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The Valley, Episode 8: Rumours, Red Flags, and Moving On (While Someone Might Still Be Listening) 

This week’s episode of The Valley gave us bonfires, new beginnings, and a few deeply concerning developments. While we saw Brittany take some empowering steps forward, we also saw Jax’s behaviour become even more alarming. There were lighthearted moments, like a promising first date and a housewarming party, but these were quickly overshadowed by surveillance, blame-shifting, and more messy interpersonal drama. 

As always, this show gives us plenty of real-life takeaways for anyone navigating separation, co-parenting, or a fresh start. 

Starting Fresh in the Valley

We begin at Scheana and Brock’s new home, where they’re throwing a housewarming party. They’ve officially moved to the Valley, and the mood is upbeat, at least on the surface. 

Brittany talks openly about trying to move on, which is refreshing to hear. She’s slowly reclaiming her own identity after a very public and difficult breakup. She also starts dating again, and honestly, it’s a welcome change to see her smiling and grounded. 

After everything she has been through, Brittany deserves a fresh start. But dating again after separation—especially when you have young children and a complicated financial situation—requires a lot of thought and care. 

Thinking About Dating Again? Here’s What to Consider

Brittany’s first date seems to go well, and her excitement feels genuine. But for many people, dating during or after a long-term relationship brings up complicated feelings and questions. 

Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about putting yourself out there again: 

Take your time and move at your own pace. 
There’s no rulebook for when it is “okay” to start dating again. Some people need time to process the end of their last relationship, while others are ready to explore something new right away. Trust your instincts. 

If you have children, introduce new partners carefully. 
While courts do not prevent parents from dating, judges in Saskatchewan may raise concerns if children are introduced to new partners too quickly or in a way that is confusing. Referring to a new boyfriend or girlfriend as “mom” or “dad” can be harmful and confusing for kids. Take the time to ensure the relationship is stable before involving your children. 

Be mindful of your financial situation. 
During and after separation, your finances are often in transition. You may be dealing with spousal support, child support, shared property, or debt. Avoid making big commitments—such as moving in with someone new or co-signing on a lease—until your legal and financial situation is more stable. 

Focus on healing. 
If your previous relationship involved control, abuse, or high conflict, it is important to process that before getting involved with someone else. Working with a therapist or counsellor can help you avoid repeating unhealthy patterns. 

Brittany seems to be approaching this next chapter with caution and confidence, which is exactly the right combination. 

The “3J” Rumour Drama: Accountability Matters

The conflict between Janet, Jason, and Jasmine continues, and the rumour that Jason takes his wedding ring off when he goes out resurfaces. I tend to believe Jason and Janet here. Jason is a lawyer (shoutout!), and the way they respond to the rumour feels genuine and grounded. Their frustration seems valid. 

Jasmine, on the other hand, escalates the situation. She deflects, mocks Janet, and refuses to take accountability for spreading something she admits she did not believe. It is uncomfortable to watch—and a great example of what not to do when confronted. 

Whether you are dealing with a friend group or a co-parenting relationship, rumours can be damaging. They create unnecessary conflict, distract from what really matters, and can harm reputations. 

If you are dealing with rumours during or after separation, here are some tips: 

Stay calm. 
Reacting emotionally often gives the rumour more power. Take a deep breath and consider whether a response is even necessary. 

Correct the record in private. 
If the rumour is causing harm, speak directly to the person involved, if it is safe to do so. Keep your response factual and calm. 

Avoid fueling the gossip. 
Talking about it with mutual friends or posting about it online often makes things worse. Choose your words carefully and consider your child’s best interests if they are involved. 

Seek legal help if needed. 
If a rumour involves serious allegations—such as accusations of neglect, abuse, or financial misconduct—it may require a legal response. Your lawyer can help you determine whether court intervention is necessary. 

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is walk away. Not every conflict is worth your time or energy. 

Jax is Still Blaming Everyone but Himself

Later in the episode, Jason FaceTimes Jax from what is apparently still a functioning rehab facility, although Jax still has full access to his phone. The call quickly devolves into Jax blaming Brittany for his behaviour. His logic? That she stayed with him too long, so she essentially enabled it. 

Let’s be very clear. This is not taking accountability. This is manipulation. 

Genuine accountability means recognizing that your actions are your responsibility—regardless of how long someone else tolerated them. Saying you would have behaved better if someone had left you sooner is not growth. It is avoidance. 

Jax tries to present himself as someone who is reflecting and taking responsibility, but if his idea of growth is blaming his ex for his behaviour, he still has a long way to go. 

Brittany’s Privacy Is Violated Again—This Time From Afar

The most shocking moment of the episode comes right at the end. A producer appears on screen and tells Brittany that Jax is texting her about things she just said on a FaceTime call. This suggests that Jax is still actively monitoring her—likely through listening devices he installed in the home. 

This is incredibly serious. 

Surveillance and monitoring, especially without consent, are not just invasive. They are dangerous. If you are separated and your ex is spying on you, that is not a communication issue. That is harassment. 

In Saskatchewan, behaviour like this can form the basis for a no-contact order. It may also support exclusive possession of the family home or supervised parenting arrangements if children are involved. 

Listening devices in a shared home are a clear form of coercive control. Courts are beginning to take this form of emotional abuse much more seriously, especially where it impacts the safety and mental health of the other parent or child. 

If you suspect you are being monitored, take steps to protect yourself: 

  • Conduct a sweep of your home and disable or remove unfamiliar devices. 
  • Change passwords on Wi-Fi, security apps, and smart home systems. 
  • Document your concerns and keep any evidence of surveillance. 
  • Contact a lawyer and consider involving the police if necessary. 

If you do feel that you need to sweep your home for hidden surveillance devices, you can follow the following tips: 

  1. Perform a Visual Inspection

  • Look for Unusual Objects: Examine your surroundings for items that seem out of place or unfamiliar. Hidden devices are often concealed within everyday objects like smoke detectors, alarm clocks, picture frames, or electrical outlets. 
  • Check for Tiny Holes or Lenses: Use a flashlight to scan for small holes or reflective surfaces that might indicate a camera lens. Pay close attention to areas where a device could be discreetly installed. 
  • Inspect Mirrors and Light Fixtures: Some two-way mirrors can conceal cameras. To test, place your fingertip against the mirror; if there’s no gap between your finger and its reflection, it might be a two-way mirror. Also, examine light fixtures for any unusual modifications. 

  1. Use Your Smartphone

  • Infrared Detection: Many hidden cameras emit infrared (IR) light. In a dark room, use your smartphone’s camera to look for glowing spots that are invisible to the naked eye but visible on your screen. 
  • Wi-Fi Network Scan: Utilize apps like Fing to scan your Wi-Fi network for unfamiliar devices. Hidden cameras or microphones connected to your network may appear in the list of connected devices. 

  1. Employ a Radio Frequency (RF) Detector

RF detectors can help identify wireless surveillance devices by detecting their electromagnetic signals. Here’s how to use one: 

  • Turn Off Known Devices: Before scanning, power down all known electronic devices to reduce interference. 
  • Scan Methodically: Slowly move the RF detector around your home, paying special attention to areas where surveillance devices are commonly hidden. 
  • Monitor Signal Strength: Most RF detectors will indicate signal strength, helping you pinpoint the location of any transmitting devices 

No one should feel unsafe in their own home—especially after a separation. 

Final Thoughts: When You Move On, You Don’t Owe Anyone Your Peace

This episode was a study in contrasts. We saw Brittany beginning to rebuild her life and reclaim her confidence, while Jax continued to spiral deeper into control, blame, and surveillance. We saw friends who try to de-escalate conflict, and others who seem more interested in stirring the pot. 

Here’s what we can all take away from this week’s episode: 

  • You have a right to date again when you are ready but take steps to protect your children and financial stability while doing so. 
  • Gossip and rumours can be damaging, but you do not have to engage with them. 
  • Real accountability never sounds like blame. 
  • Monitoring or recording someone in their own home without consent is never okay. It is a serious issue that demands serious action. 

Brittany is showing us what healing and growth can look like, even when the person you are healing from refuses to change. That kind of resilience deserves to be celebrated. 

At Evolve Family Law, we help clients across Canada navigate separation, parenting, and personal safety with compassion, discretion, and clear legal advice. If you are dealing with coercive behaviour, financial uncertainty, or just trying to find your footing after a breakup, we are here to help. 

Disclaimer: these posts are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. They are not meant to provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, PLEASE consult a lawyer! Even better, book with us 🙂

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The Valley, Episode 8: Rumours, Red Flags, and Moving On (While Someone Might Still Be Listening) 

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