but it got to the point where the main goal was trying not to kill each other. Thank you, tequila. In Kary’s interview, she complained about D’Andra complaining to her. Before quarantine, they’d been traveling together; D’Andra to sell her skincare line, and Kary to sell her jewelry.

In D’Andra’s interview, she talked about having had good relationship with stepmother and brother, until there was a family fight over the will when her father died. She wanted to reach out, and Jeremy suggested she write a letter. She’d also been seeing a Shaman, who was helping her with her chakras or whatever.  

The party was at a restaurant in a private room. Tiffany explained Dim Sum was like Spanish tapas, and she was sharing part of herself with them. Kary felt the need to out Stephanie and Kameron for not eating street food in Thailand, and Kameron said it was because she hadn’t had her typhoon [sic] shot. This was seriously my kind of food, and I desperately wanted to reach through the TV and grab a dumpling. Not so much a chicken foot. Tiffany gave out red envelopes, like the ones given out on Chinese New Year. Instead of money, each one had a question inside that she thought would help her get to know the others better. She pressured everyone to eat a chicken foot (shades of Pedro’s mother on 90 Day Fiancé), and in Stephanie’s interview, she said, in her house, they didn’t eat chicken feet, but they did eat chicken nuggets. She also said it was the most disgusting thing she ever ate. In D’Andra’s interview, she said chicken feet had a lot of collagen, and the Chinese ate them to keep youthful. I guess no one has told her they have smoothie additives for that. TBH, I’m pretty adventurous when it comes to food, but I think it would be a hard no on the chicken foot thing. Tiffany acted like a total a-hole, pressuring everyone heavily, especially Kameron. In Kameron’s interview, she said, had it been her party, she’d never push a food on someone that they didn’t want to eat. Kary said Tiffany was really bossy with food, which was funny since they’d talked about Kary being the fun police. Brandi couldn’t make it, and Kary thought they should wrap up a chicken foot to go.

Next time, Fancy on a treadmill, a white party, and Kary pushes Tiffany into the pool.   

🌝 Full Moon…

Tiffany talks about racism and a necklace.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/13/rhods-dr-tiffany-moon-opens-up-about-the-racism-she-experienced/

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/13/rhod-stars-dr-tiffany-moon-claps-back-over-snake-necklace/

👠 Trailer This…

The girls from Jersey return on February 17th for a new season of throwing Solo cups and pulling out extensions.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-daily-dish/real-housewives-of-new-jersey-season-11-trailer-details

🎂 All Grown Up…

No longer a little girl, Gia celebrates her 20th birthday.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/10/teresa-and-joe-giudice-post-tributes-for-daughter-gias-birthday/

See how she went from cute to stunning.

🌴 We Can Hope…

My jury was always half out about Miami, but I missed them when they were gone.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/12/real-housewives-of-miami-could-be-returning-to-bravo/

💉 Vaccinated…

After all, the pups need him.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/09/lisa-vanderpumps-hubby-gets-covid-19-vaccine-early/

💭 My Thoughts Exactly…

Leave it to me and LVP to think alike.

https://pagesix.com/2021/01/11/lisa-vanderpump-what-stassi-schroeder-did-was-stupid-not-racist/

📇 Just For Fun…

The Office had its bloopers too.

https://www.popsugar.com/entertainment/the-office-blooper-videos-47640098

🎰 Thanks For Playing…

Tomorrow brings the week to a close, and will be a long weekend for some, a regular weekend for others, and more days in captivity for a many. Whatever group you fall into, stay safe, stay striving to be your best self (whatever that is for you), and stay firm in your decision on whether or not to eat a chicken foot, no matter who food bullies you.

January 5, 2021 – Franco Has a Talking Migraine, Landon Gets His Wish (One Of Them Anyway), Dallas Returns, New Wife On the Range & Better

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Jason opens the door to Laura, who says she needs to speak to Carly right away. Jason says, she’s out, and Laura says, that’s okay; you’ll do. Jason asks what it’s about, and she says she trusted Carly enough to share confidences about her family, and he turned it into a war.

At the MetroCourt, Maxie tells Peter that she and wedding planner Sarah are on the exact same page. He asks if that isn’t a wedding planner’s job, but she says he’d be surprised how often it doesn’t happen. He reminds her that it’s also Anna and Finn’s wedding, and she says, Finn doesn’t care as long as Anna is happy, and Anna left the details to her. Robert walks in, reading his invitation; you are cordially invited to the wedding of Maxie Jones, Peter August, Anna Devane, and Hamilton Finn. He walks over to Maxie and Peter’s table, and says there’s a misprint. All four of them can’t be getting married. Peter tells Maxie, he thought Anna agreed to it, and Maxie says, it’s true. They’re having a double wedding.  

Dante comes into the hospital, and tells Elizabeth that he got a text from Doc, who wants to meet him in the bioresearch room. She tells him that he’s on the right floor, and says she never had a chance to talk to him since Lulu was hurt. If it’s any consolation, the facility she’s in is one of the best in the country. She asks if everything is okay. She heard he was outside The Floating Rib when the bomb went off. Instead of running away, he ran into the building. Dante says he did what anyone would have done, and Elizabeth says she’s grateful. Cameron might not have made it if he hadn’t called emergency services.

On the phone, Sam talks to someone at the rehab from the brochure. She says, it’s not for her, but her mother. She was in recovery, and relapsed recently after a close friend died. There’s a knock at the door, and she says she’ll call back and schedule a tour. It’s Franco, and she asks what he wants. He says he would have called first, but Sam would have probably hung up. He’s there to see Jason. She says, Jason isn’t there anymore.

At the MetroCourt, Valentin tells Martin, the numbers are unacceptable. Call Hoffman and tell him ELQ is the only reason they’re still in business, so they’re entitled to half the profits. He wonders why Martin is distracted, and Martin says, he’s not distracted, but distressed. Valentin asks, why? then asks if he wants to know. Martin says, probably not. It’s a sensitive matter that could have a happy or tragic ending, depending on the efforts of a family member. Valentin asks if it’s about Cyrus, but Martin says, no. It’s about his sister, the mayor.  

Carly shows up at Jax’s house, and he says he takes it there’s no word on Sonny. She says, not yet, and Nina says she’s sorry. She hopes Carly hears something soon. Carly says she will, and Jax says, in the meantime, he’d like to know, if all hell breaks loose, will their daughter get caught in the crossfire? Carly says, Josslyn is fine, but he says she doesn’t know that. Sonny is missing, and Cyrus will take advantage of his absence. She says, Cyrus won’t be a problem, and he asks, why not? What did she do? Ha-ha! That’s exactly what Jason asked.

Maxie tells Robert, he’s allowed a plus one, and he says he plans on bringing one. She asks if it’s anyone they know, and he says, Jackie Templeton. Maxie unenthusiastically says, wonderful, and Peter asks, what’s wrong? She says, it’s just that any mention of Jackie, and she thinks of Lulu. Jackie was her idol. She’s missing so much; it’s not fair. Maxie leaves the table, and Robert tells Peter, she’ll be fine. It’s hormones talking. Peter says, Maxie’s best friend is in long-term care. Her reaction is more than hormones. Robert sits down, and says he doesn’t want to argue. It was a tragedy. One destructive act that affected so many lives. Peter asks if Robert would have sent regrets if it hadn’t been a double wedding with Anna and Finn.  

Valentin says Laura is Martin’s sister? Martin says, half-sister. They have a father in common, Gordon Grey. He was married to Martin’s mother, but that didn’t stop him from having an affair with his student Lesley Williams. Valentin says, that means Cyrus is Laura’s half-brother too, and Martin says, which she was not too pleased to find out. Valentin says he can’t imagine Laura was impressed to have an alleged drug trafficker join the family. He asks Martin, what kind of tragedy? and Anna interrupts. She asks if Martin minds if she talks to Valentin. It’s kind of important.   

Dante tells Elizabeth, he just reacted in the moment. He chalks it up to remembering his training. She says, it’s good he came back when he did. It will make life easier for Rocco and Charlotte. He says, speaking of which, they have to set up a playdate sometime. She says she’ll let him know what dates she has available. He says he’s looking forward to it, and Rocco is too. He asks where Doc is, and she points. He thanks her for her kind words.

Franco tells Sam that he was out of town. He didn’t hear about her and Jason. She says, in the future, call Jason directly, and he says, sorry to bother her. He sees the pamphlet in her hand, and she says, it’s not for her; it’s for her mom. He says, for what it’s worth (🍷), he knows what it’s like to have life get in the way. He suddenly doubles over in the hallway.

Dante knocks on the office door, and walks in. Obrecht is there with her back to him. She turns around, and he says, Dr. Obrecht. She tells him, forgive the subterfuge. Doc didn’t text him; she did. He asks, why? and she says she needed to see him face to face. They have their work cut out for them.

Jason tells Laura, if there’s a war, he didn’t start it, but he means to end it. She says, using an innocent woman as ammunition? She trusted Carly with personal family information. Don’t tell her it’s a coincidence that Cyrus’s mother is missing. He says Cyrus was there making accusations, but he has no proof. Laura says, right. Because Jason is a master at covering his tracks. Where is he hiding Florence?

Jax tells Carly, they’ve been through this before, more times than he can count. Tensions escalate, and people get hurt or worse. She says, that’s not happening, and he asks how she knows. She says, it’s been handled, and he says, Sonny is missing, Julian is dead, and the Floating Rib is being bulldozed. Does she call that handled? She says she can’t change what happened, and he says, then she should focus on what could happen. Her priority should be their daughter’s safety. Carly gets loud, and says she knows her priorities. Nina says maybe Josslyn should stay there until things cool off, but Carly says the last thing she needs is Nina telling her how to raise her daughter.

Dante says he and Obrecht don’t work together. To be honest, he wants nothing to do with her. She says, and she went through all this trouble to see the person whose hard work and investigative skills exonerated her. He asks if Dr. Kirk knows about this. He’s not returning Dante’s calls. Obrecht says she knows, and Dante asks if Kirk told her why. She says she and Kirk shared everything, one colleague to another, until… He says, what? and she says, it was a great loss to medical science. He asks, what happened? and she says she’s so sorry. Dear Dr. Kirk is dead.

Valentin asks Martin to give them a minute, and after he leaves, Valentin asks Anna if it’s about Dante. She says, it is. She’s been trying to follow-up with the WSB, trying to find someone who will tell her why he was really released, but she’s getting the runaround. Valentin wonders why Dante’s release would be classified if they felt it was safe. He’s asking Anna one last time if his daughter is safe around Dante, but she says she doesn’t have an answer. She promises she’s not giving up. She’ll find the person to cut through this whole… She sees Robert.

Maxie comes back, and says, sorry. What did she miss? Robert says they were discussing how much he’s looking forward to the wedding. He wants nothing but happiness for both of them. In the past, he and Maxie haven’t seen eye to eye on everything, but he’s thought of her as a daughter. Maxie says, then start thinking of Peter as the son he never had. He says he wishes them both lots and lots of happiness, and that goes for Peter too. Anna approaches their table, and says, this is what she likes to see. Everyone getting along. Do they mind if she joins them?

Franco grabs his head, and yells, stop it! Sam asks, what’s wrong? He hears Peter’s voice, and keeps yelling, stop it!

Carly says, sorry, but Nina says, it’s okay. Carly is dealing with a lot, and she’s not wrong. Nina isn’t an expert in raising a daughter. She wishes she was. She says, obviously, Jax and Carly have a lot to talk about, and she has to meet a Crimson advertiser for drinks. She’ll see Jax later. Jax walks her to the door, and after Nina leaves, Carly says she handled that well, didn’t she?

Laura tells Jason, reports are that Julian planted the bomb at The Floating Rib. If that’s true, she’s convinced he was acting on Cyrus’s orders. It was a brutal crime, and Cyrus deserves to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, but that still doesn’t give Jason permission to retaliate by kidnapping his mother. Jason doesn’t say anything, and she tells him, staying silent might work for the court, but not for her. He says he can’t help her, and she says, why? He says, because Cyrus deserves everything he gets. She says, maybe, but Florence doesn’t, and neither does she.  

Maxie looks at her phone, and tells Anna, It’s Sarah… the wedding coordinator. She wants to show her and Peter the chair slipcover choices. Does Anna mind? Anna says, no, and Maxie and Peter leave. Robert says Anna didn’t even know about the coordinator, did she? How could she possibly agree to a double wedding? Anna says, she didn’t, but Maxie had her heart set on it. Talking to Maxie is like being hit by a cyclone. Before she knew it, she was lost, and just nodding out of politeness. She can’t cut Maxie off on a good day, and she had a lot on her mind. He says, such as? and she says, Dante. She’s worried about him. He’s changed, and he’s so guarded. Robert says he can’t blame Dante, given what he went through. He’s just being cautious in reintroducing himself to Port Charles civilian life. She asks if Robert got any indication of the treatment Dante was receiving when he tool Olivia there. He says Dante wouldn’t see them, especially Olivia, but he understands Dante was receiving great treatment from Dr. Kirk. Anna says she’s not familiar with his work; is Robert? Robert says he was a field rat, doing damage control, and sometimes creating damage. Kirk is a science dork. Doc is familiar with his work. Anna’s phone dings, and she says she’s late for an appointment and has to go. Say goodbye for her

Dante says, Kirk is dead? How? Obrecht says, a random senseless act of urban violence. Hate crime is on the rise everywhere. It was an unnecessary death; a terrible tragedy. She swears to continue Kirk’s work until the criminal who stood by when her son died, and framed her for Drew’s death and the near-death of Franco, is handed over. Dante says, in English? and she says she’s talking about Peter. He says he’s not working with her until he confirms it with the WSB, but she says they’re not finished yet.

Sam brings Franco into the apartment, and tells him to sit down. She asks if he wants water, or for her to call 9-1-1, but he says he doesn’t need for her to call the paramedics. He has a migraine. She says, migraine’s don’t cause you to shout at imaginary people, and he says he was shouting at the migraine. She says, it sounded like someone was trying to hurt him. Who was it?

Valentin sees Nina at the MetroCourt, and asks if she’d care to join him. She says she can’t. She has a meeting – she looks at her phone – which is delayed. They’re running late. He says he wants to talk about Charlotte, and Nina asks how she is. She knows Charlotte is missing her mother. He says, she is, but she’s taken to writing in a journal. When Lulu wakes up, they can read it together. She says, that’s a great idea, and asks if he came up with it. He says he might have mentioned it in passing, and she says Charlotte is lucky to have a father like him. He says he had help. Charlotte adores her; Nina is a natural born mother. She says she thinks Carly disagrees.

Jax tells Carly to stop beating herself up; she’s stressed. She says she had no right to take it out on Nina. He says maybe she feels guilty for not telling Nina the truth about her daughter, but she says, he feels guilty. He says he does, and he also believes Nina should stop looking for her child, and believe her child is out there, living the life Nina would have wanted for her. Carly says, instead of finding out she’s a baby snatching, throat slashing psycho.

Laura tells Jason, she came to visit out of concern for Carly and her family. She wanted to reassure Carly that she thinks she has a way to keep Cyrus from taking advantage of Sonny’s absence. She told Carly that Cyrus and Martin are her half-brothers, and in doing so, mentioned their mother. She also told Carly that she believes Cyrus’s weakness is her. She knew Carly might share the information with him, but never dreamed he’d kidnap Florence. Jason says it was kind of Laura to visit Carly, but Laura says, it left her culpable. She gave the information to Carly, who handed it to him, and he exploited it with an act of brutality that Sonny would never condone. She asks if he’s met his hostage face to face. She’s frail, and easily disoriented; she has to be terrified. She’s surround by strangers, and doesn’t know the place. Laura has known Jason to be pragmatic to a fault, but she’s never known him to be cruel. She sees he’s made the decision to fight Cyrus with whatever means necessary, but if he plays by Cyrus’s rules, nobody wins. Nobody. She leaves, and Jason looks like he has a migraine.   

Obrecht tells Dante, the WSB designated her as his handler in Kirk’s place, and he says, it makes no sense. She knows he’d prefer it not to be her, but it’s what the brass wants. He guesses he has no say in the matter, but she says, don’t worry. She intends to complete their mission soon. She knows he’s anxious to give his full attention to his son. He says, Rocco needs him as much as he needs Rocco, and she says she was sorry to hear about Lulu. It must have been a blow to Maxie as well. He says, she has the wedding plans to occupy her. She’s marrying Peter; they’ve set a date and everything. They want to get married before the baby arrives. Obrecht says, Maxie is pregnant with Henrik’s child?

Peter asks Robert where Anna went, and Robert says she had an appointment. Where’s Maxie? He says, she’s still in the lobby with the wedding planner. They’re moved on to catering. Robert says he has to go, but looks forward to the wedding; tell Maxie. Peter asks if he can have a minute. He thanks Robert for being a good sport. Maybe it’s for Anna and Maxie’s sake, but whatever Robert’s motive, he appreciates it. Robert says he’s welcome. He meant what he said earlier about Maxie being like a daughter. They both know who Peter’s father was. Peter says he’s also Anna’s son, and Robert says that’s the only reason he’s given Peter a pass. Don’t make him regret it.   

Anna asks Elizabeth if she has a minute, and Elizabeth asks if she needs medical attention. Anna says she’s looking for Doc, but Elizabeth says, he’s not available, and asks if Anna wants to leave a message. Anna asks if she can wait, and Elizabeth says she and Franco have a date night. Anna asks if Franco is feeling better, and Elizabeth says, no, but he was hopeful about a doctor in Switzerland that Doc referred him to. He’s a specialist; someone who works with the WSB. Unfortunately… he died suddenly. Anna asks, what happened? and Elizabeth says he was the victim of random violence. Anna says, in Geneva? What was his name? Elizabeth says, Warren Kirk. Does Anna know him? Oh, okay. Now that Kirk is dead, they give him a first name. Thanks.

Franco tells Sam, okay. He’s outstayed his welcome. Not that he was welcome to begin with. Sam tells him, sit and drink some water. There’s a knock at the door, and it’s Jason. He says, sorry. He needs to talk to Danny. He sees Franco, and asks what he’s doing there. Franco says he came to see Jason, and Sam says the kids are at Monica’s, but she wants to give him his favorite sweater. She goes upstairs, and Franco says he wanted to give Jason a heads up. The doctor said his symptoms might not be the result of the tumor. He might not turn back into the person he was. Jason says, or he possibly could.

Laura interrupts Martin, who asks if she’s going to tell him that his mother is safe and sound, and back in her room in Vermont. She says she wishes she could, and he tells her, it’s just like Cyrus said. She told Carly, and Jason kidnapped an innocent, fragile women who never harmed a soul. Laura says she has no proof, and he says, maybe not, but he has no doubts.

Valentin tells Nina, Jax should have shown Carly the door. She needs to learn some manners. Nina says, Jax isn’t going to alienate Carly; they share a daughter. He says, that’s why she should be understanding, but Nina says, as painful as it was, Carly’s not wrong. Who is she to give advice? He says, Charlotte is living proof, and when she discovers her own… She says, no. It’s time to stop kidding herself. She’s never finding her daughter.

Jax says Carly isn’t responsible for Nelle’s death, but Carly says she doesn’t think Nina will see it that way. She’s already tried to redeem Nelle, and if she finds out, she’ll flat-out rewrite history, and turn Nelle into a victim. She’s anything but. He says, Nina would be devastated if she found out, and she’s been through enough. Carly says he’s a good guy. He feels it’s his sacred duty to protect both Josslyn and Nina. He says, then explain to him why neither one of them wants to be protected. Carly says, Josslyn is strong, and won’t run from a fight, especially if it involves her family. He says she told him it had been handled, but not how. If she wants him to trust her with their daughter’s life, she needs to trust him with what she did to keep their daughter safe.

Martin tells Laura, maybe Cyrus has it right. The only thing men like Jason understand is an eye for an eye. Laura says, it’s her fault. She made a mistake in telling Carly about Florence being related to him and Cyrus. On some level, she knew Carly would share the information with Jason, but she never believed he’d go after Florence. It’s out of character. Jason doesn’t take advantage of the weak, and never acts impulsively. Martin says, men like him can’t afford to. Jason has never made an impulsive decision in his life because he’s calculated and cold-blooded. Laura says if he wants to search, she can help, and give him support, but he needs to understand that any action he takes could put him in the middle of a war between Cyrus and Jason. He asks what the alternative is? Sit back and do nothing? Leave his mother to the mercy of a so-called hitman?

Franco says he appreciates Jason not telling Sam about his condition, and his willingness to help Franco to the other side if he shows past behavior, but it may not come to that. The doctor in Switzerland seemed to think that it’s happening because of them messing with his memory. Jason says, if he gets the right treatment, fine, no consequences, and Franco says, that’s why he’s there. He’s going to resume treatment in Port Charles now. Franco knows Jason has no reason to trust him, but he’s going to be okay. Jason says, what if he’s not? and Franco says, no doubt Jason will stick to their bargain.

Anna tells Elizabeth that she never met Kirk, but she was aware of his work. His methods were unusual, but he got amazing results. Elizabeth says, Dante was one of his patients. She just saw him. Doc wanted to meet with him in the bioresearch room. She says Franco will have to find another doctor now, and tells Anna that she has to go.   

Walking back to the table, Maxie says they have chicken, beef, and fish. They need a vegetarian option. Or maybe they should go vegan. She’s so glad Peter will eat anything. What about Robert? She stops, and asks if everything is okay.   

Valentin tells Nina, both he and Jax agree she should keep up the search, and they don’t agree on anything. He asks, what’s that look? Did Jax change his mind? She says Jax is just supporting her decision, and Valentin says if Jax wants her to give up, she knows it was in Jax’s best interest.

Carly tells Jax, they’ve been through this before, and he says, the less he knows, the better? That’s not going to cut it this time. She asks why he can’t trust her, and he says it’s not just about Josslyn, but her as well. It’s one thing for Jason to get involved with Cyrus, but now he made her… She says no one makes her do anything. Jason is handling Sonny’s business while he’s gone. Jax says she and Jason might believe Sonny is coming home, but she has to face the fact; the longer Sonny is gone, the more likely he is to stay gone. She says Jason believes Sonny is coming back, and so does she. He asks if she’s sure Jason does, or is he telling her what she wants to hear? He’s sorry, but sooner or later she’ll have to face the truth, as difficult as it may be. Carly storms out.  

Nina tells Valentin that Jax hasn’t shared everything, but it’s none of his business. She’s been contemplating not continuing for the past few weeks, and Jax was just putting her thoughts into words. Valentin says she wants to believe Jax has her best interests at heart, but he has his own. Nina gets up, and says let her know when she can see Charlotte. He says he’s not trying to be hurtful. He just wants her to open her eyes. Jax wants her all to himself, and he’ll sacrifice what’s rightfully hers to do it.

Laura says she’s known Jason a long time. He would never hurt Martin’s mother. Martin asks if he’s supposed to take that to the bank. What if it was her mother? Would she be comfortable with his assurances that she’d never get hurt? Laura says if she can get Carly alone, she can intervene, but Martin says, fat chance. He’s talked to her, and she’s made of steel. Her first loyalty is to Jason, and she’s immovable. Laura says, so what happens next? and he says, whatever it takes to find his mother, and keep her safe.

Obrecht tells Dante, it’s more important than ever that her presence in Port Charles remain a secret. He says, understood, and she says, duty first. Make sure no one sees him. He asks when he’ll hear from her, and she says when it’s time to strike at Peter’s heart. Now go.

Sam comes downstairs, and tells Jason, sorry she was so long. She couldn’t find the sweater he likes so much. She asks if everything is okay, and Franco says, hunky dory. He thanks her for her help, and says he’ll get out of their way. He leaves, and Sam asks, what was that about? Jason says, Franco’s just being Franco. What was he doing there? Sam says he was ill in the hallway, and said he had a migraine. Doesn’t Jason believe him? Jason says he doesn’t know, but do him a favor. If Franco shoes up again, call him.   

In the hallway, Franco doubles over again. He hears Peter’s voice saying, no choice.

Peter tells Maxie, he and Robert were fighting over the bill, and Robert says he’s decided Peter wins. Elizabeth sees Maxie, and says Maxie doesn’t have to send an invitation. She and Franco are definitely attending. Maxie is like, um… and Elizabeth says Finn and Anna invited them. They just need to find a gift for the man who saved Franco’s life. If it wasn’t for Peter, Obrecht might have killed her husband. They’re forever grateful. Peter made quite an impression on Franco.

Obrecht puts on a surgical mask and walks out. She goes to the elevator. Anna comes up behind her, and says she’s looking for Dante Falconari. Has she seen him?  

Tomorrow, Peter says it’s been worth it, Dante says they’ll never find out, Britt says it’s out of their hands, and Jordan tells Cyrus there’s nothing they can do from there.

The Haves and The Haves Nots

Wyatt tells Vinny that he’s sorry, and Vinny says he’s one lucky son of a bitch. Wyatt says he’s not. He’s there in the hospital. Vinny asks if he’d rather be dead, and Wyatt says that’s not what he meant. He just wants this to stop. Vinny asks what he wants to stop, and Wyatt says, this; what Vinny is doing. Vinny asks what he’s doing, and Wyatt says what he did to Vinny, but he did it one time. Vinny says, yet the stab wound is still there, and Wyatt says, so are the cuts on his wrists. Vinny asks, whose fault is that? and Wyatt says, his. Vinny asks him why it’s his fault, and Wyatt says because he stabbed Vinny. Vinny says, and? Wyatt says, he left Vinny to die, and Vinny says, in? Wyatt says, a pool of his own blood. Vinny says, right, and Wyatt says he’s sorry. Vinny says, there he goes again. He’s not sorry enough yet. Wyatt asks what he has to do. Money? Vinny says Wyatt’s mom won’t pay, and Wyatt says he’ll call his dad. Vinny says his dad doesn’t have any money; it’s all hers. Wyatt says he can get her to pay him, and Vinny says he wants a million dollars. If he doesn’t get the money, he’s going to come back and kill Wyatt. Wyatt says, okay, he’ll call, and Vinny leaves.

Jim comes downstairs, and his phone rings. It’s Wyatt, who says, a Malone just left. He said he’d kill him. Jim asks what Wyatt did, and Wyatt says if Jim doesn’t give him a million dollars, he’s going to kill him. Jim says, which Malone? and Wyatt says, the one he stabbed. Jim says, Vinny? Dammit. What did he say? Wyatt tells Jim, Vinny said he was going to kill him. Jim asks if Wyatt sees the sh*t he gets into. The sh*t Jim has to get him out of. Wyatt says he’s sorry, and Jim says, stop doing it. Wyatt says Jim has to get him out and into rehab, but Jim says, first, he has to get a Malone off Wyatt’s ass. He’ll talk to Vinny, but he wants Wyatt to stay put. Wyatt says, thanks, dad, and Jim says, now it’s thanks, dad. Next week, Wyatt will have a gun to his head. Wyatt says he’s sorry, and Jim says goodbye. He hangs up, and says Wyatt is just like his mother.

Wyatt says he can’t stay there. He presses the buzzer, and yells for the nurse.

David tells Hanna, something about her compels him to be honest with himself, so he also feels compelled to tell her how he’s really feeling. She thanks him, and he says she really is a beautiful woman. She says, and he’s very handsome… and so slick. He asks, how does she mean? and she says, he’s so slick. He comes in there, his charm turned all the way up. She can see how it would work. He says he’s not trying to work anything. He’s just telling her the truth. She says she can see how it would work on a weak ass fool, but she’s not a weak ass fool. He says, no, and she says, that’s why it doesn’t work. She’s not some girl, or a crazy one like he married. He says he’s not playing her, and she says, okay; bye. He asks if she remembers what he said when they first met. She says, are they doing this again? He said to get him a drink. He asks if she remembers what she was wearing, and she says, a maid uniform, but he says she was also wearing an ankle chain with a heart. He noticed that. She says, that’s nice, and he says he also noticed she hasn’t worn it since. She says she hasn’t wanted to, and he says, because things change; people can change. She says, so? He says she doesn’t believe any of it, and she says he’s reading her mind. He’s trying to seduce her to get Jim some money. He says, no, and she says, good. It will never work. He says, if he ever seduced her, it’s because he wanted to make love to her. She says, good; that will never work. He asks if she’s sure she’s not getting excited, and she tells him, look at this face. Does it look like she’s excited? Get the hell out. He says he knows she didn’t believe anything he said – she says, not a damn thing – but it’s the truth. He gets up, and thanks her for her time. She says, by the way, she already talked to Kathryn, and she said not to give Jim a dime. He says he’ll let Jim know. She says, do her a favor. Don’t come back again. David says, not unless he’s invited, and leaves. When he’s gone, Hanna says, he thinks she’s a damn fool. Sexy bastard.

At the hospital, Veronica gets a collect call from the jail, and says she’s charging $500 for every 10¢ she has to pay. Kathryn says, get over it, bitch, and Veronica laughs. She asks how Kathryn is, and Kathryn says she needs to see Veronica. Veronica says, that’s not happening, but Kathryn says, yes it is. Veronica says Kathryn is locked up; she should focus on that. Kathryn tells her to get her ass down there, and Veronica says Kathryn’s been telling the police she did it. Kathryn says she expects to see Veronica today, and Veronica says, or…? Kathryn asks if Veronica wants to know what card she can play, and Veronica says Kathryn can have any lawyer in the country she wants, but she can’t have her. Kathryn says there’s no other lawyer whose life she can ruin with a phone call. Veronica has a certain loan obligation. Veronica asks if Kathryn is threatening her, and Kathryn says, damn right. Veronica says, this is the game Kathryn wants to play? and Kathryn says, yes. Get down here now. Kathryn hangs up, and Veronica says, did this bitch just hang up on her? Be glad she can’t call back. Celine approaches Veronica, and tells her, they’re in there. Veronica says Celine acts like it’s the boogey man, and tells her, come on.

Veronica introduces herself to Celine’s supervisor and the hospital director. She says she’s representing Celine, and the director is surprised Celine retained an attorney. Veronica says, the best attorney; do her research. She asks what this is about, and the director says they’re there to talk about termination. Celine says, why? What did she do? The director says they had a complaint from Dr. Mendez. Celine says she didn’t talk to him. He came in while she was speaking to Jim, and… Veronica interrupts Celine, saying, she’s shy to talk about it. The doctor has been sexually harassing her. They have the emails and texts to prove it. Celine tries to interrupt, but Veronica says, she’ll talk for her. She knows English is not Celine’s first language. Just stand there and be quiet. They’re suing the hospital for $10 million dollars, or they can allow Celine to go back to her job, and keep the creep away. The director says she’ll need to talk to the Board, but Veronica says, no. They want it to be resolved now, today. Allow Celine to go back to her work… and they need a raise. She asks Celine how much she makes, and Celine says, $17. Veronica says, for the whole damn hour? and Celine says, yes. She tells Celine to get out of there, and Celine leaves. Veronica tells them, leave that poor broken down woman alone. She can’t afford a good foundation, and a doctor is harassing her. The director says the doctor is the one who complained, but Veronica says she doesn’t have time for this sh*t. Beautiful people don’t stoop so low. The director says they didn’t invite Veronica there, and Veronica says, maybe not, but they’re going to pay the damn price. Apparently, the director doesn’t know what women are going through in the world today, and who defends what they’re going through. The director says she knows Veronica is a liar, and Veronica says, obviously, she hasn’t researched who Veronica is. Do that before she comes for her. Research her, and then she’ll come back. She walks out talking Valley Girl.     

In the reception area, Celine asks why Veronica said those things, and Veronica says she got Celine’s job back. Celine says, they’re lies, and Veronica says, they don’t know that. Celine says she does, and Veronica says, the one who slept with her boss’s husband cares about lies. Celine says she doesn’t want to hurt anyone, and Veronica says, sometimes you have to, to be okay. They’re going let her keep working for $17 an hour. Celine says, what about Jim? and Veronica says she’ll take care of him. Go get her mop, and keep doing what she does. Celine says, thank you, and Veronica says Celine doesn’t have to be prompted. She likes that. Go. She’ll take care of Jim.

Jim walks into the Iron Bone, and orders bourbon, neat. Vinny asks what he can do for Jim, and Jim says, mind if he sits? Vinny gestures to a stool, and Jim says, thanks. He stopped by to congratulate Vinny. Vinny says, thanks, and Jim says he understands Vinny is running the business now. Vinny says, looks that way, and Jim says he thinks it’s terrific. Vinny asks what Jim wants to talk to him about, and Jim says, his son. He gave Vinny $75K to leave Wyatt alone. Vinny says, Jim gave him $50K, but Jim insists it was $75K. Vinny asks if Jim is challenging him, and Jim says, no. He gave Mitch $75K to deliver to Vinny. Vinny says, right; he forgot. Jim says he understands. So he wants Vinny to leave his son alone. Vinny says Jim’s son stabbed him, and Jim says, believe him; he understands. There’s nothing he can do to repay that, but this kid of his, he’s a problem. Vinny says, yes, and Jim says, he needs help. Vinny says Jim should get it for him, and Jim says, he is, but it takes time. Vinny says, here’s the deal. He wants a million dollars. Jim says, a lot of people do. What for? Vinny says, pain and suffering. He doesn’t think $50K is enough. Jim repeats that he gave Vinny $75K, and Vinny says, $50K, $75K; he’s a businessman. The terms have changed. Jim says, come on, Vincent, and Vinny says Jim says that like he knows him. Jim says he does. He’s known Vinny since before Vinny wiped his own ass. Be reasonable. Vinny says, that’s Jim’s mistake. Jim thinks he knows him, and he doesn’t. He suggests Jim take his ass and leave this establishment now, and don’t come back until he has Vinny’s million. Jim says he doesn’t have a million, but Vinny says, his wife does. Jim says his wife is in jail; she’s not going to help. Vinny says, he understands, but the problem is, if he doesn’t get the money, Jim is going to bury his child. Jim orders another bourbon, but Vinny says he thinks Jim can leave now. Bye, judge. Get his ass out of there before Vinny makes pay for the drink. Jim heads for the door, and Vinny says he hopes Jim feels better. Jim says, he will, and leaves. Vinny says he’s sure, and drinks the bourbon. He makes a call, and says he needs to know where Mitch is, but don’t tell Mitch he’s looking for him. He tells them to also check the serial number on the pills, and let him know if it’s the same batch.

A reporter waits for Hanna when she comes out to get in her car. She asks Hanna to talk about the pain her daughter experienced while growing up. Does she know about the rumors that Hanna abandoned her daughter, and that she was a prostitute? Hanna says, get off of her, and starts her car. She drives away, leaving the reporter at the curb.

Jim goes to David’s house, and asks how it went with Hanna. David says, it didn’t, and Jim says, the old Harrington charm didn’t work? David says he told Jim it wouldn’t, and Jim thanks him for trying. David says he felt like a fool, and Jim asks, why? David says because he sincerely likes her; he always has. Jim laughs, and asks if David is serious. David says he is, and Jim says, he sent David there to do him a favor, and he actually wants to sleep with Hanna? David shakes his head, and says, Hanna is a nice lady. She was looking right through him. Jim doesn’t know what David means, and David says, she sees people’s souls. Jim says, is he actually hearing this? and Davis says, it’s the first time they had a real conversation. Jim asks what the hell has gotten into David? Hanna is a witch. That woman cast a spell on him. David asks why Jim is there, and Jim says he talked to the Malones. David says, it didn’t go well? and Jim says, no, but it was interesting. David asks who Jim met with; Vinny? Jim says, Vincent. He said something that didn’t make sense. The bounty on Wyatt was $50K, and he gave Mitch $75K. David asks if Jim thinks Mitch skimmed it, and Jim says, of course he does. Mitch gave Vinny $50K and stuck $25K in his pocket. That’s what he’d do. David says, it would be hard to confirm, because Malones don’t like to be questioned. Jim says, he’s right. Maybe Mitch was counting on that. If the Malones find out that Mitch stole and lied to the family, Mitch will be cut off. Which means, no more protection for Candace, Benny, and Hanna. David says, leave Hanna out of it. She has nothing to do with this. Jim laughs, and says David honestly likes Hanna. David says, fair is fair. Candace and Benny stole Jim’s money, but Hanna did not. Jim says, okay; he gets it. David doesn’t want to discuss it further, and Jim says, wow. David says he’ll see what he can find out about Mitch. Jim asks, how? and David says, very carefully. David asks if Jim wants lunch, but Jim says he’s going home. He’d better not find Hanna’s ass in his house. David says, she works there, and Jim says, this is going to be fun. He puts his hand on David’s shoulder, and says he promises he won’t do anything to hurt David’s new girlfriend. David shakes him off, and says, this has got to stop. Jim says, wow, and heads out the door. Outside, he shouts, praise the Lord! and David says, yes.   

Veronica waits for Kathryn in the visiting room. Kathryn comes in, and Veronica asks what Kathryn wants to tell her about. Kathryn says, the $53 million loan. Veronica says, $54 million, and Kathryn says she hasn’t paid the mortgage. Veronica says she decided not to, and Kathryn says she’s going have to instruct Lloyd to take the facilities, and Veronica’s house. Veronica says her house isn’t in the deal, and Kathryn says she signed a personal guarantee. Veronica laughs, and says, she lied. It will tie Kathryn up in court for years. Kathryn asks if Veronica is broke, but Veronica says, not at all. Kathryn wonders if the facilities aren’t making money, and Veronica says, quite the opposite. Kathryn says, okay. Why isn’t she paying? Veronica says, because she’s paying Kathryn. Who does Kathryn think is testifying for the DA? Kathryn says the DA got to Veronica, and now Veronica is blackmailing her? Veronica says, not at all, and Kathryn says, then what is it? Veronica says she’s whitemailing Kathryn. She just wants to see Kathryn go away. Kathryn says, that will never happen, but Veronica says, yes, it will. When she finishes telling the judge how afraid she was when Kathryn pulled out a gun, and shot that innocent, sweet woman… Kathryn says, Veronica would do that? and Veronica tells her, cut it out. Nobody’s listening. She’s a lawyer. Kathryn says Veronica’s plan won’t work. Kathryn can’t pay her bills, and no longer has power over her estate. Veronica asks, who has? Jim? Kathryn says, no, and Veronica says, yeah; it’s Jim. Kathryn says, either she gets paid, or she’ll instruct the bank to take it all. Veronica takes Kathryn’s hands, and says she hopes Kathryn is having a good life. She’ll be there a long time. Kathryn tells her, don’t count on it, and Veronica says, she is. She calls the guard, and says they can take it back now. She laughs and waves, as Kathryn is led back to her cell. When Kathryn is gone, Veronica looks serious, and takes out her phone. She calls Don, and says she needs him to come to her house. He asks what it’s about, and she says she understands Lloyd has been talking about payment. Come in an hour. He says he’ll see her in a bit.

Benny is under the covers, and tells Candace that he thinks he’s getting sick. Her phone rings, and she says, it’s momma. Benny asks what she wants, but Candace doesn’t know. She just keeps calling non-stop. He says, just answer it, and she does. Benny tells her to put it on speaker, and Hanna says she just left the house, and a reporter was there, asking all kinds of questions. Benny says, about what? and Hanna says she was talking to his sister. Benny says, she’s right there, and Candace asks what they said. Hanna says they’re asking questions, talking about Candace being abused. Candace says, it’s in every paper, and Hanna tells her, the reporter said she put Candace out at 14. She didn’t put Candace out, and Candace needs to tell the truth. Candace asks, what is the truth? and Hanna says Candace ran off with her pimp. Candace says, it’s called child trafficking. Hanna says she told Candace to stay away from them. Candace says she tried to, and she got out, didn’t she? Hanna says Candace became a pimp herself, and Candace says, don’t talk to them. Hanna tells her, come back and tell the truth. She doesn’t want them to think she abandoned Candace. Stop with the lies. She tells Candace that she doesn’t want the reporters around, and Candace says she can’t do anything about that. Hanna tells her, do something, and Candace says, okay. She hangs up, and Benny says, reporters? Candace says, damn Landon, and Benny asks what he wants. She says for her to talk to Charles. She tries to call Landon, but says, he’s not answering. Benny says, Rihanna has a house she wants him to see. He’ll get up in a minute; maybe five. It feels good being rich and sh*t. They’re still getting out of the damn hotel though. She says she heard him, and calls him little bird. He says she’s never letting that go, is she? and she says, never.

Hanna is looking over paperwork, when Jim comes in, and sits down at the table. She asks if she can help him, and he says she’s one brave woman. Like a woman called Moses. She asks if that’s his attempt at an insult, but he says, not at all. She says, good. She can’t wait to get home, get a beer, and celebrate being in the mood to deal with his sh*t. He says he thought this was her home, but she says no, and if he keeps it up, she’ll have him removed from this house. He knows she can, right? He says he knows he needs a million… She says, people in hell need… He says, excuse me? and she says he didn’t know that saying? The people in hell need ice water. I laugh, because I said it out loud when she started the sentence the first time. She laughs, and says she thought all demons knew that. He tells her, cut the sh*t, and she says, watch his tone. He asks if she knows who the Malones are, and she says, yes. He says, the Malones are going to kill Wyatt unless he pays them a million dollars. She says her daughter scammed her a couple of times, and it sounds like that. Jim says he sees how she could feel that way, but this is not that. His son is in a lot of trouble, and needs his help. Hanna says, he does, and Jim says he has to pay them. She says she’s sorry, but she’s not just going to give him a million dollars. He says Hanna is talking like she has all the power; his wife has all the power. Give him power of attorney. She laughs, and he says, give him power of attorney, and he’ll give her $25 million. She laughs again, and he says she doesn’t want the money? She says, no, and he says, come on. Everybody has a price. She says, that’s his problem. He thinks money makes you sleep better. He says, he sure as hell won’t sleep worse, and she says, sorry. He says she can have a house; retire to any city. She says, and break his wife’s heart? He says, who cares about that bitch? He breaks her heart all the time. Hanna says she cares. He asks, why? and she says Kathryn has been very good to her. Jim says, she’s the maid; nothing more, nothing less. Does she have any idea what her dear friend says behind her back? Hanna says she doesn’t care, and Jim says, she’ll always be a maid because it’s the only job she can keep, because she’s simple. (I guess Jim forgot that Kathryn just gave Hanna power over everything, but okay.) Hanna says that sounds like him; simple. Those are his words, but he’s a liar. The truth is, he’s not getting a damn dime. He says his son’s life is in danger, and she says, then he needs to talk to his wife. He says he promises Hanna, if anything happens to his son… She says, watch the threats, and he says he’ll rephrase that. If anything happens to his son, he’ll kill her daughter. She says, and she will kill him. Jim says, that’s not a threat, and she says, neither is what he just said. He tells her, he’ll see himself out.

Oliver calls Landon, and says, they have a situation. Landon says, which is? and Oliver says, the President Elect isn’t coming out of his room. Landon says, maybe he’s resting, but Oliver says, it’s late in the day. Landon says, he rests some days, and Oliver wonders if he should wake him. Landon says, relax, and Oliver says, he has a meeting. Landon says, cancel all of his meetings; that’s what he did. Oliver says he’s going in, and Landon asks why Oliver isn’t listening. Leave him alone. Landon says, just get off the phone, and Oliver says he needs to know what to tell the staff. Landon says, tell them he’s resting, but Oliver says, when they were upstairs, he said he was getting up early. Landon tells him that he needs to relax. Charles is fine. Oliver asks if Landon spoke to him today, and Landon says he has. Oliver asks what Charles said, and Landon says, for him to stop calling. Oliver tells Landon, he didn’t say that, and Landon says he has to go. He hangs up, and answers a call from Candance. She asks where he is, and he says, one floor below her. She asks if he can see her now, and he says he’ll be right up.

Benny comes out of the bathroom, and tells Candace, he’s trying her. She says she knows, but she’s got it. Benny wants to stay, but she asks if he didn’t say he needed to meet his realtor. Go. He asks if she wants to come with him, and she says she’ll try to come tomorrow. Benny leaves, and Landon brings Charles in, looking scruffy and wearing a baseball cap.

Next time, Mitch thinks he needs to pay Jim a visit, Jim tells Hanna that one day the angel and the devil will have a showdown, Justin says he lost everything because of Madison, and a fire happens.

🤠 I checked out the new season of The Real Housewives of Dallas tonight. It premiered on New Year’s Eve, but… no. New Wife Tiffany seems promising, but Kary still just leaves a bad taste in my mouth. Tiffany is an anesthesiologist, married, and a tiger mom to twins, telling us in her interview that every part of her body is an overachiever. Kameron is still my favorite, and sadly, her Yorkie Louie passed away. Even sadder, she’d been in NYC for Fashion Week, and blamed Cort for not giving Louie his medicine. While the autopsy couldn’t determine Louie’s cause of death, Kameron didn’t think she could ever move on. She did, however, get a Pomeranian puppy named Fancy, who was beyond adorable. She was also having a garage sale of a billion pink items, explaining that they’d been in the process of selling their home and buying her dream house when covid hit. The buyer freaked out and pulled out of the deal. Their house was still on the market, and Cort told her they had to sell their current house to get another one. It was a cute set-up, including a pink lemonade stand, but Kameron looked like someone on Hoarders, when she kept pulling items out that she wanted to keep. We saw a little bit of the women in quarantine, but the beginning had passed, since people were out and about, albeit wearing masks. Mama Dee had given D’Andra $100K to get by, saying that previously, D’Andra hadn’t proved herself, but now she’d taken full responsibility to make the company work. Stephanie had a pool party, and told everyone that quarantine had made her grateful for her friends, and made her appreciate what’s important in life… blah-blah-blah. They went around the table, saying their positives and negatives of quarantine (a lot of their businesses had somewhat tanked), and Brandi got emotional about the video she’d posted several years ago on social media where she made fun of Asian people. D’Andra defended her to Tiffany, saying that she hadn’t done it out of meanness. Tiffany told Brandi that she’d hurt a lot of people, and explained how her parents had immigrated when she was three. From age three to six, she lived with her grandparents, and then was put on a plane from Beijing to New York. She didn’t know a word of English, and when she was in school, the kids made fun of her eyes. The show ended with the both of them crying. I have to admit, most of the time, I think this franchise is useless, but this was a good thing for people to see. I think Brandi is a huge a-hole, but I don’t think she’s mean or racist, and it showed how something you might think is funny in an a-hole moment, can be hurtful to other people. I give it a 64 out of 75. <shrugging>

👠 A Little Bit Of Tiffany In Your Life…

Meet the newest Dallas Housewife.

https://people.com/tv/new-rhod-housewife-tiffany-moon-makes-her-debut-in-season-5-trailer/

😴 Hitting the Hay…

One more episode until Tuesday becomes an earlier night. Yay. Tomorrow it’s double Housewives duty. Meanwhile, stay safe, stay secure in who you are, and stay not telling Carly anything you don’t want Jason to know.

December 9, 2020 – Martin Reveals a Huge Secret, the OC Shuts Down, Meredith Wants Some Room, New Dallas & 8 Bohemian Nights

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Yeah, yeah, running late again. Here’s what I missed at the beginning. Sasha and Willow ran into each other at the park, and Sasha thought they should get things out in the open. Avoiding Monica, Carly snuck into the Quartermain mansion through the terrace doors when she saw Michael. She asked him to forgive her for lying. At the MetroCourt, Sonny asked Diane to use her skills to get Martin to spill his connection to Cyrus. As Martin tried to leave, they blocked his way. Laura was working on her target practice, when Cyrus went to the stall next to her. Backtracking to yesterday, Sam told Jason, if he left, don’t come back, and here we are.

Sam says she knows Jason has to go, and he says he’ll send Sonny a text, saying he got hung up. He’s not going anywhere until they figure this out. She told him that she can’t keep living like this. Does she mean here with him? Is she asking him to move out? She says, Danny could have died the other night. She can’t stop thinking about it. Standing in the parking lot, holding Danny’s cap. It brought her back to when her brother Danny died. She stood there, holding the one thing she had left of him. Jason says, his baseball cap, and she says it was hard enough to grieve her brother. She doesn’t think she could survive grieving her child. He says he was going to ask her how long she’s been feeling this way, but he guesses he has the answer. Sam says, the bombing was her breaking point. Since then, she’s been thinking about it, and finally realized. There was nothing she could do about her brother then, but there’s certainly something she can do for her son. She can let Jason go.

Sasha tells Willow, she’s so sorry she and Chase hurt her, and Willow asks if she has any idea what it’s like. Chase broke her heart into a million pieces, but so did Sasha. The way she was raised, her parents moved a lot, even before they got involved with DoD. Because of that, she never had a lot of friends; sometimes none. Then came Chase, and Sasha and Michael. The four of them hanging out was so much fun. Sasha was the first true girlfriend she had. The person she could vent to, and go for advice. Then that disappeared. Sasha says, because of something not real. Chase still loved Willow; he always has. Willow says she believes Chase, and believes Sasha, but knowing and trusting are two different things.

Michael says he knows Carly’s intentions were good, and she was justified in not telling him. If she’d told him it was a set-up, he would have had to tell Willow. It would have put her in an impossible position; stay together for Wiley’s sake, or stay with Chase and risk losing Wiley. Carly says if they’d had to make a choice before the custody hearing, it would have been a disaster. He says, thankfully, Nelle is gone, and Willow will know, no matter who they choose, Wiley will be okay. Carly asks, but will he be okay?   

Martin says he was just leaving, and Diane says, but she just got there. Sonny says, he knows Diane, right? and Martin says, she’s quite unforgettable. She says, flatterer, and Sonny says Diane has some questions for him. Martin says he thought he was finished with his Q&A, but Sonny says, not quite. Martin says he can’t talk about any cases that involve any of them, but Diane says he’s mistaken. Sonny, his wife, and his father were the targets in a shooting, and Sonny recently lost a cousin in a bomb explosion. Martin says he’s sincerely sorry for Sonny’s loss, but what on God’s green earth do those appalling acts of violence have to do with him? Sonny says because the man Martin works for caused them – Cyrus Renault.   

Cyrus says Laura is quite the shot, and she says she finds it helpful to visualize. She thinks about someone she’d like to shoot, and boom! pulls the trigger. He says he hopes he’s never in her sights, and she says, he knows what they say about the word never. He says he hadn’t pegged her for a shooting enthusiast, and she says despite his intrusive research, there’s a lot he doesn’t know. He says he’d love for her to fill him in on her history from her own perspective, but she says she’s not there to regale him with stories. Her daughter is lying comatose in a long-term care facility, likely because of him. He says he’d never want to harm her daughter, and she says, if he means that – he tells her that he does – then get the hell out of Port Charles.

Curtis tells Jordan, he wants to go over the information from the medical supply company. Maybe it will lead to how Cyrus knows Florence. Jordan says, the company supplies thousands of facilities, and it’s possible Cyrus just moved her to another house with private care, or changed his plan for all they know. He says, yes to all that, but it’s the only lead they’ve got. Judging from the postcard, Cyrus has a close personal attachment to Florence. They can use that to get leverage on Cyrus, and get Jordan out from under his thumb.

Jason asks if Sam wants to end things, and she says she doesn’t want to; she has to. They both know what happened at The Floating Rib wasn’t an isolated incident. There will always another crisis, another lockdown, and another time they need to take the kids out of bed in the middle of the night to make sure they’re safe. He asks why she didn’t say anything, and she says he hasn’t been around. And what would have changed? For the past several months, she’s been so focused on them being together, living together, she didn’t stop for a second to consider if being with him was right for their family. The hard truth is, it’s just not working anymore.

Jason says he doesn’t want their kids to risk their lives to spend time with him, and Sam says she doesn’t want that either. She knows she said they could make it work, and keep the kids safe. That’s how much wanted be with him; how much she loves him. But she was in denial. She refused to see that the day was coming when it would catch up to him. He says he’d hoped it wouldn’t. When he came back, and they got back together and became a family, everything hit him. He wanted it to last, but she knows him. She says she does, and he says, if she says she wants out, he won’t fight it. She starts to cry.

Laura says she should want Cyrus brought to justice, tried, and convicted for his involvement in the bombing. He starts to say something, but she tells him, don’t deny it; she won’t believe him. She should want those things, and he says, but she doesn’t? She says, she does. She wants that with every fiber in her being, but she wants peace more. She’s the mayor of this town, and puts its people first. She’d rather see him walk free than stay, and watch the damage accumulate. She wants him to go back to where he came from; go anywhere far away. He says he can’t do that, and she says, there are hospitals everywhere. He says while his business investment is a consideration, he has personal reasons for staying.

Diane says they’ve observed Martin and Cyrus talking, and Cyrus paid his tab. Martin says, that’s hardly criminal, but Diane says Cyrus has been involved in a boatload of crimes. He bombed a restaurant that killed three people, and left a mother in a coma. Martin says he believes Julian is responsible, and Diane says, she knows Julian. It would never occur to him to bomb The Floating Rib, unless he was coerced. He has no motive. Cyrus, on the other hand, had motive for days, going by the name of Jason Morgan. Martin says this is far outside his area of expertise, and starts to get up, but Sonny pushes him back into his seat. Diane says, Jason was at The Floating Rib, and was the intended target. The others were collateral damage. Martin says, it’s tragic and monstrous, and Sonny tells him to explain his connection to Cyrus, or he’ll assume Martin is involved with the bombing. Martin says, Sonny would be wrong. He doesn’t know how to say it. He has no idea what his brother has gotten him into. Diane says, his what?

Jordan tells Curtis, they know the file Cyrus had her pull concerns the death of David Hamilton. Maybe they should take another look at the family association. Maybe there’s a connection to Cyrus. He says, he’s thinking Florence is a stronger lead, assuming it’s the Florence who married Laura’s father. Jordan says, for a woman that age, Florence isn’t that uncommon, and Curtis says, they lived in Port Charles for several years. There must be records. He says he thinks he’ll get some fresh air, and she says, if he’s going to call in a favor that’s illegal to call in… He says he certainly wouldn’t tell the Commissioner. Deniability, and all that stuff.

Sam says, part of her wants Jason to fight for her, and wants him to change, but she already knows he can’t. He says he loves her. He doesn’t want to lose her or the kids, but he can’t lie. He’s tried to leave before, and ended up going back. She says she knows. It’s part of the reason why she fell in love with him; his loyalty and his code. It’s why, in the beginning she never questioned how he lived, and never questioned his work or how it could be just anywhere. He says, but kids change things, and she says she doesn’t want Danny and Scout to live in fear. She doesn’t want to live fear for them, and most of all, she doesn’t want them to die the way Morgan did.

Sonny says, Martin’s brother is Cyrus? and Martin says, correct. Diane says she admits she didn’t think at all this was where her line of questioning was going, but it’s bizarre enough to be true. It’s fascinating. Martin is glad to entertain her, and she asks where they’re from, and how estranged they are. Sonny asks how long Martin has been helping Cyrus get his hooks in the town.

Laura says, the way Cyrus presented it, he had no personal reason to be there; no personal connection whatsoever. He tells her that he didn’t materialize fully formed. He had a childhood, and family he cares about. She says, but has no regard for anyone else’s family. Lulu’s children could grow up without a mother. He says he didn’t realize Lulu might not recover. If she’s not satisfied with where Lulu is, he knows of some excellent long-term care facilities in Vermont. She says she’s not interested in his helpful hints. As far as his target practice goes, she thinks he should reschedule. She can’t be sure one of her shots won’t just go astray – he laughs – and hit a bystander. He says, under her civilized façade, she has a wild streak like his own. She tells him, keep pushing, and he’ll find out just how wild a streak it is. He says, always a pleasure, and leaves. Laura makes a call, and says she needs to see them now.

Willow asks if Sasha has thought about what’s next, and Sasha says, Lucy and Maxie have gone above and beyond, and even Valentin has been decent. They told her there’s still a place for her at Deception. She just has to get over her mortification, and show up for work. Willow says, there’s a great counseling group at the hospital, but Sasha says she’s not sure counseling is for her. Willow says she felt that way too, before giving up her baby. The group, and meeting Michael, made a huge difference. Working through it, empowered her, and might do the same for Sasha. She tells Sasha, when she feels embarrassed or ashamed, remember that she helped save a little boy from an evil monster. There’s nothing more important. Sasha says she’ll hold onto that, and Willow says she should.

Carly tells Michael, she was justified in withholding the truth – it was in Wiley’s best interest – but actions have consequences, and she knows that. He and Willow were friends, and watching them lean on each other was a beautiful thing. She gets it. They started as friends, but she senses it’s more than that. Michael says what he and Willow are, is between them, and no one else.

Sam tells Jason, Morgan’s death was devastating, and he says he can’t imagine. She says it put an end to all the lies they told themselves about this life being safe. She thinks that’s when it hit her. She was standing for what felt like an eternity in The Floating Rib parking lot, thinking she should have known better. She should have learned from what happened to Morgan. No matter what the promises, the good intentions, and the guards, it’s not enough. Nothing can ever ease the pain of losing a child because of the choices you’ve made. They have a second chance. Danny is alive, and she’s learned her lesson. She’s also Scout’s mother, and she has to do what’s best for them. He says he wants that too, and she says she knows he does. With tears in his eyes, he says, if what’s best is for him to leave, he will. He’ll hate it and miss her like crazy, but he will.

Martin tells Diane and Sonny, his brother got in touch with him. He wanted to reconnect, but Martin said, no. Diane asks, why? and Martin says his brother is a complicated person; he’s angry. He was wild when he was young, and now he’s an alleged drug kingpin. He wanted no part of that. Then, their mother fell ill, and went through her medical insurance quickly. The level of care she needed would have bankrupted him, so he contacted Cyrus. To his credit, Cyrus answered, and has been paying her expenses ever since. How he makes his money, Martin doesn’t know, and doesn’t want to know. Diane says they’ll be vetting his story, and Martin says, it’s the truth. May he go? Sonny nods, and he tells them, have a good evening. He leaves, and Diane says, well, that was informative. Sonny says, it’s a start. He’s still got to find out what else Cyrus is hiding.

Epiphany shows up at Jordan’s apartment, and asks if she’s alone. Jordan says she is, and asks, what’s going on? Epiphany says Jordan has a problem. The wheels are coming off her cover-up. If she’s not careful, someone is going to figure out Taggert is alive.

Willow says she’s got to go home, and Sasha says her too. It was good to see her. Willow leaves, and Sasha contemplates their conversation.  

Michael says, talking about how they got there won’t change where they are. He and Willow have been married for months, and they went to living directly as co-parents. Carly says, that’s huge, and he says, every decision was based on a lie. They were bonding and getting closer… because isn’t the right word. It lot had to do with Willow thinking Chase didn’t love her anymore, but it turns out the opposite was true. Chase loved her so much, he let her go; let her hate him so Wiley would be safe. It’s so much more confusing right now. She says she knows she said she’d stay out of it, but she has a piece of advice; don’t push it in either direction. They’re all good people with good intentions. Take the time to sort through who they are now, and how they feel now. He says, and where to go next?

Sam asks if Jason remembers when they first met at the PCPD. They were in handcuffs. He says, how could he forget? and she says, at that moment, she had no idea where their lives would take them. that they’d actually fall in love and have kids. Their theme music starts to play, which has been like waiting for the other shoe to fall during this entire conversation. Jason says, now that they do, they have to come first, and Sam says, they just have to. He says he sees how much it weighs on her. The compromises, the restrictions, the secrets. Danny and Scout shouldn’t have to accept those limitations as normal. They shouldn’t have to deal with the fallout of his choices, and neither should she.

Laura shoots, and Curtis comes in. He says, target practice? and she says, Cyrus was in the booth next to her. It took everything in her not to take a shot at him. He says he’s glad she didn’t. He’d hate for her to get locked up for the likes of trash like that. She tells him that she was rewarded for sharing. Cyrus wouldn’t stop talking about Lulu, and volunteered that he knew of some good long-term care facilities in Vermont. Does he think Cyrus moved Florence to one of them?

Epiphany tells Jordan, Trina has been asking questions. Why couldn’t they save her father? Why did they take him away so fast? Jordan says, that doesn’t mean Trina believes he’s alive, but Epiphany says, she suspects. It wouldn’t be a huge deal, but Taggert is hard to miss. He’s been lurking at GH, and who knows where else. Jordan asks what she’s saying, and Epiphany says, he’s been shadowing Trina and Portia. She caught him in scrubs at the hospital. Jordan says she didn’t even know he was back in town.

Jason says he doesn’t want Sam or the kids to live in fear, and he wouldn’t want to put them in danger. She says just because they don’t want something, doesn’t mean it won’t happen. They’ve learned that the hard way, a lot actually. She never wanted to think… He says, they’ve been through so much to be together, it’s not as simple as him walking away. She says, it’s not simple, but it’s something they have to do. Sonny calls, but Jason doesn’t answer. He says he’s thankful for every day they’ve had together. Danny is his son, and the time he’s spent with Danny and Scout… She gave him a family. He didn’t even know if that was in the cards for him. He doesn’t want this be over, but she says, they have no choice anymore.

Jason says, it feels wrong to walk out on her and the kids, but Sam says, it’s not wrong. She’s asking if he’ll go. His phone rings, and she says, Sonny? He says, yeah, but he’ll call back. Sam picks up the phone, and he says, don’t answer, but she does. She tells Sonny, he’s right here, and hands Jason the phone. He tells Sonny that he’s made arrangements; everything is ready. Are they still meeting at his place? Sonny says he’s at the MetroCourt, and tells Jason to pick him up there. Sam says, he has to go? and Jason says, yeah, he has to go. The music swells, and Sam cries. Jason says loves her and always will, and she says she loves him so much that it hurts, but they’re doing this for their kids. That’s something. He says, that’s everything, and walks out without turning around. Sam sits with her head in her hands crying. Outside, Jason leans on the door.

Willow comes home, and asks if Michael is working. He says he’s tying up some loose ends before he goes to bed. What’s going on? She says she just ran into Sasha in the park, and he asks how she is. Willow says, honestly? She seems better than she has in a while. He says, good. They both try to talk at once, and he tells her to go first. She says, things are really confusing right now for the both of them, and he says, a little bit. She says, whatever happens, they were friends from the start. She doesn’t want that to change. He promises it won’t. He’s not going anywhere.  

Jordan wonders what Taggert is thinking, and Epiphany says, he’s thinking he’s a father, desperate to protect his daughter. She blames Cyrus; his influence is growing. Jordan says, it’s not about blame; it’s about restraint. She needs to send Taggert away before it all falls apart, taking her marriage with it.   

Carly tells Sonny, her mind is blown. Cyrus is Martin’s brother? Sonny says it surprised him too, and she says, that’s it? He’s dropping this in her lap like a bomb (bad choice of words, Carly), and he’s going out of town on business? He says he’s following intel from Martin about Julian. Martin had information that’s not good news, but he has no idea how deep his brother is in with Julian. Cyrus walks in, and says he hopes they’re enjoying a peaceful evening. Sonny says he was about to leave, and Cyrus asks Sonny to accept his condolences about his cousin. He knows the loss must be felt deeply. It’s tragic, and he hopes no misunderstandings result from it. Sonny says, no misunderstandings. When he finds out who’s responsible for the situation, he’ll have all his facts straight.

Curtis suggest he upload the records from the medical company, and see if they ship to Vermont. Laura says, it’s a long shot. At the same time, Cyrus was oddly sincere. He says, that is odd, and she says, maybe he was so caught up, he revealed more than he intended. Curtis looks on his phone, and says, the Mexican company only ships to one facility in Vermont; Mountain Landing Long Term Care. He asks if she’s up for a road trip, and she says, Florence Gray, here they come.

Tomorrow, Olivia says she’s got her sights on Alexis, Scotty says they’re going to see the doctor, Tracy tells Monica it’s something not so wonderful, and Anna asks Dante what happened in Geneva.

The Real Housewives of Orange County

Shannon opened the episode with saying, a week ago everything was fine, and they were in Palm Springs. The text told us production closed, and the women filmed themselves. Gina said, if the sun would come out, it wouldn’t feel so much like Armageddon, and it’s possibly the first time she and I have agreed, since it’s been raining here since the fall of 2019.

Quarantine day 4. Shannon and Braunwyn video chatted and talked about appearance being the worst thing, and showing their ever-growing roots. Elizabeth was helping animals, and in her interview, said she had a sincere passion for them because they’re helpless. It’s how she felt in her divorce, and she was hoping to heal the people who adopted rescues as well. Braunwyn said she was doing good. She couldn’t go to meetings, but found a sponsor.

Day 8. Braunwyn had never used a washing machine before. It was the first time she’d been without a housekeeper since she was in high school. I couldn’t even fathom that. In her interview, she said she lived in a smart house, which was great unless you’re not a smart person. She had kitchen hours posted, and said because of her OCD tendencies, the house was spotless. She was up at 6, and in bed at 10, cleaning the whole time. In her interview, she said she was trapped in the house with seven kids, and things that had been kind of annoying were now really annoying.

Day 11. Kelly and Emily met in the park. Emily said, all she knew was that she needed to take her kids somewhere, and drop them off. In her interview, she said, quarantine in Orange County was like upscale house arrest. Her kids were addicted to her, and regardless of how big her house was, she couldn’t get rid of them. Braunwyn joined Kelly and Emily, and said she was over everything. Kelly was going to NYC to see Rick, and in her interview, said it was absurd that the economy was shutting down, and she thought the virus was being blown out of proportion. In Braunwyn’s interview, she said for her, to leave her kids wasn’t an option. She couldn’t understand the risk for a booty call. Braunwyn said she’d seen Elizabeth posting on Instagram that they were lying about the numbers, and they hadn’t done this with the AIDS epidemic. In Emily’s interview, she said she’s no doctor, but she knows AIDS comes from sexual activity. Braunwyn said Elizabeth told a different story to everyone about her situation. Braunwyn didn’t want to be fake, and wanted them to be real women who were open and honest, and supported each other. Emily wondered if Elizabeth and Jimmy were sexually distancing.

Day 12. Shannon said not everyone was following the rules. In her interview, she said John’s son came to stay. She told him that she had a list of rules, and once he came to the house, he couldn’t leave. He decided to leave, and John went too. We saw a clip of Shannon crying about this on Instagram. Kelly filmed herself at LaGuardia Airport, while on her way to see Rick. She said she was scared. She was washing her hands, and staying away from people, but it seemed inevitable.

Day 14. Kelly was in Times Square with Rick, and showed us there was no on the streets. She said it was bizarre, and got a hot dog from a food cart. Rick said she’d been craving one for six months. I totally understood this, since I don’t normally eat hot dogs, but whenever I’m in the city, I’m always compelled to get one from a cart. In Kelly’s interview, she said she wasn’t scared, but she was cautious. She wasn’t letting the virus take her down. She and Rick worked out, and she told him that she couldn’t do pushups because she had fake boobs. He pretended to be shocked at this revelation. In her interview, she said Jolie was taken care of, but Rick was alone. Nothing was going to separate her and her man. Rick gave her a pedicure, which I thought was super boyfriend nice. 

Day 18. Emily said she knew she lived in an Orange County bubble, and could only imagine what other people were going through trying to pay the bills. It was a devastating time. She filmed Shane vacuuming, and said this had never been seen before. In her interview, she said she’d been afraid quarantine would be detrimental to their relationship. Shane still wasn’t getting more sex, since she was tired from no breaks with the kids. Last year, they were fighting in front of the kids, but even though this was a stressful weird time, their marriage was solid, and it was beneficial to the children. Shane continued to clean, and Emily told him it was sexy.

Day 20. Braunwyn said she lived in the real world, but Sean lived where everything was fine. She explained that when she’s unhappy, she lashes out, because it’s easier to project it. Sometimes it felt like she was the only grown-up in the house, and she was so tired. Shannon called Gina, who showed off her new mom haircut. In Gina’s interview, she said salon workers weren’t considered essential, but should be for her. The second time we agreed. Shannon said John was back in the house, and in her interview, Gina said Shannon had called her, and it sounded like she was soused. She was hysterical, and said she’d had a fight with John. Gina thought they were going to break up. Shannon said she’d been beyond devastated. She’d told John that he could stay with his son or her, but he couldn’t do both. He showed up, and was very emotional. He said he understood now. Gina told Shannon, if He was compromised, she has it already, but he shouldn’t go back and forth. Shannon needed to be protected. In her interview, Gina said she was shocked Shannon let him back in. She put her health at risk to hold on to a relationship. She said Shannon was good at following rules, and Shannon agreed. The hunt for toilet paper and paper towels was on, and Kelly told Rick, next time, they were investing in a bidet. Emily hid toilet paper on her back porch for Gina.

Day 24. Kelly called Jolie from NYC, and asked why she was being difficult. Why wasn’t Jolie talking to her? Jolie said quarantine sucked, which about summed it up for all of us. In Kelly’s interview, she said when she came to NYC, she’d intended to just stay for the week Michael had Jolie. She felt guilty, but she got stuck. She didn’t know it was going to be the epicenter; it wasn’t her fault. Jolie said people were freaking out, and Kelly said the virus had been around since December. Jolie insisted it hadn’t, and in her interview, Kelly said, teenagers think they know everything. She asked about school, and Jolie showed Kelly all the homework she’d been given. Kelly said she missed her daughter.

Day 31. Elizabeth pointed out that the liquor store was fully stocked. She said they weren’t drinking since they were trying to be healthy, not drunk and miserable. In Elizabeth’s interview, she said she wasn’t sure if the virus was manmade by Big Pharma, or natural from a monkey, but having to stay home was making her nuts. She wanted to cry, since the lawyers were postponing the divorce. She couldn’t be free or live her life how she wanted to. In her interview, she said she’d thought money would make her happy, but she was realizing it might not make her as happy as she’d thought it would.

Day 39. Braunwyn said she put on makeup and earrings to go one a car ride. When this was over, it was going to be insane. In her interview, she said she’d been angry. Online meetings weren’t the thing she needed. Sean belittled her over not being able to get the vacuum charger to work. She’d been working hard, and she lost it, and smacked him. She’d hit Sean a couple of times, but it was nothing like what happened in Aspen. She hit him hard across the face. She’d wanted to drink, and was lashing out. Looking back, it was a side of her that he’d never seen. She felt trapped. Trapped in her house, trapped in her marriage, trapped emotionally and physically. Everything that was happening was indicative of the headspace she was in. She’d always put a happy spin on her marriage, but things happened she didn’t talk about. She was 89 days sober, and hadn’t wanted a drink in a while. If she had it in the house, she’d drink it. She wasn’t okay.

I suddenly notice, in the part of the credits where they hold out the orange, they’re wearing masks.

May 1. Elizabeth told us, they could do what they wanted now. We saw her at the beach, and people out shopping and in the park. Gina was shopping in Home Depot, and said everyone had the same idea to work on their house. Get it done. Braunwyn, Emily, Shannon, and Kelly went to visit Shannon, who said in her interview, she needed human contact. Maybe not with Kelly, who’d been all over the place. She might need to stand ten feet away from Kelly. Shannon told the women that Tamra had responded to Gina on social media, saying she’d had a good time with Gina, and then Gina canceled coming over today. In Shannon’s interview, she said she didn’t have a friendship with Tamra anymore, but Tamra trashed her and Kelly on a regular basis. Shannon told the group that Kelly said when Tamra came after her on social media, don’t say anything. In her interview, Shannon said she’d sacrificed other friendships to devote time to Tamra. We flashed back to some moments when Tamra was needy, and Shannon said now she had a void in her life. She was a little lost. Shannon told them that Elizabeth had said she’d been belligerent, and screamed at Jimmy, so he left Palm Springs, but he left because he had to go to work early. In her interview, Shannon said, Jimmy had a job to get to. If Elizabeth isn’t telling the truth about this, maybe she’s not telling the truth about a bunch of other things. In Emily’s interview, she said Shannon was like the Regina George of this part of Orange County. You do the dirty work, and she’ll look at it, but she’s got clean hands. In Kelly’s interview, she said Shannon was the puppet-master this time. She thought Elizabeth told half-truths because she was insecure. She was like a blowfish, making herself bigger than she was, but she was a good person, trying to do the right thing. She called the women a bunch of effing Nancy Drews.

Gina called Braunwyn, who said there were no AA meetings. Braunwyn told Gina that Elizabeth said she was alone, but one of her Instagram posts showed her with a friend at her house, and they were drinking. She thought Elizabeth didn’t have the money she said she did. It was public record that she’d taken out loans against her homes for legal fees. In Emily’s interview, she said she’d be pissed if people were digging up documents on her, and telling others, but she’d be happy to read over them, and give her legal opinion.

Apparently, Emily adopted two kittens during the pandemic, who  tumbled around on the table while the kids were eating. Elizabeth called Gina, and Gina said she anticipated more divorces because of covid. Elizabeth said she and her ex went to let’s settle this. She wondered what was wrong with her that she wanted to win. In her interview, she said covid changed her perspective. She didn’t need to buy stuff to make herself happy. She knew it was because of where she came from, but she lost sight of that when she had the money. Braunwyn went over to Shannon’s house, and they talked about quarantine. Shannon told Braunwyn that she cooked up storm, ate like a pig, and drank everything, and she had nothing show for it. Elizabeth told Kelly that she thought it would be cool for them to go on a girls trip to Arrowhead. Everyone would get tested before they go. Braunwyn talked to Shannon about the impending trip, and Shannon asked who was invited. Was Kelly invited? Shannon said, kind of ish, and Shannon wondered why Elizabeth was telling people she’d been belligerent to Jimmy. Braunwyn said she didn’t know Elizabeth, but everything Elizabeth told her wasn’t real. She wanted to get to know Elizabeth. Honesty was the foundation of friendship, but if Elizabeth couldn’t be honest, how could they be friends? Elizabeth said Gina was harsh on her in Palm Springs, and we flashed back to Gina saying the divorce was going to kill Elizabeth. Gina said she understood what Elizabeth was going through; she didn’t know how to shut off advocating for her ex. Braunwyn told Shannon that Elizabeth was telling different versions of the personal stuff she was sharing. She felt like she couldn’t get to know Elizabeth if she was going to be inconsistent. She should just lay it out, and everyone would accept it. Shannon said she heard the divorce was settled, and Braunwyn said she got it; she lied about stuff too. We flashed back to her being called out, and in Shannon’s interview, she said she had no idea what was going on. Elizabeth laughed everything off, and couldn’t give a straight answer, or gave a different one every time. Gina told Elizabeth that she was supposed to get together with Shannon, but she bailed. In her interview, Elizabeth said she was used to women who wanted to discredit her. It had happened her whole life, and she was used to women like Braunwyn and Shannon. But when they start digging about her personally, she gets nervous. There was some dysfunction in her past she didn’t want out there. I’m intrigued.

May 25. We saw clips from protests in Minneapolis, NYC, Los Angeles, and Laguna Beach. Elizabeth said it was so sad. She’d thought as a society, we would have moved forward, but we’d taken 200 steps back. Gizelle (The Real Housewives of Potomac) and Gina, who are friends outside the franchise, talked virtually, and Gina said, the more conversation, the better. If they didn’t talk, nothing would change, and they had an obligation. We saw tweets from various cast members about Black Lives Matter.

May 31. In Braunwyn’s interview, she said, watching George Floyd being murdered changed everything. She’s had no excuse to tune this out for 42 years, and she was sorry. She wondered what she could do now. Orange County was very conservative and white; take your tax breaks and shut up. She said they had a duty to use their white privilege to help everyone. Her kids had a chance to make changes in the world. Standing up for what’s right should be ingrained on their psyche, and they should pass it on to their children.

Things started opening up, and Braunwyn got together with her friend Shari. Elizabeth went to get Botox, so she could wipe the divorce off her face. Kelly called Shannon, who was nearly hysterical. She said Stella had a cold, and they took a swab. She’d tested positive. While they were there, Shannon found out she had a slight fever, and she’d had a sore throat. Everyone was getting tested. She was so careful; she didn’t understand. In Shannon’s interview, she said she told the girls they needed to be safe, and follow the rules, but the twins went to a party where there were no masks, and they were hugging people. Kelly said, oh my God.

Next time, a trip to Arrowhead, Braunwyn wonders if she and Sean should stay together, and Shane gets very sick.  

The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City

They backtracked a little, and showed Jen explaining herself at Mary’s luncheon. Meredith said she appreciated Jen’s apology, and she was hopeful. Mary said Jen’s words could be deadly, and Jen told Mary that she just said what everyone was thinking. Mary didn’t agree, and when Jen peppered her response with explicatives, Mary told Jen not to curse at her. She asked why Jen was so angry, and Jen said she tried to open herself up. Mary said she never wanted to talk to Jen again, and told her to go. Heather said Mary had invited them to get to know them better. In Whitney’s interview, she said she didn’t know how they got there, when it had been all good. Jen told Mary to quit making faces at her, and Mary asked if Jen was going to whip her butt. Jen told Mary not to have a party and tell people to open themselves up, and walked out. In her interview, Heather said this had to stop. At this point the score was settled. Forgive and move on. In Lisa’s interview, she said she cringed when Jen said Mary was a grandpa f***er. Now Mary thinks that’s what they all think, and that’s not true. In Jen’s interview, she said she was excited to meet Mary. She was another minority female who’d grown up in Utah, and she thought they’d be alike. It was a let-down; she expected more. Mary said she didn’t want to be cursed at, and Lisa said it was hurtful because there had been no apology. Mary said Jen should have acknowledged her hurt. Meredith said there was no reason to speak disrespectfully to anyone. Heather brought Jen back to the table, and said she didn’t think this was Mary’s intention for the lunch. Respectfully and calmly. In Jen’s interview, she said she was going to take Heather’s advice, rise above, and not react. She told Mary that she wouldn’t be there if she didn’t care. It was hard for her to open up, and when she did, Mary took her legs out from under her. Mary said that wasn’t her purpose, and Heather said she seemed dismissive and hypocritical. Mary didn’t like this comment too much, and said Heather was two-faced. Whitney said Jen was just trying to explain, and help them understand why she reacts the way she does, but Mary couldn’t accept it. Mary called Jen a hoodlum, and in Jen’s interview, she said she didn’t use the words hoodlum or ghetto. They were always used in a derogatory way to make people feel less than. Mary had told her that if she goes to the 7-11 and sees Black people, she goes elsewhere. She wondered who Mary was. Jen told them, she tried, and split.

Mary’s housekeeper Charlinda made some mad beatbox sounds in the kitchen. Meredith told Brooks that Jen’s bottom line was that she only got upset because she cared. In Heather’s interview, she said her ex, Billy, wanted their kids to have a mom who was available 24/7, and provided well for them. Her daughter had been dating the same boy for two years, but most Mormons didn’t let their kids go past a second date with the same person. It could lead to a relationship, which would lead to sex, but she wanted her kids to be carefree, young and in love. She didn’t want the divorce to affect her daughters, but they weren’t as connected to being Mormon anymore. Meredith picked Seth up at the airport. In her interview, she said he’d been going between Ohio and Chicago, and she hadn’t seen him in a few weeks. Things were tense and volatile last time, and she was hoping it would be smoother. Seth said he loved Ohio; he was a blue collar guy. He asked if she was going to live with him in Ohio, but she said they weren’t living in Ohio. He asked if where she lived was more important than who she lived with, and she said he’d uprooted the family every couple of years. In her interview, she said they’d gone from Toronto to Chicago, then Seth commuted to Dallas, and they moved to Park City. It caused hostility in the marriage, and when her oldest graduated, they were so busy moving, she didn’t emotional digest it. Asking her to move was a trigger.

Mary told Robert Sr. that Jen kept picking on her, and she didn’t know why. Jen told Sharrieff about the luncheon, and they each told their story to their spouses, putting their own spin on it. Jen focused on the 7-11 thing, but I was surprised any of them would be going to a 7-11 period. Sharrieff said there were Black folks who didn’t like other Black folks, and Jen said she’d kill Mary with kindness, which I expect will last all of three seconds. Mary told Robert about Jen’s grandfather comment, and said it wasn’t like he was a blood relative. She said it was her against them. Sharrieff told Jen it wasn’t about her, and don’t take personally. Robert told Mary it was pagan jealousy. In Mary’s interview, she said Jen’s behavior was toxic. She was like a bad apple on a tree, and Mary was done.

Whitney went to see her brother Will, and in her interview, said they were best friends from the time they could walk. They did a jujitsu workout, and seemed very sweet together. I actually think they may be nice people, which is like finding a unicorn on these shows. Will told Whitney that she had the talent, and he needed to get her in there full-time. She asked if he’d heard from their dad, but he said no. She told him their dad was committed to sober living. He’d gone to a 30 day rehab, and was supposed to do a 5 days a week program, but when he completed rehab, he took off to California. He had withdrawal so bad, he was on the verge of a relapse. It was easy to be sober in rehab. Whitney said he was going back, but this time, he was paying for it. Will said Whitney was the gatekeeper, and in her interview, Whitney said their parents both had children from other marriages, and when they divorced, it was mom’s kids against dad’s kids. When she decided to support her father, it made the divide wider. He wasn’t Will’s biological father, so she appreciated the support.

Lisa had a birthday party for son Henry at a bowling alley. In Lisa’s interview, she said in the Mormon church, marriage was not only sacred, but for eternity. You picked a partner, and chose to make the best of it. It had worked for her and her husband because they had the same core values. They had a core love of God, a core love of Jesus, and a core love of family and building something together. The eternal church, and the eternal family.   

In Whitney’s interview, she said her dad realized he needed structure that she couldn’t provide. He was going back to rehab for 90 days. It had been a struggle, and took its toll on her emotionally, financially, and spiritually. But it was the first time he was being accountable and responsible. He was choosing to go. In the car, she told him that it was the best she’d felt about the situation ever. I think if he’d do something about his Herman Munster haircut, he might feel a little better about himself. We saw him getting checked in, and Whitney hoped he could let go of past bad choices. It was crucial to his sobriety.

Seth asked Meredith what the plan was, but she said she didn’t have one. As much as she wanted him there, she thought they needed room. He said he’d give her room, and  maybe with him out of the picture, it would help her know what she wanted. In her interview, Meredith said you had to work things out individually in order to come back together as a happy couple. Seth said he didn’t want to separate after 25 years.

Mary met with Heather, who thought she could be friends with both Jen and Mary, and also be loyal to both of them. Mary said Jen was angry with her because she resented not being at the top. She explained how her grandmother had wanted her to take her place, and Heather said people didn’t get that Mary’s grandfather wasn’t a blood relative. Mary started crying, and said she hadn’t wanted to marry him, but she trusted her grandmother. In Mary’s interview, she said it took her two years to adjust. She told Heather that she chose what God told her to do. In Heather’s interview, she said she felt deep empathy. She understood about marrying for faith over love, but Mary’s situation was different. Heather told Mary that there was more that brought her and Jen together than tore them apart, but Mary said Jen burnt the bridge. She was done.

Next time, body shots, Whitney on the pole, Meredith says she runs Sundance, and Brooks has a show during Salt Lake City Fashion Week.

🐴 The Real Housewives of Dallas returns for a new season on January 5th. Minus one LeeAnne, and plus a new Wife.

🥊 Gonna Fly Now…

Is it the end of what used to be called a week yet? I don’t know how, but I’m not ready for the holidays any more than I usually am either. But even if you’re floundering as I am, stay safe, stay on the nice list, and stay using whatever privilege you have to help whoever you can.

June 3, 2020 – Chimera At the Ball, Denise Leaves the Barbecue, Wedding Bells, Denise Speaks, Jim Pays, Vicki’s New Home, New Business, House For Sale, Leah Records, Hannah Quits, a Thought & Stopping the World

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Today’s GH flashback continued with the 2017 Nurses Ball – May 24th, 2017 to be exact. Sonny had found out that the 700 mg of lithium Morgan was supposed to be taking was only 300 mg, but Andre told him everything checked out on the pharmacy’s end. Sonny said he was going to find out one way or the other, and Andre had another test run. There was a fabulous rendition of Brave, and more plugs for Burt’s Bees. Kristina and Valerie did pretty much a full-blown commercial for their lip products. Nina said Valentin couldn’t leave Anna alone, and Valentin told Anna that she’d turned him into a stuttering fool again. Drew (thinking he’s Jason) told Elizabeth about the necklace, but she couldn’t figure out where Jake had gotten it, since he didn’t have money to go out and buy jewelry. Curtis suggested Nina walk away from Valentin, but she wasn’t sure she could. Lucy said Obrecht couldn’t perform, but she had someone just as good, and Valentin sang to Nina, accompanying himself on the piano. Jake told Elizabeth that he didn’t want to do the magic act, but was afraid something bad would happen if he didn’t. Carly wondered why Sonny was there, and what he wanted with Ava; and Andre told Sonny that he thought Morgan might have gotten a placebo, which would explain his erratic behavior and loss of control. Sonny deduced that someone tampered with Morgan’s meds because they wanted him to have a breakdown. Scotty told Ava that he’d covered her tracks, and Sonny would never find out, and Ava insisted she hadn’t wanted anything bad to happen. Morgan had been volatile and erratic, and she’d needed to protect Kiki. He told her none of it mattered, since Morgan was dead and it was over.

Michael was by Nelle’s bedside in the hospital (they were still together), and he spoke to Josslyn on the phone, encouraging her to sing. She did, and he listened in. Nelle woke up, and Michael said, surprise. Jake decided against doing the act, and Franco said Jake could do a command performance at home. Backstage, Emma and Charlotte decided they could do the act themselves, while Anna accused Valentin of wanting his past buried. He said she did it; why couldn’t he? She pumped him for information about the Chimera (boy, did I get the name of that wrong yesterday – it was a DVX bioweapon), and he said the only other person who knew about it was dead. She wouldn’t let it go, until he finally told her that he’d sold it to Helena. Thinking the Chimera had something to do with Jake’s magic act, Charlotte tried opening it, and pressed either the right or wrong button, depending on whose side your on. Carly asked Sonny why he showed up, and he said he was finally getting some answers.

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Oh why not? They can’t make the week any worse.

Garcelle was being honored with a Legacy Vision Award for her work with the L.A. Mission. Growing up impoverished in Haiti, she said it’s a cause she identifies with, and she wasn’t passive/aggressive, like Teddi, in asking the women to come. She picked LisaR up, who informed her that Denise said she didn’t want her kids hearing grown-up sex talk. Garcelle told LisaR that she understood how Denise felt. They discussed Kyle’s many inadequacies, and Garcelle said Kyle is always all about Kyle, which I certainly don’t disagree with. At the event, Kyle seemed annoyed that Denise showed up like nothing was wrong when their last meeting hadn’t been a good one. I guess she should have blown into a public event on a broomstick, hurling fireballs (and not the good kind) at everyone. Garcelle thanked her kids, and said her calling was to reach people, and let them know she cared. In her interview, she talked about her oldest son Oliver, who fell in with a bad crowd as a young man, but was doing well now. She also thanked her new best friends, some not so much, indicating the table of Wives and friends. LisaR insisted that Garcelle had locked eyes with Kyle when she said that last part. Erika missed the whole speech, since she was in the bathroom, but Garcelle was gracious about it, telling Erika that she’d better not miss it when she gets her Oscar. In Garcelle’s interview, she said she was glad Kyle showed up, but showing up for charities are what they do in L.A., so was it nice or what Kyle does? In Denise’s interview, she said she didn’t have the energy to deal with bullsh*t tonight, since she had tons of dialogue to learn, and had to be at work at 6 am. Since it’s all about Kyle, Kyle claimed Denise wanted to run away. 6 am? Are you kidding? I wouldn’t have gone at all. In LisaR’s interview, she said there was an issue that needed a resolution, but Denise was avoiding it. LisaR thought part of Denise was regretful about her own openly sexual talk (again, not understanding the difference in audience), and Denise was compensating by being overly protective of her kids – stupid, even for LisaR. As soon as Denise left, they talked about her. Garcelle said she felt uneasy when leaving Erika’s, and felt everything was surface with the group. She also believed Kyle wasn’t present with her, and that she was more interested in what Kyle had to say than vice versa. In her interview, Garcelle said when Kyle is interested in someone, she’s a great friend. Ask Teddi, not Dorit.

Denise and Aaron went out to eat, and Denise told him what happened in Santa Barbara, and how Teddi was saying she’s making them look bad. Aaron suggested Teddi STFU, and in her interview, Denise said her kids already have baggage from being the children of Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen. They didn’t need her friends adding to it. She told Aaron, LisaR calling her a hypocrite hurt the most. In Denise’s interview, she said LisaR never voiced any of her concerns before; why now? We flashed back to LisaR asking if Denise talked to the girls about Charlie’s hookers. Denise wondered why it took LisaR all these years to say it, and why she said all of it in front of the group.

Kyle had a barbecue, where we met Sutton’s boyfriend Michael. On the way there, Denise and Aaron talked in the limo about deciding not to bring the kids, and thought about blowing off Kyle’s altogether and just going to a restaurant. When they got there, Denise said the older kids had sleepovers, and Eloise had a playdate, but she joked to Garcelle that she didn’t want them within earshot. This miffed Kyle, who said in her interview, it was like a slap in the face. Denise said she and Aaron needed to have time away from the kids too, and the last time she was with the group, she was bombarded with questions. Garcelle, who seems to be the only one without a gang mentality, said Denise wasn’t a hypocrite; she was compartmentalizing when the kids were around. Teddi said Denise was making them look bad, like they need any help in that area. Aaron said it was ridiculous, and asked what the issue was, but the conclusion seemed to be, there wasn’t any. In Dorit’s interview, she whined about PK wanting to defend her in the past, and thought Aaron should know his audience. Dorit is too stupid to understand how funny her choice of words is, since the argument is about knowing your audience when it comes to adult conversation. Erika wondered if Denise was more concerned about the kids’ friends being there, and LisaR pumped Denise about Sami’s reaction, which Denise said was between her and Sami. We flashed back to Sami saying she and her friends laughed about it, but that’s not the point. It still might have been embarrassing, and who wants to think about their mother and her friends having threesomes, and my God now my friends know too. Aaron said, so there’s no issue, right? and Kyle said, women handle things differently. Aaron wanted to know why they continue to harp on something, and I wish him luck finding that out. It’s been my question for years, and why I hate reunions. An ongoing stupidity is finally put to bed, and then it gets rehashed and the animosity rekindled. Garcelle said it was Denise’s right to not bring the kids, but Kyle said it felt passive/aggressive. She ought to know since she’s buddies with the queen of it. Aaron asked Kyle to define passive/aggressive, and she said Denise was mom shaming. Aaron said the issue was becoming something it shouldn’t be – again something I’ve said for years – and LisaR decided to go down the blow-up kiddie slide, since she wasn’t dealing with this bullsh*t. Aaron asked what any of this does for them. How does it make them feel? and Kyle said, it’s not comfortable. In Kyle’s interview, she told us Denise was saying she’s above them as a mom, and it’s the thing Kyle is best at, so she’s offended. No. Denise said she doesn’t want her kids listening to adult conversations. She didn’t tell anybody else what to do with their kids, and she had to say something, since the women are involved. Denise told Teddi that she wasn’t upset, and Teddi pointed out that Denise was dropping F-bombs. Aaron said they engage to win, and might as well high-five each other. Denise said Teddi is a sh*t-effing-stirrer, and when they got a facial together in Santa Barbara, she was sh*tting on Dorit. Teddi said, in Santa Barara, when Denise told them she was done talking, that meant she was pissed. We flashed back to Denise saying she was done with the conversation at dinner. Denise told Teddi, that was after two hours of talking about it. She was done. Denise said they’d crossed line, and she and Aaron were leaving. As they walked out, Aaron said the women were off his Christmas card list, and Denise told him not to say anything while they were on camera. Kyle and Sutton trotted after them, and Kyle said she didn’t want them leave like that. Teddi was still complaining that the implication makes them look bad. Denise told Kyle, thanks for having them, as she and Aaron fast walked to the car, and Kyle said she felt bad. Give it a minute, Kyle. It will pass.

Later this season, dancing, falling, falling while dancing; Camille is back, and calls someone an a-hole; a trip to Rome; Garcelle says, they’re going to drop everything negative (hahahahaha!); Brandi makes her presence known by being the disgusting person that she is; Denise disappears; Garcelle calls LisaR the bad guy in this movie; and Denise and LisaR have an ominous looking lunch.

💒 Proud Mama…

I like Garcelle. She has a great attitude, and while she’s already made a difference in this world, I hope she shakes it up good on RHOBH.

https://people.com/tv/garcelle-beauvais-eldest-son-ties-the-knot-little-white-chapel-ceremony/

📣 Clarification Or Plug…?

It looks like Denise might be getting her own gig. I’m in. I loved It’s Complicated, and it was much kinder than the Wives.

https://extratv.com/2020/05/11/denise-richards-sets-the-record-straight-on-reports-she-quit-rhobh/?adid=extra_eme_27500_2020-05-12_rightnow4

🔥 It’s Getting Hot In Here…

Jim should really pay Vicki too. She did call it.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1156903/meghan-king-edmonds-and-jim-edmonds-divorce-heats-up-over-prenup-payout

🍹 New Digs…

If a vacation home in Mexico is wrong, she don’t wanna be right.

https://people.com/home/rhocs-vicki-gunvalson-buys-puerto-vallarta-retirement-home-one-of-my-favorite-places-in-the-world/

🏋️‍♂️ Someone’s Been Productive…

With yet another business in the works, maybe Tamra will have less time for screeching at her co-stars. (And I use the term star very loosely.)

https://www.intouchweekly.com/posts/rhocs-tamra-and-eddie-are-starting-a-new-business-in-quarantine/

🏰 Putting In My Offer…

It’s too bad I’m about $4,999,999 short.

https://people.com/home/get-an-exclusive-look-at-kameron-wescotts-dallas-mansion-which-she-just-listed-for-5-million/

🗽 Leah Looks Around…

The streets of NYC at the beginning of the protests. I would have expected Leah to be less reactive, especially since not much is going on at this point.

https://pagesix.com/video/rhony-leah-mcsweeneys-first-hand-account-of-the-protests-in-nyc/

🛥 Hannah Hannah Quitting…

Hannah moves on to her dream job of being a wife and making babies. Be sure to take a look at the Reality Check video on Captain Sandy’s heart attack. She called an Uber to take her to the hospital. I understand this, since my father drove himself to the hospital.

https://people.com/tv/below-deck-hannah-ferrier-quitting-after-season-5/

🌱🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌱

I believe
the most important
single thing,
beyond discipline
and creativity,
is daring
to dare.

Dr. Maya Angelou, 1928-2014

🌱🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌿🌱

 

🚣‍♀️ Getting There…

It’s amazing how many problems can be crammed into one week. If what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, I’ll be living forever. Hope all is well in your corner of the world, and you stay safe, stay mindful, and stay keeping your eyes on the prize – whatever that may be for you.

February 26, 2020 – Taggert Shares Information, NJ Finale Plus Italy, a Prenup For Beau, MJ’s New World, a Dallas Farewell & Midweek

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Ava tells Carly to notify the guard that she’s ready to leave. She says it’s inconvenient having an armed escort just to visit her daughter. Carly asks, more or less than living on an island? She wonders when Ava is planning on introducing Avery to her new husband.

Franco helps Cameron with his cufflinks, saying it’s a throwback to another era when men needed valets. He tells Cameron that he looks like James Bond, and Elizabeth says he looks adorable. Cameron says he doesn’t want adorable. There’s a knock at the door. It’s Nikolas.

Brook sees Julian at the MetroCourt. He tries to ditch her, but she says, no drink for her? He says, she gets no favors from him. What she thinks she heard in a private conversation was out of context. She’s jumping to conclusions. He had nothing to do with Brad passing off Nelle’s baby as Willow’s. She asks if passing off is a polite euphemism for kidnapping. She doesn’t think Sonny will appreciate the difference. Does Julian think Sonny will believe him or her when she tells him about her suspicions?

At the Pozzulo’s office, Sonny asks Jason how Michael is doing. Jason says, happy mostly. He knows it’s not over, and he still needs to gain legal custody. The cops have found evidence, and he hopes it’s enough to convict Nelle. Sonny wonders if it’s enough to show that Nelle had help.

Curtis goes to Laura’s hospital room, and is surprised to find her dressed and ready to roll. She asks what he expected, and he says, she’s recovering from a gunshot; maybe extra recuperation time. She says she’s going stir crazy in there, and the doctors said she’s healthy enough to leave. He asks where Doc is, and she says he’s the guest speaker at a medical conference. He wanted to cancel, but she told him not to. Her driver is also her bodyguard, and she’ll get home safe. He tells her that she needs to rest, but she says the sooner she gets back to work, the better. Port Charles needs her.

On the phone, Jordan asks if she and Taggert are on for today, but he says he’s working his own plan. She asks, what kind of plan? but he’s already hung up.

Sonny tells Jason that he doesn’t buy Brad and Nelle pulling it off by themselves. There’s a knock at the door, and one of Sonny’s guards says it’s someone who claims they knew Sonny back in the day. Taggert comes in, and Sonny asks if he took a wrong turn. Taggert says he and Sonny may have a mutual problem. Maybe they can help each other out.

Sonny says, this is a first. Taggert is on the side of the angels. Taggert laughs, and says, there are no angels in this room, or in Pentenville. Sonny doesn’t follow, and Taggert says, Michael was targeted on Pier 55. Carly was caught in an attack on the warehouse, and Sonny was targeted in Brooklyn. Then an industrial warehouse turned into a Roman candle. Sonny says he doesn’t know anything about it, and Taggert says he’s not there to bust Sonny. Sonny says, since when? and Taggert says, since they’ve been trading information about Cyrus.

Jordan joins Laura and Curtis, and Curtis tells her that Laura plans on going back to work right away. Jordan says, sounds right, and he says he should have known better. Laura asks to be brought up to speed. She heard there was an explosion on the industrial pier, and asks how much damage there was. Jordan says, whoever planted the explosive was a pro. No loss of life, but the warehouse and its contents were obliterated. They did find traces of opiates though. Someone blew a major drug operation sky high. Laura wonders who’s stupid enough to take on Sonny.

Carly tells Ava, then again, what’s the point? Not all marriages are built to last. Ava wonders how Carly is judging her marriage when hers involves a sharpshooter on the roof. Carly says she’s not judging; she’s giving Ava a heads up. Sonny is going to want to know how much Nikolas is in his daughter’s life, and he’s not Nikolas’s biggest fan. Whatever game they’re playing, the less it includes Avery, the better.

Josslyn asks if that’s what Dev is wearing to the dance, but he says he’s not going. Josslyn says she wasn’t planning on it either, but Cameron and Trina will be there. The more she thought about it, she realized the first rule of having fun is showing up. He asks, why be around people he won’t be seeing again? After tomorrow, he won’t be living there. He’s leaving Port Charles.

Franco asks Elizabeth if everything is okay, and she asks if he minds hanging out with Cameron. He says he’ll get Cameron pinned up, and goes back inside. Elizabeth tells Nikolas, make it quick. It’s a big night for her son. Nikolas says, Cameron has grown up, and she says, kids do that. Why is he here? He says he’s determined to prove what he told her, and she suggests another time. He says now that he’s secured his inheritance, he wants to make a donation to GH; something specific. She says he can talk to Monica, but he says Elizabeth would know where it would do the most good, and she’s his friend. She says, is she? Inside, Franco pins a boutonniere on Cameron, saying he thought it was only for weddings. Cameron says he did too, but Trina disagrees. Franco says, Trina is a good friend.  

At the café, Brook tells Julian that she has a situation with a record producer. He says let him guess; the producer refuses to sign her. She says, just the opposite. He refuses to let her out of her contract. Julian says, get a lawyer, but she says she did, and it’s iron clad. He says, she’s a Quartermaine. Get daddy to buy him out. She says Julian doesn’t get it. Ned tried, but Linc won’t set her free at any price. He says she must be quite the talent. He’s not sure where he comes in, and she says she’s exhausted all legal alternatives. Julian has skills her father and the lawyers don’t have. Make Linc an offer he can’t refuse, and if he stonewalls, give him ten broken fingers for starters.

Julian tells Brook that her faith is flattering, but his days of breaking bones are over. He runs a respectable pub. She says he can either work with her, or take his chances with Sonny, and he says, there she goes again threatening him. Let’s talk about how that might go down. Say Sonny puts a bullet in his back. That’s a lot of weight to carry on her conscience. Does she want Lucas to lose another loved one because of her overactive imagination? Brook says, what Sonny does is up to him, and what Julian does is up to him. It’s his choice, and his funeral. Julian says, maybe there’s another way.

Elizabeth says she and Nikolas’s friendship wasn’t automatically restored. He says she was kind and sympathetic about Spencer, but she says that doesn’t take away the fact that her niece is without her mother because of Nikolas. He can’t buy her friendship with hospital donations. She tells him, find her sister. He says he hates disappointing her, and appreciates and respects their friendship; it means more than he can say. She says he needs to go. He says his inheritance wasn’t everything. You wouldn’t think Windymere could be colder or lonelier. She says he made his choices, and has to live with them. Unfortunately, so does Violet.

Ava says since Carly is so concerned about what’s best for her daughter, she doesn’t like Avery living under siege. Windymere is safer. Carly asks, how many have met untimely deaths there? And she doesn’t want Avery to be a witness to Ava and Nikolas’s spitefest of a marriage. Ava says she doesn’t know what Carly is talking about. Carly says she doesn’t know Nikolas well, but did know Emily, the love of his life, and Ava couldn’t be less like her. Now that Nikolas has his hands on the codicil, she doesn’t think Ava will be his wife much longer. Ava says Carly is very much mistaken. Carly says, we’ll see, and Ava leaves.

Elizabeth takes pictures of Cameron, and he asks if she has to take so many. The doorbell rings, and Trina comes in, looking gorgeous in a black and silver cocktail dress. Elizabeth asks if Cameron minds if she takes one more. Cameron says Trina looks great, and she says, he’s not so bad either.

Josslyn asks Dev, why leave town now? It’s only a few weeks until spring break, and they have the SATs and final exams. He says, it’s a top school, and they do that there; he won’t miss out. Sonny made it happen. She says, what about Gladys and Brando? What about everyone who cares about him? Everything is set up for Dev to stay there as Sonny’s cousin. He says he’s not dragging this out; it won’t change anything. Carly comes in, and asks for a minute with Josslyn. Dev gives them privacy, and Carly guesses Dev told her. Josslyn says, please don’t tell her Dev is leaving because of her.

Jordan tells Laura, there’s no proof that organized crime is behind what happened, but it’s happened too many times in this town. A crime lord decides he can make more money by taking over Sonny’s territory, and it escalates until it’s over – unless Sonny intervenes. Laura says she can’t help if she doesn’t know who she’s dealing with. Jordan says, Cyrus Renault. He’s a major drug trafficker in the Pacific Northwest. He was busted ten years ago, but it appears he’s trying to expand his territory from maximum security in Pentenville.

Sonny asks what Taggert knows about Cyrus, and Taggert says, more than Sonny. He helped put Cyrus away. Jason says, when Cyrus was busted by a DEA task force, and Taggert says, right. When he left, he signed on with the DEA. Cyrus was a high priority, and his team did all they could to have Cyrus put away. Sonny says, Cyrus is behind bars, but still in operation. They underestimated his reach. Taggert says, right now, Cyrus has his eyes on Port Charles; that’s where Sonny comes in. He has more options than a former agent. He tells Jason, the warehouse explosion was a nice job, but Jason says he doesn’t know what Taggert is talking about. Sonny asks, what’s it to him? Taggert doesn’t live there. Taggert says there are people he cares about in Port Charles, and no one is safe when Cyrus is in play. Jason asks if Taggert is offering his help, or asking for theirs.

Sonny says, so Taggert wants to work with him to help take Cyrus down. Taggert says he has no use for Sonny’s business, but he knows Sonny’s not like Cyrus. Cyrus is bad news, and they don’t want him taking charge. He’s seen the ugly things this man can do. Sonny says, give him some time to think, and Taggert says, don’t take too long. He leaves, and Jason asks if Sonny buys that. Sonny says, every word.

Through Pozzulo’s window, we see Taggert’s shadow go by. A few seconds later, another shadow follows.

Jordan tells Laura, it’s a dangerous lot connected to Cyrus, and Laura says, someone is letting him pull strings while he’s behind bars. Curtis says, it’s convenient, and Jordan says she’d be interested in finding out how Cyrus landed there in the first place. Laura says he ride is there; they’ll continue later. Curtis asks her to tell him that she’s going home to rest, and she says, wars are fought on many fronts. Let them work on their side of the battlefield,  and she’ll take care of hers. When she’s gone, Jordan says **j has ocnn don’t have info can’t afford share until Cyrus is no longer a threat

Josslyn tells Carly, it was one kiss. She’s over it, and hopes Dev isn’t overreacting. Carly says, it’s not about the kiss. Josslyn says, Brando agreed to cover, but Carly says there’s only so much they can ask Brando to accept. Dev thinks it’s best, and she and Sonny agree. Josslyn says, Dev was there after Oscar died, and it helped. He drove her crazy sometimes, but she’ll miss him. Carly says she will too, and hugs Josslyn.

Brook asks what Julian’s plan is, but Julian says he doesn’t have one yet. He needs some time. She says every day she wastes is killing her career. She needs to get back out there before she loses the little momentum she had. It’s the only way out of her contract, so is he helping her or not? Nikolas approaches their table, and Brook says she doesn’t know whether to slap him or kiss him. He says he gets that a lot, and Brook thanks him for the call. She would have been offended if he’d come back from the dead and left her out. She heard he got married. Who’s the lucky lady? Ava joins them, and says, good; Nikolas got her message. She asks who this is, and he says, Brook Ashton, but Brook says she’s Quartermaine now. Nikolas says, this is his wife, Ava Jerome. Ava says, actually, Cassadine now. Mrs. Nikolas Cassadine.   

Cameron gives Trina a wrist corsage, and she thanks him, saying, it’s beautiful. He’s glad she likes it, and she says she wishes her dad was there already. He wanted to take some pictures.

Taggert walks near the piers, and someone follows. We see it’s one of the guys from Cyrus’s warehouse. Taggert goes around, and comes up behind the guy. He asks if the guy is looking for him, and the guy says, no. He’s looking for him. Another guy walks up, and they’re on either side of Taggert.

Sonny tells Jason, for Taggert to come to them, he must be desperate. Jason says, Cyrus was convicted ten years ago. Why is Cyrus after Sonny at the same time Taggert shows up? The guard knocks again, and says Sonny has another visitor. Sonny says he’s busy, but Laura asks if he has time to see an old friend.

Carly says, it’s so unfair. Josslyn has had all these losses, and now she has another one. Josslyn says, this is different. Letting Dev go is doing right by him, and she understands. She says she needs to get dressed if she’s going, and Carly asks, where? Josslyn says, it’s the mid-winter formal, and Carly says she thought Josslyn was going. Josslyn says she changed her mind. Cameron and Trina are going, and Trina gave her a whole lecture about showing up to show school spirit. She has a point. How can Josslyn expect her peers to show up to her volleyball games, and cheer her on, if she doesn’t support them? Carly says there’s no way Josslyn is leaving the house tonight.

Brook asks if she can borrow Ava’s husband, and Ava says as long as he brings her back a drink. Nikolas and Brook go to the bar, and Ava sits with Julian. She says she hopes Nikolas remembers she likes vodka martinis. Like any of us would forget that. She asks Julian why he was huddled with Brook. Or to rephrase that, what the hell kind of trouble is he in now?

Brook says Nikolas looks good for a guy who’s been dead three years. He says she’s still gorgeous, and impossible. She says if she didn’t know better, she’d think he was flirting, but he wouldn’t be doing that with his wife there. He says, true. Ava is never far from his thoughts. His marriage is more important than he can possibly say.

Sonny is glad Laura is up and about. She says she just got out thirty minutes ago, and he says she came straight to see him; he’s honored. He gives her his word that he had no idea who the people were targeting his family. She believes him, but asks, what’s really going on? How’s his family? She heard what happened in Brooklyn, and knows Mike was there. He says his dad is okay. Everybody is okay, and it’s going to stay that way. She says, he can’t guarantee that, and they both know it. So let’s talk – for real.

Jordan and Curtis find Taggert in an examining room. Jordan asks, what happened? and he says he got jumped by two guys. He realized he was being followed, and led the guy into an alley. Taggert got the jump on him, but another guy came from behind. He got a shot off, and they ran toward the 500 block. Curtis asks what Taggert was doing there, but Taggert says he’s answering Jordan’s questions, not Curtis’s. Taggert takes out a handkerchief, and gives it to Jordan. She unwraps a syringe, and says Taggert was going to OD, like the others.

Julian tells Ava that he thought he’d buy himself some time by getting Brad a lawyer. Now that spoiled pop star wannabe is tightening the screws. Ava asks, how? and he says she came into Charlie’s when he was arguing with Brad. He had no idea who she was, and they talked. He vented, and said too much. Ava asks how much Brook knows, and he says she figured out that he was helping Brad with the baby switch. Even better, she’s tight with Sonny and she’s threatening to get him involved. Brook laughs, and Ava says, she seems like a handful, all right, but Julian was already doomed when he got mixed up with Brad to begin with. He says he doesn’t know what to do at this point. He’s tired of the shakedowns. Ava says, too bad. If Brook goes to Sonny with her theory, it won’t go well. He asks what she suggests, and she tells him, just say yes for now; buy some time. Two Jeromes are more than a match for one measly Quartermaine.   

Brook says she’s sorry about what Nikolas has been through, and Nikolas says she’s the only person who hasn’t come down hard on him. His mom, his sister, his son, even his best friend Elizabeth, all judged him without caring about what he’s been through. Brook says, Elizabeth judged him? Shocker. He guesses Elizabeth is entitled to her feelings, but Brook says, so is he. It’s hard enough coming back without people lining up to criticize. She knows what it’s like to need a friend, and thinks maybe she can fill that void.

Josslyn tells Carly, there’s plenty of security. One of Sonny’s guards can stay at the dance, and Dustin is chaperoning; he saved her life. Carly says, he’s an English teacher, not a superhero. She and Sonny agreed, it’s best to avoid public gatherings, and she wants to err on the side of caution tonight. Donna cries, and Carly goes to tend to her, while Dev comes back into the kitchen. Dev asks if Josslyn’s mom explained it to her. She asks if he’s really okay with it, and he says, it has to be this way. Josslyn says, then he has to say goodbye to Cameron and Trina. She tells him, get dressed, and meet her in the living room in ten minutes.

Cameron tells Trina that their ride share is almost there. She says her dad hasn’t responded to her texts; she guesses he’s not coming. Cameron looks out, and sees an SUV. He says they’re going premium tonight. He tells Trina that he can talk to the driver, and see if he’s willing to wait, but Trina says, let’s just go. She thanks Elizabeth for the pictures. She’ll have some great shots to show her dad. Elizabeth tells them, have fun, and Cameron says, will do. Franco hustles them out, and Cameron wonders if he’s trying to get rid of them. Elizabeth reminds him to text the driver’s information to her. They leave, and Elizabeth asks Franco if Cameron is right. Was he trying to get rid of them?

Jordan says Taggert is lucky it wasn’t worse, and Curtis says, then there would be one. Taggert says Cyrus will find him if he wants to. Jordan says they’ve been catching up since Bob was killed, and it’s time to get in front. Taggert said he had a plan; let’s hear it. He says she’s not going to like it.

Laura says she and Sonny have been friends a long time. She knows there’s a line he won’t cross in his business; he has a certain integrity. When she took the oath of office, she vowed to put Port Charles above all else, including her personal relationships. Sonny understands where Laura is coming from, and says he’d never ask her to compromise for his sake. She appreciates that, but says she can’t look other way if a turf war threatens the safety of the city. Jason says, with all due respect, they care about the city as much as she does. She says she doesn’t doubt that, but in Sonny’s business, there can be some very ugly turns, and she thinks that’s what happened. Sonny says he didn’t start it, and she says she knows that, but it doesn’t matter. This is on her watch. When innocent people are shot at, the piers are a war zone again, and warehouses are blowing up, the people who live in those areas – low income people who don’t have a lot of choices – are afraid. The parents wonder if their kids will get home safe, or at all. All they want, is for it to stop. That’s why she’s there. If anyone knows how stop this thing, it’s him.

Elizabeth tells Franco, she thought Cameron and Trina were just friends, but after the way Cameron looking at Trina tonight, she’s not so sure. Franco says, it’s a big night for them – and him and Elizabeth too. He says, she thought he forgot. He gives her a small box, and says, happy anniversary.

Brook and Nikolas clink glasses. Ava says it will be her pleasure to help Julian handle Brook, and it might help her solve a problem of her own. She needs Nikolas to cheat, and she needs to have proof, or she can’t get out of the marriage. Julian says, that’s barely a minor inconvenience, and she says Julian is so grouchy when he thinks he’s backed into a corner. He’s lucky he has a sister who’s a pro at thinking outside the box. She was going to use Elizabeth to tempt Nikolas, but it’s important to have back up, and Brook just might fit the bill. Ava walks over to the bar and says, forget the drink. She’s changed her mind. She’d rather be home with Nikolas. She takes his hand, and leads him out. He asks if she’s jealous. She can always divorce him. She says, not on his life. They made a deal, and he’s sticking to it.

Brook returns to Julian’s table, and says, so before they were rudely interrupted, what’s his answer? He says, she told him, all ten fingers, correct? He holds out his hand, and they shake.

Laura tells Sonny, she came out of respect because he’s an old friend. She gets up, and says, but if she’s wrong, and Sonny isn’t able to end this thing before it escalates any further, she’ll have to do what she has to in order to protect the city. Sonny gets up, and says he wouldn’t expect anything less. After all, he voted for her. Jason holds the door open, and she walks out, holding back tears. Jason and Sonny look at each other.

Josslyn comes downstairs, looking lovely, also in a shimmery cocktail dress. Dev asks how she did that so fast, and she says nothing inspires her more than being told she can’t do something. She tells him, they have to go, and he follows her out.

Taggert tells Jordan, he’s crossed the line in the past. Each time, he weighed the risks, and made a choice, believing the ends justified the means. Now he’s crossed a line he never thought he’d cross. Curtis says, desperate times, and Taggert says, right. The stakes are too high for pride or holding a grudge. He went to Sonny, and asked if Sonny would work with him to take Cyrus down.

Carly sees Dev’s backpack, and says, really. The kids leave everything lying around. She picks it up, and everything falls out. While she’s picking it all up, she finds a bullet.

Cameron asks the driver if he can step on it; they’re a tiny bit late. Trina says she doesn’t mind, and tells him to take his time. Better safe than sorry. Cameron and Trina chatter back and forth, and we see the driver is the guy who followed Taggert to the pier.

Tomorrow, Neil tells TJ, if it feels right, go for it; Carly asks why there’s a bullet in Dev’s backpack; Taggert calls Curtis for help; and Cameron and Trina’s driver says, there’s been a change in plans.

The Real Housewives of New Jersey

When Melissa met with Danielle, Danielle said boutique owner Steven told her to pull Marge’s hair, and Teresa encouraged her. We saw a clip of Teresa getting in Danielle’s face, and saying, do it! Do it! Do it! Melissa said she was shocked, and going to let Teresa know what Danielle said. Rather than badmouth Teresa, Melissa said it confirmed that Teresa was not in the right frame of mind. Danielle said Marge had put her through a lot, but Melissa wasn’t having it. She said Danielle had gone too far and shouldn’t have put her hands on anybody, and ended their friendship. At the house, the party was beginning to start, with an amazing barbecue that had just about everything imaginable on the grill. In Melissa’s interview, she said Danielle was a pathological liar, but she didn’t think Danielle would throw Teresa under the bus like that if it wasn’t true. And if it was, it was the end of Marge and Teresa’s friendship. By the time Melissa got to the party, it was in full swing, and there were tons of guests, including my favorite, Marge Sr.

Melissa was basically accosted by the group, who wanted to know how the meeting had gone. Melissa told them it was rough. She said Danielle said that Steven told her to pull Marge’s hair, and Marge didn’t believe it, but we saw a clip of that too. I find it a lot more disturbing that a grown man, who owns a boutique, is making this kind of suggestion to a woman, than table-flipper Teresa encouraging that behavior. Melissa said Danielle also said Teresa told her, do it. Marge didn’t believe that either, and of course everyone said what a liar Danielle always is. Melissa asked Teresa if Danielle was lying, and Teresa said she was drinking and everything happened so fast. In Dolores’s interview, she said it never crossed her mind that Teresa was involved in the hair pulling. Marge called Teresa an a-hole, and said Teresa’s good friend Danielle threw her under the bus to save herself. Marge walked off, and Teresa gave the finger to the camera, then went on a rampage, flinging a Solo cup at the camera, and throwing stuff around. Girlfriend was very stressed.

Teresa stomped inside, saying they were all effing a-holes. I’m not sure if she meant the group, the party guests in general, or the production team. She said she was going home. In her interview, Melissa said she’d known Teresa a long time, and when you call her out on something she shouldn’t have done, she doesn’t take it well. Teresa holed up in the bathroom, and outside the door, Dolores said the only way to rectify it, was to apologize to Marge and never talk to Danielle again. Melissa said she got that Teresa wanted to have fun with all the stress in her life, but she was choosing the wrong people to have it with. When Teresa emerged, she said she was glad Danielle stood up for herself. In Teresa’s interview, she said she was angry at Marge, and drinking a lot. Out in the yard, while Marge didn’t let this stop her from enjoying the food, Joe #2 said he thought they should talk it out. Marge said it made her sick. Dolores told Teresa that Marge deserved an apology. Right then and there, Teresa called Danielle, and told her that Melissa had outed her for outing Teresa. But ultimately, it was Danielle’s decision to pony pull. Danielle told Teresa that afterwards, she’d said she wished she hadn’t done it, and not to let this come between them. Teresa stood firm, and said they weren’t friends anymore. She told the others, she wanted to talk to Marge in private, and she’d be on the front porch.

Marge met with Teresa, who apologized, and said she felt bad. Marge said her first instinct was not to believe it. Teresa said she knows she shouldn’t have done it (can you hear this in her voice?), but maybe it had to happen for her to wake up, and be done with Danielle. Marge said she needed time to process it. In Marge’s interview, she said the idea of someone she’s close with being in on attacking her was mind-boggling. And on top of it, Teresa defended Danielle. In the backyard, Jennifer said, if any good came out if it, at least Teresa realized her friendship with Danielle is toxic. When Marge came back, she said she didn’t know whether to sh*t or go blind, and I wondered when was the last time I heard that phrase.

Since the second half-hour was dedicated to Teresa’s Italy trip with the girls, they did the finale credits here. There was absolutely nothing of interest, except that David still hasn’t moved into the new house. He’s living with Dolores and Frank. Dolores can’t get him to move out, or give her a ring. Whatever works.

Five months later. We sped through what happened with Joe, ending with him moving to Italy. He now looks like Mike The Situation Sorrentino. There was the fastest trip to Italy ever, not even using the Concord, and we flashed back to a previous trip when the girls were little. The girls were thrilled to see their dad, but two seconds in, Joe said he’d forgotten how stressful they could be. They checked into a gorgeous hotel, and Teresa asked if Joe expected sleep with her. They hadn’t been together in four years, and it was kind of weird. He was the same uncommunicative jerk he’s always been.

They took the girls to the Amalfi coast, and on the way, a rainbow dazzled us all. Gia leaning her head on her dad’s shoulder broke my heart. They went shopping, and in Gia’s interview, she said their family had been on an emotional roller coaster. It made her realize it was the little moments that count. She was holding on to every moment, and cherishing it. In Teresa’s interview, she said she thought Joe wanted to be a couple again, but she hadn’t been happy with him for a long time. She didn’t want to hurt him, but sometimes you can’t get over what happened, and need to move on. At a tearful dinner, Joe told the girls that he was sorry about what happened, but would always do what he could to keep them together.

Teresa asked Joe how he saw them, and said she wanted someone with her every day. She reminded him that he’d said hurtful things, like he wished he’d never married her. He was supposed to protect her, and she trusted him. Joe said it was a bogus crime that people don’t even do time for, and it was in the past. Teresa said she hadn’t been the same since. A lot had happened, and they lived in two different countries. He asked if she wanted to just end it now. In her interview, Teresa said it was infuriating. After four years, Joe still wasn’t taking responsibility for what he’d done. He hadn’t changed. She told Joe that she never wanted to hurt him, and wanted him to be endlessly happy. He said he felt the same about her, and that he’d spend the night with the girls. They hugged for the first time, and it seemed genuine.

Teresa said she wasn’t ready to tell the girls, and they were still fighting the appeal. There was still a chance Joe could come back to the US. She was just happy Joe was out and free, and that her daughters can be reunited with their dad, even if they had to get on a plane to do it. It wasn’t the end.

The ending text said that the girls spent Christmas with Joe. They were still waiting on the appeal, and were hopeful. Teresa said since now that chapter was closed, she could start thinking about what makes Teresa happy.

My big question. Why does everyone think a party is where to bring up a personal issue? In Melissa’s case tonight, she was immediately surrounded, but the traditional practice is for someone to bring up a hot button issue in the middle of a party. Usually the celebration of some poor, unrelated, unsuspecting person, and it ruins the good time. Even better, it’s often in public. I’m just glad I don’t know any of these people personally.

💰 She Does Have Bank Now…

I actually think this is one couple who won’t need a prenup because they’re going to make it.

https://radaronline.com/photos/vpr-star-stassi-schroeder-works-on-prenup-with-fiance/

👶🏽 Baby Shams Is Living His Best Life…

I’m not so sure going to the park every week is anyone else’s idea of tradition though.

https://pagesix.com/2020/02/24/shahs-star-mj-javid-wants-to-have-more-children/

🐎 Git Along Little LeeAnne…

I honestly think she’s just thoughtless, and I’m sorry to see her go. And it’s kind of like when new neighbors move in. Even if you’re glad to see the old ones go, you wonder what you’re going to get.

https://people.com/tv/leeanne-locken-is-leaving-real-housewives-of-dallas-after-4-seasons/

✌🏼 Two Degrees…

Middle of the week. Malcolm in the Middle. Life is unfair…

January 13, 2020 – Tracy Admits Her Angle, Captain Lee Makes a Decision, Brandi Hides, No Crown For Kyle, Not So New Cast, CZ Tells All & Some Elton

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Tracy says, no surprise she finds her granddaughter with her nose in her phone, and Brooklyn says she got some good news. Nikolas Cassadine is alive. Tracy says, so? and Brook says, maybe Tracy should text Luke. It’s just a suggestion. Tracy asks why Brook is so touchy. Brook says she’s a little emotional because a guy she thought was dead just called to say hi, and ask how she’s doing. It’s kind of crazy that no one in her family asked. Tracy says if Brook is looking for those kinds of feelings, she’s in the wrong family. Ned comes in with Michael, and says Michael didn’t text him back about not coming to the shareholder’s meeting. Tracy asks why she wasn’t informed about a meeting, and Michael says, it’s for… She knows, the people who hold shares, but as long as Dillon is out west, she has his proxy vote. Michael says they’re voting on what to do with Oscar’s shares. Brook says they can go back to their corporate infighting in a minute, but she has a big announcement.

On the phone, Sam asks where Jason is. He says he’s at the MetroCourt. He’s meeting Michael before the memorial service. Sam can’t believe they’re going, but it’s weirder that Willow wants to go. He says Willow wants closure, and Sam hopes she gets it. She’s thinking of going over to Crimson to visit Maxie. Maybe she’ll stop by the MetroCourt, and they can grab a bite. No one said there’s a rule they can’t bump into each other. Alexis walks in, and asks what Sam thinks she’s doing.

At the MetroCourt, Franco tells Elizabeth that he loves date night. She says she loves having him back, and he asks if she’s okay. She says, it was quite a bombshell. She can’t believe Nikolas is alive. He says he’s thrilled that she’s tickled to death her ex-boyfriend is back. She says, she’s thrilled Nikolas is back, but she’s in love with Franco. She missed him every minute. He says, it’s weird that another person was living in his body, but no time passed for him. He keeps wondering what he was like. Would he want to get to know himself? She says, funny he should ask, because… They see Jason standing there.

Maxie tells Peter, far be it from her to judge when a friend is in the midst of an emotional tsunami, but when Nina was deciding whether or not to destroy Valentin, she was running the magazine herself. Then Nina comes back, and squashes a potentially huge advertising deal, and wants to micromanage. Maybe she should see what Lucy has to offer. What does he think? He apologizes, saying, it’s been a draining day at the office, but he does want to talk. What if they go get dinner instead? She likes the idea, but has some things she needs to finish, and says she’ll meet him there. He watches her as he waits for the elevator, and flashes back to admitting to Anna that he worked for Faison’s company at the same time as David Black.

Robert goes to Anna’s house, and asks if it’s a bad time. She says, it depends on what he’s there for, and he says he wants to tie up some loose ends. She says, regarding? and he says, would-be assassin David Black, who almost killed her friend Andre. He went to get the PCPD file on him, and Mac said she’s got it. Anna gives the file to him, and he says he’s surprised she took a second look, since her would-be son looks like a hero. Unless she’s having second thoughts about him too.

Maxie hears the elevator, and says, back so soon? Spinelli says they couldn’t stay away, and Maxie looks up to see him and Georgie. She thanks him for bringing their daughter with  him.

Brook says she’s been at the courthouse all morning; the lines were awful. Michael asks why she was there, and she says she did something that she should have done a long time ago. As of today, she’s no longer Brook Lynn Ashton. She’s officially and legally Brook Lynn Quartermaine. Ned tells her, congratulations; her great-grandparents would be thrilled. Tracy asks, what’s the angle? Ned asks why there has to be an angle, and, Tracy says, Brook just changed her last name to Quartermaine. Of course (🍷) there’s an angle. Michael wonders if it has anything to do with her gig at The Floating Rib tonight.

Lulu says she warned Dustin. Between the wedding and her brother showing up alive, it was quite a scene. He asks how she’s holding up, and she says she’s trying to wrap her head around it. She’s beyond happy that Nikolas is alive… He says, but she’s pissed he left the family in the dark? She says, really pissed. He’s been missing for years, and now he’s back. She’s conflicted emotionally, but hasn’t had enough time to focus on any of her emotions.

Maxie asks why Spinelli didn’t tell her that he was bringing a special guest. He says Ellie decided to come back, and they’re joining her. Maxie says it’s a welcome relief from her dumpster fire of a day. It’s a long story; she’ll explain later. She asks how long they’re in town, and he says, if all goes well, forever.

Sam ask if Alexis was eavesdropping. Alexis says, it’s her house; sue her. Sam says, fair, and Alexis says they talked about this. Sam has to be careful. Outside of visitation with Danny, Sam shouldn’t communicate with Jason. Sam says she’s not cutting Jason out of her life completely, and Alexis says, as long as she knows she’s playing with fire. Sam says she and Jason live in the same city. No one can stop them from bumping into each other. Alexis says she’d be impressed by the loopholes Sam found, if her anxiety wasn’t skyrocketing. Sam says, if all goes according to plan, they won’t have to be discreet much long. Alexis asks, what’s that supposed to mean?

Elizabeth tells Franco that she needs to speak to Jason about Jake for a moment. She thanks Jason for Jake’s Christmas gift, and apologizes that he had no holiday time with his son. It’s been crazy busy since Franco came back. Franco says, hi, and tells Jason that he heard they bonded. Monica told him that he helped Jason build a treehouse. Jason puts his jackass hat on, and says, they didn’t bond, and Franco didn’t help him. Franco says, cool. Elizabeth says, Jason helped change Drew’s mind. She and Scotty did everything they could, but whatever Jason said convinced him. It made Drew realize that it wasn’t his life, and it belonged to Franco. Franco thanks Jason, and says he guesses he owes Jason his life. He sees Peter, and says, just about as much as he owes that guy. He tells Peter, hi.

Anna tells Robert that his bias against Peter is showing. It’s not a good look. He says she’s deflecting, and she says she’s concerned that he’s investigating an innocent bystander. He says, Peter shot the shooter, and she says, he didn’t know anything about the assassin. Robert says, it’s too convenient, and wonders if she has questions about Peter’s story too.

Alexis asks how exactly is Sam expediting her and Jason’s reunion, and Sam says they have a deal with Robert. Alexis says, Jason is working with the DA? Sam asks if she doesn’t think Jason is credible, and Alexis says she thinks Jason’s intentions might be good, but it’s a Federal conviction and Robert is the local DA. He has no pull with the Feds. Sam says, not necessarily. Robert is brokering a deal between her and the Feds. Alexis asks, how? and she says Robert thinks he can get her parole reduced if they offer up a bigger fish. Alexis asks if she’s caught anything.

Peter tells Franco, hey, and Franco says it’s good to see him. The man of the hour is here. He heard about Peter’s heroics at GH. He saved Franco’s life, and Andre’s too. Peter brushes it off, and Franco tells him, don’t be so humble. Elizabeth asks if he’s meeting someone, and he says he’s meeting Maxie. Elizabeth says she’s been meaning to get in touch. They’d like to have her and Peter over for dinner. Peter says, that’s not necessary, and Franco says he’s a bonafide hero; they should celebrate. Peter says, he’s really not.

Robert tells Anna, now they’re getting somewhere. How long as she been suspicious of Peter? Anna says, Jason saw her at the hospital the day Franco was going through the procedure. He believes Peter was more involved with Faison than he admits, and with what was done to him and Drew. Robert says, the procedure and Drew’s death are connected, and asks if she’s come up with any evidence linking Peter to the assassin. She flashes back to Peter admitting that he worked at Faison’s company at the same time David Black did. Robert asks if Jason had any hard evidence, and she says, no. That’s why she was reviewing the file. He asks if she found anything.

Lulu says she’s sorry to unload on Dustin, and he says she has a lot going on. She says she’s glad she hasn’t scared him off, but just wait. He says, there’s more? but she says she actually thinks her life is about to get calmer. Nikolas’s return will have fallout, but Charlotte is home safe with her. She thinks they might actually have a chance to spend more time together. He says, it’s not fair that she’s getting his hopes up. She says she knows every time it looks like they can get to know each other more, something gets in the way. A disastrous wedding… He says, teenagers, and she says, Charlotte jumping off the pier. He says, her mother, and they laugh. He says he’s glad to hear her laugh, and she says it happens a lot with him. He says he’s good at other things too, and she asks if he wants to get out of there. He asks where they’re going, and she says Rocco is with his grandmother, and so is Charlotte. They could go back to his place.

Ned says, Brook has a gig? and she tells Michael, thanks, narc. Michael says The Floating Rib had a big PR blast, and Ned wonders how Brook got out of her contract. Tracy tells Ned to fill her in, and Ned says, Brook is stuck in a contract with a predatory music producer. Brook says, he’s a skeeze, and Ned says, a skeeze with an intimidating angle. Brook says now that she’s a Quartermaine, she can sing wherever she wants, but Michael says that won’t get her out of her contractual obligations. Ned says they have to talk, but Brook says she has to go, and jets. Tracy says, Brook’s first day with the Quartermaine name, and she’s already disgraced it.

Alexis says, so Robert is willing to broker a deal with Sam if she has someone big to offer? Who is it? Sam says, it’s confidential; sorry. Alexis says that’s hardly comforting. The doorbell rings, and Alexis says Sam was saved by the bell. She hopes Sam knows what she’s doing, and tells her to be careful. Sam says, always, and Alexis opens the door to find Neil. He asks if it’s a bad time. Alexis says, it’s perfect timing, and invites him in. Sam says she’ll give them space, and tells Neil, hello and goodbye. She leaves, and Alexis says, welcome home. He thanks her, and says, it’s been a minute. She says, a couple. It’s nice see him. Did he just come to say hi, or is it something else?

Maxie tells Spinelli, hold up. They might be in Port Charles permanently? Spinelli says, it’s possible. Ellie is in the running for a desirable position heading up a lab in Queens Point. She’s going to her final interview, and they’re expressing cautious enthusiasm. He and Georgie came along in case she’s presented with an offer; they’ll have to find a place to live. Maxie says she’s cautiously excited. She knows how it can be when an expected chance comes along, and you’re afraid to go for it, but if you do, something incredible might happen. He asks if she’s talking hypothetically or is she leaving Crimson?

Ned tells Tracy that ELQ is under control. Tracy asks Michael, what’s more important than being CEO of ELQ? and he says, a memorial service. She says, her condolences. Who passed? Michael says a man who he despised.

Dustin tells Lulu, there’s nothing he wants more than to spend the night with her, but only if she wants to. She asks why she wouldn’t, and he says she’s had a lot of emotional upsets lately. He wants to make sure she’s ready to have sex again. She laughs, and says she appreciates him asking for consent. She’d be lying if she said she didn’t have family drama going on, but a girl has her wants. She wants to be happy, and she’s happy with him. He says he can’t argue, and they kiss. He goes to settle the check, and she says she’ll wait outside; don’t keep her waiting. As she gets up, Brook runs into her, spilling her drink on Lulu. Brook says, sorry, but then sees who it is, and says, or not.

Robert says Mac told him that Anna has had the file since before Christmas. She must have found something. She says, nothing that links Peter to the assassin. He asks, what about Jason’s theory? and she says, it’s a theory. There’s no evidence to support it. He wonders if she didn’t look too close, and says she has a Peter-sized blind spot. If she’s not careful, she could be in a lot of trouble. When Peter goes down, he doesn’t want her going with him. Things are in the works that are going to show her what her would-be (Robert’s WOTD) son is really like.

Peter tells Franco that he appreciates the complement, but he’s uncomfortable being the center of attention. Franco says he’s a hero, and Peter says that’s kind of him to say, but he prefers to publish the news rather than be the news. He and Maxie would love to have dinner. He tells Elizabeth, pick the date, and let him know; they’ll be there. He says, it’s good to see them, and starts to leave. She asks if he’s not meeting Maxie, but he looks at his phone and says, she’s craving Noodle Buddha now. He leaves, and Franco says, awkward. What’s up with that guy?

Spinelli tells Maxie, he doesn’t mean to pry, but this could be a watershed moment. She’s not thinking of leaving Crimson, is she? She says, forget it, and he says, it’s forgotten. Sam comes out of the elevator, and hugs Spinelli. Maxie asks him to tell Sam the good news, and he says, it’s not good news yet, but it might be. It’s possible Ellie might get a local job in Queens Point, but nothing is set in stone. Sam hopes Ellie gets the job. They need him there.

Neil hope he didn’t interrupt Alexis and Sam, but Alexis says Sam was on her way out. She asks when he get back, and he says, a few hours ago. She says he came right over? and he says he tried to call, but got voicemail. She says her phone was on silent, and asks how Montclair was. Did he spend time with his brother and family? He says, it was nice, and she says, just nice? She’s glad, but she should have gotten him a thesaurus for Christmas. She forgot to thank him for saving her life before he left. She missed him. He seems distracted, and she says, okay. Just tell her what’s going on.

Tracy says Michael is going to skip the shareholders meeting for a memorial service for a sociopath? Why give that twisted guru a second of his time? Michael says Shiloh’s followers will be there for closure, and he wants to be supportive. In particular for Kristina and Willow. Ned explains that Willow is Wiley’s birth bother, and Tracy says Michael is so consistent, making nice with a sweet single mother. Shocking. Michael says, fun as this was, he needs to hit the road. Ned tells him, good luck. After Michael is gone, Tracy tells Ned to drop the cool and collected act. He asks her, why the sudden revitalized interest in ELQ?   

Lulu tells Brook to watch where she’s going, but Brook says Lulu hit her drink. This is where Lulu offers to buy her another round. Lulu says she knew Brook would ruin this. Brook sees Dustin, and says, oh my God. Is she on a date? There are peanut shells on the floor; she should practice better self-care. Lulu says, if it’s such a dive, what is Brook doing there? Brook says, performing, and Lulu asks how it feels going from Webster Hall to this? Brook says she has to go, and tells Lulu, enjoy her date. Lulu joins Dustin at the bar, and he asks, what happened? she says she was just showered with Sex on the Beach. Brook tells herself she’s got this. No one can stop her. A skeevy looking dude walks in, and says, want a bet?

Alexis says Neil is clearly distracted and distant. He says he’s here, and happy to see her. She says she can tell. He’s been off the radar, which is understandable because of the holidays. She understands. Neil says he kept in touch, and she says they texted nightly and he came straight there, but it’s awkward. He says he didn’t mean to give mixed-up signals, and she says, talk to her. He can tell her anything. He gets up, and says, something happened while he was away.

Spinelli tells Sam and Maxie, the possibility of moving back is exhilarating; he’d love to be close as a family again. Peter comes back, and Maxie says, look who’s here. They exchange pleasantries, and Spinelli, who looks uncomfortable, says he has to go check in and get settled. He hopes to catch up soon. Maxie hugs him and Georgie, and tells Spinelli, thanks.

Franco says now he knows Peter is uncomfortable with praise, and Elizabeth says, it’s a sign of insecurity. Franco thinks it’s weird, and wonders if Peter is socially awkward like Jason. Elizabeth tells him, if he gets in the habit of complaining about Jason, he might slip in front of Jake. Franco says he’ll change the subject. What was he like as another person? Was he cool or stone cold like Jason? She says he can judge for himself. He recorded a video message for Cameron. She hand him a phone, and says it’s his to watch when he wants.

Michael meets Jason at the MetroCourt bar, and apologizes for being late. He says, Tracy finally made her move, and Jason asks, how bad? Michael says he thinks she’s after ELQ.

Ned asks Tracy to tell him what her angle is. She says she’s concerned for the family, and he says her time away with Luke has made her soft; she used to be a better liar. She asks why she would lie, and he says she hasn’t shown a scintilla of interest in the family. Now she drops in out of the sky to take pot shots at Michael and his daughter. She says she wants to make sure ELQ remains in the family’s hands, and he says, she’s making a play for ELQ again, isn’t she?

Brook asks what he’s doing there, and I think we can assume he’s her producer, Zak. He says he had a meeting with a Canadian hip-hop artist who’s supposed to be the next Drake. He thought he’d stop in before he went back to civilization. Imagine his surprise when he saw that Brook Quartermaine was preforming. She says, it’s a two drink minimum; enjoy the show. He says if she does this gig under any name, she’s breaching her contract, and he’ll sue her. She says she’s sure he has more successful clients; why won’t he leave her alone? He says he sees her potential, and grabs her. He pulls her to him, and says he doesn’t care. He doesn’t give up on talent, and wants further collaboration. She whacks him in the mouth, and steps away from him.

Alexis says she’s thinking Neil must have met someone, and that’s fine. He says, it’s nothing like that . He’s losing his medical license. She asks how that’s possible, and he says, because of her.

Zak says, there she is. The diva he’s always wanted. He moves toward Brook, who says, don’t touch her. Lulu comes out of nowhere, and pulls him back, calling him an SOB, and telling him to get his hands off of Brook. Dustin slams him up against the wall, and asks if he was never taught not to put his hands on a woman. Brook says, teach? and Dustin says, Brook?

Ned says Tracy has a sudden interest in voting Dillon’s shares, and in Michael directing the company. She wants to push Michael out as CEO and chairman, and put herself in his place. She says, not her. Someone else.

Michael tells Jason, Tracy had a field day talking about Shiloh’s memorial. It wasn’t her usual snark. She said he was neglecting the company. Jason says Michael doesn’t have be there, and Michael says Jason doesn’t either. Jason says he thinks whoever is behind this memorial has an agenda, and Michael says he does too.

Elizabeth asks if Franco doesn’t want to watch. He says he does, but doesn’t think he’s ready to see himself. He’s kind of terrified, and guesses that makes him a coward. She says, far from it. Whenever he’s ready, it will be there. He smiles.

Maxie tells Peter that she’s almost finished. She asks if Sam wants to join them for dinner, but Sam says, sorry. Olivia just texted her. The kids were spending the night, and now they don’t want to, so mom to the rescue. She’d like a raincheck though, and Maxie says she’ll hold Sam to it. Sam leaves, and Maxie asks if Peter made reservations. He says he changed his mind, and asks if Noodle Buddha on the sofa and a move sound good. She says, it sounds like heaven, and goes to get her purse.

Anna asks what Robert means by things in the works. Is the PCPD launching an investigation, or is he calling in favors from the WSB? He asks her to promise that when the truth comes out, and it’s not to her liking, she’ll stand clear. If he’s right… She says, what if he’s wrong, and there’s no proof. Will he admit Peter is innocent? He says, no proof; no case. She says if that’s the best she can get, she’ll take it. She tells him, it’s kind of late, and he tells her, goodnight. He leaves, and she goes to her desk. She finds the papers that point to the connection between David Black and Peter, and hides them inside a book.

Tomorrow, Brook has a show to do, Neil doesn’t want to make the same mistake again, and Laura says she loves Nikolas no matter what he may have done.

Below Deck

The boat is cleaned up for the next charter. Captain Lee calls Rhylee to the Sky Lounge. Kate tells her, go in, and take responsibility for everything. The captain says he’s talked with Ashton and everybody else, and they have a situation – and it’s unpleasant. She’s probably one of the hardest working people he’s worked with, but this ain’t Alaska. It’s a yacht, and they behave differently. As with all unpleasant situations, he had to come up with a solution, and he’s come to the conclusion they’re going to make it work. It’s going to take change on Ashton’s part, and a lot on hers. Sometimes, the only way to change the way people treat you, is how you react to how they treat you. In the captain’s interview, he says Rhylee is a hard worker, but her edges are about as rough as they come, and it’s the end of the charter season. He tells Rhylee that he wants them to do better, and expects it. In Rhylee’s interview, she says, Ashton tried to get her fired, and it hurts. They genuinely don’t like her. Where does she go from here? Late tells Rhylee that she needs a break, and hugs her.

The captain radios Ashton. He tells Ashton that he could have dealt with it the way Ashton wanted to, which is just make it go away, but that’s not managing. (He listened to Kate!) Ashton says he can’t change Rhylee, and Captain Lee says he’s not asking Ashton to do that. He’s asking him to try and make it work. He asks if Ashton said he’s just tolerating her, and Ashton admits he did. Ashton says, it’s the truth, but the captain says, sometimes the truth isn’t the best management skill. Ashton is retaliating, and it’s not a role he can’t afford to take when he’s in management. Ashton says he respects the captain, and will respect his wishes. He’s willing to do it. Captain Lee tells him, do it with an open mind because his isn’t. In Ashton’s interview, he says he’s shocked at how it turned out. When a decision needed to be made, the captain went with the third deckhand. He respects Captain Lee, and is going to do what he said, but hopes it’s for a good reason. What just happened? He radios Rhylee. I laugh my head off. Poor Ashton. He didn’t get what he wanted – the easy way out.

Rhylee meets with Ashton, and he says, what happened last night is past. This morning, they need to make it work, and respect each other and the situation. They need to put in the effort, and it will be okay. He asks if there’s anything else she wants to say or add, but she shakes her head. He leaves, and she says, it’s an effing joke.

Ashton tells Brian, Rhylee isn’t going anywhere. Molly texts Ashton, and asks if he wants to meet up. In his interview, he says he doesn’t want to cause sh*t among the crew, but when guests are off the boat, they’re fair game. He tells Molly that they can meet.

Kate asks if Rhylee would be offended if she and Tanner hooked up underneath her (referring to the bottom bunk, not anything kinky). In Kate’s interview, she says, Kevin is mean to her, and Ashton is mean to her; she needs consolation. The crew gets ready to go out. Rhylee likes when they have separate taxis for the girls and guys, since she’s with the guys all day. Ashton tells Kevin, by the time the ex-guests arrive, he’ll be sleeping. Rhylee says all the guys are pissed at her, so that just leaves the three girls to hook up with. They laugh.

They hit The Library, and in his interview, Tanner says he was out of commission when they went there the last time. Ashton hooked up with Kate, and Brian kissed Courtney; who is Tanner going to kiss? Apparently, Tanner has a pretty loose definition of hooking up. He asks Kate if she’s going home with him, and she says, yes. Molly and Justine (from the last charter) walk in. Kate says, it’s ridiculous. The bartenders do the Tom Cruise/Kokomo/Cocktail thing behind the bar. In Tanner’s interview, he says they’re sexual tension between him and Kate, and now Justine has been thrown in the mix. He’s just going to get drunk and see what happens. No comment. Ashton says, the other girls aren’t happy. Kate steps out with Kevin for a smoke, and tells him they’ve spent all this time listening to these women and catering to them, and now the one time they don’t have to… In Kevin’s interview, he says it’s as annoying for him as it is for Kate. It’s their time. Molly says she’s moving n three weeks, and Ashton kisses her. Tanner asks if he can slide into Justine’s DMs. In Kate’s interview, she says she’s been the one working all season. She should get to screw a deckhand. Ashton says nothing surprises him with Kate. He doesn’t want to make drama. He tells Molly that he’ll see her in five days, and the crew gets in the taxis.

Rhylee tells the other girls that Ashton was asking Molly out. Kate says she’d rather do it with a Vienna sausage. They’re pale, yucky, sit in coagulated fat, and nobody knows what to do with them. They get back to the dock. Brian says Courtney is beautiful, and she says he’s drunk. In her interview, she says when she gets to know someone, it’s usually a day by day progression. She likes him a lot, and thinks they have a genuine connection. She doesn’t know what to say. They jog the rest of the way to the boat.

Everyone goes to bed, and in her interview, Kate says she admits she’s had a few drinks and she’s bored. Tanner has been flirting with her all season. Now she’s cashing in her ticket. She goes to his cabin, saying, Tanner, Tanner, Kate. Pajama party. He’s barely conscious, and she asks if he’s okay. In Kate’s interview, she thinks it’s a good learning lesson for him. Drink less, hook up more. She goes back to her own cabin, and says, so rude.

Everyone forces themselves out of bed in the morning. Kate asks Tanner if he’s okay, telling him that she went to invite him to her room, but he wouldn’t even flip over. In his interview, he says, is she kidding him? He blew it. Rhylee folds towels, and says, they can’t fire her even if they try. She helps with the towline, and Captain Lee watches her and Ashton work together. In his interview, Captain Lee says he’s not a fan micromanaging, and he’s not starting now with Rhylee and Ashton. They’re adults. They don’t have to like each other, but they have to work together. Neither one of them is going anywhere. He told them what he expects – deliver. Simone tells Courtney that Tanner is standoffish, and Courtney says he’s been canoodling. In Courtney’s interview, she says, Tanner is a playboy for sure. He’d said he wanted to hook up with other people, but she’s not telling Simone that he wants to hook up with other people who are her boss. Brian’s not mature, but he’s more mature than Tanner. In Brian’s interview, he says he doesn’t know where he and Courtney stand after the season is over. As far ask his daughter is concerned, he’s been single all her life. He needs to be confident about who he introduces to her, and can’t bring women in and out of her life.

Tanner tells Ashton that Kate was going to invite him to her room, and they laugh. The captain calls Kate, Ashton, and Kevin to the mess for the preference sheet meeting. The new primary is Alexis Bellino (former cast member on The Real Housewives of Orange County). She’s recently divorced, and her boyfriend Andrew is looking forward to a romantic vacation. He says, she’s obviously moving on. In Kate’s interview, she says her only concern about a Housewife on a charter is they tend to be dramatic. The good news is, they can’t flip over tables since the tables are nailed down. The captain says they’re not coming until late afternoon, so Kevin doesn’t have to be concerned with lunch. They want a green, Irish theme party, and a cave/island excursion. He suggests the Pilah Lagoon, and says Alexis wants to celebrate her independence day. Kate says, as long as the guests have the most drama, they’re doing okay. She loves charter eight.

Five hours before charter. Ashton has a deckhand meeting. In his interview, he says he’s had issues with Rhylee, but he’s stuck with her. He’s going to treat her like a third deckhand. Just keep quiet, and take orders. The provisions come in. In his interview, Kevin says he’s put a lot of hours into the charter season, and it’s catching up. His back is giving him a hard time. Captain Lee tells the crew to be on the aft deck thirty minutes.

Walking to the boat with her crew, Alexis says, vacation starts now. Kate says she sounds like a dolphin, and a guest asks if anyone brought their airhorns. Captain Lee says, there’s always one d-bag. In her interview, Kate says, they look like they’re from Orange County. Tanning beds and gym memberships. She’s scared. The captain welcomes them to Thailand, and says they have a busy few days planned. So let’s get to it, get underway, and off the dock. Kate does the tour. Alexis and Andrew kiss. In Kate’s interview, she says, eww! She wonders if Alexis is proving to her ex or to her friends that she’s doing fine, but she can prove she’s doing fine without having a tongue down her throat.

The guests unpack. Courtney makes mojitos. Alexis jumps on Andrew. Anchor is dropped and locked in. Andrew dives of the side of the boat, and Captain Lee says it looks like that hurt. Ashton gets ready for the excursion, and gives Rhylee the sh*t work, like cleaning out the hot tub. In her interview, she says it’s blatantly obvious that she’s not part of the team in their eyes. She feels defeated, and is questioning what and why she’s doing what she’s doing. Kate tells Simone and Courtney that they’re handling dinner service. In Simone’s interview, she feels like she’s come a long way. Kate is still condescending though. She can’t stand the insult to her intelligence. Bye, Felicia. Rhylee eats in her bunk while the jerkface deckhands high-five each other.

Kate tells Kevin, it’s going to be freaking Dublin. Kevin says he’s just going to spice up the Irish thing. If he makes something green and puts Guinness in something, he’ll be okay. Brian texts Courtney that they haven’t spoken about the end of the season, and asks what her thoughts are. She asks what his are, and he says they’re just having fun, right? In her interview, she says, it’s insensitive to have an important conversation through text. He’s being a d*ck. It’s not that hard. Courtney tells Kate about it, and says, it’s awkward. In Courtney’s interview, she says, nobody wants to hear that a person they like is just having fun. It sounds like it’s not that important. Kate says she’s surprised. In Kate’s interview, she says she feels bad. It must be Courtney’s first boatmance. Now she’s spinning out about Brian. An excursion is perfect. Courtney can get off the boat, clear her mind, and take her misery elsewhere. The captain asks who Ashton is taking, and Ashton says, Tanner. Simone wanders around with a drink, looking for the guest it belongs with.

The guests get in the tender, and they cruise around the island. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Ashton says, it’s called Pilah Bay, but that’s as much as he can tell them. Clearly, he didn’t do his research. Alexis and Andrew go for maximum PDA. In Courtney’s interview, she says, are you kidding? It’s the last thing she wants to see, especially now. Kate asks if Rhylee was reading a magazine in the bathroom, and Rhylee says she was eating dinner in there. In Kate’s interview, she says she’s never seen this side of Rhylee before. She’s a strong woman who’s been beaten down by an ex-Chippendale.

Kevin tells Brian that Courtney is going around saying sh*t about him messaging her. In Brian’s interview, he says he’s pissed off. She’s speaking about their personal relationship, and he’s respected her. He’s seeing a different side of her, and it’s not a good side. Brian thanks Kevin for the heads up, and the guests return.

Kevin puts on a sparkly green top hat, and sings and dances. He says he’s back. Kevin is kind of an idiot, but I’ve also enjoyed him this season. Ben will always be the best though. The guests come back, and Brian says he wants to talk to Courtney. She says, maybe. He says, after dinner? and she says, maybe. In her interview, Courtney says she doesn’t want to have this conversation at work. He’s already upset her at work. Brian tells Ashton that Courtney has issues. He tries to cover his ass by saying he wanted to have a conversation with her, but thought he’d text first before they spoke. She’s acting like he broke up with her on messenger, but he just wanted to see if they were on the same page. Courtney says he’ll probably make her cry, and she’ll have puffy eyes. Brian says she’s talking sh*t behind his back. What gives her the right? It’s hard to believe three of the most insensitive, clueless d-bags ever ended up on the same boat.

Alexis and Andrew continue on the PDA trail. Courtney and Kate decorate for the Irish theme. Kate says, there’s slim pickin’s with décor in Thailand. Considering what she had to work with, it looks pretty darn good. There are green metallic streamers hanging from the ceiling, and the table is decorated with sparkly green hats, coins, and other green stuff. The guests arrive for dinner wearing flashing green horns, which are really annoying. Alexis says she’s told everyone that she’s never getting married again, and Andrew says now she’s asking when they’re getting married. Kevin does a nice spin on corned beef and cabbage, and Kate says it’s the sexiest Irish food she’s ever seen. It does look good. Simone tells Kevin the main word she’s hearing is delish.

Tanner asks if Kate wants to go for a smoke, and they go out on deck. He asks what she thinks about hooking up. In her interview, she says, don’t tell her about it, just do it. She says she believes he’s over-thinking it. If it happens, it happens, but he should probably wait a day or two. It’s awkward right now. Brian texts Courtney that she shouldn’t have brought up their conversation to Kate; it’s going to be all over the boat. He texts that she took him the wrong way. Courtney tells Kate that Brian is still texting her. Kevin makes shortbread with chocolate pudding and double cream for dessert, and I want some so badly. Captain Lee is annoyed to find no toilet paper in whatever bathroom he’s using. The guests go to bed, Simone asks Kevin if he’s okay, and Courtney cries in her cabin. In her interview, she says she thought Brian genuinely liked her, and she’s taken comfort in him through the majority of the season. Now she questions the legitimacy of how much he likes her. She can’t handle that emotionally.

The sun rises. Kevin makes meatballs and breakfast. Kevin takes the breakfast orders, and Rhylee asks if the guests are ready to see more of Thailand, and tells them to enjoy their breakfast. Rhylee tells Ashton that the guests like her. Ashton says they only have her in small doses. In the galley, Kevin falls to the floor. Simone asks him why he’s down there, and he tells her to get him some painkillers. He can’t straighten his back. Ugh. I know what that’s like, and it’s horrible. A dude we’ve never seen helps him up, and says he’ll get an ice pack. In Kevin’s interview, he says it’s the worst pain he’s ever had. He doesn’t know how he’s going to get through the charter. Simone gets his meds, and gives them to him.

Rhylee goes to her cabin. In her interview, she says it’s the hardest work scenario she’s ever had. She’s still trying to learn yachting industry. Throwing in a bunch of drama with a meathead who can’t control his temper, and boys following suit because it’s bro code; it’s hard. Courtney tells Kate that Kevin can’t move. Ashton tells Tanner to pull anchor. Brian sighs in his cabin. He asks if Courtney wants to talk, and says she took what he said the wrong way. She says he texted that he was just having fun, and she thought he liked her. He says he does. Why can’t they sort this thing out? He doesn’t want whatever they have to end this way. He says he’s never talked to anyone else about it, and she doesn’t know what he’s upset about. He says he doesn’t want other people to know his business, and she’s telling them. She’s sorry he feels that way, but it’s distracting while she’s working. He gets indignant, saying, she’s sorry he feels that way? and she says she’s sorry she didn’t realize it was that private, and it’s a big deal. He says he didn’t want to hurt her, and asks for a kiss, but she says she doesn’t know. Ashton radios for Brian, and he and Courtney agree to speak later.

In his interview, Captain Lee says all they need is for their chef to be down. Every other area, he can fix himself, but he’s just an old line cook. If the chef can’t cook, the guests don’t eat. They’re in the middle of nowhere, and he doesn’t think he can get someone to bail them out.

Next time, Tanner asks Kate when the next invite to her room is, Rhylee calls Ashton a misogynist pig, and Captain Lee says they’re all acting like a-holes and he’s madder than a pissed on chicken.

🐮 Oh Please…

I didn’t mention her discretion much in my Friday night diatribe, but this is rich. Five minutes ago, she was throwing down chairs and demanding LeeAnne stand trial. I guess she can dish it out, but she can’t take it.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1110664/real-housewives-brandi-redmond-checks-into-wellness-center-over-racism-allegations?source=email&medium=emn-content-6&cmpid=evening&content=emn-news

👑 She Will Never Wear the Crown…

I don’t care who says it’s Kyle’s show, she’ll never replace LVP.

https://radaronline.com/photos/kyle-richards-turns-51-amid-rhobh-uncertainty/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🌴 Everything Old Is New Again…

The cast doesn’t seem much different from last season. I wonder if Vicki, who swore up and down she was done with friend status, will accept a new contract. Could she really stand not getting married on TV?

https://radaronline.com/photos/rhoc-cast-revealed-whos-in-whos-out/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

👾 Come Out, Come Out, Citizen Z…

TBH, I never even thought about it. And now I’m thinking about how much I miss Z Nation. He and Doc were my favorite characters too. Now I’m sad and pissed all over again.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1110784/dj-qualls-comes-out-as-gay-onstage-at-comedy-show?source=email&medium=emn-content-2&cmpid=evening&content=emn-news

📅 Halfway Through Another One…

My New Year’s Resolution is to make no resolution. It’s better that way.

January 10, 2020 – Sonny’s Truck Is Found, Nearly Ruined, Baby Mama Drama, Wife Feuds, VanderCrash, Vicki Frets, Danielle Quits, I Vent, Quotes Helen Ends & Begins, Pup Birthday & No Waiting

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

We get another rare glimpse of the outside of the hospital. Elizabeth is straightening up an examining room, and stops to look at her phone. She frowns, and makes a call. She leaves a message for Laura, saying, she noticed Laura has called, but she’s not leaving messages. She hopes everything is okay, and asks Laura to give her a call. She hears someone say her name, and she says she’ll be right with them. She turns around to see Nikolas.

Jason goes to Jordan’s office. She asks if a truck from Corinthos Coffee is missing. They found one abandoned and torched. Does he happen to know if they made themselves an enemy?

Lucy shows Maxie a portfolio, and says, it’s just a sample to get the conversation started. She thinks Deception is going to be absolutely fabulous once it’s up and running. Advertisers are going to be lining up beside them. Maxie says, it’s impressive, but that’s just her opinion. Lucy has to run it by Nina. Nina says, run what by her? and Maxie says, Deception’s pitch to be a Crimson’s partner. Lucy tells Nina, picture it; Crimson and Deception, the perfect marriage. Not that anyone needs marriage to be perfect. They’re strong, independent women, and perfect unto themselves. Nina says she’d like to see a proposal. They go to Nina’s desk, and Lucy hands her a mock-up of a Crimson cover featuring Sasha.

Sasha finds Michael in the empty ELQ boardroom, and asks if she’s interrupting. He says she is, and thanks her. She said he mentioned he’d be there, and he says the meeting finished early. He was looking over resumés for a part-time nanny for Wiley. In between work, and going to Turning Woods to see Lucas, Brad is drowning. Wiley was fussy at daycare, and when Brad didn’t answer, they had to call him. A nanny is the obvious solution, but none of the candidates seem right. She says, nobody is good enough for Wiley? She wonders why.

Brad asks who took his lab results; he needs them back now. Willow comes by, and asks if this is what he’s looking for, handing him some paperwork. He asks where she found them, and she says, where he left them. In the breakroom near the coffee maker. She tells him, Lucas being at Turning Woods, and returning to work is a lot for anyone, and he has Wiley on top of it. Brad says he can handle it. He doesn’t care what anyone thinks.

At Charlie’s, Sonny says Carly saw Julian and Brad at the pier. He knows what they talked about after Carly walked away. Julian asks what they were allegedly talking about, and Sonny says, him, his wife, his son, and Wiley.

Elizabeth says Nikolas hasn’t changed, and he says she’s as beautiful as ever. She says he’s supposed to be dead, and he says, it was a very close call. She says, it’s been three years; where has he been? Does his mom know? Laura has been calling, probably trying to warn and prepare her. However she wants to look at it, he’s back. It’s not a dream. She touches him, and says, it’s him. She promises not to faint, but Nikolas says he might. They hug.

Jordan tells Jason, the truck was found by the side of the road. There was no cargo or driver; just the burnt frame. Were they aware the truck was missing? Jason says they knew the shipment never arrived, and she asks if they were concerned. He says they were, and thanks her for locating it. She asks if he has any idea where the driver could be, and he says the employees were canvased, and everyone is safe and accounted for. She asks him to have a seat, and says what if she requested the manifest and interviewed the driver? He says he doesn’t know how much the driver could tell her. She says, so the driver pulled over to stretch or get some fresh air, an unknown party stole the truck and drove off, and they never saw anything?

Nina looks at the mock-up cover, and says she thought Sasha turned down Lucy’s offer to model. Lucy says she has an extreme knack for persuasion. She’s prepared to offer Nina 5% of the equity, priority placement, and integration. Like Maxie said, it’s a win-win. Maxie says it’s a high end brand, but Nina says, no. Lucy says they’re already a high placement brand, and it’s a golden opportunity to get in on the ground floor. Nina thanks her, and says she’ll definitely consider it, as long as Lucy finds another model to represent the brand. Lucy says, that’s not an option. Sasha isn’t just a brand ambassador; she’s an equity partner.

Sasha wonders if Michael is looking for a degree in psychology and nutrition, as well as training in CPR, mountain climbing, and gourmet cooking skills. He says he forgot to add that. He asks if he’s being too protective and involved, and she says, maybe, but in the sweetest, sexiest way. He says he knows what he’d like to do. Pull back from ELQ, let Ned pick up the slack, and block extra time to spend with Wiley. Sasha asks, what’s stopping him?

Sonny ask if Julian hasn’t learned by now to stay away from his family. Does he have to keep reminding Julian? Julian says Wiley is his family as well. He comes up in conversation. Sonny says Julian warned Brad to be careful around Carly so he wouldn’t get wind of something about Michael, because Sonny protects his son. He tells Julian, if he’s got something brewing, think twice. He knows Sonny always protects what’s his. Julian says he hears Sonny, and when it comes to his family, he feels the same way.

Jason says Jordan will have to call Diane for the manifest. Jordan says Diane will ask for a warrant and probable cause. It’s sketchy, but without witnesses, all they have is a missing truck that was found. It’s already annoying enough. She asks if it’s possible the driver went rogue, and someone else got the delivery. Jason says all the employees are vetted, and have years of experience. Jordan wonders if it’s a calling card from Sonny’s rival. If there’s a turf war brewing, she needs to know.

Lucy tells Nina, it’s business, not personal. Deception would be good for Crimson, and vicey versey. Nina wishes her luck. She’s sure Lucy will find another publication to promote Deception, but she passes. She’s sorry, and wishes Lucy the best of luck. Lucy thanks her for her time, and leaves. Maxie sits down, and says she wishes Nina would reconsider. Nina asks why she should invite Sasha back into her life, and Maxie says, Lucy’s partnership proposal has merit. They can find a work-around. She’ll do everything, and Nina can just sit back and rake in the revenue. How does that sound? Listening outside the door, Lucy smiles.

Sasha tells Michael, it’s possible to do both, especially when you have enough money. He’s been a daily presence in Wiley’s life, and he can add a few extra hours. Michael says he can set it up coordinating with Brad’s schedule. When Brad goes to work, he can spend the mornings with Wiley, and drop him off at the hospital daycare or at his grandmother’s with the nanny. Later, he can pick Wiley up, and get him to Brad for dinner. Sasha says he’s already got a strategy, and he says, thanks to her. It will cut into his free time with her, but she says, it’s a worthy cause, and she happens to like Wiley. They kiss. Sasha’s phone rings, and she says, it’s Lucy. He tells her, the first rule of business is, always answer your partner’s call. Lucy says, she’ll make it quick. Nina said no. Sasha says she tried to warn her, but Lucy thinks maybe there’s a little crack. She needs to kick the door open. She tells Sasha, get there pronto, and Sasha says she’ll be right there. Michael asks where she’s going, and Sasha says, to kick open some doors.

Willow brings Brad some coffee, saying she thought he could use it. He says, yeah. His nerves are just jangled. Everyone is doubting him all of a sudden, and Lucas’s whole family is against him. Willow says, that can’t be true, and he says Bobbie has called fifty times, Carly thinks he’s overwhelmed, and Julian agrees. Michael wants to hire a nanny. She says that’s not a bad idea.

Julian says he has no beef with Michael, Carly or Sonny. He thought they turned a corner the night Sonny offered to let him visit Wiley. He’d like to keep that going. Sonny ask why he warned Brad about Carly, and Julian ask if Sonny has seen Brad lately. He’s in completely over his head, raising Wiley alone, and Julian doesn’t want people to see him fall apart. He might be nervous, but Julian thinks Brad will be fine. He was just helping. Sonny says maybe Julian was helping himself. Lucas wants nothing to do with him, and with Lucas out of the picture, Julian has a chance to swoop in and get close to his son. This actually sounds stupid, since Julian just brought up Sonny offering to let him see Wiley.

Julian says he and Lucas have had their differences, but it doesn’t matter now. All he cares about is his son waking up. Until he does, Julian has to do right by Wiley. Sonny has his family, Carly is busy, and Michael has his girlfriend and work, but Julian has free time to devote to his grandson. Sonny asks how he thinks Lucas will feel if he wakes up and finds out that Julian took advantage of his accident. Julian says Sonny doesn’t speak for his son, but Sonny says he’s speaking for himself. Julian asks how Sonny knows about the conversation anyway. Carly left, and he and Brad stayed there. He’s curious who Sonny’s associate was following; him or Sonny’s wife? Sonny suggests Julian take the same advice he gave Brad; steer clear of his wife, and anything Corinthos related. He leaves.

Michael tells Brad, Wiley has a strong support system. The Quartermaines and Corinthoses; two houses with nurseries and full-time nannies, with room in both. When Brad is working, Michael can put him down at night. Willow asks if Michael will really be able to pull back at ELQ, and Michael says he has someone to step up. He wants to do this, and gives Brad his word that he can carve out the time. Brad says, absolutely not.

Maxie tells Nina to take the personal part out of it. It’s possible to have a business relationship with someone you dislike. Lucy pops back in, and says, Maxie is right. Nina says she thought Lucy left. Lucy says, think classic. Keith Richards and Mick Jagger; Simon and Garfunkel; Abbot and Costello. Maxie says, who? and Nina and Lucy both say, ‘s on first. Nina says it’s better if she doesn’t force a relationship. It’s her prerogative. She made a mistake, and she’s not doing it again. She’s going to focus on moving forward. Sasha walks in, and says what Nina calls moving forward, she calls just plain stupid.

Elizabeth asks where Nikolas has been, and he says, Europe mostly. He was rescued by a yacht crew sailing past the island. He pursued some leads, and started to reclaim what’s his. Last night, he was able to do it. Nina walked out on Valentin; the wedding didn’t happen. Elizabeth says Nina gave her the impression that she was going to stick by Valentin no matter what. He says, apparently, she reached a breaking point, but there was still a wedding – his.

Jordan says she thought she and Jason had come to a place where they understood each other. Maybe he’s reconsidered in the light of Sam’s conviction, but it was a Federal prosecution, and removed from her jurisdiction. Jason says when  they’re done with the truck, Sonny will have a towing company haul it away. She’s sure the taxpayers will be happy, and says, there’s one more thing. The truck was abandoned in a no parking zone. She hands him a ticket, as Curtis walks in. Curtis asks if everything is okay, and Jordan says, Jason was just leaving. When Jason is gone, Curtis asks what that was about. She says, it was about her wasting her breath. Jason could give a master class in stonewalling. He’s every defense attorney’s dream come true. He’s never nervous, and never discloses anything. And he’s had plenty of practice since he’s been arrested so many times. She says, now that she’s vented, why is he there? He asks if it’s not a good time, but she says, it’s fine. He says he did a follow-up on her friend Bob’s death. He knows how busy she is, and he has a connection in DC. He wanted to learn a little more, and get her closure. Jordan knows he meant well, but hopes he didn’t intrude on the family’s grief. He says he was careful not to, and she asks what he found. Cancer? A heart attack? He says, no. A drug overdose.

Elizabeth says, Ava? and Nikolas says he sees her Ava, and raises her a Franco. She says, Franco has completely changed. She can’t say the same for Ava. He says he can’t either, but each of them brings something the other can’t live without. Elizabeth is pretty sure it’s not love. How did he get with Ava? He says, that’s the hard part. He’s been in Port Charles since September. She says, four months, and he never thought to contact anyone who loves him?

Sasha says she admires Nina’s business savvy; her creativity, and ability to think outside the box and take risks. She saw how stubborn Nina can be; determined and pragmatic to a fault. Nina says she’s wasting her time, but Sasha says she’s not finished. The partnership has nothing to do with their history; it’s what’s best for their businesses. Deception’s target audience is the youth and wellness market, a major opportunity that Crimson can be a part of. If Nina is the savvy businesswomen Sasha thinks she is, she’ll jump at it. If she doesn’t, she can watch from the sidelines while they become a major success without her.

Brad says he can’t let Michael compromise being CEO of ELQ to babysit. Michael says he’s choosing to give up his time to help Lucas. Brad says Lucas wouldn’t want him to do it. He’s proud of Michael, and admires his position on the ELQ and hospital boards. Michael says, Lucas would want Wiley to have all the support he needs. No one can do it all, and Brad shouldn’t try to be a superhero. Take the help. Brad says he didn’t think about it until now, but he knows the perfect person take care of Wiley. Wiley already knows them, and there should be no problem with them stepping in. Willow always said she’d do anything to help. Now he’s asking for help with his son. Julian stands behind Brad, listening.

Jordan says, an OD? Did she hear wrong? Curtis knows it’s a shock, but Bob died from an OD. She asks if something went wrong. He got the wrong prescription, or a bad interaction with medications? Curtis says, it was opioids; a straight-up OD. She says, Bob wasn’t even much of a drinker. She never saw him have more than a beer, and never saw him using. Curtis knows it’s hard to hear, but as someone who has more experience than most, he can tell her, once you become an addict, you become an expert in hiding it.

Sonny asks Jason, what’s the damage? Jason says they lost a truck and a shipment of beans. Diane is handling the driver’s severance pay, and his relocation to Tennessee. Sonny asks if the driver was injured, and Jason says, just shook up. He followed company policy, and took off. Sonny says to tell Diane to be generous with the severance pay. He asks if the truck was impounded, and Jason says, what’s left of it. They also got a parking ticket, since it was left in a no parking zone. Sonny laughs, and says, make sure it gets paid. He wants the Commissioner to see they’re good citizens. Jason wonders who would target a coffee truck, and Sonny says, someone who  has no idea how he does business.

Sonny says, maybe someone thinks they’re using the coffee warehouse as a front. They didn’t do their research. Jason suggests maybe they tried to send a message. Port Charles is a valuable asset. It’s close to the border, and near international waters. Sonny limits what moves, and some people want him to share. Sonny says, sharing is overrated.

Curtis tells Jordan, the cause of death was an OD; it was on the police report. She says forensics would look at the chain of evidence, tracing where it came from, and who sold it. He says he called his friend on the force in DC and got a copy of the report. There’s not a lot there. On the outside, it looks squeaky clean, all legit. Everyone who knew him had the same reaction that she did; he wasn’t that type of guy, and basic disbelief. Jordan asks if she can talk to his friend, but he says the friend has already stuck his neck out. He doesn’t want to put them on the spot, or lose them as a contact. She appreciates that, and says, it’s such a shock. Curtis asks if there’s anything else he can do, and she says, maybe later. He says, sure, and leaves, but Jordan is obviously distressed.

Lucy thanks Nina again for her time. Maxie looks at package Lucy brought, and says, it’s generic. Lucy needs to underline the brand, to prepare for when she’s ready to reveal what they are. Her proposal is too conservative. Crimson needs at least 15%; Maxie will adjust it accordingly. Lucy is going to have to step up her opening foray if she wants involvement increased. Nina tells Lucy, leave her proposal, and she’ll consider it.

Brad says, it’s a perfect solution. He and Willow both work at the hospital, and she’s great with Wiley. Michael says she has a full schedule at the hospital, and doesn’t have the luxury of delegating. Butting into the conversation, Julian agrees it’s unfair, and Brad shouldn’t put Willow in an awkward position. He knows Brad is under stress. Brad says, don’t remind him. Willow agreed that she wanted to help Wiley. Willow says maybe she could adjust her schedule, but Julian thinks it’s asking too much. End of discussion. Oh, okay. Everyone will listen to the guy who just arrived to the party, who no one wanted there in the first place. Brad says Lucas wanted Willow to be a part of Wiley’s life, and he thought Willow wanted to spend more time with Wiley. Michael says they have plenty of options, and not to put Willow in an uncomfortable position. Brad says, who better to give Wiley the care he needs until they get Lucas back, which he prays is soon. Willow says, of course (🍷). How could she say no? Ugh. Julian needs to ditch that turtleneck look he’s been sporting lately.

Elizabeth asks if Nikolas wasn’t tempted to tell anyone he was alive. Nikolas says he can’t begin to tell her how hard it was. His mom came by Jax’s place while he was there. Everything inside him wanted to embrace her, but he couldn’t. He had to bide his time, and put his plan in place, or it would have undone everything. Elizabeth gets it intellectually, but emotionally, he has so many people who love him who were devastated. Hayden has a little girl, Violet; she’s the cutest. Hayden left Violet in Port Charles while she’s away, but wait until she finds out he’s back. Valentin is no longer a threat, so Hayden can come back be and be with her. He promises to do all he can to bring Hayden home. Elizabeth says, if anyone can do it, he can. She doesn’t know whether to slap or hug him, and he says he’ll take the hug. He’s already had smacks. They hug.

Maxie tells Lucy and Sasha they’ll be in touch. She’ll go over the proposal in depth. Lucy says, fingers crossed, even though she doesn’t need it. She has a kick-ass partner who was spectacular. And she can’t believe Maxie was so convincing without making her boss look bad. She hopes Nina knows what she has in Maxie. Come to think of it, if Maxie ever wants to talk about some work, here’s her number. Lucy gives Maxie her card, and Maxie says she already has it. Lucy says that’s Lucy as a realtor; this is Lucy as a potential partner. Think about it. They leave, and Maxie looks at the card. I think Deception should launch their own magazine.

Nina looks at the mock-up cover. She opens a jewelry box containing the half-heart pendant, and takes it out.

Brad thanks Willow, and says he’s so grateful. Julian grabs Brad’s arm, says, excuse them, and steers Brad away. He asks if Brad has lost his damn mind. Sonny already knows something’s up.

Michael asks if Willow is sure she’s okay with this. Brad isn’t sensitive on a good day. She knows it’s challenging, and will have to protect her heart, but Brad is in a jam and she can help out. Michael says, so can he, but she says, for whatever reason, Brad isn’t comfortable with him. He’s intimidated by Michael. Michael is the kind of person everyone loves, and Brad probably feels Michael will overshadow him. He says, Wiley is more important than Brad’s ego, and she says she’ll do her best not to intimidate anyone. He’s not sure about that. He thinks Wiley likes her more than him, and he’s jealous. She says she can’t help it if Wiley has great taste. Dreams come true. She’s going to spend time with Wiley, and savor every moment. And when it’s over, she won’t look back.

Brad tells Julian, if he had walked in five minutes later, Michael would have been taking care of Wiley, and when he was busy running ELQ, the Quartermaines and Sonny would come around. Julian is second guessing him, and he knows what he’s doing. Julian says, he’s right, and Julian is going to see that he gets all the help he needs.

Jordan looks at her computer, and makes a call. She says she needs them to do her a favor. Drop whatever they’re doing, and get to Port Charles as soon as possible.

Jason says, if they get an overture, how does Sonny want to respond? Sonny says, same deal. They can move through Port Charles; no drugs, no guns, and they have to pay double for torching his coffee truck. It was rude. (I literally LOL.) Jason says, what if there’s no offer? Doesn’t Sonny want to figure out who it is? Sonny says if so, they made a mistake, and he’ll make them regret it.

On Monday, Brook has a big announcement, Tracy asks Michael what’s more important than ELQ, Spinelli asks if Maxie is leaving Crimson, and Franco says he owes Jason his life.

🍑 Meanwhile, In Hotlanta…

There’s always someone who almost spoils the surprise.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2019/12/cynthia-bailey-slams-kenya-moore-after-she-nearly-ruin-proposal/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🌎 Only If You’re Worse At Geography Than I Am…

I’m wondering how anyone would confuse being on RHOA with a big Hollywood dream.

https://radaronline.com/photos/nene-leakes-son-baby-mama-slams-buying-house-wants-rhoa-bryson-bryant/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🔫 The New Hatfields & McCoys…

More on them feudin’ Wives.

https://starmagazine.com/photos/real-housewives-top-feuds-2019-new-york-beverly-hills/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🚗 It’s Not a Drive Thru…

Someone really wanted their food to go.

https://radaronline.com/photos/ferrari-crashes-lisa-vanderpump-restaurant-west-hollywood-cops-no-arrests-injuries/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🚤 Someone Is Thirsty…

A bit of a rehash with vacation photos added.

https://radaronline.com/photos/vicki-gunvalson-and-fiance-end-cruise-amid-rhoc-axe-rumors/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🚫 She Said Of New Jersey

I saw the Watch What Happens Live when Danielle quit, but she chose her words carefully. She was very specific saying she’d never be on The Real Housewives of New Jersey again. My guess is, she’s moving.

https://radaronline.com/exclusives/2020/01/danielle-staub-quits-real-housewives-of-new-jersey/?utm_source=email&em_hash=72048a93bc8188334dc1071a32fe8f3b

🙎 I Don’t Usually Get Personal, But…

While I throw in an opinion here and there, it’s rare for me to write something based solely on my view of a show, but I feel strongly about this one.

I’m not sure what it is. Whether it’s because the Housewives are thirsty for screen time, or they’re just getting meaner, but I was disturbed by Wednesday night’s Real Housewives of Dallas Reunion: Part Two. My being troubled by the Real Housewives in general is nothing new. Beverly Hills certainly left a bad taste in my mouth last season, and the screeching in the OC is working my last nerve. Regardless of the branch of the franchise, what bothers me most is when several, or all, of the Wives gang up against one. Wednesday night’s Reunion, bothered me so much, I had a nightmare that I’m sure it was the source of.

I rarely have nightmares, and when I do, they’re not the conventional kind. This isn’t to say I don’t dream about zombies taking over, or other dangerous situations, but those are more like full-color action films, with Marc Singer often fighting alongside me. My real nightmares are more Dean Koontz than Stephen King, and involve genuine fears, and I usually wake up crying. This time, I roamed a large place that was a mix of a hospital and library. I was in emotional anguish, and no one would even look in my direction. I walked through crowds of people, and tried talking to some, but they were dismissive. On a humorous note, Perry Shen (Brad, General Hospital) and Jane Lynch were there. I often cast random actors in my dreams. Anyway, I woke up crying, and I knew Dallas was at the root of it.

In what could have ended with a teachable moment,  the whole show was nothing but an attack on LeeAnne from start to finish. Including her wedding vows. WTF? In talking about being human, Kameron was the only one who acted like a human. I don’t think any of them, including Kary, cared nearly as much about the racism issue, as they did about pummeling LeeAnne and feeling self-righteous. Racism is a huge hot button issue, and there is no one, except a racist, who would feel it was okay. They had no concern that most of the world wouldn’t have their back in rising up against LeeAnne. It was a safe bet, and kept reminding me of what Bernadette (Terrence Stamp) said in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: You know, my girlfriend used to be a boyfriend. It’s always good for a supper invite. It was less about the issue than it was about them using it for something, with the exception of Kameron. It was like teaching a kid not to hit by hitting them. Although I don’t think they were interested in teaching anybody anything. It was an opportunity to be mean, and they used the issue. It didn’t even begin there.

From the beginning, they were gunning for LeeAnne, as well as putting a halo on Kary. They harped on LeeAnne’s wedding – everything from the food, which looked adequate to me, to the vows she had written herself at the last minute. Even her waiting so long to write them was suspect. Rich must be a saint, not because he puts up with LeeAnne, but he also puts up with this sh*t. Yes, the woman has some deep-seated problems, which will probably take a lifetime to overcome, but this was an important day – her first marriage, at age 50, no less – why drag it all over the place? It just went on and on and on. And to her credit, LeeAnne took it. Ever the diplomat, Kameron pointed out that it was LeeAnne’s day, so wtf? LeeAnne was right in saying, that no matter what she said, it was never going to be good enough for Kary. This is a bunch of mean girls, except for Kameron, who gets called out for being more concerned with what’s right, rather than who’s right. As much as we’d like them to be, things aren’t always black and white, and there’s the human factor.

I have a desire to take care of tiny things, protect the underdog, and things that are alone or small in the world. LeeAnne looked that way Wednesday night. She’s done stupid things from the jump, and lashed out because she hurts, but they finally found something they could grab onto that was acceptable and other people would care about. Except there is a difference between evil and stupid. Between sincerely hating a race, and saying dumb sh*t. Instead of helping LeeAnne be a better person, Brandi threw down a folding chair, where she thought LeeAnne should sit facing her jury. After that, the women became the bullies. A questionable video of Brandi’s surfaced recently, which is also insensitive, but not racist, yet she thinks LeeAnne is alone in being stupid.

There’s proof positive it doesn’t have to be like this. Three of my favorites in the Bravoverse are Below Deck, Southern Charm, and Shahs of Sunset. Oh, they fight, and they can land low blows, and do the occasional hair pulling, but there’s a difference. Somehow, they’re more like family. When Golnessa lashes out, we know it’s because she’s in pain, and so does her crew. While they might even freeze her out for a moment, at the end of the day, they’re there to support and love her. There might often be an undercurrent of snark on Deck, and Kate does get away with more than the others, but she’s put in her time. Captain Lee is like a really good parent, who knows how to use discipline, but fiercely protects and loves his children. He’s also indulgent with his favorite daughter. Shep is an elitist a-hole much of the time, yet if there was an emergency, he’d be the first one there. To watch Kathryn grow from a rebellious child to a responsible mother has been nothing less than amazing, and to have Patricia admit she was wrong about Kathryn – albeit because she listened to Thomas – was a true miracle. Maybe a Wife would throw a bag of old Vuittons in your direction, but they’ll tell everyone about how self-centered you were, yapping on about your house burning down, or your horrifying childhood.

With the first episode of the OC, I said it was the future of television. There had been reality TV before, starting with An American Family, a series filmed for PBS. It was rerun one year in the 90s, and I caught it. It was fascinating. Just cameras following a family. And The Real World started off strong. Giving us people with real jobs and interests, and Pedro Zamora who eventually passed away from AIDS. Somewhere along the line, it degenerated into mostly a lot of drunken hot tub sex, and I drifted away. I’m not a prude by any stretch of the imagination, but it wasn’t what I signed up for. My guess is that alcohol played a big part. As is my guess about a lot the Wives problems. Just the other day, my husband was just walking past when one of them (ha-ha – I can’t remember which one) was on, and he said, they drink too much. And he doesn’t even pay attention. He could probably pick NeNe or Teresa out of a line-up – LVP for sure – but he doesn’t watch them. Alcohol isn’t the only problem, but it exacerbates whatever else is going on. But the Wives were different, and paved the way for all the others. Until Andy Cohen became King of the World. Or at least reality TV.

There are kinder, gentler shows on other networks, TLC being a mainstay. Born This Way was one of the sweetest shows I’ve ever seen, watching young people with Downs Syndrome begin to navigate the world on their own. More recently, Welcome to Plathville introduced us to the Plath family, who live off the grid, but some of the kids were looking to branch out. In a variety of series about the Amish, Mary Schmucker became my favorite reality star of all time. A woman we would all love to be our grandma, baking cookies and dispensing wisdom, but also down for kicking back and doing shots at an NYC bar. That’s my kind of Amish.

It was enjoyable to watch the Wives at first. There was some table-flipping and leg-tossing, but it seemed like all harmless fun. Sometimes it still is, but more and more, it’s screeching and finger-pointing, and not owning up to their own sh*t before casting stones. Mob mentality has taken over. This isn’t to say there aren’t exceptions, like Kameron and Camille, but they’re accused of being wishy-washy because, even if they didn’t like a behavior, they still cared about the person. NYC as a whole seems to be fair, except for Ramona, who’s only out for herself, but I could be biased. Back to LeeAnne.

What she said was wrong, but it really wasn’t any worse than things she’d said in previous seasons. The others just finally found something they could publicly call her out on, and knew they’d be backed by the world. I doubt they cared much about racism before LeeAnne called Kary a chirpy Mexican (I’d actually thought chirpy was a really odd choice of word, and figured she wasn’t thinking). And Kary laughed about it with the others at the time. Again, Kameron came out ahead here. Not on that particular issue, but she made it her business to research what LeeAnne had said about sex workers in Thailand. In other words, she cared about those things called facts.

Fact: LeeAnne definitely made excuses for not reaching out to Kary, some of which were lies, or at best finagling of the truth. Like when she said they weren’t supposed to talk to each other before the Reunion. That was true, but there were several months prior to that when they could have talked. I do think she was telling the truth when she said things like that were hard for her, especially since she believed she’d be met with hatred. Also possibly true. Kary was receptive to zero of what LeeAnne had to say, no matter what the topic was.

Fact: LeeAnne said she latched on to a word Kary herself had been using a lot, and had she used a different word repeatedly, LeeAnne would have used that. I believe this is true. Even I was getting tired of Kary saying it. I was like, all right already, I get it. You’re from Mexico and it’s cool. We all have things we’re proud of, and probably talk too much about. LeeAnne made a piss poor choice, but I don’t think it was with a racist attitude. It was with an I’m-sick-of-Kary attitude. Whether LeeAnne thought it would air or not, who knows? But it’s hard to believe anyone would think that, considering what has been aired in other seasons, and how easily information gets out today. I also find it difficult to believe the others would have been intimidated by this thought.

Fact: LeeAnne was truly sorry. We’ve yet to see if she backs up her words with actions – i.e. stops saying stupid sh*t when she’s angry – but she was sorry. That these women continued to berate her while she sat there crying and taking it, was depressing. If the goal is to change the world, and bring light to the darkness, how does drumming someone into the ground accomplish that goal? Someone who is suicidal, no less. It’s hard for someone to change their ways when you keep kicking them.

Unfortunately, this seems to be the way of the world now. It’s less about teaching what’s right than being right.

🌋 Quotes of the Week

I would rather walk with a friend in the dark, than alone in the light.Helen Keller

Life is an awful, ugly place to not have a best friend. – Sarah Dessen

Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough. – Oprah Winfrey

I have the attention span of a meerkat. – guy on Blind Date

How do you fold an egg? It’s impossible. It’s witchcraft. – Carrie Heffernan (Leah Remini), King of Queens

Mantras are a powerful tool that can help us be aware of our own power, goals, strengths, and resilience. – Dr. Jennifer Newman (I am rich. I am rich…)

When things break, it’s not the actual breaking that prevents them from getting back together again. It’s because a little piece gets lost.John Green (I’m sure he was referring to people as well.)

Valor is a gift. Those having it never know for sure whether they have it till the test comes. – Carl Sandburg

Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands.Anne Frank

I take craps bigger than him. – Jerry (Scott Bakula), Two and a Half Men

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. – Helen Keller

🎉 A Happy 13th Birthday…

To dogs I still call the babies.

Juliet'sBabies4 (2)

👐 Wait No More…

Your weekend is here. See you at the hospital or on deck.

January 9, 2020 – A Proposal For Robert, a Pop Punk Princess On the Runway & Rain

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

 

General Hospital

Anna asks Finn how the drop-off was. He says Violet forgot her sparkle bracelet, but she was going to be doing some bedazzling at school. Anna tells him that she’s terrified something Jason said about Peter is true, and by not taking action and following the evidence to the probable conclusion, she’s helping to keep Peter free, and keeping hope alive for both them. She’s compromising herself by standing by the man she considers her son.

While Brad waits for a hospital elevator, Deanna says she missed him, and he says it’s been crazy. She asks if he wants to hear about the Christmas party, but he says he needs to get to the lab. She says the lab is on that floor, and asks if he’s sure he’s ready to be working. No one would blame him if he took more time. He says he wants to keep his mind occupied. Michael comes by with Wiley, and Brad asks if everything is okay. Michael says, no, not really.

Nina asks Maxie to tell her again why she went with Giselle on the Crimson cover. Maxie says, because she’s Giselle, and Nina says she was wondering about her relevance. Maxie says, she was wondering how to publish an entire magazine by herself. Nina says, ouch, and Jax walks in. He says, she’s back at the office already? Nina says she’s been distracted long enough. It’s time to move on.

Julian thanks someone on the phone, and says he’ll check in later. Ava assumes he was talking with Turning Woods, and asks how Lucas is. He says, no change, and asks how is she? She says grateful that her New Year’s expectations were met, and then some. She shows him her ring.

Carly tells Sonny that she’d like to see the article about the new treatment. Sonny hands it to her, and says it sounds like it could help his dad. She asks where he got it, and he says, Gladys. He knows she’s not a reliable source, but he checked on the doctor running the test, and they’re the top name in neuroscience. Carly says the results are incredible, but they only tested ten people; isn’t that number too small? Sonny says, nine out of ten were helped. That has to say something. Carly says, it’s amazing, but she’s sure it will be years before it’s given to the public. Sonny says that’s why he’s going to get his dad into the next test group.

Jason and Sam wait in the interrogation room. Diane comes in, and ask where they are on this. Jason says they’re waiting, and Sam says they told Robert they have a proposal. In perfect soap timing, Robert walks in, and Diane thanks him for taking time out of his busy day to meet with them. He suggests they cut to the chase. They said they have a proposal, and he’d like to hear it.

Julian says, Ava married Nikolas, who’s back from the dead. She says, correct, and he says, and Nikolas saved her life after Valentin flung her from the parapet. She says, uh-huh, and he asks, what’s a parapet anyway? She says it’s part of the castle that’s now her home. He asks if he should call her princess, and she says, the title is secondary. She’s about to have the sweetest revenge. He says, don’t tell him she’s planning on killing Nikolas, and she says, nothing so drastic. Nikolas drove her to Shadybrook, and she’s going to drive him to the cleaners.

Michael says Wiley has been acting out in daycare, and Brad wonders why they didn’t call. Michael says they couldn’t reach Brad, and Lucas put him down as an emergency contact. Brad admits his phone was on silent. Michael says the daycare told him Brad was also late dropping Wiley off. Brad says he has a lot going on, and Michael gets that. He asks what he can do, but Brad says, nothing. Everything is under control. Michael says, no offense, but it doesn’t seem that way.

Jax asks how Nina is, and she says, ready to focus on Crimson 100%. He asks if she has the projections for the June budget, but she says she hasn’t had time to break them down. Maxie says she already did, and goes to get them. Jax asks how Nina is really feeling, and she says she stopped by Lulu’s to see Charlotte, but Charlotte was sleeping; she’s exhausted. Jax says he’s asking about her, and she says, what matters is Charlotte. She’s the victim. Lulu is trying to keep Valentin from her, and Valentin is trying to keep Lulu away from her. She’s not Charlotte’s stepmother, and never will be, so there’s nothing she can do to help. It’s a trifecta of misery, and Charlotte loses everything.

Peter comes into the Crimson office, and Maxie says it’s a nice surprise. He says he found a toy online, and he thought of James. Maxie loves that he’s so excited about a toy, he came to see her in her office, and Peter says, James is the top priority. He also wanted to tell her that he has to step out. She says, anywhere fun? but he says, that depends on what Anna wants to see him about.

Anna says, Jason came to her in good faith, and she’s racing around to cover Peter’s tracks. Finn says if anyone understands that, it’s Jason. Anna says, Sam is paying the price. Her son might benefit by her not saying anything, but at what cost? If she finds out he’s guilty, covering for him makes her an accessory or accomplice. She wonders how far she’s willing to go.

Diane says Robert is aware of the terms of Sam’s parole. Robert says she qualified for early release, and Diane says the parole officer said Sam and Jason are to have no contact. He says he sees it’s gone well so far. Diane says, they were married and share a son. Jason isn’t a random ex-con. Robert says, but he is an ex-con. Diane says the parole officer is biased and using them to punish each other. They’re asking him to support them when they request a new parole officer. Robert says, they want him to throw his weight around. Diane says they want to be assured Sam won’t be victimized. The officer is carrying a grudge, and parole is supposed to be a way to pay back her debt, not a track to send her back to prison. Robert says he has no interest in punishing an innocent person, but she’s not innocent, is she?

Carly asks if Sonny has spoken to Mike’s doctor, and he says, not yet, but he’s going to call. She says she thought Mike’s doctor or Griff would have mentioned the treatment, but Sonny says maybe they don’t know about it yet. She says it’s nowhere near ready for the public, and he says it doesn’t matter about that if Mike is part of the test. The doctor running it is Jennifer Clark, and she’s based in Manhattan. It may not work out if Mike doesn’t qualify, but if he does, it would be a fantastic thing. Carly says he knows there’s no magic cure, and he says he does, but it could improve Mike’s brain function, stabilize him, and give more time. Maybe give science more time. He thought Robin would die young, and look how great she’s doing. Carly says she is, but Robin is a different story. Sonny says, this study could be first step toward a cure. Dr. Clark being in Manhattan is perfect.

Ava tells Julian, it’s not like love ever did her a favor. She’s going to relish making Nikolas pay. She asks if he wants to talk about Lucas, and he says, Brad is back at work. She says, that was bound to happen, and Julian says everyone is acting like Lucas will be in a coma indefinitely. They’ve forgotten about him. She asks how Wiley is, and he says, kids are resilient, but he misses his dad. Ava says, of course (🍷) he does, and Julian says, Brad has been a wreck. She says Lucas would want Julian to take care of Brad, and Julian says he has a hard time being around Brad. He looks at Brad and sees an empty space where Lucas should be.

Sonny says he wants to move on this, and Carly says they’ll have to reschedule the christening. Her phone dings, and she says, it’s Michael. He’s coming by to talk about something regarding Wiley and Brad. She’s worried about Brad. She ran into him on the docks. He was with Julian, and seemed edgy. Sonny says he has to go ask Julian something. He wants everything cleared up, so he can concentrate on his dad. He jets.

Jax asks if Nina has gotten any sleep, and she asks if she looks tired. (She does actually.) He says he’s asking because she said she was stressed. She’s sorry couldn’t walk away, and he says she did what she had to. Maxie comes back with the projections, and Nina thanks her. Nina tells Jax, on top of everything, she’s so grateful he got her the suite. She did what she wanted last night. She went to bed after a generous glass of scotch – or two. Maxie leaves, and Nina says she doesn’t have home, does she? Jax says, it’s difficult, but she’ll get through it. She’s made of strong stuff. For what it’s worth, it’s nice to have her back. She says, thanks, boss.

Finn tells Anna, addicts says when you’re going down a slippery slope, find the bright line; whatever it may be. A clean, unambiguous boundary that you don’t cross. She has to find and define it for her own sake. The doorbell rings, and Finn says he’s got to get going. They hug, and wish each other good luck. Peter comes in, as Finn goes out. Anna asks if she can get Peter anything, but he says, no, so she suggests they get right to it. She has some questions about the man who tried to attack Andre. Peter says, she means the man he killed?

Robert says he can’t help them, and Diane says, can’t or won’t? Jason says, Sam’s not a danger to society. She just wants to be with her family. Robert agrees the world is a better place without Shiloh, but Sam is a convict who got two years. She’s out; it’s a gift. Jason says Sam shouldn’t have to pay for his actions, but Robert says, she does, and always will. Living outside the law has consequences. Diane says they’re not asking that her parole be lifted, just that they get a new, more accommodating parole officer. Robert says they’ll have to go through the proper channels. He doesn’t do favors for the mob. Sam says, it’s not a favor; it’s a trade. Jason says, something they want, for something he wants.

Robert asks if Jason is finally ready to give up Sonny. Ha-ha! Diane asks why Robert would be interested in a coffee importer. Double ha-ha! Robert says he has no time for games, and Jason asks, what if they gave him Peter?

Anna tells Peter, there’s been a development, and she wonders if anything stands out to him. She gives him some papers, and he asks what he’s looking at. She says it’s David Black’s bank statement from 2012. He says David worked for one of Faison’s companies. They used him for a security consultant. She asks if there’s anything he can tell her about it, and he says he used to work there.

Maxie asks why Nina didn’t tell her what was going on with Valentin. They’re friends, and sisters-in-law. She pulled out all the stops to keep Nina away from Valentin, so it stands to reason there’s no one more sympathetic. If Nina had told her, she probably would have tried to talk her out of it, but she would have had Nina’s back. She’s always supported Nina, even though it hasn’t been easy. That Nina didn’t confide in her, makes her feel like their relationship and her feelings don’t matter. Nina says Maxie matters more than anyone.

Jax goes to see Finn, who says he heard about Nikolas. He asks if that’s what Hayden was involved in that drove her out of town.

Brad gets back from the lab to find Michael still there. Michael says he knows asking for help is hard. Sometimes you have to suck it up. Brad says, it’s not one of those times, but Michael says he’s obviously overwhelmed. Brad says, of course (🍷) he is. Give him time to figure it out. Michael says, if he doesn’t, then what? and Brad says he’ll come to Michael. Michael says Brad needs a nanny. Brad says, nannies are expensive, and Michael says he’ll cover it. He’s Wiley’s godfather, and it’s his job to keep Wiley happy and safe. Let him help. If it doesn’t work out, they’ll think of another alternative. Brad agrees, saying Michael isn’t giving him much choice. Michael says, no, he’s not, and Brad thanks him. Michael says, that’s what family does for each other. Deanna tells Brad that Dr. Randolph is looking for some lab results. Brad goes with her, taking Wiley with him.

Ava tells Julian that she’s sorry he has to go through this. Is there anything she can do? She says, Lucas will make it back. He’s a Jerome, after all. He’s nothing if not resilient. Julian’s phone rings, and he says they’ll talk later. It’s Brad, who says he’s having a problem. Michael is insisting he get a nanny for Wiley. Julian says, good. He thinks it’s a great idea.

Ava sees Sonny outside Charlie’s. He says he heard Nikolas is alive, and she says, it’s true. He says, so she wasn’t seeing things. She asks if he’s not going to congratulate her, and he says, on? She says he hasn’t heard all the good news yet. As of last night – she shows him the ring – she’s Mrs. Nikolas Cassadine.

Carly says it’s good to see Michael. What’s up? Michael tells her, Brad is underwater, and he’s going to get a nanny for Wiley. Carly thinks it’s a good idea, and he tells her, Brad doesn’t, but he doesn’t care. She says, that bad? and he says he’s concerned about Wiley’s safety. Brad is torn up about Lucas, and can’t focus. Carly says, sounds like getting a nanny is the right thing. Michael asks where his dad is, and she says, running errands. He’s clearing his calendar for this. She shows Michael the article.

Sonny says, Ava married Nikolas? The guy they all thought was dead? Ava tells him not to jump to conclusions, and he asks how that happened. He and Ava share a child, who he just brought to the mental ward to visit her. Now he’s hearing she married the guy who put her in there.

Nina says she didn’t tell Maxie what she was planning because, up until the moment she pulled the trigger, she wasn’t sure she was going to go through it. She didn’t want Maxie stand there, waiting for her to unload everything, then be disappointed when she married Valentin. Maxie asks what Nina thought she would do. She understands relationships evolve, and wants Nina to be happy no matter who she’s with.

Jax tells Finn that Nikolas was responsible for the attack on Hayden at the pier. She wasn’t hurt, just frightened. He’d assumed Valentin was behind it, but he was mistaken. Valentin didn’t send the thug; Nikolas did.

Peter tells Anna that he worked there from 2011 to 2013, and she says, when David Black was there. He says, so did other people. There were hundreds of security consultants. They were mercenaries; it was a fluid situation. He knows the initial memory mapping program was both Faison’s and Helena’s. Maybe they had an associate who didn’t want the procedure perfected. He asks if she’s checked with Cabot to see if there have been any attempts on his life. She says she can do that, and he says he’s sorry he’s not more help. He looks forward to putting all that behind him. Anna says she wants that too.

Robert says they have something on Peter? and Jason says, murder attempted murder; multiple counts. Robert has how he knows, and Jason says Brice claimed Sam paid him to kill Shiloh, which she didn’t, and he’s the same guy Andre ID’d as attacking him when he first came back to Port Charles. They don’t have a direct link to Drew’s plane going down, but they already think the two incidents are related. Robert asks how that comes back to Peter, and Jason says when he visited Shiloh in Pentenville, Shiloh made a point of dropping Peter’s name. Diane says Robert doesn’t seem surprised, but he knows Peter visited Shiloh multiple times. Jason says Peter was there for the original memory transfer. He delivered Jason and Drew to the clinic. Diane says it implies there’s something he wants hidden, and Jason says, it all points to Peter.

Jason says, on top of everything else, Drew and Shiloh were in Afghanistan together. Diane says, it’s circumstantial, but it all leads back to Peter. Brice is dead out of the blue, then freelance assassin David Black shows up at the hospital when Franco is going through the procedure. He tries to take out both of them, and who happens to be there to stop him? Peter. What are the odds of him loitering outside the OR, unless he went there to intercept Black? Robert says, so they think Peter set it up, then changed his mind. He sent the shooter to the hospital to take care of Andre and Franco, then took out the shooter. If they can bring him evidence that ties it all together, he’ll be happy to take care of Sam’s parole problem. He leaves, and Diane smiles at them.

Nina says Maxie was the first person in her life who wants the best for her; hands down, no questions asked. Maxie says, not the first person, and Nina says the first person who wasn’t her little brother. She misses him now. Maxie says, he was wonderful in a crisis, and Nina says, he was wonderful with everything. Maxie knows she’s no substitute, but she’s here for Nina, and loves her. Nina says she loves Maxie too, and she’s the best substitute she could ask for in life, and in work. They hug, and Nina says, but now the OG is back. Maxie can take a breather. Wouldn’t that be nice? Maxie says, yeah, but seems sad.

Anna thanks Peter for answering her questions. Peter asks, who made the connection? and she says she discovered it. He asks if he should prepare himself, and she says, for…? He knows Sonny has eyes and ears at the PCPD. He’s innocent, but if Jason finds out, God only knows what will happen.

Finn asks Jax how he let it get this far, and Jax says he didn’t know Hayden was missing until Finn told him. By the time he called her cell, she’d disappeared. He promises to do everything he can to bring her home. Violet shouldn’t be without her mother.

Carly tells Michael, it’s heartbreaking. Mike is nearing the end, and succumbing to Alzheimer’s. There’s no cure, and no hope. Michael says his dad refuses to see that, and Carly says she’s so scared Sonny is wasting what little time he has left with his father. He’s going to bring Mike to NYC, where he’ll be surrounded by strangers in a strange place, when Mike could be at Turning Woods, where he has love and support. She’s worried that when Sonny realizes, it will be too late, but she can’t say that to Sonny. All she can do be there, keep her mouth shut – which is hard for her – and love him though all of this.

Ava tells Sonny that she saw Nikolas on Halloween night. Everybody, including her, thought she was hallucinating, so she checked into Shadybrook. Nikolas visited her there, and you might say, haunted her. He said he wanted the location of Helena’s portrait that contained the codicil. Sonny says, the codicil that made Nikolas the heir. He took advantage of Ava’s emotional state, and she’s not the kind of person who loves people n the best of times. She says she’s not helping Nikolas. She’s helping herself.

Maxie says one of the advertiser is pushing back, and Nina says she’ll handle it. Maxie says, that’s okay; she’s been dealing with them from the jump. Nina says she’ll take over. It’s her job as editor-in-chief. Maxie says if Nina needs background, she can catch her up, but Nina is sure she can handle it. She asks Maxie if they’re good, and Maxie says they’re great, but I’m not so sure.

Jax tells Finn, up to the point Nikolas turned on Hayden, she was 100% in. Finn says that doesn’t make him feel better, but Jax says, it’s the truth. He’s sorry Violet got caught in the crossfire. He leaves.

Anna tells Peter that she’s not sure it’s necessary to point out the connection. It’s ultimately not pertinent to the case, right? Peter thanks her, and says he’s trying hard to get away from his past. He doesn’t want to be Henrik again. She tells him, don’t forget, he’s not his father’s son, and he says he won’t.

Sam says Robert totally believed them, and Jason says, they need proof. Diane tells them that they have to leave separately, and they exchange I love yous, a kiss, and a hug. Sam thanks Diane, and leaves. Diane says, Jason must realize if Peter pulled this off, he’s a master at covering his tracks. The chances of getting hard evidence are slim. He knows, but it gives Sam a purpose; something to work toward. It makes the separation easier. Diane says, for Sam, but what about him? He says, Sam will be okay, and so will he.

Michael tells Carly, Sonny doesn’t give in or give up control. Stella once mentioned that it was going be hard on Sonny. He’s used to getting his own way, and imposing his will on situations. Alzheimer’s listens to no one. Carly says, not even Sonny. Michael says, Sonny feels helpless. He’s not used to that, so it’s going to be harder and take longer. There’s not much else they can do other than be there to support him.

Ava says Sonny knows, for the past two years, her life has been a slow-motion train wreck. Maybe she deserves it, but in the end, she can continue to be a victim, or get up. Nikolas had what she wanted. Sonny laughs, and Ava asks if he thinks Nikolas wanted to marry her. Does he think Nikolas loves her? It’s not about loving; it’s about power, a game she knows how play. The Cassadine fortune that Nikolas is willing to do anything for, will be hers. He says she sounds confident, and she says she is. He hopes it works out. If anyone gets hurt, or she ends up murdered, he’ll be very unhappy. He walks away, and she sort of smiles. It’s probably the closest he’ll ever come to saying he cares about her.

Sonny goes into Charlie’s, where Julian is on the phone with Brad. Julian tells Brad that he needs to calm down. Brad says the more he’s around Michael, the more stressed he gets. Julian says the nanny is perfect for reducing his stress. His advice? Embrace it. He hangs up, and asks what he can do for Sonny. Sonny says Carly saw Julian and Brad on the pier the other night, and Julian says, so? Sonny says he knows what they talked about after Carly left.

Tomorrow, Sasha says what Lucy is suggesting is stupid, Elizabeth talks to Nikolas, Brad says he’s found the perfect person for a nanny, and Sonny tells Julian that if he has something brewing, he’d better think twice.

👗 On Project Runway, Cyndi Lauper was the guest judge and style inspiration. She talked about being comfortable enough in her own skin to create her own style from vintage clothing, and a combination of masculine and feminine styles (like lace and studs together). The designers were divided into two teams, and were expected to create mini collections, merging punk and pop. Geoffrey, Brittany, Delvin, Nancy, and Dayoung were on one team, while Melanie Sergio, Marquise, Chelsey, and Shavi were on the other. Since Victoria was the big winner last week, she got to choose which team she was on, and she went with the first group. It was a two-day challenge, with $300 per team member, and 30 minutes at Mood.  Brittany was pretty excited, having done an internship with Betsey Johnson (my fave!). Geoffrey was a huge Cyndi fan, having done her as one of his drag personas. As they began to work, Christian interrupted them, saying, in the 80s, it wasn’t just about the clothes, the styling was important. In a challenge within the challenge, they were to make their own accessories, with the exception of shoes. They got an additional $200, and a visit to the trim and notions store. The best part was when Christian went around with a basket, collecting the accessories the designers had on them, including whatever it was someone tried to hide in a shoe. They had to start from scratch. Victoria’s team seemed to have a lot of issues with cohesion – both in their collection and in working together – while the other team worked together quickly and easily. Personally, I loved this challenge because I love a lot of the 80s looks. IMO, every other decade was the best: the 1920s, 1940s, 1960s, 1980s. I’ve forgotten what the hell was happening in 2000 – we might have been a little distracted with the WTC attack – so I hope the 2020s are promising.

Team Two had seemed to have it together, but not so much when their collection hit the runway. They were all about black, white, and black and white stripes, with a little pink. They got the cohesive thing down, but when it came to the individual pieces, it wasn’t so pretty. A good example is, when Sergio’s – I’m not sure, some kind of jumpsuit with what looked like a lingerie robe – came down the runway, he said, they loved it, but Karlie said, what is that?

The chaos that was Team One was a great example of the old adage that a bad dress rehearsal means the show will be great. There’s was too much black for my taste, but Delvin actually went with a plaid-ish patterned handkerchief skirt, which Cyndi said was very 80s.

Team Chaos won, with praise being lavished on Victoria. She again used her signature asymmetrical silhouette, which she’d been afraid might be getting tired. But Nina said although it was a nod to the 80s, it felt now, and loved the contrast. Brandon went a step further, saying Victoria was always true to herself, and confident in work and craftsmanship. He thought he might be in love with her. That should be interesting. After remarking on Brittany’s corseted pink suit, accessorized by chains, Nina told us, opposites in contrast make fashion move forward.

On the downside, Nina didn’t understand what was going on with Sergio’s piece, and Cyndi said she was no one to talk, but it had too much going on. Wow. When Cyndi Lauper tells you that you have too much going on, you’d better listen. It was like the time I saw Marilyn Manson scold Bill Mahar, and tell him to be polite to Florence Henderson. But in a terrible move, Sergio told the judges that he was used to designing for women over 40, and his stuff was more sophisticated. If you like it or you don’t, it’s not my problem. I would have tossed his happy ass out right there. Brandon said Sergio had signed up for this competition, so don’t make excuses, and ask himself what he learned from it. He had every decade, country, and area code included in his look. If Brandon was RuPaul, he would have snapped his fingers there. Karlie said Melanie had skimmed by. Like I felt about Tyler, Karlie said they didn’t see enough of her, but when they did, it was flat. Melanie insisted she was just rolling with the theme, but Cyndi told her not to blame the 80s. And truthfully, she had some kind of weird dress that had flaps on it that didn’t evoke any 80s fashion I’ve ever seen. Cyndi said it was like going through a carwash. Backstage, Dayoung told Sergio that he should have stopped talking. Nancy felt pushed to the outside, and not respected, which made me feel sad. I love an underdog.

BTW, Cyndi looked fantastic. I especially loved whatever was going on with her hair. A modern day, messy Marie Antoinette configuration. Nina said she’d had no memory of anything Melanie had done, and neither did I. Backstage, Sergio comforted Melanie by saying, when you’re confusing people, you’re changing the world. If he says so. I think you’re probably just confusing people. I was surprised the judges didn’t mention Sergio’s attitude. When the top and bottom three were brought out, Brittany was safe, and flew off the stage. Cyndi said Victoria and Geoffrey were both brilliant, but Geoffrey was the big winner. He said Cyndi was a style icon, and this meant a lot to him. In his interview, he said Cyndi’s music helped him through confusing moments, and to have her appreciate his art was incredible.

Karlie said she was disappointed in the bottom three, and Melanie was out. I’m guessing they considered Sergio’s talent over his need to say stupid stuff. Cyndi told Melanie to consider every failure part of her success, and take what she learned and move forward. In her interview, Melanie said she didn’t think they got to see her true colors, It was the dulled version of what she has to offer. This kind of thing seems to be what many losers say, and it always remains to be seen if that’s true, or just an excuse. Melanie thought the main reason she hasn’t found success is that she’s too scared to put herself out there. Christian – who usually doesn’t say more than, clean up your workspace – told her that her technical skills were amazing and he liked her work. Ooh. I wonder if he’s going to save her. In her exit interview, she said finding success means taking risks, and she was pissed at herself for not doing that.

Next time, the designers are to create any look using their heritage as inspiration, and a big surprise happens.

🌃 An Old Adage…

Well, for sure I’m not wealthy, and healthy and wise are debatable, but it’s been a long week, so I’m going to bed earlier than 4 am. I guess, in a way, that is early to bed. I’ll pour some tea tomorrow, and I have more to say about The Real Housewives of Dallas debacle Wednesday night. In the meantime, enjoy a song about the weather here.