The Young and the Restless Recap, December 9: Michael and Lauren celebrate two decades of marraige

Tracey Bregman as Lauren on The Young and the Restless | Image: CBS
Tracey Bregman as Lauren on The Young and the Restless | Image: CBS

On the Tuesday, December 9th episode of The Young and the Restless, Michael and Lauren celebrated 20 years of marriage and made ammends with Phyllis.

What happened on The Young and the Restless

Michael surprises Lauren with anniversary plans on The Young and the Restless | Image: CBS
Michael surprises Lauren with anniversary plans on The Young and the Restless | Image: CBS

Lauren walked into the GCAC, where she found Michael, who had the entire place set up for a casino-themed celebration of their 20th anniversary. Michael flipped over three cards that spelled out "Happy 20th Anniversary." She was thrilled that he remembered, but concerned that he had forgotten, since she hadn't heard from him all day. However, he was busy planning the romantic surprise of a lifetime.

Lauren recalled Michael proposing to her two decades prior at a blackjack table. Although the setup wasn't as elaborate, his goal was to maintain simplicity to avoid grand gestures rooted in ulterior motives. Michael recognized that he had a tendency to do so to protect himself from potential backlash over perceived wrongdoing. Lauren was fine with the gesture in front of her. She believed this was an occasion where it was well worth it.

Michael wanted Lauren to remember some of the greatest highlights from their marriage. First, the moment she agreed to his proposal played as a flashback, and she couldn't wait to relive every moment with the love of her life. She recalled the first time Michael kissed her, and he teased her about the way she kissed him back. Lauren remembered how charming Michael was and the way the electric chemistry overtook them.

Michael referred to himself as the king of romance and vowed to prove why the title fit. The pair thought back to several milestone moments in their relationship that showcased their commitment to keeping the spark alive. Michael told her, "The romance will never be dead. We are still as hot and heavy as we've ever been." She told her husband that if he wanted a kiss, he'd have to earn it.

Lauren commented that Michael was playing at a pace that meant he wouldn't get his kiss until midnight. They discussed her sons' wishes for them, which led Lauren to recall telling Michael about her pregnancy with Fenmore. The scene of Michael being happy, but also scared and overwhelmed by the news, was played. He previously vowed to be the best possible father he could be, and neither could believe they were about to become parents together.

Michael worried he wouldn't be a good dad to their son, but she assured him he was the best dad possible. Phyllis showed up in the midst of their celebration and asked them what they were up to. She said that they "rented out" her living room. Phyllis realized it was their anniversary, and she was astonished that it was two decades of wedded bliss. Michael called her the "perpetual uninvited guest," and he tore into her. They continued bickering until Lauren reminded them they were best friends and demanded peace between the embattled buddies.

A montage of moments featuring the trio played, and Michael asked if they could get back to the way it used to be. Phyllis commented that they would work on it. Lauren wanted more moments between them all, and it was clear that the feud had gone on for too long. Phyllis declared that she was "in awe" of their relationship, a bit jealous, but mostly proud. She teared up, and Lauren pulled in Michael and Phyllis for a long-overdue hug. Phyllis decided to give them some space, and Lauren reminded her that they both loved her.

Michael recalled the time he believed that Lauren was dead, but she showed up after the funeral, and the pair were reunited. The next flashback was when Lauren had an affair with Carmine. It was a shining example of their ability to overcome the biggest obstacles in their marriage, despite how bleak it looked. She was grateful that Michael forgave her, but he considered it forgiving each other.

Michael's cancer was the next topic of discussion. His reaction to the disease nearly broke them because he did his best to push her away. He was terrified that she would've seen him as someone to be pitied. However, they ultimately chose each other, and their love truly conquered all.

Michael surprised Lauren with a trip to Las Vegas. To make it even more special, he revealed that Fenmore and Scott would also be in attendance. They toasted to another 20 years of life, love, and everything in between.

Catch all-new episodes of The Young and the Restless weekdays on CBS and Paramount Plus.

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Edited by Michael Maloney