Tensions at Forrester Creations explode as a battle for power brews—one that Ridge never sees coming. Eric, still recovering but more determined than ever, watches the company he built from scratch evolve without him. Every passing day reminds him that his life’s work is moving on without his touch, and the ache to return to designing grows unbearable. So when he finally gathers the courage to ask Ridge to reinstate him, he expects hesitation—but not outright rejection.

Ridge, armed with full CEO authority, shuts the door in his father’s face. He insists his decision is rooted in concern, reminding Eric that his last medical crisis nearly cost him his life. But behind the protective tone lies something sharper: Ridge genuinely believes Eric’s era is over. That Forrester’s future requires younger hands, fresher eyes, and firmer leadership. To him, letting Eric design again is a sentimental risk he can’t afford.

Eric’s heartbreak is immediate and devastating. To be told he no longer belongs at the very company that carries his name is a blow more painful than any illness he’s ever endured. And although he tries to hide it, the devastation doesn’t go unnoticed—especially by Steffy.

Steffy listens as Ridge confidently defends his decision, but all she can hear is arrogance and disregard. Eric is more than a designer; he is the soul of Forrester Creations. The man who taught her everything about integrity, leadership, and honoring legacy. Watching Ridge dismiss him as fragile and obsolete sends fury coursing through her. She storms into Ridge’s office, demanding to know how he could deny Eric the one thing that still gives him purpose.

Ridge stands firm, repeating that he is protecting their father—yet Steffy sees only control and pride. She leaves the confrontation shaking, unable to accept Ridge’s cold logic. That night, when she visits Eric, the sight of him quietly tracing old sketches shatters her. His hands tremble, his breathing unsteady, but the spark in his eyes is unmistakable. Designing is the last piece of himself he still recognizes.

That’s all Steffy needs to hear.

She makes him a promise: he will return to Forrester, with or without Ridge’s blessing.

Together, they form a bold alliance. As co-CEO, Steffy has equal power—and she’s ready to use it. She calls an emergency executive meeting, and when Ridge walks in, he instantly senses that something is very, very wrong. Eric stands beside Steffy, not defeated this time, but resolute.

Steffy announces her decision: Eric is reinstated as an active designer immediately. His talent and legacy will not be erased—not on her watch.

Ridge is blindsided. Outmaneuvered. Furious. And for the first time, he realizes Steffy is willing to challenge him on every level. He argues she’s risking Eric’s health and destabilizing the company, but Eric cuts in, his voice steady and sharp:

“I know my limits. But I also know my worth.”

Now Ridge faces a choice—accept the uprising or prepare for a full-scale family war.

With Steffy and Eric joining forces, is Ridge about to lose control of Forrester Creations altogether? Or will he fight back harder than ever?