The Young and the Restless Recap for February 20, 2026 highlights rising panic across Genoa City as Victor suddenly disappears, Nick behaves strangely, and Mariah faces fallout from her emotional spiral. The episode moves each storyline forward with steady tension and sharp character reactions.
Nick’s Concerning Behavior Alarms Sharon and Noah
Nick’s demeanor shifted completely during a tense morning at Crimson Lights. Sharon and Noah noticed his sudden energy change and questioned his calm attitude. Nick dismissed every concern, yet the relaxed behavior contrasted sharply with his recent pain and stress. Their confusion deepened when Nick brushed off their questions.
The conversation took a darker turn when Nick hinted about needing another refill. Sharon quickly reminded him that he had one recently, and the timeline made little sense. Nick insisted everything was normal, but his sleepy tone unsettled them. Sharon sensed something deeper, and Noah agreed the situation felt alarming.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Sharon and Noah Debate Nick’s Possible Slip
After Nick left, Sharon immediately analyzed the troubling behavior. She wondered whether the pain medication played a larger role than Nick admitted. His inconsistent comments raised serious doubts. Sharon voiced concern that Nick may have taken more pills than prescribed. Noah echoed her suspicion.
Nick’s half-asleep tone earlier left a lasting impression. Sharon felt the shift strongly and believed he was hiding something significant. Noah wanted to give his father grace, but the warning signs were difficult to ignore. Both agreed they needed to keep a close eye on him moving forward.
Mariah Struggles With Guilt as Christine Raises Legal Concerns
At the park café, Mariah continued to hide behind sunglasses, feeling undeserving of fresh air or normal moments. Christine pushed her to stand tall, yet Mariah’s guilt over the incident with Dominic still controlled her thoughts. She feared running into Abby or Devon and assumed the worst reaction.
The moment Abby arrived with Dominic confirmed her fears. Dominic approached Mariah with innocence, leaving her torn between affection and shame. Christine later warned Mariah that visiting the Chancellor mansion jeopardized her defense. Mariah’s anxiety spiked again as Abby questioned why she remained free before trial.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Abby Confronts Christine Over Mariah’s Freedom
Christine attempted to calm Abby, explaining the court-approved evaluation and legal boundaries. Abby, however, believed the system failed to protect Dominic. Her frustration pushed the debate toward Mariah’s mental state and future consequences. The confrontation left Mariah shaken as she listened from a distance.
Christine maintained confidence in the legal process. She reminded Abby that a judge would soon determine Mariah’s fate. Abby left upset, and Christine struggled to balance empathy with legal responsibility. Mariah absorbed every word and felt the emotional weight return heavier than before.
Devon Opens Up About Mariah’s Impact on Dominic
Over at Society, Devon discussed the troubling situation with Nate. He expressed deep conflict over the emotional games Mariah played with Dominic during their recent trip. The memories still affected him. Nate listened closely as Devon struggled to decide what accountability should look like.
Their conversation shifted to Lily’s sudden disappearance from communication. Devon grew uneasy as calls and messages remained unanswered. Nate suggested that the silence felt “off,” and the possibility of real trouble came into sharper focus. Devon sensed something bigger brewing.
The Young and the Restless Recap: Victor’s Disappearance Pushes the Newman Family Into Panic
The Newman ranch carried heavy tension as Victoria updated Adam and Chelsea about Victor. He left without warning earlier that morning and had not checked in. Adam’s worry rose quickly, but Victoria believed Victor went after Phyllis and the secrets she continues to hide.
Adam feared Victor made quiet deals behind the scenes. He wondered what Victor promised Lily before she vanished from contact. Chelsea tried soothing him, but his distrust lingered. Adam worried Victor’s plan could harm him directly.
Victoria Advances Her Scheme Against Phyllis
Victoria later spoke privately with Nikki and shared her belief that Victor tracked Phyllis down. She hoped for answers. Victoria then unveiled her strategy to influence Summer by using Phyllis’ fear of losing their bond. Nikki warned that the mother-daughter relationship remained unbreakable.
Victoria stayed confident in her approach. She insisted a trip to Europe would push Summer closer to their side. Nikki remained unsure, but Victoria believed the emotional leverage could shift everything. The tension surrounding Victor only amplified her urgency.
The Young and the Restless Recap for February 20, 2026 brings heavy emotional movement as Victor vanishes, Nick spirals quietly, and Mariah faces public judgment. Each storyline deepens the week’s suspense. For more Y&R coverage, stay with Soap Opera Daily.
