At CL’s, Nikki flashes back to what Victor told her about Ashland. Why would he lie about his recovery? she’d wondered. I was just thinking about you, she’s startled by Vikki. How are you doing? How’s Ashland feeling? Mildly annoyed, Vikki can’t stay for tea – she has to go to the office. Everything’s fine, Mother, she insists dismissively. Nikki’s left looking even more worried.
Ashland’s on his phone – the American digging up dirt is Mike Baldwin. Find out what he’s looking for. And find that doctor right now! ~click~
Mike sends Victor a text – he’s spoken to a second doctor at the clinic and is sending confirmation of Ashland’s lie.
What’s going on? Billy and Traci have been summoned to Jack’s living room for an announcement. Why is Phyllis here? Because I’m his friend and I’m supporting him, she snaps. It’s about my son, Keemo, Jack begins.
Ashland changes his tone; he just wants Vikki to feel comfortable – not pressured. If she’s having second thoughts, they can leave things the way they are. Our relationship is the most important thing. You’re in remission, that changes everything – but, Vikki thinks Ashland should be her equal in business too – let’s make you co-CEO. In the doorway, Nikki looks stunned.
Adam’s surprised when Nick shows up at Newman Media. He was commanded to come. Victor has important family business to discuss. Nick thinks Vikki should be there. Adam clues in – it’s about her, and Ashland. Evidently still pissed, Nick reminds his Father that he didn’t want to hear what he had to say about Ashland before, why now? Victor never trusted Ashland and has learned things about him that are even more repulsive than what we already knew. Adam and Nick look suitably shocked.
After Jack updates them Traci and Billy both want to come to LA. Jack doesn’t want them to go to LA with him, he’s taking Phyllis. This is what is best for me, Jack goes up to pack. Phyllis is going to get packed too. You’re both upset that Jack chose me but I do have his best interests at heart. Traci frets – he’s really fragile. Phyllis gets it and promises to take care of him.
Ashland’s got the title change contract that will make him co-CEO of Newman Locke. Wow – legal usually takes a while, she’s surprised. He put a rush on it – every second of life matters – we can’t waste time. He’s looking forward to this new phase of their partnership. We’re partners in every way, Vikki just wants to dot the i’s and cross t’s – later. Ashland’s ready to sign right now. Have you changed your mind? Vikki looks taken aback.
Traci’s now at TGP to tell Phyllis that she’s counting on her to give Jack what he needs (putting her own interests aside) There’s a mystery to be solved but please, please, take care of my brother. Protect his big heart, Traci implores.
Sending Jack off with Phyllis (and brown-bagged food) Billy and Traci blame themselves for not noticing that he was always vague when asked about Keemo – but all they can do now is be there for their brother. Both are also concerned about the mysterious texts summoning Jack to LA.
Adam and Nick have many questions for their Father. He has all the answers; Ashland faked cancer to make people feel empathetic, so he could take control of the mega-company Newman and Locke. Everyone fell for it, Vikki too; more deeply. Nick’s credited with seeing Ashland for who he is. I’m gonna kill him, he snarls.
Nikki thinks Ashland wise to seek Victor’s approval. After he leaves, Vikki can tell her Mother’s troubled. Nikki’s fine, just a bit tired. Speak to your Father about this title change, she repeats (and she will too!) Ashland listens in the hallway. He sends a text demanding an update. A doctor calls. No, he didn’t give anyone permission to look at his medical records.
Victor’s just as angry as Nick is – this man is threatening to destroy the empire I built. Forget the empire, Nick’s only concern is Vikki. Victor can’t forget the empire. As for Vikki, he’ll handle things his way.