2009 April Recaps

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, April 01

and Nick ponder the impact Stephanie has had on the fashion industry.


Taylor and Ridge walk into his office and discuss how Thomas is on a flight to see James Warwick. Taylor hopes James can help their son and wonders how they didn’t realize Thomas was in so much trouble.





Jackie tells Nick about hiring Owen and he asks why. She finds him impressive, but Nick doesn’t think they should be hiring new employees right now. Jackie notes he doesn’t cost that much and believes with Owen and Bridget on staff, they will turn things around in no time. Jackie also tells Nick how Eric has accepted Bridget’s new career move and thinks it’s good she didn’t go work for Eric because they need her.




Stephanie enters Eric’s office and tells him Steffy and Rick are engaged. Eric thinks it’s a little fast and Stephanie wonders if he supports this relationship. Eric thinks if Ridge can accept it maybe they all can. Donna comes to the door trying to seduce Eric, but then sees Stephanie. Stephanie isn’t amused and wants Eric to come with her to talk to Ridge, but Eric wants to spend some time alone with his wife. Stephanie wonders what has happened to him that he allows these sexual games to be played in the work place. They discuss Rick and Steffy some more and Eric doesn't see what’s wrong with them getting together, but Stephanie is outraged the two of them share the same last name. Eric throws it in her face that they aren’t related thanks to her, but Stephanie tries to make him see that Rick is doing this to stick it to Ridge. Eric won’t let her dictate what he should do. Stephanie badmouths Donna, and Eric adamantly tells her he won’t tolerate this anymore. Stephanie says the class and elegance is gone from FC and the clientele will soon follow. Eric has had it with her feeling like she is the sole owner of FC. He says she wouldn’t have built anything if it weren’t for his designs. She reminds him she handled everyday life so he could create and carried herself with an air of dignity so women would want to wear his designs. Eric is finished with this and fires Stephanie. She is stunned, but Eric tells her she never wanted to be a partner because the only thing she knows how to do is control. Stephanie tries to reason with him, but Eric tells her he has a wife who supports him and listens to him. He doesn't need her and he doesn’t want her there because she is negative and angry about something all the time. He doesn’t want her and says goodbye. Stephanie says when he’s had his fill of Logans running the hallways and Rick has hurt him more than he can take, he shouldn’t come knocking at her door, because she won’t answer.






Mr. Williams from the bank comes to see Nick and Jackie. He notes they haven’t returned any of his calls and Jackie explains they’ve been busy since the fashion show. Mr. Williams points out they made their last two payments, but are late on this one. Jackie promises big things with the reveal that Bridget Forrester is designing for them. Mr. Williams says this works in their favor and will take that information back to the loan review committee to see if it will buy them more time. He leaves and Jackie can’t believe how beneficial it is to use the Forrester name. Nick doesn’t get why that makes any difference, but Jackie thinks he is just blinded by his hatred for Stephanie. Nick says he doesn’t really hate her, but he doesn’t like her either. Jackie reminds him Stephanie and Eric have built a company based on elegance and grace and it’s something to be admired. Nick gets distracted thinking about Stephanie and the impact she’s had on the fashion industry. It’s noted that she’s smart and savvy and her clientele respects her. Jackie says with Donna as Eric’s right hand instead of Stephanie, God knows what the future of that company will be.






Donna is proud of Eric and tells him not to change his mind because he did the right thing. She thinks someone had to stand up to Stephanie after her years of criticizing and undermining. Donna thinks it will be a much better place to work without Stephanie.






Stephanie goes to see Ridge and tells him about getting fired. Ridge thinks it’s ridiculous, but Stephanie wants to go, she wants to leave the company. Ridge wants to talk to Eric, but she doesn’t want to be where she’s not wanted. Ridge reminds her she is half of Forrester Creations, but Stephanie thinks it’s time to move on. She thinks her time has come and gone and that she has worn out her welcome there.






Stephanie looks at a family photo and recalls her years with Eric at FC. She says, “Goodbye Eric.” Eric enters and Stephanie tells him she doesn’t wish him ill. She truly wants him to be happy, but that he will probably regret this day because the company will never be the same again. Her work there has come to an end, but she’s not at the end of the road yet.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, April 02

Jackie and Owen look at a loft, the employees of Forrester Creations gather to support Stephanie, and Stephanie reflects on the past.


Eric tells Stephanie he has moved on with his life and Stephanie wishes she had as well. She tells him it was supposed to be a lifetime commitment: the marriage, the children and the company. She accuses him of tossing her away with reckless abandon and now he has Donna to share the spotlight. She says the name Stephanie will be buried with the rest of the relics and says goodbye.






Stephanie leaves the office and walks into the hallway to a round of applause from Thorne, Felicia, Ridge and Brooke, as well as other FC employees, including Jake, Rocco and Madison. Everyone offers their support and encouragement and Stephanie thanks them for their respect and support over the years. Stephanie says it’s time to go and Felicia and Thorne offer to go with her. Stephanie insists no one is leaving except for her. She would be sad if this company and family were torn apart. She asks them all to stay at FC and continue to do the excellent work they have always done. She’s been very proud to be associated with all of them and launches into a moving goodbye speech. She thanks them all for sharing their lives with her and gets on the elevator and leaves.






At Jackie M, Jackie introduces Owen to Nick. Nick wants to know about his time at Forrester including what their strengths and weaknesses are and how Stephanie fits into it. Owen relays it was very tense with a lot of arguments. Nick asks who has the real power at Forrester and Owen answers that Stephanie does because when you say the name Forrester, everyone thinks of her. Owen explains she is loyal to her employees from the top all the way to the bottom. Jackie gives Nick a book on the history of Forrester Creations and says if he wants to understand them he has to go back to the beginning. Nick leaves to do some reading and Jackie’s realtor, Gretchen, comes in saying there are some great properties on the market in one of the hottest parts of town. Owen makes it seem as if they are a couple and are very interested in checking it out.






Eric tells Felicia, Thorne, Ridge and Brooke that the company can only have one vision and Stephanie wasn’t on board with that. Donna says she couldn’t get behind her as Eric’s wife and she and Felicia get into it. The family debates the issue further and the kids wonder what their mother is supposed to do now. Thorne tells Eric he is worried about Stephanie because the look in her eyes when she got on the elevator was vacant, like there was nothing there. Eric thinks Stephanie will be all right, she just needs a little time because there is no one more resilient than her.






Owen and Jackie check out a loft and Owen plays up their ‘romance’ to Gretchen. While alone, Owen tells Jackie he’s just having a little fun, but Jackie thinks it’s at Gretchen’s expense. Owen thinks Jackie should buy this place and playfully suggests they soundproof the bedroom so their neighbors don’t get jealous. All joking aside, Owen thinks the place is great, but Jackie thinks the place is for people just starting out in life who have experienced the first taste of success and that’s not where she is. Owen insists Jackie M is headed for great things, but Jackie thinks Gretchen picked the place out for her because she thinks she’s a cougar. Owen lets her know Gretchen picked it out for Jackie long before she met him. Owen tries to convince her to buy, but Jackie tells Gretchen the place isn’t for her.






Stephanie goes to the marina and recalls her younger days with Eric when she was pregnant with their first child, they had just moved to California and were planning their company. She thinks they had it all, but now it’s gone and she’s all alone. She steps out on the rocks and looks out at the water.

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, April 03

Stephanie confides in Nick, Brooke checks up on Steffy and Rick, and Eric tells Taylor Stephanie was fired.

Nick goes to the marina and sees Stephanie looking out at the water. He calls out to her and then they go to his boat. He wonders what she was doing down there and asks if she is okay. Stephanie tells him she was looking for a little peace and quiet and explains how she and Eric made their decision to stay in California and create FC down by the water. He wonders if it is an anniversary for it, but Stephanie tells him she is no longer needed at FC.




Brooke tells Ridge she can’t believe Eric asked Stephanie to leave and calls it an end of an era. Ridge says she didn’t deserve it and no one can fill her shoes. Ridge wants to check things out at the beach house, but Brooke doesn’t think that’s a good idea. Ridge hopes Steffy will open her eyes to what a bad idea this marriage is and hopes it doesn’t happen.






Rick and Steffy enjoy some naked time on the couch looking at her engagement ring. Steffy is thrilled she is engaged and living with the man she loves so much.






Eric summons Taylor to his office and tells her Stephanie is no longer working at FC. Taylor is surprised and then shocked to learn Eric fired her. Eric explains why he did it, but fears what it might do to her.






Nick makes Stephanie some instant coffee and she wonders if there is some whiskey in it. Unfortunately there’s not and Stephanie notices Nick has the book about the history of Forrester and he explains it would be nice to have some insight from an expert. Nick tells Stephanie Eric is a wimp and couldn’t take Stephanie’s rules and tough broad demeanor. He doesn’t think Eric could take it so he got a younger model, but he doesn’t think she should shed any tears over it. Stephanie assures him she’s not.






Brooke comes to the beach house and notices Steffy’s ring. Rick wonders how Ridge will react and Brooke thinks he knows exactly how that will go down. Steffy wants to reserve a church and Brooke is surprised to learn they’ve chosen a date. Brooke doesn’t understand why they are rushing into it, but they both want to let everyone know they are finally together and committed. Brooke agrees to help them find a church, but Rick says it doesn’t have to be a church, it can be somewhere different and unique. Brooke agrees to help, but still fears they are rushing into marriage.





Ridge calls Taylor to let her know Brooke went to visit the kids, but says they need a strategy because he can’t live with the two of them getting married.




Brooke comes back to see Ridge and she tells them the kids are very happy together and eager to get married. Ridge vows that won’t happen, but Brooke doesn’t think there is anything he can do to stop them. Ridge says they can live together, but marriage is where he draws the line.





Stephanie ponders life and how it moves forward and then all of a sudden, it becomes about looking backwards at memories and achievements. She doesn’t think anyone prepares you for it to be over. She notes she is a controlling person and it can get tiresome after awhile and that’s what happened with Eric. She says the passion you share with someone drifts away and she can’t compete with Donna, but she always thought commitment and family were more important to Eric than a roll in the hay. She turned a blind eye to all his affairs until Brooke, because she was different and he started a family with her. She doesn't expect him to come back this time and says what goes around comes around and it turned out to be a cruel joke on her. Nick tells her she’s not a victim because she’s stronger than that. Stephanie never saw this dead end happening with her life. She pauses and thanks Nick for the coffee and for a port in the storm. She gets up and leaves Nick lost in thought.



Taylor assures Eric she would never leave Stephanie alone, but she’s stronger than he thinks. Eric never worried about her a day in her life, but today is different. He worries what she’ll do and where she’ll go and prays she’ll be all right.




Stephanie walks the beach and thinks to herself the best days are yet to come and come they will.

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, April 06

Nick reaches out to Taylor, Taylor reaches out to Stephanie, and Owen seems to be just what Jackie needed.


Nick comes to see Taylor and she thanks him for all his texts, emails and flowers. She says they were really great for her and she appreciates his friendship. Nick came by because Stephanie might need a friend right now because she was fired from FC. Taylor thinks Stephanie will be fine because she has a lot of interests, but Nick says she’s been hanging out by the rocks at the marina looking like her best friend had been washed out to sea. Taylor thinks it’s strange Nick is there acting like Stephanie’s friend, but Nick just thought she’d want to know. Taylor isn’t sure what to do and Nick thinks even though she is still grieving, she still has a lot to give. Taylor doesn’t know how to be strong for someone else when she feels like she is broken. Nick suggests company helps and asks where her kids are. She explains and says that Phoebe’s death brought them all together, but then ripped them all apart. It was like she was the center of everything and then the center was gone. Nick observes that she’s a little sad and a little lonely and that it’s okay to feel that way. He also says Stephanie probably feels that way too and maybe they could do some good for each other.






Owen and Jackie interview some models and Jackie notes how great he is with them. He tells her the realtor called and they discuss her living arrangements. Jackie doesn’t want the loft saying she has never lived in a place she liked; it was all about giving off an impression. Jackie has to go, but Owen presses her for info about what kind of place and neighborhood she’s looking for. Owen says if she doesn’t give Gretchen answers, she might think they broke up. Jackie wonders why Gretchen would think he is her only boy toy.





Owen returns a call saying he has no interest in making a comment about his new position at Jackie M. Arielle comes in with papers from the bank for Jackie and Owen offers to take them to her. He sees Jackie’s address and asks if that’s really where she’s living.



Stephanie continues to hang out at the beach but then gets a look of realization on her face and walks away.




As Jackie decorates her new loft, Owen comes by and surprises her with the papers she needs to sign by the end of the day. Owen is smug about the fact that Jackie took the loft she was pretending to turn her nose up at. Owen reveals a bottle of champagne he brought and notes how quickly she’s gotten the place together. Jackie says paying by cash gets things done quicker and admits she didn’t want him to know how much his opinion meant to her. She then suggests he pop the bottle open and they toast to her new place. Owen notices a foosball table she has set up and Jackie tells him it’s for her grandson when he’s old enough. Owen thinks she’s a hip grandmother and Jackie playfully takes offense to the references to her age. She tells him there’s only one way for him to get out of the doghouse. She starts undressing him, but only so he can help her sharpen her foosball game.






Stephanie comes to Taylor's who is relieved to see her. Stephanie says she got all her messages and Taylor lets her know she is aware of what happened with Eric. Stephanie doesn’t want to have this conversation because she won’t be her patient or anyone else’s patient. Taylor doesn’t want that either and makes it clear she doesn’t want to make Stephanie see the brighter side of things. Stephanie says she can’t live in the guesthouse and will never darken the doorstep at Forrester again. Stephanie and Taylor commiserate and Taylor says they are both alone because everyone is gone. She feels worthless, but Stephanie tells her it's nonsense. Taylor tells Stephanie she is the only person who has ever given a damn about her and given her advice. Taylor suggests they live together, but Stephanie doesn’t think she can take care of anyone right now. Taylor doesn’t want that, she just wants someone else in the house to keep her from losing her mind. Stephanie can do that and the women hug.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, April 07

Nick makes Stephanie an offer, while Owen and Bridget enjoy some time on the beach together.


Stephanie moves in to Taylor's house and Taylor expresses how happy she is that Nick brought this up. Stephanie asks, “What do you mean Nick brought this up?" Taylor tries to explain, but Stephanie doesn’t want Nick’s pity and she certainly doesn’t want Taylor’s. Stephanie grabs her boxes and says she will be out within the hour. Taylor begs her to stay explaining she wants her to stay for herself, not for Nick.






Nick checks out his mother’s new digs, which he likes, but wonders why she made such a drastic change. He asks if she isn’t having a midlife crisis, what or who is she having? Jackie is offended and tells Nick she moved to the loft to please only herself. Nick is placated and brings up Stephanie. Nick then says they need to do something to get the bank off their back because they are bleeding money. Jackie is confident Nick will come up with something.






Bridget and Owen meet up at the beach in one of the cabanas for a meeting, but Owen is more interested in surfing and enjoying the beach before they get down to business. Bridget starts to undress, revealing her bathing suit while they discuss marketing strategies for the Madame X campaign. Bridget then suggests they hit the water and grabs a surfboard and Owen happily follows suit.






Bridget and Owen come back to the cabana and Bridget tends to Owen’s cut, which he possibly got from broken glass. Bridget cleans up his would and Owen pretends he has lockjaw. He asks her to look at it and when she humors him, he kisses her. After she enjoys a little face time with Owen, she breaks it off saying she knows this can’t go anywhere because she isn’t the type of person to have an affair or a one-night stand and also because they work together. Owen thinks she’s making a mistake and thinks he could be the right thing to help her get over losing Nick. She thinks maybe he is, but she has some repairs to make and it won’t happen overnight. Owen is disappointed and Bridget asks for a little bit of time to which Owen reluctantly agrees.






Katie works on her laptop at home and Jackie enters. Jackie didn’t expect to find her there and Katie explains the sitter needed time off so she’s watching Jack. Jackie came to see her grandson, but he’s taking a nap. Katie disdainfully tells her she is more than welcome to wait till he wakes up and Jackie sits down. Katie and Jackie trade barbs and Jackie tells her she can’t accept that she is the right person for her son. She thinks Katie must realize how deep Nick’s feelings for Bridget still run.






Nick comes to see Taylor and when she leaves to get him some coffee, Stephanie enters the room and says she doesn’t appreciate him going to Taylor on her behalf. Nick admits he thought he’d enjoy seeing her lonely and desperate, but life threw him a curveball. He tells her he came there to offer her an indecent proposal. Stephanie isn’t interested and Taylor returns urging Stephanie to listen to what Nick has to say. Stephanie calls him trash and Nick says that may be true, but they just might be each other’s comeback. He rattles off her many accomplishments over the years and points out that he doesn’t like her, calling her a rattlesnake, but together there would be no stopping them. He wants her to come to Jackie M and work with him. Stephanie calls him crazy and tells him to get the hell out of there.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, April 08

Jarrett gets the scoop on Stephanie, Nick tries to persuade Stephanie, and Taylor and Stephanie stick together.


Stephanie thinks Nick is just desperate and she doesn’t trust him, but Taylor tries to get Stephanie to listen to him. Nick says he doesn’t trust or like her either, but that doesn’t mean they can’t work together. Nick thinks he’s giving her a second chance, but she thinks he just wants her to help save his company. Nick says maybe he should have just left her on that beach all alone. Stephanie is not interested in his offer, but Nick continues with his pitch, telling her Jackie M needs someone with her experience and reputation. Stephanie asks what’s the real reason he’s making her this offer. Stephanie knows he needs money, but Nick insists he doesn’t, he needs her clout and reputation. Stephanie vows it won’t happen because she won’t damage her children’s legacy at Forrester. Nick promises her she will get the respect she deserves for once in her life at Jackie M. Stephanie wants him to leave and Nick does so, but not before leaving Stephanie with something to think about.






Katie waits for Nick in his office when Jackie walks in. Katie says big news is about to break at Forrester, but Jackie already knows Stephanie has been fired. They discuss the issue and Jackie calls Eric firing Stephanie a serious mistake because Stephanie is the heart and soul of the operation. She tells Katie as the PR liaison, she better be prepared for the backlash. Katie tells Jackie Jarrett is getting the scoop right now and Jackie wonders what the backlash will be like.






Eric tells Ridge, Brooke and Donna that Jarrett has been invited for an exclusive interview. When Jarrett enters the office, Eric confirms the rumors regarding Stephanie are true. He gives his statement, while Ridge looks dismayed in the background. Jarrett wonders how Forrester Creations will continue without Stephanie and Donna tells him they are embarking on a new era and looking forward to a fresh perspective. She says, "Out with the old and in with the young!”





After Jarrett leaves, Ridge criticizes Donna for her statement, but Brooke admits Jarrett had a point about Stephanie. Ridge wonders how they will survive without her. Brooke says things happen and people move on. Ridge doesn't think Stephanie can be replaced, but Brooke says they just have to be more creative and innovative and looks at this as a fresh start for all of them.




Nick comes back to the office and is happy to see no blood has been shed between his mother and Katie. He tells the women about his interaction with Stephanie and both women are shocked he offered her a job. Nick wonders if he could really deal with her on a daily basis and says maybe her turning him down is for the best.






Once alone, Katie thinks Nick offering Stephanie a job was a brilliant idea and Nick asks her to not mention it at Forrester. She tells Nick Jackie hates her and doesn’t want them to get married. Nick says it’s not her decision and Katie tells him when he’s ready to move forward, she’s ready and she wants her dad to give her a way. She wants their wedding to be special and Nick agrees.






Stephanie is outraged at Nick’s arrogance, but Taylor thinks Nick is a good businessman and that his offer is on the up and up. Stephanie thinks Nick is trying to take advantage of her reputation and says she could never be disloyal to her husband. Taylor reminds her Eric is not her husband any longer and tells her she needs to let go and live her life. She thinks Nick’s offer is a once in a lifetime opportunity and that this would give Stephanie purpose and a reason to get up in the morning. Stephanie is too tired to start over and doesn’t think Nick has any integrity. Taylor defends him, but Stephanie can’t trust him. Stephanie knows she has to build a new life, but she won’t work for the competition. Taylor reminds her Eric chose a younger woman over her and it wasn’t the first time. She doesn’t understand Stephanie’s loyalty, but she understands her resentment, citing Rick going through her family just like Brooke has done to Stephanie’s. They lament how much the Logans have cost both of them. Taylor gets upset thinking about it and Stephanie suggests they stop ranting and raving over the people who have hurt them. Stephanie thanks Taylor for asking her to move in because together they can triumph over the Logan family. She vows their day will come.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, April 09

Stephanie confronts Eric and Donna, while Jackie and Nick get good news.


Taylor reads Jarrett’s article in Eye on Fashion. She reads the quote about “Out with Old and in with the Young” and how Donna is stepping in as fashion’s new Grande Dame. Taylor sighs thinking this is horrible.






Donna and Eric enjoy lunch together at Il Giordino and discuss the hoopla surrounding Stephanie leaving FC. Donna wants them to spend time together alone without calls from the press interrupting them and Eric agrees.





Stephanie comes in the living room while on the phone and then she and Taylor discuss Nick’s offer. Stephanie thinks there’s too much bad blood between them and then notices the Eye on Fashion magazine with her photo on it. She pages through the magazine and Taylor distracts her with lunch at Il Giordino.




While at Jackie’s, Nick tells his mother they need Stephanie especially when people like Fabrice won’t return his calls. As if on cue, Nick gets a call from said man who tells him he is only calling because Stephanie reached out to him on Jackie M’s behalf. Fabrice is willing to help Jackie M and Nick offers to email him Madame X’s new designs. Jackie asks what the man said and Nick explains how Stephanie came through for them. Jackie is thrilled, but can’t believe Stephanie would help them out. Nick wonders what’s changed from last night where she blew him apart, however he kind of likes not knowing what to expect from Stephanie next.






Stephanie and Taylor go to the restaurant and Stephanie spots Eric and Donna. Taylor doesn’t want Stephanie to let Donna run her out of there, but Stephanie doesn’t want to hear people talking about how Eric dumped her for a younger woman. Taylor thinks maybe they will sympathize with her and urges her not to let Donna win. Taylor reminds Stephanie of their pact to triumph over the Logan family, saying their day will come.






Donna walks by Stephanie’s table and accuses her of spying on her. Taylor defends Stephanie and slings insults at Donna. Donna responds by insulting Stephanie, calling her ‘Grandma’. Stephanie laughs and tells her how proud she is being a grandmother and assures her she has plenty of fire left in her belly.





Nick tells Katie about Stephanie helping them out, while Jackie tells Owen the same thing. Owen thinks this might be too good too be true. Jackie doesn’t know what her motivation is, but she does know that being booted from FC by Eric must have been a life changing experience for her.




After Donna goes back to Eric’s table, Stephanie gets furious that Donna would insult her that way. She heads over to their table and calls Eric ‘Grandpa’, because what’s good for the goose, is good for the gander. Stephanie tells Donna a real woman does not take another’s husband away and then play sex kitten in public with someone who could be her grandfather. She then tells Eric she put up with him because she truly thought when he was done philandering they would grow old together, but that's not going to happen. She sits down and tells Eric she knows he never set out to hurt her, but he is weak and was too busy being seduced by the Logan girls. She badmouths the Logans, calling Rick the worst of the lot. She accuses Eric of letting Rick seduce Steffy and calls it inexcusable behavior, just like his firing her. Stephanie accepts their marriage is over and that she’s out of the company, but she won’t accept that he thinks he has defeated her. She will do something great with her life and will come roaring back without him or Forrester. Stephanie declares that she is no longer living or thinking of herself as Mrs. Eric Forrester. She gives that title to Donna and says she is simply Stephanie: the woman who can do anything she sets her mind to. Stephanie gets up and walks away with a very pleased and determined look on her face.






Jackie gets off the phone with Fabrice and is thrilled that he wants to put his influence behind Jackie M. She says there will be a lot of traveling involved and it will be too much for her so she offers that job to Owen. She trusts him and thinks he’s capable and Owen jumps at the opportunity. He swears he will make her proud and he kisses a stunned Jackie.






Nick and Katie enjoy some alone time in his office and Katie swears she won’t tell anyone at Forrester about Stephanie helping him out with Fabrice. They think they should celebrate and get more playful and passionate.

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, April 10

Rick picks his wedding spot, while Stephanie changes her mind about Jackie M.


Rick tells Brooke, Ridge and Steffy he wants to take them somewhere, but Ridge tries to opt out. Everyone pressures Ridge into going and Ridge insists he will drive.






Still at Il Giardino, Taylor congratulates Stephanie on her speech to Eric and Donna and tells her they needed to be put in their place. Stephanie regrets telling them she had a job when she doesn’t, but Taylor suggests she talk to Nick to see if his offer still stands.






Jackie and Nick meet at Jackie M and Nick worries about their cash flow problems. Jackie is optimistic thinking everything will work out and tells him she has asked Owen to handle Fabrice’s account. Nick is doubtful thinking Owen is a little green, but Jackie insists he won’t let them down. Nick wonders why Stephanie put in a good word with Fabrice and Jackie says she is glad she didn’t take the job because she couldn’t imagine working with Stephanie every day.






Stephanie and Taylor come to see Nick and Stephanie says she wants the job. Nick balks because Stephanie already turned him down, but Taylor says he needs Stephanie. Stephanie concurs and asks if Nick is man enough to admit it. Jackie doesn’t think they need her, but Taylor reminds them she bailed them out with Fabrice. Nick wonders why Stephanie all of a sudden wants to work for them and thinks she wants to get revenge against Eric because he gave her the boot. Stephanie admits besting FC has a certain appeal, but she is not driven by revenge. Taylor talks Stephanie up to Jackie and Nick and tells them they have more to lose than Stephanie does. Nick still doesn’t understand why they would need her and Stephanie says she is excited thinking about turning this company around and bringing them back from the brink of bankruptcy. Taylor leaves them all to discuss the situation and Jackie tells Stephanie she will do just fine with or without her. Nick steps in thinking they might just need her and Jackie asks what Stephanie’s terms are. Stephanie hands them a list of demands and Jackie says, “You can’t be serious.” Stephanie is dead serious, but wonders if Jackie is serious about saving her company.





Ridge drives everyone to the beach and Steffy thinks it’s beautiful, but wonders why Rick wanted to come to the spot Brooke and Ridge got married. Rick says it will be the spot where they will get married as well and asks, “Isn’t it perfect?” Steffy wonders why they can’t find their own special spot to get married and Rick explains this place represents Ridge and Brooke’s second chance and since magic happened there once, it could happen again. He says he and Ridge could use a second chance, as could their families. Rick tells Steffy it’s perfect and Brooke thinks it’s beautiful, but Ridge thinks it’s bull.




Ridge privately tells Brooke he thinks Rick is manipulating them, but Brooke wants Ridge to give her son the same benefit of the doubt she’s giving Thomas. Brooke thinks they need to start healing and that having a wedding there could be a good start. Rick and Steffy run up to their parents and Rick says this place will be just as special for them as it was for Ridge and Brooke. Brooke takes Steffy away to show her something special and Rick tells Ridge they have so much in common and now they can share this too. Ridge knows what Rick is doing, accusing him of getting married at the beach as another attack against him. Ridge wonders when Rick will stop trying to desecrate everything that he holds dear. Rick says he’s a traditionalist and hopes that one day his kids will get married there as well. Ridge won’t let him do this, but Rick says he will do what his daughter wants him to and then asks if Thomas is getting the help he needs. Ridge doesn’t think Steffy even really wants to get married there, but Rick says Steffy will change her mind for him. Rick says they won’t do the heart in the sand thing though because it’s cheesy, but the bed on the beach is kind of hot. Ridge won’t allow this, but Rick demands he will walk his daughter down the aisle and pass her off to him. Steffy and Brooke come back and Steffy tells Rick he is so right and she can’t wait to get married there. She believes they can bring all the families together and Rick leads Steffy off to pick a spot to say their vows. Brooke tells Ridge it will be a good thing, but Ridge knows this isn’t about a wedding – it’s about taunting him. Brooke doesn’t think so, but Ridge thinks this is the biggest mistake Steffy could make and says the wedding cannot happen. While Steffy and Rick hug on the beach, Rick looks at Ridge with a smug smile.

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, April 13

Taylor and Ridge gang up on Brooke, Rick and Steffy pick out china patterns and the new Jackie M team looks to the future.


Rick and Steffy discuss Ridge’s disdain over them getting married on the beach in Malibu. Rick admits he knew Ridge would be a little upset and Steffy wonders if that’s the real reason he suggested it. Rick can’t believe she’s questioning his motives and implores her to see that he wants to bring healing to their families. He wants a future with her and if Malibu will cause a problem, they can say their vows elsewhere because all he wants is her. Steffy doesn’t want to hurt her father any further and wonders about how they got together. She asks if they can really trust these feelings considering how quickly they got together. Rick calls their relationship a miracle, but Steffy admits she wonders if his feelings for her get twisted up with his feelings of hatred for her dad. She needs to know if it will always be this way. Rick tells Steffy he’s done things he’s not proud of, but he vows their relationship is not one of those things. Steffy believes him and Rick offers to help pick out china patterns. They discuss registering online and joke around about what they want to pick out. Their discussion turns romantic and they start making out. Steffy stops and wants to register for their wedding and heads to the computer. She says they will need a lot of place settings because she hopes one day both of their families will sit at their table celebrating the holidays with them.






Ridge and Brooke debate the Rick/Steffy issue and Ridge claims Rick is using Steffy to get to him. He calls Rick and Steffy getting married on their sacred spot a desecration. Brooke understands he’s wary, but she believes Rick is being sincere and thinks it’s his way of telling them he’s accepting them as a couple. Taylor walks in and Ridge explains what Rick wants to do. Taylor sides with Ridge, but Brooke defends her son. Ridge thinks Rick’s latest stunt is just another attack on him and his family. He doesn’t want Rick as a son-in-law and he is concerned that Brooke has blinders on when it comes to him. The three continue to debate the issue and Brooke asks Ridge to side with her, but Ridge walks over to Taylor and agrees with her. He tells Brooke she must face the truth about her son. Brooke thinks Taylor is playing on Ridge’s worst fears, but Ridge thinks Steffy is going to make a mistake she will regret for the rest of her life. He tells Brooke that their children can’t get married and it’s up to her to stop the wedding.






Stephanie wants 50% of Jackie M, but Jackie calls it extortion. Stephanie thinks if they turn her down it will be their loss and starts to leave, but Nick stops her. Nick doesn’t want her to leave, but he won’t give her half of the company either. Nick will pay her a salary and if she contributes the way he expects her to, then they will talk partnership. Stephanie doesn’t think he has the cash flow to pay her a salary and then Bridget comes in. Bridget tries to cover for the real reason she is there, but Nick tells Stephanie that Bridget is Madame X. He quips that Stephanie knows their secret now, so she will have to come up with a proposal or he will have to kill her. He asks, “What will it be?” Stephanie mocks them hiring a doctor to be their new designer, but Bridget defends herself to Stephanie. Stephanie asks about her medical career and Bridget tells her she wanted to step out of her comfort zone for once and succeed. Nick tells Bridget they are hiring Stephanie and Steph explains that Eric fired her. Jackie wants them to really think about this arrangement before they proceed, but Nick calls the lawyers to seal the deal because they have a company to save.






Stephanie looks at Bridget’s designs and thinks she has a lot of promise. Stephanie then learns Owen is their point person with Fabrice and calls it a mistake. She tells them they need to have a strategy and make a statement telling people who they are as a company. Nick thinks Forrester is old, but Jackie M has young, fresh designs and designers. Stephanie and Nick brainstorm and think they should cultivate young talent from all around the world.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, April 14

After Taylor continues to throw accusations Rick's way, Brooke throws her support to Rick and Steffy, Taylor and Ridge vow to stop the wedding, and Stephanie and Pam lunch together.


Brooke can’t believe Ridge is taking Taylor’s side, but Ridge looks at it like he’s protecting his daughter. Taylor implores Brooke to stop Rick and make him call off the wedding labeling it a dangerous unhealthy relationship. Brooke admits Rick has issues, but Taylor insists he is a predator preying on her daughter. Taylor tries to make her see this is all about Rick’s hatred of Ridge and love for Brooke calling it a textbook Oedipus complex. Brooke can’t believe the accusations Taylor is making and that Ridge won’t stand up to her about it. Ridge is afraid of losing Steffy and Brooke storms out!






Taylor thinks Brooke has to wake up and see Rick for who he is really is. Ridge doesn't think she will ever see it or intervene with Rick. Taylor wonders how they will be able to open Steffy’s eyes when she is blinded by love. Ridge vows he won’t rest until they pull Steffy away from Rick and assures her she is not alone in this battle.






Still in Rick’s office, Steffy breaks off kissing Rick and he thinks she’s having doubts again. Steffy doesn’t want to have any questions, but wonders why no one can understand how right their relationship is. Rick doesn’t think that will ever happen and tells her how crazy he is about her. Steffy knows he is the right man for her no matter what anyone else says.






Steffy and Rick start to register online for their wedding and Brooke enters the office. Rick notes Brooke looks upset and assumes it’s about his suggestion they get married at the beach. Brooke wonders why he did that and he explains again that it’s a place of second chances and healing and the wedding can bring their families together. He just wants someone to love who will love him back and unfortunately that person is Ridge’s daughter. Being in Ridge’s shadow has made him make wrong choices, but Steffy is not one of them. He wants to spend the rest of his life with Steffy, but Brooke wants Rick to understand how things are. Rick doesn’t care if they have Ridge’s support or not, but Brooke points out that Steffy cares. Steffy admits she does care, but says Ridge told her to use her own judgment. Brooke says he was hoping she would end things and tells them Ridge and Taylor want her to intervene with their marriage. Rick is incensed and Steffy assumes Brooke won’t be helping them with the wedding. Brooke is in a difficult situation and Steffy says it’s like there is no one on their side. Brooke says she is on their side and will stand up for them because she believes in what they have. Steffy thanks her, but Brooke tells them they have a huge hill to climb where Taylor and Ridge are concerned.






At Il Giardino, Pam and Stephanie order lunch and then Pam tells Stephanie Eric should be ashamed of himself for firing her, but Stephanie tells her about her job at Jackie M. Pam is shocked and Stephanie explains how it came to be. Pam still thinks Stephanie should be at Forrester and tells her it’s not the same without her there and if she’s not coming back, then she will quit too. Stephanie asks her not to do that and Pam thinks Stephanie is such a strong person. Stephanie just says, “Carpe diem,” and they toast. Stephanie hasn’t felt needed for so long and now she has this chance that makes her feel alive again. She honestly believes she can turn Jackie M around and Pam is happy for her sister. She just wishes she could be there to witness Eric and Donna’s reaction to hearing Stephanie is working for Jackie M.






Brooke comes back to Ridge’s office and finds Taylor alone. Brooke wants them to realize Rick and Steffy are good for each other, but Taylor adamantly declares she will never believe that and neither will Ridge. Brooke won’t allow her to become like Stephanie who constantly tries to undermine her kids’ relationships. Taylor thinks Brooke is living in a fantasy world and vows she will not lose another daughter to her depraved son and will prevent it from happening no matter what it takes!






Ridge goes to see Rick and Rick tries to get under Ridge’s skin with references to the wedding. Ridge tells him the wedding won’t happen, but Rick says there isn’t a damn thing he can do to stop it. Ridge grabs Rick’s shirt and says the only thing holding him back from killing him is Steffy. Rick retorts, “And Steffy belongs to me.” Ridge thinks Steffy is just a tool to get at him, but Rick tells him he is crazy about Steffy and it’s just a benefit that it bothers him. Ridge can’t believe Steffy doesn’t know the extent of how he uses her to get under his skin, but the only skin Rick is thinking about is Steffy’s and he leaves to meet her in the steam room.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, April 15

Stephanie and Nick reach an agreement, Ridge surprises Taylor at lunch, and Owen and Jackie negotiate a private deal of their own.


Ridge meets Taylor at Il Giardino who thinks he’s checking up on her. Ridge is happy she and Stephanie are living together and then surprises her by having Thomas and James walk in. They can only stay for the day and Thomas tells his parents about his treatment and explains he’s a lot more aware of his feelings regarding Rick. Ridge expresses his frustration over just standing on the sidelines watching Rick destroy his family…or so Rick thinks. Thomas knows what he did was wrong, but he tells Ridge to not let Rick succeed. Ridge promises he and Taylor will do everything to protect Steffy from Rick.






At Jackie M, Clarke and Owen eavesdrop on Jackie, Nick and Stephanie negotiating their deal and Bridget walks up on them. She helps them out by getting out her stethoscope so they can hear better.





Stephanie offers to help Nick with the bank, but she wants half of the business. Nick wants to make sure she can actually produce for them first and they start to haggle. They reach a deal and Stephanie and Nick shake on it. Nick hears cheers from outside and opens the door to find Owen, Clarke and Bridget who are happy about what just occurred.




Katie and Donna come to find Brooke who has blown off exercise class with her sisters. Brooke’s been distracted and tells them things aren’t going so well because of Rick. The three of them discuss the role Rick and Steffy have in Brooke’s relationship with Ridge.






Bridget finds a bottle of Irish whiskey to celebrate with, but Jackie and Owen are mysteriously absent. Clarke, Nick and Stephanie enjoy a glass of whiskey and Stephanie wants to discuss Jackie M’s new concept of finding young hot designers. Bridget thinks Owen would be great at finding up and coming designers and then looks around the room and asks, “Where’d he go?”






Owen goes to Jackie’s place and accuses her of avoiding him since he kissed her. He apologizes if he offended her and asks if she is going to fire him. Jackie just doesn’t want to deal with it and wants to move on. Jackie asks what he sees happening between them and Owen says he’d like to see her with her clothes off. Jackie assumes he just wants a fling, but Owen doesn’t think they have to decide in advance. Jackie doesn’t want people laughing at her behind her back by being seen with him and Owen suggests they keep it private and secret. Owen just wants to make sure he won’t get fired and Jackie tells him she would only do that if she felt cornered. Jackie thinks maybe Owen is just after her money, but doesn’t care if he is because the real danger is to him. She tells him he is very attractive and young, but his life won’t turn out the way he wants it to. Owen thinks he might surprise her. Jackie tells him she expects nothing and while she may sleep with him, she won’t agonize over him. If he wants to see her with her clothes off, his need to come off first. Owen complies and starts to strip.






Stephanie tells Clarke she keeps expecting to see Sally walk through the door and Clarke tells her he got a postcard from her in February from the Canary Islands. He reads it out loud to her and Stephanie says this business is more of a family than the one Eric threw her out of. Clarke wonders if Stephanie is going to fire him because he’s not the next hot thing anymore. He also asks if she wants him to date her to make Eric jealous. Stephanie bursts out in laughter and declines, but thanks him for asking.






Nick comes in with a contract and Stephanie says they need a keeper of the flame, someone who remembers what Spectra used to be and to keep an eye on the new designers to make sure they aren’t copying each other. Nick assumes it means he can’t fire Clarke and Stephanie confirms. Clarke wonders if he gets a raise and Keeper of the Flame printed on his door. Nick and Stephanie say no in unison, but they do want him to pour the whiskey.






After Thomas and James leave, Ridge and Taylor discuss Rick and how Brooke needs to step in. Taylor also thinks it doesn’t help that Steffy can’t hear the way Rick talks to Ridge. Ridge thinks Steffy needs to hear it, but it doesn’t have to be in person. Taylor tells Ridge she did a lot of foolish things to be happy and have meaning in her life. She knows the happiest part of her life has passed and that Ridge and the kids were it. She’s okay with whatever ends up happening and wants Ridge to know he is not alone should he and Brooke not work out. He can always come to her - that will never change.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, April 16

Owen sets out to seduce Jackie, Ridge tries to get Brooke on his side, Rick meets with Taylor, and Stephanie tells her kids about her new job.

Ridge comes into his bedroom and finds candles lit and Brooke clad in lingerie. Ridge looks less than impressed, but Brooke thinks they need a break from all the drama and starts rubbing his shoulders. Brooke thinks they need to have faith in Rick and Steffy, but Ridge won’t give them a chance because this wedding cannot happen. Period! There’s nothing she can do to change his mind on this issue and tells her he’s breaking his promise to not interfere. He tells her not to ever expect him to accept Rick and Steffy getting married, but he does expect Brooke to take off her blinders where Rick is concerned and to help him stop the wedding from happening. Brooke doesn’t want to talk about their kids any longer and they lie back on the bed and kiss. Ridge stops her saying he can’t because of Rick and what he’s doing to Steffy. He says, “He finally invaded our bedroom. He’s finally coming in between us in here too.”




Stephanie makes plans to meet her children for lunch and Nick notes she’s going to tell them about her new gig. Stephanie confirms and says she’s excited about her new venture with Jackie M. She gives him a written agenda for a meeting and wonders where Jackie is so they can start. Stephanie is eager to get started and tells Nick to call his mother to see where she is.






At Jackie’s condo, Owen starts to undress, but Jackie wonders what he’s doing because she didn’t want him to take his clothes off. Owen says he’s rising to her challenge and takes off his pants. He says, “Your turn,” but Jackie tells him they have work to do. She says he is a gorgeous young man and he tells her she’s beautiful and hard to resist. She returns the compliment and he tells her not to resist then. Jackie slowly kneels down, but just so she can pull up his pants.






Nick calls Jackie who has forgotten about the meeting and who tells him she needed some bedrest because she’s feeling flushed. Stephanie wants to put her on speakerphone so they can handle the meeting that way. Owen massages Jackie shoulders as Stephanie conducts the meeting. Jackie comments on Owen’s handiwork, but Nick and Stephanie assume she’s talking to them. Stephanie tries to wrap up the meeting, but Jackie says, "Don’t stop," to Owen who is kissing her nec, which makes Stephanie thinks she's talking to her, so she continues with the meeting. Nick wraps up it up and asks if Jackie is okay. As Owen rubs her foot, she says she thinks she’s coming down with something. Stephanie wonders if Jackie is coming down with the flu and Nick says, “Or something.”






Rick meets Taylor at Il Giardino. She accuses him of getting payback with her and revenge on Ridge and worries they will lose Steffy. Rick promises they won’t lose another daughter, but Taylor just might get Ridge back. Taylor wonders what happened to him that turned him like this and Rick says, he loved her more than she could possibly imagine and then she dumped him without warning for Ridge. Everything that has meant anything to him has been taken by that man and it’s payback time. Taylor points out he just admitted it’s all about getting back at Ridge, but Rick tells her he loves Steffy and getting back at Ridge is a fringe benefit. He tells her she can accept them getting married or not accept anything and be miserable. He adds, “Either way, you still end up with Ridge.”






Stephanie meets Thorne and Felicia at Il Giardino (Ridge couldn’t make it) and tells them she’s working at Jackie M. They are shocked, so she explains, but tells them Eric doesn’t know and will find out in the press tomorrow. Thorne thinks this will blow him away.






Taylor goes home and Ridge comes to see her while she’s in her bedroom. He tells her he’s made a mistake leaving her and that he wants her and their family back. They kiss and start to take off their clothes, but alas, it’s all a fantasy Taylor is having while still at the restaurant.






Brooke tells Ridge they will get through this, but Ridge doesn’t think they’ve ever faced anything like this. He says Rick is tearing them apart, calls him poison and admits he hates him. Brooke doesn’t want to hear this, but Ridge feels like he is living in fear that Rick will take both Steffy and her away from him. He implores Brooke to see what's really going on and doesn’t know how they will get through this. Ridge asks her to help him stop Rick from doing this before it destroys them as well. He begs her and they embrace as Brooke cries.


Rick looks at a photo of Ridge and Brooke and tears it in half.

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, April 17

Stephanie’s role at Jackie M is revealed, while Ridge sets a trap for Rick.


Rick comes to see Brooke in her bedroom and wonders why she stayed home from work. He brought her his and Steffy’s wedding announcement and a photo for the paper. Rick wonders if she and Ridge were fighting about them and Brooke tells him they will work through this, but the only way to do that is for Ridge to accept them getting married. Brooke notes both she and Ridge are caught in the middle of their kids and that Ridge is afraid for his daughter. Rick thinks no one will succeed in breaking them up.





Ridge vows to Taylor they will get Steffy away from Rick with or without Brooke’s help. Ridge wants Rick to shoot his mouth off so everyone can hear what he hears. He has his computer all set up for the external microphone to pick up everything in the room.



Eric and Donna prepare to watch the Jackie M fashion show and assume they won’t be blindsided like they were the last time.



Jackie and Owen come through the backstage at the show and Nick wonders why she’s there because she couldn’t even get out of bed yesterday. Jackie says she’s fine except for the tingling in her toes.




Steffy meets Donna and Eric in his office to watch the fashion show on TV and see Jackie welcoming the press to the event. The models come out wearing Madame X designs, as Nick nervously watches on the monitor and Stephanie, Clarke and Owen help prep the next models to go out.





Eric is impressed and Steffy thinks Madame X really knows her stuff. Eric is thrilled and Steffy wonders why he is so happy about this. Eric responds that he’s very proud.




After the models finish, Jackie introduces Bridget as Madame X. She comes on stage to a shocked and impressed press and Steffy watches in astonishment as Eric says, “That’s my girl.” Jackie tells the crowd that Bridget, as their new designer, is not their only surprise. Jarrett wonders what could be more shocking than a Forrester working at Jackie M and Jackie responds, “How about two Forresters?”






Stephanie comes out and Eric and Donna’s jaws hit the floor. The crowd gives her a standing ovation and Stephanie takes the microphone telling everyone she was offered a challenge at Jackie M and she accepted. She in turn is offering a challenge to young, hot undiscovered designers who want to work. She tells them to show them what they got because they are looking for fresh ideas and fresh faces because that will be what makes Jackie M the fashion house of L.A, if not the entire country. She smirks at the camera and says, “Eat your heart out Honey Bear.” Furious, Eric shouts, “What the Hell does she think she’s doing?”





Rick enters Ridge’s office and gives him their wedding announcement, which Ridge promptly rips up. Rick tells him the wedding will take place no matter what and then makes disparaging comments about Steffy. Taylor comes in and tells Rick to shut his mouth, but Rick tells her she had her chance with him and her loss is Steffy's gain. He knows they despise him, but he assures them he’s not going anywhere.




Owen congratulates Bridget on her success and hugs her. They lock eyes and linger on each other.





Steffy leaves Eric’s office and Donna tells her husband it’s just a gimmick and Stephanie is just trying to get a reaction. She says there is no way Jackie M will ever be a threat to FC.



In private, Jackie and Owen discuss how well they just did and Owen tells her she’s beautiful and kisses her.




Bridget doesn’t approve of what Stephanie said about Eric, but Stephanie tells her tonight is all about her and her designs. Jackie and Owen come out with a bottle of champagne and Nick, Clarke, Owen, Bridget and Stephanie toast to the new Jackie M.






After Rick leaves, Ridge says he wants Rick out of Steffy’s life and Taylor asks if he recorded what Rick just said. Ridge didn’t but tells her not to worry because Rick always talks like that. They acknowledge it will destroy Steffy, but it will work in getting Rick out of her life. Rick comes back and Taylor leaves. Ridge pushes the button for his laptop to record Rick’s words and Rick tells him he came back to make him squirm because it’s become his favorite pastime. Rick says he got Ridge’s little girl wrapped around his finger and there’s nothing he can do, just like there was nothing he could do as a child while Ridge made Brooke's life a living hell. He says it’s time for Ridge to know how it feels to watch someone you love get tortured. He asks Ridge if he thinks Steffy would like a little naughty torture in the bedroom and thinks it would drive her wild, as well as him. Rick says he hates Ridge and wants to put him in a psychological trap, saying he owns Steffy. He repeats, “I. Own. Her. And there’s not a damn thing you can do to change that.” Ridge says, “Keep talking Rick,” and Rick is only too happy to oblige.

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, April 20

Ridge gets the goods on Rick, Steffy enjoys her bridal shower, and Owen and Jackie celebrate in private.


Rick continues his tirade against Ridge, making off color remarks about Steffy, as Ridge records it. Rick says when he and Steffy get married at the same spot he married Brooke, Rick won’t even be looking at Steffy; he’ll be looking at Ridge, who he calls Poncho, to see the pain etched on his face as he loses another daughter. Ridge just sits back, encouraging Rick to continue his rant and Rick says he will never stop because he will continue to throw this in his face especially on the holidays. Rick takes joy in taunting Ridge about what he will do with his daughter and then invites him to hit him. Ridge just sits back and smirks not taking the bait.





Brooke, Donna and Katie throw Steffy a bridal shower at the beach house and Steffy wishes her mother and grandmother could be happy for her too. She thinks maybe when she and Rick have kids they will bring the families together. Madison comes to the shower and they all talk about Steffy’s wedding plans and how wonderful their love is.




Clarke, Stephanie, Nick, Owen and Jackie celebrate their success and then Jarrett comes to interview Bridget. Owen sends Jackie a text proposing they celebrate at her place.






Steffy goes outside and sees Marcus who has come to talk to her without Rick around. He tells her she is the one woman he respects and appreciates the most. He just wanted her to know that and hopes Rick appreciates her as much as he does.





Rick goes to the elevator and wonders why Ridge just stood there taking his abuse.




Taylor comes to Ridge’s office who plays the audio of Rick saying his wedding to Steffy is about his revenge against Ridge. Rick comes up to the door and hears the playback of his words. Taylor and Ridge think this will break Steffy’s heart, but she has to hear this. Rick looks panicked and takes off.






Stephanie fields a text of congratulations from Bill Spencer and Nick thinks he should introduce him to his mother. He looks around and wonders where Jackie has gone off to.






Owen gives Jackie a massage as she enjoys a bubble bath and glass of champagne. Owen wants to join her in the tub, but she thinks not because he still has a lot of work to do. Owen hopes there will be some rewards and asks if she believes in delayed gratification. Jackie responds, “Don’t we all?” Owen starts to kiss her neck as they try to find the thin line between pleasure and depravity. Sexual banter ensues and then they kiss.






Steffy goes back to her shower and Rick barges in. Rick urgently says he has planned a romantic getaway for him and Steffy and they have to leave right now. Rick anxiously waits for everyone to leave so he can whisk Steffy away. Rick tells her to get ready so they can get out of there.





Nick thanks the press for coming and Bridget comes up to him. Nick tells Bridget this is an amazing beginning, but they have a long road to go. Bridget wants to work, but she’s more in the mood to play. Nick wonders who she wants to play with, but Bridget isn’t ready to discuss it with him.



Ridge and Taylor drive to find Steffy. They both hope the sounds bites of Rick talking trash about her is enough to break Rick and Steffy up.




Katie tries to tell Rick about the issue regarding Stephanie going to Jackie M, but as Ridge’s car pulls up he desperately takes Steffy out the back way. Ridge and Taylor come in the house and are told Rick and Steffy just left.





In the car, Steffy wonders where Rick is taking her. Rick says it will be a romantic getaway where they can talk and maybe even elope.



Ridge and Taylor wonder if Rick figured out what they were planning. Taylor worries Rick will turn Steffy against them and demands that this end tonight!

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, April 21

Ridge and Taylor frantically follow Rick and Steffy to the airport, Nick gives Bridget a gift, and Jackie and Owen fully enjoy each other.

As Rick drives, Steffy questions why they had to run out of her shower like that. Rick asks her to trust him and nervously calls Earl to turn the heat on in the cabin at Big Bear. Steffy wonders why they had to go to Big Bear in such a hurry.




Nick gives Bridget a gift for her triumph as Madame X, which is a statue that says, “World’s Greatest Ex.” Bridget asks if she outranks her mother and Taylor and Nick jokes that they haven’t made him the cash she has. Bridget laughs and Nick tells her she has a hearty laugh for such a little person. Bridget takes offense at being called little, but Nick corrects himself saying she’s a beautiful person with a huge heart.





While Ridge and Taylor are in hot pursuit of Rick, Taylor calls Steffy. Steffy tells her mother they are on their way to Big Bear and Rick rips the phone out of her hand. Taylor relays the Intel to Ridge and he vows to get there first.



Steffy is mad and instructs Rick to stop the car. He doesn’t want her parents to ruin this for them, but Steffy insists her parents have accepted them as a couple. Rick panics, but Steffy thinks he is overreacting. Rick quickly changes lanes and Steffy wonders where they are going. He says they are going elsewhere so her parents won’t find them. He tells her of this eco-friendly resort in Baja, but Steffy doesn’t have her passport, so Rick suggests they go to Hawaii instead.




Jackie gets out of the bathtub and Owen turns around so she can get dressed. Jackie isn’t sure she’s sending him home though and asks what he wants with her. Owen turns around and opens up her robe and seductively kisses her. Jackie says after tonight it may not happen again, but there are two rules before they go any further: honesty and respect. Those are the two things she never got from love. Owen suggests maybe it wasn’t love, but Jackie doesn’t want to hear that this late in the game. Owen tells her maybe it’s just the beginning and kisses her neck while taking off her robe. Jackie runs her hands over Owen’s body, undoes his pants and they fall to the bed.






Rick and Steffy board the company jet and Rick instructs the pilot to take them to Honolulu. Steffy wonders how long they will be gone because she hasn’t packed anything. Rick tells her they will buy her stuff when they get there and assures her she can trust him. They drink champagne and Rick tells her he often says things he doesn’t mean when he’s upset and Steffy realizes he’s talking about her father. Rick thinks she is the only one who understands him.





Madison calls Ridge's phone, but Taylor answers because Ridge is driving. Madison explains she called because Ridge needs to give approval on use of the jet and Rick wants to take it. After learning Rick is not at Big Bear, Ridge quickly turns the car around.




After their romp, Jackie lavishes Owen with compliments and tells him he’s all hers. Owen confirms and they seemingly go for round two.






While Steffy is elsewhere on the plane, the pilot tells Rick he is expecting clearance any moment, but then Ridge calls him. Ridge tells the pilot he is not to take Rick and Steffy anywhere. When Rick hears, he says if the pilot wants to keep his job he will get the plane off the ground. The pilot agrees and heads to the cockpit.





Steffy returns and the pilot informs them they are taxing for take off. Steffy wants to call her parents, but Rick convinces her not to.



Bridget pulls out a present and Nick assumes it’s for him, but Bridget tells him it’s for Jackie. Nick tells her Jackie has been acting weird lately, but maybe she just took him up on his advice to get a life.



Owen suggests he and Jackie get something to eat, but Jackie worries people will think she is his mother. She also doesn’t want Nick to get wind of their dalliance and jump to the conclusion that Owen is hustling her. Owen wonders why everyone thinks this of him. Jackie butters him up and then tells him she is holding on to whatever it is that he sees in her for as long as she allows him to see it.




Ridge and Taylor continue their pursuit and see the plane preparing for take off. The plane stops because Ridge’s car is on the runway and Rick gets up to see what’s happening. He goes to the cockpit and tells the pilot to get the plane off the ground. Taylor notices the plane is taking off and Ridge gets out of the car and runs after it calling out for Steffy.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, April 22

Steffy hears the recording of Rick trashing her and Ridge, while Bridget gets a surprise at Jackie’s place.


Rick watches from the cockpit and Taylor screams as Ridge chases after the plane. The pilot brings the aircraft to a halt and Steffy comes up to the cockpit. Rick pleads with her to not let anyone get into her head and tell her things that aren’t true. Steffy hears Ridge’s voice and finds her father and Taylor in the cabin. Ridge instructs Steffy to leave with Taylor so he can talk to Rick. Rick urges Steffy to believe in him no matter what is said. Steffy and Taylor leave and Ridge declares that Rick’s days of manipulating Steffy are done!






Jackie and Owen plan to get something to eat and then come back and get back in bed. Jackie worries about being seen in public, but Owen thinks it will be fine. Jackie asks if they can take work with them so it looks like they are only together on a professional basis. Owen opens the door and finds a stunned Bridget who asks, “What are you doing here?” Bridget assumes they are working and is impressed, calling them very passionate. Jackie says Owen is a very hard worker who has definitely made an impression on her. Bridget loves Jackie’s new place, especially the tub in the living room. Bridget gives Jackie a gift, which is a photo of Jack and tells her how blessed she feels to still have her in her life. Jackie is happy to call her a friend and work with her now. Bridget heads out, but asks Owen if he wants to grab dinner since he was leaving as well. Owen makes excuses, but Jackie tells him to go ahead. Owen agrees and Bridget says she has to go back to the office real quick and will be back.






Bridget leaves and a wounded Owen wonders why Jackie is encouraging him to go out with Bridget. Jackie says it’s no big deal and points out that he likes Bridget. Owen admits this, but says she keeps shooting him down. Bridget returns and Owen leaves. Jackie notes Owen is a stunning specimen of masculinity and thinks he might be enough to make Nick jealous and bring Nick and Bridget back together.






Rick pours himself a glass of champagne, confident Steffy will stand by him, but Ridge thinks Steffy will be swayed by the tape. Rick blows it off, but Ridge reminds him how arrogant and disrespectful he was on the tape. Ridge recounts the things he said, but Rick insists he didn’t say those things. Rick thinks Brooke will be furious Ridge and Taylor teamed up to take him down, but Ridge says their marriage will be fine.






Taylor brings Steffy home with the laptop and tells her daughter Ridge recorded a conversation he had with Rick. Steffy thinks this is ridiculous, but then Taylor plays Rick’s words for her. Steffy thinks it’s just stupid guy talk, but Taylor plays more. Even though Steffy looks concerned, she continues to defend her fiancé, but then hears Rick taunt Ridge about him having sex with her. Taylor wants Steffy to hear how disrespectful Rick is, but Steffy doesn’t want to listen anymore. Steffy starts to leave, but Taylor continues the recording with Rick saying his marriage is about revenge on Ridge. Steffy stops in her tracks and doesn’t know what to think. Taylor tells her Rick is not a good person and not who she wants to spend her life with.






Steffy calls Rick to meet her and Rick gloats to Ridge that he failed. Rick says, “Steffy’s riding the Rick Train and she ain’t ever getting off.”






Rick and Ridge come to the house and Rick cautiously asks for a moment alone with Steffy. Ridge isn’t going anywhere, but Steffy says it’s fine; she wants to talk to Rick alone. Ridge and Taylor leave and Steffy tells Rick she gets why he wanted to whisk her away now. Rick says he doesn’t even remember what he said on the recording and blames Ridge for provoking him. Steffy isn’t buying it, so Rick tells her she is confused and hurt, but they were only words that he didn’t even mean. He apologizes and asks her not to question how he feels about her. Rick tells her he would never do anything to hurt her and begs her to believe him.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, April 23

Rick pleads for Steffy to forgive him, Donna and Katie worry about Brooke, and Ridge and Taylor fret over Steffy.


Rick tries to convince Steffy her parents tricked him and set him up so it would break the two of them up. Steffy isn’t buying Rick’s backpedaling and he tells her how crazy he is about her. He says he doesn’t know how to express how he feels about her in words, so Steffy plays the recording of him disrespecting her. Rick declares that Ridge was forcing him to say those things, but Steffy tells him the things he said were cruel. Rick again says Ridge was pulling those words out of him and Steffy demands to know how Ridge made him say those things about her. Rick can’t come up with a plausible answer, so they continue to argue and Rick says he’s been working on his issues with Ridge and he needs her to help him. He says he was getting better, but Steffy plays the part about their wedding being part of his revenge plot against Ridge. Rick concedes and admits he was out of control and shouldn’t have said those things. Steffy doesn’t think he has any respect for her, but Rick counters that Ridge is treating her like a possession and forbidding her to be with the man she loves. Steffy reminds him he is just being a father and still grieving over Phoebe. Steffy further tells him he is not half the man her father is. She doesn’t know him, she doesn’t want to know him and she definitely does not want to marry him. Rick thinks she needs a break from the negative energy around this place and suggests they go on a trip. Steffy is stunned he would suggest this and tells him he has issues and needs to work on them. Steffy points out his main focus is payback and revenge and that he sees their wedding as the final knife in Ridge’s back. Steffy needs to come first with the man she marries and she obviously doesn’t with him. She tells him he doesn’t know what love is and that it’s over. She asks him to leave, but Rick isn’t going anywhere.






Brooke goes to FC and finds Katie and Donna working. They tell Brooke that Taylor and Ridge came to the shower after she left and that they seemed stressed out. Brooke wonders when Taylor will let it go and Donna reminds her that Ridge was there as well. Katie wonders if everything is okay with her and Ridge and Brooke says they have some problems, but who doesn’t? Brooke thinks Ridge is under a lot of stress and Donna wonders if there’s a problem. Brooke admits their problems with Rick have finally affected their love life because for the first time ever, Ridge wasn’t in the mood. Donna offers to get them some of her Honey Bear’s pills.






Ridge worries about Rick spinning things with Steffy, but Taylor thinks they have to let Steffy handle this on her own. Ridge just hopes Rick doesn’t talk his way out of the situation this time. Taylor is thankful for the sacrifice he is making, but Ridge would do anything to keep their daughter safe and away from Rick. Taylor is grateful and doesn’t know how she would have gotten through this without him. Ridge hopes they taught Steffy well enough to respect herself and to not cave to a guy who turns on the charm. Taylor says Steffy respects her father and she is too proud and stubborn to let a guy walk all over her. Ridge says, “Just like her dad.” Taylor agrees and they embrace.






Steffy thinks everything Rick’s done has been about manipulation and Rick agrees saying he wanted her to see him in a different light than he sees himself. Rick admits he is consumed with hatred for himself and has put on a façade for her. Rick wanted to be the man who she deserved, but he didn’t know who that was so he turned on the charm. Steffy tells him she was attracted to him because of his goodness and Rick asks to let him earn back her trust because she is the only good thing in his life. Steffy tells him she is not a thing, but a woman. Rick is embarrassed by what happened, but he learned a lesson he will never forget. He asks for another chance and for her to forgive him.

[DivaStephanie]

Friday, April 24

Ridge and Taylor console Steffy, Rick fills Brooke in, and Taylor makes things clear with Ridge.


Brooke assures Katie her relationship with Ridge is fine, but Katie wonders if Taylor is a factor.






While Steffy and Rick continue to argue, Ridge worries about his daughter and wants to go downstairs, but Taylor thinks they have to trust her. Ridge won’t accept it if Steffy gives Rick a second chance and insists their relationship will be over tonight.






Ridge hears Rick and Steffy yelling at each other and he and Taylor run downstairs. Ridge wants Rick to leave, but Steffy tells her father she’s handling it. Rick blames Ridge for this mess, accusing his nemesis of provoking him into saying those things on the recording. Ridge counters that his daughter finally sees him for who he really is and tells him once again to leave or else he will throw him out. Rick leaves and Ridge consoles his daughter.






Ridge, Taylor and Steffy sit on the couch and Steffy wonders how she could have been so wrong. Ridge tells her Rick was the wrong one by putting on a false front. Steffy wonders if the battle will ever end with him and Rick and then thinks Rick will probably try to break up him and Brooke. Ridge assures her he and Brooke will be fine and she just needs to focus on getting herself back on track. Steffy tells her parents how much they mean to her and how bad she feels that she ignored them and their grief over Phoebe. Ridge knows she was in pain and Steffy says Rick took advantage of it. She doesn’t even think Rick knows what love is. She apologizes to her parents, but Ridge assures her there’s no need for it. He’s just glad to have her back and that he didn’t lose another daughter. Steffy promises he won’t lose her. Taylor, Ridge and Steffy all embrace.






Rick comes to the office and tells Brooke and Katie the wedding is off. Katie leaves and Brooke asks what happened. Rick tells his mother Ridge deliberately tried to break up him and Steffy and it worked. He explains how he disrespected Steffy, or at least Steffy thinks he did. He wishes he could take back what he said, but Ridge gave him just enough rope to hang himself. Rick further tells Brooke Ridge recorded their conversation and accuses Ridge of stabbing him in the back. Brooke agrees with Rick and says what Ridge did was wrong. Rick tells her Ridge has been planning this for some time and now it’s over with Steffy. Rick explains how Ridge ran after the plane and Taylor took Steffy away to play the recording. Brooke can’t believe they planned this together and then suggests maybe his relationship isn’t over. Rick admits he shouldn’t have said the things he said and thought they could work everything out after they said their vows on the beach. Brooke believes it can be fixed, but Rick doesn’t think he’s a match for the team of Ridge and Taylor. Brooke insists they aren’t a team, but Rick tells her they have a lot of control over Steffy and calls them evil because they were out to get him. Brooke tells Rick to stay there and that she’ll be back.





Alone, Taylor and Ridge are confident things are over between Steffy and Rick and that they have their family back.



Rick looks at a photo of Steffy and recalls their romantic interludes and his proposing to her.




Steffy cries as she looks at her ring and Taylor comes to see her. Steffy takes off the ring and cries harder. Taylor sits next to her daughter and calls her brave. Steffy says, “It just hurts so bad,” and Taylor hugs her.






Brooke comes over to Taylor’s house and tells Ridge she talked to Rick. She accuses Ridge of provoking Rick, but he says it had to be done, but he didn’t provoke him. He explains how Rick has been talking like this for months and that Steffy deserved to know the truth. Brooke thought they had an agreement to work past this and Ridge points out they are past this now. As they argue, Taylor comes in defending Ridge. She says they did what they needed to do to protect Steffy from Rick who is emotionally a child. Brooke throws Taylor’s relationship with Rick in her face, but Taylor counters that Rick goes after people who are emotionally vulnerable and enjoys hurting people. Brooke declares that Rick loves Steffy, but Taylor points out all the bad things Rick has done to the family, especially to Ridge. Taylor wonders if Brooke really loves Ridge because she allows her son to treat him horribly. Taylor thinks Steffy and Rick’s relationship isn’t the only one that should be cut off. She tells Ridge that Brooke doesn’t respect his opinions and is more loyal to Rick than to him. She urges Ridge to walk away from Brooke, telling him he is loved, respected and honored in her home and that he belongs with, "Us."

[DivaStephanie]

Monday, April 27

Brooke confronts Rick, Thomas visits Taylor, and Stephanie pleads with Ridge.


Brooke is furious that Taylor would suggest she and Ridge end things and calls her desperate. Ridge stands by silently as the women argue and Brooke wonders if Ridge was out to get her son all along. Ridge thought they were on the same page, but he couldn’t sit by idly and let Steffy marry Rick. He isn’t sorry he exposed Rick and wishes Brooke could open her eyes to her son, but Brooke thinks they set a trap for Rick. Taylor is appalled that Brooke is still taking Rick’s side and Brooke tells Taylor this won’t break her and Ridge up and it’s pathetic for Taylor to expect it. Brooke leaves and Ridge dutifully follows.






Stephanie accompanies Steffy to the beach house so she can pack up her things. After Steffy goes to the bedroom, Rick rushes in, but is dismayed to see Stephanie. Stephanie lashes out at him for breaking Steffy’s heart and declares that Steffy will get over him and one day she will wake up and never think of him again. She says, “Put that in your pipe and smoke it.” Rick hates the words he said on the recording, but insists he wouldn’t have said them if Ridge hadn’t provoked him. Steffy comes out of the bedroom and sees Rick. Rick tries to apologize, but Steffy doesn’t want to hear it. Stephanie suggests he leave and Rick complies. After he’s gone, Steffy tells her grandmother she really loved him, but he’s not the man she thought he was. Stephanie retorts, “He’s exactly the man I thought he was.”






Thomas comes home for a spur of the moment visit and tells Taylor he hopes he won’t have to be away much longer. Taylor tells him Steffy and Rick are over and Steffy and Stephanie enter the house. Thomas is thrilled Steffy broke it off with Rick and she says she’ll give him all the details while he helps her unload her stuff. Stephanie and Taylor discuss Ridge and Brooke and Taylor thinks Brooke and Ridge are as far apart on this subject as she’s ever seen. She also tells Stephanie she urged Ridge to leave Brooke and to come back there where he belongs.






Brooke and Ridge come home and discuss the situation. Ridge wants them to agree not to talk about Rick, but Rick comes in from the kitchen after making a sandwich. Ridge asks him what he’s doing there and Rick shares that he’s giving Steffy some space to clear out the beach house. Ridge doesn’t want him there and asks Brooke to tell him to leave. Brooke can’t do that after what he’s been through tonight. Ridge is irate and tells her Rick is playing her, but Brooke doesn’t see it that way. Ridge won’t sleep under the same roof as Rick and storms out.






Rick badmouths Ridge, but Brooke defends her husband. She tells her son he ruined his engagement all by himself by saying what he did on the recording. Rick again blames Ridge for setting him up and Brooke can’t believe she’s stuck between her son and husband again. Rick says he tried to make things better with Ridge, but Brooke wonders if he really was trying to accept her marriage. She asks him if he would rather she spend the rest of her life alone than be with Ridge. Rick tells her she will never be alone because he is there for her. Brooke reminds him she has a husband who walked out because he can’t stand being in the same room as her son. She tells him their marriage is affected because of him and she thought they’d be able to work though it, but now she’s not so sure. Rick is sorry she is hurting and vows to stand by her.






Ridge goes back to Taylor’s and the two of them inform Steffy Rick was blackmailing them regarding Thomas. Steffy can’t believe she was so blind and thanks her family for being there for her. Ridge hugs his daughter as Stephanie looks on. Steffy wishes Ridge would stay the night because Thomas is home and Stephanie is there and the only thing missing is Phoebe. Taylor reminds her daughter Phoebe cherished moments like this. Ridge’s kids urge him to stay and Ridge agrees.






Taylor takes the kids to the video store and Stephanie tells her son that all the happiness that he has known as an adult has been in this house with Taylor. She wonders how living with Brooke can compare to that considering she continues to stand by Rick. Stephanie says his whole life with Brooke has been filled with angst and drama and wonders if he’s tired of that. She knows he has deep feelings for Brooke, but she wants him to have some peace and contentment in his life. She says this is where he belongs and he won’t have that peace and contentment until he is willing to make the hard decision to leave Brooke once and for all.

[DivaStephanie]

Tuesday, April 28

Stephanie gets sad news, Ridge reassures Taylor, but has unsettling news for Brooke, and Eric doesn’t get the reception he was expecting.


Thomas and Steffy enjoy breakfast together and Ridge and Taylor come in with some coffee.





Rick comes downstairs where Brooke is sipping on coffee. Rick asks if Ridge spent the night at Taylor’s, but she says she doesn’t know. Rick assumes he did and thinks he and Taylor were up all night celebrating the fact that Rick and Steffy broke up. Rick thinks it’s only a matter of time before Ridge leaves her like Steffy left him. Brooke lashes out at her son accusing him of wanting that to happen and wonders who really is being manipulated.



Taylor calls Stephanie who is at work already and tells her friend how wonderful it was to have the whole family together. Stephanie notes Ridge stayed overnight, but Taylor says he was in the guest room. Stephanie thinks that can be changed. Taylor agrees, but she will respect his marriage to Brooke. Stephanie tells Taylor, lucky for her, she doesn’t have to be so considerate.




Jackie, Bridget and Nick come in to see Stephanie and Jackie sees the cover of Eye of Fashion that says Bill Spencer has died. Stephanie is stunned and bemoans the fact that she kept putting off calling him and now she will never get the chance to talk to him again. She thinks she should call his daughter Karen.






Thomas tells Steffy he’s relieved Rick is out of her life. What he did was wrong, but he was acting out of love. He wants her to be happy and now that Rick is out of her life, he thinks she will be. Ridge tells his kids they all need to talk to each other and not keep secrets. Ridge says they are still a family and assures them all he will be around. He says both his families are equally important to him and he regrets that he hasn’t been around much, but he will rectify that and will never put Thomas in the position to pick up his slack again.






Stephanie calls Karen Spencer to give her condolences regarding her father. Stephanie asks if there’s anything she can do and Karen tells her before he died, Bill instructed her to contact her. Stephanie assures Karen she can count on her and asks if Bill was ill for a while. Karen explains his health had been declining. She doesn’t know who will be running the company now, saying her father only wanted boys in the boardroom. Stephanie says Bill’s email earlier in the week got her to thinking about her and Caroline and how Ridge’s life would have been different had Caroline not died.






Ridge calls to check in with Brooke and asks how the kids are. Rick listens in the background as Brooke says they are fine and that she explained to them he went to work early. Ridge says he will be home soon and is still at Taylor’s. Brooke is annoyed and they discuss why Ridge couldn’t stay at the house. He urges her to get Rick out of there before he does more damage because their marriage is strained because of him. He wants her to listen to the recordings so she can hear what her son is really like, but Brooke doesn’t want to. She says Rick told her what he made him say, but Ridge explains he didn’t make him say anything. He lets her know he wants to come home and sleep in their bed but it’s up to her if he does that. He also tells her he is going to ask Eric to fire Rick.






Eric comes to see Stephanie thinking she might need him after hearing the news of Bill Spencer. Eric informs Stephanie Donna will stay away from the funeral out of respect and suggests they go together. Stephanie is disdainful and mocks his knack of always being there in a crisis. She tells him she doesn’t need him and is no longer the suffering spouse. Eric says they used to be able to co-exist no matter what was going on in their lives and says this is why he fired her. Stephanie says he did her a favor and now she has a chance to be who she really is. She tells him this is different than the other times they’ve separated because she doesn’t want him and everything has changed. She is not his friend, but his competitor and she has declared her independence from him and the company they built together. She is free of him and doesn’t want or need him. She also doesn’t want or expect to see him again. Eric doesn’t know what to say. Stephanie responds, “Goodbye would suffice.” She tells him they are not partners or lovers or sadly even friends.






After Brooke gets off the phone, Rick is outraged upon learning Ridge now wants him out of the company. He wants his mother to get him out of their lives for good!






Ridge tells Taylor if she or the kids need anything he will be back anytime. He thinks their kids are doing better because of her and calls her remarkable.

[DivaStephanie]

Wednesday, April 29

Donna, Karen, Stephanie and Clarke receive presents from Bill, Sr., Ridge is disappointed by Eric's decision, and Pam berates herself for screwing up.

Katie asks Brooke about Bill Spencer’s funeral, but Brooke is distracted. Brooke tells her sister Ridge didn’t come home last night and stayed with Taylor instead.

Ridge goes to see Eric and they discuss Stephanie. Donna enters the office and Ridge quips that Donna isn’t attending the funeral because it would be difficult to explain their past. Donna tells them she has been invited to the reading of Bill’s will.

Karen comes to Stephanie’s office after her father’s service and thanks her letting them read the will there. Stephanie catches Karen up on everything that’s been happening with Eric and Ridge.


Thomas tells Taylor it felt right to have Ridge home. Taylor reminds him he is married to Brooke, but Thomas thinks their marriage is in major trouble. Taylor says all marriages go through rough patches, but she wishes she had fought harder to hold on to Ridge. Thomas hugs her.


Mr. Simmons comes to Stephanie’s office to read the will and greets Stephanie, Karen and Clarke. Donna comes in and Stephanie is surprised to see that she has been invited. Donna doesn’t understand either, but Mr. Simmons says everything will be explained and hands out gifts Bill left for each of them. Donna receives hers, which is a box that holds what he really thinks of her and what she brought to his life. Donna opens the box and finds it empty. Clarke gets a gift to honor his achievements as a designer, which is a chocolate gold medal and a note that says, “As fake as your designs.” Karen gets half of her father’s empire and her brother Bill, Jr. gets the other half. He names his children co-CEOs. Mr. Simmons leaves and Donna and Clarke follow.


Karen realizes either she or her brother will have to move to L.A. to run the west coast office. Karen notes her brother was invited, but apparently chose not to come today. Stephanie wonders why Bill wanted her there and Karen tells her Bill asked her to give her something in private. Stephanie opens the letter that expresses how much Bill respected her and entrusts Karen to her care. He explains that his son, Bill, Jr., is a loner, but Karen will rely on her advice and support. He thanks her and one day Karen will thank her too. Karen knows how much Stephanie meant to Caroline and Stephanie calls her the love of Ridge’s life. Karen doesn't think her father ever got over losing her and Stephanie tells Karen how proud Bill was of her as well. Karen is overwhelmed at running the company, but Stephanie assures her she will be fine. Karen calls Stephanie a wonderful friend and offers her help any time. Stephanie says there might be something she asks of her and she’ll be in touch.


Ridge tells Eric Steffy called off the wedding and then plays the recording of Rick for Eric. Ridge says Rick finally revealed himself and Eric feels awful for Steffy. Ridge tells Eric he has to fire Rick. Eric agrees Rick’s words are disturbing, but asks how Brooke feels about this. He realizes she disagrees with him and Ridge tells his father he won’t stay with Brooke until Rick is out of their house. Eric thinks Rick needs professional help, but insists Ridge and Rick learn to co-exist. Ridge rants that will never happen and storms out.

Pam comes into the office with papers for Ridge to sign, but Eric doesn’t know if he’s coming back. He just hopes he’s gone to see his wife.


Stephanie returns to Taylor’s house and the women discuss Karen and Caroline. Stephanie says Brooke doesn’t hold a candle to Caroline or to Taylor either. Taylor has given up on Ridge, but Stephanie thinks there’s still hope. She thinks Taylor needs to take some action and take back control of her life.


Ridge goes home and Brooke tells him Rick has gone back to the beach house. Ridge thinks that’s a good start, but Brooke wonders why it isn’t enough that Rick and Steffy aren't getting married. Ridge says he is out of Steffy’s life, but not theirs. Pam calls Ridge saying she wants to come over with papers for him to sign. Ridge says he’ll do it tomorrow and hangs up.


Pam freaks out because tomorrow is no good. She gets upset thinking she screwed up and that they shouldn’t have made her a receptionist again.

Brooke and Ridge continue to argue about Rick and how Ridge spent the night at Taylor’s. Brooke thinks Taylor is just as bad an influence on their marriage as Rick is. She begs him not to fall into Taylor’s hands.

[DivaStephanie]

Thursday, April 30

Stephanie learns Pam’s mistake, Ridge and Brooke come to a new understanding, and Taylor vows to get Ridge back.


Stephanie urges Taylor to fight for Ridge, but Taylor doesn’t want to interfere in someone’s marriage. Stephanie tells her their problems with Rick have caused a rift in their marriage, but Taylor won’t throw herself at the feet of a married man because she has too much self-respect. Stephanie continues to push her agenda on Taylor, but Doc sticks to her moral code. She admits nothing would make her happier than to see Brooke and Ridge break up, but she won’t live her life clinging to a dream. Stephanie thinks Rick is coming between Brooke and Ridge and urges Taylor to keep an eye on Steffy because Rick will come sniffing around again.

Pam continues to berate herself for her mistake and worries what Ridge will think when he finds out what she’s done.


Ridge assures Brooke nothing happened while he was at Taylor’s. Brooke trusts him, but isn’t so sure about Taylor and thinks it’s in appropriate for him to run to his ex-wife whenever they have problems. Brooke thinks Taylor would be happy to see their marriage fail and then talk turns to Rick and how Ridge teamed up with Taylor. Ridge wanted Steffy to see how demented Rick is without her around and his plan worked. Brooke can't believe the pleasure he is taking from this and thinks it’s tragic. Ridge thinks what happened to Phoebe is tragic and is concerned about Steffy because she is vulnerable. He thinks Rick won’t stop where Steffy is concerned because he hates to lose. Ridge wants Rick gone and he’s concerned how Rick continues to affect their marriage. He says until Brooke opens her eyes and sees her son realistically he doesn’t see how they can get through this. Ridge wonders if Brooke continues to defend Rick because she feels guilty about how he was raised. Brooke wishes she could have given him a more stable upbringing living under the same roof as his father. Ridge reminds Brooke Bridget was raised the same way and she turned out okay. He tells her she is a great mother and only Rick is responsible for his issues. Brooke admits she has felt guilty and realizes she has to really look at what’s going on with Rick. She feels that Rick has no one left and she’s the only person who understands him. She doesn’t want to abandon him, but Ridge tells her she is allowed to disagree with him and that she needs to cut the apron strings. Ridge wishes they could get away from all of this and go back to those two people on the beach when they got married away from the world and from her son. Brooke tells him Rick will always be in their lives and Ridge wonders what they will do now. Brooke suggests they weather the storm and points out that one of their problems is gone since Rick and Steffy have broken up. Ridge needs Rick to stay away from Steffy and respect her decision. Brooke thinks he will and she will no longer support any involvement between Rick and Steffy. She promises that Rick will never touch Steffy again. Ridge thanks her because he really needed to hear that.


Stephanie comes to Forrester Creations to see Ridge, but runs into Pam who tells her he is with Brooke. Pam brings Stephanie into Eric’s office so they can talk privately. She tells her sister she put in the wrong social security numbers and wrong dates for Ridge and Brooke’s marriage license. Stephanie is confused so Pam explains that in order for their wedding to be official they went to city hall and had a quickie wedding. They asked Pam to fill out the paper work and then had their ceremony. Pam just got paperwork back saying their marriage is invalid. Stephanie laughs and calls Pam a miracle worker.


Taylor looks at a family photo and recalls her life with Ridge and thinks about how much she wants him back. She believes that it will happen and then fantasizes about them reuniting in bed.