Category: Daytime

Young & The Restless Update

Recap written by Christine

Billy went to the Grand Phoenix for his meeting with Gaines, who was nowhere to be found. Billy inquired at the front desk. Crystal, the hotel manager, checked the computer and said it looked like he’d checked out. Billy spotted Victor sitting in the lounge, doing something on his phone. He walked over commented on how strange it was for Victor to spend this much time at Phyllis’s establishment. He theorized that Victor sent Gaines away. Victor told Crystal that if anyone was looking for him, he’d be in the hotel restaurant. He left.

Ashland was in Victoria’s office. Gaines had missed their meeting earlier, and Ashland wasn’t happy. He called Gaines and left a testy voice message about it. Ashland warned Gaines that it would be extremely foolish to renege on their deal. Victoria entered, and Ashland dropped the menacing tone and ended the call. Victoria said it sounded like someone was in trouble. Ashland claimed that one of his employees wasn’t getting on board with the merger. Victoria asked why Ashland didn’t just fire them, and he told her that this person was the holder of a lot of institutional knowledge that they couldn’t afford to lose. She felt that he was being deliberately vague, and one again, it felt like he was hiding something from her. She reiterated that he could confide in her. She was his ally, and she’d be his wife. She asked what the phone call was really about. Nikki walked in with terrific news. She realized she was interrupting.

Ashland told Nikki she wasn’t interrupting, and so she announced that, while Tessa had already been slated to sing at the wedding, Leslie Brooks had agreed to play something. Ashland said he couldn’t wait, then he quickly tried to excuse himself. Victoria pointed out that they hadn’t finished their discussion, but he left anyway, claiming he had to make some international calls right this minute. Nikki asked Victoria if everything was alright, and she said of course. It was clear to Nikki that something was on Victoria’s mind. Victoria said she may have spoken too soon when she said Ashland felt safe with her and like he could tell her anything. She said he seemed worried, but he was pretending everything was fine. She wondered if it might have something to do with Billy – maybe he was continuing his harassment campaign. Nikki had no doubt Billy was still investigating. She said other investigators might be trying to dig into Ashland’s history too. Victoria said that Ashland didn’t tell anyone else the truth about his past. Nikki suggested that someone figured it out on their own.

Ashland showed up at the hotel. Billy rushed right over and informed him that Gaines was gone. Victor appeared, and he claimed Ashland was there to meet him. He said their table was waiting. Billy hoped it was a table for three, because he had questions for them both. Laughing, Victor called Billy a pest. Billy didn’t think Victor and Ashland actually scheduled a meeting here. He thought it would be more natural for a board member and company owner to meet would be at Newman Media, which was just around the corner. Ashland said he and Victor were more than colleagues – they were about to be family. Billy hadn’t forgotten. Ashland said he and Victor were here to discuss the wedding. Ashland thought it was obvious that Billy regretted letting Victoria go. Victor said it was a mistake to meet here, and he suggested he and Ashland go to his ranch instead. Billy was sure Ashland had fond memories of the ranch where Victor watched him have a heart attack instead of calling for help. Victor told Billy to take a walk off a cliff.

Billy ran into Victoria and Nikki at Crimson Lights. He mentioned that he saw Ashland earlier, and they Ashland both had a meeting with Jesse Gaines. He stated that this was Ashland’s lawyer, or ex lawyer, who was in town for a few days. Victoria pretended she didn’t care. Billy could tell Victoria was trying to cover the fact that she’d never heard that name before. He was surprised Ashland didn’t tell her about Gaines. Victoria said she, Ashland and Nikki were running an international conglomerate. She asked if he really thought they had time to give each other a rundown of who they spoke to in the course of a day. He tried to convince her that she needed to know Gaines. “I don’t care, Billy!,” she snapped. She ordered him to leave her and Ashland alone and stay the hell out of their lives.

At the ranch, Ashland declined Victor’s offer of a drink. Ashland thanked Victor for running interference with Billy. Ashland could handle Billy, but it was getting to be a bit much. “Don’t worry about it. I took care of it for you, okay?,” Victor stated. Ashland wished that were true, but he thought Billy would remain a thorn in his side. Victor clarified that he was talking about taking care of Gaines, not Billy. Victor asked Ashland if he’d like that drink now. Ashland said Jesse Gaines was a nobody, an old acquaintance he’d recently gotten back in touch with. Victor said Gaines collected $300,000 a year from Ashland for decades, without doing a thing. To Victor, it looked like extortion. Victor offered Jesse a lot of money to leave Ashland alone for good. He said to consider it a wedding gift. Ashland asked if Gaines asked Victor for money. Victor said that he sought Gaines out and offered him a payoff or a prison stint for blackmail. Ashland asked what Gaines said about their history. Victor didn’t care what Gaines had to say. He said he and Ashland were similar – they had rough backgrounds and they pushed people around a lot and did things they’d probably regret now, but it made them who they were today. Victor was a firm believer in letting bygones be bygones. Ashland said that Gaines couldn’t be trusted to keep his word. Victor knew, and he was keeping an eye on him. Victor made it clear that he did this for Victoria, not Ashland. He said Victoria was the happiest she’d ever been because of Ashland, and Victor didn’t want that to change. Victor warned that what he’d done today, he could undo in the blink of an eye. Ashland understood. He promised that he just wanted to make Victoria as happy as she’d made him. “As long as it stays that way, you have nothing to worry about,” Victor replied.

At the Chancellor house, Abby held Dominic and tried to figure out why he was crying.

Mariah entered her hotel suite and found a note saying Tessa was running errands. She started to unpack her bag and found a bib in it. It caused her to flash back to moments with Dominic. Devon stopped by to check on Mariah and Tessa. Mariah said she was good, though it must’ve seemed like she freaked out on the day of the baptism. He said nobody thought that, but they’d been thinking about her. She asked if he and Abby had been discussing her mental health. He said Abby wanted everyone to be happy, and if they weren’t, she felt responsible. He said they were all trying to figure this out together. He wasn’t even sure what his role in Dominic’s life would be.

Holding Dominic in the first moments of his life was the single most amazing experience Devon ever had. He knew that connection would only get stronger. He also knew that he was the godfather, not the father, but it wasn’t that simple. Mariah asked if Devon shared this with Abby. He didn’t, because she had enough on her plate. Mariah asked if he thought she shouldn’t have shared her feelings with Abby. Devon thought Mariah made the right choice, since she and the baby were under the same roof, and she needed that separation. Mariah wondered how things got so out of control. He thought things would settle as time went on, and once Chance got home. He asked how she was really doing. He offered to hire her a bodyguard if she still felt unsafe, though he was sure Stitch was long gone. Right now, she wasn’t too worried, though she’d be relieved if Stitch was found. Mariah stated that she and Tessa had a plan to help Mariah heal. Nothing was concrete yet though. He was glad she was hopeful bout the future. She said she was incredibly excited, and he could tell Abby that she was well on the road to recovery.

Devon showed up at the Chancellor house, and Abby said it was perfect timing because she just put the baby down for a nap. Devon was disappointed, since he’d hoped to spend some time with the baby. They talked about the baby. Dominic was a night owl, but Abby loved motherhood, even when she was up at 3 AM. She asked about his life. He said he asked Amanda to move in. Abby wanted all the details. Dominic started crying, so Abby went upstairs to check on him. Devon looked at his grandma Katherine’s portrait while he waited. Abby brought the baby downstairs, and he was still crying. She said she couldn’t take the oft-given advice to sleep while the baby slept, because he never slept. Devon offered to take Dominic for a walk so Abby could rest. She didn’t want to impose, and he assured her he didn’t mind.

Devon took Dominic to Chancellor park and told him about Katherine, his great grandmother. He said Dominic had the Newmans, Abbotts and Chancellors, and the Winters. He wished Dominic could’ve met Neil. Devon said Dominic had deep roots here, and he’d never question where he belonged.

Tessa went to Crimson Lights. Sharon asked if Mariah was coming. Tessa said Mariah was taking a walk, so Tessa decided to come check in with Sharon. Sharon was glad Tessa came. Sharon said that Mariah asked her for space, and it was really hard to comply. Tessa thanked Sharon for respecting Mariah’s wishes. Sharon was optimistic that Mariah was on the way to emotionally distancing herself from Abby’s baby. Tessa wasn’t so sure about that. She informed Sharon that Mariah wanted a baby as soon as possible. She wanted some advice on how to talk to Mariah about this without upsetting her. Sharon thought that Tessa needed to decide whether she wanted a baby right now. Tessa said it wasn’t just about what she wanted. It was obvious to Tessa that this idea wasn’t coming from a healthy or grounded place. Tessa started crying – the fantasy was lifting Mariah’s spirits, and Tessa didn’t want to take that away from her. Tessa also didn’t want to make promises she might not be able to keep though.

Tessa wasn’t opposed to the general idea of a baby, but she wasn’t sure she was ready, and after all Mariah went through, Tessa didn’t think that Mariah was either. Sharon thought Tessa should follow that instinct. She said Mariah was grieving and trying to fill a void. Tessa said if daydreaming was helping, was there any harm in letting it go on any longer. Sharon didn’t think it was right to let Mariah get her heart set on the idea, then have that taken away from her too. Tessa realized that was true, but she knew talking to Mariah wouldn’t be easy. Sharon thought Mariah would understand.

After Tessa left, Rey showed up. His shift ended early. Sharon was glad to see him, because she needed him to save her from herself. She was having a hard time not running over to the hotel and mothering Mariah to death, whether she wanted it or not. Tessa had made it sound like Mariah was really struggling. Rey thought it was great that Sharon got closer to Tessa while Mariah was missing. That meant Tessa would be more likely to come to Sharon if there was an emergency she needed to get involved in. Sharon admitted that was a good point. In the meantime, he had some ideas for how to keep herself occupied.

Later, Sharon met Rey at Society, where he’d prepared a surprise. He was wearing a shirt he bought in Miami, and the speakers were playing a song they danced to on their last night in Miami. The menu tonight also featured foods they ate on their honeymoon. She wasn’t sure he’d ever be able to top this date. Rey held a fragrance strip in front of Sharon’s nose. Her eyes were closed. It smelled like the botanical gardens in Florida, but she didn’t know where he’d find tropical flowers in Genoa City. He had her open her eyes. She saw a bottle of perfume. He said every time she wore it, she’d be transported back to that magical time, so their honeymoon would never end. She said she had a honeymoon surprise for him when they got home – she’d be wearing nothing but the perfume.

Tessa went home with the mail she picked up from their old apartment. They’d received Victoria and Ashland’s wedding invitation. Mariah thought it was nice that they received an invitation even though they weren’t going to be there as guests and were only invited because Tessa was singing. Tessa was so excited for the trip to Italy. She thought they needed a change of scenery. Mariah said they could try and make plans with Summer and Kyle for after the wedding. Tessa hoped Kyle understood why Mariah couldn’t be his best person at his wedding. Mariah said she explained everything to Kyle, and he was understanding. Mariah thought this would be the perfect trip before she and Tessa settled down, not that you couldn’t travel with a baby. Tessa attempted to say something, but Mariah interjected to share a fantasy about their baby, Bowie, and a child of Amanda and Devon growing up together. Tessa assured Mariah that she wanted a baby with her, but she wasn’t ready yet. She thought they had to make sure they were both prepared to take on this life changing move. Mariah was sad, but she understood.

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Young & The Restless Update

Recap written by Christine

At Crimson Lights, Nick wanted to talk to Ashland alone, but Victoria refused to leave, and Ashland said he wanted her to stay. Victoria testily asked if Nick dug up some ancient dirt. She informed him that she knew what he was up to, thanks to Phyllis being unable to explain why Nick took a trip to the town where Ashland got his start. She said she told her fiance all about it. Nick said this was about a 40 year old car crash that killed a guy named Bobby DeFranco. Ashland tensed up at the mention of the name, and Victoria asked if he was okay. Ashland never wanted to hear that name again, especially from someone in Victoria’s family. She asked who that was, and he revealed that he was Bobby. “You’re… Bobby DeFranco?,” Victoria asked. “I was. Before I became Ashland Locke,” he replied. Victoria shrugged it off – they all knew he’d changed his name. Nick asked if the crash wasn’t concerning. Victoria didn’t think it was a big deal that Ashland tried to cover his tracks by pretending his original identity died in a car crash. Nick clarified that a young man really did die. Ashland admitted this was true, and it was foolish to think he could run from it forever.

Ashland told his story. He was born Robert DeFranco, son of an abusive father and an enabling mother. He had a friend who gave him the courage to change his situation, a young man his parents didn’t even know – the real Ashland Locke. Bobby and Ashland were kindred spirits, so much so, that they did what a lot of dumb sixteen year olds did – they got matching tattoos. Victoria asked Ashland if it was the one on his calf, and he said yeah. Back to 40 years ago, Bobby’s father beat him up for getting a tattoo. Ashland saw Bobby all banged up and convinced him to run away. Ashland and Bobby left together, and they did odd jobs on the Jersey coast. One day, they were at an arcade on the boardwalk in Keansburg, when they heard a commotion. It was Bobby’s father, who was furious and looking for Bobby. Ashland hid Bobby, then he told the father that Bobby had gone to Philadelphia with a girl. After that, Bobby owed Ashland big time, and their bond deepened. They were inseparable. The real Ashland didn’t have a family, and the boys became family to each other. Bobby had big plans for him and Ashland to strike it rich. “So this is about money for you,” Nick interjected. Ashland was shocked that this was what Nick got from this story. Ashland said he and the real Ashland were just kids. They didn’t think about stuff like that or know what they were going to do. The real Ashland wanted to be involved in broadcasting, and somehow he got an interview with this woman name Camilla Rhodes. The woman who became the current Ashland’s mentor. The original Ashland was going to try and intern at one of Camilla’s stations. However, he never got a chance to go to the interview.

The real Ashland owned this beat up Camaro that he liked to drive really fast, and it scared Bobby. The night before the interview, Ashland and Bobby were in the car, and Ashland was speeding. He lost control of the car and hit a tree. Bobby was ejected and knocked unconscious. When he came to, Ashland was pinned against the steering wheel, and he didn’t have a pulse. Bobby couldn’t get his friend out of the car, and it caught fire. Bobby screamed for help and pulled Ashland so hard that Ashland’s wallet flew out of the car. The car was now engulfed in flames, and the situation was disorienting for Bobby. Bobby threw his own wallet on the ground and picked up Ashland’s, then he ran because the car was about to explode. After the explosion, and another car pulled up to see what was going on. Bobby was scared to talk to the other driver, because he thought they’d call the police and that the police would call his dad. When Bobby saw the police coming, he ran off into the woods. At that moment, he made the decision to become Ashland Locke and let his life as Bobby DeFranco burn up in flames.

Victoria asked Ashland where he went after the crash. He went to an old abandoned beach hut, and he stayed there for awhile. He stole newspapers to keep up on the crash. The body was badly burned, and the police assumed, due to the wallet, that the dead teen was Bobby DeFranco. The father was called in to identify the body, and he made a positive I.D. based on the tattoo on the calf. DNA testing was limited in those days, so there was no need to investigate further. Ashland took this chance for a fresh start and a permanent escape from hell with his father. He went to the interview with Camilla Rhodes, who wasn’t suspicious when Bobby showed up, because she’d never met never met the real Ash. He got the job, and the rest was history. Nick thought this split second decision to switch wallets seemed awfully calculated. Ashland said he’d been surrounded by flames and smoke, and his only friend in the world was dead. He knew his father would’ve beat him for days if he’d found him, and so his survival instincts kicked in. Nick asked why Ashland didn’t ask the other driver to help him pull his buddy from the car. “I thought he was dead! And here was gonna be no miracle rescue!,” Ashland exclaimed. Ashland had been thinking about that moment day in and day out for his whole life. Ashland didn’t care if Nick didn’t believe him. He just hoped that Nick never found himself in a similar situation. “Ashland Locke saved my life when my father was coming after me. And I wasn’t able to save his,” Ashland said.

Ashland asked how much of the story Nick knew before tonight. Nick didn’t have all the details, but he’d pieced most of it together. Nick had tracked down the reporter who covered the crash. According to Nick, the reporter always thought there was more to the story, but the case had never been properly investigated because of the witness – the driver of the other car. It was clear to the police that the witness was drunk, so when he told them that he saw a kid running off into the woods, they didn’t think he was reliable. Ashland said that was probably a lucky break for him. “Yeah, you’ve had a lot of those, huh,” Nick said. Ashland admitted that he should’ve told Victoria the whole story from the start. He’d been ashamed of how he acted all those years ago, but he was more ashamed of hiding it from Victoria. Victoria’s eyes were downcast as she said “How could you do this?” Victoria looked up at the target of her question, and Nick and Ashland were both startled to realize that it was directed at Nick. “So about hearing about this crash from your fiance, I’m the one you’re mad at,” Nick said. Victoria got up and left. Ashland guessed Nick got what he wanted. Nick said he wanted the truth, which Ashland wouldn’t give them. Ashland sarcastically said the truth solved everything and gave Victoria peace of mind. Nick argued that the bottom line was Ashland built his career and his life on the back of a tragedy. Ashland conceded the point, but he said he didn’t get everything handed to him. A disapproving Nick stated that Ashland watched his best friend die, and his first instinct was to grab his wallet and run. Ashland said he had to get his hands dirty and make some hard choices in a tragic situation, which was probably something Nick would never understand.

Victoria was alone in her office staring at the portrait Ashland gave her. Ashland arrived, and he said he was sorry about not being completely honest when she first asked him about his past. She said he told her there would be no more secrets, and how was she supposed to believe that now? He’d understand if she never trusted him again, but it would devastate him. She asked why he didn’t tell her. He was ashamed, and it was too painful to talk about it. He’d never told another living soul until this day. For 40 years, he’d held onto the image, the memory of Ash, and that horrible night haunted him ever since. He liked to think he built his life with the ethos of no regrets, but there wasn’t a day that went by that he didn’t wonder the same thing Nick did. What if he’d stayed? What if, by some miracle, he’d been able to rescue Ash? How would that have made his life different? She asked if he’d reached any conclusions, and he said no. He’d been trying to convince himself that Ash would’ve wanted to give up his identity to rescue him. He kept telling himself that he would’ve given up his identity for Ash, if the situation was reversed, but he’d never know. He said that if his life had taken a different direction, he would’ve never met Victoria, and there was nothing secretive or false about what he felt now. He’d never loved anyone the way he loved Victoria, but he’d completely understand if she broke up with him. Victoria needed some time to process this. Ashland understood, and he said he’d give her all the time she needed. He left.

Nick went to Newman to see Victoria, but she said she didn’t want to talk to or see him. He said he got it, but she didn’t think he did. She accused him of betraying her trust. She’d told him how much she loved Ashland, and she begged him not to be like Billy and dig in Ashland’s past. Nick reminded Victoria that she’d admitted she had serious concerns about the man she was marrying. She was adamant that this didn’t give him an invitation to investigate. Nick was sorry if Victoria was hurt, but he didn’t regret what he did. He said it forced Ashland to come clean, and who knows what other shady things he did during that time. Victoria said Ashland had been in the business a long time, and she was sure he’d done some ruthless things, but nothing illegal. Nick wondered what Ashland was capable of if he’d leave his best friend to die. Victoria defended Ashland – the car was about to blow up, and the friend was probably already dead, so Ashland had to make one of the hardest decisions he’d ever made in his whole life. She pointed out that he wasn’t even an adult yet. She asked Nick if he remembered what Noah and Summer were like at that age. She asked how Nick would’ve dealt with that when he was young. “How would you like the mistakes from your past, from your youth to be thrown back in your face,” she demanded. He stated that he’d never done anything like that, and she countered that he’d never been in that position. “Your father was tough, but he wasn’t physically abusive,” she added. She contended that Ashland’s father was a monster, hunting him down. Victoria snapped that Nick was born privileged and advantaged, and he could never relate to what Ashland went through. “So don’t come in here telling me that he is a terrible person until you understand the position that he was in,” she said. She asked if he could blame Ashland for what he did. “How does something that happened 40 years ago mean that he is not worthy of love and forgiveness and happiness?,” she asked.

Nick brought up what Victoria said about Ashland being in a tough spot and having to make a different decision. Victoria stood by that. “Well I guess you and I have different opinions about what’s right and wrong,” Nick spat. Exasperated, she told him not to get self righteous with her. She asserted that he betrayed her the minute he got on the plane to New Jersey when she’d asked him not to look into Ashland’s past. She noted that it was time for him to head to Summer’s wedding in Milan. She told him not to bother heading to Tuscany afterward. He asked if she was uninviting him from the wedding. She ordered him to leave. He believed that this revelation bothered her more than she was willing to admit.

Ashland went to Society and had a drink.

At the Chancellor house, Abby tried to get Dominic to sleep before it was time for her to go to the restaurant. She was going to be leaving him with the nanny, but she promised she’d be back before he woke up, and she’d take care of him, because that was what mommies did.

Tessa brought in room service – chicken piccata for Mariah. Mariah hopefully asked if Tessa got it with extra piccata, and an amused Tessa said that was not a thing. Sharon dropped by with a home cooked meal, and Tessa said she had errands. Mariah noted that it was late, but Tessa said she just had some things to do, and it’d give Mariah time with Sharon. Tessa left. Sharon knew that Mariah was thinking that she’d asked everyone for time and space. Mariah confirmed that she was thinking that. Sharon said she gave Mariah space. Mariah stated that Sharon only lasted 24 hours. Sharon thought Mariah seemed better, but she wanted to know how Mariah was doing.

Mariah felt much better. Stronger after getting out of that house. Sharon heard some things, second hand. She asked why Mariah left the Chancellor estate. Mariah asked if people were gossiping about her. Sharon said it was just concerned people sharing their thoughts, and Mariah contended that this was the same thing as gossip. Sharon thought Mariah was avoiding the question. Mariah admitted it was harder to be around Dominic than she thought it’d be. She knew he wasn’t hers, but there was still a strong bond. She noted that Sharon warned her about that bond. Sharon wasn’t going to say “I told you so,” she knew it was rough. Mariah said it was rough seeing Bowie and knowing he wasn’t hers to raise. Sharon asked if there was anything she could do to help Mariah. Sharon suggested Mariah move into the cottage with her, Rey and Faith for awhile. Mariah appreciated the offer, but she wanted space.

Mariah said what she and Tessa wanted to do first was find a new home. Sharon asked what Mariah was going to do about her postpartum separation anxiety. She offered to recommend some therapists. Sharon didn’t want Mariah to isolate herself or rush into anything big. Suspicious, Mariah asked what Tessa and Sharon had been talking about. Sharon covered for Tessa. Sharon said she went to Tessa and grilled her and poured on all this motherly guilt, until Tessa revealed that Mariah wanted a baby. Sharon asked if Mariah really thought she was ready. Mariah said she was 100% ready, but obviously Tessa was not. Sharon saw the benefit in waiting six months, or a year. She thought Mariah and Tessa would make wonderful mothers, but she didn’t think they should have a baby as a knee jerk reaction. Mariah snapped that it wasn’t a knee jerk reaction – it was a natural next step.

At the penthouse, Amanda and Devon were dressed for dinner. Moses ran in and upstairs, and Faith walked in too. They were also dressed up for their date. Moses came down with his wallet. Faith still didn’t know where they were going for the date. Devon knew, but Moses swore him to secrecy.

Tessa went to Society. Abby missed having Mariah and Tessa living at the house. She wanted them to come over and spend time with Dominic. Tessa said Mariah was finally starting to get back to her old self, so hopefully she’d be up for that soon. Abby said that they had an open invitation to visit any time. Tessa got a terse text from Mariah saying they needed to talk. Devon and Amanda arrived, and Tessa left. Abby congratulated the pair on moving in together. Amanda said Moses and Faith weren’t here, so this wasn’t the location of the date. They brought Abby up to speed. She thought love young was cute, and she couldn’t believe her niece was already dating. Devon said he’d remind Abby of this when Dominic was dating. She said he was so tiny, she couldn’t even think of that. Amanda got a text from Imani. Naya’s heart rate was spiking, so they were going to the ER. Devon was going to go with Amanda, but she said Naya wouldn’t want too many people around. She left, and he told Abby it was dinner for one.

Abby asked about Amanda. Devon said she was anxious about Naya. He said she worried about her mom because it was a new relationship. He mentioned that Tessa seemed frazzled earlier. Abby said Tessa was worried about Mariah. Abby stated that Tessa was claiming to be optimistic, but to Abby, it sounded like Tessa was engaging in wishful thinking. Devon was willing to do anything to help Mariah, but he thought she needed time.

Faith and Moses went to Crimson Lights, on the patio, after their date, which was at Top of the Tower. She had so much fun. Moses had reserved a private room at the restaurant that overlooked the city. Before tonight, Faith didn’t even know that her grandfather’s restaurant had private rooms. He said he called in a favor from her grandfather. Moses beat Victor in a game of chess to get the favor, but Victor was happy to help. Devon had a new singer serenade Faith and Moses. It was magical, and she’d never forget it. It was the most perfect night ever. Sharon was inside, and she smiled at them.

When Tessa got home, Mariah confronted her about telling Sharon that Mariah wanted a baby. Tessa asked Mariah to calm down. “No! You went behind my back again. First Abby, now my mom. Why would you do that to me?!”

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Young & The Restless Update

Recap written by Christine

At ChancComm, Billy made some calls trying to figure out why Gaines abruptly checked out of the hotel and where he went. He had a feeling Victor had something to do with it. He ordered his investigator to figure it out. Jack came in and asked what the problem was. Billy said that Lily was visiting Mattie at Stanford. Jack asked if Billy was doing something that Lily wouldn’t approve of. Billy said that she knew the whole story. Billy admitted that he was investigating why Victoria shouldn’t marry Ashland. Jack revealed that, according to Phyllis, Nick was on a similar mission. Billy recounted the story of Ashland somehow buying two news stations at the age of twenty. Jack figured Ashland used his inheritance. Billy said Ashland was a teen runaway who didn’t have any money. He revealed that he’d been invited to a Newman family meeting, where Ashland told them all a heartfelt story about changing his name to escape an abusive father. Billy said there was no public record of the name change. Jack suggested Ashland was trying to protect Harrison. Billy added that Victor and Nick were looking into Ashland too. Billy felt that Ashland’s story raised more questions, but he’d refused to ever share his real name. Billy wasn’t looking to make this information public, he was simply trying to protect Victoria and the children, but Ashland thought everyone should back off and stop asking questions. Jack understood why Ashland wouldn’t want to spend the limited time he had left fending off attacks from Victoria’s ex. He said if Victoria was satisfied, that should be enough. Billy could tell that Victoria was starting to question Ashland, and Billy wasn’t going to let her marry someone whose life was built on lies and deception. He said they didn’t know Ashland was sick. Jack said that Ashland was going through chemotherapy and he’d made the gut-wrenching choice to let Harrison go to Italy. Jack told Billy that he had to stop making leaps of logic to justify what he was doing. Billy maintained that he was protecting Victoria. Jack didn’t think this was about protecting Victoria or the kids, or possibly even about Ashland. He thought that Billy was trying to stop Victoria from moving on.

Billy said he was very happy with Lily. Jack said, historically this was about the time that Billy would start to sabotage himself. Billy insisted that he was protecting Victoria and the kids. Jack said this was Billy’s ego talking – Victoria could take care of herself. Billy asked if Nick’s ego made him investigate Ashland too. They shifted gears into this topic, and Jack mentioned that Nick was on the east coast. Billy was glad if Nick was looking into Ashland, because that meant they were on the same page. He said he could care about his ex without having an ulterior motive or being possessive.

Phyllis was at the hotel. Nick called from Atlantic City and said the plane was having mechanical issues. She asked what he found out. He uncovered something really bad, but he didn’t want to get into it on the phone. He thought she, Jack and Traci should head to Milan without him. She mentioned that Traci wouldn’t be on the plane, and he said okay. She thought he should just fly to Milan from New Jersey. He replied that he had to come home and confront Ashland first, but he promised he’d be there to see Summer get married.

Phyllis went to the Abbott house and talked to Traci. Traci learned that Jack and Phyllis would be alone on the flight. She said she’d pour Phyllis some wine, and they’d have a little talk. Jack came home and saw Traci and Phyllis laughing and talking about books. Phyllis said that the last time they talked was at the escape club. Jack said Phyllis had poured her heart and soul into the hotel and overcome obstacles that would be insurmountable to anyone else. Traci thought Phyllis’s hotel was a reflection of her and how much she’d grown in the last few years – she’d risen from the ashes, like the phoenix. She wondered what was next for the colorful protagonist that was Phyllis. Jack said next would be a jet ride to Milan, escorted by the proud and dashing father of the bride and groom. Traci said Jack must not have heard the news. Phyllis said Nick’s flight might not make it back in time, so they might have to go to Milan without him. Jack said he’d just have his pilot file a later plan, once they knew Nick’s status, and in the meantime, they could have dinner. Traci had work to do so she excused herself. Jack was surprised to see Phyllis and Traci getting along so well. Phyllis asked if Jack had confided in Traci about his feelings for Phyllis. Jack said he only talked to Phyllis and Nick about that. Jack said he’d get Phyllis more wine, and he’d have soda, because the last time he drank around her, he bared his heart to her, and he wouldn’t subject her to that. She said he could bare his heart to her any time he wanted, and he said the same applied with him.

Jack made Phyllis a grilled cheese sandwich. They talked about how, this time tomorrow, they’d watch their kids get married. She said Summer Ann was her little miracle. She reminded him of how many doctors said she’d never have another baby after Daniel. They flashed back to Jack delivering Summer in an elevator. Phyllis thanked Jack for giving her a miracle. In the present, Jack said that he felt the same way about Kyle – finding out Kyle was his son was an unexpected surprise. They thought about the time they got married, almost twenty years ago. There was a flashback to a before-the-wedding kiss that they shared.

In present day, Jack gazed lovingly at Phyllis, then he felt foolish about wearing his heart on his sleeve. She assured him that part of her heart would always love him. She loved spending time with him. He toasted to happiness. Nick called and said he was back in Genoa City. He had something to do, then he’d meet her and Jack. Jack noted that Phyllis never told him exactly why Nick was in Genoa City, though he’d surmised it was about Ashland Locke. Jack said he spoke with Billy earlier, who was convinced Ashland was keeping a secret big enough that it might cause Victoria to call off the wedding. Ordinarily, Jack would think Billy was just trying to keep Victoria from moving on, but Nick was also involved, and he’d only be involved to protect his sister. Phyllis said Nick had something, but what Victoria decided to do with it was up to her. She changed the subject back to the Summer/Kyle wedding. She thanked him for postponing the Jabot jet so that Nick could fly to Milan with them. He said he was glad it worked out.

Nikki and Victoria were in the CEO’s office after they finished working. Talk turned to the wedding, and Victoria said she wasn’t thrilled with the wedding dress. It was another stressor she didn’t need. Nikki said she was there to help. She told Victoria it was normal to be anxious. She asked when Victoria last talked to Ashland. Victoria said he texted to say he might cancel their dinner plans because he had some business to take care of.

Ashland met with his accountant and said he didn’t need the money anymore. The accountant asked if the wedding surprise fell through. Ashland went with that story, and the accountant left. Ashland called Victoria to say that they could have dinner after all. Victoria said she couldn’t wait to hear about his business meeting. The call ended. Victoria still seemed troubled, and Nikki wondered why. Victoria said that after Billy went on about Jesse Gaines, she’d looked him up online. She found out that Jesse’s father was an attorney for Camilla Rhodes, Ashland’s mentor. She had to wonder what that attorney’s son was doing in Genoa City. She was hoping Ashland would say something to her. She didn’t want to make it seem like she didn’t trust him. Nikki said she walked in on Ashland and Victor at the ranch talking very quietly, almost conspiratorially. Victoria wished she wasn’t having these doubts so close to the wedding. She blamed Billy for planting doubts in her mind.

Back at ChancComm, Billy was on the phone with the investigator again. He was unhappy that they hadn’t figured out where Gaines disappeared to after promising to sell information on Ashland to Billy. Nikki walked in and ordered Billy to stop trying to fill Victoria’s head with doubts. She reminded him that Victor explicitly warned him about interfering with Victoria’s happiness. “Defy him at your own risk. Oh and here’s a newsflash. You should worry just as much about defying me,” she snarled. Billy said he wasn’t causing Victoria to doubt things. He contended that Victoria was questioning Ashland on her own, and for good reason, because every day another piece of disturbing evidence popped up. Nikki demanded to know what Billy found. He didn’t have anything concrete. She wasn’t surprised. She accused him of trying to derail this wedding to feed his ego. He thought the fact that Victoria wasn’t blindly accepting Ashland’s version of things was a good thing. He felt that Nikki should be glad Victoria was asking questions of her fiance – a man whose name she didn’t know. Nikki vowed to look out for her daughter. She was not glad that Billy was meddling. Nikki maintained that, after what Billy put Victoria through, he had no right to criticize her new fiance. She was adamant that Victoria would marry Ashland and that Billy would stop trying to undermine them. He maintained that he was trying to uncover the truth. She told him he was no longer welcome at the wedding. She left. Billy called Nick and left a message hoping Nick found the answers they wanted.

Nate ran into Ashland at Society, and they spent time together while waiting for their significant others to arrive. Nate mentioned that he was enjoying the challenge of his new job. Nate noticed Ashland seemed tired and asked how he was managing the chemo. Physically, Ashland felt well, which was surprising, given the warnings he’d gotten about chemo. He’d had a stressful few days, but he thought he’d handled the trouble. Now, he was going to focus on this special time with the woman he loved. Victoria and Elena arrived around the same time. Victoria looked displeased when Ashland requested a table for four, but she didn’t object. They chatted over dinner, then Nate and Elena left. Ashland asked Victoria if something was wrong. She snapped that she felt like he was keeping something from her. She asked if he got health news he wasn’t sharing. Or maybe this had something to do with the fact that her brother went to New Jersey for some reason. Or maybe it was about a lawyer named Jesse Gaines who was connected to his past and the woman who mentored him. Ashland looked alarmed. He asked that they go back to her office where they could speak in private.

Nate and Elena were at Crimson Lights. She noticed that Victoria had been tense, and she wondered if it was about the wedding plans. Nate didn’t think that was it. When he talked to Ashland earlier, it reminded him of the reason this wedding was being rushed. Elena asked what Ashland’s oncologist was saying. Nate said he and Ashland didn’t get into it. It was clear to Nate that Ashland wasn’t as well as he was claiming to be, though. He’d advised Ashland to slow down and stop trying to manage everything. Nate thought this time should only be about the love Ashland and Victoria shared and the commitment they were making. That was why Nate agreed to join Victoria and Ashland for dinner, even though he would’ve preferred to be alone with Elena. He knew she’d been working hard with AskMDNow on top of everything else, and he asked if she wanted to unwind alone. She said she’d never forgive him if he left. She took his hand and they went up to her place.

Victoria and Ashland arrived at her office. He assumed Billy went running to her about the attorney. She noted that Jesse Gaines was a former attorney who lost his license for malfeasance. She didn’t understand why she didn’t hear this from him, and she told him not to pretend it wasn’t a problem. She reminded him that he promised not to keep secrets, but she kept getting unsettling information, and it was getting harder to convince herself nothing was wrong. She wanted him to stop with the vague reassurances and tell her the truth. She wanted answers from the man she was going to marry, not anyone else. Nick texted Ashland wanting to meet, and Ashland told Victoria. She asked what Nick wanted, and he said they were about to find out.

Ashland and Victoria met Nick at Crimson Lights. Nick had thought he’d meet Ashland alone. Ashland wanted Victoria to hear whatever Nick had to say. Victoria said that Nick ignored her wishes and dug into Ashland’s past.

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Recap written by Christine

At the hotel, Phyllis texted Nick to ask if there was an update on Ashland. Jack entered, then he walked up behind Phyllis and said something. She jumped and told him not to sneak up on her. He said he didn’t – she just didn’t notice him come in because she was buried into her phone. He wanted to know what was with the cryptic text she sent him today. Phyllis was glad Jack opened up to Nick about having feelings for her, because she’d felt awkward about keeping it from Nick. However, she was suspicious about Jack’s reasons for coming clean. Jack explained that he had a dream that Nick was upset that Jack still had feelings for Phyllis. Phyllis pointed out that dreams weren’t real. Jack believed his dream was telling him that he felt guilty. He didn’t want his feelings for her to affect her relationship with Nick. He asked if things were okay, and she said things were fine with Nick. She mentioned that Nick was out of town, and she wasn’t sure he’d be back before it was time to leave for Milan. Nick might have to meet them in Italy. Jack said that meant he and Phyllis would be alone on the jet. She thought Traci would be there, and Jack said she was going to NY to meet her agent. He asked if she was comfortable with this.

Phyllis said there was no situation in the world that would make her uncomfortable with Jack. She apologized for being suspicious of his intentions toward Nick. Victoria showed up asking if Phyllis heard from Nick. Jack left. Victoria asked why Nick took the jet to New Jersey. Phyllis said it was for New Hope. Victoria said New Hope didn’t have business in New Jersey, but Ashland got his start there. Phyllis asked why Victoria was suddenly suspicious of her brother who only wanted the best for her. Victoria said that a lot of people claimed they had her best interest at heart, and they were trying to dig up dirt on Ashland. Phyllis suggested that this was transference – Victoria was targeting her suspicions onto Nick, instead of the place it should be – on Ashland. Victoria said that was ridiculous. Lauren came over with Victoria’s dress. She loved it, and she thought Victoria would too. Lauren reserved a room upstairs for Victoria’s fitting. Phyllis mentioned that she only got to help Summer with her dress over video call. Phyllis offered to take a look at the dress if Victoria wanted another opinion, but Victoria said that Phyllis hadn’t risen to bridesmaid status. Victoria and Lauren went upstairs. Sally showed up and tried to sneak into the elevator, but Phyllis saw her and said she wasn’t welcome at the hotel. Sally said she wasn’t going anywhere. She was part of this town now.

Phyllis stated that this was her hotel, and she’d get security to throw Sally out if necessary. Sally asked if Phyllis really wanted to cause another scene at her hotel. She grabbed her phone to record it. Chloe walked up and said she asked Sally to meet her here, and she had a proposal for Phyllis. Phyllis didn’t want to do business with the person who drove her daughter out of the country. Sally scoffed and asked when Phyllis was going to let that go. She said if Summer were miserable in Milan, she and Kyle would’ve come back. Sally said either Summer loved Milan, or she was staying because she secretly hated being around Phyllis. Chloe changed the subject and said they wanted to do a shoot for the fashion platform here at the hotel. It would be great publicity. Phyllis loved the idea, and she’d do it if Chloe fired Sally. Phyllis walked off.

Phyllis called Nick, and he sent it to voicemail. She left a message asking for an update. He immediately texted back. “I don’t like what I’ve found. Will fill you in when I see you.”

Chloe chided Sally for messing things the potential deal with Phyllis. Sally said they may not have failed on all fronts. Sally said she saw Lauren and Victoria going upstairs with a garment bag. Chloe was sure that Victoria had turned down Sally’s offer of a dress. Sally had tried to set up a meeting with Victoria, but Victoria’s assistant kept turning her down. Chloe thought it was time for Sally to let it go, since it sounded like Victoria already got her dress. Sally said letting things go wasn’t how she got to where she was. “Where you are? You’ve alienated half of Genoa City. Your tainted reputation is going to take a very long time to repair,” Chloe replied. Sally thought she might be able to quicken the pace if she gifted Victoria a one of a kind masterpiece. Chloe said that Sally insinuating herself into Victoria’s wedding plans could blow up in her face.

Upstairs, Victoria put on the dress, and she said it wasn’t what she’d pictured when she saw the sketches. Victoria didn’t blame Lauren or the designer. She really wanted the wedding to be spectacular. Lauren promised they’d make this dress worthy of the occasion. Lauren sent the seamstress out of the room and asked if something else was bothering Victoria. In Lauren’s experience, powerful brides to be weren’t this subdued when the dress didn’t meet their expectations. She told Victoria that if something else was bothering her, it was okay to take it out on the dress. Victoria insisted that things were fine.

At the penthouse, Moses teased Amanda about all the bags she was bringing in. He assured her he was just joking, and he thought it would be good to have her. He said he’d help her with her bags, but he had to go meet Faith. He left. Devon came downstairs. She thought he was at work, but he said he rearranged his schedule so he could be here with her. She called herself the new roommate, and he told her that she wasn’t a roommate – this was her home. Later, she’d unpacked, and he said he bought all her favorite foods. She wasn’t hungry, but she wanted to hang out with him. He told her how he got to have alone time with the baby. It was special to spend time with that little guy. She noted that he was being careful not to call Dom his son. He thought that was an important boundary to keep. He saw what Mariah was going through after she got overly attached. Amanda said that Devon loved Dominic, and they shared genes, so it was natural to be attached. He changed the subject and said Mariah was doing better. He was glad he could talk to Amanda about this. Devon asked how things were going for Amanda. She said Naya was seeing the right doctors, which was promising. Amanda liked having a sister that she could share her anxieties with. She hadn’t known Imani long, but she felt comforted with her. It was kind of like what she had with Devon. She felt like she was home. He felt like he should give her a tour. She said she’d seen the shower and his nice sheets. He said it would be different now because it all belonged to her. “I’m going to invite you to join me in our bedroom,” she said. They ran upstairs.

Faith was at Crimson Lights. Sharon called because the school informed her that Faith was behind in her homework. Faith, who was currently surrounded by books, promised she’d finish it. She swore she wouldn’t jeopardize her second chance or disappoint Sharon and Nick again. The call ended. Faith looked at her phone notification, which stated that it was date night with Moses. She looked upset. Moses arrived, brimming with excitement about the date he’d planned. Faith said she couldn’t go because Sharon was making her work at the coffeehouse. Moses said he’d talk to Sharon about how special tonight was, and Faith said no. He asked why she was really backing out of the date. Embarrassed, Faith admitted she’d been procrastinating, and now she was behind in all her classes. She was slow at typing, so it would take her forever to finish her essays. She felt terrible about messing up the date. Moses took the blame for distracting Faith from her work. She said that’s what her mom thought, so she couldn’t go out with him now. She was sorry she ruined everything. He thought he had a solution.

Moses said that they could do this work together, so they’d finish it faster. Faith thought that sounded like cheating. Moses noted that Faith had written most of her work in her notebooks, but she was a slow typist. He was a fast keyboarder, so he’d transcribe what she’d already done. She smiled. They got to work, drinking coffee and being playful as they finished Faith’s stack of homework. When they finally finished, she said this was the best date ever, even if they didn’t do anything else tonight. She said she had to go home and change. He thought she looked beautiful the way she was, but he said he’d pick her up in an hour.

Adam was in his office looking at an invitation to the wedding of Victoria Nicole Newman and Ashland Marcus Locke.

Jack went to Crimson Lights and ran into Adam. Jack mentioned that he read a complimentary article on Newman Media. It had said Adam was in a renaissance. He was glad that Adam was turning things around. Adam said Connor inspired him to be a better man. Jack asked if Adam would be at Victoria’s wedding. Adam got an invitation, but he assumed the wedding planner sent it by mistake. Jack suggested that Victoria was impressed Adam turned over a new leaf. Adam was trying to be a better person, but he didn’t think Victoria was ready to accept him as a brother that she could love. Jack said that if Adam went to the wedding, he could show Victoria that he cared. Adam wasn’t sure that would work, besides he didn’t want to leave Connor behind or pull him out of school. Jack was sure Adam would do what was right for Connor and for himself.

Adam showed up at Victoria’s office and got a cool reception. He said his instinct was right – the wedding invitation was a mistake. He turned to leave, and she grudgingly admitted that it wasn’t a mistake. He asked why she changed her mind, and he asked if things could warm up between them. She said he invited him because of Victor. He asked if Victor asked her to. She said that Victor didn’t need to ask – they all knew how important family was to him. She admitted that the new and improved Adam lasted longer than she thought. She added that he must be in the middle of a renaissance. He knew she’d read the article. She thought inviting him would be a nice way to thank Victor for his support. She said Victor even gave his blessing for her portrait. Adam looked over and saw it. She hated to inflate Adam’s ego, but Ashland admired the way he stepped up and took over Newman Media, despite the fact that most of the world despised him. “Thank you?,” Adam replied. Victoria asked Adam what he thought. He asked if she genuinely wanted him at the wedding. Victoria said not to push it, because she wasn’t going to beg. She thought they both knew that she, personally, did not want him there. At first, he thought he was doing Victoria a favor by not attending, but then he realized that after all the years of trying to get her to include him, she’d finally opened a door. He thought it would be a mistake not to take the chance, and it’d be rude not to attend. He saw that the wedding was important to her, so he wanted to be there to witness it. She said it was weird that he was being so thoughtful. She said it didn’t mean they were friends, though. “I’ll settle for family,” he replied. After he left, she got a text from Ashland. “May have to cancel dinner. Something’s come up. Nothing to worry about. Will explain later.”

Chloe and Sally were waiting for Adam outside his office. Sally showed Chloe the sketch of the wedding dress. Chloe thought it was gorgeous, sophisticated with hints of old world glamour, but cutting edge. but she said to save it for the next Genoa City wedding. Sally said this was designed specifically for Victoria – her delicate frame, her classic stately good looks – she was the perfect combination of a modern hardworking woman and timeless beauty. Chloe thought Victoria would love it. Chloe said, between her, Sally and Chelsea, they were a goldmine of untapped designer talent. It made her think they should aim bigger than a fashion media platform. She thought they should have a clothing line – the next step in their plot to world domination. Adam walked up and asked what they were plotting. Chloe said Sally was on her way to meet a renowned fashion editor to promote Newman Media. Adam told Sally to knock ‘em dead. Sally asked if Adam was going to Tuscany for the wedding. Adam said Victoria sent him an invitation, but he wasn’t looking for a date. Sally called Adam full of himself. She said she wasn’t asking to be his date, but if he wanted a friend or colleague to join him, he had her number. After Chloe and Sally left, Adam filled out his RSVP card, indicating that he would be at the wedding.

Sally was at Society. she called someone and asked how long it took to get a wedding dress made. The answer was acceptable, and she sent them her design.

Jack went home and called the pilot to change the flight plan to just him and Phyllis.

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Recap written by Christine

Victor went to Victoria’s office and saw her portrait. He loved it and commented on the poise and grace. She mentioned that Nikki was worried he wouldn’t be enthusiastic. He thought it was a fitting symbol of Victoria’s new position. Victoria stated that it was a gift from Ashland. Victor revealed that he had a gift for Victoria too. She was almost in tears when he presented her with the deed to his palazzo in Tuscany. It would be transferred to her on her wedding day. He wanted her to spend many happy years with Ashland there. She was touched by this symbol of his support for her marriage. He said he loved her. He’d never seen her this happy, and he wanted that to continue. Victor was moved by the story of Ashland’s childhood and name change. Victoria knew that resonated with Victor because of his own past. Victor prided himself on his ability to read people, and he saw the pain in Ashland’s face when he talked about his childhood. Victoria said that it meant a lot that Ashland opened up – he’d never shared that part of his life with anyone. Victor stated that Billy made Ashland relive his painful past. He thought Billy was jealous of Victoria and Ashland’s relationship. He didn’t believe Billy was doing this out of concern for the children, and he thought it was a mistake for Victoria to invite Billy to the wedding. Victoria said Billy wasn’t a threat, but Victor warned her to be careful. He believed that Billy intended to spoil the wedding.

Nick and Phyllis were in her suite while she went sleuthing into Ashland’s background. He noted that she wasn’t the first expert to try and find something. She was confident that she’d be the first to succeed. He wanted to confirm Ashland’s story before he married Victoria. Phyllis assured Nick that sleuthing and scheming were in her wheelhouse, and she was madly in love with him and wanted to see him happy. She checked out the databases for doing a legal name change, and there was nothing. She was dumbfounded that Ashland successfully buried his original identity.

Nick wondered how a young guy with no resources even knew how to make a new identity. He thought maybe a shady friend or associate helped. Phyllis looked for a real Ashland Locke who died, thinking maybe the guy they knew assumed his identity. She didn’t find anything. She said she and Nick both knew it was easy to pay someone off if you had enough money. Nick said Ashland had money now, but he changed his name when he was just starting out and trying to get away from his abusive father. Phyllis was skeptical of the abusive dad story. Nick said Victor believed it, probably because it hit close to home for him. They theorized that there was an actual Ashland Locke that the new Ashland got his name from. Maybe the original Ashland was really sick or wanted to disappear, and he sold his identity to the man going as Ashland now. Nick pointed out that the man Victoria was marrying wouldn’t have had the money to buy an identity back then. He wondered if the real Ashland was dead.

Nick told Phyllis that Victor’s PI had uncovered the fact that Ashland purchased the stations from Camilla Rhodes’ estate. Phyllis did a search and found out the stations were in Toms River New Jersey and that Ashland was 20 when he started working there. Phyllis pulled up a list of deceased males around Ashland’s age, reasoning that one of them was the key to Locke’s real identity. Later, they’d narrowed it down to three possibilities. She asked if he was sure he wanted to do this. He said he had to. She wanted him to really think about it because it could change everything – his relationship with his father, with his sister, with the merger. He hoped Victoria would know he was doing this out of respect and love for her. Phyllis got ready to find out if one of these men was the real Ashland Locke.

Ashland was at Society. He made a call and arranged to get the $500,000 for Gaines. After the call, Abby walked up and started a conversation. She thought they should get to know each other since they’d be family soon. They made small talk on various subjects. He asked about her baby, and she said he was named Dominic Philip Newman Abbott Chancellor. He commented that it sounded like the baby was born in an ambassador’s role. Abby knew that role well, as the child of a Newman and Abbott. He thought that must’ve been interesting, given the unique history of those families. She wanted to hear Ashland and Victoria’s love story. He said he’d felt a spark, a connection with her from the beginning, even though he didn’t sell her his company. The first time they kissed, he knew something had changed. For the first time in his life, he found someone who made him happy to be alive. Abby seemed distant, and she explained that her thoughts had drifted to her own wedding and how much she missed her husband. Ashland knew that must be tough, but he assumed she was also proud of Chance. She was. She admitted she had her reservations about him and Victoira at first, but now she saw why Victoria fell in love with him and why she was willing to take this step, after everything she’d been through. He assumed she meant with Billy. Abby clarified that she loved her Uncle Billy, and he was the perfect father, but Victoria spent an inordinate amount of time putting out fires when she was with him. Ashland heard the stories. Abby made a list – the gambling, the affairs, the drinking, the shady business dealings. She knew every relationship had ups and downs, like Ashland’s health, but that wasn’t something he could control. She said he and Victoria were dealing with it together, and the way he merged his company with Newman showed how much he admired Victoria’s business acumen. He said it was one of the myriad reasons he loved and adored her sister. He chose to do chemo because he wanted more time with Victoria. Abby could see the love for Victoria in Ashland’s eyes, but she knew his reputation was similar to Victor’s. She asked him not to ever lie to Victoria – Billy did that, telling himself he was protecting her, but he was only protecting himself. He said he’d take that to heart.

Later, Phyllis unexpectedly showed up at Victoria’s office. She commented on the portrait, and they talked about that for a minute. Victoria wondered why Phyllis was here. Phyllis was there to drop off the bracelet Victoria left at the spa. Victoria wondered why Phyllis was being nice to her two days in a row. Phyllis said not to get carried away – she was being civil, not nice. Victoria was going to tell Nick, because she was sure he’d be surprised too. Phyllis said that Victoria was about to get married, and she was Nick’s sister, and she wanted them all to be happy. Abby called Victoria, so Phyllis got ready to leave. Victoria thanked Phyllis.

Abby told Victoria that she’d talked to Ashland. She thought he was a sweetheart who was completely in love with Victoria. Victoria called Abby the best sister. Abby said Ashland was smart, funny and powerful. She was so happy that Victoria finally met her equal.

When Phyllis got back to her suite, Nick was getting ready for a trip to Toms River. He was going to follow up on the three deceased young men she found, one of whom could be the real Ashland Locke. He thanked her and said he never could’ve done this without her. She just kept thinking about Victoria. He thought Victoria would be better off with the truth.

Billy intercepted Jesse Gaines at The Grand Phoenix and asked for ten minutes of his time, promising to make it worth his while. The went up to Gaines’ suite. Billy had learned that Gaines lost his law license for malfeasance many years ago, yet Ashland was claiming Gaines was one of his lawyers. If Ashland was lying about that, what else was he lying about, Billy pondered. Gaines sensed that Billy had a personal beef with Locke. Billy explained that he wanted to be sure his kids’ soon to be stepfather could be trusted. He believed Ashland was hiding something monumental, and he intuited that Gaines knew what it was. Gaines said he was a consultant on retainer. Billy theorized that Ashland was paying Gaines to keep something quiet. He offered to pay for Ashland’s secret. Billy promised to keep Gaines’ name out of it and call him an anonymous source in the story. Gaines asked what he’d have to do. Billy wanted to details on how Ashland was able to afford the two news stations that launched his career. Gaines asked how much that would be worth. Billy offered $100,000. Ashland knocked on the door and called Gaines. Gaines wrote $500K on a pad and showed it to Billy. Ashland assumed Gaines wasn’t there and left.

Ashland went downstairs and ran into Victor. Victor thought Ashland looked like he had a lot on his mind. Ashland said he was meeting his lawyer, tying up loose ends so he could focus on Victoria at the wedding. Victor mentioned the portrait of Victoria. He was impressed Ashland got Merrill Londeree to paint it. Ashland was glad that Victor had that reaction. He joked he’d been concerned they’d have to step into the ring. He’d heard about Victor’s boxing skills, and he hoped Victor could show him the ropes one day. He hoped Victor’s opinion of him hadn’t changed since he admitted he’d changed his name. Victor’s opinion of Ashland had actually risen. He said Ashland could’ve followed in his father’s footsteps and lived a life of pain, abuse and addiction. He admired that Ashland pulled himself out of the mire. He appreciated that Ashland opened up to everyone, even though it must’ve been painful. He welcomed Ashland to the family. Victor said he had to vet Ashland’s background, and he’d always look out for his daughter. Ashland would expect nothing less, and he also vowed to protect Victoria, because she meant everything to him.

Billy came downstairs and overheard Ashland suggesting he and Victor have a drink. Billy called them future FIL and SIL, father and law and son in law. He said it was funny how one detail could bring the whole thing crashing to the ground. “You cause one second of heartache for my daughter during this happy time… I will crush you,” Victor said. Billy said that was good to know, and he left.

Billy went to work and called Lily to tell her how things went with Gaines. He was planning to pay Gaines what he’d asked, because Ashland’s secret was worth every penny. He and Gaines were meeting soon to discuss things. “So much for the big Italian wedding,” Billy said to himself after the call ended.

Ashland went to Victoria’s office, and she mentioned his meeting with Abby. He said it was good to get to know her sister, even though he’d had to postpone some of his own personal business to talk with her. She asked if that personal business had to do with the surprise he’d alluded to earlier – the one he’d arranged the large amount of cash for.

Gaines was up in his room, impatiently waiting, when he heard a knock on the door. “Finally,” he said as he answered. He was startled to see Victor. “Mr. Gaines, I presume?,” Victor said. Victor could tell that Gaines recognized him. Victor asked what Gaines was up to.

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Young & The Restless Update

Recap written by Christine

Ashland was in Victoria’s office. He thought he was alone, so he placed a call and told his accountant that he needed $500,000 in cash, in an hour. He claimed he wanted to buy a wedding gift for Victoria. The accountant raised concerns about the IRS. Ashland didn’t care about all that. He insisted that the man find a way to give him the money. Ashland turned around and was caught off guard to see Victoria standing behind him. He ended the call. Victoria was curious about this wedding present, and she asked if she’d have to wait until Italy to find out what it was. He knew she was tough enough to stand the suspense. He also knew that Nikki would be arriving shortly, so he’d make himself scarce so they could talk. He hoped Nikki had time to adjust to him changing his name, but he also understood Nikki had concerns, as any loving mother would. Victoria hadn’t discussed this with Nikki, so she didn’t know how her mother felt. In the end, it didn’t matter, because Nikki made her own decisions. Ashland loved Victoria’s independence, but he also knew it was important for her to have Nikki help with the wedding, and that meant it was important to him too. She knew he told the truth to protect her relationship with her family. That meant a lot to her, but she couldn’t control the way her family reacted to this. He said most people went their entire lives without realizing that you couldn’t control how people thought or felt. He asked her to lunch later, and she said that depended on whether he told her what he was up to or not. He smiled and said not a chance. He left.

Victoria looked at the portrait, then she flashed back to Ashland giving it to her. Nikki arrived and gasped when she saw the portrait. She thought it was beautiful, but she wondered what Victor would think of it. Nikki said it made quite a statement. “As it should. Newman is mine, now,” Victoria stated.

After Nikki and Victoria talked business, they moved on to talking about the wedding. Nikki showed off pictures of the new landscaping at the Palazzo, and Victoria was pleased. She marveled that her wedding was really happening, just the way she envisioned. Nikki asked if there was some reason Victoria thought that wouldn’t, or maybe shouldn’t, happen. Victoria snapped that she didn’t have any doubts, and she accused Nikki of projecting. Nikki said it was just a little unsettling to hear about Ashland’s secret. Nikki said she and Victor were survivors of their father’s cruelty, so she could relate. Victoria said that Ashland’s childhood was hell, and she respected him more for overcoming it. Nikki asked if it didn’t bother Victoria that it was so easy for Ashland to lie to her. Victoria said that Ashland had been telling this invented story for so long, it started to feel real to him. It was a coping mechanism, and she didn’t judge him for that. She said now Ashland knew he could tell her anything. It bugged her that Ashland felt like he had to confess. Nikki asked if Victoria thought Ashland ever would’ve told her on his own. Victoria grumbled that they’d never know, now that Billy backed Ashland into a corner. Nikki wanted to make sure Victoria was making decisions for the right reasons. Victoria said she was marrying Ashland because he made her happy and he understood her in a way no one else did. She gestured to the picture and asked who else would’ve thought of that. While Ashland didn’t say it, Victoria thought it was obvious that he was thinking about what would happen if he died. He gave her something she could look at every day to remind her of how he saw her. She added that Ashland was planning another big and extravagant surprise, which she accidentally overheard him arranging. Nikki remembered that, when she and Victor first got together, he loved nothing more than dazzling her with extravagant gestures.

Nikki said she’d be there for Victoria, no matter what she chose to do. Victoria asked if this was Nikki’s way of saying the wedding was a mistake. Nikki didn’t think there were right or wrong answers. She thought she should trust her instincts and trust her strength to get through anything that happened. Victoria trusted Ashland’s love for her. His original name didn’t matter to her, because she knew what was in his heart.

At Society, Billy and Lily talked about how much the kids would enjoy the tourist attractions in Italy. He admitted that the wedding would be a blast too. She warned him not to get himself uninvited from by taking his investigation too far. He assumed she thought Ashland would go after them and ChancComm. He said he wasn’t intimidated by Ashland, but she suggested he should be. He pointed out that Victor never followed through with his threats to come after ChancComm for the expose on Adam. She said Victor still held an intense grudge against him, and if things got ugly between Billy Ashland, Victor would take Ashland’s side. Billy said Victor saw Ashland as a younger version of himself, especially since Ashland had been so ingratiating with Victor. Lily assumed Ashland sized Victor up and decided he’d make a better friend than enemy. Billy said he’d never sucked up to anyone, especially Victor. Lily loved that about Billy, but she didn’t want him to take any unnecessary risks. Gaines walked in, and Billy discreetly told Lily that this was the guy he saw meeting with Locke earlier.

Lily thought Gaines looked ordinary, not sinister they way Billy made him sound. Billy said Locke and Gaines were definitely in confrontation yesterday, but they’d tried not to make a scene. Lily said that it may have been a business deal gone sour. Billy reminded Lily that Ashland had been charming when they talked business with him. It was clear to him that Ashland didn’t like Gaines. He said their new friend would be very useful. They didn’t know Gaines’ name yet. Lily saw the waitress take Gaines’s credit card, and she distracted the woman and took a peek at the card. Lily returned to the table with a name – Jesse Gaines. Billy looked the name up online, and found a Jesse Gaines Jr. from Toms River, NJ. They assumed that was their guy, because the TV stations Ashland bought when he first started were in Toms River. Gaines walked by, and Billy noted that he was younger than Ashland. Lily theorized that he worked at one of the stations. When Gaines left, Billy and Lily followed.

At the Grand Phoenix, Jesse gave the hotel manager his name and suite number, so she could see if he had messages. Billy lied and said his dad used to work with a lawyer named Jesse Gaines in New Jersey. Jesse Jr. said that may have been his dad. Jesse took over the law practice when his father passed away. Billy introduced himself. Jesse, of course, had heard of Jabot. He wondered what business their fathers would’ve had. Billy suggested it was for fragrance manufacturing, but Jesse said his dad wasn’t involved in anything like that. Billy said maybe it was advertising – newspapers, magazines or news stations. Jesse said his dad did work with a couple news stations. He thought it was amazing that Billy would remember Jesse Sr., who’d stopped working when Billy had to have been very young. Billy said his steel trap memory was a curse. Billy asked what brought Jesse to town, and he said it was personal. Lily was in the vestibule. She saw Ashland walk in and greeted him loudly, alerting Billy. Billy said Jesse must be here to meet Ashland.

Jesse reiterated that he was in town for personal reasons. Lily wasn’t able to stall Ashland any longer, and he went inside. He found Billy telling Jesse how beautiful this town was. Ashland said Jesse was one of his lawyers, here to help with the merger. Billy said that Jesse took lawyer client privilege seriously and didn’t say a thing. He said he and Jesse were talking about Jesse Sr. who did legal work for TV stations, apparently the ones Ashland owned. Billy said it was awhile ago, before Camilla Rhodes passed away. He asked if Ashland knew Jesse Sr. Ashland stated that Jesse Sr. was a good man, then he and Jesse left. .

Ashland and Jesse ended up at the park. Ashland said all he could get today was half a million dollars in cash. He’d give Jesse that another half million every month for the next five months, totaling the three million Jesse demanded, and their arrangement would end. Jesse didn’t believe a man like Ashland didn’t have access to his funds. Ashland said it wasn’t about access – he didn’t want to draw undue attention to their arrangement. The point of blackmail was to keep it quiet. Jesse asked what if Ashland died before he paid up. Ashland vowed to live long enough to make Jesse wealthy. Jesse said it was obvious that Billy was suspicious, and he’d likely love to write another Adam Newman style article. Jesse asserted that the secret of how Ashland managed to buy Camilla’s stations and the revelation that he’d been paying Jesse to keep it a secret, would make a juicy story. Jesse wanted the $500,000 today, and unless he got the other 2.5 million within three days, he’d go to Billy and sell the story to ChancComm.

Nick got out of the shower looking for Phyllis, but she wasn’t in the suite. He found a note she left with a lipstick kiss on it saying she’d see him downstairs. Nick flashed back to the entire talk he and Phyllis had regarding Jack being in love with her. When he’d admitted he wasn’t sure their relationship was solid, she kissed him and said she knew how to prove to him that things were good between them. After the memory, Nick went downstairs and told Phyllis he was glad they were okay. She replied that they were better than okay. They talked about last night, when they put the Jack thing aside, and she said that Nick really outdid himself last night. He grinned and said you’re welcome. She had one last thing to say about Jack – her heart ached for him, but she thought he’d find the perfect match, like she and Nick did. Nick’s expression made Phyllis ask if he agreed that they were the perfect match. He nodded and said yes, of course.

Phyllis recalled Jack saying that he didn’t want Nick to know how he felt. She understood why Jack changed his mind and decided Nick should know. However, Phyllis wondered why Jack didn’t come to her and give her a heads up first. Nick suggested Jack felt like he owed it to Nick. Nick mentioned that his relationship with Phyllis had come up during a talk with Jack. Phyllis was caught off guard. Phyllis assumed that Nick told Jack that he and Phyllis were happy and that Jack didn’t take it well. Nick looked uncomfortable. He said Jack probably just felt better having everything out in the open. They decided not to talk about this topic anymore. He asked her to meet him at the park later and he said to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Phyllis went to the park wearing something more casual than the dress she was in earlier, but her heels were definitely unsuitable for the activity Nick had planned. He was in sweats, and he said he signed up to be Christian’s flag football coach, and he wanted Phyllis to be his assistant. He said Christian wanted her to be involved. She thought that was sweet, but she was picturing just attending the games and cheering them on. She didn’t know anything about football. He said he’d teach her everything. She was open to trying. He tossed the football at her, and she made no attempt to catch it, and it softly bounced off her abdomen. He promised they’d work on this.

Nick told Phyllis that a lot of the parents she knew and liked would be there, like Julia Sweetwater and Mark Mason. She didn’t look interested in spending time with either person. She thought Nick was throwing himself into this to distract from Victoria’s wedding. She assumed he wasn’t going to dig into Ashland’s past because he didn’t want to upset Victoria. He said there was more to it than that. He told her about the sadness in Ashland’s voice when he talked about his abusive father and the mother who wouldn’t protect him. She was sure it reminded him of Victor’s history with his dad. Nick confirmed that it reminded him of the time he and Victor confronted Victor’s father, Albert Miller. Albert was one of the worst people Nick ever met. Albert said terrible things to Victor, and Nick felt bad. It was one of the few times he’d ever seen Victor fall apart and cry. If Ashland’s father was anything like that, Nick understood why Ashland did everything he could to get away. Nick didn’t want to make Ashland relieve that while he was going through chemo. On the other hand, Nick talked to Rey and got his take. Nick said that, according to Rey, if there was nothing more to this story than Ashland being a scared kid trying to get away from his parents, they should found his real name by now. Changing your name was a legal process that required paperwork, and since there was no record of that, it seemed like Ashland probably didn’t use the regular channels to make that happen. Nick couldn’t stop wondering what that meant.

Later, after some other attempts, Phyllis caught the ball Nick threw her, and he said she’d be an amazing coach. She told him he had to know that wasn’t going to happen. She had a job at the hotel, and she wouldn’t be able to commit to coaching. She’d let the kids down and send a bad message. Plus, she was so competitive that she’d probably make a kid cry, and get red-carded. He said that was soccer, and she felt that proved the point that she shouldn’t be involved in this. She said she’d be at every game with snacks, though. He was disappointed, because he thought this could be a family activity. She suggested that football be a father-son thing, and they’d come up with something else they could do with Christian, just the three of them. She added that if he needed a super-sleuth to find out the identity of a certain billionaire, she was his girl. He said they should just go back to the hotel. He walked off and didn’t see her grab her back in pain as she followed.

Later, Nick and Phyllis were lounging in bed, and he rubbed her feet. He asked if she was really willing to help him find out who Ashland was. She said definitely. He asked why. She wanted to help because it mattered to him. He knew he was risking royally ticking off his sister, but this was worth it. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Ashland was hiding a lot more than his name. Phyllis said that if Nick was wrong, Victoria never had to know he’d looked into it. Nick said that if they found anything, he’d let Victoria know and she could do whatever she wanted with the information. Phyllis felt that Nick was doing this out of love for his sister, and he didn’t have a grudge or vendetta, like Billy. She was happy to help him. He gave her the green light to investigate.

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