Nikki bows to her standing ovation then rushes past Victor (who glares down at Nick) Seemingly the only one who knows something’s not right, Jack excuses himself from Dina and Ashley.
You were absolutely wonderful – what’s wrong baby? Victor finds Nikki in pain backstage.
You’re having a flare up, Victor states the obvious and now realizes that’s why Nikki went out of town. You should have told me – I’d have cancelled. Nikki cries – I didn’t want to be too weak to perform. She relays the visit from the young MS sufferer. Jack comes in to ask if Nikki’s OK (and only leaves after Nikki assures him she’s fine) Alone again, Nikki thanks Victor for making her do this. What happened out there? Nick rushes in to ask.
Also backstage, Scott surprises Abby with some praise. We’ll see you at the party, Sharon cuts it off. Vikki and Reed then join Abby – Nick? Maybe he’s with Mom.
Victor leaves Nikki to tell Nick that she did indeed struggle through her performance. No, she doesn’t want to go home – she wants to celebrate her performance. Please don’t tell anyone about the flare up. It was MY decision to perform. Nick’s so very proud of his Mom. As he leaves the rest of the family to congratulate Nikki, Victor scowls at his son.
Mattie’s annoyed by her Mom’s profuse apologies. Charlie comes home – Cane following calling his name. All are silent as Cane looks anguished by the pain he’s caused.
This is the footage that’ll keep Victor happy, Hilary directs Howard to the Newmans (and away from all the single ladies) Mariah, Devon and Neil arrive to take note of how quickly Hilary got there. All applaud once more when Nikki arrives on Victor’s arm. The Newmans all gather for a photo (the tension between Nick and his Father evident)