In our daily lives, we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy. – Albert Clarke
Expecting life to treat you well because you are a good person is like expecting an angry bull not to charge because you are a vegetarian. – Shari R. Barr
Observe due measure, for right timing is in all things the most important factor. – Hesiod
The really magical things are the ones that happen right in front of you. A lot of the time you keep looking for beauty, but it is already there. And if you look with a bit more intention, you see it. – Vik Muniz
The darkest places in hell are reserved for those who maintain their neutrality in times of moral crisis. – Dante Alighieri
Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring. – Marilyn Monroe (I was going to say, that’s genius, but…)
We never know when our last day on earth will be. So, love with full sincerity, believe with true faith, and hope with all of your might. Better to have lived in truth and discovered life, than to have lived half-heartedly and died long before you ever ceased breathing. – Cristina Marrero
We rise by lifting others. – Robert G. Ingersoll
🥁 Turning the Beat Around…
It’s time again for the weekend, or the next two days if you’ve loud quit. I’ll be back when the Dead Walk, if you’d care to join me. Until then, stay safe, stay going the extra mile, and stay not having public meltdowns, especially if your last name is Hilton.
(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)
General Hospital
At the MetroCourt Garden, Ava asks if Scotty has everything, and he says, two quickie divorces, hot off the presses. She thanks him for being so expedient, and asks if he has the division of assets from Nikolas’s lawyer. He says he does; 50/50, right down the middle. He has to say, she turned a nice profit here, but Ava says, she told him before, this divorce is just a gesture. Nikolas wants to prove how much he trusts her by giving her half of everything. Scotty says, ain’t love grand? but she says, that’s not funny. He says he’s not trying to be funny. Once she signs these papers, she’s going to get half of what Nikolas has, and there isn’t a damn thing he can do about it. Nikolas joins them, and says, which is exactly why they’re doing this. Their marriage, which started with blackmail and mutual distrust, is a thing of the past, and the only thing that will remain is their love. He kisses Ava’s hand, and Esme watches from a distance. She flashes back to… I don’t want to talk about it, okay?
Spencer comes into Kelly’s and tells Cameron, take a break. Cameron says, no can do. They’re short-staffed since Spencer quit on zero notice. Spencer says he’s sure Cameron can spare five minute; this is important. Cameron says he could argue that work is important, not that it means anything to Spencer. Spencer says, wow. Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed, but he’s sure Cameron’s mood is going to improve when he tells Cameron about how he’s going to help Trina. Cameron asks if he has proof Esme filmed him and Joss, and Spencer says, no, but he has the next best thing. He found out who Esme’s biological mother is.
At the pool, Gregory tells Finn that Chase will be there in a little bit, but in the meantime, does Finn have any updates on Elizabeth? Finn says, she called and they talked briefly, and Gregory asks if she said anything about Finn visiting her, but Finn says, no. Gregory says he’s sorry. He knows how difficult it is for Finn to bide his time while Elizabeth is struggling. Finn says he’d do anything for her. He has to respect her wishes and stay away. Chase arrives, and Finn says, it’s about time. Chase says, sorry; he overslept. Gregory says, Chase better get that out of his system before he goes back to work at the PCPD, but Chase says, that’s not happening as soon as Gregory thinks. Gregory asks, why not? and Chase says, his suspension has been extended.
Trina meets Josslyn by the pool, and asks if she’s been waiting long. Josslyn says, no complaints. She’s actually been enjoying the downtime. Carly comes in, and Josslyn asks, what’s wrong? She seems distracted. Carly says she’s just dealing with some stuff right now, when Olivia joins her, and says she’s so sorry. She had no idea this was going to happen.
On the phone, Lucy asks how much time they get… Really? It’s not a lot, but they’re going to make it work. They’re so excited about this opportunity, truly… Of course (🍷). She hangs up, and tells Maxie, that was their segment producer, and she got to talk to the on-camera talent. Maxie says, Lucy spoke to Haven herself? What did she say? Did she love the Deception products they sent over? Lucy says, she loves, loves, loves it; she’s a big fan. She’s going to wear our Femme Fatale lipstick on air today. Maxie says, that’s amazing, and Lucy says, but she had a few teeny tiny changes she wanted to make in the order of the products. Lucy promised her it would happen, but it’s going to be really tight. Deception is going live in two hours on TV, and Sasha’s not even here yet. Maxie says, it’s fine; she’ll call Sasha.
At the Bistro, Sasha’s phone rings, and Maxie asks where she is. Sasha says she just stopped to get some coffee, and Maxie says, now is not the time for coffee. It’s almost show time. They have some product to move – STAT. Sasha says she’s on her way, and Felty says, she’s not leaving early, is she? Sasha says, yes, she’s leaving. What they agreed on was a mistake. He says, really? Because he thinks he has exactly what she needs. He takes a little bag of pills out of his pocket.
Sonny finds Brook at the park, and they hug. She says she can’t remember the last time they talked, and he says, when she asked to meet him, he knew she wanted something. She says, how dare he? She wanted to know how he’s doing. He says, as she can see, he’s doing good. Now tell him what she wants. She says, fine; she’ll get to the point. She wants him to take care of a sleazeball named Linc Brown.
Cameron asks how Esme’s biological mother can help them with Trina, and Spencer says, Esme has always wanted to know where she came from, and why her parents gave her up for adoption. Cameron says, which has nothing to do with Trina or revenge porn, but Spencer says, it will. Once he tells Esme that he found her biological mother, he’s not going to give her any information until she admits she made the sex tape. Cameron says, but she’s not going to do that; it will land her in jail. Spencer says, his plan is for Esme to record her confession. He’s going to give her a chance to skip town before he turns the recording over to the police. It’s known she was at the cabin before the sex tape was made, and she was on campus when it was uploaded. Her confession is going to cause reasonable doubt in Trina’s case. Cameron says, that might work, and Spencer says, it will work, but Cameron says, wait. Esme’s been looking for her biological mother for years, and boom, just like that, Spencer finds her? That’s pretty convenient. Spencer says, he didn’t find her; his Uncle Victor did.
Esme ducks away, and Scotty says, Ava and Nikolas have the weirdest marriage and divorce he’s ever heard of. Ava doubts that, and Scotty says, well, okay. Maybe it’s not the weirdest, but it’s up there in the top ten. Ava asks, where’s Martin? and Nikolas says, he’s running late, but they don’t have to wait. Scotty can walk them through the key points. Ava says, Nikolas knows his lawyer has to be here to look over the divorce before he signs it, but Nikolas says, don’t worry. Shall we begin? Scotty hands them the papers, and says, this is just your standard no-fault divorce, when Esme appears, and says, divorce? But she thought Nikolas wasn’t going to tell Ava.
Carly suggests she and Olivia talk about this somewhere else, like the gardens, and Josslyn asks if everything is okay. Carly says, it’s great; they’ll talk about it later. She and Olivia leave, and Trina says she doesn’t know; that sounded more like bad news. Josslyn says, it’s just business. As long as everybody in the family is okay, they can handle whatever the new issue is. Trina says she knows what Josslyn means. Her family has really stepped up with her. Believe it or not, her mom wasn’t even upset when Trina told her about them going to the biker bar. She said she supported Trina for taking steps to help herself. Josslyn says, that’s awesome. She just wishes that stupid bar fight hadn’t broken out, so they could talk to that bartender some more. Trina says, Curtis is looking into it. He said the bartender hasn’t been there since that night. Josslyn says, Curtis? and Trina says, he took over the investigation. Josslyn says she’s glad to hear it. She hates to say it, but they’ve run into another dead end. Trina says, maybe, but like she told Josslyn, Curtis is on it. Even if the bartender doesn’t pan out, something will. She swears she’s not going to let Esme get away with this.
Sonny tells Brook, he’s surprised Linc slithered his way back into town. What’s he done now? She says she thought she put Linc in her rearview mirror when Valentin bought out her contract, but unfortunately, Linc still owns the rights to her songs from when he was her producer. Okay, I guess that answers that question, sort of. She says, he’s selling her songs to push dog food and paper towels, using her beautiful love songs as jingles… But that’s not the reason she asked to talk to him. She’s here because of Chase.
Finn says, Chase’s suspension was extended; he has questions. Gregory asks if this is why Chase was upset the other day when Brook called him, and Chase says, yeah. He’s suspended until the Civilian Review Board investigation is completed. Gregory says, there’s a civilian complaint against Chase? and Chase says, Linc Brown filed one yesterday. Gregory asks, who’s that? and Chase says, Brook’s sleazy former producer. He used to harass her all the time when she was under contract, and his behavior hasn’t gotten much better. They got into it at The Savoy the other night. Finn asks what Chase did, and Chase says, he punched Linc in the face. Gregory says, he punched someone else, even though he got suspended for it the first time? and Finn says he’s sure the guy provoked Chase. Chase says, he did, but Gregory says, still, was it worth potentially getting kicked off the force?
Felty asks if Sasha brought the credentials that make him the official Deception photographer for today’s appearance on the Home & Heart Channel. She says she did, but she changed her mind, and he asks, why? All he’s looking for is access, and the publicity will be great for Deception too; it’s a win-win in his book. It’s not like they’re breaking any laws. (Um…) He holds out the bag, and says, everyone needs a pick-me-up now and again. Why is she so uptight about it? She says she doesn’t recognize those pills; what are they? He says, they’re prescription. They’re perfectly safe. They got him through Fashion Week last year. It’s great stuff. Trust him. If he can be frank, she looks a little run down, like she could use a boost. She says, all he wants are backstage photos, right? and he says, that’s it, and she wants these. So – he slides them over to her on the table – do they have a deal?
Esme says, Nikolas and Ava are getting a divorce? This is awful. Ava asks what Nikolas didn’t tell her, and Esme says, it’s just that she just thought… and Nikolas says, Esme. He and Ava are getting a divorce, but they’re still a couple. Esme’s head explodes. Not really, but that would be funny. He says, they’re still together. Their love for each other hasn’t changed. Ava asks what Esme thinks Nikolas wasn’t going to tell her, and Esme says she knew he was contemplating getting a divorce, but she also knew he wanted to fight for their marriage, and agreed to a separation. That’s all. Ava asks Nikolas, is that correct? and Nikolas says, both Esme and Spencer noticed the toll their rift has taken on him. Esme says, he’s been so upset, and Ava says she knows Spencer would be delighted if they split up for real. Is Esme saying she doesn’t feel the same? Esme says, deep down, Spence wants his dad to be happy, and you make him happy. Nikolas thanks her for her concern, and says, but she did interrupt something. Esme says she’s sorry, she’ll go, but first, can she have a moment with Mr. Cassadine?
Olivia tells Carly, she had no idea Ned was thinking of siding with Valentin. If she had, she’d have told Carly immediately. Carly says, there’s nothing Olivia could have done, but Olivia says she still feels terrible. She knows the news of the Aurora/ELQ merger being dead tanked Aurora’s stocks. How is that going to impact Carly with the hedge fund? Carly says, it already has. Not in a good way, but she’ll figure something out. Olivia says, my God. Could Carly lose her half of the MetroCourt?
Chase tells Gregory, Linc mouthed off to Brook in a really crude and cruel way, and he didn’t take the time to think about the consequences. Yeah, he decked Linc, but a cop shouldn’t go off the handle like that. Finn says, Chase is a good cop, and that should count for something, and Gregory says, they know how much Chase loves his work. Chase says, he’s right, but as Jordan said to him, it’s part of law enforcement’s job to keep his cool in tense situations, and twice now, first with Valentin, then with Linc, he hasn’t been able to do that. He can’t believe he’s back here again. Gregory says, back here? and Chase says he almost lost his career because of Janelle. It took him years to rebuild it. Finn says, that was a completely different situation, and Gregory says, when Chase was young, he didn’t know any better. Chase says, different circumstances, yes, but his reaction proves he follows his heart, and Gregory asks if that’s what Chase was doing when he defended Brook, following his heart?
Cameron says, Spencer got his Uncle Victor involved? That guy’s bad news. Spencer asks if he’s serious. Cameron is the one who’s constantly complaining his plan is taking too long, and says he doesn’t like lying to Joss. Cameron says he doesn’t like lying to Joss, and Spencer says, neither does he, so he went to someone who could get them results. His Uncle Victor is the former director of the WSB. He has the right connections to access privileged information. Cameron says, that makes sense. So what did he find out? Spencer says, Esme told him that she was left in a church when she was a baby. She later contacted that church, but the priest insisted he had no knowledge of the woman who left the baby. Cameron says, great, so dead end, and Spencer says, that’s what Esme thought. But then, Uncle Victor’s people tracked down the nun who said she remembered Esme being abandoned. They convinced her to share the name of the mom who abandoned her child. Cameron asks how they convinced her, but Spencer says he doesn’t know. Uncle Victor didn’t give him any of the details, but his people tracked down Esme’s biological mom. She lives in Portugal now. Cameron says, so that’s it? Esme’s not going to risk prison for a name and an address based on information she doesn’t even know is legit. Spencer says, of course (🍷) not. That’s why Uncle Victor got DNA.
Maxie tells Lucy, Sasha was only stopping for a coffee; she should be here by now. Sasha dashes in, and says, sorry; she lost track of time. Lucy says, that’s okay. Here you are; that’s all that matters. They really need to get started, because there’s a lot to go over before they head over to the TV studio. Sasha says she thought they settled everything last night. She’s been going over her notes; she knows them backwards and forwards. She sees them exchange a look, and says, what? Maxie says, the Home & Heart people called, and the host had some ideas about their line-up. It’s good news really. She’s very excited about their products. She just wants to start with the lipstick instead of the eyeshadow, so she and Lucy reworked the presentation. Lucy says she’ll get the script, and it will give Sasha time to memorize all of it. Lucy runs out, Maxie following and saying, make sure it’s version 3 not version 2. Sasha takes the pills out of her bag, but hears Lucy saying, got it right here, and puts them back. Lucy and Maxie return, Lucy holding a stack of cards. She hands them to Sasha, and Maxie tells her, the changes start on card one.
Carly understands Olivia’s concern about getting a partner she disagrees with, but Olivia says, she doesn’t care about that… Of course (🍷) she cares a little bit, but that’s not the main thing. This hotel is their scene together. Carly has put so much of herself into this place. The renovations, the pool, the garden, that’s Carly, that’s all her energy, and them together. Olivia doesn’t want to lose the spirit. Carly says she doesn’t want to lose the investment. When she invested in Aurora, it never occurred to her that the merger with ELQ wasn’t going to happen. She loves running this place with Olivia. She can’t imagine not coming here every day. Olivia says, that settles it. She’s buying Carly’s half of the hotel.
Ava asks what Esme has to say to her husband that Esme can’t say in front of her? and Esme says she was just planning a surprise for Spence this afternoon. She didn’t think Ava would be interested. Nikolas says he’ll be right back, and leaves with Esme. Ava asks if any of Scotty’s police contacts have given him anything that could help Trina’s case; some piece of evidence that they haven’t mentioned yet? He says, no. That Esme, she’s covered her tracks very well.
Outside, Nikolas says, okay, Esme has his attention. What is this surprise she’s planning for Spencer? Esme says she was planning on taking him on a day trip to the mountains. Would it be okay if they borrowed Nikolas’s convertible to take in the scenery? He says, of course (🍷), but she could have asked him that in front of Ava. She says, the truth is, she pulled him away because she needs his help.
Trina says she totally forgot to tell Josslyn who she saw here last night, and Josslyn says, who? Someone from PCU? Trina says, Rory, and Josslyn says, Officer Invisible was here at the pool? Trina says, with Esme, and Josslyn says, what?Has she found a new victim to prey on? Trina says, no. Rory let her know that Esme sat beside him. Trina didn’t like it at first, but Rory totally put Esme on notice. Esme knows that he’s on to her.
Spencer says, his Uncle Victor’s people got a DNA sample from the woman they believe is Esme’s biological mother, and he got a sample of Esme’s DNA, and he had GH run a paternity test. Cameron asks if Spencer just ordered a DNA test like he orders a hamburger, and Spencer tells him, what can he say? Money talks. Anyway, this woman in Portugal is Esme’s real mom. Cameron says, that’s huge, and Spencer says, this information is going to be way more valuable to Esme than just sticking it to Trina. Cameron says, Spencer found a way to save Trina, and Spencer asks if he really thinks so. Cameron says he was skeptical at first, but Spencer convinced him, and Spencer says, good. He hopes Esme falls for it as easily as Cameron did. Cameron asks what he means, and Spencer says, it’s all a lie. He made the whole story up.
Chase tells Gregory that he’s not following his heart to Brook; she’s his friend. Gregory says, he just means Chase went above and beyond for Brook. He pretended Bailey was his daughter, he punched Valentin and now this Linc to defend her. Chase says, this is nothing like Janelle. He spontaneously stepped up to say he was Bailey’s father. Brook never even asked, and as for punching those two losers… He knows he shouldn’t have done it, but in the moment, he couldn’t stand them insulting Brook. But those were his reactions. Brook in no way asked or wanted him to be involved. Gregory says, just to be clear, he’s not criticizing Brook. He knows Chase cares about her, and Brook cares about him. He was impressed when she reached out to him the other day to let him know Chase needed cheering up. Chase says, it’s funny. Brook tries to downplay her good qualities. She likes to hide behind her rich girl persona, and tough New York City attitude. He actually almost hit Linc a few weeks ago, and she beat him to it. Just another sign that he can’t control his temper. Finn says he’s used a lot of words over the years to describe Chase, but bad temper never came up. Gregory agrees. He’s always described Chase as passionate. He always has been. Even as a kid, Chase stood up for the little guy. It’s in his nature. Chase says, that was always his goal, but he has to figure out another way to do it.
Brook tells Sonny, Linc was totally disrespecting her. He was treating her like garbage, then he grabbed her arm. That’s when Chase stepped in and punched him, which in her opinion Linc completely deserved. Only thing is, Chase is already on suspension with the PCPD for punching Valentin a few months ago, who was also saying horrible things about her. So now, Chase is on suspension again, or still, or whatever. The bottom line is, Chase might lose his job. Sonny says, because of Linc, but she says, no, because of her. She can’t let that happen. Chase is a great detective, and really loves what he does. Any chance Sonny could have a, quote unquote, talk with Linc; get him to recant his complaint against Chase? Sonny says, as much as he’d love to, he’s sorry; he can’t do that. She asks, why not? Because Chase is a cop? That’s no reason not to help. Sonny’s son Dante is a cop. He says, she misunderstands him. If he gets involved, word’s going to get out; what did Chase do to deserve a favor from him? They’re going to see him as a dirty cop. She says she didn’t think about that, and he says, the best thing Chase can do is just go through the process, and hope itcomes out in his favor.
Maxie tells Sasha to remember, they want their customer to feel empowered, and Lucy adds, strong, independent, and like she can do anything. Maxie says, or be anyone, but Lucy says, no, not just anyone. She wants to be Sasha. Sasha asks what that means, and Lucy says, it means Sasha is the ideal. She’s the Face of Deception. Maxie says, she’s strong, and Lucy says, but relatable. Maxie says, fearless, and Lucy says, but never ever harsh. Maxie says, Sasha just needs to relax and be her own natural and charming self. Let them see who Sasha really is. Lucy says, not totally though. She has to maintain an air of mystery. Sasha jumps up and says, stop it! They stare at her in disbelief, and Sasha says she’s sorry for snapping like that. It’s just that she put so much time into memorizing the original order, she just needs a minute to get the last minute changes. Lucy says, it’s really okay. They understand this is a lot. Maxie says, if they let their enthusiasm get away from them, they’re really sorry. Is Sasha sure she’s okay? Sasha says, she’s just a little nervous, that’s all, and Maxie says, who wouldn’t be? Lucy says, her butterflies have their own teeny tiny little butterflies, but it’s going to be okay. Sasha is going to be absolutely magnificent. Sasha thanks them for all their faith in her, and Maxie says, she’s got this. Lucy says, absolutely, and never forget, they are always by her side. Sasha says she knows they’ll be with her in spirit, but physically they’ll be standing behind the cameras. She’ll be the one in front of them.
Cameron says, so everything Spencer told him about Esme’s biological mom is a lie? and Spencer says he has no idea who Esme’s real mom is. Cameron asks, what the hell is Spencer doing? and Spencer says he had to test his story before he used it on Esme. He needed to know if it sounds believable. Cameron says, he’s an ass, and Spencer says he’s sorry, but he only gets one shot at this. As soon as he demands Esme confess to this, she’s going to know he believes Trina and not her, and it’s game over for him. Cameron says he sees Spencer’s point. For what it’s worth (🍷), Spencer’s story is good. Spencer asks, what part convinced him? and Cameron says, the DNA test. Can Spencer’s uncle fake one for him? Spencer says, no, not exactly. That’s where Cameron comes in.
Nikolas asks what kind of help Esme needs from him, and she says, it’s her internship at Spring Ridge. Her work there has convinced her that she definitely wants to major in psychology, and figuring out why people do what they do. It’s fascinating stuff. He says, she still hasn’t explained why she needs his help, and she says, Doc was being completely overprotective, and managed to convince the administration that they should terminate her internship. She knows he thinks he’s acting in her best interest, but he’s not. She’s hoping Nikolas can get her internship reinstated. Nikolas says he’s not sure how he would go about that, and she says she knows he has connections at Spring Ridge. After all, he’s the one who got Spencer and Alexis released early, right? She hates to bother an important man such as himself with something so small, but can he do this… for her?
Olivia says, she’ll buy Carly’s half, so she’ll own the entire hotel. Carly can pay her back slowly, like an old-fashioned instalment plan. Carly says, that’s a very generous offer, but does Olivia have the liquidity to buy her half? Olivia says she’d have to talk it over with Ned… and Carly says, no.
Spencer asks if Cameron doesn’t think it’s pretty genius, but Cameron says, no. Not genius. And not something he wants any part of. Spencer says, it’s not a big deal. All Cameron has to do is get DNA samples from Joss and her mom for him to have tested. Cameron says, is that all? and Spencer says, it will give them a genuine mother/daughter test result, and Esme can go to the lab and confirm it herself. Cameron asks what Spencer expects him to do; hug Carly, and snag a couple hairs? That’s not suspicious at all. Spencer says, don’t be so dramatic. He can snag it from a glass she drank from. Where is Josslyn anyway? Cameron says he’s supposed to meet Joss and Trina at the MetroCourt pool after his shift is over, and Spencer says, that’s so good. Carly is almost always working at the MetroCourt. Cameron can get both of the samples today. Just let him know when it’s done. Cameron says, oh no. If he’s doing this, then Spencer is doing it with him.
Ava says she can’t believe Scotty hasn’t found anything to tie Esme to that sex tape. That little fiend torched her car, and threw in Kiki’s GH badge just for kicks; she’s got a devious mind. Scotty says, she’s devious, but she covered her tracks well. Now let’s get back to what’s at hand here. Sign the papers. They’re going to need a witness… She says she’s going to wait for Nikolas to get back, and Scotty says, she told him Nikolas wanted this, as does she. Was he wrong? She asks if it really matters. He’s banking billable hours no matter what. He says he’s always been there for her, hasn’t he? He cares about her, and she knows that. How could she say that to him? She says she’s sorry; she does know that. She’s on edge because she’s very concerned about Trina, and she’s just being silly. She looks through the papers, and Scotty says, silly how? She says she can’t help thinking she and Nikolas are tempting fate. That this divorce isn’t going to be the fresh start he wants it to be; that it’s going to be the end.
Nikolas says he’s not even sure how he can help Esme. As she knows, Doc is married to his mother. This’ll get back to her, and it could be bad. She says, he’s right. She guesses this is what she deserves anyway. Losing her internship, she means. This is her punishment for sleeping with her boyfriend’s dad. He says, no, that’s not how the world works. She’s just feeling guilty like he is, because they should never have been together. But he’ll prove it to her by helping her get her internship back. She throws her arms around him, and says, thank you so much.
Olivia says she really thinks she can convince Ned that buying Carly’s half of the hotel would be a great investment, and Carly says, maybe Ned would go for it, but she won’t. Ned double-crossed Michael and Drew, and hung them out to dry. They’re scrambling to save Aurora. They’re not going to take Ned’s money, even if he’s in partnership with Olivia. Olivia asks if Carly believes Drew and Michael would think less of her, but Carly says, she would think less of herself. Olivia asks, what’s next? What is Carly going to do?
Nikolas comes back to the table, and Ava asks, where’s Esme? He says, she took off, and Ava says she didn’t think Esme would be hitting Nikolas up for money. Spencer’s allowance is more than enough for the both of them. He says, Esme never brought up the subject of money.
Josslyn and Trina sit with their feet in the pool, and I’m jealous of the random guy who swims past. Trina says, Esme asked Rory if he knew someone who could help her get her internship back at Spring Ridge, and Josslyn says, hello. What does it tell you that Esme’s too crazy to get an internship? Trina says, that’s her point. Rory claimed he knew someone, and offered to put the name and phone number in Esme’s phone, but she woudn’t hand it over. Josslyn says, there must be so much incriminating data on it, and Trina says, exactly. There is no way Esme is going to let a cop hold it, even for a minute. Rory just out maneuvered her. Josslyn says, nice work, and Trina says, right? Especially when Trina got here, and saw them together. For a second, Trina thought Esme was winning him over. Josslyn says, there is not a chance. Officer Invisible is way too into Trina. Trina says, maybe, and Josslyn says, and Trina is into Rory, right? Trina says, maybe.
Spencer says, if he goes with Cameron, that’s only going to make it worse. Cameron says, how convenient, and Spencer says he means it. He can’t go near Joss or Trina; they hate him, especially Trina. Cameron says he guesses Spencer is right about that. Maybe they could use that to their advantage. Spencer asks, how? and Cameron says, this time, Spencer is going to have to trust him. He has an idea.
Finn says he’ll support Chase in any career path he chooses, but he still thinks the PCPD is shooting themselves in the foot to give up on a detective as good as Chase is. Chase says he doesn’t know if they’ll have a choice in the matter, and Gregory asks how long the investigation takes. Chase says he doesn’t know, but he knows he’s suspended without pay, and he’s going to have to find another job… at least a temporary one. He can’t imagine anything that would satisfy him as much as detective work, and Gregory says he thinks Chase needs to fight for the job he has, the job he loves. Finn says, in the meantime, Chase might want to stay away from this Linc Brown.
Sonny tells Brook that he has to cut this short. He has to go to the MetroCourt to meet Nina. She asks if he and Nina are an official thing now, and he says, just kind of dating. Brook says, as long as Nina makes him happy, and he says, it’s nice of her to say that, since not a lot of people feel that way. She says she’s sure. There’s really nothing he can do for Chase? He tells her, like he said, Chase is a smart guy. He’ll get another job. A lot of former cops are doing security. She says, like Paul Blart a mall cop? and he says, not like a mall cop. Like a security consultant, like a bodyguard… She says, that doesn’t sound much better, but he says, listen. Chase is going to find another job. He’s sorry he can’t make Linc sing like a canary, but the Review Board… you never know. She tells him that he’s a genius, and hugs him, saying, thank you so much.
Ava asks if Nikolas is signing the papers now, and he says, that’s what they’re here for, isn’t it? She says, Martin Grey isn’t here. Nikolas shouldn’t sign any legal documents before his lawyer looking through them first. Scotty tells Ava, hold on a second. He’s offended. Does she think he pulled some sort of a fast one when he drew up these papers? Nikolas tells Ava that he wants to do this for her, to prove to her that he has no doubts they’re going to be together forever, which turns into a Rick Astley earworm for me. She says she appreciates the gesture, but there’s no need to take it this far. They don’t have to rush through this divorce. Scotty says, the two of them are working his last nerve. He has to go to court, so are they going to sign these papers or not? Ava takes Nikolas’s papers, puts them on top of her own, and hands them to Scotty. She says, not, and tells Nikolas, let’s go home.
Finn says, Chase’s only defense with the Review Board is, the punch was in the heat of the moment, he wasn’t thinking, and he’s sorry. Chase says, but he’s not sorry, and Gregory says, what? Finn tells Chase, he can’t say that, and Chase says he knows. He needs to convince the Review Board that he’s very remorseful, and for his own self-preservation, that he won’t go anywhere near Linc. Brook comes in, and Finn says he has to get to the hospital, and Gregory has… Gregory says he has to work on his book. Chase may as well stay and enjoy the pool. Finn echoes, enjoy the pool, and they leave. Chase takes his shirt off, and Brook walks up, saying, she was looking for him.
Walking into the pool area, Cameron says, before they go any further, he wants to make sure Spencer’s good with the plan. He’s going to go to the pool, and Spencer’s going to go a few minutes after to create a diversion. Okay? That’s when he’ll get the DNA samples from Joss and her mom. Spencer says, look, there’s Carly over there with Olivia, and they see Carly and Olivia talking at the pool bar. Spencer asks what they do now, and Cameron says, he’ll go to the pool first, and sit with Joss. Promise to not leave him hanging? Spencer says he’s got Cameron’s back; he promises.
Lucy says, it’s time to go, ladies. Fame, fortune, and Home & Heart await. Maxie says she’s so excited about what this means for the future of Deception, and Sasha says, it’s huge. Lucy says, on three, group hug – three! They hug for a moment, and Lucy says, break. Let’s go. They start to leave, and Sasha says she forgot something. She’ll catch up with them downstairs. Lucy and Maxie continue on, while Sasha goes back in the office, and takes a pill.
Cameron walks over to Josslyn and Trina, and Josslyn asks if he’s finally taken some time to do nothing. He says he’s here; are they going to save him a chair? Josslyn asks, what’s wrong?
Spencer looks at his phone, and says, that’s long enough. Time to go to the pool. He walks in, and runs into Esme, who asks what he’s doing here.
Olivia asks Carly, what’s next? What’s her plan? Carly says she doesn’t know, and Olivia sees Sonny walk in. She says she understands Carly not wanting to take money from the Quartermaines, but what about her ex-husband? Maybe he owes Carly a favor or 500. Carly turns around, and sees Sonny.
Next week (I assume Tuesday), Brook says, today is the day she changes Chase’s life; Nina asks Drew why she has the feeling there’s another angle; and Sonny asks, how much trouble is Spinelli in with Cody?
A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus. – Martin Luther King Jr.
In matters of truth and justice, there is no difference between large and small problems, for issues concerning the treatment of people are all the same. – Albert Einstein
There is nothing which I dread so much as a division of the republic into two great parties, each arranged under its leader, and concerting measures in opposition to each other. This, in my humble apprehension, is to be dreaded as the greatest political evil under our Constitution. – John Adams
A politician thinks of the next election. A statesman, of the next generation. – James Freeman Clarke
Remember, remember always, that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists. – Franklin D. Roosevelt
All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope. – Winston Churchill
The life of the nation is secure only while the nation is honest, truthful, and virtuous. – Frederick Douglass
The patriot’s blood is the seed of freedom’s tree. – Thomas Campbell
America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination. – Harry S. Truman
No other date on the calendar more potently symbolizes all that our nation stands for than the Fourth of July. – Mac Thornberry
Observe good faith and justice toward all nations. Cultivate peace and harmony with all. – George Washington
Independence now and forever! – Daniel Webster
🎆 You’re a Firework…
Whether it’s a long weekend, working weekend, or no weekend, it’s still the birthday of a nation, something to be appreciated. Since Monday is officially the 4th, there’s no regularly scheduled program, but pop by for some (hopefully) soap and tea on Tuesday (technically Wednesday). Until then, stay safe, stay safer if you’re around fireworks, and stay be grateful for your independence, even if it’s only in your mind.
(rambling, random thoughts & annoyingly detailed recaps from real time TV watching)
General Hospital
Valentin sees Jax at the MetroCourt bar. He tells Jax that when he was at the launch, he notice a flashy new yacht. Is it his? Jax says it is, and Valentin says, it’s gorgeous. Jax hopes Valentin isn’t angling to buy it, but Valentin says he likes money too much to buy a yacht, but he does have a proposal for Jax.
At the hospital, nuNina asks Curtis how Jordan’s progress is going. He says, good. Her body hasn’t rejected the kidney, and there’s no sign of infection. Nina says, that’s a relief. What about him? She’s getting weird vibes. He seems distracted and stressed. He says Jordan’s surgery was a success, and he’s grateful for that, but now they have to figure out a way to pay for it.
Finn tells Jordan that she’s infection free, and officially no longer his patient. She thanks him, and he says, it’s all part of the job. She knows this case is outside of what he normally does, and he says Curtis is his friend, and Jordan is important to Anna. He understands, according to this relationship thing, that makes Jordan important to him. He wants to give Curtis the news, but she has a question first. How is Ryan doing? Finn says when he last saw Ryan, he was recuperating, and Jordan asks if he’s recuperating as well as she is.
At Kelly’s, Maxie asks if Mac is clear on the plan, and Mac says, yes. He knows what to do, and it’s going to work out great. She asks if they shouldn’t go over it, just in case. He says he knows what to do. Laura comes in, and says she’s sorry to interrupt, but does Mac have a minute? Mac says he’ll see Maxie later, and she tells him, don’t mess it up. She leaves, and Laura says she needs Mac’s help.
Maxie sits with Peter, and notices he ordered pie. He asks if that’s a problem. She says they came for desert, and she thought he’d get cake. Doesn’t he like cake? He says he does; he just prefers pie. She wishes he’d told her.
Lulu thanks Felicia for offering the restaurant for Peter’s party. Felicia says, Maxie is in full Maxie mode about it, and Lulu says, how great is that?
Kim and Drew come back to Kim’s apartment. Drew sees the refrigerator is empty, and suggests he get groceries. Kim says, no rush. All they have is time. Time to miss their son.
Josslyn puts a framed photo of Oscar on a table that has candles and a glass of water on it. Cameron and Trina arrive, and she thanks them for coming. Cameron asks if there’s a reason why they had to come through the back, and Josslyn says she doesn’t want her parents to know. Trina says, party time, and Cameron says, great idea to throw a rager at Sonny’s house. Josslyn says there’s no party, but if her parents knew what she was doing, they would worried, and they’ve worried enough.
Valentin says Jax has defied the business model. Jax says, some people flip houses; he flips companies. He finds it rewarding. Valentin can understand why Aurora was an attractive acquisition. Jax says, it still is, but it’s in need of some TLC. Valentin says Jax usually invests in things like pipelines and brokerage houses. He can’t imagine Jax is too attached to Aurora. He’d like to buy Jax’s half. Whatever his projected value is a year from now, that’s his offer. Jax will get all the money, and do none of the work. Jax says, it’s a generous offer, but he doesn’t need it. He isn’t sure Valentin would be doing this if it weren’t for Nina, and Valentin says he’s absolutely right.
Nina asks if the transplant wasn’t covered by insurance, and Curtis says, it was, but all the stuff around it, not so much, like the extended hospital stay. Nina says if she remembers correctly, she was the best person at their wedding, and she made a commitment to support their marriage. Let her take care of the medical bills; it’s not a problem for her. He thanks her, but says, no. They’ve got this. She tells him, if anything changes, let her know, and they hug.
Finn tells Jordan that he supervised the transplant, and Ryan is well on his way to a full recovery. Jordan says, good, but he says, not everyone agrees. She says not everyone has Ryan’s kidney keeping them alive.
Laura tells Mac, it’s hard to get Jordan to back off of work, and she needs to. She’s hoping to find someone to fill in. Someone with experience who she can trust, and who would be willing to walk away when it’s time for Jordan to return. Mac thinks it’s a smart plan, and she says, so he’ll do it?
Maxie asks, when Peter was little, did he want to be a baseball player or an astronaut? He says, ninja. Is she okay? She says, fine, and he says, what about her? She says, fashion designer, and if that didn’t work out, President. She tells him that she’s meeting Lulu, and she’ll see him later. He thought she was working later, and she says she meant they’ll talk later, or tomorrow, depending on how busy she is. She leaves, and he’s like, huh? This reminds me of when there was a surprise birthday party for a friend of mine, and I had lunch with her the same day. I came thisclose to saying, I’ll see you later, when we parted company.
Drew tells Kim that he put her bags in her room. She thanks him, and he says he needs to sleep about twelve hours. I think of how heavenly that would be, and he says he’ll check on her in the morning. There’s a knock at the door, and Drew answers. It’s Julian. He says he thought Kim might need some things, and he brought burgers from Charlie’s if Drew wants to stick around. Drew says, thanks, but he needs sleep. He leaves, and Julian puts his arm around Kim. She looks out the window, and says, while they were scattering Oscar’s ashes so close to the sky, it was like they were returning him to the heavens. Julian says, it sounds beautiful. Kim says, it was. Whenever she looks into the night’s sky, she sees Oscar in the stars.
Cameron asks, what is all this stuff? and Josslyn asks them to hear her out. She did research online and basically is trying to reach Oscar. Trina says, reach? and Josslyn says, communicate, summon, however they want to put it. She thinks this is how to do it. Trina says, a séance? and she says, yes. Cameron says no wonder she said she didn’t want to worry her parents. He’s worried. This isn’t her. It isn’t fair Oscar is gone, and Cameron believes his spirit is out there somewhere, but trying to talk to him in Sonny’s kitchen? Josslyn asks, what’s the alternative? What do they want her to do? Cameron suggests letting him go.
Cameron says there are other things they can do. If she wants to feel closer to Oscar, awesome. They can take a hike, or play guitar in Oscar’s Meadow. Josslyn says she tried that. She’s gone everywhere, and done everything. Trina asks if she’s never felt Oscar’s presence, but Josslyn says she only feels like he should be there and he’s not. She’s obviously doing something wrong. Cameron says, maybe she’s just missing him like they all do. Josslyn tells them that Oscar said he’d reach out. What if he is, and he’s just lost? Trina asks if that’s a thing, but Josslyn doesn’t know. She just wants to give him a chance. Trina thinks they should do it.
Laura needs to find someone she can trust to do the right thing, and she thinks it’s him. He asks how he can say no, and she says the city of Port Charles thanks him. Mostly she thanks him. She asks him to start tomorrow; she’ll alert the department. She says they’ll be able to see more of each other. He says, temporarily, and she says, of course (🍷). They hug, and Laura leaves. Peter comes over, and asks if Mac has a minute. Mac says that’s about all he has. There’s somewhere he needs to be. Peter thinks he knows where, and if he’s right, Mac needs to put a stop to it.
At The Floating Rib, Maxie says, everything looks great. Lulu says it’s perfect, but Maxie says, apparentlynot. Ninjas and pie are. She asks if Felicia has pie on the menu. Felicia says they have a beautiful cake in the back that Maxie ordered. Maxie says that’s before she knew pie was preferred. It’s a disaster. Felicia says, no; it’s not. Lulu asks, what’s going on? and Maxie says she wants Peter to like the party. Lulu says, he will, and Maxie asks how she knows. Felicia says because it’s from her.
Valentin says it’s just a business to Jax, but it means more to him. Nina is his fiancé and ex-wife. They went through a rocky phase, but he’s back in her good graces, and wants it to stay that way. Crimson is Nina’s baby, and she’s 100% invested in it. Jax asks if he’s concerned about Nina professionally. Valentin says, no, but the business means little to Jax and a lot to him. That’s why he’s willing to pay a premium. Jax appreciates Valentin’s honest, and wants to be honest in return. His reasons for buying Aurora have nothing to do with money. They’re entirely personal.
Jax explains that Josslyn is a lonely child right now, and tells Valentin that he’d like to live in the same place. Valentin says there are other businesses, and Jax says, true, but it was ideally suited to him. They needed a helping hand, and they’re located near Carly’s hotel. He can be around the people he wants to be around – with the exception of one or two. He respects what Valentin said, but no. Valentin tells him to name his price; everyone has one. Jax says Valentin sounds like his brother. He also believed that, but sooner or later you come across someone who doesn’t, and that’s him. Nina comes in, and asks, what’s going on? NuNina is going to take some getting used to. I keep thinking, who are you?
Maxie thinks the party is In good shape, and thanks Lulu and Felicia for helping. They’re happy to do it, and Maxie wants to check the kitchen. Felicia says everything is ready to go, but Maxie says she’ll be the judge of that. Lulu tells Felicia that she hasn’t seen Maxie like this in a while; nervous and excited wrapped in one. Felicia says she was skeptical of Peter at first, but slowly and surely, she sees he’s a good friend, and they’re good together. Lulu says, they help each other, and make each other better. Felicia thinks so too, but it’s nice to have it confirmed. Maxie comes back, and asks what they were talking about. Lulu says, nothing, and Maxie tells them not to pretend they weren’t talking about her.
The last thing Peter wants is to hurt Maxie’s feelings. Mac says, then don’t. Peter thinks a surprise party will be embarrassing. Mac says he’ll be in a room full of people who care about him, and want what’s good for him. After all these years, doesn’t he deserve it? Peter doesn’t know, but Mac says, Maxiethinks so. If he doesn’t want to show up for himself, show up for her.
Curtis tells Jordan that he just talked with the billing department. Jordan asks if the amount is a huge mistake. He wishes, but they can pay in installments over time. Drew stops by, and asks how Jordan is. She says, good; thanks to Ryan. He bets that’s a sentence she never thought she’d say. She asks how he’s doing. That was a long trip. He says they did what they needed to. Now it’s back to work. He tells her that he was responsible for the accident, and wants to know how can he help. Jordan says they don’t hold him responsible. Curtis says he went blind while he was driving; it’s not his fault. Drew says he can still cover the cost, but Curtis says, no dice. Drew asks Jordan to talk sense into Curtis. Jordan says, even if she wanted to, she can’t. Drew owns a major medical company, and accepting it could be construed as a bribe. She thanks him for his generosity, and he says maybe they’ll accept his counteroffer. Okay, at least that answers my question about Drew paying – even if the answer is pretty convoluted. Because technically, he did cause the accident, I doubt him paying her medical bills would be construed as a bribe.
Kim says she’s not hungry, but Julian says her body needs fuel. He tells her that she was a great mom. She says, was, and he says, sorry, but she says he’s right. She doesn’t know who she is now. She puts her head on his shoulder.
Finn comes into Kelly’s. He asks Peter how it’s going. Has he eaten? Peter says, no, and Finn says he thought maybe they could grab a bite. Anna thinks they should spend some time getting to know each other better. Peter suggests they get a table, and Finn says, there? Peter says, it is a restaurant, but Finn says he was thinking something more divey. Mac says, divey? and Finn says he meant more casual. Peter asks what he had in mind, and Finn says, The Floating Rib. Peter tells him, sounds good. Mac says he’s headed there himself, and Finn says, what a coincidence. Mac says, not really; he owns it. Peter says he knows about the party, and Finn asks why he didn’t say something sooner. Peter says he was enjoying this. Finn tells Peter not to say he spoiled the surprise. He’ll never hear the end of it from Maxie or Anna if they think he spilled the beans, and that’s its own special torture. Peter promises to act surprised.
Jax tells Nina that he and Valentin were just chatting about yachts, and this and that. How is their special project going? Nina says they’re already selling ads. Jax leaves, and Nina says, fantastic guy, isn’t he? Why doesn’t Valentin like him?
Drew asks Curtis to work for him at Aurora. Curtis asks if he’s for real. Doing what? Drew needs a security analyst, and Curtis says, him in an office? Drew thinks he’d be perfect for it. He honestly needs someone, someone he can trust, and there aren’t many people he trusts more. Curtis says he’ll think about it, and Drew asks him not to take too long.
Josslyn lights the candles. Trina asks what the glass of water is for. Josslyn says if they see a ripple, they’ll know Oscar heard them. She asks if they’re ready, and Trina says, let’s do it. They join hands. Josslyn says they’ve gathered tonight with open hearts, and wish to speak to their friend and loved one, Oscar Nero, who they miss so greatly. They’d like him to accept their loving invitation. Trina yowls, and says Cameron just squeezed the crap out of her hand. Cameron says, if Oscar is listening, he’s laughing his ass off. Josslyn and Trina agree, and they all laugh.
Everyone yells, surprise! and Peter does a good surprised act. He says he thought the place was closed, and Maxie says, it is to the public, but not to them. He says she did all this? and asks if Finn and Mac were in on it. Finn says, guilty. Peter says no one has ever thrown him a party before. Maxie says, yea or nay, and Peter says, definitely yea.
Laura sees Jax at the hospital, and says she heard he was back. He says he heard she was mayor; congratulations. He says he’s on the hospital board, and they’ll be working together now, but she says, when she became mayor, she had to step back. He asks if she can talk to him about Valentin.
Nina asks Valentin why he doesn’t like Jax, and he says he just doesn’t. Jax is coming between them and their wedding. Nina says he didn’t order her to postpone; it was her choice. She cares about Crimson. It’s her baby, and she wants it to succeed. He says he does to, and she asks, what’s the problem. He says there’s always an angle in dealing people, and there’s no angle with Jax. He can’t figure how to bargain with him. While there’s a legit reason for Jax swooping in, he hates it. He wants to marry Nina right now. She says so all they were doing was talking about wedding dates? Valentin says he tried to buy Jax’s half of Aurora, and Jax turned him down. Nina says, good for him. Her parents never let her fail; only because it made them look good. It gave her a distorted vision of the world. He says she turned out okay, but she says she’s not the person she was. If Valentin was her boss, all of her ideas would be brilliant. She can do no wrong in his eyes. She loves that trait in a husband, but it’s not necessarily the best trait in a boss. She kisses him, and says she loves him. He says he loves her, and would do anything for her. She says she needs him to stay out of this. He kisses her.
Curtis goes to get Jordan a smoothie, and she tells Drew that she’s drowning in kale. He says it’s good to see her looking well. She’s sorry she hasn’t been there for him recently, and asks how he is. He doesn’t know. Before, there was all this momentum; things to do, goals to meet. Now it’s done, and he doesn’t know what to do next.
Kim tells Julian, people talk about how your heart expands when you have a child, and it’s true. That kind of love is indescribable, immeasurable. He says he knows, and he’s so sorry. It’s going to take time. Kim asks if she’s healed when she no longer feels like a mother. The thought terrifies her. It would be like looking in a mirror and seeing a stranger.
Trina asks if they remember when Oscar laughed so hard, his milkshake came out of his nose. They talk about some funny times with Oscar, and Cameron says he never laughed so hard. Trina says, hey. There’s a ripple in the water, and they all look.
Mac toasts to Peter, whose steady hands brought their grandson into the world. Finn says he has a note from Anna, but he’s not doing the accent. He reads Anna’s happy birthday wishes, and Lulu says, to akickass boss. Peter thanks them, especially Maxie for throwing together his first birthday party. Maxie says, it won’t be the last. He says it’s a wonderful feeling to look around, and see the people he cares about. He blows out the candle on his cake, and Finn says, not that hard.
Nina says Valentin misunderstands. The delay in getting married isn’t about her; it’s about Crimson. When she marries him, she wants to know everything is all right with her career, the girls, and them. When they say their vows, there will be no secrets, no ticking time bombs. When she marries him, she wants to know she’ll get the family she always wanted. It will be a beautiful September afternoon, and she wants it to be perfect and theirs. They kiss.
Laura thinks Jax knows how he feels after what Valentin did to Nikolas. Valentin is bad news, plain and simple. She’d say proceed with caution, but it’s best not to proceed at all. He says she’s a little late. He’s already involved. In that case, she hopes he doesn’t live to regret it. Jax has feeling he won’t be the one regretting anything.
Nina tells Valentin that she’s going to freshen up. When she leaves, he calls Curtis, saying he has a job that he can only trust Curtis to do. Curtis says he’s listening, and Valentin says he needs Curtis to find out everything he can on Jasper Jax.
Drew makes Jordan laugh, telling her how wiped out he was on his and Oscar’s first hike. Thank God there were a lot more. He thanks her, and she says, for what? He says, it’s nice to talk about how Oscar was. Remember the good things, and not focus on the fact Oscar is no longer there. She asks how Kim is holding up, and he says, not too good. She’s lost, and having a hard time finding her way back.
Kim tells Julian that she loves him. He says he loves her too, and they kiss. She asks him to make a baby with her.
Josslyn asks if it’s Oscar. They hear something outside, and go out on the terrace. Trina asks if Josslyn sees anything, but Josslyn shakes her head, and goes back in. They follow her, and Trina says she thinks it worked. She doesn’t know if Oscar was outside, but them hanging out being friends, and Josslyn laughing is what Oscar wants. He wants Josslyn happy and okay. Or maybe it was just a breeze. Who knows? Josslyn thanks them, and apologizes for wasting their night. Cameron says, it wasn’t a waste. She tells them to go out the front.
When they’re gone, Josslyn blows out the candles. Someone watches her from outside.
Tomorrow, Julian thinks it’s the best thing to ever happen, Margaux needs something from Drew, and Sonny says they have a problem.
Below Deck Mediterranean
The French Riviera. In the car, Travis says Mila’s opinion on gays is her opinion on humanity. Maybe he’s been with men, or gay men are his friends. He says she should just STFU. He tells her to sit on the opposite side of the table. and calls her an oxygen thief.
They stop at a restaurant. João thinks he might have a bottle of gin for dinner. Mila just wants to have a nice time, and doesn’t care what Travis thinks. They sit.
Drinks are ordered. In his interview, João says he can’t let Jezebub come out on the first night, and we flash back to some scenes starring his alter-ego last season. He says he’s a leader now, and needs to set an example or he’ll lose respect and be done. Anastasia tells João about her double-degree and how she’s passionate about the outdoors. In Mila’s interview, she wonders why expressing her opinion is bad. She has a gay friend who has done her hair since she was fourteen, and he doesn’t think her opinion is wrong about being open in public. (Or so he’s telling her. He’s probably afraid the place is bugged.) Anastasia asks, what happened? and Mala says she expressed an honest opinion, and Travis doesn’t want to sit at the same table with her. Maybe it was harsh but it is what it is. In Aesha’s interview, she says in the Republic of Georgia, no one is openly gay, but her mother is progressive in her views. To blame the culture is a load of sh*t.
Hannah goes for a smoke. Anastasia tells her about what Mila said, that being gay is wrong. Hannah says she doesn’t understand, and in her interview, says she’s in shock. Yachting is a multi-cultural industry, and the people working in it are usually open-minded. João passes a fish eye to Colin, telling him it’s a delicacy. Colin says he swallowed it like a pill. Aesha says she never takes pills. The body is designed to fix itself, and if you give it the right fuel, you won’t have to take pills. Hanna and Travis leave to have a cigarette. In his interview, João says, there’s a weird vibe; something is off. Hannah tells Travis that she doesn’t want to work with a homophobe who can’t even cook. Travis says, it’s a load of bollocks. She says she thought Mila was a sh*tty chef, but liked her as a person. It’s disgusting.
Hannah asks to switch seats with João, who can’t figure out what’s going on. In Mila’s interview, she says they’re not effing teenagers. Travis asks if she thinks gay people are animals, and why she thinks it’s disgusting. Mila says she doesn’t give a damn, and João asks, wtf is happening? Colin suggests a vacation on Fire Island. The crew moves on to a bar.
Hannah says she needs to stay away from Mila. Backhanding a bitch could get her fired. They go to a club called The Hop Store. João says it’s a yachty bar, and the beginning of all bad decisions. Mila is looking for Hanna. Travis makes himself scarce, and Hannah walks away. Everyone dances. In his interview, Colin says it’s a fun crew. They love to dance and drink, but maybe they’re a little too outgoing. Travis tells Mila not to touch him. In her interview, Mila says sometimes her opinion hurts people, but they’re there together, and can be friends. In that case, maybe she should have kept her opinion to herself. She tells Hannah that she’s going to have a long day tomorrow. Hannah ignores her and takes João outside for a smoke. He’s still clueless, and she tells him that Mila doesn’t think it’s right to be gay. João says some of his best friends are gay. Even though I have no doubt he means it, it always sounds so cliché when someone says something like that. In João’s interview, he says he grew up with his mother’s gay best friend, whom they called Auntie Shackle. He taught them how to put on cologne, and was the sunshine of their lives. Being gay is illegal in Zimbabwe, and he committed suicide. We both tear up. João says Mila is from a different culture, and they still have to work with her. Hannah tells him about the nachos she couldn’t take out; it was as bad as that. Her cake tasted baking powder. When you’re a chef on a super yacht, it’s reason to be fired. Mila says, sorry to interrupt. Hannah ignores her, and tells João that she’s gone above and beyond, but there’s nothing in her job description that says she has to show the chef how to do their job.
Hannah says, c’est la vie, and everyone goes back to the cars. The cheese Mila sits alone. Back at the boat, the crew gets ready for bed. Anastasia shoots whipped cream into her mouth from the can, and the can is passed around. Mila and Jack sit outside. Jack asks if Mila tried to sort it out with the others, and she says she did. He asks if she wants to go in the jacuzzi, but that’s a no. In Jack’s interview, he says, even if Mila’s opinions are sh*t, she’s sexy. Sexy Hitler. João cleans up
In the morning, Hannah tells the stews, let’s get this bitch ready for charter. João says Jack and Travis’s bunk smells like a brewery. He tells them it’s quarter after ten, and they look like d*ckheads. Everyone gets ready for the guests. Mila tells Travis that she’s sorry her opinion hurt him. He says, her opinion hurts humanity, and walks away. João says Travis looks like Shaggy from Scooby Doo, and he’s right.
Time for the preference sheet meeting. The primary is a return guest, Captain Sandy’s friend Jennifer. She’s a world renowned neurologist and LA’s top vaginal rejuvenation expert. We flash back to the last trip, which wasn’t stellar. They want to lay in sun, and keep the drinks flowing. In Hannah’s interview, she says Sandy was on high alert last time. We see a clip from the toast debacle. Hannah’s main focus is on the girls, and keeping the guests’ glasses filled. There can’t be one mistake. In her interview, Mila says she has to prove herself, and feels huge pressure. She tells the captain, she’s got this. Captain Sandy tells her to make sure the presentation is top notch. Ask her if anything is needed. She doesn’t care, as long as it’s good quality.
Last minute touches are done around the yacht. Aesha thinks the stews are a good team. Anastasia says she likes busting ass, but no one thanks you for it. The deckhands finish up outside. Colin goes into the beach club to get something out of a box of lines, and he slips. If you don’t normally watch this, the beach club isn’t really a club, but a storage area for the jet skis and such, and is occasionally cleared out and used for parties because it opens up to the outside.
João asks if Colin is okay. Colin says he’s hurt, but good. In his interview, he says, it hurt a lot. He slipped on grease. Jack suggests sitting down, and João tells him to take an inflammatory. In Colin’s interview, he says the signs are already pointing to he shouldn’t be there. Anastasia tells a story about discovering how poo comes out at the table while she and a few others are eating. In Jack’s interview, he says she knows she’s embarrassing herself, but she doesn’t care. it’s such a good quality.
Captain Sandy radios João, saying the water bike she ordered is there. The deckhands bring it onto the boat. The stews have a meeting. Hannah says the primary is one of Captain Sandy’s friends, and used to high standards. She wants them to focus on service, and over-communicate. The guys try to put the bike together, but no one knows what it’s supposed to look like. In his interview, João wonders how Jack got to be an engineer. The captain announces the guests will arrive at noon.
Everyone gets in their whites. Captain Sandy is happy the sun is out. They greet Jennifer and her friends. The captain thanks Jennifer for giving them another chance. She says Hannah will give them the tour, the luggage will be loaded, and they’ll take off. Champagne is served. Jennifer asks if there’s a jacuzzi, and the captain says there is. We look at the fabulous boat that even has a walk in closet. João drops the ground lines. It’s all clear, and they go. In Captain Sandy’s interview, she says João is doing a great job because he cares and he wants it.
The table is set with a centerpiece of succulents, and crystal stones and stars. Anchor is dropped in Cannes. The guests sit for lunch, and the toys go in the water. Mila says she’s been working with the crab meat. At least it looks better than the nachos. Hannah gives the guests nibbles to start with, but they think the crab is a little fishy; make that super fishy. The entrée is served, and Jennifer wonders if it’s supposed to taste like that. She tells Captain Sandy the crab is fishy, and the shrimp is slimy. Bleh. In the captain’s interview, she wonders if they got bad fish or it’s Mila. She tells Hannah to take the fish off the table. In her interview, she says she wanted to knock it out of the park for her friends, and they won’t sugar coat it like the last charter. She tells Mila that they have a problem.
The captain says the fish is being taken off the table. She doesn’t want anyone to get food poisoning. She personally tastes the fish, and tells Mila that she has to make something else; she doesn’t think it tastes good. Hannah clears the dishes away. In Mila’s interview, she gripes about getting frozen shrimp from Viet Nam. If the fish isn’t good quality, what can she do? Captain Sandy suggests grilled chicken. Hannah comes in, and says one of the guests asked for grilled cheese. In Captain Sandy’s interview, she says she feels frustrated. Mila’s food isn’t matching her photos. Either you’re sinking or floating the boat, and right now Mila is sinking the boat. The captain calls Anastasia to help. One of the guests says, so she’ll lose a couple of pounds. The captain tells Hannah the food is awful.
João tells Jack to help with the dreaded slide. Mila says she’s never had food come back. She asks Anastasia to try her panna cotta; she’s scared now. Anastasia says it’s good. Hannah and Travis chat as they work. In Travis’s interview, he says usually the chief stew is off-limits to a deckhand, but he and Hannah had a good talk, and he’s seeing possibilities. Aesha tells Mila that the guests don’t want dessert. In Hannah’s interview, she says, dinner is an epic failure. The guests are unhappy, Sandy is unhappy, and not only is Mila a homophobe, she officially can’t cook.
Some of the guests go on the toys. Jennifer takes pictures. Hanna thinks Anastasia should stay to help out in the galley. In her interview, the captain says, Hannah is different this charter. She has drive and focus, and a different energy. Captain Sandy tells Hannah to put Anastasia in the galley for now, until she and Mila can have a conversation. Hannah relays the message to Anastasia, and tells her to help the interior when she can. In Anastasia’s interview, she says it feels good to step up for the team, but she’s thinking of a thousand things. Hannah tells her not to take any sh*t from Mila. She doesn’t work for Mila, she’s just helping, which shouldn’t be happening.
Travis talks to Colin about drugs. In Colin’s interview, he says he got along with everyone on the last charter. This time, they’re nice people, but he wouldn’t hang out with them. Travis says Colin is too pure for this work. Anastasia asks Mila, what about dinner? but Mila doesn’t know. Hannah tells Mila that she’s got Anastasia for the rest of the charter. Mila says she’s scared to cook for these people. Hanna is sorry, but she understands what the problem is. The quality just isn’t there.
The guests come back on board. Anastasia goes over the menu with Mila. Mila says, beef is the onlyoption, and Anastasia gives some suggestions. Mila says she doesn’t know what to give them. In her interview, Anastasia is sympathetic on a personal level, but not a professional one. She gets that it’s hard, but come on. Hannah tells João that she’s giving Anastasia to the galley for this charter, and João says he’ll help however he can. In his interview, Jack says he’d be devastated if he was the chef. Anastasia calls home, and tells her mom about helping in the galley, and discusses the menu with her. In Anastasia’s interview, she says her mom is her rock. She grew up in the kitchen. She’s pretty much a direct reflection of her mom, who says, if you’re not doing your best, you’re not working hard enough.
Captain Sandy asks about the dinner menu. Mila feels bad, and the captain tells her, it’s not personal. It’s about quality. They need to have it. Hannah takes drink orders at the jacuzzi. Mila cries in the bathroom. Hannah tells Aesha to change into her whites. Anastasia tells Mila that she needs a jacket. A guest screams for a lighter and ashtray, the latter of which is right there. This one seems like a snippy drunk, and she complains about her husband having an orgy with husband in the jacuzzi, since she’s the only one not in it. Hannah wishes she’d shut up. In her interview, Anastasia tells us, no matter what position she’s in, you can always find her in the galley.
Hannah tells Aesha that they’re going to have to forego breaks. Jack asks Aesha how service is going, and she says there’s only two of them now. Jack thinks he should be on break, and João calls him a tool. In her interview, Hannah says Jack is one of those guys who will do the minimal amount of work to not get fired. Yep. Every crew has one.
Anastasia says she’ll do anything to help. She’s not there because she thinks she’s better – like put me in game, coach – but she doesn’t want to serve sh*tty food either. Jennifer gives Captain Sandy new vibrator. In Hannah’s interview, she says, last season, Jennifer kept vibrators behind closed doors; this season they’re right out on the table, but at least it’s something appetizing. Anastasia asks for help with service. She sees the captain with a vibrator, and asks if she can have one. The captain asks if she’s serious, but Anastasia says she already has one. Travis and João crack up.
Dinner is served. In Anastasia’s interview, she says when she makes something for someone – be it a friendship bracelet or a salad – she needs validation. She watches the monitor, and says, just one. One of the guests pronounces it, very good, to which the others agree. Captain Sandy tells Mila and Anastasia, it was a beautiful presentation, and the guests love it. The guests look at the lights of the city.
Hannah tells João that she has to get the cabins done at the same time she’s doing service. He asks if he can help. In her interview, Hannah didn’t think she’d say this in a million years, but she and João are getting along. He’s helping her, and she doesn’t want to punch him in the face. He helps Aesha make the beds, and she shows him how to get the pillow in the case properly. Anastasia thinks Mila shouldn’t leave the steaks on for so long, and in Mila’s interview, she gripes about a stew telling her what to do. She’s the chef. She cooks the food. Eff off. Anastasia asks a question about how the entrée is going to be plated, and Mila asks if Anastasia is telling her how to do it. Anastasia wonders if Mila is giving her attitude. The entrée is served. Jack says the guests are talking filth up there; talking absolute smut.
Captain Sandy checks on how the guests like the steak. They say it’s good, but in her interview, the captain says they were less than enthusiastic. Another guest thinks it’s dry, and one says it’s fine. In Captain Sandy’s interview, she says, people don’t charter a superyacht for just fine. She tells Hannah, dinner was a fail, and wonders, why me?
Next time, Jack flirts with Jennifer, Hannah tells Mila that they need Anastasia to cook because her food is sh*t, Travis says he has more work because Mila is a d*ckhead, Captain Sandy tells João that he did nothing wrong, and the captain doesn’t know what to do.
🔎 Margaux, We Hardly Knew Ye…
I don’t know if I’ll miss the character that much, but just when she got a little bit interesting, she’s gone. And with not much fanfare.
I like the idea of Nelle and Ryan plotting together. I never once thought about them both having giving up a kidney – unwillingly, yet – so they have that interesting bond as well.
What I Watched - TV With Theresa 