4886 Friday, September 1, 2006
Taylor took Hector upstairs to what appeared to be Thomas' old room. (But the room was still completely furnished and outfitted with CD's and a computer. Does Thomas not ever spend the night at Chez Ridge any more? Wouldn't you put Hector in a guest room? Oh, stop being so practical!) Taylor tried to get Hector oriented to his new surroundings but had to go back downstairs to answer the doorbell. It was Stephanie. She stopped by because Thorne had told her he tried to call and got disconnected. They were worried. Taylor assured her friend everything was fine. While there, Stephanie asked about Taylor's intentions toward Thorne. She had heard about "the kiss." Taylor admitted the kiss had been unexpected but she only wanted to be Thorne's support. She had no designs on him. Stephanie was glad to hear that. But her mood quickly changed when she spotted Hector's white cane and learned Taylor had invited him to stay as Chez Ridge indefinitely. Stephanie stomped upstairs with Taylor hot on her heels. La Forrester made it clear she did not approve of Hector imposing on Taylor's generosity. It was clear to her he was manipulating the situation in order to get closer to her. Hector countered that Stephanie wanted to make sure no one other than Thorne held Taylor's attention. Taylor tried to referee the argument but was called away when the doorbell rang again. Alone with Hector, Stephanie gave us...
The Quote of the Day: "Don't even try to get on the same racetrack with me. You don't have the horsepower or the stamina." (What on earth is she talking about? Do you think Stephanie got Seabiscuit in the mail from Netflix last night?)
Over at Brooke's Old Place, Brooke was livid over Ridge and Donna's antics on the Rich Ginger Show. Nick tried to understand. The stunt would generate great publicity. Her stress over the situation was the exact reason he wanted her far away from Forrester Creations and the Forrester family. Brooke first said she was afraid Ridge was using her sister. Then she stated she was afraid the juvenile display would hurt the company. Nick called Brooke on her confusion. What was she really so upset about? Brooke ignored the question. Against Nick's pleas to stay home Brooke took off to confront Ridge.
Our chiseled designer and Donna went to the Forrester Mansion to celebrate their talk show success with some champagne. Donna quizzed Ridge if his actions and statements on air had been a gimmick or had he been telling the truth. Ridge admitted the roar of crowd and smell of the grease paint always got him going. But he had been honest when he said she had turned his life around. He still had feelings for Brooke. But she had made it clear she was moving on without him. He had to do the same thing. He pulled Donna in for a kiss...just as Brooke slammed the door! (Brooke just walks in to other people's houses with out a knock? Without a ring of the doorbell? What would Miss Manners say?) Brooke told the couple she was shocked and disappointed by their appalling act on television. When Donna tried to explain, Brooke dismissed her to the terrace.
Alone with Ridge, Brooke wondered if he was intentionally trying to hurt her. His public display of affection for her sister was mean spirited. Ridge said he had not intended to hurt Brooke. But he had to move on with his life. He would prefer to build a life with her, but she had rejected him and married Nick. Brooke exploded. Ridge had first rejected her. She thought they had the perfect life. But Taylor came back from the dead and he had chosen her. He had left Brooke just as her father had. Nick would never desert her like that. Ridge said they could have it all again. Brooke just had to say the word and he'd be in her life for good. With a passionate kiss, Ridge showed Brooke the depth of his devotion.
Nick called Catherine to watch the kids while he went to the Shady Marlin to get drunk on beer and cheap whiskey. (I'll alert the Father of the Year Award committee to take your name off the nomination list, Nick.) Bridget came upon the scene. She explained she had seen Ridge and "Aunt" Donna tongue wrestling on TV as her shift ended at the hospital. As she was driving by she saw the lights on the Shady Marlin and hoped to find Brooke and Nick together. (Can you say contrived coincidence? And sure, technically Donna is Bridget's aunt but through the magic of aging children on soap operas, they are about the same age. Would Bridget really call her "Aunt" Donna?) But I digress. Nick called Donna's cell phone to get her take on the situation. Donna answered and explained Storm Trooper Brooke's entrance. Nick wanted more information. Donna peaked inside the living room and saw Ridge and Brooke's hot kiss. When Nick got wind of that he lost it.
Sweet directory assistance! How would Nick know Donna's phone number? Why would he ever have reason to call her?
S4885 Thursday, August 31, 2006
At the television studio, talk show host Rich Ginger interviewed Donna on her glamorous life as the new spokesmodel for the Brooke's Bedroom line of lingerie. Donna wowed the crowd with her witty answers and dazzling beauty. But backstage Felicia was concerned about Ridge's plan. She knew he had some trick up his sleeve. Ridge told his sister to quit worrying so much. Back on the set, Rich wanted to know if there was any truth to the rumors of a romance between her and Ridge. A coy Donna responded she enjoyed working with Ridge but she could not answer for him. Rich decided it would be perfect to call Ridge on stage to speak up. Ridge, grinning like a hyena, pranced on the set and gave Donna a big hug. Rich was delighted with the development. Donna was surprised. Ridge announced he indeed had been swept off his feet by the lovely new model. In fact, she had given him a reason to go back to the office and to move on with his life. He then pulled Donna into a tight embrace and planted a steamy, wet kiss on her lips. The crowd went wild as Donna passionately responded.
You can well imagine the reaction at Brooke's Old Place. Nick found Brooke in the bedroom watching The Rich Ginger Show. He grabbed the remote and turned off the television. He had a model of a Marone tanker painted green just like she had suggested. He had instructed three actual tankers to be changed to match. Brooke hardly noticed the ship and grabbed the remote back to turn on the boob tube. She explained she had to watch Donna's appearance on the talk show. Nick wondered why Brooke had not gone to the studio. Brooke replied Ridge was there and they had argued about what Donna should wear on camera. When Ridge appeared on the screen, Brooke flipped her wig. This was not acceptable at all. This was not the plan. Nick grew suspicious of Brooke's true feelings. He told her it would be great publicity for the line. She usually loved free publicity. They both watched with shock and awe as Ridge kissed Donna on live television. Brooke screamed she would not let this happen. Nick looked like a beaten dog who realized the bone was truly plastic.
At Forrester Creations, Stephanie found Thorne in the CEO's office. He told his mother he had stopped by Taylor's house and discussed his decision to stop looking for Darla's killer. Stephanie thought that was a good idea and wondered what Taylor's opinion had been. Thorne replied Taylor had been completely supportive. But something else had happened. He had kissed Taylor. It had been an impulse and he feared it had been a mistake. He didn't want to betray Darla. Stephanie told her son there was nothing wrong with a simple kiss. Both he and Taylor had lived through some difficult times and it was natural for them to reach out to each other for comfort. Darla would want him to be happy. Stephanie simply warned her son to take his time.
Meanwhile, Taylor helped a sunglass-wearing, white-cane wielding Hector into Chez Ridge. (Yeah, sure. About 24 hours after being blinded and injured in a horrific fire, Hector has been released form the hospital with nothing more than a hearty handshake and a white cane. Puh-leeze.) Hector told Taylor he had spoken with both Caitlin and Jimmy. Caitlin wanted her father to live with her in New York but Hector thought that would be too difficult for him. (FINALLY! Some mention that Hector has a daughter and a son who might have some interest in his life.) Hector also noted his fire fighting buddies had invited him to live with them at the fire station. He acknowledged they were like family to him and would certainly be able to take care of him. But he didn't think he could endure it when they were called away to fight a fire. He would feel helpless and useless. Taylor insisted Hector stay with her and Phoebe for the time being. It would be an adjustment for him to re-enter life as a blind person. She would help him out. Taylor went to the car to get Hector's suitcase. While she was outside, the phone rang. Although he's been blind for less than a day, Hector managed to fine the cordless phone and locate the button to turn it on. (WHAT?!? I can see just fine and I can't find the "ON" button on my own phone, let alone someone else's.) On the other end of the line, Thorne said "Hello? Taylor?" As easily as he had turned the phone on, Hector turned it off. Taylor returned and took Hector to his new room. The camera seemed to focus on the white cane he left behind next to the couch. I invented...
The Quote of the Day: "Darn! I'm out of aerosol cheese product again!"
4884 Wednesday, August 30, 2006
It seemed to be the next evening as Phoebe and Taylor enjoyed some mother/daughter time together. Phoebe stated it was nice to have things back to normal. Even though she had been a little scared of Stephanie, her advice had made sense. Taylor still seemed concerned but agreed it was good for her daughter to resume a regular life. Taylor told Phoebe about Hector's blindness. Although Phoebe was sympathetic to the fireman's troubles, she was glad he would not be bullying them any longer. Thorne stopped by for a visit and asked Taylor for a favor. He planned to drop the investigation into who killed Darla. He wanted Taylor to go with him to the cemetery so he could "discuss" it with his dead wife. When the couple returned, Thorne credited Taylor with helping him deal with his loss. Because of her, he could accept the fact he'd never know who had hit Darla. But that didn't stop him from hoping that person never had a moment's peace for the rest of their life. Oh, and he hoped they burned in hell as well. Thanking Taylor again for her help, Thorne leaned in for a full kiss on the lips. He startled even himself. He apologized and made a quick retreat.
Meanwhile, Stephanie stopped in to see Hector at the hospital. She had done some research and found the best optical clinic in the country. She offered to send him there. Hector thanked La Forrester but realized she had to have some ulterior motive. He questioned where the fabulous clinic might be. "Minnesota," Stephanie replied. Although blind, Hector saw things very clearly. Stephanie was trying to throw Taylor and Thorne together. With Hector away in Minnesota, there would be no interference. Stephanie gently pointed out Taylor did not have any feelings for Hector - and she never would. Hector's doctor came in and removed the two little gauze patches from the patient's eye. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Hector could not see a thing. After the doctor left, Stephanie urged Hector to reconsider her offer. Hector flatly refused.
Over at Forrester Creations, Brooke reviewed the sketches of a new piece of lingerie Donna was going to wear for her appearance on a talk show that evening. Although she disapproved of the nightie AND Ridge's hand on Donna's hip, she gave in. Donna left to prepare for the show. Brooke let Ridge have it. He was obviously trying to hurt her. Ridge replied he was only doing his job. He added...
The Quote of the Day: "You told me to move on with my life. What did you have in mind? Taking up polo?" (You throw it in her face, Ridge. You knock her out!)
Brooke knew she was being unfair. But seeing Ridge with her sister really got her goat. They could certainly do whatever they wanted. No one seemed to listen to her anyway. Ridge liked seeing Brooke's tough side again. He once more proclaimed his undying devotion to her. But if she was sure she was going to stay married to Nick, Ridge vowed to indeed move on with his life. Brooke walked out of the room. She went home and turned on the Rich Ginger Show.
On the set of the Rich Ginger Show, Felicia spoke with the host. She wanted to make sure he did not ask Donna any personal questions. Rich (actually Mr. Alan Thicke of Growing Pains fame) laughed at the notion. Personal probing was his bread and butter. Ridge pulled Rich aside and gave him some secret instructions. Felicia worried. She knew her brother was up to no good by the look in his eye. The cameras rolled and Donna took the stage. Felicia asked Ridge what he had cooking. She feared he was playing Donna against Brooke. Ridge responded he was simply taking control of his life. Tonight he would find out with which sister he'd be moving on.
What does Ridge have planned? Why did Thorne kiss Taylor? Can Stephanie convince Hector to head to the great white north? Why is Alan Thicke hosting a local Los Angeles talk show? Turn in tomorrow. Same Bold time. Same Beautiful Channel.
4883 Tuesday, August 29, 2006
At the hospital, Hector explained the explosion caused by the flammable liquids in his living room had inflicted extreme burns to his face which, in turn, caused his blindness. Taylor was horrified. She was so sorry this had happened to him. Hector reflected this was what he deserved. His actions had been reprehensible. Looking back he could not believe he had bound Taylor to the stairs, endangering her life. Now he had to pay for what he had done. Taylor was empathetic. She could understand his fear for both their futures. It would take a little time, but she would be able to forgive him for what he had done. She left the room and tracked down Hector's doctor. The news she heard was not good. The burns were the most severe the doctor had ever seen. He doubted there was anything that could be done to restore Hector's eyesight. A somber Taylor returned to her friend's room. She tearfully told him his poor prognosis. Hector grew agitated. He had only ever wanted to be a fireman. He wanted to help people. He stated he was simply disabled, not useless. But as he stood up, he tripped over a table and hit the floor. Taylor grabbed him and promised they'd get through his together. (About that useless comment, Hector. I agree having a disability does not make you useless. There are plenty of other ways to have the affliction though.)
Stephanie visited Thorne at his Beach House. They discussed Lt. Baker's theory that Taylor was the person driving the car which hit and killed Darla. Thorne was angry the policeman would accuse such a wonderful person of such a heinous crime. Stephanie told Thorne to stop worrying about Lt. Baker's interference. She would see to it that he didn't bother the family any longer. La Forrester said it was clear how much Thorne and Alexandria had come to depend on Taylor's help. She thought it might also be good for Taylor to focus her attention on something other than her failed marriage and drinking troubles. One more thing: Stephanie told Thorne she thought he should stop searching for the person responsible for Darla's death. In her heart, she was certain that person was suffering everyday from the guilt they felt over their actions. Thorne was only succeeding in living a life full of anger and bitterness. Surely Darla would not want that. She'd want him to be happy. And did he really want to show his daughter how miserable he was? Thorne wasn't sure he could give up just yet, but agreed that he owed it to his dead wife and daughter to move on wish his life.
Meanwhile, Nick and Harry dropped by Insomnia for some java. After some playful, yet manly, banter Nick suggested his friend, Phoebe Forrester, would be able to show Harry around Los Angeles. As Nick left, Harry hoped Phoebe Forrester was as hot as Brooke Forrester. As Harry went for a refill, who other than Phoebe walked into the coffee shop? (Stephanie earlier explained she had dropped her granddaughter at Insomnia.) The couple immediately noticed the other but took an immediate dislike for each other when Harry argued about a refill costing four dollars. He came up with...
The Quote of the Day: "I've been to Sumatra. The people who pick those beans don't even make four dollars a year!" (I hear Juan Valdez down in Colombia makes a very nice living. They grow the world's richest coffee, you know.)
Later, Phoebe saw Harry swipe a dollar bill from the tip jar to make up the difference for his coffee. She called the sailor on his actions. Of course, they got into an argument about the have and have-nots of the world. Harry pegged Phoebe as a spoiled rich girl. Her righteous indignation didn't play well because he hadn't seen her leave a tip either. Miffed, Phoebe placed several bills in the jar and got ready to leave. Her cell phone rang. Harry rolled his eyes. He felt his point of her being rich and spoiled was proven. (Yeah, like every mall rat from every socio-economic level don't have a cell phone.) Phoebe was surprised by a phone call from Nick. He explained he had a friend visiting and he hoped Phoebe would make some time to show him around the city. Phoebe readily agreed. She hung up and prepared to leave. Harry asked if she had a hot date. Phoebe grinned and said it was a possibility and he would certainly be nicer than the type of guys she met at Insomnia.
1. Let's see. I'm guessing Phoebe and Harry will hate each other for, let's see, two or three weeks and then fall madly in love. I hope they mix it up.
2. How is Phoebe going to get home if Stephanie dropped her off at the café? Cab? I highly doubt it. Bus? No way!
3. Why on earth would Nick set up his friend's son, Harry, with the daughter of Ridge - a man he despises? That really makes no sense at all.
4882 Monday, August 28, 2006
Nick went to the Shady Marlin and was shocked to see it appeared someone had been living there! The bed was unmade and there were remnants of snack food containers everywhere. Nick heard the intruder returning and jumped him. But wait! He's a friend, not a foe. Nick was surprised to find Harry had been using the Shady Marline to crash. The back story was explained in their conversation. Harry's father was a shipmate of Nick's and had been killed when Nick's tanker was tossed by that underwater earthquake. (You remember that, don't you? That's how we met Nick in the first place.) Nick had taken young Harry under his wing and made sure he got a proper education and a good job with Marone Industries. But Harry was between gigs and needed a place to stay. Since Nick was busy with his new family and new job, Harry was enlisted to live on and maintain the Shady Marlin. (Gee. It's amazing how close Nick and Harry are...and we've never heard of him!)
At the hospital, Stephanie laid down the law. Taylor was not going to confess to anyone what had happened the night Darla was killed. It would serve no purpose at all. Thorne and Alexandria needed her assistance. It was agreed. Taylor, Phoebe, and Stephanie would keep the secret. But that buttinski Lt. Baker appeared on the scene. He wanted to question Taylor about the fire at Hector's Hovel. Taylor said it had been a horrible accident. Lt. Baker wondered if it was indeed an accident. He noticed some bruising on Taylor's wrists. He then produced the evidence bag with the Velcro strap he had found on the floor of the charred ruins of the Hovel. Stephanie wondered where this line of thought was going. Lt. Baker thought perhaps the fire had been deliberately set to kill someone to keep them quiet about a very dangerous secret. Stephanie told Lt. Baker to stop the nonsense. He was frightening her granddaughter. Thorne had asked him to stop his investigation. Now she was asking the same thing. The family needed closure on the entire affair. If Lt. Baker insisted on digging where nothing was to be found, they would never rest. Not convinced of anything, Lt. Baker left.
Taylor went upstairs with Thorne and Alexandria to the room where Darla had died. The child had colored a bee and a butterfly to place on the door. Thorne assured his daughter her mother could see the bright art all the way in heaven. Allie (as she's been called a few times the past couple of days) seemed pleased. But Thorne could only remember all they had lost.
Back downstairs Dr. Bridget gave Phoebe a clean bill of health. She was discharged and could go home. Alone with her granddaughter, Stephanie insisted she put all her problems behinds her. It was time she went back to being a teenager. Stephanie offered to help in any way she could.
Meanwhile, Taylor discovered Hector had been asking for her. With great trepidation Taylor entered his darkened room. Hector was out of bed, standing, and facing the window. His back was to Taylor. She announced her entrance, but Hector did not turn around. (You just know something's wrong, don't you?) Taylor told Hector she understood his concern about their future. But holding her hostage and threatening her life had been more than she could comprehend. Hector apologized for his actions. Taylor then explained how Stephanie had intervened and convinced her not to tell the truth. Hector need not worry any longer. Their secret was going to stay buried. Not getting the joyous reaction she had expected Taylor inquired about Hector's health. Was he OK? Hector slowing turned around. There was a small patch of gauze taped over each eye. He uttered...
The Quote of the Day: "I'm blind."
I laughed out loud! In part, the little gauze square over each eye looked silly. I'm not a doctor (Bridget is) but I'd think such an injury would require more protection than that. And it's been what - 2 hours - since Hector was rescued from the inferno that was his house? How do they know he's blind and not just suffering from ashes in the eyes? And, quite frankly, it's just a little to clichéd for my tastes. Now Taylor can feel guilty about killing Thorne's wife AND blinding Hector!
Sweet Visine! We need to get the red out.
