Noah wishes he’d been here to help Tessa – to be the first person she comes to for help. He also wishes he didn’t decide to take things slow with Tessa because of his past relationships. Hearing that Mariah really ‘stepped up’ and played Cassie’s ghost, Noah understands that he sees things through a different filter than Tessa and Mariah (as they didn’t grow up wealthy like him)
Devon struggles to explain exactly what Kevin said to give him that feeling. Kev did make it clear there’s no feelings between you two but the way he was probing about our relationship gave Devon a weird vibe. Mariah thinks it Kevin’s oddball way of looking out for her. When Devon suggests a getaway to Chicago, Mariah can be ready whenever he needs her to be.
Over at the bar, Vikki claims that Billy feels a lot of things for her. Being with a jerk like Benjamin made her realize she shouldn’t settle. She then describes her perfect man – who sounds exactly like Billy. ‘You want Billy back’ – Phyllis will say the words Vikki doesn’t have the guts to. She then burst Vikki’s bubble – that’s not gonna happen.
Phyllis thinks Vikki so transparent with her constant work and kid emergencies. But Billy comes home to me while you sleep in an empty bed. You will never be enough for that man, Phyllis crows. Careful, Vikki can see Phyllis’ insecurities showing. And you should be concerned. We have chemistry. That’s all in your head, Phyllis scoffs. Are you sure? Vikki taunts – how do you know we haven’t kissed? Vikki claims to know Billy better than Phyllis does – that’s how she knows she’ll get him back.
After a brief talk about how Brash n Sassy is struggling to make a comeback, Billy’s glad they can get along for one night to celebrate Ashley. See you there, Jack says as Billy leaves. When Ravi appears, Jack summons him into his office to approve the recommended cybersecurity upgrades. He also wants Dina’s password changed. Billy was just here and Jack’s sure he found what he wanted him to find. Ravi’s then ecstatic to hear that Ashley’s been named Innovator of the Year. Jack wants his help planning a celebration dinner; you seem to be tuned in to what makes my sister happy these days.
Seated at Ashley’s table, Graham relays how proud Dina is (of Ashley’s award) Your Father would be proud too. You don’t know anything about him, Ashley says with disdain. Actually, Dina’s told me a great deal, Graham insists he’s making a sincere effort here. He hates how much Ashley distrusts him and would love to put their differences aside. We may have more in common than you realize.
We’re both business people who’ve lived in Europe. We both belong to this club – and we both care about Dina. Graham knows some betrayals you never get over – but you have a chance at a relationship with your Mother – she loves you – don’t squander this time with her (before we return to Paris) Ashley won’t squander this time – perhaps Dina’s eyes will be opened – and you’ll be returning to Paris alone.
Devon bumps into Abby in the gym ~hug~ She’s happy to hear of his success in the recording business and with Mariah. How about Zack? Abby saw a side to him that really turned her off; like he became a different person.
Paul warns Sharon not to ‘pull anything else’. They found some fingerprints in the house – they got careless. Paul will get Scott copies of everything for his online expose. It could lead to more arrests. Scott’s more than happy to help. After Paul leaves, Sharon and Scott head to Memorial (Sharon wants to be there when Alice wakes up – try to get her to cooperate with the police)
Hearing how much Tessa enjoyed being part of his Dad’s family dinner, Noah feels it time to take things to the next level – move in with me. Without hesitation, Tessa agrees – she’d like to spend a lot more time with Noah. At the front door, Mariah pales as she watches Tessa and Noah kiss.
Abby tells Devon that Zack stood her up. He said he lost track of time working and his apology was ‘sweet’ – but earlier, he was angry and abrupt when she asked about a marketing issue. I didn’t like it, Abby concludes. Devon’s not sure if Zack showed his true colours or was just having a bad moment. He wonders if Abby’s looking for a way out because she’s scared. There’s something to be said about being friends/colleagues first – then a nice surprise if it turns into something wonderful.
At Jabot, Ravi delights Ashley with a bouquet of flowers. He’s helping Jack plan the perfect celebration for her. Ash gripes about Graham. He’s being far too friendly – he must know we’re on to him. Ravi doesn’t want anything to ruin Ashley’s special night.
In Jack’s office, Phyllis updates that the updated virtual dressing room will launch next week. Good, anything else I need to know about Fenmore’s? Nope, but Phyllis had a bizarre run-in with Vikki earlier. She’s sure it’s just a matter of time before Billy dumps me and goes back to her. She also implied that she and Billy have been hooking up. Jack wonders why Phyllis hasn’t talked to Billy. Phyllis doesn’t want to look paranoid or insecure. Billy’s a serial cheater, Jack’s not sure he’s capable of monogamy. Given his history with Vikki, it’s not preposterous that he’d go back to her. Billy and I are honest with each other, Phyllis claims. Maybe you’ve been straight with him but he hasn’t been honest with you, Jack says with confidence.