I read some articles in SOD, an interview with Matt Ashford (Jack), Casey Moss (JJ), and something about Ciara.
JJ's depression has him thinking he is worthless, all he does is cause pain to other people. He remembers events in his life, thus writes goodbye letters to everyone, as he prepares to commit suicide. This is where his father comes in......but Matt's interview said very little, other than he was asked to return, the story idea broached, he felt it important, and was all very intense. He loved being back, seeing old friends (he named quite a few, met Marci Miller who now plays Abby) and actually hung out with her while there. He is very open to returning.
And then Ciara....who almost tells her mom about Rafe & Sami, but changes her mind, as she remembers all the hurt and pain her mom went thru about Aiden, and doesn't want to cause her any more. She decides she needs to talk to Rafe, (and the article says she loves him dearly) so......???? Rafe meanwhile realizes that Ciara was probably near by when Sami & he were talking. Hmmmmm.