Tag Archives: The Real Housewives of New York City

April 8, 2022 – The Ice Princess Is Found, Soap History, Co-Star Chat, Jill Whines, Teresazilla, Joining In, Unsure, Caroline In Dubai, Shah Bummer, Pets (!), a Heptad Of Quotes & Anything

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Jennifer says she guesses she’ll have to dry herself off, as Valentin fiddles with the safe one more time. She says she’s going to slip into something he can easily slip her out of. He finally gets it open and she asks if they should order champagne. He says, voila! Absolutement. Champagne is a necessity; he’s parched. She says she can quench his thirst, and comes out  She asks what he thinks he’s doing, and he says he dropped this, showing her his phone. She says, he seems flustered, but he says he doesn’t want her thinking he cannot handle delicate objects. She says, what if she has her doubts, and he says, then he would prove her wrong, and kisses her.

Anna is at the tiki bar, when Felicia comes along, and asks if she’s seen anything of note. Anna says, Felicia looks like she just stepped out of The Real Housewives of Port Charles, and Felicia says, can Anna believe they wanted her for that show? Anna says, it’s not too late to call the producer. She can step in for Felicia at the auction. Felicia says, they’ve been over this. There are bound to be a few ex-spies here, bidding for the Ice Princess and providing security. Anna is too recognizable. Anna says, and Felicia’s not, and Felicia says, Luke was her friend, and don’t forget, she’s descended from royalty. Anna says, a shame she couldn’t wear some of that Aztec jewelry, but Felicia says, don’t worry. She can still convince people that she has the funds to bid on the Ice Princess. Anna says, they’ll play it Felicia’s way; she’ll just sit on the sidelines. She hopes this whole black market thing pans out, and they find Luke’s killer. She really wants to prove Victor’s behind all this.

Harmony looks at the text on her phone: It’s Brendon. We meet or next I call your daughter. Willow asks if something is wrong, but Harmony says, no, nothing. Willow says, she’s looking at the text like she’s seen a ghost, and Harmony says, she thought she’d blocked it already. There; deleted. Harmony’s phone dings again, and Willow asks if it’s the same person. It’s another text from Brandon: I think Willow may be very interested in what I have to say. Then I call her real mother.

On the phone, Nina tells Scotty, about dinner. She wanted to run some things by him regarding the petition for visitation with Wiley. She wants to do it before Britt and Aunt Liesl get back. He says, no can do. He has to run a few errands for her case. She says, what errands? and he walks into Pozzulo’s. He says he has to get his ducks in a row. Goodbye.

Marshall says, he takes it Trina and her friend are still on good terms, and she says, absolutely. Joss has her back. Portia comes in yelling that she said, no comment. And get off her property or she’ll have them arrested for trespassing. We hear the click of cameras, but I wonder, do cameras still make that sound in 2022? She sees Marshall and Trina, and says, that looks good. Did Trina make Marshall one of those mango smoothies she loves? Trina asks if the reporters are still out there, but Portia says, they’re leaving; don’t even give it a second thought. Is Curtis upstairs with Aunt Stella? Marshall says, Stella is sleeping. Curtis took off for The Savoy. Portia says, really? After everything that just happened to Aunt Stella, it must be something big for him to leave now.

N’neka says, they’re all set; how about Curtis? Curtis is staring off into space, and she asks if he’s okay. He says, it’s just been a long day, when Selena walks in and says, the day’s almost over, and the night is rife with opportunity.

Valentin says, my love, the champagne, and Jennifer says, they don’t need champagne. He says, she’s speaking to a Frenchman. There will always be a need for champagne. It will make their moment together so much sweeter. She says she doesn’t like to wait, and he says, all good things come to those who wait, and makes a call.

Felicia says, while Anna was scoping out the hotel, she was observing the clientele. Anna asks if she found anything, and Felicia says, that bartender, Kai, said there were some potential buyers on site. He overheard this dark-haired woman talking about the auction. Apparently, she was so engrossed in her phone call, she didn’t even know he was listening. Anna asks if he got a name, but Felicia says, negative, but he did see her getting friendly with a mustachioed Frenchman. Anna laughs, and says, okay. She sees a man walking nearby, says, oh bloody hell, and ducks. Felicia says, what? and Anna says she knows that man.

Harmony puts her phone in her bag, and tells Willow, it’s Spring Ridge, and they want to change her schedule, so she needs to call them, but she and Willow will talk later. They hug, and Harmony says she loves Willow so much, and jets. Michael passes her coming in, and asks Willow, what’s that about? Willow tells him, Harmony said it was work, but she hopes everything is okay. She gets the feeling there’s something her mother isn’t telling her.

In the elevator, Harmony’s phone rings, and she answers, saying, stop calling. Stop texting. She’ll meet him. Just tell her where and when.

Marshall thanks Trina for the smoothie and the conversation. It’s been great getting to know her. She says, him too, and tells him to have a good night. She goes over to the fireplace, and Marshall tells Portia, on second thought, he’d like to hang out here a little longer. In case Curtis comes back. If it’s all right with her. She says, of course (🍷). He’s more than welcome. She’s going to check on Stella. She goes upstairs, and Marshall says he’s sure glad Stella’s okay. Trina says, her too. She’s glad it wasn’t another stroke or something. He says, thankfully it wasn’t anything more serious, and she asks if he’s ever had a panic attack. He says, yeah. It’s scary in the moment, but it’s no big deal. Trina says, Stella must be feeling so much stress, and having reporters around can’t be good for her. He says, she doesn’t think she had anything to do with Stella’s panic attack, does she?

Scotty says he comes in peace, and Sonny says, Frank, holding up his hand. Frank heads for the door, and Scotty suggests he go do some squats. Sonny says, well, this is an unwelcome surprise. What can he do for Scotty? Scotty says he thought he’d do Sonny a favor, since he pulled the rug out from under Sonny in Pennsylvania at Nina’s hearing. Sonny says he hasn’t forgot that, and Scotty says, she’s filed a petition with the court for visitation with Wiley. Sonny says, Nina already told him; is that it? Scotty says, no. He’s going to call Sonny as a character reference for Nina.

N’neka tells Selena, sorry, they’re not open just yet, but Curtis says, it’s okay. He’s got this covered. In fact, he’s expecting a delivery any minute. Can N’neka meet them out back? N’neka says, yeah, and leaves. Selena says she was glad to hear Curtis wanted to revisit her proposition. Just so they’re clear on the terms, he provides her with the use of his back room for a high stakes poker game twice a month; she provides her players with a credible venue; and he avails himself of their lucrative connections – all above board. Curtis says, so she claims, and she says, she’s not naïve, and since he expressed his disinterest, if he’s reconsidering now, his circumstances must have changed. That’s his business, and is of no concern to her. She’s only interested in finalizing their transaction. So what does he want from her?

Anna asks if Felicia sees the man in the reddish tropical shirt; a WSB agent. Felicia looks behind herself with a mirror, and says she didn’t know Anna called for WSB back-up. Anna says she didn’t, and Felicia wonders what he’s doing here. Anna says she’ll find out. Hang tight. She goes over to the guy and says, Leeman. What’s he doing in this neck of the woods? He says he could ask the same of her, and she says she’s running a sting. Trying to flush out the parties to the auction of the Ice Princess. Leeman says he’s there because they got a tip about the Ice Princess, and the auction isn’t happening because they know who stole it, and where it is. She asks to tag along, saying, he’d really be helping her out. He hesitates, and she says, okay, it will only take her two phone calls to get clearance. Does he want to be the cause of unnecessary delay and bureaucratic red tape? He says, all right. Is she armed? She says, yeah.

Harmony meets Brendon at Pier 54, since Pier 55 fell into the river because of the traffic being too heavy, and he says, Harmony Miller. He thought he recognized her name. After he met her at Alexis Davis’s office last night, he went back to his room, and sure enough, he was right. She was one of his late brother’s patients. One of the inmates Neil counseled. He’s seen her file. She says, he had no right reading it, but he says he couldn’t help himself. It was full of all kinds of interesting information about her and her daughter Willow Tate.

Willow says she’s glad her mother showed up, so Michael and Smoltz could talk alone. She would have been so nervous. How’d it go? Michael says, he took the deal. He’ll drop the charges in exchange for a five-part feature article series on Nina. Willow wishes it didn’t have to come to this, and he says, him too, but it did. They’ve been more than fair with Nina, and every single time, she’s taken advantage. Willow agrees, and says, she tried to convince herself that Nina was acting out of love, but she’s crossed the line so many times. In the end, it’s their job to protect their son. Who knows? Maybe Nina will back off when the feature is published. He says, that’s the goal. The series might prove useful in more ways than one. It will damage Nina’s image, but it might neutralize some of the tricks Nina and her lawyer might try to pull at the hearing.

Marshall says, Stella’s panic attack wasn’t Trina’s fault. He knows for a fact her mom and Curtis are happy to have her out of that jail and back home. Nobody wants her punished for something she didn’t do. She says she knows that, but she doesn’t want to punish them either. The more this goes on, the more it affects the people she cares about. She wonders if it’s not too late to plead guilty.

Curtis tells Selena, his motives are his own. This is a one-time transaction. She says he misunderstands. Let her be clear. She’s offering a business opportunity that’s mutually beneficial. Rest assured, he’ll profit from this arrangement. As a gesture of good faith, here’s the down payment – she puts two rolls of bills on the table – to make use of his premises. He tells her, as he said, it’s not money he’s after, and she says, what then? He says he needs to acquire information he has no access to, and perhaps she does. She asks, what is this information? and he says, a Witness Protection file, along with sealed arrest records attached to it. She says, the subject being? and he says, Marshall Ashford. She says she’ll do her best. Then we have a deal? She holds out her hand.

Valentin gives Jennifer a glass of champagne, and says, pour vous. He babbles something in French, and she says, damn. Why didn’t she work harder to learn French? He says he can teach her a few key phrases, and she says, that would be nice, moving closer to him. There’s a knock at the door, and he says, what is this? She says, probably just some drunk guests; ignore them. The knock continues, and Anna says, WSB. Open up.

Harmony tells Brendon, leave Willow out of this. Stay the hell away from her daughter. He says, she means, Nina Reeves’s daughter.

Jennifer says, she’ll get rid of them. She hasn’t done anything. She opens the door, and sees Anna, Leeman, and a couple of other guys. She asks, what is the meaning of this? and Anna says, Jennifer Smith? She asks Leeman if this is her, and he says, right where intel told them she’d be. They start to walk in, and Jennifer says, they’ve got the wrong person. They can double-check their intel. They walk past her, and she asks what they’re doing. She’s entertaining a friend. She looks around, but Valentin is gone, and she says, he was just here. Where did he go? Anna says, it would appear her friend had to leave. We see Valentin outside on the patio, and Anna says, perhaps he’s allergic to the Bureau. It’s been known to happen. Valentin walks off, and Jennifer says, now that they’ve ruined her afternoon, what do they want? Leeman says, they have evidence tying her to stolen property, and the murder of Luke Spencer. Jennifer says, that’s outrageous. Luke was her ex-husband; she loved him. Leeman tells the hotel manager to open the safe, and Jennifer says, they can’t do that. They can’t barge in here and search. He opens it, and Anna takes out Valentin’s velvet pouch. Jennifer says she’s never seen that before. She has no idea how it got in there. Anna takes out the Ice Princess, and says she supposes Jennifer’s never seen this before either. Does she recognize it? The legendary Ice Princess.

Sonny asks, what makes Scotty think he’d agree to be his character witness? and Scotty says, he’s not really asking Sonny; he’s going to subpoena him. He needs all the character witnesses he can get for Nina. Since Sonny already testified for Nina in Pennsylvania, and did such a good job, thanks to him, Scotty was able to get Nina off the hook. So he thought they might go two for two. Sonny says, Scotty asked him questions, he was under oath, and he answered truthfully. Scotty says, because Sonny is such a law abiding citizen. He can’t complain because it all did work out in Nina’s favor. He understands things are getting complicated with Sonny and Nina’s second go-around, and Sonny says, his life is his business. Scotty can go now. Scotty says, hold on a second, because no matter how this turns out, Sonny loses.

Michael says, they have to anticipate and be ready to defend anything Nina and her counsel throw against them, and Willow says, at least they don’t have Michael’s assault charge to worry about anymore. Michael says, yeah, but Nina could drag in their parents, and taint them by association. Diane assured him that’s not an argument Nina could make, but he has enough experience with the legal system to know, you have to expect the unexpected. They have to be ready. She says, and it can get ugly, and he says, absolutely. By Nina attacking their parents, she could assert that she has as much legal right to be in his life as they do. She could paint herself as a better influence. His dad would be an obvious target, but since he’s probably siding with Nina, they won’t be after him. She says she’s sorry, and he says, him too, but his dad made his choice. He can’t waste energy thinking about it. Unfortunately, her mom is probably going to be a likely target; Nina could bring up her criminal past. Willow says, they could counter with how she’s worked hard to rehabilitate her life, and he says, they could also cite that Harmony got to know Wiley gradually over time. She didn’t overwhelm him, or take control the way Nina did. Willow’s mother is the model of how to build a respectful relationship with Wiley, which Nina hasn’t shown the ability to do. She says, wow. Their relationship with her mother might actually work in their favor.

Harmony says, her medical files are confidential, and protected by HIPPA law. She could have Brendon brought up on criminal charges. He says, it’s interesting that she brought that up. His brother took notes about the crimes she confessed to during their sessions. He kept Harmony’s file in a lockbox, probably wondering whether he should turn her into the cops. When Neil died, he inherited that lockbox. He had no idea he’d find incriminating information. Such as, her daughter Willow isn’t actually her daughter. Harmony stole her.

Trina tells Marshall, they offered her a deal; plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge, and probably avoid jail time, but that’s not guaranteed. He says, but she didn’t take it, and she says, because she didn’t do anything wrong. It was a set-up, but how does she convince the jury that she didn’t do that, when Spencer didn’t believe her, and he knows her? At least she thought he did. Marshall says, forget him. That boy’s not worth her time. She has to focus on what’s best for her now. She asks if it isn’t selfish. She’s seen what it’s costing everyone. Her mom and Curtis should be enjoying their new home and their new life, not dealing with all of this. And then there’s Joss and Cam. She knows they’ll defend her, but that brings the spotlight back on them; it brings the spotlight back on the sex tape. How can she do that to them? If she pleads guilty, this is all over. Isn’t that worth it for the people she loves?

Curtis tells Selena that their deal isn’t done. He has a few more terms. She says, so the negotiation continues? and he says, two games a month is too much. She says, how about one monthly game to start? but he says he’s afraid any set schedule will bring too much attention. She says, she can have the games on an as needed basis. She’ll call him with a week’s notice, and he’ll make his club available to her. He says, providing there’s no booking conflicts, and he’ll need her to provide the costs for additional security, as well as some assurances that her players will be discreet. There will be no guns and no drugs in his club. She says, these are all reasonable requests. He has her word. He asks if her word is enough, and she says, have a little faith. He says, none of this will work if he ends up in a battle with Sonny Corinthos, but she says she’s done her due diligence with the necessary parties. She’ll begin arrangements for the first game. He says, no, and she says, more? She’s been more than fair. He says his last term is non-negotiable. There will be no games unless he gets the information he’s asking for. She says, then they have a deal. They shake hands as Nina walks in.

Selena says, it’s good to see Nina again, and Nina says, likewise. It seems like she’s always interrupting them. Selena says, they were just discussing a private party, and Nina says, that’s fun. What’s the occasion? Selena says, a family reunion, and tells Curtis that he has his down payment. She’ll be in touch. She leaves, and Nina says, Selena doesn’t strike her as a family reunion kinda gal. Curtis says, if the woman wants to host a party, it’s her business, especially if she’s paying top dollar. He picks up the wads of cash, and she says, my God. Didn’t he tell her that Miss Wu was trouble? He mumbles, did he say that? and she asks, why change his mind about people in that line of business at The Savoy? This is fishy. He says, don’t, but she says she knows him, and she knows when he’s in trouble. He’s always been there when she needed help. Let her be there for him.

Marshall tells Trina that he thinks he can relate. He found himself in a situation that would bring trouble on his wife and sons. It’s not comparable to what she’s facing; she’s innocent. But he found himself grappling with a similar situation. Ultimately, he chose to take himself out of the equation, for his family’s sake. She tells him, he’d said it had caused them pain anyway, and he says, it did. But it would have caused more pain if he’d stayed too. He had to make a choice, so he asked himself a question. He said, self, which would bring the least amount of harm their way? She asks if he thinks he caused his family less harm, and he laughs and says, who knows? We can never be certain. For a long time, he didn’t even know what harm it caused him. But now that he’s back, he sees what it cost them now back see what cost them, and it cost them too much.

Jennifer says she was here to bid on the diamond, and Anna asks if she’s aware it was stolen from Luke Spencer. Jenifer says, no, and you never know with Luke; he might have sold it. Anna says, it’s unlikely though. Did Jennifer steal it? So she could get his attention. So he’d track her down and she could orchestrate a reunion. And when that didn’t work, did she kill him? Jennifer says she could never kill Luke. She swears, this wasn’t her. She’s never seen that… That man, he was in the French navy. His name was Françoise Olivier. He was standing in front of armoire when she came out of the shower. He must have put the Ice Princess in the safe. Anna says, that’s very convenient though, isn’t it? Jennifer tells Anna that she’s not saying another word until she speaks with a lawyer. She makes a locking-my-lips gesture, and Leeman says, cuff her. Random WSB guy puts the cuffs on her, and she says, she’s innocent, she swears. They’ve got the wrong person. She swears she didn’t do anything. Anna says, this is he Bureau’s jurisdiction; nevertheless she advises Jennifer to remain silent. Leeman says, get her out of here, and Jennifer says she swears she didn’t do anything. Anna tells Leeman, one more thing…

Valentin asks Kai, when is the boat to the main island? but before Kai can answer, he takes off. Felicia comes by.

Leeman tells Anna, they received information that connects Jennifer Smith to Kurt Markovich, the cable car inspector who orchestrated the accident that killed Luke Spencer. Once they found the Ice Princess in Jennifer’s possession, the motive is self-explanatory. She took the diamond, and killed him to stop him from taking it back. Case closed. They have their killer and their thief.  

Felicia says, you know the man you just met? and Kai says, that’s the French naval officer he was telling her about. Felicia sees the agents taking Jennifer away, and she tells Kai, that’s Jennifer Smith. Is that the woman he saw with the French naval officer? He says, yes. She’s the woman who was talking about the auction. She says, the officer left? and Kai says, he was talking about the next boat to the main island. Then he just took off.

Willow says, they haven’t talked about Michael’s mom. Does he think Nina will try to smear Carly? He says, Nina still thinks his mom is somehow involved in Nelle’s death, but the investigation cleared his mom of any wrong-doing. Besides, should Nina bring up that issue, it will leave her wide open for them to bring up that Nina retaliated against his mother by keeping his father away from his family. So, even though a judge didn’t think it was a crime, they’ll see what a family court judge has to say about it. Willow says, and whether Nina’s behavior makes it appropriate for her to be around a child. He says, and this might not come up in court, but Smoltz’s article will have run by then. And after that, he doesn’t think anyone will think Nina should be allowed in Wiley’s life. All this experience he has, and he really doesn’t know how court works.

Harmony tells Brendon, she didn’t steal her daughter. If he read her file, he knows she was given to Harmony. He says, by Madeline Reeves. He read the whole sordid story. His brother Neil recorded every detail. How she struggled to make ends meet as a health aid for the city, where she was fortunate enough to meet Madeline, Willow’s grandmother. Harmony says, she was so young, but he says, not so young she couldn’t tell the difference between right and wrong. Nina Reeves was pregnant and in a coma. She couldn’t consent to an adoption. Madeline was a greedy woman, who needed to get rid of any potential heirs to Nina’s fortune. But there wasn’t just one baby, there were two; twins. One little girl went to a black market adoption, and the other little girl went to her. It’s time to pay up, or the truth will come out.

Curtis says he loves Nina and appreciates her, and if he needs her help, he’ll let her know. He pulls out a chair, and asks why she came to see him. They sit down, and Nina says she doesn’t like it, but she needs a character reference, because she’s filing a petition with the courts for visitation rights with Wiley. He says, that’s a big step, and she says she did everything in her power to try to avoid this, but she kept hitting walls with Willow and Michael at every turn. Wiley is getting older, and she can’t keep waiting for things to get better, when clearly that’s not happening. He says he gets it, but she’s going to be going up against Sonny’s son. She says, Sonny knows where she’s coming from, better than most people, and he says, it sounds like they’ve gotten close. She says, it’s not about that; she’s torn up to put Sonny in this position. He says, sometimes they have to make the tough decision about who to put first. She says, so he’ll be her character reference? and he says, she can count on it. He’s glad to help a friend. She thanks him, and says, likewise. She knows he and Portia are going through it right now. How’s Trina? He says, hanging in. It’s hard, but Portia is really a wreck. The whole situation brought home how much they’ve become a part of his life. So he totally understands why she’s fighting so hard for Wiley. Because people like them will go to any lengths for the people they care about.

Harmony asks why Brendon is just coming to her now, and he says, because he didn’t know what he had. He went through Neil’s lockbox looking for bank statements, stock and bonds, cash. It wasn’t until he met her that he put it together, and realized how valuable that file was. Harmony laughs, and says, if he’s looking for a shakedown, he’s got the wrong woman. She’s one step away from living in her car, and looking for a second job on top of her first. He says, lucky for her, her dear friend Alexis has money, and her stolen daughter Willow is the mother of a Quartermaine heir. He’s not asking her for money, but he wonders how much Nina would pay for this information. She says, he’s not taking this to anyone. He’ll open himself up to blackmail charges and accessing private medical records. He asks if she really wants to take that chance, and she says she’s survived worse men than him. She’s not afraid of him or his threats. He says, she should be, because unlike her, he has nothing to lose. Get his money or he blows up her world. He starts to leave, and says, oh, and he doesn’t bluff.

Sonny says if Scotty’s got something to say, say it or get out, and Scotty says, the way he sees it, Sonny has two choices. Save Nina or Michael. Either he betrays his son, or throws Nina under the bus, Now, a lot of people are saying he’s a changed man. Scotty’s money is still on the old Sonny, who’s only looking out for number one, and Nina will just be collateral damage. Sonny asks if that’s what Scotty thinks of him, and Scotty says he thinks Nina will too. She’ll wise up and realize she’s better off without him, and Nina’s aunt, his girlfriend Liesl, will see Scotty as a hero. And poor Nina will just be another girl in Sonny’s path of destruction. Sonny says he underestimated Scotty.

Anna meets Felicia at the bar, and Felicia asks, what just happened? The Bureau just took Jennifer Smith away in custody. Anna says, she knows. She had the Ice Princess in a safe in her room, and Leeman can connect her to Kurt Markovich, the cable car inspector who, in part, orchestrated Luke’s death. They think she’s to blame for all of this. Felicia says, but Anna’s not convinced, and Anna says, is Felicia? Felicia says, no, and she’ll tell Anna why. They go to a table, and Felicia says, after Luke’s memorial service, Jennifer told them she was harboring feelings for Luke. Anna says, she reiterated that over and over again in the room. It could be a cover, but it seemed kind of real to her. Felicia tells her, Kai said he overheard Jennifer talking about the auction. Why stick around if she had the diamond? Anna says, Jennifer claimed she was with a French navy captain, and claimed he’s the one who put the diamond in the safe. It seems to Anna that maybe they were romantically involved, or maybe they were working together, and he double-crossed her or stood her up. Felicia says, Kai saw guy the before they brought Jennifer through. He was asking about a boat. Maybe they’re not working together at all. She asks what Anna is thinking, and Anna says, the whole thing is just too tidy. There’s definitely more going on than meets the eye.

Felicia asks why the Bureau would accept it at face value, and Anna says, because they got what they wanted. They’ve got the Ice Princess; it’s not worth it to keep the case open. She and Felicia are the only ones concerned with Luke’s murder. This has Victor’s handwriting all over it. He must have realized they were closing in, and set someone up to take the fall. Valentin listens from behind a partition, and Anna says, so if Jennifer was framed, their next move is to find this man she brought to her room. Once they find Françoise Olivier, then they should get the truth. Valentin takes off the moustache, and tosses it aside.   

Trina says, gin, and Marshall says, she did not. Girl, you a card shark. Curtis comes in, and Marshall asks if everything is all right at the club. Curtis says he worked it out. He’s going to look in on Aunt Stella. Portia comes out, and says, that’s perfect timing. She’s resting comfortably. Is he good? He says, yeah, and asks if Marshall stayed here. Portia says, he did, and she’s glad. It seems as if he was a real help to Trina. Marshall says, your deal, card shark.

Sonny says, for a long time, he didn’t give Scotty a thought; Scotty was like nothing in his world. Then in Pennsylvania, Scotty surprised him, and he said to himself, wow, but he thought it was a fluke. But now Scotty’s coming in here, showing Sonny what a contender he is. Congratulations. He’s going to get exactly what he deserves.

Harmony looks at a picture of Willow on her phone, and cries. 

Willow yawns, and tells Michael, sorry; it’s been a long day. He agrees, but knows what would make it better – cuddling with Wiley and a bedtime story. She says, that makes everything better. Just be prepared to carry her to bed too. He tells her, then be prepared for him to wake her up. Nina comes in, and they glare at one another. Then Brendon walks in, and stands behind Nina.

On Monday, Ava says, she and Trina need to discuss ground rules; Alexis says, Nikolas is full of surprises; and Carly wonders who Nina is going to go after next.

🧼 On This Day In Soap…

What happened in soaps on this day.

🍵 Dishing the Soap…

The GH stars talk about their co-workers. I can’t believe Roger Howarth isn’t considered Most Likely to Ad-Lib.

🗽 A Given…

Doesn’t everyone wish they’d made more at every job?

👹 Beyond Flipping  Tables…

This looked like literal insanity.

👠 Gia In the House…

Does this make her a friend of the Housewives now?

https://screenrant.com/gia-giudice-reportedly-filming-rhonj-season-12-reunion/

👰🏻 Uncertainty In New Jersey…

I’m guessing she’ll make a decision as soon as the paycheck is big enough. (See article on Jill Zarin.)

💳 Exchanging London For Dubai…

I can’t wait to see this one. I loved Ladies of London, Caroline in particular. And I always enjoy seeing Dubai, since I will never, ever be able to afford to go there. Unless that guy with the balloons visits me, and I don’t mean Pennywise.

I hate to say it, but the house isn’t that interesting. It’s very sterile-looking. Even the closet was a disappointment.

https://www.bravotv.com/ladies-of-london/photos/take-a-look-inside-caroline-stanburys-finished-dubai-home#10858792

💰 Well, That Stinks…

I’ll miss them. I hope Reza gets some kind of spin-off show.

https://people.com/tv/bravo-cancels-shahs-of-sunset-after-9-seasons/

🐶 Ending On an Aww…

Please feel free to squee.

https://www.yardbarker.com/lifestyle/articles/20_celebrity_pets_that_will_make_you_say_aw/s1__34563662

🥂 Quotes of the Week

Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.Mark Twain

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.B. B. King (Or integrity.)

All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them. – Viola Davis

Equality may perhaps be a right, but no power on earth can ever turn it into a fact. – Honore de Balzac

I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book. – Groucho Marx

When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong in contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure. – Peter Marshall

I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition. – Martha Washington

🛌🏽 Going To My Happy Place…

Meet me here when the Dead Walk again. Until then, stay safe, stay exercising your body and mind, and stay not being so engrossed in a phone call that you don’t know who’s listening.

April 7, 2022 – Michael Promises an Exclusive To Smoltz, Taking Over, New Film, Non-Negotiable, Reuniting & Grazing

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

In his office on the phone, Sonny says, he’ll stay in touch. They’ll finalize the deal, and he’ll give them all the details. He’s looking forward to it. He hangs up, and there’s a knock at the door. He says, come on in, and Frank brings in Nina. She says she came here in person so he wouldn’t be blindsided. He has a butterfly bandage over his eye, and she asks, what happened? He tells her not to worry about it. Whatever she came here to say, he appreciates the heads up, because defense is a lot easier when you see the hit coming.

Everyone gets in place for a family photo, and Portia asks Stella what she’s doing. Come here, and get in this picture. Stella’s vision goes blurry, and she drops to the floor. Portia, TJ, and Curtis run over, and Portia asks Trina to get her medical bag. TJ tells Stella that she’s going to be fine; focus on him and breathe slowly. Portia tells TJ, her pulse is thready, and TJ says, her pupils are dilated.

French Polynesia. French navy guy Valentin asks if this chair is taken, and Jennifer says she never turns down a cool drink from a hot man. He sits, and tells the bartender, whatever madame is drinking, bring two. Jennifer introduces herself, and Valentin says, bonjour. Captain Françoise Oliver – he kisses her hand – at her service.

At the MetroCourt, Michael says, Willow still can’t find her phone? and she says, no. She could swear she put it in her purse before they went out the door. He asks if she’s tried looking in her hand, and she says, wow. She’s losing her mind. She puts it in her purse, and he says, she’s just nervous about meeting with the reporter. She says she knows it was Diane’s suggestion, but she’s not convinced offering Smoltz a story in exchange for Smoltz dropping the charges against him is one of her better ideas. He says, it doesn’t hurt to explore their options. He won’t do anything she’s not okay with. They’re a team. She says, and don’t you forget it, and they kiss. A man approaches them, and says, Michael Corinthos and Willow Tate? Willow asks what this is about, and the man hands them each an envelope, saying, you’ve been served.

Harmony goes to Carly’s office, and says, Carly’s assistant wasn’t at her desk. She hopes she’s not disturbing her. Carly asks if she’s lost, and Harmony says, no, but feel free to tell her to get lost after she tells Carly why she’s here.

Laura asks what goal she and Victor could possibly have in common, and Victor says, the well-being of the people they care about. It’s time to put the past behind them and look to the future, and their family’s place in it. If she knew how high the stakes were right now for the people they love, she woudn’t hesitate to help him.

On the phone in a private area of the MetroCourt, Alexis says, they asked her to sit on a television panel to talk about cyber-exploitation… Yeah, it would be great exposure for the newspaper… She thanks them for convincing her she might be good at this job… Smoltz comes out of nowhere, and says, congratulations, Alexis Davis, while doing a slow clap. He says, the cyber-exploitation article is making her famous. Too bad she stole it from him.

Valentin asks Jennifer what’s brought her to the island, and she says, an auction of something priceless to her. Valentin says, how exciting, and she says, it belonged to someone very special. He says, and this someone special, is here with her? She wonders if the captain is asking if she’s single, and he says, how do you Americans say? You got me. She laughs and says, nobody special at the moment. Anyone special in his life?

Laura asks if her family is in danger, but Victor says, not yet. But they do live in uncertain times, and she has a lot of family to consider. There’s her other son, her daughter, her grandchildren, that charming husband of hers, not to mention the two brothers she just recently got to know. She asks what he cares about her brothers; he never cared about his own. Frankly, his rebirth as a devoted family man doesn’t just strain believability; it’s laughable.

TJ tells Stella, good news. This isn’t a stroke. Portia says they’ll conduct an EKG when they get to the hospital, but it doesn’t look like it was a heart attack either. Curtis asks, then what is it? Why did she collapse? TJ says, they’ll find out more when they get to the hospital, but there don’t appear to be any physical symptoms. Stella says she couldn’t breathe, and everything went black. Marshall says, the paramedics are here, and he and TJ help Stella to the door. Curtis asks Portia what she and TJ think happened, and she says they think Aunt Stella might have suffered a panic attack.

Nina says she hopes her news isn’t too much of a hit for Sonny, Michael, and Willow, and he says, she petitioned the court for visitation of Wiley?She says she did; Michael and Willow are going to be served any minute now. He says he was hoping to prevent this, and she says, he did what he could. Like she told him, she doesn’t want him to referee. He says he doesn’t think he could talk to Michael anyway, even if he tried, and she says she did everything she could to keep this out of the courts and minimize the impact on him. Although it seems like her actions only made it worse between him and Michael. He says, Michael’s anger is at him, not her, and she says, regardless of who takes responsibility, her first priority is to make sure she’s in her grandson’s life. It’s a crazy thought, but she’s hoping someday she’ll have an amicable relationship with her grandson’s parents.

Willow wonders if Smoltz filed a civil suit, but Michael says, if that were the case, he’d just be served, not her. They open the envelopes, and she says, oh no. He says, Nina has filed for visitation with Wiley, and she says she can’t believe she’s surprised, but she is. Nina’s going through with it; dragging them all into a court battle. He says he knew she was going to do this. Any pretense of a compromise or being reasonable was just window dressing. She says, Nina is selfish to the core. She goes after what she wants, consequences be damned. He says, what happened to his parents is proof of that.

Carly says, Harmony is Willow’s mom, so if she needs to tell Harmony to get lost, she thinks she can come up with a more polite way to phrase it. Harmony says, fair enough, and Carly asks her to have a seat. Harmony says she won’t take up too much of Carly’s time. She’s looking for a job. Carly says she thought Harmony had one, when Harmony’s phone rings. Carly asks if she needs to get it, but Harmony says, it’s not important. She still has a job at Spring Ridge, but she’s trying to save up for a security deposit for an apartment, and two jobs would be really helpful. Carly asks where she’s living now, and Harmony says, a really generous friend is letting her stay with her temporarily; Alexis Davis. Carly says she knows Alexis, and Harmony says, having a second job would get her out of Alexis’s place faster and into her own. Carly says she admires Harmony’s drive, but is she sure she’s going to have enough energy to moonlight? Harmony says she’ll totally find the energy. It’s important that she doesn’t burden Alexis. She’s caused enough trouble as it is.

Alexis says she didn’t steal anything from Smoltz. Story ideas come across her desk all day long. He says, maybe, but he pitched her that revenge porn scoop first, then she gave it to another reporter behind his back. She says she gave it to another reporter because he would have turned it into tabloid fodder, and he says he can be sensitive and relevant, but she didn’t give him the chance. She took the low road to take the high road. She asks if he doesn’t think she read the articles of his that nutcase Peter put in The Invader? She doesn’t owe him anything. He doesn’t have a high road. He begs to differ, and says, so here’s the deal. He won’t sue her for stealing his idea. In return, she’s in his debt, and he intends to collect. She asks what he wants, and he says, a five part feature in The Invader. She asks if he thinks she’s going to agree to that, and he says, he does. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll be looking in looking dusty corners to find story ideas after his colleagues find out she did him dirty. She says, he doesn’t know all the journalists out there, and he says, maybe not, but he has a huge social following. Even if he’s not liked, he’s known. Is she willing to take the chance that this will go away? No.

Jennifer says Valentin never answered his question. He’s not wearing a ring. Does that mean he’s single? He says, there is someone back home, and she says, of course (🍷), but he says he assumes they’re destined be together. She asks, why? and he says he needs a woman who’s sure of what she wants. She says she knows what she wants. She wants to get to know him better, unless he’s not up for that. He says, au contraire, Jennifer. He would like nothing more, but he’s on leave and has only one night. She says, a lot can happen in one night, and they clink glasses.

The doctor comes in and tells Stella that TJ told him what happened. Stella asks if TJ told him that he thinks she’s losing her mind, but TJ tells her, he didn’t say that. The doctor says, his specialty isn’t the mind, but all doctors know physiology and psychology are closely linked. They can start by examining her. Portia says, they’ll wait outside, and Curtis says he doesn’t want to crowd her, but… Stella says, Portia can stay, and Portia says, of course (🍷).

Willow says, and what about what Nina did to her mom; manipulating her, so she could advocate to them for Nina to see Wiley. He says, they’ll have to make peace with Smoltz, and she says, he means cut a deal. He says, now that Nina filed the petition with the court, he has to make the assault charge disappear, or Nina and Scotty will try to exploit it to strengthen their case. She says, he’s right. They’ll have to play nice with that slimy reporter. Michael says, only to a point. They’ll have to be careful with the kind of story they offer Smoltz. She says, or they may live to regret it.

Carly says, she and Harmony share a grandson, she she’s happy to help. Does she have any experience that suited to hotel work? Harmony says she does; experience in cleaning and serving. Carly says, great. She’d love for Harmony to meet her partner Olivia Quartermaine. She thinks Monday works best. If it doesn’t work for Harmony, they can pick another day… Harmony says, it’s not that. In the interest of full disclosure, Harmony thinks she should tell Carly that she recently went to bat for Wiley’s other grandmother Nina Reeves.

Nina says, Michael can be reasonable. He let her see Wiley when Sonny was in Nixon Falls, until… Sonny says, until he found out Nina lied about him, and she says, that was her 463,000th mistake, and now Michael is angry at both of them. Sonny says, and afraid, because for whatever reason, Michael believes Nina is a danger to Wiley. She says she would never ever hurt her grandson, but the way Carly, Michael, and Willow act, you’d thinks she was a physical threat to him. Sonny says, Nelle was.

Trina asks Marshall if there’s any news, and he says, Stella is being examined. He wonder what she did with the cheese and crackers. Let’s not wait for news on an empty stomach. Trina says she’s not that hungry, and he says he knows how it feels when people get the wrong impression. She says, people think she betrayed her best friends. It makes her sick to her stomach. He says he knows it hurts. It hurts to be misunderstood. You know how he’s learned to deal with it? He brushes his shoulder, and says, not caring what strangers feel about him. She says, what about someone she considers a friend? How does she not care his feelings have changed? He says, that depends. Has he been a true friend to her? She says, her mom would say no, and he asks, why is that? She says, he asked her to cover for him when they first met. Then he did something pretty awful to someone she cares about, and now, he’s choosing to believe someone else over her. Marshall says he understands why her mom thinks this guy’s not deserving of Trina’s friendship, and she says she should have never invested in someone who had so many secrets.

Laura lifts her glass of ice tea, and says, may Victor achieve his dream of being the devoted family man of the year. She takes a sip, and says, come on now. No witty retort? No charming parry? He asks, what is there to parry? The Cassadines have a lamentable history, and the part he played in their schemes is well known. He’s been trying to make almonds amends, but her skepticism is quite understandable. She says he almost sounds sincere, and he says, his life has been horribly lonely over the last few years. When he went hiding after the explosion at Creighton-Clark, Nikolas was the only one who knew he survived. Laura says, he never told her, and Victor says, he told Nikolas not to. Nikolas would check in on him from time to time, but he knew Nikolas’s place was here in Port Charles. He spent a lot of time thinking about Valentin, dreaming about being a real grandfather to Charlotte. She says, as much as he dreamed about money and power. He says, what is money? What use is power if you can’t use it to improve the lives of your loved ones? She asks, what happened to the Victor Cassadine she used to know and hate? and he says, admittedly, he’s come to this appreciation of family rather late in life, but here and now, he’s more committed than she’ll ever know.

Alexis says she’s not going to be bullied by Smoltz, and he asks, who’s bullying? He’s a good writer with well-placed sources. She won’t be compromising herself by giving him a chance. She says, text her; make an appointment. He says she can’t blow him off that easily. She liked his revenge porn story enough to steal it. She thinks he’s a one hit wonder? He’ll just take his next pitch to the competition, and encourage his fellow journalists to do the same. She says, tell her when he comes across his next story. No promises.

Smoltz goes into the other room, and over to Michael and Willow’s table. Michael gets up, and Smoltz ducks and says, not the face. A little assault and battery humor. Kidding aside, there are plenty of witnesses here if Michael does come after him again. Michael says, all he wants to hit Smoltz with is an offer; have a seat. Smoltz tells him, so his attorney said when she set up this meeting. What has he got? Michael says, a mutually agreeable solution to their problem.

Carly says, Harmony went to bat for Nina over what? and Harmony says, over visitation with Wiley. Nina asked Harmony to appeal to Willow and Michael. In retrospect, she really wishes she’d said no. She felt she owed Nina. Carly says, for what? and Harmony says, as someone who doesn’t get much of a chance to see Wiley as well. She understood how Nina was feeling; they both love that little boy so much… Carly says, but now that Harmony has had time to think about it, she realizes Nina only uses people to get what she wants, and Harmony says, absolutely. She knows it’s best to just stay out of Nina’s affairs; getting involved has consequences. Carly thanks Harmony for telling her, and says, as for the job, Harmony can fill out an application online, and she’ll have her HR person flag the application. Harmony thanks her, and Carly says she’ll be in touch. As Harmony is leaving, her phone rings again

Nina asks, how does Nelle’s behavior have anything to do with her seeing her grandson? and Sonny tells her, he’s just saying maybe his family sees something of Nelle in her, and her in Nelle. She says she didn’t even get a chance to be able to raise her daughter, and she’s being blamed for how Nelle turned out? He tells her, he’s not saying it’s right. He’s saying maybe Michael believes it. She has to admit Nelle was capable of evil. She says, so Nelle was destined to be bad because of her DNA? and he says, it could show up in court, even if it’s not true. She’s nothing like Nelle. She says, thank you… I think, and he says, he sees all of her, and he’s thinking maybe Michael and Willow will too.  

Alexis asks if Carly is busy, and Carly says, she already told Alexis’s roommate she’d consider it. Alexis says, consider what? and Carly says, she’s not here about Harmony’s job? Alexis says, at Spring Ridge? and Carly suggests they start over again. What brings Alexis to her office? Alexis says she was offered a television spot to sit on a panel to discuss the article regarding Josslyn and Cameron. Carly says she knew it was getting traction, but didn’t know it was that much traction, and Alexis says, it’s a hot button issue, but if Carly thinks this will make Josslyn uncomfortable, she won’t do it. Carly says she can’t answer for Josslyn and Cameron, and Alexis says, then she’ll speak to them herself. As a courtesy, she wanted to run it by Carly first. Carly says, she appreciates it, and Alexis lingers. Carly asks if there’s anything else she can help Alexis with, and Alexis says, what is this about Harmony and a job?  

Smoltz says, their problem? Michael hit him, which makes the problem Michael’s. Harmony walks in, and Michael says, if the charges are brought to trial many months from now, his lawyer is confident she can prove undue provocation. When Commissioner Ashford is brought in to testify about the alleged attack, his lawyer will cross-examine her about how Smoltz sought him out, and made inflammatory remarks about his younger sister, a traumatized victim of revenge porn. Harmony comes by the table, and asks if she’s interrupting. She just thought she’d say hi. Willow suggests they give Michael and Smoltz a chance to talk, and tells Michael that she won’t be far if he needs her. She and Harmony leave, and Michael says, that’s if this even goes to trial. The DA might consider the case too weak and throw the charges out altogether. Smoltz suggests they talk about the civil suit he can file against Michael, and the damages he’ll get. Maybe Michael can advise him on which Caribbean island is best for the winter months. Michael asks if Smoltz can really afford ten, maybe twenty, years of litigation in civil court, because his lawyers can drag this out indefinitely, and trust him, Smoltz will go bankrupt before he ever sees a dime of Michael’s money.

Harmony asks Willow, what is it? and Willow says, Nina filed a petition for visitation. Harmony sighs, and says she didn’t think it would come to this. Does Willow think they can reach an agreement with Nina before they go to court? Willow says, no. They’re past that point; Nina has crossed too many lines. Any hope for a civil relationship is dead.

Nina thanks Sonny for seeing more of her than just her past. He says, she sees all of him, and she says she tries. He says she doesn’t just try; she does. She accepted his behavior when he’s been off on occasion. She got him through, and didn’t judge him. She asks if he finally wants to tell her what happened, and he says he walked into a punch. She asks if he’s sparring again, and he says, it’s good for the heart. She says, but it’s bad for the brain. He’s still bleeding. Let her take care of him. She gets a cloth and dabs at his wound, and he says, hurts so good. She asks if it hurts, but he says, she has a soft touch, and they kiss.

Jennifer asks how a nice cool shower sounds, and Valentin says, sounds refreshing. However, he prefers the delicious anticipation of waiting for her to return after her shower. She says, you French are such charmers, and he says, of course (🍷) he expects a moment by moment account, and she says, mon capitaine, you are a naughty one. He says, she has no idea, and she opens a wardrobe containing a safe. He watches as she opens the safe, and puts her jewelry inside. She tells him that she’ll be back two shakes. She goes into the bathroom, and he takes out a velvet pouch. She says she’s stepping into the shower, and he asks how the water is. She says, divine, and he tells her, describe everything, as he goes to the wardrobe and opens it. She says, first, her chest. She’s circling around her body, lathering her neck and arms; now her toes. He looks at the safe and hums.

Marshall says, all secrets are not created equal, and Trina says, but lying to protect a secret is never right. He says he’s no philosopher, but he believes certain lies are morally justified, and she tells him, who’s to say what’s immoral or not? He says, that’s a judgement call, and she says, her dad would agree with him. He had her believe he was dead, and she knows now he lied to protect her, but at the time, he broke her heart. He says, seems like her dad and him have a lot in common. Instead of saving their children from pain, they both inflicted it on them.

Stella thanks Portia for staying with her, and Portia says, her pleasure; of course (🍷). Curtis knocks, and asks if he’s invited back in. Stella tells him to come over and give her some sugar. He gives her a hug and kiss, and she asks if the doctor told him, there’s no need to fuss. He says, the doctor told him she’s not suffering from any physician conditions, but there’s definitely something going on. She says, it’s just stress, and he says, enough to cause heart palpitations? Something’s definitely got her rattled… or someone.

Alexis tells Carly, Harmony was her only friend in Spring Ridge; Harmony was her crutch. So if Carly wants her to give a recommendation, she can tell Carly that Harmony is very conscientious, and she’s a hard worker… and not good enough? Carly says, it’s not that, it’s just… Harmony told her that Nina got her to talk to Michael and Willow about visitation with Wiley. Alexis says she has an idea of how Carly feels about that, and Carly says she doesn’t like the idea of anyone forming an alliance with Nina. Alexis says, at least Harmony was honest about it, knowing it could cost her a job, and Carly says, but Harmony said something else that was really strange. She said she owed Nina. Alexis says, owed her what? and Carly says, maybe it doesn’t matter. Is Alexis saying Carly can trust her?

Harmony says, Willow is the most forgiving person she knows. There’s got to be hope for reconciliation between her and Nina. Willow says, not after all the harm Nina has caused; sleeping with Sonny, breaking up his marriage. And all the while, stringing Willow along with a promise of compromise about Wiley. Nina’s a narcissist. She’s selfish and self-serving. Willow doesn’t want her anywhere near Wiley. There’s no compromising on that. Harmony’s phone rings, and she takes a look, but doesn’t answer. Willow says, somebody wants to talk to her. Why is she ignoring it? You know, I can suspend my disbelief over things like Nixon Falls, but who on earth would ask that IRL?

Smoltz says, if he drops the charges, what does he get as thanks? and Michael says, an exclusive. Smoltz asks, how exclusive? and Michael says he just got served with notice that Nina Reeves, real estate heiress, Crimson editor, and convicted kidnapper, has petitioned for visitation with his son Wiley. Smoltz says, her grandson; that’s not news. Michael says, what he’s offering is an on the record account of Nina’s conflict with his family. Everything from her time in Nixon Falls to the present. And a little background to the abduction of Avery Corinthos. Smoltz says, now Michael’s got his attention.

Sonny and Nina continue to kiss, when Sonny’s phone rings. He picks it up, says, business associate, and puts it back down. Nina says, no, she thinks he should get back to work. She picks up her bag and coat, and says, like she told him, she wanted to alert him about the petition. He says he appreciates that, and she says, see him around. He says she can count on it, and she goes to the door. She turns back, and says, mend fences with Michael, even if it means siding against her in court. He says he’s on Wiley’s side, whatever’s best for him. She says, hopefully that includes having his grandmother in his life. He says, kids need all the love they can get. As a matter-of-fact, everybody needs all the love they can get. He smiles, and I like this Sonny.

Curtis asks if Marshall upset Stella, and she tells him, don’t be silly. He says, she and Marshall had an intense conversation earlier. If that bothered her, he needs to know. She says, it’s not his job to worry about her, but he says, it’s his job to protect his family… even if it’s from his own father.

Victor says, if he and Laura work together, combining her pragmatism with his imagination, they would be unstoppable. She says, to what end? and he says, the future; a better future. She says, it’s a shame Luke Spencer won’t be around to enjoy some of that better future, and he says, Luke’s passing is indeed a terrible tragedy. Laura’s phone dings, and she looks at it and frowns. Victor says, bad news? and she says, Doc can’t make lunch. He got called to a staff meeting. Victor says he’s sorry. He’d ask her to join him, but he’s pretty sure he knows what her answer would be. She says, good. Then he won’t be disappointed when she turns him down. He says, she does believe he cares for Nikolas and Spencer, doesn’t she? and she says, he may be sincere in wanting to do right by his family… He says, he senses a but coming, and she says, but it wouldn’t be him, would it? He’s the kind of guy who sees what he wants, and he goes and he gets it. No matter who or what is in his way.

Jennifer says, the showerhead tickles, and Valentin brings the pouch over to the safe. He starts putting in a combination, and says, is that a good thing or a bad thing? She says, so good. Is he sure he won’t join her. The combination doesn’t work, so he tries another, and she says, the water is wonderful. He says, just hearing her voice is driving him crazy, and he gets another dud. He keeps trying, and asks if she’s washing her hair, and she says she already did. The next combination doesn’t work, and he says, magnifique. She says she’s ready for him to towel her off.

Smoltz says, Michael wants a hit piece on Nina Reeves, and Michael says he wants to set the record straight about Nina’s erratic behavior. The damage she’s caused, the laws she’s broken, and the questionable judgement she’s shown. Smoltz says he’ll need more than a list of grievances, and Michael says, he’ll have enough material to write a dozen articles; sources, dates, and even the inside scoop on Nina’s relationship with his father. Smoltz says, if Michael’s got the goods, they’ve got a deal. This will be the feature of a lifetime, and he knows exactly who will run it. Speaking of running it, doesn’t Michael think he should run all this by Carly first?

Nina tells Sonny to put ice on his eyebrow, and stick to dancing. He asks if she knew that boxing and dancing are similar. You could easily be distracted, and if you mess with your footwork, you can get hurt. And they’re both contact sports, so you need plenty of practice. She tells him to call her if he needs a partner, and he says, for sparring? but she says, no. They’ve already fought enough in the ring, but if he wants to perfect his box step, she’ll leave room on her dance card.

Alexis gets a call from Smoltz, but ignores it. She says she can vouch for Harmony’s work ethic, but whether Carly hires Harmony is up to her. Carly thanks her, and also for telling her about Joss and Cam. Alexis has given her a lot to think about. Alexis says she’ll stay in touch, and leaves.

On the phone, Marshall asks Stella how she’s doing, and she says, apparently, it was a panic attack. He says, those panic attacks, they can be frightening, and she says, it got her thinking about all she’s been holding inside. He gets up, stepping away from Trina, and says, that was just what he was doing just now. It’s healthier to unburden oneself. She says, healthier for who? His confession won’t be good for the family Curtis is forming, or their place in it. He asks what she’s saying, and she tells him, if Curtis asks him more about his past, stick to his story.

In a private spot, Curtis makes a call. He says, it’s Curtis Ashford. He’d like to revisit their proposition.

Harmony says, it’s just telemarketers, and Willow asks if she’s sure. What if it’s important? Harmony says, they didn’t leave a voicemail, so… Her phone dings, and Willow asks if she isn’t the least bit curious. Harmony looks at the text on her phone: It’s Brendon. We meet or next I call your daughter.

Laura says, goodbye, Victor, and he says, at least he tried. He won’t press his cause further today. He’ll give her time to change her mind. She says, he may not have that time to give. In fact, his time is rapidly running out.

Jennifer says she guesses she has to dry herself off, and Valentin makes one last attempt. She says she’s going to slip into something he can slip her out of easily, and asks if they should order champagne. He finally gets the safe open, and says, voila! Absolutment. Champagne is a necessity. He is parched. Jennifer comes out, and asks what he thinks he’s doing.  

Tomorrow, Trina says, if she pleads guilty, this is all over; Willow tells Michael, their relationship with Harmony might work in their favor; Anna says, there’s something more than what meets the eye; and Curtis tells Selena, his term is non-negotiable.

🏥 How She’s Doing…

It’s not easy taking over for an already established character, so my hat’s off to her. That being said, I’m missing the old Trina. It’s not the new actress that I have issues with, but the way she’s being directed. The new Trina seems to be more passive in some way, and I’m not loving it.

🎥 Crushing It…

This sounds promising, and it’s free on TubiTV.com. I love that site. You can always find weird stuff there. Try Dinosaur Hotel while you’re there. If you like B-pictures, you won’t be sorry.

🗽 Boo Hiss…

Shame on the Housewives for not letting Eboni play their reindeer games. And contrary to what the article says, I did miss them having a Reunion. I was actually kind of pissed off that they didn’t. I also thought Eboni was a great addition to the cast. God forbid we should learn stuff.

https://ew.com/tv/eboni-k-williams-rhony-castmates-wouldnt-negotiate-future-with-her/

💣 Third Kill…

Another promising piece of entertainment. I would say, you can’t miss with that cast, but I saw Sphere in the movie theater. It’s 134 minutes of my life I can’t get back.

https://ew.com/movies/samuel-l-jackson-uma-thurman-reunite-the-kill-room/

🍩 Whatever Gets You Through the Night…

Hope to see you tomorrow for Friday’s wild card of soap, tea, insightful words, and an appropriate (or not) musical effort. Until then, stay safe, stay thirsty for knowledge, and stay knowing that boxing might be good for the heart, but it’s bad for the brain. So dance instead.

April 1, 2022 – Trina Makes Her Plea, Byrne Return, Another Year, Annulled, Sponsoring, Deck Wedding, Maid Chosen, NYC Reaction, Dragon Due Date, In the Grammy Know, Music In the Quotes & My Name

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Brick and Sonny bro hug, and Sonny says it’s good to see him. He asks how Brick got there so fast from L.A. Brick says he knows a guy, who knows a guy, who has a jet fueled and ready at LAX. When Sonny calls, he’s here. How can he help? Sonny says, there’s been a void in his life for too long that he’s been trying to fill, and Brick says, someone used to fill that void. Sonny says, yeah, Jason.

The guy from Charlie’s comes to Alexis’s office and says, it’s been a long time, Miss Davis. She says, it’s you, and he says she remembers. She says she never forgets a face, especially when it belongs to the man who blamed her for his brother’s death.

Harmony walks into Charlie’s, and sees Nina, who apparently lives there now. Nina asks how it went with Michael and Willow. She saw them, right? Harmony says she did, and Nina asks if Harmony told them that it’s in Wiley’s best interest to visit her. Harmony tells her, she said all that and more, and Nina says, don’t leave her in suspense; what did they say? Harmony says, not what Nina wanted to hear.

Nikolas walks into Windymere’s living room, and says, there’s nothing to fear. You’re safe. Esme and Spencer follow him in, and Esme says, this place is extraordinary. Even the name sounds grand – Windymere. Spencer says, it’s not like she hasn’t been here before, and Esme says, not for months. It’s good to be back. Nikolas says, more important, she’s safe from Sonny and his goons here, and Spencer says, what about the lady of the house? When is he going to loop Ava in?

Ava slips into the courtroom and sits down, as Judge Young is saying, Trina Robinson, you have two counts against you. How do you plead? Trina hesitates, and Scotty starts to talk, but she says she’s got this. She tells the judge that she pleads not guilty, and I say, yes!

Brick says, it’s the perfect time to raise a glass to their gone, but never forgotten, friend… What happened to the bar? No single malt aged twelve years? Sonny says he’s taking a break from that stuff, but the bar’s loaded if Brick wants to go help himself. Brick says, whither thou goest, I will go, and Sonny laughs. They sit down, and Sonny says he was hoping Brick would say that. Brick asks, how he can help fill that void? Is Sonny up for adventure? San Juan? Hong Kong? Marrakesh? Sonny says, not adventure. Monica has declared Jason legally dead, so they’re all going to be going to the memorial service. Brick says, may he rest in peace, and Sonny says, maybe Jason can, but he can’t. Does Brick remember Selena Wu? Brick says he does. Formidable lady. Is she causing Sonny trouble? Sonny says, she gave him advice, something he’s heard already, and Brick asks, what advice? Sonny says, that he can’t run the business alone anymore. He needs somebody else to step up and fill that hole Jason left behind. Brick says, I accept, and Sonny smiles and nods.

Alexis says, Brendan, isn’t it? and he says, it is. She says, the last time they saw each other, it was at Neil’s funeral. Not a very pleasant occasion for many reasons. Alexis flashes back to the funeral, and Brendan telling her, this is a celebration of Neil’s life. Alexis stripped Neil of everything he considered worth living for. He doesn’t want this service tainted with her presence. She’s not welcome. We see her leaving, and in the present, she says, he made his feelings crystal clear. And if it’s any consolation, that moment was devastating to her, and sent her into her own personal hell. He says he heard she lost her law license, hit the booze pretty hard, and didn’t stop until she attacked a cop and went to prison. She says she’s very flattered that he kept up with her life. What does he want?

Nina says, Willow just told Harmony what she thought Michael wanted to hear. Get her alone. She’ll change her mind and let Nina see Wiley. Harmony says she’s sorry. Willow doesn’t think it’s in Wiley’s best interest to have contact with Nina. Nina says, so Michael and Willow want a fight. They’ll get a fight, especially after her run-in with Carly earlier. Harmony asks, what happened? and Nina says she was reaching out to Carly to compromise about Wiley, but she wasn’t having it. Harmony says, she’s going through a rough patch, right? She just got divorced from Sonny? Nina says, Carly filed for that divorce. She pushed it through practically overnight. She threw away Sonny with both hands. Harmony tells Nina, give it some time; let Carly lick her wounds. Give her time to heal. Nina says, if that ever happens. And then what? Wiley will be in college, asking, who’s Nina? and he’ll never know who his birth mother is. If only she knew Nelle was her daughter before Nelle died. She could have saved Nelle from herself, and she wouldn’t have to be begging for a chance to get to know her grandson, or for him to know her.

Nikolas says, they can let Ava know when she gets home. Right now, she’s at Trina’s hearing. Spencer says, right, that was today, and Esme asks if he wishes he was there. He says he’s the last person Trina wants to see, and she says she didn’t ask what Trina would want. Nikolas asks if Esme wants to drop her bags off in the bedroom. It’s the same one as the last time. Spencer says, Nikolas can’t stop Esme from bringing up Trina; she’s obsessed. Esme asks if she doesn’t have reason to be. It doesn’t matter that there’s evidence Trina posted that video of Joss and Cam. Sonny Corinthos still believes it was her. Nikolas says, which is why she’s at Windymere and Spencer is home. And she’s safe. She asks if any place is really safe from Sonny, and Spencer says, Uncle Sonny will do anything and everything to protect his family. She says he means protect them from her, and he tells her, he didn’t say that. She says he didn’t have to. She’ll take her bags up. She leaves, and Nikolas asks why Spencer is treating Esme this way when he invited her to stay here. Spencer says he’s sorry, but Esme pushes his buttons; the way he’s been known to push other people’s. By the way, is there a bomb shelter on the island? Nikolas asks, why? and Spencer says, because he’d like to be inside it when Nikolas tells Ava that he and Esme moved in.

Scotty tells Trina, stick with me, kid. They’ll be sorry they tried to railroad you. ADA Arden says, this was a premeditated act that required a significant amount of planning. The defendant specifically targeted her friends with the intent to cause harm. The state requests bail be set at $250,000. Scotty jumps up, and says, your honor, my client is a freshman in college. She’s not Lizzie Borden. She has ties to the community. She’s innocent until proven guilty. She should be released without bond. Arden says, if the defendant is released without posting significant bail, and access to a computer, she has the capacity to do significant harm. (Huh?) Who knows who else she’s taped? Scotty tells her to save that for her closing statement, if she even gets that far. Judge Young tells Scotty, that will be enough, and tells Arden, there’s no indication the defendant poses a threat to the community. Therefore, the defendant is released without bond. He bangs his gavel, and Scotty dusts off his hands. The judge tells Trina that she’s free to go, pending a trial date to be determined. The bailiff says, court is adjourned, and Portia runs over to Trina, saying, she’s never been more prouder of her. She hugs Trina, and Curtis says, Trina was great. Ava says, may I? and hugs Trina, who thanks her for coming. Ava says she’s so proud of Trina, proclaiming her innocence. Josslyn says, they’ll prove it, no matter what it takes, and she and Trina hug. Trina says, you too, Webber, and Cameron adds to the hug.

Brendan  says he was in pain, and he wasn’t ready to face his brother’s failings, so he lashed out at Alexis; blamed her for Neil’s death. Alexis asks if that’s an apology, and he says, it is. She says she wishes she’d known about Neil’s addiction. She could have helped. But he hid it from her, and she had no clue. He says, she suffered enough. Look at her now. Brand new career, off the booze, respected, productive member of her community. She thanks him for the compliment, and says, he was really hostile to her at Neil’s funeral, so what is it with the sudden attitude adjustment? He says he’s had some bad luck himself; failed marriage, failed business. It brings humility. She says, and the need to make almonds amends? He says, as two people who loved Neil, he hoped they could come to an understanding.

Harmony tells Nina that she’s sorry. Nothing can bring back Wiley’s birth mother, but she has to know that Willow loves that little boy like he’s her own flesh and blood. If Nina gives it some time, maybe Willow can convince Michael that she should see her grandson. Nina asks, how much time? Because this is the same woman Harmony told her thinks she isn’t good for Wiley. She remembers when Willow was Miss Tate, and taught her former stepdaughter Charlotte. She didn’t like Willow then, and she should have trusted her instincts. Harmony says, Willow is highly principled, and Nina says, oh please. Willow says she’s going to help Nina, and the next moment, she pulls a 180 and sides with Michael. She doesn’t have a backbone. She only pretends that she’s compassionate. That weeping Willow is no oak. Harmony says, just because she’s gentle doesn’t mean she’s weak, and Nina says she’s sorry. She knows Willow is Harmony’s daughter. She’s just frustrated. Look how Willow has treated Harmony. She’s barely spoken to Harmony since she got out of prison. Harmony says things are much better between them now, and Nina says, until Michael shuts her down. Then what’s going to happen? She’s incapable of standing up to the man, or Carly. Nina would be better off to ask a stranger for help. Harmony hisses, Willow is no stranger, and she’s just as strong as her mother, but Nina says she’s never going to be as strong as Harmony. Harmony has overcome a lot, and turned her life around. Willow would be lucky to have even one drop of her courage. Harmony says she forgot; she has an appointment. She has to go. She walks out, and I’m starting to wonder if Nina is delusional.

Sonny asks Brick if that’s a serious offer. He could use Brick’s areas of expertise. Brick says, he can definitely help with the logistics, business support, definitely cyber security, but Sonny will need to bring in somebody else as a facilitator. Sonny says he’d trust Brick with his life, and Brick says, trust goes both ways; Sonny knows that. Sonny nods, and says, Jason used to do the day-to-day, but since he passed, Sonny has to deal with the other families, and try to figure out who targeted his stepdaughter. Brick asks if he’s talking about the tape of Josslyn and her boyfriend, and Sonny says, he saw the tape? Bricks says, hell no, but he saw people seeing it. It took every bit of self-control he could muster, not to take every one of them out. (What? Where are people watching this? And where is Brick hanging out?) Brick asks Sonny to please tell him that he found out who did this, and Sonny says he knows who’s responsible. He doesn’t have proof yet, but he put them on notice.

Ava says, congratulations. Scotty has one courageous client, and he says, tell him about it, but she’s got a big fight ahead… He sees Arden, and says, counselor, get used to the judge seeing things my way. Arden says, cyber crimes are insidious. The law is still catching up. The fact is, whatever goes on the internet, stays their forever. His client taped her friends without their knowledge and put it up for the whole world to see. Scotty says, hey Molly, tell your boss here… and Molly says, he can address her as ADA Lansing-Davis. He rolls his eyes, and says, okay, but she can’t really believe Trina did this. She says she believes DA Scorpio offered a generous plea bargain, and it was his obligation as Trina’s attorney to advise her to take it. Arden says, her associate’s right. She should have taken the deal, but she didn’t, so they’re going to trial. She’s going to take a stand for everyone who’s ever had an intimate picture or video weaponized against them. His client might have thought it was no big deal, but she was mistaken, and she’ll go to prison for the full term. She and Molly leave.

Trina thanks Josslyn and Cameron for being here and standing by her. Josslyn says, that’s what friends do, and Trina says, they took back the narrative when they told their story to The Invader. Their courage made her realize she doesn’t need to give in to cyber bullies, to Esme. The world needs to know she’s not the one who hurt them. Scotty says, they’ve got to talk strategy, and Portia says, now? Is that really necessary? Trina’s already been through so much today. He says, that ADA’s out for blood, and Curtis says, the judge hasn’t even set a trial date yet. Trina says, honestly, she just wants to take a long hot bath, and Scotty says, okay, she can do that. Tomorrow, they have a lot of work to do. Trina thanks him, and Curtis says he noticed there were reporters outside in the corridor. They’re going to want a statement, which he doesn’t think any of them should be making. Ava says she knows her way around this courthouse. They can exit this way. Portia tells Trina, let’s go home, and they follow Ava out. Josslyn tells Cameron, if she were her mom, she’d walk out of this courtroom with her head held high. He says, but she’s not her mom; she has nothing to prove. Josslyn says, only to herself, and Smoltz stumbles in. Cameron says, he’s too late; Trina went out the back. Smoltz says, it’s not Trina he wants. It’s Cameron and his girlfriend.

Josslyn says, they already told their stories to The Invader. Read it himself if he can afford the paywall. Smoltz says, he did read it, and Cameron says, then he would know they have nothing else to say. Smoltz says he knows Alexis Davis stole his scoop, and cut him out of the story, and Cameron says, oh boo-hoo. Life’s unfair. Smoltz says, what about their friend Trina? Their story did some good, but what about their friend? Josslyn says, what about Trina? and Smoltz says, did she do it? Did she film them and post it? Cameron says, hell no, and Smoltz asks, how can he be so sure? Do they know who’s responsible? Cameron and Josslyn look at each other, and he says, they do know. They just can’t prove it? Josslyn asks what he wants, and he says, an exclusive. Tell him stuff they didn’t say in the interview, and he’ll help them get the goods on whoever set up their friend. Sound good? Ava comes back, and says, you. Get the hell away from them.

Portia says, welcome home, and asks what Trina thinks. Trina says she liked it when it belonged to Joss’s dad, but she likes it even better now that it’s Portia’s. A safe harbor. Curtis says, good memories? and Trina says, yeah. Six months ago, their biggest problem was opening a jar of Sonny’s marinara sauce. Now everything’s changed. Curtis says, she heard what the lawyer said. They’re going to fight this. Portia says, they’re going to fight this, and they’re going to win. Trina says she told Joss and Cam that their courage gave her courage, but Portia and Curtis’s support helped her out a lot too. Curtis says, they can do a lot more than offer moral support. He could find evidence to exonerate her. He hasn’t forgotten how to find clues in dumpsters and garbage cans. Portia says, let’s hope it doesn’t come to that, and Trina says, Spencer’s right. On one hand, there are tons of people who believe in her. Curtis says, and on the other hand? and she says, there’s evidence that proves she did it. Esme made sure of that.

Nikolas tells Spencer, Ava is well-aware of Sonny’s methods when he feels someone has crossed him or his family. She’ll understand the need to protect Esme. Spencer says, but will she understand why he’s sitting across from her at breakfast? and Nikolas says, it’s not a permanent arrangement. If Trina is found guilty, Sonny will have to accept the verdict and back off. Spencer says, even if Uncle Sonny does, he doesn’t think Ava will. Ava loves Trina like a daughter. She’d happily throw Esme to the wolves if it means Trina goes free. Nikolas says, and if Esme is carrying Spencer’s child? Ava may not like it, but she’ll make peace with it. Spencer says, and if Esme’s not pregnant? and Nikolas says, that’s all the more reason for Spencer to find out.

Brick says, so little Spencer has a girlfriend, and Sonny says, he’s not so little anymore. Brick says, Sonny has always liked this kid, and Sonny says, he still does, but not his company. Brick says, Sonny is convinced this Esme Prince is behind the video. Is he sure Spencer didn’t help? Sonny says, Spencer has done some terrible things, but he’s known Josslyn since they were in kindergarten, and Cameron is part of his extended family. He thinks Spencer’s hands are clean. Brick says, so the girlfriend is operating behind his back, and Sonny says, yep. If they can prove Trina is innocent and Esme is guilty, it won’t be just justice for Josslyn and Cameron. It will be a way for Spencer to dump his girlfriend. Brick says he knows Sonny’s got his own people on it, but as always, if Sonny needs him… Sonny says, yeah, he needs Brick, and Brick says, then he’s on it, but in the meantime… Sonny says, what is on his mind? and Brick says, Sonny is always running around looking out for everybody else. Who’s looking out for him?

Scotty goes into Charlie’s, and asks Nina what she wants. He’s very busy. He has a young woman who needs his help, unlike her. She says she’s sorry. She thought she could avoid going to court, and he says she thought she could get somebody to intercede with Wiley’s parents? Somebody like Sonny? But he threw her to the wolves, didn’t he? She says, no, this has nothing to do with Sonny. Her go-between couldn’t really do anything because Willow is so besotted with Michael, she won’t stand up to him or Carly. He says, why would she? Her mother couldn’t even stand up to that snake oil salesman Shiloh. Nina says, he’s not making this easy on her. Can they sit down? He asks, why should he? He kept her out of prison, and she turned her nose up at his legal expertise. So if she wants his help now, he’ll have to hear her say it.

Alexis says she assumes this understanding comes at a price, but Brendan  says, he wouldn’t put it that way. She asks how he’d put it, and he says, she couldn’t have risen from the ashes without help. Is it wrong of him to want the same thing? She says, that depends on what he means by help. Forgiveness? Friendship? He says his brother lost his life by getting involved with a self-destructive alcoholic, and she says, there it is. She was wondering how long he was going to keep up the Mr. Nice Guy act. There’s the door, move toward it, and don’t look back. He says, his brother was never a rich man, and funerals are expensive. She can deny it all she wants, but she contributed to Neil’s death. She needs to make things right. She says she’ll never stop wondering what happened to Neil, and starts to get her stuff together to leave. How he became an addict, and how that addiction took his life. She’s not at all satisfied that’s the truth, but she won’t be browbeaten into paying for his brother’s mistakes. There’s nothing he can say that will make her change her mind. He asks if she’s sure about that.

Alexis says, he needs to leave, but Brendan  says he’s not leaving until he gets what he wants. Harmony walks in, and asks Alexis if she’s early. Alexis says, actually, she’s right on time. Brendan was just leaving. Harmony introduces herself, and he says, Brendan Byrne, Neil’s brother. Harmony Miller. Where does he know that name? Have they met before? Harmony says she doesn’t think so. He might have seen her on TV, in connection with an organization called Dawn of Day. She was pretty notorious back then. Alexis says she and Harmony were just leaving, so if he doesn’t mind… He says, of course (🍷). He’ll send her his contact information. If she sees an opportunity she thinks he might be right for, let him know. He leaves, and Harmony says, what was all that about? Alexis says she doesn’t know, but it was scary.

Sonny says, Brick doesn’t have to worry. He survived all those months in Nixon Falls; he can survive anything. Brick says, but he wasn’t alone, and Sonny asks if he’s talking about Nina. Brick says, yeah. She must be one helluva lady to come between Sonny and Carly. Sonny asks if Brick still has something for his wife, and Brick asks if he doesn’t mean ex-wife. He just admires Sonny’s taste, but he gave up Carly. Brick just hopes this new lady’s worth it.

Nina and Scotty get a drink, and Nina says, okay. He needs to hear her say it. She clears her throat, and says she made a mistake. He says, what? and she repeats it louder. She says, she shouldn’t have pinned all her hopes on Willow’s compassion. Does he feel better? He suggests she hire Martin Grey, that folksy downhome charm works with a few judges. She says she doesn’t need folksy downhome charm. She needs a fighter, a killer, that will leave his opponents bloody in the field. He says, that’s him. However, he’s busy right now with Trina Robinson. Nina says she needs his help, and she’s willing to put him on retainer immediately. He says, before he takes her money, he needs to know she’s going to fight for Wiley, no matter what. And if that means kicking Sonny to the curb, then she’s going to do that.

Trina comes back downstairs, and Portia asks what she thinks. Trina says, great room, and thanks her. Portia says she made it up like Trina’s old room, but she probably wants to get rid of the stuffed animals now that she’s grown up. Trina says, no, never, as all of us who have them past our teenage years would say, but she’s still looking forward to returning to her dorms when this nightmare ends and she proves her innocence.  Then this place is theirs. Portia says, it’s Trina’s home too. And she doesn’t have to be brave. They’re in this together. Curtis says, all of them, and they have a family group hug.

Josslyn says, what part of no way doesn’t Smoltz understand? and Smoltz says, give it up, man. Ava faces him, and says, a journalist like Mr. Smoltz won’t stop until you slam the door in his face, or better yet, on his writing hand. He asks if she hasn’t heard of the first amendment, and she says, it comes right before the second, and I literally lol. Smoltz says, that sounds like a threat, and Ava says she was hoping it would. Cameron says he and Josslyn can handle this, and Josslyn tells Smoltz, they’re not interested in boosting his career. Cameron says, in other words, get lost. Smoltz says, fine; their loss. He stomps to the door, and says, and their friend Trina’s. He slams out, and Josslyn says, this wasn’t Ava’s fight. Ava says, on the contrary. Avery would never forgive her if she didn’t stand up for her sister. Cameron says, that guy had one thing right. Trina’s in deep trouble until they prove she’s innocent. Josslyn says, and Esme’s guilty.

Spencer looks out the window, and Esme tells him, she just got an alert on her phone; Trina pled not guilty. He says he hopes she can prove it, and she says, even if Trina tries to accuse her instead, when she might be carrying his child? He says, let’s find out. Why hasn’t she taken that home pregnancy test yet? She says she’s scared, and he asks if she’s scared that she’s pregnant, or that she’s not?

Harmony says she assumes Brendan was there talking about his brother, and that’s what caused all the tension when she walked in? Alexis says, it was really weird. He shows up all sympathetic, not at all like the guy who heaped abuse on her at Neil’s funeral. Harmony asks if something changed, and Alexis says, he thought the Mr. Nice Guy act would convince her to help bail him out of his troubles. When she refused, he went from Jekyll to Hyde. He thinks she owes him because she caused the relapse that caused Neil’s death. Harmony flashes back to injecting Neil, and says, it was good thing she walked in when she did. Just stay away from Neil’s brother. The farther the better.

Ava tells Josslyn and Cameron, don’t lose any sleep over Esme. The truth will come out. Trina will be vindicated. Cameron says she sounds confident, and Josslyn says, Esme has skated so far… Ava… Ava says she’s spoken to someone who has an interest in seeing Esme punished for targeting the two of  them. Cameron looks at Josslyn, and says, who’s that? Ava says she knows it’s difficult for them to trust her, but this time they’re going to have to. Esme is going to get what’s coming to her. Ava strides out the back way.

Esme says she wants Spencer with her when she takes the test, but she doesn’t need a test to tell her what she really wants. He says, which is? and she says him; she wants to be with him. Does he want to be with her? Don’t answer that now, but ask himself this. If it were without the baby, does her being here work to his advantage? He asks, how? and she says, by driving a wedge between his father and Ava. Isn’t that what he wanted all along?

Sonny tells Brick, he’s taking it day to day. As far as him and Nina, he can’t read into the future, but he will say this. The connection they had in Nixon Falls was real. Brick says, he knows Sonny, and when he wants something, he goes for it, and he usually gets it. Sonny flashes back to him and Nina dancing at Charlie’s, and Brick says, Sonny is thinking about her right now, and Sonny asks if they can get back to the matter at hand. Brick says, the future… without Jason. That’s something they can work on. The future without love, with all due respect, is not for Sonny.

Nina says, Sonny knows she won’t force him to pick sides, but Scotty says, Carly, Michael, and Willow will. So if Sonny has to choose… She says, Sonny is going to do what’s best for his family, and she’s going to do what’s best for hers. He asks if she’s willing to lose lover boy, but she says she won’t lose him. Not if he’s the man she knew in Nixon Falls, and the man she sees in Port Charles. He asks what makes her think she can have it all? and she says, she’s going to have her grandson in her life, and she’s going to have the man who changed her life for the better. He says, sorry, nobody gets it all, nobody, but she says, there’s always a first time.

Sonny says, he and Brick will regroup after Jason’s memorial service. In the meantime, is Brick willing to take on more managerial responsibilities? Brick says he can search for a facilitator to take on some of Jason’s other skill sets; don’t worry about that. Sonny says, okay. He has one more job for Brick. He wants Brick to find out how Esme Prince engineered that video. Brick says, he’s on that; no problem. Sonny asks if Brick wants a drink to seal the deal. Raising his glass, he says, sparkling water. Brick says, to think he’s always admired Sonny, and Sonny says, not anymore? but Brick says, now more than ever, and they clink glasses.

Scotty tells Nina, Michael is out to win, and Diane Miller is a tough cookie. She will dig up whatever she can. Nina says, she understands, and he gets up, asking if there’s anything he needs to know before he files the petition. She tells him, don’t faint, but she thinks her life is pretty much an open book at this point. He says, no little secrets in her diary? No skeletons in her closet? She says, no. Wiley is the only thing left of her daughter in this world. She owes it to Nelle be in his life, whether Michael or Saint Willow like it or not. He says, then hang her hat with him. She won’t regret it. They shake hands, and she says she hopes not.

Alexis says, Harmony never said what brought her by, and Harmony says, it can wait. She’s going to cook Alexis dinner; she’ll make something soothing. Alexis says she could use something soothing. Neil’s brother being here reminds her how horrible Neil’s death was. She can’t help wonder if that eviction is the thing that caused his death. Alexis turns out the lights, and they go to the hallway, but Alexis says  she forgot her phone, and goes back to her desk in the dark. Harmony stands in the doorway, and looks around.

Brendan  looks through a bunch of folders, and finds one that says Harmony Miller. He says he knew that name was familiar.

Trina says, it’s one thing to plead not guilty, but she has to live with that decision. That ADA is obviously out to get her. She couldn’t believe when she said $250,000 bail. Curtis says he believes she was just grandstanding, and the judge ignored her recommendation. Trina says, this time. The ADA thinks Trina’s guilty, and Scotty said she’s out for blood. What if the ADA convinces the jury she’s guilty? Portia says, that’s not going to happen. And instead of dwelling on it, why doesn’t Trina take that nice hot bath she was talking about earlier? It will make her feel better. Trina says Portia talked her into it, and goes upstairs. Portia tells Curtis, she doesn’t know how long she can keep this up. What if Trina’s right? They have no idea what’s going to happen. Curtis says, Trina has a lot of people by her side, and more courage than anyone he knows. Portia says she doesn’t disagree; she has faith in her daughter, just not in the world. Curtis says, as long as they have faith in each other, they can’t lose.

Cameron asks if Josslyn is  ready to go home, and she says, actually, she’d like to go back to the dorms. He says, Trina’s not the only one being brave, and she says, she’s not being brave. She just wants things to go back to normal, if that’s even possible. He says he’ll try to help make that happen, and she thanks him. They kiss, and he says, let’s go. He starts to head to the back, but she says, actually, she’d like to go out the front. He asks if she’s sure, and she says, if she can face a bunch of people on campus, she can face a couple of reporters outside. It’s hard to believe Trina is going to come back here and fight for her innocence. He says, it doesn’t matter what Ava says; this is going to be tough. She says, this is why they need to help Trina. They need to find a piece of evidence that Esme framed her. He asks how they pull that off, and she says, by proving Esme can be in two places at once. She leads him out of the courtroom.

Ava walks into Windymere, calling for Nikolas, and Esme says, he’s upstairs. Ava walks into the living room, where Esme is sitting. She sees Esme is reading What to Expect When You’re Expecting

On Monday, Violet asks Brook how her baby is; Gregory comes for a visit; Ava asks Nikolas what it’s going to be; and Spencer tells Esme, it’s time to take that pregnancy test.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Forgotten Brother…

I forgot about him anyway.

🍾 Happy Anniversary…

A look at GH over the years.

👰🏼 Never Happened…

I think the rules regarding annulments must have relaxed. I thought it either had to be fraud or that you didn’t consummate the marriage. And being realistic, the latter probably hasn’t been an issue since the 1600s.

👭🏼 Sisters Helping One Another…

It’s hard to think of Leah being anyone’s sponsor, but stranger things have happened.

🛥 Her New Deck…

She certainly looks a lot happier than she did on the Mediterranean.

https://people.com/tv/below-deck-med-hannah-ferrier-marries-fiance-josh-roberts/

👰🏻 But She Seemed Like the Normal One…

Proof that the world has gone mad. Maybe Dina is still grieving over Grandma Wrinkles and not in her right mind. In other news, I had no idea Kim D had a last name.

🗽 Reboot Raspberry…

I don’t think Jill Zarin ever stopped expressing a desire to return from the time she was let go.

🐉 Flying In Soon…

An update on House of the Dragon.

🎶 Can’t Stop the Music…

All you need to know.

https://www.grammy.com/news/2022-grammys-nominations-64th-grammy-awards-looking-ahead-how-to-watch

Who’s performing.

https://pitchfork.com/news/grammys-2022-performers-list-see-the-full-lineup/

How no one wants to be there. That’s how I feel seeing a performer in Atlantic City. They don’t want to be there. I don’t want to be there. Why are we here?

🎷 Quotes of the Week

Smile, breathe, and go slowly…Thich Nhat Hanh

Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife. – Kahlil Gibran

Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment. – Buddha

Music is the soundtrack of your life. – Dick Clark

Sometimes, I feel discriminated against, but it does not make me angry. It merely astonishes me. How can any deny themselves the pleasure of my company? It’s beyond me. – Zora Neale Hurston

One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain. – Bob Marley

If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down. – Mary Pickford, 1892-1979, American actress

The only truth is music. – Jack Kerouac

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

There are two means of refuge from the misery of life — music and cats.Albert Schweitzer (Hey, what’s wrong with dogs?)

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. – Steve Jobs

Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent. – Victor Hugo

✍🏽 Don’t Forget To Write…

I’ll return to the keyboard at approximately Dead o’clock. Be there or be an octagon. Until then, stay safe, stay seeking truth, and stay letting the courage of others give you courage.

March 25, 2022 – Jordan Follows Up On a Tip, Their Song, Hold Up, New Start, a Fight, a Spin-Off, a Crossover, Two Firsts, Teresa Tales, Nasty, Apology, On the Range, Legacy, New Award, The 12 Of Quotes & Spice

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny asks what kind of favor Curtis is talking about, and Curtis says he knows Sonny has access to certain kinds of information. Sonny asks if he can be more specific, and Curtis says he has to get his hands on a certain police file.

Nikolas says, perhaps it’s time Victor told them exactly what he’s been planning since before he got back in town, and Victor says, maybe Nikolas is right. Nikolas says, he’s got their attention; what’s the big plan? Victor says he’s afraid the information is for family only, and Nikolas says, they are family. Victor says, some more so than others, and looks at Ava.

At the MetroCourt, Taggert tells Portia, stop worrying; Trina is only ten minutes late. And frankly, it’s giving him some time to wrap his head around this Joss and Cam sex tape. Whaat? Portia says she doesn’t think you can actually call it a sex tape when the people involved don’t know they’re being taped, and he says, that would be considered revenge porn, and that is against the law in the state of New York. She says she just thinks it’s disgusting that anyone would target Trina’s friends in that way. To her, too much of their kids’ lives are already on the internet for everyone to see, but to exploit someone’s private moments like that, that’s disgusting. He asks, what about Spencer Cassadine’s girlfriend? Really? Accusing Trina of posting this video? Portia just hopes this makes Trina realize that Esme and Spencer are bad news all around for her. He says, look who it is, and nuTrina walks over. They hug her, and Taggert says he’s so glad she could make it. He’ll tell the hostess they’re ready. Trina says she can’t stay; she has class in thirty minutes. Unless they want her to blow off class. Portia says, perish the thought, and Taggert says he’s amazed at Trina’s schedule; full time student at PCU, along with her new job at the gallery. Trina says she knows what they’re doing, and Portia says, trying to spend time with their precious girl? but Trina says, they’re trying to see if she’s surviving all this craziness. Taggert says, since she brought it up, how is she handling this Joss and Cam thing? Trina says, it’s horrible, but it’s made her realize she needs to be more careful about who she spends her time with.

Stating the obvious, Spencer says, this is a pregnancy test, and Esme snatches it out of his hand. She says, what it is, is none of his business. He wants her out of here? Fine. She’ll go. He says, wait, and she asks what else he can say, because he’s already broken her heart.

At the station, Dante asks if he can talk to Jordan, and she asks, what’s up? He says he was talking to ADA Rodriguez about possible charges against whoever put that video of Joss and Cameron out on the internet… and she says she’s stopping him there.

Cameron and Josslyn walk into an empty classroom, and Cameron asks if they’re really that late. Josslyn says, that’s weird. She thought Professor Kahn would still be there, so at least they could explain the situation. He asks if she thinks they’re the first to use still talking to the police as an excuse for missing class, but she says she thinks Professor Kahn has heard every excuse in the book. He says, Josslyn was quiet on the ride over, and she says she was thinking about her interview with Detective Lopez, going over her statement in her head, making sure she covered everything. Why don’t they check and see if the professor is in her office? He says, they don’t have to leave just yet; they can spend a few more minutes here. She asks, why? What’s wrong? He says he just thinks things are a little chaotic out there. They can spend a sec in here, while everyone is getting situated in their classes. She says, so there’s fewer people watching them walk down the hall? and he says she’s got him. She asks if he really cares what random people think, and he says he doesn’t want to care, but it’s their first day back since the video came out. It’s obvious people are talking about us. She says, about us? It’s mostly about her.

Sonny says he knows Curtis had a big part in taking down Cyrus Renault when he was living in Nixon Falls, and he kind behaved badly at The Savoy a couple months ago… Curtis says, don’t even worry about it. He knows Sonny was going through a lot. He was trying to save his marriage. Curtis’s marriage with Jordan blew up over a year ago, and he knows exactly how difficult that is. Sonny says he appreciates that. So Curtis wants him to get a sealed arrest record? Before he goes any further, who’s it for? Curtis says, it’s for his presumed dead, but very much alive, father.

Portia says, tell her more about who Trina is going to allow in her life, and most important, who she’s not. Trina says she visited Spencer at Spring Ridge, and made it very clear she can’t be friends with him as long as he’s involved with Esme. And Spencer stayed with Esme, which definitely clarifies things, and frees her from any impulse to worry about him. Portia says she’s proud of Trina, and Taggert says, good for her for standing up for herself. Trina says, but it’s hard, because she still thinks he’s a good person deep down. Taggert says he doesn’t know about that. He remembers way back when, when Nikolas was a few years older than Spencer. He was dating Taggert’s sister Gia, and he doesn’t think the Cassadines strike him as particularly deep. Portia asks what class Trina is off to, and Trina says, Social History Through Art. Portia asks if Joss and Cam are in that class too, and Trina says, no, but even if Joss was, she wouldn’t be there. She hasn’t been in any of her classes since… Taggert says he knows about the video. Her mother told him all about it. So how is Joss handling all this? Trina says she’s not sure. She’s been staying at her mom’s rather than the dorm. It’s like Joss needs to hide out for a while, which she totally understands, so she’s trying to give Joss her space. Portia says, if she were in Josslyn’s position she wouldn’t want space; she’d want her best friend. Trina says, Joss hasn’t texted her in a while. She figures if Joss wants to hear from her, Joss will let her know.

Cameron says, us, you, it’s doesn’t matter; we’re in this together. Josslyn says, they’re both in the video together, and both had a private moment stolen from them, but the fallout is different. It shouldn’t be, but it is, because she’s being slut-shamed all over the place. People are making fun of her, they’re critiquing her body, they’re judging her for even having sex at all, and Cameron tapped that. She’s just some tramp who gave it away. He says he’s sorry, and she says, it’s nothing that he did. It’s just the way things are. She knows the only way out is through, and she just has to face it down, and keep moving forward. Trust her, that’s what she’s going to do, but she hates that she has to deal with something that’s so ugly, sexist, and blatantly unfair. He says he’s sorry, and he knows it’s unfair. He saw the way she reacted when they thought people were whispering, and she says she thought she handled it pretty well. He says, no one else would have noticed, but he knows her. He knows when she’s confident, and when she’s only pretending to be. She says she loves how he knows her, and kisses him, but then pulls away, saying, she hates how this bothers her so much because it shouldn’t. They didn’t do anything wrong. He says, this is why he didn’t want to do the Invader article, but she says, they needed to go on record. They needed to state they didn’t record that or post it themselves. And it’s also important for people to know how invasive this entire experience was, and they can help other victims of revenge porn. He says he agrees with everything she’s saying. He just can’t bear to see her get hurt. She says, he doesn’t have to protect her; it’s not his job. She didn’t ask for any of this, but here they are, and she’s not going to hide. He tells her, he didn’t say they have to hide, but they don’t have to be in the spotlight either. She asks why he didn’t say this before, and he says he did. She asks him, then what is he saying? This is her fault now?

Nikolas says, as far as he’s concerned, Ava is more his family than Victor. Anything Victor has to say, he can say to both of them. Victor says he’s sorry, but no, and Ava says, that’s okay, and gets up. It’s sort of a compliment really. Nikolas can tell her later; she’ll be at the bar.

Spencer says, Esme knows he’d never intentionally hurt her, and she says, like he knows she’s not the one responsible for that disgusting video. He says, they’re not talking about the video. Why does she have a pregnancy test? She asks why he thinks? They made love that night before he went to Spring Ridge. He says, she’s pregnant?

Dante says, revenge porn is a crime in the state of New York; what’s the problem? Jordan says she’s aware of that. An investigation into the video of Josslyn and Cameron has been opened. He can provide back-up support as needed, but that’s it. Josslyn is his stepsister. She can’t risk the defense casting doubt on any information he receives. He says, who his father married shouldn’t disqualify him as an investigator, and she says, he needs to take a step back from this one. And any evidence he does uncover, he needs to take to Detective Lopez immediately. He says, by the book; got it. She says she understands his frustration, but take it from her, nothing good comes from breaking the rules. Been there, done that, and it didn’t end well.

Curtis tells Sonny, his dad who he thought was dead, suddenly shows up in Port Charles a few months ago. You would think he’d be ready to answer some questions, but instead, he’s been extra cagey about where and when he’s been. He says he wants to start over. Curtis had Drew do a deep dive into his background, which prompted Marshall to admit to Curtis that he has a criminal record, and it’s been sealed. Sonny says, with all due respect, why is it Curtis’s business? and Curtis says, normally, it isn’t. They all have a past they’re not proud of, including him. Sonny says, but Curtis wants him to get sealed information on his father, and Curtis says he has reason. Marshall’s been lying to him.

Victor says, he’s spent too many years preparing for this to have it all fall apart now, and Nikolas says he still has no idea what Victor is talking about. Victor says, Time was, the Cassadines were among the most powerful families on this planet, and Nikolas asks if that’s not a little exaggerated, but Victor disagrees. Heads of state would routinely line up to do business with them. They were true power players on the international stage, and it’s high time they reclaimed that influence.

Ava goes over to Portia and Taggert’s table, and says, good evening. She asks if Trina will be joining them, but Portia says, she’s already come and gone; she had to get to class. Taggert says, they were lucky to get ten minutes with her. It amazes him how that girl races through life. Ava says, ah, the energy of youth, when Taggert’s phone rings. He steps away to take the call, and Portia invites Ava to join her. Ava says, just for a minute. She’s actually here for a family celebration. She sits down, and Portia asks, what’s the celebration? Ava says, Spencer’s release from Spring Ridge, and Portia says, forgive her if she doesn’t find that a reason to celebrate. Ava says she agrees with Portia, but for Nikolas’s sake, she’s playing nice. Portia says, better Ava than her, and Ava says, make no mistake though, it’s going to be difficult, especially when Spencer starts work at the gallery for restitution. It helps that he won’t be answering to her directly; Trina will be supervising him. Portia says, that’s not going to happen.

Spencer says, Esme is pregnant? Why didn’t she say anything? She asks when she was supposed to tell him, before or after he called her a monster? For the record, she hasn’t taken the test yet, but she is late. She kept waiting to get her period, but after ten days, she finally chalked up the nerve to get the test. He says, she thought she might be pregnant for over a week, and didn’t say anything? and she says, it was his last week in prison. She thought he had enough to worry about without the possibility of being a father. He says, well, let’s find out. She needs to take that test – right now.

Cameron says he doesn’t want to fight, and Josslyn says, neither does she. He says they have to remember they’re in this together, and she says, yes, they are, and there’s no reason to hide in here, so let’s go. Trina walks in, and says, hi. It’s been a few days since they’ve seen each other. Cameron says, which is pretty weird, right? and Trina says, right. How are they doing? Josslyn says, hanging in there, and Cameron says, class is over. Why is Trina here? Trina says she was looking for Professor Kahn, but Cameron says, she already left. Trina says she’s got to get to her next class, but Josslyn says, wait. This is crazy. Trina says, it is. She missed them so much. Josslyn says, they missed her too, and they have a three-way hug.

Sonny asks how Curtis knows his father was lying, and Curtis says he had Drew go along with the background check. He found some information that made Curtis question Marshall’s account of where he’s been all these years. He’s all for a person’s right to privacy, but when they start lying to him, he needs to know why. Sonny flashes back to picking Marshall’s prescription bottle off the floor and giving it back to him, and says he can’t help Curtis.

Portia says she thinks Spencer’s a bad influence on Trina, and she knows Ava cares about Trina, which is why she’s asking Ava to reconsider making Trina Spencer’s supervisor. Can’t someone else do it? Ava says, when she spoke to Trina about it, she seemed fine working with Spencer, but Portia says, things change. She suggests Ava check in with Trina, and see how she’s currently feeling about Spencer.

Jordan tells Dante, don’t get her wrong. She’s done questionable things in the past when her family was involved. She learned her lesson the hard way, and it’s because of that experience that she refuses to bend the rules again. It’s a very slippery slope. He says he knows, and he doesn’t want to compromise the case, but he’s concerned about Joss and Cameron and what they’re going through, and wants to help. She says she feels the same, but Josslyn and Cameron are doing okey. Detective Lopez said their statements were clear and very helpful. He says he doesn’t want it slipping through the cracks, and she says, it won’t. Josslyn and Cameron are victims of a crime, and the perpetrator’s not getting away with it.

Trina says, it was good of Cameron to leave them alone, and Josslyn says, Trina knows Cam. He’s super considerate, and she’s in desperate need of some girl time. Trina says, her too. Did Josslyn get her text? Josslyn says, no. When did she send it? Trina says, when the video came out. She wanted Josslyn to know she was thinking about her. Josslyn says, she got so many pervy messages that day, she started deleting them without looking. She must have accidently deleted Trina’s too. Did Trina get her text? Trina says, she did, but all it said was that Josslyn was staying at her mom’s house, and then she didn’t hear anything else. Josslyn says she didn’t hear anything else from Trina either. Why didn’t she text again? Trina says, when Josslyn didn’t respond to her first text, she figured Josslyn needed space. Josslyn says, space from the world, absolutely, but space from Trina, never. Trina should know that. Trina says, how? Josslyn didn’t come to the dorms; she didn’t respond back to Trina’s text. Josslyn says, she explained that, and Trina says she gets that now, but then, she thought Josslyn didn’t want to hear from her. Josslyn asks why she wouldn’t want to hear from Trina, and Trina says, Josslyn knows how her brain works. When she doesn’t get information, her brain makes up crazy scenarios, and the longer the silence was, the crazier they got. Josslyn says, like what? and Trina says she thought Esme got to Josslyn, and she believed Trina was behind the video.

Esme says she’s not taking this test now, and Spencer asks, why not? She says, because she needs to get out of here. She can’t stand to look at him one more minute. If Laura hadn’t kept her here, she would have been long gone. He says, without telling him that she might be pregnant, and she tells him, stop making this about him. It’s her body. He agrees it is, but if she’s pregnant, it’s his baby too. She asks if he’s going to grow out of his clothes. Is he going to have morning sickness? Is he going to grow a person inside of him for nine months? He says, they’re getting way ahead of themselves. They don’t even know if she’s pregnant. They used protection. She says, which isn’t 100% effective; no one likes to talk about that, but it’s the truth. What is she going to do with a baby? She can’t even take care of a dog. He says, they don’t know there is a baby, which is why she needs to take the test. There’s a knock at the door, and he tells her to ignore it, but she opens it. Cameron says, he’s sorry. Is this a bad time? Esme says, no. She was just leaving. Spencer says, no, they need to talk, but she says, her body, her choice, and leaves. Cameron asks, did just say… and Spencer says, there’s a chance Esme could be pregnant. Outside, Esme leans on the door a moment. It’s hard to tell what she’s feeling, since she makes a bunch of faces, then she leaves.

Curtis asks if Sonny can’t help him or won’t, and Sonny says, Curtis should know the truth, and he could help, but he chooses not to. To him, it’s a family matter between Curtis and his father. He doesn’t want to get involved. Curtis says he needs to know the truth, and Sonny agrees. Curtis should know the truth, but he should get it through Marshall himself. Hear him out. Marshall’s not a fan of his, and if he gets involved, it’s going to make it worse.

Nikolas says, that’s it? All of these mentions of a momentous plan, and Victor has just been referring to a business merger? Victor says, this is no simple business merger. He can assure Nikolas, the resources they’ll gain from Bronze Hills Holdings (I think – sounds like) will be a significant step in this family regaining its former power. Nikolas tells Victor, he’s not saying it won’t be a financial benefit, because he knows it will be. He just expected more. Victor says, like what? and Nikolas says, Victor made it sound like something… Victor says, sinister? Like world domination? He’s not quite as out there as Nikolas’s grandfather Mikkos was. Nikolas tells him, he was going to say criminal. They’ve both crossed that line in the past. Victor says, true. He’s not one to arcane laws and petty bureaucracy get in his way. However, right now he’s focused on building a power base. The question is, does he have Nikolas’s support?

Cameron tells Spencer, hold on. Can they back up? Esme had her bags packed and they were obviously fighting. Does he want to know what it was about? Spencer says he accused Esme of recording Cam and Josslyn and posting it. Cameron asks what she said, and Spencer says, she denied it of course (🍷). Then she tried to blame Trina, which is absurd. Cameron says, completely, and Spencer says, he defended Trina, which made Esme furious, and they broke up. They just had the same argument at Spring Ridge, and she stormed out, but he didn’t know it was over. Esme decided they were, and she was almost out the door before he saw she had a home pregnancy test. Can Cameron believe she wasn’t even going to tell him? Cameron says, that’s a lot, and Spencer says, if Esme is pregnant, he’s going to be a father. Cameron asks what Spencer is going to do, but Spencer says he honestly has no idea, and goes upstairs with his bag.

Josslyn says, she and Trina both know it was Esme who posted that video, after she found a way to record her and Cam without their knowledge. It was her. It was all her from the jump. How could Trina think Josslyn could blame her for this? Trina says, it’s just that things got so weird that night at the cabin. The hot toddy hit her so hard, she still can’t remember everything that happened, and since that was the night the video was made… Josslyn says, please. It was Esme. Esme has hated Josslyn from the second Esme laid eyes on her. Why? Because Josslyn could tell she was psycho. It was Nelle 2.0 waiting to happen. And that’s why Josslyn got so frustrated when Esme presented Trina that phony apology at Kelly’s, and Trina went along with it. Trina takes Josslyn’s hands, and says she owes Josslyn a major apology. Esme was all upset because Spencer gave her that art book, and Trina didn’t want Esme to feel like she was taking her boyfriend. Not because of Esme, but Trina didn’t want to feel like that kind of person. She also didn’t know how she felt about Spencer. But Josslyn’s right about all of it. Esme is a whack job, and Spencer’s just… blind. She should be thanking Josslyn for calling Esme out, instead of being offended. Josslyn says, it’s okay, but Trina says, don’t tell her it’s okay. Josslyn is going through hell, and Esme is trying to blame Trina for it. She’s hateful and horrible, and Trina should have never tried to compromise with her. Josslyn says, they came to it from two very different experiences. Trina believes in compromise, and most of the time, compromise is a good thing, but not when it comes to Esme. She sees that, and takes it as a sign of weakness, and that gives her an opportunity, an opening. That’s why Josslyn shouldn’t have even gone on the ski trip in the first place, because Esme pushed so hard for it. She should have realized Esme had an agenda. Trina asks if Josslyn thinks Esme always meant to tape her and Cam, and Josslyn says she thinks Esme always meant to hurt them. Not her and Cam, but her and Trina.

Officer Perez hands Jordan an envelope, saying, this file was just delivered. Detective Lopez sent it over. It’s information on that PCU sex video from the anonymous tip line. She thanks him, and since Dante has nothing better to do than lurk around, he appears at Jordan’s shoulder and asks, what kind of information? She looks at it, and says, the damning kind. An eyewitness account, naming the perp.

Sonny says Curtis’s father has some kind of problem with him because he saw Sonny at the hospital with TJ, and he didn’t like it one bit. Curtis says, so his long lost dad doesn’t like Sonny; that’s why Sonny is protecting him? Sonny tell Curtis, he’s not saying no for Marshall’s sake. He’s saying no for Curtis. He knows what it’s like to be in a difficult relationship with a father. He didn’t speak to his dad for years. Everybody tried to intervene; everybody tried to fix it. But there was only going to be two people who could salvage the relationship – him and his dad. So if Curtis wants to know what’s in that sealed criminal record, he has to go to Marshall. Marshall walks in, sees them, and does not look happy.

Taggert says he’s so glad he and Portia decided to stay for dinner. It’s nice. What is this Trina is telling him about her and Curtis shacking up? She says, shacking up? Really? They’re buying a home together. It’s out by Queen’s Point, it’s right on the water; it’s so beautiful. He asks if they’ve moved yet, and she says, they’re in the process. He says he’s happy things are so going so well with her and Curtis, and she thanks him, adding, it means a lot, considering their history. He says, the past is long gone. The only thing is to move forward. She says, and now that Spencer’s in the rearview, things are looking up everywhere. He says, Trina and Josslyn still need to get beyond that speedbump in their relationship, and she says she thinks they will. They’ve been friends forever. It’s almost like they’re sisters. He says, he and his sister had some vicious fights back in the day, and she says, but at the end of the day, he and Gia always loved each other. The same goes for Trina and Joss.

Josslyn says, Cam’s a guy. He tried to accept Esme for Spencer’s sake, but Esme always saw both of them as a threat for different reasons. She was always going to try and take them down. Trina says, it’s so good to hear her say this. To see through that hateful… Josslyn says, bitch? Trina says she loves the way Josslyn hates, and Josslyn says, it’s a true talent. Trina says she just wishes she’d known what Josslyn was thinking, but Josslyn says she should have reached out. Trina asks why she didn’t, and Josslyn says, this whole situation was completely overwhelming. It’s total public humiliation. Everyone on social media has an opinion on it. She can’t tell Trina how many people she doesn’t even know called her some variation of a slut or a whore. But it gets even grosser. She’ll also see messages and posts calling her hot, and asking if she and Cam are exclusive. Trina says, that’s so inappropriate, and Josslyn says, yeah, but they’re of legal age now. Does Trina remember how excited and happy they were when they were turning 18 and got to vote? Trina says, yeah, it felt so grown up, and Josslyn wonders, is this the other side of adulthood? What happened to common decency? It feels like it’s been open season on her. Trina says, it’s beyond awful, and Josslyn says, it’s horrible, and when she didn’t hear from Trina, she thought Trina was embarrassed to be her friend. Trina hugs her, and says, never in a million years.

Spencer says, the more he thinks of it, Cameron had the right idea. Cameron asks what he means, and Spencer says, staying a virgin for life. Cameron says, Spencer and the whole world know he’s not a virgin, but Spencer says he seriously doubts that Cameron’s little video has been seen by the whole world. Cameron says Spencer is a poor excuse for a friend, and Spencer says, possible father here. That’s way bigger than a temporary embarrassment. Cameron says, maybe for him, but for Joss, it’s so much worse. They’re being absolutely savage to her online. He’s getting virtual high-fives, while they’re calling her a slut. It’s not fair. Spencer says, it’s awful. He’s really sorry Josslyn is going through that. Cameron says, now Spencer believes Esme is behind the video? but Spencer says he doesn’t want to believe it. Esme’s been so good to him. Cameron says, that works out nice for Spencer, but what about the rest of the planet? Spencer says he knows, just because Esme is good to him doesn’t mean she’s necessarily good to everyone else. Cameron says, Spencer has to face it. She’s sneaky and vindictive. Spencer says, and possibly the mother of his child.

On the phone, Ava asks Avery how her arm is. It hurts? She’s on her way; she’s coming right home. She tells Nikolas and Victor, sorry fellas. She hopes they had a nice chat. Avery needs her, so she’s going home. Victor says, seeing as Spencer is a no show, he’ll leave with her. Nikolas says he’s going to wait for his mother, and Ava says she’ll see him at home. Victor says, no hard feelings, and Ava says, of course (🍷) not. Nikolas sits back down, and Esme sees him from the doorway. She watches Ava and Victor get in the elevator, and goes over to the table. She asks if Nikolas will help her.

Dante says, she wouldn’t do something like that, let alone to Cam and Joss, and Jordan says, that’s what she thought too, but every possible tip needs to be checked out. He says he’ll take care of it, but she says she’ll handle this one personally, and leaves the station.

Sonny tells Curtis that he’s got to go. Think about what he said. Good luck. He leaves, and Marshall asks why Curtis was talking to Sonny Corinthos. Curtis says, Sonny was telling him about a run-in he and Marshall had. Care to explain? I’m honestly surprised Curtis didn’t ask Marshall where he got off telling him who to talk to. Especially since he’s been so cranky lately.

Cameron says, he and Josslyn gave separate statements to a detective, and Spencer says he’s glad the cops are taking this seriously. Cameron says, so is he. Detective Lopez says, whoever did this is looking at up to a year in prison. Spencer asks if Cameron knows what that means. That means his baby could be born in prison. Cameron says, way to keep it real, and Spencer says, it could happen. Cameron says, maybe Spencer should find out if Esme is actually pregnant before he starts shopping for jail baby clothes. Spencer says, Cameron is right, but he doesn’t even know where Esme went. He really hopes Esme’s not pregnant, because if she is, and she wants to have the baby, he’ll be tied to her for life.

Esme sits down, and tells Nikolas, she was going to stay at the MetroCourt for the night, so she had a place to get her thoughts together. She thought she had enough money to cover it, but her credit card was declined. He asks if she’s sure she and Spencer can’t work things out, but she says, Spencer said horrible things to her. If that’s really what he thinks of her, she can never be with him again. But what is she going to do? He’s the only guy she’s ever loved, and what if it turns out she’s… Nikolas says he remembers being her age. Every argument felt like the end of the world, but he’s sure with a good night’s sleep, things will be clear in the morning. She says she has nowhere else to go. Is there any way she can stay with him? I have an idea. Pay for her hotel room, but for Pete’s sake, don’t take her home.

Taggert asks Portia if that’s the notorious Esme Prince who Trina keeps talking about, and she glances behind her. She says, oh, he’s never seen Esme before, and he says, no, first time. She seems pretty upset. He wonders what the drama is this time, and Portia says, just be glad they’re not involved. They both look over at Esme, and Portia says she’ll bet him anything Esme is the one behind the video of Joss and Cam. She’s so relieved Trina is finally out of Esme’s orbit.

Josslyn says, it feels so good for things to be back to normal, and Trina agrees. She says she knows Josslyn wants distance from the video, but don’t tune her out. Josslyn can talk to her about anything. Josslyn says she knows and she will. It’s so nice to hear that. They’re a team, and always will be. Trina says, count on it, when Jordan walks in. Josslyn asks if there’s a lead in her case, but Jordan says she’s actually here to see Trina. Trina says she’s sorry, but she’s already late for her next class, but Jordan says, this can’t wait. She needs Trina to come down to the station, and answer some questions.

On Monday, Harmony says, it’s under consideration; Jordan asks if Trina minds answering some questions; Josslyn says, the person Dante should be talking to is Spencer’s psycho girlfriend; and Scotty asks why Nina doesn’t want to go down the legal road.

📻 Not An Oldie…

All about the song that Sonny and Nina danced to yesterday. Normally, I try to look that stuff up, but was pressed for time. Apparently, inquiring minds wanted to know.

👗 Reunion Runway Fail…

Apparently, Shannon had to get something off-the-rack. Oh, horrors. I do wonder what the blip was up with Bones though.

https://people.com/style/project-runway-bones-jones-talks-shannon-beadors-reunion-dress-outfit-botched/

https://www.distractify.com/p/shannon-beador-rhoc-reunion-dress-drama

You decide what held things up.

https://www.bravotv.com/the-real-housewives-of-orange-county/style-living/andy-cohen-reveals-what-held-up-filming-during

🍊 Freshly Squeezed Start…

The only question for me would be, is there enough room for Mr. Puppers to live his best life?

🥊 In This Corner…

Another showdown between the east and west coast. Maybe they can have a rap battle.

https://screenrant.com/rhugt-dorinda-medley-vicki-gunvalson-covid-vaccine-fight/

🗽 NYC Spin…

Twice the Housewives fun.

🍹 Conover Crossover Continues…

So will Paige be showing up on Southern Charm? Speaking of which, will Southern Charm be showing up?

https://people.com/tv/craig-conover-talked-about-kids-spending-life-with-girlfriend-paige-desorbo/

🎂 Never Too Early…

Oh why not?

🍍 In Teresa News…

The latest on Luis.

I wonder what procedure she had. Then I think it’s pretty sad that I’m wondering about that.

https://www.eonline.com/news/1324490/teresa-giudice-thanks-fans-for-prayers-and-well-wishes-after-hospitalization

👇 Bar Set Even Lower…

I think Kelly might have outdone herself this time. Not only does she sh*t all over people who can’t afford as much as she can, she thinks material goods reflect good parenting. What they reflect is a future on a shrink’s couch.

🙏 New Apologizer…

Pretty soon, Ramona is going to have some competition. And she was thisclose to saying the old, I’m a work in progress. Ugh.

🐎 Josh On the Outs…

This looks good, and I love me some Josh Brolin. I think he’s one of our most underrated actors.

https://ew.com/tv/outer-range-trailer-josh-brolin-amazon-prime-video/

📽 Hurts So Good…

No Kiss of the Spiderwoman? No Eyewitness?? No Altered States??? I thought those were pretty memorable.

https://ew.com/movies/william-hurt-most-memorable-roles/

He will be missed.

https://ew.com/movies/william-hurt-death-reactions/

🏆 The People’s Oscar…

Looks like the Academy Awards are sliding into the MTV Movie Awards territory. Fine with me. That’s the only interesting awards show.

🌬 Quotes of the Week

We don’t have a choice in the matter. We must go where history takes us. – Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon), The Gilded Age

A person’s life purpose is nothing more than to rediscover, through the detours of art or love or passionate work, those one or two images in the presence of which [their] heart first opened. – Albert Camus

I’d bet on rabbits if you could get them organized. – Charlie Harper (Charlie Sheen), Two and a Half Men

To rule a country of a thousand chariots, there must be reverent attention to business, and sincerity; economy in expenditure, and love for men; and the employment of the people at the proper seasons. – Confucius

The history of the past is but one long struggle upward to equality. – Elizabeth Cady Stanton

You can’t cry on a first date. – Veronica Rodriguez, Pillow Talk: The Single Life

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

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

Everything in moderation, including moderation. – Oscar Wilde

Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world. – Desmond Tutu

The great Western disease is, ‘I’ll be happy when… When I get the money. When I get a BMW. When I get this job.’ Well, the reality is, you never get to when. The only way to find happiness is to understand that happiness is not out there. It’s in here. And happiness is not next week. It’s now.Marshall Goldsmith, American author (And adding my personal favorite, when I lose weight…)

What a day. What a goddam day. – Warlord Ian (Michael Biehn), The Walking Dead

🙂 Don’t Worry, Be Happy…

It’s time again for us to part company until the Dead Walk. In the meantime, stay safe, stay fighting against double standards, and stay knowing the only way out is through. You have to face it down and keep moving forward.

March 24, 2022 – It’s Like Old Times At Charlie’s, Return Tease, They Do, Old Rumors, Return Before Reboot, VanderDone, New Role & Glass

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Jordan tells the desk sergeant that Michael was just released on bail and they’re waiting for the paperwork. Michael sits, and she tells him, do everyone a favor. If that reporter gets in his face again, walk the other way. She sees Curtis, and asks if everything is okay. He says, that’s just what he’s trying to find out. He really needs her help. Willow comes in and hugs Michael.

Harmony shows up at Alexis’s office, and Alexis says, this is a surprise. Harmony says she just got off work, and wondered if she could pick Alexis’s brain about something. Only if she has a minute, and it isn’t an interruption. Alexis says she just put the last edition to bed. What’s this about? Is it about Willow? Harmony says, kind of. It’s more about Nina Reeves.

Nina walks into an empty Charlie’s and Sonny says, hey. She says she doesn’t know why she’s always surprised to see him here. He owns the bar after all. He says, that’s true. Phyllis had to see a distributor. Instead of closing down during the dead zone, which is between twelve and happy hour, he said he’d cover. She says, that’s sweet of him. Nostalgic for running a bar? He says, it’s better than sitting in his office all by himself; too many ghosts, especially with Jason gone. She says she hears him, and he asks if she’s there to see Phyllis. Does she want a drink? She says, actually, she was following up on something important. He asks if it’s anything he can help her with.

Laura hugs Spencer, and he says, it almost seems like she missed him. She says she did. A month in Spring Ridge didn’t hurt him at all. He says, except label him a convicted felon. He guesses he’ll be serving soft drinks and sandwiches at Kelly’s for the rest of his life, but Nikolas suggests Spencer worry about his future later, and they take a moment to celebrate his homecoming. Nikolas has dinner reservations at the MetroCourt, and hopes Laura and Doc can join them. Laura says she doesn’t know about Doc, but she’ll certainly try to make it. She asks Spencer if everything is okay, and Esme says she’s sure he’s wondering why she’s still here. Don’t worry. She was just leaving.

At the MetroCourt, Victor tells Yohan, if they want people to believe they’ve done nothing wrong, they must act as if they’ve done nothing wrong, and they haven’t. He showed Drew a tarot card, for heaven’s sake. If a crime was committed, it’s when Drew attacked Yohan. Yohan says, on Victor’s orders, and Victor says, which was a test… which he passed until the Corinthos woman showed up, and Drew was forced to reveal he was just playing along and the whole thing was a set-up from the start. That warning Victor was given about Laura being on to him seems like it must have some merit.

Sam opens the door to Anna, and says, welcome back. Drew says, long trip, and Anna says she got a cab from the airport. Felicia is filling Maxie in. Sam says, they were worried when they didn’t hear from her in Austria, but Anna says she didn’t want to call from an unsecure line. Drew asks if they found something out, and Anna says, yeah, proof that Luke’s death wasn’t an accident. He was murdered.

Esme says she won’t be joining them for dinner. Spence has made it clear he no longer wants her to be a part of his life. She’s leaving. Laura asks if she and Spencer would like a little time to talk this through. They don’t have to rush on their account. Nikolas apologizes for making dinner plans without checking with Spencer first, but he’s sure Spencer wouldn’t mind if Esme joined them. They all shared in Spencer’s ordeal at Spring Ridge, her especially. Esme says she’s not sure, but Laura says, please, come along. Nikolas says, the whole family will be there; Ava and Victor. Laura says, Victor, and Nikolas asks if that’s a problem.

Yohan says, the plan Victor put together relies on taking everyone by surprise, but Victor says he’s not overly concerned. The only possibly damning thing Drew mentioned is Operation Demeter, and if Drew has no memory of that op, he and Laura are going to hit a dead end. Yohan says, but Victor is concerned about something, and Victor says, Anna and Felicia’s investigation into the cable car accident that killed Luke. Yohan says, Victor had to kill Luke Spencer; he was getting too close to the truth about what Victor is planning. Victor says, nothing can be traced back to him, which is why he needs to find someone else to take the fall for Luke’s death. Yohan says he’ll do a lot for the cause, but he hopes Victor’s not expecting him to be his fall guy, and Victor says, don’t worry. He has someone else in mind. Ava approaches, and asks if she’s late for the big family dinner, or is Victor early? Is his friend going to be joining them?

Anna says, this employee at the Transportation Bureau did admit to sabotaging Luke’s cable car. There’s no indication as to whether he was acting alone, but her gut says he wasn’t. Unfortunately, before they could get anymore information out of him, the man took his own life in front of them. Sam says, okay, so technically they have one man’s confession, but no evidence to back it up, and Anna says, and so far all of their efforts to keep this quiet have failed. Now the Bureau is officially involved. Drew asks if the Bureau won’t have a better chance of finding a connection between Victor and Luke’s death, and Anna says, just because the WSB is investigating, doesn’t mean she’ll be privy to their intel. She’s been deemed to close to the situation because of her involvement with Luke. Sam says, basically, she’s iced out, and Anna says, yeah, but they do have to keep in mind the fact that Victor was director of the WSB for a time. That is something they don’t want to revisit; they don’t want his name to come up. They don’t want to draw any scrutiny, so she thinks it’s possible they’ll steer this investigation down a path that isn’t embarrassing to them. What she’s saying is, if they want to expose Victor, Drew is their best chance. Drew says, about that. They hit a little bit of a snag.

Curtis asks what TJ has told Jordan about their situation with Marshall, and she says, not much. She thinks TJ has been avoiding the subject, given her history with Tommy. Curtis says, okay. What did Tommy tell her about their father?

Willow says, one night in jail isn’t terrible, and Michael says he had a cell to himself, so no complaints. She says he doesn’t have to be a hero for her, and he says he always wants to be a hero for her, and it was worth it. That reporter got what he deserved for trash talking his sister. She says, at least Michael didn’t break his jaw, and Michael says he can’t be sorry he hit the guy, but he’s sorry Nina is probably going to use this against him when she petitions the court for visitation with Wiley. She says, let’s not worry about that right now. She’s sorry she wasn’t there when he was booked. He says he appreciates that, but there’s nothing she could have done. Diane handled everything, and Willow is here now. He heard from his mom that she was held up at work. She says that’s what she told Carly when she texted, but she wasn’t being honest with Carly, or with him.

Harmony tells Alexis that Nina is trying to enlist her help with Wiley without going to court. Alexis asks, how? and Harmony says, Nina wants her to influence Willow; she says Wiley’s grandfather is on her side. Alexis says, but Harmony doesn’t want to get involved, and Harmony says she thinks it will cause so much tension between her and her daughter. Alexis says she doesn’t want to get involved either because Wiley is Kristina’s nephew, so she wants to stay out of any potential conflict between Nina and Willow. She suggests Harmony do the same thing, and Harmony says she wishes it was that simple.

Nina says she’ll have a club soda, and Sonny laughs, putting some in a glass. She says, perfect, and he says, now that that’s taken care of, how about the help? She says, it’s not that she doesn’t want his help, but she doesn’t think he should offer it. He asks if it’s about Wiley. Is she going to file a petition? She says she hasn’t talked to the lawyer yet. Has he tried to talk to Michael again? Sonny flashes back to Michael saying he’s prioritizing Nina, and that a family man wouldn’t sabotage his family by putting the woman who blew their lives apart ahead of them. Sonny tells Nina that he couldn’t get anywhere with Michael because he’s very stubborn, and she says she wishes she could walk away for his sake. He says, she’s allowed to see her grandson. He’d do the same if he was in her shoes. She says she’ll try not to get him involved, but he says he’s already involved. The choices she makes and her pain matters to him, but she has to know, if she goes to court on this, lines are going to be drawn and sides are going to be taken. If he doesn’t take a side, that means he’s taking her side. She says she’d never ask him to choose her over his son, so if he has to go against her in court and support Michael’s attempt to block her petition, she’ll understand. He asks if they can just hope it doesn’t get to that, and she says, they can hope, but he needs to know that she’ll do whatever’s necessary to ensure she has a role in her grandson’s life.

Anna says, let her get this straight. In trying to save Drew… Sam says, Carly blew the scam wide open. Drew says, but they did get one piece of intel before Carly arrived, and Sam says, Victor mentioned Operation Demeter. Anna says she doesn’t know what that is. What is Demeter? The goddess of harvest? She presides over the cycles of life and death? Sam asks if it’s not familiar to Anna, and Anna says, no, but she can access the WSB file. Drew says, all the ops he did as a SEAL are classified, and Anna asks if he reached out to Kim, but he says she doesn’t remember him ever mentioning it. Anna looks at her phone, and says she doesn’t see an Operation Demeter here; there’s nothing. Sam says, so the operation probably initiated with U.S. Intelligence, and Anna says, or the operation is above her clearance, which is entirely possible. Or the operation went so horribly wrong, they’ve deleted all records.

Victor tells Ava that he and Yohan were catching up on some business while he was waiting for the rest of the family. He tells Yohan, that about covers it, thanks him, and says he’ll be in touch. Yohan pulls out Ava’s chair for her, and leaves. Ava says, Victor must have had some super pressing business to have a meeting at the MetroCourt before their family dinner. He says, pressing, yes, but before family, never. She completely agrees, and says she can’t recall what he said he was doing for work these days. He says, perhaps that’s because he never told her. Why does he get the feeling she’s playing him because she wants something? She says, because she always wants something, and usually she gets it.

Laura says she thinks Spencer and Nikolas both know Victor’s not her favorite person, and Nikolas says he hopes she’ll still join them. It wouldn’t be a family celebration without her. Laura’s phone dings, and she says she completely forgot. It’s the chairperson from the Traffic Commission. They have a meeting in ten minutes. It’s been rescheduled so many times, she doesn’t feel she can cancel. She’ll meet them over at the MetroCourt. She tells Spencer, welcome back, hugs him, and leaves. Nikolas asks if they should head out, but Spencer says, he and Esme have some things they need to say to each other first. Nikolas says, of course (🍷), and Spencer says, in private. Nikolas says, Spencer will still join them for dinner? and Spencer shrugs. Nikolas says he’ll hope for the best, and leaves. Esme says she was hoping to be gone before Spencer returned, but his grandmother convinced her they could talk things out. He says, really, and she says he saw her earlier. Apparently, Laura is warming up to her. Spencer asks when that happened, and she says, Laura thinks she might actually be a good influence on him. Unlike what his friends think.

Jordan says, Tommy is just a couple of years older than Curtis. His memories of their father were vague; he rarely mentioned them. Curtis says, maybe Tommy remembered something he didn’t think was important at the time, and she says, if he did, he never shared it with her. Besides, Tommy was way too young for Marshall to confide in him about entering Witness Protection. He says, if that’s what really happened, and she asks what he’s saying. He tells her, Marshall didn’t outright say he was in the Witness Protection Program. (Thank you.) Curtis inferred, and Marshall didn’t deny it. She asks if he learned something that contradicts that, and he says, possibly. That’s why he needs her help to shed some light on it. She asks, how? and he says, Marshall applied for a job, and confided in him that he had an arrest record; a sealed arrest record, which might explain why he disappeared and let them think he was dead. Jordan has access to that record. She can unseal it, and let him know anything important Marshall might be keeping from him. She says she’s sorry, but there is no way.

Nina tells Sonny, how about this? They stop talking about Wiley, they stop talking about competitions, they stop talking about family feuds. He says he seconds that motion, and they clink glasses, saying, cheers. He asks if she wants more club soda, but she says, no, she’s got to drive later. She asks if he refilled the decanters at his penthouse, but he says, no. She says, he’s not tempted by the display of all the bottles here? He says, baby steps, and she says, his baby steps are pretty big. She’s proud of him. He says, it’s not going to be easy, but the plan was to let Phyllis have the bar. She says, right, but life gets complicated. Does he still want to follow through on that plan? He says he has to convince Phyllis that it’s her bar, but Nina says she doesn’t think it’s going to take a lot of persuasion. Think about it. Phyllis owning the local watering hole? It’ll feel like old times… well, almost. He asks if she means when they were back in Nixon Falls; that was their home. She says, that life seemed real, but it wasn’t, because didn’t know the truth about himself. Now everyone knows the truth, and it’s up to them to decide what’s real.

Willow tells Michael, it was nothing serious, but she fainted in an empty patient room. He asks why she fainted; is she sick? Why didn’t she tell him sooner? She says she told him, it wasn’t serious. She hadn’t eaten all day and she was dehydrated. Between parenting Wiley and studying for nursing exams, she was running herself thin, but Epiphany took good care of her. He says he’ll have to thank her, but he wishes Willow had told him sooner. She says, he was spending the night in a cell. She didn’t want him worrying about her. It’s not like he could do anything about it. She didn’t go to Carly because she was dealing with Josslyn, and didn’t need to worry about her too. He says he hates that she was alone. Epiphany’s great, but she was on duty and couldn’t stay with Willow. Willow says she wasn’t alone. Her mom showed up for her.

Alexis asks, what’s so complicated about Harmony staying out of Willow and Michael’s business? and Harmony says, things are always complicated when it comes to her grandson. She thanks Alexis for the advice about Nina, and says she’s going to get out of Alexis’s hair.  Alexis asks if there’s anything else Harmony would like to talk about, but Harmony says, no, and asks if Shawn is around. She’s like to avoid him. Alexis says, she doesn’t think that’s going to be a problem because Shawn went to San Francisco, and she doesn’t know when he’s going to be back. Harmony asks if Alexis okay about that, and Alexis says, things got a little tense before he left.

Curtis says Jordan isn’t going to help him? and she says, hunting down sealed records and unsealing them without a court order is illegal. He was in law enforcement and knows that as well as she does. He says, the man is lying to him and TJ. He has questions and needs answers, and she has the ability to get them. She says, unethically, and he asks when that’s ever stopped her. She didn’t think twice about getting Laura’s sealed arrest record for Cyrus Renault. She says, that’s not the same. She was being blackmailed; TJ’s life was at stake. She had no choice. He says, because TJ is family, and they’re not that to each other anymore. Is that how it is? Curtis is pissing me off. He wanted the divorce, and so, no, they’re not family anymore. Way to pressure her when she just got back from a long stay at a hospital.

Nina looks down the bar, and asks if those are 45s. What are they doing here? She goes over to look at the stack of records, and he says, Phyllis wanted to add a vintage jukebox to the place, but then she figured out it would block the customer’s path to the tables and bar. Nina says, that’s too bad. She loved it when they played music at the Tan-O. He laughs, and she picks up one of the 45s, saying, she remembers when they danced to this song. She picks up another one, and says. she can’t believe Phyllis has a copy of this; this is a great song. She forgot about it. She says she knows how it goes, and starts to sing,  I woke up in the morning… Sonny says, she’s doing good, but that’s not quite it. He brings out his phone, and puts on the song. She says she loves this one, and he goes around the bar. He holds out his hand, and they dance.

Jordan says, he’s not being fair, and Curtis whines, what’s not fair is that she’s doing this to him after all she put him through. She says she knows he’s going through a lot right now, and knows they have a lot of unresolved issues from their marriage, but do not equate the two. And do not, under any circumstances, come in here and tell her how to do her job, or what code she can or cannot live by. She thought they were in a good place, but he’s come too close to destroying all that good will they built up. She’s not the bad guy here. He says, so she really won’t get the records for him, and she asks if he’s heard a single word she said. She can’t, but she’s willing to help him in any way she can. He tells her, don’t bother, and slams out like the big baby he’s being.

Laura sits down with Sam, Anna, and Drew. She says she’s due to have dinner with Victor and the family. Is it too much to hope they found something to put Victor behind bars? Anna says, she and Felicia were able to access the files at the Transportation Bureau in Innsbruck, and a certain Kurt Markovich, and employee there, became suspicious of them. But eventually, he did admit to sabotaging Luke’s cable car. Laura says, it was not an accident; he was murdered. Sam says she’s so sorry Laura found out this way. She wishes it could have been different. Anna says she’s sorry. The crash was deliberate, but this Kurt didn’t admit to targeting Luke, and unfortunately, they couldn’t get anything else out of him because he took his own life there. Laura says, but they know it was Luke, don’t they? and Anna says, unless the Bureau finds evidence to the contrary, they’ll proceed as if Luke was just another victim that day. Laura says, collateral damage? and Anna says, yes, to Kurt’s fanatical cause. Drew says, whatever that was, and Anna says, unfortunately, they weren’t able to connect this crash and Luke to Victor. Laura says, maybe not yet, but knowledge is power, and they’re off to a good start.

Ava says, she suspects when Victor finally reveals his big plan for the family, it’ll behoove her to remain in his good graces. He says, so her friendliness toward him has a more selfish motivation, and she says, he knows better than anybody they all have selfish motivations. She’s just up front about hers. Besides she and Nikolas are married; she and Victor are family now. They’ll be in each other’s lives from now on. Shouldn’t that make them allies, able to enjoy each other’s company? He lifts his glass, when Nikolas arrives. He says he hopes they didn’t order without him, and she says, of course (🍷) not. She was beginning to think he’d stood them up. Where’s Spencer? Nikolas says, things were a little tense between him and Esme. Spencer wanted some time to talk to her. Victor hopes they’re coming; this celebration is for Spencer. Nikolas says, Spencer woudn’t make any promises, and Ava says she’s sorry. She knows how anxious Nikolas has been to make almonds amends to him. Nikolas says, the reality is, he and Spencer have a long way to go before any healing takes place, but Victor says, no. That is absolutely unacceptable.

Spencer says he’s glad Esme didn’t leave before he returned home. They left a lot unsaid. In fairness, it’s not like he could have chased after her with twelve hours left on his sentence. She says she didn’t like how they ended things either. She tossed and turned all night, wondering if he meant all the horrible things he said to her; that he actually believed she was the one responsible for filming Joss and Cameron doing the dirty. Thank you for realizing that wasn’t true. She moves closer to him, but he backs up and tells her, he never said that. She says she’s a little confused. If he doesn’t believe her, then what’s been left unsaid? He says he wants to believe her. He wants to believe in her, but right now she’s blaming Trina for something he knows she couldn’t possibly… Esme says, but she could, and he says he doesn’t know. What he does know is, she was at the cabin, and she has a side to her that is capable of going to extremes. She says, he means like what she did to Ava: setting her car on fire, planting her dead daughter’s hospital ID badge beneath the car. She’d never even heard of Ava Jerome until Spencer decided to frighten her away from his father. How does she know he’s not the one capable of filming his friends without their consent? He was at the cabin too, but he doesn’t see her going around accusing him. How do they know it isn’t all his doing?

Nikolas says he knows Victor is invested in healing the rift between him and Spencer, but it’s going to take time. Victor says, Nikolas doesn’t understand. He gave Nikolas room to take this process as slowly as he needed to bring the family together, but he trusted the wrong people, and now they’re running out of time. Valentin and Alexis will most likely never want to have anything to do with him again, but the rest of the family might come together while they still can. Nikolas says, while they still can? What’s that supposed to mean?

Harmony tells Alexis not to pressure herself. She’ll know when it’s time to move on. Alexis says, what she wants to move on from is this office. And since she’s the boss, she can declare the work day over. So she declares the work day’s over. Molly and TJ are making her a feast tonight to thank her for letting them stay with her. Harmony says, are they moving out? and Alexis says, they are. They found another place. She’s sad and she’ll miss them, but it’s good they have their own space. Harmony says, it must be nice to have a home cooked meal. Her motel room doesn’t have a kitchen. Alexis asks if she said motel room. She’s staying in a motel? Since she left prison? That’s a year ago. Harmony says, yeah. It’s tough to save up for a deposit on what she makes at Spring Ridge. Alexis says she’s sorry. Would it help if someone co-signed a lease for her? Harmony says, someone like Alexis?

The desk sergeant tells Michael that they need Commissioner Ashford to sign off on the paperwork before he leaves, and goes in the back. Michael says, while they wait, Willow can tell him about Harmony. Willow says, her condition wasn’t serious, but when Harmony heard she was in the hospital, she couldn’t get there fast enough. Michael says, that’s what parents do; they move heaven and earth for their kids. She says, easy for him to say. He knows her history. Her mom is a seeker, and her love for Willow always came second place to enlightenment. Michael says, and last night was different, and Willow says, yeah. It was like the mom she’d always hoped for showed up. She was so loving and concerned. He says, it must have been nice for her, and she says, it was the first time her mom put her needs ahead of her own, or some spiritual leader’s. She’s grateful, even if she doesn’t know what inspired this new Harmony.

Sonny and Nina slow dance, and flash back to slow dancing at the Tan-O. He spins her, and they get closer. He says, she has to admit, he’s pretty good, and she says she gives him an A for effort. He says, what about execution? and she says he’s a little rusty, but she can whip him back into shape. They have all the time in the world… except… that’s the one they thing don’t have. I can tell you this, what they do have is Sonny’s dimples.

Alexis says she’s not necessarily saying it should be her, and Harmony says she has the feeling they’d be crossing a line. Alexis says, what if she helps Harmony with a security deposit; a loan. Harmony says she wouldn’t want to jeopardize their friendship by owing Alexis money, and Alexis says she has an empty house, and Harmony needs a home. So why doesn’t Harmony take the next few weeks, save some money, and stay with her?

Jordon tells Michael, he’s good to go. Make sure he makes his court date. He says, understood. Jordan’s phone rings, and she steps away. Michael asks if Willow is ready, and she says, let’s go. He takes her hand, and says he owes her a second apology. In addition to decking that reporter, he delayed their vacation. She says, turnabout’s fair play. She delayed it first with the search for her birth certificate. Now he’s out on bail, and has to stay in town. He asks if she’ll settle for a candlelit dinner, and she says, with coq au vin, mousse au chocolat, and a lovely Bordeaux? See? She already speaks the language. He tells her, you know what they say, we’ll always have Paris, and they kiss.

On the phone with Robert, Jordan says, the judge set a date for the trial. Diane Miller is gearing up for a fight. There’s been no additional pressure from the Quartermaines or Sonny Corinthos. No special requests… Right. She’ll keep him posted.

Sonny says he’s got to go, and Nina says, her too. Curtis walks in, and says, Sonny’s office said he could find Sonny here. He asks if he came at a bad time, but Nina says, no. She came to see Phyllis, but she’s not here, so she was just leaving. She grabs her bag, and Curtis asks if she’s sure. She says, she and Curtis will catch up soon, and she leaves. Sonny asks what he can do for Curtis, and Curtis says he needs to ask Sonny a favor.

Spencer tells Esme, knock it off. She knows he was in Spring Ridge and couldn’t have posted the video. She says, he told her that he was able to sneak in and out of Spring Ridge thanks to Uncle Victor, and she knows he and Cam were enemies when they were kids. Maybe that sex tape was payback. He says, that is not at all… and she says, calm down. She doesn’t actually believe he did it; she was just making a point. He had motive and opportunity, but he doesn’t see her accusing him, because she has faith in her partner’s character. She has faith in them, or at least she used to. But he can’t seem to extend that same grace to her, can he? He doesn’t answer, and she says she guesses there’s nothing more they can say to one another. She drops her purse going out the door, and quickly moves to retrieve it, but not before Spencer picks up a pregnancy test that’s fallen out.  

Anna says, Tracy and Bobbie will be informed that the crash was deliberate, but Sam wonders if they should tell them the truth. Laura says, she’d rather not. Bobbie already suspects Luke was targeted, but she doesn’t know Victor might be a part of it. Tracy’s in the Netherlands. Drew says, the less they know the safer they’ll be, and Laura says, exactly. Drew says, especially after that scam on the bridge. Victor now knows Drew is coming for him. Anna says, he’ll realize the walls are closing in on him, and Laura says, anyone he suspects is working to expose him will be in grave danger now.

Victor apologizes to Ava and Nikolas for his outburst. He says he supposes he was just airing his frustration with Valentin. Nikolas says, because Valentin doesn’t want Victor in his life? and Victor says not to let an old fool project his problems on Nikolas’s relationship with his son. Nikolas says, it’s not the first time Victor has alluded that something is eating him up, and Ava says, obviously something important, even dangerous, is happening. Nikolas says, Victor made it clear that he couldn’t or wouldn’t discuss it with them, but they are family. Ava says, they can’t help ease his burden, they can’t help him if he doesn’t share it with them. Nikolas says, perhaps it’s time Victor told them exactly what he’s been planning since before he was back in town. Victor rubs his signet ring, and says, maybe they’re right.

Tomorrow, Josslyn asks if Cameron is saying it’s her fault; Esme says Spencer has broken her heart; Victor asks if he has Nikolas and Ava’s support; and Sonny says, with all due respect, how is it Curtis’s business?

🥏 Spinning Back…

It’s not like Spinelli ever really leaves.

🤵🏻 Just Married…

I don’t remember him from AMC, but I love Halloween Wars

🍍 Clueless In Jersey…

Wrong answer. True friends do ask questions.

🗽 Reboot In 3… 2… 1…

How could she not be back? Someone needs to make it nice.

🍸 Pumping the Breaks…

The latest on the impending divorce.

https://people.com/tv/katie-maloney-files-for-divorce-from-tom-schwartz-a-week-after-announcing-split/

VanderSplits over the years.

🧛🏻‍♀️ Playing Normal…

Not Elvira this time.

https://comicbook.com/horror/news/the-munsters-reboot-movie-cassandra-peterson-elvira-role-rob-zombie/

🍜 Hasta Lasagna…

See you tomorrow for the wild card that is Friday, where you’ll find soap, tea, sage statements, and something to tickle your musical bone. Until then, stay safe, stay not changing lanes without signaling, and stay remembering knowledge is power.

March 18, 2022 – Alexis Answers the Question, Goodbyes, Staying, RSVNot, Eboni’s Why, It’s a No, Booted, Injured, It’s Him, Reactions, Where They Are, Merging, Choices, One Worthy Quote & Dance

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

On the phone in her office, Alexis says everything looks in order, so it should be good for an early morning release. Shawn comes to the door, and says, got time? She says, for him, always, and he says, good, because they have a lot to talk about. She asks, what is it? and he says, her friend Harmony, and the company she keeps.

Phyllis sees Nina at Charlie’s, and gives her a hug. She says she wishes Nina would have given her a heads up; she would have cancelled her plans. Nina says, Phyllis is a busy lady, and asks what kind of plans she has. Phyllis says she’s going to meet up with a friend of Lenny’s, and Nina asks if they live in Port Charles. Phyllis says, just passing through. Raincheck? Nina says, definitely. The truth is, she has a meeting herself, and no, not with Sonny. Phyllis says, see her soon, and leaves. Harmony walks in, and says, she hopes she didn’t keep Nina waiting.

Michael sneaks up behind Willow at the hospital, and she asks what he’s doing here. Did she forget date night? He says, she’s fine, and asks if she’s finished with her rotation. She says, yes. Can’t he tell by the circles under her eyes? If being a nurse is as exhausting as becoming one, she’s going to have to up her concealer game. He says, A, her eyes are perfect, and B, all she needs is a week in Paris and, viola. She says, he learned a new French word, and he says, oui, oui. She says she’s cleared the trip with her supervisor, and he suggests they get her home and start packing.

Jordan tells reporter Smalt (I didn’t realize it was the UFO guy from The Invader), if he wants an interview, contact her office. He says she must be aware there’s a video out there of Josslyn Jax and Cameron Webber doing the dirty. (Is everyone twelve?) She says, out there as in… He says, going viral, and he heard from unnamed sources that PCU has launched its own investigation. What does she think? With the Corinthos family involved, are they looking at a prank, or something more criminal?

Esme sees Spencer bear hugging the book, and asks if that’s the gift he gave Trina. He says, it was. Apparently, Trina doesn’t want anything from him. She says, not even friendship? Does that mean Trina’s out of his life? He says, if she is, will Esme be happy? She finally got what she wanted. She asks how he can say that. If he’s hurt, she’s hurting for him, but given the pain Trina’s inflicted on his two closest friends, maybe it’s better this way. He says, better for who? and Esme says, she finally did it, didn’t she? Trina has him believing she’s the one who made that awful video. He says, isn’t she?

At the Bistro, Sam says she can’t believe Carly just showed up like that, and Dante says, she didn’t just show up. She detonated their entire plan. Sam says, a plan that was actually working, and Dante agrees, but what can they do? She says she doesn’t know. What now? He says, now they figure out another way to find out what Victor is up to.

On the footbridge, Carly tells Drew, she’s so, so sorry that she completely and utterly ruined his plan. If she’d had any idea… He says, why? and she says, why is she sorry? He says, no. Most people who would have come up and figured out what was going on would have made an anonymous call to the cops, but she just stormed up to confront it head on. She says she thought he was about to pitch that guy over the bridge, and commit murder. That’s why she didn’t start filming right away; she didn’t want to capture that. Can he imagine trying to explain to a jury that he was conditioned, it wasn’t his fault? He says, the tarot card made me do it isn’t a good defense? He doesn’t get it. She says she couldn’t stand the thought of sitting in the gallery watching that, and he says, she’d be at his trial? She says, of course (🍷) she would.

Willow says, Michael wants to leave for Paris now? and he says, as soon as humanly possible. She says, there’s so much to do; so much to plan. He says, all she needs is her passport, and thanks to her mom, she has one of those, right? They’ll just throw some necessities in a suitcase, and as for the rest, the Parisian shops are calling their names. She says, that sounds… He says, incredible? and she says, yes, but what about Wiley? He says, who’s Wiley? Monica offered to watch him; she insisted actually. She says, that was before she had her hands full planning Jason’s memorial, and he says, he’d ask his mom, but her life’s kind of crazy right now. She says, there’s always her mom. She’d jump at the chance. And let’s face it, so would Nina.

Nina says she figured it was about time she and Harmony met. They do have someone in common. Harmony says, they do? and Nina says, their grandson. Who else does Harmony think she meant?

Jordan says, if and when the PCPD has something to say about this matter, Smalt can read the press release. TJ comes along and asks if everything is cool, and Jordan says, occupational hazard. Smalt says, if someone has targeted Sonny Corinthos’s stepdaughter, he’s damn well going to find out who, with or without Jordan’s cooperation.

Esme says she can’t believe Spencer is buying into Trina’s pathetic attempt to deflect suspicion. This is ridiculous. When she left a little while ago, everything was fine. Trina pays him one visit, and he throws this baseless accusation… He says, Cameron doesn’t think it’s baseless, and she says, who cares what Cameron thinks? He says, he does. Cameron told him to trust his gut. She says, and not trust her? Open his eyes. Cam’s always had it out for her. He says, not always. In fact, Cameron was on her side until she… She says, until she somehow taped him and his girlfriend having sex when she was miles away with Spencer? Does he hear himself? He says, she managed to torch Ava’s car without being there, and she says, she did that for him. He asks if she did this for him too, and she says, they succeeded. His friends set out to turn him against her, and they finally did. He says, they didn’t do anything. They didn’t have to. Not if she did it all for them.

Dante says, so Drew was part of this Operation Demeter at some point, and Sam says, and their chances of uncovering it are basically zero. He says, right, because Drew was a SEAL, and it was probably some black op. She says, Spinelli could get near it. Dante knows he has his ways, but she knows. She’s not allowed to ask him for help anymore. He tells her that she’s a real piece of work, and she says she knows that, but she also knows she’s right. She thinks it’s a mistake not to utilize Spinelli just because Dante’s ego can’t take it. He makes a pained expression, and says, can’t take it? and she says, yeah. He says she’s right, and she says, excuse me? He tells her that he said she’s right, and she smiles.

Carly asks if Drew thinks she would let him go to trial for a murder he committed against his will with no one in his corner. No way. The next call she would make would be to Diane, which by the way, if he wakes up one day and finds he’s committed a crime he doesn’t remember… He says, call Diane? but she says, call her; she’ll call Diane. He’s a nice guy and all… He says, but he’s not on the list? and she says, if it makes him feel better, it’s a very short list. There were only three people in the world who could call Diane, and no matter what she was doing or where she was, she would pick up the phone. Now there are only two. He says, her and Sonny, and she says, yeah. He says he still can’t believe her first impulse wasn’t to run, but instead, she just jumps right in to the mix. She says, it’s pretty on brand for her, and he says, none of the other stuff even crossed her mind? She says, like what? and he says, like her kids, her work, her life; all the stuff she told him not to jeopardize. For all she knew, he could have thrown her over the side next. She says, oh. She didn’t really think about that, but if she had… No. She doesn’t believe he would have thrown her over the bridge, conditioned or not. He says he’d really like to believe that, but that’s what’s so disorienting. When it is the right tarot card, there is no choice, there’s no conscious decision to do or don’t. He just wakes up and it’s done; he doesn’t remember anything. She says, that’s so scary, and he says, it’s terrifying.

Shawn tells Alexis, it’s been a while since he’s seen the guy, but when you’re as notorious as Bucky was, you’re not easily forgotten… and this isn’t news to her, is it? She says, no. Harmony told her about the forger. He says, so Harmony made her an accessory after the fact, and she says she advised Harmony not to do it, but at the end of the day, Harmony did what she was going to do, and she did it for her daughter. Is there anything he wouldn’t do for TJ? He says, now she’s just playing dirty, and she says, is there? He tells her to ask herself this. Is she sure Harmony was thinking about Willow, or was she just thinking about herself?

Harmony says, she and Nina are virtual strangers. She’s learned the hard way to guard against people who want to involve her in their own personal problems. Nina says, fair enough, and she doesn’t blame Harmony for being cautious, but in this particular case, Nina’s problem could also be Harmony’s problem. Harmony says, Nina wants something, and Nina says she only wants what Harmony wants she would imagine; to spend time with her precious grandchild? Or do Michael and Willow make her feel welcome when she’s around Wiley? Harmony says she gets to see him from time to time, when it’s convenient for them. Nina says, what if she told Harmony that she could change that? What if she never had to beg or grovel to see Wiley? What if they got Wiley’s parents to put him first, and give them what’s rightfully theirs?

Michael says, he and Willow agreed Nina gets nowhere near their son. Has that changed? Willow says, no. Nina forfeited her right to be in Wiley’s life as far as they’re concerned. The courts may have a different opinion. He says, Nina has the right to file a petition. Let her take her best shot, because they know they’re doing what’s best for Wiley. She says, and they agree that’s being surrounded by people who love him with no ulterior motive. He says, of course (🍷), and she says, could that list maybe include her mom? She knows her mom’s had her issues – no one knows that better than her – but she’s trying so hard to make up for her mistakes, which is more than they can say for Nina, right?

Jordan tells Smalt, careful now. It sounds like he’s more interested in selling a story than protecting two innocent kids. Smalt tells her, who says they’re innocent? and TJ asks, what’s going on? Jordan says, that’s what she’s trying to figure out. If what Mr. Smalt here says is true… Smalt says, gospel. His sources always check out. Jordan says she’s sure, and he says, if she refuses to give him the answers he needs, he’ll just find them somewhere else, and walks off.

Michael says, despite Willow’s mom’s sincere remorse, it’s hard for him to leave what she did to Willow in the past. Smalt sees Michael, and says, paydirt.

Spencer tells Esme to look him in the eye, and tell him that she had nothing to do with that video. She says, would it even matter? After all this time together, after everything they’ve been through, she can’t believe their history isn’t enough. He says he wants to trust her, and she urges him to sit with her. She asks if he remembers the first time they met in boarding school, and he says, of course (🍷) he does. She says, where were his friends then? He didn’t have any. The poor little rich kid was all alone until she came along. Then when he returned to Port Charles, and threw that big welcome home party, who wrote up the guest list? Who made sure every single person on it would fly in? Does he think they came all this way because they liked him? Please. They used him because his last name is Cassadine. All of them, except for her, because she saw the real him; his heart, his mind, his potential. True, he was just a boy, but she fell for him, knowing one day he’d be a man. Maybe she was wrong. Maybe she was fooling herself this entire time.

Carly says, let’s be practical about this. He knows what tarot cards work on him, right? and he says, The Chariot puts him under; The Tower brings him out. She says, and he knows what words need to be used? and he says, you’re active, and stand down. She says, besides the two of them, who knows the whole sequence at this point? and he says he thinks a lot of people know it involves tarot cards, but only Jason and Britt knew the actual sequence. She says she’s had her mixed feelings about Britt in the past, but Britt would never use it against him, and she almost certainly wouldn’t. He says, almost certainly? and she says, now that she thinks about it, she should invest in a tarot deck just in case. You never know when it could come in handy. Like when Nina’s really driving her crazy… He says, oh my God, and she says she doesn’t want to wipe Nina off the map or anything, but maybe there’s a fire at the Crimson printing facility. No one’s hurt or anything like that, but the magazine fails, and Nina has to leave town… She doesn’t want him to make the mistake that she’s above that, because she’s not. He says, she is. She might despise Nina, but not for one second does he think she would take away his free will just to mess with her. She says, no, she woudn’t.

Dante tells Sam, he was wrong. They should have called Spinelli instead of letting his… She says, ego, and he cringes, and says, ego get in the way, and maybe they wouldn’t be in this position. She says, as much as she likes to be right, he’s wrong. He says, that’s what he was telling her, but she says she’s talking about being in this position. It has nothing to do with him or who put the microphone on Drew, and everything to do with Carly. The plan went sideways, but it wasn’t his fault. He’s actually doing a really great job. He asks her to say it again, she does, and they kiss.

Carly says, when Drew talked about taking away his free will, it made her think. He asks, what about? and she says, the worst mistakes she’s made in her entire life was when she went along with someone else’s choice, not her own. She loved Jason for a million reasons, but one that stands out to her is, Jason never did anything he didn’t choose to do. He did a ton of things he didn’t want to do, but Jason was the ultimate proponent of free will. She guesses that makes it easier sometimes when she’s so angry she wants to scream at the universe. No one made Jason go to that island. He chose it, just like he chose everything else. He says, that’s why she and Jason were so close. They were the same that way. In the end, she just does what she wants, and everyone else be damned. Jason apparently didn’t have a problem with it. She laughs, and says, sometimes he did… a lot of times. That’s why, as much as it hurt, she had to end things with Sonny. It got to the point where she was making herself small every day. She was lying every day; not just to the kids, but to him, the world, herself. She was swallowing so much resentment and anger, she was choking on it. He says, she made a choice, and she broke free, and she says, it’s going to take a while before she feels okay. She misses Avery so much it hurts, but she didn’t have a choice. Not one she could live with.

Esme says, this is what she gets for staying by Spencer’s side, when everyone, including his own father, was against him. She won’t be making that mistake again. She gets up, and he follows, saying, she knows what she means to him. He hasn’t forgotten all that she’s done for him. She says, it seems like it. It seems like he’s willing to believe everyone except her. He says he just wants to understand what happened. Someone made that video and sent it out to the entire school. Esme blames Trina – Esme squeals, because she did it – and everyone else blames Esme. They’re getting so loud, I’m surprised a guard hasn’t run in, and shouldn’t there be a guard in the room??? He says, so either everyone’s wrong and she’s right… who is he supposed to believe? She says, he’s supposed to believe her. Because that’s what love is, putting one person before everyone else. Either he can do that or he can’t.

Michael says, they do need to figure out Willow’s mom’s place in Wiley’s life, but can they do it on their way to the airport, on the plane, or at one of the amazing cafes they’re going to be eating at? He wants her to himself in the City of Lights. She says, they still have to figure out who’s going to watch Wiley, and he says he’ll call his grandmother, give her first choice… in the car. Willow says, let’s get out of here, and they walk to the elevator. Smalt appears, and says, Mr. Corinthos? Michael asks if he knows Smalt, and Smalt introduces himself, saying, Michael must have seen his work in The Invader. Does he have any comment on the video? Michael says they’re in a hurry; Smalt can contact his office. Smalt says, so Michael has no comment on his family’s latest brush with scandal? and Michael says, his family is well-versed in so-called scandals. The elevator doors open, and Michael and Willow get in. Smalt leans on the door, keeping it open, and says, even when it comes to Michael’s sister Josslyn? Michael says, what about Josslyn?

Alexis tells Shawn, sorry. He doesn’t want her to miss a deadline, does he? He says, always a master of deflection, and she says, the website called her. He says, even if they hadn’t, she’d find some other way of explaining why she’s covering for her friend. She says, they both know, this is not about Harmony. The last time they spoke, he said he was flying out to the west coast for some amazing job opportunity. He says, good memory, and she thanks him. He says, then she’d also remember him asking if he had a reason to come back in the next few weeks, and move the offices here. She says, the reason being her, and he says she’s been avoiding him ever since. She says, she hasn’t been avoiding him… Okay, maybe she’s been avoiding him. You want to talk about us. If there even is an us. He says, is there?

Spencer says he’s always put Esme first; ahead of his family, ahead of his friends, ahead of everyone. She says, then why are they fighting? She knows he likes Trina, and wants to believe she’s innocent, but maybe Trina did him a favor. He asks what she means, and she says, Trina returned that gift he got her. She picks up the book, and says, he can make a clean break and move on. She looks inside, and says, he wrote an inscription. We can tell she’s just seething, and he says, it’s nothing. She looks at it, and says, it’s not nothing. To Trina and our shared passion; Spencer. Isn’t that sweet? If she hadn’t come back when she did, would Spencer have kissed Trina to demonstrate all that shared passion?

Drew says, Carly makes a really good point. There is an upside to him coming back, having missed out on a couple years of his life. She says, there is? and he says, he has a completely clear slate. He’s free to set his own priorities, to trust his own instincts. To fill up his life in a way that feels best to him. Of course (🍷) he has obligations; Scout being number one. But it’s not like he’s in a situation where he made a promise he can’t keep, or he’s trapped emotionally and physically. She says, he’s free, and he says he’s grateful for that. He’s grateful to be home, but he’s been focused more on loss instead of freedom. She says she thinks he needs to shift his focus, and he says he thinks she’s right. Just let go of… whatever. The time he’s lost, the dreams he had; just put it down. It will free up so much space to move forward. Carly says, amen to that.

Nina tells Harmony, legally, grandparents are guaranteed access to their grandchildren, in the state of New York at least. Harmony says, even if she wanted to fight for those rights, she wouldn’t be able to afford a lawyer, but Nina says, she wouldn’t have to; Nina already has legal representation. But that’s not her point. They could come out swinging, and probably succeed, but a long contentious legal battle is not in Wiley’s best interest, or theirs. Harmony agrees, and asks, what’s the alternative to going to court? Nina says, separately, they’re in a weak position, but together they can represent a united front. Nina has Michael’s father in her corner, and Harmony has the woman Michael loves in hers. So she could put in a good word for Harmony, and Harmony can do the same for Nina on her end. It could work.

Michael comes back out of the elevator, and asks Smalt, what happened to Josslyn? Has she been admitted to GH? Smalt says, nothing like that, and Michael says, then start talking; his patience is running thin. Willow suggests they go home and figure it out there, but Michael says he’s not going anywhere until he finds out what’s going on. Smalt says, Michael really doesn’t know. Wow. He’d thought it spread like wildfire. Michael says, start talking, and Smalt says, there’s a video going around, and apparently his sister was caught in the act with her boyfriend. And by caught in the act, he means having sex. Michael says, Cameron and Josslyn? and Willow says, they have the general idea; let’s get out of here. Smalt says, and someone sent it to all the students at PCU. Michael asks, who was it? and Smalt says he was hoping Michael could tell him that. The video’s blown up on social media, but so far, no one has taken credit. It makes him wonder, was this their plan? Michael asks if Smalt is insinuating his sister purposely leaked the video, and Smalt says, maybe she wanted the whole world to rate her performance. She is quite the athlete. Michael punches Smalt in the face, and Smalt bounces off the wall and onto the floor. We see Jordan and TJ are standing there.

Alexis says, nothing has changed since Shawn decided to go to San Francisco, She loved when he was staying at the house, she loves working with him, He says, so does he, and she says, so he knows how much he means to her. He says he thinks so, and she says she doesn’t know if she would have survived Pentenville without him. She’s gainfully employed because of him. He says he’s not looking for gratitude, and she says she knows. He says he asked if she’s ready. If she wanted to give them another try, but he never got her answer. She takes his arm, and says, the answer is no. There are a hundred different reasons for that. They’re different people. She’s still mourning Neil, The timing is bad, but the most salient point is that they had their chance, and it didn’t work. To think they can go back, and there will be some magic redo is just… He deserves better than that. They both do

Spencer says Esme is taking what he wrote out of context. He was referring to the passion he and Trina share for art history, but to take it and twist it into something else to justify what she’s done… She says, she’s turning it into something else? That’s what he’s done every time he’s chosen to believe Trina over her, trust Trina over her. He’s had his little stolen moments with Trina when he could have been spending time with her, and by the way, what makes him think he knows Trina so well anyway? He laughs, and she says, don’t tell her they… He says, no, of course (🍷) not. You know why? Because Trina’s not like that. Esme says, and she is, and he tells her, did he say that? Esme says she’s capable of anything, right? Nothing’s too low, but Trina, innocent Trina, can do no wrong. He says she’s overreacting, but she says, no. She’s finally calling him out with the truth. He wants boring and basic? She shoves the book at him, and says, he can have that.

Carly asks if Drew has talked to Monica, but he says, they’ve been ships passing; why? She says, Monica has decided to have Jason legally declared dead, and he says, it makes sense from a legal standpoint. She doesn’t think Monica is going to have a memorial, does she? Jason would absolutely hate that. She says, he would totally hate it. A bunch of people saying nice things about him? But he’d tolerate it because it’s Monica, and he’d want to make her happy. Drew says, she’s right, and she says he has to do her a favor. He says, name it, and she says, they have to make a pact. If there is a memorial, and they’re forced to sit there and listen to people talk about Jason, people who never really knew him, he has to catch her eye. If she’s about to stand up and say something and they’re sitting next to each other, he has to kick her. He says, what if they’re not? and she says, he’ll have to give her a signal of some kind; pull his ear, blink a couple of times, whatever. He just has to stop her. He says, how about this? and breaths in deeply, holding up ten fingers. She says, take a breath and count to ten, and he says, is that good? She says, perfect. He says, four days, and she says, four days what? He says, the amount time he was on Cassadine Island, and got to know Jason as his brother. It came down to four days. Now he’s left grieving all the things they’ll never get a chance to do. She says she’s so sorry, but he says, what is he even talking about? That’s nothing compared to what she’s going through. She says she has this big gaping hole in her life that will never be filled, but she has Jason in her heart. The way he was; the way she knew him. She has to realize, everyone has their own version of Jason, and she has to let them have it. He says, she will. It doesn’t matter what anyone’s version is, she knew who Jason was… for real. She says, what a gift.

Harmony says she’d love to be a part of Wiley’s life, and not just on birthdays and holidays. Nina says, Harmony just wants to be involved, and Harmony says, doesn’t Nina? Nina says, more than anything. Harmony is lucky for what she has with Willow. She never got that with her own daughter. Nina never even knew who she was until it was too late. Harmony says, that must have been crushing, and Nina says, it’s the kind of loss you don’t get over, but learn to live with. Harmony wishes there was something she could do, and Nina says, there is. Not that Harmony owes her anything. Just to be close to her daughter’s child would mean the world to her, and she truly believes it will make a difference to Wiley.

Michael tells Smalt, say another word about his sister; he dares him. Willow pushes him away from where Smalt is still on the floor, being tended to by TJ. Jordan says, that was a stupid thing to do, and Smalt wails, that was assault. TJ says, let him take a look, and Smalt says, this guy went all Corinthos on him and broke his face. Michael says, Smalt is lucky it wasn’t worse, and Jordan suggests he stop talking. Willow asks Michael, can they go home now? but Jordan says, Michael isn’t going anywhere. He’s under arrest.

Dante says he thinks what Sam is saying is, he’s got skills, and she asks if he has skills she’s not aware of. Are they current skills? He says, fairly current, and she tells him, if he says so. He says he does, and she says, care to share? He says, not here, and she says, they could see what’s happening at her place. He says, here’s a preview, and they kiss.

Drew asks if he can give Carly a ride back to the MetroCourt, but she says she’s not staying at the MetroCourt. The divorce papers were signed; she got the house. He asks how she feels about hat, and she says, conflicted. Of course (🍷), what else is new? The house is great; it’s a fortress. She doesn’t know if she should keep the guards, although she knows Sonny would be fine with it. She just doesn’t know if it makes them more of a target. She thinks she’ll have Spinelli set up a new state-of-the-art security system, and Drew says he could give her a full assessment if she wants. She says, really? and he says, ex-Navy SEAL over here. She says, that would be great, and he says, back to that ride, but she says she has her car; she’s all set. She’ll see him soon. He says she can count on it, he leaves, and she looks all happy, little hearts popping out of her eyes.

Jordan reads Michael his rights, and cuffs him, and Willow says, he was provoked. Did she hear what this man said about his sister? Michael says, it’s fine, but Willow says, it’s not, and Jordan asks if he understands his rights. He says he does, and Smalt says, this is an attack on the First Amendment. What happened to free speech? Jordan says, he spoke enough, and tells Michael, let’s go, leading him into the elevator. Michael tells Willow, Paris will have to wait, and she asks if he thinks she’s worrying about Paris right now. All that matters is that he and Josslyn are okay. Michael says, he’ll tell her this much, whoever did this to his sister is going to pay. Smalt repeats it into his recorder, and says, now there’s the quote.

Esme starts to storm out, but Spencer says, wait. She never answered his question. She says, he wants an answer, and he says, yes, he does. She says, well, we don’t always get what we what we want.

Alexis says she hopes Shawn’s trip to San Francisco is everything he deserves, and he deserves the best. He says she keeps talking about what he deserves, and she says, because she knows him, and she’s always liked what she’s known. He says, always? and she admits, not always. He laughs, and says he wants nothing but good things for her too. She tells him, good luck, and he says, back atcha, but something tells him she won’t need it. He heads for the door, and she says, hey. He turns back, and they hug/ He tells her, take care, and leaves.  

Harmony says she can’t give Nina her daughter back, and Nina says, unfortunately, no one do that. Harmony says, but maybe they can share Wiley. Nina is right. He can’t have too much love. Nina asks if Harmony is in this, when Phyllis comes over to the table. She says, Lorraine Miller, as I live and breathe.

Hyperventilating, Willow goes into an examining room and calls Carly. But by the time Carly answers, Willow is passed out on the floor. Carly asks if she’s there.

On Monday, Epiphany tells someone that they’re about to reach their limit; Michael asks what Jordan is doing to catch the bastard who ruined his sister’s life: Carly says, if Alexis means that, she won’t publish the story; and Sonny asks what someone wants from him.

🖼 Sweet Sorrow…

From the hospital to the university.

And on a more personal note.

🧍🏻‍♂️ Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere…

No need to panic in the streets. Spencer will be sticking around.

💎 Skipping Out…

 Kim always looks like she’s just a step away from imploding. Or exploding. Or something.

🗽 Necessary Cast…

For all the whining about her being a schoolmarm, I thought she was a breath of fresh air.

👰🏻 Always a Bride…

She’s right about the dress, and I don’t think she was kidding either.

https://people.com/tv/rhonj-melissa-gorga-responds-after-learning-shes-not-bridesmaid-in-teresa-giudice-wedding/

👠 Queen Trumps Countess…

Shaking my head at the irony.

🏍 Norman’s Noggin…

Are you sure he wasn’t bitten?

🍸 Of Course He Is…

Let me count the ways. It started with him giving her a ring on a string, and his bromance with Sandoval always came first. Never mind the concentrated effort at lack of motivation.

💔 Nothing More Than Feelings…

Hint: No one was very original.

🍳 What Came Next…

These kids will probably all have their own restaurants by the time they’re twenty.

https://ew.com/tv/masterchef-junior-champions-where-are-they-now/

🚣‍♂️ Streaming Together…

HBO Max and Discovery Plus join forces. Whether this is a good or bad thing is yet to be determined.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/hbo-max-discovery-plus-streaming-combined-plan-platform-warner-bros/

🏆 Choice Awards…

Critic’s Choice Awards winners.

https://ew.com/awards/2022-critics-choice-super-awards-winners-list/

And the more important fashion.

https://www.eonline.com/photos/34120/2022-critics-choice-awards-red-carpet

🥇 Quote of the Week

I no longer have patience for certain things, not because I’ve become arrogant, but simply because I reached a point in my life where I do not want to waste more time with what displeases me or hurts me. I have no patience for cynicism, excessive criticism and demands of any nature. I lost the will to please those who do not like me, to love those who do not love me and to smile at those who do not want to smile at me.

I no longer spend a single minute on those who lie or want to manipulate. I decided not to coexist anymore with pretense, hypocrisy, dishonesty and cheap praise. I do not tolerate selective erudition nor academic arrogance. I do not adjust either to popular gossiping. I hate conflict and comparisons. I believe in a world of opposites and that’s why I avoid people with rigid and inflexible personalities. In friendship I dislike the lack of loyalty and betrayal. I do not get along with those who do not know how to give a compliment or a word of encouragement. Exaggerations bore me and I have difficulty accepting those who do not like animals. And on top of everything I have no patience for anyone who does not deserve my patience. – José Micard Teixeira, author/life coach

🕶 Pulling Down the Shade…

It’s been a long week. Maybe for you too, so enjoy your time off, if you have it, and if not, know you’re not alone. See you when it’s Deadtime. Until then, stay safe, stay cautiously optimistic, and stay letting go of whatever. It will free up so much space to move forward.

February 4, 2022 – Carly Meets Drew On the Footbridge, Suds Sweep, AMC News, a Pledge, a Goodbye, Dating Again, Threatening, Carol Tattles, Whining, Salty Talk, Puppies (!), Practically 10 Quotes & People

Standard

What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Mac asks Dante if there’s any sign of what caused Kendall (apparently the driver’s name) to lose control of the vehicle. He and Dante look around the van with flashlights. Inside, the guard tells Peter that Kendall must have hit an icy patch and gone off the road. Dante says, all four tires have been punctured. They didn’t hit ice; they’ve been sabotaged. They see headlights coming toward them, and draw their guns.

Brook tells Bailey to sleep well. Mommy loves her.

Maxie says she’s glad Austin finally knows the truth about Louise. It’s been awful lying to him. He says he can imagine she’s had to juggle a lot of lies to really well-meaning people. She says she had to do what she had to do, and he says, he can’t help but wonder if her kissing him now is just another diversion.

Nina comes in to Charlie’s and, walking past Obrecht, she asks the bartender if Phyllis is around. Obrecht asks how long Nina is going to avoid her, and Nina says, Obrecht is responsible for her relationship with Mike coming out in court, so she doesn’t know. Obrecht says she did Nina a favor, and they both know it.

Chase asks if Bailey went down, and Brook says, like a champ. She had a big day. He says, all those people cooing over her. It must be exhausting being that cute. She says he should know, and he thanks her. She says she means when he was a baby. She bets he had really chubby cheeks. She puts her feet up, and he says he’ll never understand wearing shoes that hurt you. She asks, what is there to understand? These boots make her legs look amazing. He says, they do. Believe it or not, he really enjoyed today. She says, her too. She’s just glad they got out of there before the WSB came to arrest granny. He says, it woudn’t be a Quartermaine party if the police weren’t involved, and she says, that’s so true. He says he hopes it didn’t mar Ned and Olivia’s big day, but she says, no way. Nothing could diminish their happiness after how hard they worked for their marriage. He says, she’s right. Sometimes two people just belong together.

Sonny stands on the deck of the Haunted Star, wearing a white tux and holding a red rose, when Kristina comes out. She says, look at him. Carly won’t know what hit her. She asks what he’s doing out here; it’s freezing. He says he didn’t want to wait inside. He’s getting anxious, and wants to see Carly arrive so he can greet her with his rose. She says, very romantic, and he thanks her for what she did inside. She says her pleasure, and what he did to the state room looks amazing. It definitely has an island vibe. He says, not too much? but she says, no. Carly will see all the effort he put in, and see how much this night means to him. He says he just wants everything to be perfect, and Kristina says, it won’t be if she’s still here, so she’s out. She hugs him, and says, good luck, and he says he hopes this makes it right for him and Carly.

Carly walks on the footbridge, and flashes back to Sonny saying, if she’s not ready now, maybe she never will be. Drew comes onto the bridge, and says, they meet again.

Mac says, it could be an ambush, and Kendall comes up behind Dante and slugs him.

Brook tells Chase, she and Olivia have had their issues. She’s had them with her dad too, but she’s come to appreciate how good Ned and Olivia are together. He says, he’d hoped his mom and dad would find their way back to each other, but he’s had to accept that’s probably never going to happen. Maybe they don’t have what Ned and Olivia have; that connection, that something that makes you want to fight against all odds. She says, no one’s ever fought that hard for her, and he says she deserves a love that strong. She tells him that he doesn’t have to say that, but he says he said it because he believes it. She says, it’s a mighty generous thing to say to a person like her, and he says, a person like her? What is that supposed to mean? She says, it means he can cut the act. She knows what he really thinks of her. She stomps off, and out to the patio.

Felicia tells Anna, she still wishes she could have gone with Mac and Dante. She wanted to watch Peter get locked behind bars. That way, she could have taken a picture and sent it to Maxie, and Maxie would know for sure, and get on with her life. Anna says, now that Peter has been dealt with, they can get on with finding Louise. Felicia says, Maxie’s been through so much already. A dangerous psychopath is the father of her child, and all those fruitless searches for Louise. And the whole time, she’s had to handle it alone. Anna says, maybe Austin will change that, and Felicia says she likes him. He seems like a really good man. Lord knows Maxie deserves that. She doesn’t know what she’d do without Mac. How long has it been again? Anna says, not long. She’s waiting for a message from Valentin. Felicia says, Anna told her that Valentin had a lead on Louise. Wouldn’t it be wonderful? Peter behind bars, and a chance to bring Louise home? Anna says, everything would finally come together.

Maxie says she thought Austin understood, and he says he understands she was under a lot of stress, and it was really hard for her that the people she loves were really worried about Louise. She says, and she hated every minute of it; she told him that. But that has nothing to do with their kiss. She wanted to kiss him. He says he can’t help but wonder if there aren’t other factors in play, given her state emotionally. She says, that is a very clinical assessment, doctor. She knows how she feels. He says, she’s been lying to him. She’s been keeping a secret from him since the moment they met. Did she befriend him out of some kind of necessity? Everybody in this town knows her very well, and would know something was up, so she turned to him to keep them at bay because he’s new and safe. She says, he’s anything but safe. She and Brook lived in constant fear that he was going to remember what went on in the woods that night. She should have stayed away from him like she intended to, but she was drawn to him because she feels something for him. Is she alone in that? His phone rings, and he asks if they can talk later. She says, sure, and he jets.

Nina says she would have risked prison before betraying Sonny’s trust like that, and Obrecht says, that’s easy to say now, knowing it won’t happen. Nina starts to leave, but Obrecht says she doesn’t want to fight. Nina is her niece, and knows she’s always on her side. Who did Nina call to help her with Peter in Nixon Falls? Her. Nina says she did, and Obrecht almost died because of it. Obrecht says, that’s all over. She understands what it’s like to make bad choices for love’s sake; to be condemned for following your heart. If Nina needs a friendly face, here it is. Let’s sit. Nina says she was looking for Phyllis, and Obrecht says, Phyllis isn’t here, but she is. Please? They sit down, and Obrecht asks if Nina has eaten. She was supposed to have dinner with Britt, but she was a tiny bit late, and Britt ditched her. Nina says she’s not hungry, and Obrecht says, then they’ll drink. What happened to ruin her appetite? Nina says she had another run-in with Carly. It doesn’t seem to matter where she goes, Carly is there, and no matter what she says or does, Carly takes it in the worst way possible. With good reason, but Nina gets the feeling Carly is more interested in hating her than she is in helping her own husband. Obrecht asks, why does Sonny need help?

Drew asks if Carly is missing Jason, and she says, always. He was her sounding board, her voice of reason. Even when she didn’t agree with him, he never held it against her. He says he’d be willing to listen, or he can just go and let her think in peace, but she says she doesn’t want him to go. What about him? Is he thinking about Jason tonight too? He says, actually, Oscar’s been on his mind, and she says, she and Josslyn miss him a lot. Oscar and Josslyn used to come to this bridge all the time. He says he’s grateful for the few years he had with his son; he just wishes they’d had more time. She says, life is precious, and he says, they shouldn’t waste a second. She wonders why she’s stuck on this bridge trying to make a decision, and he asks what she’s trying to decide. She says, about her and Sonny.

Sonny sets the rose down on the steps, and leans on the deck railing. He says, she’ll be here.

Felicia tells Anna, still no word from Mac. She knows it’s silly of her to try. He’s got a lot going on, but she can’t help it. He said he’d call her as soon as he got to the prison. Shouldn’t he have gotten there already? Anna says, the roads are frozen. It might have slowed them down. Felicia says, maybe. Does Anna really believe that? Anna wonders if Felicia thinks something’s wrong, and Felicia says, when has dealing with Peter ever gone right? Anna says she’ll meet Felicia in the car, and takes off, Felicia not far behind her.

Carly’s phone rings, and it’s Kristina. Kristina says, it’s probably none of her business, but she wants her dad to be happy. He’s waiting for Carly on the Haunted Star. Does she want to show up? Carly says she knows Kristina loves her father, but she’s right, this is none of her business. Kristina says, he’s standing on a freezing deck with his heart on his sleeve. Can’t Carly at least meet him halfway? She helped him put everything together, and trust her, he’s pulled out all the stops to show Carly how much their marriage means to him. She can’t turn her back; it will crush him. Carly says, that’s not what she’s doing. All she asked for was a little bit of space. Kristina says, well, just show up. Please tell her that she’ll at least hear him out. Carly says she can’t do this right now. Goodbye. Drew asks if Carly is okay, but she says, no.

Nina says she wanted to talk to Obrecht, but how could she after what happened in court? Obrecht says, she only told Scotty what she suspected to keep Nina out of prison, and it worked. Thanks to Scotty’s brilliant strategy, she’s a free woman. These are different circumstances. Whatever’s going on now, she promises not to say a word to anyone; she swears. Nina says, Sonny is having some health issues, and it got so bad, she was afraid to leave him alone. She even spent a harrowing night at his place. She’s just thankful she got him to realize that he needed some help. Right after that, she ran into Carly, and tried desperately to tell her that her husband was in trouble, but Carly refused to listen to her. Obrecht says, Nina told her Sonny was sick, and she didn’t care? but Nina says she never got that far. Carly wasn’t hearing anything Nina had to say. Obrecht says, it sounds like she wasn’t trying very hard, and Nina says she’s a little conflicted because Sonny doesn’t want Carly to know what he’s going through. Obrecht says she doesn’t care what Sonny or Carly want; she cares what Nina wants. And she doesn’t think Nina wants Sonny and Carly to get back together.

Chase comes onto the patio and says, Brook can’t just tell him something like that and storm out. He puts a blanket around her shoulders, and says, besides, he doesn’t know what she’s talking about. She says, please. He acts all nice, but she knows the truth. He asks, what truth? and she says, when they first moved in, she overheard his conversation with Dante, telling him what a horrible person she is. How he wants to protect Bailey from her influence. He says he’s been trying to figure out why she’s been so hot and cold with him lately. That was just talk; he didn’t mean it. She asks why he said it, and he says, because he slipped. He said it would be a mistake if he developed feelings for her. She says, much better. Thanks for clearing that up. He says he was referring to Bailey. That’s what they’re doing here, right? If he developed feelings for her, it would complicate things, so he had to downplay it to Dante. Dante is a sharp guy, so he said all that crap about her not being his type. She asks if he really had to take it that far. He said awful things about her character. He tells her, she said herself that he’s a terrible liar, so he went too far to make sure Dante bought it. She says, so he doesn’t think she’s a horrible person? and he moves closer to her, saying, just the opposite. He says, he’s come to realize what a truly good person she is.

Spinelli tells Sam, crisis averted. James just wanted a glass of water. Where were they? Her and destiny; choosing a path. New life with Dante; second chance with Drew… She says, things with Dante are great. She loves seeing him with Scout and Danny; he’s a great father. He’s really stepped up, and taken care of all the kids’ needs. He says, what about her needs? and she says she’s not discussing her sex life with him. Okay, no complaints; none. He says, but by her own admission, she has unfinished business with Drew, and she says, if Jason hadn’t come back, they were starting a whole new life together, so it’s hard not to say what if? He says he sees no harm in asking, when Maxie walks in. She says she didn’t know Sam was here. Are Georgie and James sleeping? Spinelli says they’re both asleep, and Sam asks if something’s wrong. Maxie says, she kissed Austin, okay? Sam says, and? and Maxie says, it was horrible.

The police radio asks what the status is; please advise. Lying on the ground, Dante reaches for the radio, and says, 10-99. He repeats, 10-99. Officers down. Multiple injuries. The radio falls from his hand, and we see another man down by the van.

Carly tells Drew that Sonny planned this elaborate surprise at the Haunted Star. He’s recreated Martinique. Drew says, which is where they got married, right? She says, second wedding. Sonny really knows how to make a romantic gesture. He asks, so what is she doing here, and not there? and she says, she doesn’t need romance right now. She needs some space to figure out her feelings. Sonny wants her to commit right here, right now to fighting for her marriage. Is she wrong for not wanting to meet him halfway? He says, back up a moment. She just said she didn’t need romance; she needs time. And she said this to Sonny? She says, yes, and he says, and Sonny went ahead and planned this elaborate surprise, and wants her to come despite how she’s feeling right now? She says, yeah, and he says, that’s not about meeting Sonny halfway. That’s just Sonny being Sonny, trying to fix things on his timetable. The fact that she’s here right now is proof she has doubts. She’s 100% justified in feeling the way she does. She thanks him, and says she’s so glad he understands. He says he thinks he does, which is why he’s going to ask this. Is she positive she doesn’t want to go?

Brook asks if Chase really thinks she’s a good person, and he says, he doesn’t think; he knows. Look what she did for Maxie. Not to mention she put herself at risk to protect Bailey from her lunatic father. She says, and she lied to her family… So much lying. He says, good thing she can lie with the best of them, and she laughs. She says she never thought she’d hear Detective Harrison Chase condone duplicity, and he says, what she did was incredible. It might not have started out for the noblest of reasons, but she came through with flying colors. She stuck to her promise, and protected Bailey. Brook treated Bailey like her own daughter, all while she was taking serious hits to her reputation and character. She says she’d do anything to protect that little girl, and he says, him too, because they’re partners, which is exactly why they can’t be any more than friends. She says, but has he considered it?

Anna walks around the van, gun drawn. She looks in the van, and sees only the guard, lying across the seat. She checks for a pulse. She says, all clear, and Felicia comes out and checks Dante. She says, he’s just unconscious, but where’s Mac? Anna says she doesn’t know; be careful. Anna turns Dante over, and asks if he can talk. Felicia sees Mac, on the ground, shot, and says, oh my God, Mac. Dante asks, where’s Peter? and Anna says, he escaped.

Sonny sits on the steps, and takes a new wedding ring set out of his pocket and looks at them. He hears footsteps, and goes to the railing. He says, Carly?

Nina says, Obrecht told her that she doesn’t want to fight, but then accuses her of not wanting Sonny and Carly’s marriage to work. She gets up and grabs her coat, but Obrecht says, slow down and calm down. She’s not accusing Nina of anything, except perhaps not going after what she wants. She’s on Nina’s side, and wants her to be happy. Tell her, does she love Sonny? Nina says, Sonny is committed to his marriage, and Obrecht says, that wasn’t her question. Nina sits back down, and says, Sonny fell in love with her when he was Mike, a man without a past. Obrecht says, he was Sonny then, and he’s still Sonny now. Scotty told her that Sonny even admitted under oath that he loved Nina; that doesn’t just disappear. Nina says, it does when you have a wife and children. She can’t forget about that little detail. Sonny loves Carly. Obrecht says, perhaps he loves Nina too, but Nina says, she cannot be the woman who breaks apart Sonny and Carly’s marriage. Obrecht tells her, don’t be ridiculous. Marriages break up all the time. Is Nina going to live her life based on what others think? Does she think Sonny and Carly do? If Nina loves Sonny, and he loves her, why shouldn’t they be together?

Kristina tells Sonny, sorry; it’s only her. He says he saw her leaving, and she says, she did, but she came back. She thought he’d see her coming up the dock, but he says he was busy. He shows her the rings, saying, when he came back from Nixon Falls, he lost his wedding band, so he bought two more, since it’s the beginning. She says she’s sorry, and he says, she doesn’t have to be sorry; Carly is always late. She knows how important this night is to him. He asks what she’s doing here, and she says she wanted to be there for him… because Carly’s not coming. She called Carly. He says she didn’t have to do that, and she says she couldn’t help herself. She knows how important this night is for him, but Carly said she couldn’t do it. He says, do what? and she says, meet him halfway. He says, Carly told her that? She didn’t even want to try?… So Carly’s not coming? Kristina shakes her head.

Carly tells Drew that she can’t decide what to do. Does she show up at the Haunted Star, or call Sonny and tell him that she can’t come? He says he gets it; let’s work it through. She says, okay. She knows this much. Champagne and candles are not going to fix what’s wrong between her and Sonny, and he should respect her request for space. Drew says, agreed but is that something Sonny would really do? She says, who knows anymore? Sonny has been all over place since he came back from Nixon Falls, but he should at least try for her her sake. He says, absolutely, and she says, this is typical Sonny though. He has to be in control of everything, and he made tonight feel like an ultimatum; show up or else. Drew says, what if it is?

Mac is on a stretcher, and the paramedics tend to him. Felicia says, they have to get him to General Hospital, but a paramedic says, if they move him before he’s stabilized, they could lose him. Felicia tells Mac, please hang in there; she loves him so much. Dante asks Anna, what’s going on? and she says, Mac was shot. They’re trying to stabilize him right now, then move him to GH. He says he can’t believe he let Peter escape, and she asks if he can tell her what happened. He says he was in the van with Peter and the guard. The van lost control and was swerving everywhere. Then it just stopped. She says, spike strips; she managed to avoid them. He says he’s glad somebody did. He got out, and left Peter and the guard in the van. Mac joined him in searching for what caused the accident. He noticed the tires had been punctured. Then a light came from over here. He points, and she says, a car? Description? He says, no. It was an SUV because the lights were too high. He sensed someone walking behind him, and it was Kendall. He hit Dante over the head. Anna asks if he knows who shot the Pentenville guard or this man, pointing the guy near the van, but he says, no. He came to, and called the dispatcher. He asks, how’s Mac? He doesn’t hear any sirens. She says, they’re still working on him, and he asks if there’s any sign of Peter, but she says, no. Her guess is, he and Kendall took someone’s car. Dante says, he could be anywhere, and she says, they’ll find him. They have to.

Spinelli says, for clarification’s sake, Austin’s kiss was not satisfying? Maxie says, what? and Sam reminds her that she said it was horrible. Maxie says, that’s not what she meant. The kiss was great. It just got really messed up afterwards. Sam says she needs to hear this, when Maxie’s phone rings. She steps away, and says, Austin, hi. Austin says, they have patients coming into the ER. There was a shooting on Route 31. Maxie says, that’s the road to Pentenville. Sam asks, what’s going on? and Maxie says, there was a shooting on Route 31. Spinelli says, he’s on it, and goes to his laptop. Maxie tells Austin that she’s putting him on speaker, and asks, who was shot? He says he doesn’t have any details, but he knows one cop was injured. Sam says, that must be the prison van, and Maxie says, oh my God, Mac and Dante. Sam asks if there’s any other information, and Austin says, this is what he can tell them; multiple injured and two fatalities.

Drew tells Carly, Sonny has to know he’s in the wrong. He’s got to know that he shouldn’t be pushing like this, but it’s almost like he can’t help it. Because he can’t stand the idea of losing her and the kids and the family. All of it is way too much for him to lose. What if it’s not an ultimatum, and it’s more of a cry for help? He’s got to believe they have a future together, so what if instead thinking of it as caving, she thinks of it as throwing him a lifeline?

Sonny closes the ring box and looks like he might pitch it into the water, but he doesn’t. He opens the box, takes one of the rings out, and looks at it.  

Brook tells Chase, what is she saying? Of course (🍷) he’s considered it. He’s hot; she’s hot. He says, that’s not what he meant, and she says, he doesn’t think she’s hot? He says, no… yes… definitely. He was talking about her as a person. He likes her – Brook Lyn. That’s why they’re friends. He moves closer, and she says, friends, right. Because anything more would be too complicated. He says, exactly. So it’s out of the question. She says she never even considered it, and he says, neither did he. They look as though they might kiss.

Nina tells Obrecht that she’s going to the ladies room. Feel free to order without her. She’s leaving her stuff; don’t steal anything. Nina leaves, and Obrecht says, a drink it is. Kristina comes in on the phone, saying, she was already late for work as it was. She gets the point; he’d rather not let her see him in pain, but she should have seen the look on his face when he realized Carly wasn’t coming. It broke her heart. He told her to leave, now her dad is all alone on the Haunted Star… Right… She knows. She’ll give him some time, but she’s calling him when she gets off work. Speaking of work, she’d better get going. Thanks for listening, mom… Love you too. She sees Obrecht standing at the bar.

A detective asks what Anna thinks, and she says she thinks Kendall saw the strip in the middle of the road and did nothing to avoid it. That he intentionally disabled the van to allow the gunman, or gunmen, to move in. She needs tire track prints from the other car on the shoulder. An officer walks up, and asks if there’s any news on the chief, and she says, he’s on his way to the hospital; thanks for asking. What about Kendell? Did they find him? The officer says, five miles up the road, and Anna says, great. She’ll follow him in her car. She wants answers. He says, she won’t get them from Kendall. Kendall’s dead.

Maxie and Sam come into the hospital, and Maxie asks Austin if there’s an update. He says he doesn’t know; he just got here. Felicia comes out, and hugs Maxie. She asks where James and Georgie are, and Maxie says, they’re with Spinelli. What happened? Is Mac…? Felicia says, Mac was shot. He’s lost a lot of blood, and it took forever to stabilize him, but he’s here now. It doesn’t look good. Maxie says, he’s going to be okay. Sam asks Austin about Dante, and he says, table two. She thanks him, and goes in. Dante is hooked up to a couple of monitors, but she hugs him anyway. He says, he’s okay; he’ll be fine. He’s sorry to put her through this though. He guesses it’s the downside of dating a cop. She says, there is no downside to having him in her life, and he says he’ll make sure she remembers that. She says she’s lucky to have him in her life. He says, he’s lucky to have her, and they kiss

Obrecht orders a vodka tonic, and goes back to the table. Nina has come back, along with a glass of wine that magically appeared. Obrecht says, now’s Nina’s chance, and Nina says, for what? Obrecht says, she just heard Sonny’s daughter on the phone. Kristina was saying Sonny is in a bad way. Perhaps he’s still sick. Nina says, she thought he got his medication, but maybe he didn’t. He could be in trouble. Obrecht says, there’s only one way to find out. Sonny’s on the Haunted Star… all alone.

The detective tells Anna, they’re checking for signs Kendall was injured here. He probably succumbed to his injuries, and was dumped where the police found him. Anna says, don’t waste your time, and the officer says, Kendall was shot point blank. He died instantly. His guess is that Kendall and Peter had a disagreement, but Anna says, no; it was planned. Peter hates loose ends. She tells them to send an update that the prisoner is traveling alone, and should be considered armed and extremely dangerous.

Maxie asks Austin, what about Mac? Can they see him? He says, one of them can go in there, and only for a minute. Maxie says, that would be Felicia, and Felicia goes. Maxie asks Austin to please tell her one of those dead bodies was Peter, but he says, no; he checked first thing. Peter’s still out there.

Carly tells Drew that she’s not ready to give up on her marriage. So this isn’t about what’s fair. It’s about what they both need emotionally. He says, okay, and what does she need right now? and she says she needs Sonny to know she’s still in this. She’s not giving up, but they can figure things out without closing the door on their marriage. Right? She thanks him and gives him a hug. She says, thanks for talking to her and clarifying things. He says, always. He’s glad they bumped into each other. She says, her too, and his phone rings. He says, Anna… Wait… What happened to Dante.

At the van, Anna asks if he can hear her. Mac and Dante were transporting Peter to Pentenville, and they were ambushed. They’ve both been hurt. He says, what about August? and she says, there’s no sign of him. He says, dammit, and Carly says, what? He tells her, Peter August escaped.

Sonny closes the ring box, and says, that’s that. He turns to leave, and sees Nina walking out onto the deck.  

Chase says, they should get back, and Brook says, of course (🍷). Chase’s phone rings, and he says, Dante, what’s up? At the hospital, Dante says, there’s something he should know. Mac was shot tonight. Chase asks, how bad? but Dante says, they don’t know. He’s on his way to surgery now. Chase asks, what happened? and Dante says, the transport van was ambushed. Peter escaped. Brook says, what? and Chase says, the transport van was ambushed. Mac was shot and Peter escaped. She says, oh no, and runs inside. Chase runs after her, and Dante asks if he’s still there. Brook and Chase run into the nursery, and Bailey’s crib is empty. Brook starts to cry, and says, no, no, no!   

In a moving car, Peter tells Bailey/Louise, hello, sweetheart. Safe and snug. They’re together, and he’s never letting her go.

On Monday, Austin says, it’s a helluva story; Chase says, all signs point to Peter; Anna asks if Robert wants to go down that path; and Sonny says, his and Nina’s time together never happened.

🧹 Sweeping Up…

What’s to come on the soaps this month.

👄 La Lucci Speaks…

The diva of Pine Valley tells all.

👩🏾‍⚕️ Front Line Help…

She might not be a nurse off-camera, but she’s just as caring.

☄️ Farewell To a Star…

Another loss to the soap world.

👠 She’s Available…

Randall is an idiot.

https://people.com/tv/lala-kent-dating-again-after-randall-emmett-split/

🍊 OC Delusion…

I wanted to like her, but I’ve come to the conclusion she’s batsh*t crazy.

🗽 Accessing Production…

Like this matters anymore.

🛥 Ultimate Complaint…

What a shock. Brandi is mean.

🧂 Rubbing Salt In the Wound…

This week’s recap.

Exit stage Mary.

Everybody is getting into the act.

🐶 They’re Coming…

All you need to know about the upcoming Puppy Bowl XVIII.

https://www.discovery.com/shows/puppy-bowl/see/puppy-bowl-announcement

🦜 Quotes of the Week

Fashion is a movie. Every morning when you get dressed, you direct yourself. – Thierry Mugler

For a New Yorker anything is possible. – Peggy Scott (Denée Benton), The Gilded Age

Don’t let anyone who hasn’t been in your shoes tie your laces. – Judge Faith Jenkins

You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have. – Maya Angelou

The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them. – Ida B. Wells

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

Above all else, go with a sense of humor. It is needed armor. Joy in one’s heart and some laughter on one’s lip is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life. – Hugh Sidey

Don’t lose your sense of humor. – the only advice my father gave me when I left home. I’ve come close.

Start where you are, with what you have. Make something of it and never be satisfied. – George Washington Carver

🚶🏽‍♀️ Time To Skedaddle…

It’s here – the weekend for those still doing the 9 to 5, and the next two days for those off the work grid. Come join me on the third day for soap and a Deck Reunion. Until then, stay safe, stay pragmatic, and stay off any yacht you’re not invited aboard.

January 6, 2022 – Ava Wants Every Delicious Detail, Real Housewives On the Runway & Colder

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Tracy tells Bailey that she’s had an interesting life so far. Or should she call her Louise? She wonders, if the baby could talk, would she tell her what Brook is up to. Brook comes back, and asks, what makes Tracy think she’s up to something? Tracy says, isn’t she?

Maxie runs into the office, and Lucy says, at least one of them is here. Maxie says, sorry she’s late, and Lucy says, not as sorry as she is. Tell her, is she the only one who’s excited about taking Deception public? Maxie says she’s excited too. She was just putting out a fire. Lucy asks, what is more on fire than their IPO? Think about the substantial amount of money they stand to make as a company and as shareholders. Not to mention the fact, the sense of accomplishment. Look at them. Three women who had a dream. They brought it to fruition. It’s a reality. Deception is their baby, and she wants to see their baby thrive. Maxie flashes back to asking Brook if Tracy knows Bailey is Louise, and Brook saying, Tracy just knows Bailey isn’t hers. Lucy apologizes, and says she shouldn’t have used the word baby. Baby’s a dumb word. What she should have said is, Deception is a beautiful flower that’s worth millions of dollars. Maxie says Lucy is right. Deception is their baby, and you’d do anything to protect your baby.

At the MetroCourt, Sam tells Alexis that she wants to celebrate Alexis being the editor of the new and improved Invader. Alexis says, yeah, and Sam asks if she’s having second thoughts. Alexis says, of course (🍷) she’s having second thoughts. Just because she edited The Law Review doesn’t make her a journalist. Sam says, there’s no one better than Alexis who will know how to get the paper out of the jungle, but Alexis says, which is why they have a legal department, which she can’t join because she’s not a lawyer. Sam says, but she does know the ins and outs of the law, and Shawn wants his paper to be able to fight for justice. And that makes her perfect for the job. Alexis says, what it makes her, is terrified. She likes that.

Brando meets Gladys at the bar, and they hug. Gladys says she’s so glad to see him in person finally, and he says it’s good to see her too. She says she’s been so worried about him, but she didn’t want to nudge him with a thousand messages. He says, just a hundred and fifty or so, and she says, it’s only because she cares. He says he knows she does, and she says, losing her precious little grandson is like a knife in her heart. She cries every day for Brando and Liam. He says, and for Sasha? and she says, of course (🍷). Isn’t she joining them? He says, she called to say she couldn’t make it, when Sasha walks in behind him. Gladys says, is he sure?

Ava walks into Nina’s office, and says, so, is it true? Did that judge in Pennsylvania throw out those ridiculous charges? No more trial. No more smug look on Carly’s face? They set Nina free? Nina says she sees Ava’s heard, and Ava says, yeah, she heard, but she heard from some gossip at the spa. Why didn’t Nina tell her right away? They hug, and Ava says she’s so happy for Nina. She really is. She told Nina that Scotty was a great lawyer, and Nina says, he’s certainly effective. Ava asks what kind of rabbit he pulled out of his hat this time, and Nina says, he didn’t pull out a rabbit, just a witness that dropped a bomb on Sonny and Carly’s marriage.

Carly tells Avery that she can have the last cookie, but Avery says she’s saving it for daddy. Carly says, that’s sweet. She bets Avery is wondering why her daddy didn’t come down for breakfast this morning. Avery nods, and Carly says, she doesn’t want Avery to worry. He’s not going away again; not like last time. Avery says, then where is he?

On the phone, Sonny tells someone to have Tony oversee the shipment. He’s going to have a sit-down with Selena Wu. There’s a knock at the door, and he says, come in; it’s open. Dante comes in, and Sonny tells whoever to have Tony text him when it’s finished. He asks how Dante found him, and Dante says he talked to Michael. How’s Sonny doing? The last time he saw Sonny… Sonny says, let’s just forget about New Year’s Eve. Dante asks how they’re supposed to forget about New Year’s Eve? Sonny is there at the penthouse instead of home with Carly and his kids.

Brook says she’s late for a meeting at Deception, and she’s bringing Bailey with her, and Tracy says, take your daughter to work day? Brook says, they have wonderful daycare, and Tracy says, quite the role model; juggling work and motherhood. Maxie’s going to be there too, isn’t she? Brook says, her point? and Tracy says, Felicia is concerned that Maxie is getting overly attached to Bailey, using her as a substitute for her lost daughter. Brook says, with all due respect, Felicia worries too much. If Maxie being around Bailey is helping her cope with her own loss, she doesn’t see the harm. Brook picks up the car seat, and tells Bailey, let’s go to mommy’s office, and Tracy says, very interesting. She never, ever thought of Brook as the maternal type. Brook says, neither did she, but it changed. Tracy says, maybe. Maybe she just got better at hiding it.

Sasha gives Brando a kiss, and he says he’s glad she changed her mind about joining them. Gladys asks if she can order something for Sasha, but Sasha says, no thanks. Brando says they haven’t really seen or talked to each other since Liam’s funeral, and Sasha says she’s sorry. She just needed to be by herself. He says he understands, and she says she knows. How is he? That’s a stupid question. He says, it isn’t a stupid question. He’s glad to see her out and about. He thinks it’s good for her, even if it means sitting down with his mom. Sasha tells Gladys that she’s sorry she didn’t return her text; she’s been holed up in her apartment. Gladys says, no need to explain. It’s good to see her. Brando says he’ll go grab them a table, but Sasha says, actually, she can’t stay. It’s a big day for Deception. They’re getting ready to launch their IPO. Gladys says, oh yeah. Deception’s going on the stock market. Is that about right? Sasha says it is, and thinks the best thing for her is going back to work. Brando says he thinks Lucy and Maxie will understand, and Sasha says, she knows, but she can’t stare at her walls any longer, where she’s reminded of everything she wanted to do with Liam. He says, of course (🍷). He understands. She says he told her that he was back at the garage, so she figured, why not get back to work herself? He says he’s glad she stopped by, and she says, her too. He tells her that he loves her, and she says she loves him too, and leaves, giving Gladys a wave. Brando tells Gladys, she’s okay, and Gladys says, mm-hmm.

Alexis says, here’s to lessons learned, and she and Sam clink coffee cups. Sam says, and bravery, and Ned approaches the table. He says he called Alexis’s house, and Kristina said he could find her here. She asks if he’d like to join them, and he says, for a few minutes, if they don’t mind. He sits, and congratulates Alexis on her new job. She says, she just got this job five minutes ago, and it’s news already? Sam says, welcome to journalism in the 21st century, and Alexis thanks Ned for his good wishes, but says, something tells her that he didn’t track her down to celebrate her new career. He says, no. He has some bad news. Luke died. Sam says, no, and Alexis asks if he was sick. Ned says, no. He was killed in a terrible accident. They might have heard about it on the news; the cable car in Austria? Sam says, Luke was in that? and he says he’s afraid so. Alexis asks where he heard this, and he says his mother told him.

Ava tells Nina that she wants to hear every delicious detail, but Nina says she doesn’t take joy in any of this. Ava says, but she does; that’s why she’s here. So tell her, who was this witness, and what was the big bombshell? Nina says, Scotty called Willow to the stand and asked her to reveal what she knew about Nina’s relationship with Sonny back in Nixon Falls. Ava says, and as God is her witness, she could not tell a lie, and Nina says, she told the truth. She overheard a conversation Nina and Sonny were having about how they fell in love when he thought he was Mike. Then Sonny and Carly… Ava says she can just picture it. Sonny, sitting there with his guilty conscience, and Carly wanting Nina to walk the plank. And her, without a front row seat.

Carly says Avery’s daddy is away on business, and Avery asks, for how long? Carly says she’s not sure, but he’s not far, and he’ll be back really soon. Olivia comes in, and says she hopes it’s okay, and Carly says, sure. They were just talking about how Avery wants to leave a cookie for her daddy. Olivia asks if Avery has a hug for her Aunt Olivia, and Avery hugs her. Carly asks Avery to check on Donna and Pilar, and Avery leaves. Olivia says, she’s getting big so fast. When she comes back in this room, she’ll be ready for the prom. Carly tells her, don’t say that, and Olivia says she’s been trying to reach Carly all week; she probably noticed this morning especially. Carly says, sorry. It’s been non-stop since she got back from Pennsylvania. Olivia says she knows Nina skated. What she doesn’t know is why. Carly says, because Nina fell in love with her husband, and it turns out he felt the same way about her.

Dante says, when he left Sonny last night, Sonny was three sheets to the wind. He took Sonny’s keys, by the way. How’d he get here? Sonny says, Nina showed up after Dante left. She wanted to drive him home, but he did as Dante asked, and told her to drop him off here. Dante says, and did she? Drop him off? Sonny says, if Dante is wondering if she stayed, the answer’s no. Dante says, did he want her to?

Alexis says, Ned’s been in contact with Tracy? and Sam says, the last they heard, she was on the run from the PCPD, and fell off the grid. Ned says he knows what his mother did was unconscionable, but Luke’s death has really hit her hard. Sam asks how Tracy got ahold of him. Did she email him, because the last thing she would want is to be in front of Alexis. Tracy comes in, acknowledges Sam and Alexis, and tells Ned that she’s glad she found him.

Brook dashes into the office, saying, sorry she’s late, and Lucy thanks her for joining them finally. Brook says she needs to talk to Maxie for a second, and grabs Maxie’s arm. Lucy says she can’t, and Brook says, but she is. Maxie says, give them a second to get whatever it is out of the way, and pulls Brook outside, Brook telling Lucy, they’re going to be ahead of schedule in no time. Outside the office, Brook says, Tracy not only knows Bailey isn’t hers, but she suspects she’s Louise. Maxie says, and she left the baby with Tracy? but Brook says, no. She brought her to daycare. Lucy tells them, come on; they have a lot of work to do. Maxie says, one second, and tells Brook, they need to bluff this out. See if Tracy’s actually going to pursue it. Brook says she doesn’t have a better plan, so… They go back in, and Lucy says, yay, finally. They have so much to do. They have to schedule a press conference to announce the actual date of the IPO. Then they have to arrange for all of them to get to the stock exchange, because one of the partners has to ring the opening bell. Since Deception is her brainchild, she volunteers to do that very high profile honor. Maxie says, too bad it can’t be the Face of Deception, and Brook says, she knows she’s only staff, but shouldn’t the face of the company be the face of the company when they go public? Lucy says, that’s a fair argument, but Sasha was only supposed to take maternity leave, and now it’s turned into bereavement leave, which means all of them have to stick together and pick up the slack. Sasha walks in, and says, that’s sweet, but it won’t be necessary. She’s back, and ready to give her all for Deception.   

Ava tells Nina, don’t stop now; they’re getting to the best part. What happened after Willow threw Sonny under the bus? Nina says, the judge called Sonny to the stand to confirm or deny Willow’s testimony, and Ava says, he tried to deny it, didn’t he? Nina says, no, he didn’t. He actually talked about his feelings toward her when he thought he was Mike. He not only talked about her falling for him, but also him falling for her. Ava says, so he told the truth. What did Carly do? Nina says, Carly left the hearing before the judge could dismiss the charges, and Ava says, Carly walked out on Sonny, and left him to Nina.

Olivia says, so Willow overheard Nina and Sonny talking about their past in Nixon Falls, but it’s still no secret Nina kept Carly from knowing Sonny was alive. Now they know why, because Nina had fallen for her husband. Carly says, and he fell for Nina, but Olivia says, according to Nina. Carly says, he didn’t deny it, and Olivia says, he didn’t know who he was, and Nina knew that, and took advantage of him. She’s not saying Sonny’s not a dog; all men are dogs. For example, Ned. Olivia happens to be a dog lover. But just because Nina had feelings for Sonny, doesn’t mean he has feelings for her. Carly says she asked him that question, and he said he loves her. Olivia says, and? and Carly says, she told him that wasn’t an answer. Then she told him not to come home. Olivia looks at her, and Carly says, what? Does Olivia think she was wrong? Olivia says, not at all, and she’s not comparing the two situations in the slightest, but what did Sonny say when Carly told him about her feelings for Jason?

Sonny tells Dante, part of him – the Mike part – wanted Nina to stay, but that was just a hangover from the past; the memories that were stirred up by the drinking, and thinking about the mistakes he made when he came home. It would have been very easy to just have her stay, think about Nixon Falls, and how easy it was, or how easy he thought it was. Damn. It’s like, Carly was the one who brought him back to himself. It’s who he wants; his home. Know what he did before he conked out? He was hoping when he woke up in the morning, Nina would be forgotten. So he wakes up, opens his eyes, and the feelings are still there. And you know what? He can’t get rid of them.

Tracy says she needs a word with her son, and Ned says, she needs to get out of here before someone tips off the police. Alexis says, actually, Tracy has just done her an enormous favor. She was just sitting here, worried she didn’t have the chops to be a journalist, but it turns out that Tracy, being the giver that she is, just gave her a brand new headline. It’s all about privilege and the abuse of power.

Brando tells Gladys, he tried backing off. He tried giving Sasha time to grieve. Gladys says, it’s killing him, isn’t it? You don’t want to send a single message or God knows, call her. You’re worried even the slightest gesture will make her think you’re hounding her. You’re worried if you don’t reach out, it will seem like neglect. He says she hit the nail on the head, and she tells him not to look so shocked. She understands because she’s been doing the same thing with him. Her instinct is to love bomb him like crazy; shocking, she knows. She’s been listening to this podcast about loss, and it says, grief is like a daffodil. You plant it in the wintertime, and wait for spring until it blossoms. Or wait. Is that the podcast on gardening? Maybe it’s both, but he gets the idea. He says he’s not sure he does, and she says, she’s just giving him space until he’s ready to talk about it. He takes her hand and thanks her, saying, he appreciates that. She says, he’s welcome. Anything for her son. So, is he ready to talk about it?

Maxie says, Sasha shouldn’t be here, and Lucy says, it’s too soon. Brook says Sasha needs to take care of herself, and Sasha says, losing Liam was the hardest thing she’s ever known, but it would dishonor his memory if she curled in a ball and stopped living. Brook says, in that case, she’s been keeping a folder with all the information on the IPO for her. Sasha thanks her, and Lucy says, actually, publicity has asked her if they have any new photos for the press release. Sasha says, she’s ready for anything, and a woman comes in with Bailey. She says she’s sorry to interrupt, but Brook must have left Bailey’s pacifier in her bag.

Nina says she hates to burst Ava’s bubble, but Sonny followed Carly out of the hearing, so they could talk things through. Ava says, of course (🍷) he did, and of course (🍷) Carly took him back, right? She wishes Nina would have given her a heads up. She could have used the information Willow had to extract a confession on the child custody front. Nina says, if Ava is going to make everything about her, when Nina’s done what she can to honor Sonny’s wishes and not come between him and Carly, she can go. Ava says she’s sorry. She knows it must have been hard when Sonny turned his back on Nina and returned to Carly, and they lived happily ever after. Or did they?

Carly asks what Olivia means about her and Jason? and Olivia says she was at the wedding. She saw Carly coming down the aisle, and she looked very much like a woman in love. Carly says she told Olivia before about bottling things up, and Olivia says she told Carly, it’s not healthy. Carly says, they were extraordinary circumstances she and Jason were thrown in, and Olivia tells her to go ahead and just say she fell in love with her best friend. Carly says she did, but when Sonny came home, she put those feelings aside. Olivia says, Carly bottled them up, and Carly says, okay, she bottled them up, but the point is, she went back to the man she loves. She chose Sonny. She made a choice. Obviously Sonny can’t do the same.

Dante hates seeing Sonny seeing tear himself apart like this, and Sonny says, it’s like there’s two of him. The father Dante knows, and the guy he never met, Mike. Carly never met Mike either. Dante says, Nina met him, and Sonny says, he’s gone and doesn’t exist. It’s like that place; it’s magic every hundred years. Dante says, Brigadoon? He had to do that musical in elementary school, about a magical town that shows up every hundred years. Sonny says she can’t see Dante in a musical, but Dante says he was pretty good, thanks to Sister Mary Joseph. Sonny says, then what happened? and Dante says, boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy travels back in time, gets girl, and walks off into the sunset, and the curtain falls. Sonny says, that’s make believe, and Dante says, kind of what Sonny and Nina went through, except that’s over. Unless Sonny is telling him it’s still real.

Ned tells Tracy that she shouldn’t be out and about, but she says, she’s not an invalid. Sam says, but she is a fugitive, and Tracy says, and Sam’s mother is a so-called journalist, while the man she loves is gone. Alexis says she’s very sorry to hear about Luke. She and Luke had a very fulfilling, yet complicated relationship. Tracy says, he told her, but then her mind would begin to wander, and Alexis tells her, having said that, there is no such thing as bereavement leave when you’re on the lam. And her loss, devastating as it may be, has nothing to do with her not owning up to what she did. Tracy says, Alexis wants her to go to prison? She’s already in the house with Monica, who, when she’s not telling her, it’s my house, Alan gave it to me, is moaning about some Russian. Ned says, Belarus, and Tracy says, whatever. In any case, something is going on with Ned’s daughter, and she needs to talk to him about it. Don’t talk to her about privilege. Alexis says, Tracy avoided arrest by fleeing the country on a private jet, and Tracy says, and Alexis has become a so-called journalist by failing her way to the top. Or did she sleep her way to the top this time?

Sasha asks if Bailey knows how lucky she is. Her mommy and daddy are even luckier, because they have her. They will always have… She tells everyone that she’s fine, and Brook gives Bailey her pacifier. Lucy says, about those publicity shots… and Sasha says she called Suzanne, her go-to makeup artist, on her way over, and Suzanne should be there soon. So she’ll just freshen up before they take the photos. She leaves, and the women look at each other.

Nina says, if Ava is going to take everything she’s saying and use it as ammunition to hurt Sonny, then no. She doesn’t want Ava to use it to gain advantage involving Avery’s custody thing. Ava says she was just kidding around. Seriously, she doesn’t want to see Nina end up holding the short straw. Nina says she’s not. As a matter-of-fact, last night she was helping Sonny out. She found him at Charlie’s, all alone and overserved. Ava says, he was smashed at Charlie’s? Really? Was he a mad drunk, a sad drunk, or an amorous drunk? Nina says, none of the above. He didn’t have his keys, and didn’t want her to drive him home, so she drove him to a penthouse at Harborview Towers, and she dropped him off. Ava says, Nina didn’t go inside with him and make sure he got to bed okay? Nina says she made sure he was safe, they had a little conversation, and she left. Ava says, damn. Nina really loves that guy, doesn’t she?

Olivia wonders if Carly and Sonny are all that different. They’re strong-willed and stubborn as hell. She sympathizes because she and Ned have a lot of that too. They have their pride, albeit in significantly smaller doses. What they do have is Leo, and doing what’s best for him is bringing them back together. It makes her kind of guilty to talk about this because of everything Carly is going through, but Carly says, she’d love to hear some good news. Olivia says, they decided Ned is going to officially adopt Leo, and they’re going to renew their wedding vows, and Carly says, that’s wonderful. Olivia says she thinks so, and Carly says, it’s great because they’re going to have challenges ahead. Olivia says, honestly, the marriage part worries her more than the… She has to get used to saying it. Autism. Carly says, Leo’s a great kid, and Olivia says, that’s not going to change. Carly says, that’s a great way to look at it, and Olivia tells her, don’t waste time like she did. Marriages and families, there always going to be a challenge. Most marriages end in divorce. Families with cousins cutting each other out of the picture books. Don’t be those people. Carly asks what she’d do without Olivia, and they hug. Olivia says, Carly will never know; she’s not going anywhere. Carly and Sonny are destined for each other; until death do us part. The man even died and came back to her. Carly laughs.

Sonny tells Dante, the love he has for Carly and for his family is real. I suddenly notice a big plant in bowl on the coffee table. It’s no moss bowl 🎍, but still distracting, and I wonder who’s been watering that if no one lives there? Who’s been cleaning this place? Sonny says he doesn’t have to tell Dante that; Dante knows that. Dante says, of course (🍷), and Sonny says, when he was in Nixon Falls, he told Carly, he would always have this vision. He would dream, and see a blond woman. He’d try to touch her, and he couldn’t, and she woudn’t come to him. It happened quite a bit. Then, when he came close to dying, it all rushed back to him. The blonde woman was Carly, and he knew that’s where he belonged, with her and with his family. This whole thing with Nina, the feelings and all, doesn’t really matter. Dante says, he believes Sonny, and Sonny asks how he makes Carly believe him. Dante says he thinks Sonny has to stop telling him about it, and talk to Carly about it.

Ned says he’s taking Tracy home, but she says, not until she has a word with him in private. Ned says, excuse them, and they step away. Sam asks if Alexis is okay, and Alexis says she’s great. Mixing it up with Tracy is invigorating. Sam says, as amazing as that all was, Tracy needs to pay for what she did to Alexis.

Brando says, he admires the way Sasha’s able to cope, and Gladys says, he’s sweet to admire how well she’s handling this, but trust her when she says this. A woman can’t carry a child for nine months, and lose it, and turn the page overnight. You can’t wallpaper over a hurt like this no matter how hard you try.

Brook wonders if someone should check on Sasha, and Maxie says she knows her experience with Louise is different, but Sasha might need some time alone to pull herself together. Lucy says, you never ever really get over a loss like that. Maybe this is too soon, and Sasha’s pushing too hard to get over it. Brook says, if she is, they’ll be there for her, and Maxie says, in the meantime, they just have to hope Sasha knows what’s best for Sasha.

Sasha looks at herself in the bathroom mirror, and says, get it together, Gilmore. Your friends and your partners are counting on you. Do not let them down. She takes a lipstick out of her bag, and her hand shakes, but she takes a deep breath, and puts some on.

Nina tells Ava that she’s never denied her feelings for Mike, and what she still feels for Sonny. Ava tells her, what Nina’s not saying is… Nina says, go ahead. Ava is dying to say it. So say it, and get it out of her system. Ava says, it’s clear how Nina feels about Sonny, but what Nina’s still not able, or willing, to face, is how Sonny feels about her. Nina says, she knows it’s hard for Sonny to forget what they went through together in Nixon Falls, but they’re back in reality, back here. Ava says Nina still doesn’t get it. Nina thinks Sonny is caught between the past and the present, but that’s not what this is about. He’s caught between Carly and Nina.

Carly says, she knows Sonny came back from Nixon Falls, but Mike came with him. Olivia says, Nina is the one who won’t let Sonny go, but don’t worry; she’ll get what’s coming to her. Carly asks if she promises, and Olivia says she does. They don’t call it karma for nothing. Carly needs to think about what she wants. After everything that happened in Nixon Falls, and knowing what she knows and how she felt about Jason, be honest. Can she expect Sonny to be there totally and completely for her, if she’s not there totally and completely for him?

Sonny tells Dante, he’s not sure Carly wants to see him right now, the way they left things. Dante says, she was hurt, and she was angry, and Sonny couldn’t make it better, so he tried to drink himself numb. He took his time out, and it didn’t work. So now he has to go back there and talk to her, and it’s going to hurt, but that’s the way it is. Dante’s phone rings, and he says, it’s Sam. Sonny tells him, go ahead, and Dante steps away. He asks Sam, what’s up? and she asks how soon he can make it to the MetroCourt. He says, it’s too late for lunch, and too early for dinner. Are they talking business or pleasure? Sam asks if it’s not too late to make an arrest.

Brando suggests Gladys grab a table while he settles the tab. She says he doesn’t have to, unless he insists. She asks if he knows how proud of him she is, and he says, of what? She says, he admires Sasha for being strong, and getting on with her life. She thinks he’s just as strong, if not stronger, for letting himself hurt.

Sasha says, sorry to keep waiting them waiting, and Brook says, she looks… wow. Maxie says, of course (🍷) she does; she’s the Face of Deception. Lucy says, yes she is, and Sasha looks awesome. She thought while they were waiting for Sasha’s makeup artist, they could what Sasha is going to say at the press conference. Maxie and Brook step outside, and Maxie asks what exactly Tracy did to make Brook think she believes Bailey is Louise? Brook says, it’s nothing she did or said. It’s that crocodile smile. Like she knows that Brook knows that she knows. Maxie says, can they trust her? She’s a liar and a schemer. Tracy would exploit them in a way that would benefit her own agenda. They need to come up with a plan. Before Tracy blows it, and Peter finds out they’ve been hiding his daughter in plain sight.

On the phone, Ned tells someone to let him know if there are any new developments. Tracy asks if he’s done, and he says, it was about ELQ. Normally she’d say, there’s nothing more important. She says, this time there is, namely, his daughter. He asks what Brook has done now, or rather, what is Tracy accusing her of having done. She says, it’s about that baby of hers. He says, Bailey? What about her? She says, Bailey. What kind of name is Bailey? While they’re on the subject… Dante walks over to Tracy, and she says, just a minute; this is important. He says she’s under arrest, and handcuffs her. Sam and Alexis clink coffee cups.

Nina tells Ava, Sonny loves Carly. End of story. Ava says, maybe this story has a sequel. She picks up her bag, and says, stay tuned. She walks to the door, and says, Sonny may love his wife, but he still has feelings for Nina and can’t shake them. Deep down, Nina knows it’s true.

Carly looks at her phone, and tells Olivia that her mom keeps calling her. She wonders what that’s about. Olivia says Carly should call her, and find out. Carly says, she will, but first, she wants to hear Olivia’s news. Olivia said she had something to tell her. Was it the whole Leo and Ned thing? Olivia says, no, but she thinks it’s Carly’s mom’s news to tell, but suggests they talk after, and about the other stuff they talked about. Sonny told Carly about how he feels about Nina. Carly told him how she felt about Jason on her wedding day, but has she told Sonny how she feels about him still? Sonny walks in.

Tomorrow, Ava tells Spencer that they’re not finished, Finn asks if Elizabeth is having second thoughts, Nina wonders what if Sonny’s happiness lies with her, and Sonny says he doesn’t want to spend one more minute without Carly.

Project Runway

There were seven designers left, and Chasity said she was feeling the pressure like never before. She felt she had to push harder. She had some little Black girls looking up to her as their hero, and couldn’t fail them. The designers gathered at the runway, where there were containers of apples, oranges, and flowers, and Christian said they played an important part in the challenge. This week, it was the Real Client Challenge. They’d be working with some women who were real, and knew what they wanted. From The Real Housewives of New York City, it was LuAnn and Leah; The Real Housewives of Potomac, Grande Dame Karen, Gizelle, and Wendy; and from The Real Housewives of Orange County, it was Shannon and Gina. The designers’ task was to create the ultimate Reunion show look for Real Housewife, Christian reminding them that each one had her own particular needs and wants. LuAnn said the Reunion was something they waited for a whole year, and they had to look amazing. More concisely, Leah said they needed to look effing fierce. We saw some clips from the Reunions.

The designers were paired up with a Housewife: Anna with Gina, Aaron with Gizelle, Chasity with Karen, Kristina with Wendy, Bones with Shannon, Shantall with LuAnn, and Coral with Leah. Leah told Coral that she wanted to look like a sexy Disney princess, but in Coral’s interview, she said she had more warrior goddess in mind. She didn’t do Disney. The designers were instructed to balance their personal vision with what the client wanted.   

They had 30 minutes and $700 in Mood. While Coral had promised Leah an emerald color, she was drawn to a fabric with cut-outs that was a nude, and hoped the color change was okay. Leah might have wanted flowers and ruffles, but she wasn’t doing that. Gizelle had told Aaron that she thought of herself as a Barbie, which he thought went along with his forte of fashion meets costume.  

Instead of models, the designers got the Housewives. In Aaron’s interview, he said, they don’t give a sh*t, are highly opinionated, and always extra. They needed to love their looks. Coral’s dress looked beautiful, but it definitely wasn’t what Leah asked for. When Leah first saw it, it looked like things might go south. Instead, Leah said it wasn’t what she was expecting, but it was epic. It was better than what she’d come up with in her own head. In Coral’s interview, she said she’d taken a huge risk, but it totally paid off. Leah said she effing loved it.

Since it’s impossible to have Housewives in a room without drama, Kristen had created a pantsuit for Wendy that had a bustier top with wide-leg flowy pants. Wendy said she’d just gotten new boobs and new butt, and wanted to show them off. She wasn’t mean, but obviously unhappy, and Kristina started crying. In Aaron’s interview, he said you could learn techniques in school, but the only way to learn to do custom work was to actually work with clients. Kristina ran out to calm down and have a smoke, and Anna and Gina followed her to lend support. They also told her smoking was bad for her, although that probably wasn’t the time for that lesson. Gizelle asked if Wendy had made Kristina cry, and Christian said, it was down to the wire, and Kristina was probably just emotional. In Kristina’s interview, she said it was very stressful and intense, and reminded her of school in Antwerp. She’d had a nervous breakdown, but the school had psychotherapy, and she took advantage of that. She recovered, and was able to go back to work. Still, she sometimes got emotional under stress. She and Bones had a drink, and let out a scream on the rooftop.

In his interview, Aaron said, it was runway day, and that meant chaos was about to ensue. The Housewives came for their final fittings, and Kristina had made modifications to the pantsuit, and added a long, flowing scarf. It seemed like Wendy still wasn’t too thrilled though. To be fair, Kristina had said she could do a gown or pantsuit, and Wendy had said she didn’t really care. In Bones’s interview, he said he thought Anna wasn’t as focused as she had been, and felt he’d be able to stay longer in the competition. Meow. The Housewives went to hair and makeup, and I thought the outfits didn’t look ready, although Wendy actually ended up looking pretty good.  

Brandon hoped the designers had gotten through the challenge without having wine thrown at them, and Andy Cohen was introduced as guest judge. It went this way. Gizelle wore a pink jumpsuit with one long, dramatic sleeve. In Aaron’s interview, he said she was perfection. She was using the sleeve, and living her best life. She was a vision. Karen wore a sparkly black gown, and in her jumpsuit, Wendy used the scarf all over the place. Gina wore a skirt and top; the top having space age shoulder pads, and the skirt being a more relaxed pencil skirt; the whole thing very boxy and constructed. Shannon wore a just above the knee black cocktail dress, with an asymmetrical hem. There were two sleeves – one of her must haves – but one was lacy with feathers. In Bones’s interview he said, Shannon’s ex should feel sad, because she looks sexy AF now. Leah’s neutral gown was sheer underneath, with the overlay of the cut-out fabric, strips of it flowing at the waist. LuAnn wore a black gown that was a combination of business and cabaret party, with one sleeve, a corset top, and a high slit skirt, lace peeking from the slit. All the Housewives worked the runway, and afterwards, Elaine said she felt like she just got off a roller coaster ride. Andy said, welcome to the Housewives.

The Housewives stayed behind as well, to give their opinions, and Elaine said they’d do it by franchise. NYC was first, and LuAnn said she liked to dress classically, but also loved cabaret. Nina said the dress was fit for a countess, and Brandon said it had gotten one of his highest scores ever. He said there was an understanding of women in Shantall’s work that was rare. I thought of Oscar de la Renta, since I feel that way about him. Leah loved her look as well, and Andy said he’d thought it wasn’t what she would wear, but he liked the overlay, which was hippie-ish and her style. Brandon said he was worried the color would wash her out on camera, but Elaine thought she looked commanding. From the OC, Andy thought Shannon’s look was her, but it was refreshing to see her in black. Shannon said it felt slimming, and Nina thought she looked fabulous. Andy liked the drama of Gina’s shoulders, but it wasn’t his idea of her. Nina thought it was poorly made, and that Gina had a hard time walking, and Brandon thought it felt gothic. Gina said she thought they were both trying to make each other happy, and Elaine said, communication was key. Representing Potomac, Elaine thought Wendy’s metallic hot pink was dated, and Wendy said it was more like compromise than collaboration because she knew it was a competition, and wanted Kristina to work in her wheelhouse. Gizelle thought Aaron had killed it, and she felt like she could cut a bitch out. Andy asked Karen what she thought about Gizelle’s outfit, and Elaine accused him of stirring the pot, but Karen said it was the best she’d seen Gizelle look. Aaron said it was about giving Gizelle a moment with the one long sleeve. Brandon said they made a good duo, and Gizelle said Aaron was going where she did. Elaine said it seemed like there were good vibes with Karen and Chasity, and Karen said Chasity was willing to listen, but put herself in it as well. Nina thought it was a little safe, and Brandon said the look wasn’t new, but Karen looked like she was in charge like the Grande Dame should be.  

Andy said pleasing Housewives was difficult, and he was impressed. Elaine said overall, they’d done a good job, and Andy said the Housewives were not only happy, they looked great. The judges deliberated, and Brandon said Gizelle looked comfortable and confident. Elaine said it was a match made in heaven. Andy said, LuAnn liked a sequin or 500, and the gown was a departure, but still in sync with who she was. Brandon thought she’d never looked better. Nina was disappointed in Chasity, although Andy said Karen was happy. Brandon said it was all about the client, but the gown wasn’t very original. Andy said Gina’s outfit would be savaged on Twitter; they wanted glam, not Goth. The Reunion was their Superbowl moment, and there was nothing Superbowl about it. Nina said, Wendy almost had a Janet Jackson moment, and Andy said she obviously wasn’t happy with the collaboration. Brandon said it was obvious there was a struggle, and a designer should quietly and poetically inject themselves into what they’re creating.

Everyone came back out, and Nina said Shantall was the winner, LuAnn’s gown being elegant, intelligent, and modern. Andy said it was elegant, sophisticated, and perfect for both LuAnn and the Reunion. Nina pointed out that was two in a row for Shantall, who said she was honored to be among such talented personalities. In Shantall’s interview, she said the win would help her be recognized as a designer, and would be an opportunity to make her brand grow. LuAnn told her that she was a great designer, and deserved it. Bones and Coral were declared in without fanfare. Nina said Chasity was in, however, she needed to push herself in the next challenge.

Elaine said it was painful to see the strongest designers up there. Nina said Kristina’s collaboration with Wendy didn’t go well, and the scarf was ill-conceived. Anna’s outfit for Gina was executed, and not appropriate for the Reunion. Anna was out, Bones’s prediction coming true, but Nina said she was still a huge fan of Anna’s work. She was sorry, but it was getting close, and the most painful part of the competition. Although she was crying, Anna said she appreciated their encouragement. Elaine said Anna would do incredible things, and in Anna’s interview, she said she was disappointed because she knew she could deliver more. She felt the competition helped her discover a part of herself she never had before. She said her goodbyes to the group, and Christian said she’d do unbelievable things. She made stunning, gorgeous clothes. In her interview, Anna said, Asian Americans were conservative and held themselves back a lot, and the competition had allowed her to show herself off. She was excited to see what she was going to do in the future.

Next time, collaborations with up and coming stylists, the look inspired by the hairstyle of the model; and Aaron wonders what he needs to do to win.

🚉 Next Stop…

Set a spell tomorrow for some soap, tea, and a knowledge drop or two. Until then, stay safe, stay cultivating common sense, and stay out of the spotlight if you’re on the lam.

December 17, 2021 – Saddest Farewell Ever, Over, Lawsuit, Big Series, Two From One, Cover Girl, Salem Holiday, Salt Lake Tea, In NYC, Stockings, Pre-Nup, Haunted, Asking Dead, The Tree, a Supreme Court Worth Of Quotes & Spice Wrap

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sam finds Drew fixing a little tree in the Quartermaine kitchen, and asks what he’s doing. He says he knows it doesn’t compare to the big one in the foyer, but he hasn’t had a tree, or lights, or anything Christmas for the past couple of years. She says she thinks it’s perfect. She brought someone along who she thinks might agree. Scout comes in, and clings to Sam.

In Portia’s office, Curtis punches the wall, and she tells him, take a deep breath. He says he did, but she says, not deep enough. He says he just can’t believe how willing his family is to accept this guy in their lives. TJ is already calling him grandpa, and, after the initial shock, he thought Stella might invite Marshall over for Sunday dinner. She asks if that would really be so terrible, and he says, yeah. The man deserted his family and let them believe he was dead for decades. Then when he shows up, he shows up without even a shred of explanation. She wonders if she can ask him a question without him getting angry… or angrier. Is trust really the issue here? Or is he just afraid of getting hurt?

Marshall tells Stella, cards on the table, huh? Since when did a nice church-going lady like herself take up poker? She says, these stakes are much higher than a poker game, and he says her secret is safe with him. She says he just doesn’t get it, and he says, tell him what he’s missing. She says, he’s making this about her, when it’s about him, and his choices; to walk away from his family, have her sister raising those boys without him, and then he asked her sister to lie, and tell her children that he’s dead. And she did, and kept her word until her dying day. He says, and what about her?

Britt and Elizabeth look at Liam in the NICU, and Elizabeth says, how is it possible an innocent baby gets to die, while Peter gets to live on? Britt says, for now. Hopefully, not for long. Elizabeth says, still, she doesn’t understand, and Britt says, sometimes it’s a blessing; sometimes it’s a curse. But it’s not their job to pick and choose. Elizabeth says, in this case, she wishes it was.

Sasha tells Brando, no more wallowing, or feeling sorry for herself. She needs to be at her best today for Liam. Their son needs them. Brando says, they’ll be there for him, and she says, what if she’s not strong enough? What if she doesn’t have the courage to do the right thing? He says, that’s why they’re doing this together.

Olivia thanks Carly for setting her straight about this neurology appointment, but Carly says she didn’t set Olivia straight. She just gave Olivia a pep talk. Olivia says, whatever she wants to call it, she just wants to be solid. If Ned sees she’s nervous, he’s going to be nervous. Carly says Olivia is going to be great, and she’s going to pull herself together to be there for Sasha and Brando. Let’s go.

Nina tells Sonny, when they came back to Port Charles, he said the man he was in Nixon Falls wasn’t real, but he was; he is. He’s one and the same, and both Mike and Sonny are men that his father would be very, very proud of. Carly and Olivia come down the hall, and Olivia tells Carly to remember what she said.

Drew tells Scout, he knows it probably feels strange, them getting to know one another again, but he was hoping it comes back to them; kind of like riding a bike. Scout says she doesn’t know how to ride a bike, and he says he’ll have to teach her. Leo comes into the kitchen with Ned, and goes straight to a plate of cookies. Ned says, just one, and asks if they mind. Leo’s going to the doctor. Sam says, and Ned’s bribing him with cookies? Ned says, guilty as charged, and Drew tells him, don’t worry about it. He was just telling Scout that he needs help eating them, and thanks Leo. Leo says, anytime, and leaves with Ned.

Curtis tells Portia, Marshall doesn’t have the power to hurt him anymore. That damage was done when he took off, and let them believe he was dead. She says, some wounds never heal. You can stitch them up, put on a bandage, sometimes there’s a scar, but deep down… He says, that wound never would have reopened if he hadn’t decided to return, and she says, okay, but he has. So now what? He says, now he’s wormed his way into TJ’s life, and he’s cozying up to Aunt Stella. She says, and he doesn’t like that, and he says, that’s an understatement. She says, but what happens now in regards to him? and he says he doesn’t know. She asks if he thinks eventually he could maybe find a place in his life for his father, and Curtis says he can’t see Marshall as that until he knows where Marshall has been, what he’s been doing, and why he’s here. She says, he’s making it sound like Marshall is dangerous, and he says, they don’t know that he isn’t. Joey Novak swears he didn’t see who jumped him outside the club. She says, whoa. He thinks that was his father?

Stella says, Marshall is right. When her sister turned to her for help, she went along with the lie, and heaven help her, it’s haunted her ever since. Marshall says he never meant for her to be part of this, but she says he knew how close she and Irene were. Did he really expect Irene to keep something that big bottled up? One night, it just became too much, and she told Stella that he was alive, but he had his reasons for leaving, and didn’t want the boys to know why. He says he did it for Curtis and Thomas, and for her and Irene, believe it or not. She says, it doesn’t matter what she believes. He and her sister had an agreement. Her sister hated it, but she went along with it, and so did Stella. But only because he said he’d never come back. He tells her, he kept his end of the bargain pretty well, wouldn’t she say? He didn’t even come back when Irene passed. She asks why he’s here now.

Olivia tells Carly that she’s got this, and asks if Nina got her message yet; she’s been trying to reach her. Nina says, no. She’s been busy, and hasn’t even checked. Olivia steers Nina away, saying, this will only take a second. Carly looks at Sonny.

Brando says they don’t have to do anything until Sasha is ready. Dr. Fleming said they could take as much time as she needs. She says, time won’t change anything; Sonny helped her see that. Brando asks what Sonny said, and she says, he mostly talked about Mike, and how difficult the decision was to let him go. He talked about how he didn’t want to, but in the end, he realized that was about him; how it would make him feel better. When in reality, he needed to focus on what was best for his father. He says, that’s true, but Mike had a long and fulfilling life, while Liam’s never going to have that. She says, Sonny said that too, that there’s no comparison, but lost is lost, right? And there will never be another time. They named their son after Mike, so they need to be as brave for him as Sonny was for his father. Can they do that? He says he can if she can, and she says, okay.

Nina tells Olivia that she can stand down. She’s not going to cause any problems for Carly and Sonny. Olivia says, yet she’s here where they are, and where they have no desire for her to be. Nina says she’s here because she’s supporting Sasha and Brando. Not that she owes Olivia any explanation because it’s none of her business. Olivia says she disagrees with that. Carly is her friend and business partner, and what affects her… Nina says, affects the MetroCourt. Don’t even pretend this is about business. Olivia says she’s doing Nina a favor right now. Does Nina have any idea how close she just came to getting wiped off the map? Maybe she hasn’t been in town long enough to know, but Olivia knows from personal experience, Carly Corinthos takes no prisoners. Nina says, is that a threat? and Olivia says, that’s a fact. The only reason Nina is still breathing air right now is because Carly loves having her husband back and alive more than she wants Nina dead.

Sonny says, he and Nina were just talking… but Carly says she doesn’t want to talk about Nina. Sasha, Liam, and Brando are all that matter.

Drew asks what Scout thinks of his tree, and she says, it’s pretty. He says he thinks it would be prettier with some ornaments, but he just can’t find any. She says, they’re all up on the big tree, and Sam says, Scout’s right, but she doesn’t think they’d mind if they borrowed some. He says, he’s looking for one in particular, but it’s not on the big tree in the foyer, and Scout asks, what is it? Sam asks if it’s the star, and Drew says she remembers. He doesn’t know what it is about it; he just loves it. Sam wonders where it went, and Drew says, maybe it got lost or broken or something, or Annabelle II ate it. Sam says, dogs don’t eat ornaments (apparently, Sam has never owned a dog), and he asks if she’s met Annabelle II. She eats everything. He suggests they go online, and Scout can help him shop for some new decorations. Scout says she’s going to find grandma, and leaves. He tells Sam, he’s doing this all wrong, isn’t he?

Marshall tells Stella, a man can change his mind, can’t he? Like a musician can improvise in the middle of a tune. A good musician anyway. She says, this is not a gig; it’s real life. He says she doesn’t have to tell him. Tommy’s gone, and Curtis is a grown man, and he has a grandson who’s a doctor and has a big, beautiful life ahead of him. Can she blame him for wanting to be a part of it? She says, no, but she can blame him for walking away in the first place. He says she knows why, and she says, yes, she does. He says he’s not trying to change the past, or even be forgiven. He’s just hoping to be understood moving forward. She asks if he really thinks there’s a way forward, and he says he thinks this homecoming is meant to be. She says, carful now. He talks like he knows what the good Lord has planned. He says he’ll leave the good Lord to her, but think about it. Curtis owns a nightclub now. She says, so? and he says, as much as music was a huge part of his life, it can’t be a coincidence.

Sasha tells Brando, this isn’t how it was supposed to be. They were supposed to raise him, and love him, and watch him grow into a man. Liam would have had an incredible life. Brando says, yes, he would have, and she says he would have been so lucky to have a dad like Brando to show him the way. He asks if she’s thinking family owned body shop, and she says, maybe, but she’s not talking about teaching him about cars. She’s talking about teaching him to be a good, decent, caring person; the kind who comes into a new town and takes a bullet for a total stranger. He says, Liam would have been lucky, but not because of him; because he had her. She could dazzle him with her beauty of course (🍷), but mostly, she could teach him what real love is. Real, unfiltered true love, so he would never settle for less. She starts to cry again, and asks how this is happening. He just got here, and now it’s over? He says, it’s not over yet, and she says she’s not ready. And she can’t even begin to explain how much she doesn’t want this, but they can still show Liam what real love is. And when they do, they’ll know beyond a shadow of a doubt, that he never settled for less.

Nina says, message delivered, thank you, and Olivia says, for Nina’s sake, she hopes it was received. Nina says, if Carly even knew what she was trying to do for… Oliva says, what? but Nina says, nothing. But if Olivia suddenly has an impulse to weigh in on her friend’s marriage, from what she hears, Olivia might be better served to worry about her own. Merry Christmas.

Sonny says Carly doesn’t have to stick around. He’ll stay there as long as Brando and Sasha need him. She says she’s not going anywhere. Unless he’s trying to get rid of her. He says, never, and kisses her cheek. Nina watches.

Sam says she saw the cell they kept Drew in, and he says, nice accommodations, right? She doesn’t know how he did it, being in there for so long, staring at nothing, all alone. He says, it was tough, but the thing that kept him going, the thing that made him believe he was going to get out of there one day, was Scout. She says she saw he scratched Scout’s name in the wall, and he says, it was like the most important part of him was missing. She says, good; now he has her back. He says he does. Not quite the perfect fit. She says, not yet, but it will be. He says, it will be.

Curtis tells Portia, first, Joey Novak shows up, causing trouble at The Savoy, the kind of trouble that gives a club a bad name. Fast forward to Joey being beaten and jumped between the pier and The Savoy. She says, that doesn’t prove it was his father, and he says, right. The nightclub’s reputation takes a hit, the act that was booked suddenly cancels. She says, then a new one magically appears, and he says, he knows Marshall had a hand in Joey’s beating, but she says he doesn’t know that. He says, they do know he’s a proven liar, and she says, that doesn’t make him a criminal. He says, maybe it does, maybe it doesn’t, but he’s damn well going to find out.

Stella says, Curtis may have inherited some positive traits from Marshall, like his love of music. Does he still play? He says, sure do, and she says, don’t tell her he still has that old clarinet. He says he likes to think of Henrietta as vintage, but no, he lost her too. He lost her a long time ago. She says, Henrietta. She’d almost forgotten his first love. He says, you never forget your first, and laughs. In any case, he learned his lesson. He pats his clarinet case, and says, this baby never gets left in a car. She says she’s sure they’ve made some improvements over the years, and he says, the newer models are nice. Maybe it’s him, but his fingers don’t fly like they used to. But he has to believe if the mood was right, and he was holding Henrietta, he could still make her sing.

Olivia meets Leo and Ned, and asks how they’re doing. Ned says, good. Just doing what everyone does in a doctor’s office – wait. Olivia asks if Leo knows why they’re here, and he shows her his cookie. Ned says, it’s family tradition, bribery, and she says, if Leo is going to take the Quartermaine name, she’s going to have to accept the family traditions. A doctor walks up, and says he’s going to take a wild guess and assume this is Leo. Olivia says, that’s the guy, and he introduces himself as Dr. Newman, and his nurse, Nurse Meyers. He asks how Leo is doing, and Olivia repeats the question. Leo says he’s good, and Dr. Newman asks if he’d like to play some games and talk for a bit. Leo says he loves games, and the doctor says, great; come with him. He tells Olivia and Ned that they can wait there; they won’t be long. Ned tells Leo to have fun, and Olivia says if he needs anything, she’ll be right here. The doctor and nurse leave with Leo, and Olivia says, no big deal. Ned hugs her.

Britt asks if Nina is okay, and Nina glances at Sonny and Carly. She says she’s just worried about Sasha and Brando, and Britt says, it must be difficult for her; a reminder of Nelle being taken away from her; getting to know her, but it was too late. She knows it’s not the same, but Nina still lost a child. Nina says, and all the mistakes she made because of that.

Carly says she can’t imagine how Sasha and Brando feel, and Sonny says he understands why she stood up for Sasha. Behind that face, she’s got a lot of grit. She’s going to need it. Carly says she understands why he feels so close to Brando. She knows he’s family, but he was practically raised by Sonny’s father. (Wow, has that story changed.) Sasha and Brando come out, and Britt tells them to follow her.

Sam says Drew and Scout will find their way back to each other. It’s just going to take some time. They have to get through the holidays, and then in a couple of months, it’s her birthday. He says, so he’s buying his way back? but she says, that’s not what she’s saying. He says he’s just kidding, and she says, there are going to be so many moments; little ones, big ones, and all the ones in-between. He says he likes the sound of that, when his phone rings. It’s Curtis, and Drew asks, what’s up? Curtis says, what Drew told him, that he’d help look into his father’s reappearance? Does that offer still stand?

Marshall says he’s determined to put down roots, and get back with the family he left behind. She says he can be as determined as he wants, that doesn’t mean Curtis will let him in. He tells her, Curtis may say no, but he’s sensing a definite maybe from TJ, and he’d like to build on that, and have a relationship with his grandson. He could use some help if she’s willing to give it.

Ned says he was wondering if Olivia balked and canceled the appointment, and she says, it crossed her mind. He says he’s proud of her, and she says, he might not be when they get their diagnosis… if they’re getting a diagnosis. She looks at him, and says, they’re getting a diagnosis, and he says, most likely. She says, that’s okay, because their son’s alive and strong and thriving, and it’s more than a lot of people get. He’s unique, and it just makes him more special. Ned says, absolutely, and she says she wants him to know she’s all in on this. Whatever the doctor tells them, she’s here to give Leo all the help that he needs. He says he knows she will, and she asks if he can forgive her. He says, for what? and she says, for making him the bad guy because she was too afraid to look at the facts. He says he was afraid too. The unknown is scary. That’s why they’re here, to figure out what’s going on, and come up with a game plan. If they have that, and each other… She says, they have everything, and he says they do, and they hug.

Carly asks if Sonny is hungry or thirsty, but he says, no; maybe some water. She leaves, and he takes a rosary out of his pocket. He sits down and begins to pray the Hail Mary, as Nina watches.

Dr. Fleming tells Brando and Sasha, once they disconnect the respirator, they’ll give Liam an injection of morphine. Sasha says, so he won’t be in any pain, and Brando says, that’s why we’re doing this. So there’s no pain, no suffering, and he can be with his namesake. Sasha asks if she can hold him. Once he’s off of those machines, can she hold him in her arms? She doesn’t want him to be alone. The doctor says, of course (🍷), and Sasha says, he was with her when he came into this world. She wants him to be with her when he leaves it. Elizabeth and Dr. Fleming help Brando and Sasha get ready, and Britt goes out to the hallway, and leans on the wall. They go into the NICU.

Drew tells Curtis, they’ll talk soon, and Sam says, she’d ask what that was about, but she’s assuming it’s confidential. He says, just a background check. It seems pretty cut and dried actually. She says, how many times she’s said that and it’s been anything but, and he says, don’t worry. She says, too late, and he says he wouldn’t have gone through all that hell just to come back and put a bunch of trouble on her doorstep, or his. She says, no more risks, and he says, no more risks… within reason. He’s got too much to lose. Scout comes in, and Sam says, there she is. He says he was just about to fire up the laptop and shop for some new decorations. Does Scout want to help? Scout asks Sam if they can go home.

Curtis tells Portia, if there’s any dirt on Marshall, he trusts Drew to dig it up. She says, what if he comes up empty? but Curtis says, he won’t. He may not be a P.I. anymore, but those instincts don’t just evaporate. Marshall is hiding something. He looks at her, and says, what? She says, nothing, but he says, it’s definitely something, so say it. She says she knows he’s prepared to hear the worst about Marshall, but what if the big discovery is just that Marshall wants to be his father? Is he prepared for that?

The doctor brings Leo back, and Leo says, it was fun. Dr. Newman says, they had a really great talk. They’ll schedule a follow-up to discuss everything; just call his office. Ned says they will, and the doctor tells Leo, it was nice to meet him. He hopes to see Leo soon. Leo waves, and the doctor leaves. Olivia asks if Leo knows how much she loves him, and she hugs him. Leo says he knows, and she tells him, don’t you ever forget it.

Carly brings Sonny some water, and asks if anything happened while she was gone. Britt comes out, and they go over to her. Carly asks, is it over? Britt just looks sad, and at a distance, Nina closes her eyes.

Sasha holds Liam, and says, Liam Mike Corbin, you were here for such a short time, but you made quite the impact, and you were so, so loved. She has to believe he felt that, and hopes with everything in her that he still does. She kisses him, and says she’ll love him forever. She starts to cry, and Brando kisses Liam. He says, their first born, their son. He looks up, and says, look after him, okay, Mike? Mike appears, and I lose it. Mike tells them, like he said, with everything he’s got.

Marshall sits in his hotel room, and plays his clarinet. We hear his music over the final scenes.

We see Sasha place her baby down, and start to walk away with Brando. She turns back, and Brando puts his arms around her. She cries on his shoulder, and they leave. Mike holds Liam.

Stella comes into the hospital, and sees Curtis with Portia and smiles.

Sam says goodbye to Drew, and Scout hands Drew the star. He gives it to her to put on the tree, but she says she can’t reach. He lifts her up, and she puts it on the tree.

Olivia holds out her hand to Leo, and he takes it, holding out his other hand to Ned. The three of them walk out, hand-in-hand.

Brando and Sasha come out. Everyone looks sad, and Sasha starts to cry. Brando holds her. In the NICU, Mike holds Liam, and asks if he’s ready to go. He says, me too, and walks until he disappears.

On Monday, Chase says Willow can feel however she wants to feel, Laura tells Cyrus not to play games with her, Michael says he’s going to protect his family no matter the cost, and Phyllis asks Nina if she’s still in love with Sonny.

😭 Thanks, General Hospital. Because the holidays aren’t depressing enough. Although I was glad Mike showed up.

💔 That Was Quick…

And their wedding looked so cool. I wonder if he’s taken on too much of the Michael persona at home.

🎾 Ball Changes Court…

I can’t help but wonder if he practices his religion in other areas. Or is he like the people who screech if you eat meat, but wear leather shoes?

💼 Branching Out…

What Diane does on her off-time.

👯‍♀️ BFFs IRL…

I recently wrote an interview for Jessica Morris on Mupo & Friends (YouTube). She is a Lifetime queen, and real life BFF of Melissa Archer.

👠 Going Glam…

First Co-Chief of Staff, now this.

🎄 Christmastime Is Here…

At least in Salem.

🧂 Pass the Salt…

What’s going on in Salt Lake City.

Usually, it’s Jen doing the denying.

🗽 Sticking Around…

They’re not going anywhere.

Unless it’s running out of a restaurant.

https://www.thedailybeast.com/luann-de-lesseps-dines-real-housewives-of-new-york-dashes-out-of-dc-restaurant-le-diplomate

🎅🏽 And You Get a Piece Of Coal…

Apparently Leah is not happy with her co-stars.

⚖️ Little Did She Know…

Suckerfish Hoppy does kind of look like Christian Bale in American Psycho.

🍸 Haunting Split…

What is wrong with that guy?

⚰️ Burning Questions…

The skinny on the mid-season finale of Fear the Walking Dead.

https://ew.com/tv/fear-the-walking-dead-midseason-finale-708-interview-padre-alicia-strand-war/

🌟 Behold…

This years Rockefeller Center contribution to the Christmas spirit.

https://gothamist.com/arts-entertainment/photos-it-aint-christmas-season-until-2021-rockefeller-center-christmas-tree-has-been-lit

☄️ Quotes of the Week

If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world. – J.R.R. Tolkien

The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe about us, the less taste we shall have for destruction.Rachel Carson

Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea. – Robert A. Heinlein

The most common form of despair is not being who you are. – Soren Kierkegaard

Ask not what you can do for your country. Ask what’s for lunch.  – Orson Welles

I had an epiphany a few years ago when I was out at a celebrity party and it suddenly dawned on me that I had yet to meet a celebrity who is as smart and interesting as any of my friends. – Moby

A celebrity is a person who works hard all his life to be well-known, then wears dark glasses to avoid being recognized. – Fred Allen

There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed. – Ernest Hemingway

True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice. – Martin Luther King Jr.

🦌 On Dasher…

Why is it the weeks seem to go faster just before the new year? Here we are at another weekend, or for those of you who are on permanent robe duty, those two days you used to get off work. If nothing else, at least change your slippers for 48 hours. Maybe even live it up and put on real shoes. Until we meet for some soap and whatever’s on Deck, stay safe, stay taking some time for yourself, and stay not settling for less, be it love, or whatever it is you need.

December 10, 2021 – Peter Feels Threatened, Back Home, Rebuttal, Holiday Duo, Busy Countess, Ouch, Pulled Over, Another One, Maybe, People’s Carpet, Before His Time, Close To 10 Quotes & So It Begins

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What I Watched Today

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

General Hospital

Sonny finds Carly working at a table in the MetroCourt, and says she left so early, he didn’t get a chance to say good morning. She says, good morning. Christmas will be there before they know it, and it’s on a Saturday, so she thinks they’ll be busier than ever. She looks at her phone, and says, what? She tells Sonny that she just got an email from her supplier, and there’s a shortage of marzipan. She has to talk to the chef; she’ll be back. She leaves, and Celina comes in. She says, Sonny’s wife certainly throws herself into her work, doesn’t she? He says, the holidays are busy, and Celina says, true. She supposes she’d fill up her days with work too, if she’d lost a good friend like Jason. She trusts Sonny is keeping himself busy too.

Peter wakes with a start in his cell, and says, who’s there? The guard tells him, take it easy. He has a visitor. Peter says, no visitors, unless there’s bullet-proof glass between them, but the guard says, relax; it’s law enforcement. Anna comes in, and asks Peter, what’s wrong? Did he have a bad dream?

Brook opens the door to Chase, and asks, what’s wrong? He says, what isn’t? He hates being suspended from work. It was one thing when he was sick, but he feels useless. She says she gets it, and she’s so sorry. He says he can’t stop thinking about the look on Willow’s face when she found out he was the father to Brook’s baby, and Brook says, just for clarification, she didn’t make him do that. It was his choice. He says it was all he could think of to protect Maxie’s secret. That’s the most important thing, right? Keeping Peter from finding out Bailey is really Louise? She asks if he’s there to face the music, even if it means Willow will never speak to him again, but he says, no. He’s there to step up. To assume the role of Bailey’s father. Everyone has to believe he’s the real deal, so he’s going to start changing diapers, and playing with Bailey, and doing what any proud papa would do.

Brando adjusts Sasha’s covers, and she wakes up and kisses his cheek. He says, good morning. She’s in a good mood this morning. She says, isn’t he? and he says he’s a little stiff from sleeping in the chair. She says she thinks it’s a small price to pay to wake up and face this day together. Can he believe it? Today is the day their baby will be coming home.

Nina asks Britt if there are any updates on Sasha’s baby, but Britt says they’re still on hold, and if she had information… Maxie says they understand; it’s confidential, family only. She can only imagine what’s going through their minds right now; hoping for the best, and worried the worst might happen. The hardest part is not knowing. Britt takes Maxie’s hand, and says she still has faith Louise is going to come home to her. Maxie thanks her, and says she has faith too. Of course (🍷) Louise might already be home if Nina had just called the police when Peter showed up in Nixon Falls. Nina says, maybe she should just go to Crimson, but Maxie says she won’t have any of that. There’s no point in second guessing anything. Choices were made. Peter will get what’s coming to him, and her baby will come home. Britt says she truly hopes so, but at what cost? and Maxie says, whatever it takes.

Willow tells Michael that Wiley was hoping daddy had some time to help pick out a Christmas tree for the gatehouse today. Michael says, maybe tomorrow, and Willow says, so he hasn’t changed his mind about appearing at Brad’s parole hearing? He says, it’s his duty as Wiley’s father. He’s going to do whatever he can to make sure Brad never comes near their son again.

Sonny tells Celina that he instructed his friend on the board to vote in favor of Brad’s parole, but she has to understand something. Michael wants to be at that hearing. He wants Brad to serve out his full sentence. So Sonny doesn’t know what guarantee she has of things going her way. She says, things might be different if Jason were around to guarantee it, but he says, Jason might not be able to influence Michael any more than he would. She says, admirable, but she has to think others might be influenced by Jason’s presence, if he was still around. She’s avoided talking about this topic out of respect. She thinks it’s in everyone’s interest if Sonny just… He asks if she’s saying they should move on, and Carly comes out. She says, move on from what?

Sasha tells Brando, it feels like she’s been counting every second for the last 71 hours and – she looks at her phone – and 42 minutes. All the stress will be worth it when Britt and the other doctors say the therapy to cool Liam’s brain worked, and the EEG confirmed it. He rubs her hand, and she puts her hand on top of his. He asks if he’s rubbing her too hard, and she says, he’s done everything right. From holding her hand to making her laugh to sending her pictures of their sweet little boy, so she can be reminded what it’s all about. She loves this one. She shows him her phone.

Willow says she knows Michael is committed to keeping Wiley safe, just like she is. That’s their first priority. He says, but? and she says, but if his dad is willing to give Brad another chance… He says, this is just a business move for his dad. Brad’s Aunt Celina is a business associate of his father’s, and he thinks she can keep Brad away from Wiley, but Michael doesn’t agree. She says, she doesn’t claim to know all the ins and outs of his dad’s business, but it doesn’t seem smart for Brad’s aunt to break her word with his dad. He says, that might have been true before, when Jason was still there, but now that he’s gone, the level of enforcement is gone. She says she knows he’s grieving for Jason, so why don’t they forget about the parole hearing today? Forget Brad, forget Nina, and forget everyone else Michael thinks he has to protect them from. Let’s enjoy today. The three of them have a chance to shop for a Christmas tree. Wiley’s old enough to really enjoy that. Let’s celebrate that. Brook and Chase walk in.

Anna says Peter looks like something scared him half to death, and he says, not something, someone. Sonny Corinthos has all but put a bullseye on his back. Anna says, it’s hard to believe there’s room for yet another target, and he says, look around. Which one of the guards is on his payroll? Even in solitary he doesn’t feel safe. Not with a Corinthos hit out on him.

Sonny tells Carly, they were just discussing Celina’s nephew’s parole hearing, and Celina says she hopes they can move forward from the mistakes in judgement Bradley made. Carly says she knows Sonny has agreed not to interfere with Brad’s parole as a favor to Celina, but her son has a mind of his own, and plans on testifying against Brad at the hearing. Celina says, these situations have a way of sorting themselves out, as her husband knows. Sonny flashes back to telling Celina that his family is best served with Peter taken care of, so see to it that it happens. Sonny says, as long as everyone keeps up his or her end of the bargain, they’re good. Celina says, consider it done, and leaves. Carly says she always liked Celina. As the only woman running one of the families, she’s tough and she’s fair, but business is business, right? He says, agreed, and she asks, exactly what bargain did she walk in on just now.

Nina goes into Sasha’s room, and says, this isn’t fair. No one should look this beautiful after a C-section. Sasha says she has her new stylist to thank for that, looking at Brando, and Nina says they’ll just have to add that to Brando’s list of talents. Georgie forgot her lunch, so Maxie had to bring it to her, but she’ll be here in a second. She asks if there’s anything Brando can’t do, and Sasha says, if there is, she hasn’t discovered it yet. Lucy walks in, and says, hello there. She comes bearing goodies she got past the nurses station. She didn’t want to face the wrath of Epiphany, but guess what? She pulls out a bag, and says, Sasha’s favorite; gummi bears. Brando says it looks like he’s literally the odd man out, so he’ll leave Sasha with her friends. Sasha says, if he sees Britt, send her in right away, and he promises. He leaves, and TJ sees him getting in the elevator.

Brook says Chase has a lot to learn. Can they believe this guy doesn’t even know the name of their diaper service? Willow says she just thinks they’re lucky to be able to afford to use one. Cloth diapers are so much better for the environment than disposable ones. Chase says he couldn’t agree more. Violet was way past the diaper stage when she came into Finn’s life. This is all new to him. Michael says, too bad he didn’t come forward as Bailey’s dad. Instead, Chase focused on making Willow feel guilty for wanting to be with him and Wiley while she was married to him. I used to not like Michael because he was boring; now I don’t like him because he’s a jerk. Chase says he didn’t come forward because he didn’t know, and Michael says, but he did know he slept with Brook around the same time she got pregnant. The fact that he didn’t ask is a pretty clear indication that he just didn’t want to know. Brook picks up the monitor, and asks if Chase heard that. Bailey really needs them. Chase says, here’s the deal. The other day when Michael and Willow rushed off to be with Sasha and Brando, it was before they could deal with this news, but they can’t keep avoiding this forever. Is there any way they can get past this?

Anna says she’s not going to deny she has some satisfaction in seeing Peter like this, but the reality is, he’s safer there than the gold in Fort Knox. He says, Sonny wants him dead, and she says, she’s sure he does; so do a lot of people. But Sonny’s hands are tied. He knows that since he got back to town, he’s been in the spotlight. Peter asks if she really expects him to believe there’s no credible threat on his life, and she says, Sonny is too smart to risk it. Trust her. Sonny knows law enforcement has been watching his every move. Still, they both know Peter has made a lot of enemies. He says, meaning what? and she says, meaning, if he wants to stay alive, he’s going to have to save himself.

Sonny says, Celina suggested it’s time they start thinking about replacing Jason, and Carly says, replace Jason? That’s impossible. He’s… Sonny says, irreplaceable. She says he knows that, and he says, Jason was like a brother to him, but like his dad always said, the graveyards are full of indispensable men, and Jason was one of them. She says she knows, and Sonny is irreplaceable. Nothing was the same, or could be the same, without him. She means that. Sonny says, she had to carry on for the family and the life they built together. Nobody understood that more than Jason, but when he came back, it threw him that they were together. It doesn’t matter, because there was a void, and Jason had to fill it. Now that he’s gone, because of how much they loved him, and how much he loved them, they have to do the same.

Lucy says, Deception has been doing absolutely great lately, and it’s largely because of Sasha’s role as the Face of Conception. The public is so excited, and everything is turning out so well. There’s a financial institution that really wants to get behind them, so – drumroll – they’re thinking of taking the company public. They’ll all get their initial investment back, not to mention, Sasha has to think about the future. Sasha says, it sounds very exciting, and she’s glad Lucy shared the news with her, but the only future that matters to her right now is lying in an incubator in the NICU.

Britt calls Dr. Fleming to confirm they can go ahead with the EEG on Liam. She says, great. Please send her the results as soon as she gets them.

In the chapel, Brando kneels, and says he doesn’t know what he’s doing. He can’t remember the last time he came to church. He certainly can’t remember the last time he made a confession. Liam has opened his heart in so many ways he never thought possible. He doesn’t know why Liam was born with so many obstacles to overcome. TJ stands in the doorway and listens, and Brando says he guesses that’s why he’s there. Until he can hold Liam in his arms, will God make sure Liam feels loved, and feels safe? Let him know that his mom and dad are here for him, and always will be, and they need him too. He crosses himself and gets up, seeing TJ.

Britt asks what brings Nina back to her office, and Nina says, she thinks there were some things they didn’t get a chance to say last night. Or more accurately, avoided saying. Britt says she was just trying to be gracious, and avoid having this conversation. Nina says, Britt is a doctor. She knows it’s not healthy to stuff those feelings deep down inside. Britt says, no, but talking about it isn’t going to change anything. So what’s the point? Nina asks if Britt doesn’t want to say it to her face; that her life could have been different if Nina had just told  the truth about Peter. Britt says, okay. Nina wants to go down that road, they’ll go down that road. Why didn’t Nina call the cops when Peter showed up in Nixon Falls?

Michael asks why Willow should make it easier for Chase. Chase wanted them to feel guilty for being in love, and the whole time he knew he’d slept with Brook. Brook says, Michael is her cousin and she loves him, but she’s not going to let him call Chase out for this. He didn’t lie about being Bailey’s father; he didn’t know because Brook deliberately kept it from him. She needed to get her ELQ shares back from Valentin, and couldn’t think of another way. So if he’s looking to blame someone, blame her. Willow says she knows how betrayed Chase felt when he learned about her and Michael, but eventually he was able to make peace with it. She’d be a hypocrite if she didn’t do the same with him. But Brook is a whole different story.

Peter asks Anna what she expects him to do now. What deal could he possibly cut? She tells him, who said anything about a deal? He has to confess. He says she can’t possibly mean that, but she says he has to own up to everything he’s done. Every single crime, and they’re not going to stop there. He’s going to give up his rights to his daughter, so that Maxie can have some peace of mind that somewhere down the line, whoever has Louise will return her. In more simple terms, he has to take his punishment, and he has to do it like a man. He asks why he’d do all of that, and she says, because if he faces up to it and stops all his endless games, maybe, just maybe, there’s something she can do for him.

Carly says no one could ever replace Sonny; Jason didn’t even try. And now, there’s no way they can replace Jason. It’s impossible. Sonny could find someone to take on Jason’s responsibilities, someone he trusts, but they’re just going to be following in Jason’s footsteps, right? Sonny can’t replace Jason, and if he thinks he can, he really did change while he was in Nixon Falls.

Lucy says she’s sorry. She thinks it was just her misguided way of taking Sasha’s mind off things for a little minute. Being a mom is tough, huh? It’s sometimes the most healing, breathtakingly beautiful thing in the world, and other times, it breaks your heart. She doesn’t talk about this too much, but she had several miscarriages, and wanted to be a mom so badly. She’s not the only woman in the world who ever had a miscarriage, but that’s why she’s so grateful, because her friend Dominique asked her to carry Serena, and also asked her to help raise Serena with Scotty. She can’t tell Sasha what that meant to her, and even though her girl is living all the way across the ocean, Serena will always be her daughter, in every way that counts. What she’s trying to say is, she knows this is overwhelming and so hard, but eventually, somehow you manage to cherish each and every moment, no matter how very, very scary. Sasha thanks her, and says she’s trying to do that; cherish every single moment.

TJ says he didn’t man to intrude. He heard Brando’s baby is in the NICU, and wanted to see if Brando was okay. There was a time they used to be friends, then stuff happened. Brando says, TJ rearranged his jaw, and TJ says he hopes they’re past that now. He saw Sasha’s friends in her room talking, and thought, if Brando needed someone to talk to… Brando says he was actually talking to someone, and TJ asks if they talked back. They laugh, and Brando says his mom wanted to be an altar boy so bad. Father Hogan would make him say ten Hail Marys and run ten laps if he made a joke like that. TJ says, his Aunt Stella would have made him wash his mouth out with soap for sure. Brando thanks TJ for making him forget for two minutes that his son’s in the NICU fighting for his life. All he can do is wait for him to win.

Nina tells Britt that Peter was blackmailing her. He said he’d hurt James. He also said he was going to tell Carly that Sonny was alive and well Nixon Falls. Britt says, and avoiding trouble with Carly was more important than making sure Peter was stopped. Nina says she thought she could do both, and Britt says, by turning to her mother instead of the police? Nina says, in retrospect, she knows what she did was wrong. She was desperate and needed someone she could trust and confide in. It was Obrecht’s idea to go after Peter, and Britt knows better than anyone else, once Obrecht gets something in her mind, there’s no stopping her. Britt says, too bad Nina didn’t think of that before she got her mother involved. Nina says she’s sorry, and Britt says, Nina does realize, she could have gotten her mother killed. Nina says she does. She loves Obrecht. At least Peter’s in prison. Britt says, Jason is dead, and Nina says Carly believes his blood is on her hands. She’s sure Britt does too.

Chase says Brook didn’t tell him because she knew how he felt about Willow. She kept silent about Bailey’s paternity so they could be together. Willow says, there’s a little more to it than that. She also did it so the Quartermaines could regain control of ELQ. Michael says, that’s what they were taught their entire lives; put the company first. Willow says, obviously, she grew up with a warped idea of what family is supposed to be. She thought other families, real families were different. Maybe not this one. Chase tells Brook that he came to see their daughter, and she suggests they go upstairs. Willow asks them to wait. She says, their kids are around the same age. They’re both Quartermaines, so they’re going to grow up together. She can’t speak for Michael, but for the kids’ sake, she promises to get past this. Brook thanks her, and says she hopes Michael can forget about it too.

Peter can’t believe Anna would suggest he give up his parental rights to Louise. That would mean giving up all hope of being a family with Maxie. Anna says, come on. That was an illusion; it died a long time ago. He says, Louise and Maxie are what keep him human. He won’t give them up. The guard says, time’s up, and Anna says, that means Peter’s arraignment is starting soon. All the pain he’s caused, all the lives he’s ruined and cut short, that isn’t good enough for him. The trouble with her is, she still believes in the justice system. If he owns what he’s done, she’ll do what she can. She leaves.

Sonny says he can’t say the time away from Carly didn’t change him. But when he came back, it wasn’t to pick up where they left off; he wanted them to get closer and just be better for their kids. She says she wants that too. It doesn’t matter what Celina Wu wants, or the people who think they know what’s best for them. They know what’s best. They know what they want. He says he wants her, and she says, she wants him; only him. No one’s here; we’re not open yet. He asks if she thinks that’s going to stop him, and kisses her.

TJ tells Brando, try not to let his imagination get the best of him. Enjoy the fact that Sasha survived a difficult birth, and she’s doing better. Focus on the positive. Brando says, the tests will also come when they come. He thanks TJ, and says he’s been trying to do that. They walk to Sasha’s room, and Brando says, when he left, Sasha’s friends had her laughing. They go in, and Sasha says, Lucy was just showing her the latest Deception baby care products. Lucy says, organic, hypo-allergenic, of course (🍷), and adorable if she does say so herself. Brando says he hates to ruin the party, but they should be hearing from the doctors soon. Lucy says, she didn’t know she’d been there that long, and hugs Sasha. She says she’s rooting for Sasha; for all of them. Then she says, bye, instead of ta, and I puzzle over this longer than I should. TJ says Brando has his number. If he has any questions with medical lingo or anything, call him. Brando says he appreciates it, and TJ leaves. Sasha says, Lucy did a terrific job of distracting her, but they can’t avoid it any longer. It’s almost time, right?

Britt says she’s not playing the blame game with Nina. Nina made choices, and so did she. She’s pretty sure if Nathan was still here, he’d probably tell her to go pay it forward, and go help Nina. Nina thanks her, saying, she sounds exactly like Jay. Britt says, if she can come back, so can Nina. Nina says, Britt will be there for her? and Britt says, Nathan wouldn’t have it any other way. Britt’s phone rings, and she says she’ll be right there. Nina asks if it’s news about Sasha’s baby.

Brook says, that went well, and Chase says, as opposed to what? A firing squad? She says, they have to take what they can get. It seems like Willow is going to give him a pass, whereas everyone thinks she’s the next Cruella de Vil. Chase says he hopes Brook knows what she’s doing is very noble, and she says, that’s not exactly a word used to describe her – ever. He says, one day, her family will know the good thing she’s done, but while Peter is still a potential threat to Maxie and Louise, they’re in this. She says, what other choice could they have made?

Michael kisses Willow, and she says she’s not complaining, but what was that for? He says he’s amazed at how generous she is, and willing to forgive. She says, let’s be clear. Forgiving Chase is one thing. Brook is a whole other story. Michael says, that’s going to be a longer road for sure, and Willow says, while they’re on the topic of forgiveness, if she forgave Chase, and hopefully soon, Brook, does he think he could find it in his heart to forgive Brad?

Peter’s breakfast is slid into the opening in the door by an inmate worker, but he says he doesn’t trust it. The guard says, fine; they’ll give it to the next inmate. It’s removed, and Peter says, wait. Bring it back. The inmate puts the tray back, and Peter takes it.

Carly says, the happiest day of her life was when Sonny came back, and Sonny says, that makes two of them. It all started with the dreams. A blonde woman in the dream; then she became a reality.

Michael says he has to feel consistent, and do what he can to keep his family safe, and that includes keeping Brad in prison and away from their son. The same rules apply to Nina. This is a black and white subject for him; there’s nothing grey about it. Willow flashes back to hearing Sonny tell Nina, that what happened in Nixon Falls has to come from him – and it will. She remembers Nina saying that the love she and Sonny shared was the purest thing she’s known in her life, and she’s so sorry, but she can never regret that. Michael says he understands how Willow can give Chase a pass, and someday forgive Brook. He also gets that she and Brad were close in the past, but he can’t help but wonder how she’s so forgiving about Nina.

Brando says he knows he and Sasha can lean on each other, but it’s nice having friends who can back them up too. Sasha says, when the doctors give them the news, they’ll deal with that. Whatever it takes to give Liam a long and happy life. Starting today. Dr. Fleming and Britt come in, but they don’t look happy. Britt closes the door.

Brook asks if Chase is ready for some diaper changing 101, and he says he’s up for the challenge. He thinks with a little practice, he could be good. He does hope for Maxie’s sake, all the lies stop soon. She says, her too, and they head upstairs. She says, it isn’t enough that Peter’s in custody. It seems that Maxie and her baby won’t be safe until Peter is dead and buried.

Sonny says the second he remembered Carly, he remembered all of it, and all he wanted to do was come home. He just wanted to be with her, his family, and his life. This is where he belongs; this is his home. Anna comes in, and says, she’s sorry to interrupt. She tells Carly that she just wanted to say how sorry she is about Jason. Carly thanks her, and tells Sonny that she has some things she needs to do. She goes behind the bar, and Celina comes in. Carly says, she’s back, and Celina says, the more she thought about it, the more she recognized that the subject of Jason might have caused a miscommunication. But it’s all about wanting to protect Carly and her family. That’s what she and Sonny both want, right?

Anna says, if Sonny wanted to put the fear of God in Peter, mission accomplished. She just came from Pentenville, so can he leave it at that, and let the law run its course? He says she gives him too much credit. Peter is behind bars 24/7, with guards. Even if he wanted to get his hands dirty, how would he do it?

Peter finishes his breakfast, and starts choking. He falls to the floor.

The inmate worker brings back empty trays, and wheels them away. We see it’s Brad.

On Monday, Stella asks TJ what’s going on with Curtis, Trina tells Portia that she doesn’t want to blow this, Epiphany tells Maxie that it’s a bad idea, and Sonny thinks Carly deserves to know the truth.

👯‍♀️ Coming Home For Two…

Kristina on GH.

And the Christina of Christmas fame.

🗣 Ingo Rebuts…

I don’t think his itchy Twitter finger helped him much.

🦚 Days On Peacock…

A look at DOOL’s Christmas movie.

https://ew.com/tv/days-of-our-lives-christmas-movie-peacock-first-look/

🎄 Not a Hallmark Movie…

This actually looks intriguing. Like The Big Chill gone sideways.

🎤 She’s Keeping Busy…

I’m not sure which is a worse sounding project.

❗️ Long Island Real…

Gina doesn’t mince words.

🍷 He Should Have Had a V-8…

I doubt he only had a glass of wine with dinner.

🎃 It Keeps On Ticking…

Yet another Halloween movie in the works, including Kyle.

🏖 Make It Stop…

New, no doubt awful, people added to the already awful cast.

https://ew.com/tv/meet-the-cast-of-bravos-summer-house/

👋🏼 Lala Hints Bye-Bye…

I don’t know how much of a loss she’d be, but surprisingly, she’s been the voice of reason this time around. They probably need one of those. LVP has enough to do.

👠 Color the Carpet Red…

The best part of any awards show.

https://www.eonline.com/photos/33624/peoples-choice-awards-2021-red-carpet-fashion

🎸 Leaving the Stage…

IMO, he was the most talented of the group. He was doing music videos long before MTV was a thought. And his mother invented Liquid Paper. Micky Dolenz must be getting pretty nervous though.

https://people.com/music/monkees-star-michael-nesmith-dead-age-78/

https://people.com/music/heartbroken-micky-dolenz-pays-tribute-to-monkees-bandmate-michael-nesmith/

👩🏽‍🏫 Quotes of the Week

When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. – Viktor Frankl

The best protection any woman can have is courage. – Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Vision without action is daydream. Action without vision is nightmare. – Japanese Proverb

Mistakes are part of the game. It’s how well you recover from them, that’s the mark of a great player. – Alice Cooper

It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something. – Franklin D. Roosevelt

When I was young I thought that money was the most important thing in life; now that I am old I know that it is. – Oscar Wilde

True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country. – Kurt Vonnegut

I still believe that the unexamined life is not worth living: and I know that self-delusion, in the service of no matter what small or lofty cause, is a price no writer can afford. His subject is himself and the world and it requires every ounce of stamina he can summon to attempt to look on himself and the world as they are.James Baldwin

If you’re going to be able to look back on something and laugh about it, you might as well laugh about it now. – Marie Osmond (Who knew she was such a philosopher?)

🏀 Dribbling Off the Court…

If you’re in a work mindset, another weekend has arrived. For those who’ve moved on from that, another seven Xs have been put on the calendar. And for those people who are already in a holiday panic, you’ve got two weeks until Christmas. No Dead are Walking for a while, so I’ll see you for a little soap, a little Deck on Monday. Until then, stay safe, stay respecting others’ personal space, and stay not second guessing anything. There’s no point.