Mike calls Daniel with bad news - if Ryder comes up with an alibi, he could be back in the hot seat. As 'weasel boy's' attorney it's Mike's job to find that alibi. Hang in there. Mike then approaches Ryder - take a break, he snatches the paper from his hands. With the trial set, he could be rotting in prison soon. No, that's NOT harsh - his cellmates will be harsh. Ryder SHOULD be scared (after confessing he killed a man). Didn't do it? Then prove it - provide the alibi - or spend the next 20 years kicking himself for being an idiot.

Visiting Daniel and Amber, a suspicious Phyllis is plied with her favourite brownies - before the bomb's dropped - oh, the joy - they lovebirds have set a wedding date.

In Jabot's boardroom, Kay and Neil discuss business, Chance being stabbed - and then Lily, 'poor darling'. None of it makes sense. Neil's not sure about some of Lily's decisions lately - but never mind his whining - back to business. He met with Mitchell - the SEC paperwork's been filed (and likely already leaked). Kay relays that Jack's on to them. Hmm - what WILL his next move be? Something very sneaky, Kay chuckles.

Now home, Adam (his arm in a sling) calls Nick to say the trip was a success - except for his mishap with a curb. Counting perfume bottles ain't exactly rocket science. Nick orders Adam to check in once he's at the office. Jack saunters onto the CL's patio - ah, the joys of running a family business. He's read the press release about Vikki resigning - shocking - the only Newman's left at NE are Nick and Adam (whom both Nick and Jack 'hate' living at the ranch).

Ashley fusses over Adam (who broke his collar bone - but still doesn't want to use a cane 'until he has to'). Ashley then whines about her lousy relationship with Abby - and has business to discuss with Adam (non NE business that is).

Still on the patio, Jack and Nick agree that Ashley's her old feisty self - but why DOES she keep that loser Adam around? Both agree to keep an eye on him (and make a deal to keep one another updated on any Adam-related concerns).

Ashley knows Adam's not being treated well at NE (where Nick will never give him a chance). Too bad - cause he's so incredibly smart. Oh, if only someone would believe in Adam. Well, Ashley does (and though not able to share any details yet - may soon have something they can work on together).

Ryder and Mike take a seat inside CL's - how's Mike supposed to work 'miracles' when his client's fighting him every step of the way? Either Ryder's guilty (and lying about the alibi) - or covering for someone. Work with me, Mike promises attorney-client privilege. Ryder can't prove he didn't 'do it' - I'm screwed. He then claims he was driving back and forth from Illinois the night of the murder - but no one can verify it. Mike all but forces Ryder to jot down the make and plate number of the car he was driving - then makes a call to try verify his story.

Back at Daniel's, Amber babbles about her and Phyllis becoming family - in June. Here - check out this dress Amber's designed for Phyllis' amazing figure -- it's you, right? Phyllis' eyes glaze over - as Amber goes on to say Summer will be a flower girl. When Kay's call interrupts, Phyllis shouts out that Amber can go ahead - we have plenty of time - it's June, JUNE! I'll be right there, Amber tells Kay - then thanks Phyllis for being so understanding. Here - she'll leave her sketchbook for Phyllis to look at. No sooner has Amber floated out, than Phyllis pounces on Daniel - are you out of your mind!? she repeats - and what's got Daniel so 'rattled' anyway? She's initially relieved when Daniel admits there may not BE a wedding - but only because Ryder may have an alibi. However will Daniel tell Amber that this wedding may not happen?

At the club, Amber and Deacon share a few awkward words. Deacon's happy for her - and Amber's late. See ya. Hugging Kay, Amber's glowing - her life couldn't be any better (as she's marrying the man of her dreams).

Jack leaves Ashley a message - wanting to discuss his business proposal - call me. Ignoring his call, Ashley's greeted by one of her favourite people. Yes, Neil's pleased to be out from under Victor's shadow - the freedom's intoxicating - why, he's King of the world. But CI faces some challenges. Oh yeah? What challenges? Ashley heard some rumblings - but as Neil avoids her questions, she claimd she's just there to see Jabot's marketing strategy. Yes, Neil COULD have emailed it - but then she'd miss out on seeing his oh so handsome face, now wouldn't she?

When Adam takes a seat in Nick's office, Nick quips that the curb got the better of him. Adam's fine - but missed a lot - like Vikki resigning - and Nick deciding to pay restitution to those who lost in the Cayman's. He's also sure that with Vikki gone, Nick's overwhelmed. How about he 'pitches in'? That's not gonna happen - but there IS something Adam can do. Enter Mike (who notes that aerobics class isn't working out for Adam). Nick continues - the person who allegedly turned Vikki in to the SEC is back from vacation - and since Adam's the one who turned her in, he thought he'd like to be there when they bust her. Looking worried (as Mike and Nick go over her emails - looking for anything incriminating), Adam flashes back to swiping the cell phone - and calling the SEC with it. Back to Nick and Mike - who conclude that the evidence all looks circumstantial.

Over salads, Kay asks how the wedding plans are going. Well - they told Daniel's mother - and she didn't run from the room. She's making an effort. It must be that Phyllis is finally seeing the woman Kay and Daniel have grown to love. Amber thanks Kay for hosting the wedding - next to Daniel - she's the closest she has to 'family'. Reflecting briefly on her horrible childhood, Amber's delighted to soon be marrying the love of her life. Alas, she still thinks of the people she hurt - and is grateful for the second chance (to do things right).

Phyllis and Daniel ponder what Ryder's up to. Deacon's not being a pest anymore - but it could all be part of his master plan - and any minute Daniel could find out he's been played.

Meanwhile, Ryder visits Deacon. He's 'freaked out' because he hasn't heard from 'Mom' - and her phone's not in service. Ryder then rants about Deacon's plan falling apart - he was supposed to sell the painting (and send Ryder to a country without an extradition treaty). You screwed THAT up royally! What now? What's plan B? Hey - Deacon's not the one calling the shots here. And No, Mom didn't tell him anything about this supposed alibi. I might go down for a crime I didn't commit! Ryder whines.

Called into Nick's office, Cynthia, the woman accused of calling the SEC, points out that she's been a faithful employee for over 10 years. Adam jumps in to say she's been openly complaining about the company - and Mike can verify this with her emails - and they took statements from other employees. The call was traced to your cell phone, Nick adds. Anyone could have borrowed it, the woman insists - but no, she didn't notice her phone go missing - and she can't name anyone who holds a grudge against her. Well then, Nick has no recourse but to take action. No, he's not firing her - he's transferring her to Milwaukee. I didn't make any call, the woman swears - and clip clops out shaking her head. While Nick and Mike still aren't convinced they have the culprit, Adam thinks Nick did the right thing - Cynthia Nash is the likeliest culprit. IS she? If Nick ever finds out Adam was behind this .... Adam's sure he won't - he's done nothing but help.

Stepping into the hallway, Mike takes a call - found out anything on Ryder Callahan? Back in his suite, Deacon tries to calm Ryder down. Yeah, well HE'S not the one facing a murder rap - tell Mom I need help NOW! Ryder grovels. Sorry - no can do - Deacon's done with his old lady (and all her crazy plots). Damn right he's not going after the Baldwin's. What about your son? Ryder hits the wrong button. An angry Deacon shoves Ryder up against the wall - his son's somewhere safe - where that bitch can't threaten him again. Enjoy your freedom while it lasts, are Deacon's last words - as he shoves Ryder out and slams the door.

If Ryder's convicted, Phyllis concludes that the police won't bother Daniel again. But Daniel knows that if he's not, HE goes to prison. They'll reopen the investigation, Phyllis is sure - you didn't kill anyone. Come clean with Amber, Phyllis insists. She does NOT hate Amber - she's just not the perfect match for her son. Daniel loves Amber - but doesn't want to fess up'. Tell her, Phyllis insists repeats - after all, a marriage is built on trust. Without trust - it's just a flimsy house of cards.

When Kay joins her and Neil in the boardroom, Ashley wonders if she's heard from Victor or Nikki (and is greatly appreciative when Kay passes along that Victor's doing well). Sure things could be awkward - but Kay assures Ashley that they're friends too - and don't you forget it. Jack arrives - surprised to see Ashley - what are YOU doing here? Just checking in, Ashley lies. Neil adds that she wants a peek at Jabot's marketing strategy. Don't be a stranger, Kay concludes. I won't, Ashley promises with a sneaky yet innocent smile.

Amber returns from her lunch with Mrs C - and is sure Phyllis will come around. Looking all serious, Daniel has something to tell her.

Phyllis goes knocking on Deacon's door - remember me? Try hitting this side this time, Deacon snarls sarcastically. Barging in, Phyllis demands Deacon stay away from her son - and stop trying to ruin his life. It's a big mistake - understand that? Deacon's tired of getting pushed around - he has nothing to do with whatever's going on with 'Danny Boy'. Knowing HE pulls the strings, Phyllis will do anything to protect her son. What about MY son?! Deacon yelps - he's not calling the shots - they threatened MY kid. He's sorry he got involved in this in the first place. Phyllis KNOWS he Deacon has information that could clear her son - go to the police - or you're going away for a really long time - do you understand THAT?

Ryder joins Mike on the patio - with the evidence to back up his alibi? A red light photo taken in Chicago - a half hour before the murder. No way he could have made it back to GC in time. Notice though - he's not alone - there's a person in the passenger seat - is this the person Ryder's protecting? Ryder doesn't see why it matters - thanks for saving my ass, he heads back to work, leaving Mike too call Daniel - Ryder has an airtight alibi - prepare yourself for investigation. Daniel thanks Mike for the news - then tells Amber he's sorry - but he can't marry her.

Peeking into the boardroom, Kay's assured that the coast is clear of Abbott's. Neil then confirms that Ashley was there fishing for info on the IPO - she couldn't be more obvious if she brought a tackle box and pole. Amused, Kay knows the Abbott's are 'circling the wagons'. A light bulb goes off above Neil's head - eureka - he gets it! They think if they buy enough shares they can regain control of Jabot. But that will never happen, Kay grins in confidence.

Jack and Ashley go over menus at the club - Jack wants to buy her lunch - something expensive, anything she wants. He hopes that seeing Ashley with Kay and Neil means she's gonna join him in making a play for control of Jabot. Nope - Ashley was just touching base - she hasn't changed her mind - if he wants Jabot back, he'll have to do it without her.

Proofreading reports? Adam balks - what's next? Cleaning the executive washrooms? Nick has another project for Adam - the analysis breakdown of the 50 states he did for Vikki - well, it's in the wrong format - and will have to be redone. Adam will never, ever be anything more than a glorified errand boy (according to Nick). If it's not challenging enough, Nick would be happy to write Adam a recommendation. Adam will pass - and get rippin' on those reports (and any other menial task assigned to him). You're stuck with me, brother.

Next: Billy appeals to Kay - What's it gonna take for you guys to get this jerk out of our family? ... We were just talking about Chance, Jill claims (as she stands beside Paul). Don't snow me - what REALLY is going on? Kay wants to know ... Daniel shouts - I'm not marrying you if there's a chance I could go to jail! You want to be alone!? Amber shouts as she removes her ring. Fine - you have it!

My Thoughts: Oops - correction from yesterday (mistakes DO happen ya know) - Ryder's trial takes place February 5th - not November 5th (cause even Mike couldn't make THAT miracle happen) .... Adam did his 50 state analysis in the 'wrong format' - so must do it all over again? Huh? The Harvard grad's computer doesn't include a program to easily transfer the data to the correct format? .... How many times can Phyllis repeat the line 'do you understand that'? in one conversation? Too many is the answer ... Oh yeah Ryder - you COULD be 'going down' for a crime you didn't commit - 'goin' down' being the operative words (as I'm sure Mike's right - his fellow inmates will indeed be 'harsh' on Ryder - a pretty boy/man who might as well have 'welcome' tattooed on his ass) .... Nice to see that a robbery that resulted in a detective being stabbed didn't effect how busy CL's is - it's odd that Mike's not involved in a case that involves his brother's business. You'd think Gloria would have her lawyer son file some kind of emotional distress suit - maybe even against her other son; the one who owns the business she was working in at the time of the robbery .... Amber 'couldn't wait' to share the news? Huh? She spent her entire day at CL's babbling loudly about her big wedding plans (when she could have been announcing the wedding to her future mother in law) ... We nearly lost her, Neil says of Lily's latest crisis. Really? I must have grossly underrated her dire situation - as did Lily's family - cause you'd think that if there was a risk she'd die, DR Liv, the beloved Aunt would have been called to weep at Lily's bedside (and Roxy and Devon might have cut the concert short. Imagine Devon rockin' out at a Gym Class Heroes concert while his sister is dying) ... Duh Amber - of course Phyllis didn't 'run from the room' (when learning a wedding date had been set) - she was in too much shock to move ... If Phyllis is gonna be giving any advice on being up front in a marriage, maybe she should be talkin' to Amber (who's still got a few skeletons in her closet she's hiding from Daniel) - and while it's nice that Phyllis claims a marriage should be built on 'trust', SHE has yet to tell Nick that she slept with Jack - on the very couch she and Nick play video games on every night ... Is it me? Or were Phyllis and Deacon just a bit too close when speaking to one another? ... Mike assures Ryder he sticks to client/attorney privilege - then calls Daniel to tattle that if Ryder comes up with this alibi, he'll be in the hot seat. I guess client/attorney goes out the window if the attorney's speaking to another non paying client? IF Ryder tossed his gas receipts, why wouldn't Mike just ask which gas stations he stopped at - then get verification from the gas station attendants or surveillance cameras ... If Nick's convinced enough to transfer this 10 year employee, why isn't he convinced enough to fire her? Isn't he afraid she'd cause problems there? Didn't he promise Vikki he'd go hard on whomever ratted her out to the SEC? If Nick finds out it WAS Adam, will HE merely be transferred to Milwaukee? Too bad Mike can't asks the SEC if the person who reported the 'infraction' was a male or female (cause you'd have thought Adam would at least try to sound like a woman when using a woman's phone - and it's not like he hasn't disguised himself as a woman before - at least this time he wouldn't have to wear Sabrina's blood stained dress) ... Odd that Victor and Nikki have been in contact with Kay - but haven't checked on the welfare of the infant left in the care of a crazy woman? ... Neil didn't so much get out from under Victor's shadow - as he did stop BEING Victor's shadow ... If Deacon's so concerned about his kid - and his kid's safety - why has he left the kid for months on end? ... My jaw hurts from smiling, Amber grins. I bet, Kay replies (which is what I said - but with more sarcasm - cause I'm guessing there's other reasons why Amber would get lockjaw).