Ep 2. Yes

In the second episode of Scandal's fifth season, titled "Yes," the aftermath of the premiere's shocking events are felt as Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington) deals with the fallout from her controversial decision regarding Mellie Grant's (Bellamy Young) run for president. Meanwhile, the entire team at Pope and Associates must confront their own personal struggles, including Quinn Perkins' (Katie Lowes) involvement with the infamous B613, and Abby Whelan's (Darby Stanchfield) newfound power as the White House Press Secretary.

As the episode begins, Olivia continues her work on Mellie's campaign, but their dynamic is strained after the events of the previous episode. Mellie is still reeling from Olivia's decision to endorse her opponent, but Olivia insists that it was necessary in order to secure Mellie's eventual victory. However, Mellie is not convinced and tensions between the two women begin to escalate.

Meanwhile, Abby is struggling to adjust to her new role as Press Secretary. She is constantly under pressure from the White House and the media, and finds herself stonewalled at every turn. However, she is determined to prove herself and earn the respect of her colleagues.

Quinn, still reeling from the revelation that her boyfriend Charlie (George Newbern) is a deadly assassin, is struggling to come to terms with her involvement with B613. She confides in Huck (Guillermo Díaz), who has his own demons to confront, and the two begin to bond over their shared trauma.

As the episode progresses, tensions between Olivia and Mellie continue to rise. Olivia's decision to endorse Mellie's opponent has not only strained their relationship, but has also put Mellie's campaign in jeopardy. However, Olivia remains steadfast in her conviction that she made the right decision, and tells Mellie that she needs to learn how to stand on her own two feet.

Meanwhile, Abby finds herself entangled in a scandal of her own when she is accused of leaking sensitive information to a reporter. She denies the allegations, but soon realizes that someone within the White House is trying to frame her. With Olivia's help, she sets out to clear her name and find the real culprit.

Quinn, still struggling with her involvement with B613, decides to take matters into her own hands. She confronts Charlie and demands answers about the shadowy organization, but his answers only leave her with more questions. Eventually, she decides to quit Pope and Associates in order to pursue the truth about B613 on her own.

In the end, tensions between Olivia and Mellie come to a head when Mellie insists on going rogue and making her own decisions. Olivia, frustrated by Mellie's stubbornness, finally takes a stand and tells her that she needs to start thinking about the future of the country, not just her own personal goals. As the episode ends, it remains to be seen how their relationship will unfold in the weeks to come.

Overall, "Yes" is a tense and thrilling episode that continues to explore the personal struggles of the show's characters. With Olivia and Mellie at odds, Abby facing accusations of wrongdoing, and Quinn pursuing the truth about B613, the season's overarching themes of power and corruption are beginning to take shape. So, this episode keeps the viewers on the edge of their seat with its gripping storyline.