The bad news? Scandal took last Thursday off.

The good news? This ABC smash is about to come back strong with three new episodes in a row. You can check out the official ABC promo to get an idea of what's ahead on this week's "Truth and Consequences," and then scroll down to read the official network descriptions for the subsequent pair of installments.

They involve some truth uncovering and some sparks flying between Olivia and a handsome stranger...

FEBRUARY 7, "Nobody Likes Babies" - As David uncovers the truth about the Cytron case, things come to a head for Olivia, Cyrus, Mellie, Hollis and Verna. Backed into a corner, the five conspirators go to extremes and, in some cases, unconscionable lengths to protect themselves and/or the ones they love.

FEBRUARY 14, "Whiskey Tango Foxtrot" - After discovering the truth behind defiance, Fitz is still struggling to figure out whom he can actually trust. Meanwhile Olivia is trying to move on with her life, and she meets a handsome stranger, Jake Weston (Scott Foley), who sparks her interest. But when Fitz and Olivia are forced to be in the same room again, real sparks fly and things get heated. Back at Pope & Associates, the team handles a new case, and for the first time they’re working with David Rosen instead of against him.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.