Just when it seemed like Victoria Newman was finally getting her happily ever after with Cole Howard, The Young and the Restless throws fans a curveball that no one saw coming. In a stunning twist, Ashland Locke makes a jaw-dropping return — alive, well, and ready to stir up trouble at Victoria and Cole’s wedding. As the couple prepares to tie the knot in a romantic ceremony filled with love, hope, and second chances, the sudden reappearance of Victoria’s presumed-dead ex-husband threatens to unravel everything.

The wedding day begins with excitement and optimism. Victoria, finally healing from the emotional trauma of her past, believes she’s found peace and stability with Cole. Their shared history, mutual understanding, and deep-rooted affection have led them to reunite and plan a future together. For Victoria, this wedding isn’t just a celebration of love — it’s a reclaiming of happiness after years of turmoil.

Guests gather, the atmosphere is joyful, and even the ever-watchful eyes of the Newman family seem content, for once. Nikki and Victor, though cautious, are supportive. Nick and Nikki exchange knowing looks, sensing that this day may bring something unexpected — though no one could have anticipated just how explosive that “something” would be.

Ashland’s Dramatic Entrance

Just as the ceremony begins, the doors swing open dramatically. All heads turn — and standing there in the shadows is none other than Ashland Locke. The guests gasp, Victoria freezes, and Cole steps protectively in front of her. How is this possible? Ashland was declared dead after a dramatic confrontation with Nick and Victoria nearly a year ago.

But here he is — alive, unscathed, and looking every bit the powerful, intimidating man he was before his alleged death.

Ashland walks in slowly, with an air of calculated calm. “Did you really think I’d miss this?” he says, locking eyes with Victoria. The room erupts in whispers and confusion. Some guests look shocked, others suspicious. Victor immediately goes into protective mode, standing and demanding answers.

What Does Ashland Want?

Ashland’s motivations remain unclear, but it’s obvious he didn’t come to give his blessing. His presence alone is enough to dredge up painful memories and unresolved issues. Is he here for revenge? Redemption? Or does he believe he still has a claim to Victoria’s heart?

His cryptic remarks only add to the confusion. “I came back for what’s mine,” he says — a statement that sends chills down Victoria’s spine. Cole, ever the calm one, tries to reason with Ashland, but tensions escalate quickly. The threat of violence looms as Victor has his security team ready to intervene.

Victoria’s Response: Strength in the Storm

Victoria, though shaken, refuses to let Ashland control the narrative. She stands tall, telling Ashland he no longer has power over her life. “You’re a ghost,” she says. “Whatever we had died with the man I buried.” Her words are strong, but her eyes betray a whirlwind of emotions — fear, anger, and betrayal.

Cole takes Victoria’s hand, visibly supportive, and insists they move forward. But it’s clear this moment has cracked the foundation of their fresh start. Trust issues resurface, and Victoria begins to question if she truly knows what’s best for herself.

The Newman Family Reacts

Victor is furious, determined to uncover how Ashland managed to fake his death and stay hidden for so long. He vows to protect his daughter and destroy Ashland once and for all. Nikki, ever the steady presence, comforts Victoria and urges her to take time before going through with the ceremony.

Nick, meanwhile, is ready to fight. His protective instincts kick in, and he confronts Ashland with fiery intensity. The two nearly come to blows before security steps in.

A Wedding on Hold — and Lives Upended

The ceremony comes to a grinding halt. Victoria and Cole retreat for a private moment, where they discuss whether it’s wise to continue with the wedding in light of this bombshell. Cole assures her of his love, but Victoria admits she needs time to process everything.

Ashland’s sudden return has thrown everyone into a tailspin. Old wounds are reopened, loyalties tested, and secrets begin to bubble to the surface. One thing is clear: Genoa City will never be the same after this.