Chapter 57 - 02/16/2025
The sky is so bright and beautiful, sunglasses are needed. Sixty-three degrees is not perfect but it's better than rain and snow. Stores are opened. More people are out. Public display of affection can be seen. Dogs are doing their thing. Birds are flying freely to wherever they want, however they want. Everything is looking normal again except for the one in the passenger seat who was talking non-stop ever since she got in the car, making suggestions like Faith does when she knows she's right and complaining like CJ does when she hates the idea. The 10 minutes of uninterrupted silence lasted as long as it did only because she was texting and tired of talking. Now, she's not.
"So? Have you forgiven her yet?"
"One hour, 10 minutes and 13 seconds." Amy said after looking at her watch.
"What?"
"That's how long we've been together today. That's how long you managed to keep that question to yourself when you know it's none of your business." Those eyes cannot be seen under the dark shades but does she know it doesn't work within 1 foot of distance. Does she know I can see them 'rolling'?
"I asked because I'm bored. Okay? And you were looking at the birds like you're thinking of something. So what were you thinking of? It can't be about this. Am I right?" It's just a flock of birds flying in v-configuration. It is an amazing sight but she was still looking at it after they flew away when she should be looking at somewhere else.
Brooke is not wrong but it's none of her business. Brooke is not the chatty type but she is very similar to Brie in many ways and one of them is being nosy. If she wants to talk to stay awake, there are many other things to talk about. "How long did it take her to forgive you?" Amy knows the answer and only asked to let her know that to forgive isn't that easy. It depends on the situation. Two weeks weren't enough time for Brie to forgive. But Brie eventually did. It's her own fault. She shouldn't have assumed that Brie was having a FWB relationship with Will. That is disgusting and demeaning and Brie took it as an insult like any normal person would and blamed her for Will's sudden departure because it made sense. Brooke might not have anything to do with it but she did make a mistake so what's that glare for?
"Please don't do that again."
She regretted. That's obvious. But she still doesn't get it. Oh well. If she's bored, this will give her something to think about. "I was just thinking of this guy I met a long time ago, a doctoral student. No, he's not my ex." Amy added the last line in case that's what Brooke is thinking. "I remember his thesis had something to do with a specific type of flower. Don't remember what it's called. But he had this big cage of birds. Not like the ones in the zoo but it's pretty big. Next to it, there's a greenhouse with many, many small pots of plants. At first, I thought it was coca." Amy didn't bother to explain what coca is since Brooke should know and Brooke didn't ask. "Each pot was marked with a date. The petals are small, green, some are light yellow. Everyday, he took measurements of them. He showed me how to separate the DNA using gel electrophoresis. It was interesting but I had no clue what he was trying to prove. He said…finding the DNA sequence is the key to understanding the function of genes, genomes, the world and a whole lot of stuff. Not his exact words, something like that. I just remembered he kept using the word key, key to understanding this and that. Then one day, he lost his set of keys. He thought it was stolen. He wanted to call security because he couldn't get back into the lab and he was boiling something and there was something else he had to get out quickly otherwise it would be a disaster. I don't know what he meant by that. But he was very concerned about his set of keys. So I said let me try. It worked. I got it opened with a credit card. He got back in there, turned off the heater thing, put the beaker of solution in a bucket of ice because he was running out of time. Timing was important. He said. Otherwise he'll have to start the test all over again. I told him not to do that. He did it anyway. Then just like I thought, the glass beaker shattered after a few seconds." Amy paused to see what Brooke has to say because Brooke is looking confused.
"This…doesn't have anything to do with the flower or the key, does it?"
"He found his keys. He told everyone about the lock. No one knew the lock was installed incorrectly, not even the graduates and the professors and they've been using that lab for years. They were so shocked. They asked her…'How did you know?' like she did something miraculous." Amy paused again until she saw the reaction. Laughing loudly isn't to insult her. It's because it's funny, the story and her very confused expression. Get the point now?
"Brie? not you?"
"You see. That's your problem. You think your sis is stupid. You would believe it was me, not her because of what she used to do." It feels good to get a chance to say those words back at her. Brie is not booksmart but she's not dumb. She has street smarts and common sense unlike that doctoral student and many others. "She's not as naïve as you think. I didn't tell her. She found out somehow." Get the point now? Brie didn't say how she found out so there's only one possibility. "Did you tell anyone?" The only other person would be the one she's closest to. Adalyn. She must have. She ignored the question.
"She told you that?"
She's skeptical. Not surprising. But why? Unless she thinks she knows everything about Brie. "Are you jealous?" This is turning out to be a fun day after all. It doesn't feel good, does it? That's what she said the last time to explain why I don't trust Adalyn. Jealous of Adalyn because Lucy was defending her? It was ridiculous, even more so when she said Adalyn felt violated by Lucy. If Lucy heard, she would be mad as hell. But accusing Lucy wasn't the point Brooke was trying to make. Defending Adalyn and herself is.
"She didn't want to! She had to and you know that but you chose to ignore the situation she was in and blamed her for everything she did…and now you're doing the same thing to me because what I used to do."
That moment did get her thinking because Brooke did have a point but trust them? Trust takes time. Giving more information about herself doesn't prove she's telling the truth. Laughing at this moment will only make her look silly. It's not funny.
"Hah. Hah. Hah."
Okay. That's rude. "What?" Amy asked.
"I get it. She will never tell me things like that. But you know what's funny. Your ex is the same way. She told me a lot about you. She said…you and Ethan were…(gasp)…it's true? You two didn't, did you?"
The gasp is so fake. The big smile isn't. Somehow she found out. It can't be from Lucy. "You're lying."
"I see. I noticed. I confirmed. She said you didn't. But if you did, don't tell her. Don't tell Faith. Don't" (gasp) The gasp isn't deliberate this time. It's real because she just realized the so-called Perfect Score, who has been right about a lot of things, doesn't know. It's a small movement of her lips but the direction it went(downwards) showed what she's thinking. "They're together. Don't you know? Didn't you see how much fun they were having?"
Brooke has proven herself to be smarter than a lot of people. She has also shown herself to have the traits and behaviors of manipulators. Manipulators let others think that they know something when they actually don't to find out more. In this case, Brooke's motive seems to be just showing off her ability to notice things. Faith and Ethan? When did this happen? They were having fun at the wedding but so was everyone else. No one else mention it, not even Nadia. "Who told you? Faith?" Faith would lie since she thinks Brooke is attracted to her.
"reflex ball…CJ's place…ohh, you weren't there, you came later, that's right." Faith found a box under the tv at CJ's place while cleaning up. CJ demonstrated how it works. Faith tried but her reflex was so horrible, she somehow managed to break the string from the ball which then sent the ball flying and hit Ethan in the face. Her reaction was more than just apologetic. "But you were at the wedding. He was looking at her, not you, after he got the special helicopter. You didn't notice?"
Everyone was laughing after the explanation of the special paper helicopter was given. Faith was chatting and playing the inflatable games with Ken not Ethan. There was nothing they did that showed they are dating. It could be just a speculation unless… "Ethan told you?" She did go out to get lunch with Ethan that day so maybe she found out.
"Is age affecting you? They say everything starts to slow down at 40. Is it starting already?"
Really? That's not proof. Even if they are, so what? Did she forget what she missed? "How many months did you two live together? You noticed them but you didn't notice the painting was done by your sis and not me?" On that day when Brooke complimented on the painting, she wanted to tell her but decided not to since there was no reason to. Now there is another reason to remind her again.
"It wasn't signed. I'm not an artist. I don't know the difference between a Van Gogh and Picasso. How was I supposed to know?"
Amy smiles in response since she expected that. Using 'clueless in art' is a horrible excuse. Brooke looks nothing like Lucy but she's beginning to sound like her. Lucy would continue to try to prove herself too. Brooke just came up with another one that she noticed and it doesn't make sense because she's not supposed to know unless CJ told her. CJ wouldn't do that and Lucy wouldn't dare. Would she? "What're you talking about?" Amy asked instead of asking if CJ told her because that would give her more information than necessary if it's just a speculation. But how could this be a speculation? The suggestion given is the same one that CJ gave at the wedding and it's similar to what Lucy said before she left.
"Come on! It's so obvious. It's not just a thank you hug. Okay?"
But it is. Amy kept that thought to herself since that won't convince Brooke. Besides, Brooke is providing details of what she noticed this time instead of making a sarcastic age comment. But what is she talking about? What long stare? "Talking requires looking at each other. It would be rude not to make eye contact." What out-of-place touching? "She was holding my hand because she thought I would go to the police." The hug was no different than the thank you hug from Annie. "It was just a thank you hug because she was happy, relieved. She didn't think anyone would believe her." Satisfied? Brooke doesn't easily give up. That's why she's here. Brie said not to tell her but it was impossible to keep it from her. And now, she's doing the same thing again to make her point when there's no proof. Talk about herself. But this time is different because it's very personal. Adalyn would not want to hear this. No one wants to hear how their lover fell in love with someone else.
"…I thought he was running a prostitution ring. After I found out he was actually trying to help them, he's not who I thought he was, I fell in love with him…"
Lucy did say the incident in the Underground chamber was a misunderstanding. It was hard to believe that Christian's intention to buy Will was to save Will. Who would believe that the son of a mob boss who's known to be involved in human trafficking would actually try to help prostitutes? Lucy didn't. Adalyn did. It's her idea? "What is? What do you mean?" Amy had to ask because it sounds like she's saying that it wasn't Christian's idea. The question is ignored but more is given. Adalyn and Christian are very alike? How so? Both of their fathers are criminals. That's true. They both hate their father. Adalyn did say that. Some friendships do start from having similar experiences and personalities. But same soul? different bodies? They're twin flame? What? Brooke's intention is now more clear. But that's a very bad excuse to explain why she fell in love with 2 people at the same time. It's called cheating! Amy kept that to herself since Brooke won't admit it.
"I fell in love with him because of what he did. I fell in love with her because of who she is and she made me realize who I am. She…would still love me even without these."
Brooke's intention was clear but now is not. "You have breast cancer?" Even with the sunglasses, the 'what is wrong with you' expression can be seen. "What?" She was holding onto her own boobs when she said that. Isn't that what she meant? Amy didn't ask again because Brooke's next comment finally makes more sense. It's not to talk about why she fell in love with Christian and Adalyn. It's to show what she noticed about them when they fell in love with her.
"She had her hand on my lap all of a sudden while we're watching a horror movie. It wasn't that scary. That was the first time. And he…when we first met, he was looking at me in the same way she was looking at you. Hypnotized. I had to wave my hand to snap him out of it. So trust me. After this, she's going to ask you out. Want to make a bet?"
How often has she been talking to Lucy? A bet? She wasn't talking this way before.
"If I win, you try. If I lose, then I'll stay away from your ex. Okay?"
Why is she talking like she's doing me a favor? What happened to wanting to stay away from Lucy?
"What do you have to lose?...except time. How old are you? If you're still thinking of having a baby, I suggest freezing your eggs now. CJ is pregnant. Don't tell her I said that. I don't think she wants anyone to know yet. So sshhh."
What! It can't be true. The wedding was only two weeks ago. CJ was jumping on the bouncing ball, not like Brie was but she did make a few small jumps for the picture. There was champagne. Did she drink it? …hmm… Brie said that too but she was just joking. How did Brooke find out? The question can wait since Brooke is showing off again. But this time, she's not showing off what she found out but rather her relationship with Adalyn. Since when did she start calling Adalyn babe? Why call just to ask what she wants for dinner? That's weird. Why not just send a message? Is Adalyn checking up on her again? It seems that way until Brooke started laughing.
"You serious?"
Now she's not laughing. A sense of déjà vu just appeared. Just like that day, Brooke is again telling Adalyn what to do. But she's not screaming. She's talking in a caring way.
"I'll call him. Okay."
Call him? Who? Whoever Brooke promised to call, she's not. She's texting. What's the urgency? "What happened?" It must not be urgent since she's not answering the question and changed the topic back to the current situation. A stakeout is boring. "If you have any suggestions besides killing, beating him up, anything that won't get the police involved, let's hear it." No one asked her to be here. She's the one who wanted to be involved because of Brie. Thank goodness it wasn't Brie. If it was, who knows what she would do.
It was shocking to find out why Brie was so upset that day. It wasn't just because Brooke came without calling first. It was because she had an inappropriate encounter with a man on her way home who asked for directions as an excuse to get to know her. After getting rejected, he resorted to name calling. Fortunately, that's all he did. Unfortunately, it happened again weeks later. It started off with just a question, according to Brie, one that many would not find anything wrong with but Brie did because of the three words he used before asking for directions. She didn't know who he was until she saw him again at Eva's place a few days after the wedding. It's the man who came from Quebec, Eva's young uncle. Words alone wouldn't be able to convince anyone since all he did was what a man would do when they see a beautiful woman. It is possible he didn't need directions and only asked because he's interested. But if he is interested, then why didn't he recognize her? Brie didn't have an answer for that but her concern for Eva was enough to put a plan in place to have him followed. One week of watching him wasn't able to prove anything. But surprisingly, she was right. He might not have any criminal records. But there is a victim, Eva's sister Olivia, who came for a visit from Calgary per her mother's request and did not realize that her pervert uncle would be there too.
It was difficult to get Olivia to open up. No one knew because she's afraid that no one would believe her just Like many women who have been assaulted and raped. But in this case, it wasn't rape or sexual assault. It was unwanted touching of hands and legs. That, she knew. But what she didn't know then was what he is because she was too naïve then to know how perverts think. Only after she moved out and all the rape cases by famous producers, politicians, and millionaires came out did she realize that her uncle's behavior was similar to theirs because he too was taking advantage of the situation that she was in. She didn't tell anyone because it happened many years ago but the main reason is because who would think it was assault when all he did was hold her hands when it's cold and massaged her leg when her leg suddenly cramped while swimming? No one would except her. No one would except those who had similar experiences. Like Brie.
Brie knew there was something wrong with him because of her experiences with men. Having worked as an escort, she would know. But it wasn't just from experiences from work, it's because the words(Hey gorgeous, Hey beautiful, Hey pretty lady) reminded her of guys who made a pass at her, the construction workers who just couldn't keep their mouth shut when she walked past them and one particular guy whom she met while she was helping a friend move into a new apartment. Unlike Olivia's incident, that guy didn't do anything to her. But unlike Olivia, Brie told someone, the friend whom she was helping. But the friend brushed it off as 'that's how he talks because he doesn't know your name, it's a compliment.' It didn't sound like a compliment. Not to Brie. Then some time later, Brie found out she was right after learning from the same friend who wanted to know how she knew. That guy was cheating on his wife, got another woman pregnant before that and the wife had no idea until another friend caught him walking hand-in-hand with another woman in the busy city of New York. How did she know? Some men give off bad vibes. It was just a feeling, according to Brie. A feeling that may have stemmed from experiences as a young child but she's too young to remember, according to Brooke who did not want to disclose but did so only because she couldn't come up with a logical reason that would explain why Mr. P would trust her.
The reason was shocking. It would cause anyone to be angry. How could anyone do that to their own child? If it was true, Brooke can't be blamed. If it was true, it would explain why Mr. P chose her. If it was true, it would explain how she was able to survive the poison from the love flower. It could be because she had already lived thru the pain and the hardship. It could be because of her will to live…for Brie, to protect Brie from abusers, pedos, rapists, creepy men which she was able to do at 13 but failed after that. If it was true, it would explain why she didn't want to tell anyone. But as good as the reason is, there's no proof. But for now, there's no reason to think that she's not telling the truth since she has proven herself to be very capable of doing more than just protecting herself and noticing things that others would not. Just like she said.
-home-
Surprisingly, she's also right about this too. How the heck does she know that? Brooke didn't say Lucy or Brie would be here but she did say Brie is getting too close to Lucy.
"What're you doing?" Lucy should know she can't be here. Brie should know screaming for help while being pinned down against the gym mat by someone who's dressed like a man could give others the wrong idea. Did she forget what happened to Adalyn? She may have and she may have gotten the wrong idea since she is explaining why she asked Lucy to show her self-defense like someone that did something wrong. It is a little weird to ask Lucy but that's fine. "You can do it with whoever you want." Amy interrupted to stop Brie from talking in excitement about what she learned from Lucy. "All I want to know is…whose idea is it?" Coming back home earlier than usual, she expected Brie to know why. So why isn't she answering the question? "Olivia said we don't have to follow him anymore." Does she still think I don't know?
"I wanted to tell you but I know you won't agree so…sorry. "
I? That can't be true. Brie isn't dumb but Lucy is smarter. Even Brooke said Lucy must have done something to that pervert. Otherwise, he wouldn't be packing his bags. "He also has a bandage on his hand so what did you do?"
"I didn't do anything. I just…made a suggestion." Lucy shrugged, knowing that denying any involvement won't work. Amy is too smart but her plan sucks. No one wants to hear that. But she needs to know why. "His type are good at covering up. And it has been so many years. He's not the same guy. He's not going to do it where everyone can see. And if he buys a house, he's not going to leave. So it has to be done quickly. It would be easier to give him a choice and-"
"You threatened him?"
Lucy knew that words matter but in this case, it doesn't. Force him, threaten him or give him a choice all mean the same to Amy. "no"
"You…are UN-believable."
"I know."
"That's not a compliment." There's the cocky grin she always has when her plan worked. What's done is done. But she needs to know what the problem is since she clearly doesn't understand the entire situation. "The whole point of following him is to get proof first. Then use it to get him to leave so her parents don't have to deal with it. So there won't be any arguments between her parents because there will be. So her mother won't blame herself because she will. She kept the secret for years for these reasons." Brooke didn't like the idea either but she understood. Some things are not meant to let others know even if they should. Olivia agreed but she obviously changed her mind. Getting revenge is more satisfying than just a warning.
"She's happy. Problem solved." Lucy realized that did nothing except caused Amy to stomp off. "That went well."
"You sure? She seems"
"She's fine. That's how she is. She hates it when I'm right." It's true. It's not a joke. It is funny. Locking herself in the bathroom is not. "She's gone." Running water can be heard. Taking a shower at 3:00pm? Why? Lucy realized she'll need to wait again. Ten minutes turned to twenty. Twenty turned to thirty. How long does it take to dry hair? Bedroom is still locked. It's too late to regret waiting downstairs instead of the bedroom earlier. "She lent him money years ago. What if he asks again? She's going to give it to him. He might even take advantage of the situation." Lucy explained on the other side of the locked door. That can happen. Perverts have no shame. Keeping it from the mother is such a horrible idea. "You hear me?" There are noises inside. What is she doing? "Okay! I'm leaving!" If that's what she wants, fine. One. Two. Three. Four. It worked. Getting a look of dissatisfaction after the door is opened is expected but not silent treatment. "You're not really mad, are you?" Lucy followed until she realized that Amy is only going to get something from the cabinet. It would be better to wait inside the bedroom. What's this? There are clothing on the bed, more than just one outfit. "You going out?" This would explain why she took a shower. If she is, she's not in a hurry. She's looking at herself in the dresser mirror with each outfit to see which one to wear. "I was just trying to help."
"Have you met her?" No? That could be the truth. "Who else knows?" No one else can know including Eva. That's what Olivia had initially wanted. "If you're not going to tell me, that's fine. I can find out."
(sigh) Yes she can. Knowing now rather than later isn't going to make a difference. But before telling her how, she needs to know it wasn't a decision made without thinking it thru. First step was to find out what type of people Olivia's parents are. How's their health? Would they be able to handle the truth? Are they on the verge of getting a divorce? Are they the type that cares more about how people look at them? What's that bastard capable of? Just a pervert or psycho? That's all important. It's not difficult to find out. The most difficult is getting Olivia to see that continuing to hide it from her mother is not a good idea. Her father doesn't need to know since he only talks to the pervert when he comes for a visit. They're not close. Eva must be told since getting her support will be easier to convince their mother. Two options were given to Olivia. One is to tell her mother. The second is to confront her pervert uncle first, then decide when to tell her mother. Examples of what to do and what to say were given. After that, it was easier than expected because Eva, the drama major, easily came up with a plan to get revenge. First, distraction was needed. Anyone would be interested in looking at 2 females and their PDA. Holly and Nadia needed no instructions. The distraction allowed Olivia to deliberately spill a hot cup of coffee on his hands while also making it look like an accident. With Eva by her side, Olivia let him have it. He didn't admit to it. Perverts never do. But there was no doubt that he is because according to Olivia, she remembered his wife, now ex-wife, being mean to her but didn't understand why then. But she has a theory and was able to confirm it with a question and a statement(Do you want me to ask your ex-wife? She saw what you did.) It's because his wife was nearby when he held onto her hands years ago. Being mean to her was his wife's way of blaming her for flirting with her husband which is ridiculous. She was 19 then, young and naïve to take his offer to go on a canoe ride with him alone. His wife wasn't young or naïve but like a lot of insecure married women with a good looking husband, she knew what her husband was and still is but chose to blame the other woman regardless of who she is. "It was Brie's idea."
"Is that all?"
Lucy knew it would be difficult to hide it but she wasn't expecting to be the one doing the explaining. "She said one distraction might not be enough so she asked Ethan and Faith." Brie's other intention was to see if she was right about them. For the past few weeks, she noticed that Faith was acting weird so she took this opportunity to find out if they are dating. She may have failed to get them to kiss after saying 'kiss now, kiss him now' on the phone but they're not back yet. "If they weren't before, they are now." Lucy shrugged again with a smile. The way that Brie described that moment was so funny, it made her stomach hurt from laughing. Guess Amy doesn't think it is. Amy doesn't believe it's Brie's idea either. "I just made a suggestion. It was your idea. None of this would happen if it wasn't for you. You got her to tell you. She got the courage to let them all know because you believe her. She's not afraid anymore because of you." Blaming her is never a good idea but in this case, it is because it worked. Having nothing else to say is a good sign. But she's back to looking at the outfits. So that's not good. Not being allowed to touch her is bad. But at least looking is allowed. Many things have changed in the past five months but one thing hasn't. Amy still looks smoking hot with the undershirt and that short boyshorts.
"Stop that." Telling Lucy to stop having dirty thoughts is a waste of time. Telling her to stop talking to Brooke is not. "Did you tell her about Ethan and me?"
"Why would I do that?"
There's no reason for Lucy to. Brooke must have found out from someone else then. "Don't tell her anything she doesn't need to know. She's sneaky. She would tell you personal things about herself just to get you to talk about yourself. So don't fall for it."
"Do I look stupid?" Yikes! Responding to a question with a question is stupid. That's one pissed look, still hot though. It would be better to just nod, agree, and try to find out what Brooke did to upset her. "What's the matter? Is she bothering you?"
Bother? Sometimes Brooke is a pain in the ass but so is Faith and CJ. And sometimes, like today, having her there was interesting. Back and forth criticism brought back memories of Max and Janet. Janet always had something to say during stakeouts and Max did not hold back whenever she hated others' suggestions. Watching and waiting would've been very boring without Brooke. She has been insightful and helpful especially today which makes it difficult to see what her intention is. Unlike Brooke's, Lucy's intention is obvious. She's doing it again. Months without sex is difficult to endure. One moment of weakness led to this. "stop" Lucy usually would do as told but not this time. This time, it brought back memories of the last time she was in this position, standing in front of the mirror, with Lucy touching her from behind. It was at a different house, different time, and different country but the feeling is more or less the same. She can still remember the question Lucy asked. Would you still love me? It wasn't a difficult question to answer then but now…it is.
"Oww…okay, okay" Lucy regretted putting her hand inside Amy's boyshorts after her hair was grabbed onto. Surprisingly, she didn't get pushed away. Getting the same question from a year ago is freaking weird. "Are you okay?"
"Just answer the question."
"Of course I will. But, I don't know if I can make love to you bcuz you know, I don't like men. I mean, I love Anthony but I just can't." Lucy deliberately shivered to show Amy how she feels. "I know it's not the same. But this" Lucy took hold of Amy's hand to touch her bearded face. "This is going to feel different. Maybe I can get used to it. I don't know. But right now, I don't think I can. But I will always, always love you and I will always take care of you…even if you don't want me to." Amy didn't pull her hand back so that's good. There's a small smile so she must have found the joke about Anthony funny. So that's great. Getting a compliment is more than great. That is a damn good answer. "So…can we…one more time…before this changes?" It's a joke, one that she thought would earn her a slap on the face. A kiss on the face is so much better. Leaving was the right decision. Amy misses it. Amy needs it too…more than just kisses. The clothing on the bed can go on the floor for now. Amy doesn't care.
"Ah"
Amy cares about the belt. Lucy quickly gets off Amy and unbuckles.
"door"
Amy cares about privacy. Door. Locked. Curtains. Closed. Sweater. Off. Pants. Off. Everything else can wait. Amy can't. Amy wants control. Amy is getting kinky. Amy doesn't mind the disguise. Amy wants to make a point? How does this feel? Kisses on the neck feel good but it's not going to be the same after transition. Is she serious? Oh…my god. That night is happening again except it was dark and she wasn't topless. Now she is. Lucy reached out to make contact, then realized she's not allowed to touch them. But just like that night, Amy is doing the driving. "oh babe" This time, Amy is awake for sure. This time feels as good as "ow…ow" What? Where did she? When did she? Why? One moment her eyes were covered with Amy's undershirt while Amy was moving on top of her. The next, her hands were cuffed to something on the end of the bed. Amy is no longer topless. But Amy is still straddling her. "This would be fun too. My turn next, okay?...Oww" If Faith were here, she would think it's happening again. The slap on the face doesn't hurt as much as the choking that night but still. "Wake up! It's me...oww." Okay. She's awake and she definitely does not want to be reminded of that night. She's not easily convinced either.
"I know you're lying." Lucy's explanation did sound believable except she didn't mention CJ, Bryan or Will and there's no way Brie would not let Will know. Burnt by hot coffee wouldn't need a bandage. Even if that pervert does, why was he moving like his back hurts? That's what Brooke noticed. Why was he looking around like he was checking to see if he's being followed when he stopped for gas? That's what Brooke said. There's one possible reason. Will taught him a lesson. It could be Bryan too but he's with CJ on their honeymoon. "How did you get him to leave?"
"I didn't do anything….Okay okay." Lucy regretted pulling her hands to block Amy's incoming slap or whatever she was thinking of because the wrists hurt. "It wasn't my idea." It's Brie's. Brie didn't think Eva's plan would be enough to scare the pervert away because he looks like the type that does whatever he wants and doesn't look like the type that would care about what his sister thinks. He's not going to leave since he had plans before coming and what happened years ago can easily be explained as a misunderstanding. Even if they are half brother and sister with the same father, there's a good chance that his half-sister will believe him because he once protected her from a heated argument with her ex-husband and gave him a black eye for cheating on her. So Brie came up with a brilliant idea, one that she used a few times to get away from guys who wouldn't take the hint. Deliberately run into him and make him think that she's in trouble. Who would want to be close to a woman with a lot of debt? Who would want to stay after he unknowingly got himself involved with a loan shark after trying to protect her from a man who was bothering her? "He didn't threaten him." No threats were needed. All that is needed is to make the pervert think that he will be responsible if Brie can't pay up. "Her idea" Lucy repeated to make sure that Amy knows.
Brie? If Brooke were here, she would now know that Brie is smarter than she thinks. That does sound like a simple plan but…"Are you crazy? Her mother met Will. What if he took a picture of him? What if he told her? She would know. Then he will know it's a setup." It's not impossible so why is Lucy looking like Brooke did when she was asked if she has breast cancer?
"I didn't say it's Will."
"Bryan?"
"he's not back yet"
"Ken?"
"Does he look like a loan shark to you? He looks more like a door greeter, his smile is so fake oww" Amy either likes the half Irish/half Korean or she hates answers with a question. "Scud" Scud was more than happy to volunteer himself since he's bored but he did not agree with Brie's plan, specifically about the loan shark. Pretending to be a Loan shark would work but it would also attract attention if others are nearby. A man in a suit would not and it would give the pervert the idea that he's not a thug but a professional with a lot of connections who came to collect what Brie borrowed from his boss. There was no need to use force. All he did was ask Brie a few questions about her boyfriend's status and location to make the pervert think that her boyfriend left because of this. That alone might not work without asking 'Are you her daddy?' to make him think that he will be on the hook even if he's not her sugar daddy. Will wasn't mentioned. Will was not involved. Will would not approve either if he knew. Will might even do something to that pervert without telling anyone. "So don't tell him."
Brie did say she had thought about telling Will but changed her mind. But…"Is that all?"
"That's all I know. If there's something else, they didn't tell me. It wasn't my idea. Sorry I didn't tell you. I just don't want you to be out there everyday, wasting your time when you can focus on more important things…you know…us. Ow." It's not a slap this time. It's the pressure on the hips. The arms are getting tired. The brain is too because Amy again is asking about Brooke. 'What did you talk about?' is a very weird question. "just small talk, you know, how are you, you look nice, things like that." Things like that would not be able to convince a former agent with profiling experience who obviously is still suspicious of Adalyn. But Brooke too?
"You told her about Ethan. You told her to keep me away from men and help you get me back. Didn't you?" It didn't seem that way until a moment ago when she came up with a damn good answer to the question (Will you still love me if I'm a trans man?), the same question that Brooke had asked Christian after she found out that Doc suggested to give her the same medication that she gave Will to keep her alive. Christian admitted that he wouldn't be able to love her the same way but Adalyn's answer was similar to the one that Lucy gave. The way she answered the question without any hesitation showed that she must have heard it from Brooke before. "Admit it!"
"Everyone knows we broke up. I didn't tell her anything she didn't already know. And I swear, I did not tell her to help me get you back. She volunteered. It's not the same…..Oww." Lucy regretted smiling after getting another slap on the face. "She was just trying to help. It's partly her fault. She said." Lucy realized that's not good enough after getting another accusation so before Amy suspects Brooke too, she needs to know the truth even though no one else can know. "I did say we were planning to have a baby before all this happened but only because she brought it up first." It happened at CJ's wedding so talking about having babies is natural. Cute little Zander has that effect. The surprising part of the conversation was "They're planning to have a baby." Surprised? Amy looks confused. "I don't think she would be lying about that. I mean, why would she?"
Why would she is a good question. The answer is because she wanted to know what Adalyn was hiding. She said she can't ask Adalyn so she used me. She lied before. She could be lying again. If she is, she's one hell of a damn good liar because the details given during the stakeout instantly reminded her of Dominique who is not ashamed to talk about her own sex life or use words that many would find embarrassing. Gynecologists and sex therapists won't. Brooke's reason for talking about her sex life isn't the same as Dominique's so it wasn't funny. It was too much, so much so that she had wanted to tell Brooke to stop because Brooke was talking about how babies are made and different ways to make love that would make it easier to have a baby. It was at that moment when Brooke started talking about how they're planning to get pregnant themselves that made her decide not to interrupt. But whether she did or not, Brooke would've continued regardless because she had a point to make. The process of making a baby is difficult. IVF is intrusive. It can require many tries. The chance of getting pregnant would be higher if done on the day of ovulation. The Mosie baby is one method that she has heard of but never taken it into consideration. Brooke did. Adalyn called because she is ready to conceive. It was the donor that Brooke was texting. That made sense but if her intention is to show that everything she said before is the truth, it still doesn't. "Is that all she told you?"
"That's all. Don't tell her I told you. I wasn't supposed to say. Okay?"
Lucy doesn't look like she's lying. But how could she not know what Brooke is capable of? Pretty woman is her weakness. Doc is right. "Do you know what she told me?" There's no proof but it's time to let her know so she doesn't fall into the same situation as she did with Adalyn. "She's very flexible…more flexible than Nadia." Get it? Lucy does. She knew? "Why didn't you tell me?"
"Why do I need to tell you?" Oops. Stop it before she gets even more upset. "I didn't think it's important. Will told me." Lucy said.
"And Will doesn't think there's anything wrong with that?"
"What's wrong with being a contortionist?" Oopsies again. But that needs to be asked.
"What's wrong with being a contortionist, a prostitute, and knowing more than just basic self-defense?"
Amy won't like the answer but there's no other way. "Is that a riddle?" It's the wrong response. Amy's anger is showing even more this time. Thank goodness for the phone ring. It may have prevented another slap. But who was that? The conversation was short but enough to know that whoever it was is the reason that she's getting dressed and putting on make-up. "Where you're going?"
"You know that door greeter? He has dimples just like yours."
"You're not serious?" No one said she's interested in Ken and that includes Brooke. But Amy would go out with him just to make a point. And the point is she can go out with whoever she wants. "Please don't do this." That's not going to change her mind so there's only one thing to do. Get these damn cuffs off. "You can't just leave me like this."
"What's the matter? Can't you get them off? Oh, you know who was able to? The contortionist, the prostitute, and the blackbelt." Amy closed the bedroom door before calling Lucy a schmuck. So smart, yet so stupid. It's not the first time for Lucy. When it comes to pretty women, she can't see. How could Will be the same way? He lived with Brooke for so many months too. (sigh) Brooke is smarter than she looks. That's how.
-25 minutes later-
Olivia, on the other hand, is as normal as she looks. There she is, smiling like someone who has been freed from years of hiding. Oh you're going to lose. As smart as Brooke is, Brooke may be wrong this time. Anyone who wants to get another's interest would want to look their best. Olivia is in casual clothing. Amy continued towards the restaurant entrance where Olivia is waiting until the phone buzzed again. Lucy called 20 minutes ago. As much as she wanted to continue letting Lucy think that she's meeting with Ken, she didn't since Lucy might do the same thing to Ken as what she did to Eva's pervert uncle. So why is she calling again? "What?" Amy asked in an aggravated tone to let Lucy know that she doesn't want to talk to her at this moment which seems to have worked since Lucy apologized again. But why is she offering to cook dinner when she knows what that will do? Does she think everything is back to normal? "Get out of there. They're going to be back. They're going to think-" Amy didn't continue since three logical reasons were given. It's just dinner. Everyone went out and won't be back until after dinner and the other reason is the most persuasive. She promised to behave. "fine…okay…okay!" There must be connection issue. There's a lot of static noise. "you hear me?" She heard. She's still trying to get the handcuffs off? It's stuck? (sigh) "Key is inside the pillow." Amy shook her head while wondering how the once infamous diamond thief could miss that.
"Ohh…okay, love you" Lucy said. The sound of hanging up can be heard. Amy didn't respond with the same but that's okay. Amy wasn't lying. This hotel is where Olivia is staying at. The tracker worked as expected. The key would have worked better than the tweezers. "sss…ahh" This is going to be a bruise. "Behave!" Lucy said to her own hands. Cooking for Amy is the original plan. Everything else wasn't. But that's okay because just like Brooke said, Amy has no interest in Ken or anyone whatsoever. Time has changed her. Loneliness has changed her. Francois' passing changed everyone. Leaving was the right decision.
Lucy starts the engine and drives home as fast as she can without speeding since this would be a bad time to get pulled over. It wouldn't be difficult to explain the male disguise. But one hour won't be enough time to cook. Luckily, there are no issues. Driving home took longer than expected though since people are getting off work. Cooking took more time too. But that's okay. Amy came back late too.
"How did it go?"
"great"
"Oh good. Almost done. Okay?" Amy won't mind. It's not 6:30 yet. There will be plenty of time to enjoy a romantic dinner for two. Maybe dancing afterwards. "Don't look. It's a surprise." Dessert is a must. Maybe the sweetness will change Amy's mind to do more than just talking. Lucy poured the rest into the ramekin until she heard a question that was so unexpected, she regretted taking a few seconds to think because it didn't convince Amy even if it is the truth. "NO!" Lucy repeated a little louder but failed to make it more convincing. "Hey!" Not only did it failed, it got Amy throwing something at her and swearing too. It's not the first time Amy accused her of cheating but this is the first time she explained how she knew. "I didn't!" Lucy quickly followed since Amy is not listening. "wait"
"Don't touch me!"
"but…okay okay" Lucy quickly took a few steps back before she gets slapped and because saying anything won't work. Amy is looking like she's going to blow up. "calm down, breathe" Lucy followed until Amy went back next door. "What the hell. Who told? C'mon c'mon. Pick up. Pick up." Nadia did. "Where are you?"
The plan was to call anyone that can get home the fastest to look after Amy. Lucy regretted the next day after getting the same questions. What happened? What did you do? It would be difficult to keep it from them but she had thought that Amy would tell them. "I really don't know why." Lucy said, knowing that doesn't make sense. Nadia doesn't either because Nadia said everything was fine last night. She didn't say Amy was playing video games on the computer and cursing at it. That is weird. Amy never plays video games on the computer, let alone curse because of it. Holly may be right. She was cursing at me. Five months of separation, she's still cursing more than she used to. Nadia hasn't changed either. She's still as worried as she used to be.
"We can't help you if you don't tell us what happened."
Tell them? Questions won't stop. They would take Amy's side too. "Thank you. Sorry for the interruption last night. It's just a misunderstanding. It'll be fine." Lucy let them know why it would be. It's because Amy ate the dinner and the chocolate soufflé last night. That's what Nadia said so that's a good sign. But it doesn't look like they agree since they all have the same 'what the hell are you talking about?' expression.
"She was hungry." Nadia said.
"She's not going to waste food just because she's mad at you. Unless it's not good, she will eat it. Don't you know that about her by now?"
What's up with Holly? She has always been supportive but now she sounds like Brooke. Brooke didn't use those exact words but did say something similar when she volunteered herself to make sure Amy stays away from guys. What kind of guys does she like? What are her past boyfriends like? How many were there? What does she like about them? Somehow she knew about Ethan. The response (I don't know) prompted Brooke to say 'You don't know that much about her, do you?' In that moment, she didn't think there's anything wrong but now-
"You need to get this fixed. Quickly."
Just like Brooke, Holly now feels that the longer the separation, the more difficult it would be to get Amy back. Even if there is no one else, that love will gradually fade just like many couples that have been together for a long time, married or unmarried, because they got bored. Some start with an argument. Others start with a misunderstanding. That's true. But this is different. "Did she say it's over?" It wouldn't be the first or second time if she did.
"She said she doesn't want to see your face anymore. She blamed you…for wasting her youth."
"What?...me?...I admit. Some were my fault but -"
"Do you really want to talk about that right now?"
Holly must know something. She's never this unreasonable except that time when she blamed me for her brother's death. She's never this pushy either. "okay, okay." No need to pull. Need to change first. Breakfast can wait. The phone call can't. It's Will. Will must have a good reason for calling this early. "What?" Lucy heard the reason and understood but is surprised because she wasn't expecting Will to be the one calling to let her know where Amy is. "really...why?...okay…bye" Now there's a need to hurry. But first, a question needs to be asked since neither Nadia nor Holly said Amy wasn't home.
"It's 9:45. Why would she be home?"
9:45 is still early. Faith is still sleeping. Lucy kept that thought to herself since Holly is clearly in a pissed off mood. Not only pissed but so over-concerned that she wants to tag along in case she's needed to keep Amy calm. There's no need to. It's just a misunderstanding. Amy won't be easily convinced but Amy won't be like last night either because Will said she's in a happy mood with Olivia and Brie and they will all be going to the shooting range to show Olivia how to shoot with a real gun. That sounds fun.
It would've been fun if Will didn't call back half hour later to say 'don't come.' After four boring hours of waiting, Lucy realized why. It's because Will found something wrong with Olivia. It's just a feeling but a few hours of observation led him to believe that Olivia could be the one who told Amy. How? He doesn't know but he has a theory. It's a reasonable speculation considering everything that has happened. But it's so ridiculous, it's laughable. If Holly heard, she would be offended since he just used Holly to make his point. Olivia could be like Holly? Now that's funny. If he knew about Eva's pervert uncle, would he still think that? There's no need to tell him because the fact is "She's Eva's sister. There's no way."
"She's adopted."
"What? Who's adopted?" Will has that same look as Nadia and Holly did. That question is stupid. But Brie said they're not close because of the seven year age gap not because Olivia is adopted. Damn it. Should've dug deeper. There was no need to because Olivia wasn't the problem. That pervert is. Now it makes even more sense. No wonder she didn't tell her parents. That pervert must have known too. Does Eva know?
"Don't"
"What?...I wasn't thinking of that." It's difficult to hide it from Will. There was no need to meet with Olivia but now there is. It is too much of a coincidence. Amy was fine before she went out last night. "What do you have in mind?" Will must have a plan. He does.
-next day-
Lucy realized his plan is worse than she thought. Getting a room next to Olivia's is easy. Waiting is the hard part since Olivia is always out and when she's not, she's alone. Only sounds from the tv could be heard. Most of the time is silent. Now it's just static. "It's not working. Stupid thing." Lucy said to let Will know that his plan sucks.
"Is the power on?"
"Seriously?" Will had his chance. It's time to do it my way. Amy won't like it but as long as she doesn't know.
"You cannot show yourself."
Will isn't here. He must have noticed the long silence. "Don't worry. I can take care of myself." Olivia won't trust a guy but she will trust this gorgeous face.
"Stop what you're doing, right now."
Will must think he's right. He's now agreeing to plant a bug in Olivia's room which he didn't before. It did seem like a good idea but now doesn't because Olivia would take precaution if she is like Holly. Besides, there are cameras everywhere. It's not going to be easy to do so without getting caught. "I'm just going to talk to her. See how she reacts..." Lucy continued describing that moment when she first met Holly until she heard the question(Do you want to break her heart too?). It wasn't her intention to remind Will of their first encounter but it did. I broke her heart. Oh Will. "I'm sorry."
"Get your head out of your ass! I wasn't talking about her."
Okay. Geez. The old Will is definitely gone. He's referring to the old Will as a third person. So what does he mean by that? I didn't break Holly's heart. Holly didn't…ohh. Is he referring to Aria? It could be Ezz too. Whoever it was, he didn't say but left with one final message before hanging up which is enough for her to put the plan on hold. Lucy exhaled loudly, then flopped down on the bed. Five minutes passed. Fifteen is long enough. If Amy didn't show up, she would've continued with the plan regardless of his threat to tell Amy about this. "What are they saying?"
"sshh"
Having Will here wasn't part of the plan since Olivia would be able to recognize him. He came because he didn't like the new plan and now he doesn't want to leave because his original plan is working. It looks like it's working. He's still listening. No listening device is needed to know that Amy is having a good time next door though. Sounds of laughter can be heard without it.
"Call her."
Will's plan makes sense but this one is difficult to comprehend. What would calling Amy accomplish? "Why?"
"Can't you hear? They're having fun."
"So? She's not going to pick up." Being in a better mood won't change anything. Calling now would get Amy even more angry for ruining her mood.
"Wake…up. Get your head out of your ass."
"What?" That's the second time he said that. "What are they saying?"
"I can't hear but I can see."
"What? How?...you put a hole in the wall?" Lucy regretted asking again after getting an explanation. He can't see them now but he was with them on the day before. What he saw that day along with what's happening now are the reasons that got him concerned. The music is on. They're having fun. They're probably drinking. This is a hotel. It's getting dark. There is no way! Will thinks it's possible. Lucy quickly picked up the phone after hearing another round of laughter. The more she thought about it, the more possible it became. Pick up pick up. Please. Amy did. "Hey, um…Can we talk? Where are you?" It didn't work, just like she had thought. Amy hung up. Laughter can be heard again so Amy must have picked up the call with Olivia listening.
"Did she say 'fuck off'?"
"you heard that?" If this is his plan, it worked. The music is turned off. Lucy pressed her ear against the wall even though she knows she won't be able to hear. But Will can with the listening device. Surprisingly, knocking can be heard too. Wait. That's not from Amy's room. Someone is knocking on the door. Oh no. Will looked shocked too.
"Don't answer it."
What? Out of all his suggestions, this is the most stupid one. There is a DO NOT DISTURB sign outside. No one should be knocking. She knows! "You tell her the truth but don't tell her I'm here. Okay?" Surprisingly, he agreed. Okay then. This room doesn't have another door. There's nowhere to hide except under the bed. That should work.
"Bathroom"
Bathroom? That's not a hiding place. That's the first place she'll look. Ohh. Will's mind works differently now that he's a guy. He's very comfortable taking his clothes off. Okay. That is a better idea. No explanation is needed. Lucy quickly headed to the bathroom and turned the shower on. There's no way to lie to Amy. This is next to Olivia's room. Once she finds out that Will is also using this room to hook up with a prostitute, she'll leave. She will believe it. Hopefully, she knows not to tell anyone else. Sorry Will.
"Come out of there right now!"
What the hell? There's banging on the door. There's yelling and cursing and name calling too. You bitch? Amy wouldn't say that.
"Olivia! I know it's you!"
That's…Brie? Why would she think Olivia is in here? Oh boy. She's not leaving. She's trying everything she can including offering to pay triple the amount. Does she think Olivia is a prostitute? The banging on the door stopped. The shouting stopped too. There are still noises but it's hard to make out what they're saying with the shower on. Should I? There must be a reason why Will said to stay inside. Oh shit. Bad timing. Amy is calling.
Lucy didn't pick up, then realized why Amy called. It's a test. The test failed because the phone is on vibrating mode but Amy also succeeded because it wasn't picked up. The message (Come out now) cannot be sent in error. Lucy opened the door and did the only thing she can think of. Smile and say "I can explain."
"It's my idea."
Ohh Will. It is his idea but taking turns to eavesdrop on Olivia wasn't the plan. For whatever reason, Will is confessing to why he left too.
"…She went with me because she's worried about me. I wanted to see her…"
Ohh no. Nno. What the hell is he doing? Don't say that. Lucy wanted to tell him to stop but also knows it would be impossible. Too late. Now Brie knows about the megastar. Amy already knows and is looking like she wants to use her fists. Brie is looking very confused, as she should.
"So you went to protect her?" Brie interrupted because she heard enough. "Why? You love her?"
No! Lucy wanted to say but knew Brie won't believe it even if she did. Besides, Will already said he does.
"…I am obsessed with her. I am a sex addict. I think about her everyday and night. I was thinking of her when I was with you, every single time we"
(gasp) Will can't feel pain but he must have felt something with that hard slap on the face. Oh shit. That didn't stop Will from continuing. Don't do that. Let her go. It's not just one slap this time. Will deserves them because he won't stop talking about his uncontrollable desires and how he was thinking of the megastar in the same way she was thinking about Christian in their moments of intimacy. Ouch. One punch was thrown to the chest but it didn't hurt him. Instead, Brie is hurt by his accusation and calling him a hypocrite and a liar when he's the one who has feelings for the megastar.
"I don't want to see you ever again."
Let her go. Will.
"You believe that but you won't believe me when I told you it wasn't Olivia?"
Ohh. That is a good point. Brie is speechless.
"Hope is gone. I'm not Hope. I'm not a sex addict. I didn't leave because of her. I left because of you."
Ohh. I was right. It's not because of Faith. Do it. Will. Do it. Don't shy back now.
"I don't want to be just your friend. I don't want you to call me only when you need me. I want to hear you say 'I love you. I want to be with you.' But I know you don't…because if you do, you wouldn't have followed me here. You wouldn't think I was with Olivia or anyone. You would've trusted me. You should've…trusted me."
It seems that the months of separation has given him the courage. But if he thinks this would work, it didn't. Brie is leaving. Amy is following. No questions were asked. But Amy's expression showed how she feels. Will's face cannot be seen since he's covering it with his hands while lying topless on the bed with a towel around his waist but he must be regretting it. That was out of line. Was he expecting Brie to jump on him and kiss him after that speech? "Sorry it didn't work out but that's a horrible plan." Even if he didn't plan this, he did look at the peephole. So he must have known it was Brie. It was his idea to go to the bathroom. It was his…"Oh shit" Amy wasn't pointing at him. Amy wasn't glaring at him before she left. "She thinks this is my idea."
"Sorry"
Sorry? He should apologize for not letting me know beforehand. Now Amy must think everything was my idea including leaving to protect the megastar. She must not have been convinced by his confession because she doesn't think he's capable. But he is capable. No one who just got slapped and punched and failed to get his love returned would be calmly putting on his clothing and looking at himself in the dresser mirror and combing his hair with his fingers. Shouldn't he be going after her? "Did you want her to hate you?" Is that a yes? That's one creepy azz sneer. There's blood on his lips. He deserved it if it's true. But that doesn't make sense. "I'm confused. Why did you do that? Don't you love her?"
"When…are you going to get your head out of your ass?"
"My head is not in my ass!" Lucy said loudly in frustration. "What does that even mean!"
-one hour later-
Cameras were everywhere. Brie didn't make a scene but the way she hurried out of the hotel already let others know that something was wrong. Anyone would be mad after getting their secrets exposed. Not wanting to talk is normal. Using the punching bag to release anger works. Throwing things at the wall is too much. How much longer? Any longer, there's going to be more than just one hole. (sigh) Amy unplugged the hair dryer, then realized that something happened in the last five minutes while she was drying her hair in the bathroom after opening the door since Nadia is hurrying up the stairs. "What's wrong?" Nadia doesn't know since Holly was the one who told her that she heard shouting and banging next door. Shouting? The walls must be thin or Brie must be very loud. But who was she shouting at? Will or Lucy or both? Why can't they just stay in the hotel?
Amy did the same as Nadia and quickly put a coat on even though it's just next door. It's cold and quiet outside. It's warm and very loud inside. No wonder Holly heard. Anyone standing outside the door could hear Brie's voice even with the door and windows closed. Will and Lucy aren't here. Faith is and she's accusing Brie of playing with Will.
"You like him. You can have him."
Brie is no longer shouting. That's good.
"You can't do that! You can't just push him to someone else when you don't need him! He's not a toy!"
Faith is getting louder since Brie is leaving and ignoring her. That's not good.
"I was pretending!..."
What? The hugging with Will after they caught the bouquet, the slow intimate dancing, and the way she hugged firmly onto Will after she won the pool game bet against Brie were all done on purpose? Ethan had thought they were dating at that time. She lied to get Brie jealous? Ughh. Brooke would be laughing right now if she's here.
"…We can all see you have feelings for him except you…Hey!"
Ouch. Brie is getting very good at throwing things. No one likes to be played.
"What? I was just trying to help you see how much it would hurt if you play with a rubber ball."
"I was trying to help you!"
"Help me or yourself? You were attracted to him. Everyone could see that. Then you found another target, a real man, Ethan, so you tried to push him off to someone else. Me. Because you don't want to hurt him. After all, he's alive because of you. So you know he wouldn't hurt you and you know there's a chance he would be back to being Hope after you dump him, then all your hard work transforming him would be wasted."
"That's not true. I just want to prove-" Faith quickly moved to the living room, then took a cushion to protect herself since Brie is reaching for the banana on the dining table.
"We are not one of your experiments!"
Oh Faith. Just apologize. Holly and Nadia won't be able to hold Brie back forever.
"It wasn't an experiment! And I'm not going to apologize for that because he was right. I was wrong. If I knew you would treat him like a toy, I would've told him to leave you sooner. I didn't because he said he doesn't trust Christian. So I supported him. He left because he was falling for you. If you don't love him, why did you give him hope? Why did you seduce him? Why did you-"
Oh no. Amy quickly stepped in since Faith is using her as a shield. Using the word seduce is so wrong. Letting everyone know that they are more than just friends is outrageously inappropriate. Surprisingly, Brie didn't try to deny it and instead blamed it on alcohol?
"He would never get himself drunk and he would never take advantage of you or anyone!"
"I didn't say he did!"
"Stop it." Amy pointed to Faith even though Faith was right in defending Will. It did sound like it happened only because alcohol was involved. Pretending that it never happened is definitely a sign of regret. But why is she blaming Will? He left before she woke up? He didn't talk about it? That doesn't sound like Will. That sounds like a man who wanted a one night stand.
"…Since you know so much, he must have told you why." Brie said.
Ooh. That would be so wrong if Will did. Faith said she doesn't know which is hard to convince anyone now. Even Holly is asking for details. 'How do you know all of this if he didn't tell you?' is a simple question. Don't hesitate now. That only shows you're lying. "Okay. We're going to let her hit you if you don't tell us the truth."
"You did."
Faith has been a good liar until now. "I did not."
"not verbally but you had the same look as hers…like you regretted…that day"
Which day? Amy didn't have to ask since Faith is no longer hesitating. Not only that, Faith is giving out way too much detail to explain how she came up with her theory. Spending a night at Anthony's place with Lucy was because it's late. Sighing loudly was a sign of fatigue and frustration. Everybody curses at themselves once a while for many reasons. It doesn't mean sex happened! "You are ridiculous." Amy said without hesitation since any hesitation would let everyone else think that Faith is right.
"I noticed. I asked. I came to a conclusion that makes sense."
Now she sounds like Brooke. "We talked. We slept. That's all we did." Amy realized that's not convincing enough since everyone is still looking. Whether they believe it or not, it doesn't matter. They probably don't since Faith came up with a very convincing reason to explain why Will left and why Will didn't want to talk about that night. It's because Brie was calling for Christian?
"I did not!"
"But you were attracted to him. Alcohol can affect the eyesight and memory. And they both have a beard so maybe you thought he was him. Maybe-"
Oh my god. Faith has really done it this time. Brie is chasing after her and Faith is using the broom to defend herself.
"I'm not saying that's what you did. I'm just saying it's possible. Ask him. If you don't care, then don't. If you don't love him, then why are you so upset?"
Good point but she should really shut up if she doesn't want to get hit with something else. "Get out!" Amy called out before Brie finds something in the kitchen drawer to throw. "Let me." Ohh Faith. You're going to get it. After letting Faith into her townhouse, Amy realized that she and Brie aren't the only ones who felt that Faith has crossed the line. Nadia is too and she has a good reason. She's worried that Faith is playing with Ethan. Are they really dating?
"We're just friends."
That doesn't sound like a lie but after what just happened, it's hard to tell.
"Anything else?" Faith asked since both of them are still standing over her while she's sitting on the couch.
"If you hurt him, I will make your life miserable."
Nadia's threat is unexpected. Faith seems surprised too. Whether they are dating or not, Faith should now know how Nadia feels. Alone at last but the living room is not private enough. The bedroom would be better. But it seems that Faith didn't understand what this is about since she's apologizing for the wrong reason.
"I didn't want to. You saw the situation I was in. You forced me." Faith apologized again since the face in front of her is looking like Brie's.
"Is that all?" Amy asked instead of saying nothing happened that night.
"I'm sorry about the painting." It's Brie's fault. Avoid getting hit with a banana is a normal reaction. No serious harm done. "The frame just needs to be replaced."
"Is that all?"
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you but it's not like we planned it. It just happened and you were having so much fun with Ethan at that time. I thought you were into him. I didn't know that you two…please don't hit me." Faith added the last line after her shoulders were grabbed onto.
"Did you…and Will?" Understand? Faith does but is hesitating again. "You were lying?" No words came out of Faith's mouth except a long exhale of exhausted breath. "I can't believe you."
"Really? Like you've never lied before? I confessed to one thing and now you think everything I said are lies. Oh…my God. After everything I did for you, for Will, everyone…that hurts. Okay. That really, really hurts. All I was trying to do was to help them. But unlike you. You lied to Ethan. You didn't tell him you were married. Why? Because we all lie for a reason but most of the time, it's to help the ones we love, to protect the ones we love, even if it's not right, even if it's unfair to Ethan, even if he gets hurt, he was hurt and it affected him for a very long time so don't-"
Don't what? Faith didn't continue because Holly is knocking on the door. Conversation is not over! It is for Faith. She let herself out, acting like nothing happened. Did Holly hear? If she did, she doesn't care. She came because she just found out what the argument that night was about.
"If I knew where they went, I would've went with them too."
Why is she defending Lucy? "Are you obsessed with her too?" Amy said. That's mean but she just can't help it.
"I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her."
What? Will has a good reason for leaving since he has always wanted to apologize to the megastar. But Holly has never said it was the megastar who persuaded her to go back to Nadia. It wasn't ZJ?
"I would regret it. She said. And I did regret coming back after Niki showed up. It was my fault, you and her, all of it. None of this would happen if it wasn't for me."
"Stop. It's not. Okay? I went back for Max. Remember?" Holly didn't forget. But it seems that she has forgotten who said consumption of news can lead to mental health issues, anxiety and depression especially nowadays with all the hate, misinformation and chaos going on. It was her suggestion to change the channel whenever the news come on and watch comedy only. Everyone agreed. Now, it's obvious that she did not do that because if she did, she wouldn't know that the megastar's home was burglarized for the third time.
"…I understand why you are upset. She should've told you."
"No. That's not why." Amy had thought that Holly would know what the problem is by now. So why doesn't she get it? "It's more than just a celebrity crush. She…loves her." That is crazy. Holly didn't say that but that's probably what she's thinking. It did look that way until she said having sexual fantasies with celebrities is normal. It helps us understand our sexual preferences and desires? It provides pleasure and excitement? Nadia loves the megastar too and admitted to having sexual dreams with her? What! "Okay, stop." Amy regretted opening up to her until she said she doesn't agree with what Lucy did.
"I'm not here to tell you to forgive her."
At least she's being honest about this.
"I'm here to tell you what I know. She didn't want to leave you."
(sigh) Here she goes again. Making excuses for Lucy. But why is she bringing up Ethan? What is this? Did she plan this with Faith? Yes. He was blindsided. Yes. I should've told him. Yes. He still cares for me. He probably would do everything he can to protect me. So? "What are you saying? Are you saying that I'm right?" If she is, that's a very bad example.
"I'm saying sometimes we have to do things we don't want to."
Do all nurses talk this way? "I'm really tired." Amy opened the door for Holly since she no longer wants to talk and because she is tired. Holly is hesitating, just like Faith did. Holly looks tired too since she just exhaled a long breath, just like Faith did. Why is she taking the phone out? Who is she calling?
"You want to know why?...Here."
"I don't want to talk to her."
"It's not her."
If it's not Lucy, then it must be… "You have her number?"
"Oh my God. What's wrong with you? It's not HERRR!...Take it." Holly extended the phone.
Holly is acting like Faith but unlike Faith, she's not lying. It's not the megastar. It's "Max?"