Love was in the air and stakes were sky-high as Jack, Victor, and Michael each pulled out all the stops for the women in their lives—but not every grand gesture came without risk.
The Young and the Restless recap for Wednesday, May 21 sees Lauren worry when Michael stops working for Victor. Plus, Victor romances Nikki while Diane and Jack have a romantic night in.
What Happened On Y&R Today?
Jack (Peter Bergman) had a surprise waiting for Diane (Susan Walters) at the Abbott house. She came downstairs expecting a night out and found champagne, candles, and Jack dressed to the nines in a tux.
He wanted to celebrate her hard work and thank her for everything she’s done for their home. Jack called Diane the most important Abbott and assured her that the house now truly reflected them both. Diane was touched, but when Jack mentioned his sisters would be visiting to see the renovations, she got nervous.
She expected Traci (Beth Maitland) to be supportive, but she worried about Ashley (Eileen Davidson). Diane reminded Jack that Billy (Jason Thompson) had a tough reaction, too, and felt she’d robbed him of his connection to John.
Jack assured her she honored their father’s legacy and predicted Billy would come around. Diane didn’t need apologies, but she appreciated Jack’s support. He called her a foundational member of the family and suggested they finally take the honeymoon they never had. Diane loved the idea. He said they could go anywhere she wanted, and she said it wasn’t just for her—it was for them. They kissed and danced in the candlelight, dreaming of what’s next.
Happy Birthday, Baby
At the new ranch, Victor (Eric Braeden) surprised Nikki (Melody Thomas Scott) with an early celebration for her birthday. He handed her a glass of wine and toasted to his forever young and beautiful wife. He reminded her the night was about her—her resilience, her strength—and not about anyone else.
Nikki appreciated the gesture and admired how Claire (Hayley Erin) had convinced him to help plan the party. They slow danced and remembered the early days of their love, with Victor calling those the best days of his life.
Talk turned to Claire, and Victor made it clear he still didn’t approve of her relationship with Kyle (Michael Mealor). Nikki told him to focus on their night and let the younger generation handle their own decisions.
Victor presented her with a gift—a locket with a photo of her, Victoria, and Claire. She loved it. They joked, reminisced, and shared caviar. Victor recalled the moment he first saw her dance and told her she was unforgettable. Nikki said he’d always been handsome and mysterious, and they kissed.
Michael Stuns Lauren
Over at the jazz lounge, Michael (Christian Le Blanc) had a romantic evening planned for Lauren (Tracey Bregman). He kissed her neck, poured her a drink, and told her he wanted to make her feel like the center of his universe.
Lauren figured this was about their recent fights over Victor. She warned that sweeping gestures wouldn’t fix the real problem. Michael got behind the bar to make her a drink and explained he’d rented out the entire lounge just for them. They danced, and he praised her as the most intelligent woman he’s ever known.
Lauren was intrigued but skeptical. She asked if this was all part of an apology. Michael admitted it was. He talked about the history he and Victor shared, about all the times he let himself become Victor’s pawn. He swore it was over. He was ready to walk away for good and put Lauren first.
Tearing up, Lauren asked if he meant it. He promised he did. She said she was surprised in the best possible way, and they kissed. Lauren admitted she was scared of what Victor would do once he found out.
