2009 January recaps

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, January 5

Ridge and Brooke stood atop the cliff overlooking Malibu and gazed at their names etched in the sand below. Ridge asked Brooke if she was okay with the wedding just being between the two of them with no other people around. Brooke said she wouldn't have it any other way.

Brooke wondered aloud if Stephanie was hiding in the bushes, and Ridge assured her they were alone. Brooke suggested one day they could show Stephanie a photo, but Ridge pointed out they didn't have a photographer. (Or a minister, for that matter.) It was just the two of them alone on the beach. Each one walked from one side of the giant heart on the beach to its center where an archway stood. They stood beneath the archway against the backdrop of the crashing waves and declared their eternal love and devotion to one another. Brooke suggested they should return to that sacred spot every year to repeat their vows to one another again and again. They exchanged rings. Ridge said he believed they were at the part where he got to kiss the bride, and drew Brooke into a passionate kiss.

Afterward, the two walked along the beach to a private cabana set up on the beach complete with a bed. They lay down on the bed and began to kiss.

Aunt Pam expressed her anger at Donna for Donna's attempt to pass off Pam's bikini design as her own. Donna said it was not her idea to wear the bikini on stage. Pam demanded to know whose idea it was. Donna said it didn't matter and asked Pam if she had seen Eric. Pam asked if Donna meant Eric, the husband Donna had stolen from her sister Stephanie, just like the bikini she stole from Pam. Donna sighed and walked off in exasperation.

Pam accused Donna of being addicted to thievery. Pam pointed out that Donna accepted her heartfelt gift of the hand-crocheted bikini under false pretenses. Donna was back with Eric and neglected to tell Pam about it before she accepted the gift. Pam demanded that Donna give the bikini back to her immediately. Donna slipped on a robe and wiggled out of the bikini and handed it back to Pam.

Eric, Stephanie, and Owen fielded call after call following the fashion show. They were swamped with orders and Eric declared that Forrester Creations was back in business.

Eric gloated to Owen and Stephanie about how he had known that bikini would be a hit at the fashion show. Stephanie said they had never made anything like a crocheted bikini before. Eric said he realized that, but he could spot a winner when he saw one, and he knew that piece was special.

Donna came in and asked if they could go home. Eric asked if she wouldn't rather stick around and celebrate. He told her they were getting a ton of orders for the new bikini design. When Eric left the room, Donna confessed to Owen that she was upset that the day had become all about Aunt Pam. Owen said it didn't matter who had made the design; it was a hit. He asked Donna to give him the bikini so he could get it off to their seamstresses to make a pattern. Donna said she had given it back to Aunt Pam. Owen said it didn't matter. They had plenty of photos of Donna in the design and they would be able to figure it out.

A tabloid reporter tried hard to get dirt from Stephanie. He asked her what she thought of the new Surf Line and about Rick Forrester becoming president of Forrester. Stephanie said the swimwear line had been a judgment call by Rick. Although it was not what Forrester had done in the past, the line seemed to have generated some interest. As to Rick, she continued, her issues with Rick were personal, not professional. The reporter asked if she was referring to the role that Rick played in Phoebe's death. Stephanie let a juicy quote rip. She admitted that she believed Rick was indeed responsible for Phoebe's death and felt he should be held accountable. Stephanie went on to say that Eric was the sort of parent who always made excuses for his kids and so he let Rick off the hook. The reporter was stunned that he actually got the scoop he wanted.

Stephanie discovered Pam at home with the bikini in hand. She was thrilled to find out the winning design belonged to her sister Pam. Stephanie vowed to make it her mission to ensure that Pam got credit for the design, and promised Pam a job at Forrester. Pam said they would never hire her back after what she did, but Stephanie assured Pam that not only would she would get rehired, Pam would be Donna's new partner in the Surf Line.

Donna tried to explain to Eric that the bikini he was selling was not his to sell. But Eric would not allow Donna to finish her thought. Eric pulled back Donna's robe and said he wanted to see her in that bikini again. She said she had already taken it off, and Eric said "Even better." Donna's robe dropped to the floor and they embraced.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, January 6



At Forrester Creations, Eric congratulated Donna for bringing media attention with the bikini showstopper that she had worn at the Forrester Creations Surf Line fashion show. Eric left the office for an interview. Later Owen showed Eric a replica of the popular selling bikini that he had made at Forrester Creations. Eric recognized immediately that the replica was different from the original and looked only like a Spectra knock-off of the bikini used in their Surf Line fashion show.

At home, after they spent their honeymoon night on the beach, Brooke and Ridge discussed that they were finally happy. Brooke came to the conclusion that Taylor was no longer a rival to her. Brooke encouraged Ridge to visit Taylor. Brooke felt that Taylor would have been at a low point because of Ridge and Brooke's re-marriage the previous day coupled with Phoebe's death. She commented that Taylor deserved compassion from her.

Pam arrived at Eric's office and taunted Donna about the bikini. She showed Donna and Owen another bikini she had made. Owen asked Pam to work at Forrester Creations to make the bikinis. Pam accepted the position at Forrester Creations. She agreed to make all the bikinis and fill the numerous orders.

Owen told Pam that they didn't want her working with them, but, on the other hand, they needed her to work with them. When Pam received a phone call from her mother's assisted living facility, she pretended that it was someone calling offering her a deal to work with them. When Eric came back to his office, he was surprised to find Pam there. She apologized for all the trouble she had caused him during her illness. Donna finally told Eric that Pam had made the bikini.

Later, Pam tried to befriend Donna. Donna commented that she couldn't forget that Pam had attempted to kill her. Pam taunted that Donna needed her. Pam asked how many bikini orders had been made. Donna informed Pam that two thousand orders of the bikini had been placed already. Pam again taunted that Donna needed her. Donna replied that she did not want to work with Pam.

Ridge went to Taylor's house as Brooke had encouraged him to do. He found Taylor in a depressed state, sitting in a chair. He informed her that he and Brooke had re-married. Taylor told him that she was feeling at an all-time low in her life. She explained the worst had happened in her life: Phoebe had died, and Ridge had married Brooke. Ridge promised that he would always be there for Taylor if she needed him.

Stephanie startled Brooke in her bedroom when she pretended to be Ridge when Brooke asked for help with her brassiere. Stephanie taunted Brooke that they were family again. Brooke described her wedding to Ridge on the beach. Stephanie questioned if their beach wedding was legal. Brooke assured her that they would have a legal ceremony at the city hall soon--but Stephanie was not invited.

Stephanie sarcastically mentioned that Ridge was not at home, because he was already bored with their day-old marriage. Brooke explained that she had compassion and sympathy for Taylor and had encouraged Ridge to visit Taylor.

She commented that Stephanie did not have that compassion for Rick. Stephanie was adamant that she felt that Rick should go to jail for having driven the car when Phoebe died. Stephanie commented that Ridge's love for Brooke did not mean that Ridge would unconditionally forgive Rick.. She predicted that Ridge would again become angry with Rick. Brooke responded that she felt comfortable with Ridge and she no longer felt threatened by Stephanie or by Taylor. Brooke pointed out that Ridge had tolerated and forgiven Rick because he loved her. Brooke proclaimed to Stephanie that she had her Ridge and that there was nothing that Stephanie could do to keep Brooke and Ridge apart.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, January 7

Pam attempted to explain the intricacy of crocheting to Donna. Donna said she was certain she would be able to learn to tie a knot in some yarn. Pam quipped that it was not the same as when Donna tied her lovers to a bedpost. Donna gave her the stink eye.


Owen arrived and asked Pam what she needed to start making more beautiful bikinis. Pam said she would need a truck load of things and left to make a list.


Owen said he realized working with Pam was torture for Donna. Donna said she would lose her mind if she had to continue to work with Pam. Owen promised that he would be the one to work closely with Pam. All he needed from Donna was a commitment not to put up any roadblocks. Owen reminded Donna that the two of them needed for the Surf Line collection to be a hit. Donna agreed and said the whole company had low sales over the holidays. Their professional reputations and the company's future was sadly riding on crazy Pam's crocheted bikini design.


Bridget arrived at the Forrester office and admired one of the prototype bikinis. She asked Donna if she could be moved to the top of the waiting list for one of the bikinis since she was family. Donna explained they were her Aunt Pam's handiwork. Bridget was very surprised to discover that Pam was the one who came up with the show stopping design. Owen arrived and saw Bridget holding the bikini and said he thought it would look very good on Bridget. She blushed like a schoolgirl at his compliment.


Donna noticed Bridget's reaction and after Owen left, Donna pointed out that both Owen and Bridget were single. Donna mentioned that Owen was a gentlemen and a good looking guy. Bridget said she had eyes and had already noticed. Donna said Bridget and Owen should hang out sometime. Bridget asked if Donna was trying to play matchmaker, which of course, she was.


Donna pointed out that Bridget spent far too much time at the hospital and that Owen spent far too much time at the office. Donna said neither of them had much a social life and having a friend wasn't such a bad thing. Donna suggested that Bridget stop by Owen's place on the way home. Bridget seemed uncomfortable with the idea of stopping by unannounced, but Donna egged her on and told her to be spontaneous. She gave her Pam's bikini as a gift to give her a plausible reason for stopping by Owen place at the beach.


Back at Owen's place, Pam was there and ready to work on swimwear designs. Owen was in his bathing suit and told Pam he wanted to catch a few waves before they got to work. Pam said to go ahead and she would whip them up something to eat. Owen protested and said it was not necessary, but Pam insisted.


Bridget arrived at Owen's with the bikini already on under her overcoat. Owen shooed Pam upstairs and told her he would be up to work soon. Bridget came in and saw the table set for two. She apologized for dropping in unannounced and mentioned she must have interrupted something. Owen said it was nothing, just he and a buddy were having dinner together. Bridget saw Owen in his trunks, the bottle of wine and the fancy table settings and jumped to the conclusion that Owen's buddy was code for "significant other." She told him she got it and left in total embarrassment at her mistake.


Katie and Nick cuddled and she gushed about how happy she was to be engaged to him. She asked where she should register because her sisters wanted to throw her a shower. Nick suddenly got a perplexed look on his face as if he didn't know how he had gotten himself into this. Katie mentioned how happy she was to have Jack in her life, too. She mentioned how hard it must have been for Ridge to lose Phoebe and commented that she didn't know how she would deal with losing a child as if she didn't even recall that she just did lose a child in a miscarriage. Nick looked concerned.


The phone rang and Nick got rid of the caller and told Katie it was a telemarketer. Katie asked if she could use Nick's computer for a minute. He said Katie had a computer of her own. She said hers was upstairs and asked if she could just look up one quick thing on line. Nick said no, he was doing business on his computer and she would need to use her own. She said okay but looked peeved.


While Steffy fantasized about kissing Rick, Marcus approached her about going away to Big Bear with him for the weekend. Marcus reminded Steffy that before the fashion show, they promised to spend time together once it was all over with. Marcus continued with his sales pitch, and added that he thought the two of them were ready for a weekend alone, just the two of them. Steffy was not as passionate about the idea as Marcus was, but she agreed to join him. As soon as Marcus walked away, Steffy called Rick and said she needed to speak with him. He told her she could come to his office right away.


Steffy filled Rick in on Marcus' offer to take her to Big Bear. Rick asked if she wanted his opinion. She said she did, and Rick asked her not to go away with Marcus.


Steffy explained that she had already agreed to go. She said that while she could not stop thinking about Rick, she could not justify being with him. Steffy said Ridge was still reeling from losing Phoebe and trying to work through his rage against Rick. If Ridge knew that Rick and Steffy were an item, he would lose his mind, Steffy explained. She asked Rick if he knew of a way for them to be together without hurting the people they loved.


Rick said he could not stop thinking about Steffy. He said for the first time since the accident, he felt good about life again because of the bond they shared. Rick said it felt like Steffy really knew him and understood him. He said their relationship felt so right, but he knew that feelings aside, it was *not* right. Steffy said she knew that what he said was true, but she felt the same way. When they were together, there was no place Steffy would rather be, she admitted. The two of them agreed they had to end things before anyone they loved got hurt. But Steffy changed her mind. She asked why they couldn't continue to see one another in secret and give Ridge and Rick time to fix their relationship.


Rick said she should go back to Owen and forget about him altogether. But before she did, Rick wanted to make it clear that the night Steffy stopped and reached out to him after Phoebe's death had been a lifeline to him. The two kissed one more time, but Bridget saw them through the cracked doorway. Their secret was out.


Marcus stopped by to visit his mother Donna and shared the happy news that he was going to take Steffy up to Big Bear for the weekend. He said it would be good for the two of them to get away together. Donna said Marcus deserved to be happy, but cautioned him that Steffy was grieving and it would take her time to get back to her usual self. Donna said he needed to be patient with her and Marcus promised that he would, although it would be hard.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 8

Brooke was paging through a wedding magazine in bed as Ridge walked in and inquired why she was looking at the magazine, since they were already married. She told him that she promised to help Katie with her wedding plans. Ridge brought up another magazine, "Eye on Fashion," which had an article that quoted Stephanie.

Brooke read the article and appeared shocked as she read Stephanie's exclusive interview where she discussed the car accident that killed Phoebe. Stephanie publicly blamed Rick for Phoebe's death. Ridge wondered aloud why his mother couldn't leave it alone. He said she had created a P.R. nightmare. While the entire family was trying to heal, Stephanie was still causing problems. Brooke said they wouldn't let her cause trouble, and she playfully suggested that he check his email because she had an important meeting planned for him. Later, in the steam room, Ridge met Brooke for the "meeting." She was wearing a seductive bikini and said they were testing out the new design for shrinkage.

At the same time, on the rooftop lounge at Forrester, Felicia was reading the article along with Thorne. As Stephanie joined them, Felicia chastised her mother for her comments and Thorne agreed. Stephanie insisted she wouldn't let Rick get away with the accident. Thorne reminded his mother that she was going to anger Eric and everyone in the company who had worked so hard to turn the company around. Stephanie scoffed that a surf line was ridiculous. She wondered if Eric had lost his mind because the Logans were running the company and that was the problem. Thorne and Felicia warned her that Eric was still the head of the company, and she was causing a rift.

In Eric's office, Eric and Donna were making out, but Katie interrupted to deliver the magazine and its bad news. Katie told Eric that the surf line had gone over well and that buyers were happy, but the magazine was upsetting. Donna read that Stephanie accused Rick of killing Phoebe and Eric went ballistic. He said, "This time, she's gone too far." He shouted that it was a private family matter, but Donna pointed out that it was an attack on the Logans, the surf line, and Rick.

Eric worried that Steffy would see the article, but Donna told Eric that Steffy was in Big Bear with Marcus.

Rick was in his office as Bridget walked in. She told him that she saw Rick and Steffy kissing the night before. She wondered what Rick was thinking. She couldn't believe that Rick and Steffy had feelings for each other. Rick came clean that they knew their feelings were wrong. They agreed to stop because they both knew how angry Ridge would be. Rick told Bridget that Steffy was in Big Bear for a romantic evening with Marcus, but he sounded jealous. Bridget told him that his time with Steffy was over. It had to be over. She hugged him and left.

Marcus and Steffy entered the cabin at Big Bear and he surprised her with candles everywhere. Steffy looked uncomfortable as Marcus brought her a glass of champagne and promised that he would keep her safe forever. Marcus understood that Steffy was still hurting after her sister died. He wanted her to lean on him. He felt there was a distance between them, and he had missed her. He didn't want to be apart from her. In front of a roaring fire, Marcus got down on one knee and proposed to Steffy, asking her to agree to be his wife.

In Rick's office, he picked up the phone several times to call Steffy but stopped himself. Then, he called his secretary and asked her to clear his schedule and headed out the door, but Stephanie arrived. She handed him the magazine and, as he read her interview, he sneered that she was creating a scandal by spouting off to the press. Stephanie warned Rick that when he came back from his appointment, his office would be cleaned out.

Rick told her she couldn't intimidate him. Stephanie said she had convicted Rick in the press because she wanted to make him pay-one way or another. Rick warned her that it would all backfire because everyone knew she hated his mother and him. He reminded her that he was Eric's real son. He warned her to stop fighting him because she would be gone when Eric realized what she was up to.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 8

Brooke was paging through a wedding magazine in bed as Ridge walked in and inquired why she was looking at the magazine, since they were already married. She told him that she promised to help Katie with her wedding plans. Ridge brought up another magazine, "Eye on Fashion," which had an article that quoted Stephanie.

Brooke read the article and appeared shocked as she read Stephanie's exclusive interview where she discussed the car accident that killed Phoebe. Stephanie publicly blamed Rick for Phoebe's death. Ridge wondered aloud why his mother couldn't leave it alone. He said she had created a P.R. nightmare. While the entire family was trying to heal, Stephanie was still causing problems. Brooke said they wouldn't let her cause trouble, and she playfully suggested that he check his email because she had an important meeting planned for him. Later, in the steam room, Ridge met Brooke for the "meeting." She was wearing a seductive bikini and said they were testing out the new design for shrinkage.

At the same time, on the rooftop lounge at Forrester, Felicia was reading the article along with Thorne. As Stephanie joined them, Felicia chastised her mother for her comments and Thorne agreed. Stephanie insisted she wouldn't let Rick get away with the accident. Thorne reminded his mother that she was going to anger Eric and everyone in the company who had worked so hard to turn the company around. Stephanie scoffed that a surf line was ridiculous. She wondered if Eric had lost his mind because the Logans were running the company and that was the problem. Thorne and Felicia warned her that Eric was still the head of the company, and she was causing a rift.

In Eric's office, Eric and Donna were making out, but Katie interrupted to deliver the magazine and its bad news. Katie told Eric that the surf line had gone over well and that buyers were happy, but the magazine was upsetting. Donna read that Stephanie accused Rick of killing Phoebe and Eric went ballistic. He said, "This time, she's gone too far." He shouted that it was a private family matter, but Donna pointed out that it was an attack on the Logans, the surf line, and Rick.

Eric worried that Steffy would see the article, but Donna told Eric that Steffy was in Big Bear with Marcus.

Rick was in his office as Bridget walked in. She told him that she saw Rick and Steffy kissing the night before. She wondered what Rick was thinking. She couldn't believe that Rick and Steffy had feelings for each other. Rick came clean that they knew their feelings were wrong. They agreed to stop because they both knew how angry Ridge would be. Rick told Bridget that Steffy was in Big Bear for a romantic evening with Marcus, but he sounded jealous. Bridget told him that his time with Steffy was over. It had to be over. She hugged him and left.

Marcus and Steffy entered the cabin at Big Bear and he surprised her with candles everywhere. Steffy looked uncomfortable as Marcus brought her a glass of champagne and promised that he would keep her safe forever. Marcus understood that Steffy was still hurting after her sister died. He wanted her to lean on him. He felt there was a distance between them, and he had missed her. He didn't want to be apart from her. In front of a roaring fire, Marcus got down on one knee and proposed to Steffy, asking her to agree to be his wife.

In Rick's office, he picked up the phone several times to call Steffy but stopped himself. Then, he called his secretary and asked her to clear his schedule and headed out the door, but Stephanie arrived. She handed him the magazine and, as he read her interview, he sneered that she was creating a scandal by spouting off to the press. Stephanie warned Rick that when he came back from his appointment, his office would be cleaned out.

Rick told her she couldn't intimidate him. Stephanie said she had convicted Rick in the press because she wanted to make him pay-one way or another. Rick warned her that it would all backfire because everyone knew she hated his mother and him. He reminded her that he was Eric's real son. He warned her to stop fighting him because she would be gone when Eric realized what she was up to.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 8


Brooke was paging through a wedding magazine in bed as Ridge walked in and inquired why she was looking at the magazine, since they were already married. She told him that she promised to help Katie with her wedding plans. Ridge brought up another magazine, "Eye on Fashion," which had an article that quoted Stephanie.

Brooke read the article and appeared shocked as she read Stephanie's exclusive interview where she discussed the car accident that killed Phoebe. Stephanie publicly blamed Rick for Phoebe's death. Ridge wondered aloud why his mother couldn't leave it alone. He said she had created a P.R. nightmare. While the entire family was trying to heal, Stephanie was still causing problems. Brooke said they wouldn't let her cause trouble, and she playfully suggested that he check his email because she had an important meeting planned for him. Later, in the steam room, Ridge met Brooke for the "meeting." She was wearing a seductive bikini and said they were testing out the new design for shrinkage.

At the same time, on the rooftop lounge at Forrester, Felicia was reading the article along with Thorne. As Stephanie joined them, Felicia chastised her mother for her comments and Thorne agreed. Stephanie insisted she wouldn't let Rick get away with the accident. Thorne reminded his mother that she was going to anger Eric and everyone in the company who had worked so hard to turn the company around. Stephanie scoffed that a surf line was ridiculous. She wondered if Eric had lost his mind because the Logans were running the company and that was the problem. Thorne and Felicia warned her that Eric was still the head of the company, and she was causing a rift.

In Eric's office, Eric and Donna were making out, but Katie interrupted to deliver the magazine and its bad news. Katie told Eric that the surf line had gone over well and that buyers were happy, but the magazine was upsetting. Donna read that Stephanie accused Rick of killing Phoebe and Eric went ballistic. He said, "This time, she's gone too far." He shouted that it was a private family matter, but Donna pointed out that it was an attack on the Logans, the surf line, and Rick.

Eric worried that Steffy would see the article, but Donna told Eric that Steffy was in Big Bear with Marcus.

Rick was in his office as Bridget walked in. She told him that she saw Rick and Steffy kissing the night before. She wondered what Rick was thinking. She couldn't believe that Rick and Steffy had feelings for each other. Rick came clean that they knew their feelings were wrong. They agreed to stop because they both knew how angry Ridge would be. Rick told Bridget that Steffy was in Big Bear for a romantic evening with Marcus, but he sounded jealous. Bridget told him that his time with Steffy was over. It had to be over. She hugged him and left.

Marcus and Steffy entered the cabin at Big Bear and he surprised her with candles everywhere. Steffy looked uncomfortable as Marcus brought her a glass of champagne and promised that he would keep her safe forever. Marcus understood that Steffy was still hurting after her sister died. He wanted her to lean on him. He felt there was a distance between them, and he had missed her. He didn't want to be apart from her. In front of a roaring fire, Marcus got down on one knee and proposed to Steffy, asking her to agree to be his wife.

In Rick's office, he picked up the phone several times to call Steffy but stopped himself. Then, he called his secretary and asked her to clear his schedule and headed out the door, but Stephanie arrived. She handed him the magazine and, as he read her interview, he sneered that she was creating a scandal by spouting off to the press. Stephanie warned Rick that when he came back from his appointment, his office would be cleaned out.

Rick told her she couldn't intimidate him. Stephanie said she had convicted Rick in the press because she wanted to make him pay-one way or another. Rick warned her that it would all backfire because everyone knew she hated his mother and him. He reminded her that he was Eric's real son. He warned her to stop fighting him because she would be gone when Eric realized what she was up to.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, January 13

At the cabin in Big Bear, Steffy and Rick made love. Steffy commented to Rick that she could not explain her feelings for him, but she was definitely in love with him. Rick responded that he felt the same way about Steffy. It was snowing heavily outside and they decided to stay at the resort together. Later that day, they went snowboarding together.

They had very long conversations about themselves and their new relationship. Steffy told Rick about the closeness she and Phoebe had shared. She told him of her and Phoebe's dreams of their wedding days. Rick disclosed that his dream had always been to emulate his father, Eric, and run a world-renowned fashion house. Rick commented that he doubted he would ever be allowed to run Forrester Creations because of the way his family felt about him.

Rick called Steffy his lifeline for having believed that he did not cause the auto accident which killed Phoebe. Rick and Steffy decided that they would continue their relationship regardless of their family's feelings about them being together. They decided they would keep their relationship a secret from both family and friends. Steffy also commented that she would rather keep their relationship a secret than risk a chance of losing it. Rick again agreed that they could never inform their families that they were in love and that they were together as a couple.

Nick and Katie began to plan their wedding. She told him that he was her prince charming and that she would never take their love for granted. Katie observed that Nick had become stressed about something. He told her she was right and something had happened, but he did not tell her what it was. When he left the room to make a phone call, she glanced at his computer and discovered why Nick was upset. Katie seemed surprised by what she had discovered. When Nick returned, she made no mention of what she had learned.

At Forrester Creations, Bridget noticed that Marcus did not appear to be himself. She questioned why he had arrived back from the Big Bear ski area so soon. Marcus explained that Steffy, whom he had proposed to, had turned him down and broken off their relationship. Bridget offered him the explanation that Steffy had been through a lot with the death of her sister, Phoebe, and perhaps that was the reason she did not want to get married. Marcus explained that he believed that Steffy was involved with another man. He believed it to be true because Steffy did not deny it when he asked her about it. Marcus told Bridget that Steffy had remained at the Big Bear ski area alone in order to clear her head.

Later, Bridget attempted to contact Rick on his cell phone. When she did not receive an answer, she became suspicious that Rick was at Big Bear with Steffy. Bridget drove to Big Bear. When she arrived at the cabin, she looked through the window and saw Rick and Steffy together. She opened the door and surprised Rick and Steffy. Bridget shouted at them that they could never be together.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, January 14


Bridget was furious to find Rick and Steffy in a compromising situation in Big Bear. Bridget shouted at Rick and asked him why he had not listened to any of her warnings. Bridget asked them what would have happened if it had been Ridge or Stephanie who had walked in on them. Rick said that wouldn't happen. Bridget said the two of them had to stop meeting.

Rick and Steffy informed Bridget that it was more complicated than she imagined; they had fallen in love. Bridget said, "Then fall out of it." Bridget advised Rick that he could fall in love with anyone in the whole world except for Steffy. Steffy begged Bridget not to tell anyone. Bridget said she would not, but people would find out if they continued to see one another. Bridget said nothing good could ever come of Rick and Steffy's relationship. Bridget asked them if they heard what she was saying. They said they did. But as soon as she left the cabin, Rick said he refused to stay away from Steffy.

Jackie ran into Robin McGraw and the two interacted as though they were old friends. However, their encounter was just a shameless book plug for Robin McGraw's new book.

After Robin left, Jackie ran into Stephanie at the bar and the two "frenemies" sat down together for a martini. Jackie said her excuse for drinking was that her company was in the tank. Stephanie said her excuse was Eric Forrester. The two ladies discussed their ups and downs with Eric. Stephanie noted that after all their bickering, they had both lost him to a blonde Barbie doll. Jackie confided to Stephanie that she had actually been rooting for Stephanie to win the battle with Donna. Stephanie thanked her and looked surprised.

Stephanie said she didn't feel like she knew Eric anymore. In all the years they had been together, Stephanie said, she had never been more frustrated with Eric. Stephanie said Eric was using poor judgment by backing Rick and the Logans over Stephanie and her children. Jackie said it sounded like Eric needed to be taught a lesson. Stephanie's ears perked up at Jackie's words.

Katie mentioned to Nick that the huge wedding they planned was very extravagant. Katie said she thought perhaps they should scrap all of that and elope. Nick asked her where that was coming from. Katie said she had just been thinking. She also mentioned how large their house was and wondered if they should look at a smaller, cozier place. Nick asked Katie if she looked at his computer. She admitted that she did. Katie said she didn't realize that they were in such bad trouble financially. Nick said it was even worse than she knew. Their loan was in default and Nick didn't know how much longer he would be able to hold off the banks.

Katie comforted Nick and told him it was not his fault. She said no one could have predicted how badly the economy would turn. Nick said if he were any kind of businessman, he would have seen the signals and gotten out of the market before it was too late. Nick said he had bought a lot of little boutiques to humor his mother, and he feared they were going to lose everything.

A man came from the bank and said Nick was about to lose Jackie M. The banker said his loan had been extended more than once. He gave Nick 24 hours to come up with the money he owed. Nick asked Katie to take Jack to Brooke's house. She protested and wanted to stay with Nick. He shouted at her and said he wanted her to go.

Katie dropped Jack off and went back home. Nick was smoking and drinking when she arrived. She boldly said she would not leave. Nick said when he was drinking heavily he would rather be alone. Nick said if she wanted to stay, she had better put her life jacket on because their ship was sinking. She tried to console him and he told her to stop being so nice. Nick said he didn't like nice people.

Katie reminded Nick that she had spent most of her life without money and material goods. She assured him that she loved him because of who he was, not because of his money. Katie promised Nick she would stand by him even if they lost everything.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 15


Eric gathered everyone in his office to show off a new design, but the warring Forresters and Logans weren't too friendly. Eric tried to rise above some sniping, but it continued until Rick tried to make peace. The topic of keeping the designs under wrap came up because the designs needed to be secret. Rick said everyone in the room but Katie should have access, because she was involved with the press. Eric didn't want any previews for the press. Katie was miffed because Felicia made a snide comment that Katie was too close to the competition, meaning Nick. Katie insisted that she and Nick kept their professional lives separate from their personal lives.

After everyone left, Felicia returned to whine to her daddy that he hadn't spent much time with her, but instead spent time with everyone else. She chastised her dad for siding with Rick against Stephanie, but Eric said that wasn't the case. Eric tried to convince Felicia that they all had to pull together. She didn't buy it.

Later, Thorne took a turn complaining to Eric. He laid into his dad for overlooking him his entire life and railed that Ridge and Rick got all Eric's favors and titles in the company. Thorne complained that he was the only real son of Stephanie and Eric, and he was still in the basement of Forrester while everyone else had an office near Eric. Eric told Thorne he was invaluable to the company, but Thorne said he felt unnoticed. He was furious with Eric and told him he put his faith in all the wrong people. Eric begged him to help hold the company and the family together, but Thorne said he felt like he didn't have a father at all.

Brooke found Stephanie at the rooftop lounge, and asked her to try to put her feelings aside so that the family could work together. Stephanie said her family didn't want to work side-by-side with the Logans because they hadn't built the company the way she and Eric had. Stephanie told Brooke that Ridge would eventually find it too difficult to work with Rick. Brooke argued that Ridge was fine working with Rick. Stephanie disagreed and told her that Ridge would hit a breaking point.

Steffy snuck into Rick's office and they made out until Felicia knocked on the door. Rick had asked Felicia to pick up some fabric from the ocean docks, but Felicia balked that it wasn't her job. Steffy piped up and said she would take care of it. Felicia huffed that Rick had called her to his office for no good reason. She left, and Rick and Steffy decided to drive to the docks together in order to pick up the fabric.

At Jackie M, Nick explained to Jackie that they were in danger of losing everything because the bank had called in the loan and he had used everything as collateral, including her boutiques. Jackie noted that someone had sent Nick an email attachment earlier with an Eric Forrester design. Jackie suggested they alter the design and pass it off as their own. Nick disagreed, but Jackie pressed on that someone at Forrester wanted him to have the design. Another design came in as they were talking. Nick worried it was Katie, and he told Jackie that Katie could be arrested if she sent the designs. Jackie wanted to use them, but Nick wanted to delete them.

At Forrester, Katie delivered a design to Eric's office - the same one that Nick had received. Eric walked in and Katie said she was returning her copy. Eric said it wasn't necessary, as he never doubted her loyalty. Katie praised Eric's work as the best in the industry. In another office, Thorne was studying the other design sent to Nick earlier.

Ridge talked to Felicia, who complained about Rick. Ridge wondered where Steffy went and Felicia told him that Rick and Steffy were driving to the docks to pick up fabric. Ridge had an awful flashback where Rick told him that Phoebe had been in a horrible accident. He freaked out and raced out of the building to the parking lot where Rick and Steffy were driving off in Rick's convertible. Ridge ran into the path of the car yelling for Steffy as Rick slammed on the brakes and Steffy screamed. On the rooftop, Stephanie and Brooke watched in fear.

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, January 16

Nick received more stolen designs in his email He assumed Katie was the one who had sent them to try to help his company through the financial woes they had experienced. But when he questioned Katie, Nick could tell Katie had no clue what he was talking about.

Nick informed Jackie that Katie was not the person sending the designs. Jackie was pleased, because that meant if they used the designs, her future daughter-in-law would not be implicated. Nick said he had no intentions of using the designs, because going broke was better than going to jail. Nick believed the anonymous emails were a trap.

Jackie decided to play Veronica Mars, girl detective, and gather evidence to discover who sent Forrester designs to their competitor, Jackie M. Her suspect list included Owen, Felicia, Donna, Stephanie, Thorne, Rick, Steffy, Ridge, and Brooke, and Jackie's soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Katie. Jackie did her homework and knew exactly what each player had to gain by leaking the secret designs to Jackie M before the upcoming Forrester fashion show. As she listed the reasons each suspect had to betray Eric, we saw a pair of gloved hands at a keyboard e-mailing more designs to Nick.

Eric met with Katie and mentioned that he had read about Jackie M's company and their financial woes. Eric didn't think the company could make it much longer. Katie said that Nick was a fighter and Eric shouldn't count him out. When Eric mentioned that Katie was Nick's fiancée, Katie asked him where he was going with that line of conversation. Eric said their upcoming fashion show was of great importance. He reminded Katie that confidentiality was paramount. Katie said she understood, and of course all the Forrester secrets would be safe with her. Eric said if that was the case, he didn't need to say anything more.

Ridge had a panic attack when he discovered Steffy was riding in Rick's car. He ran in front of the car and nearly got hit in an attempt to get Steffy out of Rick's vehicle. Ridge momentarily lost his bearing and started screaming for Steffy to get out of the car, but he called her Phoebe. Rick wasn't paying attention and nearly hit Ridge, but stopped in the nick of time.

Brooke and Stephanie ran downstairs and asked Ridge why he was so upset. He explained that when he heard Steffy intended to ride to Long Beach in Rick's car, he had a flashback about the accident. Ridge said he couldn't take the chance of allowing Steffy to ride with Rick. Ridge apologized for overreacting. Stephanie said it was understandable and asked Steffy to help her Dad upstairs. Rick appeared to be very upset about Ridge's outburst.

Rick told Brooke he was only trying to give Steffy a ride. Brooke said considering the circumstances, Rick should understand why Ridge would not want Steffy in anyone's car, especially Rick's. Brooke said it was going to take a long time for Ridge to heal from losing his daughter, Phoebe, in a car crash.

Steffy tried to reassure Ridge that she was fine and that he did not have to worry about her. Ridge said he could not bear to lose his sweet girl, Steffy. Stephanie chimed in that nothing would happen to Steffy if she kept her distance from Rick. Stephanie said Steffy knew Rick was trouble and she should keep her distance from him. Ridge said the thought of something happening to Steffy was too much for him to bear, and implored Steffy to stay away from Rick completely.

Stephanie went to Rick's office and said she was warning him one more time to stay away from Steffy. Rick pointed out that Stephanie warned him about things all the time, but nothing ever happened to him. Rick said he was still running the company and all Stephanie's previous threats had been empty. Stephanie said if Rick did not heed her warnings to stay away from Steffy, losing his office at Forrester would be the least of his worries.

Brooke said she had spoken to Rick and he was sorry he upset Ridge. Brooke explained that Rick was merely trying to help Steffy by giving her a ride. Ridge said he didn't want to hear any excuses; he just wanted Rick to stay away from his daughter. Brooke said Rick understood. Ridge said he did not ever want to see Rick with Steffy again. If he did, he said he would... he trailed off and never completed the threat.

Steffy went to Rick's office and told him they had to break it off. She said she had never seen Ridge like that before, and she did not want to be responsible for the fear she saw in Ridge's eyes. Steffy could not see Rick anymore. Rick said if the two of them breaking up would bring Phoebe back, he would end their relationship in a heartbeat, but it wouldn't bring her back. Rick said he was sorry for Ridge's pain. Rick explained that denying what he and Steffy felt for one another wouldn't take Ridge's pain away. The two kissed.

Thorne continued to complain about his position in the company. He explained that he had always taken a back seat to Ridge, but was finding himself in the back seat to Rick and the Logans as well. He returned the master copies of Eric's new designs and assured Eric he had scanned them and given copies to all the employees that needed them.

Eric said he needed everyone to be on the same team. Thorne asked if he was the water boy for their team. Eric said Thorne was being unreasonable.

Thorne said Donna was working with Eric, while Thorne, Stephanie, and Felicia were on the outside. Thorne pointed out the team that was running things was not the same team that had built Forrester's reputation. Eric said Forrester would be fine. Thorne said they'd see about that.

Thorne went back to his office and grumbled aloud to himself that he should have been born a Logan.

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, January 19

Ridge had a model try on one of the gowns from the new line. Stephanie asked if Ridge or Eric designed it, and Ridge said the two of them collaborated on it. Stephanie said it was subtle and understated, unlike some people in the room-a comment directed at Donna.

Meanwhile, over at Jackie M, a very similar gown was being displayed. Clarke congratulated Jackie for taking a page out of Sally Spectra's playbook. Jackie said Clarke would have to make a few modifications to the designs, and he asked her for his deadline. Jackie said she planned to launch her new line the next day. Clarke said that didn't leave him much time to work, and he left he room in a hurry. Nick pointed out that he still was not on board with Jackie's plan until they found out who was feeding them the inside information.

Both Thorne and Felicia expressed a desire for the new line to fail so Eric would realize the Logans were ruining their company. Stephanie was startled to hear her kids talk that way.

Owen asked Donna if Eric had mentioned letting Owen go. Donna said she hadn't and asked why. Owen said since the surf line wasn't doing very well, he wondered if Eric would want to keep him on. Donna got called away and left her laptop on. Owen opened it when Donna left the room and checked out Eric's new secret designs.

Bridget walked in and asked Owen what was going on. He gave her the same song and dance about feeling expendable because the surf line wasn't selling. Owen asked Bridget what she needed to speak to Donna about. When she hesitated to answer, he asked her if that had just been an excuse to drop by his office. He reminded her that she stopped by his place in a bikini the other night. Owen said he was worried that Bridget got the wrong impression about him. She asked what he meant, and he kissed her.

Jackie placed a call to Stephanie to see if Jackie would meet her for lunch. Stephanie agreed.

When they met, Stephanie mentioned Jackie's impending fashion show. Stephanie asked if it was her last hurrah. Jackie said rumors of their demise had been highly exaggerated, and she said she had the feeling that Stephanie already knew that. Stephanie said she didn't know which was worse, having a company going under, or having your company overrun by Logans. Jackie said she didn't think she would ever see the day when Stephanie would give up on her company without a fight. Stephanie said she didn't intend to give up without a fight, Jackie asked Stephanie if she had found a way to fight. Stephanie smiled a sly smile and Jackie said it looked like Stephanie had found a plan.

Felicia showed up at Nick's office and asked him for a job as a designer. Nick said Felicia had better not let Eric hear that. She said Eric barely knew she existed since the Logans moved in at Forrester. Felicia reminded Nick about their previous relationship and said she hoped they could try again. Nick reminded her that he was engaged, and Felicia said he wasn't married yet and kissed him.

Rick went to Ridge and said they needed to talk. Ridge told him to go away. Rick refused. Rick pleaded with Ridge to hear him out. Rick said he was profoundly sorry for Phoebe's death and that he would do anything he could to help Ridge feel better about it-if only Ridge would give Rick a chance. Rick asked if there were any possibility that Ridge would ever be able to forgive and accept Rick.

Ridge asked Rick if he was out of his mind. Rick again implored Ridge to please hear him out. Rick said since Ridge and Brooke had remarried, Rick and Ridge were family, like it or not. Rick said they should try to get past the tragedy and make peace. Ridge said he was trying to get along with Rick at work and that was all he would commit to. Ridge said when he saw Rick with Steffy, it terrified him, and he didn't expect that would change anytime soon.

Nick ran into Thorne at the bar having a cocktail. Nick asked if he could join Thorne and told the bartender he would have whatever Thorne was having. Nick asked why Thorne was drowning his sorrows instead of working on the big fashion show. Thorne said it didn't do any good-he could work his butt off, but Ridge and Rick were the only ones Eric noticed. Nick said it must be hard to be the thrid wheel, and Thorne threw back another shot. Thorne asked Nick if he was drowning his sorrows because Jackie M was going under. Nick said no, he just came to make sure there was no bloodshed when Jackie and Stephanie had lunch. The two laughed.

Nick and Jackie met back at the office and were still not certain who their mysterious e-mailer was. They received another e-mail that said the anonymous tipster would e-mail them the entire new Forrester line in return for one thing-- that they be made president of Jackie M designs. Nick was hesitant to accept. He said they didn't know who that person was or what they had in mind. Jackie said if they said no, their company would go under in three days, but if they agreed they could stay afloat. Against Nick's better judgment, he clicked "accept" and the entire new Forrester collection was unzipped into his system. A set of hands in blue rubber gloves deleted the file in question from their computer.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

episode of The Bold and the Beautiful was preempted

Wednesday, January 21


Jackie was thrilled that Clarke was able to finalize the revised gowns in just one day. Nick reminded Jackie that their designs were stolen from Eric Forrester. Jackie argued that they were not stolen; they were a gift delivered directly to Nick's e-mail. Nick said there would still be hell to pay when Eric Forrester saw his original designs on Jackie M's runway. Katie arrived to surprise Nick, and he blocked her view as the rack with the knockoff gowns was wheeled out.

Katie said she had come to cheer Nick on because this fashion show was vital to Jackie M's future and to their family. Nick reminded Katie that she worked for the competitor. He suggested it might not be a good idea for her to be at Jackie M while their new line debuted. Katie said that was nonsense-she was Nick's fiancée and her company would understand. Nick said it would be a busy day and he would fill her in when he got home. Katie protested again and insisted she wanted to stay. Nick yelled at her and told her in no uncertain terms that she could not stay.

Katie looked very hurt, and Nick apologized and blamed it on stress. Katie said she understood and would leave if that were what he wanted. Mostly, she said, she just wanted him to know how proud she was that he was fighting back to keep his company afloat. Nick declared that everything he was doing was because of Katie, Jackie, and Jack. He wanted to make sure she understood all was fair in love, war, and fashion. She chuckled and mentioned she thought she should quit her job at Forrester and come to work for him. He said they would discuss it later.

After Katie left, Clarke and Jackie said that had been a close call. Nick said he hated lying to Katie. Clarke said it was too late to turn back, the press was there and it was time to start the show.

Jackie consoled her son and reminded him it was the only way to save their company from bankruptcy. She said they would do what needed to be done and would get through it as they always had: together.

Jackie worked the room and poured champagne. One reporter declined champagne and Jackie said he was boring. He asked Jackie how Jackie M was able to hold a champagne reception and introduce a clothing line in such tough economic times. Jackie said this line would turn all her financial woes around. The reporter scoffed and said the world had seen Clarke Garrison's designs before and had never been wowed. Jackie said under her leadership, Clarke had blossomed. She reminded the reporter that Eric Forrester had originally trained Clarke. He asked if Clarke's designs would rival a Forrester gown and Jackie assured him that it would.

Eric had the same gown on the rack at Forrester and said it needed a few finishing touches. Felicia coldly said it was just a dress. Eric rolled his eyes and asked Stephanie for her input. She said it was beautiful. He asked Felicia what he could do to put a smile on her face. She replied, "Divorce Donna." Brooke jumped in to defend her sister Donna, and reminded Felicia that the Logans and Forresters were on the same team and everyone needed to pull together to make the latest collection a success. Eric reiterated Brooke's speech about teamwork. Felicia quipped that if she was on the team, she wished Eric would take her off the bench.

When the rest of the family left, Eric thanked Brooke and said she always knew the right words to say to bring everyone together. She said she was both a Logan and a Forrester, so she had a unique perspective. Eric said everyone had to put the company first, and he only wished his kids were happier. Brooke reminded him that one of his kids was happy: Rick. Eric agreed and pointed out that Rick was doing a fine job as the acting president of Forrester. Brooke said her only regret was that Ridge was so uncomfortable working with Rick. Eric said Rick was a constant reminder of Phoebe's death, but Ridge agreed to try to work with Rick, anyway. Eric predicted that given time, their relationship would heal.

Brooke walked into the next office and found Katie there at work. She asked Katie why she wasn't at Nick's fashion show. Katie said that Clarke was designing the latest line, and Nick was probably afraid it would bomb. Katie theorized that Nick was too proud to let Katie watch him fail.

Brooke said Nick had always been a proud man, but she bet that deep in his heart, Nick wanted Katie there. Katie asked Brooke if she really believed that. Brooke said she did, and encouraged Katie to go back to Nick.

Rick and Steffy were locked away secretly kissing, and Rick said he wished they did not have to keep their relationship a secret. He informed Steffy that he tried to talk to her father the day before. Rick told Steffy that he asked Ridge if there was anything he could do that would make Ridge forgive him. Ridge said no.

Steffy said she wished it didn't have to be that way. She wanted everyone to know how much they loved one another. She suggested if all they could have was a secret relationship, they should give up. Rick said when something was worth fighting for, and they were, a clear path would present itself and they would find a way to be together.

Rick said nothing and no one would keep them apart. Steffy declared her deep love for Rick, but added that her Dad meant the world to her. She didn't want to cause him any more pain. Rick posed a hypothetical question and asked Steffy what would happen if they didn't have to deal with Ridge anymore.

Stephanie walked into Eric's office and admired the designs he had displayed. Stephanie said it was fine work and she didn't know a designer alive who wouldn't give their right arm for those designs. Eric said he only hoped the show would be a major success for Forrester Creations. Eric expressed concern about the lousy attitude he got from Thorne and Felicia. Stephanie said they felt slighted. Eric said that was nonsense, all of his kids had any opportunity they wanted at his company. Stephanie said Eric should be more sensitive and look at it from their point of view, and try to understand how they felt.

Katie walked in just as the fashion show began. She saw the first dress come down the runway and said it looked familiar.

Across town, the same gown was being modeled in Eric's office. His family praised him profusely and said there was nothing else like it on the market.

Back at Jackie M, the second gown appeared on the runway and Katie recognized it as a Forrester original design. She got a look of horror on her face and asked what was going on.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 22nd

The audience loved the Jackie M fashion show as Katie watched in shock. A reporter spoke into his recorder and announced that it was a triumph. Backstage, Katie venomously accused Jackie and Clarke of stealing Eric's designs. Katie said Sally Spectra would have been proud of them. Nick tried to shuttle Katie out of the public area and into an office, and Jackie and Clarke followed.

Accusations flew around the room, and Nick pushed Jackie and Clarke to get back to the show while he spoke to Katie. He came clean that the collection was sent to him via email anonymously. Nick said he thought Katie had sent the designs, but he realized it wasn't Katie. Incredulous that Nick could think that Katie could be so dishonest, she shouted at him that she was going to get the blame at Forrester. She reminded him that Forrester was on the verge of civil war, with the Forresters and Logans at each other's throats.

Katie suggested that they rob a bank or a liquor store if they were going to be thieves. Nick refused to acknowledge that he stole designs. He said they were a gift, since the sender said it was to keep him afloat. Katie said someone at Forrester was trying to destroy the company. She said she wasn't sure she knew who Nick was. The man she fell in love with wouldn't think of using the designs.

On the runway, the fashion show continued to thunderous applause as Clarke and Jackie rejoiced.

Rick and Steffy talked about how everything seemed to be going against them. Steffy wanted to give up their relationship, but Rick refused. Steffy said she wanted one normal day as a regular couple, but she didn't think it would ever happen because of their families. She said that sometimes love wasn't enough to hold a couple together.

Rick refused to let the circumstances control him, and they kissed. Rick said he believed there was a solution to their problem, and he bragged that he was a man who could make things happen. He said he had a plan, and promised that they would be together.

Eric met with the family regarding the collection and he said he was glad that they kept the entire thing under wraps. Felicia snidely said that Katie's relationship with Nick compromised the collection, and Thorne agreed. Brooke said Nick and Katie were engaged and they were professionals. Eric added that Katie was about to marry into a family on the verge of financial collapse. Eric insisted that nothing Jackie M had could come close to any of the Forrester designs as a model walked in wearing one of his designs.

Backstage at Jackie M, Jackie and Clarke were handing over the same dress to a model. It was the showstopper. In the hallway, Katie called Brooke to tell her that the entire Forrester collection had been hijacked by Jackie M. Katie was on speaker phone as she broke the news to everyone in the Forrester office that every design was on display at Jackie M. Eric was furious, and he said he was on his way.

After the Forresters listened to Katie's bad news, Felicia accused Katie of being behind the espionage. Stephanie suggested it was an inside job, and Thorne took offense. He wondered if Stephanie was accusing him of stealing the designs. Stephanie said she wondered how the designs could end up at Jackie M when everyone who had access to them had access codes. She said that in the old days, only family had access. She said she had no idea who some of the employees were who had access to the collection, so it could have been anyone.

Brooke piped up that Stephanie didn't seem surprised, so it could be someone in the room who had given the designs to Jackie. Felicia and Thorne were insulted and accused Brooke of helping Nick. Stephanie said she knew there was no way Jackie M would survive without a successful show.

Eric showed up at the fashion show as the model wearing his showstopper came out. He was visibly upset as the crowd raved about the collection. Eric watched as Jackie, Clarke, and the models celebrated. He was stunned that his entire collection was on display.

After the show, reporters asked Clarke what he did for inspiration for a collection that was as nice as Forrester. Jackie reminded everyone that Clarke had worked at Forrester. Clarke answered that it was mysterious, and that a little bit of Eric was in every design.

Eric showed up, and he was livid with Jackie. He accused her of stealing every design that he and Ridge had. He told her it was industrial espionage, and Jackie cautioned that he was slandering her company. Eric wondered how she could have stolen everything from him when the designs were encrypted and under lock and key. He told Jackie that he couldn't believe she could stoop as low as Sally Spectra.

He warned Jackie that she would become a joke. Jackie turned the tables and said Eric had become Mr. Honeybear. She spat that he had traded her for Donna. Eric was in disbelief that she would be vindictive because he married Donna. He reminded Jackie that they had once been lovers, but they were also friends for a long time. He told her that if she had come to him, he would have introduced her to bankers and investors that would have kept her in business.

Nick got a text message that it was time to pay the piper, who was waiting in his office. Nick entered his darkened office, and he heard a noise acknowledging that he would finally meet the person who had given him the collection as a gift. He turned, and squinted and said, "Oh my God, you?"

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, January 23

Nick lit a cigar and stared at his benefactor, Rick Forrester. He asked why Rick would ruin his family's business and why he would leave the presidency of one successful company to become the president of a failing company. Rick announced that it was all because of Ridge. He was always second to Ridge. Although Rick was president at Forrester, Ridge was CEO. Rick told Nick that he couldn't take it anymore. Everyday at Forrester, he had to face Stephanie, who wanted him in jail, and Ridge, who hated him.

Rick said "we" just want a normal life. Nick asked who "we" included, but Rick declined to answer. Rick wanted reassurance that Nick would hold up his end of the bargain and indeed make Rick the company president. Nick agreed. The two of them decided to keep the announcement under wraps for the short term.

At Forrester, all the Logans and Forresters, minus Rick, gathered to figure out their next move, since Jackie M had stolen the entire collection. They were going to need a new collection. The family tried to figure out how Jackie, Nick, and Clarke stole the collection. Ridge said they were all in the building for the surf line fashion show. He guessed they might have stolen designs then. Eric disagreed because he said the line wasn't complete at that point.

Katie showed up and said that no one from Jackie M came into the building and stole the collection. It was sent via email directly to Nick. Katie told Eric that they needed to have a statement for the press from Eric, Ridge, and Rick. She left to work on it. The rest of the family tried to determine who would give the collection away. They pointed fingers at Katie, but Brooke told them they were wrong.

Brooke announced that she was going to see Nick and tell him to call the press and admit exactly what had happened. The Forresters scoffed, and she left for Jackie M. Eric wondered how any employee could do such a thing to the company.

Brooke arrived in Nick's office and demanded to know who sent him the collection. She insisted that he couldn't use it because it was stolen. Nick refused to tell her. Brooke pressured Nick to make a statement to the press that he used Forrester designs. He refused, but Brooke continued to tell him how wrong it was to steal the collection. She said she couldn't believe he wouldn't help her after all they had been through together. He warned her to leave it alone for the time being.

Rick called Steffy and asked her to meet him in his office. She wondered where he was and if he had heard what happened. He told her they would talk about it in his office. Steffy called Taylor, in tears, and told her mother how upset Eric and Ridge were about the stolen designs. Taylor asked if there was anything she could do, but Steffy said she just needed to talk to her mother, They both worried that the news would be too much for Ridge after losing Phoebe. Taylor said she would offer her support to Ridge.

In Rick's office, Rick embraced Steffy and told her how much he loved her. He promised her that everything would be fine, and that he had a new job as the president of a company. Steffy wondered what he was talking about, and Rick told her they could be together and no longer hide from family members. He wanted her to join him because he was going to be the president at Jackie M. Steffy stared at him in disbelief, wondering what he was talking about. Rick told her he was the company's new president and his first order of business was to hire her. Steffy realized that Rick had sent the designs to Nick, and wondered how he could do something so cruel to his family.

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, January 26

Rick explained to Steffy that he made the decision to steal Eric's designs for their future. Steffy was unsure how stealing her grandfather's designs was supposed to be for the two of them. Rick tried to explain his convoluted thought process to her. Rick said when he realized Ridge would never forgive him and accept his relationship with Steffy, he opted to take matters into his own hands. Steffy asked if Rick thought the way to get the family to accept their relationship was to stab both of their dads in the back. Rick explained he had no choice; he knew the Forresters could not accept them, so he found a way they could venture out on their own. Steffy asked if he truly thought working for the competition against their family was a real solution.

Rick laid out his full blueprint for the future. He said he had been miserable at Forrester. Between Stephanie threatening him, and Ridge making him uncomfortable every day, it would make perfect sense if he started working at Jackie M. Then he could bring Steffy on and they could build up the company together. Steffy tried using the voice of reason and explained that as soon as Rick went to work for Jackie M, the family would put two and two together and discover Rick was the one who stole their designs. She said he had not helped them; he had destroyed them.

Steffy said if the love they shared was the sort of love that hurt their family and stole from their family, it was a sick love that didn't deserve to see the light of day. Steffy urged Rick to confess what he had done. She pointed out that the family would launch a big and costly investigation, and eventually they would discover that Rick was behind it. She asked him to come clean immediately.

Rick asked Steffy if it would make a difference to their future if he confessed. Steffy said there was no 'them' anymore. Rick said he would go and confess to his father, and hoped Steffy would give him another chance after the dust had settled. Rick left the room and Steffy cried as she looked at Rick's photo. She was unable to handle the fact that he sold out their family business.

Jackie gushed with delight about the fashion show and proclaimed that Jackie M was the hit of the season. Nick wasn't as thrilled and reminded her there would be fallout. Jackie shrugged it off and said the Forresters would not have enough evidence to sue them. Nick said the fallout he was thinking of wasn't legal, but personal. This situation would affect his fiancée, Katie. Jackie said Katie would get over it. After all, Nick had secured a financial future for Katie and Jack. The press arrived and Clark posed for the cameras and claimed his designs were the salvation of Jackie M. Nick looked as if he wanted to vomit. He tried to call Katie, but she did not pick up.

Katie was devastated and expressed to Brooke that she felt as if her fiancé was a stranger. Katie didn't think Nick was the sort of man who would put her in that sort of position. She played uneasily with her engagement ring as though she was deciding whether or not to throw it across the room. Katie said she didn't think she could go home.

Eric and Ridge worried about the future of Forrester Creations since they would not have a new line to debut. The two men vowed to find out who betrayed them and stole their designs and to send the culprit to jail. Ridge said they would come back from this. Eric said they had come back in the past and hoped it would happen again. Eric thanked Ridge for being beside him at such a difficult time.

Ridge went to Brooke and asked if she had convinced Nick to pull the line. She said Nick refused. Ridge approached Katie to see if she would talk to Nick, and she said nothing. Ridge deduced that Katie had been in the dark, too.

Brooke was worried about her sister and told Ridge that Katie was having a hard time with the situation. Ridge said if Brooke could have seen Eric, it would have broken her heart. Eric had been so proud of his new collection and felt he had something to prove after his heart attack. Ridge relayed the amount of work they had done to get the collection ready and it had all been for nothing. The whole project had to be scrapped. Ridge said Eric wanted to prove he wasn't washed up. Ridge vowed to become Eric's inspiration to create another new collection, and Brooke vowed to be Ridge's inspiration in turn. The two kissed passionately.

Rick walked into Eric's office and Eric expressed great sorrow over what had happened.

He said they had to find out who had leaked their designs. Rick threw himself at Eric's mercy and confessed that he had been the one who emailed Jackie M the entire Forrester line. Eric looked as though he had been stabbed. It was the ultimate betrayal-and by his son's hand. Rick explained that Stephanie, Ridge, Thorne, and Felicia had been mean to him. Eric asked Rick if he was eleven years old. Eric said Rick had been living in Ridge's shadow for a long time and the reason was clear: Rick was no Ridge Forrester.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, January 27

In Eric's office at Forrester Creations, Rick angrily discussed Eric's response to the discovery that Rick had given the designs to Jackie M Boutiques. Eric had commented out of his anger that "Rick was no Ridge Forrester." Rick pointed out that Eric always favored Ridge, and he never loved his children all the same as he claimed. Eric asked Rick if that were the reason that he betrayed his father.

Meanwhile, Ridge was seething over the theft of his company's designs. Brooke employed her feminine charms and comforted Ridge by seducing him on the couch in his office. When they were finished, Ridge vowed to Brook that he would find out who stole the Forrester designs. Ridge even stated he would hire a private investigator to get the information.

Pam warned Stephanie that there was a spy at Forrester Creations, which was why she was quietly crocheting the bathing suits so no one could watch what she was doing and copy her design.

Back at Eric's office, Rick confessed that he was a huge disappointment to his father. Eric did not agree with Rick's feelings. Rick commented that Eric would never intentionally hurt anyone. Rick recalled he didn't have an ideal childhood and his parents got divorced. He was aware that he wasn't the only child to feel that way and should have received counseling. He questioned what type of son he could if he robbed his own father of his hard work. Rick once again blamed himself for Phoebe's death. Rick concluded that he had to leave, and get away from Forrester Creations.

Later, Eric told Rick that even though he betrayed him and his company, Eric wanted Rick to stay at Forrester Creations so they could work together. Eric promised that it would be their secret, and he would see to it that no one else found out what he had done.

Ridge told Stephanie that he was suspicious of Rick's sudden disappearance around the time the theft of the designs had been revealed. Stephanie stated she also believed that Rick was responsible for the stolen designs. She was certain that Rick had stolen the designs to hurt Ridge rather then Eric.

Mr. Williams from the bank arrived at Jackie M. Boutiques and told Nick and Jackie that one great selling collection would not be enough to pay off their loan. After the bank official had left, Nick assured a very nervous Jackie that things would work out financially due to the boon in business from the stolen designs. He told his mother that his plan was that when the new president joined their company, they would be able to use the president's name to promote sales.

Eric first telephoned Steffy and asked her to meet him at the airport at the Forrester jet without telling anyone where she was going. Eric then telephoned Nick and arranged to meet him at the airport at the Forrester jet to discuss the stolen designs. He asked Nick not to tell anyone where he was going, not even his mother, Jackie. Eric told Rick that he was arranging the meeting to protect Rick and the entire family. Eric agreed that perhaps he had not been the best father, but he wanted to protect Rick and hold their family together. He commented that they were a father and a son, they would work together, and they would never fail again.

On the Forrester private jet, Eric confronted Nick about the stolen designs. He said he didn't need to deny anything because Rick told him the entire story. Eric made it clear to Nick that he would love to prosecute him and Jackie, but he would not. Instead, Eric explained that he wanted to help his son. He told Nick that Nick could keep the designs and profit from the designs under one condition: Rick would remain with Forrester Creations and no one could find out what Rick had done. He asked Nick to make a snap decision about Rick.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, January 28

Jackie allowed Bridget to sneak in a visit with Jack. Jackie knew how much Bridget adored the baby and still regretted the breakup of Bridget and Nick's marriage. Bridget thanked Jackie for letting her see Jack. Bridget admitted that she was still in pain over the breakup with Nick, but had decided to move on with her life.

Bridget congratulated Jackie on the success of Jackie M's latest collection. Jackie thanked her, but mentioned that she needed a new designer to keep the company moving forward. Jackie said Clarke could only take them so far. Jackie mentioned that Jack preferred Bridget to his babysitter. Bridget appeared fidgety and uncomfortable and said she had to leave. Jackie asked her if she was avoiding Nick. Bridget denied it and reminded Jackie that she had decided to move on. Bridget said she wanted to shake things up a bit, and Jackie said she was a big fan of that concept.

Stephanie was suspicious that Rick was the one who sabotaged their new line and expressed her fears to Ridge. Ridge said that although Rick despised him, he wouldn't be cruel enough to ruin things for his own father, Eric. Stephanie was not convinced, and warned Ridge not to underestimate Rick.

Ridge said it wouldn't make sense for Rick to hurt the company. Stephanie reminded Ridge that Rick rarely made sensible choices and she stuck to her hunch that Rick was the culprit. Stephanie worried about how badly it would hurt Eric if it were his son who stole his designs and betrayed him.

Eric approached Nick and pitched a deal. Eric said Nick could have the entire collection of designs, but he could not have Rick. Eric threatened to expose the fact that Jackie M stole the designs if Nick didn't agree. Nick said they hadn't stolen the designs. He said Rick offered him the designs in exchange for the presidency of Jackie M. Nick asked Rick to weigh in on the matter.

Steffy arrived and Nick was surprised to discover she also knew about the stolen designs. Steffy asked Eric if he would be able to forgive Rick for what he had done. Eric said he didn't understand what motivated Rick, but he thought that he could forgive him. Rick said he had made a huge error in judgment and believed in a dream that would never come true.

Rick apologized profusely to Eric and said he regretted what he had done. Nick reminded Rick that he was ready to ditch his job at Forrester and take over at Jackie M. Rick said he changed his mind and wanted to continue to work with his dad at Forrester. Eric promised Nick the secret would remain with the four of them and they would never mention it to anyone.

Rick pleaded with Steffy to believe that he had only tried to shake things up for the two of them, and that he had acted out of love. She said she believed him.

Bridget saw Rick and Steffy parting ways and asked Steffy if she and Rick were still seeing one another despite multiple warnings. Steffy assured her that they had ended things and that she finally realized Bridget was right. Nothing good could ever come of a relationship between Rick and Steffy.

Steffy said it hurt, and her feelings for Rick just kept coming back in spite of every obstacle they had faced. Bridget said she understood how badly it hurt to love someone you could not be with.

Nick reported back to Jackie and said he had good news and bad news. The good news was that Eric would not press charges against them. The bed news was that they would not get a new president for Jackie M. Jackie pressed Nick to name their secret helper, but Nick refused.

Stephanie and Ridge cornered Eric and asked what he had discovered about the theft of his designs. Eric downplayed the event and said it was water under the bridge. Eric urged them to forget it and move forward. Eric pointed out that the designs has debuted as Jackie M fashions, so to cause a commotion would only serve to offer free publicity to their competition. Eric said he had made the choice; it was over and done with. Stephanie accused Eric of covering for someone. Ridge went a step further and named names - little Ricky. Stephanie asked Eric to look her in the eye and swear that it was not Rick that had sabotaged them. Eric refused to give Stephanie a scapegoat.

Ridge and Stephanie pounced on Rick, but Eric stood firm and told them he would not allow them to blame Rick for what had happened. After Ridge and Stephanie left the room, Rick expressed gratitude for Eric's loyalty. Rick said Eric covered for him when he least deserved it. Eric realized Rick was still punishing himself for the guilt he felt over Phoebe's death. Eric told him he had to let go of the guilt or it would consume him and ruin his life.

Eric's one condition to Rick was the Rick needed to live at peace with Ridge. Eric didn't want his two sons at one another's' throats. Rick said he would comply, but he could not speak for Ridge. Eric vowed he would handle Ridge and bring him around.

After Eric left the room, Stephanie was stalking Rick outside the office. She entered and said she knew Rick was responsible for what had happened at the fashion show as well as for Phoebe's death, and swore she would make him pay.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 29

Eric put on a great act for Ridge and Stephanie as he refused to believe that Rick could have been responsible for stealing the designs. Ridge and Stephanie berated Rick, but Eric warned Stephanie to let it go. Ridge insisted that Rick had to pay. Eric shouted at them both to stop pointing fingers. Eric said that Jackie M might have the entire collection, but Clarke was the head designer at Jackie M, and that meant disaster for the company.

At Jackie M, Jackie and Nick looked at Clarke's new designs, and they were unimpressed. Jackie and Nick sent Clarke on his way as they added that they were hiring a new designer to help him. Jackie said she had a new designer in mind - someone whose collection she had been studying. Jackie left as Katie marched in to joust with Nick.

Katie asked Nick if he could go back in time to receiving the first email with designs in it, if he would do it again. Nick continued his blabbing that he did not steal the designs because they were given to him, but Katie said she wanted to know who sent them. Nick wouldn't tell her, and he said he planned to protect his family no matter what, including her. Oddly, Katie asked him about Bridget. Nick said he would always have feelings for Bridget, but he was in love with and planned to marry Katie. She said she wanted to be his partner. They kissed and embraced.

Bridget popped in at Rick's office, but he refused to talk to about his relationship with Steffy. He said it was over. Bridget said it was all for the best. She added that Rick should have known to stay away from Steffy.

At lunch, Jackie saw Bridget, but she told Bridget she was meeting a designer. Bridget enlightened Jackie that she was the mystery designer Jackie was scheduled to have lunch with. Jackie was delighted and told her former daughter-in-law how inspired her designs were. Bridget gushed that she always wanted to be a designer ever since she was a little girl, but no one ever encouraged her. She said she made outfits for her dolls. She even asked for a sewing machine as a child, and hoped that her family would notice that she was interested in designing. She said her family still ignored her desire to get into fashion and she chose to excel in math and science. Bridget said she had been a very happy doctor.

Jackie said the designs were exactly what she needed to keep Jackie M going. Jackie worried that Eric would not approve of his daughter working for the competition, but Bridget didn't think it would be a problem. She decided to get away from her family because they weren't looking for a designer. Jackie gave her the job, but tempered her enthusiasm with the truth. Jackie realized that Bridget hadn't been at Forrester lately, so she had no idea that someone had sent Eric's designs over to Jackie M. Jackie didn't tell her about the design coup, but she warned that Bridget would have to work with Nick. Bridget said she didn't care. She and Jackie agreed to keep her mystery designer status secret for a while, rather than announce whom she was. Bridget was elated that she could finally fulfill her dream.

Steffy met with Eric because he wanted to discuss what Rick did. Eric begged her not to tell anyone, and Steffy agreed, but she countered that the entire family was already suspicions. She wondered how Eric was able to show such forgiveness and set aside his anger. Eric said he loved his son. He was adamant that no one could ever find out what Rick did. He was especially worried that Ridge would find out. Eric told Steffy that Rick was a good person. Eric insisted that Rick needed help to get through his problems.

Rick delivered papers to Ridge, and Ridge started the barrage of accusations that Rick sabotaged the company. Rick baited Ridge to do something to him if Ridge was so certain. Ridge ranted on about losers and how disgusted he was with Rick. He ordered Rick out of his office. Rick said he was only there because he promised Eric he would try to make peace with Ridge.

Later, Ridge and Stephanie wouldn't let go of the thought that Rick was the guilty party. Ridge ranted about his hatred for Rick. Stephanie couldn't understand why Eric protected Rick. Ridge freaked out and said he couldn't stand Rick. He said he had promised Brooke that he would try to get along with Rick. He swore that if Rick did one more thing to the family, Ridge would take action.

Steffy visited Rick and marveled that Eric was so forgiving that he allowed Rick to stay with the company. Steffy told Rick she, too, forgave him. Rick told Steffy that Ridge knew Rick was the one who stole the designs. Rick said he was caught in a fantasy. He actually thought they had a future together at Jackie M. He admitted he was dumb to do what he did. Steffy said maybe they were both crazy. They were crazy in love. Outside the door, Stephanie saw Rick and Steffy joining hands and about to embrace.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, January 29

Eric put on a great act for Ridge and Stephanie as he refused to believe that Rick could have been responsible for stealing the designs. Ridge and Stephanie berated Rick, but Eric warned Stephanie to let it go. Ridge insisted that Rick had to pay. Eric shouted at them both to stop pointing fingers. Eric said that Jackie M might have the entire collection, but Clarke was the head designer at Jackie M, and that meant disaster for the company.

At Jackie M, Jackie and Nick looked at Clarke's new designs, and they were unimpressed. Jackie and Nick sent Clarke on his way as they added that they were hiring a new designer to help him. Jackie said she had a new designer in mind - someone whose collection she had been studying. Jackie left as Katie marched in to joust with Nick.

Katie asked Nick if he could go back in time to receiving the first email with designs in it, if he would do it again. Nick continued his blabbing that he did not steal the designs because they were given to him, but Katie said she wanted to know who sent them. Nick wouldn't tell her, and he said he planned to protect his family no matter what, including her. Oddly, Katie asked him about Bridget. Nick said he would always have feelings for Bridget, but he was in love with and planned to marry Katie. She said she wanted to be his partner. They kissed and embraced.

Bridget popped in at Rick's office, but he refused to talk to about his relationship with Steffy. He said it was over. Bridget said it was all for the best. She added that Rick should have known to stay away from Steffy.

At lunch, Jackie saw Bridget, but she told Bridget she was meeting a designer. Bridget enlightened Jackie that she was the mystery designer Jackie was scheduled to have lunch with. Jackie was delighted and told her former daughter-in-law how inspired her designs were. Bridget gushed that she always wanted to be a designer ever since she was a little girl, but no one ever encouraged her. She said she made outfits for her dolls. She even asked for a sewing machine as a child, and hoped that her family would notice that she was interested in designing. She said her family still ignored her desire to get into fashion and she chose to excel in math and science. Bridget said she had been a very happy doctor.

Jackie said the designs were exactly what she needed to keep Jackie M going. Jackie worried that Eric would not approve of his daughter working for the competition, but Bridget didn't think it would be a problem. She decided to get away from her family because they weren't looking for a designer. Jackie gave her the job, but tempered her enthusiasm with the truth. Jackie realized that Bridget hadn't been at Forrester lately, so she had no idea that someone had sent Eric's designs over to Jackie M. Jackie didn't tell her about the design coup, but she warned that Bridget would have to work with Nick. Bridget said she didn't care. She and Jackie agreed to keep her mystery designer status secret for a while, rather than announce whom she was. Bridget was elated that she could finally fulfill her dream.

Steffy met with Eric because he wanted to discuss what Rick did. Eric begged her not to tell anyone, and Steffy agreed, but she countered that the entire family was already suspicions. She wondered how Eric was able to show such forgiveness and set aside his anger. Eric said he loved his son. He was adamant that no one could ever find out what Rick did. He was especially worried that Ridge would find out. Eric told Steffy that Rick was a good person. Eric insisted that Rick needed help to get through his problems.

Rick delivered papers to Ridge, and Ridge started the barrage of accusations that Rick sabotaged the company. Rick baited Ridge to do something to him if Ridge was so certain. Ridge ranted on about losers and how disgusted he was with Rick. He ordered Rick out of his office. Rick said he was only there because he promised Eric he would try to make peace with Ridge.

Later, Ridge and Stephanie wouldn't let go of the thought that Rick was the guilty party. Ridge ranted about his hatred for Rick. Stephanie couldn't understand why Eric protected Rick. Ridge freaked out and said he couldn't stand Rick. He said he had promised Brooke that he would try to get along with Rick. He swore that if Rick did one more thing to the family, Ridge would take action.

Steffy visited Rick and marveled that Eric was so forgiving that he allowed Rick to stay with the company. Steffy told Rick she, too, forgave him. Rick told Steffy that Ridge knew Rick was the one who stole the designs. Rick said he was caught in a fantasy. He actually thought they had a future together at Jackie M. He admitted he was dumb to do what he did. Steffy said maybe they were both crazy. They were crazy in love. Outside the door, Stephanie saw Rick and Steffy joining hands and about to embrace.