Episode Date: Tuesday, August 1, 2000

The morning after their traumatic arrest, CJ and Amber cleaned the seedy apartment in preparation of Rick bringing Little Eric back home. CJ thought Rick had used the messy apartment as an excuse to get back at CJ for hating the entire Forrester family. Amber berated herself for allowing the party to get out of hand the previous night. She said it had been a turning point in her life. Amber planned to devote her entire life to raising Little Eric from that point forward. She was worried how Little Eric would be affected by the events of the previous evening. CJ comforted Amber and told her not to let Rick make her feel bad about herself. CJ said Rick was used to having a maid around to clean up after him. He didn't know what it was like to live and survive in the real world. CJ told Amber she was a great person and a fantastic mother. He promised he would be with her to help raise the baby. Amber said Little Eric was lucky to have such caring parents.

Over at the Forrester guesthouse, Rick and Eric shared some coffee while Helen, the maid, took Little Eric for a walk. (I have to admit, CJ has a point. For loving that baby so much, Rick sure pawns him off on Helen an awful lot.) Rick told his father that he enjoyed having Little Eric around and worried that CJ and Amber weren't ready for the full-time responsibilities of parenthood. Rick knew Amber was still reeling from Becky's death and had to work crazy hours. Rick suggested that Amber move into the Forrester guest house and he would move into the main house with Eric and Stephanie. (At first, I wondered why he wouldn't move back home with his mom, but this way he'd be close to the baby.) Eric wondered if Rick had forgiven Amber for her earlier deception. Rick said it wasn't about Amber at all, it was about what would be best for the baby. Rick felt CJ would accept the offer if he truly love Little Eric. Eric said they could work something out if Amber agreed.

A little later, Rick arrived at the seedy apartment with Little Eric. CJ and Amber thanked Rick for helping them out and then CJ tried to push Rick out the door. Rick hung around and said he understood that Amber invited the unsavory guests over just to blow off steam. He understood the pressure she had been under. Amber said she didn't mind working hard to support Little Eric. Rick understood, but said it would be even harder when CJ returned to school. CJ told Rick it was none of his business how they managed to raise the baby and he should "butt out." Rick then proposed his idea of having Amber and Little Eric move into the guesthouse. There would be no rent, no bills and she could work part time. She and the Forresters could raise that baby as a family. CJ went ballistic and told Rick he couldn't just wave his wallet in the air and take charge. Rick was out of touch with the real world, CJ continued. "Little Eric is not for sale - and neither is Amber." CJ yelled. He said Amber knew what was important in life and he couldn't buy her off. CJ said the answer to the proposal was "No." Rick needed to hear the same answer from Amber. Amber had moved over to the corner of the room and wasn't ready to give an answer as quickly as CJ. CJ wasn't too happy at her hesitation. (Uh, if Amber doesn't take you up on the offer, Rick, I will. I'd love to lounge by the Forrester pool while Helen folded my underwear and prepared cucumber sandwiches for lunch.)

At the Malibu beach house, Morgan napped on the couch and had a dream sequence worthy of a bad teen slasher flick! In the dream, Morgan trotted round a black set in a low cut tank top. (That's the jiggle factor.) Taylor (wearing very stern make up) informed Morgan she knew the truth - Morgan had slept with Ridge. Morgan tried to defend her actions, but Taylor said there would be no baby. Morgan screamed (with a bad echo effect) as Taylor approached a man wearing surgical scrubs and holding a scalpel. "Take the baby" Taylor told the doctor. Morgan screamed again and ran aimlessly around the black set. (Just like in those bad horror movies.) Morgan ran through an open door and slammed it shut. She thought she was safe until the door handle started to rattle…….

Morgan awoke to the sound of Clarke actually rattling her front door. He brought her a huge basket of toys with a card that read "For the mother to be." Morgan explained that in just a few more weeks she would be through her first trimester and she would then tell everyone that she was pregnant. She then showed Clarke the antique cradle she had purchased for the baby. There was another knock on the door, followed by Taylor's yelling for Morgan. Clarke slipped out the back door and Morgan greet Taylor. Taylor entered the house and immediately noticed the basket of toys and read the card. She was puzzled. Taylor asked if Morgan was pregnant.

I have one request. More cheesy dream sequences, please.

At the Malibu beach house, Morgan wondered why Taylor asked if she was pregnant. Taylor said she saw the basket of baby toys and made a simple conclusion. (I understand Morgan was stalling for time, but she sure sounded dense.) Morgan said she was not pregnant and had purchased the toys for a friend that was having a baby. Morgan said she was not going to try and get pregnant again. Taylor said she was sure Morgan would have a baby someday and that would make Taylor very happy. Taylor explained that she had stopped by to get a box of clothing from the bedroom closet. Morgan tried to stop Taylor from going to the bedroom because she didn't want Taylor to see the antique cradle she had purchased. Both women were shocked to enter the bedroom and see Clarke parading around in a towel! Clarke explained that he had just returned from surfing. Taylor was flustered and told Morgan she would return another time.

Morgan was slightly angry at Clarke for embarrassing her, but thanked him for keeping Taylor in the dark. Clarke explained that he had hidden the cradle and thought of disrobing to throw Taylor off the track. He figured she was so confused (and who wouldn't be after seeing Clarke in a pink towel?) that she would forget about seeing the toys. And once she found out Morgan was pregnant, Taylor might just figure it to be Clarke's child. Morgan smiled and thanked Clarke for his help. Neither of them realized Taylor had forgotten her purse and returned to the beach house. Taylor overheard Morgan telling Clarke "I can't let anyone know about this - especially Taylor." Taylor wondered what such a secret could be.

Over at the seedy apartment, CJ couldn't believe Amber would even consider moving into the Forrester guest house. Rick argued that Little Eric would have everything he needed. CJ figured the offer was part of Rick's plan to edge CJ out of the baby's life. Rick responded that he only wanted what was best for Little Eric. The two guys argued that they were each as much a father to the baby as the other one.

CJ and Amber went into the bedroom to discuss the situation. Amber said it would be a great opportunity for Little Eric. He would have every benefit money could buy and the entire Forrester family loved the little tyke like he was one of their own. CJ replied that he also loved Little Eric with all his heart and he would not allow the child to be raised as a privileged Forrester. CJ promised that he would always be there for Little Eric. He wondered what would happen to Rick's commitment if he married Kimberly someday. CJ said he and Amber didn't have much, but what they did have was important. He asked Amber not to take it away from them. CJ accused Amber of wanting to accept Rick's offer so she could live the good life herself.

After Rick left, CJ was mad. He told Amber that she was too close to falling for the good life at the Forrester mansion. CJ ranted that he could stay and take care of Little Eric and Amber could move back to Beverly Hills. Amber said she might just do that. She picked up the phone, dialed, and said hello to Stephanie. Amber said she was going to pack her bags and move into the mansion. Incensed, CJ grabbed the phone and screamed that the Forresters had better stay away from his family. CJ then realized that Amber had called a pizza delivery service. CJ apologized to the pizza dude and hung up. CJ didn't appreciate Amber's practical joke. He chased her around the seedy living room. They tumbled onto the couch and looked into each other's eyes. Amber swore she would stay in the seedy apartment and help raise Little Eric.

Yeah, that's really sweet. Uh, Rick, honey, if the guest house is still available, I'm ready to move in. It won't take me long at all to pack a couple of swim suits for the pool, you know. Can you have Helen make up some nice egg salad for lunch? It's one of my favorites.

In the main office at Spectra Fashions, Sally questioned CJ about Amber's actions the previous night and wondered why he constantly defended her. CJ replied that she had simply made a mistake in judgement. Sally said it was a costly mistake and she didn't think CJ should criticize Rick. He had saved Little Eric from being taken to a state home. CJ complained that Rick wanted to buy Little Eric with the promise of an expensive home. Sally pointed out there were worse things that could happen to the baby than to be raised by a powerful, influential and rich family. CJ couldn't believe his mother would say such a thing after what the Forresters had done to Macy. Sally reminded her son that only Thorne had truly hurt Macy. The rest of the family adored Little Eric and would take good care of him. Sally also worried that CJ's life would be seriously compromised by raising a baby. CJ said he wanted to respect Becky's wishes. Sally asked why CJ was still wearing his wedding ring. She pointed out that CJ had done everything he could for Becky. CJ understood, but said it was clear that Becky wanted him and Amber to raise Little Eric. When Sally asked about CJ's feelings toward Amber, CJ said he had to leave. Sally reminded her son to watch every step. She said the Forresters might seek custody of Little Eric if he or Amber made another mistake. Sally was sure that would be a difficult fight to win.

Meanwhile, at the seedy apartment, Darla watched as Amber fried chicken. (Now there's a fun pastime.) Amber explained she was making a special dinner of chicken, mashed potatoes and Caesar salad for CJ. (But get this! Amber took the chicken out of the frying pan - it was finished frying - and then started to peel the potatoes to cook them. Any gay boy from the Midwest knows you have to prepare the chicken and potatoes at the same time. That chicken is going to get awfully cold while Amber waits for the spuds to boil. She sure needs some help in the kitchen.) Darla asked why Amber was making a fuss over CJ. Darla hinted that maybe the two of them should get romantic. Amber said she had made lots of mistakes over the past couple of days, but CJ had stuck by her and defended her. Amber said she didn't know what she would do without him.

Darla took Little Eric out for a long walk. When CJ arrived at the seedy apartment, he was surprised to find lit candles, dinner waiting, and Amber in a tight little cocktail dress and wearing a lot of make-up. Amber told him she wanted to thank him. Amber pulled him into an embrace. (But no kiss.)

At the Malibu beach house, Morgan thanked Clarke for his assistance in keeping Taylor in the dark. Morgan insisted (for the ump-teenth time) that she could not let anyone know about her pregnancy until she was through her first trimester. Morgan feared that Stephanie would stop at nothing to keep Morgan from giving birth to Ridge's baby. Clarke accompanied Morgan to a doctor's appointment. The doctor performed an ultrasound and Morgan heard her baby's heart beat. (Ain't that sweet?)

In a very strange blast from the past, Bill Spencer showed up at the Forrester mansion to visit Stephanie. (Bill is Caroline and Karen Spencer's father. Caroline was the original heroine on the show. She was married to both Thorne and Ridge and died of leukemia. Karen was her identical twin and had been kidnapped at birth and raised as Faith in Texas. Taylor's first husband, Blake, found Karen/Faith in Texas and brought her back to Los Angeles in the hopes that Ridge would fall in love with Karen/Faith and drop Taylor so he could win her back.) But I digress. Bill said he was passing through the city and had heard of Stephanie's health problems and wanted to check in on her. Stephanie said she was better, but had been upset by Macy's death. Bill suggested Stephanie take some tranquilizers. Stephanie said she didn't think she needed any. But Bill pulled a pill bottle from his pocket and offered La Forrester some new sedatives developed by his French pharmaceutical company. Stephanie was tempted until she learned the drugs were not yet FDA approved. She thanked Bill who told Stephanie to call him if she ever needed anything. As Bill left, Taylor arrived. They exchanged pleasantries. (Now those pills have to mean something. Why else would a character we haven't seen in over three years make such an odd cameo appearance and draw attention to such a minor thing? Mr. Smartypants smells a rat - and he likes the scent of rat.)

Alone with Stephanie, Taylor told the story of her encounter with Morgan and Clarke. Taylor said she thought Morgan was hiding something from her. Stephanie wasn't at all surprised to hear that Morgan might be up to her old tricks. Stephanie said she would find out what Morgan was up to. Taylor told Stephanie not to get into a fight with Morgan as the matriarch left for the Malibu beach house.

Taylor sauntered down to Stephanie's pool in a sexy black bathing suit. As she sunned on another huge chaise lounge from Home Depot, Ridge arrived. He said Taylor's phone call inviting him to the pool had ended his work day. Ridge said he hadn't brought a swim suit. Taylor suggested he wouldn't need one. (Oh, Bee-have.) As Ridge applied sunscreen to Taylor's shoulders, he asked where his mother was. Taylor admitted Stephanie had gone to see Morgan. Taylor said both she and Stephanie thought Morgan was hiding something. Ridge grimaced.

Meanwhile, Stephanie arrived at the Malibu beach house, When she determined Morgan wasn't home, Stephanie let herself into the house with a key she must have had from when Taylor and Ridge lived in the house. Once inside, Stephanie told herself she would uncover Morgan's secret.

My! It was a long day with a lot of characters on the canvas. Gosh how I love that!

At the seedy apartment, CJ told Amber her fried chicken was the best he had ever eaten. (Except for the fact that it was stone-cold because she had fried it three hours previously.) Amber told CJ she felt she had to make a special evening for him because she had acted so stupidly over the past couple of days. She had made a mistake by getting hooked up with Ash and she had seriously considered moving back to the Forrester guest house with Little Eric. CJ pointed out that she had tried to correct both mistakes and he was proud of her efforts to build a home with him and the baby. In the soft candle light and with the scent of Crisco in the air, CJ caressed Amber's face. She noticed he still wore his wedding ring. CJ looked at the ring and then took it off. He said it was time to do that because he knew Becky wouldn't want him hanging on to her memory. CJ said things were different now. Amber said she would try hard not to screw up again. Some cheesy love song came on the radio (sorry, dear readers, I could not tell what it was.) Amber commented that their slow dance was nice. CJ asked if it didn't feel a little weird. They agreed it was enjoyable and slowly moved their heads together for a kiss.

Before they could lock lips, however, there was a knock on the door. It was the big, burly police officer looking for Amber. He hand delivered her indictment and hearing date. She had been charged with the felony of possessing marijuana and ecstasy with the intent to sell. Mr. Big-Bad-Police-Officer-Man told Amber she was in "big trouble."

At the Forrester pool, Taylor told Ridge how uncomfortable Morgan had been in her presence. She also explained that Clarke had been naked in Morgan's bedroom. Taylor was confused why Morgan would be so evasive. Taylor pulled out a swim suit for Ridge to wear. (It was a trunk style suit! Oh, Ridge! Where's your famous Speedo? You know how we love you in that Speedo.) As they embraced, Ridge commented that life was good. Taylor agreed and wondered why people made life complicated by lying - like Morgan. Taylor said she knew Ridge could never lie to her. In fact, he was a horrible liar. (Well, let's not jump to conclusions, Taylor honey.) Taylor said she trusted Ridge implicitly. Ridge responded by saying she could always trust in his love for her. (Nice cover, Mr. No-Speedo-Guy.)

Meanwhile at the doctor's office, Morgan was thrilled to see a photo of her baby on the ultrasound machine. After the examination, Morgan vowed to the doctor that she would take good care of her child. Nothing or no one would harm her unborn baby. Clarke and Morgan then returned to her office because she was inspired to work. Morgan was confident that Ridge would eventually come around and accept the child as his when he learned the truth. Morgan then reiterated (and I'm so darn sick of this line) that she had to hide the truth from Stephanie.

But at that very moment, Stephanie was snooping around Morgan's Malibu beach house. She found the basket of baby toys and the cradle by the bed. Stephanie figured that if Morgan was pregnant, she surely would have told Taylor. Stephanie continued her search and found a card with Morgan's doctor's appointment on it. La Forrester high-tailed it over to the OB/GYN office and pretended to be Morgan's aunt. The nurse told Stephanie that Morgan had left already, but the ultrasound had been performed. The helpful nurse even showed Stephanie the photo of the unborn infant. She explained the fetus was very small because Morgan was only nine weeks pregnant. Stephanie pretended she was thrilled that the artificial insemination had been successful. The nurse said she didn't know of any artificial insemination and believed it had been a natural pregnancy. Alone in the waiting room, Stephanie called Ridge and left him message to meet her at his office. Stephanie wondered who the father of Morgan's baby could be. (Well, I don't think Jessica Fletcher on Murder She Wrote has anything to worry about with Stephanie around. Poor Stephanie can't put two and two together and figure out that Ridge did the dirty deed.)

At the seedy apartment, Amber opened her indictment. She and CJ defended themselves to the burly policeman, but he didn't believe them. He pushed his way past CJ and began harassing Amber. He tried to get her to confess. Amber swore her innocence and CJ insisted the big bad cop man leave. Once the fuzz was gone, Amber freaked out and went on a crying jag. (The kind you know Amber does so very well.) CJ tried to calm her down, but Amber wailed. Why did this have to happen? She cried. Amber explained that all she wanted was to be a good mother to Little Eric. She wanted to be responsible and domestic. Now, because of one stupid mistake, she might not have the chance to raise the baby like she intended. CJ hugged the near-hysterical Amber and told her she was a good person. She had made a small mistake. CJ promised they would get through this ordeal. He swore nothing would break up their family. Amber calmed down. (CJ should have called Bill Spencer to bring over some of those French sedatives.) She said she felt content, protected and secure living with CJ and Little Eric. CJ reminded Amber that his mother always said "Good thing come from adversity." (Really? I've watched this show a long time and I've never heard Sally say that. The only thing she repeated more than a couple times was "my daughter, Macy" and I don't think she'll be using that phrase too much more.) CJ suggested he and Amber finish their dance. He turned on the radio. They danced. They kissed! Pass complete!

Over at Forrester Creations, Morgan sat in her office and stupidly gazed at the ultrasound photo of her baby. She had to hide the print quickly when Taylor walked in. Taylor asked why there had been in a change in their friendship. Morgan said she had been very busy with a project. Taylor said she felt Morgan was hiding something from her because Morgan seemed uncomfortable around her. Morgan said she was going through a lot and in a month or so, she hoped things would get back to normal. Taylor agreed to wait but asked if the problem had to do with Ridge. Morgan covered badly, but convinced Taylor that was not the case. She also told Taylor that Ridge did not know what was bothering her either. As Taylor left, she said Morgan was her closest friend and wished Morgan would trust her more. (Oh, girlfriend! You just wait until the truth does come out. You are gonna wanna snatch that Morgan bald-headed!)

In Ridge's office, Stephanie offered that she had snooped around Morgan's house and her doctor's office and learned Miss DeWitt was pregnant. Ridge said his mother must be mistaken, but Stephanie said there was no doubt and wondered why Morgan had not told anyone. Stephanie thought it was good news. She wondered if Morgan would now leave Ridge and Taylor alone or perhaps leave Los Angeles altogether. Ridge turned white as a ghost when Stephanie answered his question that Morgan was nine weeks pregnant. As Ridge stormed out of his office, he ordered his mother to stop snooping and to let the entire matter drop. Ridge said he would handle the situation from that point.

After Ridge left, Taylor came into Ridge's office. Stephanie spilled the beans about Morgan's pregnancy to her daughter-in-law and wondered why Morgan had kept it a secret. Taylor was delighted with the news. She assumed Clarke was the father of the baby and Morgan was ashamed to tell Taylor that news. Taylor was glad to think that was all that had been troubling Morgan. Stephanie thought there had to be more to it. Taylor said she was happy Morgan was pregnant and she didn't care who the father might be. (Uh, yeah, right. I think you're going to care quite a bit when you learn who the father really is, honey-child.)

Then Ridge stomped into Morgan's office and slammed the door. (There's so much office hopping going on today, I'd suggest revolving doors at Forrester Creations.) Ridge demanded to know if Morgan was pregnant. Morgan whimpered an affirmative answer. Ridge grew more upset. He insisted the baby could not be his because he had witnessed Morgan take a pregnancy test. Ridge was really agitated and asked if Morgan had been artificially inseminated. Morgan whimpered a negative answer. Ridge blew up and demanded to know who the father was. He pleaded with Morgan to tell him she hadn't tricked him with the pregnancy test the same way she had duped him into sleeping with her. (Uh, well, yeah, Ridge. You really are stupid and she tricked you not once, but twice. And the second time with old urine! Ick!)

Dear Readers: It appears that The Bold and the Beautiful did not air anywhere yesterday. (Either that, or not much at all happened in yesterday's episode.)

Kimberly sat alone in her beach house, stared at a photograph of Macy, and cried. She said to herself that Brooke had killed her sister. Thorne arrived through the patio door. (Oh, what a surprise! He wasn't wearing a shirt.) He invited Kimberly to learn to surf with him, but she turned him down. Thorne said Kimberly needed to get her mind off her grief. He missed Macy too. Kimberly replied that Macy was the only blood relation she had left. (That's not really true. Kimberly mentioned an aunt in passing several months ago. Didn't she say it was her mother's sister? I could be wrong, but please don't point it out.) Thorne said he lost his family too. They didn't want anything to do with him because of his association with Brooke. But Thorne said they were bitter and he knew Macy would not want Kimberly to waste her life being that angry. Thorne said Kimberly should make some changes in her life and she could start with her hair. (I'm glad someone had the nerve to tell her.) Thorne pointed out that Kimberly had dyed her hair a dark color when Macy started having problems, when Kimberly got angry with Brooke and when Kimberly 's relationship with Rick hit the skids. In short, Thorne thought Kimberly had been in a dark mood. Thorne suggested Kimberly's mood would improve if she lightened her hair color. (I like that concept. Not loving your life? Dye your hair. Colorists of the world would agree, I'm sure.)

Thorne suggested they have dinner together. At first, Kimberly resisted but agreed once Thorne started to tickle her. (Will that work when my boss doesn't want to give me a raise?) Thorne left to make a salad. Alone, Kimberly called Phyllis Diller - I mean Gladys, the hair dresser. (Kimberly told Gladys that Sally had suggested her name.) Gladys agreed to visit Kimberly at the beach house and do her hair. (A hair stylist that makes house calls. Isn't that how she got started in the first place. Remember? Taylor had returned from Morocco where she was pretending to be Princess Layla. Ridge thought she'd been killed in that airplane crash. The Evil Moroccan Prince convinced Taylor that Ridge was happy without her. Anyway, when Taylor's father had his first heart attack, Taylor returned to Los Angeles to be with him. But she couldn't go out in public when everyone thought she was dead. So then, from her father's shabby - not seedy, but shabby - apartment, Taylor let her fingers do the walking through the Yellow Pages and called Gladys. Gladys specialized in make-overs. She made Taylor into a homely girl with a stuffy nose and a bad English accent. Not long after that, Ridge was blinded by an exploding microwave oven filled with BeLieF in the Forrester lab….but I digress.)

Taylor went to Clarke's office at Spectra Fashions and told him she knew that Morgan was pregnant. Clarke wasn't too pleased to find out Stephanie had gone into Morgan's Malibu beach house and visited her doctor's office. Taylor said it really didn't matter. It didn't bother her that Clarke had fathered the child. Clarke replied that Morgan didn't need Taylor's approval. Taylor asked why Clarke just didn't admit the truth. In the best double entendre this year, Taylor said "Come on, I caught you hanging ten in Morgan's bedroom." Get it? A surfing reference (that was Clarke's excuse for being there) and a little naughty sexual wishful thinking. Ooh, magically delicious.

Clarke replied that he would love to tell Taylor the truth about Morgan's pregnancy, but that was not his choice to make. Clarke said he had approached Taylor to help Macy and she had turned him down. This was karmic justice. Taylor was puzzled by Clarke's odd response and left his office saying she would get the truth from Morgan.

Meanwhile, over in Morgan's office, under intense pressure from Ridge, Morgan admitted the baby she was carrying was his. Ridge called her evil and cruel. Morgan said it wasn't about him, it was about what Stephanie had done and what Morgan needed to do for peace of mind. Ridge asked why she wanted to ruin his life. Morgan replied she only wanted the baby she had lost when she was 17. Ridge replied that what his mother had done those many years ago was wrong, but so was tricking him into getting her pregnant. Ridge accused Morgan of betraying him and Taylor just to get revenge. Morgan was certain both Taylor and Ridge would love the baby when he/she was born. The baby was a miracle - a gift. Ridge replied the pregnancy was a tragedy. She was not to tell anyone about the baby. Grabbing a calendar, Ridge figured out how far along the pregnancy was and said there was still time. Morgan went nuts and said she would not have an abortion. No one was going to stop her from having her baby!

Mr. Smartypants thinks this is a very good storyline. Very good indeed!

Alone in her beach house, Kimberly contemplated her hair and remembered Thorne's kind words with a smile. (Uh-oh!) Gladys showed up and said "You need a make-over like I need another ex-husband." (That Phyllis Diller is such a cut-up.) As Gladys applied aluminum foil to Kimberly's tresses for a few highlights, the teen explained that she was having dinner with a special friend that lived next door. Gladys said Kimberly was beautiful because true beauty came from within. Gladys could see the beauty in Kimberly's eyes. (She obviously didn't see it in that hair.) Gladys suggested Kimberly hold on to the special guy.

Across the sand at the beach house next door, Thorne received a phone call from Brooke. She was on her way home from Paris. (Now get this! Thorne wasn't wearing a shirt. Can you even imagine?) She was surprised to hear that Kimberly was having dinner with Thorne. He explained that he had to do what he could to help Kimberly through the rough times. Brooke said Thorne was the sweetest man in the world and they exchanged "I love you's." After hanging up the phone, Thorne rushed to prepare for Kimberly's arrival. He answered a knock on the door and was shocked at Kimberly's appearance. (We were not fortunate enough to see Kimberly's new look. We only saw Thorne's reaction and heard Kimberly say "Hello, Thorne" in a sultry voice. I hope it's some far out hair-do like Doris Day used to wear at the annual fashion show on her sit-com back in the early 70's. You know, one where all her hair came out the top of her head like Barbara Eden in "I Dream of Jeannie." Or like one of those Chrissy dolls from 1974 where you pushed a button on the doll's belly and pulled more hair out of the top or her head. But I digress.)

Taylor walked the halls of Forrester Creations looking for Morgan. Stephanie pulled her into her office and wanted to know what was going on. Taylor said she had talked with Clarke about Morgan being pregnant but he refused to comment on the matter. Stephanie asked if Clarke and Morgan were up to something. Taylor only knew she was confused by the tension everywhere. Ridge seemed mad at Morgan, Morgan was evasive with Taylor and Clarke was hostile and hiding something. Stephanie wondered why Morgan had pursued artificial insemination and asked Ridge to be a sperm donor if she was having sex with Clarke anyway. Stephanie thought perhaps Morgan had tricked Clarke into getting her pregnant. (Good guess, but wrong impregnator, Steph.) Taylor decided she had to go home to put her children to bed. (Oh yeah, You have kids.) She told Stephanie not to worry about the matter. She was certain the truth would come out soon.

Back in Morgan's office, Ridge informed Morgan that her pregnancy could not happen. Morgan cried that Ridge knew what the baby meant to her. Ridge countered that his family meant everything to him and she was going to destroy it. Ridge asked why she had lied to him. Morgan explained she did not want Stephanie to know she was pregnant. Ridge grabbed Morgan and said no one would ever know the truth. Morgan broke free and said she would not allow anyone to talk to her in that manner. She said she had chosen Ridge to father her child because he was so compassionate. She never dreamed he could think of having her terminate the pregnancy. Morgan was sure they could handle the situation even though she knew Ridge was scared. She said her pregnancy was not a horrible situation. It was, instead, a beautiful child. Ridge asked her to leave him alone. Morgan said she would do anything for Ridge - that is, anything but have an abortion. Morgan slammed the door and left.

Morgan went home and found Clarke waiting for her. Clarke said Taylor and Stephanie knew she was pregnant. Morgan replied that Ridge knew as well - and he knew he was the father. Morgan said it surprised her how angry Ridge had gotten at the news. She couldn't believe he suggested she have an abortion. (What did you expect, honey? Did you want him to start passing out cigars right away?) Morgan was afraid she had pushed Ridge too far. Clarke was certain that Ridge would not tell Stephanie. He thought it was clear he wanted to keep the truth from everybody.

Back in Morgan's office, Ridge stood in the dark and crumpled to the floor. He cried. (Real tears. Ridge had real tears rolling down his cheeks. I'm impressed.) Ridge recapped his infidelity out loud for those viewers that don't watch everyday and for those unfortunate souls that don't read Mr. Smartypants' daily updates. Stephanie walked into the dark office looking for Morgan and found her son lying on the floor. Stephanie asked if something was wrong. Ridge babbled incoherently about how he should have made a phone call and none of this would have happened. He said he had known it didn't feel right. Stephanie was confused until Ridge blurted out "You warned me. I should have listened to you." Stephanie knew he was referring to her warning about Morgan. Stephanie demanded to know what Morgan had done.

At her Malibu beach house, Morgan was upset that Stephanie might find out she was pregnant with Ridge's child. Clarke was certain Ridge would not tell his mother the story because it might affect her health. Morgan wasn't comforted because she knew it would only be a matter of time before Stephanie figured it out on her own and then came after her. (Remember, Morgan, this is Stephanie we're talking about. She's no Jessica Fletcher.) Morgan remembered how Stephanie had forced her to get an abortion when she was 17. (We got to see the cheesy black and white flashback sequence of that event again. I guess they spent so much money attempting to make Morgan look 17 and keeping Stephanie's face out of the shot they had to use the film again.) Morgan was scared of what might happen because she couldn't count on Ridge to protect her and the baby. Clarke volunteered to protect Morgan because he wasn't scared of the Forrester family. He had been on their most wanted list on several occasions. Morgan knew she would survive Stephanie's wrath, but she was concerned about her baby. Clarke reminded Morgan that she was no longer a kid, she would stand up for herself. Morgan freaked out and said it was too dangerous for her to stay in Los Angeles. She needed to leave town. (Best idea I've heard this week.)

Back in Morgan's office, Stephanie demanded that a distraught Ridge tell her what Morgan had done to him. Ridge cryptically told the story of Morgan orchestrating a set up. He explained to Stephanie about the e-mail he had received from Taylor's lap-top computer telling him to have sex with Morgan to get her pregnant. Stephanie laughed at the notion Taylor would condone such a thing. Ridge went on to tell how he had received a voice mail from Taylor telling him to help Morgan. Stephanie still didn't believe Taylor would allow Ridge have sex with Morgan. He obviously had misunderstood Taylor's messages. Ridge broke down and said the entire scenario had been manipulated by Morgan. He had heard what he was supposed to hear. He didn't want to do it, but Morgan had asked him one more time. Stephanie said all this didn't matter anyway because Clarke was the father of Morgan's baby. Ridge regretfully admitted that was not true. The light bulb went on above Stephanie's head. She begged her son to tell her he had not slept with Morgan and gotten her pregnant. Ridge babbled again and said how he had tried to call Taylor to confirm her messages. Now all he wanted to do was admit the truth to his wife. Stephanie took charge! She insisted that Taylor would leave him if she knew what he had done. Stephanie instructed her son to go home, keep his mouth shut and let her handle the situation. Ridge shuffled dejectedly out of the office. (Oh, my! This story is progressing at a nice, fast clip.)

But the real action took place at Thorne's beach house. Kimberly entered the house with her "new look." (I don't know what Thorne was all excited about, her hair didn't look all that different to me. Maybe it will look better in a scene with better lighting.) Kimberly thanked Thorne for helping pull her out of her depression. Out on the deck, Kimberly watched Thorne grill salmon steaks with great admiration. (What follows is the most nauseating dialog I've her in a long time.) Kimberly said the salad was so delicious she didn't need any other food. Thorne argued that Kimberly had to eat her steak. Kimberly agreed to eat half of her salmon. Thorne insisted she eat the entire piece of fish and fed her a piece from his fork to show her how good it was. She agreed it was super-tasty and acknowledged she hadn't been eating much lately. But if Thorne kept feeding her so much food, she'd get fat. Thorne disagreed and told her she was beautiful. (Kimberly kept giggling like a school girl and lowering her eyes. I would have, too, if I'd been forced to say such insipid lines.)

After dinner, Thorne reclined on that huge chaise lounge from Home Depot. Kimberly told Thorne he wasn't obligated to take care of her. Thorne said he realized that, but he cared about her. Kimberly replied that Thorne was good for her. He was her guardian angel. Thorne wasn't sure he was that special and suggested Kimberly think of him as her brother. When Kimberly looked dejected, Thorne asked if she was uncomfortable thinking of him as a sibling. Kimberly replied that she wouldn't have changed her hair and gotten dressed up for her brother. (Why not? Angelina Jolie would.)

"I'm attracted to you" Kimberly whispered as she lowered herself onto the huge chaise lounge from Home Depot and kissed Thorne. Thorne pulled away (but didn't get up) and said "Now, Kimberly….." Kimberly told Thorne not to say anything and kissed him again. This time, Thorne didn't pull away and clearly kissed her in return.

On the patented Mr. Smartypants Shock-o-meter, that clearly gets a 5 scream rating! I kept waiting for Kimberly to snap back to reality as if it were a fantasy sequence! Talk about moving at a rapid pace. I love it, I love it, I love it!

Episode Date: Monday, August 14, 2000

Brooke got into a limousine at the airport. She had arrived in Los Angeles. She debated whether she should call Thorne and let him know she was on her way to his place. She decided to surprise him. (You may be the one who's surprised, Brooke, honey.)

On the huge chaise lounge from Home Depot, Kimberly and Thorne continued to kiss passionately. Thorne pulled away and said he was sorry. He told Kimberly she didn't know what she was doing. Thorne protested that he was in love with Brooke and was going to marry her. Kimberly pouted and asked if he really did love Brooke. Thorne sighed, pulled Kimberly to him and started swapping spit again!

Alas, dear readers, it was a fantasy sequence. (I thought that might be the case. I mentioned that very scenario in last Friday's update. Don't believe me? Go back and read it.) Kimberly was snapped back to reality by Thorne asking is she was cold. There was a wind storm a-brewin'. Thorne gave Kimberly a house warming gift. It was a painting of a lighthouse on Nantucket. (That's where Kimberly's from.) Kimberly thanked Thorne for the thoughtful gift and told him he was lighthouse to her. He had saved her from going under. Thorne went inside to fetch some coffee for them. Once he got inside, Brooke barged through the door and attacked poor Thorne. As they made out and planned a night of passion, Kimberly walked in from the deck. Brooke was surprised to see Kimberly there. Kimberly snarled at the sight of Brooke.

Ridge went home and found Taylor lounging seductively by the pool in a bikini. Ridge told his wife he had something important he wanted to talk to her about. Taylor guessed he wanted to talk about Morgan. She told her husband she knew Morgan was pregnant and had thought Clarke was the father. She said when she confronted Clarke about it, he would not confirm that fact. Ridge said that Clarke was not the father. Taylor wondered why Morgan was keeping her baby a secret. Ridge said Morgan was afraid of how they'd react. Taylor was disappointed in Morgan. She used to be open with both of them, but now Morgan was keeping secrets. Taylor said she should have listened to Ridge and his mother and not gotten so involved in Morgan's life. Ridge countered that they were involved. He was just about to tell Taylor the truth when Stephanie's words echoed in his ears. Ridge kept his mouth shut. Taylor said she didn't want anything to do with Morgan. She didn't trust her. (You said a mouthful, sister-friend.)

In her office, Stephanie contemplated what to do about the mess Ridge had created. Of course, she called her good friend Bill Spencer and told him she needed his help. While we were watching a commercial for diet soft drink mix, Stephanie related a plan to Bill. When we rejoined the conversation, Bill told Stephanie he would make some phone calls and get back to her. After a second conversation about secrecy and letting no one know about their plan, Bill arrived at Stephanie's office and handed her a pill bottle with three pills in it. From their conversation, it was evident Bill did not know the particulars about the story. When asked, Stephanie said the woman in question was still in her first trimester. Stephanie was surprised that only one pill was needed. Bill told her the side effects would include cramping and nausea, but not permanent effects on the mother. Stephanie asked why the FDA had not approved the pills. Bill responded it had to do with politics. Stephanie asked if the drug was traceable. Bill realized the woman in question did not know she would be taking the drug. Bill decided to leave at that point and told Stephanie to be careful with the medication.

Over at the Malibu Beach House, Morgan packed a suitcase and said she planned to take the first flight out of Los Angeles. Clarke convinced her not to fly or use credit cards so Stephanie could trace her location. Clarke said he owned a place in La Hoya where Morgan could hide out until she was through her first trimester and the baby would be safe. They were startled when the wind blew the door open, but regained their composure and left the house.

Unfortunately, Morgan forgot the keys to Clarke's apartment and had to return for them. As she was locking the door the second time, Stephanie appeared on the deck. Morgan said she was just leaving and didn't want to fight with Stephanie. La Forrester agreed she didn't want to fight either. She wanted to talk to Morgan and perhaps share a cup of tea. Stephanie concealed the pill bottle in her hand as they talked.

Episode Date: Tuesday, August 15, 2000

At Thorne's beach bungalow, Brooke was surprised that Kimberly was still there for dinner as it was very late. The wind storm knocked over Thorne's patio umbrella. (I'm sure it came from Home Depot, too.) He went outside to capture it. Alone with Brooke, Kimberly asked if she was afraid to be alone with her after Kimberly had trashed Brooke's office. Brooke said she was not afraid and understood Kimberly had needed to someone to blame for Macy's death. Kimberly told Brooke she was not ready to discuss that issue with Brooke and insisted Brooke send her a bill for the office damage. She didn't want to owe Brooke anything. When Brooke complimented Kimberly's gorgeous new hair highlights, Kimberly was quick to say the new look was Thorne's idea. Brooke told Kimberly that she needed to deal with her anger and grief and should talk to someone about it. Kimberly retorted that Brooke could keep lots of psychiatrists in business with all the pain and grief she caused. (Ow! That one hurt, eh Brooke?) Kimberly told Brooke she didn't need her pity or advice, but to shut her up, Kimberly said she was talking to a friend. When Brooke asked if she knew the friend, Kimberly hedged and said she was certain Brooke didn't know him at all. As Kimberly spoke, she fondled the sweater Thorne had given her to keep warm.

Brooke was concerned that Kimberly was isolating herself from everyone by moving into Macy's house. Kimberly countered that she had Thorne next door. Brooke reminded Kimberly that Thorne would be moving in with Brooke as soon as they told Bridget about their love affair. Kimberly was surprised that Brooke had hidden the truth from her daughter and told Miss Logan that someone else might tell her the truth before Brooke got the chance. (You have anyone in mind, Kimberly?) Thorne returned (with his shirt still on, surprisingly) and Kimberly said it was time for her to leave. She made a big production of hugging Thorne, thanking him for the housewarming gift and telling him Macy would be happy to know they were together as she glared at Brooke.

Bill Spencer sat alone in Stephanie's office and worried that she might not know what she was doing. Ridge entered the office and was surprised to find Bill there. (Now that is just so stupid. Ridge had already gone home and now he was back at Forrester Creations to talk to his mother? Ever heard to the phone, Ridge?) Bill was hard on Ridge and told him that Stephanie had left to clean up one of Ridge's messes. Bill said Ridge making and problems and Stephanie cleaning up after him was just like old times. (Bill is the father of Ridge's first wife, Caroline. Caroline died of leukemia back the late 1980's. Bill never much cared for Ridge.) Bill thought it was ironic that Ridge's former father-in-law would help to deceive Ridge's current wife. Bill was thankful Caroline wasn't around to see what Ridge had become. Ridge asked if Stephanie had given the impression that he was having an affair. Bill said La Forrester didn't give any details, but he had supplied the pills that would cause Ridge's pregnant girlfriend to have a miscarriage! Ridge was shocked! (So are we, big guy.)

On Morgan's deck, Stephanie told the designer that she knew the Morgan was carrying Ridge's baby. Stephanie insisted they had to deal with it. As Morgan went into the Malibu Beach house, Stephanie put the vile of pills into her purse. Once inside, Stephanie admitted that Taylor did not yet know the truth and that Ridge was confused. Morgan said she had not planned everything that had happened. Stephanie told Morgan not to be so humble. Her devious plan to return to Los Angeles, befriend Ridge and his wife and then seduce him had worked perfectly. Morgan insisted she had no ulterior motives. Stephanie said she had come to stop Morgan. Morgan said she intended no harm to Ridge and Taylor's marriage. In fact, Morgan volunteered to tell Taylor she had deceived Ridge. Stephanie pointed out that Ridge would hate Morgan for tearing his family apart. Morgan said she had gotten pregnant to atone for her sins - and Stephanie's sins, too. Stephanie didn't think that justified hurting innocent people like Ridge's children. Stephanie told Morgan she had to have an abortion. Morgan refused and said she intended to protect her unborn baby. She was ready for motherhood. She was sorry if other people got hurt, but she was having the baby.

Stephanie listened to Morgan's speech and calmly said they would have to find another way to deal with the problem. Morgan fell for the ruse and said it would make her so happy if Stephanie would accept the child. (As if!) Stephanie then asked for a cup of tea. As Morgan cheerfully scurried about the kitchen looking for the chamomile tea leaves, Stephanie sat on the couch, opened her purse, and fingered the bottle of illegal pills! (This is so hot! I'm just about to wet myself.)

Episode Date: Wendesday, August 16, 2000

Amber and Little Eric visited Rick at the Forrester guest house. Amber complimented Rick on his attractive appearance and asked if he had been on a date with Kimberly. Rick noted that she was prying, but told her he had only been working late. Helen had left Amber's favorite snacks to munch on. Amber dug in with gusto. Rick was surprised that she did not enjoy the expensive snacks now that she lived on her own. Amber told Rick that she didn't want to talk about her legal problems. Rick insisted on discussing the matter and offered to pay for Jonathan, the family lawyer, to defend her. Amber graciously thanked Rick, but said she wanted to stand on her own two feet and not drag the Forresters into the fray. Rick was impressed with Amber's maturity. He asked what would have happened if they had been on better terms when Becky died. He wondered if Becky would have wanted them to raise Little Eric. Amber didn't venture a guess, but said they were a long way from getting back together like Becky had requested. Rick requested Helen take the baby. He poured wine for Amber. She admitted their relationship was confusing now. They agreed that it was hard to believe he had asked her to move back into the guest house and even harder to believe she had declined the offer. Amber said she wanted some predictability in her life. Rick couldn't believe she would say such a thing, she loved surprises. Amber laughed that she knew Rick very well and nothing he could do would surprise her. Amber had to eat her words (along with the brie) when Rick leaned over and planted a big, wet, sloppy kiss on Amber's lips. Amber didn't mind at all.

Back in Stephanie's office at Forrester Creations, Ridge was incredulous that Bill would suggest Ridge knew anything about his mother's plans. Ridge wanted to know what kind of pills Bill had supplied to Stephanie. Bill explained it was a drug that had been used overseas for years to end unwanted pregnancies. Ridge said it didn't matter because the mother-to-be would not agree to take such a drug. Bill said it was obvious the woman would not know about the pill. Ridge didn't think his mother would be so diabolical as to terminate Morgan's pregnancy in that manner. Bill said he knew Stephanie would do anything she had to to protect her children. Bill chided Ridge for being such a loser and a momma's boy. As Bill left he office, he said Ridge lead a charmed life but the magic would wear off one day and Bill wanted to see that happen. Ridge was stunned by what he had heard. (Isn't that the way he usually is?)

Down at the Malibu Beach house, Stephanie watched Morgan prepare some tea and fondled the pill bottle in her purse. Morgan offered some Pepperidge Farms cookies which Stephanie politely refused. (Good idea, Steph. You can finish off those snacks that Amber nibbled on.) Morgan babbled about how odd it was to be having tea with Stephanie, her one-time enemy. Morgan served the tea and continued to gab about how wonderful it was for the two of them to be talking.

After Morgan filled her own tea cup, Stephanie asked for some honey. Morgan wandered into the kitchenette to look for honey. Stephanie slowly opened her purse and withdrew a pill. She opened the capsule and dumped the powder into Morgan's tea! La Forrester quickly stirred the tea and replaced the tea bag just as Morgan returned!

Morgan said she knew Stephanie understood her because she was a mother, too. She would do anything to protect her children. (You got that right, sugar.) Morgan admitted that she had tricked Ridge into getting her pregnant, but it really didn't matter because she would always be his child's mother. Stephanie said that mean she would always be involved in Ridge's life. Stephanie looked at the doctored tea cup as if willing it to Morgan's mouth!

Morgan said she was amazed at how reasonable Stephanie was being. "You'd be surprised at what I'm capable of" was Stephanie's double-meaning reply. Morgan slowly raised the medicated tea cup to her lips……and started to take a drink……when the lights went out! (There's that wind storm, remember?)

Morgan lit candles and said it made the house seem creepy. She picked up Stephanie tea cup by mistake, but the matriarch stopped her from drinking, saying she didn't want Morgan to catch any germs. Morgan was grateful for the concern. They sat by candle light and Morgan worried about Taylor's reaction to the baby. She asked Stephanie to support her if need be. "Hopefully I won't have to" was Stephanie's second double-meaning answer. Morgan said she didn't want her baby to be an outcast of the Forrester family. "That won't be a problem" was the third double-meaning reply by Stephanie.

Morgan picked up the evil tea cup again….she raised it to her lips…..but put it down because the tea was how cold. An irritated Stephanie put some more hot water into the cup. Morgan thanked her.

Morgan slowly….raised….the ….tea…..cup….to….her….mouth……..

Episode Date: Thursday, August 17, 2000

Morgan…..slowly…..raised….the….tea….cup….to….her….lips…..and …..started…..to…..take…..a…..sip…..when….she…..quickly set it down because the liquid was too hot. Stephanie about popped a blood vessel. She was anxious for Morgan to drink the tea with the drug in it to make her miscarry the baby. Morgan said they had to talk about how to deal with the baby. Stephanie said she hoped they were doing that right now. (There she goes with those double meaning answers again.) Stephanie assured Morgan that by the time she left, everything would be resolved and they'd never have to argue again.

But Ridge appeared on Morgan's deck and saw his mother and Morgan sitting with tea and chatting like a couple of Donna Reed clones. He knocked on the door. Stephanie was more perturbed than ever. Ridge immediately spied the full tea cup on the table. He said he had spoken with Bill Spencer. Stephanie said he was then aware that everything was taken care of and he could go home. Morgan agreed that she needed time alone with Stephanie. (Female bonding and all that, you know.) Ridge looked at his mother and agreed it might be the best way to handle the situation. He left and closed the door behind him. But his conscience (and the script) told him to go back and order his mother to leave. Ridge explained that it was his life and his problem. Stephanie was disappointed, but left without saying a word.

Morgan screamed at Ridge for interrupting her mother/daughter style chat with Stephanie. Morgan said it had been important to her. Ridge said he knew exactly how important it had been. (Oh oh. Ridge picked up the double talk from his mother.) Ridge told Morgan that Stephanie had not come to mend fences. Morgan screamed for him to get out of her house. Ridge asked how much tea she drank. Morgan said she didn't even sip the tea because it had been to hot. Ridge told Morgan that Bill Spencer had given Stephanie some drugs to induce a miscarriage. He believed it had been in her tea. Morgan freaked - and gagged, too. (That was really kind of gross.) She called Stephanie a bitch and then realized Ridge could have left, but he came back to stop her from drinking the tea. Morgan hugged Ridge with gratitude for saving her baby. (Whew! That was a close call.)

Back at the Forrester guest house, Amber pulled away from her kiss with Rick. She asked about his relationship with Kimberly. Rick said Kimberly didn't want much to do with him since Brooke had been involved with Macy's accident. Rick said that everything happened for a reason. He told Amber he was proud of how she had grown since being on her own. He told her she was attractive and that he wanted to get to know her all over again. Amber asked if he was trying to convince her to move back to the Forrester estate with Little Eric. Rick admitted he wanted the baby back with him. Rick feared for Little Eric's safety in Silverlake where CJ and Amber lived. Rick said the three of them could start over. He wanted to raise Little Eric with Amber. He knew they could make it work. They once again kissed passionately. Amber said she had to leave. She picked up Little Eric from Helen and high tailed it back to the seedy apartment.

CJ was waiting for Amber and Little Eric at the seedy apartment. After Amber put the baby to bed, CJ explained that he had made pizza and rented movies for them to watch. (He had rented Terminator I and II. CJ did his best Arnold Schwartzenegger impression to go with his description of the evening's entertainment.) As CJ finished making dinner, Amber looked out the window and heard sirens and lots of noise. She remembered Rick's words about the neighborhood not being safe. CJ present Amber with his special pizza. He had arranged the pepperoni into the shape of a heart. Amber was touched and said CJ was "crazy and wonderful." They forgot about the pizza and started swapping spit. (That Amber is kissing so much today. I hope she's got plenty of Chap Stick.)

Over at the seedy apartment, Amber pulled away from CJ's kiss and admired the heart he had arranged on the pizza from pepperoni slices. She asked what the heart symbolized. He said he had been thinking about them making a loving home for Little Eric. Amber said the baby meant everything to her. She recalled how horrible the police bust had been. She was glad Rick had been available to care for Little Eric. CJ reminded Amber of how Rick had tried to manipulate her into moving back to the Forrester estate. (You don't need to remind her, CJ, she just got another tempting offer a few minutes ago.) CJ returned to the pizza and told Amber that he didn't want to freak her out, but he really liked her. He pulled her into another passionate kiss. They were interrupted by Little Eric's cry. CJ went to check it out. The phone rang. Amber, alone in the seedy living room, answered it. Rick had called to check up on her. Amber smiled and told Rick she had a good time at his place. Rick urged Amber to do what was best for her and the baby. Amber hung up the phone. At the guest house, Rick vowed to get Amber and Little Eric back into his home! (You watch it Amber, girl. You are burning the candle at both ends.)

Meanwhile, the power had come back on at Morgan's Malibu Beach house. Ridge said his mother had done what she felt she had to do. Morgan said she couldn't believe she had been taken in by Stephanie. Morgan had trusted her. Ridge pointed out that's exactly how he felt about Morgan. Morgan said Stephanie was "evil" and called her "the devil." They argued about what Stephanie had done and whether Ridge should have stopped Morgan from drinking the tea and whether Taylor should know the truth. Yada, yada, yada. Ridge ended the conversation by saying both Stephanie and Morgan were wrong. He admitted he was no saint, but he did not right from wrong. He said he wasn't going to leave Taylor, if that was Morgan's plan. Morgan was angry and said Stephanie had better watch her back. She wasn't afraid of La Forrester anymore. As Ridge left, he told Morgan she had taken this event to a whole new level. (I'm not sure what that meant. I think he flubbed his line.) Ridge told Morgan he had bailed her out once and now he was going to protect his family. Alone, Morgan told her "Little One" (gag) that she had to be stronger. She then changed her mind and decided she had to attack! (Your snake skin, vinyl halter top should come in handy, then.)

Stephanie returned home to the Forrester mansion. No sooner had she closed the door behind her than she took the bottle with the remaining two pills from her pocket and gazed at them. (How very soap opera of her.) The phone rang. Stephanie answered it. There was no one there. But we saw Morgan hang up the phone at her Malibu Beach house. "Tomorrow! I'm coming after you!" Morgan sneered.

A brand, new sunny day dawned in Los Angeles and Stephanie sat in her living room and fondled her pill bottle some more. She answered a knock at the door and greeted an irate Morgan. Morgan pulled a Mason jar full of brown liquid from her purse and screamed, "It's the tea you made me, you bitch!" (And a cheery good morning to you, too, Morgan.) Morgan explained that Ridge had told her of Stephanie's plan. Morgan called Stephanie "the scum of the earth." Stephanie warned Morgan not to pass judgement when it came to moral issues. Morgan said she had been willing to work things out, but now Stephanie was going to pay. Morgan said she wanted to destroy Stephanie, but would give a Ridge a choice on how he would be handled. Stephanie said Ridge would never leave Taylor and he would never be a parent to Morgan's child. Stephanie offered to set up a huge trust fund for both Morgan and the baby if she would just leave town. Morgan said she didn't want money. She was not scared of Stephanie any longer. Stephanie threatened to sue Morgan for custody of the child when it was born. Morgan didn't believe Stephanie would take the sordid story public - Taylor would find out the truth. Stephanie said she never bluffed and Taylor would eventually find out anyway. Stephanie taunted Morgan by saying the baby would always be cursed by the way he/she was conceived - in deceit! Morgan replied that her child would know he/she was wanted so much that his/her mother would do anything to bring him/her into the world. Morgan took her Mason Jar of tainted tea, opened it and threw the liquid in Stephanie's face. As Stephanie wondered it a little club soda would get the stain out, Morgan stormed out the front door.

Over at Insomnia, Bridget ran into a couple of friends, Griffin and Ken. The guys said they had heard Bridget's mother was having an affair with Bridget's half brother, Thorne. Bridget was disgusted and denied it was happening. As the boy's continued to taunt Bridget, Kimberly appeared and whisked Bridget off to another table. Bridget thanked Kimberly for saving her from the gossip mongers. Bridget expressed her sympathy to Kimberly for Macy's death. Bridget said her mother had been broken up about the accident. Kimberly said Brooke wasn't upset at all. When Bridget questioned if Kimberly blamed Brooke for Macy's death, Kimberly replied there was no one else to blame. Kimberly then said what Griffin and Ken had told Bridget was true. Bridget told Kimberly to watch her potty mouth. (Well, that's kind of what she said.) Kimberly told how Brooke and Thorne had gone together to Venice. Bridget pointed out that Thorne had returned from Europe married to Macy. Kimberly repeatedly told Bridget that Thorne and Brooke were shacking up. Bridget told Kimberly to stop spreading dirty rumors and wondered what Rick had ever seen in Kimberly in the first place. Kimberly said she wanted to warn Bridget about her mother so she didn't turn out like her. Bridget told Kimberly she hated her and to stay away from her family as she stormed out of Insomnia. (There's a lot of storming going on today.)

At that very moment, Brooke and Thorne were dancing in the sheets at Brooke's house. Thorne was concerned that Bridget would arrive home at any minute. Brooke was certain Bridget wouldn't come home. Brooke planned to tell Bridget about their affair that evening. She was certain Bridget would be happy for them. Brooke asked how Kimberly was doing. Brooke said Kimberly had told her about a man that was helping her out. Brooke thought Kimberly might be falling in love. Thorne didn't want to talk anymore and they hula-ed some more. In the second afterglow, Thorne offered to help tell Bridget the truth. Brooke was certain it would not be a problem.

Thorne went to take a shower. As Brooke brushed her hair, Bridget walked into the room. She was upset and wanted to talk to her mother. Brooke tried to usher her daughter downstairs, but Bridget stood in the doorway and said Kimberly had accused Brooke and Thorne of having an affair. Bridget told Brooke it was a disgusting thought. Just then, Thorne walked out of the bathroom wearing only a towel! (I'm shocked!) A wide-eyed Bridget knew the horrible story was true. She covered her mouth and made gagging noises. (Eew!) Thorne and Brooke looked helplessly at each other.)

(Now why is Bridget so disgusted by the fact her mother and half-brother are sleeping together. Once Bridget found out that Ridge was her half-brother instead of her father, she didn't seem too concerned that they were sleeping together. In fact, Bridget ran away from home in the hopes that Ridge would reunite with Brooke! I guess that was a different actress who had a different take on the story.)

In Eric's office at Forrester Creations, Rick told his father that today was Amber's court date, but she didn't want any help from the family and she didn't want anyone to come to court to support her. Eric worried about the seriousness of the charges against Amber and felt she needed a good lawyer. Rick thought it might be best if Little Eric stayed with him until the whole episode was over. (I think he meant Amber's trial, not today's episode of our favorite soap opera.)

At the seedy apartment, Amber and CJ dressed in conservative clothes for the court house. (Conservative is right! The looked like they were going to a funeral. Oh, wait, they have been to two funerals in the past month. They really didn't even need to change clothes.) CJ wanted to call his mother to get the name of a good lawyer. Amber insisted she had gotten into the mess by herself and she intended to get out of it by herself. Amber was certain her lack of a police record and her steady job would help her out. She pointed out that innocent people do not go to jail. (Hello? It happens all the time on this very show. Remember when Thorne went to prison when Anthony framed him for Ivana's murder? Of course that was a different Thorne and he did escape in a laundry hamper with a big inmate named Spike, or Bubba or You-ma-ho, or something like that.) Amber said she would not let Little Eric and CJ down this time.

Just as Amber and CJ were leaving the seedy apartment, Rick and Eric called to offer assistance. Amber didn't want the Forresters to get involved. She didn't want their lawyer and she didn't want any of them to come to the court house. Rick was upset to learn that Little Eric was going with CJ and Amber to the court house. Amber said everything would be fine, thanked Eric and Rick for their concern and hung up the phone. In Eric's office, Rick worried what would happen to Little Eric if Amber was sent to jail.

Amber and CJ arrived at the court room. The took a seat in the back row. After the judge threw an unruly defendant into jail for ten days for misbehaving, CJ again begged Amber to call his mother for a lawyer. Amber convinced CJ that everything was going to be all right. (Her face didn't look too convinced, though.)

Kimberly worked out on the deck of her beach house. (Some work out. She lifted tiny little dumbbells two times with each arm. Then stopped and had to blot her dewy skin with a plush towel. Like she had even worked up a sweat.) Darla arrived and noticed Kimberly smiling. Kimberly said things were going to change. She told Darla that Bridget had found out about Brooke and Thorne's romance. Bridget wasn't happy about it and it could cause trouble for the lovers. Kimberly was certain that Bridget would never accept the relationship.

How right you are, Kimberly. After Bridget quit gagging in Brooke's bedroom , she said what Brooke and Thorne were doing was disgusting. Brooke argued that Thorne was not technically Bridget's brother. Bridget said it didn't matter. Brooke's history with the family made the whole thing sick. Brooke said they were not having an affair - they were in love. There was nothing wrong with their relationship. Bridget asked why they were sneaking around if there was nothing wrong. Bridget suspected they thought it was as morally corrupt as she did. Bridget remembered how the guys at Insomnia had teased her. She dreaded going back to school and being the laughing stock of her class. Bridget yelled that Brooke could ruin her own life, but she would not allow her mother to ruin hers (Bridget's.) Brooke said Bridget would grow to accept the situation just as Rick had. Bridget couldn't believe her brother went along with the affair. Brooke said Rick only wanted them to be happy. Bridget realized the whole family knew and only Rick would support the couple.

Things only got worse when Thorne said they planned to be married. Bridget had heard enough. She told Brooke that she could not live in a house where such a relationship was going on. Bridget wanted Brooke to make Thorne leave. Bridget laid down an ultimatum. "Either he goes or I go."

It was good to see Brooke squint again.

At the courthouse, the bailiff called Amber's case. Amber took a deep breath and walked to the bench. The prosecutor began to read the charges against her and Amber interrupted with her side of the story. The judge was not amused and asked where Amber's lawyer was. Amber said she didn't think she needed a lawyer. She was innocent and she was sure she could explain what had happened. The prosecutor objected and the judge ordered Amber to return in two days with a lawyer.

As the court recessed, CJ insisted that Amber call his mother to help find a lawyer. Amber wanted to do it herself. CJ said he didn't want to argue about it anymore and took Little Eric into the hall for a drink. Amber was approached by a smarmy looking man. He introduced himself as Sherman Gale, attorney at law. Mr. Gale told Amber he was an expert at drug cases. Amber took his business card and told him she'd think about it. The lawyer stepped out of the courtroom and looked at his watch as if timing Amber. Sure enough, she came into the hall and told Sherman she might accept his offer to help. (Just a little tidbit, Sherman Gale is being played by Michael Tylo. He's Hunter Tylo's (Taylor) husband in real life. Isn't that sweet? The couple met when he played Matt and she portrayed Robin on All My Children in the early 1980's. Although at the time, her hair was dyed blond and she went by the name Deborah Mooreheart. But that's another story for another time.)

In Brooke's bedroom, Brooke told Bridget that Thorne was not going to leave. Thorne tried to relate to Bridget by telling her that he had forsaken his family to be with Brooke. That was how much he loved her mother. Bridget thought he meant that if she didn't like it, that was just too darn bad. She also pointed out that if everyone in the family thought their relationship was wrong, then it probably was. Brooke said Bridget didn't know how much Thorne meant to her. Bridget asked if her being her daughter meant nothing. Brooke said she, of course, loved Bridget, but she was committed to Thorne. They would help the teen accept the situation, but they had waited long enough and would not put their lives on hold and wait any longer. Bridget asked if Brooke was choosing Thorne over her. Brooke asked Thorne to leave. She wanted to talk to Bridget alone.

After Bridget shoved Thorne out the door, she told Brooke this was just like her relationship with Ridge. Brooke said it was real love this time. Bridget said Brooke followed her heart too much. Love alone couldn't overcome all the obstacles Thorne and Brooke would face. Bridget said she loved her mother, but being Brooke's daughter was a challenge. There was a limit to what she (Bridget) and society could accept. Bridget said she had managed to maintain her self respect during Brooke's relationship with Ridge, her feud with Stephanie and even the Brooke's Bedroom line of lingerie, but she could not survive this. (You go, Bridget. You tell it like it is!)

At her beach house, Kimberly chopped carrots and gazed at the painting of the lighthouse Thorne had given her. Rick arrived to say hello and the two teens had an awkward conversation for a few minutes. Kimberly said she had not forgiven Brooke. Rick asked if she had forgiven him. Kimberly asked if he was still defending his mother. Rick replied that he supported his mother in her relationship with Thorne. Kimberly said that Brooke and Thorne would never make it as a couple. Rick said the relationship was complicated, but they loved each other. When Rick said Bridget would one day learn the truth and accept it, Kimberly disagreed. Rick wanted to change the subject to their own relationship. Kimberly replied, "There is no us." (Well, that's pretty definite.) Rick said he cared about Kimberly and wanted to help her. Kimberly walked on to her deck and saw Thorne arrive next door. Kimberly said she didn't need Rick to take care of her, she wasn't alone. Rick asked if she was seeing someone else. Kimberly told Rick he should leave. Dejected, Rick left and said he'd see Kimberly "around."

Kimberly ran across the sand and asked Thorne if something was wrong. Thorne relayed how Bridget had learned the truth about him and Brooke and was very upset. Kimberly said that everything would work out for the best. She told Thorne he was a wonderful man and he should be with a woman that loved him. (Got anyone in particular in mind, Kimberly?) Kimberly assured Thorne that something good would come out of Bridget's reaction and said a person should not give up on what they wanted. Thorne asked if she was saying he should not give up on Brooke. Kimberly hedged and said perhaps Bridget's reaction would make him see things more clearly.

Kimberly was practically salivating over Thorne. And he didn't even take his shirt off.

Apparently it's a new day for the bold and the beautiful. Ridge sat forlornly in his office. Taylor showed up and accused her husband of working too hard. (Sure, but working to hard on what, honey?) He had come home late last night and left early in the morning. He swore that he was not avoiding her and the children. Taylor encouraged Ridge to take things easy. She knew he liked things to be perfect, but they didn't always work out that way. Stephanie approached the office door as Taylor and Ridge embraced. Stephanie entered and asked if everyone was all right. Taylor said Ridge was working too hard and asked Stephanie to have Eric take it easy on him. Stephanie suggested Ridge and Taylor take a vacation, but Ridge vetoed the idea, saying he was too busy. As Taylor left, Ridge passionately kissed his wife and told her never to forget that she and the kids were the most important things in the world to him.

After Taylor left, Stephanie suggested Ridge tell his wife the truth about Morgan. Ridge agreed, he had to take responsibility for his actions. He prayed that Taylor would understand. La Forrester said he had to make Taylor understand. Morgan could not win. Ridge cried that the situation was not a game. Stephanie understood, but said if Morgan had the child, he would always be tied to her. Ridge said he understood, but worried what this would do to his marriage.

Amber met her lawyer, Sherman Gale, at Insomnia. He explained that hers was a tricky case and the judge seemed very intolerant. At his request, Amber wrote the shady lawyer a check for $500! He left for 15 minutes and returned. He had registered as Amber's attorney and had a copy of her arrest paperwork. Mr. Gale had been counting on using the fact that the search that uncovered the drug was un-warranted. However, Amber told the police they could search the apartment because she thought she had nothing to hide. The police also had probable cause because the anonymous caller said she believed Amber was selling drugs. Amber freaked when Sherman told her she could be sentenced to 5-10 years in a federal prison. He promised to help her. (He hasn't really done anything yet, but this character seems very shady. He is smarmy with a capital "S".)

At another table at Insomnia, Kimberly remembered how Brooke had suggested that Macy was trying to kill Brooke in the auto accident that took Macy's life. Kimberly vowed not to let Brooke ruin Macy's reputation or to allow her to have Thorne. Kimberly then spotted Bridget at the coffee bar. Kimberly apologized to Bridget for speaking up about Brooke and Thorne's relationship. Bridget had to admit that Kimberly was only telling the truth. Bridget said she had caught her mother and Thorne in the bedroom and had given her an ultimatum (choose her daughter or Thorne), but Brooke had not responded with a straight answer. Bridget explained that she thought her mother and Thorne together was gross. Kimberly almost screamed that Bridget could not allow Thorne to move into her mother's house. Bridget was shocked at Kimberly's fervor about the subject. Kimberly covered by saying Bridget should not let Brooke run her life. Kimberly suggested Bridget talk to her father about the situation. Bridget took the advice and thanked Kimberly. After Bridget left, Kimberly smiled and thought it was Bridget who should be thanked.

At Brooke's house, Brooke had her hair braided or crimped or mashed or corn-rowed or something. She looked ridiculous! (And I'm just saying, if your daughter had threatened to move out of the house unless you dumped your lover, would you really take the time to whip your hair into a new do? I think I'd wait until the dust settled just a little bit.) Anyway, Thorne told Brooke they could not give in to Bridget's tantrum. He suggested he move into the house immediately and show Bridget how much they loved each other. Brooke said they couldn't force the issue on Bridget and thought he could hang around a little bit at a time so she could get used to the idea. They agreed with the slow and easy approach and kissed passionately. They got so into the kiss that Thorne fell off the coffee table.

Meanwhile Bridget visited her father at his office at Forrester Creations. Bridget told Eric she knew about Thorne and Brooke's relationship and it made her angry. Eric told his daughter he had wanted to spare her the hurt of learning the truth. Bridget told her father that hey had to put a stop to the relationship. (Yeah, like any of his ideas have worked so far.)

In his office at Forrester Creations, Eric comforted a distraught Bridget. Eric told his daughter that Brooke and Thorne had been involved for about a year and the entire family had tried to break them up. Bridget wondered when her mother had planned to tell her about the relationship. Bridge said her mother always jumped into a romance and got carried away. Bridget just wanted a normal life. (It's a soap opera, honey, if you want a normal life join the cast of The Brady Bunch.) Bridget feared the news of Brooke's romance with Thorne would make the entire family a joke. Eric assured his daughter no on would take Brooke's actions as a reflection on Bridget. Bridge told Eric she had told her mother to choose Thorne or her. Eric worried that Bridget would run away again. Bridget said she had just been a child back then (and another actress.) Bridget said it hurt when Brooke didn't pick her over Thorne right away. Bridget noted that every time her mother fell in love, her (Bridget's) world fell apart. Eric said Bridget was welcome to move into the Forrester mansion with him and Stephanie.

Brooke arrived at Eric's office with her hair still in those horrible corn-rows. (She looked like an extra on an alien planet from Battlestar Gallactica.) Brooke wanted a private conversation with her daughter, but Bridget said there was nothing left to talk about. Had Brooke chosen Thorne or her? Brooke retorted that she was not going to let her teen-age daughter make her decisions for her. Eric said Bridget was going to move in with him. Brooke was shocked. Bridget told her mother she wanted no part of Brooke's relationship with Thorne. "Who's more important? Thorne or me?" Bridget asked.

Elsewhere, Kimberly showed up at Thorne's beach bungalow in a wet suit. She was ready for her first surfing lesson. Thorne took a rain check. He was packing an overnight bag and told Kimberly he planned to win Bridget over. Kimberly told Thorne not to rush Bridget. She needed time. Thorne said Kimberly was too young too relate, but when she fell in love, she would understand. Kimberly replied that she had indeed fallen in love. Thorne assumed she was talking about Rick. (Uh, she's talking about you, you muscle-headed himbo!) Kimberly reminded Thorne that he had promised to take some time before rushing into Brooke's arms. Thorne said enough time had passed since Macy's death. The reporters had stopped buzzing around. (Reporters? I don't recall any reporters buzzing anywhere.) Kimberly said she would miss Thorne if he didn't live next door. Thorne said he would still hang around. He cared about Kimberly and he missed having a kid sister around.

WHAT!?!?! I don't know if this was intentionally funny and sick or if the writers just weren't thinking about what Thorne just said. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, I guess Thorne meant he missed Felicia, Eric and Stephanie's youngest child. But did he realize that Bridget is also his kid sister? She's a blood sister, as opposed to Kimberly. So, if he moved in with Brooke, he wouldn't have to miss having a kid sister around because she would be living under the same roof with him - AS HIS DAUGHTER! Ick!

But I digress. Kimberly reminded Thorne she was not his kid sister. Thorne hugged Kimberly and left for Brooke's house. Alone, Kimberly vowed that Thorne would not move in with Brooke.

In his office, Ridge worried with his mother about how the news of his fathering Morgan's child would affect his family. Ridge, through sappy flashbacks, remembered how much he loved his children. He regretted not being honest with Taylor about his sleeping with Morgan from the beginning, but Morgan had convinced him to wait until they found out if she as pregnant. Stephanie guessed that had been Morgan's plan all along - to cause tension in Ridge and Taylor's marriage. Ridge knew that even if Taylor accepted the truth, their marriage would never be the same. Stephanie agreed and urged Ridge to fess up before Morgan had a chance too tell Taylor herself.

But at the very minute, Morgan arrived at Taylor and Ridge's house for lunch. Morgan was touched by Taylor's support after Morgan had lied to her about being pregnant. Taylor said she was a psychiatrist and nothing Morgan could say would shock her. In fact, Taylor thought she had figured out that the father of Morgan's baby was married. That was why Morgan was embarrassed to talk about him. Morgan said she was afraid to lose Taylor's friendship. Taylor said that wouldn't happen and she was dying to know the father's name!

You may do just that when you hear that name, sweetie.

Lots of characters and lots of scenes to today. So pay attention. At the beach bungalow, Kimberly continued to tell Thorne not to rush Bridget and move in to Brooke's house to quickly. Thorne told Kimberly that he appreciated her concern, but he had to handle the situation in his own way. He intended to talk to Bridget and make her understand the depth of his feelings for Brooke. Thorne made a phone call to order flowers. When he hung up, Kimberly was gone.

At Eric's office at Forrester Creations, Brooke told Bridget she was being unreasonable. Bridget said she didn't want to deal with Brooke's relationship with Thorne. Brooke asked her daughter if she'd rather they pretend they didn't love each other. Bridget told her mother she wanted her to show some restraint. Brooke replied they had tried to deny their feelings, but she and Thorne had been miserable. Brooke asked if Bridget didn't want her to be happy. When Bridget didn't reply, Brooke said Thorne was coming over that evening and the three of them could talk about it. Bridget freaked and said if Thorne was coming over, then obviously Brooke had chosen Thorne over her. Brooke relented and persuaded Bridget to go home and she would tell Thorne not to come over. Bridget agreed and left the office. Alone with Eric, Brooke scolded her ex-husband for taking sides. Eric said he had merely comforted Bridget when she came to him for help. After Brooke left, Eric huffed and puffed. (About what, I'm not exactly sure.)

Brooke and Bridget arrived home. Brooke told Bridget that she and Rick were the most important people in her life. Brooke promised to send Thorne away when he arrived. (She had tried to call him on the way home but not gotten an answer.) Bridget thanked her mother for considering her feelings and went upstairs.

Bridget entered her room and was surprised to find Kimberly there. (Just how on earth did Kimberly get into the house? Does no one lock their doors in Los Angeles?) Kimberly pretended she had sneaked in to avoid Brooke and was there to check on Bridget's well being. Bridget explained that Brooke was not going to let Thorne move in yet. Kimberly congratulated Bridget on a job well done and reminded her that she was perhaps the only person that could stop the relationship.

Downstairs, Thorne arrived with a huge bouquet of flowers. Brooke told him that Bridget had really been upset and Brooke felt it was best if they didn't talk to her that evening and suggested Thorne postpone moving into the house for a while. (Brooke and Thorne didn't notice Kimberly eavesdropping at the top of the stairs.) Thorne was afraid Brooke had decided to let Bridget call the shots. He insisted he be given a chance to reason with Bridget. Brooke said she didn't want to force the issue right away and told Thorne to go home. A dejected (and horny, by most accounts) Thorne walked to the door as Brooke told him she was sure this was only a temporary setback. Kimberly smiled with glee from her hiding place.

Meanwhile, at Ridge and Taylor's house, Morgan told Taylor she could not reveal the name of her baby's father because she had promised the man she wouldn't. Taylor assumed that meant she would someday learn the father's identity. Morgan said she just wanted to be sure she didn't lose Taylor's friendship. As Morgan left, Taylor told her that both she and Ridge would be a big part of the baby's life. Alone, outside the front door, Morgan wondered aloud if Taylor would feel the same way once she learned Ridge was the father of her baby. (If I see that scene one more time, I swear I'm going to scream.)

At Ridge's office, Ridge and Stephanie agreed he had to tell Taylor he had fathered Morgan's child before Morgan told her the truth. Ridge imagined (with a fantasy sequence, no less) that Taylor would be mad at Morgan and forgive him for falling Morgan's treachery. Stephanie told her son not to be such a sap! She imagined (with yet another fantasy sequence) that Taylor would be furious with her husband for falling for such a stupid lie and throw him out of the house. (That Stephanie, always the encouraging mother.) Ridge grimaced and left for home. Alone, Stephanie prayed that God would help her son and Taylor through another trying time.

Ridge arrived home and was greeted by Taylor at the door. He told his wife he came home early because he knew the kids were out with the nanny. Taylor assumed Ridge wanted to sex it up and said they didn't have enough time for one of his marathon sessions. (OK, I made the marathon part up.) Ridge replied that he wasn't think about sex. (For once.) Instead, he wanted to tell her something.

Tell her about it, big guy.

At the seedy apartment, CJ asked all sorts of questions about Sherman Gale, Amber's lawyer. Amber accused CJ of having no confidence in her. CJ replied that he was just scared of what might happen to Amber in court. CJ wanted to call Connor Davis (you remember him, Sally's lawyer) but Amber said she couldn't afford such a high profile attorney and she wasn't going to accept charity. Amber left a phone message for Sherman to call her. CJ worried that the lawyer might not even show up the next day in court. CJ said it was time for Amber to swallow her pride. She didn't have to accept charity from Sally. Amber could arrange a payment schedule. He insisted that families helped each other out. Amber was touched that CJ saw her as a member of his family. CJ said he meant what he had said - he couldn't lose her. They kissed and Amber agreed to let CJ call his mother. But before he could left the receiver, Sherman called for Amber. He told her he had spoken with the prosecutor and had good news. Amber wanted to hear the outcome of the meeting, but Sherman insisted he drop by the seedy apartment the next morning and tell her the complicate arrangement. Sherman told Amber she would be very happy. Amber shared the information with CJ. She happily hugged him, but CJ was very worried by the lack of explanation.

Morgan puttered around her office adjusting some clothes on a couple of models. Megan arrived with an important fax. After some idle chit chat about the designs, Megan and the models left. Morgan packed up and wanted to get out before Stephanie came looking for her. No such luck, though, La Forrester barged trough the door. Stephanie said Morgan's plan to nab Ridge was working. Morgan replied that she hadn't told Taylor the truth about her baby, so she doubted Ridge would be a free man. Stephanie scoffed that Morgan didn't have to tell Taylor because Ridge would. Morgan wondered why Ridge would risk making Taylor mad. Morgan said she had told Ridge she would keep the secret forever if that was what he wanted. With Stephanie's prodding, Morgan admitted she had feelings for Ridge, but she would never want to have him if it meant ruining the life he loved so much. Morgan said it was enough that she was pregnant with his child. Morgan then accused Stephanie of causing trouble. She realized it had been the matriarch that convinced Ridge to spill the beans. Morgan told Stephanie if Ridge's marriage fell apart, it would be her (Stephanie's) fault as she waltzed out the door.

Outside Ridge and Taylor's front door, Taylor said that Catherine, the nanny, and the children were inside and Taylor couldn't leave. Ridge insisted he had something very important to tell Taylor. He went inside to tell Catherine that he and Taylor were leaving and found a photo shoot with the children going on in the living room. Taylor had to fess up that their family was being featured in a fashion magazine. The magazine's readers had voted Ridge and Taylor the most fascinating couple in fashion. (If they are the most fascinating, I'd hate to meet some of the other couples.) The magazine intended to do several stories on the family through the year. Taylor had agreed to the articles because Eric had asked her to. It would be good publicity for Forrester Creations. Taylor had not told Ridge about the magazine's interest because he had been so preoccupied lately.

Taylor introduced Ridge to Dax Stevenson, the apparent ring leader of the photo shoot. An agitated Ridge told everyone they would have to leave, but Taylor calmed him down. Dax interviewed Taylor who went on and on about what a fabulous husband and father Ridge was. As Ridge was forced to listen to his wife spout his virtues, Taylor said Ridge had taught her to trust him. He had earned her confidence. Dax told the couple they were inspirational, packed up the camera crew and left. Alone at last, Taylor asked what Ridge had wanted to tell her. Ridge was way pained!

Stephanie found a new day and Ridge in her living room. Ridge said he hadn't told Taylor he fathered Morgan's baby because of a big article on his family in Fashion Today magazine. He even showed Stephanie the cover! (How on earth could that happen? The photo shoot just took place yesterday. And first thing in the morning Ridge has the finished cover art? What kind of fools do they take us for?) Stephanie agreed the magazine feature was lousy timing. Ridge told how Taylor had painted him as the perfect husband. He couldn't subject Taylor to the scandal his news would cause. Stephanie told Ridge to keep the truth from Taylor. She would never be able to hide her emotions from the media. Stephanie suggested that perhaps Ridge never tell her the truth. Stephanie said Ridge was only guilty of falling for a well planned lie. Ridge didn't think he could keep the secret from Taylor forever. Stephanie said she didn't truly believe Ridge was unfaithful, but wasn't certain Taylor would feel the same way. Ridge saw his mother's point, but wondered if Morgan would go along with hiding her baby's paternity. Stephanie suggested they go and talk to Morgan.

Clarke arrived at Morgan's Malibu Beach house. He was thrilled that Ridge had probably told Taylor he was the father of Morgan's baby. Morgan said she never wanted to destroy the Forrester family, but Clarke was delighted the Forresters were getting what they deserved. Morgan was afraid Taylor would hate her. Taylor was her best friend in Los Angeles. Morgan felt she had to call Taylor and explain. (Explain what? How you bagged her husband?) Morgan telephoned Taylor, but it was quickly obvious that Taylor did not know the paternity of Morgan's baby. Taylor was excited about her appearance in Fashion Today magazine. Morgan told Taylor she was happy for her. Morgan was relieved that Taylor did not know the truth. Clarke didn't think things would work out as well as Morgan was hoping they would. Clarke told Morgan he was leaving on a business trip to Italy and gave her the number where he could be reached. Morgan didn't think she would need any more help. Stephanie wouldn't dare come to her house again. Morgan said it Stephanie threatened her baby, it would be the biggest mistake of her life.

After Clarke left, Morgan prepared to leave for work, but was greeted at the door by Ridge and Stephanie. Morgan angrily told Stephanie to get away from her. Stephanie calmly told Morgan they had to solve the problem once and for all as she pushed her way into Morgan's Malibu Beach house. Morgan was incredulous. (Good word, Mr. Smartypants.)

At the seedy apartment, CJ worried that Sherman wouldn't show up just as the lawyer arrived at the door. He told Amber she wouldn't have to go to jail. He had not been able to get the prosecutor to drop the charges, but reduce them from possession with intent to sell to simple possession. He explained that Amber would plead guilty to the reduced charges and probably get a sentence of community service, probation and a class in drug school. CJ wasn't happy with the deal. He pointed out that there was no guarantee the judge would not give Amber a jail sentence and she would have a felony crime on her record. Sherman replied it was the best deal they could get. As CJ and Sherman argued, Amber gazed at Little Eric and wondered what to do.

Amber, CJ, Little Eric and Sherman arrived at the courtroom. Sherman demanded that Amber tell him how she was going to plead. Amber had not yet decided when the bailiff called her case. The judge read the reduced charge and asked Amber if she plead guilty or not guilty.

Yep, that's a fine place to stop for the day.

Morgan was belligerent that Stephanie and Ridge forced their way into her Malibu Beach house. Ridge asked the women to be civil. Stephanie told Morgan she would prevent the birth of her baby if she could. Ridge said he thought Morgan planned to use the baby to break up his marriage to Taylor. Morgan said she didn't get pregnant to hurt anyone - especially Taylor. Stephanie said the only way out of the mess was to keep the baby's paternity a secret from everyone - especially Taylor. Morgan wondered if Ridge could do that - especially Taylor (oops, got carried away there). Ridge said he didn't want to lie to his wife. Stephanie said Taylor would never forgive him and Morgan reluctantly agreed with her nemesis. Morgan said Taylor would continue to ask her about the baby's father. Stephanie said Morgan would have to make up a convincing lie and tell Taylor she had been artificially inseminated after all. Morgan agreed to try. Stephanie asked if anyone else knew about the baby's paternity. Morgan lied and said she had told no one else. La Forrester threatened to come after Morgan if she found out someone else knew Ridge fathered her child. Stephanie, Ridge and Morgan all agreed to never discuss the truth again. After Stephanie and Ridge left the Malibu Beach house, Morgan quickly called Clarke to ask him to keep her secret. Clarke agreed because Morgan said her life would be ruined if the secret got out. After hanging up the phone, Clarke reveled in the fact that he had something on the great Ridge Forrester.

At Forrester Creations, Rick and Eric realized Amber's court date was at hand. They rushed to the court house to find out what was going on.

In the court room, Amber told the judge she didn't want to go to jail. She plead guilty to the reduced charges and the judge asked if there had been a plea bargain. The judge told Amber that by pleading guilty she gave up her right to a trial. Amber said she understood all the ramifications of pleading guilty. Amber took the stand and answered a few questions from the judge as Rick and Eric entered the courtroom. Rick was furious to see Little Eric in the court room with CJ. The judge sentenced Amber to one year probation, 80 hours of community service and a drug prevention program. He told her to stay away from drugs. If he saw her in his court again he would sentence her to three years in prison. Amber and CJ quickly left the court room and passed Rick and Eric sitting in the back row. Amber and CJ didn't speak to them. Rick wanted to talk to Amber, but Eric encouraged him not to.

CJ and Amber returned to the seedy apartment. They agreed it was their home and they were grateful to have each other. Amber said all their problems were behind them and nothing would threaten their happy family again. They kissed. (Problems behind you? I think not. Get a load of this next paragraph.)

Eric and Rick returned to Eric's office at Forrester Creations. Rick wondered why Amber would plead guilty. He was certain Amber was not using drugs. Eric wasn't so sure of her innocence. Rick wanted to get Little Eric out of the seedy apartment. Eric had an idea. Amber was now a convicted felon raising a child that was not biologically hers. Eric figured the Forresters could sue for custody of Little Eric. He was certain they could win!

Oh, come on! That's just mean.