Monday, August 7

Beth tells Jim that she doesn't think meeting with Phillip again is going to accomplish anything. Jim thinks that Phillip might listen to Ross. Ross arrives and Beth tells him that they should forget this because Phillip is never going to agree to what they want. Ross thinks he will if it's in the best interest for the baby. Jim wants to talk about their strategy but Ross tells him he's only there to speak up for baby James. Jim says they'll do anything to keep their son. Danny tells Pilar that one of their waitresses has canceled so Pilar decides she can handle it. She greets Phillip at the door but he isn't interested in anything she has to say. He goes to Beth's table and tells them that they can all go home because he isn't going to be railroaded. Pilar tells Danny that they may have a problem at that table. Danny sends Pilar over with their best champagne. Ross asks Phillip to sit down but he doesn't want to listen to anything they have to say. Beth says that they'll see him in court then and starts to leave. Ross wants them all to discuss because he doesn't think Phillip wants a judge who doesn't know them to rule on this. He thinks he's in the best position to find out what's best for the baby. Ross tells him to sit down and listen to what he has to say. Pilar interrupts them with the champagne and pours them all a glass while they argue. Beth asks him to think about how confusing it will be for James to go back and forth between two families. Phillip doesn't think it would be as confusing as the day he finds out Jim isn't his father and he hates Phillip for abandoning him. Ross tells them to calm down because the adults should have more maturity than they do. Beth thinks that Phillip is sure that Jim will leave her but he says the only thing he's sure of is that Beth is trying to cut him out of his son's life and he won't allow that. Beth says that she and Jim are the ones that have been there for the baby. Phillip says that he wasn't given a choice and doesn't want to hear this speech again. Beth asks Phillip to think about what kind of life James would have if he was with him. Phillip tells her he never said he wanted to raise this child alone. Jim asks him why he won't let him adopt him then. Beth says that the baby can have a normal life with them but Phillip wants to watch him grow up. He says that Lizzie, Zach and the baby are all he has left now. Jim thinks he's using the baby as an emotional band-aid for his marriage problems and it's not healthy for anybody. Phillip doesn't care what he says because the baby is his. Ross takes Phillip aside and tells him that he agrees with Beth. He thinks that no court would rule against them. He says that the court will look at the broader situation and the fact that Phillip committed adultery. They will also see that Jim stayed with Beth the entire time. Phillip reminds him that Jim also walked out after the delivery but Ross tells him to grow up. He says that the judge, the jury and the janitor are going to understand why. Phillip says that Ross knows first hand how it was for Phillip when he found out about Alan. Beth and Jim interrupt them and think they can come to some kind of understanding. Phillip says he won't give up his son because Jim can't produce one of his own. Jim gets upset and asks him if he's ever mistreated Lizzie. He thinks the only thing Phillip is afraid of losing is control. Phillip says he's trying to do what is best for the child. He asks Jim where his stable family is living right now. Phillip says that if they fight him on this, he'll seek sole custody and he will win. Beth reminds Phillip that she lived in the Spaulding mansion too and had her eyes wide open when they were married. She says she knows more about the business than he thinks she does. Beth tells him that if he tries to take her baby, she will call the FBI and any other agency she can think of. She says that he won't have a dollar to his name when they're through with him, assuming he's still a free man. Beth tells him if he wants to go in that direction to be her guest. Beth thanks Ross for his time and leaves. Phillip wonders who these people are because he doesn't recognize any of them anymore.

Pilar sees Carlos come in and Danny admits to inviting him there. He says that Carlos brought him some information about Carmen's death. Pilar says she thought he believed Claire killed Carmen but he tells Carlos got a tip about some guy in Chicago. Danny doesn't think Carlos has anything to gain by lying. He says he's going to find out if this new family had anything to do with it. Danny tells Pilar to stay clear because this could be the day he finally finds their mother's killer. Danny comes downstairs to meet with Carlos and Xeno. Xeno thinks that he is there for a job interview and Carlos leaves them alone. Xeno tells Danny that his last job when off without a hitch and that he was into some big time stuff. Danny gets a phone call and his last name is called out. Xeno is surprised to hear his name and Danny introduces himself. Xeno offers his condolences to Danny and says that he really respected Carmen. Xeno asks him who is running their family business now and Danny wonders what his questions are all about. Xeno offers his help with their family and he leaves. Carlos returns and Danny tells him that Xeno seemed to be on a fact-finding mission. He asks Carlos to find out everything that he can about Xeno and Carlos leaves. He runs into Pilar and causes her to drop a plate. She goes up to Danny and asks him to stay away from Carlos. Danny says that he can’t sleep at night knowing that he let their mother’s killer get away and tells her that he thinks he just met her killer. He says that Xeno can’t hurt him if he gets to him first.

Ross talks to Reva and her lawyer at Millennium. Reva says that she and Josh are still friends and Ross agrees that it should be a friendly divorce. Ross gives them his notes and goes into the other room. Reva shows Dewey the tentative list that she and Josh have created and he tells her that she is being robbed. They see Vince in the doorway and Dewey recognizes him. Josh calls Vince over and introduces him to Olivia and Billy. Billy calls Olivia on the decision of Vince as a lawyer and Josh takes Vince into the other room. Billy thinks that Olivia is up to something. Vince asks Josh if he wants to go somewhere else when they see Reva and Dewey but Josh says no. Dewey tells Reva that most women end up the victims in a divorce and she explains that she and Josh intend to make this fair. Reva tells him that Josh wouldn’t go after the house. Across the room, Vince suggests that Josh goes after the house but he refuses. He asks her about Reva’s career and suggests that he hide some of his assets. Across the room, Dewey suggests that Josh may be hiding some money but Reva doesn’t believe that he could do that. Pilar comes over to Josh and Vince’s table and offers them something to drink but they ignore her. Vince brings up the custody of the kids but Josh thinks that they belong with Reva. Vince wants to go for joint custody just as across the room Dewey suggests to Reva that she limit Josh’s access to the kids. They both want to leave the kids out of it. Billy and Olivia peek into the room and see the others arguing. They look over and notice Beth and Phillip arguing and agree that ex-husbands and -wives are a lethal mix. Billy questions Olivia about producing a lawyer for Josh and she says that she is only doing what is in his best interest. Billy tells her that Reva has always though about Josh and that they have always been together. She says that she is not the enemy and just wants to make Josh happy. Billy agrees to save his worrying for the day that she is not on Josh’s side. Reva wants to just talk to Josh but Dewey stops her. Josh suggests that Vince go talk to Reva’s lawyer and they both go to have drinks in the other room. The lawyers have drinks and act like old friends. They both compare retainers and talk about how much money they will be making on this. Pilar brings champagne over to Josh and Vince returns. He tells Josh that Reva won’t give an inch and wants everything. Dewey returns to Reva and tells him the same thing. She sees the champagne and can believe that Josh is celebrating. Pilar takes Vince and Josh’s menus and take them over to Reva and Dewey. She is upset that people are ignoring her and Reva tells Dewey that Josh is mad because she cost him a business deal. Reva can’t believe that all of this is happening and Dewey tells her that people change. Reva is sure that Josh will look out for her and says that she really believes that. She tells him that Josh has his prioritys straight and then she looks down at her menu and sees that Vince’s notes are there. It says that Josh wants the house and kids and she can’t belive that he would do this. She blames Olivia for this and thinks that Josh is cheating her. She goes over to Josh’s table and tells him that she could slam him across the room. Reva aims the champagne bottle at Josh and Vince but it spills all over Pilar. Pilar runs up to Danny and Josh tries to find out why Reva is so angry. Everyone in Millennium watches them argue and Reva dumps a bucket of water on Vince. He wants the call the police and have her brought up on charges. Olivia asks Billy if Josh still belongs with Reva and Josh and Reva just look at one another.

Tuesday, August 8

Jim congratulates Beth on her threat to Phillip and asks her what she has on him. Beth admits she doesn't have anything but Phillip doesn't know that. She says that if she went to the FBI with suspicions, they would be auditing Spaulding for years. She says that she isn't going to let Phillip control her life anymore. Jim thinks it's time that Beth and the kids move back in with him and starts getting her suitcases ready. When Beth becomes hesitant, he calls her chicken so she takes the bags and starts packing herself. She hopes to herself that they can get out before Phillip comes home. Lizzie walks in wondering where they're going. She says that Beth promised she wouldn't have to leave Phillip. Beth apologizes to Lizzie for not explaining sooner and Jim asks her why she doesn't want to go back to his house. Lizzie tells them that her dad was supposed to help her with her book report and Jim tells her that she can see her dad anytime that she wants to. She complains that they house is small but Jim tells her that she will have her own room since Susan is staying with Harley. She agrees to go if she can paint the room pink and Jim humors her. He takes her to collect some of her toys and Beth makes a phone call to Edmund who is just finishing making love to jenny. He answers the phone and she tells him that everything is wrong and asks for his help. Jim and Lizzie return and Beth doesn’t tell them whom she was talking too. Lizzie wants to go tell Susan that they are moving and Jim reassures Beth that they can deal with how Phillip reacts to this. She promises him that she is going to do everything in his power to keep the family together.

Pilar tries to clean up the mess that Reva made while the police try to find out what happened. Vince wants Reva arrested for assault because she ruined his suit. Josh offers to pay for it so they can let it go but Dewey claims that Reva was provoked. The police tell them they can settle this at the station and lead them out of Millennium. Ross tells Dewey he feels bad for getting him involved in this and Dewey tells him he thinks he can handle Reva. Ross says that a lot of men thought they could handle her but ended up losing their grip. Meanwhile, Frank tells David that Harley is back on the force. He thinks that David can work with her on the street but David knows he really wants him to keep an eye on her. David asks if she's up to this and Frank says that she is 100% professional. David tells him that she's already late and Harley arrives. She apologizes for being late and tells them she had a problem with the babysitter. Frank gives her her first assignment but David says he won't work with someone who isn't focused or else somebody could end up dead. He wants to know that when she walks through the door, she's ready to work. Harley claims she's ready for anything just as Reva, Josh and their lawyers come in. Vince explains to Frank what happened but Dewey puts a "wronged wife" spin on it. Harley looks at Vince's notes and can't believe Josh would do that. Josh tells Reva that he didn't know what Vince was writing and wouldn't do that to her. She asks him why he hasn't fired Vince yet and then realizes that it would upset Olivia. Dewey begins insulting Vince and they go after each other. Josh tries to calm the lawyers down when they both try to arrest the other. He tells them both to go home and Reva agrees. Josh apologizes to Reva and she says that she would if that lawyer didn't deserve what he got. Josh says that he would never be involved in what Vince had written down and leaves. Reva turns around and Noah is there. Josh arrives home to find Olivia wrapped in Saran-Wrap. He unwraps her and they get romantic.

Ross asks Phillip if he saw what Josh and Reva just did. He says that their divorce is supposed to be amicable. Ross asks him if he can imagine what will happen if he doesn't shape up. He thinks that Phillip is headed for a distaster and he will deserve it. Phillp fires him. He explains the reason is that he doesn't understand that the baby is his. Ross says that nobody is contesting paternity but Phillip thinks that Jim adopting him will take away his rights. Ross asks him if his rights supercede the baby's rights to stability and happiness. Ross thinks that the baby might wind up with a mother who hates his father. He tells Phillip that he can't predict the future so James might wind up a lonely boy alone in the Spaulding mansion. Ross tells Phillip not to project his abandonment issues on this child. He reminds Phillip how good Jim was with Lizzie. Phillip says Jim is wonderful as long as Phillip is paying the bills. He says that neither Jim nor Beth is leaving the mansion. Ross says that they will never know if they can make it as a family unless they're free of Phillip's money and influence. Phillip asks what happens five years down the road when Beth comes to him for money for school because he is his son. He says that he will write a check because the baby is his. Ross reminds him that his name is James and he says that his name is Phillip. He says that if he agrees to this, a name on a check will be all he ever is to him. He says that Ross doesn't see that and that's why he's fired. Ross tells him that he can't fire him as an uncle or a friend and thinks Phillip needs somebody to tell him the truth. Rick arrives and says that he can do that. Rick questions his techniques and Phillip says he doesn't need another lecture. Rick admits that Harley told him that Phillip was trying to take the baby. He says that Phillip has a wife and family and is spoiled on these riches. Phillip doesn't understand why Rick can't see his point, especially since children have been such an issue with him and Abby. Rick tells him that Abby left him. Phillip is sorry and says that wanting a family wasn't asking too much. Rick asks him when the last time he played with Zach was. He advises Phillip to go spend some time with his son and not to give up on Harley. Later, Phillip arrives at Harley's to find the babysitter throwing a party. He demands to know what is going on there. Phillip tells them all to get out and asks where zack's mother is. they tell him that she is at work and he throws them out. Phillip cleans up Zack and Susan arrives home. She asks him what she is doing there with her brother. Phillip tells her that he is taking Zack home with him because Harley’s babysitter turned the house into party central. Susan begs him to leave Zack there with her but he refuses. She calls him a jerk and he tells her that her father must not have taught her any manners. She tells him to not talk about her father like that because he is a much better father than he will ever be and she storms out. Jus as Phillip is about to walk out the door with Zack, Harley arrives and tells him to stop.

Danny asks Carlos if he found out anything more and he tells him that Xeno lied to him before. He explains that Xeno wanted in on the business in Chicago and thought taking Carmen out would open some doors. Carlos says that Xeno bragged about killing Carmen to the people in Chicago and said that Danny was a wimp. Carlos informs him that Xeno didn't get into the business because it was an unauthorized hit. He says that the families in Chicago wouldn't be upset if Danny ended Xeno's stay in Springfield. Danny tells Carlos that he will close the club early tonight. He says to make sure Xeno knows about a poker game going on there and that he'll take care of the rest. Carlos guarantees that Xeno will be there and tells Danny that there's no reason their families can't work together. Carlos leaves and Pilar wants to know what happened. Danny tells her he just got a chance to make everything all right. Bill arrives and tells Danny that he couldn’t come up with anything on Claire. Danny tells him that is OK and asks Bill to take Pilar home and not leave her side. Pilar is worried about Danny and tells Bill that Danny is being pulled back into that life. Bill and Pilar leave and Bill tells her to trust Danny to do the right thing. Danny puts a sign in the window that says that Millennium is closed for a private party.

Wednesday, August 9

Harley stops Phillip from taking Zack and he tells her that he found the babysitter having a party. Harley sees the mess in the room and she tells him that she had to go down to the station because she got her old job back. Phillip asks her where her priorities are and she tells him to stop right there while she puts Zack in the other room. Harley returns and Phillip asks her why she is going back to work. He tells her that if she goes back to work then Zack is coming to live with him. Harley tells him that he just can’t stand the fact that she is employed because she isn’t totally dependant on him. She realizes that he is talking about money and control again and she calls him on not being able to take the blame for his part of all of this. He admits that everything was his fault and asks her why she can allow him to be less than perfect. He begs her to forgive this one mistake and asks her why she can’t. She says that it is because it was with Beth and tells him that he keeps making the same mistakes over and over again with Beth. She tells him that she just wanted to be more important to him than Beth and she points out that he chose Beth over her on the plane. He tells her to own up to the fact that she can only love him when it is easy but not when there are any problems. He tells her that they can have again what they had built and she breaks down. She asks him why what they had together wasn’t enough for him and he tells her that he only feels complete when he is with her. She says that she feels like she will never be good enough for him and he tells her that he misses her. She says that she misses him too and they get romantic. Afterwards, Harley wonders what just happened and Phillip tells her that they have been apart for way too long. She tells him that this is not some sort of reconciliation and that they just acted on the emotions that they had while they were arguing. She says that it was just sex and not love and he asks why not. She says because she can’t trust him and she goes to get dressed.

At the station, David and Frank debate who could have killed Carmen by finding out information about who killed Carmen’s husband. Frank doesn’t think that Danny is going to get back into the family business but David thinks that he might. They argue and Frank offers to take David out for drinks. David picks up the file on their way out. Meanwhile, Ruth admires Selena’s engagement ring and Selena can’t believe how lucky she is. Buzz comes over and Ruth congratulates both of them. She goes to work and Selena wishes that Ruth could find someone in her life. Frank and David arrive and David goes over to sit down with Ruth. They chitchat and Selena listens to David bring up Miguel Santos’s murder. He explains that maybe the same person killed both of them and could go after Danny next. David notices Selena listening to them. Ruth tells him about Charlie and gets back to work. Selena remembers being saved by a man many years ago. Buzz comes over and thinks that she doesn’t like her ring. She tells him that he is crazy and kisses him. David comes back over to Frank and they mention to Buzz and Selena about the Santos case. David asks Selena about how she was living in Chicago when Miguel Santos was killed and if she heard anything about it. She seems uncomfortable and Frank tells David to back off. Buzz asks how Miguel died and Selena tells him that he died in Carmen’s arms of a gunshot. David says that Danny could be next unless they find Carmen’s killer.

Xeno arrives for the poker game and finds it strange that Danny isn't there. Carlos tells him to relax and make himself a drink. Xeno says he wants some action tonight and Danny appears and says he's going to get more action than he thinks. He questions Xeno about the last time he was in Springfield and about Carmen. Xeno doesn't cooperate and Danny hits him. He says he doesn't want to tick him off. Xeno admits he was there but doesn't know anything about Carmen's death. Danny asks him if he's sure he didn't hear anything about somebody who killed Carmen as a free agent in order to impress the families in Chicago. Xeno realizes he knows but Danny wants him to say he killed his mother to his face. Xeno admits he did it because Carmen was going to turn on the other families. He says that if Danny had any guts, he would have pulled the trigger himself. Danny says it's better late than never and takes a gun from Carlos. Xeno tells Danny he doesn't have the guts to shoot him and Danny hits him again with the gun then aims at him. He tells his men to take Xeno to the alley but Carlos stops him. Carlos offers to take care of it for him but Danny wants to do it himself. Carlos reminds him that the police are watching him and he doesn't need to get his hands dirty. Danny reluctantly gives him the gun and tells him to do it. Danny leaves and Carlos shakes Xeno's hand. Meanwhile, Rick finds Michelle distracted from studying. He asks where Danny is and jokes with her when she doesn't know. Michelle tells him that something's going on with Danny and it has something to do with Carmen's killer. Rick thinks that Carmen causes a lot of trouble for a dead person and Michelle agrees. Carlos gives Xeno his money and tells him to go to the Cayman Islands. He says he doesn't want to hear of him coming back there. Xeno tells him not to worry and says he thought Danny was really going to shoot him there for a minute. Carlos says he was pleasantly surprised. Xeno leaves and Carlos calls Maria and tells her that Danny bought it. Maria is glad to hear it and says that now there will be peace in Springfield. Danny comes home and tells Michelle he found his mother's killer. When he says that he took care of it Michelle wonders what he's done.

Thursday, August 10

Michelle asks Danny if he went to Frank like they agreed and he says no. She asks him what he did with the information Carlos gave him and he tells her he made the guy understand that it was in his best interests to confess. She asks if he did and Danny says yes. He tries to walk away but Michelle wants to know where this person is now. Danny says he doesn't know and that's all he's going to say about it now and forever. Michelle doesn't think that Danny understands that he's shutting her out. She says that either she's his partner or she isn't. Danny says that either she trusts him or she doesn't. She says that Carmen's killer confessed and was dealt with but she doesn't know what that means. He tells her that it means they are free of the Santos family business. He says the book on that is closed and asks her to keep it closed. He thinks that she can go back to school and he can run the club and they can build a future together. He wants her to let him make up for everything he's put her through. She says that he has to tell her what he did. Danny will only say that he did what he had to do. Michelle realizes that he killed the man. Danny says that he didn't kill anybody so she thinks he had him killed. She reminds him that he didn't believe in violence and that's why he got out of the family to begin with. Danny says that he fell in love with her and he did this to ensure their safety. He tells her that he chose her. Michelle tells him that he knew how she felt about this but didn't give her a second thought. She asks if he used a gun or a knife and he says he didn't kill anybody. Michelle tells him that the blood is still on his hands. She asks him what he would tell their children and he says that it isn't as simple as she's making it out to be. She tells him that she can make it real simple. She says that she's not nieve and that she refuses to be a victim of retaliaton. She asks him when it ends and he says that she doesn't understand. She agrees and tells him that there are places he goes that she can't follow. He asks her to let him go alone because he will always come back to her. She tells him that she can't be there when he comes back with blood on his hands. He says that it was his mother and she reminds him that Carmen was a criminal. She thinks the police would have punished the killer but Danny says that he would have been protected. He tells her that he didn't have time to weigh that decision because word would have got out that he was weak and that the family was vulnerable. He tells her that he didn't start this and she says that he didn't end it either. He just became part of it. He says he accepts that she doesn't understand but wants her to accept that he did what he had to do so they would survive. She tells him that she believes that he believes that. He says that a message was sent to them and he had to send a response. Michelle tells him that she has to send him a response too. She says that she can't keep trying to save him from this cycle of violence and that she has to stand on her own. Danny doesn't understand and she tells him that she can't be married to him. She says he needs to leave the house tonight and he walks away. Rick arrives and asks if there's anything he can do. Michelle says no and Danny tells him that Michelle will explain. He tells them that he'll be in touch and leaves. Michelle breaks down and says that this hurts so bad she may die. Rick tells her that after a while she may wish she could. She tells him she thought they could get away from it together but Rick tells her not to blame herself. She knows she did the right thing. Michelle asks him how to go on when part of you has been ripped out and he says they'll find out together. She says it feels like a death and he tells her it is. Danny goes home and tells Maria that he found Carmen's killer. She asks if it's done and he tells her that Carlos took care of it. He says that his marriage is over and that it was Michelle's final decision. Maria asks if Carlos killed him and Danny says he took care of it as a gesture of friendship. Pilar says that she's glad. Danny asks if he can stay there and Maria says yes. Pilar goes to help him and Maria calls Carlos. She tells him that Danny is convinced that justice has been done. She tells him that Michelle left Danny. Carlos thinks that Michelle was the reason Danny refused to accept his responsibilies. Maria admits she was glad Michelle kept Danny away as long as Carmen was in power. She didn't want Carmen to do to him what she did to her son. Maria thinks that now Danny can run the business his way like his father. Maria says that Danny must commit to run the family without reservation. Carlos thinks that he won't give up on the marriage easily. Carlos makes sure Maria knows he wants to work with the Santos family, not against them. Danny comes back in and Maria tells him she's sorry about Michelle but she's glad to have him home. Danny and Michelle both stare out the window separately as Rick takes off his wedding ring.

Harley asks Phillip what that just was and tells him that she has never experienced anything like that in her life. Phillip tells her about Susan coming by earlier and admits that he didn’t handle it well. She worries that Susan thinks that she is totally irresponsible. Phillip tells her that she is beautiful and kisses her but she stops him. He tells her that he wants her for everything in his life and says that he will even reconsider his hardnosed attitude towards the new baby if she will back off the divorce. He offers to bend on things like Lizzie and Susan and explains that he realized that he is acting like a fool. Harley says that she can’t think and he tells her not to try and holds her. She says that she wants to trust this but she doesn’t. She tells him that the idea of Beth stands between them and she asks him to help her get over it. He holds her and Susan walks in. Harley asks her where she went and Susan asks what he is still doing there. Phillip says he will call Harley tomorrow and leaves. Susan finds Phillip sock and realizes what has happened. Susan can’t believe that she would let Phillip touch her like that after what he did with Beth. They argue and she calls Harley stupid for not seeing Phillip what he really is. Harley tells her to get a better attitude and shows Harley that she has had the same attitude lately too. She suggests that she just go away to boarding school and Harley tells her that she can if she wants. Harley tells her that she is very grateful for her and Susan asks to go take a bath. Susan goes upstairs and Harley calls Buzz to come over. He comes and Harley asks him about forgiveness and if she should forgive Phillip. He explains that it is about letting go of your reaction of what somebody has done and getting a clean slate in return. He tells her that anger is a heavy load to carry and will hurt the ones that you love. Harley isn’t sure that she can do it and Buzz tells her that it isn’t about Beth or Phillip but it is about herself. Buzz leaves and Harley thinks about what Buzz has said.

Friday, August 11

Ray arrives to visit Danny and Danny tells him about Michelle kicking him out. Ray thinks that he is kidding and Danny explains what happened. Danny admits that he would have killed Xeno if Carlos wouldn’t have and knows that there is really no difference. Maria listens to them talk as Danny explains that he did it so that he and Michelle could have a normal life. Ray says that Danny knew that he couldn’t have it both ways and that he would have to choose between the family and Michelle. Danny says that he just did what he had to do and Ray tells him that he is just rationalizing. Danny admits that he has been thinking about his father a lot lately and wonders if he struggled with the same decisions. Ray tells him that his father’s answers don’t have to be his answers. Danny explains that he always thought he would find a way out of his family’s business and he thought that Michelle was his savior. Ray tells him that she is and that there is still hope for their marriage. Ray reminds him that he didn’t kill Michelle for Mick’s murder like the "code" said he should and he can make the decision to live by the "code" or not. Ray asks if he can discuss this with Michelle and Danny says it would be a good idea to go see her and see if she is OK. Ray tells him to never give up hope in his marriage or in himself and he leaves.

Claire comes in and finds Michelle making breakfast. She apologizes for her actions the night that Abby left. Claire offers to move out but Michelle tells her not to. She says that she just can’t trust her anymore but she needs to talk to Rick about it. Claire asks about Danny’s feelings and Michelle tells her that Danny has moved out. Claire asks why but Michelle doesn’t want to get into it. Michelle asks her to leave while they are still talking and Claire does. Ray comes to see Michelle and she is baking cookies. Ray asks her about Danny and she admits that she still loves him. She asks him if he condones what Danny did and says that she feels like she can’t get Danny away from his family. Ray tells her that he never will if she leaves him and she says that he can’t make her be Danny’s savior. Michelle thinks that Danny doesn’t want a life with her or he would have gone to the police. Ray thinks that they can get through anything and reminds her of her wedding vows. He says that Danny needs her now more than ever and that this is a test of their commitment.

Rick finds Phillip at the Country Club and apologizes for coming down so hard on him about Harley. Phillip says that he thought about rearranging Rick's face but realized that he was angry and acting like an idiot. Phillip apologizes for his behavior and asks if Rick wants to talk about Abby. He says it's too soon and asks what happened with Phillip after their conversation. Phillip tells him about going to see Harley and how they fought and made love. He says that it was an unbelievable experience and that they were consumed with each other. Phillip tells him that after that, things became more clear to him. He says that he's going to back off the custody issue because he thinks the three of them can come up with a reasonable solution. Rick asks if he told Harley and he says that she took it as a positive sign. He knows that this isn't a reconciliation but thinks they're on the right track. Rick jokes that he saved Phillip once again and leaves. He goes to see Harley and she realizes that Phillip told him about what happened. She asks if Phillip thinks they're getting back together and Rick says that he thinks it's possible. Harley tells him that nothing has really changed. She tells him she had no intention of spending more than twenty seconds with Phillip but she doesn't know what happened. She says that logic and consequences didn't matter because they needed what they needed at the time. Rick tells her that sounds a lot like what happened on the plane between Phillip and Beth. Harley is blown away because she never understood when Phillip tried to explain it but she gets it now that Rick said that. She thinks that maybe she was wrong the whole time. She thanks Rick for giving her something to think about. He says he hopes they work it out with as much calmness as possible and leaves. Meanwhile, Alan arrives and asks Phillip where he was last night. Phillip says he got in late and Alan asks if he noticed anything different. Phillip tells him to cut to the chase and Alan reveals that Beth and the kids moved out last night. Phillip wants to know why he wasn't told and Alan says he didn't find out until after the fact. He says that Jim stole his kids from under his nose and hopes that Phillip plans to do something about it. Phillip tells him he plans to do plenty and leaves. He goes to see Jim and Beth and says the he thinks he should have been told about them leaving. Jim says he wasn't around to tell but Phillip says that he can be reached. He doesn't think it's unreasonable to want to know where his kids are and Beth agrees. Phillip says that this time they got their signals crossed and wants them to try to do better next time. Beth agrees but Jim wants to start a fight. Phillip tells him that he came over there to tell them something and Jim just might like it. He admits that the meeting didn't go well but thinks they can all compromise now. Beth wants to hear him out but Jim thinks he's just blowing smoke. Phillip says he wanted to tell them that he was backing off the custody suit as long as he could get a few guarantees from them. He says that he doesn't know if that's such a good idea after what's happened. Beth admits he should have been told and starts to promise him but Jim interrupts. He thinks that Phillip isn't serious about this but Phillip tries to reassure him. Jim isn't buying it and thinks that Phillip just wants to make the rules. He reminds him that they're in his house now and he's going to make the rules. He says that Phillip is going to have to get used to it because his children live there too and that's where they're going to stay. Beth tries to calm them down but they go on arguing. Jim thinks it's time for Phillip to leave and if he has anything else to say to them, he can contact their attorney. He says he will and leaves. Beth wants to know why Jim did that and Jim says Phillip wasn't serious. She tells him that they are going to have to meet Phillip halfway. Jim goes for a walk and Beth goes to get the baby. Edmund arrives telling her that he's ready to meet her request.

Harley runs into Alan at the Country Club looking for Phillip. He tells her that Phillip is having it out with Beth about them moving back in with Jim. He says that Phillip thinks he just wants access to the baby but he really can't stand the idea of Beth being with another man. Harley tells him if he's got something to say to her to just say it but Alan thinks he just did. Harley starts to walk away but says she wants to ask him a question even though she'll probably regret it. She asks if he can tell the truth for once in his life. He says if she wants the truth, that's what she'll get but wonders if she can handle it. She reminds him of the trip to San Cristobel and how he told her that he thought Phillip was better off with her while they were waiting to hear about the plane crash. She asks if he meant that and he says no. He tells her he only said what she wanted to hear. He didn't want to alienate her if it turned out that Phillip was alive. Alan thinks Harley has some good qualities but isn't suited to be Phillip's wife. He thinks that Beth has more style and class than Harley ever will. He reminds her that Beth was Phillip's first choice and the love of his life. He says that he even chose her when facing death. Alan tells her that their bond continues to grow stronger because they now have two children connecting him. He says that whenever Phillip tells her that she's first, he'll be lying because she'll always be runner-up. He says that the moment on the plane with Beth wasn't Phillip's biggest mistake, it was his marriage to Harley. Harley says she was wrong because Alan can be honest. He tells her that if Phillip can be just as honest with himself, it'll save everybody a lot of headache.

Monday, August 14

Josh, Olivia, and Billy meet at the Country Club and Josh gripes about Reva’s demands in the divorce. Billy thinks that sounds like the lawyer and not Reva and that they should just talk it out. Josh wants to hear some good news and asks them about the Macedonia Corporation but Olivia tells him that they haven’t heard from them yet. Holly arrives and tells them that she knows who is running the Macedonia Corporation. She explains that she is trying to stop their project from even happening and found out that Macedonia Corporation is a subsidiary of Spaulding. Josh thinks that they are just leaving them to dangle and he doesn’t want the job or their money. Billy and Olivia disagree but Josh won’t forget what the Spauldings have done to him. Billy offers to properly thank Holly for her help and she says that she needs to focus because she has an interview today. Noah arrives and Holly tells Billy that her interview is there. Billy pulls up a chair and ignores Holly’s suggestion to leave. Billy and Noah chit-chat about camping and tries to compare scars. Holly stops them and begins the interview. Noah tells them about a volunteer group for doctors that he belongs to. Noah has to go answer a page and Holly asks Billy what he is up to. He tells her that his gut tells him that something is up with this doctor. Billy wonders why he even came to Springfield and suggests that Holly do a little digging to find out about it. Holly won’t agree but Billy tells her that he is holding her to their fishing trip. Noah returns and they discuss organ transplantation. She tells him that she was already an organ donor and she offers to do a profile on him. He is reluctant but she persists. Josh kicks himself for not seeing that this was Spaulding and Olivia tells him not to worry about it. He notices Billy sitting over with Holly and Noah and wonders what is so great and interesting about Noah. Olivia tries to take his mind off of it and he reluctantly admits that he is feeling better. The waiter returns and tells Josh that his card didn’t clear and Josh remembers that the attorney advised him to cancel all of them. Olivia offers to pay for it and Billy comes over to answer a phone call. Billy tells him that they didn’t get the bid from Macedonia and Josh gets upset. Josh talks about how awful this day is going and Billy takes him out to cool off. Olivia calls for Alan and goes to deliver the message herself.

Edmund arrives to see Beth and she's surprised that he came so quickly. He says that it's a testament to his feelings for her that he dropped everything and came. He asks about Phillip wanting custody of James and she explains that he offered to drop that in favor of a mutually beneficial agreement. She says that by that time Jim wasn't being reasonable. Edmund asks her what she wants him to do and she says she doesn't know. She tells him that Jim wants to adopt the baby but Phillip won't give up his rights. Edmund thinks she knows exactly what she wants to do. Beth tells him that what she needs most is the one thing she has the least control over. He asks her what that is and she tells him she needs Phillip and Harley to get back together. She thinks if Phillip is happy with Harley, she and Jim can have breathing room. She thinks it'll take a miracle but Edmund tells her he just might have one left. Beth says that she already threatened to turn Phillip in to the IRS if he didn't back off. She says all it did was create more tension but Edmund thinks she gave Phillip something to think about. Beth says that Phillip and Harley want to be together but the gulf between them is too big and that puts her and Jim in a vulnerable place. Edmund says he can make this happen if she's sure it's what she wants. He tells her that there are several ways to do this but the simplest would probably be best. Beth doesn't understand and he tells her the way to close the gulf between Harley and Phillip is very obvious. He explains that Phillip is very competitive and they need to motivate him into action through jealousy. Beth laughs and says the only person that hates him more than Phillip is Harley. She doesn't think he could get Harley interested but he tells her that there are very few women that he wanted and couldn't get if he tried. She says that she was one of those women and he didn't get her. He tells her that he hasn't begun to try. She maintains that she's committed to her marriage and he says the idea of anything more with her never crossed his mind. He says he'll need to know Phillip's dinner plans for the week and where Harley is these days. She explains that Harley is back working at the police station. She tells him again that she's committed to Jim and he says if she is, then stop dwelling on it. She asks him how he plans to get Harley to give him the time of day and he just smiles and leaves.

Harley goes to Company and tells Buzz and Selena that she was dumb to listen to Buzz's advice on forgiveness. Buzz thinks that she's mad because it worked. Harley tells them that she can't believe she was that gullible. She says that she layed down for Phillip and he walked all over her and the footprints lead right back to Beth. She explains that Phillip went running back to her when he found out she moved back in with Jim. Harley says it doesn't matter because she's done with the whole thing. She tells them that only the dumb forgive. Buzz tries to comfort her and she tells him about her conversation with Alan and how he said Phillip's big mistake in life was marrying her. Rick arrives as Harley tells them that her big mistake was believing a man wouldn't cheat. Buzz asks her to think about the messenger because Alan wants Phillip and Beth to get back together. Harley doesn't think it matters because the minute she turned her back, Phillip found another reason to go back to Beth. Buzz thinks Phillip deserves to have a small reaction to Lizzie and the baby leaving. Harley thinks that maybe she's mad at the wrong person. She thinks Beth knew how Phillip would be over there in a minute if she left without telling him. Rick and Buzz try to talk her into giving Phillip a chance to explain why he went to Beth's, assuming he did. She tells them she can't do that because she couldn't handle it if she was right. Harley leaves for the police station and Buzz tells Rick that marriage does wonderful things for people. Selena overhears Buzz and Rick discussing the bad parts of marriage and says she's happy to hear he's looking forward to it. He tries to cover but she isn't buying it. Rick tries to leave but they won't let him. Buzz tells her he's been making a list of plan for the wedding and she wants to compare her list with his. They find that they don't agree on anything except the honeymoon.

David tells Frank that Harley is late and Frank reassures him that she will be there. David tells Frank all the information about the Santos family tree that he has found. Maria had three sons and Frank remembers the events around Miguel’s death. It was a rumored that it was an opposing family and Frank wonders if it was Carmen or one of Miguel’s brothers’ plans. Frank thinks that it is all a long shot but David refuses to give up. Edmund arrives just as Harley does and he is pleased to report his crime to her. She tells him to get lost and is shocked that he wants to report a crime to her. He tells her that he needs her help.

Tuesday, August 15

Beth sneaks into Alan’s office to look for Phillip’s schedule. She doesn’t know the correct password and Olivia catches her trying. Olivia calls her on breaking in and Beth tries to talk her way out of it. Alan arrives and asks why they are there. Beth says that she is there to discuss an extension of her maternity leave. He asks if she is leaving for good and tells her that he is not letting her go. He says that she will always be part of this family and offers her as much time as she wants to take. She thanks him and leaves. Olivia tells Alan that Beth was lying right through her teeth. Olivia introduces herself and tells him that Beth was looking through his computer. He thinks it is good news that Beth was looking for Phillip’s schedule and asks her why she is there. He offers her a martini and she says she is there to make an offer on the Macedonia corporation building. He acts as though he knows nothing about it but she tells him that she figured him out. She brings up Spaulding’s bad press in San Cristobel and agrees to work with him personally since he and Josh don’t get along. Olivia drops an olive down her blouse and then eats it and Alan is amused that this is who Josh left Reva for. Olivia guesses that he was married to Reva himself and he admits that he was briefly. She changes the subject back to business and he asks if Josh knows about her visit and the Spaulding connection to Macedonia. She tells him that she will handle Josh and he says that she will be hearing from him soon. She is pleased and lets him know that Holly has leaked to the press that Spaulding is behind Macedonia.

Danny comes home and Michelle tells him that his stuff is upstairs. He tells her that he misses her and can’t stop thinking of her. He says that he doesn’t accept that this is over but she tells him that she wants his keys to the house. She admits that she still loves him but that he hasn’t changed. He tells her that he is out of that life for good now but she doesn’t believe him. She says that she can’t and won’t live with the fact that he had a man killed but he says that he did it to protect her. She begs him to just get out of her life and save her the pain of all this. Danny tells her that when she met him he was running from that life but now he doesn’t have to run anymore. She tells him that he can’t go back and change what he has done and she tells him that she would rather lose him that to lose herself. Danny says that he is not letting her walk away from their marriage. He follows Michelle outside and begs her to stop and think. He tells her that she is everything to him and admits to breaking the promise he made to not resort to violence. He reminds her of their second honeymoon but she says that that is not who they are. He begs her to just leave there with him and he asks her to tell him that she can live without him. She admits that she can’t and he asks her not to do something that can ’t be undone. He kisses her and he leaves. Meanwhile, Claire goes to visit Maria and Maria tells Claire what has happened with Danny, Michelle, and Xeno. Claire is very pleased but Maria warns her that Michelle may change her mind. Claire admits that she has had mistakes with Michelle but she knows that she needs a mother right now. Maria tells her good luck and that their business together is finished. Claire tries to remind her that no one needs to know about this and Maria is offended. She tells Claire to be discreet herself and Claire leaves. Danny returns home and his grandmother comments on how happy he seems. He tells her that he is hopeful about his marriage and that Michelle listened to him today. Maria tells him that he is a Santos and that maybe he doesn’t need Michelle’s forgiveness for what he did.

At Company, Holly tries to cheer Blake up after her book signing. Buzz and Selena asked how it went and she tells them it was a disaster. She describes her day and says the only people who wanted her to sign their book were a disguised Holly and somebody that works for her. Selena and Buzz tell her the poor turnout was because it's summer or traffic. Blake thinks that everybody is on to her now because she's not a writer and never will be. She vows never to write another word again. She says that she can't even come up with any ideas lately. She thinks she should just be a full time mother now. Selena thinks she just needs some inspiration and they will help her. Blake tells them that her readers liked the heroine in her last book. She says that it was easy because it came from personal experience. Selena asks if she wants to know about some of her friends that were call girls. Buzz reminds her that it took her a while to put her past behind her. She says she isn't afraid of it and will do it if it helps Blake. She begins to tell them what some of the girls were really like. Later, Blake and Holly leave and Selena has a memory. She remembers a man telling her he wants to spend every moment with her. She's afraid to believe it but he keeps telling her how amazing she is. Buzz interrupts her memory with talk of their honeymoon. Selena tells him she really wants to help Blake but he doesn't think it's a good idea. He thinks the past should stay in the past and nothing should distract them from their wedding.

Harley tells Edmund she can have him locked up but he insists he's trying to report a crime. He says that he came to her because she was able to find the tape of Phillip and Beth in his apartment. He tells her that his car has been stolen but she doesn't buy it. She knows he's lying and wants to know what he's really doing there. She knows he's up to something but he says that his car really is missing. He admits he wanted to take advantage of situation and asks her to dinner. She thinks it's a set up but he tells her it's an honest invitation. She says no but he asks her how long it's been since she got dressed up and had some fun. She tells him she knows he's asking her out because she's up to something. He tries to convince her that he's changed by saying that even Richard and Cassie have forgiven him. She asks him why he should give her a chance and he says he has something to offer her that will be of financial and emotional interest to her and her children. She reminds him that her life is a mess right now and he played a big part in that. She says she doesn't need any further complications from him but he suggests that he can help. She says she thinks she'll take the other option. He thinks that her curiosity will take the better of her trying to figure out what he's up to. He asks her what she has to lose and she says he has a point. She agrees to go only because she thinks he's up to something dangerous. He tells her he'll call with the time and place. Edmund goes to Beth's and she can't believe Harley agreed to go out with him. He says that she underestimates him in many ways. Beth asks what he said to her and he says he simply told her the truth, that it would benefit her emotionally and financially. Edmund says he needs to make the reservation next and asks for Phillip's schedule. Beth tells him there's a problem with that because she was caught breaking into the computer. Edmund tells her the plans rests on Phillip being there to see him with Harley. She tells him that she'll come up with something and he says if all else fails, she can ask his secretary. He asks again if she's sure this is what she wants. She tells him again that she loves Jim and their life. Edmund thinks that it's a modest life for a woman of her taste. She tells him she wasn't always rich but he thinks that she should have what she really wants and not what she thinks she's supposed to want. Beth tells him that they don't know each other well enough to be having this conversation. Edmund takes the hint and says he knows her better than she thinks he does and leaves.

Wednesday, August 16

At home, Josh gets into the shower and Olivia follows him. At the office, Phillip reads in the Journal what Holly has written about the Macedonia project. He tells Vicky that he and Alan have agreed to take the bid from Lewis and that the offer was made by Olivia Spencer. Phillip calls Olivia and interrupts their shower. He tells her that they have accepted the bid and want to sign the papers and have dinner tonight at Towers. Olivia accepts and tells him that she will handle Josh. Josh wants to know what she was talking about but she puts him off until after their shower. Olivia tells him that she went to meet with Alan and renegotiated the deal. She tells him that they have accepted the bid and want to sign off on it tonight. Josh thinks that was great except that he was left out of it. She says that she thought this would make him happy and she just showed some initiative. He says that she shouldn’t have done this on her own and she thinks that the problem is that she is a female partner instead of male. Josh says that has nothing to do with it and Olivia threatens to call and cancel the deal. Josh stops her and admits that she was right that they need the job. He reluctantly agrees that he might be able to work with Phillip and not kill him and they kiss and make up.

Phillip calls Beth and invites her to the dinner and press conference at Towers. Beth is surprised that she was invited but says that she and Jim probably won’t make it. She tells him about extending her maternity leave and he says that he understands. Beth thanks him for inviting her and trying to smooth things over. Phillip and Beth hang up and Beth calls Edmund on his cell phone at Company. She tells him that Phillip will be at Towers tonight and Edmund says that he will work on it. He and Beth hang up and he calls Harley at the station. He invites her to Towers tonight and she thinks it is short notice. She reluctantly agrees and asks him what this is all about. David sees Harley arguing on the phone and Vicky arrives to see him. She invites him to a huge party at Towers tonight and he says that he doesn’t own a tux. She looks at him and tells him what size he is and offers to get the tux for him. He agrees and she leaves.

Blake comes to Company and asks Selena about the women she was talking about yesterday. Blake says that she can’t get them out of her mind and wants to write about them with Selena’s help. She offers Selena 20 percent of the profits and says that these women’s voices need to be heard. Selena fixes her a sundae and tells her that she knows a story of a strong young guy that saved the life on a young woman and fell in love with her. Selena tells her that the guy made a promise that he couldn’t keep and died in his wife’s arms. Blake asks if the girl was her and Selena admits that she was and that he was the only man she was in love with before she met Buzz. Vicky brags to Ruth about attending the Spaulding party with David. Ruth doesn't seem impressed. Vicky doesn't think Ruth has ever had a reason to get dressed up but Ruth doesn't think a press conference sounds that special. Vicky says that it's special when you're with the right man and he's with the right woman. Ruth pours coffee on her and Selena comes over and apologizes. Vicky gets upset and says she'll send them the bill. Selena bursts out laughing and asks if Vicky's all right. Buzz catches Selena making a list of some of her old friends. She tells him about Blake stopping by and he still doesn't think this is a good idea. She says that Blake promised to protect her identity. Buzz still doesn't like it but she says she's going to help Blake write her book and leaves.

Harley goes to visit Phillip at his office and questions him about being at Jim and Beth’s yesterday. She tells him about her chat with Alan and he admits that he was at Beth’s. She won’t let him get a word in edgewise when he tries to explain why he was there. Harley tells Phillip about what Alan told her but he thinks Alan has his own agenda. He says that he went to see Beth so things would be settled and he could get back to her. Harley thinks that she will always come second with him. He tells her that she is the most important person in his life but she doesn't believe it. She says that she will share him with their son but she won't share him with Beth. She tells him not to touch her again and walks out. Meanwhile, Edmund arrives at Beth's and tells her they have a serious problem. She starts to get worried but he tells her he doesn't have a boutonniere. He asks for one of her roses. Beth remembers him telling her that he was her friend when Lizzie was sick. She says she knows that now because he is proving it to her. Edmund tells her it's his pleasure and kisses her hand.

Matt, Bill, Josh, Olivia, Billy, Phillip, Vicky and David arrive at Towers for the party. Josh seems upset and Billy asks him about it. Olivia commends Phillip on the press conference and Phillip thanks Vicky. Holly arrives and questions Phillip about who on the commission okayed the deal but Billy stonewalls her. Vicky takes Holly aside and shows her the press release. Phillip toasts to the partnership both professional and personal. Harley and Edmund arrive and Phillip sees them. Everyone at the table watch Phillip’s reaction. Phillip wonders what she is doing there with him. Vicky questions Josh on his decision to work with Spaulding again and he says that it would help his company’s profile. He also says that it would get back some of the money that the Spaulding’s took from him when he lost his company. Phillip says that no one forced him to sign away his company. Josh reminds him that he was distracted by his wife waltzing around with the prince of San Cristobel and comments that maybe Phillip will figure out what that feels like. Harley wants to know what Edmund is up to but he stalls for time. She says that she will leave if he doesn't spit it out. Edmund tells her he wants her Spaulding stock. He reminds her that she is legally entitled to half of everything Phillip owns. He thinks she should use that to cause Phillip as much grief as she can. Harley laughs and says it isn't for sale. Edmund takes her by the hand as Phillip watches angrily. She asks him to let go of it but he doesn't think she really wants him to. He says that this is life a knife to the gut for Phillip and she likes the sound of that. Harley takes him by the hand and they laugh and pretend to be having a good time. Phillip can't stand anymore and goes over to their table. Phillip reminds Harley that she is still his wife and punches Edmund. Phillip puts her over his shoulder and carries her out.

Thursday, August 17

Everyone at Towers watches Phillip carry Harley out. Holly thinks it is a front-page photo but Vicky thinks it is a disaster and tries to stop her. David and Vicky ask Edmund if he is OK and want to press charges. Edmund says that he would just like to forget this and David backs off. David tells Josh, Billy, Holly, Matt and Olivia good evening and leaves. Billy asks Josh if he thinks they bought trouble by getting into business with Spaulding and Olivia goes over to check on Edmund. She tells him how much she enjoyed seeing him get punched and he taunts her about Cassie taking the throne away from her. Josh comes over and apologizes to Edmund but Edmund thinks this evening was a success and leaves. Josh and Olivia wonder why Edmund isn’t more concerned about what just happened. Olivia suggests that they go have desert at home and Josh gets a phone call from Marah. She tells him that she is going to kill Shayne because he is being crude and mean. Josh tells her to go upstairs and avoid Shayne until Reva gets home from work. Josh and Olivia leave and Holly tells Billy that Phillip will be on the front page tomorrow. Vicky overhears her and threatens to pull Spaulding ads from the Journal but Holly just ignores her. Vicky wonders why she is even bothering. At home, Josh and Olivia enjoy a bubble bath together. As they dip under the water Marah comes in and sees them. She sneaks back out and they never knew that she was there and she overhears them.

Edmund goes to Beth and she asks him about his black eye. Edmund tells her that Phillip will definitely reconcile with Harley because of this and asks her if this is really what she wanted. Beth hesitates and says that everything will work out now. Edmund asks if Jim is really enough for her and she tells him that Jim is a good man that she can trust and count on. She tells him that Jim is the only man that hasn’t deserted her and Edmund tries to make a joke. Beth tells him that she wants her kids to be secure because she never was. Edmund says that he knows all about growing up and feeling insecure. He tells her that his mother died when he was young and that his father preferred Richard over him. He feels bad for all the pressure that Richard felt but he explains that he knows what it is like to feel wounded as a child. They realize that they have a lot in common and Beth asks why he told her all this. She thinks he was trying to manipulate him and can tells that she hurt his feelings. She apologizes and he accepts it. She asks him to stay in Springfield until they are sure that Phillip and Harley are back together. Lizzie comes down and sees Edmund. She thinks that he is there to see her and she asks him what happened to his eye. He tells her that it is a disguise and tells her a story about it. Lizzie tells him that she is glad he is back because he makes her mommy smile. Beth takes her up to bed and comes back to look at Edmund’s eye. Edmund holds Beth hand as she takes a closer look at his eye and Jim arrives. He demands that Edmund take his hands off of his wife. Edmund just asks Jim not to punch the good eye.

At Company, Ruth asks David if Vicky was the star of the press conference. He asks how she knew that and she tells him about what Vicky did earlier. David doesn't think she likes Vicky and she tells him he's right. He asks if it's because she's a Spaulding and she says it has nothing to do with money because money can't buy you a soul. She says that Vicky has no essence and is mean. David tells her she has no right to give him attitude about Vicky because she doesn't know her. Ruth says he doesn't know her either. He reminds her that she came at him when he walked in the door and asks her what's up. She says she must be mean too and walks off. He says he doesn't see her as mean but she tells him he's never seen her at the end of the day. She tells him how awful her day has been and he offers to do the dishes for her. She says he doesn't have to feel sorry for her but he tells her to let go and takes them into the kitchen. He comes back and asks her when they can leave because he wants to take her dancing. He says any friend needs that after a hard day. She is disappointed and tells him she has to get up early. She thanks him and tells him goodnight. She says he looks fine in that getup.

In the car, Harley is angry with Phillip for carrying her out of Towers. She wants him take her back but he refuses. He reminds her of what Edmund is capable of but she knew what she was doing. After insinuating that she was acting stupid, Harley tells him to stop the car or she will jump out. When he won't do it, she opens the door but he grabs her. Phillip locks the doors with the child protective lock and says that if she's going to act like a child, he'll treat her like one. Harley starts hitting him and he tells her to go ahead an kill them both since that's what she's wanted to do ever since the baby was born anyway. She tells him she could sue him for assault but he thinks he can countersue because he got the worst of it. He asks her what possessed her to go out in public with Edmund. He thinks she knew he would be there and it would drive him crazy. Harley gets upset and says that they can't have anyone thinking she might be the one that had the affair. Phillip tells her that she may can make a fool of herself, but she could never be unfaithful. Harley tells him to take her back to Edmund and she'll show him unfaithful. Phillip tells her that he thinks he's got it now. Harley doesn't agree and reminds him that she just threatened to jump out of a moving car. She says she just wants to be sane like they used to be. She asks where they're going and he says he doesn't know. She says she meant with their lives and he says so did he. She asks him to help her understand what happened on the plane with Beth since everyone else is so ready to accept it. She tells him he thought he was going to die and didn't think about their family, he just reached out for comfort without thinking of the consequences. He says that it was selfish but she thinks maybe it was human. He still doesn't think she understands it but she says maybe she can. She tells him she was thinking about what happened between them and how that wasn't love, it was need. She says that Rick told her that's what Phillip and Beth felt on the plane. He asks if she can understand that but she doesn't think it's the same because they were married. Phillip tells her that the reason she can't understand is because she has never been unfaithful to anybody. He tells her that fundamentally, she is a better person than he is. He says that most people spend half their lives trying to get to where she started out from. He tells her that most people from the beginning thought he wasn't worthy of her and they were right. She says she always felt unworthy of him and he knows that. He thinks this is exactly what they needed to do. She asks what to do now and he says he doesn't know how he can ask her to forgive something she doesn't even relate to. She says she doesn't think she can do that. He tells her not to then just as long as he doesn't lose her. He suggests they do the other part of forgive and forget. Harley gets upset at the suggestion and starts hitting him again and the car goes off the road. They make sure they're both okay and Harley says it's her fault so she'll go get help. Phillip just wants to sit there for a while and see if someone comes along. He says they've established that you can't forgive or forget and she laughs. He asks where they go from here and she says she's going home. He tells her he'll do anything if she doesn't leave him. She asks him not see or talk to Beth and not to spend more time with Lizzie and James than he does Zach. He agrees and she asks him to tell Alan to take a hike too. She tells him she loves him and falls out of the car just as they are about to kiss. He puts out his hand and tries to pull her back into the car but she pulls him out into the mudhole with her. They joke about being in a mudpuddle and start kissing. Harley notices that not a car has gone by and doesn't think anybody is going to rescue them. He asks what they should do and she suggests they start walking. She slips and knocks him back into the mudpuddle. She helps him out and they start walking.

Friday, August 18

At Towers, Blake tells Ross that her writer's block is over. She explains that she is going to use Selena's life to go by. Ross doesn't think that's a good idea and wonders what Buzz thinks about it. Blake doesn't think that's what concerns Ross, she thinks he doesn't believe she can write a love story about real people. She questions why they are even together. She asks if it's for the children and he tells her that they both want the kids to have a stable home but they also love each other. She brings up the fact that they aren't married and thinks it's because he was burned once before. Ross reminds her that it was twice he was burned but he isn't counting. Blake gets angry thinking he wants her as a nanny and lover but not as a wife. He tries to tell her that he loves her and that there is no one else for him. Blake asks why they aren't married and he thinks that marriage isn't the best thing for them. He says that Blake rebels against structure so the best way to deal with that is to keep structure out of her life. He assures her that he's committed to her and wants to grow old with her. He says that his heart belongs to her but he doesn't want her to feel trapped. He reminds her that they have a wonderful life together and doesn't want that to change. Blake says she understands. She says he doesn't want to marry someone immature. She tells him that's the most condescending thing anyone has ever said to her. She leaves and he goes after her.

Buzz and Selena argue at Company because Buzz thinks that she should go over to Harley’s after seeing them on the TV. He thinks that Harley has killed Phillip since no one will answer the phone. He gather things together to help Harley dispose of the body. Selena tries to calm Buzz down and reassure him that Harley wouldn’t kill Phillip. Buzz admits that he is overreacting and Selena thinks he is trying to avoid his own problems. He confronts her about offering to spill her whole history to Blake and asks her why she is doing it. She tries to explain about the real, strong, victimized women whose story needs to be told and he begs her to let it go and think about their wedding. She thinks he wants to pretend like her past never happened and he says that he could never be ashamed of her because she has been completely honest with him. She says she is tired and that they should go home. He leaves first and she stays there to lock up. She remembers the man tells her how special she is to him.

Alan calls Vicky and discusses the meeting. She tells him that it was a disaster and Phillip and Harley arrive covered in mud. Alan demands to know what is going on and they tells him that they had an accident. They flaunt the fact that they are content with one another and turn on the TV to see if they made the news. Alan sees Phillip carry Harley out and turns off the TV. Alan tells him that this is not a game and that he has created a Spaulding nightmare. Phillip explains how wonderfully the meeting and press conference went and Alan worries that Edmund will sue him. Phillip tells Alan that he and his wife are going home and they try to get as much mud on as many things as possible. Phillip and Harley joke about calling the TV station and getting a copy of the tape. Alan is upset and Phillip knows that he is just mad because he didn’t get his way about he and Beth. Phillip tells Harley that he is going to spend the rest of his life making her happy despite Alan’s problems with it. Alan says that he only wants what is best for Phillip and Harley reminds him of what he said in San Cristobel. He thinks she is getting back with Phillip to spite him and she says no but it is a nice plus. They leave Alan in a rage.

Jim isn't happy to find Edmund with Beth. She tries to explain that she was nursing his eye but Jim doesn't care. He wants Edmund to leave but Beth tells him that he helped them tonight with Phillip. She turns on the news and shows him what happened with Phillip and Harley at Towers. Jim thinks Edmund deserved to be hit and is happy about it. Beth says that Edmund planned all that out to help them. Edmund leaves and Beth tries to explain to Jim that Edmund was trying to help them as a friend. Jim isn't buying it but Beth says that Edmund motivated Phillip to make and move and go after Harley. She thinks that once they are together again, they won't go after the baby. Jim asks how Edmund knew what to do and she admits she called him for help. Jim realizes they planned this without telling him and says he doesn't like deception. He says that he wants them to be better than that and thought they were but now realizes he might have been wrong. He agrees that Phillip and Harley may have gotten back together but he doesn't like the way it was accomplished. He reminds her that they decided to get back together because it hurt too much being apart. Jim thinks that Phillip and Harley deserved to come to that same conclusion on their own. Beth doesn't think that Jim still doesn't trust her and tries to tell him again that Edmund was only trying to help them. Jim asks if Edmund ate his dinner too and she tells him it's still in the oven. Jim goes to check on the baby and Beth calls Edmund to apologize for Jim's behavior. Edmund understands and asks if she's heard from Phillip and Harley and she says no. He assumes they're still making up and she tells him to take care of his eye. He says he hopes her dreams come true.

Reva arrives home to find Marah furious at her. Reva tries to get her to use manners and Marah tells her that the problem is what she didn’t do not what she did. Reva offers to make it right but Marah tells her that it is too late. Marah asks Reva what Olivia does for Josh that she couldn’t do because every time she is over there it is sex, sex, sex. Reva doesn’t want to have that conversation with Marah and Marah tells her that she walked in on Josh and Olivia in the bathtub and wants to discuss it. Reva tells her that their sex life is off limits and Marah asks if hers is too. Marah threatens to follow in her footsteps and sleep with half of the football team. Marah apologizes for saying that and Reva tells her that she is not destined to repeat her mother’s mistakes. Reva says that she is going to make sure that she and Shayne can come and go her and at Josh’s without having to worry about encountering their parents private lives. Marah goes up to bed and Reva calls Josh to come over. Josh arrives and he wants to know what is so important. She tells him about Marah seeing him with Olivia and he feels terrible about that. He wants to go up to talk to her but Reva won’t let him. He says that she is not going to keep him from seeing Marah and she tells him to get away from the stairs. She shows him out and he says that he just wants to apologize to Marah. He asks if she is questioning his parenting skills and reminds her that he has taken care of the kids throughout her numerous disappearances. Reva tells him that she wants the kids to be protected and that includes custody issues. He argues and she throws him out on the porch and locks the door.

Monday, August 21

Buzz and Selena look at the paper with Harley and Phillip on it and Harley arrives. Buzz asks where Phillip is and Harley tells him that she and Phillip got back together. Buzz is disappointed and Selena tells her the way the Buzz reacted last night. Selena asks how Susan is taking it and Harley explains that she doesn’t know yet. Frank and David arrive and joke about Harley’s picture on the paper. David says that Frank thought that she killed Phillip too and she tells them that she and Phillip got back together. Frank can’t believe that she is serious. Selena is disappointed in all of them and leaves. Harley tells them that she loves Phillip and tells them to back off.

At Company, Olivia and Josh discuss Reva’s decision to go after the kids. Josh thinks he is that one that should get to raise the kids because he is the one that has been there for them the whole time. Olivia thinks that they need to do something drastic. She tells him that he is a wonderful father and says that she doesn’t want to do anything to harm his relationship with his kids. She suggests that she moves out and then Reva won’t have anything to complain about. At first Josh disagrees but changes his mind and thinks it is a good idea. Olivia hides her disappointment and Josh leaves to go tell Reva. At home, Marah and Shayne come in and argue with Reva. Marah brings up sex again and she and Reva argue. Marah tells Shayne that she walked in to Josh and Olivia and he lets it slip that this is the second time. Reva wants to know what Shayne has seen but Shayne refuses. Noah arrives and Shayne slides out of the room. Marah goes up to her room and Noah says good morning to Reva. Reva tells Noah about the situation with Marah and Josh and tells him that she may go for sole custody. Noah is surprised and points out that Josh might do the same thing. He suggests that she just think about this and Reva’s lawyer arrives. Reva tells him about what has happened and he makes it sound worse. Josh arrives and hears some of the discussion. Noah leaves and Josh points out that Reva doesn’t waste any time. Josh tells her that Olivia has volunteered to move out and Reva thinks that is a good first step. Dewey tells him that it is too little too late and Reva suggests that he leave. He leaves and Josh asks Reva what she is doing. They argue on the porch and Marah yells at them to stop. Reva leaves Marah and Josh to talk and he apologizes for what she saw last night. Josh tells her that Olivia is moving out of the apartment but that doesn’t impress Marah. Josh asks her to drop the attitude and tells her that they are still a family and that he loves her. Reva returns and Marah goes upstairs. Reva tells him that Marah has been very defiant and Josh says that sounds familiar. He realizes that Reva is not upset about he and Olivia but that Marah will make the same mistakes that she made at a young person. Reva denies it but it is obvious that he is right. He says that it is a possibility the way things are going and he leaves.

Blake and Ross bicker about their argument last night and she tells him that she still wants to get remarried. Ross tells her that it will have to be enough just to be happy like they are now. Ross is glad that she is acting this way and focusing her attention on them. She thinks that he just doesn’t want to spend the rest of his life with her and he tells her how much he loves her and has thought this through. She thinks that he is patronizing her but he says that he is offering her the freedom to be herself. Ross tells her that she is finally accepting the real her and asks her to think about their marital failures of the past and they’ll discuss this later. He leaves for work and Blake is upset. Holly arrives and tells Blake that she will want to call Harley after she reads the paper. Blake tells Holly that Ross won’t marry her and explains why. Holly agrees with Ross and that hurts Blake’s feelings. Holly asks what is so great about marriage and Blake says that it is important for the kids. Holly gets a phone call and is very distracted. She calls Billy and tells him that she has some news about Noah. Holly leaves and Selena arrives. She tells Blake that she decided to help her with her book. Blake worries about Buzz and Selena admits that he isn’t thrilled with it. She suggests that they meet on a regular business and discuss stories. Blake is very excited and promises to be respectful and honest about her story. Blake asks her questions about the man she was in love with.

Holly meets Billy at Company and Buzz confronts her about putting Harley on the front page. Holly tells Billy that she found out that Noah was never affiliated with the doctors’ organization like he claimed. Noah walks in and Billy calls him over. Billy confronts him about lying to Reva and says that he knows that he never worked at Doctors International. Noah realizes that they checked up on him and asks what name they used with they asked. Billy asks him how many names he has.

Tuesday, August 22

Holly asks Noah what name he used with Doctors International but he doesn’t want to answer her. Billy tells him that Reva is still family and that he protects his family. Holly tells Billy to shut up and asks Noah to tell his story. Noah tells them about his friend in medical school named Mike. He explains that Mike was supposed to be the one in Doctors International but he got sick and Noah went in his place and took his name. Billy doesn’t believe any of it but Holly thinks that they should apologize to him. Holly says that she would still like to do a story on him but Noah refuses. Billy thinks it is because he is lying but Holly pleads with him. Noah tells her a story about giving candy to the starving children and how one day he ran out. He explains that the child that he gave the last piece to shared it with all the others and that they are the ones that are generous, not him. Billy thinks it is all a lie but Holly thinks that Noah reminds her of Fletcher. Noah leaves and they argue about Noah’s story. Billy urges her to check out Noah’s story and Holly reluctantly agrees. Holly bets Billy the camping trip that she will be right. She makes a phone call and confirms Noah’s story. The guy tells her that Noah is a wonderful doctor and an amazing car mechanic. Billy is disappointed that he won’t get to go fishing with Holly but she says that she wants to go beat him at fishing too.

Harley arrives at the police station and finds the other officers joking about what happened with her and Phillip at Towers. Frank is still upset that she took him back. Harley thinks it has more to do with the fact that he and Eleni couldn't work things out. Susan arrives with the newspaper and is upset and humiliated. Harley tries to explain to her what happened and that she and Phillip are going to try again. Susan gets angry but Harley thinks Susan's just afraid she'll get hurt again. She tells her that everybody messes up but you don't give up on them if you love them. Susan tells her that she's going to live with Buzz and leaves. She starts to go after her but Frank stops her and says Buzz can get through to her. Harley tells David that she won't bring her personal life to work anymore but he tells her to cut it out. He says that he's glad to see a parent so honest with their child. Meanwhile, Susan goes to Company and tells Buzz that she hates her family and her life. She says she wants to live with him. Buzz suggests she go wash her face while he gets them something to drink. Outside, she says she wants to live with him and Selena and he tells her no. She asks if it's because Max lives there and he says that's not the main problem. He tells her that first she ran away from Jim for Harley and now she's running from Harley to him. He asks her where she'll go when things get rough with him. He explains that she has to start from the beginning and she realizes he means Jim.

Rick and Michelle chat at the Country Club after finishing a game of tennis. The talk about their failed marriages and Michelle knows that she and Danny have hurt each other enough. At home, Danny is still upset over losing Michelle and tells Maria he doesn't want to run the family business anymore. She asks him if he doesn't want to or if he can't. Danny assures her that he could handle it if he wanted to. Maria tries to tell him that Michelle could change her mind but he doesn't want to hear it. He asks her not to offer him hope. He goes to the drugstore for some aspirin and Maria comments on how much like Miguel he is. She calls Michelle and asks her to come over since Danny is out running errands. Michelle says she can't do that but Maria tells her she'll be waiting nonetheless. Rick thinks that Michelle should go and face down her demons. Rick realizes that he should take his own advice and Michelle agrees to go. She runs into Claire on her way out but leaves anyway. Later, Michelle arrives and Maria tells her that Danny is still in her heart. Michelle explains that she doesn't want to live through the things that Maria had to live through and she doesn't want to end up like Carmen. Michelle tells her about seeing Carmen in mirrors and windows. Maria admits that Carmen was bad for the family but thinks Danny can change things for the better. Maria asks her to end it with Danny if she truly feels this way. Danny arrives and asks what's going on. Maria leaves and he asks how Michelle has been. She reminds him that she never said she didn't love him, just that she couldn't live like this. Michelle asks if it would be better for him if they got a divorce. They talk about how much being apart hurts and he suggests they go away. He says that his grandmother would protect them with her life. Michelle says that their marriage would be based on secrecy and lies which is the Santos way. She says it isn't them she needs protecting from, it's him. She begs him to let her go and leaves. Meanwhile, Maria makes a phone call telling someone about Michelle's visions of Carmen.

Rick tells Claire to go back to Chicago and she threatens him with what she knows about him. Rick looks at her and says Hello Demon. Rick explains that he just told Michelle to face her demons and now he is facing his. He tells her that her yanking his chain is not acceptable. He explains that he is about to redesign his life and that he blackmail is about to become useless. Charles Grant and the other doctors arrive for the meeting and they handle the business. Rick tells them all that he has personal business to discuss and tells them that he is a fraud and not a doctor. He explains about failing his boards and having an affair with a professor who changed his grades. He says that he understands the consequences and apologizes for everything. Charles is stunned and says that he can’t believe this is possible. He asks for everyone’s discretion and adjourns the meeting. Charles tells him that he wishes he had kept his mouth shut and leaves. Claire tells Rick that she would have never said anything and he explains that if he had done this long ago then his wife might still be there with him. She asks if he is going to tell them that she is the one that changed the test score and asks him to meet her at the house because she can help him.

Wednesday, August 23

Richard and Cassie come in to find a pool table. Cassie is confused and he explains that she is lost and about 30 rooms over. She is pleased to find the pool table and Richard is excited to tell Dax their good news. They play a game and Cassie proves how good she is at it. She tries to distract him as he shoots and then Dax arrives just as she is about to shoot the winning shot. They tell him that they have some news for him from their medical expert. Richard brings up the gossip that was going on before they left and they assure him that it was only gossip. Cassie tells him that she is healthy and perfectly capable of producing an heir. He leaves to spread the good news. Cassie thinks that maybe she can convince Dax to like her someday and they decide to resume their pool game but get romantic on the table instead. Afterwards, they joke that this will be her royal duty to the country and Edmund walks in on them. He asks about their vacation and Richard tells him that they found out that he and Cassie can provide an heir. Edmund congratulates them and they leave.

Olivia meets Josh at the County Club with the plans for her new place. He tells her about his meeting with Marah and that it turned out well. He explains that he is worried about Shayne because he tries to come off like “Mr. Cool” and is hiding his feelings. Josh talks about the lack of stability in Marah and Shayne’s lives. Olivia doesn’t understand Reva’s reactions to Marah and Josh explains Reva’s fears that Marah will repeat her mistakes. Olivia makes Josh feel bad for talking about Reva and he tries to explain that he wants to be there with her. He says that he can’t forget his past with Reva but a lot is about the kids. She tells him that she has turned her life upside down for him and that she wants to feel needed. He tells her that she is a big part of his life and his life has more to do with than Reva Shayne.

At Company, Reva tells Marah how proud she is that she came to her about sex. She says that she still believes that she and Noah along with Josh and Olivia should have their privacy but she says that she will always have time for Marah. Reva tells her that sex is about more than just biology. Marah asks if her mother taught her that and she admits that she had to learn some hard lessons on her own. She says that Marah will have to make some hard choices too but as long as they talk about things, Reva can help her make the right ones. Marah tells her that she makes it hard to hold a grudge and Noah arrives. He tells them that he had a run in with Billy and explains what had argued about. Reva notices that Marah is very interested in Noah’s story and Noah is confused. He tells stories about his times with Doctors International and Marah continues to flirt with him. Noah says that he has to leave and Marah quickly follows him out. Selena comes over and Reva tells her that her daughter was just flirting with her boyfriend.

Jim comes home and tells Beth that Harley and Phillip have reconciled. She thinks it's time to celebrate but then he tells her that Susan knows about what happened at Towers. He says that she's staying with Buzz now. Beth is surprised to find out that Phillip and Harley are on their way over so they all can work things out with Susan. At the police station, Phillip thanks Harley for doing this. She asks him to keep reminding her that it's about Susan, not Beth. Rick arrives and tells them that he told Charles the truth about the medical exams. Harley thinks it's good because he doesn't have anymore secrets now. Phillip says that atleast Claire will take the hit too but Rick tells them he didn't tell them about her role. He explains he did it for Michelle but thinks Claire is the type that will hold it against him. Harley remembers the files Claire had that would incriminate her but Rick thinks she would destroy them. Harley agrees to meet with Rick later and they will work it out. Later, Beth and Jim congratulate them on getting back together. Phillip tells Jim that he was sincere in his attempt to compromise the other day and wants to try again. Jim isn't interested but Harley thinks they all should hear what he has to say. Phillip will agree to drop the custody suit if Jim will drop the adoption for a six month trial period. He says that they will schedule times for him to visit Lizzie and the baby so nobody will be surprised. Jim reluctantly agrees and the baby wakes up. Harley asks to hold him and Susan walks in and sees them. She says there is no way she's living with these people and tries to leave but Buzz stops her. Harley asks her to look at the baby. She tells them she's glad they all have their happy little families back and Jim reminds her that she's part of their families. Susan doesn't want to pretend she's happy but Buzz talks her into listening to what they have to say. He tells her that they took off from work because they love her and want to work it out. Phillip knows that he's the last person she wants to talk to but asks her if they have to be enemies. Susan asks what else she would have to do and Jim and Beth tell her that they're taking the kids to a cabin for a week. She doesn't want to go so Harley asks her to stay with her and Phillip while they're gone. Susan doesn't want to do that either and asks Buzz if she can stay with him. He tells her that she needs a home not a shelter. She reluctantly agrees to stay with Phillip and Harley and they're glad things are settled for now. Harley leaves and meets Phillip outside Claire's apartment. He tells her that she read his mind because he knew something needed to be done with the files. Harley explains that this isn't breaking and entering because he's inviting her in to his property. Rick wishes her luck and unlocks the door for her. She looks around and finds some files just as Claire opens the door. She tells Harley to drop the files now.

Thursday, August 24

Susan goes to Company and tells Max all about her family meeting. Max reminds her that she has to have a place to live and she admits that she’s just going to have to make the best of all of it. She goes on and on about how awful they all are and Max says that her problem is that everyone wants her. He tells her that she has no idea how it is like to have no one and no home. She tells him about staying with Harley while Jim is gone on vacation and Max thinks this will help her figure out what she wants to do. He invites her for a date tonight and she accepts.

Claire and Harley argue when Harley refuses to give her the file. They wrestle with it and Rick finds them. Harley ends up with the file and Claire asks Rick why he had to open his mouth. Harley looks at the file and Claire tells her that she has no idea what is in that file. Harley leaves them to argue and gives the file to Rick. Claire tells him that she cared a lot about him and wanted to protect him. She tells him that she never had to lie for him because he didn’t fail his boards and the grade she submitted was his real score. He looks at his file and sees the tests that he failed but she tells him that it was all a lie. He realizes that she allowed him to wake up for years thinking that he was a fraud. She tries to reminds him of the way that things were for her back then and says that she just wanted to look loyal to the Bauer family. She asks him what he is going to do now and he says that he is going to explain everything to Charles Grant but leave her name out of it. She thanks him and he says that he is free and that is all that matters. He tells her that he gave up the most important part of himself when he let her protect him so he had nothing else to lose when he told the truth. He leaves her crying. Rick, Harley and Phillip go to the Country Club and Rick tells them what Claire did. Phillip thinks that he should turn Claire in and they argue about it. Rick says that he needs to protect Michelle and Harley thinks that Claire needs a shrink. They ask Rick to just be careful with her and he asks them what happened with Susan. They tell him about Jim and Beth’s camping trip and Susan’s attitude. Phillip and Harley go get a table and Rick says that he is heading back to the house.

Michelle comes in and asks Claire to turn off the loud music because she is trying to study. Michelle asks her what is wrong and Claire tells her that she has finally realized that she needs to stop trying with people and act like a doctor all of the time. She talks crazy and Michelle asks her what has happened. Claire tells her that she is going out to dinner and not stick around there and hold her breath until Michelle decides that she wants a mother and then she leaves. Rick returns and Michelle tells him that Claire just left. Michelle is confused by what happened and Rick tells her that Claire is trouble. Michelle tells him some of the things that Claire said Rick vaguely tells her what happened between them. Rick tells her to just take care of herself and she wonders if they should ask Claire to leave the apartment. Rick thinks that they should keep her close and they agree that she should see a professional. Michelle wants to help her but Rick doesn’t want her to waste all her energy trying to save Claire. Claire arrives at the Country Club and Alan sits down at the bar with her. She flirts with him and he asks to join her. She asks him if he has any idea who he just picked up and introduces herself. He recognizes her name and she commends him on his latest building project. Phillip and Harley see them together and are shocked. Claire sees them and asks Alan how he can stand having Harley as a daughter-in-law. Alan tells Claire that he knew that he liked her for some reason and they toast.

Dax finds Edmund jousting alone and asks him what is wrong. Edmund insists that Dax joust with him but Dax is reluctant and Edmund commands him to do it. Edmund wins and it disgusted by Dax at first but they continue and Dax tells him that he is excellent. Edmund tells him that it is obvious that he is less than thrilled with the new royal couple and Dax reminds him that he is loyal to San Cristobel. Edmund brings up the fact that there will soon be an heir and explains how wrong it is for a stripper’s child to supercede Richard. Dax tells him that it would take a major scandal to get Cassie off of the throne. Dax warns Edmund not to undermined Cassie and Cassie and Richard come in. Richard calls for a doctor for Cassie and explains that a crowd of subjects caused Cassie to be thrown from her horse while they were riding. Cassie thinks it was just an accident and Richard wants to reinforce the wall that the crowd broke through. He suggests that she have a bodyguard when he can’t be around but she is reluctant. Edmund tells Cassie that he agrees with Richard. Edmund tells them that they owe it to the country to protect themselves and Richard tells Cassie that she owes it to the children. She agrees to see a doctor only if he will drop the nonsense of a bodyguard and goes to have a hot bath. Edmund says to himself that a bodyguard is a great idea and calls someone and offers them a top-secret job.

Friday, August 25

Phillip and Harley spend the morning together and are very happy together. Susan turns her stereo up loud and Harley leaves Phillip to deal with it. He politely asks her to turn it down but she refuses. She smarts off to him and they argue. He yells at her to get up there and turn down the damn music and Harley hears him. He knows that he could have handled that a little better. Harley tells him that he did the best that he could and she understands that Susan can be very difficult. Phillip asks Harley how long she will be there and thinks that she really doesn’t know. Harley tells him that she is right where she wants to be and she reminds him that both of them are going to be late for work. They share I Love Yous and he leaves for work. Harley calls Susan down and Susan begs her to skip the lecture. Harley tells her that she knows that it will take time to fix things and she asks her to try harder. Susan refuses and Harley asks for her suggestions on how to make this easier. Susan tells her that she is the mommy and that she is the one who is supposed to fix this. Susan goes to Company and asks Max if he's off work tonight. She makes a deal with Buzz to get him off. He asks what she wants to do and she says she just needs to get away from Phillip. She tells him that he almost makes her want to go be with Jim and Beth. After trying to come up with something to do, she remembers she has the keys to Jim's house. She reminds Max that he and Beth are gone so they have the house to themselves to do whatever they want to. Max doesn't think it's a good idea because they always get in trouble. Max worries that if Buzz catches him doing something wrong, he'll send him back to New York. Susan says they can invite Marah and Shayne so they won't get in trouble. She talks him into it and says she'll meet him at Jim's later. Susan tells him it'll be harmless and says there's no way they can get in any trouble.

Reva runs into Billy at the Country club and confronts him about his chats with Noah. She tells him to butt out but he says that he won’t until she sees that there is something definitely wrong with that guy. Billy reminds her of all the unanswered questions they have about Noah and leaves just as Noah arrives. Reva tells him that Billy has ticked her off and ruined her day. Noah tries to cheer her up and she tells him all the questions that Billy has raised. Reva wonders if she has been a fool to believe him when he continues to avoid her questions. Reva gets upset and says that she is going home. He follows her out. Reva gets home and locks Noah outside the door. She ignores his banging and he breaks through and shatters the glass. She asks him what he is doing and they argue loudly. She asks him who he is and again he avoids the question. He says that details don’t matter and she says that her past is all out for him to see. Marah comes in, sees the glass, and says that she hopes that she isn’t walking in on anything inappropriate. She asks what is going on and Reva tries to cover for their argument. Marah is sarcastic to her and gets a call from Susan. She leaves and they wonder where they were at in their argument. Reva says that she just wants to be able to trust him and he tells her that she can.

Blake and Selena work on Blake’s book together and she asks what is wrong with Buzz. Selena explains that he likes to pretend that her past never happened. Blake tells Selena about Ross’s theories of why they shouldn’t get married. Blake tries to get back on track and they toast to their journey together. They talk and Blake’s mind keeps drifting back to Ross. Buzz keeps staring at them and Selena explains that he thinks that Blake is a bad influence on her. Selena asks Blake about the other women in Ross’s life and Blake tells her that Vanessa was his first great love. Blake talks about how different she is from Vanessa and decides that must be what Ross wants in a wife. She leaves to give Ross what he wants so that he will marry her. Buzz comes over and Selena tells him that she is worried about Blake. Selena explains to Buzz about Blake’s problems and they both ask the other if they are getting cold feet about marriage. Both say no and hey hug. Blake plans an afternoon with Ross as the perfect wife. He rushes home looking to take the kids to the dentist. She tells him she rescheduled and he thinks something is wrong. She sits him down and offers to pour him some tea. She says that she's changed from the woman he married and has different values now. Ross is worried about what she'll do when she swings back to the next extreme. Blake tells him she's tired of trying and wants him to tell her who he wants her to be. Ross tells her that he loves her the way she is and she reminds him he won't marry her. She wonders if he regrets marrying her the first time. She tells him to get his own tea and leaves the room. Ross brings her back and tells her he's only trying to do what's best for both of them. He says that the situation they have now is working. She tells him he can't make that decision for both of them. Ross doesn't think she needs to be a conventional wife and that was part of their problem to start with. She wants to know what kind of wife he wants and he tells her to just be herself. Blake says she can do that and throws the plate of scones at the wall.

Monday, August 28

Reva gets ready for her meeting and tells Noah that she is nervous. He asks if he should stick around but she thinks he should get away before it hits the fan. He apologizes for the door and says that he will pay for it. At company, Olivia privately calls Vince and tells him about Reva's fears about Marah. She also tells him that Reva has a nickname around town. Meanwhile, Josh says that he wished that he and Reva could make it through this amicably and Billy still thinks that they can. Olivia comes over and can tell that Josh is upset about this meeting. Marah arrives and tells them that she is about to go meet some friends. Olivia apologizes for the other day but Marah says that wasn't as bad as the violence she saw between Reva and Noah in her own living room. Marah explains what happened and they are all stunned. Marah's friends arrive and she leaves. Josh says that he had planned to take whatever Reva dished out but now Reva is going to get more than she bargained for. At Reva's, Josh and Reva's lawyers start out arguing over custody of the children. Josh gets upset when Reva's lawyer brings up what happened with Marah and the bathtub incident. He wants Reva to tell them how the door got broken. Reva acts like it was an accident but Josh informs them that Noah busted it during a fight. He says that he'd rather have his kids exposed to two people loving each other than domestic violence. He warns Reva that she's in for the fight of her life if she tries to take his kids away from him. Reva asks if he's threatening her and thinks he's blowing the whole thing out of proportion. He tells her no more than she did about Olivia. He asks her to call it even and move on. The lawyers move on to the business and Vince makes his case about Reva not being part of the new business. Reva tries to tell her attorney that she doesn't care about the business but he keeps fighting for part of the profits. Reva asks to get away from the business and move onto the house since she and Josh have agreed about it. Vince says the house will be sold and Josh gets angry. Ernie starts talking about the kids again and calls Josh a pervert. Vince calls Reva the slut of Springfield and Josh tells them both to stop it. He says that he's loved Reva most of his life and she is the mother of his children. He tells them he won't let her be insulted in his presence and fires Vince. Reva gets upset too and fires Ernie. They laugh because they are right back where they started. Reva brings him some wine and they joke about how much they were paying as retainers. She says they'll have to start looking for new lawyers tomorrow and she isn't looking forward to that. Josh says maybe they won't have to do that.

Ross goes to Company looking for Buzz. He tells him to keep Selena away from Blake because now she's acting like June Cleaver making him tea and scones. Ross reveals his two goals: keep divorces out of work and keep marriages out of his home. Buzz thinks that he's running away from commitment and he knows from experience. Ross looks at a bridal magazine and says he thinks women want to get married so they can wear the dress. Buzz asks him what the real problem is but Ross says he can handle the situation. Buzz thinks he needs to stop running but then realizes he shouldn't be giving out advice. He thinks that he's ruined every Cooper's life in town. Ross thinks his kids are fine but Buzz reminds him of their love lives. Ross tells him that love would be hard no matter who tried to help them out. He thinks that Buzz might really be worried about his wedding to Selena. Buzz tells him his life is fine and that he wants to help his children. Ross says the best thing to do is nothing and tells him to go on with his wedding plans. He jokes about bridesmaids and tells Buzz to make sure Blake isn't one of them.

Phillip and Harley agree to order in for dinner when Susan comes downstairs ready to leave. She's dressed in an outfit Harley doesn't approve of and is reluctant to tell them where she's going. She finally admits she's going out with Marah and Max but Harley still wants her to take the dress off. Susan goes back upstairs and Phillip assures Harley she did the right thing. Harley thinks their reconciliation is only part of the problem, the rest is teenage rebellion. Susan comes back down in a different outfit with Harley's lipstick on and tries to sneak out but is caught. They argue more and Harley tells her to go back up and take off the lipstick and change clothes again. Susan is upset because she's going to be late. Harley worries about what she's going to come down in next. Susan comes back down wearing a hooded sweatshirt with no makeup and raps about doing what she told her to. Harley tells her to go if she wants to dress that way but she has to be home by eleven. Susan shouts back midnight as she's leaving and Harley tells Phillip she has the urge to tail her. Phillip says that she'll be with Marah and will be fine. Later, they go outside and Harley tells him that Susan is just like she was as a teenager. She finds Susan's clothes outside and wonders what she could be thinking. Phillip says she's probably thinking she can't wait until Harley finds those. Meanwhile, Marah arrives at Jim's and tells Max and Susan that she invited some friends. As the people start coming in, Max tells Susan this isn't a good idea. Susan thinks it's great that seniors want to hang out with them and tells him everything will be fine.

Edmund meets with Mr. Rolf and asks him for his loyal services. Edmund explains that Richard will pay his salary but he will be the one giving him orders. Rolf asks what it is that he wants done and Edmund explains that it is for princess Cassie. Edmund explains Cassie's accident the other day and that Cassie disagrees with them that she needs a bodyguard. Edmund says that he will put him at the top of the applicant list and Rolf reluctantly agrees. Edmund warns him that there will be some risks. After he explains, Rolf agrees to take the job and asks for his retainer. Edmund gives him a large envelope of money. Meanwhile, Richard, Cassie and Tammy return from a visit to the pond and are watched. They look for the camera in Tammy's bag and find a frog. Tammy wants to keep him but Cassie puts him in the fountain. Richard explains to her that the frog has friends in the pond that would miss him. Richard jokes that he was once a frog before Cassie kissed him and Tammy goes up to bed. Richard goes to get them some champagne and return the frog and Cassie hears a noise outside the door. Cassie looks outside but doesn't find anyone. She hears a noise again and tries to calm herself down. A man comes up behind her and says that he is the gardener. He gives her a rose and he asks her to thank him by giving him something in return. He grabs her and puts a knife to her throat. She struggles with the man and Edmund comes in. Cassie gets away just as the man throws his knife at Edmund. Cassie yells for Richard as Edmund lies face down on the floor.

Tuesday, August 29

Max worries that the party is getting out of hand when some older guys arrive. A guy named Freddie targets Susan to dance with. Marah assures Max that everything is under control but he goes and gets Susan away from Freddie. Susan gets upset because Max won't loosen up. She tells him that she has enough people hasseling her already and doesn't need him to do it too. Freddie spikes the punch and Susan drinks it. Max takes her away from Freddie and Marah stops him from going after Max. Susan tells Max that she's hot and feels funny. He realizes she's drunk and she starts to get sick. Marah brings her some water but she can't drink it. Max thinks it's time for her to go upstairs and sleep it off but Freddie stops them. He thinks Max wants to take Susan upstairs for himself and hits him. Marah makes a phone call to the police. David calls Harley and tells her that they got a call about an out of control party at Jim's house. When they arrive, Max and Freddie are fighting and they pull them apart. Harley is upset with all three of them and tells Max she was just starting to trust him with Susan. They try to explain but Harley doesn't want to hear it. She takes Susan home and tells her they have some major issues to work out tomorrow.

Richard arrives to find Cassie leaning over Edmund. She tells him she's okay but Edmund is hurt. Richard tells the guards to search the entire palace until they find the intruder. He says that whoever allowed this to happen will be spending time in a dark cell. Edmund wakes up and thanks Cassie for warning him so he could dive. She doesn't understand and Edmund points out the knife that is stuck in the wall. Richard thinks this is the only piece of physical evidence they have. They go inside and Edmund tells Richard he can't take for granted that Cassie needs a bodyguard anymore. Cassie doesn't think Richard should rule in fear. She doesn't want the people to think she's afraid of them. Edmund points out that the world is a dangerous place. Richard agrees with Edmund and tells her the bodyguard won't be visible to the public. She still says no until Edmund says that if the man had come a few minutes earlier, the children would have been there. She agrees to the bodyguard but tells them to make sure he's invisible because she doesn't want to see him. She goes to check on the kids and Edmund tells Richard he'll have a list put together of applicants. Richard thanks him and says the fact that something like this could happen makes him sick. Later, Edmund meets up with his accomplice and congratulates him on the job.

Josh runs into Holly at the Country Club and mentions her situation with Billy. Josh says that he is there picking up take-out for him and Reva and he thanks Holly for making Billy laugh H.B.'s laugh. She realizes that he is asking her about her intentions with Billy and she says that she is going fishing with him and would never hurt him.

Pilar helps Danny with the books at Millennium and Ray arrives. Ray asks Danny how he is doing and he says that life isn't a party. Pilar goes over to the bar and Danny tells Ray that he is doing the best that he can. Ray asks him if he wants his life with Michelle or his life with the family. Danny says that sometimes he thinks about running the business and Ray gets a call from his housekeeper. She tells him that his brother is there and Ray asks her to send him over to Millennium. Ray tells Danny that if Tony is in town then he is probably in trouble. Danny asks what Tony has been up to lately and Ray explains that he has gone downhill ever since he dropped out of high school four years ago. Danny says that he sounds like Mick and Danny suggests that they sic their grandmother on him. Ray admits that he feels like he hasn't taken good enough care of Tony since their parents died. Tony arrives and makes a stink at the bar when they won't serve him alcohol. Ray asks him how much trouble he is in and Tony tells him that it is really bad. Tony explains that the family doesn't care about losing its respect and that he got into a fight and shoved a guy from another family through a plate-glass window. He tells them that his family put a hit out on him and Ray agrees to do what he can to help him. Ray tells him that he needs to re-think his life completely and Danny offers them his car. Danny tells him to lay low while he calls their grandmother and has her get the heat off of Tony. On their way out the back, a van pulls up and two guy start shooting at them. Tony pulls out his guns and shoots back. Ray dives in front of him and is shot. Danny comes outside and yells for Tony to dial 911 and pray that he didn't have his brother killed.

Wednesday, August 30

Ross arrives and Josh and Reva ask him to help them finish their divorce because they have fired their lawyers. They beg him and he asks them to swear to him that they really want the divorce. Josh tells him that it is not a matter of what they want but they can't go on like they are now. Reva tells him that Josh deserves to be free and Josh tells Reva not to blame herself for everything. Ross reluctantly agrees to help them and they show him some of their paperwork. He tells them that the custody issue will have to be decided and goes outside to let them discuss it. They begin to argue about the kids because Reva maintains her wish for sole custody. He reminds her about Noah and the broken door and Ross can hear them yelling. He daydreams that they are in a boxing ring beating each other up. Reva brings up Josh's past history with women and apologizes for it. Reva wonders how they can love each other so much and not be able to make each other happy. She wonders how anybody else can make it if they couldn't. Josh tells Reva that he feels like a failure but she says that they failed each other. She tells him that she will never be happy again like she was with him. He tells her that she doesn't know that for sure and accidentally brings up Noah. They agree that they like having a clean slate with the others but they are the only ones that are home to each other. Reva tells him that it is time to get it over with and leave home. They go outside and get Ross. They show him their decisions about the assets and about joint custody for the kids. They tell him that they want to get it over with tonight and he lets them sign blank divorce papers that he will fill in later. Ross tells them that he has hated every minute of this and they say that they did too. They look at each other after he leaves.

Holly arrives at Millennium and asks Pilar about her cousins shooting. Pilar is offended that she is being nosy for the story and Holly tries to explain that she is just curious as a friend. Holly offers her prayers but Pilar isn't interested. Vince tells Olivia that he has been fired. He explains that her tip about Reva's past is what set them off. He offers to give her some free advice. He says that he's seen many couples go through divorce and he can tell that Josh and Reva aren't through with each other yet. Vince leaves and Olivia puts her head down on the table. Holly comes over and Olivia realizes that she's lived in Springfield a long time. She asks for help and Holly says she will if she can. Olivia wants to know what Holly knows about Reva.

Rick tells Danny that it's a miracle Ray is alive. He explains that the bullet passed close to his heart. Rick asks what happened and Danny tells him it was just a random drive-by. Rick says he's going home to tell Michelle what happened but Danny doesn't think she needs to know. He says that Michelle is still trying to decide about their future but Rick tells him she's already decided. Danny thinks that Michelle would jump to conclusions about what happened just like Rick did. He says that his family had nothing to do with the shooting and Rick asks why he has bodyguards in front of Ray's room then. A nurse tells them that Ray is awake and asking for Danny but Rick stops him from going in. Danny says he knows how to take care of his family and Rick leaves. Meanwhile, Michelle is surprised to see Meta come home. Meta tells her she was feeling sick in New York but is better now. She asks where Danny is and Michelle tells her that she told him to leave and that their marriage is over. She says now tht he's gone, she doesn't know how much longer she can bear it. She tells her about what happened and Meta asks if she's sure Danny did what he did. Michelle tells her she knows he did it even though he knew how she would react. Meta suggests she keep her eyes open so that if a second chance presents itself she'll see it. Rick comes home and tells Michelle what happened to Ray. They devise a plan for Michelle to visit him without Danny knowing she's there. Michelle leaves and Meta tells Rick she wants to talk to him about Abby. Rick explains that he loved Abby so he had to let her go. Meta tels him that she's proud of him and Michelle. She says that she's home now and can bring some normalcy to their lives. Meta assures him one day he'll find his mate. Danny visits with Ray and he asks where Tony is. Danny assures him that Maria has taken care of Tony. Ray asks Danny to bring him a rosary and he agrees. Ray goes to sleep and Danny talks about how much he admires Ray for getting out of the business cleanly. He says that Ray doesn't deserve to be laying there. Tony arrives and Danny stops him from going inside. He drags Tony out into the parking lot and yells at him for what happened. Tony comes back with a comment about Danny's suburban life now and Danny starts beating him. Michelle arrives and screams for Danny to stop and he almost hits her. He tries to get her to listen to him but she runs away.

Thursday, August 31

Danny wants to explain what she saw last night. She tells him it's bad enough seeing him beat somebody and she doesn't want to hear his excuse. He tells her that an explanation isn't an excuse. He apologizes for her seeing it and she notes that he's not sorry he did it. She starts to walk away and he tells her to let him finish. He tries to explain that Tony is Ray's brother and that's the only kind of discipline he understands. She tells him that beating someone isn't disciplining them. Michelle says that saw her husband beating someone but it was like she didn't know him. She doesn't know if she ever really did. Danny explains that he never turned his back on her. He wants her to go away with him so he can make her his entire world. He wants to make her his family but Michelle doesn't think he could do that. Michelle knows that he loves her but she can't love all of him. She doesn't think it would be enough for him and if he can't see that she has to be strong enough for both of them. She wants an annulment but he tells her he would never hurt her. She says she didn't think she'd ever see him hurt anybody like he did Tony. She says it's like he's two different people and he wants to help her understand. She says she doesn't want to understand and tries to walk away but he won't let her go. Rick comes in and tells him to let her go. Danny tells him that this is between him and Michelle but Rick wants him to take his hands off his sister. Michelle walks out crying and Danny is angry with Rick for telling Michelle about Ray. He says that it's safer for her to stay away from all of that. Danny says he'll have to take care of her if he won't let Danny do it. Rick thinks he means he'll have to protect her. They argue over what Carmen did to Michelle and Danny reminds him that Carmen is dead now. Rick points out that Carmen didn't have anything to do with Tony or Ray's shooting. Rick thinks she's better off without him and Danny says that he loves Michelle more than he or anybody else can imagine. He asks Rick to tell her that he won't bother her anymore and leaves. Claire arrives at the Bauers' and Meta introduces herself. Claire asks her how long she will be staying and asks where Michelle is. Meta tells her that Michelle is upstairs crying for Danny and stops Claire from going upstairs to see her. Meta explains to Claire that she knows everything that happened between her and Rick and that she is sorry that Rick is allowing her to stay there. She warns Claire that she will hurt her if she does anything to Rick or Michelle again. Claire leaves and Meta is pleased with herself.

Matt explains to Billy that he booked a flight to Italy to find marble for the construction job. A man named Jake tells them to get off his demolition site. Billy explains that they're putting the building up as soon as they're done but Jake says they aren't authorized to be there now. Jake says if they stay they'll get more than they bargained for and Matt takes that as a threat. Matt tells him that he's endangering the men's lives there. They argue over safety procedures and Billy breaks it up. Billy tells Matt they have no jurisdiction there and suggests they stick to their gameplan.

Harley brings Susan back to Beth and Jim's house to clean up. Harley asks what she meant to happen last night and Susan says she just wanted to spend some quiet time with Max. She says she knew Harley would yell if she found Susan and Max alone so she invited Marah. She explains that Marah invited a few friends and it got out of hand. Harley explains that Freddie got away with a warning and what he did borderlined on criminal. She explains that this is why she worries about Susan leaving the house dressed so provocatively. She also says that Susan knew she would find the clothes outside on the porch. Harley thinks that Susan needs to admit that she's acting out because she's angry at her and Phillip. Susan tells her why she's angry with Phillip but Harley doesn't think it's any excuse. She tells her to clean up while she calls Reva. Susan begs her not to call her and Harley says she's lucky she isn't making her make the phone call. Harley calls and tells Reva what happened. Reva says that she will bring Marah over to help clean up. Reva calls Marah down and asks her to tell her what happened last night. Marah acts like nothing serious happened and that it was just a party. Reva wants a better explanation but Marah tells her she didn't invite Freddie. Reva thought she might have learned something from her experience last year. Marah says that if she didn't call the police nobody would have known. Reva is glad she got her priorities straight in time but wishes she'd done that before things got out of control. She wants her to get dressed because she's taking her to help clean up the mess. Reva calls Josh and tells him about Marah and Susan's party. She says she's about to ground her for the rest of her life and needs him to help out. He agrees to meet her at Jim's. Susan apologizes to Marah for dragging her into this and Marah apologizes for her friends. Max arrives and Harley wants him to stay away from Susan. Susan and Marah tell them that Max didn't start the fight and tried to stop the party. Susan says she's running away and Marah says she doesn't blame her. Josh arrives and tells Marah to cease fire on Reva. Susan, Max and Marah explain what happened last night to Josh. They ask what they did that was so wrong and Harley asks if they have learned anything from this experience. Max and Josh go to patch a hole in the kitchen wall and Harley tells Susan that she is the one that will have to tell Jim and Beth what happened. Harley tells her that they will not be keeping any secrets from her father. After the adults have stepped outside, Susan tells Max that she just can't tell her dad about this and that she is leaving. Max tries to stop her and she says that he doesn't have a father to disappoint. He tells her that she has him and that they'll work it out together. She tells him that she feels better and sends him to the back to fix a planter. She takes money out of his wallet, leaves a note, and leaves.

Josh returns to the job site and tells them about Marah. Matt tells them that Vanessa is driving him to the airport and tells Josh about their run in with the foreman. He warns Josh to keep an eye on him and Billy thinks that they are worry-warts.

Danny arrives at the hospital to see Ray and talks with his grandmother. He tells her that it is over with Michelle and that he can't afford to love like that again. Maria is sad for him and he says that he feels like he just woke up from a wonderful dream. He tells her that he is ready to lead the family with her permission. She doesn't have much to say except that leadership is not given and that he can't turn back. He says that he wants the family to be respected again and she tells him that he is alot like his father. He tells her everything that he wants to do and she tells him that he has the family's blessing. She gives him his father's ring and he is moved. Tony arrives and sees him put on the ring. Tony asks Maria if he can see Ray and says that it should have been him in there instead of Ray. He says that he will do anything to make this right and that he can't go back to Chicago. Maria tells him to ask Danny about it because he is in charge now. Danny tells him that they will find a place for him and holds his hand out for Tony to kiss his ring.

Friday, September 1

Rick shows Charles the test scores and how they were lowered instead of raised. He says that he actually was second in his class even though he was stoned. Charles thinks that Rick has suffered enough throughout the years thinking he was a fraud. He says that as far as he's concerned, this a personal matter not a professional one. He doesn't think the legal department will see it any differently. Charles asks what Rick knows about Claire and he explains that she's his sister's mother. He doesn't want to discredit her professionally. He does admit that she might have an unhealthy obsession with the Bauers. Charles admits he's looked at her records closely and can't find any reason to question her skills as a doctor. He doesn't think Rick should let her get away with what she did. Rick thinks it's better not to disturb the hornet's nest. Charles offers his help and Rick asks him to just keep Claire busy so she won't have time to bother him or Michelle.

Max looks for Susan in the house and sees the note she left. He runs out the door calling her name but she's already gone. He calls Harley for help. She arrives with Frank and questions Max about when she left. Max tells them she couldn't have gotten too far because he was only gone for a few minutes. Max shows her the note Susan left and she gets a bad feeling about it. Frank reads it and tries to reassure her that Susan will be okay. Harley calls David to put out an APB and make flyers with Susan's picture. She asks Max to put together a list of places and people Susan might go to. Outside, Harley and Frank talk about all the times she ran away as a kid. She wanted her mother to come look for her but Frank remind her that she always came back and Susan will too. Harley thinks she shouldn't have given Susan away as a child but Frank thinks she did the right thing. He tells her she wanted Susan to have what they never did. Phillip arrives and Harley shows him the note. He doesn't think Susan would try to hurt herself but Frank tells him he's not a teen psychologist. Harley doesn't want them arguing now and says to focus on finding Susan. Jim and Beth come home from their vacation and think everyone is there for a welcome home party. Phillip gets a phone call from Josh and they overhear him say they're in the middle of a family crisis. Jim notices that Susan isn't there and wants to know where his daughter is.

Marah arrives at Millennium to meet Reva. Reva tells Marah that they fired their lawyers and have worked out the divorce on their on. She explains that the marriage is over and Marah blames Olivia. Reva explains that it is not Olivia's fault and Marah says that she was just hoping that this would never happen. Marah tells her how hurt she is and that there is nothing she can do about it. Reva wants to talk about the future and having some fun together. Reva tells her not to be bitter and leaves for the station. Tony arrives and asks the bartender for Danny but Danny isn't there. He sees Marah and things that she is a hot babe. She thinks he looks like trouble but tries to quickly put on lip gloss before he comes over. He gives her a line and she calls him lame. She comments on his bruise and he sits down. He says that he just wants a conversation with a pretty girl and asks her for her phone number or name. She tells him that he is not in Chicago anymore and she leaves. He says to himself that this doesn't happen to him and he asks the bartender what her name was but he won't tell.

Reva interviews Vicky on TV about the new building project that Spaulding has started. Vicky pleads their case and during a commercial Reva commends Vicky on her knowledge. She jokes that David Grant must have his hands full with her and Vicky says "and then some!" The cameraman breaks it to the ladies that they weren't off the air and they are shocked. Ruth sees the show and then David arrives. David tells Ruth about Susan and asks Buzz if he has seen her. He is very upset and says that he hasn't heard from Susan. Ruth understands how Harley feels. Buzz goes to put out the fliers and Ruth offers her help. David asks Ruth how Charlie is doing and she tells him all about his classes. The show comes back on and Ruth tells David that Vicky mentioned him earlier. Reva's show ends and she tells Vicky how great she did.

Olivia arrives at the construction site and all the men fall for her. Josh watches as she calls their bluff. She explains that she is their boss and they all shut up. Josh tells her that Matt and Billy had a run in with the foreman of the group and then the foreman arrives. Josh introduces himself and the guy just tells him to leave. Josh insists that his men shut off the water but the foreman refuses his help. The guy threatens Josh with an accident and Josh points out all the violations on this site. A fight breaks out and Josh tells his crew to get out of there. Olivia thinks that they should let Billy or even Phillip handle this guy but Josh refuses. Olivia persists and Josh calls Phillip. He finds out about Susan and gets Phillip agree to talk to the foreman. Josh and Olivia decide to find out for themselves who is running this operations. At the Santos home, the foreman explains to Maria that they have to get the Lewis boys to back off. He says that he can't guarantee that their won't be any injuries if they stage an accident and Maria says that she didn't ask him to guarantee anything.