she didn't meet until she was an adult and the son she raised didn't get to do the same. That would have meant more dialogue and spotlight for Lucas/Ryan. I think that matters way more than people hugging him or approaching him. I mean this was supposed to be a two part tribute episode and I think the funeral was over by the halfway mark. Plenty of time for Lucas to speak. Plenty of time to show the repast at Kelly's or at Carly's house, which is where Lucas could have had at least one flashback and/or been comforted as you mentioned.
I wanted a scene with his family where actual conversation happened.
I would say that GF and Kin were my favorites today.
