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At Newman, Phyllis talks to herself about taking Victor’s power and props her feet up on the desk. Enter Lauren, who is warned against raining on Phyllis’ parade. But, surprise, she’s come to praise her.

At Chancellor, Billy is also talking to himself. He won’t get stabbed in the back by someone who claims to love him again. All but twirling his mustache, he declares that Chancellor is “all mine, and mine alone.” Sally appears and he wonders if she’s had a change of heart.

Sally came by to inform him that she hired Audra as her co-COO. He wants to play devil’s advocate, but she doesn’t care what he thinks and explains she cleared it with Jill. Billy learns she’s also changed the name from Abbott Communications to Spectra Charles. He decides not to argue and turns on the charm, convincing her to have dinner with him.

Back at Newman, Phyllis can hardly believe it, but Lauren is over the top thrilled about her knocking Victor off his perch, heralding it as a victory for all womankind. That said, she shoots Phyll a skeptical look when she claims she did this for her children’s future, forcing her to admit it was also for herself.

Lauren hedges to find out if Phyllis is having second thoughts. Phyllis snaps, “Why would I do that?” Her friend points out she loves Nick and doesn’t want to hurt him or their daughter. Her friendship with Sharon must also be on shaky ground. She’s sure Red is feeling some remorse even if she won’t admit it.

Phyllis complains that most people, even her kids, have fallen for the Newman propaganda machine. Nick tried to shame her into giving the company back… it really cut deep. Lauren’s sorry, and offers to take her out to celebrate.

Pill Poppin’

At Crimson Lights, Victoria tells Sharon that she’s looking for Nick. The blonde admits he’s been preoccupied with Matt Clark. Victoria guesses she won’t be able to drag him to Milan. Sharon confides that Nick hasn’t even recovered from his injury yet.

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Cut to Nick, in the back alley holding a fentanyl pill from his little pink baggie. Grimacing, he throws it into the snow, but then retrieves it and swallows it down.

Inside, Sharon discusses Nick’s painkiller crisis with Victoria before switching over to the subject of Phyllis. Sharon insists she can see the pain and regret beneath the redheahd’s exterior. Nick enters, and Sharon leaves him and his sister to talk.

Nick tries to talk Victoria out of going to Milan, asking as Summer’s father that she not involve her in this. He regrets calling Summer and wants her to decide for herself how to deal with her mother. Sharon interjects that if Phyllis’ kids stop speaking to her, it might make her dig in her heels harder.

They debate whether Victor’s plan will work until Nick gets a text from an unknown caller asking for five million to disappear for good. Sharon asks, “Is it Matt?” Nick texts back, “Come see me to work things out.” Matt texts back with a laughing emoji that five million is the price to leave his son alone. Nick updates Victoria and Sharon, who declares they have to lure him out of hiding.

Billy’s Warning

In the Club, Billy jovially approaches Lauren and Phyllis, who explains that her pal’s the only one not judging her. Billy’s surprised. Lauren says her husband’s not tethered to Victor, and it’s not secret she’s not a fan. Billy’s not convinced that Lauren’s not trying to talk Phyllis out of this and warns Red to proceed with caution as he trots off.

Lauren’s mildly offended and offers to hear Phyllis’ side of things. Phyllis says she sees this as her last chance for success. She can’t get over people being upset that she bested Victor. Lauren is sorry and will do whatever she can to help her. Phyllis says, “Come work for me.”

A Futile Attempt

Sally catches up with Audra in Society. She’s designing their new logo and preparing press blasts. When Audra notices her friend is off, Sally admits she went to see Billy, who invited her to dinner.

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Appalled, Audra tries to talk her out of it, reminding her she’ll never come first with him. Sally insists it’s just a final goodbye. Sure, Jan. Audra continues campaigning against it.

The Final Scenes

At Society, Sally insists she won’t be talked into getting back together with Billy. Audra’s unconvinced and urges her to go in strong and resolved, thinking about what’s best for herself.

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At the Club, Lauren is flattered by Phyllis’ offer, but she’s content where she is right now. Phyllis argues she’s complacent and is due for an adventure. They could take over the world!

At Crimson Lights, Sharon wonders how to lure Matt out of hiding. Nick has an idea… something he won’t be able to resist.