On the CL's patio, Phyllis seeks advice from Mike - how can she work at NE? Victor makes her blood boil. Can she really work for the man who almost got Summer killed? Mike assures that Victor's very sorry - and only SHE can make this decision.

Meanwhile, inside CL's, Amber enthusiastically pitches a line of boy jeans to go with her jackets. Finally managing to get a word in, Lauren shuts her up long enough to say 'there's a problem'. Mike interrupts to say he needs to get back to the court house (to deal with a screw up on Ryder's bail paperwork). With all determined to keep an eye on Ryder, Lauren has no doubt her instincts are right.

At home, Jana shields her eyes (as Ryder puts his shirt on in her living room). And as Ryder and Kevin are about to head out, Jana calls him back - she's tried - but this arrangement's just not working for her.

In NE's break room, Vikki's still got her panties in a bunch over the SEC accusations (and the bastard who ratted her out). As Nick warns her to calm down, Adam appears to say his buddy in the SEC will give him the name soon. I'll 'flay him alive', Vikki snarls - lemme know when you get that name. You got it, Adam then informs that the investigator is in the conference room - with the shareholders. After his siblings stomp out, Adam grins to himself - flashing back to the SEC call.

Ashley's startled to find Victor standing in 'her' living room (there to see Faith and pick up more of his things). The ranch now hers, Ashley suggests some ground rules - call before coming to 'her home' - knock on the door. He can't just be wandering in and out.

Victor balks at the idea of scheduling visits to his own ranch. It's common courtesy, Ashley argues. We were a family, Victor reminds - and now he's an intruder? He owns this damn place and will come and go as he pleases. Maybe Ashley should leave. You're gonna throw me out? Ashley challenges - the baby too? Victor won't be barred from his own place. Ashley wants to be treated with respect - and after everything that's happened, doesn't feel it too much to ask. Looking weary, Victor takes some deep breaths - he didn't mean to upset her. Ashley balks - oh, so Victor thinks her irrational? She's been just fine since having the baby thank you very much.

Back at CL's, Lauren rains on Amber's parade - seems the jacket's are no longer flying off the shelves. Must be the economy - it'll pick up, she's sure. With rent to pay, Amber asks about a sales job. Phyllis arrives on cue - you don't wanna do that, trust me. Smart move, she grins (when Lauren claims to be fully staffed). I really am! Lauren squeaks. Yeah, Phyllis KNOWS Daniel doesn't have a job - he's been too busy trying to stay out of jail (because of HER boyfriend, Deacon - or rather, her FIANCE). And when Amber talks of trying to protect HER son, Phyllis charges over. Lauren, the peacekeeper, sends Phyllis on her way, then has questions about Ryder (whom Amber will never trust).

Folding up Ryder's sheets, Jana complains that never mind her doubts - the apartment's getting crowded. It's just for a bit longer, Kevin insists - he's saving for a place. Picking up a torn photo that dropped onto the floor, Jana holds it up against Kevin. The boy in the old picture resembles him (at that age). She reads writing on the back 'Ryder with ... fall of '93'. Returning for his jacket, Ryder's not impressed to see them going through his 'stuff'.

Adam chases Mike down - he's got a number (of who tattled to the SEC) - but needs help connecting it to a person. Reverse look up didn't work. Mike refuses to help Adam get access to anybody's private ANYTHING. That's too bad - Dad will be ever so disappointed to hear how uncooperative Mike's being. Mike chuckles - Adam will just have to find other ways to score points with his father.

In the meeting, Nick and Vikki talk of 'unfounded rumours'. But the SEC agent informs all that Victor had a seizure the morning of their meeting (while Vikki claimed he was in good health). Vikki had every confidence in Victor's recovery - and she look, she was right. With no more questions, Nick's about to end the meeting when Deacon strolls in to introduce himself as a Savaneur stockholder (who's also had 'dealings' with Ms Newman). As such, he's got something to say (much to the nervous Vikki's chagrin).

An angry Ryder jams the photo in his duffel bag. He doesn't know who else is in the picture (it was torn in half before he got it). Why do they care anyway? Just curious, Kevin assures - take it easy. Ryder's sorry - he's not used to living with people. He'll adjust. And with another apology to Jana, Ryder follows Kevin out (leaving Jana to check the photo out again).

As Nick hopes Deacon's brought proof of his holdings, Deacon tosses a folder (of his certificates) onto the table. Vikki explains their art connection - they certainly never discussed her father's health. That's true, Deacon agrees - he has no knowledge of these accusations. He's a character witness - Vikki's a straight shooter - a soul of integrity beyond reproach. If she says her father was getting better, he was. He has every confidence that his investment is in good hands. Vikki thanks Mr Sharp - she appreciates his confidence. You've earned it, Deacon says (to which Nick curls his lip in disgust and marches out without word). Vikki squirms, eyeing the audience, as Deacon sits to beam adoringly at her.

Adam continues to work on Mike - why is he protecting whomever called the SEC. Mike's unconcerned about Adam going to Victor (who trust HIM - Adam, not so much). Adam's working to regain that trust. Mike knows - and THAT concerns him. Nick arrives - and taking a look at the number, instructs Adam to get the phone records from Connie. Now alone, Mike and Nick suspect Adam, but can't jump to that conclusion - especially in front of Victor. Nick's not convinced - Adam DOES have his hands full right now.

The stand off at the OK Coral continues. Victor can tell that Ashley's more confident - but are her insecurities completely gone? They sure are - after months of worrying about her baby, the unbearable guilt, the dreams of Sabrina - Ashley's relieved that Faith is there - and healthy. Now, Ashley can relax (if it weren't for Victor being in her face). She thanks him for giving her Abby, and Faith - but if Victor wants to make her happy, he needs to leave her alone. I can do that, Victor answers - and exits.

As all file out of the meeting, Vikki hisses at Deacon - since when was he a Savaneur stockholder? Since he heard she was in trouble. He holds no grudge against the woman for blowing a deal that cost him millions. Especially not a woman he ... um ... respects. Perhaps his act of kindness will get him back in her good graces - they can be friends again. We were never friends, Vikki discreetly whispers back. Arriving, JT spots his wife having what appears to be an intimate conversation with Deacon.

At the ranch to pick up a package, Phyllis gushes over the adorable Faith - she really looks like a Newman. Continuing the friendly chat, Ashley whines about her relationship with Victor - the cost of being a Newman is too high for her. She wants her daughter's to have the advantages of being a Newman, but - she doesn't want them anywhere near that 'dark side'. From experience, Phyllis knows that's not possible - if you want the good, the bad comes with it.

In his suite, Victor talks to Mike about the upcoming changes in his life. He's done a lot of thinking - about the company, his family, his health - and especially Ashley's well being. It's difficult for her to recover from the nightmares and anxieties. Mike hopes he doesn't feel responsible. Regardless of who's to blame, Victor knows that it's best for his daughter's to have a happy mother. Thus, he's leaving GC for a while.

Amber visits Jana - with a gift. It's for you - to help ME. Neither want anymore surprises. Jana's thrilled - an Ouija board. Do I have questions for YOU my old friend, she pulls it from the gift bag.

Meanwhile, at CL's, Kevin's training Ryder. Hey Lauren - what's YOUR favourite coffee drink? Tea, she spits out (with obvious disinterest). And as Ryder's left to wait on a customer, Kevin raves to Lauren about how well he's doing. With Lauren obviously not impressed, Kevin wonders what it'll take for her to give poor Ryder a chance. Ryder calls Kevin over to take a call - then approaches Lauren. It's cool - he doesn't expect her to be all warm and fuzzy. He's just pleased that Kevin gave him a second chance. Don't worry - he WON'T regret it.

Victor's apparently off to some cardiac rehab program. He's still experiencing pain from the surgery, like when he crosses his legs for instance. His return date? That'll depend on Ashley's recovery as much as Victor's own. Yes - of course Mike will keep an eye on Ashley. NE will be in good hands, Victor's convinced - give a greater role to Adam. He understands why Mike's worried (due to the last time he left all three of his spawn at the company) - but they'll handle the whole thing beautifully, just you wait and see. Mike doesn't look as convinced...

...and with good reason. Get away from my wife! JT growls directly behind Deacon. JT, Don't do this, Vikki implores. 'JT', Deacon sarcastically repeats the name - I did your wife a big favour.... Having heard enough, JT cuts him off with a right hook. Don't ever let me catch you near her again! he shouts while carted off by Nick (as Deacon lays sprawled on the floor - the click, click, click of the cameras capturing the moment).

With candles lit, Jana wants to get this done before Ryder comes home (and thinks she's trying to 'hex' him or sumthin'). And now - let the voodoo begin. Amber goes first - How long before her career takes off? D-E. December? That'd be great! Oh wait - it's 'D-E-A-D'. My career's not 'dead', she wails - then tries another question. Will Daniel love me forever? Again the board spells out 'D-E-A-D'. It's either a faulty board, or Ryder's photo is throwing it off. Who's the missing person in the photo? Jana asks. Once more the board spells out, you guessed it, 'D-E-A-D' - and with a shudder, both ladies recoil.

Mike speaks well of Nick and Vikki - but Adam? There's resentment on both sides. Why not reinstate Adam when Victor's back (to keep an eye on him)? But Victor promised to give Adam a chance to redeem himself. Yeah, Mike DOES have concerns ... But those are cut off when Adam marches in, all full of importance, to announce that whomever called the SEC did so from a company phone. Reading the paper, Victor's very disappointing to see it's an assistant he trusted. All but ignored, Mike excuses himself - and in the hallway, calls Phyllis with regards to her decision to work at NE. Victor's leaving town - but it's better she let Nick explain. Call me.

Burning up his daytime minutes, Mike's next call is to Nick - Adam claims to have found 'the traitor amongst us'. It's someone Victor never suspected. Nick's on his way - but pauses to scold Vikki on the JT/Deacon incident. Surely she knows how it looks. I had NO idea, Vikki blusters - then objects to being shipped off to handle a deal Nick's working on, in South America (til this blows over). And YOU take charge? Vikki sneers. I won't be 'marginalized', she snaps as she clip clops out.

Initially freaked out, the girls convince themselves that whomever was in the photo died - must be Terrible Tom (which is why Ryder was so touchy about it). But why is the plastic pointer positioned at 'No' when neither Amber or Jana put it there. With a nervous gasp, both edge back a few inches on the sofa.

His eye already turning a nice shade of purple, Deacon orders at CL's, then scoffs that at hearing that Ryder's brother bailed him out. His voice loud (for the benefit of Kevin and Lauren) Ryder announces that Kevin used the reward from the painting Deacon tried to steal (then refuses him service). Kevin comes over to agree they're all out of espresso. To hell with both of you, Deacon walks out. Of course Kevin backed Ryder - that's what brother's are for. Kevin returns to Lauren (who admits she may have been a bit hard on Ryder - and will have an open mind). So, how about they all get together for dinner? Lauren will host - at the Fisher's place.

JT didn't know the press was there - and wasn't trying to embarrass Vikki, but that guy had it comin'. Vikki didn't know Deacon would be there - he was just trying to help with the SEC. It was NOT 'personal' but the SEC now thinks so (thanks to JT). Vikki's in so much hot water. Nick's even asked her to step aside from NE. JT announces he's got the job in NY - with a salary large enough to support his family. The decision may be hers, but Vikki doesn't like the idea of running away. Then don't run away from it, JT all but shrugs.

As Phyllis checks a message on her cell, she listens (and empathizes) as Ashley talks and talks about Victor constantly showing up. OMG - Victor's leaving GC, a wide eyed Phyllis updates.

In Victor's suite, Nick updates all about the meeting - and Deacon. How did Vikki get mixed up with a character like that? Adam wonders aloud. If JT hadn't interfered, the SEC would have backed off, Nick continues - she wants to stay and fight. Victor will speak to Vikki. Oh, and Adam's to have a bigger role at NE. But, but, we're in crisis mode, Nick argues. Victor's not asking, he's telling - Adam gets a chance to redeem himself. And if he stabs us in the back again? That wouldn't be a good idea, Victor warns.

Next: Mac asks Kevin for advice - you think I should end things? He'll keep hurting you if you let him .... Abby's arrived in Victor's suite - glaring as he ends his hug with Nikki. SHE'S the reason you and Mom are getting a divorce?! ... Sharon and Chloe watch on - as Ashley marches into RS - this is how you spent my money?! Attacking the father of my children!? She shoves the magazine into Billy's chest (on the cover is a cartoon sketch of TGVN) ...

My Thoughts: I don't get it - didn't Adam call the SEC from a cell phone left in the break room, by an employee? Now, it's a 'company' phone? Does NE provide all it's employees with personal cell phones? And they all have the same prefix? Exclusive to this supply of phones? And briefly glancing at the long list of numbers, Victor immediately knew who that number was assigned to? Couldn't Adam have made himself an even bigger hero - by just calling the number and seeing who answered? ... If Vikki was as smart as she claims to be, she'd stop tossing out words that aren't real words - like marginalized ... And while she thinks she's in 'hot water', why isn't the PI who just assaulted someone in front of witnesses at all concerned about reprecussions? ... How exactly is Vikki going to handle a deal in South America a 'break'? ... If Kevin so closely resembles the blonde kid in the photo, it's odd that Ryder would remain fair haired - while Kevin's went so dark ... Wait a minute - didn't Amber once say Deacon had a black belt? Why did he go down so easily? Has he completely forgotten the defensive skills he was taught for years? And never mind giving him some air - how about getting him a lawyer? Since when were 'character witnesses' permitted at shareholder meetings? Barging into the meeting unannounced no less ... Deacon 'respects' Vikki? Why would he respect a woman who cheated on her husband with a virtual stranger - one who she admits she never even thought of as a 'friend'? .... NOW Ashley demands visitors call before stopping by? She didn't mind Sharon dropping by unannounced - or Phyllis. I still don't get why ALL visitors aren't announced by some kind of security/butler person ... This is FOR you, Amber claims. But then 'goes first' because it's HER Ouija board (though it was brought over in a 'gift' bag). If the unemployed Amber's so broke, why is she buying crap? And why would Jana assume she'd gone on a shopping spree? ... After years of waiting on his sister in law, Kevin doesn't know Lauren's favourite 'coffee drink'? ... Victor thinks leaving Ashley to raise an infant, alone, is best for her? Does he not feel it important to bond with his new baby? Near death, did he not carry on ad nauseum, about the importance of family? And if he's worried about Ashley's mental health, why does he feel it safe to leave an infant in her care - while he leaves town? Why can't Victor attend a local rehab program? Or in true TGVN style, just fly a battalion of specialists in? ... With Estella now cleared of 'gaslighting' Ashley, why hasn't she been reinstated at the job she held (and loved) for so many 'years'? Shouldn't her lawyer/nephew be working on that? And when will Ashley apologize for the false accusations that led to the trusty servant being criminally charged? .... Mike can't very well 'keep an eye' on Ashley - he doesn't live at the ranch, or even have any reason for frequent contact with her. Besides, he's already busy 'keeping an eye' on Ryder. Has he completely forgotten his client/attorney priviledge? He practically runs out to call Phyllis (with the announcement that Victor's leaving town) Then she, in turn, wastes no time blabbing the news to Ashley. Perhaps Mike should work in Victor's PR department? ... Nice that Adam, who spends so much time whining about his lack of friends, just so happens to have a pal in the SEC (a good enough friend that he's willing to ignore whatever confidentiality clause he presumably has in his contract) ... Jana needs to shield her eyes from Ryder's bare chest? Will she do the same at the next Chancellor 4th of July pool party? The prepubescant Ryder appears to be about 12 - it's OK for kids to toddle about without shirts. Yet, THIS is why the arrangement's not working for her? Too bad the bathroom was 'occupied'. Really, it woulda been nice had he showered before going off to serve food and beverage ... Jana SHOULD be more annoyed that the freeloading squatter on her sofa is too lazy to fold up and return to the linen closet, his own bedding ... Of course Lauren's store is fully staffed - they don't even need their owner around (which is why she gets to spend her days hanging around the coffee shop) ... You 'gave' me my girls, Ashley says to Victor with a straight face. Obviously forgetting that Victor didn't 'give' the sperm willingly (or even during sexual relations) - Abby is actually 'stolen' (as long time viewers will recall she dipped into the Vicsicles without their owners permission or knowledge)