Category: Y&R

Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Nick: Hey!

Nate: How you doing?

Nick: Thanks for coming.

Nate: No problem.

Nick: You want a beer?

Nate: Yeah, yeah.

Nick: Can we get one more? Thank you.

Nate: This isn’t about faith, is it? I’ve been apprised of all her tests since her transplant. Everything seems to be going well.

Nick: She’s doing awesome. You know, she’s happy, healthy, very excited for her future. I mean, college is right around the corner.

Nate: Oh, yeah, that’s a, that’s a big step. I’ve been offering moses a bit of advice while he weighs his options. And it’s been pretty fun.

Nick: He is such a great kid, nate. You know, it seems faith has taken an interest in business, too, which makes her grandfather very happy.

Nate: I’m sure. How’s victor’s health these days?

Nick: He’s great. We seem to have caught a run of good luck with that, with dad’s health and sharon’s remission, faith’s transplant. And of course ashland’s recovery, which has been nothing short of miraculous. I was curious if you had ever seen anything like that — you know, someone who was so close to death and then bounces back the way he has.

Nate: In my experience, it’s extremely rare, which makes it all the more impressive. I’d love to go over the protocol one day, given the efficacy.

Nick: Yeah, if you do that, i would love to see that myself.

Nate: Is that what you wanted to talk to me about?

Nick: Uh…look. Ashland’s condition has become a very important subject in this family… much more so than any of us ever expected.

Victoria: Marketing meeting went well?

Ashland: Fantastic.

Victoria: What is it?

Ashland: I just got off the phone with your father. He’s, uh, put a ticking time bomb on his threats against me. I told him to do his best.

Victor: You just made a big mistake, ashland locke. No one threatens me. No one threatens my family… and gets away with it.

Abby: Babe, is that you?

Chance: Yeah.

Abby: How was your nap?

Chance: Good.

Abby: Feeling better?

Chance: Yeah, yeah, absolutely. I was pretty worn out there.

Abby: I know your first therapy session was emotionally draining. What can I do to help?

Chance: Okay, well, I’m really worried that I’m gonna make you feel like I’m shutting you out. I want you to know that’s not what I’m doing. I just need some time to figure this out all on my own, you know? Just for now. We can talk about it later… if that’s okay.

Abby: [ Chuckles ]

Faith: I’m looking at dresses online to wear to your wedding. What did you say the color scheme was?

Mariah: We don’t have anything set in stone, uh, but maybe something black?

Tessa: Or something sparkly?

Mariah: I mean, you can never go wrong with something black and sparkly. So…

Faith: On it. Hey, how did you guys know you were in love?

Mariah: Um…well, you know, I don’t think it’s something we could actually pinpoint. I think we both knew before we could admit it to each other, and that took a while.

Tessa: Yeah, I mean, because being in love, as great as it is, it can be really scary.

Faith: Uh-huh. How many people are you inviting to the ceremony?

Tessa: I think we’re thinking of keeping it small so that we can spend time with each guest.

Faith: Let me know if you need me to handle the door, keep out the riffraff.

Tessa: Oh, I don’t think that’s necessary. We’re not that popular.

Mariah: Oh, you are. I’m just your number-one fan.

[ All laugh ]

Faith: When tessa was on tour, were you guys ever worried that you might not make it, because of the long distance and all the time apart?

Noah: Hey, mom. Is it too late to get a couple triple espressos to go?

Sharon: Not technically, but won’t you be worried about the caffeine keeping you awake?

Noah: No. That is the point. We need a little post-dinner pick-me-up before we go out to the club. I just heard something amazing!

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Noah: Uh, where are my manners? Mom, this is cindy.

Sharon: Nice to meet you.

Cindy: Same here. I have already heard so much about you.

Sharon: Oh!

Noah: All good things, i promise. I told her if she wanted to come get espressos, we had to go to my mom’s place because it’s not your typical coffee shop, not where they burn the beans and stuff. It’s special, and that’s because of you. Knowing everyone’s orders, ask about their families. I told her about the thanksgiving tradition.

Cindy: Which is so generous and sweet. I really should have come in here before now, but, you know, I’ve got a coffee shop near work. It just seemed easier. You know how it goes. But I’m gonna start coming in here from now on because I can tell that this is just an amazing place run by an amazing woman. Must be to have raised an incredible guy like noel.

Sharon: Noel.

Cindy: And you passed down some killer genes, too. I mean, look at those eyes. So dreamy!

Sharon: Yeah, he’s pretty great all around. So, where did you say you work?

Cindy: I have a day job, but my real passion is in social media, working as an influencer.

Sharon: Oh. Did you go to walnut grove with noah? He mentioned seeing a high school friend the other night.

Cindy: You know, I didn’t know him in school, but I wish i had! I mean, he is just sexier and funnier than about 99% of the guys I went to school with. We just met today. How lucky is that?

Sharon: That’s so lucky.

Mariah: When tessa left to go on the road, it was very, very hard. But it was also not an excuse to behave badly.

Faith: Oh, my god, I did not mean to bring up any bad memories.

Tessa: Hey, it’s okay. Being a couple means that sometimes you work through things when you make mistakes.

Mariah: And when I…lost my way, tessa was very compassionate, and she was understanding, forgiving.

Tessa: And mariah’s done the same for me, as well.

Mariah: Being in a relationship is not always easy and fun and fluffy, but it also shouldn’t be agonizingly hard, either.

Tessa: And there are shades in between. You find out what works and what doesn’t and what you both need so that you can make it last forever.

Faith: I don’t even know what forever looks like for two people, except grandma and grandpa, and even they’ve had temporary breakups. I know how much my parents loved each other, but now mom has rey, who is awesome, and dad? Who knows? So, it just makes me wonder if soul mates are really a thing. If they’re not, then why risk it? You don’t know if you could just end up with a broken heart.

Victoria: What exactly did my father say to you?

Ashland: You know, I really hate upsetting you like this.

Victoria: Well, you know what? It’s a little late for that. I need to know.

Ashland: Okay, alright. It’s just more of the same. Either I capitulate, or he will expose my terrible crimes to you.

Victoria: These threats that he’s making are totally unacceptable.

Ashland: Yeah, well, I don’t like being the victim of them, either, especially since I’ve been down this particular path many times. How many times do you suppose your family is going to claim that they’ve uncovered some deep, dark secret about my past that makes me unworthy of you? Not to mention the implication that you are some kind of weak-willed victim that’s fallen prey to a terrible monster! It’s demeaning to both of us.

Victoria: I agree with you. I do. But what I’m trying to figure out is why is my father trying to squeeze you out? I mean, even if he has some reason to feel threatened by you, why would he tell this messy and obvious lie? My father is too careful and prudent to pull a move like this. So, there must be something more going on for him to take this kind of risk.

Nick: Look, nate. I have always admired and respected you. You have become a great friend of this family, even though i know there are times when we don’t deserve it. I really don’t like leaning on that friendship right now, but i don’t have a choice. There’s just too much at stake.

Nate: Why don’t you just tell me what’s going on?

Nick: What I’m about to say to you stays with us, alright? Because it’s shocking. It’s been suggested that ashland’s recovery may be too good to be true.

Nate: Sometimes science can seem like a miracle from the outside, when it’s really the culmination of years of research, trial and error, and deep and painful losses before you see any gains.

Nick: Look. I’m not here to question science, alright? But maybe there wasn’t any science involved at all. You know, people are saying that ashland’s entire medical case is all smoke and mirrors and that maybe he was never sick at all.

Nate: I don’t understand. Why would anyone question ashland’s illness?

Nick: Obviously, nate, i wouldn’t even be talking to you about this if there wasn’t some indication that it was true. And if it is —

Nate: Okay, okay, think about what you’re saying. You’re telling me ashland is lying about having cancer, which would mean he would have coerced multiple doctors to do wildly unethical and illegal things. I-I’ve gotten to know the man pretty well, and I can’t believe he would do something like this. In fact, I would turn my attention to whoever is spreading this rumor. Do they even know ashland or have any credibility? I’m 53, but in my mind

Victoria: My dad [Chuckles] He made me believe that he was done interfering in my personal life. You know, I genuinely believe that he was proud and happy for us at the wedding. I guess that was all just a farce.

Ashland: I don’t know. Maybe he was happy for us back then, especially when he thought I would be gone relatively soon, or — I hate thinking this way — maybe victor was putting up a front in italy all along. Maybe he pretended to support the marriage in order to push through the merger, and the plan was to take control of my company and eventually force me out.

Victoria: Hold on a second. Are you saying that you think my father is behind setting you up and that he just didn’t buy into the scam, but he’s actually behind it?

Victor: Well, the two of you seem to be in a rather serious conversation. Everything alright?

Nick: I was just filling in nate about the rumors about ashland.

Victor: Thank you for for following up, son.

Nate: Victor, I hope you don’t mind me asking. Are you the one behind all of this?

Victor: I’m indeed.

Nate: Listen. I know the reputations of some of the physicians ashland’s worked with. They’re excellent doctors who witnessed this condition firsthand.

Victor: Nate, let me just tell you that ashland locke is not the man he appears to be. He committed an egregious hoax. He not only deceived my family — victoria — and now you.

Nate: I can’t believe he would do something so immoral without unassailable proof.

Victor: Why don’t nicholas and I take you over to newman media, and we will show you what you need to see to believe that you were deceived?

Mariah: I’m not sure we have any answers on the risk that is involved with falling in love.

Tessa: I can tell you that we feel like soul mates because we can’t imagine our lives without each other. But if you’re talking about putting your heart out on the line, I mean, the emotional risk is there. I mean, it might not last forever, and it could totally end in ruin.

Mariah: Okay, but, also, uh, it might not, you know? But you’re just not gonna know until you take the chance, you know? So, can I ask? Are we just talking about love in general, or are we maybe talking about you and moses? Okay. Forget I said anything. I don’t want to put you on the spot. I just want you to know that if you want to talk about anything, we’re here to listen.

Faith: I guess I was asking for myself but not because things are bad with moses, because they’re really good. It’s exactly how it was when we first met, but somehow even better. Like, life just makes more sense when he’s around. Does that sound crazy?

Tessa: Not at all.

Faith: But, also, there’s college, and everything could change. And I don’t want it to, but people don’t always get what they want.

Tessa: Yeah, that’s true.

Mariah: Look. I-I get the conundrum. You know, it can be reassuring to find the one. You feel safe and secure and like nothing can hurt you. But, unfortunately, it’s just not the way things work.

Tessa: So, it does take bravery to let yourself fall in love. And it requires trust… and focusing on each other and being a team. And that’s how you two take the world head on.

Abby: Are you hungry?

Chance: No, I’m okay right now.

Abby: [ Sighs ]

Chance: Hey, I’m sorry I’m being so quiet. It just took a lot out of me today.

Abby: Yeah. I completely understand.

Chance: You know, I wanted to take you to dinner. Doesn’t look like that’s gonna happen tonight. So, I apologize.

Abby: You know, I don’t care about going out to eat. I’m just so thankful that you went to therapy and that you’re doing it for our family and for yourself. I will never be able to understand what it was like for you in spain. But I am so grateful that you are facing your trauma head on and that you are fighting for us and for dominic. It fills my heart.

If you have this…

Nate: Did you take this video to the police? Do you even know if the man in it is a doctor in peru? Because what decent doctor would pretend to treat a patient? This makes absolutely no sense.

Victor: I’m telling you. We have two doctors who testified on tape, on videotape, that they were paid a lot of money by ashland locke to concoct this bs story about his health.

Nate: What about the doctor in new york? Or the lab where his initial tests were run? That’s where the cancer diagnosis originated.

Victor: My sources were stonewalled at both places.

Nate: It’s called “medical confidentiality.” The staff at the lab has no reason or right to discuss a patient’s condition. And do you even know where the money came from that was used to pay off the peruvian doctors? Because even if it seems like it can be traced back to ashland, someone could be framing him to try to discredit him.

[ Sighs ] With all due respect, I think you two are the ones being played.

Victor: Nate, you’re a good man. You want to believe people. I’m telling you there’s more damning evidence about ashland locke on the way. He’s a fraud, an out-and-out fraud. He’s dangerous, and we need your help in order to prevent him from doing further damage to victoria.

Victoria: I just don’t think that my father is the one who’s trying to make you look like a liar. I can’t see him stooping that low or trying to hurt me in that way.

Ashland: I-I was just trying to consider the alternatives. That’s all. The only reason it came to mind was because you and I have had no luck trying to think of someone else who might have gone to such extremes.

Victoria: No, I get why your mind would go there, and I can also see how my father would buy into this insanity so quickly. But I can’t picture him — i just can’t picture him creating this long-term, wide-ranging conspiracy. Do you know the amount of lies and treachery that it would take to pull something like that off? It’s just too dark, even for my dad.

Ashland: I’m sorry I brought it up.

Victoria: No! Don’t get me wrong. I am absolutely furious with him. The truth of what he’s done is bad enough. I mean, trying to use some lie to get you out of my life?

[ Sighs ] I’m not gonna let that happen.

Cindy: It was like one of those meet-cutes. We were walking down the street, opposite directions, texting, not even paying attention where we were going, and then phones went flying. I suffered a broken screen, and he suffered a broken ego because he went down like a ton of bricks.

Noah: Okay, that is an exaggeration.

Cindy: Is it?

Noah: Anyway, she told me to watch where I was going. Only she worded it a lot less politely than that.

Cindy: I was upset. Anyone would have been.

Noah: I told her I was just trying to go into the café to get a bite to eat. She just walked out and realized she forgot her purse. So, we went back in.

Cindy: And we chatted while he had dinner. I had dessert. I’m talking about the chocolate mousse, not you, noel.

Noah: It’s, uh, it’s noah.

Cindy: Of course it is! What did I say?

Noah: [ Laughing ] It doesn’t matter.

Faith: Hey, dork.

Noah: Who you calling dork, dork? Cindy, this is my younger sister, my much younger sister.

Cindy: Whoa! Meeting your mom and your sister on the first date? Isn’t it a little early to introduce me to your entire family?

Noah: [ Chuckles ]

Mariah: How about my little sister pondering love — and forever?

Tessa: Yeah, I did not have any of that on my mind at faith’s age.

Mariah: Well, you were dealing with a lot of other things.

Tessa: Yeah, the chaos ith my sister and my parents? But you didn’t have it easy, either.

Mariah: No, I did not, and i definitely wasn’t thinking of finding happily ever after. I mean, I was too busy sleeping on friends’ couches and trying to avoid going home to the woman who raised me.

Tessa: [ Laughs ] I mean, yeah, both of us had it pretty rough. But faith hasn’t had it very easy at all, either.

Mariah: Absolutely — alcohol, medical issues, no shortage of family drama. That’s why I’m just thrilled that she can focus on college and having a boyfriend. You know, just normal teenage things.

Tessa: Yeah, I’m really glad that we get to be there for her.

Mariah: By the way, I was really touched by what you told her about our relationship. You know, you didn’t sugarcoat it. But you showed her that we believe that we can get through anything. And I know that I really put that to the test the last few months, and I know that you were really worried about me, with the abduction and bowie’s birth and all the feelings that came afterwards.

Tessa: I just tried to be there for you the best that I could.

Mariah: And you were. But I just wanted to let you know that you don’t have to be strong for both of us anymore. Okay? I am back on my “a” game. And, you know, even though i have scary thoughts, I know we got this.

Tessa: Okay. Um, I got to ask. What kind of scary thoughts?

Mariah: Well, uh, I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t scared about dom being sick. And then, I think about what would happen if our child got sick, you know, even if we get to be parents, which that’s definitely not guaranteed. So, stuff like that. Are you sorry you asked?

Tessa: [ Laughs ] No, no. I do — I want to know everything that’s going on in your head, but yeah, it’s a lot.

Mariah: Well, that’s my talent is worrying about things that haven’t happened or may never happen.

Tessa: I mean, hey, I get it. The world is scary. The future is scary. And that’s why I’m so glad to have a partner that will help me get through it. You tell me that, and I’m glad that I get to return the favor. New densify from crest pro-health.

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Chance: You have no idea what that does for me. And not just making love — being here, holding you, laying with you.

Abby: Yeah. I feel the same. You know, we are gonna have a lifetime of experiences — big ones and little moments, everyday moments, watching our son grow up.

Chance: And we have so much to be thankful for.

Abby: Yeah.

Chance: UM…I just got really hungry. I’m gonna go make us a snack, okay?

Faith: So, what’s up with noah’s date? Is this a thing?

Sharon: Um, I’m not sure. But she seems fun, and he seems to be meeting a lot of new people in town.

Faith: He hasn’t mentioned dating much since he got back. But he doesn’t really talk to me about that kind of stuff, anyway.

Sharon: Well, if it makes you feel any better, he doesn’t talk to me about it, either.

Faith: Well, you are his mom.

Sharon: So?

Faith: So, whether he tells us or not, it’d be nice to see him find someone. Maybe seeing tessa and mariah so happy finally put the idea of finding love and settling down into his head.

Noah: No one’s looking to settle down. Okay, kid?

Faith: Okay, eavesdropper.

Noah: You two really need to find something more exciting to talk about.

Faith: Would finding someone special be so bad? It doesn’t have to be cindy. But love can be scary. But we have to be brave.

Noah: Brave, huh?

Faith: Whatever!

Noah: Yeah.

Faith: I’m gonna go vet this new girl.

Noah: No, please don’T.

Faith: Yeah.

Noah: Don’T.

[ Sighs ] What?

Sharon: Uh, nothing!

Noah: No, no, no, no, that’s not nothing. Look. I know what you’re thinking, and yes, there was the walnut grove woman the other night and cindy tonight.& But I mean, come on. That’s what young, single people are supposed to do, right? We’re supposed to go out and have fun. Doesn’t have to mean anything. So, please. I’m begging you, please. Don’t make this into something weird or find some reason you have to worry about me.

Sharon: Why would I worry?

Nick: Look, nate. We get where you’re coming from. I hope you understand why we need to discuss this with you. None of this looks good. Now, we don’t have all of the pieces, but we have enough to seriously question ashland’s condition. And, as you said, this is an awful deception, almost too heinous to contemplate, but we have to do that for victoria’s sake.

Nate: I was there while ashland was experiencing symptoms. I’ve seen him coughing, out of breath, and weak. And I’m his friend. I stood up for him at his wedding.

Victor: I understand that this comes as a shock to you, okay? And I understand that feeling deceived, like we feel deceived, it’s a hard pill to swallow. Considering that, think of what he’s doing to victoria.

Nate: What I don’t get is the why. Why go to this extreme? For what?

Victor: Easy answer — ashland locke wants to control my company.

Ashland: I hate that victor is putting you through this.

Victoria: You shouldn’t feel sorry for me. You should feel sorry for my father. I am gonna fight him with everything that I’ve got. He has no idea what I’m capable of. But I am not gonna let him get away with this. Take my word for that.

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Victor: Look, nate. Once you look into ashland locke’s background, check out his reputation, you will understand why it was easy for him to convince victoria to fall in love with him, to use her love and her sympathy to convince her to merge newman enterprises with his corporation. Then he befriended you. I’m sure you wondered why he would befriend you so quickly. He doesn’t even know you, really. But he needed you — needed your medical expertise to substantiate his bs about his medical history.

Nate: No, victor. I’m not gonna let you pull me into your version of events. And I resent the implication that I was used and too trusting to realize it.

Victor: Let me ask yoU. Have you read chanccomm’s article about him? The man is full of lies! He faked his own death to assume someone else’s identity. He is not really ashland locke. He’s bobby defranco.

Nick: Victoria knows all the allegations in that article are true. Now, you could ask her about it yourself, but she is under the spell of ashland locke. She believes every explanation, all of his excuses. He uses her trust to take advantage of her, which is why we need to gather as much proof as we can to make sure that he doesn’t do any more damage to victoria or this family. And, nate, we need your help to do that.

Faith: Social-media influencer — that’s so interesting.

Cindy: Tessa porter?! Oh, my god! What are you doing here?! Don’t answer that. That is none of my business. I just have to tell you that I’m your biggest fan. I love your music.

Tessa: Oh, well, hi. Thank you so much.

Cindy: I’m serious! I know every lyric to every song, and I’ve been to just about every single show that you’ve had in the area.

Tessa: You know what? You actually do look familiar. I’ve probably seen you at one of the clubs downtown.

Cindy: I’ve been to them all! Like I said, super fan, but, i mean, I’m sure that people come up to you all the time to say this stuff to you. You’re just humoring me.

Tessa: Oh, no, no. You have a really friendly smile. I’m usually drawn to people like that when I’m performing.

Cindy: What?! Shut your face! You have just totally made my night. You’re never gonna believe this. Oh, my god! And I don’t know how you could have planned any of this, but this is turning into one of the greatest dates of my life, and it is just getting started! We’re going to that club on market street, and it doesn’t get going for a few hours, and we just decided to come here for some coffee. Oh, I have a great idea. Why don’t you and your fiancée come with us?

Noah: No, I’m sure they have plans, um…

[ Chuckles ]

Chance: [ Sighs ] It wasn’t easy talking to dr. Huffman. I mean, it wasn’t easy to open up to him, the same way it is opening up to everybody. I think it did help, though, that he understands what I’m going through, you know? He saw three tours overseas. He’s felt this way. I mean, he gets it.

Abby: I mean, I think that’s one of the reasons why sharon recommended him to us was because of his military experience.

Chance: Yeah, and, you know, we’ve seen a lot of the same things. So, he understands all the physical issues I’m having — the tension, the spaciness, always being on alert. You know, he gets that. Some of it gets drowned out. It does. You know, he understands that it’s hard for me to hear people say that what happened in spain isn’t my fault. But what he doesn’t get is that when people say that, it’s just empty to me. And I try to believe it. I do. And then when I do, I think to myself, if I really try to forget this, if I try to move past it, am I not just betraying my team again? I mean, don’t those people that gave their lives — they’re not coming home. Don’t they deserve to be remembered? To always be with me? I feel like I owe them that. Looking to get back in your type 2 diabetes zone?

Chance: I’m sorry for how that sounded. I-I just don’t understand why i feel like I have to hold on to all this guilt.

Abby: But that is how you feel.

Chance: And that’s why I know I need help. You know, all this pain has just put a wall between us, and i can’t let that happen.

Abby: I know how hard it is for you to talk about this stuff and for you to open up. Thank you for sharing this with me. I just want to be your safe place.

Chance: You are. I am determined not to fail this mission, okay?

Abby: Yeah.

Cindy: Just checking. Are you having as good a time as I am?

Noah: I’m pretty sure i am.

Cindy: Mariah copeland! The other half or “teriah.” What is happening?

Noah: Cindy, mariah is my other sister.

Cindy: Holy crap! I saw online where you showed up at that one concert and professed your love for tessa. I almost died. Correction — I died. No, I was — I was dead.

Mariah: Well, yeah, I was dying there for a second myself.

Cindy: It was one of the most romantic things that I’ve ever seen in my life. Hon, can you please go get me another espresso?

Noah: Yeah, you sure?

Cindy: Tell me everything about you and tessa! I mean, or whatever it is that you feel comfortable with sharing, which hopefully is everything.

Tessa: Cindy seems cool.

Noah: Yeah, yeah, she is. I forgot what I’d been missing, keeping to myself so much. It’s like faith said. You and mariah are couple goals, but right now I’m just trying to have some fun. I’ll leave the true love to the experts.

Cindy: Does she sing her songs to you?

Mariah: Yes.

Nate: Let’s say the doctors are in on the hoax. Someone coerced and paid them. Do you have any incontrovertible evidence that ashland lied about his condition?

Victor: I have damaging evidence.

Nate: But is it enough to make him come clean?

Victor: Not yet.

Nick: We need the help of a medical expert to stop him. Will you work with us?

Victoria: You have finally crossed the line! There is no coming back from this.

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Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Jack: Keemo is so happy in this picture. Who are these other women?

Phyllis: You don’t recognize them?

Jack: No, I — no, wait, that’s — that’s mai, his half-sister, on the right.

Phyllis: And the other women? Relatives or friends? Do you know what kind of significance they could be to keemo?

Jack: I don’t know. I don’t have a clue who his friends were, who his other relatives might have been. I’m completely in the dark here.

Phyllis: Yeah, I understand. Well, we’ll — we’ll just keep on looking for answers, that’s all. That’s why we’re here. I know it may be painful, but… I’m here to help.

Victoria: [ Sighs ]

Ashland: [ Sighs ] Okay. Hmm.

Victoria: Oh, my goodness, there you are. What took you so long? We both left crimson lights at the same time.

Ashland: You lost me at the traffic light.

Victoria: I did?

Ashland: Yes.

Victoria: Oh, okay, well, whatever. We’re — we’re both here now, and we have lots of privacy. So, you said that there’s something that I need to know and that it’s about my father.

Ashland: Yes, it is.

Victoria: Well, I assume this is about his objections to your new title. What exactly did he say to you in private? On the drive back to the office, I was growing more and more concerned. Is it about your health? Please, you can tell me. Are you feeling worse? Because if that’s what you told my father, then it makes sense why he would object so strongly.

Ashland: Indirectly, it is about my health. More specifically, uh… it’s about my treatment.

Chloe: So when is michael getting home? He’s been gone a while now. Oh, you must miss him.

Lauren: [ Scoffs ] Very much. This is why I was so skeptical about him working for victor again. I told him this was not gonna be a part-time job, but even i didn’t realize that he would be sent to peru for so long.

Chloe: So when is he planning on coming home?

Lauren: [ Sighs ] He keeps telling me soon, but it can’t be soon enough for me. I haven’t heard from him since yesterday. I called him last night, he didn’t pick up. I’ve been texting him all morning — no response.

Chloe: Well, you should bug him again. I mean, if he is anything like kevin, he doesn’t like to text while he’s working.

Lauren: You’re right, okay. Mm-hmm. Okay. Hopefully that will do the trick. And while I’m waiting, I need a distraction. Let’s talk about work. So how are you and chelsea coming along with the plans for the new sally-free fashion label?

Adam: That is a clever way to grow the sports platform. Good thinking.

Sally: You know, I was a little dubious about leaving fashion for the business world, but it’s actually really exciting. It’s invigorating. It feeds a part of my personality. Always a new problem to solve. Speaking of which, are there any updates on the ashland and victoria situation? Do you really think he’s on his way out?

Adam: Um…I’m not sure. I haven’t heard any updates yet.

Sally: I wonder how victoria’s doing. Emotionally, ’cause you said she might be headed for heartbreak.

Victor: Excuse me. I would like a word with my son in private. It’s a family matter. Facing expensive vitamin c creams with dull results?

Additional sponsorship

provided by…

Jack: What are we doing here? I get lured here blindly by some anonymous text. I came exactly as directed, and, what, silence? We’re supposed to just comb through all of these letters that keemo wrote to me, which apparently I was never supposed to have read. What am I supposed to make of this?

Phyllis: I don’t know what to make of it either. Maybe it is some sadistic prank by somebody. Maybe it is. Maybe they don’t even know we’re here. Maybe they’re waiting outside. I-I don’t think they’re outside. I think that everything we’re supposed to find out — I think it’s in this house, I think it’s right here.

Jack: You really think whoever sent these texts told me all that they know, and I’m just supposed to figure out the rest?

Phyllis: I don’t know. Maybe they’re just trying to point you in the right direction? Give you the next thing to find? I don’t know.

Jack: I want to know why i was led here.

Phyllis: I know. And what you’re supposed to be looking for — I get it.

Adam: Sally, do you mind? I have to talk to my father.

Sally: Of course. Yeah, I know family always comes first with the newmans. It’s getting late, so I’m just gonna grab a bite at society.

Adam: Well, I’ll join you for a drink when I get done here.

Sally: Perfect, mm-hmm. Bye.

Victor: So, son, I hope you kept the details of ashland’s latest deception to yourself. Now, I understand that you and your new coo have become quite close.

Adam: Dad, look —

Victor: I’m telling you, we don’t need word of this to get out, okay? And I don’t think she’s known for her discretion, is she?

Adam: You can trust me. I haven’t said a word to her about ashland faking his illness. Why would I do that when I don’t even know where things stand myself?

Victor: I’ve told ashland locke to get the hell out of town and leave victoria, or else I will go to her and reveal everything to her myself.

Adam: Really? That’s how you’re protecting her?

Victoria: What about your treatment? Have you had a setback?

Ashland: I’m just a little hesitant right now because i know how close you are to your father.

Victoria: Well, you know how complicated my history is with him, but, I mean, I don’t need protection from his latest machinations, whatever they are. So just tell me.

Ashland: I’m also still struggling with trying to understand why victor would do something like this. Um…

Victoria: What are you talking about?

Ashland: Apparently, your father has taken the word of some disgruntled doctor at the peruvian clinic who was recently fired.

Victoria: Taken his word about what?

Ashland: This doctor, this — this obvious quack, claims that I lied about my medical condition and falsified medical records, paid off various labs and clinics.

Victoria: I don’t understand. Are you saying that he’s accusing you of lying about getting better?

Ashland: No. He’s accusing me of not being sick in the first place. Saying that I don’t have and have never had cancer. In 15 years you drink about 15,000 cups of coffee.

Victoria: That’s insane. My father thinks you lied about being sick?

Ashland: It gets worse.

Victoria: I can’t imagine how.

Ashland: Victor is using this information as some sort of a threat against me. He’s trying to force me out of your life.

Victoria: And exactly how does he think he’s gonna do that?

Ashland: Basically, he just wants me to disappear, and if i don’t do that, he’s threatening to tell you that I’ve been lying about being sick all along, which I need you to understand is 100%, absolutely not true.

Victoria: What you’re saying right now, it’s — [Chuckles] It’s outrageous.

Ashland: Yes, I agree, and that’s exactly why I’m telling you about this now. I hate to say this, but at this moment, I do not trust your father, and I certainly don’t want you to hear this ridiculous accusation for the first time from him. Besides, we’ve made a pact that we won’t keep secrets from each other anymore, right?

Victoria: Why would my father do this? Why would he suddenly turn on you?

Ashland: I’ve been asking the same question myself. He’s been so supportive of our marriage. He’s been our protector. He even stood by me when others were threatening to expose my past.

Victoria: What has changed?

Ashland: I don’t know. Unless victor honestly believes the lies from this horrible doctor who, for reasons I can’t understand, obviously has it out for me.

Victoria: I just don’t understand why my father would think that’s credible. I met with your oncologist in new york. I’ve seen your medical records. There is absolutely no doubt that you have cancer. The true miracle here is that you’re responding so well to the treatment.

Ashland: You’d think he’d be happy for us.

Victoria: Exactly! I would think that my father would come to me if he thought this was true. I would be the first person he would come to, so I cannot imagine what in the world he must be thinking.

Victor: I’m very afraid that if victoria learns that ashland locke just used her to initiate this merger between newman enterprises and his own corporation, it’s gonna be devastating to her.

Adam: Yeah, I guess I can see your logic in that, but either way, she’s gonna be devastated. Unless…

Victor: Unless what?

Adam: Unless nick was right. She’s managed to forgive him for everything else she’s learned about him, so maybe she’ll find a way to forgive him for this, as well.

Victor: I don’t think this time she will.

Adam: Have you even considered that possibility? I mean, what would that mean for us? Don’t you think that you should be prepared to protect the family and your empire, even yourself, from that outcome?

Victor: What do you think I’m doing, son? It’s imperative that I convince him to get the hell out of town. Leave her. That’s a heartache that’s easier to deal with than to learn what he has done to her. He has used victoria. The whole wedding in tuscany, it’s a ruse to engineer this merger. He’s not gonna get away with it.

Lauren: I’m so happy to hear that chelsea’s meetings in new york are going so well.

Chloe: Yeah, she’s just wining and dining all of her old contacts. You know, she’s got some pretty powerful connections that can help us source fabric and secure our manufacturer. You know, we are a little behind on summer deadlines, so we really need to pull as many strings as we can.

Lauren: But you think you’re gonna be able to get the work out on time, right?

Chloe: Oh, if chelsea has anything to say about it, we will.

[ Both laugh ]

Lauren: Well, good, I’m impressed. Because, I mean, I have relationships in that area, as well, but fenmore’s production schedule is so tight, there is no room to add anything, so I’m very impressed. I’m very impressed. Good for you for taking the initiative to getting your line out.

Chloe: Well, the sooner we are in stores, the sooner we are making money for fenmore’S. And listen, if you want us to make an introduction to any of our connections, let me know because I think we could probably get you some better deals.

Lauren: Really?

Sally: Well, hello.

Lauren: Sally.

Chloe: How are you? It’s been a while.

Sally: I’m good. How’s your new line coming along?

Chloe: You know, it is still in the beginning stages, but it’s very exciting.

Sally: Great. I look forward to seeing it at fenmore’S.

Chloe: So, how is your new job at newman media? Enjoying trading in your sketchpad for spreadsheets?

Sally: I think I found my new niche. Turns out I’m really good at business, and adam and I make a great team.

Phyllis: I don’t know why you were led here. But we can’t stop now. We’ve got to find the answers.

Jack: No, you’re right, you’re right. Maybe if I can read through these letters again, maybe there’s some kind of clue.

Phyllis: Okay, okay, good. Good, I’ll help you. I’ll help you with that. So, okay, let’S… um, do you mind if I…?

Jack: Yeah, yeah, go ahead.

Phyllis: So this — this is nice. No postage stamp.

Jack: That’s a pretty picture.

Phyllis: Yeah.

Jack: Unsent. Do you think there’s something significant there?

Phyllis: I don’t know. That’s hard to tell. Alright. This is really beautiful.

Jack: Wait, wait, stop.

Phyllis: Alright. Does that mean something to you?

Jack: No. But that’s the thing, it means nothing to you, it could mean the world to keemo. I will never know why, ’cause i can’t ask him, and I just think it’s wrong for us to be poring through all of his personal items.

Phyllis: We’re just looking for some truths.

Jack: You know what? It’s one thing to read letters that keemo wrote to me — even though he intended for me to never see them — it’s another thing to rifle through his most prized possessions.

Phyllis: Okay, jack, you’re — you’re going back and forth, you know, between being curious and feeling like you’re violating keemo’s memory. I’m just gonna be blunt here. Keemo’s gone. I mean, I’m sorry. But he’s gone. You aren’t violating his memory by going through his things. And by the way, I mean, look at how this whole thing has played out. Here we are, and this box is here. It was not left here by accident. So, really, whoever has been sending you the texts, obviously they worked it out so that this would be the only thing left in the house and we would go through it.

Jack: So your theory is that this is some kind of treasure hunt so I can piece together keemo’s life.

Phyllis: Listen, I completely understand if you don’t want me to go through all of this with you. I’m trying to be supportive, that’s all. But you just can’t give up now. Jack, I think the answers that you’re looking for, I think you’ll find them here, but you just got to keep your eyes open and keep on looking.

Feeling sluggish or weighed

down?

Chloe: I’m glad you’re enjoying your new job.

Sally: Yeah, it’s an opportunity of a lifetime.

Lauren: I need to make a business call.

Sally: Huh. Was it something I said?

Chloe: No doubt. [ Chuckles ] But I’m glad she stepped away. I’ve been wanting to talk to you.

Adam: So what if ashland doesn’t go along with your plan? I mean, do you really think he’s gonna give in to your ultimatum?

Victor: I don’t think he can afford not to.

Adam: Well [Sighs] You better have your evidence all lined up so he knows you can back up your threat.

Victor: Unfortunately, I’ve not been able to get in contact with michael baldwin ever since I confronted ashland locke. However, michael baldwin assured me that he was gathering all the pertinent information and sending it to me by courier.

[ Cellphone rings ] One second. I should have that soon. What’s this? One of my investigators. Yeah. What have you got? Okay, you stay on it.

Adam: So, what’s going on?

Victor: Apparently michael baldwin has disappeared. So did the two peruvian doctors. He moved out of his hotel in lima, and neither of them have been seen again.

Adam: This doesn’t sound good.

Victor: No. Doesn’t sound good at all.

Adam: You think ashland got to him, stopped him from sending the proof?

Victor: Well, I’m gonna deal with it.

Ashland: You know, for your sake, I’ve been trying to rationalize your father’s actions. I mean, I know he’s still a very protective father. He’s also a protective mogul. And maybe now that I’m not, you know, dying anymore, maybe he just doesn’t want anyone other than newman blood running the company that he built.

Victoria: I don’t think that’s it. At various points throughout the company’s history, people outside of the family have held the ceo title.

Ashland: Then maybe he’s threatened by me specifically. Maybe he just wants me out of the picture and out of newman/locke for good, and this would certainly be an excellent way to get rid of me.

Victoria: I just don’t believe that.

Ashland: But I can certainly understand the mind-set. I mean, this is his legacy.

Victoria: Yes, but newman/locke is your legacy, too, and accusing you of lying about being sick, it’s just outrageous. I can’t believe my father would think for one minute that i would find you capable of doing anything so heinous.

Ashland: Well, I have been called the locke ness monster.

Victoria: Stop it. I hate that name. I hate that. It bears no resemblance to the man that I love, and I just — i don’t want to joke about that.

Ashland: Okay. But there was a time when that name fit like a glove. That man doesn’t exist anymore. And that’s because of yoU.

Phyllis: Okay, you know, let’s end off for today. Let’s go check in at the hotel, eat something. You must be hungry. I’ve starved. I could use a hot bath, as well.

Jack: That’s probably a good idea.

Phyllis: Yeah, I’ll call for a car.

Jack: This is a little more overwhelming than I imagined.

Phyllis: I can imagine. Just getting a car, and we’ll… I mean, or we can — we can stay and just still take a look at some things.

Jack: Tickets to a broadway show, three years ago. Who did he take with him? More beautiful postcards of vietnam. None of them sent. Obviously from…a wedding.

Luan: It’s lovely, darling. Thank you.

Jack: And there’s more to come.

Luan: You put me on the spot. Here you are giving me early gifts, while I’m totally without an idea for you. You’re a difficult man to buy for.

Jack: Oh, go to the toy section. I’m a kid at heart.

Luan: I’m serious. I’ve been wracking my brain trying to think of some unique surprise. Something you’ve always wanted.

Jack: I already have something I’ve always wanted. All wrapped up in a beautiful gift named luan.

Luan: You’re a hopeless romantic.

Jack: Only since you walked back into my life. How waking up with you, every day is christmas.

Luan: I feel the same way. All those years I never dared hope. Yet here I am. Christmas 1995, standing in front of a warm with my american gi.

Jack: Never forget one thing. You have already given me the greatest gift I could ever get. A son. So stop worrying about what’s on those store shelves, okay? Not only have I found you, i found the son I always wanted. Santa outdid himself, with maybe a little help from the guy upstairs. This is gonna be the merriest christmas ever and the happiest new year.

Phyllis: That’s very pretty. Do you think that it belongs to one of the girls in the photo?

Jack: No, this was luan’S. I gave it to her one christmas. After she died, I — I sent it to keemo, along with some other keepsakes. This is a sign.

Phyllis: A sign of it?

Jack: A sign that he did not erase me from his life. It’s a picture of me and luan at our wedding. I’m mark

“The young and the restless”

will continue.

We decided it’s time

to put a different

Chloe: Now that it’s just the two of us, I can be more honest. I genuinely liked working with you. I think that you are extremely talented and you have a real gift for design, and I am proud of what we created at newman fashion.

Sally: Me too. Everything was peachy. Till chelsea showed up.

Chloe: Well, I’m sorry that the two of you never found a way to work together.

Sally: Well, it wasn’t really that we couldn’t find it — just chelsea didn’t want it.

[ Sighs ] Anyway, I want you to know that I really, really enjoyed working with you too, and I’m sorry that it didn’t last. But, hey, it seems like everyone landed exactly where they’re supposed to.

Chloe: Well, I hope so. And however things have turned out, I just hope that you haven’t given up on your dreams.

Sally: Nope. Haven’t been given up on them at all.

Jack: Our wedding day was something I thought would never come. I thought I’d lost her forever. But somehow the stars aligned and we found each other again and were given a second chance. And perhaps the biggest miracle, I found out we had a son together. Keemo was angry at first. I think he felt abandoned, but over time, with patience, with kindness, I eventually won him over. He was the best man at this wedding.

Phyllis: Well, so the two of you were close for a time.

Jack: Oh, yeah, which made it all the more painful when he cut me out of his life.

Phyllis: Tell me more about the wedding.

Jack: The wedding was small but beautiful. Was a mix of american and vietnamese traditions. Luan wore red. And she was radiant. We wrote our own vows. Luan… my gentle angel, I choose you above all others to share my life with, now and forever.

Phyllis: Wow. It’s truly remarkable how you two found each other again.

Jack: It was nothing short of a miracle. We were supposed to spend the rest of our lives together as a family.

[ Applause ]

Adam: Lauren. Chloe. Well, I hope things are going well with the new fashion line.

Chloe: Yes, they are, and chelsea is in new york right now handling some business, but you probably already know that ’cause I know you two are still in touch regarding connor.

Adam: So, lauren, how — how are you? Have you heard from michael?

Lauren: Well, seeing that he is on business for victor, i would think that you and your father would know more about his status than I would.

Adam: Well, I seriously doubt that. I’m sure that you talk with him far more frequently than we do. Ready for that drink?

Sally: Absolutely. It was really nice talking with you, chloe. Lauren.

Chloe: Hey, you okay?

Lauren: He hasn’t responded to my text, so I called him, he didn’t pick up. I left a message, but…he’s been so good at staying in contact since he’s been in peru, and now this — this silence and adam’s fake nonchalance has me very worried.

Chloe: Oh, first of all, pay no attention to adam. And I’m sure that michael will be in touch with you soon. He probably just doesn’t have cell service and he’s not getting any of your messages.

Lauren: I wish that were true, but I think I — I need more information.

Victor: Yes, lauren. How are you?

Lauren: Well, I’d be a lot better if my husband were responding to my texts and my calls. Have you spoken to him recently?

Victor: Well, yes, of course I’ve been communicating with him. You know, and as soon as he’s finished with his work in south america, he’ll return home.

Lauren: [ Sighs ] Well, if you hear from him, please, please have him call me.

Victor: Of course. Now, you have a good day, alright?

Lauren: Thank you, victor.

Chloe: So did he have any answers?

Lauren: None that make me feel any better. Most bladder leak pads were similar.

Sally: Is everything okay with victor? I know he said it was “family business,” but seeing that I am the coo of one of the newman family enterprises, I think i should be included in what’s going on.

Adam: Hmm.

[ Chuckles ] Don’t push it.

Sally: Fine. But I could tell something was up, and it was far more urgent than a family picnic.

Adam: You have gotten all the details that you’re gonna get. And believe me, it is for your protection. You don’t want to be anywhere near this. Because it might not work out the way that victor hopes.

Victoria: You know you’re entirely self-made. I have nothing to do with the man that you’ve become.

Ashland: I’m not sure that you fully understand how profoundly your love has changed me. Victoria, there are things that I have done in my past that i would never think about doing today now that I’m with you.

Victoria: You’ve been through a lot this past year. I think that’s given you a new perspective.

Ashland: Yes, but it’s your love for me and my love for you that has made me a different and far better man. You somehow have put that other guy [Chuckles] Out of his misery and banished him forever, and for that, I will be eternally grateful.

Victoria: Those are beautiful words, but you know the credit doesn’t belong to me — it belongs to you. And if I’ve learned one thing in my life, it’s that you can’t change a person unless that person wants to be changed.

Ashland: Mm.

Victoria: You are very ambitious and you’re a survivor. Yeah, I know you’ve made some bad choices, but so has my family. They’re not innocent in that, and my father chief among them.

Ashland: That’s true. We all make mistakes, and victor newman is certainly no saint.

Victoria: Which is why I just can’t believe and accept that he has turned on us this way.

Jack: [ Chuckles ]

Phyllis: What is that?

Jack: It’s a statement of paternity. I’m amazed he still had this. I had this drawn up and gave it to him after the wedding ceremony.

Phyllis: He kept it after all this time. Meant something to him.

Jack: Can’t help but wonder just how deeply conflicted he was. If we’d ever had a chance to reconnect, be face-to-face, if i could’ve changed his mind in some way… could’ve re-established a father-son relationship and put all that pain of the past behind us.

Phyllis: Yeah, don’t torture yourself like that. You’re never gonna know.

Jack: What if I had disregarded all those angry e-mails cutting me out of his life? What if I’d just decided to stand firm, to not back off? I mean, I thought I was respecting his wishes — what if that was wrong? Isn’t it a parent’s job to know when a child needs you to push back? To stand firm, to not give up? That there are needs behind all of that anger and accusation?

[ Sighs ]

These are the faces

Phyllis: I don’t think you should go down that path. I know this is hard for you. But it’s also really hard for me…to watch you struggle with something for which there’s no longer a solution.

Jack: Part of why we came here is for closure. I don’t know that I can have that without asking the tough questions.

Phyllis: Hey, I understand, but maybe now is not the time.

[ Sighs ] Let’s — let’s deal with the real reason we came here — the mystery behind who’s sending the texts.

Jack: Yeah. Yeah, you’re right. We should stay focused.

[ Sniffs ] I need to get out of here. I…

[ Sighs ] It’s just been a long day. I —

Phyllis: Yeah, it has.

Jack: [ Sighs ]

Phyllis: All of those people meant something to keemo. Could one of them be behind who is sending those text messages?

Sally: Just answer one question for me.

Adam: No.

Sally: Come on, hear me out. If victor’s plan with ashland and victoria — whatever it is — fails, will the fallout affect you?

Adam: I doubt it. At least not in a negative way.

Sally: What do you mean?

Adam: If…if victor miscalculated and it creates a rift with victoria, the dynamic could dramatically change at newman/locke…which might just end up working in my favor.

[ Cellphone rings ]

Ashland: Hello, victor. I’ve been expecting your call.

Victor: No more stalling. You have one hour or I take everything I know straight to victoria.

Ashland: Hmm.

[ Sighs ] Do it. I’m not going anywhere.

Next week on

“the young and the restless”…

Kevin: There are a million logical reasons to explain why michael’s been out of touch. You know he can take care of himself.

Lauren: I do, and that’s why I’m so worried.

Ashland: You’ve spoken to victor.

Nate: Tell me you haven’t been lying to me and the entire newman family this whole time.

Jack: This was not here last time.

Phyllis: Huh. It’s a picture of a young girl. Says “allie” with a phone number.

Back to the Y&R Transcripts Page

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Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Nate: Ashland, hey. How are you?

Ashland: Uh…fine, fine. Good to see you, nate.

[ Chuckles ]

Nate: Glad I ran into you. I was gonna call you. I’ve been thinking a lot about your proposal that I come and work for newman/locke.

Ashland: Really?

Nate: What you said about the difference I could make in the world, using the company’s resources to have an impact on healthcare on a global scale, really excited me.

Ashland: I thought you might find that appealing.

Nate: Of course, we need to discuss the details of the job before I could officially commit, but I’m leaning towards yes.

Ashland: Fantastic. Good to see you, nate. We’ll talk.

[ Clears throat ]

Nate: Is there a problem?

Ashland: [ Sighs ]

Victoria: Tell me what? What is it that dad is supposed to say to me?

Nick: What do you mean? Dad — dad talked to you. You already know.

Victoria: Do I?

Nick: Look, I didn’t come here to cause you problems, vick. I just wanted to see how you’re doing.

Victoria: Why are you not telling me the truth? That is the one thing that I can always count on with you. No matter what, even if we’re disagreeing, you never lie to me.

Nick: What am I lying about?

Victoria: You didn’t come here to check on me. You are concerned about me for some reason, so tell me — what is it? Alright, then I’m gonna find out for myself.

Nikki: Oh.

Nick: [ Sighs ] Vick, is this necessary?

Victoria: You have all made it necessary by conspiring behind my back.

Nikki: Conspiring?

Victor: I know you’re angry with me, but there’s no reason for you to throw accusations around.

Victoria: Well, then will someone please tell me what’s going on?

Victor: You already know what’s going on. I asked you and ashland to hold off on signing that binding contract that makes both of you co-ceos. Let’s find out how his health is doing, how he’s recovering.

Victoria: I know what you asked me, but now I need to know what you’re keeping from me.

Phyllis: This is it. I mean, this is the address that was mentioned in all those mysterious texts.

Jack: This is keemo’s house.

Phyllis: [ Sighs ] Yeah, somebody obviously wanted you to come here.

Jack: I didn’t think I’d feel this nervous. I…I don’t know, maybe it’s the unknown and not knowing who or what’s gonna meet me on the other side of that door. Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

Phyllis: Okay.

Jack: Hello! No one’s home.

Phyllis: Well, it seems that way. Um…

Jack: Well, we can’t —

Phyllis: It’s unlocked.

Jack: Well, no, what — we can’t just walk in.

Phyllis: Well, we didn’t come all this way to stand on the front step.

Jack: We didn’t come all this way to trespass either.

Phyllis: Okay, well, obviously the person who is sending you the texts, they wanted you to come here. They wanted you to walk in.

Jack: Well, there’s some world-class rationalization.

Phyllis: It’s not a rationalization. This is your son’s house. I mean, it — it’s basically — it’s not trespassing.

Jack: No, according to the law, this is trespassing.

Phyllis: No, it’s not. There was no next-of-kin mentioned in the obituary. There was no wife, no —

Jack: No, they didn’t even mention his half-sister and, my god, she’s been out of the country for decades.

Phyllis: Okay. So since nobody else was mentioned, you might be the next-of-kin.

Jack: I don’t know, it just — it just doesn’t feel right.

Phyllis: Jack, we didn’t come all this way for nothing. We need answers. You need answers. This is where we start.

Jack: [ Exhales sharply ] Goal!

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Jack: O-okay, let’s do this.

Phyllis: Okay. You first.

Jack: Hello! Hello? Is anyone home?

Phyllis: [ Sighs ] Huh. Doesn’t look like anybody’s here and, um, somebody was obviously packing.

Jack: Yeah, the question is who.

Phyllis: A friend?

Jack: God, I would like to think keemo had someone close in his life.

Phyllis: Maybe it’s the person who was sending the texts.

Jack: Doesn’t make sense. We have all these questions, no answers. Someone wanted me to come to los angeles to an empty house to find what? There’s nothing here. And just standing here, I feel like I’m trespassing.

Phyllis: Um…why would you feel that way? Listen, you just said there’s nothing here. It’s not like we’ve uncovered some deep, dark secret.

Jack: I feel like keemo wouldn’t want me here. He made it very clear he wanted no part of me in his life. He wanted nothing to do with a father at all.

Phyllis: Maybe you can think of this as a way to reconnect with him in some way?

Jack: That’s the thing — keemo died not wanting to reconnect with me.

Ashland: I’m sorry, nate, and please don’t read anything into my mood at the moment. Huh?

Nate: Is everything alright?

Ashland: Yes, everything’s absolutely fine, and I’m no less enthusiastic about the possibility of you joining us at newman/locke than I was the day I made the offer. I’m thrilled that you’re actually considering it.

Nate: I’m glad.

Ashland: We need to have a significant conversation about this. The problem is I’m late for an appointment, and that’s why I’m a little distracted right now, so how about if we plan on some dinner sometime this week? How’s that?

Nate: I’d like that, but are you sure you’re okay? You seem frazzled, and don’t take this the wrong way, but you look a little unwell.

Ashland: Don’t worry about me, I’m fine.

Nate: Yeah? You don’t sound fine. What’s going on?

Ashland: Nothing. It’s — I’m fine.

Nate: Okay, look, I don’t mean to pry, but I’m concerned.

Ashland: Seriously, it’s — it’s just…

[ Sighs ] Okay, okay. I — it’s stupid of me to try to fool you. I, um…I’m not feeling 100%.

Nate: What’s going on?

Ashland: The old symptoms — fatigue, occasional shortness of breath — they’ve come back. And it’s made me a little nervous.

Victoria: Nicholas assumed that dad had told me something, but when I asked what that something might be, he wasn’t very forthcoming.

Nick: I was just trying to explain —

Victoria: I think that maybe you were trying to cover something up. So tell me, dad, what is this about? Is this really about ashland becoming co-ceo or is there something else, given that you seem to be spying on us lately?

Victor: I don’t need to spy. My name is on this damn building.

Nick: Look, vick, you’re making a big deal out of this. It’s nothing. I thought dad had talked to you about not signing the co-ceo contract, but then I saw you react so I couldn’t be sure. That’s it.

Victoria: Nicholas, you don’t have any business knowing that information. You don’t even work here.

Nick: Well, I’m your brother, and I care about you. That means I care about how everything in this building affects you.

Nikki: We all care, darling. Nicholas is just looking after you.

Victor: Just as I do when i ask you to hold off on signing the damn contract. It’s better for you and ashland.

Victoria: Why?

Victor: What do you mean “why”? He just left to go home in the middle of the day to rest.

Victoria: [ Scoffs ] So what?

Victor: That’s why I believe he’s not 100%. I think you should leave the story of your positions and titles alone for now.

Victoria: For how long?

Victor: Until we find out how his health is doing. You’ve been running this company by yourself and done a damn good job.

Victoria: Ashland’s increased presence at newman/locke will only strengthen it.

Victor: You’ve assembled a very good team with him and your mother as coo. Why change that?

Victoria: I know there’s something else going on here. It’s just that none of you are willing to admit it. So until somebody wants to come clean and tell me, this conversation is over. And now I’m gonna go home and check on my husband, who’s feeling under the weather, and that’s all. And I’m telling you for the last time — stay out of my business and leave me and ashland alone. When I get a migraine,

Phyllis: Listen, I can’t possibly understand what you’re going through. I’m sure it’s just a swirl of emotions, but I just want you to know I’m here for you. Take all the time you need.

Jack: Thank you for that.

Phyllis: But I’m not gonna let you second-guess yourself, jack. I mean, you could’ve blown off those texts, and you didn’T. This is a journey you wanted to take, and…I’m here with you. It’s a way to reconnect with your son in some way.

Jack: Yeah, a little late for that, huh?

Phyllis: I don’t think it is. I mean, you can find out the man he became, the man you didn’t know. Hey, at least we could find out who’s been texting you.

Jack: That — that i definitely want to know.

Phyllis: Yes, and you deserve to know that.

Jack: [ Sighs ]

Phyllis: So we are not leaving. We’re getting some answers. We didn’t fly all the way here to spend the night in a hotel room and then leave the next morning. Let’s dig in and get the answers.

Jack: Yeah, if I left now, it — it would just haunt me. I want to know who reached out to me. More than that, I want to know something about keemo’s life. I…I want to know that the world he built for himself had some happiness in it, even if it didn’t include me.

Nick: So let me get this straight — victoria wants to make ashland her co-ceo.

Victor: His idea.

Nick: This guy’s unbelievable.

Victor: He is inching closer and closer to wanting to take over the whole damn thing.

Nikki: Allegedly.

Nick: Mom, don’t give him the benefit of the doubt. I mean, he’s lying about being sick, about getting some miraculous cure all so he can get his hands on the company.

Nikki: I am just saying, there may be other information that we don’t have.

Nick: We have enough.

Nikki: Alright, I admit, things aren’t looking good for ashland, and I advised victoria to not sign the contract.

Nick: Obviously, she didn’t listen. And clearly you haven’t told her that he’s lying about being sick.

Victor: I will not tell her anything unless there’s no other option left.

Nick: I’m just not comfortable keeping these secrets from victoria while you figure out how you’re gonna deal with ashland in whatever covert way you settle on.

Victor: I will take care of things.

Nick: I don’t doubt that, dad. But you don’t know how it’s gonna play out. Victoria’s already furious at us.

Victor: Too bad that she’s furious. Beats the alternative — that guy taking over our family’s business.

Nick: This is exactly why i wanted to just stay out of it. But I can’t turn my back on victoria, and I got to make sure that ashland gets everything he deserves.

Victor: Son, I told you, i will take care of everything.

Nick: I hope you’re right.

Nate: How often are you experiencing these symptoms?

Ashland: Not frequently.

Nate: What does that mean? Four or five times a day? Once a month?

Ashland: Couple times a week, maybe a little tired, a little light-headed, but it’s manageable.

Nate: Yeah, it’s manageable now, but what if it gets worse?

Ashland: [ Stammers ] Maybe it’s just a bug.

Nate: A bug, that’s your diagnosis?

Ashland: Okay.

[ Chuckles ] I don’t have your medical expertise, but I don’t really think there’s any reason to jump to the worst possible conclusion.

Nate: There’s every reason in the world to do that. You’re not in the position to take chances. You need to see your oncologist, have some tests run.

Ashland: I’ve already made that call. In fact, that’s the appointment I was talking about earlier. That — I’m on my way there now.

Nate: What are you waiting for? Go.

Ashland: You — I was going, and you stopped me, and now we’re talking.

[ Laughs ]

Nate: Would you like me to come along? You know, just for support. It might help to have a friend in the room who happens to be a doctor.

Ashland: No, that’s not necessary, but I really do appreciate the hell out of it. You are a good man, nate. I’ll tell you what. I will call you and tell you what happens at the appointment, and we’ll set up the dinner for later in the week because we need to talk about your future.

Nate: I look forward to that.

Ashland: [ Chuckles ]

[ Sighs ]

[ Cellphone rings ]

Victoria: Hey. I just stopped by the house to check on you, but you weren’t there. Where did you go? I’m at crimson lights, and I’m getting ready to head back to the office, but I want you to call me, ashland. I’m a little bit worried about you. Hello, how can I?

Nikki: I think nicholas is right to be concerned. When you confronted ashland and demanded that he leave town, he didn’t blink. He didn’t confess. He didn’t have any remorse at all.

Victor: He’ll be gone soon enough.

Nikki: Well, he didn’t agree to leave.

Victor: He will if he knows what’s best for him.

Nikki: [ Sighs ] Victor, you have him trapped in a corner. And that’s when men like ashland are most dangerous. I mean, you know how he is. He — he won’t back down from a fight, same as you. And he’s desperate. I just worry that you have less of a handle on this situation than you think you do.

Victor: If he tries anything, I will show him no mercy.

Sharon: Well, hey, victoria. What can I get you?

Victoria: Coffee to go, please.

Sharon: Okay. Is everything alright?

Victoria: Yes, everything’s fine. I’m just busy. Has ashland stopped in here today?

Sharon: No, I haven’t seen him. Why? You seem worried.

Victoria: Well, maybe I am a little bit. He said that he wasn’t feeling well, and I thought that he went home to rest, but when I went to the house to check on him, he wasn’t there. I guess I ought to know by now that he’s not one to sit around doing nothing, even though he should.

Sharon: Yeah, some people don’t know when to stop. But I hope he’ll take care of himself.

Victoria: [ Chuckles ] Yes, me too.

Sharon: You know, if I see him, I’ll tell him that you’re looking for him, and then I’ll tell him to go straight home and rest.

Victoria: Thank you, sharon.

Nick: Hey. Can we talk?

Victoria: I was just leaving.

Nick: Just one minute.

Victoria: Okay, fine, one minute.

Nick: [ Sighs ] Look, I don’t like the way things unfolded at the office. I do not want to get caught up in the middle of something with you, dad, and ashland.

Victoria: It seems that you know more about what’s going on than I do, and you just don’t want to say anything to me.

Nick: I just — I need you to know that my only concern is you and that you can rely on me for anything. We haven’t been the same since your wedding, and I hate that. But don’t shut me out, alright? Can you meet me halfway on this?

Phyllis: Wow. Well, the rest of the house is as empty as this room.

Jack: Is this the room he spent most of his time in? Think he woke up early for california sunrise? Was there — was there laughter and music and raucous joy in this house or was this a quiet, contemplative space? I… that’s the hard part. I’m trying to piece together the life of someone that was very important to me, who I don’t — I don’t feel like I knew at all.

Phyllis: For what it’s worth, I think you’re doing a great job.

Jack: I should know so much more. I’m sorry, I… was this his favorite place to sit? Was this…was this where he’d read a book or where he’d write or… oh, my god.

Phyllis: What is it?

Jack: Oh, my god.

Phyllis: What?

Jack: These are letters to me. They all have the same return address — keemo nguyen, at this address. There’s no stamp. These were letters to me that he never sent.

Phyllis: I mean, it seems like he wanted to reach out to you. Listen, um…this is the only box in the place, so obviously it was left here for you.

Jack: Apparently.

Phyllis: Listen, um…I’m gonna leave you alone with this, okay? I saw a coffee shop down the way, and I’ll just — and you can give me a call.

Jack: No, no, no, no. I don’t want to be alone. Would you stay? I’d like you to be here with me.

Phyllis: Of course.

Covid-19 moves fast,

“The young and the restless”

will continue.

Victoria: I thought that we were getting back to normal, nicholas. And I really don’t want to lose the progress that we’ve made either, but after what happened today, it’s kind of hard to believe that you’re on my side.

Nick: I am, always.

Victoria: I still know that you don’t like or respect ashland, and it breaks my heart.

Nick: I’m trying. Alright? I’m really trying. Can you accept that?

Victoria: That’s all I want is for my family to accept ashland and to just respect my relationship with him and stop trying to undermine my happiness.

Ashland: What is going on here?

Victoria: Hi.

Ashland: [ Laughs ] Hello, sweetheart. I got your message that you were here. Hello, nick.

Nick: Ashland.

Ashland: Um, I couldn’t help but overhear what you were saying, and I just want to go on the record that victoria speaks for me as well. We both want the same thing. For you to see how much I love her and care about her and that I would do anything to make her happy.

Jack: He signs all of them with his birth name — “keemo.” Not hao. And he’s clearly working through all these conflicting feelings about me. I don’t think he ever intended to mail any of these. I think this was purely therapeutic.

Phyllis: I mean, I don’t want to pry, but if you want to share any of them, I’m happy to listen.

Jack: Yeah, let me show you something. “I said I’d forgiven you, and i tried to let everything that happened go, but after I left genoa city, something inside me could not let me be at peace.”

Phyllis: Okay. Does it make you feel better that he was conflicted?

Jack: Yeah, maybe a little. Here. Um… alright. “I want you to know that I’m sorry about those angry e-mails I sent. I became consumed by grief and rage I felt over the time I lost with my mother. I wonder how different things would’ve been if I’d known she was dying.” Luan didn’t want anyone to know that she was ill. She didn’t want to burden anyone. I… she didn’t tell me. I found out by accident. Kept it to myself.

Phyllis: Listen, that must’ve been very difficult for you to keep that from everybody, including her.

Jack: Yeah, I didn’t tell keemo because I thought I was honoring his mother’s wishes, and…our son could not, would not accept that.

Phyllis: Well, that was very difficult for you, I’m sure, keeping that secret. You know, and I’m sure that you thought maybe, with time, keemo would get past it.

Jack: NO.

[ Chuckles ] He…he kind of did. Is this it? Yeah. “I finally found some peace. I changed my name to hao nguyen. It was my maternal grandfather’s name. Now I’m honoring my mother’s memory. I am freed from the conflict of being jack abbott’s son. I feel like I’m on a new path.”

Phyllis: You’re a wonderful man. You are. And you’re an incredible father. You would’ve been an amazing father to keemo if he would have let you.

Jack: Well, it seemed he found a way to move on.

Phyllis: Did he really? Did he move on? Or did he just let this fester?

Jack: Is this the one? Yeah. “I’m no longer angry, but i can’t look back for fear that rage will return. So while I’ve forgiven you, i can’t ever have a relationship with you. It’s better for everyone. I hope that you can understand that and forgive me. Your son, keemo.”

Phyllis: Jack, you’re being very selfless. The path that keemo chose, it was good for him, it was not good for you.

Jack: No, it was not.

Phyllis: No.

Jack: I hate that he never felt comfortable enough to reach out to me, to respond to my correspondences. I’M… I’m glad at least he found some forgiveness in his heart at the very end.

Phyllis: How do you know it was the end?

Jack: Well, I — every one of these letters was written in the last 12 months. It’s as if he knew he didn’t have much longer.

Phyllis: Well, the obituary said that he died of a heart attack.

Jack: Yeah, and I know and that’s very sudden, but maybe he was diagnosed with some kind of condition, and…and that’s why he was working through all of this. Maybe, was this — was this about a health condition? Oh, god, there are so many questions.

Phyllis: And we’re gonna get the answers. We are. I promise you.

Victor: There, my darling.

Nikki: Oh, nate! How are you?

Nate: Excellent. Always good to see the two of you.

Nikki: Well, thank you. You as well.

Victor: You’ll be seeing more of dr. Hastings at newman towers.

Nikki: Oh?

Nate: I’m considering taking a job with newman/locke.

Nikki: You would really leave medicine?

Nate: Sometimes need to make a change to keep things interesting.

Nikki: Oh, well, it can get very interesting at newman/locke. But as the person in charge of operations, I’d prefer it didn’T. I — I like smooth sailing.

Nate: I promise not to rock that boat.

Nikki: Huh, wow. Well, I guess memorial’s loss is our gain. I hope I get to welcome you to the team.

Nate: Me too.

Victor: You mean the deal is not done yet?

Nate: No, I still have to hash things out with ashland. I saw him earlier, and we were trying to set up a time to talk things through.

Victor: You saw ashland today?

Nate: He was just here.

Victor: Oh. Huh.

Nikki: Um, how did he seem?

Nate: What do you mean?

Nikki: Oh, I don’t know, just physically, did he seem okay?

Nate: Last time we spoke, you were asking me about his condition.

Victor: Dr. Hastings, ashland is now a member of our family, you know. We’re concerned about him. And when we saw him earlier, he had a hard time breathing, so you didn’t see anything wrong with him?

Ashland: You don’t need to worry about victoria, especially where I’m concerned. And besides, she does not need protecting.

Nick: [ Clears throat ] That is good to know.

Ashland: [ Chuckles ] You know, I think it would mean a lot to her if she knew you were on her side.

Victoria: I was just telling him that.

Nick: I’m always on her side.

Victoria: I want to believe that.

Nick: You should. It’s true.

Ashland: Well, that’s fantastic. I just want victoria to have anything her heart desires, so how about this, nick? Why don’t we all just work together, hmm?

Sharon: Ashland, nice to see you.

Ashland: Ah.

Sharon: I made your favorite. I’m sorry to interrupt, but i have some news about mariah and tessa I want to talk to you about. If you don’t mind that I steal him for a minute.

Ashland: No.

Nick: We’ll talk later. Hey, thanks for the coffee. I don’t remember ordering it.

Sharon: You didn’T. I just thought you needed it.

Nick: Okay, what’s going on with tessa and mariah?

Sharon: They have decided on a wedding idea, but that was just an excuse.

Nick: Excuse for what?

Sharon: I just really wanted to get you away from ashland. Nick, I’ve known you a long time, and I know that you were a split second away from doing something you would regret. You can’t go back in there.

Everyone remembers the

moment they heard,

Phyllis: The backyard is extraordinary. It’s gorgeous. There’s a garden and an orange tree, so many flowers. You want to go back there?

Jack: You know, I think we should leave.

Phyllis: Oh. I don’t think so. Look, there are so many more letters to go through.

Jack: You know what? It’s — it’s kind of overwhelming.

Phyllis: I’m sure it is. You can’t stop now.

Jack: You try to make the right choices, you…try to make the world a better place, you try to help, and you look back and all you can see…

[ Sighs ]

Phyllis: What is this?

Jack: What? What is it?

Phyllis: It’s a picture of keemo with two women and a young girl.

Jack: He looks so happy.

Phyllis: There’s something written on the back.

Jack: “Vietnam, june 2012.”

Nick: I was this close to losing it with ashland. You know, telling him what i think about him and all the lies he’s told. But it would’ve been a disaster. Thanks for interrupting.

Sharon: And you would’ve made a scene in my coffee house, and I can’t let that happen.

Nick: It would’ve just come back to bite me. I mean, ashland would’ve denied it, vick would’ve sided with him. She’s already on the defensive.

Sharon: Why do you say that?

Nick: I went to check on her earlier and kind of created this accidental minefield with her and the parents, but, uh… it’s okay ’cause dad has a plan.

Sharon: Of course he does.

Nick: I don’t know any of the details, but dad seems to think he can get ashland out of our lives for good without victoria ever knowing the truth.

Sharon: I’m just worried about the fallout from all of this. It’s gonna take a toll on your whole family. I’m so sorry this is happening.

Nick: Thanks. I really appreciate you pulling me away from that, and knowing that you are always there for me.

Sharon: Anytime.

Nate: Victor, you know how i feel about disclosing medical information.

Victor: Nate, you made your stance clear last time we talked.

Nate: So you can see why I’d be reluctant to give an opinion about ashland’s health.

Victor: But I’m not asking for test results. I just want to know if you thought he looked healthy.

Nate: He did seem a bit under the weather, but that could be stress or just a common cold. It’s best not to presume anything.

Nikki: You’re right, of course.

Victor: Thank you for stopping by.

Nate: Bye.

Nikki: Bye, nate.

Victor: What do you think?

Nikki: [ Sighs ] You mean the fact that ashland came here instead of going home like he said he would?

Victor: It was a lie.

Nikki: I know you think he’s lying about everything.

Victor: Because he is.

Nikki: Maybe he just wanted to stop and pick up some food on the way home. Maybe he wasn’t acting at all. Maybe he just isn’t feeling well.

Victor: Sweetheart, that’s the least likely of all possibilities, alright?

Nikki: I don’t know. I’m still struggling with the idea that he lied about his condition.

Victor: And I understand how you’d want to think that way, for victoria’s sake. I’m telling you he has deceived our daughter in the most profound way.

Nikki: What if the information that michael got in peru is wrong? I mean, maybe those doctors just said what they thought you wanted to hear in the hopes of a big payout.

Victor: Sweetheart, how long has michael baldwin been my lawyer? I trust that man.

Nikki: I understand that. I am just saying that we need to really be certain about this situation because the stakes are too high. So before you do anything, we need more information.

Ashland: I hope we were able to get through to nick.

Victoria: Time will tell. Right now, I’m still a little bit more concerned about you. If you’re not feeling well, you shouldn’t be out, you should be at home in bed.

Ashland: No, I’m — really, I’m much better now.

Victoria: Well, I’m still worried about you, and I hope that my father’s interference in our plans didn’t contribute to how you’re feeling.

Ashland: It was just a momentary thing. I’m fine.

Victoria: [ Sighs ] Good. And I want you to know that I am still 100% committed to moving forward with the co-ceo arrangement. Have you signed the contract yet?

Ashland: Not yet. Um…

Victoria: Why not?

Ashland: Oh. Sorry. Mm, okay. Um, I’m sorry, where were we?

Victoria: I asked you if you had a chance to sign the contract.

Ashland: Right. Uh…no. Victoria…there’s something I need to tell you about your father.

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Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Nick: If fireworks are detonating between ashland, dad, and victoria, I want the details.

Adam: Well, at the moment, I’m just speculating. Look, you’re a busy man. I’m happy to give you a call and give you an update when there is some news.

Nick: I’m not going anywhere.

Adam: Okay, well, can I take this to mean that you’ve changed your mind? You’re ready to team up with dad in calling ashland out for this hoax?

Nick: I don’t know what I’m gonna do, but if victoria’s in trouble, I can’t walk away from her.

Adam: Well, it’s too bad you weren’t here earlier. You could’ve helped me stall her while dad was confronting locke. God knows I am her least favorite person. I tried, but she did not stay long.

Nick: How hard did you try?

Adam: I’m not sure what you’re getting at.

Nick: Things could be blowing up with dad and victoria right now. I don’t think you’d have a problem with that. You might even be glad.

Adam: [ Sighs ]

Victoria: Ashland, are you in there?

[ Knock on door ]

Victor: Do we have a deal?

Nikki: Victoria.

Victoria: Hi. How did the marketing meeting go?

Nikki: All projects are on target to meet their deadlines.

Victoria: Thanks again for covering for me.

Nikki: I’ll fill you in on the details.

Victoria: I’d appreciate that.

[ Sighs ]

Nikki: After you tell me why we’re locked out of your office.

Victoria: I don’t know. Your guess is as good as mine. But I left my key in there when I went to newman media.

Nikki: I have one. I’ll get it.

Victor: I have proof that you have been lying about your illness from the beginning.

Ashland: No. All you have is theory.

Victor: I can share the evidence with victoria. I’d rather not. I don’t want her to be upset unnecessarily. If you have any love for her at all, you’ll agree to my terms. You will suffer a sudden relapse, you will have to go back to peru for treatment. Then you cut your ties with victoria as painlessly as possible. If you don’t follow my terms, you will suffer the consequences of your deception.

[ Door opens ]

Victoria: [ Sighs ] Someone want to tell me what the hell’s going on here?

Abby: If you’re here to see dominic, your timing couldn’t be any better.

Devon: Really? Why, what happened?

Abby: Well, he just got out of the bath and he smells delicious.

Devon: Uh-oh, a bath in the middle of the day — I hate to ask. Why?

Abby: He tried sweet potatoes and peas for the first time.

Devon: Oh, okay.

Abby: Yeah, it was a mess.

[ Laughs ]

Devon: Any pictures of it?

Abby: Only like a million.

Devon: Oh, good.

Abby: Just so happy that his appetite is finally coming back.

Devon: Oh, I know. He’ll be packing away the food in no time.

Abby: Yeah. Well, louise is upstairs getting him dressed if you want to head up to the nursery.

Devon: Yeah, yeah, I did come by to see him, but I also came by to ask you and chance if you guys would be okay with him coming and staying over for a couple days.

Abby: Oh, um…like today?

Devon: Yeah, only if it’s okay with you, though, ’cause i figure his recovery’s going so well that we can get our visits back on schedule.

Abby: Well, yes, he is improving, but we still have to be very careful.

Devon: Oh, yeah, absolutely. I know that. I would be extremely careful and attentive.

Abby: No, of course you would. I’m not implying otherwise. I just — I know that you’ve been wanting to spend some time with him at your place.

Devon: Yeah.

Abby: Hey.

Chance: Hey, guys.

Abby: How was your walk?

Chance: It was good.

Devon: I just stopped by to see dominic.

Chance: Oh, yeah.

Abby: Yeah, devon was asking if he could take him to his place for a couple of days.

Chance: Oh, well, I get why. He’s a fun little kid to have around, huh?

Devon: Yeah.

Abby: Yeah, it’s just hard for me to think about him not being here at night. You know, I’m still waking up a couple times a night to check on him.

Devon: Yeah, I completely get where you’re coming from. I’ve been waking up myself in the middle of the night worrying about him, and he’s not even in my house.

Chance: Well, maybe it’s not such a bad idea. I told you I was a little worried, given what’s happening later.

Devon: Wait, why’s that? What’s happening? My skin but better.

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Chance: I got my first therapy session later on today.

Devon: Really? With sharon?

Chance: No, no, someone she recommended. Ex-military.

Devon: Oh, that’s perfect. That’s perfect. Good for you, man.

Chance: Thank you. You know, without your words of encouragement the other day, I — well, I’d probably still be avoiding all this. Thank you.

Abby: Hmm, what’d I miss?

Chance: Oh, nothing. Devon just helped me realize that I can’t do this by myself. It’s time to find some help. You know, since we’re being honest with each other, I, uh — I’m pretty nervous about it, and I’m worried how I’m gonna be afterwards. I don’t know if I’m gonna be off, and I would hate for dominic to see me like that.

Abby: Yeah, chance is right. I’m sorry if I was hesitant before.

Devon: No, please. You don’t ever have to apologize to me.

Abby: Okay, well, I’ll go get dominic’s things ready.

Devon: Sounds good. Thank you. And, hey, I appreciate you helping her be cool with it.

Chance: And we’re lucky to have a friend like you to lean on, really.

Devon: I’m the lucky one to have you guys.

Chance: I meant what I said, too. If you hadn’t opened up and told me about your struggles, how hard it was for you, I’d — I’d still be toughing this out on my own, I feel like.

Devon: Well, let me tell you, it takes a very strong person to make the call that you did, so just know that what you’re doing isn’t just gonna benefit, it’s gonna benefit your whole family.

Chance: Yeah, that’s what I’m hoping for.

Devon: It will. And know that it’s not just like flipping a light switch, it’s gonna take time.

Chance: I know, I know, i know. There’s a lot that I have to face that I don’t really want to face.

Devon: I’m sure, but know that it’s worth it. Definitely is, and I have zero doubt that you will make it to the other side.

Chance: Thank you.

Devon: Yeah.

Adam: There’s no part of me that’s enjoying this situation.

Nick: You and vick aren’t close. You don’t support each other.

Adam: I don’t think that’s a fair statement, given everything that I did to support her at her wedding.

Nick: We both know you did that for dad, not her.

Adam: Regardless of what my motives were, I did a hell of a lot more than you did — that is for sure. You were not at the ceremony. You weren’t even at the reception.

Nick: That’s because I told her who ashland locke really was, and she asked me to stay away.

Adam: Okay. Be that as it may, neither you nor I wanted this guy to be part of the family, and after dad welcomed him with open arms, after he was fully aware of what he was capable of, I decided to trust his judgment, and I kept my mouth shut.

Nick: And you have been filled with resentment ever since, especially after ashland and victoria bought newman media and then you became their subordinate.

Adam: [ Scoffs ] Wrong. Ashland is an unbearable, back-stabbing son of a bitch — among other things. But, yeah, am I happy that I’m not gonna have to answer to him, assuming dad’s plan — whatever it is — works? Sure. Break out the champagne. But that is completely different than celebrating victoria’s broken heart after a failed marriage. Not that vindictive or small. So maybe you’re projecting your own feelings about the situation, nicholas.

Nick: Not the case at all. Was my prediction about ashland doing something awful right? Yes, but I meant it when I said I would rather be wrong about that. Victoria’s had to deal with more betrayals than anyone I’ve ever met. How do you think she’s gonna react when she finds out that ashland has been playing her for a fool? She’s gonna be crushed.

Victoria: Well, who wants to tell me why I was locked out of my office?

Ashland: Actually, I think that was my fault. I must’ve inadvertently locked the door when I came in.

Victoria: Daddy, what are you doing here? I thought that you wanted to meet me in adam’s office.

Ashland: Also my fault. Victor reached out to me and wanted to talk to me privately.

Victoria: Why?

Ashland: Well, the same thing that we wanted to talk to him about, basically — our plan to name a co-ceo of newman/locke. Apparently nikki was right, and your father has, uh…reservations.

Victor: By the way, when did you know about this?

Nikki: I only learned about it earlier today. I suggested victoria discuss it with you.

Victoria: I should ask you the same question, daddy. How did you know about our plans? Don’t tell me you have another mole in business affairs.

Victor: Sweetheart, that’s nonsense, okay? Nothing to do with it, and how i found out is not the issue.

Victoria: Well, if you’re going to be my advisor, there has to be a modicum of trust between us. Why did you want to talk to ashland without me?

Victor: Sweetheart, it isn’t like that at all. Ashland and I had a very productive conversation. I think we are seeing eye-to-eye. I mean, correct me if I’m wrong. I’m steve.

Abby: I love you.

Devon: Ready?

Abby: Call me anytime.

Devon: You do the same.

Abby: Bye.

Devon: Okay?

Abby: Have fun.

Devon: Thank you. I’ll see you guys.

Chance: See you guys.

Devon: Bye.

Abby: [ Sighs ] Is it ever gonna be any easier watching him leave?

Chance: Oh, well, look at it this way — by the time he goes off to his first day of school, you’ll be the one tough mom who’s not crying at all.

Abby: Stop it right now, ’cause I don’t even want to think about that. But you’re right. Dominic is gonna have a great time at devon’s, and I will be able to give you my undivided attention when you get home from therapy. Hey, why don’t I just ride with you? I can go shopping or grab a coffee while you’re meeting with dr. Huffman.

Chance: No, it’s all good. Thank you, though. I’ll be fine. And who knows? I might not even click with this guy. Takes a couple meetings to find the person you want, right? So who knows?

Abby: Hey, no pressure for some sort of breakthrough. Today is all about feeling it out, testing the waters, and just opening up about your feelings to someone.

Chance: [ Sighs ] Yeah. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Abby: Hey, no matter what happens, everything is gonna be okay because I am gonna be here waiting for you when you get home.

Chance: [ Exhales sharply ] You don’t know how much I’m hanging onto that.

Abby: Mm.

Nick: So what’s the game plan? What’s dad’s next move?

Adam: I couldn’t say.

Nick: Is that code for “i know what it is, but I’m gonna keep it quiet”?

Adam: Look, I understand why you would be suspicious after everything that went down in tuscany, but honestly, I do not know what dad has in store any more than you do.

Nick: Alright, I guess we’re both in the dark.

Adam: I mean, if you want me to speculate, I’d be happy to. Victor said he was gonna try to force ashland’s hand, so he’ll probably try to get him to confess or get him to turn himself in to the police.

Nick: Why would the police get involved? Is faking an illness a terrible and awful thing to do? Yes, but it’s not against the law.

Adam: He used the fabrication to trick victoria into marrying him — that is fraud.

Nick: Okay, grounds for annulment, but is it a crime? Victoria can invalidate the marriage, but it’s gonna be very difficult for her to get him out of her life for good. He owns half of newman/locke.

Adam: Yeah, he went through a lot of trouble and deception to make the merger happen.

Nick: If he goes, it won’t be quietly.

Victoria: Ashland and I are a team. We make decisions together, and I don’t need to be protected from that, unless your goal is to divide and conquer.

Ashland: No, it’s okay, victoria. Your father and I both want the same things — we want what’s best for you, we want what’s best for newman/locke, so now that you’re here and you see what’s — what’s going on, i think it might be best that your father express his concerns to you directly.

Victoria: Agreed.

[ Chuckles ] So what issue could you possibly have with ashland becoming co-ceo of a company that bears his name?

Victor: Sweetheart, I just think it’s too soon, you know? I mean, who’s to guarantee that ashland’s health will improve? I mean, think of all the stress you would be under on a day-to-day basis. He might have a relapse.

Victoria: I think there has to be more to it than that. I mean, obviously ashland has cleared this with his doctor, and he’s agreed. You know who ashland is at his core. He’s the same kind of person that we are. He — he’s fueled by his work. It energizes him. Taking this role, it’s what’s best for him.

Victor: If that is what he tells you, then, you know…

Victoria: Nobody has to tell me anything. I see it for myself. He’s been getting stronger, he’s doing wonderful. I mean, we’ve been bouncing ideas off of each other. We’re totally in sync, and that’s exactly how a company needs to be run — with both of us firing on all cylinders.

Nikki: You know, I think victor has a good point. I mean, really, it might be best to increase ashland’s involvement a little bit at a time. I worry that if we throw him in the deep end too soon, it could be too much for him.

Victoria: Well, if his condition worsens, then he’ll just take a step back. But I don’t see that happening. And in the meantime, what logical reason do we have to deny him the title and respect and the authority that he deserves? In fact, I am prepared to sign that agreement right now. I’ve been telling everyone… Do you have a life insurance policy you no longer need? Now you can sell your policy – even a term policy – for an immediate cash payment. We thought we had planned carefully for our retirement. But we quickly realized we needed a way to supplement our income. If you have $100,000 or more of life insurance, you may qualify to sell your policy. Don’t cancel or let your policy lapse without finding out what it’s worth. Visit coventrydirect.Com to find out if your policy qualifies. Or call the number on your screen. Coventry direct, redefining insurance. I just heard something amazing!

Nikki: Victoria, are you sure you want to do this?

Victoria: Mother.

Nikki: Well, what’s the harm in waiting a day or two, give it some more thought?

Ashland: I would not be opposed to that at all. Really, if a little more time, a little more consideration would make everyone feel good about this…

Victoria: Everyone does not need to feel good about this. My father wanted to weight in, I was willing to listen, but in the end, it’s my decision to make, and I know this is the right thing to do. Ashland?

Ashland: [ Gasps ] Just — just —

[ Breathing heavily ]

Victoria: Ashland, what’s going on?

Nikki: Oh, my gosh.

Victoria: Are you okay?

Ashland: Yes, I — I’m okay. I just — I’m sorry, I just —

Victoria: No, it’s okay.

Ashland: I think I just need to get a little air.

Nikki: I’ll get you some water.

Ashland: Can we just do this later, please?

Victoria: Yes, of course.

Ashland: I just need to step outside. I’m sorry.

Victoria: I’ll come with you. No, it’s okay, don’t be ridiculous.

Ashland: Listen, I’m really sorry, I really am sorry.

Nikki: Let us know if there’s anything we can do. Oh, my god.

Victor: You see?

Nikki: What — what I saw was a man suffering.

Victor: What you saw was a liar.

Nikki: What do you mean?

Victor: This was a performance he put on for your sake, for victoria’s sake. He did exactly what I asked him to do.

Adam: Pretty ironic, right? Victoria gets all kinds of praise for making the merger of the decade, when she was actually falling into a trap. And now she’s bringing the whole family down with her.

Nick: Adam, if I find out you’re using this to your advantage in any way —

Adam: I am not the one that you need to worry about. None of this is my fault. If you want to punish somebody, go find locke. But that would mean that you would need to get out of neutral territory, okay? So stop trying to be the good guy when you don’t have any skin in the game.

Nick: I’m not neutral, I’m pissed, and I’m staying out of it because I don’t know what dad’s plan is and I have no interest in being a pawn. But if vick is in trouble, she knows I will always be there for her.

Adam: What, a shoulder to cry on? Think she’s gonna need a little more than that after this.

Nick: And that’s what I keep coming back to. Saw this coming 50 miles away. I’ve tried to tell anybody about it who would listen, but they didn’t want to hear it. So what are my options? I can either stay on the sidelines, just tell vick that she made her bed and it’s not my problem, or I can walk away and let ashland get away with everything he’s ever done.

Adam: Well, which one is easier to live with?

Nick: [ Scoffs ] Neither.

Adam: Nick, you always pretend to be above it all, but the truth is, when the chips are down and someone comes after one of the newmans, you’re gonna get pulled back in just like the rest of us.

Devon: There you go. You remember this place, buddy? Do you remember? Remember your uncle moses and amanda and your bedroom upstairs with that big window? You can see the city out of it. Yeah. I want you to know you always have a home here, little man, full of people that love you very, very much. Even when you’re grown and you have a family of your own, you walk through those doors and you will be home. ‘Cause you belong here, too. That’s right. There you go.

Dr. Huffman: Have a seat. Make yourself comfortable.

Chance: Thank you, thank you.

[ Sighs ] So, uh, you’re ex-military?

Dr. Huffman: Army, captain, three tours overseas.

Chance: Alright. See any action?

Dr. Huffman: [ Sighs ] Things I couldn’t forget.

Chance: Stuck with you, too.

Dr. Huffman: Yeah, you know, I got help. Sometimes it’s not always easy for guys like us.

Chance: Yeah. Yeah, yeah.

Dr. Huffman: How’d you find your way to me?

Chance: Sharon rosales. She’s a close family friend.

Dr. Huffman: Oh, yeah.

Chance: She — she thought I’d be more comfortable with someone who served.

Dr. Huffman: Are you? Comfortable now.

Chance: [ Sighs ] Far from it.

Dr. Huffman: [ Chuckles ] Thank you for your honesty. I can’t think of anybody who’s at ease their first day of therapy.

Chance: Alright, that’s good to hear.

Dr. Huffman: So, we’ll start with the easy stuff. Why are you here?

Chance: Um…well, I just want to be me again.

(Upbeat music)

“The young and the restless”

will continue.

Devon: See? That’s how we play music. Just like that. That’s right. And if you don’t like the piano, you can play whatever you want, man. You can play the drums one day. You can play the trumpet. Yeah, or the guitar, maybe. Or you know what you can do? You can be a producer just like me, if you want, and then you can fill the whole world with new sounds. That’d be cool, huh? Gosh, man, I can’t wait to find out what you’re gonna be. But take your time. Take your time, ’cause you have your whole life. You’ll find it out. That’s right.

[ Chuckles ]

Dr. Huffman: Tell me about your family.

Chance: Yeah, yeah. Um…been married a year and a half. My wife’s name is abby. She’s great. She’s a great mom, very supportive, very patient with me. She’s a catch.

Dr. Huffman: How many children?

Chance: One so far. He was born when I was in spain, actually. Well, you know what? Actually, it’s a little bit more complicated than that. He’s not my biological son. You see, before I left the us, i was shot, and I —

Dr. Huffman: That happened when you were a civilian?

Chance: Yeah, yeah, that’s — that’s a long story. Actually, I was a detective at the gcpd for a while.

Dr. Huffman: Oh. We can circle back around.

Chance: Okay. Anyways, as soon as we got married, we tried to have children. She had some medical issues that prevented her from carrying a pregnancy to term, and for me, it was an infection that I got after I was shot in the hospital. So we had to use a donor and a surrogate.

Dr. Huffman: Your wife’s egg, but a donor for you, and someone else carried the baby?

Chance: Yeah, I know. Takes a village, right?

Dr. Huffman: Sounds like you really wanted to start a family.

Chance: Yeah, we always said the sooner, the better. That’s why we didn’t wait till i got back. We just moved on forward.

Dr. Huffman: How long were you away?

Chance: Almost a year.

Dr. Huffman: The whole pregnancy.

Chance: Yeah. Yeah.

Dr. Huffman: That had to be difficult.

Chance: Yeah, I missed my son being born.

Dr. Huffman: I’m sorry.

Chance: I really missed a lot. My wife keeps telling me that I’ll catch up, you know? But… I mean, see, doc, there’s this — there’s this guy, he’s the donor, he helped us. He’s a close family friend. And now we’re sharing custody with him.

Dr. Huffman: Now? So it wasn’t always that way?

Chance: No, that’s — that’s recent. At his request.

Dr. Huffman: Has that change been difficult for you?

Chance: Not really. For me, no. For my wife, yeah. And I just see the way that he is with my son — he adores him. He does anything for that kid. Recently, he needed medical intervention, and devon was there, no questions asked.

Dr. Huffman: How’s your son doing?

Chance: He’s good. Thanks for asking. He’s getting better every day. Um…it’s me I’m a little worried about. I, uh — I just feel like I’m — feel like I’m still waiting.

Dr. Huffman: For what?

Chance: To feel connected to him. To feel like he’s my son. Like a father should be. You know, the way that I think that I would feel if I was the man I was before I went on that mission.

Dr. Huffman: Okay. Sounds like we need to talk about what happened to you over there.

Chance: [ Sighs ]

Sally: I saw your father and brother leaving your office earlier. More family drama?

Adam: [ Sighs ] Never-ending.

Sally: Which category does it fall under — none of my business or something that could affect newman media?

Adam: Um…the latter.

Sally: I’m intrigued. And as your coo, a little concerned.

Adam: Well, I’ll spare you the details. Um…long story short, the whirlwind romance between ashland and my sister is likely about to implode.

Victor: Ashland can keep up this charade, okay? And then he will suddenly have a relapse and he will have to return to peru for “treatment.” And then he will cut off all ties to victoria and newman/locke.

Nikki: So he admitted to the lie?

Victor: Sweetheart, you saw how he backed off from signing that document. He’s a monster. I really need to understand that.

Nikki: Victor, what if you’re mistaken? I mean, what if ashland really is sick? Maybe he just wanted to get victoria alone, and he could be telling her right now what you accused him of. If that’s the case, she’s gonna side with him and be furious with you. Oh, victoria, we thought you left with ashland.

Victoria: He insisted on being alone.

Victor: I’m so glad you came back.

Victoria: Well, that makes two of us, because I want to make something absolutely clear to you. What you did to ashland is utterly unacceptable. Sweet pillows of softness!

Dr. Huffman: Tell me about the night that everything went sideways in spain.

Chance: Um…our cover was blown. We had no warning, no indication. I was walking in to the safe house carrying groceries. Next thing I know, all hell’s breaking loose.

Dr. Huffman: An explosion?

Chance: It was like earth just got ripped in half, you know? I was blown back, hit my head. I couldn’t see, I couldn’t hear. I was pretty out of it. Once I came back and the smoke cleared…I just saw nothing. Absolutely nothing. Our whole building was just gone. And I — I made my way through, you know, what was left, looking for my team. Nothing. Um…then I had some — some men approaching the site. You know, they were walking. They weren’t running, they were walking real slow, real deliberate. And it was our targets. They came looking for survivors. Came to, uh — came to finish the job.

Dr. Huffman: What did you do?

Chance: I, um…I buried myself in some rubble and i played dead. Not my proudest moment. Anyways, emergency personnel showed up. You know, we all heard the sirens. They took off. I made sure everything was clear, and then I did the same. I got out of town and I found some friends that I served in iraq with. Former medics. Patched me up, let me hide out there.

DR. Huffman: Good people.

Chance: Yeah, the best. Craziest part is my family was told that I was dead. My wife, abby, she — she didn’t believe it. So she came looking for me, and she found me, she brought me back, and…yeah.

Dr. Huffman: Your family must have felt like it was a miracle you survived.

Chance: It was the answer to their prayers, right? Keep saying how lucky I am, that I’m a hero.

Dr. Huffman: And you don’t agree?

Chance: No, that didn’t sit well with me.

Dr. Huffman: [ Sighs ] Tell me, how often do you replay that day in your mind?

Chance: Every day.

Dr. Huffman: Mm.

Chance: I mean, it’s to the point where I hear a car backfire and I’m back. I catch a certain smell, if the sky is a certain shade of blue, I’m back. I just can’t escape it.

Dr. Huffman: Do you dream about it?

Chance: Mm-hmm. I thought that would stop over time, but it didn’T. Um…I usually just see faces.

Dr. Huffman: Mm-hmm.

Chance: Like my team. I can see their face. They talk to me, and, you know, they ask me things. It’s like this torture that i can’t escape.

Dr. Huffman: Do you think you’re being punished?

Chance: Yeah.

Dr. Huffman: For what?

Chance: Failure. I failed my team.

Sally: Tell me this is some horrible joke. There is no way that victoria and ashland’s honeymoon is already over, after that incredible wedding in tuscany. They were so in love.

Adam: You know, things aren’t always as they appear, especially when it comes to locke.

Sally: If you tell me that he’s been cheating on her, i will never forgive him.

Adam: Wow, I didn’t realize that you were so invested in their relationship.

Sally: Well, I wouldn’t necessarily say that, but, i mean, I can’t help but feel for your sister. Her wedding made international news, partly because of the unforgettable dress I designed.

Adam: Okay, I guess you do have a big of a stake in this.

Sally: If she and locke split after a matter of months, she’s not only gonna be heartbroken, but she’s going to be humiliated. I know that you two aren’t the closest of siblings, but you have to at least be somewhat sympathetic to her plight. Right?

Victor: Which line do you think I’ve crossed?

Victoria: You upset and you insulted my husband. Acting like we’re doing him some favor by allowing him to help us run this company that he half owns! He is a brilliant businessman. He has connections all over the globe. He is feared and respected by top corporate leaders. Explain to me why would I keep an asset like him on the sideline.

Victor: Well, I mean, i wouldn’t mind if he gave you some advice every so often, but why give him all this authority?

Victoria: It is so frustrating for him to work this way. He feels like he’s got one hand tied behind his back.

Victor: Mm.

Victoria: You know, it was one thing when he was ill and he could only handle a supporting role.

Victor: Well, maybe he just had a relapse, you know? Perhaps he’s not as well as he wants us to believe he is.

Victoria: He is reacting to the pressure that you’re putting on him, and I do not believe for one moment that your objection has anything to do with ashland’s health. It’s all about control for you. That’s the way that it’s always been. You’re the king-maker. It’s all about you. You can’t stand the fact that I’m making the decisions. Why can you not just learn, daddy, to trust my judgment? I’m in this place because i deserve to be here, so let me do my job in my company the way that I see fit.

[ Sighs ] What are you doing here?

Nick: I just came to see how you’re doing.

Victoria: Right, innocent visit. You just happen to be in the neighborhood. You’re here because you knew exactly what dad was up to. Don’t deny it, nicholas. I can see it all over your face. So how long have you known about this? Has the entire family been discussing this behind my back?

Abby: Hey.

Chance: Hey.

Abby: How’d it go?

Chance: It went.

Abby: Did you like your therapist?

Chance: Yeah. Yeah, he was cool. Seems to know what he’s talking about, so that’s a good sign.

Abby: Did you guys get into any of the tough stuff? You know what? It’s none of my business. I just — I worry.

Chance: I know. And you know me — if I’m gonna do something, I’m gonna do it. But, damn, is it hard. I’m exhausted. There’s a lot of work to do. Not gonna be any quick fixes.

Abby: [ Sighs ]

Chance: What? No, no, come out with it. If I can’t hold back, neither can you. Come on.

Abby: Look, I know that you think you have to be perfect and that there are a lot of broken pieces that need to be put back together, but I love you. Always. No matter what. And we are gonna get through this together. I’m just so proud of you for facing this head on.

Adam: Of course I feel bad for victoria. Wasn’t that long ago that I got my heart broken by someone i loved and trusted. Wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.

Sally: Then why are you so calm about this?

Adam: Because she’s a survivor, just like the rest of the newmans. And the family will rally around her. That is what I was talking to nick and my dad about.

Sally: This must be a huge disappointment for victor. I know he was counting on victoria and ashland to run his empire, but if ashland gets kicked to the curb, victoria — bare minimum — is gonna be distracted if not devastated. She could lose focus and question her decisions. Newman/locke could suffer. But who would be in charge?

Adam: $10 billion question.

Ashland: Just…listen to me. You need to find everyone who’s talking to michael baldwin and put an end to it immediately. And forever. Do we understand each other?

Victoria: How old do I have to be? And what is it that I must do to live my life without constant interference from our father?

Nick: Just get out of the business, vick. The closer you are to the fire, the worse you get burned.

Victoria: He has been going behind my back and spying on me. It’s intolerable. And apparently you knew all about it, because why else would you be here?

Nick: Don’t lump me in with all this, alright? I had nothing to do with it. Dad just filled me in a little while ago.

Victoria: If I find out that you’re lying to me…

Nick: Everything I’m telling you is true. I learned a long time ago to stop involving myself in your life. I didn’t even know dad was gonna tell you about it.

Victoria: Wait a minute. Tell me what?

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Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Nick: I don’t want victoria to get hurt anymore than you do, but what ashland has done is unforgivable and he must be dealt with now.

Adam: I agree with you. But I also agree with dad that we cannot afford to make any wrong moves or do anything reckless. We have to handle this smart.

Victor: Boys…I’ve got this. Leave it to me.

Nick: If you think you can take care of ashland discreetly, you are kidding yourself. There is no way to handle it without it blowing up in victoria’s face.

Victor: I will minimize damage to her as much as possible.

Nick: How are you gonna do that?

Victor: By dealing with that bastard one-on-one.

Nick: If you’re not gonna tell us what’s going on, why are we here?

Victor: You know exactly what that man has done to victoria, your sister. Who knows what else he has up his sleeve?

Nikki: I thought you were going to go meet with your father.

Victoria: Well, I don’t have to go right this instant, do I?

Nikki: Installing ashland as your co-ceo is a big deal. Even if you think it’s the right thing to do, victor needs to know about it as soon as possible.

[ Knock on door ]

Ashland: Hey, darling, I was wondering if I could get your opinion — oh.

Nikki: Hello, ashland.

Ashland: Hello, nikki. Everything okay?

Nikki: Yeah, yeah, I’m just having a conversation with my daughter.

Ashland: Oh, I’m interrupting. I’m sorry.

Victoria: No, you’re not interrupting at all. No. I don’t keep things from my husband, mother. We’re partners in every way. Apparently, my mom’s concerned about how my dad is gonna take the news of your new title.

Ashland: Ah. I’m hoping he will be supportive.

Nikki: I’m sure that you are.

Ashland: But you have your doubts.

Nikki: It’s a big change. This company will always be victor’s legacy, and it means a great deal to him that it’s being run by his eldest child.

Ashland: And it still will be. Changing my title will in no way diminish victoria’s position.

Victoria: I don’t need his permission. Telling him is just — it’s a courtesy, it’s a formality. But mom’s right, we should probably just get it over with.

Ashland: I agree. We should tell victor as soon as possible, but — but unfortunately, we have a meeting in just a few minutes with the marketing staff, so…

Victoria: Oh, that’s right. I forgot.

Nikki: I can cover the marketing meeting.

Victoria: Oh, thank you, mom. You know what? I would feel better once we deliver the news.

Ashland: Fantastic. Oh, and since nikki is taking over the meeting, that frees up my time so we can go meet with victor together. And together, we can present a truly united front.

Sharon: Would you like another croissant?

Rey: No, thank you. I have to stay in decent shape if I plan to hold on to my gorgeous wife.

Sharon: Well, you look damn good from here.

Rey: [ Laughs ]

Sharon: Well, let me know if you want anything else, ’cause i want to take care of my handsome husband.

Rey: Mm. You looking for someone?

Sharon: What? No. Who would I be looking for?

Rey: Mariah and tessa. You’re just dying for them to come downstairs so you can pounce them with those bridal magazines.

Sharon: What, these?

Rey: Uh-huh.

Sharon: Who put them there?

Rey: Yeah.

Sharon: I think “pounce” is a strong word.

Rey: Mm. Accost? Barrage?

Sharon: Look, it’s getting closer and closer to their wedding date, and a lot of big decisions still need to be made. If they don’t make up their minds soon about the ceremony and the reception and all the little details that go into it, I’m worried this wedding might not happen.

Mariah: What? How did you figure out what was wrong? It already happened? Uh…okay, is there anything I can do? Should I — should I come over? Yeah. No, no, I understand. It’s okay. Um… I’ll talk to you later. Yeah, alright, bye.

Tessa: What’s wrong?

Mariah: Apparently nothing, not now. But dominic had to get a bone marrow transfusion.

Tessa: Oh, my god. Do you know — do you know what’s wrong with him?

Mariah: He had some sort of blood disease.

Tessa: Is he gonna be okay?

Mariah: Yeah, he’s doing great, and they think he’s gonna make a full recovery.

Tessa: Oh, well, that’s a relief.

Mariah: Yeah, the doctors tested abby and devon, and devon was a perfect match.

Tessa: Wow. So first he takes on an expanded role in the little boy’s life, and now he’s helping him heal. I mean, I know it’s just a matter of biology, but seems like a sign to me.

Mariah: I am really happy that he could be there for him.

Tessa: Um, you don’t sound too happy about that.

Mariah: No, I — of course I’m — I’m thrilled that dominic is gonna be okay. But I just can’t understand why they wouldn’t tell me what was going on. I know that I’ve taken a step back, but I’m still his godmother. Why wouldn’t they tell me about something so important?

Nick: Alright, as much as i want to hurt this guy, I agree with you. We got to be smart about how we retaliate. So what’s the plan, dad? I want to know what it is and what’s involved.

[ Cellphone rings ]

Victor: It’s victoria.

Nick: What are you gonna say to her?

Victor: Hi, sweetheart, I’m so glad you called. (Jackie) I’ve made progress with my mental health.

Additional sponsorship provided by…

Rey: Don’t you worry, mariah and tessa’s wedding’s gonna come together because it’s meant to be. Everything’s gonna come together — all the little details. And don’t forget, there’s always a little magic involved with these things, huh?

Sharon: You know, you’re right. I’m trying not to be that person who checks in every second, but I just — I want to help them if I can.

Rey: I know, I know, and I’m sure mariah knows, too.

Sharon: Yeah, she does, and i know that she will come to me and ask for help if she wants it, and I’m definitely respecting that.

Rey: Oh. You know, I love that you’re so psyched about planning your daughter’s wedding. But I also love that you understand that mariah and tessa need to choose whatever kind of wedding feels right to them, not the rest of the world, no matter how quirky or off-beat or deep underwater it may seem.

Mariah: I just can’t help but being bothered by abby and devon choosing not to tell me about dominic’s illness until after the fact.

Tessa: I assume that they have an explanation for that.

Mariah: Yeah, I mean, abby said that she didn’t even tell the family, ’cause she didn’t want to worry people unnecessarily.

Tessa: I can understand that. And everything turned out okay. That’s the most important part, right?

Mariah: Of course. I’m ecstatic that dominic is alright. And it’s true, I mean, i would’ve freaked out and been worried senseless, so I guess they spared me that.

Tessa: Hey, of course. But we’re gonna go visit him the second that we can. And I’m sure one big healthy, happy smile from him will cheer us both up.

Mariah: You’re right. I can’t wait to see that grin.

[ Chuckles ]

Tessa: Oh, me too. I do have something that might take your mind off the little guy. I really took noah’s suggestion to heart during our last brain-storming session about the wedding, and I think that we should try and combine our top three ideas and make our own hybrid version of our perfect wedding day.

Victoria: Hi, dad. I’m calling because there’s something that ashland and i need to speak with you about as soon as possible.

Victor: Well, now, as luck would have it, my darling, I’m at newman media in adam’s office. Why don’t you come over?

Victoria: I’ll see you in a few minutes.

Victor: Okay.

Adam: What’s your next move? Since apparently this is happening right here and now.

Nick: You know what, dad? Just call me when you need me.

Victoria: Dad’s in adam’s office, and he can see us now.

Ashland: Fantastic. Let’s go meet with victor.

[ Cellphone chimes ] Oh. Hang on. Uh…

Nikki: Something wrong?

Victor: So there isn’t much time left, son. Nicholas is gone. Would you support me?

I may have moderate to

severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Ashland: No, no, nothing’s wrong at all, nikki. It was — it’s a small personnel issue. It doesn’t at all rise to the level of — of what we’re about to do, so…

Nikki: Ah. I must have misread the expression on your face when you read that text.

Ashland: Really? Oh, it was just a — it was a former locke communications group executive that we had to let go because of the merger. He wants to have, you know, “a call,” and, uh… well, you know, now that I think about it, he probably deserves one. Why don’t you go on ahead, and I’ll catch up with you?

Victoria: Sure, I’ll see you soon.

Ashland: Okay.

Rey: You know, as much as I’m looking forward to mariah and tessa’s big day, however crazy it may be, nothing will surpass the day we got married.

Sharon: Aww, our wedding was amazing.

Rey: Mm-hmm.

Sharon: And you’re right, it came together with a little bit of magic.

Rey: Yeah. You know what I remember most? Staring into those big, beautiful blue eyes.

Sharon: You know, everything kind of faded away during the ceremony, but the reception was fun.

Rey: It’s true. There were some great toasts. We’re gonna have to reciprocate for mariah’S.

Sharon: Yes.

Rey: And we cannot forget the best man.

Nick: What?

Rey: Well, we were talking about wedding toasts with mariah and tessa’s wedding coming up.

Nick: Oh, yeah, right.

Sharon: Is something wrong? What happened?

Nick: [ Sighs ] I don’t want to talk about it.

Rey: You know, I — yeah, i got to check in with the station.

Sharon: You seem angry. What’s going on?

Nick: I don’t know what’s best, you know, talking about it or just bottling it up inside.

Sharon: Nick, you can talk to me. You know you can trust me with anything.

Nick: Alright, it’s ashland. He has done something so despicable this time — I mean, the worst thing of his life, and considering who he is and what he’s done, that’s saying a lot. But this time, it could destroy victoria, and I don’t know how to help her.

Victoria: I have some news, dad. Adam.

Victor: Ashland. I’m done playing games with you. Okay? It ends now.

Ashland: Uh…what ends now?

Victor: The charade is over.

Nick: So dad had michael go down to peru and check out that clinic where ashland received his miracle cure.

Sharon: Look, I know you’ve never been a fan of locke, but what was so suspicious about him previously making those donations to that facility?

Nick: You always want to believe the best in everyone, but this time dad’s instincts were right. Michael went down there and got a couple of the doctors who worked there at the clinic to go on record saying that ashland bribed them to make it seem like he was really suffering from his cancer and that the treatment they gave him sent him into remission. But in reality, he was never sick at all.

Sharon: Ashland faked his cancer? I can’t even wrap my head around that.

Nick: And vick has no idea that she’s being lied to about this seriously huge thing. And, I mean, ashland just used her to get his hands on the company.

Sharon: Wow, I don’t know what to say.

Nick: Don’t say anything, sharon, alright? This has to stay between us. I came to you because I needed somebody to talk to about it.

Sharon: Of course, I’m not gonna tell anyone about this. Why haven’t you told victoria? Don’t you think this is something she should know, like, right now?

Nick: Because dad said he’s got some plan, some way to deal with this where victoria suffers the least amount possible.

Sharon: Well, I’m sure he has her best interests at heart, but to keep something like this from her, something this big? That’s risky.

Nick: The last time I went to her and told her about all the horrible things that ashland has done, she was okay with it. Why would this time be any different?

Sharon: I don’t think you’re giving your sister enough credit. If what you’re saying is true, what ashland did is disgusting. It’s unforgivable. He has destroyed every ounce of trust that victoria had in him, and as a cancer survivor, I am appalled that he would use that as a selfish ploy. There’s no way in hell that victoria will be alright with that.

Adam: Really great to see you, sis. You seem like you’re in a good mood today. So to what do I owe this pleasure?

Victoria: Where did dad go? What is he doing?

Adam: I don’t know. Could be any number of things. But he said he’d be right back.

Victoria: I don’t understand why he would just leave when i said I had something important to discuss with him.

Adam: Well, hey, maybe you could bounce your ideas off of me first.

Victoria: No, thank you.

Adam: Why not? Now that I’m working with you —

Victoria: You work for me.

Adam: [ Chuckles ] Yes. You are my boss, and that’s the point. We are on the same team, and i want the company — our company — to succeed, and i would be happy to give you my insights.

Victoria: This is too high level for you to weigh in on, so just have dad call me when he gets back.

Adam: Hey, hey, as long as you’re here, I’d love to get some thoughts on some potential areas of expansion for newman media.

Ashland: Locking the door is a little dramatic, don’t you think, victor? I mean, I’m not exactly sure what’s happening right now. What exactly is the charade you’re accusing me of perpetrating?

Victor: Ashland. You don’t have cancer. You never did.

Ashland: I’m sorry, is this some kind of a joke? No? Okay, uh, well, talk to my doctors, and they will tell you my cancer is real.

Victor: The doctors you paid off? Or the ones that you supplied with falsified medical records?

Ashland: That’s a hell of an accusation. Why would I even attempt such a thing? I mean, what would be the goal?

Victor: Power. Control. You have dreamt of combining or merging newman enterprises with locke communications to create a behemoth of a company that you would preside over, rule.

Ashland: Okay, that’s crazy.

Victor: Uh-huh.

Ashland: Uh…besides, victoria is the one who’s been driving the merger.

Victor: You put the idea of the merger in her head. It worked. Because she thought you only had a few months left to live. You managed to make her feel sorry for you. A man just about to die of cancer, my goodness. Who wouldn’t be moved by that? You played that game masterfully. But now it’s over. I just heard something amazing!

“The young and the restless”

will continue.

Mariah: I’m not sure what combining our top three ideas would even look like.

Tessa: Okay, well, I’m thinking that it would involve art, music, and perhaps costumes.

Mariah: Alright, where are we gonna do it?

Tessa: Okay, well, a destination wedding is seeming too complicated, so let’s keep it local, and we’ll surround ourselves with art that we love from chicago museums and then we’ll get one of our favorite bands to play.

Mariah: Okay, what about the murder mystery them? ‘Cause we talked about that before.

Tessa: It seems a little dark for a celebration.

Mariah: Okay. But, you know, we got to have something that sets this apart from a typical ceremony. I mean, everybody has music and decorations.

Tessa: Maybe we pick a time period from our favorite mystery and dress in that style. Like — ooh, ooh, like london in the ’60s. It’ll be mod influenced. Oh, you hate it.

Mariah: No, no.

Tessa: Mm, you think it’s too complicated.

Mariah: [ Stammers ] That’s not exactly what I think.

Tessa: Okay, so — so what are you thinking?

Mariah: I’m thinking that we don’t quite have it yet. But I know that eventually it’s just gonna come to us, and then we are going to have the best wedding ever.

Tessa: [ Sighs ]

Nick: Believe me, I’m as bothered by this as you are.

Sharon: Noah. You look like you just rolled out of bed and in the coffee house.

Noah: Do I?

Nick: Late night?

Sharon: Oh, I can answer that because I heard him roll in just after dawn. I mean, I’m really glad that i realized you had started staying at our house again after that stint at your dad’s or I might have thought we had a prowler.

Noah: That would have been bad. Yeah. Sorry, I promise I was trying my best to be quiet.

Sharon: No, you were! Until you knocked over that lamp.

Noah: Okay, I see where this is going, and to answer your question, no, I was not drinking. I’m just clumsy. I was catching up with some girl I met back in high school, and i lost track of time.

Sharon: Oh, was this a romantic kind of evening?

Nick: Whoa, whoa. You don’t have to talk about that. That is none of our business.

Noah: She’s just a friend, but I got to admit, it was nice staying up all night talking, blowing off some steam.

Nick: And you are a grown man. You can stay out as late as you want.

Sharon: Indeed.

Noah: Okay, good to know. Thank you.

Nick: I do, however, prefer a well-rested employee.

Noah: [ Sighs ] You see, this is the problem with working for your dad and living with your mom.

Nick: I didn’t say it was an issue.

Sharon: And we love having you stay at the house.

Noah: Alright, guys, i promise I’m on top of everything over at new hope, and I will get a good night’s sleep tonight. Okay? Now, please, stop worrying about me so much, really. Come on.

Ashland: Victor, think about what you’re saying. It doesn’t — it’s not rational. It’s nothing more than an outrageous conjecture. Now, first of all, you know how publicly humiliated I was when my illness was splattered all over the press.

Victor: Hmm. You probably leaked that story yourself, didn’t you?

Ashland: And what about harrison? Are you suggesting I purposely walked away from him, that I — that I told him I was dying when I wasn’t? Why would I do that to my own son?

Victor: Turns out he isn’t even your son.

Ashland: You have crossed over a line right there.

[ Chuckles ] I mean, your daughter told me you could be cold and cruel.

Victor: I can be very cold and very cruel. Stop the bull. I know what you’ve done.

Ashland: Okay. What have I done?

Victor: I have evidence that you paid off the doctors at that clinic in peru, where they have this miraculous cure for cancer. You paid them off to falsify your records. Now, I have people in peru right now gathering more information about your shenanigans down there. You’re done.

Ashland: [ Chuckles ] Victor, I have enemies all over the world, and you know something? So do you. Now, whoever’s feeding you these lies clearly has a score to settle with me. Doesn’t this feel like a set-up? Hmm?

Victor: You stop your nonsense. What you’ve done to my company, what you’ve done to my family, what you have done to my daughter, my wife, and my grandchildren. No one uses my family as a pawn in their dreadful game. You got that? Now, you listen to me carefully. Under no circumstances will you let my daughter victoria feel that she was subject and victim of a hoax, a cruel hoax. I’d rather have her heart broken than her spirit broken by the likes of you. And I will tell you what you’re gonna do.

Adam: Well, after we get through the initial necessary streamlining due to the merger, we’re gonna obviously focus on growth and ways to expand the content and…monetize it.

Victoria: That’s called business, adam, and I really don’t have time to sit here and listen to the specifics.

Adam: Okay. Well, let me run another idea by you about the news division. You know, if we were to incorporate all those brands under our roof, we’d have something for every demographic, and I think that —

Victoria: You know, that’s over-ambitious and unfocused. Why don’t you run your ideas by your brilliant new coo, or is sally too busy designing a business suit so that she can look the part?

Adam: Sally is more than capable of designing her own wardrobe. She is busy working on the budget at the moment.

Victoria: Can’t wait to crunch those numbers.

Adam: Victoria, why don’t you just calm down the condescension for a bit, okay? I know that you met with sally and she had some pretty impressive ideas that not even you could shoot down.

Victoria: Oh, really? Is that how she characterized our run-in? I mean, I did point out to her that she is very, very confident in herself. But maybe that’s because apparently she’s sleeping with the boss.

Adam: That’s a low blow, even for you.

Victoria: Oh, but it’s true, right?

Adam: I’m not gonna dignify that with a response. But need I remind you that you share your sheets with your chief advisor.

Victoria: Ashland and I are married. And ashland is much more than an advisor, as you will soon find out.

Adam: What does that mean?

Victoria: Let’s get a few things straight, shall we? You need to give ashland the respect that he has earned.

Adam: Is that so?

Victoria: And I’m really not gonna put up with you running off to daddy every time you get your feelings hurt. I don’t know, maybe you have delusion that you’re gonna run the entire company again, but if that’s what’s going on here, i would get rid of that pipe dream if I were you, because ashland and I, we’re running the show.

Adam: You sound awfully confident in yourself.

Victoria: That’s because i am. What ashland and I have is very special.

Adam: Ah.

Victoria: Yeah.

Adam: Yeah. That’s one word for it. Goal!

Mariah: Now, I do think i want our wedding to be interactive in some way. Like, maybe we can give people, uh…a role or, like, a job or something. Or do you think that people would not be able to relax and enjoy themselves? But, like, I don’t know, maybe it would make them appreciate the day more and… what? What is it?

Tessa: I think you should stop talking.

Mariah: You think that I’m way overthinking this.

Tessa: Only in a way that makes me love you more.

Mariah: [ Chuckles ] We just have to trust that whatever we do, it’s gonna be spectacular.

Tessa: Because it will be.

Mariah: How can you be so sure?

Tessa: I remember all of our false starts, all the times we got in our own way. I take most of the blame for that, by the way.

Mariah: No, you shouldn’T. I was responsible for some of our breakups.

[ Chuckles ]

Tessa: But we always found our way back because I believe that we’re destined to be together, but I also know how hard we fought to be with one another. So I’m just grateful that we got to this point. We are lucky. Beyond lucky. So, as much as I want our wedding day to honor our guests, I really want it to just be about how much we love each other.

Mariah: I agree with you 100%. And I feel like you accidentally just wrote a song without even realizing it. I want to remember everything that you just said forever. And I think you might’ve stumbled onto a title without knowing it. “Beyond lucky.”

Tessa: Hmm.

Sharon: We will try to stop worrying about you, but, as parents, that’s a pretty hard habit to break.

Nick: It’s nearly impossible, but we’re gonna work on it.

Noah: Alright, well, that’s all I can ask for. You know, now that I think about it, though, you two looked pretty intense when I first walked in here. Maybe I should be worried about you.

Nick: [ Sighs ] Um…no, I was just, you know, telling your mother about some of the aggravations that come with being a newman. I’m sure you can understand that.

Noah: It definitely has its pros and cons. Is there I should know about or —

Nick: No, it’s nothing that you need to concern yourself with.

Noah: Alright. Is it cool if I grab a cup of coffee?

Sharon: Sure, go ahead.

Noah: Oh, and don’t worry, I’ll be very, very careful not to spill on myself, so…

Nick: [ Scoffs ]

Sharon: I guess we have been a little fixated on noah’s state of mind lately.

Nick: Yeah. We don’t need to be. He’s in a good place.

Sharon: I’m actually more worried about you right now. I know that you won’t sit back and do nothing if victoria needs your help.

Nick: Am I that predictable?

Sharon: In a good way. I can tell you’re itching to do something.

Nick: Yeah, I got to do something. And I’m gonna do it right now.

Victor: Your cancer will suddenly reappear. You’ll have a relapse, necessitating you to go down to south america, to peru. And you go alone, without victoria. And when I deem the time is right, you will call my daughter and you will tell her that you want a divorce. No long legal wrangling, no court scenes. Nothing. Clean divorce. No explanation, no argument. That’s what you will do. And then you will revert control of newman/locke back to my daughter as part of the settlement. And then, my friend, you will disappear from my daughter’s life forever.

Ashland: [ Sighs ] Why…would I ever…walk away from the woman I love?

Victoria: Why are you looking at me like a smug jerk?

Adam: It’s my resting face. But I am sincerely curious — what is it about your relationship with ashland that works so well? You know, what’s the secret? Please share your wisdom.

Victoria: I would love to. But I have much better things to do with my time, and since it doesn’t seem dad is coming back here any time soon, I have work to do.

Adam: Actually, there was one more thing that I wanted to talk with you about.

Victoria: Adam, I’ve given you enough of my time for the day.

Adam: You do realize that we’re gonna have to communicate on a regular basis in our current positions, right?

Victoria: Well, we’ll see about that. I have given you a fair amount of autonomy at newman media, at least for now. So let’s see what you can do, you know? Show me what you got, run with it. Put those nay-sayers to rest. And let’s see if, left to your own devices, you’ll succeed, or maybe you’re gonna fail.

Adam: Well, it’s the former, and I am more than happy to prove it to you.

[ Cellphone rings ] Hold on. It’s sally. She can wait.

Victoria: No, please, don’t blow off your invaluable second-in-command on my behalf. Maybe you can share the rest of your brilliant ideas with her.

Adam: But we’re not done here, victoria.

Victoria: Yes, we are. Your dry skin story changes

Rey: Hey. Sorry, I had to run to the station. What’d I miss?

Nick: Oh, just my parents freaking out ’cause I got home late last night. Apparently, they are not used to me having a social life anymore.

Mariah: Alright, everyone, gather around, because we have an announcement.

Sharon: They have an

announcement we’re all here.

Rey: Especially your mom.

Sharon: Oh.

Mariah: Okay, so we have thought about this long and hard. We’ve come at it from every angle.

Tessa: Explored every option and then some.

Mariah: And we really appreciate your guys’ suggestions because they helped a lot, and we realized the specific ways that we love each other and how we want to express that.

Tessa: So this is an announcement that an announcement about our wedding is impending.

Rey: Oh, so this is like the save-the-date thing that comes before the actual invitation, expect it’s about your wedding theme, right?

Mariah: Well, sounds less impressive when you put it like that, but sure.

Sharon: Can I start acting like I’m the mother of the bride now?

Mariah: Yes, yes, you can. And we need your input and expertise.

Rey: Well, I pitch in in whatever way I can. You know, maybe you need some security in case one of tessa’s fans decides to crash the wedding.

[ Laughter ]

Noah: And if you need any artwork or design, I got it covered.

Mariah: Thank you guys so much for your love and for your support.

Tessa: It means the world to us.

Sharon: We’re just so happy for you.

Noah: We all want this to be perfect. A day you’ll never forget.

Tessa: [ Chuckles ]

Adam: I wasn’t expecting to see you back here today.

Nick: I changed my mind about wanting to be involved. What’s going down with ashland and victoria?

Adam: Honestly, I don’t have much to share. Dad had me keep victoria busy while he confronted locke. So I did my best, but she got fed up with me pretty quick, threw a bunch of insults my way. It was pretty hard to bite my tongue when it would’ve been easy to throw her husband’s lies in her face.

Nick: But you didn’t do that. You respected dad’s wishes.

Adam: I restrained myself.

Nick: Where are dad and victoria now?

Adam: I’m not sure. But I think a collision course is inevitable. In fact, the fireworks you mentioned might be detonating right now.

Victor: Don’t insult my intelligence, okay? There’s no genuine love in this relationship. Certainly not on your part. You’ve used my daughter as a pawn, as a means to an end.

Ashland: You’re wrong.

Victor: Really?

Ashland: I love victoria more than I have ever loved anyone in my entire life. And she loves me. Now, if I were to fly to peru, if I were to file for divorce out of nowhere, what do you think she would do? Victor, what do you think the powerful, strong-willed daughter you raised would do? You think she would just sit back and accept it? That’s not going to happen.

Victoria: Ashland?

[ Knock on door ] Are you in there?

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Young & The Restless Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne

Nikki: How reliable do you think this doctor’s word is? That ashland would pay the man to alter his medical records? It just seems so far-fetched.

Victor: Sweetheart, michael baldwin was a prosecutor, one of the sharpest legal minds around. He found the testimony credible.

Nikki: Yeah, but, I mean, who knows? This guy doesn’t even work there anymore probably. He could just be a disgruntled employee looking for money or attention or both.

Victor: I have considered all of that, okay? Let me just say that michael is continuing to investigate.

Nikki: I still don’t understand why ashland would lie about his recovery. To what end?

Victoria: Hi.

Nikki: Ohh, victoria. I was just thinking about you.

Victoria: Oh. What’s on your mind?

Nikki: Just wondered how you were doing, how ashland is feeling.

Victoria: We’re both doing well. Thank you.

Nikki: Join me for a cup of tea?

Victoria: Oh, I — I wish i could, but I have to get back to the office.

Nikki: Oh. Is everything alright?

Victoria: Everything is great, mother.

Ashland: Just — just hold on for a second. So — so, it’s confirmed? The american digging up dirt in peru is michael baldwin? Well, that’s just fantastic. Okay. Uh, find him. I want to know everything he’s doing. I want to know what he’s looking for. And listen to me now. Find that doctor right now. Yeah.

[ Sighs heavily ]

Billy: What’s going on, jack? You text me to come over here ’cause you need to talk.

Jack: I wanted to bring the family up to speed on what’s happened and what’s about to happen.

Billy: Okay. Well, you mentioned family, but why is phyllis here?

Phyllis: Oh, because I’m supporting jack ’cause he’s my friend.

Jack: I’m sorry ashley can’t be here. I will fill her in, as well as kyle, as soon as I have some more answers.

Billy: Answers on what?

Jack: About my son — keemo.

Victor: Son.

Adam: Dad. I, uh — I was actually gonna call you. I didn’t get a lot of sleep last night after our conversation. Couldn’t stop thinking about what you, uh, hinted at.

Victor: Yeah. Neither can I.

Adam: What is this issue brewing with victoria and ashland? I mean, you asked if you could count on me, and I said that you could, but I cannot help if you’re not gonna let me in on what’s going on. Nick. What are you doing here?

Nick: I have no idea.

Victor: I asked your brother to come here, okay?

Nick: I don’t know if I’d go with “asked.” It was more like commanded. What’s going on?

Victor: My boys, I have some news for you that will change everything.

I may have moderate to

severe rheumatoid arthritis.

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Billy: Is keemo okay?

Jack: No, I’m afraid not. I have a received a series of mysterious, anonymous text messages encouraging me to go to an address in los angeles. Phyllis helped me try to get to the bottom of it. We found that the owner of the property was someone named hao nguyen. That is keemo’s grandfather’s name. With a little more work, we learned that keemo had taken his name. With still more digging, we learned that three weeks ago, my son passed away.

Billy: [ Sighs ] I’m so sorry. I… was he ill?

Jack: I-I don’t know any of the details. I’m still in a bit of shock.

Billy: Well, when was the last time you talked to him?

Jack: I haven’t seen or heard from him in years.

Billy: Years? Every time I asked you about him, you said that you were in contact with him.

Jack: I know what I led you to believe. I wasn’t completely honest about that. Keemo cut me out of his life soon after his mother died. He felt betrayed that I didn’t tell him how sick she was, and he never forgave me for it.

Billy: But he made his peace before he left town, did he not?

Jack: He did. No sooner was he out of town than that resentment grew and he turned his back on me. And I had trouble accepting that, and I kept thinking that he’d change his mind, he’d come back to me, and so I convinced people that things were strong and good between us.

Billy: I’m so sorry. I didn’t know. And given this — the situation, I’m sure this is, uh, even more shocking.

Jack: Yeah, it’s been quite a lot. Anyway, I am leaving for los angeles later today.

Billy: For the funeral? Well, just give me a couple minutes and I can pack my bags and I can —

Jack: I don’t know that there’s going to be any kind of funeral service. I don’t know what I’m walking into. All I know is what I have from these texts, the address, and that’s where I’m gonna start — at keemo’s former home. This may just turn out to be a trip to make decisions about keemo’s estate, however big or small.

Billy: Of course.

Jack: But for his sake, I’ve got to follow this wherever it may lead.

Victor: Boys, something very serious has come up, something that relates to newman empire and to the entire family.

Nick: Alright, what is this about? And if it involves the family or the business, victoria should be here.

Adam: Well, probably because it is about victoria and ashland. Dad asked me to keep an eye on him.

Victor: Exactly right. We need to find a way to protect not only our family, but especially victoria.

Nick: Protect her from what? If it’s such a big deal, why is this the first time I’m hearing about it?

Victor: Because I’m waiting for confirmation from michael baldwin, who is in peru digging for more information.

Nick: Peru? Is that where ashland went for his miracle cure?

Victor: Yes.

Adam: What, uh, did you find out?

Victor: It puts into question everything we have ever thought about ashland locke and his motives.

Nick: I don’t want to hear any more about this. If michael baldwin is involved, he’s probably out just digging up dirt.

Victor: Trust me, son. You want to hear this.

Nick: No, the last time i trusted you, dad, and i investigated ashland, it hurt my relationship with victoria, and it’s never been the same since. And I don’t want to risk making it worse by going down that path again.

[ Door opens ]

Victoria: Oh, hello there.

Ashland: Hello.

Victoria: You were up and out so early this morning. I thought you could use some coffee.

Ashland: Well, thank you very much, but I think we might need something a little stronger to celebrate.

Victoria: What are we celebrating?

Victor: Business affairs has drafted the new contract that, uh, changes my title to — let’s see — ah, yes, co-ceo of newman/locke.

Victoria: Already?

Ashland: [ Chuckles ]

Victoria: Wow. The lawyers usually take forever with all of the legalese and fine print.

Ashland: Well, I asked them to put a rush on it.

Victoria: Really? Why did you do that?

Ashland: Well, because, uh, more — more so now than ever, I’ve come to realize that every second of life matters, that we have to take advantage of every precious moment we have and not waste any time. And that’s why I’m also looking forward to starting this new phase of our partnership.

Victoria: You know this contract — it doesn’t really change anything between us.

Ashland: Mm.

Victoria: We’re already equal partners in every way. And, you know, we can also take our time dotting all the I’s and crossing all the t’S. Don’t you think?

Ashland: Well, I’ve already been here for a couple of hours. You know, some of us come in here early. And I’ve already looked over the contract. It is sound. These guys in business affairs — they know their stuff. It is an excellent contract. I’m ready to sign right now. Unless, of course, you’ve changed your mind. I’m amber, I’ve lost 128 pounds with golo,

Victoria: What would make you think that I’ve changed my mind? You’ve made quite a compelling case.

Ashland: Well, I think so, but you were hesitant at first, and I just want you to feel comfortable. Look, the last thing I want is for you to feel like you’re being pressured into something you don’t want to do. If you’re having second thoughts about this, now is the time to say it. But, victoria, our relationship is the most important thing in the world to me. I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize that. So, if you want to take a little more time on this, that’s fine. If you want to leave things exactly how they are, that’s fine. I would understand that.

Victoria: I appreciate that. But the original agreement was drawn up because, at the time, we were all very worried about your health. And now look at you. You’re in remission. And that changes everything. And, you know, you should be more than just my advisor. You should be my equal in business, just like you are in our marriage. Right? So, it’s time that we take the next step and we make you co-ceo.

Adam: Nick, aren’t you the least bit curious?

Nick: I learned my lesson. Any curiosity about ashland gets you burned. And I’m surprised you want to investigate him again, dad. I mean, you were his biggest champion and defender. I mean, what turned?

Victor: Let me be up front with both of you. I never really trusted that man from the moment he came into our lives, okay? So kindly just listen to what i have to say, and then you can make your decision, alright?

Nick: I made my decision about what I think about ashland a long time ago, and you know that. If you recall, I was left out of any of the conversations that had to do with dealing with this man’s lies in italy. You didn’t want to hear what i had to say. Why am I being involved now?

Victor: There are new developments. I’ve learned things about ashland locke that will not only affect our business, the newman empire, but our entire family, including you. I’ve learned things about him that will shock you. And there are things that are more repulsive than anything we’ve ever learned about him.

Billy: I’m sorry that you, uh — you felt the need to have to cover up what was really going on. I don’t like the fact that you had to paint this rosy, “everything’s fine” picture for us.

Jack: I didn’t just paint it for you. I painted it for me. It was self-defense, a wall i built to keep the pain away.

Billy: Well, nothing you just said changes anything for me, okay? And if you let me, I’d like to come to L.A. To be there for you.

Jack: No, no, no, I meant what I said. I don’t — I don’t need you. I don’t even know what I’m walking into.

Billy: Well, that’s even more reason why I should be there for you. Jack, this — this kind of pain, this kind of grief — I know it, okay? It shuts your brain down. You end up not being able to think clearly. So let me be there for you to support you, please. Will you let me? Why do dermatologists worldwide recommend la roche-posay?

Jack: I’m sorry. I really feel I need to do this alone.

Traci: Jack, I agree with billy. Now is the time to rely on your family. You’ve kept us at arm’s length way too long. You’ve been living with all of this alone. I appreciate that you’ve told us what’s happening, but I’m asking you, please take the next step. Let us all the way in. You can’t go on doing this. That’s why I want to go to los angeles with you.

Billy: She’s right. We should both go.

Phyllis: Well, we should all go. All of us. Jack, you’ve… I mean, you’ve always been there for us. Let us be there for you.

Traci: Jack, I know how hard this is gonna be to face. We know what it’s like to lose a child, and I know this, too — no matter how well you think you’re handling all of this, the pain is going to be waiting to resurface cruelly, when you least expect it. That’s why I want to be there by your side through this.

Jack: I appreciate the offer. I really do. But that is the best reason for you and billy not to be any part of this. I don’t want my losses to compound yours.

Billy: No, you don’t need to worry about us. We can handle it, okay? We need to be there for you. In fact, I don’t want you going anywhere alone.

Jack: Fine. I won’t go there alone. Phyllis has been instrumental in getting me through the first part of this puzzle. If you’re able to get away, I’d like you to go with me.

Billy: Jack, I understand phyllis has been helpful, but, uh, she’s not family.

Jack: I appreciate what you’re saying. This is what I need to do. This is what is best for me. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go get packed.

Phyllis: If you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go get packed. I mean, I know you’re both upset because jack chose me to go to los angeles with him, but I want you to know that I have his best interests at heart.

Traci: Phyllis, I know how much you care about him, but i also know that your relationship has been on tenuous ground for months now. So I’m asking you — please, can you put that aside?

Phyllis: Traci, traci, traci —

Traci: No, no, jack is really fragile right now.

Phyllis: I understand he’s fragile. I get it. He’s on edge. I understand. I care about him, too. Listen, I think getting to the bottom of this mystery will help him with his loss. I will take care of him. I promise you.

Traci: [ Sighs ]

Nikki: Excuse me.

Ashland: Oh!

Nikki: Did I hear you correctly? You’re changing your titles to co-ceo?

Victoria: Yes, mom. As a matter of fact, we are.

Nikki: Well, I thought ashland was very happy serving as an advisor.

Victoria: Well, that was before his recovery.

Ashland: Yeah, I’m feeling much better now, more like my old self. You know, I’m really wanting to get in there, take a little more responsibility, maybe have a stronger hand in running things around here.

Nikki: Oh, well, I would say you already have a strong hand at newman/locke. I’ve seen the deference you’re treated with. They clear the halls when they see you coming down.

Ashland: [ Chuckles ] That’s only because I’m standing next to, you know, her. No, look, what I need is for people — the employees here — to respect me in the same way they respect victoria, at an equal level.

Nikki: Uh-huh. Um, do you think that’s the right way to go about it?

Victoria: Yes, mom, it is the right thing to do, given the new circumstances. And please don’t think it will in any way change your role here.

Nikki: I’m not worried about that at all. I mean, I don’t need a contract or a title to feel secure about my position here. I’m just surprised because victor never said anything to me about this.

Victoria: Well, that’s because we didn’t feel like it was necessary to tell him.

[ Door closes ]

Victor: So, michael baldwin has discovered that ashland locke told us a whole story about that clinic in peru that supposedly had a life-saving therapy for his cancer. He didn’t go there for that reason. He has been funneling money to that place for years through a shell company.

Adam: Why would he do that?

Victor: He said he had to do that because of some international tax law. I thought that was bogus. So I told michael baldwin to go down there and investigate the situation.

Adam: Well, something definitely sounds shady.

Victor: Well, michael baldwin talked to a physician who worked at that clinic. And he had that physician talk on camera and testify to the fact that ashland locke went down there to have them falsify his medical records.

Nick: Why would he lie about his recovery?

Adam: Yeah, I mean, why do something cruel like that and let victoria believe they have more time than they did, give her some false sense of hope?

Nick: Who does that? And what does it mean? Is ashland still dying?

Victor: Guys, you’re both missing the point. The point is, ashland locke was never sick at all. Goal!

“The young and the restless”

will continue. Lactaid is 100% real milk, just without the lactose.

[ Glass thuds ]

Nick: Are you sure ashland is faking his illness?

Adam: Yeah. How can that be?

Nick: I mean, you got any proof? Because if this is all you’ve got, some disgruntled employee, it’s not enough to destroy victoria’s life.

Victor: Michael baldwin ran into another physician who used to work at at that clinic who corroborated everything the other doctor had told him. Ashland locke never went there for any treatment. He was never ill.

Nick: I don’t get how this is possible. Didn’t victoria go with ashland to new york after he received his diagnosis, where he was then given confirmation that he is terminally ill?

Victor: I believe so.

Adam: Yeah, and he was undergoing chemo here in genoa city with a doctor.

Nick: And this is long before he received any treatments in peru.

Victor: That is how nefarious and deep ashland locke’s deception is.

Adam: Okay, so, for this to be true, his doctor in new york would have to be in on it, or he would have to pay money for false records to get a doctor to say he was sick when he was perfectly healthy. So, what about the doctor here?

Nick: So he was lying about going through chemo.

Victor: If you remember, he never wanted anything to accompany him to his appointments.

Adam: But what about nate? He was also consulted. I mean, out of nowhere, ashland asked him to be his best man at the wedding. So, was he in on the scam, too?

Victor: I don’t think he has anything to do with it.

Nick: So, if what you’re saying is true and he was lying this whole time about being sick, he is now pretending to be miraculously cured.

Victor: That’s right.

Adam: So, what are you going to do now?

Victor: My boys, I have enough evidence to deal with that man. And I will deal with him.

Nikki: Victoria, I really think that it’s a mistake for you to do something like this without your father’s input. Victor needs to know.

Victoria: It’s not dad’s decision to make. It’s mine and mine alone.

Nikki: Yeah. Well, a plan of your own will cease to exist once you sign that agreement.

Victoria: I realize that.

Nikki: I mean, you have done such an amazing job controlling the company that your father built from nothing. Victor has always been your strongest advisor. I mean, the least you can do is let him know what you’re planning. You owe him that much.

Victoria: I guess you’re right. I think we should let my father know before it’s a done deal.

Nikki: Oh, well… ashland, I hope that you’re not offended. I mean, of course I am thrilled to learn that you are doing so well. And we want you to be around for a good long time. You make my daughter so happy. That makes me happy.

Ashland: I am not offended.

[ Chuckles ] I would not want to make a change like this that’s so important without the blessing of all the newmans.

Traci: [ Sighs ] I still cannot believe jack kept so much pain private for so long.

Billy: I know. And we all just trusted him and believed him when he said that he and keemo were in touch and that, you know, they had made peace.

Traci: And I hate that he felt like he had to maintain this lie. He couldn’t trust us with the truth? It must have been devastating to live with that secret.

Billy: Every time I asked him about keemo, his response was very quick. Now that I think about it, it was almost too quick. Like, I didn’t even have a second to ask him how his son was doing. He’d almost just kind of moved on already.

Traci: And I feel terrible about it. I mean, why didn’t I notice this and ask questions? Maybe I could have coaxed the truth out of him. For god’s sake, I’m a writer. I’m obsessed with language and the use of words. Why didn’t I notice that he was being purposefully vague?

Billy: I hear you. I get it. Honestly, traci, we can’t do anything about that now.

Traci: You’re right.

Billy: We just be here for him.

Traci: Because we both know the hell that’s headed this way, and when it hits, it is going to hit hard.

Billy: What’s going on here? I mean, somebody sending him anonymous text messages? Do you know anything about this? All he said was that they were mysterious.

Traci: And that’s what I know about them — very mysterious. Someone is sending them, and they are not willing to identify themselves. They’re telling jack to go to los angeles, where he is going to find a world he never knew existed, and he’ll be sorry if he doesn’T.

Billy: I don’t like it. Somebody’s hiding something, and jack is vulnerable right now. It’s not good.

Traci: I agree. And I raised all of these concerns with him. But phyllis has been pushing him from the very beginning to pursue this. She thinks it would be best for him to focus on finding out what really happened with keemo.

Billy: Well, I guess I’m not the only person that thinks taking phyllis is a bad idea, for no other reason than it’s phyllis. Trouble is going to follow her. We know that.

Traci: I just don’t know if there’s anything that we can do to change his mind at this point.

Billy: You’re probably right.

Traci: I feel so helpless. Ugh. But I can do something. You know what? Sustenance. The last thing he’s gonna think about is getting something to eat, so I’m gonna run out and get some food for the trip, okay?

Billy: I can stay. I don’t think he should be alone right now.

Traci: Thank you, honey. I’ll be back shortly.

Billy: Okay, I’ll see you in a bit.

[ Door closes ]

Jack: Wow, it seems the room has cleared out.

Billy: Yeah, it has, and now it’s just the two of us. Brother to brother, I got to ask you — are you sure about this? When I get a migraine,

Jack: I assure you I can handle this trip to L.A.

Billy: Well, I hope you’re right, jack, because, you know, you said it yourself — you’re not sure what you’re walking into.

Jack: Billy, I have no choice. There’s too much I don’t know about my son — where he lived, how he lived, how he survived these last several years. What did he do? How did he die? There’s too much I missed that I don’t know. I need some closure.

Billy: Jack, unfortunately, i don’t think closure comes when you’re talking about the death of a child. That’s not the kind of pain you put on a shelf and just lock away. Look, I understand you needing to find answers. And a lot of times, the imagination can be worse than the truth.

Jack: Thank you for understanding that.

Billy: I hope you find your answers. And if you need anything, you call me and I’m out on the next flight.

Jack: I know that. I can always count on you.

Billy: And I would be remiss if I didn’t say this, so I’m going to. You be careful, and you make sure that phyllis has your best interests at heart, not her own.

Jack: Phyllis is my close friend. I trust her implicitly. She has proven time and again that she has my back. That is why I am taking her with me.

Billy: [ Sighs ]

Phyllis: Ah, traci, please. I’m going with jack. Please don’t try to talk me out of this, okay?

Traci: Phyllis, phyllis, stop. That’s not what I’m here for. Listen, unlike billy, I just wanted to tell you I’m very grateful that you’ve decided to go with jack on this trip.

Phyllis: Well, I’m surprised to hear you say that.

Traci: Why? I understand why jack would prefer to take you over billy and me.

Traci: Yes, yes, we can relate to losing a child. But I can see that jack is on the edge.

Phyllis: Yeah, he’s very torn.

Traci: And I’m also afraid that this wall that he’s built around his feelings with keemo for all of these years — at any moment, it could just come crumbling down. And I think he senses it, and i think he’s terrified. And at some level, I think he also knows that if this situation were to re-ignite our grief over the loss of our own children, he wouldn’t be able to handle it. And he needs his reserves for what he’s going to face.

Phyllis: Exactly. I think you’re right.

Traci: And as much as I want to be there for jack, I think it’s better that he doesn’t have to worry about my feelings, that he can focus on his own.

Phyllis: That’s very nice of you. Jack is very lucky to have such a considerate sister.

Traci: Well, I’m counting on you, phyllis, to give him what he needs.

Phyllis: [ Scoffs ] I’ll do that.

Traci: Phyllis, I know that there is a mystery to be solved here. And jack could not have picked a better partner to help him get to the bottom of whatever this is. But first and foremost, please, please take care of my brother. Protect his big heart.

Adam: I still can’t get my head around why ashland would go to such extreme. I mean, was this merely a ploy to win over victoria out of sympathy? What, does he not trust his abilities to win her over on his own?

Victor: Far more sinister than that. It’s a long con with a very bad end game. And I wonder how long he’s been planning this.

Nick: This goes beyond any of past crimes.

Victor: You know what he was after? Power and control over two huge business empires — newman enterprises and his own.

Adam: Why would he need to resort to faking cancer for that? The guy’s almost as good at making deals as you are.

Victor: Because it made people feel empathetic. They felt sorry for him. And everyone fell for it, including victoria. And she fell deeply. But so did most of us. Except you, son. And I had my doubts about the son of a bitch from the beginning.

Nick: Well, I wish I was wrong about it, but I knew that he was just a liar and a criminal. And he took advantage of victoria’s love for his own greed and financial gain. I’m gonna kill him. Truth is… I’ve never really known how to care for my hardwood floors.

Traci: I can’t imagine for a moment you remembered to eat something, so I got you some sandwiches and fruit and snacks for the trip for you and phyllis, and you’ve got to keep your strength up. Phyllis, make sure he follows instructions.

Jack: Thank you for looking out for me. You always know what’s best.

Traci: I just wish I could do more. But you’re in good hands, and you need to keep in touch with us. Let us know what you find.

Jack: Okay. A lot’s gonna be going on. I might not be great at telephone calls and…

Phyllis: I’ll keep you updated.

Jack: Well, I guess we should go.

Billy: You be careful. And you promise me you’ll stay on guard.

Jack: I promise. You ready?

Phyllis: Yeah. The question is, are you?

Jack: Well, I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. I want to know what’s on the other end of these texts. And if I don’t get closure, at least I want to find out more about the man my son became. Love you.

Traci: Love you.

Nikki: Ashland, I think it’s very wise of you to want victor’s blessing. After all, he has been your biggest defender through all the crises we have had to face. Why would this be any different?

Ashland: Uh, because this is not a crisis? This is more of a celebration of my recovery. Think of it as a crisis averted.

Nikki: Well, that’s, uh, one way to look at it.

Ashland: Yeah. Uh, if you two will excuse me, I, uh — I have some things i need to tend to.

[ Clears throat ]

[ Door closes ]

Victoria: Mom…are you okay? You seem like you’re troubled.

Nikki: No. Uh, I-I’m a little tired, that’s all. Other than that, I’m fine.

Victoria: Okay, good. I’m glad to hear it. So, if there is nothing wrong, then do you want to tell me what’s on your mind?

Nikki: Victoria, you really need to speak to your father about this title change. He needs to know.

Victoria: Okay. I — I understand. I get it. I’ll go talk to dad.

Nikki: Good. And if for some reason, that doesn’t happen… I will certainly tell him.

[ Cellphone ringing ]

Ashland: Uh, dr. Reilly? Yeah. No, I have not given anyone permission to look at my medical records, nor will I. Thank you.

[ Sighs heavily ]

Victor: Okay, I understand your anger, my boy. I feel the same, okay? This man has managed to infiltrate our family and is threatening to destroy the empire that I built for decades. No one does that.

Nick: Forget the empire. What are we gonna do about the damage to victoria?

Victor: Don’t forget the empire, son. Part and parcel of the same thing. In regards to victoria, we have to tread very carefully. This news will be devastating to her.

Adam: So, what do you suggest do? I don’t see how we do this without upsetting her.

Victor: Son, I’ll handle him my way.

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