**Question 1: Does Ridge Shock Electra by Defending Dylan Instead of Firing Her?**
Electra is furious after discovering that Dylan has been secretly encouraging Zende to leave Forrester Creations and join Logan.
She believes Dylan has betrayed the entire Forrester family by helping their biggest competitor recruit one of their most talented designers.
Unable to control her anger, Electra immediately confronts Ridge and demands that he fire Dylan.
She expects Ridge to support her decision without hesitation.
But his reaction leaves her completely stunned.
Instead of punishing Dylan, Ridge unexpectedly defends her.
Even more shocking, he raises his voice at Electra and tells her to stop interfering.
Electra cannot understand why Ridge would protect someone who appears to be working against Forrester.
**Question 2: Is Ridge Secretly Protecting Dylan to Keep Zende at Forrester?**
Ridge’s surprising decision may have nothing to do with trusting Dylan.
He knows Zende has become increasingly frustrated with the way RJ receives special treatment at Forrester.
With Katie and Hope trying to recruit Zende, Ridge realizes that losing another talented designer could seriously damage the company.
Perhaps Ridge believes firing Dylan would only push Zende closer to Logan.
By keeping Dylan at Forrester, Ridge may hope to prevent Zende from making a final decision.
However, Electra could see his actions as a personal betrayal.
She may accuse Ridge of sacrificing her feelings simply to protect the company’s interests.
Meanwhile, Dylan could secretly celebrate Ridge’s unexpected support, believing she now has more freedom to influence Zende.
But if Ridge discovers that Dylan is deliberately manipulating the situation, his patience may finally run out.
**Is Ridge defending Dylan because he trusts her, or is he secretly using her to stop Zende from joining Logan?**