It's been a rough year for Mel Bauer. Daughter Leah returned from boarding school as a troublesome teen, and the good doc learned that her husband, Rick, has been having an affair with childhood pal Beth. Weekly takes Yvonna Wright's temperature about the latest developments.

Soap Opera Weekly: What are your thoughts on Rick and Mel's marital strife?
Yvonna Wright: It's sad. We've been together since I've been on the show, which has been five years. Of course it's a lot longer in soap days — 16 years, I guess. It's a little strange, though. I'm like, "Where am I going to fit in now?"

Weekly: At least Mel has her family around her.
Wright: Yes. Thankfully, I have a wonderful "daughter" and a great "brother," and both are great actors. It's good to have a core family again. I came on like that and it sort of disappeared, but now it's back.

Weekly: How do are you adjusting to Leah's sudden aging?
Wright: I love it. I think it's so interesting. [At first] I thought, "Oh, [Mel having a teen daughter] isn't going to look believable," but it looks believable. It's another acting challenge, and I love challenges. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Weekly: With Rick stepping out on Mel, are there any other men in Springfield who might be a good fit for her?
Wright: I don't know. There has been some chemistry between Mel and Jeffrey.

Weekly: He seems to be the go-to guy....
Wright: I'm sure that's inevitable. Poor Bradley [Cole] (laughs). I'm sure Jeffrey will be next.