Tension is rising in Genoa City as secrets, betrayals, and hidden agendas take center stage. Diane Jenkins and Claire Newman are forming an alliance that could shake up the lives of those closest to them. Their secret plan has one ultimate goal—tearing apart a powerful couple and reshaping the Newman and Abbott families forever.

At Society, Amy anxiously anticipates seeing Damian for the first time in years. She’s excited but also apprehensive about how he’ll react to the shocking news she has for him. Audrey tries to reassure Amy, insisting that she did the best she could as a mother. With Damian expected to arrive soon, Audrey suggests Amy take a breather by indulging in some shopping to ease her nerves. Meanwhile, Devon and Abby discuss whether Damian’s return will bring peace or chaos to their already complicated lives.

Over at Crimson Lights, Billy Abbott and Chelsea Lawson have an awkward run-in. Billy suggests they clear the air, knowing they’ll be seeing each other frequently. Chelsea initially resists, claiming she’s busy, but Billy reminds her, “Even for an old friend?” She finally gives in. Their conversation turns serious as Billy expresses his frustration over losing Chancellor and the deep betrayal he felt from both Victor and, even more painfully, his mother, Jill Abbott. Chelsea urges him to reconsider his desire for revenge, warning him not to make rash decisions. However, Billy is adamant—he wants payback. He believes that out of anyone, Chelsea should understand how much this means to him, as he never had the chance to prove himself.

At Newman Enterprises, Victor Newman recruits Adam Newman to help take down Ian Ward, ensuring he’s completely alienated. Adam has doubts about the effectiveness of the plan, but Victor insists he handle the execution while leaving the strategy to him. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Connor Newman prepare for a major move—relocating to the old ranch house with Adam. Victor is pleased with this arrangement, seeing it as an opportunity to keep his family safe under his watchful eye. He reassures Adam that past mistakes are forgiven, and now, they must focus on eliminating any threats to their family.

Meanwhile, Claire Newman is determined to prove her loyalty to the Newmans by handling the dangerous situation with Jordan once and for all. Nikki, though hesitant, begins to consider Claire’s extreme plan, much to Victoria’s frustration. Claire proposes luring Jordan into a false sense of security by pretending to be on her side. She believes she can convince Jordan that she’s only pretending to embrace the Newmans, setting up the ultimate deception. Though Victoria is skeptical, Claire insists she knows exactly how to manipulate Jordan into falling into their trap.

As the plot thickens, Diane Jenkins quietly makes moves of her own. She’s been keeping a close eye on Kyle Abbott and Claire’s growing relationship, knowing Victor disapproves. Diane sees an opportunity to use Claire’s Newman ties to her advantage, potentially breaking up Kyle and Claire under the guise of helping the Newmans. Jack, however, remains suspicious of Diane’s motives, especially as she prepares to unveil the completed Abbott house renovations. What is she truly up to?

Elsewhere, Billy leaks sensitive information to Phyllis Summers, unaware of how it might come back to haunt him. As Phyllis processes the news, she finds herself more determined than ever to get revenge on those who wronged her. When Jack and Nikki cross paths, they have a candid conversation about Chancellor’s future, Billy’s choices, and Victor’s latest schemes. Jack warns that if Victor doesn’t back off from meddling in Claire and Kyle’s relationship, there will be no peace between their families. Nikki acknowledges that convincing Victor to step away won’t be easy, but she sees Jack’s point—if Victor doesn’t stop interfering, he could push Claire further away, potentially sending her into Kyle’s arms for good.

Back in the shadows, Diane and Claire’s alliance remains under wraps. As their secret plan unfolds, it’s clear they are willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals. But will their scheme succeed, or will it backfire in spectacular fashion?