Credit: CBS screenshot, Howard Wise/JPI

It was a short week for Young & Restless devoted mostly to year-end housekeeping as Adam asked Chelsea to move into the ranch, and Cole was offered a permanent position in Genoa City… not a lot of drama aside from that generated by Phyllis and Daniel’s outrage at Sharon changing her story. As we head into a last, and even shorter week, to the year (two reruns!), let’s take a look at where we are and what’s to come. But first, I’d like to wish each and every one of you the happiest of New Years!

Ian vs. Victor Revisited

Victor has unknowingly circled the wagons as he brings the Newman clan together on the ranch “compound” ahead of what will undoubtedly be one of their most epic rematches. Not only is Victor set to encounter Ian Ward face-to-face, per upcoming teasers, but he has no idea that Crazy Aunt Jordan is also on the loose and already wreaking havoc on the family. The Mustache is about to have his hands full, which made me wonder if this will give Billy the opening he needs to take Chancellor back. I have to admit being fascinated with the idea that he might actually pull it off. As for Ian, much like the Black Knight, he’s able to create chaos on multiple fronts, and the preview tells us that Tessa is in grave danger. He’s obviously spiked her drink or something. This is either a set-up to gain her trust, or to kidnap her and use her to lure Mariah and Claire.

In Big Trouble

Also about to be targeted and used by Ian is Phyllis. He’s decided that she’s key to his plans, which does not bode well for either her or Sharon. Why? Find out here.

Odds ‘n’ Ends

I couldn’t feel less enthused about a couple reuniting as I am about Adam and Chelsea’s dry re-pairing… An interesting little mystery emerged surrounding Damian this week and I couldn’t help but wonder if he’s a whole lot more successful than they believe he is. Perhaps the company named after the book he loved is his own?… Nikki’s suddenly being styled like Katherine. Does anyone else think so?… Victor offering Cole a job was sweet, but he’s dulling Victoria down, so the idea of him becoming more entrenched in their lives isn’t all that appealing… Nikki told Lauren she was trying to be civil to Adam since he’ll be living on the ranch. But will Victoria be able to do the same?!

The opinions expressed within are my own. Please feel free to join the conversation by posting in the comments.