Episode Date: Friday, October 1, 1999

I'll just tell you up front that not much happened today. There won't be a lot to report.

Ridge went to the nursery to visit his daughters. The nurses told him they were the best babies in the ward. Ridge held the twins (who apparently have no names at this time - what's up with that?) and told them they were going upstairs to surprise their mother. He explained she would have a special gift for them - lots of hugs and kisses she had been saving since the day they were born. Since the day they were born?!? That was today! Today! They were born today! No time has passed. It is the same night as the babies' birth over at Thorne's house. Did the hospital get a time accelerator so the babies can be in high school in a couple of years? Don't get me started. Ah yes, I already have started.

Jack showed up in Taylor's isolation chamber with Thomas in tow. Jack explained that Dr. Wilson had told him it was now safe for Taylor to have visitors. Taylor was ecstatic to see her son and she held him tightly. She didn't mean to sound ungrateful, but she wondered when she would get to hold her daughters. Jack and Taylor discussed that since the babies were premature they might have to wait a little while longer. (Oh Jack, you tease!) Just then Ridge came in (with a heck of a lot more beard stubble than he'd had up in the nursery just minutes ago) with the babies. Taylor was overjoyed to hold her daughters and have her whole family together. Ridge pointed out it was the family they had always wanted. Jack snapped a photo of the happy family with his Polaroid One Shot.

Over at Thorne's house Stephanie was flat on the floor. Thorne told Brooke to dial 911 as he tried to revive his mother. When the paramedics arrived Brooke had gotten dressed but Thorne had thankfully neglected to button his shirt. The paramedics said something that made Brooke think a stroke was suspected (she is a chemist, remember.) They all piled in the ambulance and headed to the hospital. Thorne begged his mother to hang in there.

Is it just me or is all that a little anticlimactic? I wanted more screaming, more name calling and more embarrassing singing. And don't you think Macy, living just next door as she does, would have seen the ambulance and high tailed it over to Thorne's to find out what was going on? Then she would have seen Brooke and then there really would have been some name calling! Mr. Bell, may I have a writing job please?

In her hospital room Taylor held her twin daughters and cried - AGAIN. She told Ridge how happy she was. His heartfelt and touching reply? "We're a couple of lucky campers, aren't we?" Gee, gets me right where I usually feel indigestion. They decided it was time to name their babies. Ridge pulled out the baby name book and chose Piper, Jeanette and Chloe. Taylor wasn't thrilled with those choices and suggested Angel for the smaller baby. Ridge didn't think that was a good idea but thought Phoebe would suit her just fine because it meant "shining light." (Or perhaps because he watches All My Children and is a huge Ruth Warrick fan.) They then agreed to name their other daughter after the person who had been so supportive of their relationship all along - Stephanie. Phoebe and Stephanie Forrester.

Over at Spectra fashions Kimberly and Sally discussed how they both now knew about Brooke's involvement with Thorne. They agreed that Adam must never find out. He'd tear Thorne's head off and there was no telling what he would do to Brooke.

"Let's hope the whole thing will blow over and be swept away like yesterday's garbage because that's what it is." Sally intoned. They agreed Macy could fight for her man but Sally worried about Stephanie. "It's enough to push her over the edge and who knows what a tragic fall that would be."

Kimberly was surprised Sally was concerned about her enemy Stephanie. Sally admitted she did not despise Stephanie. In fact Ms. Spectra fessed up that she understood the Forrester matriarch and respected her. She knew how hard she and Eric had worked to build their company and how Brooke had taken it away and destroyed their family. Family and children mean everything to women like Sally and Stephanie, Sally told Kimberly. This final insult may too much for Stephanie to bear.

The ambulance arrived at the hospital and there was much rushing about and medical lingo. (What is this? B&B or ER?) The paramedics told the attending doctor they had a female in her mid-50's. (I guess it's possible. I know we are to think she gave birth to Ridge while she was still in college, but come on.) Dr. Cannon (at least we got a new physician) told Thorne to call her family members. Upon examination he found her to be totally unresponsive. Thorne couldn't reach Eric or Ridge, even on their cell phones (it is Los Angeles, you know.) Brooke blamed herself for Stephanie's collapse. She wondered why they always had to argue so much. Thorne told Brooke it wasn't her fault. Brooke urged Thorne to hang on to their love.

They then wondered how they would explain what had happened to Eric and Ridge. Ridge would certainly explode if he found out Brooke and Thorne were involved. A nurse then informed them Ridge was already in the hospital with Taylor. A doctor fetched Ridge and brought him to the emergency room. Dr. Cannon explained he suspected a thrombotic stroke had created a blockage that was impairing blood flow to the brain. (My, doesn't that sound nasty?) The medical team was getting read to take Stephanie to the operating room so Ridge got just a moment to talk with his mother. He told her to hang in there because they all needed her. As she was wheeled away Ridge asked how such a thing could have happened. Brooke and Thorne give each other that knowing look that they've got to hide the truth. But Ridge wasn't born yesterday, ya know. (In fact, even his daughters weren't born yesterday. They were born TODAY!)

Dr. Cannon appeared in the waiting area and told Thorne and Brooke that Stephanie's surgery was complete. They had removed some of the blockage but could not tell the full extent of damage because she was still unconscious. The doctor asked what had happened before Stephanie collapsed. Thorne explained they had been arguing and his mother just fell to the floor. After the doctor left, Thorne asked Brooke what they had done.

Thorne finally reached Eric at Stephanie's house. (What exactly was he doing there anyway?) When Eric heard Stephanie was in the hospital after suffering a stroke he bolted from the living room and left the phone dangling on the floor. (How rude was that? I guess he knew Helen would hang it up a little later.) As they anticipated Eric's arrival Thorne insisted to Brooke that no one could know about the two of them. Brooke argued there would be no need to hide the truth because Stephanie would blab the whole story once she was conscious. Thorne told Brooke he meant what he said when he told her he loved her, but here was more to think about than just the two of them (like getting this episode out of this dreary hospital waiting room set for starters.)

In Stephanie's intensive care room, Ridge asked why all this had happened to her. Ridge reminded his mother of all she had to live for. He told her about naming the twins Phoebe and Stephanie. He insisted that she could not leave them. Ridge thanked Stephanie Sr. for her influence in his life. She had guided him to the wonderful life he now led. He prayed for God not to take her away from the family that needed her so much. She was the heart and soul of the Forrester family. Ridge reminded Stephanie of how she had encouraged him to fight for his life when he was in the hospital several years ago. (I'm not sure which hospital visit he was referring to. I hope it was the time Brooke had left the spray-on BeLieF formula in the Climatron too long and it exploded and blinded Ridge! The Climatron - which was really just a microwave oven with some extra lights glued on - was accidentally re-programmed by Brooke's butt when she and Ridge were making out in the Forrester lab.)

Eric arrived just as Ridge was exiting Stephanie's room. Father and son shared a hug for comfort and support before Eric went into the room to talk to Stephanie. He also couldn't believe Stephanie was in this position. He told his ex-wife she had always given him a sense of comfort. He asked her to come back and give them another chance. Ew! Is talking about marrying here again? I'm just hoping not.

In the waiting room Ridge asked Thorne what had happened between him and their mother that caused the stroke. Thorne said it wasn't anything - it wasn't important. Ridge kept pressing for an answer when Brooke asked him to let it go. Ridge snapped at Brooke and told her not to be such a butt-in-ski. It was between the two brothers. Ridge was determined to find out what had happened to Stephanie.

I just hope we get to see some more Macy singing tomorrow. Today was a real downer.

It was finally the next day in Los Angeles. I'm so glad everyone got to change clothes. At Spectra Fashions Macy told her mother and father she was confident she and Thorne would get together. Adam expressed his negative views about Thorne and wondered what the problem was. Clarke interrupted the family discussion with news of Stephanie's stroke. Macy decided to go to the hospital immediately but told Sally it would be best for her to stay away. After Macy left Clarke said he found it hard to believe that a strong woman like Stephanie cold have a stroke. Sally, Adam and Clarke wondered what could have caused this malady. They agreed that Brooke could easily push Stephanie over the edge, but Adam figured there were no Forrester men left to complicate the family tree with Brooke (how very wrong you are, Adam.) Sally expressed genuine sympathy. She stated she and Stephanie were "splendid adversaries" and she wouldn't want to lose her. Sally told Adam she had some ideas of what could have cause the stroke but she didn't want to talk about it just yet (because your head will explode when you find out Thorne is going to dump you daughter for that cow Brooke, Adam.)

Note to viewers: I used to find it funny that Sally would often refer to "my daughter, Macy." She only has one daughter, so why the need to add the name? And how many Macy's are running around the world? I doubt you'd need to specify to which Macy she was referring. Sally hasn't done that much lately but I have noticed other characters doing it. Two days ago Kimberly referred to "my sister, Macy." Today Clarke referred to "your daughter, Macy." I'm assuming Macy has an identity complex and needs constant reminding of who she really is. Just an idle thought.

In the intensive care unit Brooke's hair looked shorter than yesterday. I couldn't tell if it was just slicked back and looked shorter or if Brooke had actually stopped by SuperCuts on the way to the hospital that morning. Anyway, she told a comatose Stephanie she regretted any part she had played in this tragic event. Brooke said she loved Thorne and that's what made this situation so hard. Brooke told Stephanie they would all pull through.

Ridge further interrogated Thorne in the waiting room about what had happened at his house to cause their mother to collapse. Eric told his older son this was not the time or place to worry about it. Eric said they had learned Stephanie was not as invincible as they had all thought. He then blamed himself for disappointing Steph over the past few years by failing as a husband. (I thought he just said not to worry about what had caused the stroke!) Eric went into the IC unit with a heavy heart.

With Dad gone, Ridge again pestered Thorne about the cause of the stroke. Thorne accused Ridge of having an attitude. Ridge accused Thorne of being too sensitive. Ridge was about to break Thorne's silence when Macy showed up and hugged Thorne. Macy told everyone she had just spoken with Stephanie last night and how happy and supportive she seemed. Macy was shocked to learn that La Forrester had collapsed at Thorne's house. Macy questioned why Thorne didn't call her. He said everything had happened so fast he didn't have time. Macy said she had enough hope and faith for both of them to get through this crisis. Brooke was none to happy to see Macy fawning all over Thorne. Do you wonder how she handled it? Oh yes, boys and girls, she squinted at them.

As Macy phoned a report to her mother and Ridge filled out paper work at the world's smallest nurse's station Brooke told Thorne they had to tell Macy the truth about their declaration of love the previous night. Thorne said the time was inappropriate. Brooke said it was less appropriate to keep Macy in the dark. Macy returned and told Thorne Sally sent her warmest regards. Brooke replied with a caustic comment. Macy asked why Brooke was there in the first place.

"To support Thorne." Brooke replied. Macy made it clear Thorne didn't need Brooke's help. Disgusted, Brooke wandered over to Ridge. He asked is she knew what had "gone down" between Thorne and Stephanie. He swore he would uncover the truth.

Meanwhile Eric attempted to garner a Daytime Emmy nomination by confessing his undying love to the unconscious Stephanie. He held her hand and told her how Amber had told him of all the things Stephanie had done for her. He had been blind to her loyalty and faithfulness. He had been a fool to let her out of his life. He needed her in his life. He promised to make up for the past few years. He told his ex-wife he loved her, he'd take care of her and once she recovered he would never leave her again.

Yada, yada, yada.

Brooke looked into Stephanie's room and thought to herself how sorry she was she may have been the cause of her stroke. Brooke told herself she was in love with Thorne and nothing could keep them apart. Macy appeared (in a tawdry, black mini-dress and knee high boots that I didn't notice yesterday. Is that really day wear? I think not.) and wondered why Brooke was still hanging around the hospital.

"Why don't you do everyone a favor and just leave?" Macy inquired.

"Need I remind you I am a Forrester and this is my family crisis, not yours." Brooke replied.

"Brooke, you have brought nothing but grief to this family. Why don't you just go home before you do anymore damage." Macy fired back.

"You know, I could really say something that would wipe that smug look right off your face." Brooke threatened.

"Smug? Try confident Brooke. Thorne and I were having problems and in classic fashion you swooped down and tried to take advantage of the situation but it did not work. Thorne and I are back together. We are stronger than ever and you are going to have to get used to being alone. And this time I am going to be watching you like a hawk." Macy rebutted as she stomped off (those boots were made for walking)

"Wrong, Macy." Brooke said to herself. "You're the one who's going to be alone."

Thorne joined his father in Stephanie's room. Eric told his son the last thing Stephanie told him was that Brooke was putting the moves on Thorne. Steph had expressed how proud she was that he had not taken up with that hussy (my words, not his.) Thorne was racked with guilt and almost admitted what had happened before Stephanie collapsed but Brooke entered and suggested Thorne get some fresh air. In the waiting area Brooke convinced Thorne not to tell about their love just yet. She suggested they go to his house and discuss the matter. They left.

In Taylor's isolation chamber Dr. Wilson told Ridge and Taylor good news. Taylor and both the babies could go home at the end of the week. (I'm estimating that should be sometime in early December.) Taylor realized Ridge wasn't very happy. He gently broke the news that his mother had suffered a stroke. Taylor was very sad for her husband and her mother-in-law.

Ridge went to Stephanie's room and learned from Dr. Cannon that the next 24 hours were critical in Stephanie's recovery. The fact that she was still unconscious was not a good sign. Ridge took his mother's hand and begged her to wake up. He wished he knew what had caused her stroke. He promised her he would find out that truth and left her room.

Macy returned to her mother's office and reported that things weren't going too well for Stephanie. She also informed Sally that Brooke was hanging around the hospital. Sally was surprised until Macy told her Brooke still thought she had a chance with Thorne.

"If Brooke thinks she can seduce him away with her sleazy bedroom tactics she can just think again." Macy stupidly said. I wouldn't be such an uppity miss if I was you, Macy.

Because at that very moment Thorne and Brooke talked in his living room about their relationship. They agreed not to disclose their love because it would only make matters worse. Thorne was concerned about all the people that would be hurt to learn they had fallen in love. They agreed that Ridge would go ballistic. Brooke thought people would eventually accept their relationship if they truly cared for them. (Yeah, right. Dream on girlfriend.) What mattered right now was Stephanie. They shared a passionate kiss.

But what do you know? Ridge chose that very moment to walk up on the deck. (Why wouldn't he have come to the front door? Riddle me that.) Ridge peered through the patio doors and spied Thorne and Brooke going at it. He was shocked. He reeled around and supported himself on the cheesy K-Mart deck furniture. Ridge deduced Stephanie must have bust a blood vessel when she confronted Thorne and Brooke about their shenanigans. (Ridge is very clever that way.)

"Damn them!" Ridge cursed as he returned to the door to watch some more of the floor show.

CJ looked over Amber's shoulder as she sang Little Eric to sleep with a lullaby. It was ever so sweet. CJ asked Amber if she sang that same song to the baby while she was pregnant. Amber looked away with a sour look on her face and said "no." (Amber, honey, if you plan to keep this baby switching secret you've got to learn to hide those feeling a little better, don't you think?) CJ suggested that since the baby was asleep he and Amber could go somewhere and have Stephanie look after Little Eric. Amber realized she hadn't seen Stephanie all day and started to worry about her. Amber pulled out her California Cuisine Cookbook and started to plan dinner. CJ found Amber's sudden domesticity amusing. Amber retaliated that he would be settling down with Kimberly soon enough. CJ poo-pooed that idea. He told Amber he was not going to waste any more time on Kimberly. It was obvious nothing was going to happen between them.

"Besides, there are plenty of girls that want to spend time with the Ceej-meister." He boasted. (Ceej-meister? That's really obnoxious and so very 1991.) CJ then asked if Amber had heard from Becky. Amber again winced at the mention of her cousin. (Hide those emotions, Amber. Don't make me tell you again.) CJ asked why Amber didn't like Becky. Amber explained that she did like Becky. Becky was a generous, giving person. The phone rang. Amber answered. "Hi ya cuz." It was Becky! Amber gulped and shook in her boots. (OK, now I'm really mad. If I have to stop this typing and tell you one more time…..)

Note to viewers: My parents were visiting me in NYC this weekend and watched Friday's episode with me. (They are die hard Bold and Beautiful fans as well.) Dad thought Becky had never left the U.S. and was really calling from Furnace Creek. I disagree. She was talking a cute little mod, red telephone. I doubt Aunt Tillie has anything so chic in her trailer. Becky's nails were also impeccable - almost Streisand-like. I don't think they have very good nail salons in Furnace Creek either. But if she had been in Paris wouldn't she have said Bonjour Cuz? Becky did look down right Satanic, however. She had those little clips in her hair that looked like horns. She also had an evil gleam in her eye. I wonder what's up?

Eric visited Taylor in her isolation chamber. Taylor offered encouraging words about Stephanie's prognosis. They discussed all the wonderful things Stephanie had to live for. Eric was overcome when he learned one of the twins had been named Stephanie. Eric told Taylor he had been a fool for ever leaving Stephanie - she meant everything to him. Taylor encouraged Eric to tell Stephanie his feelings as many times as he could. She was confident Stephanie would fight to get back to Eric. Taylor was also certain that Ridge would be ecstatic his family was coming back together.

But is it really coming together, Taylor? Or will it be torn apart by betrayal and lies.? Gee, I sure hope so. Ridge stood on Thorne's deck and was dumbfounded that Thorne and Brooke were in a lip lock. "No way" thought Ridge. Way!

"He did it. That little bastard caused her (our mother) to have a stroke. He's not even man enough to admit it. That sleazy coward." Those are some pretty harsh words Ridge. Are you sure you know what all of them mean?

Ridge knocked on the door. He spoke in riddles and conundrums. He teased Thorne and laid a guilt trip on him. Ridge remembered how much Stephanie had sacrificed for her children. Ridge reminded Brooke that Stephanie had a stroke once before - when she discovered Eric was leaving her for Brooke! (Oh yeah. I remember. Stephanie lost her memory and wandered around Los Angeles with homeless people. That was rich.) Ridge asked Thorne if he would have stopped Stephanie's illness if he had the chance. He also accused Brooke of being happy Stephanie was ill. Brooke emphatically denied it.

Ridge lost control and said everyone knew how Stephanie felt about Brooke. She and Thorne pushed her over the edge. Ridge then punched his brother and Thorne fell to the floor. "You sick bastard!" Ridge screamed. And then the did the unthinkable. I'm not even sure I can tell my lovely readers what Ridge did next. It's horrible. He…. he threw a pillow from the couch at Thorne while he was nursing his bleeding lip. Oh the horror!

Brooke rushed to Thorne's side after Ridge threw a pillow at him. "Your dirty little secret is out now," Ridge spit. "She (Stephanie) found the two of you groping each other like a couple of horny teenagers." Ridge has had a lot of choice phrases lately. I love that one. Ridge accused Thorne and Brooke of putting Stephanie in the hospital.

Brooke defended Thorne and told Ridge Stephanie had brought the stroke upon herself because she was so angry and vindictive. Brooke let it slip that Stephanie had known of their attraction for a while. Ridge was very upset that Thorne had continued the relationship when Stephanie had apparently gone crazy when she had found out the first time. Ridge accused Thorne and Brooke of getting a thrill from making out while Stephanie was in the hospital. "You couldn't wait to get back here and suck face," Ridge taunted. Brooke told him that was sick.

Ridge then accused Thorne of being obsessed with seducing his brother's ex-lovers. He listed Caroline, Taylor and Brooke. (You know, Thorne, he does have a point.) "There's something wrong with you boy. You sick in da head." I kid you not. Ridge actually said "sick in da head." Please see the attached video capture to get the full effect. Ridge told Thorne that Brooke would tire of him because he was a poor imitation of Ridge. "You can't handle the truth," Ridge bellowed. (Who does he think he is? Jack Nicholson? Hardly. Talk about your poor imitations.) Brooke told Ridge it was really none of his business. Ridge had wanted out of Brooke's life and that was the way it was going to be.

Brooke told Ridge that she deserved to be happy. Ridge told her the whole situation was wrong. Thorne defended Brooke. Ridge said their "little fling" would end soon. Thorne and Brooke told Ridge they were in love. "This isn't going to happen. You hear me? This is NOT going to happen," Ridge threatened.

Let's recap, shall we? "groping like horny teenagers" "suck face" "sick in da head" and "you can't handle the truth." Combine those quotes with gems from the past couple of weeks like "you rock" and "lucky campers" and I think Ronn Moss should get extra pay for having to say such ludicrous lines.

Up in the hills, Amber caught her breath and continued her telephone conversation with Becky. Becky was no longer threatening like she appeared yesterday. In fact she seemed contrite and lonely. Becky said life in Paris was great although she hadn't made a lot of friends. She started to ask about Little Eric and Amber quickly handed the phone to CJ. Becky's face lit up when she heard CJ's voice. She told him she was homesick. CJ suggested Becky come home over the Christmas holidays. Amber put the kabosh on that conversation and took the phone away from CJ. Becky wanted to ask about Little Eric but Amber cut the talk short saying she didn't want to run up Becky's phone bill. CJ was suspicious about Amber's motives but Amber seemed quite pleased with her manipulations.

At Spectra, Sally was ecstatic after seeing Clarke's latest designs She was sure these clothes would put them at the top of the fashion trade. Adam noted they were "breaking through" just as the Forresters were "breaking down." Sally expressed concern for Stephanie's welfare. Macy arrived and reported Stephanie had not yet gotten better. Macy had done some research on strokes on the Internet and had handouts for the Spectra gang. She said sometimes small strokes are undetected or mis-diagnosed. She begged her parents to take good care of themselves. Sally insisted she wanted to visit Stephanie.

Sally and Macy arrived in Stephanie's hospital room. Sally was not prepared to see her rival looking so helpless. A nurse told them that Ms. Forrester's sons and daughter had left. Macy figured the nurse must have thought Brooke to be Stephanie's daughter. As Sally and Macy discussed Brooke the saw Stephanie's hand twitch. They wondered if she was responding to their voices or had an involuntary movement upon hearing Brooke's name. I'm thinking Susan Flannery was just bored from having to lay still for so many episodes.

The doorbell rang at the Fairchild residence. Kimberly trotted to answer it wearing only a tiny bikini. Giovanni had arrived early to pick her up for a location scouting session. Gio couldn't quit staring at her curvaceous body while Kimberly explained she was going to have lunch with her sister. She would meet up with him later because she didn't want her father to know that she was modeling for Forrester again. Giovanni told her she was old enough to make her own decisions. He even told her that Brooke was considering sending her to Venice for a photo shoot. Kimberly was so excited she hugged Giovanni just as Adam walked through the door. (Ew! He was all sweaty. He must have been doing some manly thing outside like fixing a car or chopping wood.)

Adam was not happy to see his daughter hugging a stranger. Kimberly tried to introduce Giovanni as a friend but finally had to admit he was a photographer at Forrester and she was working there again. Adam blew up. (Although he was suddenly dry and free of that masculine perspiration he had been sporting earlier.) He all but threw Giovanni out of the house and scolded Kimberly for lying. She said she knew he would react in this way. Kimberly stomped out of the room after her father told her to stop behaving like a child. (Just to prove his point, I suppose.)

In Stephanie's hospital room Sally quoted a verse from the Bible for Macy (religious scholar that she is.) "How have the mighty fallen upon the field of battle." What? Sally explained that she thought Stephanie, although human, was invincible. Macy surmised Stephanie had reached her breaking point. They both wondered (again, for the hundredth time) what may have caused the stroke. Macy told Stephanie to keep fighting. Macy appreciated how hard Stephanie had fought for her and Thorne. Macy wanted Stephanie to be at their wedding. (I don't think you should engrave the invitations just yet. OK, Honey?)

Sally stayed behind when Macy left to talk to Stephanie's doctors. Sally tried a little reverse psychology on Stephanie by taunting her with how well Spectra was doing - especially now that the Forresters attention was on Steph's illness and not on business. Sally told Stephanie she was just trying to get a rise out of her. It had always worked before. Sally said "Tough dames like you and me got things to do in life." She associated the two of them to dinosaurs (how flattering) that still cared about family, integrity and loyalty. Sally didn't want Stephanie to check out and leave her behind.

"You don't think I've spent most of my adult life trying to knock you off your throne and I'm gonna sit around and let you abdicate now. No! You'll be back tougher and meaner than ever - and lady, that's an order," Sally threatened.

Back at Thorne's house Ridge told his brother and Brooke they were not in love. Ridge told Thorne he knew Brooke better than anyone and she was falling into the same trap she had before. Brooke insisted she was in love. The person that had built her life around Ridge was gone. She had grown up. She now wanted to live for the future and that future was with Thorne. Brooke asked why she would put herself through all this if it really wasn't love. Thorne added that Ridge didn't know much about love himself since he had never done anything but break Brooke's heart.

Brooke recounted the night Thorne had gotten Buddha with her and told her to look at everything as if seeing it for the first time. She opened her eyes and saw her best friend, Thorne, in a whole new light. Ridge told them they were just two obsessions colliding. (I suppose he meant Brooke's obsession with Ridge and Thorne's obsession with dating Ridge's ex-girlfriends.) Thorne insisted it wasn't about Ridge. (Ridge does think pretty highly of himself, doesn't he?) Thorne told his brother to just get out if he couldn't handle it. Ridge left and Brooke followed.

"Don't take this away from me," Brooke pleaded. "You're happy. You have everything you want. Don't you dare deny me this." You tell him, sister-friend.

Dear readers, I have returned home from French class and dinner where I consumed most of a bottle of wine and a delicious pasta dish consisting of penne, mussels and scallops in garlic and white wine with fresh, chopped tomatoes. It was delicious. I watched my story (as my dear, departed grandmother called the soaps) and was very disappointed with the B-story line featured today. Please forgive my brief, although still accurate and insightful, synopsis.

Giovanni was at Mannequins and flirted with some floozey. She gave him her number and he promised to call her. Clarke just happened to walk into the bar and ordered a martini. (How cosmopolitan - get it?) He saw his old buddy Giovanni across the room and they talked about old times. (It seems they knew each other when Clarke wasn't on the show and supposedly working in Italy.) Giovanni told Clarke he was working with a hot young model at Forrester these days. Clarke found out it was Kimberly and warned Giovanni to be careful because Kimberly's father would beat him to a pulp if Gio messed with his daughter.

Sally was at Adam's house telling him about Stephanie's condition. All Adam could think about was Giovanni working with Kimberly. Sally knew Giovanni and told Adam Kimberly was lucky to be working with such a talented man. Adam told Sally he didn't want such a slick operator near his daughter. Sally laughed it off and said all Italian men were like Giovanni. It was part of their charm. Adam said Kimberly was too young to be associating with a "silk-suited Casanova."

Meanwhile at Insomnia, Kimberly told Macy how wonderful it was to be working with Giovanni. He made her feel important and grown up. Macy sided with their father and told Kimberly to be careful around a man that was ten years older than her. Kimberly disagreed and told her sister that Giovanni made her feel special, just like Rick. Kimberly then hurried off meet Giovanni.

Sally arrived at Insomnia and told Macy that Adam was not in the mood to hear anything about Giovanni, much less see him at the house to pick up Kimberly.

Too late. Giovanni arrived at the Fairchild residence before Kimberly got there. Adam made it very clear that Gio was to steer clear of his daughter. Kimberly got home and asked what was going on. Giovanni told Kimberly that Adam had asked him to leave and he would oblige. But he was going to take Kimberly with him. And just to defy Adam, he brushed his hand up Kimberly's arm!

Yawn! It is way past time for me to go to bed.

Macy told Kristie, the waitress at Insomnia, to hold Saturday the 23rd of October for her wedding reception to Thorne. Kristie was surprised to hear that Macy and Thorne had set a date to get married. Macy explained they had not set the date yet, but Stephanie would want to get well to help them celebrate. (I was impressed they actually used a calendar and referred to "real" time today. That happens to seldom on the soaps because they usually ignore any sense of reality when it comes to time.)

Meanwhile at the Fairchild residence, Adam ordered Giovanni to take his hands of his daughter. Adam went so far as to forbid Kimberly to ever see Giovanni again. Kimberly told her father she had an obligation at Forrester to work with the photographer. Giovanni stated that Adam didn't think Kimberly was mature enough to handle herself in a professional situation. Kimberly told her father this was now her job and she was going to do it! She left with Giovanni in his little, black sports car. Kimberly noticed Gio was angry. He told the teen he was not mad at her, but upset that her father treated her like a little girl. He said Adam obviously did not know the meaning of respect. Kimberly said her father only wanted to protect her. Giovanni told Kimberly that helping her with her modeling career was his passion. He told Kimberly he would make her a star.

They drove to his apartment where Gio said he needed to pick up some equipment. Giovanni noticed Kimberly was nervous. She admitted she had never been alone in a man's apartment. The smooth shutterbug offered to take her home if she was uncomfortable, but Kimberly insisted everything would be all right. Giovanni faced the camera and smiled a devilish grin. (Ooh, what does that man have in mind?)

Macy arrived at her father's house and he told her he was worried that Giovanni would take advantage of Kimberly. Macy listened with horror as her father said he was afraid Kimberly and Gio were alone even as they spoke.

On his deck, Thorne told Brooke he had handled their situation poorly. He wanted to tell Macy about their love right away. Thorne called and left a message on Macy's answering machine to call him as soon as she could. Thorne said he was afraid he and Brooke would never be happy if they kept hiding their feelings. He told her he didn't want to wait for their future. He wanted to start their lives together that very night. Thorne explained they had been acting like their relationship was something dirty - an affair. He said what they had was "precious, rare and divinely inspired." (Divinely inspired? I think that's overstating it a little bit, don't you Thorne, honey?) He kept referring to Brooke as "honey" and "baby." It was getting pretty sickening after awhile.

Brooke told her beau their lives were complicated. He simply said they had to uncomplicate them. "Brooke Logan is my soul mate," Thorne screamed into the night air. (Soul mate?!? I'm thinking he's rushing things a bit, but that's just me.) He told Brooke he wanted to grow old with her.

"Even if I'm a toothless old hag?" Brooke inquired. He told her he would love her even if she were bald. (At the rate her hair is being cut, that might not be too far in the future.) The started making out and it didn't take long for Thorne to pull his shirt off. (Now that really is surprising.) Thorne took Brooke in his arms and carried her to that chaise lounge he picked up at K-mart's end of season clearance sale.

Fade to the tiki torch. That means they are going to do the horizontal tango tonight.

Thorne and Brooke basked in the afterglow of some sweet lovin'. Thorne said they were not to blame for anything bad that had happened. He was confident Stephanie would recover and accept their relationship. "It's potent, baby. It's powerful" was Thorne's explanation. Brooke admired his faith. I admired his groovy slang.

Eric was blaming himself for Stephanie's stroke when Ridge appeared and told him Thorne and Stephanie had been arguing about Brooke. Ridge insisted that was what had caused Steph's collapse. Eric explained he thought Thorne had ended the Brooke thing long ago. Ridge told his father Thorne and Brooke had been "caring on big time" when Stephanie discovered them. Thorne burst into Eric's office mumbling something about a sales report and was verbally attacked by his father. (OK, it's dark outside and Thorne has just been gettin' jiggy with Brooke. Why is he back at the office working on sales reports now? Time - it means nothing in the Forrester world.) Eric lashed out at his younger son. He wanted to know how Thorne could let this happen. Thorne admitted he didn't want things to happen like this but he and Brooke were in love and would be married. Eric told him two things. "#1. You're not going to marry Brooke Logan. #2. You keep her away from your mother." Oh yeah, like that's going to happen.

Adam paced the floor of his house as he and Macy waited for Kimberly to return. Adam worried that Giovanni was arrogant and irresponsible. Adam was afraid he had failed in bringing up his daughter. Macy said it was all a matter of trust. Adam insisted he did trust Kimberly but he did not trust Giovanni. Macy thought Kimberly could take care of herself. Adam didn't listen. He grabbed his car keys and left to find Kimberly. That's a good idea. It shouldn't be too hard to drive around Los Angeles and spot a thin, blond teenager.

Meanwhile Giovanni lit a fire at his apartment. The warmth of the fire made Kimberly feel better after the argument with her father. Giovanni opened a bottle of wine and said it would also help Kimberly feel better. Kimberly responded that she was not comfortable drinking alcohol. Gio laughed that wine was not alcohol. Kimberly said she was under the legal drinking age of 21 and did not ever plan on drinking much. Giovanni told Kimberly she was old enough to make her own decisions. She agreed to try the wine.

Giovanni instructed her how to drink wine with a speech laden with double entendres. "This wine, in many ways is like you. It has balance, complexity and beauty. So I want you to taste it fully and deeply. I want you to let it sit on your tongue like velvet. I want you to swirl it in your mouth like you would a lover's kiss. Then I want you to swallow it slowly. It is the nectar of Tuscany, my homeland. It is me you are drinking." Now please, is the wine like Kimberly or like Giovanni. I don't think it can be both, do you?

Kimberly finished the glass of wine and thought it to be quite tasty. She seemed to have a little buzz. "To be a woman requires more than a glass of wine. It takes a man" offered Giovanni. Kimberly stated that someday she would get a man. Gio said he could help her become a woman. Kimberly replied she wasn't ready. Gio guessed she was certainly ready. Kimberly bemoaned the fact that the man she loved wasn't available. Giovanni told her that Rick had experience. Giovanni could help her gain the experience she'd need when she and Rick finally got together. He reached over and kissed her! There's a lot of lovin' going on today, isn't there?

Brooke left Thorne's chaise lounge to visit Stephanie in the hospital. She talked to the comatose matriarch and asked her not to let Thorne down. Brooke pleaded with Stephanie to get better so she could give Thorne the approval he so desperately needed and wanted. "I love Thorne. There will never be another man for me" Brooke whispered. Yeah, like I really believe that. Brooke gazed into the distance and dreamed of her future with Thorne when Stephanie suddenly reached up and grabbed Brooke by the throat! Brooke was terrified but managed to break free. She was startled to look down and see Stephanie conscious and glaring at her.

That was great! Straight out of Carrie! I loved it! I loved it! What a great way to end the week!

Kimberly pulled away from Giovanni's embrace and kisses. She told him she couldn't do that. She explained that she was attracted to him, but her heart was elsewhere. She told the photographer she wasn't ready for sex. Giovanni told her that she was a good kisser for an American girl. He offered to teach her the way Europeans kissed. Kimberly agreed to go along for "educational purposes only." Kimberly felt that Italian men did not respect women. Gio told her Italian men worshipped women. "No man is complete without a women" he said. He spouted some inane speech about women being able to give birth and being the temple of civilization and some other stuff to make her think he wasn't a total make out artist. He told her he could teach her more when they went to Italy. Kimberly told Giovanni she had dreamed of going to Venice her entire life. She then told him it was time for her to leave. Gio offered to drive her home but she told him she would take a cab. Ciao! They then stood on opposite sides of the door and reflected on their interesting evening.

Hey wait! Just how on earth is Kimberly going to take a cab home? They live in Los Angeles not New York. It's not like she's just going to walk out the front door of his apartment building and hail a taxi! I've been to LA and I know those cabbies aren't circling around like vultures like they do in the Big Apple. You have to call a cab and wait 45 minutes! At that rate she won't get home until Easter!

Two nurses came rushing into Stephanie's hospital room when they heard her trying to choke Brooke. Brooke stepped back and Dr. Cannon examined Stephanie. She seemed to be alert and had some feeling in both her legs. In the waiting area, the doctor asked Brooke what had happened in the room. She merely said she was talking to Stephanie about her family and she regained consciousness. Dr. Cannon congratulated Brooke on helping Steph get better. Brooke offered to call the Forrester family.

At Forrester Creations, Thorne continued to argue with Eric and Ridge about Brooke. Thorne said it was "tearing my (his) freakin' heart out" to see Stephanie so ill. (Ooh! "Freakin'" That's pretty strong talk there, boy.) But Thorne told his father and brother he couldn't tolerate the "mindless guilt trip" they were laying on him. He insisted it wasn't his fault that Stephanie had a stroke. Thorne insinuated Eric and Ridge couldn't handle the fact he was now in love with Brooke. Eric insisted their feelings had nothing to do with Thorne's affair with Brooke. They just didn't want to see Stephanie upset. Thorne said Stephanie would recover and eventually accept his relationship with Brooke because La Forrester only wanted her children to be happy. Thorne said he expected Stephanie to attend their wedding. Eric screamed there would be no wedding. Just then Brooke called and told the Forrester boys to hustle to the hospital because Stephanie was getting better.

Hommes le Forrester arrived in the waiting area. The doctor told them Stephanie had regained consciousness thanks to Brooke. The three stooges went into Stephanie's room and told her how happy they were she was going to be all right. Stephanie seemed weak and confused. She asked Thorne if she had missed the wedding. When Thorne asked her to repeat the question, she mumbled Macy's name.

"Macy's not here now, Mother" Thorne replied.

"Macy, I love that girl. She'll make a good wife" Stephanie said, obviously confused about what had transpired before she collapsed.

Thorne swallowed hard as both Ridge and Eric dramatically scowled at him.

In the waiting room at the hospital, Dr. Cannon told Brooke the Forrester family should thank her for her part in helping Stephanie regain consciousness. When he left, Brooke told herself Stephanie only came to in order to choke her nemesis.

The role of Rick Forrester is now being played by Justin Torkildsen. I just love it when the announcer says those phrases. I don't think he's gotten to say it since Winsor Harmon took over the role of Thorne from Jeff Trachta three years ago. It's so exciting. So it's out with Jacob Young and in with Justin. Let's see how he does.

Amber arrived home to the guest house with Little Eric to find Rick studying. She told Rick she had been at Forrester looking for Eric or Ridge to talk about a job. She'd like to start doing something with her time. Rick asked her if being a mother wasn't enough to fulfill her. She said being a mother was all she ever wanted, but Rick had lots of activities to fill his life, she needed some too. Rick lamented that everything was happening too fast when Amber discussed putting their baby on a waiting list for pre-school.

Brooke arrived to tell Rick and Amber about Stephanie's stroke. Both Rick and Amber were shaken by the news. Brooke reassured them she would be all right. She added that sometimes good can come of a bad situation. Brooke said perhaps they could all put aside their difference with Stephanie. Amber pointed out they did not have any differences with Stephanie. After Brooke left Amber cried to Rick that Stephanie was like a mother to her. She needed her and depended on her.

When Brooke arrived home, her sister, Katie, told her Bridget had gone to Kelly's house. (Who the heck is Kelly and why can't we find a new actress to play Bridget. Then the announcer could say "The role of Bridget Forrester is now being played by… " hmmm, I don't know….. maybe Tina Yothers?) Brooke told Katie that Stephanie was doing much better but she was worried about Thorne. Katie questioned why her sister was so concerned about the younger Forrester brother. Brooke confided in Katie that she and Thorne had been arguing with Stephanie when she collapsed. Brooke went on to admit that she and Thorne were seriously in love and were talking about marriage. Poor little Katie was flabbergasted! Brooke vowed that the Forrester family would have to accept her relationship with Thorne because they were going to get married.

Eric, Ridge and Thorne gathered around Stephanie in her hospital room. Stephanie again told Thorne she would be sure and be well enough to attend his wedding to Macy. Stephanie asked how long she had been unconscious. Eric told her she had a "good long rest." (In actuality, Stephanie was out just under 24 hours. But again, soaps have the aversion to ever discussing real time. I suppose we are to think it was a much longer period of time than that.)

Ridge then asked his mother is she remembered what happened before the stroke. As Stephanie thought about the question, those wacky Forrester guys kept giving each other strange looks. If Stephanie had had her wits about her she would have noticed something fishy going on. Stephanie said she only remembered having a wonderful conversation with Macy. Stephanie did remember Brooke being in her hospital room. She asked Eric to tell Brooke not to come back. Thorne wouldn't want to tell her because he was through with Brooke. The doctor told the dudes they'd have to leave Stephanie so she could get some rest.

In the waiting area Eric and Ridge agreed that Stephanie had forgotten about her argument with Brooke because she had to for self preservations (that's really deep.) Eric informed Thorne they would never tell Stephanie about his affair with Brooke. Ridge then insisted Thorne end his "sick, incestuous relationship" with Brooke or he (Ridge) would put Thorne in the hospital himself!

That's real nice talk, Ridge. And this from the man who married his father's ex-wife and thought he was the Bridget's father, not her uncle. Yep, you've got lots of room to talk of incestuous affairs, Buddy!

The role of Rick Forrester is now being played by Justin Torkildsen. The announcer said it again today as Rick entered Insomnia. He was greeted by CJ who invited him to "the big game" that night. (What game might that be, CJ? Football? Basketball? Tiddly Winks?) Rick declined because he had to study. CJ asked if Rick would go even if he were free. Rick really didn't answer the question and gave some cryptic statement about sometimes thinking he could handle being a father, going to school and working part time. At other times he wasn't sure it was enough. (What did that mean? It sounds like more than enough to me. I think he meant it wasn't what he wanted.)

Rick then told CJ that Stephanie had suffered a stroke "the other night." (What do you mean "the other night." It was yesterday. Please! If you are going to pretend more time has passed, then you need to have the characters change clothes more often at the very least.) CJ comforted Rick and told him Stephanie was strong and she would pull through. Rick said it made him realize how short life truly was. CJ told his buddy that he felt for him.

Katie was shocked when Brooke told her she was 100% sure of her love for Thorne as the sisters chatted in Brooke's living room. Brooke said she was always seeking approval when she was with Ridge and she had mistaken comfort for true love in her relationship with Eric. This time she had found true love with Thorne. Katie said she wanted to be happy for her sister but she was afraid the Forresters would not let her be. Brooke admitted she wished Thorne was not in the same family she had already married twice, but she would be a fool to pass up this chance at happiness. Brooke said Thorne had helped her grow as a person. The vulnerability and insecurity of her past were now gone. She and Thorne was strong in their love and the Forresters would eventually accept them. (Not anytime before the 22nd century, honey.)

Dr. Cannon examined Stephanie and determined her right side was fully functional but she had immobility on her left side. He reported his findings to Eric, Ridge and Thorne in the waiting area outside Steph's hospital room. Ridge asked the doctor if Stephanie could again withstand the same kind of stress that caused the stroke in the first place. Dr. Cannon had no direct answer but said he would advise Stephanie avoid all stress.

Before Ridge and Thorne took their feud into the parking lot (now that I'd like to see), Eric ordered his sons back to his office to settle this dilemma once and for all. Once there, Thorne accused Ridge of not being able to handle the fact that Brooke could be happy with anyone but him. Eric scolded Thorne for being off the mark. He assured Thorne he and Ridge cared about nothing but Stephanie's health. Thorne said he would sacrifice anything for his mother, but asking him to give up the happiness he had been searching for all his life was asking far too much. (So you really wouldn't sacrifice anything, now would you, Thorne.)

Eric stated he would do everything in his power to keep Thorne and Brooke apart. He told his sons he was once again in love with Stephanie and he wanted a second chance with her. (Second? Wouldn't this be more like the fourth or fifth chance he's taken with her?) Eric said he would do anything to keep Stephanie healthy. "You and Brooke never happened," Eric screamed. " and as long as I'm alive that's the way it will be. You are over!" Thorne looked very pissed, walked out and slammed the door.

Does anyone else but me see the hypocrisy going on here? It didn't seem to bother Eric or Ridge when they hurt Stephanie time and time again by siding with, understanding, bedding or marrying Brooke. But now that it has had a physical implication in her life, they are all "Oh no, you can't do that. It will upset Stephanie." What gives? And why are Eric and Ridge being painted as such stupid, buffoons these days?

Thank goodness a new day has dawned on Los Angeles again. Time for our favorite soap dwellers to change their clothes.

Tawny stopped by Stephanie's guest house to pay her daughter a visit. Amber told Tawny about Stephanie's stroke. Tawny understood Amber was upset about La Forrester but told her not to let her guard down and ignore Becky's threats. Amber said that Becky had called sounding lonely and had asked about Little Eric. Tawny blew up and told Amber not to encourage Becky or let her back into her life. Amber suggested her mother get a grip. Tawny said she'd like to get a grip around Becky's neck. (Good one, Tawny.) A mail delivery person appeared at the door with a registered letter for Stephanie. Amber signed for it and received her own mail at the time. (How contrived was that set up?) In Amber's pile of mail was a postcard from Paris! Tawny didn't disappoint when she raised her chin and opened her eyes wide with a menacing glare.

Amber's hair looked awfully long today. I'm thinking there was some extension action going on there.

At the Fairchild residence, Adam and Kimberly sat down to a big, healthy breakfast. It looked like there was enough food on that table to feed a logging camp full of hungry lumberjacks for pity's sake! It's my guess that Kimberly would eat one carton of yogurt a day - tops! Adam told Kimberly to beware of Giovanni. He was convinced the photographer is a cad. Kimberly assured her father that he had raised her with good moral fiber and he had nothing to worry about. Beside, she added, she could never fall for Giovanni because her heart still belonged to Rick! Adam wasn't too happy to hear that bit of news. He told his daughter it was time to let go. Rick was married and had a baby. Kimberly told her father she couldn't help the fact that she loved Rick. With that, she placed her breakfast plate still full of greasy bacon in the sink and left for work at Forrester.

At Forrester Creations, Rick wandered into the photography studio looking for some proof sheets. Instead he found an envelope addressed to Kimberly from Giovanni. (Now who really puts "To: Kimberly, From: Giovanni" on the outside of an envelope? Did I say contrived once before? I'll say it again.) Rick's curiosity got the best of him and he started to open the letter just as Kimberly walked into the studio. Rick admitted he had wanted to read the letter. Kimberly wasn't upset. She was, instead, flattered that Rick was jealous. Kimberly read the letter and explained that Giovanni was only telling her he would be gone for a couple of weeks on a photo shoot. Rick asked what was going on between Kimberly and Gio. Kimberly said she had been to his place and Rick hit the ceiling. Rick asked what had happened at the bachelor pad. Kimberly admitted she and Giovanni had kissed. Rick didn't like hearing that.

In her office, Brooke wondered why Thorne had not called her. Thorne entered and told his love that Stephanie had no recollection of what had transpired before her stroke. His mother still thought Thorne was going to marry Macy. Brooke understood this was a difficult situation but was confident Stephanie would regain her memory. Thorne said the doctor didn't think Steph would ever remember and that finding out that bad news again could be harmful to her. Thorne went to say that Eric and Ridge had insisted Thorne and Brooke end their relationship for the sake of Stephanie's health. Brooke told her beau not to cave in to his families guilt trip as a single tear came from the corner of her eye. That girl is so good.

Ridge and his father discussed (again and again and again) Thorne's relationship with Brooke in Eric's office. Ridge said Thorne knew what this would do to Stephanie but he didn't' care. Eric said the whole relationship was "obscene." Neither Forrester previously involved with Miss Logan thought Thorne was truly in love with Brooke. Eric guessed Brooke was on the rebound and Ridge hypothesized Thorne had a thing for chasing his brother's ex-loves. Eric was confident Thorne would break up with Brooke because he had told him to.

I'm going to ask this again. Is anyone else repulsed by Eric and Ridge's behavior here? Where do they get off telling anyone what to do when they personally batted Brooke back and forth like a badminton shuttlecock? Now that the only other Forrester male of age can marry Brooke, they seem to think it's obscene. I suppose two men in one family is the limit. Three just crosses the line - is that it? I understand this is a soap opera and the conflict is needed to keep the story going, but I think some character should call Ridge and Eric on their two-faced behavior.

Thorne explained to Brooke he told his father and brother to back off and not try to run his life. They agreed that Ridge can't stand the thought of Brooke being with anyone else. Brooke hoped the family would come around with time. Thorne didn't plan on holding his breath for that to happen. Brooke hit the nail on the head and called what they were trying to do "emotional blackmail." It's Stephanie's problem that she is so angry at Brooke. It isn't the lovebirds' problem. Steph is the one that needs help and Brooke did not plan on giving up on the best thing that had ever happened to her. Brooke suggested they medicate Stephanie or send her to a stress management seminar. Brooke admitted to Thorne that Stephanie had awaken from her coma trying to strangle Brooke. Thorne flipped out at that news and told Brooke she absolutely had to stay away from his mother. Brooke agreed to do anything as long as Thorne did not give up on their relationship.

After receiving her mail, Amber read Becky's postcard to Tawny. Becky requested photos of Little Eric. Tawny was telling Amber to put her foot down when who should call from Paris but Becky. Amber was trying to be nice to her cousin when Tawny grabbed the telephone and told Becky to quit pestering Amber and her family. Tawny explained that photos of her baby were a bad idea. It would only make her dwell on the past. Tawny told her niece she should show Amber appreciation for all she had done for Becky. Tawny told Becky to leave them alone and hung up the phone.

"They think they can take my child and sweep me under the rug like all the rest of their dirt" Becky said after Tawny hung up on her. "Think again, Aunt Tawny, think again." I'm guessing Becky isn't really going to stay in Paris all that long. How about you? I don't think Tawny should have been so mean to Becky, eh?

Back at the Forrester photography studio, Rick was upset Kimberly had kissed Giovanni. Kimberly said Rick had told her to move on and that was what she was doing. Rick explained he only wanted Kimberly to be happy, but Giovanni was too old for her. Kimberly said the kiss did not mean anything. She had been stubborn because her father did not like Giovanni. She said she also kissed Gio because she missed the way it felt to be with Rick. She remembered all the good times she and Rick had spent together. (Too bad we don't get to see them again, there is a new Rick now and all that old footage, even the music videos memories that never happened, is useless. It makes me cry.) Rick asked if Giovanni made her feel the same way he did. She admitted he did not. She asked if Amber made him feel the same way she made him feel. Rick said it was different for him and Amber.

"Yeah, you have sex" Kimberly noted.

"We are married" Rick replied.

"I'm very aware to that." Kimberly groaned.

Rick apologized for giving Kimberly a hard time about Giovanni. Kimberly said she understood how it felt to picture the person you love involved with someone else. Have there ever been two such star-crossed lovers before? I'm guessing yes - on every other soap opera that has come and gone before.

At Brooke's request, her sister Katie came to visit her in her office. Brooke was so upset by Thorne's tales of Ridge and Eric's interference she needed to talk to someone. Brooke said she thought she might explode. She explained to Katie that Stephanie said she did not remember learning of Brooke and Thorne's love. Brooke went so far as to speculate that Stephanie might be faking her memory loss in order to keep her away from Thorne. She said it wasn't right to blame Thorne for his mother's uncontrollable anger. Brooke felt she should talk to Eric about the matter but Katie convinced her not to. Brooke then knew what she must do. She announced she would simply go and tell Stephanie the truth. Then there would be nothing to hang over her and Thorne's heads. Katie looked very worried as Brooke left the office. (Poor Katie, she never has much to do until Brooke needs a confidant.)

Macy and Kimberly chatted at Macy's beach house. Macy told her sister Thorne had called and left an urgent message to talk to her. Macy was almost certain that Thorne wanted to discuss getting married (yeah - but not to you, baby.) Kimberly seemed concerned that Brooke would try to stop Thorne from marrying Macy. Macy insisted Brooke was no longer a problem. (You are headed for such a fall, honey.) Macy said Stephanie's stroke had taught her to live for the moment. "Awesome" said Kimberly. Macy then asked Kimberly to be her maid of honor. "Awesome" said Kimberly. (All right, Kimberly didn't really say "Awesome" the second time, but wouldn't that have been really funny? Just like when she was on that Saved By the Bell program.)

Thorne walked into his father's office hoping to hash it out with him. Eric was no where to be found so Thorne talked to himself instead. He told himself he had to make his family understand. He then remembered Macy. What a coincidence! Macy called at that very moment. Thorne explained that he didn't want to discuss anything with her on the phone. Macy said she understood he was busy and whenever he was ready to talk she'd be waiting. Oh Macy, you poor, pitiful fool!

At the hospital, Dr. Cannon told Stephanie and Eric that Steph would have to change her diet and take medication in order to recover the use of the left side of her body. The doctor suggested Stephanie get a full-time caretaker to watch over her at home. When the doctor left, Eric offered words of encouragement to his ex-wife. Stephanie said she felt lucky to be alive, but was afraid her short-term memory was not very good. Eric then suggested that he be Stephanie's caretaker. He went on and on about what a fool he had been to ever leave her in the first place and how much he loved her now. He asked her for a second (I'm thinking it's more like a third, fourth or maybe even a fifth chance.) Stephanie agreed and they kissed.

Eric then went to the waiting area to tell Dr. Cannon he would be Stephanie's "nurse" As they talked, Brooke tip-toed past them into Stephanie's room. Stephanie awoke with a start when Brooke told her to wake up! (Nice move, Brooke. I'm sure this will really endear you to the Forrester family.)

In the hospital waiting area, Eric promised Dr. Cannon that he would not let anything upset Stephanie and jeopardize her health. Eric admitted that Brooke was the cause of Stephanie's stress. Dr. Cannon was shocked to hear that tidbit of information.

But even as Eric made his promise, Brooke was pestering Stephanie in her hospital room. Stephanie got upset and begged Brooke to leave her room. Brooke said she would only leave after she had said what she came to say. Brooke noticed Stephanie's heart monitor was racing and told her nemesis she must calm down. Steph managed to get herself together and asked Brooke what she wanted. Brooke said all she had ever wanted was acceptance. Stephanie taunted that Brooke was on the outside looking in once again now that Thorne had chosen Macy over her. (Stephanie has forgotten that Thorne and Brooke were about to get it on when she had her stroke.) Brooke was about to tell Stephanie the truth when Thorne walked in, interrupted and pushed her out of the room.

Thorne scolded Brooke in the waiting area (I'll bet she really liked that) for seeing Stephanie. He told her this wasn't the time or the way to tell his mother the truth. Brooke promised not to see Stephanie again. (Oh, yeah. A Brooke promise isn't worth much these days.)

In another part of the hospital, Taylor prepared to go home. Ridge told her he couldn't wait to get her home (nudge, nudge, wink, wink.) Taylor commented she was glad some things hadn't changed. (like the fact Ridge is insatiable.) Ridge told Taylor the story of Thorne and Brooke being involved and that fact causing Stephanie's stroke. Taylor was surprised at the information and decided they should visit Stephanie before leaving the hospital.

Thorne returned to Stephanie's room to calm her down. She thanked her son for dismissing Brooke. Stephanie expressed happiness that her family was back together. It was if Brooke never existed, she thought. She told Thorne she only wanted her children to be happy. At that moment Ridge and Taylor arrived with the babies. Stephanie was thrilled to hear that one of the twins was named after her. Ridge took a photo of the happy Forrester girls. As the gals bonded, Ridge told Thorne Stephanie was the happiest she had ever been. He asked if Thorne wanted to take that away from their mother. (I'm really, really over Ridge these days. I don't find him to be a very sympathetic character lately.)

Eric returned to his office to design something special for Stephanie. (We didn't get to see it, thank the Lord. I can only imagine what it might be. Perhaps a designer hospital gown with bugle beads?) He sent the sketch out to be fabricated just as Brooke walked into his office. The vixen pleaded her case to Eric and was sure Stephanie could handle the truth. "In your expert opinion, Dr. Logan?" smirked Eric. (Ooh, that was just mean and vicious and I loved it!)

Eric ripped into Brooke and told her she was a menace to his family. Brooke reminded Eric of how cruel Stephanie had been to her through the years. When did he begin to see Stephanie as the innocent victim, she wondered. Eric accused Brooke of bedding Thorne out of revenge. Brooke said she was truly in love with Thorne. Eric screamed that she had a failed relationship with him and another with Ridge and he was going to protect Thorne from the same fate. Eric informed Brooke he was in love with Stephanie (yet again) and he would do anything to protect her. He ordered Brooke to stay away from Thorne and his family!

Brooke slunk from the office with her tail between her legs (if she actually had a tail, you know.)

My how time is flying by. It's already a new day in Forrester-land.

Eric was at his desk in his office and seemed very pleased with himself. Stan, some hitherto unseen Forrester Creations employee, arrived with a box. It was the "design" Eric had put into production the night before. Stan asked what was in the box. Eric told the flunky the time was not right to reveal the contents. (Question: Didn't someone have to put the "design" in the box in the first place? Couldn't Stan ask that person?) The box wasn't nearly big enough for a gown. I'm guessing it was big enough to hold one of those hot new stretch shirts they sell at Banana Republic.

At Stephanie's guest house, Amber and the new Rick discussed the fact they hadn't visited Stephanie in the hospital. They agreed they were both scared to see their strong friend in a weakened condition. Eric then called and told them both to meet in Stephanie's hospital room in half an hour.

Back Forrester Creations, Thorne went into Brooke's office to tell her about a shipment of raw silk. (Like the CEO of the company cares about shipments of raw silk.) Brooke apologized for visiting Stephanie and almost blurting out the truth against Thorne's wishes. Thorne reminded Brooke they had to take things slow. Brooke suggested they put some pressure on Eric to accept their relationship. Thorne reassured Brooke that Ridge and Eric's tactics wuldn't work to keep them apart - nothing could change the way he felt about her. Eric then called and asked to speak with Thorne. Eric instructed his son there would be a "family meeting" (ooh goody, we haven't had one of those in a long time) in Stephanie's room. He made it clear Brooke was not invited.

After Thorne left, Brooke's sister Katie stopped by to check in. Brooke told Katie the Forresters were trying to shut her out. Katie expressed concern that they would put too much pressure on Thorne and he might crack. Brooke said she believed in what the two of them had. Katie reminded her sis of how the Forresters had been successful in keeping Brooke out of Ridge's life. Brooke vowed (in a very Scarlett O'Hara kind of way) that nothing would keep her and Thorne apart.

Over at the hospital, Ridge and Taylor arrived in Stephanie's room. She was surprised to see them. They explained Eric had requested they be there that morning. Stephanie didn't know anything about Eric's request. She told Ridge and Taylor that Eric had talked to her the night before about moving back into the house. (Where exactly does Eric live these days? Did he sell that Harry Houdini house?) Stephanie said she would not hold Eric to a promise he made out of pity.

Rick and Amber then arrived and immediately apologized for not having visited sooner. Stephanie said she was glad to see them now. As Amber cried and mascara ran down her cheeks, Stephanie comforted the teens. She said she understood it was hard for them to see her this way, but she still loved them. Amber told Stephanie how much she meant to her. Rick and Amber then hugged Stephanie in a touching family tableau.

Thorne was standing in the hall outside the room looking through the window. He didn't see that Eric was watching him watch the warm, family scene. Eric was carrying the green Forrester box with the surprise inside. What could it be? A hot new tech vest from Old Navy? Eric greeted his younger son and pointed out how happy Stephanie was with her family around. Macy then rounded the corner. Thorne was surprised to see her. Macy said Eric had asked her to come. Eric urged them all to enter Stephanie's room.

Stephanie was thrilled to see Macy and told the entire room that she was ready for Thorne and Macy's wedding. Amber said she wasn't aware a wedding was being planned. Thorne was quick to point out there were no wedding plans. "Not yet" Macy interjected.

Eric then started into a long winded speech. He talked about the three new Forresters that had been born in the last year. Stephanie and had supported Amber and Rick's union when the rest of the family was skeptical. She had also urged everyone to keep the faith when Taylor was so very ill. Because of their great matriarch, all of them now knew the true meaning of family. That meaning was loyalty. As he stared directly as Thorne (my, how subtle) he said loyalty required sacrifice and tough decisions

Eric admitted he had made many mistakes. The biggest of those had been leaving Stephanie. He then asked Stephanie to marry him. He pulled a ring out of his pocket and proposed! Everyone in the room watched in amazement as Stephanie just looked at him.

Hey! What's in that box? A Hickory Farms gift box with summer sausage?

Brooke sat in her office and stewed that everyone was together in Stephanie's hospital room. She called the nurse's station and found out that even Macy was visiting. Brooke imagined that Thorne must be furious at Eric's manipulations. Katie again worried that Thorne would not be able to withstand the pressure his family was putting on him to dump Brooke. Brooke said all Thorne really ever wanted was his mother's approval. She knew how badly Ridge and Eric's words and actions had hurt her beloved. Brooke suggested they both pray for Stephanie's recovery and for her heart to be softened toward Brooke. (Fat chance, baby.)

Over at the hospital room, Stephanie responded to Eric's marriage proposal by telling him she couldn't give what he needed. (What was she talking about? Sex? Let's not even go there.) Eric replied that he needed a woman of strength and devotion and Stephanie fit that description to a "T". She then suggested they wait a couple of months before deciding to see how her rehabilitation progressed. Eric would not hear of such nonsense.

"If you're begging a woman in my condition to marry you, you must be hard up" Stephanie joked as she agreed to become Mrs. Eric Forrester - again. Eric then asked why everyone was standing around crying. The family congratulated the happy couple.

Finally, Eric got around to giving Stephanie the gift in the mysterious box. It was quite a let down because even when he opened the box and took out the item I still couldn't tell what it was. It was white and lacey and everyone "oohed" and "ahed" at how beautiful it was.

Then a minister walked into the room ready to marry Eric and Stephanie. She couldn't believe he actually wanted to wed that very day! (Excuse me, isn't there a little detail they overlooked? I don't know but doesn't one need a marriage license to make it legal?) Eric asked Thorne to be his best man. Stephanie chose Macy to be the maid of honor. Steph then joked they could perhaps have a double wedding right then. Thorne started to protest but his mother said she was only kidding. Thorne and Macy deserved a huge church wedding.

Stephanie took the lacey thing Eric had given her and draped it over her shoulders. I'm still not sure if it was a jacket or a cape or a table cloth. It was a puzzlement. The two exchanged extremely romantic vows that were so sweet they made my teeth ache. I'll have to admit the two love birds came up with some pretty elaborate statements on the spur of the moment there. Think how pithy and witty I could be if I had someone scripting everything I said. Hey wait! I already am pithy and witty.

The minister pronounced them husband and wife and the room applauded with approval Macy kept eyeing Thorne with desire. He kept responding by smirking and shrugging his shoulders. Good move, Thorne ol' boy.

Amber was back home in the guest house changing Little Eric. She told him that Becky wanted to see photos of him. Amber told her son she wished they didn't have such a cloud hanging over them just as Rick walked into the room. Rick inquired why Amber was upset. (Let that be a lesson to us all - Don't talk to yourself.) She covered by saying she was concerned about Stephanie's health. Rick said he hadn't seen Amber so concerned since Becky had been around. Amber implored her husband to forget about the past. Rick reminded Amber that their past had been full of secrets and lies. He wanted to make sure everything was open and honest between them now. Amber said she only lived for his trust, his love and their little boy. Rick left to study at the library and Amber carried Little Eric to the porch. She felt confident now that Becky was in Paris there would be no problems for them.

Not so fast, Ambrosia. Over in Paris, Becky sat at her desk answering the phone in French and typing with two fingers. Michelle, a co-worker, said a new client had arrived and Becky had been requested to show him around. Becky was thrilled to discover the new client was a rock star - Raymond! After they had been introduced, Raymond said he heard Becky was from Los Angeles. Becky admitted she was from a small town close to LA called Furnace Creek. Raymond was astounded he had heard of the place. He explained he had a friend from Furnace Creek, too. Her name was Amber Moore. If she had been chewing gum, Becky would have swallowed it.

As Thorne did some filing in his office, Brooke sashayed through the door. Thorne relayed the whole story of his parents re-marriage. Brooke was surprised by that development but more interested in the fact that Macy was there. She was livid to discover Thorne and Macy had stood up for the happy couple. Brooke told Thorne she was afraid his family would keep them apart. Thorne said not to worry. He loved only her. She had to keep the faith. Thorne was confident that with time his family would accept their relationship. (What planet are you living on, buddy?) Even though Thorne felt it would make matters worse, Brooke said she was going to talk to Ridge about the matter. After she left his office, Thorne decided to leave as well.

At the hospital, Macy thanked Stephanie for allowing her to be the maid of honor. Stephanie said she was sure Thorne would agree to set a wedding date with Macy very soon. Stephanie was glad Thorne no longer spoke about Brooke. She was sure the Forrester men were all finished with Miss Logan. Brooke was no longer a threat to her family. (You must be living on that same planet with Thorne, missy.) Thorne arrived to speak with his mother. Stephanie said how happy she was Thorne and Macy had worked things out as Macy hugged him tightly.

Eric visited Ridge's office and told his older son that he would need Ridge's support to help Stephanie get well. After Eric left, Brooke arrived to give Ridge a piece of her mind. She accused Ridge of being sneaky in his efforts to keep Brooke and Thorne apart by having him and Macy stand up for Eric and Stephanie's wedding. Ridge said that had not been planned. Brooke then took a trip down the wrong road. She said what she had with Thorne was real. She loved Thorne more than she had loved anyone before - including Ridge. Ridge rebutted that Brooke was merely on the rebound. Brooke called Ridge egotistical. She was definitely over him. Brooke said she was happy and secure now. She had never felt that way when she was with Ridge. He urged her not to cheapen what they had shared in the past. Brooke responded by saying she wouldn't take him back if he were begging on his knees. To prove her point (in a very odd manner) Brooke pulled Ridge into a passionate kiss. She broke away and said she felt nothing from the lip lock. Brooke reminded Ridge that he had told her to find happiness and get over him. She had and now he was taking it away. Ridge listened to her tirade and then told Brooke to stay away from Thorne - and that was an order!

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