Devon will leave the fake texts in the ladies’ capable hands. Walked out, Devon apologizes to Abby. She’s sorry too. She wants Chance to come home – after he’s done making the world a better place. Devon’s sure there’s other agents who could replace him (but Abby only has one husband)
Nick stops by the ranch for his parents ‘take’ on Vikki getting married. He gets an odd feeling from Ashland and his doubts are gnawing at him – we don’t know anything about his history – weird, but he’s with Billy on this one. You bonded with BillyBoyAbbott over this? Victor scoffs. What Vikki does is none of his business.
Before we eat, Vikki has something to show Ashland. Taking her tablet, he admires a photo of the Newman family palazzo. The doorbell rings. You’ve got company. What are you doing here? Vikki marches out to ask.
Billy’s there to speak to Ashland (who’s enjoying watching her tell him off, no offence) None taken, told to make an appointment, Billy will leave them to it – have a good evening. Vikki’s left puzzled.
What do any of us know about Ashland? Nick has to wonder. People are complex, they can be ruthless in the boardroom and kind/loving at home. Nick gets the feeling he’s waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Devon’s at CL’s to suggest he offers a reward for Mariah’s safe return. That could put her in more danger, Rey confides.
Should we send individual messages or a group text? Tessa reads her last text from Mariah aloud. Sharon will go first – I’ve waited this long to answer – I’ll just apologize and tell her to do whatever she needs to do. Abby will go next – an apology and support; I know she’s taking good care of our little boy. Tessa will tell Mariah that she loves her and will be here with arms wide open when she comes home She chokes up – let’s hope whoever has her doesn’t realize we’re on to them.
The three ladies hope they get a reply from Mariah’s kidnapper. Abby’s mad that she was fooled. She needs our focus and positive energy – we have to believe she’ll come home safe, and soon.
Rey won’t think the worst and Devon shouldn’t either. The fact that the texts continue is a good sign. Maybe it’s Alice Johnson or someone who desperately wants a child. What happens after she has the baby? Rey hopes to bring Mariah home before then. Needing to get to the station, Devon makes a call – he needs to meet someone as soon as possible.
Our engagement has brought out a lot of protective instincts, Ashland thinks it speaks highly of Vikki that so many people love her. Some of those people have boundary issues, she quips. She’s happy and in love. Let’s forget Billy was her and continue our romantic evening, they clink glasses.
Nick’s sixth sense tells him that there’s more to Ashland Locke than we know. Use your resources to investigate. Victor agrees – he’ll dig deep. If there’s anything to find out we have to do so before the wedding.
Vikki updates that she and her Mom are going with the history of the palazzo as a theme. You can spend some time with Harrison the week of the wedding. Ashland’s touched that she’s taking such good care of him. Why wouldn’t she? I love you. I love you too ~kiss~
Billy looks up from his drink at Society to wonder why Victor’s glowering over him. Stay out of my daughter’s life – she’s no longer a concern to you.
Mariah talks aloud – maybe this is twisted punishment from someone who hates me. Could it be Ian? Someone from the cult? You read about these things all the time but never think it’ll happen to you.
At the estate, Tessa and Abby both get a text. Sharon’s at the coffee house when she reads hers ‘Thanks for checking in. I love you all’. Who are you and what do you want? Sharon wonders.
Mariah fights back tears – not knowing is driving me out of my mind. I’ve never had more responsibility in my life than I do now. I have to stay sane for you Bowie. I won’t let anything happen to us, she rubs her belly.
Abby and Tessa should feel relieved that their ruse worked but wish they heard something from Mariah. When there’s a knock at the door, both run. Maybe it’s Rey with good news. Ben – you’re back in town? Mariah’s missing and we’re scared for her. Tess looks suspicious in the background as Ben hugs Abby.
Don’t worry little man – we’ll find our way home. I promise you. Splitscreen of Sharon looking worried – Abby in Ben’s arms, Tessa looking on in disbelief.