Return to Santa Barbara

Joseph Bottoms as Kirk Cranston, Marcy Walker as Eden Castillo, Clive Robertson as Ashton Lavery, Carrington Garland as Kelly Capwell Lavery, Judith McConnell as Sophia Capwell/"Loretta"

(EXT: London, England)

-Edmund heads down the hallway toward Sophia's room but stops when he sees Christine. Edmund asks her if "Loretta" seemed at all suspicious earlier, when she told her that their trip was going to be delayed due to an emergency with a patient. Christine informs him that she didn't seem suspicious at all, though she was anxious to go. She tells him that she was acting quite strangely earlier in the day when she brought her lunch.

"What do you mean strange? Like distrustful of me?"

"No, not that at all. Mrs. L loves you, that's for certain. So much though, that she's getting pretty paranoid."

"Paranoid? What do you mean?"

She tells him how "Loretta" accused her of trying to steal her husband, warning her to back off. She says that she insisted that wasn't the case, but "Loretta" didn't believe her.

"She called me a BITCH, Dr. L. I thought she was gonna rip me from limb to limb."

"Why would she think that you had any interest in me at all?"

"I have no idea, Dr. L. Maybe she thinks that I took her spot in your bedroom and that's why you banished her to the east wing? I don't know, but I told her that you weren't even my type and she totally ignored me. She was hollering at me like a banchie! You gotta believe me, Dr. L, I mean, I thinnk you're a nice enough guy, handsome I guess, if you go for that sorta thing. But I don't and never would, but she wasn't having it. She finally just kicked me out and I got the heck out of there."

"That is quite peculiar. I'll see if I can get an explanation out of her when I go in there. Thank you, Christine......Oh, and Christine....if you could, please keep my son and daughter-in-law from visiting this side of the castle. The last thing I need is for them to discover our Mrs. Lavery."

"Sure thing Dr. L."

Edmund enters Sophia's room and finds her sitting on her bed, reading a book. Her eyes light up when he enters the room.

"Edmund, darling, it's so wonderful to see you! I've been getting lonely couped up in this room all by myself."

"And I as well, believe me. The painting should be done very soon and you'll be able to come back into our bedroom."

"Thank goodness! I miss waking up next to you every morning. And, of course, going to bed with you every night."

She gets out of the bed and kisses him passionately.

"I promise you that it won't be for very much longer. I just couldn't risk you being exposed to the fumes, especially now that I have you back. I just don't want to take any chances."

"I understand my darling, though it doesn't make me any less lonely. I thought the plan was for us to go away together, to the villa in Greece."

"Yes, well, I had an emergency with one of my patients that couldn't be avoided."

"I know, Christine told me. That's just like you, to put the well being of your patients ahead of your own leisure. I do hope that we can still go- I was so looking forward to taking in Greece, with you by my side. I've been in that coma for so long and I just want to experience everything."

"Soon, my love, I promise you that. In fact, if everything goes well with my patient, I'm hoping we can leave in the morning, or possibly even tonight."

"Oh that would be just wonderful!"

"Speaking of my patient, I actually need to get back to them......Just one thing before I go. Christine says that you scolded her yesterday, even got vulgar with her. Something about her trying to steal me away from you?"

Sophia explains that she's not sure where that came from, she just suddenly felt this rage and jealousy toward Christine. She says it might have to do with her being lonely and sleeping alone every night. She says that she's going to apologize the next time she sees her, that it was wrong of her to take out her frustration on Christine. Edmund assures her that there's absolutely nothing for her to worry about and gives her another kiss. He tells her that he must be going, but that if she needs anything to just ring Christine. She assures him that she will. He leaves and Sophia's smile turns into a bit of panic. She runs to the door and opens it slightly, making sure that both he and Christine are not around. She takes out the cell phone that Marcello gave her and calls him, telling him that they're going to need to speed up the process, that Edmund is planning on taking her away to Greece that night or the following day. She hangs up the phone and returns it to its hiding place, anxiously awaiting Marcello's arrival.

(EXT: Pamela's hotel suite)

-Augusta approaches Pamela's hotel room, looking at the paper she has it written down on. She bangs very loudly on the door. Pamela answers, smiling her devious smile.

"Augusta, come in! So lovely that you made it...."

"Put a sock in it you sociopathic wench, we both know I had to come, especially after that little stunt you pulled with Lionel the other day."

"That was quite fun wasn't it? You were shaking in your boots, thinking I was going to out your little paternity secret. Though, I admit, I'd have relished it even more had it been Warren we played our little game with."

"What do you want from me Pamela? I haven't told Lionel a thing about Sophia, nor CC. What more do you want from me?"

Pamela laughs that while she didn't tell them, she did make sure that Marcello ran into her. Augusta says that they were simply invited to the same party and she didn't have any idea Marcello was Maria DiMonde's fiance, let alone that Sophia and Edmund would be there. Pamela tells her that she's not foolish and Edmund told her that Augusta set up the invitations to ensure they would attend.

"Oh, for heaven's sake, I didn't hold a gun to the man's head. He's the one who was stupid enough to bring Sophia out in public. Besides, it was a masquerade ball- he should have made her keep her mask on, like he did at the end of the party, when she ran into Lionel."

"Either way, you've been a naughty girl Augusta, and I think it's time that Warren knows the truth about his father..."

"Go ahead and tell him if you must, Pamela. He doesn't know Edmund Lavery from J.D. Salinger. But you do that and I'll be at the Capwell mansion so fast your head will spin!"

"You wouldn't dare..."

"Dare I would! Frankly, it would almost be worth it for Warren to know the truth just so I can expose this little scheme of yours to CC. I'll take great pleasure in watching him choke you until those pretty eyeballs of yours come right out of your head!"

"Ah yes, maybe Warren wouldn't care, but how would Edmund feel? You see what he's done to CC for things that have happened a lifetime ago. I wonder what he'd do to you when he finds out that you've been keeping his son from him for some 40 years now."

"He wouldn't do a damn thing and we both know it! He reunites with Warren and the tale of Edmund and the Loretta-bot will be front page news! Face it, Pamela, you don't call the shots with me- I know too much and it's enough to bury you. And I'd be all too happy to do it. Now, if there's nothing else, I'm supposed to be having dinner with Lionel, my husband. The man that loves me and has been with me most of our lives. Try as she might have, Sophia was unable to steal my husband from me. Have a lovely evening, Pamela, and hug your pillow real tight as you fall to sleep tonight!"

Augusta begins to walk out the door when Pamela grabs her by the arm.

"Now you listen and you listen good. You make sure that Marcello forgets all about seeing Sophia or so help me God, I'll destroy you just like I destroyed her. How do you think your precious Lionel would feel if he knew that you've known Sophia was alive this whole time and you did nothing about it? I doubt he'd be too pleased. Now you do what I tell you or I will blow your whole world to smithereens!"

Augusta shakes Pamela's hands off her. "Don't you ever lay a hand on me again you miserable old bag. Even if I did go to Marcello and talk to him, there's no way our blonde Oedipus would even consider forgetting about Sophia. Face it, Pamela, your diabolical plot is about to blow up in your face and there's not a damn thing you can do about it! So go ahead and tell the world that Edmund is Warren's father, I don't give a damn what you do. But I will not be blackmailed or threatened by you any longer! I'm not Sophia and I don't have her morality or sense of right and wrong. I'm not afraid you and if you even try to blow my world apart, I'll be sure to fan the flames in your direction, not that you have anyone who loves or cares about you anyway. Even Mason can barely tolerate you and the last shred of feeling he has for you would disappear if he knew what you've been up to. I'll leave you to chew on that for a while. Have a lovely evening, Pamela. ALONE!"

Augusta marches out the door and slams it behind her, leaving Pamela looking extremely agitated.

(EXT- Edmund's creepy castle)

-Edmund makes his way to the living room, where Ashton and Kelly are sipping on some wine. They greet him and Kelly inquires as to how his patient is doing. Edmund tells her quite well and that she's actually being released from the hospital that night. He asks them how much longer they plan on staying.

"Well, we were supposed to leave in the morning..." Kelly begins.

"So soon? Oh well, that's too bad, but it was so charming to have finally met my beautiful daughter-in-law. It was wonderful to have finally met you, though I do wish we'd gotten to spend more time getting to know one another."

"Actually, if you'd let her finish father, you would have found out that your wish is going to come true. My business here is taking a bit longer than expected and we'll be here through the week. Possibly into next. So you see, you'll have plenty of time to get to know my wife, isn't that right darling?"

"I hope we're not imposing, Dr. Lavery. This castle is almost overwhelming it's so beautiful and I very much have enjoyed staying here..."

"To be honest with you dear, I was going to go on a little get-away this weekend. Work has been so stressful and I was hoping to have some time in Greece to unwind..."

"Oh. Well, Ashton, I suppose we could stay in a hotel, if your father has plans."

"Nonsense, my love, I want you to get the full experience of staying in the home I grew up in. I'm sure father can alter his plans, perhaps take his vacation next weekend..."

"I would, my son, but my villa is rented well into June and this is the only opportunity I'll have to use it for the near future. I'm sure you understand..."

"Perhaps Kelly could come with you then? I'm going to be quite busy with work anyway, so it would work out perfectly. This way, you'll have some company on your trip and you can get to know your daughter-in-law, and I can stay here and focus on my work."

Kelly smiles and says that she'd love to go to Greece and get to know her father-in-law, though she doesn't want to be a bother. Ashton insists she wouldn't be, though she tells him his father may not agree. She excuses herself to shower before they go out to dinner. Edmunds smiling face turns into one of anger.

"What exactly are you up to son, trying to send me away alone with your wife... Why would you..."

"Funny, I could ask you the exact same question."

"I'm not sure I know what you mean..."

"No? You don't? Really? I guess you wouldn't mind then if, after her shower, I took Kelly on a tour of the east wing."

"That's not possible, as I told you, it's being renovated!"

"Funny, I haven't seen any workers in and out of the house..."

"They're under strict orders not to disturb me or my guests."

"Oh save it, father, I know exactly why you don't want us visiting that part of the house. I saw her, dad, I saw Sophia!"

Edmund is shocked that Ashton knows about his houseguest. He asks how he found her and Ashton tells him that while checking out his old room, he noticed Christine coming out of one of the guest rooms and decided to investigate. He slightly opened the door and saw Sophia. He asks his father what he's up to and he informs him it's obviously revenge on CC. Plus, he cured Sophia of her aneurism. He tells Ashton that he must understand why it's imperative that he get Kelly out of the house before she sees Sophia. But Ashton says that if he wants him to keep quiet, he'll stay as he asks. There's something he wants to use Sophia for, though he assures him that he's not going to let any of the Capwells in on his little secret. Edmund asks what he's up to, but Ashton tells him not to worry about that, just to do as he asks and he won't tell Kelly or CC that Sophia's alive. Edmund begrudgingly agrees, though he's clearly not happy about it.

(EXT: A small diner, just outside of Santa Barbara)

-Eden arrives at the diner alone as she was asked and looks around for Bobby. She spots Kirk at a corner table and he motions for her to come over. She goes and sits down, still clearly suspicious of him.

"If this is some kind of trick or a trap, Kirk, then you're going to be severely disappointed. I'm not stupid or gullible and if this guy feeds me some kind of bull about Cruz, then I'm going to see right through it. If that's the case, then just tell me right now and save us all the time and energy."

"I assure you Eden, I have no idea what he's going to say. I was surprised to even get a call from him about this at all. But I figured I'd come, since he insisted and I know you're desperate to find out what happened to Cruzanova. I still care about you Eden, in spite of everything that's happened over the years, and I wouldn't do anything to make your pain any worse than it is. You have to trust me..."

"Famous last words. I wouldn't trust you if the pope himself told me that you were being honest with me! And you can care about me all you want, the fact remains that I despise you. I won't let you manipulate me!"

"That's not what I'm doing, you have to believe me."

She begins to say something back when Kirk looks over and she sees that Bobby is approaching the table. Kirk gets up and moves next to Eden so Bobby can sit across from them. Bobby asks for their assurance that no cops are involved and she promises they aren't.

"What about that D.A. lady? You didn't tell her you were meeting me, did ya?"

"Of course not- I wouldn't do anything to jeopardize this. That is, if you're actually going to tell me what happened to my husband...."

"I am, I am, but I'm gonna need somethin from you..."

"Of course you are. Just name it and I'll do it.....that is, if I feel you're telling me the honest truth, I'll do it..."

Bobby tells her that once he lets her know who set Cruz up, people are going to be after him. He's already likely going to get probation for giving up Esteban, but he's gonna need protection from his boss for ratting him out. He wants her to convince Julia to help him change his identity and use her family's money to set him up somewhere that he'll be safe from the mastermind. She agrees, saying that if it helps her get the guy who killed Cruz, she's willing to do it.

"Alright then I'm trustin you here lady, so I hope you're good to your word."

"I am, believe me. Now talk."

He explains that a few months ago, after Thanksgiving, he got a call from someone offerring him $250,000 if he successfully kidnapped a girl and held her captive. The person explained to him that he didn't want the girl harmed, but rather, to lure her father into a trap. He agreed and enlisted Cisco's help. He was told the girl was Adriana Castillo and that he'd have to be extremely careful, as her father was a cop. He agreed to do it and was told that once he had her, he'd get a call with further instructions. So, he attempted to kidnap Adriana, but unfortunately, Marta maced him and he was rendered blind, unable to see which girl he grabbed. By the time he realized it was Marta, it was too late- his cover was blown and he knew Adriana's cop father would be protective of her. His boss was livid, until he realized that Marta was Angel's daughter and that Cruz would still be helping him get her back. Marta filled him in on everything with the Esteban investigation in order to make herself useful to him, rightfully fearing that he would kill her otherwise. He was then told to call Angel and convince him to come to Mexico and bring someone from the SBPD, knowing that would probably be Cruz. Angel fell in line, of course. Then he gave Angel specific instructions in order to rescue his daughter. He gave Angel a map to give Cruz, but also gave him a 2nd map to give to law enforcement, which would lead them to the wrong marina. Eden comments that so far, his story is dead on, since that's exactly what Angel did. Cruz was to be lured to a boat and when he stepped on it, Cisco was instructed to cut the ropes from the dock and the boat would automatically start speeding off. When Cruz got on the boat, he would find a DVD of the boss revealing himself to him. When the DVD reached a certain point, an attached timebomb was set to go off, blowing it to smithereens. The entire plan went off without a hitch, and he received his payment, but was never told who he was working for. He didn't get it in cash, though, but instead, a check from a corporation. It was signed, though he knew that the signer likely wasn't the boss, as that would be foolish. He also knew that he was going to need some leverage in case he was caught and looked further into the company. He'd researched it and called, posing as a businessman who wanted to invest. He requested background information on the company before he could make a sound decision, having them mail it to a P.O. Box so as not to tip the guy off.

"And today, I received this paperwork," he says, sliding it to her, "Complete with the name of the CEO!"

"Wait a minute, how do you know for sure that this isn't forged documentation, that your boss didn't figure it out and edit the names. Obviously, if he gave you a company check, he'd want to be extremely careful about his name being attached to the company, in case the police found it."

"Damn, I didn't think of that....I guess I don't know....Well, why don't you open it up and check out the name and see if you recognize it?"

"I guess it couldn't hurt. Damn it, I was so hoping...."

She opens up the file and begins thumbing through it. She skims it over, not seeing anything about a CEO. Suddenly, her finger comes to the point with the name and she sort of shrieks.

"What? What is it? Do you recognize the name?" Bobby asks.

"Yeah, Eden, who is it? Who set me up for this?" Kirk says, looking over her shoulder.

"I don't believe it.....I can't believe it.....It all makes sense....this is all my fault! This isn't about revenge on Cruz, it's revenge on me!"

"Who is it Eden? What is the name?"

Eden shivers. "Quinn Armitage!"

THE END..............FOR TODAY

Heather Lindell as Samantha Capwell, Justin Hartley as Brandon Capwell, Jared Leto as Steve Hall, Jessica Dunphy as Adriana Castillo

Alisa Reyes as Marta Ramirez

(EXT- Cruz & Eden's Beach House)

-Eden explains to Rafael, Carm, and Adriana that Marta's kidnappers have been let out on bail and haven't given any information to help them find Cruz's killer. Adriana doesn't understand how such a thing could have happened and Eden tells her that they've cut a deal in exchange for their testimony against Carlos Esteban.

"But that doesn't make any sense! Those guys were after me, not Marta. Her kidnapping had nothing to do with the Esteban case and everything to do with dad."

"Believe me sweetie, I know that. I don't know where their information is coming from, but it's solid enough that Vic is buying it, so it must be somewhat legitimate. Whoever they're working for has done a damn good job of covering their bases."

Adriana says that it just isn't fair, that now there's no way they're ever going to get justice for Cruz. Eden turns her around and tells her that she won't let that happen. She will stop at nothing to bring Cruz's killer to justice and if they want to play dirty, then she will get just as dirty. Rafael warns her not to do anything dangerous, saying that the last thing Cruz would want is for her to put her own life in jeopardy. Eden responds that if the situation were reversed, they all know that Cruz would stop at nothing until the person or persons responsible were punished. The doorbell rings and Adriana answers at, seeing Steve at the other side of it.

"Are you ready to go?"

"I was, but I'm sorry, I don't think I should leave my mom right now..."

"No you go ahead and go honey. There's nothing you can do here. Besides, I have Rafael and Carm here if I need anything. You go to the beach and have a good time with your friends.....Hello Steve. Nice to see you again."

"Mrs. Castillo. You ready A?"

She grabs her beach bag and the two of them head out the door. Carm asks Eden for the truth, saying she knows that she was trying to be optimistic for Adriana.

"Honestly Carm, I don't know what I'm going to do. I was hoping once they got the kidnappers, we could work out some kind of deal, but now that they're using their own angle, I just don't know where to go from here..."

"You'll figure it out, Eden. You're a strong woman and between you and the police force that my son was so dedicated to them, I have faith that whoever is responsible for my Cruz's death will be brought to justice," Carm offers.

Just then, Eden's cell phone starts ringing. She looks at it and doesn't recognize the number but picks it up. She doesn't recognize the voice on the other end.

"This Eden Castillo?"

"Yes, it is, who am I speaking with?"

"This is Bobby Santino."

Eden's face turns a pale shade of white when she realizes it's one of the kidnappers on the phone. She asks him what he wants and he asks if she's still interested in getting information on her husband's killer. She tells him of course she is and he instructs her to meet him at a diner just outside of town, but to come alone, without the cops. She tells him that she's not stupid, that she's not going to meet a known criminal without the police, let alone by herself. He tells her that she won't be alone, that he'll be calling Kirk Cranston as well.

"That doesn't exactly make me feel more comfortable."

"Look lady, you want to know who set your husband up or not? If you do, those are my terms. We're meeting in a public place so you'll be plenty safe. Be there at 5 o'clock and I'm tellin ya, no cops. I even get the slightest hint that you called the cops, the deal's off. And trust me, I'll know."

He hangs up the phone. Rafael asks her who it was and she tells him it's someone with information on Cruz's death and that she's going to meet him later today. Rafael tells her to call the SBPD, but she insists they not do that, or he won't talk. He then offers to go with her, but she lies that Julia is actually going to go and that they're meeting in a public place, so there's nothing to worry about. Rafael isn't so sure.

"I have to do this for Cruz, Rafael. I'm a big girl, I can take care of myself. Trust me, I'm going to be extremely careful- I'm not dumb and I won't let anything happen. But if this guy can help me find Cruz's killer, I have to do it. And I'm begging you, do NOT call the police. These people obviously have connections everywhere and won't say a word if they're involved."

"I just don't want you to walk into another trap, like my son did."

"I promise you, Rafael, that's not what I'm doing. I'll be careful- it's all in public and I'll have my phone with me. But you have to promise me that you won't breathe a word of this to anyone."

Rafael agrees, though he obviously doesn't like it.

(EXT: Mason & Julia's Beach House)

-Mason arrives at the door and quietly knocks, obviously quite nervous. Julia answers and invites him in. Samantha comes walking from the kitchen, asking who it is. When she sees Mason, she runs to him and gives him a big hug. He smiles, obviously thrilled to see his daughter.

"So, did you two have any luck tracking down my maybe brother?"

"Unfortunately, no. We hit a dead end- we went to Sacramento and were given all kinds of records. He literally went through more than 10 foster homes, and he'd change his name with the wind."

"Why?" Julia interjects, "That doesn't really make sense..."

"I guess it's not all that uncommon among kids in the foster care system- with each adoption, they try and reinvent themselves, I guess in hopes that they'll be accepted in each new identity. Unfortunately, they lost track of him when he left the system at age 16. The last known name that he had was David Hill, but there's no record of anyone of his age with that name in the state of California."

Julia wonders if perhaps he's no longer in California at all, a possibility that Mason says he and Mary have considered, though they're hoping it's not the case. Because if it were, it's unlikely they'll ever find him. Mason tells them that they were given copies of his file. In it, it says that he was told that his mother died while giving birth and that his father was ill-equipped to raise him. Samantha asks Mason if he's home for good and he claims that he is, if Julia will have him. He says that Mary is going back to work at the clinic in San Remos.

"But what about when you get the next lead? Or find his last set of foster parents? Will you be jetting off with her again to interview them? And then the next set and the next set?"

"I guess I would, yes. You have to understand, Julia, I could have a son out there. A son that doesn't even know that his parents exist. I can't give up on him...."

"I do understand, Mason, believe me, but where does that leave me? I'm not going to be a pit stop between trips during your investigation, Mason. I'm your wife and I think I deserve better than that."

"Of course you do, but doesn't our son deserve to know that he has two parents that love him?"

"First of all, you don't even know for sure that he's your son at all. The only information that you have is what's been given to you by Mark and Sherri, two known liars. Damn it, Mason, I can't live like this. It isn't fair to me..."

"What would you have me do then Julia? What do you want from me?"

"I want this all to be over with! I want Mary to go back where she came from, God help me, and I want my husband back.....But that's not going to happen yet, is it? Not while Mary's son is out there, your priority is her. I didn't sign on to play second fiddle to her Mason and I don't know how much more of this I can take..."

Samantha suddenly asks Mason about how old his son would be. He tells her 23 and she has him repeat the information he gave before- that he changed his name many times, left the foster system at 16, was told his mother was dead, and has been in multiple homes. Samantha flashes back to Steve talking about his childhood, giving a similar scenario. It dawns on her that Mary's son could be right under her nose and she makes a beeline for the door.

"Where are you going young lady?"

"Out for a little while....to find A. Besides, you two could use the time alone. I love you dad and I'm so glad you're home," she says, kissing him on the cheek.

Outside the door, she calls Brandon, asking him if Steve's home. He tells her he was going to the beach with Adriana and she asks if he can meet her there. He says he will but before he can ask what this is all about, she hangs up the phone.

(EXT: Santa Barbara Beach)

-Steve spreads out a blanket for he and Adriana to lay on and takes out a cooler. He offers her a beer, which she declines, asking just for a bottle of water. Steve comments that the sun is blazing that day.

"I'd hate to see that pretty, fair skin of yours turn beat red. How about you let me put some sunblock on you?"

"I can do it just fine by myself, thank you very much."

She takes out the sunblock and applies it to her legs, arms, and chest. Steve watches her, smiling and taking in her beauty. She starts to apply it to her shoulders, but has trouble reaching her back.

"Looks like you're having a little trouble there. May I?"

"I don't know, will you be able to control yourself?"

"Not sure, but I think you're gonna have to risk it. Unless, of course, you want blisters all over your back...."

Adriana hands him the bottle and he gently begins massaging it into her back. She giggles when he squirts it on there, saying that it's cold.

"I'm sorry, princess, I'll be a little more careful for ya..."

She smiles as he finishes up. He asks her if there's been any word on the kidnappers and she fills him in on everything Eden told her. He tells her he's sorry and asks if there's anything he can do. She says that taking her to the beach and getting her mind off her troubles is quite enough. She thanks him again for being such a good friend to her, to which he responds that he'd like to be more. He leans in and tenderly kisses her. When things start to get a little more passionate, she slows him down.

"I suggest you quit while you're ahead, Mr. Hall. Besides, we're not alone," she says, motioning to Marta walking up.

Adriana introduces Steve to Marta, who's charmed by the young man. Marta thanks her for inviting her, saying a day at the beach is just what she needed. Adriana tells her she's sorry about everything that's happening with her kidnappers and Steve concurs. Marta says that it's ironic how the justice system never seems to work in her favor- they took her father away for most of her life and now, it seems, they're letting the men who kidnapped her go free. Steve tells her that his father is in prison as well and has been his whole life. Before she can ask him about his mother, Samantha and Brandon come walking up.

"Got room for a couple more?" Samantha asks them.

Adriana says of course, and kisses she and Brandon hello. Marta asks Adriana who they are and she introduces her to Samantha and Brandon. Samantha asks if they've interrupted anything and Marta tells her that she was about to ask Steve about his mom.

"My mom died giving birth to me. I never got to know her."

"I can relate to that," Adriana says, "For a period of time when I was young, my mom was presumed dead. We eventually found out she was alive, but she didn't come back for years. I felt so alone, like she abandoned me, or didn't want me..."

"I'm so sorry," Marta says, "Who raised you then? If your dad was in prison and your mom died, who took care of you?"

"I pretty much raised myself. I was put in foster care, but over and over, it didn't work out. The first set of parents seemed great- they had me til I was 5. Turned out, though, that they were only takin in foster kids for the money and ended up getting in trouble for drugs. They lost all of us at that point- they had 6 of us. Imagine all the money they were getting. After that, it was kinda hard for me to open up to anyone. I didn't trust em, really, and there weren't exactly a long line of people looking to adopt a 6 year old kid. When they did, I ended up causin em more trouble than I guess I was worth and they'd put me back in the system. I went into home after home after home, but never felt loved. When I turned 16, I got the hell out of dodge and never looked back."

The girls are all sympathetic, though Samantha is quiet, listening intently and noting the parallels between his story and what Mason's learned about Mary's son. Samantha asks the girls if they'd like to take a walk and they do. As soon as they're out of earshot, Marta asks Adriana what Brandon's story is. She says he's single.

"Really? Lookin like that? Dayum, hook a sista up!"

Meanwhile, Brandon tells Steve how much it must have sucked growing up like that and says he admires him for going out on his own. Brandon says that his life was the polar opposite of that- in fact, he was constantly being fought over by his adopted parents and biological mom. He tells him that his dad died before he was born, though it's a complicated story that he doesn't want to get into. Steve asks if the Capwells were his adopted family or his biological family. Brandon tells him that it's actually more complicated than that.

"My biological father was Channing Capwell III, who was thought to be the son of CC & Sophia. Turns out he wasn't- he was actually switched at birth with another boy. So biologically, I'm not a Capwell. My dad was killed by- get this- the woman who thought she was his mother, Sophia. She's also the wife of CC Capwell, who adopted me. So yeah, just because people have money, doesn't mean they're any less messed up than the rest of us..."

Steve asks how he's been taken care of and Brandon tells him that CC set up a trust in Channing's honor for him that he got on his 25th birthday. He smiles and tells him that he's been loaded ever since, and he really bought the Lair just to have a hobby. Steve asks what he spends his money on and Brandon looks around. He says he makes some extra money on the side and has some fun at the same time, pulling out a baggie of coke. He asks Steve if he wants to partake and Steve says sure. They each do a couple of bumps, before the girls come walking up. Steve lights up a cigarette.

"That's a dirty habit, you know. And unhealthy too!" Adriana admonishes.

"Yeah, well, I have a couple dirty habits, princess. Maybe if I had a beautiful girl like you in my life, I'd be able to kick a couple of em."

Adriana blushes and smiles at him. She puts her arms around him as though she's going to kiss him on the cheek, but instead takes the cigarette from his mouth and puts it out in the sand. She instead hands him a piece of gum. When nobody is looking, Samantha takes a ziploc baggie out of her purse, picks up the cigarette with a kleenex, and places it in the bag.

(EXT: Kirk's car)

-Kirk recevies a phone call- he's shocked to hear it's his "boss" on the other end. He tells him that he's surprised to be hearing from him. "The boss" tells him he has some instructions for him. He is to meet Bobby along with Eden and listen to what he has to say. After that, he's to follow clues that have been set up for him that will lead Eden to his location.

"Why would you want her to find you? You know she's going to have you arrested or worse if she does."

"What do you take me for, an idiot Kirk? I'm not you, my plans have been laid out meticulously in advance, I know exactly what I'm doing."

"And what about Eden? You promised me that you were going to help me get her, how are you going to do that if you're behind bars? I doubt she's going to see me as that much of a hero for leading her to you, it's only going to make her more suspicious..."

"You really are foolish, aren't you? Do you honestly think I've gone to all this trouble just to get myself arrested to make you look like a hero? Oh, Kirk, no wonder you've failed to get revenge on Cruz and have Eden to yourself on many occasions. Which is probably why you've latched on to me. I know exactly what I'm doing, but the timing of it is crucial. Something unexpected just landed in my lap and I want to use it to my advantage. Now if you'd stop asking me questions and just do as I tell you, you'll have exactly what you want. Clear?"

"I'll do whatever it takes to be with Eden. Just tell me what you want me to do...."

Kirk listens as it's explained to him. Around the corner, Joann listens in to his side of the conversation.

"How could Kirk possibly think he'll end up with Eden? I wonder what he's up to.......and who he's working for....."

THE END...............FOR TODAY

Deborah Adair as Elizabeth Wayne, Jed Allan as CC Capwell, Robin Mattson as Gina Blake, Paula Irvine as Lily Blake

(EXT- Gina's Apartment)

-Lily walks up to the breakfast table with a huge smile on her face, remarking what a beautiful day it is outside. Gina snickers, wondering what it is that has her so chipper as she pours them each a cup of coffee.

"Blackmail can be a powerful and beautiful thing," Lily muses.

"Don't I know it....so, what exactly do you have on our good friend Angela?"

Lily laughs, wondering how she can be so sure that it's Angela that she's blackmailing. Gina says she wasn't born yesterday, obviously she's seeking revenge on the woman who stole her husband. Lily remarks that payback is a bitch, especially after Anglea stole Ted on their wedding day. Gina pleads to get it out of her, but she won't budge, until Gina says she'll tell if Lily will. Lily says fine, but she has to go first.

"It's really simple- our Miss Elizabeth screwed up, and I was there to catch her..."

"Elizabeth? What could you possibly have on her? Though I can completely understand why you hate her, after she married Keith..."

"I hate her because she's an icy bitch, but that's beside the point. Our frigid Eliza-bitch got trapped with her Prince CC in the Capwell elevator and decided it was a good time to seduce him. Little did she know that Keith and I had set up a tiny little camera to watch them...."

Lily bursts into laughter. "Great minds...."

"What's so funny? Great minds?!?"

Lily pulls out her cell phone and pulls up the video of Angela and Warren making love. Gina's eyes bug out when she sees them tearing each other's clothes off and going at it.

"I'll say one thing- those two have A LOT more chemistry than CC & Lizzie did. Man, who knew Warren was hiding that body underneath those power suits?"

Gina asks Lily what she's going to do with the information and she claims she's not quite sure yet- for now, she's going to have some fun with Angela, who she's already showed it to. Lily wonders the same about Gina, who says she isn't even going to tell Elizabeth she has it yet, not until the time is right. But when it is, she's going to use it as leverage to take over Capwell Enterprises. With any luck, she and Keith will be running the company before the summer is over.

"I'll drink to that," Lily says, as the clink their coffee cups.

(EXT: London, England)

-Pamela pulls up toward the castle, but parks far enough away that she won't be seen. She creeps up to the door, but stops at one of the windows. She is shocked to see Kelly and Ashton sitting in the living room with Edmund.

"Damn it, she could ruin everything! I should have finished her off years ago when I had the chance."

Edmund spots Pamela through the window and walks up to the drapes. He motions with his eyes for her to leave before closing them.

"I hope you know what you're doing Edmund. I could strangle that Augusta for what she's done."

Pamela heads back to her car and pulls down the long winding driveway.

-Inside the castle, Kelly sips on her tea and notices a bit of tension between Ashton and Edmund. She tries to break the ice.

"So, when are we going to meet Mrs. Lavery?"

"Mrs. Lavery? My wife has been dead for many years."

"I realize that, but Christine said-"

"Oh right, the "Mrs. L" that Christine was referring to, I could see where that would be confusing. She was actually referring to a patient of mine, Mrs. Lockhead. She's been a patient for many years and Christine and she have grown quite chummy."

"Yes, well, why would she be telling you that her bags were packed? Why would you be vacationing with one of your patients," Ashton interrupts.

Edmund explains that she's to be doing an extended treatment and is actually staying overnight at the hospital. He tells them that ever since Loretta died, he hasn't been able to even consider marriage or even falling in love. He explains that when she died, a part of him went with her. Kelly sympathizes, saying that her first husband died as well and she wasn't sure if she'd ever get over it. She wraps her arms around Ashton.

"But when I laid eyes on this son of yours, that truly all changed. I haven't been very lucky in love, Dr. Lavery, but Ashton....Ashton changed all that."

She kisses him on the cheek. Ashton asks her if she wouldn't mind excusing them, as he would like a few minutes alone with his father. Kelly obliges, and gives them their privacy.

"Alright father, she's gone now. You mind telling me what's actually going on here?"

"Why Ashton, I have no idea what you're-"

"Save it, dad. This is me you're talking to, I can tell when something is not right with you. Now are you going to fill me in on what you're up to? Or am I going to have to figure it out for myself?"

Edmund smiles his devious smile at his son, raising his eyebrow, but not opening his mouth.

(EXT: The Capwell Mansion)

-The doorbell rings and CC calls from upstairs for Rosa to answer it. Rosa opens the door and is caught off guard to see Elizabeth standing on the other side of it.

"Hello, Rosa is it? I'm here to see CC."

"Is he expecting you?"

"He is actually, may I come in? Oh I'm sorry, where are my manners, let me introduce myself, I'm Elizabeth Wayne," she says, extending her hand.

"Aye, I know who you are," Rosa replies, not returning the gesture.

"Well may I come in please?"

Rosa allows her inside, eyeing her as she walks past.

"My, what a lovely home, though I guess I shouldn't be surprised, given CC's taste."

"Actually, Sophia is the one who did most of the decorating."

"Yes, well, it's lovely nonetheless.

Rosa asks just what she's doing there and Elizabeth informs her that she doesn't think that CC would be too pleased with her telling the help about the reasons for their meeting. CC comes down the stairs and enters the living room.

"I see you two have met."

"Aye. Breakfast is working and should be ready in a couple minutes, so I best be getting to the kitchen, if there's nothing else."

"It was lovely meeting you, Rosa. I've heard so much about you."

Rosa ignores her and heads back into the kitchen. Elizabeth comments on how cold she was, and CC tells her that she's very protective of Sophia. She inquires about why he's asked her there exactly, as Rosa returns with breakfast, setting it on the table. CC tells her that he thought they should talk, especially after what happened the other day. Elizabeth tells him they where just caught up in the moment and that she's happily married to Keith. CC tries to say that it's more than that, but Elizabeth looks away.

"I know I hurt you all those years ago, hell, I know we both hurt you. Obviously, I had no idea that you were pregnant nor the abuse you were suffering from your father."

"Yes, well, how could you have known CC? He made sure that what went on in that house was kept secret from the rest of the world."

"But I should have picked up on it. And I'm sure it didn't help matters that I rejected you, that I toyed with your emotions. You know, I was facing pressure from my own father too- image, image was what was important to him, moreso than love. He was already displeased about the scandal my affair with Sophia caused, and with her being pregnant, he would have been livid if I didn't raise his grandson with her, let alone allow her to have it out of wedlock. But that doesn't make what I did to you right."

"I survived CC, I always do. Who knows if I would have got up the gumption to leave that house if you didn't marry her."

CC reiterates that it doesn't make what he did to her any more fair. He tells her that he was young and foolish and didn't realize how deeply he was effecting her. He also says that he continued carrying a torch for her, even after he married Sophia. He knew that she probably left because of him and he felt guilty.

"And when I saw you, in my office, all these years later, it all came rushing back. And now, Elizabeth, we have a second chance. A chance at happiness, to be together."

"We have no such thing. CC, while I admit it was wonderful to feel your touch again, to make love to you again, we're both very different people now. I'm not that naive young girl that you loved back then and you're not my fantastical knight in shining armor."

"No, we're both real people. Adults, who are imperfect, and have made mistakes. But when I look at you, when I look in your eyes..."

"But CC, would you even be saying any of this if my sister were still alive?"

CC is silent.

"That's what I thought."

She gets up to leave, but he stands up and takes her hand. He tells her that no, maybe none of this would be happening if Sophia were alive, but the fact is she isn't. She's gone and she isn't coming back. He tells her that Sophia would want him to move on, to be happy, and that no woman could ever take her place in his heart. But he has something that's different with Elizabeth, something special and worth fighting for. She again says she's married to Keith. He turns her around and tells him to look into his eyes, to look into his heart. He asks her if Keith has even once made her feel the way she did when they made love in that elevator. Her eyes well up with tears and she softly tells him no, he hasn't. He says that they could be so good together, if she just gave it half a chance. She tells him that they can't go back in time.

"Don't you see Elizabeth? I don't want to go back in time, I don't want to try and capture some old feeling that we once had. I want YOU, here and now, the woman that stands before me- beautiful, regal, smart, sophisticated. I want someone to share my life with, to share this beautiful home with. And no, I don't want a substitute for Sophia- I want something new and exciting. I want YOU, Elizabeth. Damn it, I want you!"

One of the tears in her eyes is released down her face.

"I want you too, CC. God help me, I want you too."

CC takes her face in his hand, wiping her tears away. He grabs her and passionately kisses her. She pulls back for a moment, looking into his eyes. She takes his face in hers and passionately kisses him back, as Rosa unnhapily looks on from the kitchen, turning and walking back in there.

Rosa looks up toward the ceiling. "He's making a mistake Sophia, a huge mistake. I wish you were here, my friend, to stop him...."

(EXT- LONDON, ENGLAND: Edmund's creepy castle)

-Sophia hurries Marcello into her room, asking if it's possible that anyone saw him. Marcello responds that he was very careful, and that Edmund is tied up with guests downstairs.

"Guests? Who could be down there? Was it an older woman, blonde hair, mixed accent?"

"No," Marcello responds, realizing she's talking about Pamela, "It's actually a young blonde woman and young man. They were here yesterday when I came by as well...."

"Yesterday? My GOD! Marcello, that's why he has me on this side of the mansion! He's afraid that they'll see me- what is he doing to me? Why does he want to keep me shut off from the rest of the world?"

"I'm not sure So...I mean, Loretta. But that's what we're going to find out. Are you ready to begin our session?"

Sophia nods affirmatively, telling him that she's anxious to get to the bottom of what exactly her husband is doing to her. Marcello sits her down and tells her to relax and clear her mind. He coaches her on her breathing, telling her that he's going to count down from 25, saying that when he gets to 1, her mind will be completely relaxed and she will be focused on nothing else but the sound of his voice. He begins counting as she breathes deeply. He gets to 1, snaps his fingers, and puts her in a completely tranquil state. He begins by asking her to go back to Christmas Eve, asking her what she sees.

She describes Eden's house and being around people she doesn't recognize. Suddenly, she sees CC and is confused and angry about his being there. She becomes agitated at the site of him, speaking of all the pain that he's caused her. Edmund then stops her, asking her to go to after the holidays. She remembers meeting with Edmund, but he's not calling her Loretta, he's calling her something else. She says that they're discussing some kind of treatment that she's going to keep hidden from her family. She then remembers New Year's Eve and seeing Pamela. She begins remembering their confrontation in the ladies room and losing her balance. Suddenly, there's a knock at the door.

"Mrs. L? Mrs. L? Are you decent?"

Marcello quickly runs and hides in the bathroom shower, unable to bring Sophia out of her hypnotic state before Christine enters. Christine sees Sophia sitting in her chair, with a serene, blank look on her face.

"Mrs. L, are you ok? I just came up to bring you your lunch..."

"I'm fine darling," Sophia says, almost robot-like

"Well where shall I set it? Here on the table? You know Dr. L is real sorry that he hasn't taken you to Greece yet like he promised to. He had me make your favorite- pasta primavera!"

"How could you do this to me? What have you done? I feel....so weak....why are you..."

"What the heck are you talkin about? You love pasta primavera and it's cooked perfectly..."

"He's MY husband! He loves ME! You can do whatever you like, say whatever you want, but nothing is going to change that...."

"What? I don't have designs on Dr. L! He'd never have me anyway! He loves you!"

"Get the hell out of here! Get out and leave me and my family alone, you BITCH!"

"Well I NEVER! I was just trying to bring you lunch- I'm not interested in stealing your man....I mean, I like bigger, burly guys. No offense, Mrs. L, but Dr. L's kind of a wimp..."

"Get the hell out of here and LEAVE ME ALONE!"

"Ok, ok, I'm goin, geesh! You don't gotta yell..."

Christine exits the room and is caught off guard when she bumps into Ashton in the hallway.

"Oh, Mr. Lavery, what are you doing here?"

"I was just checking out my old bedroom, Christine, I was curious to see what father had done with it."

"Oh, well isn't that nice? Well, come along, we best be getting downstairs...."

"In a minute, Christine. There's something else I wanted to see up here...."

She stands there staring at him, not moving. "You can run along, Christine. I lived here all my life you know, I know my way around...."

"But- I"

"Please, just go. My wife is probably starving right now and father is not pleased that his lunch hasn't been delivered at its usual time. You know how he gets...."

Christine obliges and heads downstairs. Once the coast is clear, Ashton goes to the door and creeks it open just a bit. He's shocked to see Sophia sitting in her chair, looking almost hypnotized.

"Sophia?" he says to himself, "Just what the hell is he up to now?"

THE END.....for today

I'm thrilled to announce that "Return to Santa Barbara" is back- OFFICIALLY! And no, it's not going to be another tease like last summer and fall- this is the real deal! I'm so sorry that it's taken me 4 years to go back to writing, but I just couldn't get back into the RTSB frame of mind. That, my fans and friends, is no longer a problem. I diligently re-read the ENTIRE blog this weekend and all of the storylines and characters are once again fresh in my mind. I know EXACTLY what I want to do with each story, much like I did before. And I gotta say, I'm on a roll now and I'm not stopping. In fact, you're gonna see anywhere between 5-8 episodes this week alone! I have some time on my hands this week and am going to work hard on this, continuing all the stories that you all grew to love so much. I think it would help many of you to re-read the blog from the beginning, as I have, to refresh your memories as to everything that's transpired from the get-go. I know it's A LOT to ask, but it will only enhance your enjoyment of the blog I think. I've Private Messaged all of my old readers to try and alert them, but if any of you keep in contact with them via email or otherwise, please let them know that RTSB is back......FOR REAL! I really want our little community to come back together, commenting on the episodes, and perhaps even do a radio show or 2. Wendy and Sherri are supposed to be working on my brand new opening credits, so if any of you know how to get in touch with them, please do so! I'm so excited I can hardly stand it. Now, for a little bit of casting news:

As you may have noticed, Jon Lindstrom (Mark), Renee Jones (Sherri), and Victoria Wyndham (Maureen) have been removed from the cast crawl. They will likely be returning in the near future, as the search for Mary's long-lost son FINALLY comes to a head! In other news, I've decided to bring back a character I dumped late into RTSB's previous run:

MATT CEDENO IS BACK AS RAFE CASTILLO!!!

I've decided to bring back the character of Rafe, since he left abruptly. At the time, I didn't feel I had room to devote to his character or his budding romance with Samantha, but I've changed my mind on that. Samantha is a staple character in this blog and it seems foolish to take away her love interest. Besides, I'm really liking the Samantha/Lily rivalry and this will only add to it. Yes, Lily seems to be tied up with Ted & Angela right now, but I'm writing that as more about her getting revenge on Angela than her still being in love with Ted. We'll find out that her heart still very much lies with Rafe, but is he interested in the person she's become? Does she still have his heart, or will Samantha be able to finally win him over? Tune in to find out....

Also, the younger set is going to be spicing up. I have A LOT of storylines going on, so it's going to be a slow roll, but the Steve/Adriana coupling will be shown more and more, and Brandon is going to add a surprise wrinkle to their budding romance. The Steve character will be explored much more- is this a man who is led by his heart or his wallet? We'll see just how far Steve is willing to go to get what he wants and just what is most important to him. As for Brandon, we're going to see that the resentments he harbors against some of the Capwells are going to consume him more & more. What exactly is he up to? Time will tell, but I will say that his storyline is going to draw very much on Santa Barbara's initial plot- the murder of Channing Capwell III. This is a very different Brandon from the little boy that we once knew and expect his storyline to slowly build into something huge. I'm very excited to be using him to draw on SB's original bible and I think it's a story that the Dobsons would be quite proud of.

As for my ongoing storylines, I refuse to give anything away but you CAN'T MISS AN EPISODE!! Two storylines are going to collide in a major way and I can't WAIT for the fallout of all that. But, for it to have the proper impact, you really can't miss an episode and truly, going back and re-reading the old episodes will help A LOT.

Miss a day. Miss a lot.

RETURN TO SANTA BARBARA is BACK!!!!

Only on SONBC.

Gina Gallego as Santana Andrade, A Martinez as Cruz Castillo, Carmen Duncan as Pamela Conrad, Nicolas Coster as Lionel Lockridge

(EXT: A Small Mexican Hospital)

-Santana stands outside Cruz's room, conferring with the doctor about his condition. The doctor tells her that he's showing signs of improvement, though he still hasn't been able to communicate at all. He questions her about why she's so personally involved in the patient, to which she replies that she's known him all of his life. She makes her way into the room, looking at the tray of untouched food. She sees that Cruz is awake and sits down beside the bed.

"Cruz......it's me, Santana.......you're in the hospital right now, you were in a terrible explosion......the doctors and I are going to take good care of you, but we need your help in that........I need you to drink this Ensure......it will help you get your strength back so that you can recover.......can you do that for me?"

Cruz just stares at her, looking back at the food, and then at her.

"I'm going to help you. Here," she says, bringing the straw up to his mouth, "Drink this. It has multiple vitamins in it that are going to help you regain your strength."

He turns his head the other way.

"Please Cruz....you need your strength.....would you just try.....for me?"

Cruz continues to just stare at her as she brings the straw up to his mouth once again. Finally, he begins to take a sip. He swallows it, and begins drinking some more, eventually finishing the whole thing. Santana smiles and tells him that she's proud of him. She begins to get up to leave, but he puts his hand out for hers. He tries to speak, but is unable to get anything out but a muffled sound. He begins to get very frustrated, but Santana sits down to calm him.

"Shhhhh, shhhhhh.....it's okay, Cruz. It's going to take time. And I'll be here with you, every step of the way. I promise you, you're going to get better, you're going to be 100% in no time, just trust me."

She smiles at him, as his face calms down and he lays back, drifting off to sleep.

(EXT: London, England)

-Augusta and Marcello lurk outside of the castle, trying to get a peek inside the window without being seen. They are stunned when they see Kelly and Ashton sitting inside with Edmund. Augusta turns to Marcello and tells him this is his chance to be alone with Sophia and try to get her out of there. He agrees, though he wonders how he's going to get inside and find Sophia without being detected.

"Oh please, Marcello, the way you used to slink around Santa Barbara undetected? I'm sure this will be child's play to you."

"I was a lot younger then Augusta."

"I'm sure you'll figure something out. Especially if it's for your precious Sophia."

Meanwhile, upstairs, Sophia questions Christine about why she's been moved to the East Wing of the house. Christine insists that it's only because they're painting the main area of the castle and Edmund didn't want her exposed to the fumes, especially so soon after coming out of her coma.

"Ok, I'll buy that. But why then are we not leaving for Greece like he discussed with me last night? Since he's having this work done on the house and booked these tickets, it would seem as though he'd be anxious to go, as he was last night. What's changed between then and now?"

"Dr. L had an emergency with one of his patients- it was a matter of life and death. Believe me, Mrs. L, he'd like nothing more than to be in Greece with you right now, but he didn't have a choice in the matter."

"It just seems odd to me, that's all. Especially since this is all happening after Mr. Armonti came by and told me of there being no records of me in England. And now, all of a sudden, he's got me sequestered by myself on the opposite side of the castle? Does he not trust me, Christine? Does he not trust that I love him with all my heart and never would do anything to hurt him?"

"Of course he does, Mrs. L, I think you're just overreacting is all. Now if there's nothing else, I have some things to tend to downstairs. But don't worry, Mrs. L, Dr. L loves you more than anything in this world and there's really nothing for you to be concerned about."

Christine exits, leaving Sophia alone in the room.

"I'm beginning to wonder just what kind of man my husband is...."

As she's about to turn around to go back into her room, she sees Marcello coming down the hallway. She begins to say something but he quickly motions for her to keep quiet, as she leads him into her room.

(EXT: Santa Barbara Courthouse)

-Eden and Julia are shown exiting the courtroom, completely stunned by what's just transpired. Marta, Carla, and Angel walk up behind them, with disappointed looks on their faces.

"What does this mean Julia? Please tell me these bastards aren't going to get away with what they did to my little girl..."

"I understand you're upset, Angel, believe me, I am too. But it was just a bail hearing. Quite frankly, I honestly didn't expect that they'd be granted bond, but their lawyer pulled it off somehow. It seems they've promised something to the FBI, what that is, I'm not exactly sure. But I'm betting money that it has to do with the case against Carlos Esteban."

"But Julia, really, we know that this kidnapping probably had nothing to do with Carlos and everything to do with Cruz. What information could they possibly have?" Eden inquires.

Julia insists she's not sure what they're up to. Just then, Vic comes out of the courtroom and the five of them swarm him. Julia asks just what exactly is going on, how is it that these guys are getting out on bail. Vic confirms their suspicions that they've agreed to cooperate and testify against Carlos, thereby cementing the state's case against him.

"They didn't know a damn thing about Carlos, except for what I filled them in on. I'm telling you detective, those idiots knew nothing about Esteban, I could tell by the way they reacted when I mentioned his name..." Marta insists.

"And you guys have my testimony against Esteban, isn't that enough? What the hell did I do all of this undercover work for, if you were just going to end up needing more testimony? I don't see why they're needed at all!" Angel interjects

Vic explains that the more testimony they have against Esteban, the stronger their case becomes. Marta insists that those guys don't know a thing and are taking the FBI and the state for a ride, but Vic tells her without concrete proof of that, they have to do whatever they can to nail Carlos. Eden grows frustrated, saying she's not going to let them get away with what they're doing. Just then, the group turns to see Bobby & Cisco being walked out of the courtroom. Before Vic & Angel can restrain them, Eden and Marta walk right up to them.

"Don't you think for a second this is over! You two will not get away with this and so help me, I'll do whatever I have to do to find out what happened to my husband. You know who my father is? CC Capwell- he's a very powerful man in this town, with plenty of connections. And believe me, when someone hurts his eldest daughter, he's not afraid to play dirty. If I were you two, I'd watch my back."

"Ma'am, I'm sorry, but all we've done is tell the truth..." Cisco responds

"Oh you may have fooled the police but you ain't foolin me," Marta interrupts, "I was there and the three of us all know what really happened and what you two did and did not know. Trust me when I say, I ain't afraid of either one of you morons. My dad may not be worth millions, but we know plenty of people on the street. I know plenty of people that would slice your throats without thinkin twice about it. So you may be free, but don't think for a second that you're safe. At least, not from me."

Bobby and Cisco smile their dirty smiles at them, as their lawyer leads them out of the courtroom to fill out paperwork. Marta can barely contain her anger and fights back tears, as Carla hugs and comforts her. Eden and Julia assure them that they're not going to let those thugs get away with what they've done.

(EXT: Lionel & Augusta's London flat)

-Augusta knocks at her own door, as she's going through her purse trying to find her keys. She finally gets them out and opens the door.

"Lionel, I'm home, and there's some things we need to-"

She's stopped in her tracks as she sees Pamela standing in front of her, with Lionel directly behind her. Augusta is so stunned that she's rendered speechless for a moment.

"Pamela, what in God's name are you doing here?"

"Actually, she was just about to fill me in on that," Lionel responds, "Isn't that right Pamela?"

"Correct you are Lionel. Why don't you have a seat Augusta? I'm sure this is something you'll want to hear as well"

FLASH TO

-Marcello and Sophia, seated in her room. Sophia tells him how she told Edmund of his suspicions, but he had a logical explanation for why there are no records of her existence in England. Marcello asks if she believed him, and she responds that she did at first, but his behavior since then has made her question him.

"Why is that? What has he done since you told him of the information I gave you?"

"Well first, he tried to get me to go away to Greece with him- we were to leave this morning. I was weary about the trip, and even feigned a headache to try to get out of it, but he was insistent. Then, all of a sudden, not only are we not going on the trip, but he moved me out of our room and has me staying in the opposite wing of the house. He claims that he's having the other side of the house painted and doesn't want me exposed to the fumes, and Christine told me he has an emergency with his patient, which is why the trip has been postponed, but..."

"You don't believe them."

Sophia shakes her head.

"You're absolutely right not to trust them Loretta. Something clearly isn't right here. I want to help you figure things out, to get to the truth, but I need you to trust me. Can you do that Loretta? Can you trust me?"

Sophia nods that she does. Marcello insists to her that Edmund must not know of their meetings, that if he finds out, both of them could be in danger.

"I really don't think it's that serious, Marcello. Lying or not, Edmund loves me, I can tell by the way he looks at me, and would never harm me..."

"I'm telling you, Loretta, he would. He claims you've been in a coma for over 30 years....think about that, Loretta. Have you ever heard of anyone besides Rumpelstiltskin that has ever been in a coma for so long?"

"No, but..."

"Exactly, because it's unheard of. Did you ever think there could be another explanation? Maybe Dr. Lavery was purposely keeping you in this coma? Or perhaps everything he's told you since you woke up has been an outright lie."

A look of shock comes over Sophia's face, as it dawns on her that Marcello could very well be right. He tells her that he used to be a psychiatrist and would like to use hypnosis to help her remember what actually happened to her. Sophia agrees, and they begin planning how they're going to hide their sessions from Edmund.

FLASH TO

-Santana, on the phone with Angel. He tells her what's going on with the kidnapping case and warns her that Cruz could be in even worse danger than he was before. Santana insists to him that's why he needs to keep quiet about Cruz being alive and probably shouldn't be contacting her. Angel says he's going to continue to keep tabs on she and Cruz, but is going to be very careful about when he does. Just then, a nurse comes running to Santana, saying that the patient is speaking and asking for his wife. Santana hangs up on Angel.

"Oh no..."

She hurriedly goes toward Cruz's room and walks in on him berating the doctor, asking to speak with his wife. The doctor says he has no idea who Cruz is talking about as Santana walks up to the bed, asking what's going on.

"Nevermind, doc," Cruz says, "there she is right there..."

FLASH TO

-Bobby receiving a call from his boss on his cell phone. Bobby asks how they're going to pull off testifying against Carlos when they don't know much on the case. The muffled voice tells him that all the information they need will be sent to them.

"But what about the cop's wife, that Eden bitch? She ain't gonna stop boss til she tracks you down..."

"Well then we're just going to have to give her what she wants, aren't we?"

"I don't understand what you mean..."

"It's quite simple- you're going to meet with her. Tell her you want no cops involved, just she and Cranston. And you're going to sit her down and explain everything to her, finally once and for all giving her the name of the man who took her precious Cruz away."

"I don't understand- who's name am I going to be giving her? She ain't gonna believe a thing I say..."

"Oh she'll believe this- because you're going to tell her the truth. You're going to tell her that it was ME that set up Cruz and ME that murdered him. When she hears my name, she'll know damn well that you're being honest with her."

The man hangs up the phone and the camera zooms in on his left hand, and his ring.

THE END...........FOR TODAY

Wolf Muser as Marcello Armonti, Louise Sorel as Augusta Lockridge, Lane Davies as Mason Capwell, Harley Jane Kozak as Dr. Mary Duvall

(EXT: A black Lexus driving down the California coast)

-Mary stares out the window looking somber, spotting a sign that says SANTA BARBARA 30 MILES. On the radio, they hear the report that Marta's kidnappers have been arrested and extradited back to Santa Barbara for a hearing in the morning.

"Eden must be relieved that they caught the men who were trying to kidnap Adriana," Mary says quietly.

"Unfortunately, it's not so simple- they haven't said a word about who put them up to it, nor have they given any information that would help the SBPD or the FBI figure out who murdered Cruz."

"Poor Eden. I guess we're all hitting dead ends this week."

"We're going to find him Mary. I promise you that."

Mary goes on about how she can't believe Mark did this to her- first, he rapes her. Then he lets Mason and all her loved ones go on thinking she's dead for 4 years, all the while trying to get her out of the coma that he's in.

"But for him to deliver my child and put him into the foster system......My God, he let me think my son was dead! And he didn't give a damn when I woke up, he didn't care about the pain and the grief that he caused me. And here we are, 20 years later, piecing it all together, and he sends us on this wild goose chase, filled with misinformation. He had us thinking it was a girl, when in reality, it was a baby boy. He claimed to have loved me for all those years- you'd think he'd want me raising OUR SON, if he cared about me so much. He's out there somewhere, Mason. He's out there and God only knows what he thinks. He doesn't even know how much I love him, how much I miss him, and all those years that were robbed of us..."

Mason tells her he truly believes, in his heart, that the baby she was carrying was his all along. He reminds her that she was 2 months further along than she was led to believe. Plus, it seems much more likely that he wouldn't want Mary to have anything to do with her son with Mason. He reminds her that Mark didn't want to give up his rights to the baby when she was pregnant years ago and the only reason he can think of that Mark would give them up now is if the child wasn't his at all.

"I hate him Mason, God, I hate him for what he's done to me, what he's done to us, all that he's robbed us of."

"He's gonna pay Mary. Mark my words, if it's the last thing I do, I'm going to make him pay."

(EXT: London, England- The DiMonde Estate)

-Augusta peels up the driveway to the DiMonde mansion, screeching her tires as she slams on her breaks. She hurriedly jumps out of the car and hands her keys over to the valet, running up to the front door. She begins furiously ringing the doorbell, until the butler answers the door.

"Augusta Lockridge, I need to see Marcello Armonti immediately!"

Before the butler can breathe a word, Marcello emerges from the living room and Augusta runs toward him.

"Augusta, what's the matter? You're running as though your life depends on it."

"It very well may, Marcello, is there somewhere that we can speak privately?"

Marcello nods and walks her to the study. He pours her a glass of water and asks her what's got her so frantic.

"It's Edmund- Marcello, Sophia is in grave danger, worse than I thought."

"I realize that and I'm working on it- I was there earlier today, speaking with her. I think she actually listened to me- I told her there are no records of a Loretta Lavery and that Lady DiMonde is quite concerned."

"We have to do much more than that and quickly. He came to my flat today and he threatened me. He knows that I set the whole thing up, that I sent the invitations to the castle, knowing that you were the guest of honor and that you'd recognize Sophia. Don't you see? We have to act fast, or he's going to take off with her and we may never find her."

"But how? How could he have known that you set it up? How does he already realize that I know Sophia?"

"Two words for you- Pamela Conrad."

Marcello asks what Pamela has to do with anything and Augusta explains that she's in cahoots with Edmund and basically handed him Sophia on a silver platter. She tells him that they both are getting some kind of sick revenge- she on Sophia, and Edmund on CC. She explains to him Edmund's history with CC, how CC had an affair with his wife, Loretta, and ended up giving her the cold shoulder the first time Sophia "died", causing Loretta to commit suicide. Edmund never recovered from his wife's death, as she gave birth to his only son, and that's why he's become fixated on Sophia, who he's turned into Loretta. Augusta worries that if Sophia even begins to get her actual memory back and realize that she's not actually Loretta, that Edmund will snap and kill her.

"My God! We have no choice then, we have to go to CC and tell him, immediately. It's the only way we're going to get her out of there."

"We can't do that. We have to do this on our own."

"But why? I may not like CC, but I'm willing to put our differences aside for the sake of-"

"WE CAN'T! I'm sorry, but we just can't, otherwise Pamela will tell Edmund everything, everything that I've kept hidden all these years."

"Hidden? What are you talking about?"

"Pamela KNOWS! She knows that........she knows that....."

"What? Augusta, spit it out, please!"

"That Edmund is Warren's real father!"

(EXT: The Capwell Hotel)

-The camera zooms in on Angela's phone, showing a text message from Lily that says "I know everything- meet me at The Lair at 10 O'Clock and if you don't show up, Ted will know everything as well" Angela's face is clearly panic-sticken, as she wonders to herself why Warren hasn't shown up yet. Finally, she sees Warren approaching the desk and she hurriedly motions for him to come into her back office.

"Alright Angela, what was so urgent that I had to drop everything and-"

She cuts him off by holding the phone up to his face.

"That's what's so urgent, Warren. She knows. Lily knows everything."

Warren reads the message and tells her to calm down, saying there's no way that Lily could know anything that's going on. He says that the only people that were in the room when they made love were he & her and he hasn't opened his mouth to anyone, let alone Lily.

"Then what the hell could she possibly be talking about Warren? She MUST know..."

"It could be anything- she could just be playing games with you. We both know how she's lived to taunt you ever since you pulling that switcheroo on what was supposed to be her wedding day."

"I don't know Warren, what if somehow, she figured it out?"

"How could she have figured anything out? I haven't said anything to her, you haven't said anything to her. I'm telling you, she's bluffing. She's just trying to see if you show up, if you do have something to hide, and then she's just going to try and figure out what that is. I'm telling you Angela, she's just trying to get a reaction out of you. Don't give it to her."

Angela calms down, realizing that he's probably right. However, she says that she's going to show up, if only to be sure. Otherwise, she'll drive herself crazy. Warren assures her that Lily doesn't have a clue and as long as they both keep their mouths shut, she never will.

"Frankly, I don't see why you're trying so desperately to hold on to Ted Capwell anyway. The guy's a jerk, especially the way he'd been treating you."

"I love him Warren. And things have been much better between us lately- he was just going through a rough time because of Sophia's death and didn't know how to deal with it. But he's back to his old self and our marriage has never been stronger."

Warren tells her that he hopes Ted realizes how lucky he is to have someone like her in his life, putting up with all of this crap. He says most women wouldn't dream of it. She thanks him, telling him he has a way of always making her feel good about herself. She looks up at the clock and realizes she better be going, if she's going to meet Lily's deadline.

(EXT- The LAIR)

-The camera is zoomed in on Lily's cell phone, showing the same time that Angela just saw on her clock. Lily flashes back to witnessing Warren and Angela making love, and recording it on her phone. A smile comes across her face as she daydreams.

"Oh Lord," Samantha says, approaching, "Had Steve or Brandon mentioned YOU were here, I never would have come out."

"Not to worry, Samantha, I'm meeting someone, so I'll be out of your way in just a couple of minutes."

"Friend or foe?" Samantha inquires.

"Not that it's any of your business, but foe, if you must know."

"What a silly question for me to have asked. As if you have any friends in this town!" Samantha cackles.

Before Lily can come back with a bitchy remark, Brandon walks up to them from behind the bar, asking if they're behaving themselves. They give each other a look, clearly indicating that they're not. Steve walks up to Lily with her drink and kisses Samantha hello, asking her what she'd like. She orders, and he goes down the bar to mix her drink.

"Wow, what's the story with the gorgeous new bartender, Brandon?"

"Hands off, Lily," Samantha interrupts, "Adriana's claimed her stake on that one."

"Well I don't see her anywhere around here," Lily says, ignoring her, "So what's his story Brand-O?"

Brandon tells her that he's sort of a mystery. She inquires about his family and Samantha jumps in, saying he doesn't have one.

"It's a just a question, Samantha, relax. I'm not trying to steal him from Princess Adriana or anything- I'm just curious."

Brandon explains that Samantha is telling the truth, that he has no family to speak of. He elaborates, saying that his father is in prison and his mom died giving birth. Steve has been bounced from foster home to foster home his entire life, until he left the system and went on his own. She remarks how sad it is, though she can relate, considering she went off on her own at a young age, leaving Gina to become an evangelist.

"Yes, and then conning my father soon after, we know your lame history, Lily, and it doesn't compare. Steve here is actually trying to do something decent with his life, not convince suckers that God speaks through him so long as they cut him a check."

"Though you can cut the check anyway, if you like," Steve says, setting Samantha's drink in front of her.

Samantha apologizes for talking about his private life to Lily, but Steve insists that it's fine. It's the truth, after all, and he has nothing to hide. Steve's eyes twinkle as he looks up at Brandon after saying it. Suddenly, Lily feels a tap on her shoulder. Samantha turns around and sees Angela.

"I take it this is your foe?" Samantha laughs

"Alright, Lily, I'm here. Can we get this over with please? I have far more important things to do than waste my time listening to your nonsense."

"Oh, I doubt you'll find it to be a waste of time, once you hear what I have to say. Come, let's sit."

Angela asks Steve to bring a martini over to her table, saying she's going to need a stiff drink for this. The two ladies walk over to their table and take a seat.

"Ok Lily, just come out with it. I've had a long day, and Ted is waiting for me at home. In our bed."

"I'd think twice before taunting me today, if I were you Angela. I think you're going to be very interested in what I have to say.....or show you...."

"Show me? What on Earth could you have to show me Lily? Perhaps a white flag? Since, you know, I stole Ted from you months ago, not that you ever had him."

"And I highly doubt that you'll have him much longer, not that it matters to you."

"Would you just come out with it? Ted and I have made a lifelong commitment to one another, one that you cannot break- and of course that matters to me. I love my husband, and take our marriage, and my vows, quite seriously."

Lily bursts out into laughter.

"What's so funny?"

"Oh, Angela, you are my dear. God, you're hilariously. You take your vows seriously? That's got to be the funniest thing I've heard all day."

"If you brought me here just to poke and prod and hope to get something out of me so you can go running to Ted again, then I'm so sorry to disappoint you. Haven't you humiliated yourself enough? You've already tried this before, when you had me investigated and proved to him that I planned on sabotaging your wedding all along. Yet, not only did he not care, but he was thrilled! Thrilled that I saved him from you!"

"And I hope he'll be just as thrilled when I save him from you...."

"Are we going to do this dance all night? This little routine of yours has grown quite tiresome over the past few months and frankly, I'm not going to indulge it any longer. Now if you'll excuse me..." Angela gets up and begins to walk away when Steve hands her the martini.

"Sit down, Angela," Lily scolds.

Angela refuses and continues walking, until Lily grabs her arm and twirls her around, causing her to spill some of her drink on her dress. Before Angela can say anything, Lily pulls out her cell phone and pulls up the video menu. When she gets to the video she wants, she orders Angela to hit the play button.

"Oh, Lily, really, I mean what on Earth could you possibly have on there that I'd be even remotely interested in?"

"I think you'll find this very interesting," Lily says, as she pushes the play button herself.

Angela gives an annoyed look as the video starts playing, not realizing what it is. All of a sudden, the video zooms in on her face, and then Warren's, and her face begins to go from annoyed to horrified. When she sees them tearing each other's clothes off, kissing, and Warren throwing her on the bed, Angela drops her glass on the floor and covers her mouth.

"I see I got your attention," Lily smiles.

THE END..................for TODAY

Joann Walsh- Kim Rhodes

Dr. Edmund Lavery- Charles Keating

Ashton Lavery- Clive Robertson

Christine Gorrow (Edmund's maid)- Gretchen Oehler

(EXT: London, England)

-Edmund is completely shocked to see his Ashton and, more importantly, Kelly at his door. He tries to keep his composure as he invites them inside. He walks them to the living room and sits them down on the couch.

"Why Kelly, you are even more beautiful than my son described you. I believe he was holding out on me."

"Well thank you, Dr. Lavery. I'm so happy to finally meet you, it's just unfortunate you couldn't be at our wedding. Not that anyone could- it was so sudden, even my own family wasn't able to attend."

"I'm sure your father was disappointed not to get to walk his beautiful daughter down the aisle," Edmund smiles, looking at Ashton. "I know I would be if it were my daughter's wedding."

"Yes, well he's been able to do it the first few times. But disappointed would be an understatement, if you knew my father...."

Kelly pauses.

"Ashton mentioned to me that you lived in Santa Barbara many years ago. Did you know my father, perhaps? He's quite prominent in society there."

Edmund smiles his sneering smile once again, but before he's able to answer, Christine enters the room with a tray of drinks.

"Oh, Dr. L- Mrs. L wanted me to let you know that she's finished packing for your...."

"Christine! May I speak with you outside please," Edmund interrupts. "Won't you excuse me for a moment."

As the door shuts, Kelly looks at Ashton.

"Mrs. Lavery? You didn't tell me your father had remarried- when did that happen?"

"That's what I'd like to know," Ashton mutters.

Edmund hurries Christine down the hall and admonishes her.

"You twit! You could have ruined everything! If Kelly finds out.....my God, if Ashton even found out...they were NOT supposed to know about our Mrs. Lavery."

"Well how the heck was I supposed to know? She's all packed and ready for your trip..."

"I know, I know, I heard you the first time. There's been a change of plans."

Edmund instructs Christine to take Loretta (Sophia) to another room in the far east wing and ready a room for Ashton & Kelly on this side of the house. He tells her that it's imperative that Loretta not see Ashton or Kelly and that he cannot chance them running into her or even hearing her. He tells her to serve her some herbal tea and put in the special ingredient to make her sleepy. When Christine once again asks about their trip, he tells her to explain to Loretta that they'll be leaving the next morning instead and that the west wing is being painted tonight, which is why they'll be staying on the east side of the house. They hear Loretta (Sophia) making her way down the hall upstairs & approaching the staircase. Edmund orders Christine to stop her and get her to the other side of the castle immediately.

"I've worked and waited too long to let Kelly Capwell spoil this for me. I will NOT let another Capwell take Loretta from me again."

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

-Gina sits at her desk, speaking to distributors about her latest Gina Jeans line. She demands that they be patient, that the collection is going to be her biggest one yet and will be worth the wait. They insist on meeting with her that day and she tells them that she's overloaded with work on getting the line out and that they'll have to be patient with her. When they start threatening to yank Capwell Enterprises' account with them, she relents and tells them she'll meet them for lunch at the Oasis in an hour. As she hangs up the phone, she notices Joann is standing in her office.

"Don't you know how to knock? I'm a little busy here, in case you couldn't tell. Now, if you don't mind...."

"Feeling a little overwhelmed, Gina?"

"Nothing I couldn't handle, if people in this office were doing their jobs. Why were the distributors not told that the collection was moved from summer to November? Why were my fabrics not ordered? And why the hell haven't I seen Angela in days? She's supposed to be working with me on this..."

"Angela is needed at the hotel at the moment, didn't Kathleen tell you? She's taken over for Kelly during her trip to London."

"Nobody told me ANYTHING! How am I supposed to have this collection ready in just a few weeks if she's not here to do her job? Who's replacing her?"

"No one is replacing her, Gina, you're just going to have to make do like the rest of us are in her absence."

"Make do? I'm designing an ENTIRE COLLECTION! Now I'm meeting with distributors, ordering fabrics, checking inventory...What's next? I'll be in charge of the advertising, marketing, and PR as well?"

"PR? That's a laugh Gina. Do you honestly think we'd be so foolish as to allow you to do anything related to public relations? We want this collection to be a success as much as you do. But with the economy the way that it is, we all have added much to our load. You're just going to have to be a big girl and deal with it like the rest of us, k?"

"Deal with it?" Gina stands up. "How about you deal with this you smug little bit..."

Before she can go after Joann, Kathleen enters the office and informs Gina that Keith is there to see her.

"Doesn't anyone in this damn office know how to knock? Send him in."

Kathleen turns around and waves Keith in as Joann walks toward the door. Joann acknowledges Keith as she passes him in the entranceway. Gina yells at her as she leaves.

"Don't think for a second I'm through with you, Jo-Anna Wintour!"

Keith laughs at her ferocity. "Do you have these clever nicknames for every woman in town?"

"Just the ones I hate......which is most of them," she deadpans, "Speaking of which, what is taking so long with Morticia? I thought you'd have surely started blackmailing her your little porn of her & CC by now."

"Patience my little banana muffin, patience. We have to wait until the time is right...."

"What time? What difference does time make Keith? You wanna know what I think? I think you're stalling. I think you like this idea of having your cake and eating it too- you get to make me crazy and go home & make love to the Real Frigid Housewife of Santa Barbara...."

Keith tries to calm her down, but to no avail. She insists that he start the blackmailing process and start it now. Otherwise, she tells him, she will.

"Actually, that's what I was here to talk to you about. I have a present for you."

He hands her a perfectly wrapped thin square. She holds it and looks at him, annoyed.

"Well......go ahead butterscotch........open it....."

"It doesn't look like jewelry..."

"It isn't. It's much better than jewelry. And far more valuable."

Excited and entice, she tears it open, but is disappointed to see it's just a DVD.

"I suppose this is your little porno..."

"Our little porno, my pet, the one that's going to make us millions! Surprise! I won't be the one blackmailing Lizzie-Bit- I've bestowed the honor on you my love. So.....what do you say....."

"Keith Timmons..........what do I say?.......I say this crappy day just got a whole lot.......RICHER!"

She runs up to him and passionately kisses him. They explode into laughter as the camera zooms in on their devilish faces.

THE END.............FOR TODAY!!!

Okay guys, as nervous as I am to do it, it's time. I have decided to bring back "Return to Santa Barbara" and finish what I started nearly 4 years ago. I know it's been a while and the interest may not still be there, but I'm gonna go for it anyway. For the next couple weeks, I'm going to re-read the blog from beginning to end to help refresh my memory about where I was in the storylines. I still have the same ideas in my head of how I want things to play out but I need to see how far I've gotten in each story. I took the liberty of deleting all of the entries post-July, as I did a flash forward that I never intended to do in the first place. The stories will go back to the regular pacing that I had originally mapped out. I am very excited to do this again & I hope that some of you will return to go along on this ride with me. To all who were hooked before- I sincerely apologize for leaving you all hanging and I hope this will make up for it. I hope to see all my girls (and guys) here again for all the fun. So Sherri, Shannon, Viktoria, Melissa, Teri, Nanc, Dawn, Roman, Amello, Wendy, and everyone I forgot to mention- I hope to see you back here. Spread the word you guys! "Return to Santa Barbara" is coming back with a vengeance! Expect to see new episodes beginning in late May/early June, though I'll be sure to keep you posted. In the meantime, how about you all join me in Re-Reading the old ones to get us all refreshed for the new ones??!? CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU ALL AGAIN......and re-launch the 2007 Best Drama Series SONBC Award-winning serial "Return to Santa Barbara!"

Coming Soon.......

without further adieu= I present my SB top 5s

ACTOR:

1. Justin Deas

2. Lane Davies

3. A Martinez

4. Roscoe Born

5. Jed Allan

ACTRESS:

1. Marcy Walker

2. Judith McConnell

(tie). Nancy Lee Grahn

3. Robin Mattson

4. Harley Kozak

5. Carrington Garland

COUPLE:

1. Cruz & Eden

2. Mason & Mary

3. Mason & Julia

4. Robert & Kelly

5. Keith & Gina

As I'm sure all of you have noticed, I've been pretty much MIA lately. I'm super-busy with my job at the moment and probably will be through the summer. Therefore, I've decided to hold off all new episodes until late August/early September. Thank you all for your continued interest & support and I hope to see you all here when RTSB returns.

And believe you me, it will. Contrary to what you may have heard, I have NOT lost interest in the blog and it will continue!!!

Look for some future postings about upcoming stories, and some news items, as a few changes will be made. We are NOT re-launching- the story will resume from where we left off. Again, thanks SO much to my readers and I sincerely hope you will continue to be readers when RTSB returns!!!!

It's been a busy week, but there will be new RTSB episodes up today & on Sunday. Sorry for the delay- busy, busy!!! I promise to post more frequently. I pledge that there will be at least 3 episodes every week from here on out. Also, starting next week, I'll be updating the WEEKLY SCHEDULE every Monday, as I had in the past. I miss RTSB too and still have TONS to play out.

Hang in there guys! <img src="http://boards.soapoperanetwork.com/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/smile.gif" style="vertical-align:middle" emoid="" border="0" alt="smile.gif" />

http://santabarbara-online.com/GeneriqueDebutUS.rm

GET SB ON TV!!!

(EXT: London, England)

----Edmund arrives home and immediately begins calling for Loretta. Sophia walks out and greets her husband, asking him what he's so excited about. He tells her that he's had a fantastic day and was able to put in for his vacation. He pulls out two tickets from his pocket.

"What are those?"

"Our airline tickets- I have a villa in Greece, beautiful, right on the beach. The most beautiful beach you've ever seen in your life. You've been couped up in this house long enough since your recovery, don't you think?"

"Greece, huh. Why now?"

"Why not now, what do you mean? I've been given the vacation time, you're healthy & stable now- we should be out enjoying life and enjoying each other. I thought you'd be happy about this."

"I am. I'm just surprised, that's all- you didn't mention anything like this last night or even this morning," Sophia replies.

"You don't sound as though you're happy. Is something wrong? Is it the trip? Or was it something else?"

"I'm fine, I'm just a little tired is all. I was a little light-headed earlier, but I think I'm alright. When are we supposed to be leaving on this trip?"

"Tonight, in about 4 hours."

"Well that is sudden, isn't it? I'm not sure I'm up for making a trip like that tonight...... Couldn't we change the ticket for tomorrow? Or later in the week?"

"Since it was so last minute, I was lucky to get even that- I can't change it now!"

"I'm sorry, but you may have to- if I can't make the trip darling, then I can't make the trip," Sophia says, then suddenly brings her hand to her head.

"Loretta- are you alright?"

"I'm fine, fine. I think I'm going to lay down for a little while. Maybe I'll feel better when I get up."

She walks up the stairs to her room. Edmund starts heading for the study when he spots Christine. He takes the opportunity to ask her if Loretta has been acting unusually at all today.

"Yeah, Dr. L, now that you mention it, she has. Ever since Dr. Armonti left,-"

"Dr Armonti? Marcello was here?"

"Yeah, Mrs L and he were talking for a while and when he left, she was sitting in the chair, sort of slumped over like. She said she was ok, but I could tell somethin was wrong. Ya think Dr. Armonti upset her? Where is Mrs. L anyway?"

"Upstairs lying down. Thanks for your help, Christine. If you would, please make up a batch of your herbal tea for Mrs. Lavery. Tell the other staff members to pack her things for her and to pack for myself as well. We'll be staying at the villa in Greece, so pack plenty of light clothing."

Edmund walks into his study and pours himself a snifter of brandy. He drinks it down and an angry look comes over his face. Suddenly, he shatters the snifter in his hand and draws blood.

(EXT: Baja, Mexico)

----Kirk stands outside of the police station, desperately trying to complete a phone call. He's annoyed when he gets the person's voice mail but re-iterates that he's been trying to call about the Angel Ramirez problem.

Inside, Angel, Marta, and Eden continue to wait in the lobby for an update on the interrogation.

"They've been in there for hours- What could be taking so long?" she says, annoyed.

"Wearin em down. They ain't just gonna come out and talk- we're talkin career criminals here- it's just the way it is. They gotta push em, negotiate with em."

"You would know."

"Yeah, he would know," Marta says, jumping in, "What is your point? My father has done everything he can to help, short of giving his own life. And you still treat him like he's trash."

"If your father didn't play switcheroo with the maps and defy the police, my husband would be here with me right now."

"WE don't know that and even if we did, let me tell you somethin that I know- if my dad hadn't done what he did, I wouldn't be standing here at all. Is that fair? Would you be investigatin this hard then? Would my kidnappers even be in custody if this didn't all boil down to a case about someone that Eden Capwell cared about?"

They're interrupted when Julia and Vic emerge from the interrogation. Kirk sees them walk in and flies through the door.

"Well? Did they tell you the truth? Did they tell you who did this to me?' he says, approaching the group.

"Will you shut up?" Eden yells "Did they talk Julia? Did they tell you who did this to Cruz?"

Julia barely looks at Eden, unable to say anything.

"Come on, Julia, what is it? Vic? What happened in there?"

"Nothing. Nothing happened, unfortunately. We're extraditing them back to Santa Barbara tomorrow morning and taking them before the judge for arraignment. At that time, the judge will decide whether to grant bail."

"He wouldn't do that, would he? I mean, they found these guys in Mexico, and kidnapping's a federal offense! You didn't offer them any kind of deal? Julia?'

"I received a phone call from the DA's office. According to them, it's a federal case and therefore, we don't have the jurisdiction to offer them immunity. The best that we were allowed to offer was a reduced sentence of 10 years, which we did and they declined."

"And the bail hearing?"

"Lyman is a good attorney. There's a chance that they'll be granted bail, but I'd imagine they would be watched and monitored 24 hours a day."

"So in a matter of 2 days, you're telling me these guys could be out walking the streets again? And never breathing a word to anyone about who set up Cruz?"

"They're claiming that these are 2 isolated incidents and one has nothing to do with the other. At least, that's what their attorneys are saying. Bobby and Cisco didn't say a damn word!" Vic says. "Look, Eden, I know you're frustrated. I'm frustrated too, believe me- I want to get whoever did this to Cruz more than you know. But the law says that even guys like them are entitled to a defense and there's nothing I can do about that. I wish there were."

"I just can't fathom that whoever did this could get away with it. And they're laughing right now, at me, at the investigation, at my children, at all of it, and it makes me nauseous to think about it. I can't help it though- I think about it before I go to bed, in my dreams, every second of every day I think of this person and the kick they must be getting out of the misery that they have made my existence into. And until they're caught, until somebody is held responsible, I can't rest, no I WON'T rest, the same way Cruz would do if it were me that was set up. If these two low-lifes think that they're walking out of that jail tomorrow, they're in for a rude awakening. Because they haven't met Eden Capwell Castillo, yet, maybe don't even know who I am. But I promise you that after that hearing tomorrow morning, they'll be sorry they ever heard it."

(EXT: London, England- Edmund's Castle)

---Edmund finishes wrapping his hand up with gauze. He walks by the bedroom and sees "Loretta" sleeping in their bed. He goes in their room and gently strokes her cheek. She wakes up and is startled.

"My God, you scared me."

"You used to like it when I stroked your cheek to wake you."

"Yes, well, I was having a nightmare and........ do I feel warm? I almost feel feverish..."

Edmund puts his hand on her forehead. "You feel fine. I don't understand why you're acting so nervous around me today. There's no need to be, you know."

"I know that."

"Oh? Then why is it that you haven't seen fit to tell me that Marcello Armonti was here this afternoon?"

Sophia is stunned that Edmund knows about Marcello. She claims that the whole conversation was mostly a blur, since she wasn't feeling well. He again asks her why she never mentioned it.

"I didn't see any reason to- you came home and immediately, you were whisking me off to Greece. When was there time for me to tell you about a visitor that I had today?"

"Perhaps, but I don't want you to feel that you have to hide anything from me, Loretta. You're my wife for heaven's sake, I want you to feel that you can tell me anything."

He looks at her and kisses her on her forehead. He begins to walk out of the room when she stops him.

"There is something I'd like to ask."

"Oh? What's that?"

"How long was I in that coma for?"

"Now why would you ask something like that?"

"Dr. Armonti told me that Lady DiMonde was having me investigated and they found no records of my existence in London. How can that be, if I've been here with you throughout?"

Edmund explains that when he brought her to England, her condition was quite grim. The doctors who were treating her thought there was little to no hope and eventually, the hospital refused to continue its involvement in her case. Not being licensed in England at the time, it would have been illegal for him to treat her, so he kept everything off of the records and never declared her as a British citizen.

"But you're licensed now...."

"Yes, but that doesn't make what I did then any less illegal. You couldn't have been saved without proper treatment. So if you were alive 5, 10, even 20 years afterward, it proves I treated you then. I did what I had to do because I loved you and knew one day, you'd return to me, that I could save you if I persevered. And I did."

"Wait, wait a minute. I've been in this coma for how many years?"

"37 years, Loretta. 37 years. Why do you think I want to take you on this excursion? To get you away from all this? My God, I've lost out on all that time with you. All I want is to try and make up for even a fraction of what we lost. Is that awful? Maybe you don't understand. Perhaps to you, you might feel like you were only out for a few weeks. But for me, for me Loretta, it was a lifetime!"

----Downstairs, Christine is fixing Loretta's tea when she hears the doorbell. She walks into the foyer and looks around for Edmund and Loretta. When she doesn't see them, she opens the door, stunned to see who's there.

"Oh my God! Ashton? Little Ashton? Is it really you?"

"Hello Christine. Lovely to see you again."

"And who's this you have with you?"

"This, this Christine, is my sexy, beautiful, intelligent, sophisticated wife. Kelly Capwell, meet Christine Gorrow."

Kelly extends her hand. "How do you do?"

THE END........................for now

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(EXT: Baja, Mexico)

---Eden, Julia, Kirk, and Santana arrive at the station, where Angel is waiting for them in the lobby. He tells them that Vic & Paul just got there and are being briefed by the FBI. Eden asks him where Marta is and he explains that she's in back, giving another statement to the police. Eden apologizes for her behavior toward his daughter, but Angel is understanding, saying he cannot imagine what he would be like if he'd lost Carla in this way.

"What are you doing here Santana?" Angel wonders.

"It was Eden's idea. They're hoping that maybe I'll remember someone or something from the pier that could be important. Cruz and I grew up together, Angel. I care about him very much and want whoever did this to him to pay just as much as everybody else does."

"Nobody's implying that you don't, Santana," Julia says, noting her odd demeanor.

Vic then emerges from the back room and Eden runs right up to him.

"Well? What's going on? Are they talking?" she frantically asks him.

"Slow down, I haven't even gone in with them yet. The FBI have been unable to shake them thusfar and now, they're being represented by a well-regarded California attorney."

"Paid for, most likely, by the person that killed my husband. Great," Eden says, disappointed.

"While that may be true, Mr. Lyman, their attorney, is binded by California State Law to do whatever is in the best interest of their client. If we present an offer where it's in their best interest to confess and give us information, then Mr. Lyman has no choice but to advise them to talk. Julia- I need you in there with me. If we're going to make any kind of significant offer, they're going to want you to be present and signing off on it," Vic instructs

"What about me? I'd like to be there as well," Eden interrupts.

"That's not possible- the FBI wouldn't allow it and frankly, Eden, neither would I. You're not trained and you're highly emotional- the last thing you want is to say or do anything that puts this investigation in jeopardy. Trust us, we're gonna get em Eden. We will, but we're going to do it by the book."

"Vic's right," Julia affirms, "I know you want to be there and believe me, I understand it. I would be the same way in your position. But the fact remains that procedures need to be followed in order to ensure that we get this guy and put him behind bars."

"Santana, come with me. The investigators are ready to take your statement as well. Marta should be out momentarily."

Julia looks at Eden and assures her they'll do whatever they can to find out who killed Cruz. She takes her hands and promises her that she won't let Cruz's death go unpunished. Eden nods and releases her to go back. Kirk comes up to Eden and attempts to comfort her, but she shakes him off.

"Don't put your hands on me, don't even come near me. Nobody's exonerated you yet and even if they do, I wouldn't want your hands on me or near me ever again. You want to clear your name, fine- but our relationship, or rather, the hatred that I feel for you, that's never going to change."

She walks away from him and stares into the window, watching Vic, Julia, and Santana continue to walk back. Angel gives Kirk an inquisitive look.

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

---Gina sees a confused and seemingly upset Elizabeth leaving CC's office. Elizabeth attempts to make a beeline for her office, but Gina cuts her off in the hallway.

"Something troubling you, Elizabeth?"

"Gina, I'm extremely busy, which you should be too, considering all the build-up given to the Gina Jeans summer line," Elizabeth says.

"I've been extremely focused on it actually, which is why I have a spare few minutes to chat with you. Did everything go well in there with CC?"

"Everything's fine, Gina, we were just going over numbers for the company, quarterly reports, you know, all that business jargin that you have no grasp of. Now, if you'll excuse me..." she says, trying to push her way past her.

Gina once again cuts off her pathway.

"What do you WANT?"

"You look so upset, I find it hard to believe that a meeting about reports and business "Jargin" would have you so worked up. Look at you, you're trembling. Would you like some water? KATHLEEN! GET Ms. Wayne a glass of water!"

"I DON'T NEED ANY WATER, what I need is for you to let me go back to work."

"Do you still think about him Elizabeth?"

"Excuse me?"

"CC, do you still think about him softly from time to time? How his lips used to feel? How safe you felt in his arms? I know what it's like, after all, I married him 3 times. But I've learned to hate the man. But you, on the other hand, every time the two of you are in a room together, you look at him like Rhett Butler just walked in."

"CC and I are long over. I'm married to Keith now, or had you forgotten?"

"I haven't forgotten, but maybe you have, the way you drool over CC like a teenager. Then you come out of his office looking like you're about to crack. What happened? He reject you again, like he did years ago when he married your sister?"

Elizabeth can take no more and slaps Gina across the face. Gina smiles.

"Looks like I hit a sore spot."

"Go to hell Gina. Just take your insinuations and your jealousy and go to hell. What's the matter Gina? None of your exes want you? They've used you up and moved on to better things? Maybe it's you who's rattled, who's upset. Keith loves me, married me, and CC obviously still carries a torch for me as well. Meanwhile, he can't stand to be in the same room as you."

"But Keith can. He's more than happy to be in a room- ALONE- with me."

"But he married me, didn't he Gina? And who will you be going home to tonight? You're miserable, lonely, unwedded daughter, your illegitimate laboratory-created son, and a pint of Ben & Jerry's."

Gina can take no more and begins choking at Elizabeth and the two women get physical. Elizabeth shoves Gina off of her, sending her flying into the wall. Elizabeth claps her hands together and begins heading to her office, but Gina gets up and runs back at her, twirling her around and slapping her again. Elizabeth takes Gina's hair and begins wrestling her to the ground. Kathleen attempts to break them up, but to no avail. She calls for security and two large guards appear, as Elizabeth & Gina roll around on the floor. The guards finally pull the two women apart as they yell at each other.

"He's never going back to you Gina! I'm Mrs. Keith Timmons and it's going to stay that way."

"YOU FOOL. You're going to pay Eliza-B!tch. I promise you that. I'm going to BRING you DOWN and I'll be laughing at you when you're at the bottom, not fit to shine shoes."

(EXT: Baja, Mexico)

---Marta comes out of the investigators' office, having given her final statement. She asks Eden, who's in there alone, where Angel is and she explains that he's outside. Marta apologizes for her outburst before, saying that she's just frustrated that these guys who kidnapped her could get away free.

"We have something in common then, because that's exactly how I feel about Cruz's murderer."

----Outside, Angel walks up to Kirk and warns him that he's keeping his eye on him.

"You>? Please, why would you need to keep your eye on me?"

"Eden was Cruz's wife, Kirk, and I know for damn sure he wouldn't want you lurking around her. I've gone along with this because I don't want his safety in jeopardy and because I trust Santana. But I don't trust you Cranston. Not for a second- and I think it's mighty suspicious that you know Cruz is alive, considering Eden suspects you're the one trying to kill him."

"For the record, I'm not trying to do anything to Cruz, Angel. If I were the one who tried to kill him, don't ya think I would have gone and finished the job by now?"

"Maybe, maybe. I'm not sure what your angle is, Kirk. But I know you got one- and don't think for a second that Eden's family or her friends or even I will sit by and watch you take advantage of her all over again. Consider yourself warned."

THE END...................for TODAY

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(EXT: LONDON, ENGLAND- Augusta & Lionel's Flat)

---Augusta sits in her living room, pretending to read a book but keeping an eye on the gossip program she has on TV. She's flabbergasted when she hears a loud banging at the door.

"Who could that be? The rent's been paid..."

The person bangs on the door again, even more loudly.

"What THE?!-- If Lionel forgot to pay, another parking ticket...."

The person once again bangs on the door.

"Alright, alright, I'm coming, keep your knickers on..."

Without looking up even, she opens the door, apologizing for her husband not paying their tickets and she'll gladly pay any late fees necessary. She looks up and lets out a gasp. WHO'S AT THE DOOR!!!

"Hello Augusta. Been to any good parties lately?"

---Marcello furiously rings the doorbell at the castle. Inside the temple, Sophia calls to Christine, telling her not to worry about the door. She opens it up and smiles at Marcello.

"Dr. Armonti, how lovely to see you again. What brings you by?"

"Please, call me Marcello. May I come in?"

"Of course."

Marcello asks if she got her handbag back safely. She says she did and thanks him for sending someone over with it. Marcello disputes that, telling her that he actually dropped by personally but Edmund wouldn't allow him in. Sophia writes it off as it being late, and that she actually got into her night clothes immediately after arriving at home. She says that it would have been inappropriate for her to come down anyway. Marcello is repulsed by the idea of Sophia and Edmund together.

"He's my husband Marcello, in every way. Just like Maria will soon be your wife."

"How well do you really know your husband, Loretta?"

"I've been married to him for over thirty years, I think I know him well enough."

"Weren't you sick for a period of time?"

"Well....yes, but Edmund stuck with me, through the coma and my recovery. I believe it was his love that kept me alive- he's the reason I'm even here talking with you."

"How long were you in a coma for?"

"Gosh.....I don't even know how long it was, can you believe that?"

Marcello explains that he's asking because Lady DiMonde was an old chum of Edmund's and had no recollection of meeting his wife. When they looked further in the matter, they found out that there has been no record of a Loretta Lavery ever having lived in London.

"There must be some mistake." Sophia insists

"Believe me, Lady DiMonde's detectives don't make mistakes. She and her colleagues have been investigating Dr. Lavery and his unusual methods for many years now. They insisted that I come and share this with you, to warn you."

"But that's absurd- Edmund adores me, he'd never do anything to harm me. I understand your concerns, Dr. Armonti, but you don't know my husband."

"Maybe not, but Lady DiMonde does. Very well. All I'm saying is don't take anything he says at face value. He's not to be trusted and no lie is beneath him. And please, please, do not let him take you away from this house. Stay put. It's essential to the invstigation. Loretta, you must understand I wouldn't be here if you weren't my main concern."

"I'm telling you there's nothing to be concerned about."

"And I'm telling you there is. I best be going, but I'll be in touch. Please, consider what I've said....."

Christine comes down the stairs as he exits and notices that "Loretta" looks dazed.

"Mrs. L? Everything alright Mrs. L?"

"Yes, Christine. Everything's fine."

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

----Ted and CC go over the latest projections for Capwell Enterprises. CC asks how Ted has been compensating for Angela so far, since she's filling in for Kelly over at the hotel. Ted admits he's feeling the pressure, but is working through it. He questions his father about his obvious disdain for Ashton and the rift is causing between he & Kelly.

"Son, I have my reasons for how I feel toward your sister's husband," CC says, ominously.

"Those being what exactly? He seems to love her enough. He runs a large business over in London, so he's not out for the Capwell money or name."

"I don't trust him. You should be keeping your eye on him as well."

"I'm more worried about Elizabeth, and the stranglehold she has over this company."

"Elizabeth? Why would you be concerned with her?"

"Dad, come on, she barred mom from the building, she barely showed up to the funeral before storming out, she made that scene at Kelly's reception, hell she's even married to Keith Timmons now! You don't see her as a potential long-term threat to the company?"

"We don't have anything to worry about from Elizabeth, I've known her for many years. She's not out to steal my company away from me or my children."

"And this is what concerns me- what is with this blind eye that you're constantly turning to her? Because, seriously dad, if you can't see that Elizabeth is a threat to this company and possibly this family, then you're a blind, blind man," he says, as he begins storming out of the office.

"Ted.......Ted!"

Ted ignores his father, bumping into Elizabeth on his way out of the office.

"Afternoon, Ted" she says, greeting him.

Ted gives her a look and then looks at his father, leaving without saying another word.

"What was that all about?" she asks.

"He's concerned about you possibly having too much influence over the company, that you're out to steal it away, something to that effect. He misses his mother, is what it boils down to."

"And I'm the big bad sister that came and cut her out of the company completely. I guess I can't blame him for hating me."

"He doesn't hate you," CC reassures her, "You look like you were able to get some sleep, after our little ordeal last night."

"Is that what you're calling it?"

CC smiles. "It was more than that and you know it."

"I'm a married woman, CC."

"To a man you don't love. To a man who's only using you for his own agenda."

"CC...."

"Leave him, Elizabeth. End your marriage."

Elizabeth looks at him, shocked by his suggestion.

(EXT: LONDON, ENGLAND- Lionel & Augusta's flat)

-----"Edmund. I...I...." Augusta gulps the words out.

"Aren't you going to invite me in?"

Before Augusta can say anything, Edmund walks past her, into the flat. He comments on what a lovely home she has, and how it would be a real shame if someone came along and wrecked it.

"Why would you want to do something like that to an old friend like me?" Augusta asks.

"I think you know exactly why, Augusta- last night? The party? Marcello Armonti?"

"Yes, what about him?"

"He was Sophia's step-son, years ago, was he not? Knows her quite well, cares a great deal about her..."

"I don't see where you're going with this or what it has to do with me."

"I saw you there last night."

"And? So? Marcello is an old friend of mine. How did I know you would bring your Loretta-Bot with you?"

"Save it, Augusta, I know everything. I know you sent the costumes, that you visited Marcello before the party. The question is, what am I going to do about you? Pamela tried but she has failed. I'm sure she was nice and easy with you, too. She's much more pleasant than I."

"Don't come into my home and threaten me- I'm not some hypnotized woman that is going to bow to your every whim. Consider yourself lucky that I haven't turned you into the authorities. Now GET OUT OF MY HOUSE!" she says, pulling Edmund toward the door.

Edmund grabs her by the arm and twists it around her back. "Perhaps you weren't listening to me, Augusta. This is not a battle that you will win. What I suggest to you is that you go and talk to your friend Marcello and straighten this whole mess you've created out. And it is only a mess- I'm not giving Loretta up. Not at all and anyone who gets in my way- God help you, because he'll be the only one who can."

Edmund throws Augusta to the ground and smiles at her. He tips his hat and shuts the door to the flat.

"My God. Sophia is in worse danger than I ever could have imagined.......... My God......With what Pamela knows........So am I......"

THE END................for TODAY

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(EXT: Baja, Mexico)

---Eden and Julia wait silently by their phones for an update on the investigation. Eden asks when Vic is going to be down there, to help with the interrogation procedure. Julia assures her he should be getting in soon, as his plane landed about 15 minutes before. Julia asks where Kirk is and she tells her the police actually had some questions they wanted to ask him, possibly about the frame-up.

"Do you think maybe Kirk was really framed? That he possibly could have nothing at all to do with this?" Julia wonders.

"I've considered it, but he's hiding something Julia. I've just got to figure out what that is."

Julia's phone rings, startling them both. Eden calms down when Julia tells her it's Mason calling. She picks up and asks where he is.

"Sacramento? What are you doing there? What happened to New Jersey?...............................................Oh my God! He claimed the baby was his though?...........................................It shouldn't be that hard to track him. They keep excellent records within the foster care system.................................I see.........and they've confirmed that?....................That's all you can do, go and see for yourself. Obviously this is something that shouldn't be handled over the phone. How's Mary?....................................I hope it works out for her too...................Look, Mason, now's not a real good time. I'm in Mexico with your sister and I kinda want to keep the line free.............Ok...................I love you too......"

"Julia, if you want to go there and be with him, then...."

"Don't even think it. Believe me, I'm no good to him anyway. It's in the hands of the state really."

"The state?"

"Yes. The baby lived- Mark lied, no surprise there, but now, he's got a wife, who was all to happy to do his bidding for him. Long story short, Mary's baby is a boy and he ended up in the foster care system, which normally would make things a lot easier, but he apparently not only bounced from house to house, but cut off contact with foster care when he was only 16 years old."

"Poor Mary. And I take it Mark claimed the baby was his..."

"Of course. You know, who'd have thought it Eden? Here we are, 22 years later, and we still have sociopaths like Mark McCormick and Kirk Cranston in our lives. They ought to be locked up together!"

"If there were any justice in this world, they would be."

(EXT: The Capwell Hotel)

---Kelly continues instructing the head clerk as to how certain guests are to be treated in her absence, and what to expect from Angela as a manager. She assures her that she'll do fine in her absence and reminds her that when Angela is not around, the responsibility lies with her, re-enforcing that she trusts her judgement.

"Going somewhere Miss Capwell?" Warren asks, approaching the desk.

"It's Mrs Lavery now, remember?" Kelly says, turning around.

"My mistake. You didn't answer my question, Capwell."

"Not that it's any of your business, Lockridge, but my husband is taking me with him to London."

"Oh. Business or pleasure?"

"Both, actually, he has some contacts there he needs to meet with and we're staying with his father."

Warren is stunned. "His FATHER? Edmund? Dr. Edmund Lavery?"

"He's the one."

Before Warren can go any further, Angela interrupts them, apologizing to Kelly for being late. Kelly insists it's fine, but they don't have much time before she's supposed to leave.

"Hi Angela. Nice to see you too," Warren says, reminding them he's there.

"Warren. Been awhile."

"Yes, it has."

Kelly takes note of the discomfort between the two. She suggests that she and Angela go into the office and go over her duties. The ladies head into the office, as Ashton comes out of the elevator. He walks up to the desk, doing his best to ignore Warren. Not seeing her there, he turns around to Warren staring at him.

"Where's Kelly?" he finally asks.

"In the office, with Angela. So what's the plan, Ashton? Whisk her off to England and let your father torture her to get back at CC?"

"Is this what you do all day to amuse yourself, Warren? Come up with off-the-wall, paranoid scenarios about my intentions toward my wife?"

"I don't think it's so off-the-wall. Tell me, does Kelly even know about your father's history with the Capwells?"

"No, she doesn't, not that I haven't given CC ample opportunity to tell her. But he hasn't- because he doesn't want her looking at him with the disappointment that she would. Since it all happened years ago, I don't see any reason to color my wife's opinion of her father."

"Or her husband."

Kelly and Angela emerge from the office, breaking up the conversation.

"Everything alright out here?" Kelly asks them.

"Just fine, love," Ashton says, kissing her on her forehead, "Warren and I were just catching up, since I last saw him. Your bags have been delivered to the car. We really should be going, we need to be there at least 2 hours in advance for an international flight."

"I suppose you're right. Angela, if you need anything, just call me. If I don't answer, leave a message- I know the time difference is a mess. Warren, nice to see you again."

Ashton and Kelly leave. Angela asks Warren what that was all about, between he and Ashton. He only says that he doesn't trust the guy and doesn't think he's right for Kelly, much like Ted isn't right for her. Before she can say anything, he excuses himself, saying he's there to meet Pamela.

(EXT: LONDON, ENGLAND- Edmund's office)

----Edmund rushes into his office in downtown London, shuts & locks the door, and immediately begins dialing the phone.

(EXT: Pamela's suite)

-----Pamela picks up on the other end.

PAMELA: Hello?

EDMUND: Pamela, it's about time.

PAMELA: That was you calling last night? The desk clerk called me in the middle of the night, saying someone was desperately trying to get through.

EDMUND: Why didn't you take the bloody call then?

PAMELA: I didn't know it was you and it was this urgent. Was is it? Is it Sophia? Has something changed?

EDMUND: I'm not sure, possibly. What can you tell me about a Marcello Armonti?

PAMELA: Marcello, what would you ask me about Marcello for.

EDMUND: Then you know him?

PAMELA: Of course I know him- he was Sophia's step-son, the one she lived with when CC thought she was dead.

EDMUND: My God.

PAMELA: What? What is it? Edmund?.......... My God, you haven't let Marcello see her, have you?

EDMUND: Last night......there was a party........I knew it was trouble, I knew it, but Loretta insisted that we go......That man, this Marcello, was the guest of honor, the fiancee of the daughter of a prominent family here.........I introduced them, but introduced her as Loretta...

PAMELA HE'S SEEN HER? Marcello has seen Sophia?

EDMUND: Yes. But she was introduced as Loretta and he didn't seem to think anything of it...

PAMELA: Edmund, listen to me: Marcello would recognize Sophia anywhere. He's fixated on her, he'd do anything for her. You have to take Sophia, take her and go far away from London. Immediately.

Edmund sits silently, and slowly hangs up the phone.

PAMELA: Edmund? EDMUND?

(EXT: Baja, Mexico)

----Eden and Julia are again startled by a knock at the door. Julia opens it and sees Santana standing on the other side of it.

"Santana? What are you doing here?" Julia asks.

"It's alright Julia, I called her. Come in Santana," Eden says

"Hello Eden. How is everything? Have they found anything out?"

"They're not saying much....yet. Vic should be getting here soon and we're hoping he'll have better luck. They're, shall we say, a bit distrusting of the law enforcement down here."

"But they're definitely the kidnappers?" she wonders

"It's definitely them," Julia interjects "Marta Ramirez positively identified them yesterday. She and Angel are actually down there right now, giving more statements."

"Which is why I asked you here, Santana. You had the right map- you got there before any of us. Maybe you saw one of them, or saw something you may not have thought important at the time. The FBI have pictures of possible accomplices...."

"How can they know accomplices when they don't know who they're looking for in the first place?" Santana wonders.

Julia explains that in this case, it was most likely a murder-for-hire, and the actual conspirator probably didn't execute his own crime. The FBI is well schooled on who participates and has a history of participating in these types of crimes, she explains. They're again interrupted when Kirk enters the room, with breakfast. He's shocked to see a nervous Santana talking with them.

"I brought breakfast, ladies. Sorry, Santana, had I known you were going to be here, I'd have bought you something."

"I wouldn't eat anything you gave to me Kirk. What could you possibly be doing here with them?"

"I have a vested interest in this too, Santana. These guys tried to set me up for this fall and I want them caught as much as anyone."

"I've asked Santana to talk to the police," Eden interrupts, "Maybe she'll remember something or someone she saw at the pier that day."

Kirk begins choking on his coffee at the mention of it.

"Something wrong, Kirk?" Julia asks.

Before he has a chance to answer, Eden's cell phone rings. She looks and sees that Vic is calling. He tells her that he's going directly to the police station in Baja, since he landed late. She tells him that they're on their way. They begin walking out, but Santana stays still.

"You are coming Santana?"

"Yes. Yes, of course," a nervous Santana replies, "I'm going to take my car, though. I need to be at work later, so I'll probably have to leave directly from the station."

They all pile into their cars and head for the station.

THE END................for TODAY

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(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

---Keith sits in Gina's office, watching CC & Elizabeth on the monitor. Gina comes storming into the room, dressed in her black shirt, pants, and sock hat. She demands to know what's going on.

"Shhh, butternut, I can't hear them," Keith admonishes.

"Hear who?"

"CC & Elizabeth who, now will you be quiet...."

"But we already know everything about their history together. I don't see the point of-"

"SHHHHH!"

---Elizabeth grows frustrated at the situation, as she is unable to get a cell phone signal inside of the elevator. CC pulls the alarm but doesn't hear anything go off.

"Shouldn't this thing be on a damn generator?"

---Keith snickers from the office.

"He must mean the generator you shut down," he says.

---CC continuously presses buttons and tries his cell phone, growing angrier by the second. Elizabeth begins to laugh.

"What is it that's so funny about this?"

"You, CC, you never could take it when things were out of your control. I see that hasn't changed over the years."

"It hasn't."

"I thought it might have, considering the demands I imposed on you when we merged the companies. You pretty much rolled over."

"I didn't have a choice."

"You? Didn't have a choice? CC Capwell, I think I know you well enough to know that you always have a choice. You chose to go along with it. Why?"

"It would've been too risky not to. I was facing an imminent takeover. And I knew that nothing you were demanding could be worse than that. The company needed to be preserved, for my children, for me, for..........."

"For Sophia. It's okay, you can say her name, she was my sister. But that's what gets me- if what you were doing was for Sophia, why would you allow me to bar her from the building and to prevent her children from ever inheriting it?"

"Because.......Oh Hell, maybe I felt I owed it to you after all these years. I led you on, I let you believe there could be a future for us when I knew that I was going to marry Sophia."

"Why, CC? Why did you do it?"

"There was something about you, a quality you possessed that Sophia never had. You were meek, but it wasn't just that. I could rescue you, you were vulnerable, always so vulnerable, which appealed to me. Sophia, God love her, was not a very vulnerable woman, especially not then. She was a woman who knew what she wanted and went after it, whether it be with men or in her career. She certainly didn't need rescuing, not by me anyway. I led you on because I was selfish- I wanted the best of both worlds, and for a short time, I had it. It's cruel to say- I was very young then- and I knew that you'd stay at an arm's length as long as I wanted to keep you there. I played on the jealousy between you & your sister, probably making it even worse than it was. But I couldn't give you up....until there was no other choice. Sophia was pregnant and as far as I knew then, it was mine."

"But he wasn't your child, was he? I knew, I KNEW she still had something going on with Lionel, but she wouldn't dare admit it to me. You were like sport to her and it sickened me to watch her fool you the way she did. I knew she didn't love you, she only loved the idea of being your wife. Do you even know how much it killed me the day she finally married you? I loved you with all of my heart and I had to watch my sister, who had everything in life that I never did, make you her husband. And she didn't give a damn about you. That's why I left and never looked back- I couldn't watch it. It was too painful."

"But that changed. We did fall in love."

"Much later. How nice that everything worked out for the two of you. And there I was, having had an abortion that was forced on me at such a young age, with nobody to talk to. No one to help me work through my pain. It shattered me, all of it- I was a shell of myself. Not until I got away from that house, from my father, from Sophia, from you, did I recover any semblance of who I was, but I was broken. And there was nobody who wanted to fix me, not that I would have let them in. I thought I wouldn't ever find anyone- and then I came back here and things actually fell into place for me. I met Keith-"

"And you married him. Him. A man who's only going to hurt you more than I ever could."

"He makes me happy, CC."

"It's a farce. Believe me. I've known the man for many years Elizabeth, I know when he's up to something. He's lived with Gina long enough to have a commonlaw marriage and he ups and marries you? The man is no good for you. He has an agenda."

"Oh who the hell are you CC? Really? You hurt me more than any man ever possibly could and you're actually brazen enough to just chalk it up to being young and not knowing any better? I'll take a man like Keith Timmons over a coward like you any day."

---Keith looks at Gina.

"Well she has impeccable taste," he smirks.

(EXT: The Lair)

---Brandon busily pours drinks & shots for customers behind the bar. He's caught by surprise when a familiar voice orders a Newcastle. He looks up and sees Steve standing there.

"And make it snappy!?" Steve jokes

"Yeah, haha, funny. I went to business school my friend, not bartending school."

"They don't teach you how to use a bottle opener there?" he laughs, as his beer explodes in Brandon's hand.

"Yeah, I don't have one, and the ones on the bar are ancient."

"Here, lemme show you. It's all about the angle you hit it at."

Steve walks back there and pops open his beer.

"I used to work at a bar, up in San Francisco."

"You lived in San Francisco?"

"I've lived all over. Can't stay in one place for too long. Guess I'm a vagabond at heart."

"Your parents must be thrilled."

"I wouldn't know, since I never knew either one of em. My mom died when I was born. My dad's in the clink. I haven't even met him."

"Oh, I didn't know, sorry..."

"How could ya? Don't sweat it."

"So you used to bartend, huh?"

"Yeah, it's been a little while though."

"I see. Where you working right now?"

"Actually, I'm kind of between jobs, I was gonna talk to you-"

"Great. You're hired. Here's a towel. That's Julie and Brian, they're closing tonight and they'll work the point. You'll work with me over here on service."

"Can I finish my beer?"

"Yeah....when we close. Knock out these tickets and I'll have Brian mix up some shots."

Steve smirks and starts working on the service checks.

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

---Gina watches CC & Elizabeth on the monitor, eating popcorn with Keith.

"You know, I don't know what men see in her. Talk about frigid."

"She's vulnerable, muffin, or haven't you been listening?"

"She's about as vulnerable as a piranha. Maybe when she was a 16 year old waif, I could buy it. But now? Honestly, I could tolerate Sophia more than I ever could her."

"Please! You HATED Sophia, you couldn't even be in the same room with her without getting into a knock-down drag-out fight!"

"That should tell you how I feel about Elizabeth. The only reason I haven't ripped her to shreds is because she's the type that would want that, just so she could play victim. In 17th century Salem, they burned women like her."

----Elizabeth apologizes for calling CC a coward, but he tells her it's unnecessary. He says that she was right to be angry with him and that he doesn't have any right to tell her how to live her life, especially in a romantic arena.

"It's just.....I can't stand watching him hurt you, prey on you like I know he is."

"Much like I couldn't stand watching my sister prey on you. The difference is, I left you alone."

"And that Sophia is a completely different human being from Keith Timmons."

"CC...."

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, but how can I stay quiet and watch you make such an enormous mistake with him?"

"My marriage isn't a mistake."

"Not for him it isn't- it was done purposefully and with malice. He married you when you were drunk and didn't know what you were doing- right there, should tell you something. He, on the other hand-"

"Was just as intoxicated as I was, if not more, so he-"

"So he'd have you believe. He knew exactly what he was doing when he married you Elizabeth, make no mistake."

---"You're right on the money there," Keith smirks

"For being such a b!tch.........she's a stupid b!tch, that's for sure."

---Elizabeth insists that it wasn't like that and CC doesn't understand their relationship.

"I understand it perfectly. You own 1/2 of Capwell Enterprises and Keith wanted in on that. So, he married you."

"Do you really think I'd be so foolish as to not see through that? He works in the D.A.'s office, he makes plenty of money."

"It's not about money, can't you see that? It's about power. And the fact that it's not just any company you own 50% of- it's Capwell Enterprises. He wants it, and he's going to use you to get it. Mark my words."

"That's nice to know, that's your opinion of my marriage? I've spent my whole life alone, and I finally open myself up to someone, romantically, and make a commitment and you'd have me believe that that man only sees me as a means to an end?"

"That's exactly how he sees you, yes."

Elizabeth begins to laugh. "Oh, oh, I supposed you'd have me think that's how any man would see me now, right CC? As a means to an end."

"Not every man. Not me."

"Oh, and what is it that you see?"

"I see the same, vulnerable young girl I fell in love with years ago. I see a bright, vibrant, intelligent woman, but when I look into your eyes, that girl is still there."

"That girl grew up, CC. And doesn't need rescuing anymore."

"If only that were the case. You need rescuing alright, from the same person you've always needed rescuing from- yourself."

CC walks up to her passionately kisses her. She kisses him back a bit, before pulling away.

"Don't do this. Don't do this to me. I'm happy with Keith."

"I don't believe that. He could never make you as happy as I could make you, not in a million years."

"Since when do you even want me CC?"

"Since now," he says, as he passionately kisses her again.

They pull apart for a second and a teary Elizabeth looks into CC's eyes. They hold the position, gazing at each other, until she allows him to begin kissing her again. She starts removing her dress as CC takes off his jacket and lays it on the floor for them to lay on. He pulls Elizabeth's dress the rest of the way off as she begins unbuttoning his shirt. She frantically works at them as he continues to kiss her. His shirt comes off, as they fall onto the jacket and begin making love.

---Keith pops some more popcorn into his mouth.

"Now you know why we did all this, my cumquat."

"I do?"

"Free Porn," Keith smiles as he grabs another handful of popcorn. Gina picks up a handful and throws it at him, giving him a disgusted look.

THE END................for TODAY"

Episodes Aired in April/May: 12 Total Episodes So Far: 88

1. Louise Sorel (Augusta)- 9 (31)

2. Jed Allan (CC)- 7 (53)

2. Marcy Walker (Eden)- 7 (52)

4. Deborah Adair (Elizabeth)- 6 (21)

4. Lane Davies (Mason)- 6 (56)

6. Joseph Bottoms (Kirk)- 5 (17)

6. Justin Deas (Keith)- 5 (18)

6. Carmen Duncan (Pamela)- 5 (39)

6. Charles Keating (Edmund)- 5 (29)

6. Judith McConnell (Sophia)- 5 (49)

11. Nicolas Coster (Lionel)- 4 (16)

11. Carrington Garland (Kelly)- 4 (29)

11. Nancy Lee Grahn (Julia)- 4 (50)

11. Harley Jane Kozak (Mary)- 4 (38)

11. Robin Mattson (Gina)- 4 (42)

16. Matt Cedeno (Rafe)- 3 (33)

16. Wolf Muser (Marcello)- 3 (3)

16. Gretchen Oehler (Christine)- 3 (9)

16. Kim Rhodes (Joann)- 3 (19)

16. Clive Robertson (Ashton)- 3 (17)

16. Robert Thaler (Pearl)- 3 (17)

16. Victoria Wyndham (Maureen)- 3 (7)

23. Grant Aleksander (Warren)- 2 (29)

23. Henry Darrow (Rafael)- 2 (7)

23. Jessica Dunphy (Adriana)- 2 (36)

23. Gina Gallego (Santana)- 2 (18)

23. Justin Hartley (Brandon)- 2 (7)

23. Jay Hernandez (Chip)- 2 (6)

23. Renee Jones (Sherri)- 2 (7)

23. Jon Lindstrom (Mark)- 2 (4)

23. A Martinez (Cruz)- 2 (37)

23. Alisa Reyes (Marta)- 2 (18)

23. Bernard White (Angel)- 2 (29)

23. Carmen Zapata (Carm)- 2 (7)

35. Linda Gibboney (Victoria)- 1 (5)

35. Judy Greer (Kathleen)- 1 (12)

35. Paula Irvine (Lily)- 1 (31)

35. Jared Leto (Steve)- 1 (7)

35. Heather Lindell (Samantha)- 1 (29)

RTSB Actors Not Appearing in April/May:

Nina Arveson (Angela) (42)

Michael Brainard (Ted) (40)

Margarita Cordova (Rosa) (27)

Russell Curry (Vic) (9)

Patricia Mauceri (Carla) (13)

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(EXT: London, England- The DiMonde Estate)

---Edmund is bothered by the lingering stare that Marcello and Sophia are engaged in. He breaks it up by introducing himself to Marcello, but Marcello says no introductions are necessary. He's well aware of Edmund's work in the neurological field, being a psychiatrist himself. Maria remarks that she wasn't aware of Marcello's history with psychiatry.

"It was many moons ago, my love- in another lifetime, if you will. You see, Dr. Lavery, I haven't practiced in years, but still read up on it. My fascination with it is still there, always will be. And it comes in quite handy in entrepreneurship, as I'm sure you know very well, having your own practice and laboratory."

"Yes, of course. Loretta, dear, I don't think we should keep our driver waiting much longer. Again, pleased to meet you Mr. Armonti."

"The pleasure was all mine. I do hope we run into one another again sometime. I'd love to pick your brain."

"Perhaps."

Edmund and Sophia begin making their way to the doorway when she realizes she left her bag on the table with Lady DiMonde. She turns to go and get it, but Edmund grabs her by the arm.

"Forget it. I'll send for it in the morning. It's in good hands with Lady DiMonde. Come, I can't wait to get you home and be alone with you."

"But I...really....wanted.....oh, I guess it isn't important. Nothing that can't wait until the morning."

He turns to her and places her mask back on her face, doing the same with his own. Sophia's face is a bit bewildered, as she's obviously wondering why her husband is acting so strangely. They reach the front of the estate and see a lineup of cars parked. Edmund offers to go and look for their driver and have him bring the car up for her. He tells her implicitly to wait there. She begins removing her mask, but he stops her.

"Oh no. The evening isn't over until we arrive home- besides, it's a romantic, no?" Edmund smiles at her as he plants a kiss on her, then excitedly takes off looking for the car.

----Meanwhile, behind her, Lionel and Augusta are walking out of the estate as well, about to descend on their own car, when Augusta sees Marcello motioning for her. She quickly removes her earring and tells Lionel she must have lost it inside. Lionel argues that she won't find it, but she insists that the earrings were quite expensive and she isn't leaving without them. She tells him to find the car and she'll have found it & be out in no time. She kisses him on the cheek and hurries back inside.

He begins walking down the driveway when he comes upon a woman in a beautiful white and silver costume. The woman turns around and it's a masked Sophia.

"My, what a lovely, lovely costume," Lionel says.

"Thank You. It was a gift from Lady DiMonde," Sophia responds.

"I'd heard the woman had impeccable taste, though I never believed it for myself. Until now."

A shy Sophia slightly giggles, and turns away, slightly embarrassed by the stranger's flirtation.

"Lionel Lockridge."

"Loretta. Loretta Lavery."

---Inside, Marcello finishes telling Augusta what he plans to do about Sophia. Marcello looks outside and sees Sophia standing outside, waiting for her car. He mentions that she's talking with a man. Augusta's eyes bug out as she runs to the windows next to the door.

"LIONEL!!!"

Augusta begins running in her heels toward them.

"Won't you remove your mask? Your voice is familiar and I wonder if I may know you somehow." Lionel asks.

"I don't see how that's possible. I didn't recognize your name."

"Nor I yours, but satisfy my curiosity, would ya?"

Sophia holds out her hand, showing the ring on her finger. "Sorry, but my husband asked me to keep it on until we arrive home."

"You must be a knockout, for him to want to keep you covered up like that."

Edmund pulls up in the car, as Augusta comes running down the stairs, calling Lionel's name. Lionel turns around and sees her and begins walking toward her, as Edmund gets out of the car to open the door for Sophia. He asks her who the man was that she was talking to.

"It was nobody. Some Lionel, just waiting for his car as well." She looks at Edmund, who's staring at Lionel. "Really, Edmund, he was harmless. Maybe a little too much to drink, but perfectly harmless. Now I thought you said something about wanting to get me home...."

He smiles as she gets into the car, but turns at looks at Lionel one more time. There he sees him talking with Augusta. Augusta looks up from her conversation and sees a masked Edmund staring back at her. The camera zooms in on his cold eyes.

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

----Keith is shown, half falling asleep in Gina's office as he listens to CC & Elizabeth continue to go over everything related to the audit. Suddenly, he hears Elizabeth mention not being able to do any more damage tonight. He perks up quickly and grabs the phone to dial Gina, falling from the desk chair.

"What Do YOU Want?" Gina asks.

"What do I want, what do you mean what do I want? Are you in the electrical room? Are you by the fuse switches like I ASKED YOU TO BE?"

Gina pulls the phone away from her ear. "Yes, YES I'm THERE KEITH. There's no need to YELL AT ME. I don't have to help you at all you know. In fact, maybe I won't" she says, beginning to hang up.

"No-n-n-n-no, no WAIT, WAIT!"

She puts the phone back to her ear.

"Are you there?" Keith asks.

"YEAH, I'm HERE Keith, though I'm not sure why."

"Because you know dollar signs when you see em baby and my eyes are filled with em tonight. Alright, now just stay on the line and wait for my go."

"I still don't understand what you this is going to accomplish. Ooooh, the lights are out. That doesn't mean they're jumping into bed together."

"Oh the lights are the least of it muffin, believe me. Now wait for my go."

CC and Elizabeth walk toward the elevator and wait. There's an uncomfortable, awkward silence between the two until the doors finally open. When they walk in, the camera zooms in on a very small camera in the elevator, then shows CC & Elizabeth in black & white. The camera zooms out of that and shows Keith watching them on his laptop from the office. The elevator begins going down and Keith shouts into the phone "NOW"

Gina turns the switches and the lights in the building go out, and CC & Elizabeth's elevator stops. Elizabeth looks around and CC begins banging. Elizabeth asks what happened and he says it's probably just a quick power outage and they'll be moving in no time. They turn to black & white again and the focus again goes to Keith in the office.

"No time is right, CC. No time tonight!" Keith laughs, as he pours a bag of popcorn into a bowl and watches the screen.

(EXT: London, England)

---Edmund and Sophia arrive home and are greeted by Christine.

"Oh the two of you look like you had such a time. So how was it? Did you meet Lady DiMonde? Maria? What was the fiance like?"

"It was all spectacular Christine, and I can't wait to tell you about it. Tomorrow. Did you make the arrangements that I asked for Dr. Lavery & I upon our return?"

"I sure did, Mrs. L. Everything's waiting upstairs for you."

"Wonderful. Now darling, you stay here, until I'm ready for you. Christine, fix him a nightcap, would you?"

Christine takes Edmund to the lounge to fix him a drink. Meanwhile, the camera is shown peering through a window as Sophia walks up the stairs. Marcello is then shown outside, watching her. When he cannot see anymore, he begins walking back toward his car but is stunned when he hears a voice from the doorway.

"Mr Armonti?"

"Yes?"

"May I ask what you're doing here, skulking about? I should call the police, have you arrested for trespassing."

"My apologies, Dr. Lavery, I meant no harm. It's just....this........" Marcello pulls out Sophia's handbag. "I thought your wife might need it."

Edmund walks toward him and snatches the bag. "She may, though there was no reason to bring it tonight. Couldn't it have waited until morning? Why the hurry?"

"Lady DiMonde was quite fond of Loretta and insisted I return it to her tonight. She being my soon-to-be mother-in-law, I didn't want to cause her any distress."

"Distress? I highly doubt someone would actually be distressed over another woman's handbag."

"You don't know Lady DiMonde. What may seem trivial to you and me would be considered first priority with her, especially when it concerns the possessions of her guests. I didn't mean to be any type of imposition. I trust you'll return it to her."

"Of course, Mr. Armonti. She's my wife."

"Of course. Well I'll be going then. Good night, Dr. Lavery."

Edmund turns around and walks away, without responding. He looks down at the handbag and his face becomes menacing and angered.

Marcello gets into his car and the driver pulls out. "Don't worry, Sophia. I'll be back. I'll be back for you."

THE END..........................FOR TODAY

2 EX-DAYS STARS AND SOAP VET LINDSTROM BITE THE DUST!!!!

In a move that should come as no surprise to RTSB viewers, Matt Cedeno, Jon Lindstrom, and Renee Jones have aired their last episodes as Rafe, Mark, and Sherri, respectively. Cedeno was alerted over a month ago about his departure, though found his final scenes (with Heather Lindell's Samantha Capwell) on the cutting room floor.

"We experienced a brief hiatus on RTSB and now that we've returned, there just isn't any room for those scenes. Though they may have lead to future storylines for Samantha, the story could be played just as effectively without those scenes. Therefore, we chose to cut them."

As for Lindstrom and Jones, both exits are storyline-dictated. Neither was on contract, as their stays were always expected to be short-term, though Jones ended up filming more episodes than originally intended. Surprisingly, no notice has yet been given to Victoria Wyndham.

"I've been talking with Vicky," says juniorz1, RTSB's exec producer and creator, "and I still have a few ideas I'm throwing around for her character. Whether they pan out will remain to be seen, but without a doubt, she still has a bit of a role to play in story, so she's still here...............for now."

With Maureen still around, does that mean there still may be some story left for her son Mark as well?

"There's always that possibility, sure. In fact, don't be surprised to see Mark back for another short-term stay."

Don't miss a BRAND NEW episode of RETURN TO SANTA BARBARA tonight around 9 PM.

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(EXT: London, England- The DiMonde Estate)

----Augusta and Lionel are shown among many masked party guests, he dressed as Casanova, she in a boustier reminiscent of 1700s French women. Augusta quickly begins sifting through the people, pulling a reluctant Lionel along with her. Finally, he stops her, asking why she's in such a rush.

"Easy for you to say, you're dressed as one of the great male romantics of his time. I, on the other hand, look like I just walked out of a House of Burlesque," Augusta scolds.

"I think you look extraordinary. In fact, when I saw the costume in the store, I thought it would suit you perfectly. And show off your....... assets."

"It shows off my assets all right- BOTH of them. So far, I've been propositioned, hit on, offered money- extra if I wear the dress, and my derriere has been pinched by eleven- count them- eleven men old enough to have known Einstein personally. I just would like to find Marcello and his bride, congratulate them, and be on our way."

She's startled when she turns around and sees Marcello standing in front of her. He greets her with a kiss on each cheek and says hello to Lionel as well. He introduces them both to Maria DiMonde, his bride-to be. Both are charmed to meet her. Marcello then mentions a piece that Augusta had some interest in acquiring years before, asking Lionel if it's all right if he borrow Augusta for a moment.

"Take all the time you need Marcello. And try convincing her to stay a while- she's been threatening to leave since we got here."

"I'll do my best."

Marcello leads Augusta to a study, away from the rest of the party, and asks if she's spotted Sophia there. She says she has not but that it hasn't helped that there are so many people there. Marcello wonders if perhaps Augusta's mind could have been playing tricks on her or if the woman she saw may have just had a striking resemblance to Sophia and nothing more.

"Marcello, I've known and loathed the woman for a good portion of my life. Without a doubt, it was Sophia I saw, not some look-alike."

"Which begs the question, since you admittedly hate my step-mother, why the interest in helping her? Or are your motivations for coming to me more sinister than they look on the surface? Why not go to CC, if Sophia is truly alive?"

"Look, without going into detail, that's not possible. As I told you, she's not herself- she didn't even recognize me. She's been seemingly brainwashed all over again, possibly by a madman. You could be her best, maybe her only chance at coming out of this even slightly remnant of her former vile self."

"So why not tell your husband? Again, if your intentions are good..."

"For Heaven's sake Marcello, you and I both know that the worst medicine for Sophia in this state would be Lionel- shall we doom ourselves to repeat history? Who would you have dead this time, Ted, Kelly, maybe even yourself?"

They are interrupted when Lionel enters, saying a staff member told him where to find the two of them. He asks Augusta if everything is alright and she tells him she was just negotiating with Marcello when they began to reminisce about the past.

"Now why would you want to go and do a thing like that?" Lionel deadpans.

---Meanwhile, back in the party, Edmund and Sophia are shown dancing among the other guests. A nervous Edmund suggests that they should be going soon, but Sophia is hesitant.

"We haven't even met the guests of honor yet and I'm having such a nice time. Aren't you?" Sophia smiles.

"Yes, Loretta, of course, I just don't think all this activity is good for you just yet. You're still recovering you know."

"I feel fine darling, better than I ever have. There's no need for you to be so worrisome," she says, again playfully smiling at him.

Edmund smiles back at his wife's jab. "Alright. If it's activity you want, then, my love, it's activity you shall have!"

He begins swinging her and twirling her around the floor, much to her delight. She matches him step for step, as they continue to ferociously dance across the room, their eyes locked on one another. They get the attention of bystanders throughout the party, including Maria, who points them out to Marcello as he takes her arm once again. Marcello gives Augusta a look from across the room, redirecting her attention toward the couple. Her eyes bug out when she recognizes the costumes of the pair. She looks back at Marcello and affirms that it is indeed Edmund and Sophia.

"Wow! Aren't they fantastic dancers?" Lionel comments. "Look how she allows him to lead her.....If you'd ever allowed me to lead like that..."

"We'd be stepping on on each other's toes and flat on our backs in no time."

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

----Kelly is absolutely appalled by her father's comments on the state of her life. She tells him that for the first time in a very long time, she's happy. She's found a man and a love in Ashton that she never thought possible, since losing Joe and Robert. She asks him why he can't just be happy for her.

"He's manipulating you kitten, can't you see that? That man, standing next to you, is a predator, just like his father, and you were his prey. Everything he's made you believe about him is untrue and solely for the purpose of gaining your trust Kelly. And he doesn't deserve it. Not one bit of it," CC laments.

"You keep saying the same thing about Ashton and about his father, but you haven't yet told me why you think any of that. You say Edmund is a monster and Ashton is just like him, if not worse, yet you don't seem to want to elaborate when I inquire about it. Why is that daddy? Is it because you're afraid I'll find out that Edmund is a monster? Or that he's not a monster at all and the only real monster is YOU?" Kelly says, tears in her eyes.

She grabs Ashton and begins leading him out of the room. She stops and looks at her father. "I just want you to know daddy, while I am in London, and when I do meet Dr. Lavery, I'm going to find out just what the connection is between the two of you. I've given you ample opportunity to be honest with me and each time, you've let me down. And I'm going to find out why."

She and Ashton pass by Elizabeth in the hallway, as she's making her way to CC's office. She attempts to say hello, but Kelly just ignores her. Ashton acknowledges her and continues leaving with his wife. She then descends on a broken CC, sitting in his chair at his desk. She immediately goes to him and asks him what's wrong. He just looks at her for a moment, without saying anything. He then breaks his silence.

"What is it about you women when it comes to love? You can't see the forest for the trees."

"We're too trusting of the men we love, CC. We hold them to expectations that they, in reality, could never live up to in the first place. I take it this is about Kelly."

"Yes it's about Kelly- he's manipulating her, that bastard, and she refuses to see it. She can't see it. Hell, you could probably relate, since Timmons is doing the exact same thing to you."

Elizabeth looks at CC, realizing he's probably right. She suggests that they get to the books, as they have much ground to cover with the audit.

---In Gina's office, Keith & Gina continue listening in on the device he planted in CC's office.

"CC's onto you Keith, and from her reaction, it sounds like Miss Elizabeth might be catching on as well."

"Which is what makes tonight so perfect."

"For what?"

"No questions, just take your cell phone and go down to the basement where the main power lines are. Sit there and wait for my call and follow my directions explicitly."

"What is this? Why Keith, I want to know WHY?"

"For our future, babe. For enough green to make you go color blind. Would you just trust me? Look at my eyes. Those are trustworthy eyes."

"More like snake eyes," she snarks

"Will you just go?"

"Alright, alright, I'm going. But I'm telling you, Keith Timmons, whatever you're doing, it better be good. And it better be OVER. QUICK. Because I'm not going to be patient forever. And I think you can remember what I'm like when I'm impatient."

"Will you just go already? We're wasting time. Go. Go. Go." he says, shooing her on her way. She turns around and gives him a disgusted look, but begins making her way downstairs.

(INT: The DiMonde Estate)

---The guests all clap as Edmund and Sophia complete their dance, still donning their masks. They are quickly approached by a staff member, who tells them that Lady DiMonde and the guests of honor have requested to meet them. Sophia excitedly follows him, while Edmund is a bit reluctant. They are brought before Lady DiMonde, who requests they remove their masks. She's surprised to see that Edmund was the one who was shredding the dance floor.

"My, my, my, Dr. Edmund Lavery- you were the last gentleman I expected to be behind that mask. You must introduce me to your lady friend. I'm quite curious as to who has made you so light on your feet."

"Lady DiMonde, this is my wife, Mrs. Loretta Lavery."

"How do you do?" Sophia says.

"Charmed to meet you dear. Come, let me introduce you both to my daughter and future son-in-law."

She brings them both over to meet Maria and Marcello. Marcello's eyes immediately fixate on Sophia as the camera shows her in slow motion, walking toward him. He remains staring at her, and as if it were background noise, Lady DiMonde can be heard introducing them both to Maria & Marcello. Finally Sophia comes to Marcello.

"How do you do? Loretta Lavery" she says, extending her hand.

"Marcello. Dr. Marcello Armonti. Pleased to meet you," he says, hoping to elicit some kind of reaction out of her.

She continues to smile and look back at him, as he's slow to let go of her hand. Edmund notices Marcello's peculiar reaction to Sophia and stares at them both, as they continue staring at one another.

THE END.....................for THIS EPISODE

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(EXT: Mark & Sherri's house)

----Mason drags an irritated Mark back inside, throwing him onto the living room couch. Mason tells Mark he could kill him for what he's done to Mary.

"What I've done? You mean saving her life? Or taking her away from you?"

Mason stands up to punch Mark, but Pearl holds him back, reminding him that Mark needs to be concious for them to get the answers that they're looking for. Mark looks at his mother, with a desperation in his eyes.

"How could you? How could you, of all people, do this to me?"

"I'm sorry, Mark. But I needed to do the right thing and this is it. I think you see that though. Letting Mary go on the way she has is......abominable," Maureen says, choking the words out, "and is not at all reminiscent of the boy I raised. What happened?"

"I think you know what happened mom. Worked out nicely for you, didn't it? Dad was dead, I killed him, and you didn't have to pay for it in any way. But that's not why we're here, is it? We're here to discuss mine and Mary's child, isn't that right?" he says, smiling at Mary.

"There's no way of knowing for sure who's child it was Mark. You made sure of that."

"Oh believe me, he was every bit my son..."

"HE!?!" Mary exclaims, "I thought I had a little girl, that's what you told-"

"Surprise, surprise Mary. You were misinformed." Mark smiles, looking at Sherri.

Mary's face fills with rage and she jumps up and lunges at Sherri. "YOU B!TCH! How COULD YOU?" she shrieks as she attacks her. Mason & Pearl jump up and pull the two apart, while Mark sits looking at them with a smile across his face.

(EXT: Baja, Mexico- CLINIC)

----Angel is stunned when he sees Kirk & Santana standing over Cruz's bed, but not half as shocked as they are when they see him looking at them. They lock eyes and Angel begins running down the hallway. Kirk takes off after him, with Santana not far behind. The nurses ask Santana if everything is alright and she says fine as she speeds past. Kirk catches up with Angel outside and stops him from going to his car.

"Stop! Angel, stop, it's not what you think?"

"Are you kidding me? You think I was born yesterday pal? I know all about your obsession with Eden and hatred for Cruz....."

"All of that may be true, though some of the same could be said for you. After all, didn't Cruz send you to prison? And when he got out, wasn't he the direct cause of your daughter's kidnapping?"

"Yeah, I hated Castillo- for years I hated him. But I wouldn't wish this on him- and working with him and the way he got me out of prison......He was an honorable man. Or I should say is an honorable man."

"And you'd be deeply betraying him if you told Eden that you saw him," Santana says, approaching the two.

"Santana. You see how it's tearing her up, the way she's treating my family. How could you-"

"Because I'm respecting Cruz's wishes. No one can know he's alive, or he'll be in great danger. Until this killer is found and brought to justice, nobody will be safe, especially Eden. If you go to that police station and tell her, what do you think she'll do? She'll come running here to see him and then we'll all be in danger, which isn't what Cruz wants."

"So I'm supposed to just say nothing and watch her go on in agony, lashing out and teetering on the edge of......God knows what?"

"That's exactly what you do Angel. For Cruz. You think it's easy for me? I was raised with Eden, I was in love with her brother, I can't stand what this is doing to her. But she's alive, isn't she?"

"I don't know if I can-"

"Oh drop the innocent act Angel, you had no problem trying to pull a switcheroo with me with those maps. This is child's play compared to that. Don't you think you owe it to Cruz?"

"I wanna talk to him."

"That's not possible. He's in and out of conciousness and today has been a particularly traumatic day for him. You're just going to have to trust me."

Angel looks at Santana, then looks Kirk up and down. He gets in his car and takes off for the police station.

(EXT: Baja Police Station)

----Marta emerges from the interview room, shaken and disturbed. Eden looks at Julia and they approach the distraught girl.

"Where's my dad?" she asks.

"He had to leave for a little while, he'll be back shortly," Julia responds, "Are you alright?"

Marta nods that she is.

"Was it them?" Eden asks. "Was it the same two guys who kidnapped you? Did they get the right ones?"

Marta again nods at her. "You gotta understand, Mrs. Castillo, I feared for my life from these guys."

Eden gives Julia a disbelieving look.

"Lady, for someone so affluent, you're a really dumb woman. These guys were trying to take your daughter. I stopped them. I messed up their whole plan and then they had me, the wrong girl, of no use to them. If I didn't do everything that I did, I would've been dead months ago. I understand you lost your husband in the deal and I'm real sorry about that. I am. But I did what I had to do in there to stay alive and I won't be judged by you or anyone else for doing what I did. You woulda done the same thing if you was me."

The lead investigator then comes out and tells them that both men are being interrogated. Eden tells them to offer them whatever they want to get to Cruz's killer. He tells her they're being less than forthcoming and no matter what, have to pay for their crime. Julia shows them the authorization from the SBPD, explicitly saying that offers are to be extended going as far as immunity for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for Cruz's death. Marta is appalled by what she hears.

"You mean these guys, that I just identified, that they could go free after what they did? What kind of bull-"

"What kind of BULL is it that my husband is dead? Is that what you were about to say? Because that was the end result of your little kidnapping, Marta. You were let go without a scratch on you and my husband was blown to smithereens!" Eden turns to the investigator. "Offer what you can. I want whoever did this held accountable, no matter what you have to do."

The investigator nods in affirmation and says he'll do his best to keep them posted on the interrogations. He heads back to the interview room, as Angel arrives on the scene. Marta runs and hugs her father, sobbing a little.

"Marta, my Marta, are you alright? What happened?"

"It's them, papa, it's them. It was the guys-"

"Ay, mija, shhhhh, shhhh, it's okay now. I'm here."

"They're gonna get away with it because of them. They're gonna get away with it!"

Angel asks what Marta is talking about and Julia fills him in. Marta is stunned when Angel takes the news in stride, saying they need to do whatever they can to make sure Cruz's murderer is punished, even if it means Marta's kidnappers going free.

(EXT: Newark, New Jersey)

----Mason and Pearl are able to pry Mary and Sherri off of one another. Maureen looks and sees her son continuing to smile at the scene.

"You laugh at this? Look at the pain you've caused these people Mark, the torment and the agony they've suffered for years. All because of you, my son. Where is the good in you? How can you not feel compelled to do what's right, especially since you say you loved this woman."

"He doesn't know the meaning of the word, Maureen, at least not the Mark I've always known," Mason snorts.

"And the only word you can understand, Mason, is revenge. It's what drives you, always has. Bruises your ego a bit to know that somebody turned the tables on you for once, doesn't it? You want the truth? I may regret what this has done to Mary, but don't think for a second I regret keeping her away from you. It was the best thing I could do for her and that baby. I respected her wishes and didn't dare raise our son. But I wasn't about to let you have any influence over his life."

"You keep referring to the child as yours, but I still see no proof of that." Mason retorts.

"Oh, it's my son Mason, but you don't have to take my word for it. After all, if it were my son, why would you even care about him? Oh, that's right, because you "care" so much about Mary. That's why you manipulated her into prosecuting me in open court, much against any will of her own."

"So where is he, Mark? Where is my son?"

"Quite honestly, I don't know. He bounced from foster home to foster home for many years, but when he turned 16, he left the system and hasn't been seen since. You can check with the state of California for his records."

"What's his name, Mark?" Mary asks.

"Actually, that changed from home to home. He would claim to want to reinvent himself wherever he went, and swiched his first and last names as he bounced around. Again, the state will confirm what I'm telling you. He's alive, I'm certain of that. I've researched the deaths of young men around his age in California and some of the US over the years and none match up. But that's it. That's all I know."

"Are we supposed to believe all this Mark? You hid and sent us on a wild goose chase because you know absolutely nothing? I'm not buying it."

"Believe what you want Mason, I don't give a damn. The records in California will back me up. He's out there, somewhere he's out there, alive. But keep in mind this is my son you're looking for, Capwell. Mine and Mary's- nothing will ever change that. You're looking for MY son. MINE!"

Mason looks at Pearl and Pearl nods his head affirmatively. Mason pulls back and decks Mark, sending him across the couch and leaving his lip bleeding and face red.

"That was a long time coming," Mason says, as he, Pearl, Mary, and Maureen exit the house.

THE END........................til later

Yes, yes, it's been a while, no? But not to worry SB/RTSB fans- RETURN TO SANTA BARBARA returns this weekend with brand new episodes. Curious about what's in store for you faves? Find out here!

Keith has been manipulating Lizzie for some time now. He's up and married her and has pushed to remain married to her. Just what is he up to? All will be revealed in the coming episodes, as CC & Elizabeth find themselves together in a moment of weakness. But has Keith gotten in over his head? Is he actually falling for Ms. Elizabeth along the way? If he does, where does that leave Gina? A loose cannon, which is where she does her best work.

Eden's investigation into Cruz's murder leaves her further on edge. Finally, the identity of his 'murderer' will be revealed and is a name that should be familiar to long-time SB fans. Look for Eden to track down the 'killer' to London, England (where else?). But a cataclysmic, unexpected occurance sends Eden into a tailspin, resulting in an explosive showdown! Will she end up vulnerable to Kirk? Look for a major twist to this storyline somewhere down the road in June- something that ups the stakes and changes EVERYTHING!!! As for Joann, I'm toying a little with her character right now. There's a couple of directions her storyline could end up going in my mind, but needless to say each one is more scandalous than the next!

The masquerade ball is HUGE as Marcello will discover his once stepmother alive and once again, brainwashed. But what will Marcello do with this knowledge? He is the key to unlocking Sophia's memories and seems to want to right the wrongs he's done to the Capwells years ago. To this end, he'll be a surprising ally to a former enemy. Augusta, in the meantime, can't seem to forget about seeing Sophia and will try to free her on her own, with disastrous results! And don't expect Lionel to be pleased when he finds out what she's up to. Pamela also will continue pulling strings in Sophia's life, furthering her conquest for CC. Albeit, a misguided one.

A surprising sextet emerges with these characters, as they find themselves becoming knowledgeable on the transgressions of the others. Ashton & Warren will develop quite the rivalry, as Warren becomes more serious about his pursuit of Kelly. In the meantime, Lily begins torturing Angela with what she knows, which arouses Kelly's and then Ashton's suspicions. Angela ends up completely backed against a wall when some unexpected news comes her way, which could alter her life and marriage forever. Just how far will Lily go to ruin Ted & Angela's happiness? In June, she does something that makes Gina look amateurish!

Very excited about the possibilities for the younger set, now that they've developed some. Brandon is his father's son, that will be clear as things go around. Aspects of Steve's personality that aren't so likable will be revealed to the audience. Designer drugs will be running through the Lair, but just who's running them? Brandon has big plans for himself and doesn't care who he hurts or steps on to get the justice he feels his father was never given. Expect an interesting meeting between he & Marcello that could eventually turn dangerous. As for Samantha, she's reeling from Rafe's leaving and the rift developing in her parents' marriage. She'll make some surprising choices, that will put her smack in the middle of all sorts of peoples' lives.

This story comes to a head as Mason & Mary have tracked down Mark and have the leverage they need to get answers.......and they'll get them in spades. Their child's identity will be revealed and the name and character is one that is already familiar to RTSB readers. When the dust settles, who will Mason choose to be with? Julia has taken an uncharacteristically passive approach to Mason's relationship with Mary thusfar. Expect that to change.

All this & More when RTSB RETURNS this WEEK!!!!

I'm pleased to announce that the SONBC Award nominations came out last night. For those who don't know, the SONBC awards are for the fan fics here at SON. Not all participated, but many did. Here are the nominations bestowed on RTSB:

Outstanding Supporting Female Character

Carmen Duncan as Pamela Conrad

Outstanding Supporting Male Character

Tuc Watkins as Keith Timmins

Outstanding Leading Male Character

Jed Allan as CC Capwell

Outstanding Leading Female Character

Nancy Lee Grahn as Julia Wainright Capwell

Outstanding Storyline

The Attempted Takeover of Capwell Enterprises and Subsequent Introduction of Elizabeth Wayne

Outstanding Drama Series

Return to Santa Barbara

I'm thrilled to have any nominations at all and pleased that 'RTSB' went over so well with the judges. For a full list of the nominees, check out the SONBC section in the SON forums. Winners will be announced May 21.

As for RTSB's return, look for a full May Sweeps preview to be posted tonight!!! Episodes will either return tonight or tomorrow!!!

I'm so sorry about the lack of episodes lately everyone. It's definitely not from a lack of me wanting to continue writing it. Last week and this week are two very busy work weeks for me and those that I live with seem determined to keep me off the computer when I am home. Today, I work all day through fairly late tonight. Tomorrow, same story. I'm going to try to put out 2 episodes before late tomorrow night, but I can't guarantee I'll make it. Just know that next week, RTSB will resume a normal schedule, instead of this an episode here, an episode there crap. Thanks to everyone who's been waiting for it for your patience. I hope you all will continue reading the episodes when they're posted this week and when we return to a semi-normal schedule next week.

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(EXT: London, England- Messenger service)

---Augusta comes running into the small shop and startles the dainty young man behind the desk. She rants and raves about having made a terrible mistake and how Lady DiMonde is going to have her head. The clerk tries to calm her down but she's like a tornado.

"You don't understand- the masquerade ball is tonight! Lady DiMonde wanted everything to be just so for sweet Anna's engagement party, but... oh what a fool I am! Can you help me? This invitation......it was supposed to have gotten there last week....I thought I mailed it with the others but I....I....oh...."

"It's alright ma'am, it's okay, I can help you."

"You can?"

"Of course, no need to be so dramatic. I'll gladly courier it over there myself and send your apologies."

"Oh thank you, thank you so much."

"Now just fill out this paperwork here and we'll be all squared away."

"I don't know how I can ever repay you, thank you. You're a lifesaver!"

(EXT: Capwell Enterprises)

---CC finishes going over the plans for Gina Jeans with Joann. CC tells her that he wants Gina to be kept extremely busy for the next couple of weeks. When Joann inquires as to what he's up to with Gina, he reminds her that Gina is never to be trusted and at the moment, he needs her neutralized. The best way for him to do that is to keep her occupied.

"One thing about Gina, say what you will about her, but she takes pride in whatever she does, however trivial or vile it might be to people like you and me. She'll put her blood, sweat, and tears into fifty dollars worth of denim, especially if it has her name on them. Mark my words."

"You don't think she'll wonder about why I'm working her so hard?"

"That's the beauty of it, Joann, you just have to give her the ball. She'll run with it all on her own."

"True. This is Gina we're talking about."

Kathleen interrupts them and informs CC that his son-in-law is there to see him.

"My son-in-law is dead! How insensitive can you-"

"Your other son-in-law," Ashton says, stepping in front of Kathleen toward Joann "I'm terribly sorry, I don't believe we've been formally introduced. Ashton Lavery. I'm Kelly's-"

"Yes, I know who you are Mr. Lavery, pleased to meet you. Joann Walsh. And I was actually just going. I have some....matters to attend to downstairs. CC."

"Thanks again for your help Joann."

Joann leaves and shuts the door behind her. "One of your newer minions CC?"

"What do you want Lavery?"

"Actually, I was dropping by to fill you in on a little trip I'm going to be taking with my wife."

"You're not going anywhere with my daughter. This marriage was a mistake from the beginning, one Kelly has clearly entered into blindly."

"Oh, but this should be an eye-opening trip for her, I'm sure. We'll be visiting my father in London, as well as attending to some business I have there."

"Over my dead body. Kelly under no circumstances will ever, ever come within a hundred miles of that man. I'm going to make certain of that. You can count on it."

"This should be good- and how do you plan on doing that?"

"Don't you worry about it my boy. I've dealt with men more clever, more diabolical, more capable and charming than yourself. But know that when I'm done, Kelly will have no desire to meet your father. And your marriage will be over."

"Who do you think you are?" Kelly says, entering CC's office

"Kitten."

"The days of me letting you run my life ended years ago, daddy."

"And look at the mess you're making of it. Maybe it's time you start listening to your father. For once."

(EXT: London, England)

---Sophia finishes helping Christine out in the kitchen. Christine muses that Dr. L should be arriving home shortly and likes his lunch promptly. The doorbell rings and Sophia offers to answer it, but Christine insists. She tells Sophia to watch the fish on the stove, because if it's overcooked, it will lose it's flavor. Christine rushes to the door and the clerk from the messenger service stands there with an envelope and two zipped outfits.

"Can I help you?"

"Yes, I need to speak to the gentleman or the lady of the house."

"Sorry to disappoint you, but if ya didn't notice, this is a castle here. The gentleman and the lady don't come to the door for any individual. Who let you in at the gate? Solicitors are prosecuted by-"

"I'm afraid I've misrepresented myself. I'm actually delivering an invitation and costuming for tonight's masquerade ball given by Lady DiMonde..."

"Lady DiMonde? Oh my, it's Anna's engagement party today, isn't it? I was reading about it at the newstand this morning."

"Yes, Lady DiMonde deeply regrets the tardiness of the invitation. Apparently, someone from the help misplaced it, and, well..."

"Oh believe me I've been there."

"She hopes that Dr. Lavery & Mrs. Lavery will accept the costumes as a token of her apologies."

Christine takes the envelope and the costumes. The man reaches out for his tip and Christine reaches out and shakes his hand.

"Christine Gorrow. It was a pleasure meeting you too sir. I'll make sure Dr. L gets this."

The clerk tries to explain but she shuts the door on him. Sophia comes down the corridor and tells Christine that the fish is ready. She looks at the envelope in Christine's hand and the clothing. She asks Christine what it is & she excitedly explains that Edmund & she have been invited to a huge high society event taking place that night. Sophia asks if Edmund often receives such extravagant invitations, but Christine says he mostly keeps a low profile. Sophia unzips the dress & mask and remarks how gorgeous and intricate the ensemble is. She presses it against her as Edmund walks through the door.

"It's beautiful Loretta, wherever did it come from?"

"Lady DiMonde, Dr. L. You and Mrs. L here were invited to the big engagement ball tonight."

"Funny, it's a little late for such an invitation, quite unlike her to send something like this on the day of the event. Are you sure it's from her?"

"That's what the messenger told me."

"Must have been the little man on the way out."

Edmund directs Sophia to put the dress back, saying that it isn't something that they should attend. Sophia is disappointed, saying that the whole thing sounds so grand and romantic. Edmund says he had wanted to just spend a quiet evening at home, with just the two of them. Sophia says that sounds nice, but it's a once in a lifetime opportunity.

"At least let me try it on, darling. It just seems like she's gone to all this trouble, we could at least accept such a lovely gesture."

"But I barely know the woman, aside from seeing her at some charity functions and her contributions to my research, but it's been years..."

"Her daughter's engaged, darling, she wants the world to celebrate with her. Please. Can I at least try it on? If it doesn't fit or you don't like how it looks on me, we don't have to go..."

"That's not fair, Loretta, you know if you put that on I'll...."

"I'll be right back. Come Christine. Help me with my hair. Your lunch and the mid-day newspaper are sitting on the dining room table for you darling, as you like" Sophia says, kissing him on the lips & dragging Christine up the stairs.

Edmund unzips his count-like costume and looks again at the invitation. He phones the messenger service that delivered them, but the clerk informs him that the employee who delivered to his address hasn't returned yet. Edmund hangs up, again looking at the invitation.

(EXT: Newark, New Jersey)

---Pearl drives Mary, Mason, and Maureen down the suburban roads toward Mark & Sherri's house. Everyone in the car is silent, anticipating the confrontation. Pearl receives a phone call and is told that more activity on Sherri's credit card has come in, indicating that they're still in Newark. Pearl tells a relieved Mason and Mary the good news. They anxiously ask Pearl how much further it is and he tells them they're actually about there. Pearl pulls just past a small white house with black shudders. He asks Maureen if she's ready and she assures him that she is. Maureen gets out of the car and walks back toward the house. She rings the doorbell and Sherri answers.

"Maureen."

"Hello Sherri- how are you?"

"Fine, we weren't expecting you, come in, please...."

"Is Mark here?"

"He actually isn't home yet, but should be in just a little bit. Can I get you something to drink?"

"No, I'm fine."

Sherri asks Maureen what brings her to town and she explains that she'd recently contacted Mark. She said that by the tone of his voice and what they discussed, she was sure that he wasn't doing very well. Sherri asks what she means and Maureen specifies about her visit with Mason and Mary.

"Yes, they came to see me too. It was strange seeing her again, after all these years. My goodness, I remember when she was brought in and what a wreck Mark was. It was such a miracle seeing her doing so well, so healthy. It was just a shame what I had to tell her about her child."

"What, that you had to LIE to me?" Mary says, entering the room.

"Mary!....What are you-"

"The jig is up Nurse Rhodes. Or is it Nurse McCormick?"

"Mary- I-"

"Save it. Save it Sherri. After all I'd been through, after what Mark put me through- How could you? How COULD You?" Mary says. Mary raises her arm and slaps Sherri square across her face, sending her to the floor.

"Oh my God!" Mark says from the doorway.

They turn around and see him running back toward his car. He jumps in, turns the key in the ignition and throws it in reverse, but he's cut off by Pearl & Mason, who block him in the driveway with the rental. Mason gets out of the car and approaches Mark's window.

"You're not going anywhere Mark. Not when I'm done with you."

THE END.........................for TODAY