Traci and Kyle join Jack at the club’s bar for a talking to. We’re in this together, Kyle implores. Thanks but no thanks, you two can toddle along now, Jack dismisses them between sips.
When Devon returns to the TV station, Mariah’s not sure it was a good idea to trick Hilary into going up to the rooftop; she’s acting weird. After Mariah goes to answer a call, Devon asks Hilary if she’s OK. Mariah’s imagining things, Hilary shrugs it off before leaving (not saying she’s going to the doctor)
Still at the bar, Kyle hates that his Dad feels betrayed (by him) – I shouldn’t have gone to Victor (but I needed someone to take me seriously) He’d only use you to get to me, Jack’s sure. Sending Kyle off to work, Traci takes over to point out the parallel; Kyle’s a son doing everything he can to make his Father proud (as Jack did with John) Like Father, like son, she concludes.
Now home, Nick talks to a framed photo of Christian; Grandpa’s out of our lives – it’s for the best. You’ll grow up to be the person (and live the life) you’re meant to. When Victor comes knocking, Nick blocks the door to say he’s not welcome here – we’re finished. Try to keep that boy from me and I’ll take you to court for a custody battle, Victor warns – then barges inside past Nick (who scowls as he closes the door)
Having moved from the bar to a table, Jack tells Traci that he wants to believe Kyle – but points out that even at his worst he never colluded with an enemy of John’s. Daddy didn’t have any enemies, Traci points out. She doesn’t ask for much of Jack but is asking now; move home for Dina’s sake. She needs you. Near tears, Traci reminisces about them growing up in that house. We need you. Your son needs you.
I’m that boy’s Father; legally and every way that matters, Nick’s firm. Victor accuses Nick of ripping his grandson away from him and not letting Christian know who his Father was. I’m his Father! Nick repeats. Adam was his Father! Victor shouts back. Adam asked ME to look out for Connor and Christian – he entrusted both his sons to ME – because of YOU. I’ll honor my brothers’ wishes and fight any move you make on my son! Nick threatens.
A devastated Hilary comes back to the station for a scolding from Mariah (everyone else is at HWG already) She then stuns Mariah by falling into her arms sobbing.
Don’t ever doubt how much I love you – Jack knows Traci always has the family’s best interests at heart. But it’s in HIS best interest to move out. The house he knows every nook and cranny of doesn’t feel like home. Jack must go on his journey alone – to heal on his own terms where he’s not surrounded by memories. In that house, all I can be is John Abbott’s son. With a weepy hug, Traci says the door will always be open.
As Mattie leaves CL’s, Charlie decides to take the bus later (after he’s done looking at his phone every two seconds) Shawna arrives in an emotional state; I’ve run away – you have to hide me.