"Salem Lives"

ANNOUNCER:A Family Holds An Emotional Vigil........

Scenes Of Frankie & Kayla Laying In Hospital Beds.

And, As One Man Fights The Memories Of His Past........

Scene Of Roman Getting Shot by Stefano On A Cliff.

And, Another Man Is Trying To Save His Future.....

Scene Of Lucas Being Led Away In Handcuffs.

The Wheels Of Doom Slowly Start Turning.......

Scene Of Wayne Northrop Saying.........."Now, The Real Game Begins."

This Week......On...

JANUARY 4, 2008-EPISODE # 408: CHAOS THEORY PART III


SALEM POLICE STATION

In his cell, Roman walks around, looking at his new home. He chuckles and then shakes his head, not being able to believe that he has ended up there, of all places. As he lays down on his cot, the guard brings in another prisoner......Lucas. They put both men in the same cell and Roman asks Lucas how his day is going. Lucas tells Roman about as well as his.

Lucas then asks who will get the top bunk. Roman says he goes to the bathroom a lot in the night so it’s better for him to have the bottom bunk. Lucas is ok with that and Roman asks Lucas what he’s in for. Lucas says one never says what they are in for.....just what they have been charged with. Roman pauses for a moment and then tells Lucas he’s been charged with murder.

Lucas then smiles, saying.......birds of a feather.

Lucas then says he needs to get some rest and, as he lays down, Roman stands at the bars and looks out. He then, suddenly.....gets a memory flash. He shakes his head, trying to clear his thoughts, but another memory flash comes and goes. He chalks it up to stress and then goes to lay down on his cot.


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Victor and Maggie come walking in. Bo sees them and walks over, shaking Victor’s hand and kissing Maggie on the cheek. Victor tells Bo to fill him in and he does. Caroline sits off in a corner, by herself, and Victor walks over to say how sorry he is. He knows Frankie will be ok. Maggie walks over and agrees, telling Caroline that she just needs to keep that famous hope of hers going.

Caroline says its been hours and she has two children in the hospital and one child locked up in jail. Victor asks what that is about and Bo tells him that Roman was arrested on murder charges. Before Victor can respond, Bo says he has their legal team working on it. Maggie asks has anyone seen Sami or any of the other family members and Hope then walks over, saying that some of them at the station......

Seeing Lucas, who was also arrested for murder. Victor then wants to know what the hell is going on. Bo pulls him to the side and, as Hawk walks into the waiting area and over to the two men, Bo and Victor start talking......

Victor: Tell me this, here and now. Is DiMera behind this?
Bo: With Roman, yes. Even though there was an attorney down at the station......on Roman’s behalf, asking about bail.
Victor: And Lucas?
Hawk: I have some people that I know in the place. Both men are being looked after.
Victor: Thank you, Hawk.
Bo: So, what do we do now?
Victor: Tell you what, son. You make the call. What should we do?
Bo: Ok. Well, Hawk, do me a favor. Get in touch with our people at the D.A.’s office and see if they can get both Lucas and Roman moved to a minimum security jail. I’ll have Nico and some men watch Stefano’s house and get some taps on his phone reactivated. And then....
Victor: Yes?
Bo: Then we circle the wagons........and bear down. I feel another bad wind headed our way and if we don’t stop it........

That’s the end......for all of us.

The men separate as Max looks out a window. Abby comes over and asks what is on his mind. Max says he is thinking about all the times he and Frankie had to eat out of dumpsters and sleep on the streets when he was a kid. He then says, now look at them. Frankie is a world-class lawyer and he has made something out of himself as well. And all because the Brady's took them in and made them part of the family.

But, that bond will always be there between him and Frankie and, as Max starts crying, all he can say is.....

Max: He’s the only real brother I’ve ever had. I can’t lose him, Abby. I just can’t.

Max puts his head on Abby’s shoulder as she pats a crying Max on his head, telling him that Frankie will be just fine.

At the nurses’ station, Bo hangs up the phone. Hope walks over and asks if everything is ok. Bo tells her she has some nerve asking that after what she did. Hope just wants a chance to explain and Bo says she lost that right when she screwed his best friend. Victor overhears this as he stands behind a wall, listening. Hope tells Bo that it happened just one time and Bo says......

Bo: Sure. One time you told me about.
Hope: (Starting to cry) Bo, please. Forgive me.
Bo: You really must be nuts to ask me for forgiveness.
Hope: Steve is just as much a victim as I am........

Victor’s face frowns into a cold stare and he pulls out his cell phone, calling Nico........

Hope: And I just don’t want you to hold this against him.
Bo: Hold it against him?! He steals my daughter, screws my wife behind my back, but I’m the one overreacting. That is BS and you know it, Hope.
Hope: Bo, for God’s Sakes, listen to me.......
Bo: (Grabbing her wrists) The only thing I want you to do......is go home, pack your [!@#$%^&*], and get out. I never want to see your face again....

That is.......until we see each other in court......when I divorce you.

Bo walks off as Hope tries to chase after her but Maggie runs over and grabs her, telling Hope to just give Bo time. Maggie comforts a deeply sobbing Hope......

As, back at the...


SALEM POLICE STATION

Roman is asleep in his bunk. He tosses and turns, remembering days gone by.......

The nightmare is ravaging his mind. He remembers a cabin exploding and himself on the run from the law. He remembers being charged with the Salem Stranglings..........the handcuffs being placed on his wrists........the breakout that Alice, Bo and Abe engineered.........and.......

Being shot on the top of Stefano’s island and, as he falls, right before he hits the beach below........

He wakes up, sweating and breathing very heavy. Lucas wakes up and asks if Roman is ok as Roman sits on the edge of his cot and tells Lucas it was just a bad dream. He then tells Lucas to go back to sleep.......they both have a long day ahead of them. Lucas lays back down and so does Roman but he is now terrified of going back to sleep. What he doesn’t want to tell Lucas, or anyone else, is that this is not the first time he’s had these nightmares......

And he fears it won’t be the last time.


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Adrienne walks in and her and Steve hug. Steve tells her that he has really made a mess of things and Adrienne says he can’t think about that now. All his thoughts must be with Kayla. Steve then says that if the baby dies, or if Kayla doesn’t make it......it’s all his fault. Adrienne hugs her brother and, as he cries in her arms....

Stephanie walks into a darkened room. She slowly walks over and takes a chair, sitting down by her sleeping mother. Stephanie takes her hand gently and asks her to please be ok. She tells Kayla she never had a brother or sister so for the both of them to die now would be pretty messed up. Stephanie then wipes the tears from her eyes as she places her head on her mother’s shoulder.

Out in the waiting area, Mike and Lexie both walk in to the waiting area. Everyone stands as Mike says.....

Mike: Well, we do have news........

As the scene pans around the waiting area, Victor walks into Greta’s room. Maggie stands behind him as he takes a chair and, as he looks at his beautiful daughter, he says.......

Victor: Damn. You just got out of here. Now, why would you end up back in here?

Victor and Maggie both chuckle, as he continues......

Victor: You can’t do this to us. Not now, not after all we’ve been through. So, I’m just going......to sit right here, until you get better, ok?

Victor then leans in and kisses her on her forehead and, as the scene pans upward, it then slowly fades to black.

Meanwhile, down in the parking lot, a mysterious man makes a phone call.......

Man: My, my. What a New Year for these three families. Yes..........yes, everything is being monitored. Roman Brady is behind bars. So is Lucas Horton. Bo and Hope Brady are on the skids. Kayla Johnson, Greta Kiriakis and Frankie Brady are fighting for their lives. And Stefano DiMera is still being the puppet master. Soon, very soon.......it will be your time to strike. Sure, no problem. I’ll keep you informed. Good-bye.

As the man hangs up, he looks toward the night sky and says......

Man (CLICK HERE TO SEE HIS FACE!!!): Well.......looks like this is going to be one hell of a New Year.

The man then walks toward his car as the scene slowly fades to black once again.


ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

EVIDENCE PILES UP FOR ONE SALEM RESIDENT...WHILE OTHERS FIND THEMSELVES DEALING WITH THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE NIGHT BEFORE!!

JANUARY 3, 2008-EPISODE #407: CHAOS THEORY PART II


DIMERA PENTHOUSE

Stefano has returned and walks into the living room. He pours himself a brandy and sits down by his chessboard as Lincoln walks in and asks how everything went. Stefano smiles, saying it went splendidly. Lincoln mentions that Cassie asked about him and why he disappeared after midnight. Stefano smiles, saying it's lovely that she worries about him.

Cassie then walks into the room. Stefano is shocked she is still up and apologizes for leaving after they rang in the new year together. He had business. As Lincoln leaves them alone, Cassie asks if it had anything to do with Roman Brady being arrested. Stefano thinks Cassie has gotten to know him too well. Cassie asks why he would care so much about Roman going down for Orpheus' death since he hated him, unless it's just a way of exploiting the situation to put an enemy in jail.

Stefano turns around and says that is exactly it. He then pours Cassie some brandy and says he would like to propose a toast. Cassie nods. They both raise their glasses as Stefano says:

Stefano: To the new year. May it be prosperous and one of great success for the Dimera's.

Stefano and Cassie clash glasses and begin to drink their brandy as the scene shifts to...


SALEM POLICE STATION

Marlena is in Abe's office, asking if there is anything they can do for Roman. Abe says they just need to wait until he is arraigned in the morning. Marlena looks through the window at Roman being booked and processed and says this isn't right. His family needs him right now. She asks if there is any news from the hospital yet. Abe shakes his head, saying not since Celeste called him. They then hear Sami arguing with someone and race out into the lobby.

Abe and Marlena find Carrie and Belle trying to keep Sami from standing up and attacking Patricia, who is standing next to a handcuffed Lucas and an officer. Marlena asks what happened. Patricia fills her in on Joelle's rape and brutal attack and how she accused Lucas of it all. Patricia warns Abe not to show any bias on this or she will make sure the department undergoes a clean sweep. Marlena tells Patricia that her witch hunt against the Brady's and Horton's must stop. Sami asks if she gets some sick pleasure out of it. Patricia smiles and says:

Patricia: Many of your loved ones have gotten away with enough already. I will be damned if that appalling trend continues. Not on my watch. My career and justice are at stake here. It's about time someone stop the corruption in this department.

Patricia then orders the officer to take Lucas to booking and processing while Abe follows as Marlena, Belle, and Carrie comfort Sami. The scene then shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Nurses and doctors race feverishly around the ER between 3 cubicles. Rich races into Greta's and asks a nurse if the X-rays he requested are back. Meanwhile, Mike and a team of nurses and doctors work on Frankie. A frustrated Mike yells out they are losing him and says he can't stop the bleeding as monitors and alarms go off. Mike sees Lexie in the waiting area and motions to her to come over. Lexie races in and Mike asks when her first day on call is. Lexie tells him it's later tonight. Mike says she is starting early and tells her to scrub in.

In the waiting area, family and friends await news. Lexie races out and announces it looks like she is going back to work early. She tells Celeste to head to the house and take care of Theo so the babysitter can head home. Celeste tells Lexie that the pain and suffering is far from over. Lexie tells Celeste to just go as it's not best for anyone to hear that right now. She will call her when she has a chance. Celeste nods in agreement and takes off.

Caroline asks Lexie how Frankie is doing. Lexie says she will let her know when she can and races back into the ER. A frustrated Caroline wishes they knew something. Bo comforts her, saying it's all going to be ok. Caroline admits she thought things were finally turning for their family but now with Frankie and Kayla in the hospital and Roman being arrested, she isn't so sure. Caroline admits she doesn't know how much she can take.

Meanwhile, Jack is with Victor and Maggie waiting for news on Greta when his cell rings. Jack realizes he forgot to turn if off and races outside to answer it. It's Kate, who asks if Billie is with him. She isn't answering her phone and seemed upset earlier. Jack says he thought she stayed back with her to talk once they all headed for the hospital. Kate says she is really worried and Jack wishes he could go look for her but doesn't want to leave with Greta and Frankie like this. Kate says she will look and call Lucas and Philip for help. She tells him she will call and check in later. Jack thanks her.

Laura, Doug, and Julie think Alice should head home but she says they need to stay to support the Brady's and says Greta has always been a close friend of hers, like a daughter. She wants to stay. Doug says they know better then to argue. Tony says they feel the same way and want to support the Brady's. As Anna stands next to him, Tony asks where Bill went. Laura says he was helping with Kayla as the doctors needed a hand and is now up with Kayla, Steve, and Stephanie as tests need to be done. as the doctors needed a hand. The scene then shifts back to...


SALEM POLICE STATION

Carrie and Belle think Sami needs to go back to the hospital. Marlena thinks it's that is a great idea. Sami says not until she sees Lucas, at least. Will arrives and asks what happened, saying he heard on the news about dad. Sami fills him in on everything that is happening with Lucas, Roman, and his uncle Frankie and aunt Kayla. Will can't believe it. Lucas is then dragged in on his way to his cell as Will rushes into his arms. Lucas walks over to Sami and says he will be ok and tells Will it will all work out in the end. All three embrace as the officer pulls Lucas away as he tells Sami and Will he loves them. Sami holds Will in her arms as Marlena, Belle, and Carrie look on in sadness as the scene shifts back to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Kayla is now in a ICU room as Steve and Stephanie wait outside. Steve asks Stephanie if she is ok. Stephanie doesn't answer. Steve notes that she has said nothing to him at all since the reception. Stephanie looks at him coldly, saying:

Stephanie: Mom said we would talk about it later but I know already what I need to. This is all your fault. You and aunt Hope? This all happened because of you.
Steve: Baby, I...

Bill comes out of the room to talk to Steve and Stephanie, interrupting their talk. Steve asks what is going on. Bill says that the OB GYN is still in with Kayla and that things are precarious based on a high level of stress and upset, especially with Kayla's age as a factor. Stephanie stares daggers at Steve. Billi tells them the OB GYN can explain in more detail but he can tell them that Kayla and the baby are both at risk as the baby is nearly in distress and there is a possibility that one or both of them may not get through this. Bill stresses further tests are needed yet and thinks they shouldn't panic but they need to be aware.

Steve is in shock and can't believe what is happening. Stephanie begins to cry. Steve looks in on Kayla in her room, unconscious with the OB GYN and a two nurses with her. Bill tells him that Kayla has been sedated to help her relax and get some rest. Stephanie breaks down and yells out that this is all Steve's fault and that her mother and baby brother or sister's blood is on his and aunt Hope's hands if they die.

Stephanie then orders Steve not to see Kayla and to go away. Steve tells Stephanie he is sorry but all she can do is to lash out again and order him away from Kayla and from her. Bill tells a heartbroken Steve to just abide by Stephanie's wishes, as hard as it is, just for now. Steve nods and says he loves her and tells her to tell her little bro or sis that too and her mother. Steve walks off as Stephanie turns away in disgust and cries while Bill watches. Meanwhile, Steve enters the stairwell, fighting back years, and looks around aimlessly before taking out his cell and making a call to someone, telling them he needs them to come to the hospital right now as the scene fades to...

Caroline, who asks Bo why they aren't hearing anything. Bo comforts her as she asks how it happened. Max, who is being comforted by Abby, wants to know too. Caroline asks if it was the footage of Steve and Hope making love. Bo looks at Hope, who has tears welling in her eyes. Caroline looks over at Hope and asks if all this is because of that. Bo tells Caroline and everyone else it's not the time and place right now to discuss this, especially a private matter. Kayla and her unborn baby, Frankie, and Greta are all that is important. Caroline hopes Roman is ok too.

Mike and Lexie then emerge with Rich close behind. Mike says he is sorry it took so long. He wanted to consult with Rich on Frankie's situation. Rich announces Greta will be fine but she re-injured some of the injuries she had from her hit and run. They have given her meds for the pain and she is sedated right now. Victor, Maggie, Jack, and everyone else are overjoyed. Mike says that Frankie saved Greta by breaking her fall and tells his loved ones:

Mike: He suffered a massive blow. There are spinal injuries and considerable swelling to that area. He ruptured his spleen and damaged his liver and kidneys. We stabilized him and stopped the bleeding but there is still internal hemorrhaging. There is also massive head trauma and bleeding around the brain. He needs surgery ASAP and we don't even know how effective that will be.

Caroline is devastated as everyone else looks on in horror and sadness. Victor whispers to Maggie that Frankie saved his daughter's life and Caroline may lose her son. Maggie comforts him. Mike tells Caroline she needs to sign the consent forms. Bo comforts her and says she needs to sign to help Frankie. Bo helps Caroline, who is shaking, as she signs. Mike says they will begin to prep him and leaves, asking Lexie if she would like to scrub in to begin her surgery rotation. Lexie says she would and adds she would like to be in there to help.

As everyone reacts to this heartbreaking news, Bo comforts Caroline and Max is comforted by Abby. Hope tries to reach out to Bo and puts her arm on his shoulder but he yanks himself away and coldly stares at her. Hope puts her head down in shame and walks off. Meanwhile, Jack goes outside and calls Kate, who says she tried calling Lucas and Philip to help but got no answer. She tells him she has yet to find Billie. Jack says he will start looking to and admits he is worried also given the last time he saw her. The scene then shifts to...


CHEATIN HEART

Billie walks up outside, looking like an emotional wreck and her hands trembling. She looks insider the bar and hesitates for a moment and then goes in. She looks at the bar and is happy to see her bartender friend who knows about her past history not on tonight. She walks over to the bar and is asked what she would like.

Billie: A...vodka tonic...wait, maybe...yeah. A vodka tonic.

Billie then sits down at the bar and thinks, with tears welling in her eyes as she tries to fight them. She recalls learning that Orpheus is her father and that Chelsea is not her daughter. She then recalls Frankie and Greta falling through the skylight. The bartender puts her drink in front of her and notices her trembling and being upset. He asks if she is ok. Billie looks at the drink, picks it up, hesitates and thinks for a few moments, and says:

Billie: No. I'm not ok. But...I will be.

Billie then takes a sip of her drink and puts it down. The bartender smiles and walks off. Billie then looks at her drink, thinking again. She then looks at it with disgust before picking it up, hesitating again for a moment, and then raising it close to her mouth and taking another sip...followed by another..and...

The scene pans up and shows an overhead shot of Billie at the bar and then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE PAST HAUNTS A SALEM RESIDENT!

JANUARY 2, 2008: EPISODE #406: CHAOS THEORY


SALEM TOWERS

Loved ones run into the ballroom and everyone gasps in horror at the sight. Mike runs up with Laura and Bill close behind and he and Lexie check on both Frankie and Greta. Mike says that from the angle, Frankie must have broken Greta’s fall. Caroline races over to see her son lying unconscious amongst broken glass and debris and can’t bear to watch as she falls into Bo’s arms, crying. Max wants to know if his brother is going to be ok and Mike can’t answer that. As the Hortons and Bradys pray for miracles, Kayla is almost doubling over in pain.....

But won’t reveal it to anyone, as she steps off to the side.

Stephanie runs over to her mother wondering what is wrong and what happened. As Bo and Kayla stare coldly at Steve and Hope, Kayla says she’ll tell her later. It's not the time and place. As Hope blames herself for this night’s tragedy, Steve tells her not to blame herself. They should have just told the truth from the beginning.

Kate then runs over to Billie, asking if she is ok. Jack tells Kate what happened and Kate hopes everyone will be ok. Billie tells her that is a laugh.........her mother is actually thinking of someone besides herself. Kate says this is not the time for that and Billie agrees, saying that there truly is nothing anyone can do now. As Billie walks off trembling and in tears, Jack and Kate watch and wonder.


SALEM AIRPORT

On the Kiriakis private jet, Victor hands his new bride Maggie a glass of........ice water. Maggie says that’s not fair and Victor tells her not even on their honeymoon is she going to drink. As the couple laugh and then kiss, the pilot walks in and disturbs them. Victor is none too pleased but changes his mind dramatically when the pilot tells them that his daughter has been injured and is being rushed to University Hospital. Victor tells Maggie to grab her purse and then orders his driver to get the car ready.....

And move with all speed to the hospital.


SALEM PARK

Joelle goes into cardiac arrest, all the while accusing Lucas of raping and attacking her. Lucas swears he didn’t do it. Patricia says that Joelle pin pointed him as her attacker. Lucas says what is amazing is that the D.A. would allow a crime scene to become contaminated while trying to go on some witch hunt to lock him up. Joelle tells Lucas one thing as she breaths heavily......

Joelle: I’ll see you Lucas.....in hell.

At that moment, Joelle dies. Lucas and Patricia are stunned but she snaps out of it, calling for an officer to take Lucas back to the station and book him......

On murder charges.

As the officer drags a defiant Lucas away, Patricia orders the area sealed and for an investigation to begin......at once. She then orders a search for Joelle's son, Joey. The scene then fades from Patricia.........


SALEM POLICE STATION

Roman is brought in wearing handcuffs. Abe takes his coat off of Roman’s wrists and then takes the cuffs off. Roman thanks him, saying he thought he was over wearing cuffs after the last time he was arrested for murder. Abe says that was 25 years ago. New day, new time. Roman agrees as Marlena and Belle come walking in. Marlena and Roman hug as Belle thanks Abe for his help. Abe says that he will fight this tooth and nail. Carrie then walks in, wheeling Sami in, and Roman asks why Sami is there. Sami says there is no way she is staying out while her daddy is being charged with murder.

Marlena smiles and asks if Sami is pushing herself too much. Sami says she is fine but wants to ask one question......

Sami: How in the HELL can Orpheus and Stefano get away with all the [!@#$%^&*] they have pulled this past year, but my dad gets arrested?!

Stefano walks in, defiantly saying.......

Stefano: Maybe you should wonder why he hasn’t been locked up a long time ago. I told you that you and your family would pay for what happened to Andre, and Renee, and Megan. I keep my promises, Roman.
Roman: Whatever, old man. You have the upper hand now.......but, as you know, it won’t last long.
Stefano: Oh, on the contrary, my friend. This is check......and mate.
Roman: I still have some moves left on that chess board, Stefano. Remember that.

Both men are kept separate as Abe warns them both that the station will not be used as their personal battleground. Both men stare hatred at one another as Marlena, Carrie, Belle and Sami can cut the tension with a butcher’s knife. Marlena then asks to speak to Stefano.........alone.

As they walk into the outer hallway, she asks him how he can let Roman go to prison after what his son has done. Stefano says that, for a price, Roman can walk out of the station a free man. Marlena is appalled......and tries to slap Stefano. He is undeterred, saying that she will always be his “Queen Of The Night”.

Marlena then says that his queen just may let everyone in Salem know who his son is. Stefano swears that if anyone finds out about Orpheus........Roman will die inside prison walls and that will be just for starters. As Roman is brought out for booking, Sami and Carrie follow. Marlena says that she will try her best to have him released as soon as possible and Stefano demands that no police corruption occur in this case.

Roman kisses his ladies and then takes a walk to booking, led away by Abe. As the Brady women look at Stefano, all he can do.......

Is smile, as he walks away.


SALEM TOWERS

Kayla is still in serious pain as Steve walks over and asks if she is ok. She stares coldly at him once again and says nothing. Bo is still comforting Caroline as Abby holds Max’s hand. Laura, Bill, Mike and Lexie work on Frankie and Greta while everyone watches and waits. Mike hopes that Greta hasn’t re-injured herself. Bo says that he will bring in whatever doctors Mike needs to help save his sister and brother. He then says that Frankie has massive internal injuries and, by the fall, he may have suffered a broken back. They can’t stand around talking. These people need to get to a hospital....

And fast. At that moment, two helicopters land and the medical teams start loading Greta and Frankie on board. As the helicopters take off into the cold night, everyone watches them disappear into the stars......

Hoping that everything will be ok.

At that moment, Kayla doubles over in pain and Bo and Jack come rushing over. She grabs her stomach and Steve then runs over to her. Kayla instinctively takes his hand as Bo and Jack catch her and, as Steve tries to comfort Kayla........

The scene shows her holding his hand tighter.......as the scene fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

LIVES HANG IN THE BALANCE!!

DECEMBER 31, 2007: EPISODE #405: IMPLOSION PART II


JOELLE'S APARTMENT

Patricia is with several officers who are still canvasing the apartment. Lucas can't believe what he is seeing. Patricia asks if it looks familiar. Lucas says nothing. Patricia supposes he can't remember anything...again. Lucas says he can't. He admits coming to see Joelle and then his mind is a blank. Patricia smiles, saying just like the last time and the time before that. Lucas assures her it's the truth. Patricia laughs, saying:

Patricia: I guess it must be true. I mean, your a Horton, right? That should buy you a free pass! Give me a break!

Just then, an officer tells Patricia an officer came across a little boy in the park. It's Joelle's son, Joey, and he found Joelle near death. EMT"s and more man power is on the way. Patricia and Lucas are stunned. Patricia says let's go and they race off as the scene shifts to...


SALEM TOWERS

Everyone at the reception reacts in shock and horror at the images of Steve and Hope making love being played on the big screen. Victor quickly orders someone to turn it off. Bo and Kayla both look at Hope and Steve, appalled at what they just witnessed. Kayla looks at Steve in disbelief as Bo looks at Hope, rage beginning to build in his eyes as tears well in Hope's as they lock eyes. Hope becomes overwhelmed with emotion and runs off in tears. Bo chases after and Steve and Kayla follow as the crowd talks amongst itself.

Stephanie and Caroline want to go after them but Victor stops Caroline, saying they need to deal with it themselves. Abby consoles Stephanie as Max and Alex look on. Maggie hates what just happened. Roman and Marlena can't believe it. Abe says he can't either and remembers what he has to tell Roman and says he needs to talk to him...right now. Meanwhile, Lexie sees Celeste in a corner and goes to her. She sees that she is upset and asks if she is ok. Celeste looks at Lexie and says lives will be destroyed tonight...and that death is closing in on Salem. Tony and Anna come over just as she says this and they both look at Lexie and Celeste with concern and worry.

Up on the rooftop, Greta can't believe what she just saw. Neither can Jack, Billie, and Frankie. Billie admits she never thought she would see Hope cheat on Bo, let alone with Steve. Greta looks at a smirking Nicole, asking if she did do this. Nicole nods and admits she did just as Hope comes racing on to the roof with Bo, Steve, and Kayla close behind. Nicole looks at Hope and says that she warned her and Steve to do as she requested but they dragged their feet and will now pay the piper. Hope becomes enraged and lunges for Nicole, tugging at her hair and beginning to choke her. Jack and Frankie pull her off Nicole as an angry Bo says that is enough and that he wants answers right now. Hope looks around and tells Bo there are too many people around. Bo says he doesn't care and he isn't chasing her again.

Bo:Kayla and I have wondered...for MONTHS! All the times you two took off...were talking in a corner, thinking no one was watching. Do you take us for idiots? Kayla kept saying you would slip up and I guess, in a way, you did. How sad is it??!! How disgusting is it that we couldn't rely on you both to be honest with us. HUH??!!
Hope (in tears): BO!! Please!! It's not what it looks like. Let me explain.
Bo: Well, someone better. And they better NOW!

Kayla is hyperventilating. Jack asks if she is ok. She begins to clutch her stomach and says she is fine, just in shock. Steve looks at her with concern. Kayla stares daggers at him.

Steve: Bo...look, man. We didn't set out to hurt you or Kayla. What happened was a mistake. There were circumstances...
Bo: Oh, this should be good.
Hope: It started when Steve found out some things about his past while on the ship with Orpheus.
Kayla: You mean when Orpheus forced Steve to work with him?
Steve: Yeah. He reminded me of memories from my past...from my missing years. He recreated situations...he was playing mind games with me. He then told me something I wouldn't have believed if not for some of the vague memories I had of being with a woman while I was imprisoned.
Kayla: A woman?
Bo: What did he tell you? Tell us!!

Steve is silent. Hope is silent and looks over at Billie, her eyes filling with worry over the devastation Billie may feel as a result of what is about to be said.

Bo: Well?! Come on!

Steve looks at Hope, who nods, saying:

Hope: We have to. It's time...time to admit everything.
Bo: Damn straight, it is!!
Steve: Chelsea was imprisoned at that time with Abby and Forrest. Orpheus took me to them and told me that Chelsea...was my daughter.

Billie's face turns to one of shock, saying she never slept with him. Bo looks at Steve in disbelief, saying that is impossible. Steve shakes his head as Hope jumps in and says:

Hope: It's not...because I'm Chelsea's mother.

Billie, Bo, and everyone is shocked and in disbelief as the scene shifts to...


"RIOT" (A LOCAL SALEM NIGHTCLUB)

Philip and Alyson are dancing among a large crowd on the dance floor, both drunk and both all over each other. Philip tells her he is so glad they did this. He is having the time of his life and is feeling an unbelievable rush. Alyson agrees, saying she feels truly alive tonight. They continue to dance, with her dancing growing more and more seductive. They end up being pushed closer together, forcing them into a moment where they lock eyes and she says:

Alyson: Whatever...happens tonight...stays between us...
Philip: Letting loose...time of our lives...the way it should be...

Alyson then lunges forward and kisses Philip passionately. He breaks away as they lock eyes again for a few months before they kiss again, this time with him kissing her. They break apart and look each other for a moment before she races off with him behind him as the scene shifts back to...


SALEM TOWERS

Caroline thinks Victor and Maggie should just leave for their honeymoon before they miss their flight. They both say they could never leave with what is going on with Bo, Hope, Steve, and Kayla. Alice, Bill, Laura, Doug, and Julie insist they go, saying if something happens they will fill them in. Victor looks at Maggie and tells her it's really not their business and it may make things worse if they knew they were holding back because of them. Maggie nods, saying they should go then. They just hate not being able to stay with midnight only less then an hour away. Alice says it's ok. Their union has made 2008 a blessed year already. Victor and Maggie say their goodbyes as everyone throws rice and they head off.

Meanwhile, everyone on the rooftop is still stunned by Hope's revelation, especially Billie and Bo, who think it can't be true. Hope insists it is, saying they have DNA tests to prove it and Chelsea found out herself on the island from Stefano last year. When she returned to Salem, she had a DNA test done that proved it. Greta jumps in and says it's true. She found Chelsea at the hospital as she was there having a DNA test done to see if Victor was her father after Stefano had revealed that to her as well. Chelsea confided in her and swore her to secrecy, admitting she was also there when Hope found out. Hope says she found out on Christmas Eve last year when Chelsea came out of her coma. Chelsea had felt it was time to tell her after all that had happened. Hope adds that they kept the truth because so much was going on...the war between Victor and Stefano, Chelsea's very own problems and Billie helping her deal with them, Bo concealing his molestation and working with Roman on busting Victor and Stefano and then the Orpheus ordeal. Hope tells Bo she is sorry and so is Chelsea. There was just enough going on and they felt it was for the best.

Billie says if this is true, where is her real daughter? Hope looks down in sadness. It's up to Steve, who tells her that Georgie likely did die in the swamp in her arms. Billie is devastated and asks Hope how she and Steve could keep this from her. Hope says they thought it was for the best. Bo says:

Bo: Why do people always assume that they know what is best? That's a pathetic excuse.
Hope: One that you used too to justify keeping the truth about Zack from me! As well as the truth about other things, like your molestation and undercover operation with Roman.
Bo: So, that must be what Orpheus was talking about on the ship. He looked right at you and I was blind to it. Damnit!

Jack goes over to Billie and asks if she is ok. Billie has tears streaming down her face and is trembling, recalling learning for sure she was a Dimera and Orpheus' daughter earlier and stunned by what she has just learned. As a concerned Jack looks on, Billie can say nothing but:

Billie: I don't know how much more I can take.

Meanwhile, Bo asks Hope:

Bo: Alright. Go on. Then what?
Hope: Steve had no idea that I was Chelsea's mother so, after we all were back in Salem after the ship disaster, he launched his own investigation.
Steve: I wanted to know if Chelsea was really mine. I had no proof.
Hope: I overheard him saying something to Chelsea as she was dragged off to the hospital.
Steve: I didn't tell her I could be her father. I told her I had some ideas and would work on it.
Hope: Hearing that and overhearing him when he went to Tony for help with access to Maison Blanche...I decided to follow him.
Bo: Knowing how dangerous that was! Why didn't you come to me?
Hope: You had enough going on! Plus, it wasn't my place to tell you or Kayla what was going on.
Bo: No, of course not. We're only talking about Chelsea here. The girl I believed was my daughter.
Hope: Bo...it's not like that.

Bo shakes his head while Kayla tries to conceal the fact she is in pain. Nicole looks on with glee.

Bo: Go on, Hope. Keep going. Then what?
Hope: I don't think I should.
Bo: Go ahead.
Hope: Once I arrived at Maison Blanche and Steve saw me, I told him I was Chelsea's mother and we put two and two together...and realized I could be the woman in his memories. So, we tried recreating the memories he was having in a room he thought was the one in his memories...one thing led to another...
Bo: And you made love...
Steve: No. We came close and stopped ourselves. We pulled back because we didn't want to make a mistake. Tony arrived and we got dragged into something he was working on.
Hope: It's not our place to say what but we ended up in Italy and got stuck in a pit.
Steve: We nearly were gassed to death and it recreated another past memory, where I, as Patch, rescued Gina and was beaten badly.
Bo: Oh, Patch and Gina, eh?
Hope: You know I called myself that at Maison Blanche. I gave Steve that name then. He said it seemed familiar and it seemed to stick.
Bo: Yeah. Sure.
Steve: So, we got lost in the memories, man. We came close again...
Bo: To making love. But, of course, it was only close and we are supposed to believe that with all these lies.
Hope: It's the truth. Tony saved us and we then went with him to see Liz to help him with what he was dealing with and came back to Salem. We were going to leave the past alone, not wanting anything to happen but the Myers crisis...it convinced me I had to know. I would have regrets and pieces of my past were missing.

Bo shakes his head in disgust.

Bo: It's the Gina scenario all over again.
Hope: Bo...we went back to Maison Blanche, with Tony's help. I remembered where I had left a diary Gina had wrote in and we found it. We read it in the room we were held prisoner in and learned about Gina and Patch's story. I forced Steve to stop reading it when things got to be too much. We headed back to Salem and I refused to read the rest. The memories...emotions...were too powerful.
Steve: She was afraid and she was right. I kept pushing and...
Hope: The night of the Ball...I told Steve not to come...
Kayla: That's why you wanted to stay home that night.
Steve: Hope was feeling uncomfortable and she knew I was pushing to read the rest of the diary. When the power went out, we got stuck in the elevator and we read the rest.
Hope: The elevator malfunctioned when the generator began working. Steve saved me and we ended up on the roof. We got soaked from the storm. I was feeling overwhelmed...the memories. All the emotions from that time as Gina...they were flooding through my mind. I tried running away but we ended up on an office floor and we locked eyes, We both knew the whole story and...it was too powerful.
Steve: We lost it...we lost control. We got lost in the past.
Hope (in tears): We were weak. I was weak.
Bo: WEAK!! WEAK?! That is all you got!!

Hope breaks down in tears, saying she is so sorry repeatedly as Bo turns away in disgust. Steve looks at Kayla and says he is sorry...from the bottom of his heart. Kayla is hyperventilating and clutching her stomach. Steve asks what is wrong. Kayla says she needs to stay calm and is really trying. Steve tries to console her but Kayla pushes him away, telling him to back off. Steve says he is worried but Kayla tells him he should've thought about that before. Steve puts his arm around her but she yanks it away, telling him to think of his child. Steve says he is thinking about Stephanie and knows she is hurting but gets the feeling she is talking about someone else...but they only have one child. Kayla looks at Steve and says:

Kayla: Your right. I was talking about our unborn baby. I'm pregnant, Steve.

Steve is shocked, as is everyone else.

Kayla: It was going to be a New Year's surprise after midnight but, I guess the surprise is on me.

The scene then shifts to...

A MOTEL ON SALEM'S EASTSIDE

Philip and Alyson throw each other into the door as they kiss passionately and he tries to open the door. He does and they begin to rip each other's clothes off as he closes the door. They then collapse on the bed and begin to make love as the scene shifts too...


SALEM PARK

Lucas and Patricia arrive at the crime scene and sees a bruised and bloodied Joelle being tended to by EMT's. An officer tells Patricia that Joey found her and ran off to get a security man from a nearby hotel, who called 911. Joey panicked when they took too long and ran off to get help on his own. Lucas hates to think of what that child is going through. Patricia gives him a cold look and asks about Joelle. The officer says she seems to indicate she was raped again and adds that she has several stab wounds, one to the side and two to the abdomen. There is also a gash on her neck and she was beaten badly and appears to have been dragged at one point. She is in and out of consciousness but the EMT's think she won't make it more then an hour.

Patricia wants to talk to her and goes over and kneels down next to her. Patricia can't believe she is even conscious and asks Joelle if she is awake. Joelle slightly opens her eyes as Patricia asks her if she knows who did to her and what happened. Joelle nods and whispers she was raped...and attacked real bad. She screams in pain as the EMT's say they are losing her as she begins to hyperventilate. Patricia asks if she knows who did it and to tell her right now so justice can be served for her and her son. Joelle says she will be with her mother soon...she can feel it. Patricia tells her to tell her who did it. Joelle then lifts her trembling hand and manages to point at Lucas, saying it was him just as she closes her eyes and stops breathing. The EMT's push Patricia out of the way and begin CPR as Patricia coldly stares at Lucas and the scene shifts to...


SALEM TOWERS

Stephanie worries about what is going on with her parents as Max and Abby assure her everything will be ok while Alex looks on. Lexie asks Celeste if she has any idea what is going to happen. She shakes her head, saying midnight will bring terror to Salem. Lexie looks at an equally worried Tony and Anna. Abe has finished telling Roman and Marlena about Roman's impending arrest. Roman says he will just have to deal with it. Marlena says she will be right by his side. Carrie and Belle, who have arranged to send the kids home, are there and say they will do the same. Just then, several officers arrive and approach Roman, saying they hate to do this but he is under arrest for the murder of Orpheus. Everyone is stunned as Roman is handcuffed and read his rights. He is then dragged off as Marlena follows, along with Belle and Carrie. Caroline wants to go too but Marlena tells her to stay, saying she will call her. Abe tells Celeste he is going to and asks if she can find a way home. Lexie agrees to take her as Abe races off before Celeste can say anything about her premonition. Tony and Anna notice it's almost midnight.

Meanwhile, up on the rooftop, Steve is stunned that Kayla is pregnant. Kayla tells him to just not say anything. She needs to stay calm for the baby. Hope tries to reach out to Bo but he rebuffs her, telling her he can't even look at her.

Bo: After all the hell you gave me over lying after Zack's death and about me and Roman. All the hell you gave me over my concealing my molestation and you do this? When you slept with John, I could take that. You were under mind control. This time...there was none of that. THERE WAS NO DAMN BRAIN CHIP, HOPE!!

Hope breaks down yet again.

Bo: THIS WAS YOU!! YOU AND THE MAN I CALLED A BROTHER IN LAW...A FRIEND OF MANY YEARS!! YOU BETRAYED ME!! YOU BETRAYED MY SISTER!!

Frankie and Jack try to calm Bo as Greta comforts a devastated Hope as Billie and Jack look on. Bo then looks at Nicole smiling and supposes she found out and was blackmailing them. Nicole nods. Bo assumes they didn't produce so she exposed them. Nicole says that is true and admits she was happy to do it. They deserved it as they looked like they enjoyed their little romp. Steve tells her to shut up as Kayla grimaces in pain. Bo tells Steve that Nicole would've had nothing to gloat about if he and Hope didn't have sex. Bo admits he can't even fathom this and he doesn't know if he believes any of the BS they just told him. Steve insists it's true. Bo then asks if he enjoyed the sex. Steve begs him not to do this. Bo wants an answer and an honest one.

Steve tells Bo he loves Kayla and only Kayla and that what happened with Hope is complicated and just a mistake. They just got lost in the past. Bo says:

Bo: Lost in the past, eh?

Bo hauls back and punches Steve, sending him to the ground as Hope and Kayla scream out for Bo to stop.

Bo: When I get through with you, your ass will be knocked so far into the past, you will really be lost.

Bo then begins to beat the hell out of Steve as he begins to fight back. Frankie and Jack jump in to break it up as Kayla, in obvious pain, tries to help too, along with Billie. Meanwhile, Nicole sees everyone distracted and decides it's time to go. Greta sees this and races over to her, grabbing her and saying she is going to pay for what she has done. The scene then shifts down below, into the ballroom, as midnight is approaching. Those still left at the reception prepare to ring in the 2008 as Celeste trembles, telling Lexie "It's coming..."

The scene shifts back to the rooftop as Bo and Steve continue to fight as everyone tries to break it up. We hear people counting down from 10 below in the ballroom. Greta still has a hold of Nicole, who tells Greta to let go of her. Greta says it's about time someone puts an end to her games. Nicole then says she doesn't think so and pushes Greta off of her, sending her backward toward the fight. The action then happens in slow motion as Bo and Steve continue to fight and force themselves and everyone trying to break the fight up into Greta, who loses her footing and falls back toward the skylight. The countdown to 2008 is at 5 seconds. Frankie sees Greta falling and puts his arms around her as they both crash through the skylight as the clock strikes midnight and everyone yells "HAPPY NEW YEAR". The crowd in the ballroom below sees glass and two bodies dropping from above and scream in terror, taking cover. The glass from the skylight, Frankie, and Greta then fall to the ground, Greta's bloodied body on top of Frankie's as everyone looks on in horror as AULD LANG SYNE-(CLICK HERE TO PLAY FOR THE SCENE!!!) begins to play.

Caroline screams in pain and races over to Frankie as Laura and Bill race over to help. Alice, Doug, and Julie look on, horrified. Lexie races over to help as Tony and Anna do as well. Max races to his brother's side along with Abby, Stephanie and Alex. Hope, Bo, Billie, Kayla and Jack look on, shocked and almost numb about what just happened as Nicole looks on, worried and scared about what will happen next to her. Meanwhile, Celeste looks at the carnage as tears stream down her face, saying:

Celeste: It's only...just beginning...

The scene then pans up for an overhead shot of the ballroom and everyone trying to help Frankie and Greta as AULD LANG SYNE continues to play among the chaos. The scene then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

CHAOS!!

*ROMAN AND I JUST WANT TO THANK OUR LOYAL READERS FOR TAKING TIME OUT EACH DAY TO READ THE BLOG AND TO COMMENT. WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT AND DEVOTION AND HOPE YOU ENJOY SALEM LIVES AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO INTO 2008. HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND HAPPY 2008!!! ALSO, REMINDER THAT SALEM LIVES IS PREEMPTED TUESDAY, JANUARY 1 AND WILL BE BACK WEDNESDAY JANUARY 2!!

DECEMBER 28, 2007: EPISODE #404: IMPLOSION


ST. LUKE'S CHURCH

Right before the gunman pulls the trigger...........A nickel plated revolver is pointed at his temple with Roman Brady, the man holding it, saying....

Roman: Pull that trigger and you're dead.........a half a second later.

The gunman puts the weapon down and Roman walks him out quietly at gunpoint. Once outside, he hands him over to one of Victor's men, saying that he will ask him questions later on and to get him to the station.........quietly. As the men lead the gunman away, Roman puts his gun away and walks back into the church...

Where Victor and Maggie are celebrating becoming husband and wife as family and friends embrace them and cry tears of joy as loud organ music plays. Victor and Maggie look into each other's eyes. Maggie is in tears and Victor admits to her that he has never been as happy as he is right now. Maggie smiles. They kiss and then proceed down the aisle as Caroline watches, fighting back tears. Victor and Maggie stop in the vestibule and see Roman there. Victor asks if everything is ok. Roman says it is now. Nico walks back there and Roman tells Victor he will fill Nico in and he can fill him in later. Victor nods and then turns his attention back to his bride. The scene then shifts to...


SALEM TOWERS

Several hours later as guests have arrived for the wedding reception and are awaiting the bride and groom. Bo walks over to Nico and asks if they are coming. At that moment, Nico sees them get off the elevator and tells Bo to prepare everyone. Bo tells everyone to be quiet as Victor and Maggie walk in. Everyone claps for them as Nico says:

Nico: Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Victor Kiriakis!

Victor and Maggie acknowledge the crowd and thank them for their applause. Victor then takes the microphone and thanks everyone for being there for their special day. Maggie does the same. Victor then tells everyone to enjoy the reception as it's also a New Year's Eve celebration and they are grateful everyone is there to celebrate with them.

Everyone applauds. Nico then announces it's time for the bride and groom's first dance. We then see a montage set to EDWIN MCCAIN'S "COULD NOT ASK FOR MORE" (CLICK HERE TO PLAY!) as Victor and Maggie share their first dance and remember the journey that got them to where they are today....working together during the island adventure in summer 2006, Victor comforting Maggie over losing Mickey and Maggie comforting Victor over Philip fighting for his life and his feeling guilty, Victor helping Maggie through her fall off the wagon, the adventure in Sydney, their time apart this winter and their reunion on the cruise ship this past summer, their first time making love, special dinners and nights together, and Victor proposing to her.

Victor then motions for all the couples to join them on the dance floor. Bo and Hope, Steve and Kayla, Tony and Anna, Doug and Julie, Max and Abby, Frankie and Greta, Roman and Marlena, and others join them on the dance floor Jack asks Billie to dance but she says she doesn't feel like it. He promises not to step on her feet. She reluctantly agrees. Lucas asks Alice to dance and she agrees, saying how wonderful he is. He helps her up and along. Shane asks Kim to dance. She asks him to take Caroline for a spin. He agrees and Caroline does as well, after some urging. Philip approaches Belle, who is holding Claire, asking if beautiful wife or daughter would like to dance.

Belle tells Philip it's not a good time and walks off as Philip stews. Abe asks Lexie if she would like to dance. Lexie thinks it's too soon but tells him it's ok for him to dance with Celeste. She can handle it and she knows she would like it. Abe asks if she is sure. Lexie nods. Abe asks Celeste, who agrees, as long as it's ok with Lexie. Lexie smiles and nods. Mike approaches Carrie and asks her to dance. Carrie says she would love to and hits the dance floor with him. The montage then goes from everyone dancing to Maggie choosing not to toss the bouquet and simply giving it to Alice, saying it's only right since she has been the greatest influence on her life. They embrace. We then see Victor taking the garter off Maggie's leg and tossing it to the single men. Alex ends up catching it, shocking everyone. Jack pats him on the back. The montage continues with Victor and Maggie cutting the cake and shoving it gently in each other's faces, leading to a kiss as the montage ends.

Victor then says he has something he wants to say to Mrs. Kiriakis.

Victor: I'm a man who has everything one could want. A nice home, money, power...things that are assumed can make one truly happy. People of that nature are ignorant and they would learn how empty one can feel leading a life like that without someone to share it with. Family, friends, a beautiful woman...love. Money can't buy it yet it's the greatest thing one can have. I never thought I would find it but I found it. With you. During a time of despair for both of us, a bond formed that will last for the rest of our lives.

Maggie begins to cry.

Victor: My only hope is that I can make you as happy as you have made me, Maggie. That I can protect you. That I can love you like you deserve to be loved. Treat you like you deserve to be treated. Make every wish you have come true.
Maggie (crying): You already have, Victor. I love you and you are all I need. All I want.

Victor and Maggie kiss as the crowd applauds. Meanwhile, Hope takes Steve aside and tells him she isn't taking no chances. She is going to tell Bo everything...tonight. Steve says he was thinking the same thing, saying it's better that Bo and Kayla here it from them and not Nicole. Hope tells Steve she is sick of keeping secrets from Bo and everyone else. It's going to be a New Year and it's time for a clean slate. She just needs to hope that their love can get them through this. Steve agrees, saying it's time they do this, whether Nicole is bluffing or not. Hope says she is going to try to drag Bo home as soon as she can. Steve tells Hope he is going to do the same for Kayla. They both wish each other luck.

Patricia arrives and bumps into Abe, who asks why she is there. Patricia tells him not to worry. She isn't there for his buddy, Roman. She has other business she isn't going to share with him out of fear he will cheat the system to get one of his friends off. Abe rolls his eyes as Patricia walks off. Lucas is looking for Frankie to talk to him when Patricia approaches him, asking where he was last night. Before Lucas can answer, Patricia says she already knows the answer. She tells him that 911 dispatch got a call this morning. Joelle's son. Joey, returned from a sleepover and found the apartment ransacked, with blood stains on the couch and rug, and ran straight to the neighbor's, who called 911. Joey then ran off to find his mother.

Lucas turns white as a sheet and has no words. Joelle says that his expression says it all and asks what he did with Joelle. Lucas says he did nothing and isn't speaking without his attorney present. Joelle says that's fine but he is coming with her to Joelle's apartment. Lucas asks why. Joelle takes him by the arm and says she wants him to see what happened for himself. Lucas, realizing he has no choice, agrees and goes over to Maggie and Victor to wish them the best, saying he has to go, not telling them what is up. He then goes and tells Will to tell everyone he had to take care of something and tells him he will see him at the hospital later. Before Will can say anything, Lucas takes off as Will wonders what is going on.

Philip walks over to Belle and Claire and asks Belle what the hell her problem is. He's been trying for weeks and it's not enough for her to even let him spend a half hour with his daughter. Belle tells Philip to calm down. Philip reminds Belle he has been calm but enough is enough. He is trying and she won't even give a little. Belle tells Philip he has alot to prove before he can earn the right for her to "give a little." Philip says he's had it and he isn't trying to prove nothing to her anymore. He's done and he tells her to go ahead and turn Claire against him. There is clearly nothing he can do. Philip walks off and straight to the bar as Belle looks on and walks off.

At the bar, Philip begins to down shots as a clearly drunk Alyson walks up and sits down next to him.

Alyson (looking at Philip): Bad night?
Philip: You could say that.
Alyson: Me too. Bad few days, actually. Just...learned my dad is dead and my mom kept it from me for over a decade. And the last thing I said to my dad? I hate you. Nice, huh?
Philip: Yeah...why are you telling me this?
Alyson: I'm hammered and your cute. You seem easy to talk to. I've been kicked out of one bar already. That's why I came here, although I forgot about the reception. Too many people here that I know. Not that I care. I just want to forget about my sorry excuse for a life and let loose. I'm sick of playing it safe. Gets me nowhere.
Philip: Yeah, I guess. No. You know what? Your right.
Alyson: I am?
Philip: Surprisingly in your state, yes. I'm just going to sit back and just live tonight. It's something I haven't done since high school, to be honest. Hey, what do you say we take off? It's New Year's Eve and I would rather be around people who don't know me or have expectations. What do you say?
Alyson: We don't even know each other. I mean, I know your Philip Kiriakis but...
Philip: And your Alyson Parker. It's a small town. We know all we have to. You just talked about not playing it safe. Why not be adventurous?
Alyson: Got a point. Alright. Hell, why not? I'm already two sheets to the wind. Wait, this is your father's wedding...
Philip: The important parts are over. It's all good. I will tell him I'm off.

Philip then walks off and goes over to Victor, congratulating him and welcoming Maggie into the family. He says he is heading off with a friend he hasn't seen in awhile, if that is ok. Victor says sure and wishes him a Happy New Year, saying he will see him after the honeymoon. Philip nods before walking off and back to the bar. He tells Alyson everything is set and they take off as he helps her along.

Jack approaches Billie and says he enjoyed their dance. Billie says she did too. They look at Max and Abby dancing. Billie tells Jack it's great they are together again. Jack agrees. A messenger then shows up, looking for Billie. Jack asks why she would need a messenger. Billie says it's a case she is working on and excuses herself. She signs for the envelope the messenger has given to her and thanks him. She sees it's from the ISA and goes off to open it privately.

Meanwhile, Greta congratulates her father on his and Maggie's marriage and welcomes Maggie into the family. Greta sees Frankie and excuses herself, wishing them the best on their trip and marriage. They both wish her a Happy New Year and she does the same. While alone, Greta asks Frankie to meet her at her suite after the reception for a special surprise. There is something important she needs to tell him and she thinks it's time for them to take things to a much deeper level. Frankie smiles, saying he is intrigued. They kiss.

Caroline approaches Victor and Maggie and embraces and kisses both of them, telling Maggie she landed a good man. She tells Victor he landed a good woman too and says she wishes them the best. Maggie thanks her, saying that means alot coming from her. They embrace. Victor tells Caroline she will always hold a special place in his heart. Caroline nods, saying she feels the same way. They embrace.

Doug and Julie sit with Laura, Billi, Mike, and Alice and admit they are sad that Spencer, Stephen, Tommy, Jessica, Joshua, and Pete all had to leave so soon. Alice says they had no choice with the storm causing flight delays the next few days. Victor and Maggie come over, along with Melissa and Sarah, who admit that they have to get going to in order to get home. They admit they would love to ring in the New Year with them but have no choice saying they have already said goodbyes to everyone else. Don comes over and says he must head out too, apologizing for that. Everyone says their goodbyes, wishes each other a Happy New Year and wish Victor and Maggie the best.

Abe is on his cell when Celeste comes over, just as he is hanging up. She notices he looks upset and asks what is wrong. He looks over at Roman and Marlena dancing and says that he checked into some things at the station and a case has been built up against Roman. He tells Celeste officers are on their way to arrest Roman for Orpheus' murder.

One of the employees working the reception discovers a DVD while moving the wedding gifts, labeled "To Victor and Maggie...One Their Special Day. Play Me." The employee takes the disk to Nico, who inspects it and deems it safe. They go to Victor, who inspects it. Maggie thinks someone made it as a gift and tells Victor it's harmless. Victor admits he must agree, not seeing what harm a DVD can be and it does appear safe. He instructs the employee to play the DVD on the big screen.

Meanwhile, Billie comes out of a back room, with the envelope she received crumpled in her hands. Kate comes over and asks if she is ok. Billie is silent, her hands trembling. Kate again asks if she is ok. Billie then says:

Billie: It's true. He's...he's...
Kate: Oh...sweetie. I told you not to get your hopes up.
Billie: Orpheus...he's...really my father. I'm a Dimera.

Kate embraces Billie as Jack looks on. He sees what is happening and asks if everything is ok. Billie looks at Jack, tears welling in her eyes, and takes off. Jack looks at Kate, who tells him to follow her, saying Billie wouldn't want her to help anyway. Jack races off but bumps into Frankie and Greta, who ask what is wrong. Jack says he thinks something is wrong with Billie, filling them in about the messenger. Frankie and Greta offer to go with Jack to see if they can help. Jack thinks it wouldn't hurt, given how Billie has been lately. They race off.

A short time later, Billie races on to the roof, where she finds a man who appears to be working the reception. She apologizes, saying she had no idea anyone was up there. The man shrugs it off and walks off just as Frankie, Greta, and Jack arrive on the roof. Greta bumps right into the man and looks at him strangely, saying she knows him. The man doesn't think so and tries to run off. Greta then reaches and pulls the fake mustache off to reveal Nicole!! Greta then pulls Nicole's hat, wig, and glasses off and asks what the hell she is doing at the wedding and on the roof no less. Nicole suspiciously looks through the skylight at the ballroom below as Greta and everyone else does as well. Greta asks what she is up to.

Meanwhile, downstairs, Hope tells Bo she would like to go home and ring in the New Year by themselves. Bo asks why. Hope says there is something she wants to do...to tell him. At the same time, Steve tells Kayla he wants to go home, saying he wants a clean slate going into the New Year. Kayla asks what he is talking about. Just then, the employee begins playing the DVD on the big screen and everyone turns around to watch...and...shockingly...

THE DVD IS SHOWING THE SURVEILLANCE FOOTAGE OF STEVE AND HOPE MAKING LOVE!!!

Everyone looks on stunned, turning toward Steve and Kayla and Bo and Hope. On the roof, Greta looks at Nicole and asks if she did this. Frankie asks why she would thinks that. Greta says that Nicole was disguised and on the roof, looking down right before it happened. She asks Nicole if she did it. Nicole smiles as the scene shifts back into the ballroom as Bo and Kayla both look at their spouses in shock and disbelief as a horrified Hope and Steve look on as the scene fades to black.


ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE FINAL EPISODE OF 2007....WITH 4 SHOCKING CLIFFHANGERS!!!

DECEMBER 27, 2007: EPISODE #403: THE WEDDING


ST. LUKE'S CHURCH

The day of the wedding arrives as Victor, Bo, Nico, Justin and Roman walk into the church. Roman tells the others that he will look around and check with security as he pats Victor on the back. Bo says he never thought he would see the day that his father would marry anyone. He thought Victor’s business meant more to him than anything. Bo doesn’t mean to be disrespectful and Victor doesn’t take it that way at all. In fact, he agrees with him.

Victor says that for most of his life, the fight and the business did mean the most to him. He says two women changed that........Caroline and Maggie. Especially Maggie. She showed him what it means to love. And that is what he intends to do for the rest of his life. Justin is proud of his uncle, saying that he has come a long way from the man he used to know. Victor hopes he doesn’t mean he was a bad uncle. Justin says not at all. He’s just always seemed.......lonely. He didn’t want Victor to spend his life without knowing what true love was.

Steve agrees. He says that he and Victor were a lot alike back then. Victor laughs but agrees, saying they were two men who didn’t care who they hurt. Just as long as they got what they wanted. And, Steve says, they were both saved by the love of a wonderful woman. All the men agree, as Nico says it’s time for the groom to get ready. Roman walks back in and says everything is in order. Victor turns to Roman and says that when his legal troubles are over, he wants to sit down and talk to him about something.

Roman says sure. As the men walk into the groomsmen’s room, the women come in a short time later, immediately going to the bride’s room. Julie can’t believe Maggie would spend the morning running around town on her big day. Maggie pauses and tells Julie she went to the cemetery.......to see Mickey’s grave. Hope, Melissa & Sarah grow quiet as Julie asks her why she went there. Maggie just says that she wanted to make sure she was doing the right thing........and not walking all over the wonderful years she spent with Mickey.

Julie then says that Uncle Mickey would only want one thing for her.......to be happy. Hope says she’s right and, if marrying Victor makes her happy, Mickey would be proud today. Maggie tries not to cry as Melissa says that she can’t mess up her make-up now. It took too long this morning to do it. The ladies all laugh as Sarah walks over and tells Maggie that she looks absolutely beautiful. Victor is a very lucky man. Hope agrees and says that it’s time to get ready. The women then close the door to the bride’s room.........

As a mysterious dark figure walks into the church.........carrying a black duffel bag. As the figure disappears behind one of the curtains.......

It is now two hours later as guests start to arrive. Will ushers everyone to their seats as Victor II, Victor’s great nephew, comes running up. He asks Will if everything is going smoothly and Will says he’s getting everyone seated. Will then asks how the outside is going and Victor II says he never knew his uncle knew so many important people. Will says he is shocked as well. Victor II says he’s been reading the cards and well wishes from governors, senators, the mayor of his hometown in Greece, the president of the country..........Victor II hopes Maggie knows what she’s getting into.

Will then asks where Victor’s mother is and he says that Adrienne will be there shortly. Just then, she comes walking up, saying that she hopes she’s not late. Will says they are still seating people and Adrienne kisses her son as she goes and takes her seat. Victor II says he’s going back to check on things and, as Will greets more guests......

The mysterious figure walks into the upper balcony. He puts down his duffel bag and opens it.......revealing a shotgun inside. As he looks down on the incoming guests........

The scene shifts to the...


DIMERA PENTHOUSE

Stefano is on the phone. He tells the person on the other end that things are now in place. He wants that taken care of as soon as possible. Stefano grows angry, saying that he doesn’t give a damn about any of that. He wants it done.....and done now!

He hangs up the phone as Cassie walks in. She asks what is the matter and Stefano says he’s just taken care of some.......odds and ends. He asks how she is doing and she thanks him for recommending that she spend time with Tony. Lincoln then walks in and Stefano says.....

Stefano: Ahhh........Lincoln. Darling, would you excuse us for just a few moments?
Cassie: Of course, Papa.

As Cassie leaves, Lincoln walks over to Stefano and, as both men shake hands, Stefano asks.....

Stefano: How are things going?
Lincoln: Well, we have our people in place......but so far, nothing.
Stefano: (After a pause) Ok. This is what I want you to do. Contact our people in Switzerland and tell them that things are moving along as planned......and to be ready when I give the order.
Lincoln: No problem, Stefano.

As Lincoln leaves, Cassie returns and asks....

Cassie: Papa.......are you planning to do something at Victor’s wedding?

Stefano just smiles........and walks over to pick up the king from his chess board. He looks at it........and laughs heartedly as the scene switches back to...


ST. LUKE'S CHURCH

Most of the guests are seated and mingling with each other. In the groomsmen’s room, Bo helps Victor on with his bow tie, saying that he never liked putting one of those things on. Victor says that's fine........he never liked wearing those things either. Both men laugh as Justin puts JT’s jacket on him. Steve combs his hair and says the only other time he’s wearing a tuxedo is when he and Kayla get remarried.

Everyone looks at Steve, as he says it won’t be anytime soon. He still has a lot of missing spaces in his mind and won’t pull her into that until all that is taken care of. Roman says he knows exactly how Steve feels and then asks if he wanted some help in unlocking those missing years. Steve smiles, saying it would be an honor to have his help. Roman says what are brothers for, as he then tells the others he is going out and checking on things. As he leaves, Justin tells JT not to wander off too far, as he then stands and looks at Victor.

He then walks over and tells Victor one thing.....

Justin: Thank you, uncle. Without you.......I don’t know where I would be.
Victor: It’s always been my honor to watch you grow into the fine, fine man that you are.
Justin: That is because of you. You saved me, Victor. I know we haven’t always agreed with things, but......
Victor: No buts today, Justin. Just remember......how much you mean to me. Adrienne is an outstanding woman and she reminds me a lot of your mother. You keep her happy.
Justin: And you make Maggie happy. I know she will be.
Victor: Thank you, Justin.

Both men hug as Bo tells them they need to get this show on the road. Steve walks to the door and asks if the bride is ready. When he is told she is, Steve says he’s going to go sit down. He then walks over to Victor and tells him......

Steve: Wow. Where we started to where we are now. I never thought I would say this.......but thanks for becoming the man that you are now. And thanks for giving my sister a chance with Dimples over here (Pointing at Justin).
Victor: Thank you, Steve. That truly means a lot.

Steve turns and leaves as the men prepare to walk out.

Meanwhile, in the bride’s room, Maggie has just walked out and everyone gasps at how beautiful she is. Marlena and Adrienne walk in and marvel at Maggie. Alice is then brought in and her and Maggie hug as Alice tells her not to start crying. She will ruin her make-up. The ladies laugh as they then start with the bride rituals.

For the something new, Sarah gives Maggie a new necklace that she saved up for. She takes it out of the box and places it around her neck. Maggie is still holding it together as, for the something blue, Melissa gives her a silk blue handkerchief. She said she was secretly holding it for when she married Pete and now wants her to have it. Maggie hugs her and then, for the something borrowed, Julie gives her her wedding ring for luck and to bless her new marriage. The same one Doug gave her when they got married. After Julie slips it on her hand, Alice says it’s finally time for something old and she doesn’t mean herself.

As the laughter dies down, Alice says that she wants Maggie to have something that is old and timeless.......her love for her. Alice stopped thinking of her as her daughter-in-law years ago. As far as she is concerned.........her daughter is getting married today. And she wants her to know that not only is she very happy for her,........but that she feels Mickey is smiling down on her right now.

Maggie says someone is going to have to redo her make-up. As the women sit her back down for the touch-up, Marlena tells one of the ushers they will be a few moments.

Back out in the church, Lucas comes running up. Kate stops him and asks where he has been. Lucas tells her that for once, she should mind her business. Before Kate can respond, Frankie comes up and asks if everything is ok. Carrie and Will then walk up and Lucas tells everyone that things are fine. They can all go back and sit down. Lucas then pulls Frankie to the side and tells him that the truth is.....

He doesn’t remember a thing from the night before after going to see Joelle. He woke up in an alley, went home, got dressed, let Sami know he was ok, and came to the church. Frankie tells him to be cool. He hasn’t heard anything in the news so they will talk about things after the wedding. As they go into the church to sit down.......

The scene fades to everyone being seated in the church.

Claire walks out as the music starts playing, dropping rose petals in the aisle as Victor and Nico start to walk behind her. Before they go down the aisle, Greta walks up......and simply says how much she loves Victor and hopes he will be happy. Victor tries not to cry as they both hug each other and, as Greta goes to sit down, they continue down the aisle. After Claire is done, she walks over and sits in Belle’s lap, as everyone applauds her. As Belle kisses her baby on the cheek, Bo and Julie walk out arm in arm. Victor and Nico smile as they walk down the aisle as the scene slowly looks upward.....

To the mysterious man in the balcony. He starts to place a silencer on the rifle and gets ready to take aim.

Back down on the floor, Justin and Sarah come out together as they walk down the aisle. Steve and Kayla hold hands and Marlena smiles as this couple takes their place.

Everyone then stands as the wedding march starts to play. Don takes Maggie’s arm and tells her that he has the car running in the back if she wants to ditch this pop stand. Maggie laughs and Don then tells her one thing.....

Don: Be happy, lady.
Maggie: Thank you, Don.

Don then walks Maggie down the aisle as Victor is amazed at how beautiful his bride looks. All the ladies start to cry and even Bo, Steve and Lucas wipe away tears of joy, which touches everyone. As Maggie reaches the alter, Don shakes Victor’s hand, and Father Jansen asks.....

Fr. Jansen: Who gives this woman away?
Don: I do, sir.......with great pride.

Don raises Maggie’s vale and kisses her on the cheek and then takes his seat as everyone sits down. Fr. Jansen continues, saying.....

Fr. Jansen: My, my. After the year everyone in this church has had, it is truly a blessing that we gather today to wed this man, and this woman, in the sacred bonds of holy matrimony. I had asked both Victor and Maggie if they had any words to say.......but they both said they ain't getting any younger.....

Everyone laughs.......

Fr. Jansen: And just want to get the show on the road. So, without further ado, Victor.......
Victor: Yes, sir.....
Fr. Jansen: Do you take this woman......to be your lawful wedded wife..........to honor and to cherish, for better or worse, in sickness and in health......for as long as you both shall live?
Victor: I certainly do.
Fr. Jansen: And Maggie..........do you take this man........to be your lawful wedded husband..........to honor and to cherish, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health......for as long as you both shall live?
Maggie: I do.......forever.

Kayla starts crying and Caroline wipes away tears as Fr. Jansen continues.....

Fr. Jansen: Then, may we have the rings please?

As Julie and Nico pull out the rings, the scene quickly goes to the balcony, as the gunman takes aim......

Fr. Jansen: Victor, Maggie......these rings are a symbol from Almighty God.......of your love, faith and devotion to each other. These rings symbolize the bind that will keep and hold you in this life and into the next, and they symbolize the love that each of you share. Please......place the rings on each other’s finger.....

As Victor and Maggie exchange rings, Belle and Philip smile. Don smiles as well.......

As the gunman readies himself to pull the trigger, aiming in Victor and Maggie’s direction.....

Fr. Jansen: With these rings, you two are now joined......as husband and wife. I now pronounce you husband and wife, and Victor.......you may now kiss your bride.

Victor lifts the vale off of Maggie’s face and, as he kisses his new bride....

The gunman takes aim..........and the screen suddenly goes black!

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

SURPRISES, REVELATIONS, AND TWISTS THAT YOU WON'T BELIEVE!!

*NOTE: THE FRIDAY 12/28 EPISODE WILL BE POSTED ON SATURDAY NIGHT SO PEOPLE CAN CATCH UP.*

DECEMBER 26, 2007: EPISODE #402: TWAS THE NIGHT...


SALEM INN

Frankie and Greta exit the elevator, having picked her up from her suite. Greta wonders what he has in mind for tonight, reminding Frankie she has to be up early for her father's wedding tomorrow. Frankie takes her outside and tells her he knows. He then motions to the left and Greta sees the horse-drawn carriage that Frankie arranged for on Christmas Eve. She asks how he arranged to have it on city roads.

Frankie smiles and says he pulled a few strings. He asks Greta if she is ready for a night she will never forget. Greta smiles and nods excitedly as they enter the carriage and ride off into the night.

Meanwhile, Alyson is up in her and Jean's suite, looking for a sweater that Jean wanted for the hospital to keep her warm. She is digging through all their luggage and comes across something that catches her eye. It's tucked inside one of Jean's jackets and it's a letter. The letter's envelope was stuffed in with it so both are crinkled up.

Alyson sees that the letter is addressed to her mother but seems shocked by something she sees upon glancing at it. She shakes her head defiantly, saying it can't be true as the scene shifts to...


PIER

Hope arrives and sees Steve there, pacing back and forth. She asks if Nicole called him too. Steve nods, saying he just told Kayla and Stephanie that he had a headache and needed some air. Hope says she told Bo that she lost an earring when she went to pick JT up at a friend's and adds that she hopes Bo doesn't find out she is lying. Nicole then arrives, saying she loves when people are punctual.

Hope asks Nicole what this is about. Nicole reminds Hope of what she told her a few days ago. They had a deadline to make progress and they only did with Carrie. Hope says that isn't true. Nicole tells Hope and Steve she has see for herself what they have been up to. She admits she had hoped that they were merely stalling to come up with ideas but she knows that wasn't the case. She does know they were stalling to come up with ideas to outsmart her somehow but they failed.

Nicole reveals to them she knows they warned Carrie and Alyson both about her. Hope asks how and Nicole says she has her ways. She then tells Hope that while she did manage to get Carrie home, Steve never did anything that was instructed concerning Alyson and points out to Hope she did nothing to help it along either. Hope tells Nicole to give her more time. Nicole tells Hope she is done giving more time. Time is up...for both of them. Nicole tells them she wanted results and now she is moving on to another approach...but not before blowing them out of the water.

As she walks away, Nicole turns and smiles, saying that Hope and Steve won't no when she will strike but she will...and their lives will go down in flames. Nicole laughs as she walks off. Hope begins to panic and asks Steve what they are going to do. Steve says he doesn't know. They can sleep on it and talk tomorrow at the reception. Hope asks if that is all he has got. Steve says for now.

Hope smacks him on the shoulder and says he once again screwed up and she believed him. He told her it would be ok now and now everyone will know the truth. Steve tries to calm her and tells her ot just go home and be with Bo. He thinks they both need time to think and they can talk at the reception.

A worried Hope tells Steve they better think of something or better hope that Nicole is bluffing. Steve thinks that could be true as they are all she has to do her dirty work right now. Hope sighs, hoping they can catch a break as the scene shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Lucas walks into Sami's room, saying he is glad to finally be able to see her as she has been in tests and physical therapy all day. He asks where Will is. Sami says that Caroline took him home. Lucas sees a stack of newspapers on Sami's dresser and asks what those are for. Sami tells him she had to do something to keep her busy around all the doctors today. A worried look crosses Lucas' face. Sami looks at him and says she knows all about Joelle.

Lucas apologizes for not telling her, saying he didn't want to upset her as she just woke up on Christmas Eve. Sami tells him she understands but was going to find out anyway. She knew he and everyone else was leaving something out as they caught her up on everything but that and she knew he was in trouble with her. She points out to him that Orpheus had cameras all over and showed her things, including the night Joelle drugged him and mixed drugs with alcohol, nearly killing him.

Lucas tells Sami that Joelle just confessed to being involved with Orpheus and how he bowed out and she began her tirade on him on her own a few days ago. Sami tells Lucas she knows he didn't do anything wrong, even if he can't remember much. Lucas thanks her for saying that.

Sami then suggests Lucas do something about it. Lucas points out having a restraining order against him and that he has tried everything. Sami thinks if he goes over to Joelle's and talks to her calmly, without raising his voice, that she may at least listen. She thinks it's worth a shot and he can maybe offer her a deal.

Lucas points out that he did offer several and nothing. Sami asks him to try and just see if presenting himself in a different way will help. From what she gathers, it seems all their encounters of late have been tense and Joelle seems like a woman who had it tough and is using the situation. Lucas knows she has had it tough, especially with her mother and her son.

Sami encourages Lucas to go see her now but Lucas wants to stay with her. Sami insists, saying it would make her feel better. Lucas reluctantly agrees and says he will be back soon. They kiss. Sami smiles and wishes him luck. Lucas says he will need it, thanks her, and walks out.


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Maggie has a suitcase packed as Victor enters the foyer and points out the next time they see each other, she will be walking down the aisle to meet him to become husband and wife. Maggie smiles, saying she can't wait. They kiss. Maggie tells Victor she never thought she could have happiness like she is feeling again.

Victor didn't think he would either and says he loves her. She does the same as they kiss again and she tells him she has to go before midnight. Victor smiles, asking if she is that superstitious. Maggie nods and bids him good night. Victor does the same as they both smile and she leaves.

After Maggie has left, Nico joins Victor and asks if he would like to share a drink with his best man...kind of like a farewell to bachelorhood. Victor smiles and says he would love to. They enter the living room and Victor pours the drinks. Both men then raise their glasses with Nico saying:

Nico: May Mrs. Horton and yourself be blessed with a happy and long life together.
Victor: I'll drink to that.

Victor and Nico toast and then down their drinks as the scene shifts into...

A montage of Frankie and Greta in the horse-drawn carriage, riding through the streets of Salem. Greta lies on Frankie's chest, with his arms around her, both laughing and smiling. We then see the carriage ride through Salem Park. They stop and see people ice skating at the pond. Soon after, we see them lacing up their skates and him helping her to skate on the ice. At one point, Frankie falls and Greta laughs. She helps him up and they both end up falling backwards into the snow. They lock eyes and then end up in a steamy kiss.

We then see the scene shift to them building a snowman. Frankie turns his back and Greta takes the opportunity to throw a snowball at him. Frankie retaliates and they end up in a snowball fight that ends in a close moment and a kiss. The scene then shifts to them being back in the carriage as it pulls up in front of the Salem Inn. Frankie takes her inside and says he had a great time. Greta says she did too. They kiss again as she thanks him for everything he has done in the past few weeks. Frankie admits he was always a sucker for a beautiful woman but her beauty is so overwhelming, he would take on the world for her.

Greta smiles and bids him good night, saying she will see him at the wedding tomorrow. Frankie nods and wishes her the same. After he leaves, Greta smiles, saying all her dreams are finally coming true. She thinks she has finally found love. The scene then shifts to the...


HORTON HOUSE

Maggie is now sitting with Alice, Doug and Julie as everyone else has gone to bed. Julie asks Alice if she is tired yet. Alice reminds Julie she is a night owl and tells her she can go on up to bed with Doug. Maggie tells Julie she can as she can help Alice to bed. Julie says she will do that and wishes Alice good night, kissing and embracing her as Doug does the same. Julie then does the same to Maggie and says she will see her in the morning of her big day. Maggie smiles, saying she can't wait. Doug bids her good night as they go upstairs.

Once alone, Maggie says she can't believe tomorrow is the day already. She admits she is nervous and hopes that it all works out. Alice asks if she is happy. Maggie nods. Alice tells her that's all that matters and that Mickey will be happy too tomorrow if she is. He will be watching her...always. Maggie smiles, admitting she is almost afraid to be happy.

Alice reminds her that Mickey would want her to be and that they all want her to be. Maggie smiles and embraces Alice, saying she doesn't know what she would do without her. Alice smiles, telling Maggie she would be lost. They both laugh as the scene shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Jean is reading a book in her room when Alyson bursts in and tosses the letter she found in Jean's face, asking when she planned to tell her that her father died over a decade ago. Jean tells Alyson she can explain. Alyson tells Jean she found that letter in one of her jackets. It's from one of her friends wanting to keep in touch, who wrote her to see how she was doing on the anniversary of her husband's death, knowing how hard it is.

Jean explains that she never told her about the accident because of the fight they had. She knew Alyson would feel guilty as the last thing she said to her father was "I hate you." She didn't want it to destroy her or eat away at her.

Alyson begins to break down and says that she made the pain deeper by keeping that from her. She robbed her of the chance to grieve for her father and it makes her wonder what else she doesn't know. Jean says that's it. Alyson thinks that is enough and tells Jean she can't even look at her right now. Alyson begins to hyperventilate and says she has to go. Jean begs her not to leave upset.

Alyson breathes deeply and says she is fine. She just needs to digest all this and needs to be alone. She walks out as Jean looks at the letter and begins to tear up, saying she is so sorry.

Meanwhile, outside Jean's room, Alyson breaks down, crying out:

Alyson: I'm so sorry, daddy! So sorry...

Alyson crumples into a chair in the waiting room and puts her face in her hands, crying uncontrollably as the scene shifts to...


STEVE AND KAYLA'S HOUSE

Kayla comes into the bedroom and sees Steve staring out the window. She tells him Stephanie is asleep and asks if he wants to spend some quality time under the sheets. Steve is silent. Kayla asks if something is wrong, saying he has been quiet since returning from his walk. Steve turns, smiles, and says everything is fine and it's going to stay that way...no matter what he has to do. Steve takes Kayla in his arms as the scene shifts to...


BO AND HOPE'S HOUSE

Hope lies in bed as Bo gets out of the shower and admits he is shocked to see her hitting the hay so early. Hope says she is tired and they have a long day with the wedding tomorrow. Bo agrees and asks if something is wrong. Hope turns, smiles, and says everything is fine. They're fine and it's going to stay that way. It has to. Hope embraces Bo, kisses him, and then says good night. Bo says good night to her and turns out the lights and lays down as a worried Hope looks on and then shifts to...


SALEM TOWERS

The grand ballroom is all prepared for the wedding reception as a mysterious man walks in. The man walks slowly further into the ballroom as the camera pans up to reveal his face to be...Nicole in disguise. She is wearing a brown wig, a mustache, glasses, and fake eyebrows. She smiles and pulls something out of her coat and, after looking at it lovingly for a few seconds, begins to laugh, saying:

Nicole: When will people learn never to underestimate me. (looking above) I'm sorry, Eric...I have to do this. I didn't want to but they left me no choice. It's time they all pay...and pay dearly.

Nicole then walks off further into the ballroom as the scene shifts to...



JOELLE'S APARTMENT

Joelle hears a knock at the door and wonders if it's Joey coming home since he forgot his key. She goes to answer and is shocked to see Lucas. She tries to close the door but he forces it open, saying he wants to talk...calmly. Joelle says they have nothing to talk about. Lucas tells her Sami is awake and their family has been through enough. He wants this to be resolved...tonight.

Joelle asks how he got past the outside guard and the hall guard assigned by the police. Lucas asks "What guards?" He then adds he saw no one and tells her to stop changing the subject. They have business to tend to.

Joelle orders him to leave, reminding him there is a restraining order. Lucas says he isn't leaving until they reach an understanding. Joelle goes to pick up the phone but Lucas forcefully removes it and throws it on the couch. Joelle begs him to leave but Lucas refuses. Joelle then grabs him and tries to forcefully remove him but Lucas stops her, grabs her tightly, and orders him to listen to her, saying defiantly that this must stop...NOW!! The scene then suddenly goes black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE WEDDING OF THE YEAR....IT'S A SPECIAL SALEM LIVES...WILL VICTOR AND MAGGIE REALLY WED?!

DECEMBER 25, 2007-EPISODE #401: MERRY CHRISTMAS!!


HORTON HOUSE

The Horton clan is gathered in Alice's living room. Many conversations are going on so the noise level is at a high level. Tommy and Bill sit by Alice, with Maggie sitting on the couch with Julie and Doug. Jessica, Josh, Melissa, Pete, Sarah, Spencer, Stephen and Don are all sitting on fold up chairs. Mike and Laura come out of the kitchen with more cookies and doughnuts to serve the masses.

Bo, who is holding JT, and Hope are getting their coats and preparing to leave. They tell everyone they will see them later at the Pub for Caroline's Christmas Day party. Alice says they will be there. Goodbyes are exchanged as Bo and Hope leave with JT and, after a short lull, the conversations pick up again.

Bill and Tommy can't believe Maggie and Victor managed to put a wedding together in such a short period of time. Maggie smiles and says the Kiriakis and Horton families have connections and carry alot of clout around here. Don admits he never thought he would see the day where Maggie would be with a guy like Victor, or that any Kiriakis would marry a Horton for that matter.

Jessica says that's because they never thought they would lose Mickey so soon. Everyone then turns silent. Alice breaks the silence and says he will always be with them, as will the many other loved ones they have lost or that have left Salem.

Jessica then tells Joshua she misses Nick. Spencer looks at Stephen, who tells him that he knows he would like answers about his mother and says it's not the time or place. Spencer reminds Stephen he says that every holiday, actually every day. Spencer then says that he will drop it again, for now and for everyone's sake.

Mike then stands up and says he has something to say since they are speaking about those away from Salem. Everyone gives him their full attention. Mike says he has decided to return to Salem indefinitely. He will be working at University Hospital again and asks Alice if it's ok if he stays with her, Doug, and Julie for the time being. Alice says she would love that.

Laura and Bill are shocked and ask why he decided on that move. Mike mentions how Jeremy has graduated from medical school and thinks he can run the clinic in Israel for him, along with Robin. He adds that he feels it's time to come home to Salem for a bit as Israel can get kind of hectic.

Julie makes the comment that they all wish it was alot quieter there. Mike agrees and suggests Laura and Bill consider staying in Salem. Laura tells Mike she enjoys counseling Billi's patients in Africa. Doug wonders if there is a little more going on. Laura and Bill look at each other awkwardly. Bill says they are friends and have managed to move past the pain of the past. Laura agrees, saying she is just happy they can be as close as they are and, if more happens, then it happens.

Maggie thinks it's ok as long as they are happy. Laura and Billi agree they are. They just wish Jennifer were still with them. Alice says they all do but she is watching over them, with Tom and so many other loved ones that have passed. Laura says she is just glad Abby and Max worked things out last night and that Jack made it.

Maggie adds that she is happy Sami woke up last night. They all could use some good things happening. Doug thinks they may have finally turned a corner. Julie hopes so. Alice tells everyone they just need to have faith and hope that is the case as the scene shifts to...


SALEM PARK

Greta tells Frankie they need to get back to the Pub and asks why he is always dragging her to the park. Frankie says it's the only place big enough to avoid the paparazzi that is always after her. He wanted to be alone with her. Greta apologizes. Frankie says it's nothing. He likes spending time with a real princess. Greta smiles and asks what they are doing.

Frankie says he has a Christmas gift for her. He gives her a present, which she unwraps. She opens it and finds a sapphire heart pendent. Greta is in awe. Frankie tells Greta it's his heart and it belongs to her. It has for awhile and he just couldn't find the words to explain it so he showed her. Frankie then confesses he has fallen in love with her and can't hide it anymore. He needs her to know in hopes she feels the same.

Greta gets choked up and says all she can do is cry tears of joy right now. She tells Frankie she doesn't think she wants to say what she truly want to right now. She doesn't want to jinx it as she has been down this road. She tells him he has made her so very happy, more then he can ever know. They embrace, then slowly pull apart, look into each other's eyes, and then kiss passionately as the scene shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Marlena, Roman, Belle, Lucas, and Will are all in Sami's room. Lucas is right by Sami's side as Carrie walks back into the room with Evan. Sami tells them all they don't need to be there as she knows there is a party at the Pub. Marlena tells Sami they have missed her so much and want to spend time with her. It's Christmas, afterall.

Sami reminds Marlena they have all been there since she woke up and says they can all catch up later. She wants them to go and have fun at the Pub and that's a order. Roman doesn't think they can argue with that. Lucas says he will stay with her. Sami tries to encourage him to go but he says he is staying with her and no is not an answer.

Sami tells Will to go but he wants to stay with her too. Sami tells Will it would make her happy if he went to the Pub. Will reluctantly agrees. Everyone says their goodbyes and is so thankful she is awake. Sami thanks them for everything and says seeing them and being back with them was the greatest gift she could ever get for Christmas. It was the best present ever.

Will embraces Sami and she kisses his forehead, telling him to have fun.Marlena blows her a kiss and Carrie waves Evan's little hand at her to say bye. Sami and Lucas wave back as everyone leaves. Once alone, Sami smiles at Lucas and says:

Sami: Alone at last...

They then kiss as the scene shifts to...

Jean's room as Alyson holds Sam at her side. She hands Jean some Christmas cookies from Caroline and tells her to enjoy but to eat quietly so a nurse doesn't catch them. Jean smiles and thanks her for everything, saying she could not have asked for a better Christmas. She is happy that Sami is awake too. Alyson agrees, saying all she needs is for Nicole to get hit by a U Haul and this Christmas would be flawless. They both laugh as Jean says she wouldn't wish that kind of fate on anyone but her. Alyson agrees and says she just hopes Nicole has an epiphany and stays away as the scene shifts to...


SALEM INN

Nicole sits in her suite, drinking champagne and looking at her picture of Eric. She mentions how that is all she can bear to do right now as she misses him and wishes they could be together with Evan and Sam. A family...the way they should be. Tears stream down her face as she vows to spend Christmas next year with their children, the way it should be, and the way he would want it. The scene then shifts to...


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Philip is in the living room making a phone call. He then hangs up as Victor enters the room. He notices Philip is upset and asks if something is wrong. Philip tells Victor Belle keeps rebuffing him and has hardly let him spend time with Claire. He held her at mass last night and that's it. He can't even give her the presents he bought. Victor tells Philip to give Belle time. It hurts like hell now but Belle needs to make sure his efforts to change are truly sincere. Philip asks if Victor is impressed. Victor nods, saying his work at Titan has been splendid and was needed since he had other matters.

Victor tells Philip he thinks he is really changing for the better and he is proud of him. Philip thanks Victor and says that means alot. Victor says he has one more gift for Philip he wanted to give him in private and, with the staff off the rest of the night, it seems like the perfect time. Philip tells Victor he already have him several gifts. Victor hands him a wrapped box and tells him to open it. Philip does and finds a frame inside, containing a picture of Philip and Victor with the inscription at the top reading,"The Kiriakis Empire: The Present and the Future."

Philip says he is touched and thanks Victor. Victor tells Philip he just wanted to let him know how proud he is of how far he has come in the past few months and wanted to urge him on to continue his hard work. Victor admits a year ago he was worried about him but now feels he is on the road to becoming a strong leader of the Kiriakis Empire.

Philip smiles and then embraces Victor, showing a guilty look on his face and recalling how he betrayed his father to Orpheus. Victor shows a devilish smirk as he hugs Philip and says he loves him and adds that he would like nothing more then to give him all that he earns and deserves as the scene shifts to...


BRADY PUB

The Horton clan has now arrived and the Pub is jumping. Stephanie is talking with Max, Abby, and Jack (who is holding JJ). Stephanie says she is so happy they worked things out and asks Abby if she feels much better now. Abby says she does and thanks Stephanie for all she did, saying she already thanks her grandmother too. Jack says he is pleased too and tells Max he knows that both him and Abby care about each other but warns him not to hurt his daughter again. Max nods and says Jack has his word.

Meanwhile, Hope goes behind the bar to fix a drink. Steve joins her and asks how she is doing. Hope says she is just trying not to think about Nicole or their secret but it's hard. Steve says that it's Christmas and that they can worry about it all tomorrow. He tells Hope to try to enjoy herself. Hope says she is doing her best and walks off to rejoin Bo, who is with Roman, Marlena, Caroline, Kim, Shane, Kayla, Adrienne, and Justin.

Carrie holds Evan in a corner as Tony and Anna walk in. Tony says he wishes Cassie would've came but admits he is lucky he spent Christmas Eve with her. Anna looks at Carrie and wonders if she should go over. Tony thinks she shouldn't push. Anna agrees and says she will just give it time as they have at least made progress. Carrie turns and looks at Anna and approaches her.

Carrie tells Anna that she did what she did last night because they all have enough problems and she was thinking she was too harsh on her. She would like to start trying to talk things over and see where it goes. She apologizes for saying all that she did. She's her mother and nothing will ever change that. Anna embraces Carrie, saying she doesn't know how much that means to her.

Tony walks up to Marlena and asks if she has seen Cassie. Marlena nods, saying she told her Merry Christmas in person last night. She only wishes Cassie would spend more time with her and other loved ones and not with Stefano. Tony agrees, saying he was shocked that Stefano encouraged her to spend Christmas with him. Abe, Lexie, and Celeste come in with Theo and overhear.

Abe says he opened his home to Stefano last night and was shocked he was so appreciative. Celeste adds that Stefano realizes every year at Christmas the mistakes he has made when he sees how alone he truly is. Lexie nods and looks at Tony as both of seemingly reflect on how Stefano has affected them.

Billie walks in with Kate. Jack and Billie come face to face. Jack says he is happy she made it. Billie says Caroline invited her and Carrie invited her mother. Jack smiles and says he is sorry he didn't get her anything. Billie says she doesn't have anything either and adds that all she wants from him is time. She tells him it's like she told Abby, she needs to work some stuff out and then they can try to get back on track.

Jack says he can give her what she needs and says he knows what he wants from her as a gift. Billie smiles. Jack says he wants her promise that she will always be a part of his life, no matter what happens between them. Billie begins to tear up and nods, saying she can promise that. They embrace.

Frankie and Greta then arrive at the Pub as Kate walks up to Carrie and says she knows she is missing Austin. They all are. Carrie admits to Kate it's hard. It's Evan's first Christmas and his father isn't here to share it with him. Kate nods and begins to tear up. She embraces Carrie and says he is still with them and always will be. Meanwhile, Carrie sees Mike and smiles at him. Mike smiles back at her.

Billie is at the bar as Bo walks up and asks if she heard from Chelsea. Billie shakes her head, saying she didn't want to speak with anyone. It seems it would be too hard for her. Bo nods. Billie says she misses her so much. Bo says he does too. They jug as Hope stands nearby, having overheard them and missing Chelsea herself.

Meanwhile, Marlena is outside the Pub, looking at the stars above. She thanks God for bringing Sami back to the people who love her and for getting them through such a trying year. She adds that she will hold to her word now that he brought Sami back as that was a sign that it is ok. Ok to move on from the past and forgive herself. She thinks she can do that now. She just hopes God will help them now as Roman faces the charges against him. Marlena says she feels their family deserves peace and hopes they get it.

Roman then comes out and asks if she is ok. Marlena smiles and nods. She then tears up as she wishes Eric could be there. Roman agrees and says he will always be with them. They kiss and enter the Pub, with Victor right behind them. Victor says he is happy he made it, kisses Maggie and then Greta, and stands next to her as Caroline asks everyone to raise their glasses in a toast.

Caroline: It's been a rough year but we persevered. Just like we all always have and just like we all always will. That is the stuff the Brady's (scene pans over all the Brady's present), the Horton's (scene pans over all the Horton's present), and all of our friends and loved ones (scene pans over Abe, Lexie, Tony, Anna, Celeste, Theo, Kate, Billie, Jack, and Victor) are made of. Here is to a much better year ahead and to good health and good times to be had by all. Merry Christmas!

Everyone yells out "Merry Christmas!" as we see couples kissing and family and friends embracing each other as the scene pans on Alice, who says:

Alice: Another special Christmas in Salem...

We then see A MONTAGE OF PAST CHRISTMAS' IN SALEM (CLICK HERE!!!)

The scene then pans on Alice as she smiles as the sounds of all the happy and joyous people in the Pub can be heard. The scene then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

A SHOCKING TRUTH IS REVEALED...AND LUCAS TAKES ACTION!!

DECEMBER 24, 2007: EPISODE #400: THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS


HORTON HOUSE

Everyone has just come back from Mass. People go upstairs to relax and undress and the others go into the living room to talk and reminisce. Lucas then walks in, being greeted by his family and saying how he couldn’t miss the hanging of the family ornaments. Alice tells him that everyone is pulling for Sami. Lucas thanks Alice as Bo and Hope walk in as well. Hugs and kisses go all around as Don asks Bo if all the danger with Orpheus is over.

Bo seems to think it is. Pete says he hopes so, with the way the plane exploded. Tommy comes downstairs, saying that he couldn’t believe all the violence that was going on in Salem. Bill agrees, saying that he hopes Bo, Roman and the rest of the police finally have things under control, which makes Bill do one more thing in front of the family.....

Bill: Come here, son.

Lucas looks around and sees that Bill is talking to him. When he walks over to Bill, he says.....

Bill: I just want to tell you........how proud I am of how you have handled yourself this year, especially with that psychopath Michael Myers trying to kill most of Salem.
Lucas: Thanks, Dad. That means a lot.

Both men shake hands and Bill walks over and picks up Lucas’ ornament.......and places it on the tree. This makes Lucas smile broadly and everyone cheers as father and son hug. Lucas wipes a tear from his eye, saying......

Lucas: Feels good to see your dad hang your ornament. Now........I feel like a Horton.
Bill: You ARE a Horton, son, and don’t forget it.

Bill hugs his son as Lucas then walks over, picks up Bill’s ornament, and places it on the tree. As everyone applauds, Lucas then looks down into the box and pulls Will's ornament out and puts it on the tree. He says a silent prayer for Sami, hoping she is by his side next year putting up her own ornament with them all as family members hold one another and wipe away tears. Bo and Hope are next and they walk over, look at one another, kiss gently, and place each other’s ornaments on the tree.

One at a time, family members and friends place ornaments on the family tree. Maggie walks over, pulls out a new ornament with Victor’s name on it, and places it on the tree. Tommy walks over and gently takes Marie’s ornament and puts it on the tree as Alice wipes tears from her eyes.

Billie then hangs Chelsea’s ornament as Hope watches and Bo hangs Shawn’s ornament. Alex then sees Jack going over and hanging Jennifer’s ornament and, as Jack thinks about his late wife, Alice tells Alex that there is one in there for him as well as he is part of the family now. Jack looks in the box and sees one for Alex and he walks over as Jack hangs his on the tree.

Maggie then walks back over, takes Mickey’s ornament out, says a silent prayer, and hangs it from the tree. The scene then slowly shifts to...


BRADY PUB

Christmas music is playing and Steve is giving out candy to the kids. Caroline is giving egg nog to everyone and Kimberly thinks about her kids as Shane walks in to applause from everyone. He kisses Caroline on the cheek as he sees Kimberly and goes over to sit down. They look at each other and smile and Shane quietly takes Kimberly’s hand, as they thank God for what they do have this holiday season.

Then scenes start to play out all through town. Nicole sits by herself in Orpheus' apartment, looking at a picture of Eric, sitting on the couch , and crying over how lonely she is. Alexandra, Abe & Celeste watch Theo play with his new X-Box 360, and, at the DiMera penthouse, Stefano plays chess, listens to Christmas music, and drinks brandy........as he looks through a photo album with pictures of all his children including Renee and Megan. Tony walks in and stands at the entrance to the main room and sees a sad Stefano. He begins to walk in but, feeling that Stefano would want to be alone, turns and leaves the mansion quietly. |

Cassie then walks in and Stefano tells her....

Stefano: Now, what are you doing here?
Cassie: Spending the holidays with you, Papa.
Stefano: No, my child. Go find your father..........and show him how lucky he is to have you for a daughter. Christmas is a time for family.......and I have given up on that years ago.
Cassie: Are you sure, Papa?
Stefano: (Kissing her on the cheek) I’m positive. Now go, go........and we’ll see each other tonight.

Cassie kisses Stefano on the cheek and turns to go upstairs to get ready. Stefano walks to a big picture window, looks out, and makes a toast......

Stefano: To my beautiful children. I know I have not been the father you’ve wanted........but my love for you is everlasting. Salute’.

As Stefano downs his brandy, the scene once again shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Several hours later, Marlena and some other family members are looking at the children enjoying their gifts and Alice brings over the bible to read the Christmas story. She gives it to Marlena, saying that with the strength she has shown this year, she should be the one who reads it.

Marlena is beyond happy at that news and wipes away tears before she sits down to read. As she starts reading, at Abe’s home, there is a knock on the door. When Abe goes to answer it.......it is Stefano, bearing gifts. Abe looks at his long time foe and decides that since it is Christmas, even Stefano shouldn’t be alone, and invites him in. Alexandra walks over and hugs her father, which makes him smile broadly.

Celeste then welcomes Stefano for the holidays and he works up the nerve to say something he never thought he would say.......

Stefano: Abraham.......thank you........for opening your home to me. I’ve made a lot of terrible mistakes in my life.........
Abe: Well, for Theo and Lexie, and for today......let’s put that to the side.
Stefano: Very well.

Stefano then gets a big hug from his grandson as the scene shifts back to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Marlena is still reading the story when Tony and Anna walk in. Carrie, who is sitting in a chair near the children, sees Anna and gets up to walk over to her. Roman comes around the corner and shakes hands with Tony and Marlena looks up form her book long enough to see Carrie go over to Anna.....

And kiss her on her cheek, saying.....

Carrie: Merry Christmas, Mama.

Anna starts to cry as they hug one another and Marlena smiles broadly as Roman and Tony look on with happiness. Cassie then comes into the room and Tony sees her. Roman wishes her a Merry Christmas as he excuses himself and Tony asks why she’s there. She says.....

Cassie: Papa told me how important it was that I spend time with you. He’s sad, Daddy. Really sad.
Tony: I think he’s looking back on his life and the mistakes he’s made.
Cassie: And I’ve made some as well. I hope we can work through those.
Tony: I would love to do that.

Tony smiles as he takes a teary-eyed Cassie into his arms and they both hug each other deeply. As they smile at each other.......inside Sami’s room, Will sits by his mother. He looks at her as he hears SILENT NIGHT BY THE TEMPTATIONS (CLICK HERE TO PLAY!) playing on the radio and he turns up the sound. He looks at his mother and then walks to the door and opens it, letting everyone hear what is playing. The children are then taken back to their rooms as both the Brady and Horton families start arriving at the hospital.

Will walks back over and looks at his mother again and then asks God to give him the one thing he wants for Christmas...........for his mother to come back to them. He says he knows what she has done in the past and he knows she is sorry for all of that. Roman and Marlena walk into Sami’s room, just to hear what Will is saying. The other family members listen out in the hallway as they all think of the great sorrow they have had this year.....

And the great joy they have received. Scenes of Marlena returning one year ago at St. Luke’s church, Roman finding Sami alive, Maggie being proposed to by Victor, Bo and Victor shaking hands, Marie’s funeral precession, and the faces of family and friends that are no longer with them, come back to each and every person standing in that hospital on this evening.

Even Kate is smiling, thinking that, even with all the mistakes she’s made, her children are alive and well, and she silently promises God that in the New Year, she will change.....for the better.

As Will finishes his prayer, Marlena tells him how wonderful that was. Roman concurs and then, out of nowhere, a voice says........

Sami: Thank, you, baby. You’ve got your wish.

Will slowly turns back around.........and sees Sami’s eyes wide open, with tears falling down her cheeks. Will can’t believe it and Roman goes to get a doctor as everyone cheers out in the hallway. A doctor runs back in with Roman as Lucas then comes running into the room. He runs over and sees for himself that Sami is awake as Roman wipes tears from his eyes and hugs a deeply crying Marlena. After Silent Night ends, If You Leave Me Now by Chicago starts playing, and everyone starts hugging and cheering this wonderful Christmas miracle.

Kate walks over to a window, looks out toward the stars, and says......

Kate: Thank you, Lord, Our Father.......for hearing my prayer.


CARVER HOUSE

Stefano receives a phone call, saying that Sami Brady is awake. He thanks the person calling him and tells the others, as he sighs deeply in relief. Abe is shocked, saying that Stefano seems almost happy about the news. Stefano says nothing and goes back to playing with Theo.

As the song plays on the radio in Sami’s room, the doctor looks up, pulls off his mask......and Mike Horton, who has been the one overseeing Sami’s case, says.........

Mike: I have always said it...........God is always the best medicine. She’s going to be just fine.

Lucas walks over and shakes Mike’s hand, thanking him. Marlena goes over and gives him a big hug. And, as Roman shakes his hand and everyone watches Lucas and Sami kiss, the scene goes back over to Alice, who clutches a cross hanging around her neck and says..........

Alice: Merry Christmas to all......and to all a good night.

The scene then goes back to Lucas as he sits on Sami’s bed and rocks her back and forth in his arms. As he wipes the tears from her eyes, she holds Will‘s hand, and the scene then slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

CHRISTMAS DAY IN SALEM!!

DECEMBER 21, 2007-EPISODE #399: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS PART II


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Victor hands the keys to a house on the grounds to Bo and tells Bo and Hope Merry Christmas. The couple says they can't accept it and Victor says that he doesn't know how much time he may have left. Bo asks if he is sick and Victor says not that he knows of. But, he never did anything for Bo when he was a little boy and wasn't there for him emotionally like a good father should be, so he hopes they accept this gesture as a way of saying how sorry he is for not being there.

Bo takes the keys and Hope smiles, getting up and kissing Victor on the cheek. Victor thanks her and tells Bo that he is the luckiest man he knows for having a good woman like Hope at his side. As The dinner starts to be brought in, Victor then says that he has something else to give him later but it's mainly a father-son thing. Hope understands and starts going over what new furniture she will get for her new house. Bo says that Victor really got something started as everyone laughs and enjoys their meal together........as a family.


SALEM PARK

Frankie leads Greta through the park blindfolded. She asks what he has in store for her now. He tells her they will be going to mass in style. He takes off her blindfold and she sees a horse drawn sleigh in front of her. Greta is stunned. He tells her that she will be treated like the princess she is tonight. Greta smiles as he helps her aboard and tells the driver to head to St. Luke's. He then tells Greta to stay close. It's awfully cold. They both smile as the scene shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Lexie is walking through the hallways with Theo, having just talked with the board. She is shocked that her license has been reinstated and she can start working again after the holidays. She begins to think Stefano did something. Rich sees her and asks her how her return to the medical world is going. Lexie fills him in, saying she starts up again after Christmas. Rich is pleased. Lexie mentions she is going to begin studying to become a surgeon. She feels a change is in order. Rich thinks that is a great idea and promises to talk to her soon as he has rounds. Lexie bids him goodbye.

Lexie then notices a sad look on Theo's face. She asks him what is wrong. Theo says he doesn't understand why they can't all spend Christmas together....him, her, grandma, and daddy. He mentions how they always seem mad and he doesn't like the yelling. Lexie remembers what Celeste told her at Maggie's party last night and begins to realize the effect the tension is having on Theo. Lexie tells Theo that everything is going to be ok as they walk off.

In the chapel, Marlena continues to break down in tears.

Marlena: Please, Lord. Don't let my daughter be a victim of the tragedies I have brought upon my loved ones. Don't let her end up like Eric...DJ, Samantha...Please...

Roman then walks in and takes Marlena in his arms, consoling her. He tells Marlena she needs to stop blaming herself for everything that happens to their family. Marlena says she can't help it. DJ died because she wasn't careful enough or being a good enough mother. Roman says that is nonsense. Marlena reminds Roman that Samantha died because Jake thought she was her. Marlena admits she thought she got over that but she didn't. Stefano's obsession with her has led to countless periods of her being away from her family.

Roman tells Marlena to stop it, saying this is what led to her MPD in the first place and she doesn't want to relapse. Marlena says that Eric's death was her fault too. She should've been stronger to fight her inner demons. Instead, she ended up helping Orpheus and poor Eric paid for it and now Sami is too. Roman orders her to stop it and to go talk to Barbara. Marlena insists she has heard enough from her and this is not about her. It's about Sami and they need God to help her now.

Roman: God helps those who help themselves, doc. You know, they say everything happens for a reason. Maybe there is a bigger purpose here. Maybe God wants you to forgive yourself and overcome the past. Then, maybe we will all get what we truly want this Christmas. Our beautiful Sami back with us and you finally overcoming those demons of yours. See you back at the room.

Roman gets up and walks off as Marlena looks at the Cross on the wall and, with tears streaming down her face, tells God she will take Sami waking up as a sign. A sign that it's ok to forgive herself. That it's ok to move on and not blame herself. She says if he brings Sami back to them, she will make peace with herself and the past. She just begs him to bring Sami back to them. Marlena breaks down in tears again as the scene shifts to...


DIMERA PENTHOUSE

Stefano picks up the phone after being told he has a call. It's Lexie, asking if he did anything to help her get her license reinstated faster. Stefano asks what she thinks. Lexie smiles. Stefano hopes she is happy. Lexie wishes he hadn't done it but says she is happy. He asks where she is. She says she is on her way to run an errand and then is going to mass. Stefano asks why. Lexie tells Stefano that Theo enjoys it and she does too. She says she will see him later. Stefano says he loves her as she hangs up.

Cassie notices Stefano is a bit put off and asks if he is ok. Stefano nods. Cassie says she is so excited about spending Christmas with him. Stefano asks why she isn't going to be with her father and mother. Cassie tells Stefano there is only one person she wants to be with and it's him. The scene then shifts to...


HORTON HOUSE

Tommy and Bill are helping Alice to the car. Doug and Julie are right behind them, saying Melissa and sandy drove the rest of the family so they can get seats at mass. Abby is holding JJ when Julie walks in and says it's time. Abby nods. Julie says she knows it's hard. They embrace as Abby asks if this is her punishment for the way she has acted in the past. Julie doesn't think that is it. Abby reminds Julie of her and Chelsea's actions last year and of the way she has been treating Max. Julie tells her to forget it and to just try to enjoy Christmas with them. Julie ushers her out as the scene shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

In Sami's room, Carrie wheels in a computer monitor, saying that Belle has set up a web cam, hoping the sounds of mass may help bring Sami back to them. Carrie then takes Evan from Roman and holds him. Marlena arrives and Roman asks if she is ok. Just then, Alyson arrives and asks how Sami is. Lucas says there has been no change. Alyson tells them her mother woke up earlier this morning and reminds them miracles do happen. Will says they need one right now. Marlena looks at Roman and tells him she will be ok if they can get one of those. Roman nods and holds her in his arms as the scene shifts to...


ST. LUKE'S CHURCH

People begin to gather for Christmas Eve mass. Caroline wheels Kim in as Justin and Adrienne follow closely behind. Adrienne tells him she misses the kids. Justin says he does too. They all enter as Tony and Anna do close behind. Anna wonders if Carrie will be there but Tony doubts it, saying she is probably with Sami. Belle holds Claire as she records the event for Sami's webcam. Philip walks up to her and kisses both her and Claire. He asks if he can old his daughter. Belle reluctantly obliges and watches as Philip embraces her.

Frankie helps Greta out of the carriage. He tells the driver he will see him again. Greta asks when he plans to use a sleigh again. Frankie says in a few days, with her. Greta smiles as they walk up the walkway into the church. Frankie sees Max by himself in the church and tells Greta he will be right back. Frankie walks over to Max, who tells him he is ok. He just doesn't want to talk right now. Max tells Frankie he just doesn't have the Christmas spirit this year. Max then walks out of the church as Frankie looks on, worried.

Hope, Bo, Steve, and Kayla arrive. As they walk in, Hope takes Steve aside and asks if he thinks Nicole may do something. Steve says he would think not but who knows. He hopes not. Hope nods. They both then quickly return to Bo and Kayla, who are talking to Abe and Celeste.

Lexie then walks in with Theo. Abe and Celeste see him as Theo races into their arms. Lexie walks over and fills them in on her being a doctor again and studying to become a surgeon. Abe and Celeste agree that is great and both admit they have no doubt Stefano is involved. Lexie nods and then says she has a gift for them. She hands Abe in envelope. Abe is hesistant but Lexie tells him it's ok. Abe opens it and is shocked to see joint custody papers.

Lexie tells Abe their marriage may be through but Theo should not have to suffer. She wants peace and does not want her son to grow up in a tense environment. She asks that they all three call a truce and forget what has happened, learn from it, and move on. Abe and Celeste agree they would like that and invite Lexie to spend Christmas with them and all their loved ones. Lexie agrees as Theo smiles, saying everyone is happy again. The four of them enter the church.

Victor arrives and sits next to Maggie, who is seated with Melissa, Sarah, Spencer, Stephen, Jessica, Joshua, Mike, Bill, Tommy, Sandy, Alice, Doug, and Julie. Meanwhile, Laura goes to check on Abby, who is holding JJ in the vestibule just as Stephanie arrives. Stephanie tells Abby she just saw Max outside, upset and alone. Laura then comes up from behind and says it would make his Christmas if he merely forgave him. Abby looks at both of them as Billie arrives.

Billie says hello to everyone. Abby gives her the cold shoulder again. Billie tells Abby she understands she is upset with her but tells her that she has issues to work out. Personal ones. She tells Abby she does love her father and wants to work things out but can't until she works out her own issues first. Abby nods and says she knows her father hurt her with the Elizabeth thing. Billie nods but says she forgives him. She understands why he did what he did and where he was coming from. Abby asks how she can so easily forgive him.

Billie says she just cares too much to let something like that, which is of minor significance now, destroy what they have. She plans to talk things over once she handles what she has to. Abby nods and tells Billie she is sorry for being angry with her. Billie smiles and tells Abby it's ok and she will see her later.

Just then, Jack and Alex walk in. Abby races into his arms with JJ and an emotional reunion occurs. Laura embraces Jack too. Alex shocks Abby by embracing her and JJ, saying it's great to be home with family. Abby smiles and asks how they got home. Jack says they found a pilot of a cargo plane who flies out of a private airstrip. He was daring enough to fly out and they were able to get to London and fly out from there. Abby is so happy he is home. Jack says he hopes she isn't mad at him. Abby says she isn't. Everything is ok now and she understands why he had to go.

Abby then remembers Stephanie's words from Maggie's party and what Billie just told her. Abby them remembers good times with Max and how she has treated him recently. She gives JJ to Jack as mass starts. She says she will be right in. She races outside and finds Max, sitting on a bench.

Abby: Hey!! get up and stop feeling sorry for yourself.
Max (getting up): I'm not in the mood for you to stomp all over my heart again.
Abby: I have a gift for you and don't worry if you have nothing for me. Your enough.
Max: What?
Abby (smiling): Your gift is forgiveness...and another chance. For us. I'm so sorry for the way I treated you. I've made mistakes too and acted like I was perfect and...the truth is...I understood where you were coming from with the Cassie thing. I just didn't want to get hurt again but, now, I know I can't be afraid. I have to take a leap. It's about growing up. So is forgiveness. All I know is tonight I realized that I can't lose the man that could be the best thing that has ever happened to me...because nothing you did is a good enough reason to justify that. So, how about we take things slow and see where the road takes us?
Max (smiling): I can't believe this. Just when I thought we had no chance. I am really sorry for what happened, Abby. I really am and I would love for us to give it another whirl.
Abby: Good. No more talking. Now...let's seal the deal.

Abby then grabs Max and kisses him passionately. They slowly pull away as she says mass has begun and it's time to inside. Max nods as he follows her in and they join family and friends inside, all of which smile at the sight of them, as mass commences, led by Fr. Jansen and then the scene fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

CHRISTMAS IN SALEM...AS ROMANCE AND MIRACLES ABOUND!!!

DECEMBER 20, 2007-EPISODE #398: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS


HORTON HOUSE

The day starts off with Alice sitting in the kitchen with Maggie as Maggie fixes breakfast for the huge brood that is now sleeping in the Horton home. The first one to walk through the door is Tommy, who is still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. Alice asks him if he has brushed his teeth and made his bed and Tommy says he’s a grown man. After a few moments of Alice staring at him, Tommy says he’ll be right back......and goes back upstairs to make his bed.

Tommy passes Bill coming down the stairs and Bill laughs, saying that is what he gets for not making his bed. Tommy tells Bill to shut up and, as he walks upstairs, Laura is standing at the bathroom door, holding her towel. She knocks on the door, telling Sandy to stop using all the hot water and to get out of the shower before she tells Alice. Sandy opens the door and walks out, smiling, as Melissa flies past Laura and into the bathroom, locking the door. Sandy laughs as she walks down the hall.

Back in the kitchen, Pete sits at the table wolfing down his food as Alice, Maggie, Jessica, Joshua, Mike and Don look at him with shock. Don has just came over and kisses Alice on the cheek. Stephen and Spencer then walk in and say hi as they quickly grab plates, piles on food, and sit at the table, silently chowing down. Jessica tells Joshua she wishes Nick could be there with them. As the family starts to gather in the kitchen, talking about Christmas and the upcoming wedding, Alice smiles at them all and the scene shifts to the......


BRADY PUB

Roman, Steve and Bo are sitting at one of the booths. Caroline slowly walks into the dining area as Marlena, Kayla and Hope look on, sitting at another table. Caroline looks at all three men, who sit silently at the table, and wants to know one simple thing.....

Caroline: Ok........which one of you opened these presents?

The men look at each other.........and then start trying to blame each other. Bo says it was all Roman’s idea and Roman calls Bo a liar. Steve says he was asleep when everything went down and that is when Caroline asks why his eye patch was found near the tree. Steve was wondering where that went. The men start arguing as Hope puts a stop to it and Kayla tells them that their punishment is to shovel up all the snow at each one of their houses. Bo says that isn’t fair and Roman says he has to look out for Stefano. He can’t shovel snow.

Marlena reminds him that he isn’t a cop anymore, which means he has a lot of time on his hands. Victor then walks in with Nico and says he has the perfect solution. Bo smiles, knowing that Victor will get them out of this mess. Victor then pulls out a shovel from behind his back and says that they can shovel the show from his driveway. But, Steve says, it’s a 100 yards long. Victor says....

Victor: That should teach you to not open your presents until Christmas morning. Now get to it!

The men slowly get up and walk to the door, with Roman saying to Bo.....

Roman: You know, your dad is mean.

Victor then has another surprise..........as Nico brings Kimberly into the Pub. Everyone greets her and, as the men head out, she is placed in her wheelchair and is lead to one of the booths. Kimberly asks where the men are going and Marlena says they did something bad. Kimberly says that Roman put them up to opening up the presents early. Caroline says she knew this and Kimberly says sure, but she would never rat out her brothers. Hope then asks where the kids are. Kim says that they have some charity work to do but truly feels they aren’t coming because of her and Shane ending things again. As everyone comforts Kimberly the scene switches to the...


SALEM INN

Anna picks at her breakfast. Tony, whose sitting across from her, asks if she is going to cheer up. Anna says she can’t........not with the tension between her and Carrie. Tony tells her that it is going to take more than just one holiday for them to work things out. Anna knows this but hopes that Carrie will come around soon. Tony thinks so and then tells Anna to eat her breakfast. They have some shopping to do. Anna’s ears perk up at the mention of spending lots of money and, as she wolfs her food down........


BRADY PUB

The scene shifts to three hours later as the Brady men come slowly walking back through the door. They flop down hard in a booth and Steve puts his head down, quickly falling asleep. Bo wakes him up, asking why he is so tired. Steve says for him to try and shovel snow with one eye working and see how he feels.

Caroline walks over with cups of coffee and then tells Bo that Victor wants him and Hope to come over for lunch at his house. Bo says ok and then slowly gets up to go home and change. Both Roman and Steve are once again asleep in the booths and Caroline says she will give them his best. Bo kisses his mother and leaves out and Caroline just shakes her head as the scene switches back to....


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Victor receives a call. It is a doctor on the other end, telling him that Sami’s condition is unchanged. Victor says he was hoping for a miracle in this Christmas season but thinks there will not be one. He thanks the doctor and hangs up, telling Nico to make sure everything is ready for Bo and Hope. As Nico leaves out, Victor sits at his desk, doing paperwork.


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Two hours later, Marlena, Roman and Will meet Lucas, who is sitting by Sami’s bedside. Roman asks how everything is and Lucas says she’s trying but nothing so far. Carrie then walks in moments later with Bill. Lucas stands up and walks over and father and son hug. Bill says how sorry he is for what happened to Sami and knows what it feels like when you can’t do anything to help the woman you love.

Marlena says that she needs to step out for a moment and tells Roman she’ll be back soon. They kiss and, as Marlena leaves, she passes Barbara in the hallway. Her doctor tells her to trust her family and friends........and trust herself as well. Marlena says she knows that but, right now, she needs to go talk to someone. Marlena walks off, leaving Barbara to worry about her state of mind.

But..........Marlena goes to the chapel. As she slowly walks in, she sees the Cross on the wall and walks up to the alter. As she kneels down, she slowly looks up, with tears running down her cheeks, and says.....

Marlena: Lord, hear my prayer. I just want my little girl to come back to us. (Crying) She has had such a hard life. Losing both her father and mother for so many years.......I know she did a lot of wrong in her life, but she has changed. You know she has. She has a wonderful heart..........and a good, fine man that loves her so much. Please..........please bring her back to us. Please, Lord..........

As Marlena cries at the alter........


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Bo and Hope come into the dining room of Victor’s home. It is a lunch time get together and, as Victor walks in, he asks that both of them be seated. Victor sits down at the head of his table and tells both Bo and Hope that he has gifts for them. As a very surprised Bo looks at a equally surprised Hope, the scene switches back to........


HORTON HOUSE

Abby looks out the window while holding JJ, praying for some sort of miracle that will bring Jack and Alex home in time for Christmas.

Alice is watching everyone joining together once again. Reunions are now in full swing with handshakes, hugs, kisses, and loud laughter being enjoyed by all. Alice then looks across the room.........

At a picture of Tom, hanging by the Christmas tree, and says softly......

Alice: After a really wild year........we’re all still here, together. Thank you, Tom. I love you.

Alice blows a kiss to her husband, as the scene slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

A COUPLE REUNITES...AND ANOTHER MIRACLE OCCURS!!!

DECEMBER 19, 2007-EPISODE #397: PARTY FEVER PART II


SALEM INN

In the lounge, Victor and Maggie's party continues as Steve and Adrienne hug, happy to see each other after so long. Adrienne apologizes for not returning when Steve first returned. Steve tells her he understands and that he is happy to see her now. They can play catch up. Kayla and Justin look on as Steve and Adrienne hug once more.

Meanwhile, Frankie goes back over to Lucas and tells him he has something he has to do but he will be in touch. He also says he has more news for him. Joelle had the rape exam. Lucas lets out a deep sigh and says he knows he is innocent, even if he can't remember what happened. Frankie says he will do his best to help. Lucas says he knows and thanks Frankie.

Roman and Marlena, Bo and Hope, and Victor and Maggie dance. Steve then takes Kayla for a spin on the dance floor. Abby looks on as Stephanie approaches her and says it's so wonderful to see so much love. Abby nods in agreement. Stephanie says she wants that some day. Abby agrees, saying it's really what every person wants. Stephanie tells Abby she may be able to have it with Max. He may be the one and, if she doesn't do something, she may regret it. An annoyed Abby tells Stephanie to lay off and walks off.

In the lobby, Frankie finds Max sitting on a bench and asks what he is doing. Max says that he doesn't want to be around Abby and can't leave because he is helping out with the party supplies. Frankie asks how things are going between them. Max shakes his head, telling Frankie he poured his heart out to her in Vegas and she acted like it didn't matter. He tells Frankie he thinks it's time to just move on. Frankie tells him he has to do what he has to do. Max nods, saying it is what he has to do. Abby made it clear she wants nothing more to do with him. They're through.

Back inside the lounge, Abby's cell rings. It's Forrest, who says he is in Rio Da Janeiro with Miranda and and says they have a lead on Lawrence but nothing yet. He says he probably won't be home for Christmas so, while he had the chance, he just wanted to wish her Merry Christmas. Abby thanks him and wishes him luck. She says he isn't the only one not there for Christmas and tells him about Jack and Alex being stuck in Switzerland. Forrest reminds Abby that Jack loves her and says he is sure he is doing everything he can to get home. Abby nods and says she knows but that won't make it better for her or JJ. The scene then shifts to...


SWITZERLAND

Jack and Alex are at the airport, sitting and waiting. Jack admits he feels so helpless right now. Alex tells him not to feel bad and admits he feels this is his fault. He should've just went alone. Jack reminds Alex that he wanted to go and would've went no matter what. Jack tells Alex he is happy he did as they had a breakthrough. Alex agrees that's true but Abby and JJ will suffer now. Jack slouches back in his chair and says they just need to hope for a lucky break...or a miracle. The scene then shifts to...


DIMERA PENTHOUSE

Stefano is now playing opera music and sits on the couch with Cassie as they both sip Brandy. Cassie says she is really enjoying spending time with him, playing chess, and listening to the music he so enjoys. Stefano smiles and says it seems they have similar tastes and she never realized it. Cassie laughs and says yes, surprisingly. Stefano looks at her with glee and says she has what it takes to be a true Dimera and everything he could ever hope for in a granddaughter, or daughter, for that matter.

Cassie smiles and tells Stefano all she wants is to please him and make him proud. Stefano gently touches her face and says she already is and he has full confidence she will continue to do so. They both smile at each other and then sit back and listen to the music as the scene shifts to...


SALEM INN

Frankie goes over to Greta and tells her he has a surprise for her. Greta wonders what it is. He begins to wheel her as she asks him to take her around to say her goodbyes first.

Meanwhile, Stephanie walks over to Laura, who is talking to Doug and Julie. She excuses herself and asks to speak with Laura. Laura agrees. Stephanie tells Laura she needs a favor involving Abby.

Kate approaches Billie at her table and says she wants to apologize for before. She just doesn't want her to get her hopes up. Billie tells Kate to just not say anything at all. Kate agrees, reluctantly, and then asks why Miranda can't speed up the results with her ISA contacts. Billie tells Kate that Miranda is out of town on ISA business and that she will be informed when the results are in. Kate asks Billie if she will be calling her to be there when the results are in. Billie looks at her with frustration and says she is heading home. She then bids her goodnight as Kate looks on, clearly disappointed in how things went.

Anna sees Carrie putting her coat on and races over, asking if she is leaving. Carrie says that Roman, Marlena, Lucas, and Will are headed back to the hospital and she wants to go too. Anna begs Carrie to at least sit down and talk to her, especially with Christmas Eve tomorrow. Carrie tells Anna she still doesn't get it. It's too late for her to act like a real mother. She missed her chance to be one to her and now she needs to live with it. Carrie walks off as Anna breaks down. Tony sees what is happening and races over, taking Anna in his arms and trying to comfort her.

Belle is getting her coat and getting ready to go to see Sami too when Philip approaches her, asking if she is leaving already. Belle says she is going back to the hospital with her family. He asks if she had a good time tonight, to which Belle says she did. Philip says he wanted to know if Belle would be dropping by the house with Claire. He has some presents for her and was hoping she would let him spent time with her. Belle tells him it depends on how much time she has, given the circumstances.

Philip, who is clearly upset, says he understands and begins to walk off when Belle stops him. Belle tells him he needs to stop trying so hard. Philip says he thought he wasn't trying hard enough but nothing is ever good enough it seems. Philip walks off as Belle thinks about Philip's words.

Laura goes over to talk to Abby and says she is sorry she hasn't talked to her much during the party. She asks how she is doing. Abby says terrible. Laura admits she knows about Jack and tells Abby it's not his fault. Abby says she knows. Laura asks how everything else is. Abby then snaps and asks if Stephanie asked her to come over and work on her too. Before Laura can answer, Abby answers her own question and says she knows the answer already. She tells Laura she isn't changing her mind. She wants nothing to do with Max.

Stephanie them comes over and tells Abby to stop acting like a brat who never made a mistake in her life. No one is perfect and she should know considering all the stuff her and Chelsea did a year ago that led to her paralysis. Abby looks at both Laura and Stephanie, contemplating Stephanie's words. She then turns and walks off as Stephanie and Laura look at each other, wondering if Abby finally got the message. The scene then shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Alyson is in Sami's room, sitting by her side when a nurse comes in, saying she has to check on a few things. Alyson says it's no problem and opts to take the opportunity to check on her mother. She tells the nurse to tell anyone that shows up where she is.

Later, Alyson arrives outside Jean's room. A nurse walks up with baby Sam, telling Alyson the child care room closed hours ago and she can't keep him any longer. Alyson looks at her watch and realizes it's midnight and now officially Christmas Eve. She apologizes, saying she lost track of time. the nurse says she knows she was with Samantha Brady and doing a good thing. It's ok. Alyson thanks the nurse as she leaves. Alyson looks in the room, wishing they could get a miracle. Alyson then asks Sam if he wants to go in and see grandma.

Alyson walks into the room with Sam and goes and sits by Jean. Sam reaches out and unintentionally touches Jean's hand. Alyson smiles through her tears, saying Sam is being a good boy reaching out for grandma and holding her hand. Just then, Jean's hand closes around Sam's. Alyson sees this and is stunned. She then sees Jean's eyes beginning to flutter open and pages a doctor. Rich comes in and sees Jean's eyes beginning to open. He is stunned and examines her and her vitals.

Alyson asks if her mother is ok. Rich tells her that her mother is back. Alyson smiles, saying they got their miracle. She then embraces her mother in tears. Jean whispers to her she loves her. Alyson says the same as her, Sam, and Jean hold each other and the scene shifts to...


SALEM PARK

Frankie wheels a blindfolded Greta to a gazebo that has a candlelit dinner all set up with champagne and twinkling lights decorating the gazebo. He takes the blindfold off and Greta is pleasantly surprised. She asks how he did this. He says he has his ways and adds he also has her favorite ice cream too. Greta thinks that eating ice cream is becoming their special thing. They both laugh. He says he hopes she isn't too cold for it or too stuffed from the party. Greta smiles and says not at all.

We then see a montage of Frankie popping open the champagne bottle and them both toasting, them both eating dinner in the gazebo, laughing and enjoying each other's company. We then see Frankie and Greta eating ice cream and her flinging some at him, starting a ice cream fight that ends with her in his arms and a moment where they nearly kiss. Frankie then asks if he can have this dance, if she is up for it. Greta nods and he helps her up and helps her stay on her feet as they dance under the gazebo. They both begin to get lose in each other's eyes as they dance, with everything else becoming oblivious to them. The scene then shifts back to...


SALEM INN

Maggie and Victor thank everyone for coming and announce they both hope to see everyone at their wedding. They both kiss, causing everyone in the room to clap. Melissa, Sarah, Alice, Doug, and Julie then approach them after their announcement as Hope walks over to Steve, who is helping to clean up. She whispers to him about what happened between Nicole and Carrie at the hospital earlier and Nicole's warning to him and her. She asks what they should do. Steve says they just need to act like they are making an effort for now and, hopefully, that will stall her long enough for them to come up with something else.

Celeste says goodbye to Abe, who says he needs to get to the station and will see him at home. As Abe leaves, Celeste sees Lexie about to leave and goes over to her. Lexie gives her the cold shoulder when Celeste asks how she is. Celeste tells Lexie she knows that she and Abe made a mistake but this nonsense has to stop. Celeste tells her that Theo is beginning to notice something is wrong and tells Lexie she can be mad at her and Abe all she wants but Theo should not have to suffer to.

Lexie tells Celeste she will talk to Theo. Celeste is shocked and asks Lexie what the hell is wrong with her. She needs to do more then that. They all need to get along and be civil, for Theo's sake. Lexie tells her mother to take it or leave it, saying she is sure she is making half of that up and using Theo to try to smooth things over between the both of them and Abe. She tells Celeste to just leave her alone and to give Abe the same message. Lexie walks off as an upset and frustrated Celeste looks on.

Meanwhile, Bo sees Hope and Steve whispering. Kayla comes over and tells Bo not to worry. They just need to wait until they slip up and they will. Bo isn't sure he can wait. Kayla says that Hope and Steve won't tell them anything and they have been unable to find out anything on their own so they really have no choice right now but to wait and enjoy the holidays.

Bo agrees she is right and tells her that he hopes whatever Hope and Steve are keeping doesn't lead to anyone getting hurt. Kayla agrees. They both look over at Hope and Steve talking and then the scene divides into a 4-way split screen of Bo, Hope, Steve, and Kayla and then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

MORE RETURNS AS CHRISTMAS EVE BEGINS IN SALEM!!!

DECEMBER 18, 2007: EPISODE #396: PARTY FEVER


KIRIAKIS MANSION

It is one hour later and Victor’s party is in full swing. Many of Victor’s friends and soldiers form his home country of Greece have arrived at the party and the liquor is flowing freely while men laugh, tell old stories, play $10,000 pool games and card games, and talk about old friendships renewed. Henderson then walks into the main room in casual wear, as Victor ordered, and is carrying a package. Victor tells him that he is off for the next week as all the men walk over to see what the package is.

Henderson hands Victor a card, which says.......

“To A Great Friend.....And A Even Greater Adversary. May Your Life Be Filled With Happiness, And Peace. Sincerely, Stefano DiMera.”

After Victor is finished reading the card, he looks at the package. He picks it up and shakes it, to which Bo remarks......

Bo: Sure it’s not ticking?

Everyone looks at each other as Abe and Roman come over and the other men stand back. Abe knows they should call the bomb squad and Roman says that it would be the best way for Stefano to wipe everyone out. Victor says for now, that is not the case, and steps up to the package and starts opening it. When Victor turns back around......

The room is empty. Everyone has left the building. Victor looks around and sees Bo’s head slowly peaking up from behind one of the couches. Roman peaks from behind a curtain and Steve opens one of the closet doors slightly. Victor sighs and says everything is fine. Stefano sent Victor a picture of the two of them after they became Made Men.

At that moment, everyone comes out of the woodwork. Victor starts laughing as he sees these grown men hiding in places he didn’t think was possible. Then he says.....

Victor: Nice to see you have my back.

Everyone breaks out in laughter as the music resumes and everything gets back to normal. Roman then looks at Abe, who is walking back toward one of the pool tables and runs over to him. He asks if he can speak with him. Abe pauses for a moment, looking at his friend, and agrees, giving his pool stick to someone else.

Both men put on their coats, grab a six-pack of the finest imported beer, and walk out onto the balcony. Roman takes one of the beers and hands it to Abe, saying.....

Roman: Can you forgive your brother......for acting like an ass?
Abe: I think so.

Abe takes the beer, opens it, and downs most of it, saying that he needs to get more of this. Roman says he’ll have Victor ship him in all that he needs. The men then sit down and Roman goes on to say how he lost his head. He never meant to say that Abe played second fiddle to him and, from the bottom of his heart, thanks Abe for doing what he tried to do. Abe nods his head and says that he hopes Roman can get his life back to normal. Roman says he’d like to start now.....

And both men stand up and hug. Abe smiles and starts laughing when he sees Roman wiping his eyes and Roman says that it just started snowing and a flake got into his eyes. Both men laugh and then Abe turns serious, saying that he wanted to wait until tomorrow to tell him this news but one of his contacts inside the D.A.’s Office told him that Patricia is going to charge him with multiple counts of murder. Roman sighs deeply, saying that he figured that. He also finds it amazing that he may face jail time after everything Orpheus and Stefano has done.

Abe agrees and says Roman better have a good lawyer. Roman says he does and hopes he doesn’t spend the holidays locked up in jail. As the men turn and walk back into the party, the scene shifts......


SALEM INN

To the ladies’ party, where they are having a great time as well. So great a time that they don’t see the two very well-built police officers walking into the party. Hope stands up and asks if there is a problem and one of the officers says yes. When she then asks if they are too loud, the officer says they aren’t loud enough......

And the other officer pulls out a boom box and hits play as the men start stripping. The place explodes in cheers and whistles as both men dance over to Maggie and start stripping in front of her. Even Alice gets into the act, saying to one of the men....

Alice: Now, young man........I thought your job was to show us some skin. Get to work.

The women laugh as both men start working the room as Melissa, Sarah and Laura start throwing money towards them. Hope and Kayla puts dollar bills down their G-strings and Caroline, Adrienne and Lexie take pictures of the men as they dance. Billie is actually managing to have a great time, as is Marlena, and Julie remarks to Marlena that it is good to see her laugh and enjoy herself after the year she’s had.

As Marlena agrees with Celeste, Anna wants to walk over to Carrie and talk to her but every time she looks over to her, Carrie shakes her head no. Abby and Kate can feel the tension between the two and Billie completely ignores Kate for most of the evening. Greta looks at everyone having a great time.......but calls Frankie.......

Who takes a break from watching a pool game between Steve and Roman to talk to Greta. Frankie asks if the ladies are having a good time and she says just as good a time as the men are having. She then says that she misses him and he replies in kind, saying that he is thinking about her constantly. They both smile as they say their good-byes and Frankie walks back into the pool room.

Lucas is standing there watching a card game when Frankie pulls him to the side. Frankie tells Lucas that Joellle filed a restraining order against him. Lucas is actually relieved to hear this, saying that the farther he stays away from her, the better. Frankie then tells him that he just better be careful and make sure he stays away from her until the trial. As the two men rejoin the party, Bo and Roman walk over to Victor and tell him that he does know that there are male dancers over at the Salem Inn.

Victor is worried about that and then says that they need to do something about it. Steve agrees and Abe then turns around and tells all the men that it’s time to go party crashing. The men cheer as they pick up their keys and coats and everyone heads out.

Thirty minutes later, the women are sitting around drinking and laughing as the strippers put on an encore show. Marlena looks toward the window and sees Roman, Bo and Steve peaking their heads into the party. When Bo looks over and sees Marlena....he grabs Roman, who grabs Steve, and all three men disappear. Marlena halts the dancers and tells the ladies that they have guests.

Victor walks in with his entourage and says yes, the party has just gotten started. Everyone cheers as they all hug each other and music starts playing as everyone breaks off into couples and starts dancing. After twenty minutes, everyone claps as Bo gathers everyone’s attention. As Victor and Maggie stand arm in arm, he says.........

Bo: Well, it’s about time. Victor, I knew you would find happiness one day with a very special lady. She’s been a very important part of all our lives for many years and, so, to welcome Maggie into the Kiriakis family, I have something to give her.

Bo takes a gift and walks over to Maggie and tells her.......

Bo: Victor will recognize this. It is from his mother and his father gave her this on the day before they were married. I had it sent here to give to you. From what Victor tells me, his parents had a wonderful marriage and that’s what I want for you two.

Bo kisses Maggie on the cheek, saying.......

Bo: Welcome to our family.

Everyone applauds as Victor shakes Bo’s hand and Laura and Alice hug Maggie. The discussion then turns to the best man. Nico says that he is glad that Bo is standing up for Victor on his best day. Bo tells Nico.....

Bo: Well, that’s where you’re wrong. I talked it over with Victor and we both feel..........that the man who should stand up for him.....is the man who has protected him for all these years.

Victor then walks over to a confused Nico, taking out a gift for him.

Victor: Nico.......this is for the best man. Bo has one as well because he’s my son. But, he told me.....that if a man has spent the better part of his life.......saving me from death more times that I care to remember, that he should stand up with me. That man is you, my friend. Please......please say you’ll be my best man.

Nico takes the gift, which is a brand new custom-made Rolex watch, and puts it on, saying......

Nico: For you, sir........it would be my honor.

The two men hug as everyone applauds loudly. Tony then says that the liquor and music will be going all night so everyone should have a great time.........especially since he charged everything to Stefano’s Visa Gold Card. The guests laugh as Tony takes Anna into his arms and, as the music starts playing again, Tony tells her that everything will be ok with Carrie. He’ll see to it. Anna smiles as she dances in Tony’s arms........

And, as Roman dances with Marlena, he tells her that he and Abe worked some things out. She is so happy to hear that but then Roman tells her that he may end up going to prison for killing Orpheus. Marlena assures Roman that when a jury hears all the evil things he did........twenty years ago and now......that there is no way he’ll serve one day in jail. As the couple look into each other’s eyes and continue to dance.....

Bo and Hope dance near them, with Hope telling Bo how wonderful it was that he stepped aside and made Nico Victor’s best man. Bo said it was the least he could do. Nico’s a great man and has been there for Victor since they started out together. Hope tells Bo how special he truly is and all Bo can say is......

Bo: I know.

As they both laugh, the scene then switches to Victor and Maggie, who just look lovingly into each other’s eyes. The scene lingers on them for a few moments and then slowly fades out.


I.S.A. HEADQUARTERS IN ST. LOUIS

Shane tells Miranda by telephone that he is headed to Salem for Victor and Maggie’s wedding. He asks for an update on the search and Miranda, who is in Rio Da Janeiro, says that she has a lead on Lawrence but nothing concrete. Shane tells her to keep on it and she says she will as they hang up. As Shane grabs his luggage and heads out......


DIMERA PENTHOUSE

Stefano gets a phone call from a man telling him some information....

Stefano: Yes.......yes, hello. It’s good to hear your voice. Yes. And the briefcase? Hmmm......that’s what I thought. Well, Victor, Bo and everyone else are looking the other way. As far as they know, that case has disappeared and won’t turn up. Do this. Get our soldiers on this, now. The contents of that case are vital.......

And may decide the future of four families here in Salem.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

ROMANCE, DECISIONS...AND MUCH MORE AS VICTOR AND MAGGIE'S PARTY WINDS DOWN!!

DECEMBER 17, 2007-EPISODE #395: HOME SWEET HOME PART II


JOELLE'S APARTMENT

Joelle is on the phone with Joey, telling him to be sure to call if he is coming home late. There is a knock at the door. Joelle checks before answering to make sure it's not Lucas. She learns it's Patricia and answers it. Patricia bursts into the room and demands to know why Joelle did not undergo the rape exam and why she never told her about it. Joelle says she just panicked. Patricia asks why she would panic...unless she has something to hide. Joelle is silent.

Patricia loses it and grabs Joelle by the arm, telling her not to insult her intelligence. She demands to know if Lucas really raped Joelle. She tells Joelle there are other ways of getting revenge without making false accusations that will get both of them in trouble. Patricia reminds Joelle that her career is on the line and this isn't helping and also says that many woman go through the traumatic experience of being raped and if she is lying about this she is insulting every single one of those women. Joelle says she isn't lying. She's just scared because she doesn't like people investigating her body.

Patricia reminds her that the exam is the key piece of evidence and, without it, they have nothing. Joelle finally relents and says she will take the test. Patricia says she will drive her and will stay there this time until she undergoes the exam. Joelle nods and goes to get her coat. After Joelle leaves, Patricia prays that Joelle isn't lying. The scene then shifts to...


SALEM INN

Alice and Julie arrive and marvel at how great the lounge looks. Abby and Stephanie are there and Julie thanks both girls for their hard work getting ready for Maggie's party. Alice says that guests should be arriving soon and so will the other surprises. Abby's phone then rings and she goes to answer it. It's Jack, calling from an airport in Switzerland. Abby tells him what is going on in Salem with Victor and Maggie's bachelor and bachelorette parties being tonight and Jack tells her to tell them he is sorry he won't be home in time and then says that is why he is calling.

Abby asks if everything is alright. Jack fills her in on the breakthrough him and Alex had and then tells Abby that there is a nasty snowstorm and him and Alex may not make it home in time for Christmas. Abby is stunned. Jack tells her it's not clear when the storm will let up and when everything will be cleaned up. Jack apologizes. Abby is heartbroken and tells Jack he should've never went. Jack tells Abby he had to. Alex is his son. Abby reminds him he has a daughter and son in Salem too that need him for Christmas. Jack says he is really sorry and tells her they will have to pray for a miracle. It is the season afterall. He then tells her he loves her and Merry Christmas, in case he doesn't see her. He says Alex says the same and to give JJ a kiss for him.

Abby says Merry Christmas to him too and to be careful. They then hang up. Alex asks Jack how she took it. Jack says not well and tells Alex there is nothing they can do now but hope for a little Christmas magic. Meanwhile, back in Salem, Stephanie sees Abby is upset and asks what is wrong. Abby fills her in and Stephanie comforts her and says she is sorry. She tells her that her and JJ still have her and her parents. Abby smiles and says it's not the same. The scene then shifts to...


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Nicole picks herself up and lunges for Carrie but Bo and Steve stop her. She tells Carrie she will regret that. Alyson arrives and wonders what is going on. Carrie tells Nicole she will regret it if she goes anywhere near Evan. Nicole throws Bo and Steve off her and then takes off. Alyson walks up to Carrie and introduces herself. Carrie does the same. Alyson says she has heard so much about her and likes her already. She adds that anyone that takes on Nicole like that is a friend of hers. Caroline fills Carrie in on who Alyson is as Kayla tells Steve they have to be getting to Victor and Maggie's parties. Bo and Hope look at the time and say the same thing.

Marlena says she isn't going and Roman says the same. Lucas and Will ditto that. Alyson walks in with Carrie and Caroline and says she would be willing to stay with Sami. Her mother has made no progress anyway and they all deserve a break. Plus, she doesn't really know many who would be at the party anyway. Lucas isn't so sure but Alyson convinces him and the others to go and enjoy. Alyson goes and sits by Sami and insists. Lucas, Roman, and Marlena thank her.

Meanwhile, Hope catches up to Carrie outside and asks if she can have a word with her. They go off to a corner and Hope tells Carrie she wanted to warn her about Nicole but it looks like she has that under control. Carrie tells Hope that Nicole doesn't scare her. Hope nods. Carrie asks Hope why she felt the need to warn her, saying she is already aware of Nicole and the threat she poses. Hope says she just felt the need since she was the one who called her to return. Hope tells Carrie she will see her at the party and walks off. Carrie wonders what that was about, noting Hope was acting strange and seemed to have something on her mind. As she walks off, the scene shifts to...

The hospital lobby as Bo tells Hope he will go get the car. Nicole then races up to her, causing her to jump. Nicole warns Hope to get a move on or her perfect little life comes crashing down. Hope tells Nicole she convinced Carrie to come back with Evan and Steve is working on Alyson. They are doing their best. Nicole says that isn't good enough and says she has a week to make the proper progress, to which she will be the judge of. She tells Hope to pass the message to Steve. Nicole reminds her she is always watching and walks off as an unnerved Hope watches and the scene shifts to...

An exam room, where Joelle has just finished undergoing the rape exam. Patricia comes into the room and asks how it went. Joelle says it was fine. Patricia reminds Joelle she mentioned something in the car about Lucas coming over her place last night and that he had threatened her. Joelle nods and says that was part of the reason why she was scared to further implicate him. Patricia tells Joelle she will be filing a restraining order and getting her and her son guard protection. She promises her that everything is going to be alright and that Lucas Horton is going down. The scene shifts to...


STEFANO'S PENTHOUSE

Lexie comes downstairs and sees Stefano teaching Cassie how to play chess. Lexie says that she is going to Maggie's party. Stefano admits he is shocked that she was invited. Lexie tells Stefano the Brady's and Horton's are very forgiving people and recognize she is just as much a victim at times as them. Stefano asks what that means. Lexie says it's nothing and asks Cassie if she is going. Cassie says she is staying with Stefano as her time is better spent with him then with those people. Lexie reminds her that some of those people are family to her. Cassie ignores her. Lexie tells them to have a good night and leaves as Stefano smiles at Cassie. Cassie asks what he is smiling at. Stefano tells her she makes him more and more proud by the day. Cassie smiles as the scene shifts to...


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Max, Philip, Frankie, Nico, Hawk, Bo, Roman, Steve, Abe, Lucas, and Will all sit around in the living room, waiting for Victor's arrival to surprise him. Tony arrives with Doug as Henderson shows them in. Bo asks Philip where Victor went. Philip says he was handling some business errands. Henderson then announces that Mr. Kiriakis is home. The men get into position. Soon after, Victor enters the house and walks into the living room and is shocked to see them all there. Bo says they would've yelled surprise but didn't want to give him a heart attack. Victor sarcastically says that's funny and asks what the meaning of this is. Philip says it's a bachelor party.

Victor thinks he's too old for that but Bo thinks a man is never too old and says they have food and drinks and everything else they need. Henderson is taking care of everything. Bo then says they have another little surprise for him and tells Victor to turn around. Just then, Justin walks in and an overjoyed Victor embraces his nephew, saying long time, no see. Justin tells his uncle it's good to see him as the scene then shifts to...


SALEM INN

Caroline comes in wheeling Greta, who has been released from the hospital. Everyone greets her warmly as Billie arrives and sees Kate, asking what she is doing there. Kate says she was invited. Billie is shocked. Kate reminds Billie the Horton's can be forgiving and Lucas is her son, afterall. Kate asks if she has the DNA test results back. Billie tells her they won't be in until after Christmas sometime. Kate warns her not to get her hopes up. Billie says she is confident it will be a positive result and sarcastically thanks her for her optimism and walks off as Kate watches.

Meanwhile, Stephanie and Abby are bring some food out when she asks if she has talked to Max lately. Abby shakes her head, saying not at all really since Vegas. Stephanie thinks she should talk to him. Abby asks if he told her to say that. Stephanie shakes her head and tells Abby she needs to stop being a selfish brat and to think about Max. He has suffered enough and deserves to at least have a talk with her to see where things stand. Abby says he deserves nothing after what he did to her. A frustrated Stephanie asks if Abby plans to hold that against him forever. Abby says she has had enough of this and walks off.

Abby walks by Billie, who says hi to her. Abby gives her a cold stare and walks off as a saddened Billie walks off. Celeste walks in and sees Lexie, saying she is shocked to see her. Lexie coldly walks off. Kayla, Hope, Carrie, Marlena, and Belle join the party and Julie then races in and says Maggie is coming. They all get into their places. Maggie walks in, wondering why Julie wanted to meet there. The women all yell out "SURPRISE!!!" and a shocked Maggie bursts into joyous tears as she is greeted by everyone. Alice says they have another surprise and tells Julie to bring them in. Laura, Melissa, and Sarah all come out and greet Maggie, who is overjoyed. Other family and friends soon come over to greet them as Adrienne walks in, asking where her welcoming committee is.

Everyone is shocked to see and races over to greet her as well as Kayla pushes in to give the first hug. Anna then arrives and apologizes to Julie for being late. She hands her the present she brought and looks up and is shocked to see Carrie. She slowly walks over to her as Carrie turns around. Tears well up in Anna's eyes as she asks Carrie when she come back to town. Carrie tells her a few hours ago and says she isn't in the mood to talk, especially with her. She then excuses herself as Anna struggles not to fall apart right there.

Lexie comes over and asks if she is alright. Anna shakes her head. Lexie embraces her and tries to comfort her as Julie yells out to all the women that it's time to get this party started. The scene then freezes on all the women talking and looking and finding seats and then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE MEN AND WOMEN OF SALEM PARTY!!!

WEEK OF DECEMBER 17, 2007 EDITION

WRITER'S CORNER


EACH WEEK I, TIM LOWERY (BETTER KNOWN AS PHOENIXRISING05) AND MY FELLOW SALEM LIVES HEAD WRITER, PATRICK L. EWING (BETTER KNOWN AS ROMAN), WILL TAKE TIME OUT TO ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM READERS AND ANYONE ELSE THAT DECIDES TO CHECK OUR FAN FICTION BLOG OUT. WE WILL TAKE TURNS ANSWERING QUESTIONS EACH WEEK. THESE QUESTIONS CAN BE QUESTIONS ABOUT CASTING, WRITING, PAST STORIES, CURRENT STORIES, OR WHATEVER COMES TO MIND REALLY PERTAINING TO SALEM LIVES. PLEASE REMEMBER TO PM US QUESTIONS DURING THE WEEK FOR US TO ANSWER AND ALSO REMEMBER YOU CAN POST QUESTIONS VIA COMMENTING HERE IN THE BLOG. IF WE RECEIVE NO QUESTIONS, ROMAN AND I WILL JUST ANSWER QUESTIONS BASED ON REACTIONS TO EPISODES AND DISCUSSIONS WE HAVE HAD WITH OTHERS. SO, WITHOUT FURTHER ADIEU, HERE WE GO:

THIS WEEK'S WRITER IN THE HOT SEAT: PATRICK L. EWING (ROMAN)

Q. There have been questions and comments that SL, once again, it taking liberties with realism. How do you respond to that?

A. Well, if you look at it in these views, 1. There have been many reports that airports are no safer now than they were before the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks. They have improved, but not greatly. Also, most of the men we had in that airport story were OUTSIDE in the woods surrounding the airport when all this occurred. 2. For Carries to say that she felt Israel was safer than Salem is speaking to her mind set about what was happening in her home city. Plus, she has too much baggage there with members of her family and some people she really doesn’t care for.

People should read into what they feel, I have no problem with that. But, we try our best, even when we take liberties, to be realistic. I think by our views and the wonderful comments that we get from some truly great readers, they like what we do.

Q. Will the younger set become more involved with the storytelling?

A. Of course. But, they will not push A-list story. They will be put into the fabric of the veterans on the show, and their stories will come about organically through these interactions. But, the vets are who the readers apparently want to see, and that will continue, but we will make it more well-rounded with the vets and the younger set.

Q. Will the action and adventure be driving story in the future?

A. In the future, the action/adventure will go back to being a part of the blog. To be honest, and after some long talks, I truly think that our readers are sick and tired right now of half of Salem either being blown up or most of the population being killed off. Looks like a slasher movie with all the bodies laying all over this town. So, I and my partner felt that it was time to go back to some nice, serious character-driven stories. And, I hope that the readers will trust us to tell good stories on this front.

Q. Therefore, will you continue to have the doom and gloom hanging over Salem?

A. That is something else I feel the readers truly want. To be very frank and honest, there is too much sorrow and sadness in Salem right now. That will change this holiday season and into the new year. It won’t be all happiness all the time, because that will take away the drama, but it will even out greatly. I hope that the readers once again trust us enough to see these changes happen and stick with us.

We don’t always get it right, and never said that we did. But, when we do screw up badly, I feel that we at least admit it, try our best to learn from it, and then see to it that it won’t happen again. Many writers don’t do that daytime. Also, we will not change something mid-stream just because there maybe someone who hates a character or plot point. I feel that we have earned the trust of our readers to tell good story, and hope they come on the journey with us, but I also can gurantee that when they bring concerns to me, they are listened to, and answered accordingly. And, I thank them for doing that.


Comings & Goings:



This week, there will be a spectacular cast change happening........when Michael T. Weiss joins Salem Lives, returning to his signature role of Michael Horton. “We liked Roark Critchlow in the role, but many fans remember Michael form his time on Days Of Our Lives as Mike, and since was available, we scooped him up” EP/HW Pat J. Ewing said. “After his work on The Pretender, we felt that he finally got the chance to show the dramatic depth he just scratched on DOOL. And, we are really honored to have him.” Look for Mike to come home for the holidays starting this week, and maybe stick around afterwards. “Only time will tell,” Pat says......with a wicked smile.

Here are the dates that some of your favorites are returning to Salem:

Jaime Lyn Bauer (Laura Horton)-returns Monday 12/17
Micheal T. Weiss (Mike Horton)-returns Thursday 12/20
David Tom (Jeremy Horton)-returns Thursday 12/20
Lisa Trusel (Melissa Anderson)-returns Monday 12/17
Pamela Roylance (Sandy Horton)-returns Thursday 12/20
Alli Brown (Sarah Horton)-returns Monday 12/17
Jean Bruce Scott (Jessica Blake Fallon)-returns
Thursday 12/20
Scott Palmer (Joshua Fallon)-returns Thursday 12/20
Stephen Schnetzer (Steven Olsen)-returns Thursday
12/20
Justin Hartley (Spencer Olsen)-returns Thursday 12/20
Michael Leon (Pete Jannings)-returns Thursday 12/20
Jed Allen (Don Craig)-returns Thursday 12/20
Kale Browne (Bill Horton)-returns Thursday 12/20
Larry Bryggman (Tommy Horton)-returns Thursday 12/20
Patsy Pease (Kimberly Brady)-returns Thursday 12/20
Wally Kurth (Justin Kiriakis)-returns Monday 12/17
Judi Evans (Adirenne Johnson-Kiriakis)-returns Monday
12/17

Also, in a shocking move, George Delhoyo and Mark Wahlberg have been released from Salem Lives as Orpheus and Michael, respectively. “We felt that these characters have been taken as far as they can be taken right now, and decided to end this story. They were both wonderful actors and a joy to work with, and will be sorely missed.” At press time, both actors were involved in other projects and not available for comment.


Previews:

The Claws Are Out!
A Betrayal Is Exposed.
Suspicions Mount.
Two Wild Parties Commence!
And.........Many Family Members Return Home.......For The Holidays!

Next Week.........

A Family Tradition Continues, One Man’s World Comes Crashing Down, And......Two Lovers Are Reunited! It’s All Right Here.......On Salem Lives.

ANNOUNCER: This Week.........On Salem Lives........

After The Destruction Of One Of Salem's Deadliest Enemies........

Scene Of Orpheus's Plane Crashing And Exploding.

The People Of Salem Try To Start Over.......

Scene Of A Happy Bo & Hope, Steve & Kayla, And Roman & Marlena.

But Can The Spirit Of Christmas........

Scene Of Jack And Alex Trapped At The Airport, Lucas & Will Keeping Vigil For Sami.

Be Enough To Save The Holidays? It Two Weeks Of Emotion, Reunions.......& Miracles.......

Starting This Week.........A December To Remember!!

DECEMBER 14, 2007: EPISODE #394: HOME SWEET HOME


ORPHEUS SECRET PALATIAL HOME(on the outskirts of Salem)

Nicole walks into the living room. The door was left unlocked and she sits her purse down. She still can’t believe that after all they have cooked up and all that he put the Brady's through....that he could be dead. As she walks through the darkened house, she turns several lights on, wondering if he pulled a DiMera and survived the crash. As she looks around for Orpheus.......

She comes upon a door in the very back of the home. She slowly opens it and, once inside, the room is illuminated by the light from a group of monitors. They cover everything......Sami’s room at the hospital, Stefano’s home, Roman and Marlena’s home, Victor’s home........and some other points around
Salem. Nicole starts smiling evilly and then starts laughing, feeling that she finally has the upper hand on the Brady's.


CONSTRUCTION SITE OF MAGGIE AND MAX'S CLUB (FORMER SALEM CLUB)

Maggie walks Julie in while Doug wheels Alice in. Max is overseeing the construction and says that everything should be done by February. Everyone is shocked by how far everything has come and how nice it’s shaping up. Alice then asks, out of the blue, if he plans to give up on Abby. Max smiles but is silent and Alice says no sense beating around the bush. She just wants a straight forward answer. Max says that he won’t make the same mistake twice. Doug agrees, saying that Abby is a fine girl. Julie says that she knows what it’s like to almost lose the love of your life.

Maggie tells Max that maybe it’s time to go back to work and, as he smiles and walks away, he takes out his cell phone........and calls Abby. He gets no answer and wonders if it's even worth it trying anymore. The scene then shifts to........


SALEM INN

In his suite, Tony comes in with breakfast on a fancy tray. Anna sits up and, as Tony sits it in front of her, they both kiss. Tony smiles, telling her that he didn’t know the death of his brother would bring him so much happiness. That........and getting her back. Anna tells him once again how sorry she is for almost ruining everything. Tony says he almost did that years ago.........when he almost chose Renee over her.

Anna starts to cry and Tony tells her not to do that. He has his lady back..........and things are looking better than ever. As Tony leans in once again and kisses Anna gently, the scene fades into.......


BRADY PUB

Carrie walks in with Evan. Steve, Kayla and Stephanie walk over and hug her as Steve takes Evan and says how big he’s grown. Everyone then sits down as Caroline brings out drinks and Kayla asks where they have been. Carrie says that she is doing work for Mike in Israel but they traveled Europe, which did her a world of good. She is still shocked, though, that news of the all the violence in Salem reached all the way over there. She then asks if they have found this Michael Myers yet and Steve says no. Everyone hopes that was his first and last visit to Salem.

Carrie then says that Mike is coming home for Christmas. Stephanie says she’s never met him and wonders if he has any children. Kayla says yes.........a son, Jeremy. Stephanie hopes he comes to Salem too, which makes Steve groan. After everyone chuckles, Carrie asks about her mother and Caroline tells her what has happened. Carrie is glad she’s fine..........but doesn’t care to see her. Kayla says she won’t push the issue but thinks she at least should say hi to her and Tony while she’s home. After Carrie says she’ll think about it, Caroline suggests they head to the hospital........to see Sami.

As they all get up to leave, the scene then fades to........


BO AND HOPE'S HOUSE

In the master bedroom, Hope walks out of the bathroom.....and drops her towel. Bo looks over, like a little boy in a candy store, and tells her that they have some unfinished business. Hope says she is shocked that he still has the stamina after last night and Bo says she shouldn't be. Not after all these years. As Hope climbs into bed, she says that, with Orpheus dead, hopefully Stefano and Victor can put an end to this feuding and they can finally have some peace in their lives.

The phone then rings. Bo answers and it’s Kayla, saying that they are headed to the hospital, with Carrie. Bo asks how she and Evan are doing and Kayla says great. But, on Caroline’s orders, he and Hope have to come to the hospital and say hi. Bo says he and Hope are in the middle of some catching up and will see them all later. After saying good-bye, Bo relays the news and Hope, surprisingly, says she wants to go now. Bo asks why and Hope remembers what she has to do and says it will be nice to see Carrie. They can catch up all they want later.

Bo calls Kayla back and says they are on their way. Hope is already up and getting dressed and Bo reluctantly gets up, as the scene shifts to.......


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Roman and Marlena walk into Sami’s room. Roman and Lucas shake hands and Marlena asks if there is any change. Lucas says no but Roman tells him he got a response last night. Will says that sounds great. He tells Lucas that Sami can feel them around her and she’s fighting. Lucas then tells everyone what happened between him and Joelle. He then tells everyone that it was all Orpheus’s idea originally to involve her. He paid her to do that [!@#$%^&*] to him and it brought this all on. Roman says that maybe what he did was a good thing, then.

Lucas thanks him for killing Orpheus. He says that the man made everyone’s life a living hell. Marlena says he’s right. They are all sitting at that hospital room because of him. But, Marlena says, what makes her proud........is that Sami didn’t even think twice before jumping in front of the gunshot. She knew that, through all the bad things she did, that she had it in her. Marlena kisses Sami on the forehead......and several of the monitors start jumping. Sami doesn’t move but continues to fight to return to her family.

Roman then says that maybe they should turn Joelle in. Lucas says that even though she basically said he didn’t touch her, they have no proof. Marlena says how sorry she is for all of this. If she had done more to stop Orpheus on the ship........Will then says the one that was on the river. Everyone turns and looks at him and Will just says he was wondering how a cruise ship got that far, that’s all. Everyone shakes their heads and Roman turns to Marlena, saying that she shouldn’t blame herself.

As Roman holds Marlena, Carrie walks in, asking if she can join the party. Everyone lets out a big cheer as she hugs everyone and gives Evan to Roman, who says his grandson looks more and more like a Brady everyday. As Roman plays with Evan, Lucas asks how she’s doing and Carrie says that Austin will always have her heart.......but she knows he’s not gone as long as she remembers him.

At that moment, Bo and Hope also come into Sami’s room and Will says they may have to take this somewhere else soon. Bo takes Evan from Roman and holds him, saying that this is good for Sami. As Roman thanks Bo for the doctors who have been working on Sami, Hope tries to pull Carrie to the side. At Orpheus’s penthouse, Nicole sees everyone in Sami’s room on one of the monitors......and sees Hope trying to pull Carrie to the side. She thinks to herself that Hope wouldn’t be that stupid.......

But Hope can’t get a word in edgewise to get Carrie’s attention. As Nicole grabs her purse and takes off toward the hospital.......

Roman goes out into the hallway and calls Barbara. He tells her that Marlena is feeling guilty again and Barbara says she’s in the hospital. She’ll be up there soon. Twenty minutes later, as Roman drinks a cup of coffee at the nurse's station, Barbara walks over and asks where Marlena is. Roman says she’s in Sami’s room and when Barbara peeks her head in to say hi to everyone, she asks if she could speak with Marlena for a moment about some paperwork she hadn’t finished. As they excuse themselves, Barbara tells Marlena that she needs to continue her treatment. Marlena thanks her for covering for her and says that she will do what she has to.

Barbara says that she needs to do that.......and soon. As Barbara leaves, Marlena thinks about what she said.......with Roman watching her from the door.

Back in Sami’s room, Carrie says that heard about Lucas’ troubles and tells him that she is behind him, all the way. Lucas thanks her and, after they hug, the room grows silent as Carrie walks over to Sami’s bed. She leans down, looks at Sami, wipes tears from her eyes, and says........

Carrie: Well........my sister has finally seen the light. I miss you so much, Sami. Come back to us.

Carrie then bends over and kisses Sami on her forehead........and the monitors start jumping once again. Carrie looks at Marlena and Will says that is the second time that’s happened today. Bo goes out and searches for the doctors as everyone stands by, hoping for a miracle.

Caroline wonders if she should call Anna and tell her that Carrie is in town and Hope says that may not be a good idea. Steve agrees, saying that it really is none of her business. If Carrie doesn’t want to see Anna......leave it be. As Steve and Hope go off to the side, Caroline says that maybe Steve is right. When Carrie is ready, she’ll go to her mother.

Kayla then looks around and sees Steve and Hope talking and wonders what that is all about. As she walks over to Steve......Hope goes over to Carrie, who is now sitting Evan down. She asks to speak to Carrie outside and Carrie says sure. Both women walk out the door.......

And Carrie and Hope come face to face........with an angry Nicole! Nicole says that she has some nerve coming back into town and Carrie says she’s right. And now, she would like to tell Nicole how sorry she is for upsetting her. Carrie slowly walks over to Nicole, smiles at Nicole as Nicole crosses her arms ..........

And swings a roundhouse right cross at Nicole, connecting with her jaw, and sending her over the couch in the waiting area and onto the floor. Hope stands by, shocked, and Carrie and Nicole stare at each other with hatred......

As the scene split screens and then freeze frames on them both......before fading to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

LOVED ONES RETURN AS SALEM PREPARES TO PARTY!!

DECEMBER 13, 2007-EPISODE #393: AWAKENING

SWITZERLAND

Jack tells Alex to go ahead and open the letter. After some hesitation, Alex opens the envelope and sits down with Jack on the couch as he begins to read:

My darling son,

I have instructed my attorney to hand this letter to you with the rest of my personal papers if something should happen to me. Since you are reading this, I guess my time with you has ended. It is my hope that your father is present too when you read this as it was my hope to tell you just who your father was before such an event as my passing would happen. However, if I by chance haven't, there are documents amongst my papers alluding to your father's identity.

One of my biggest regrets will forever be the tragic fact that you never were provided with a normal life. The troubles between my family and I meant you never got to know them and my reluctance to tell you who your father was has held you back from getting to know him and his family. I know I have failed you and I know the hurt you must be feeling. I am eternally sorry, my son. I should've told you. I was just afraid you would be hurt more.

When we were younger, your father had no concerns outside of his career and reputation. The man he called his father then kept him on that path. My fear for years was that your father would put those concerns ahead of you and that is why I never told you. Granted, your father did change but he had a new family with new complications. My fear was still that you would not be given the love and attention by him you deserved. However, I should've known better. I should've known your father would never cast you aside. I grew to know him very well in our years together and I never stopped loving him yet I doubted him. That is a mistake I will forever wish I hadn't made.

Whether you already know who your father is or whether you are just finding out by reading my papers, I am sure you must be hurt and in a state of confusion. I am so sorry for the way things turned out. I know you don't owe me anything after the way I have behaved and after all I have done but I do have one request of you. I would like you to give your father a chance. I would like you to give your new family a chance. It is my feeling you won't regret it. I know you may never forgive me and I understand that. I just hope you don't direct any anger toward your father. He is an innocent in this, just as you are.

Give him a chance. This is your chance at having the family you always dreamed of. The one you told me you wanted when you were just a child and the one I know you still wanted as you continued to grow into the wonderful man you are today. Just do that for me and I can rest in peace knowing you are not alone...knowing that you are loved and being cared for.

Know that I love you, my son, and everything I did was done out of love for you. Hopefully, one day you understand but it is fine if you don't. I understand. Please, tell your father I will never love another man like I loved him and that I hope he also finds the happiness he so deserves. I love you both and my your lives be filled with peace, joy, and love.

Your mother,
Elizabeth

Alex finishes reading, gets up, and walks away. Jack gets up and puts his hand on his shoulder, trying to comfort him. Alex turns and looks at Jack with tears in his eyes. Alex breaks down and tells Jack he is sorry and embraces him. Jack pats him on the back and says he has nothing to feel sorry for. Jack says he loves him and Alex says the same as the scene shifts to...


PIER

Miranda and Billie are on their way back from the hospital lab. Billie thanks Miranda again for pulling some strings and getting the DNA test done. Miranda says it's the least she can do and tells Billie the results may not be in for a bit due to the holidays and the lab being back up with priorities first. Billie understands and thanks her for getting it done so quickly. Kate then appears and says she has been looking all over for Billie, thinking she would've heard about Orpheus. Billie nods. Kate says she was worried about her. Billie tells Kate she has nothing to worry about. It's not like she cared about Orpheus as the man was a criminal and she hated him. Kate asks what she's doing with Miranda. Billie fills Kate in on the DNA test idea, saying she wishes she thought of it sooner.

Kate tells Billie she hates to be a downer but she is being realistic as it's unlikely the test will show a different result. Miranda tells Kate to just shutup. Kate fires back, saying it's Miranda's fault this came out in the first place. Miranda says it would've came out at some point and adds that Kate was the one with her arms all over Orpheus that night. Kate tells Miranda she is sick of her and lunges for her but Billie pulls Kate off Miranda and tells her mother to back off, saying Miranda is trying to help her get some final answers. Kate tells Billie that Miranda just has a guilty conscience because she played a part in her learning the truth.

Billie tells them both to stop acting like children and says she doesn't need their BS tonight. She says she is going home and thanks Miranda for her help. Miranda says she really does want a relationship with Billie since she is her niece and adds she hopes to tell Lucas and Philip that she is their aunt too. Billie thinks that is good and bids her goodnight and bids a subdued goodnight to Kate. Billie leaves as Miranda tells Kate she does feel horrible Billie got hurt but says the blame for what has happened falls on her. Miranda adds that her children are miserable because of her and her alone. Miranda walks off as Kate thinks about what she has said and seems affected by it. She then slowly walks off as the scene shifts to...


KIRIAKIS MANSION

Victor walks into his bedroom and is stunned to see candles lit all over the room and Maggie lying on their bed in a negligee. Maggie smiles and says she thought he could use something to help him unwind after the day and night they have just had, saying she set everything up while he was downstairs going through things with Nico. Victor smiles and says that would be just what the doctor orders. He sits on the bed and Maggie begins to massage his shoulders, asking if there is any word on Orpheus. Victor shakes his head and says it looks like he really is gone. Maggie admits she can't help but be pleased. They all need a little peace. Victor agrees but says they still have Stefano to worry about. Maggie then begins to kiss his neck and tells Victor they can worry about him some other time. Victor agrees and kisses Maggie. They continue to kiss as they begin to make love as the scene shifts to...


ROMAN AND MARLENA'S HOUSE

Marlena is on the couch when Roman enters from the kitchen, saying he just talked to Shane and there is no word. Marlena tells him to come and hold her in his arms and relax. Roman does just that and says it's been a long time since they've done that and adds that it may be even longer before they do it again once the evidence against him piles up. Roman tells Marlena he will have to pay for what he did. Marlena tells him not to talk about it. They will deal with it when the times comes and adds they have enough to deal with. Roman agrees, saying they need to pray for Sami. Marlena says that and that all the violence comes to an end. Roman says he will make sure that happens. Marlena tells him not to talk about taking action tonight. She tells him to just hold her, like he used to all the time. Roman holds her tightly in his arms and pledges his love to her. Marlena does the same as they kiss and the scene shifts to...


BO AND HOPE HOUSE

Bo and Hope walk into the house. Hope tells Bo she hopes the worst is behind them but, even if Orpheus is gone, Stefano is still out there as a threat. Bo tells Hope they will deal with Stefano in time. Hope nods. Bo reminds Hope that they have had hardly any time for each other lately and JT is at a friend's house so he thinks they should take advantage. Hope smiles and puts her arms around Bo, saying she agrees. They kiss passionately and Bo ends up picking Hope up and carrying her up to their bedroom as the scene shifts to...


STEVE AND KAYLA'S HOUSE

Kayla comes out of the bathroom in a robe as Steve watches the news for any word on Orpheus. Kayla asks if there is an update, to which Steve replies no, saying it looks like the bastard finally met his maker. Kayla tells Steve she has a nice, hot shower going and, as she puts her arms around him, says she could use some company. Steve says he's never been one to leave a beautiful woman all alone and adds that they do need to do their part for the environment by conserving water. They begin to kiss as Steve gets up and Kayla drags him with her into the bathroom as the scene shifts to...


HORTON HOUSE

Alice sits in her chair and watches the news. She then looks at a picture of Doug and Julie and then at all the other pictures on her mantle, ending on a picture of Tom. Alice tells Tom to keep watching over them and to bring them peace and joy. She then says she hopes that peace and joy begins with what happened tonight as the scene shifts to upstairs in Doug and Julie's room, where Doug is in his robe as Julie comes in, now in her nightgown and robe. Doug lies on the bed and Julie sits down next to him, saying she is so happy they got a another chance and promises she won't take it for granted. He promises to do the same. They kiss and she falls into his arms. Doug then tells her he never stopped loving her. Julie's eyes well with tears as she says she never gets tired of hearing him tell her those three special words. Doug tells her he loves her again and they kiss again before he turns off the light and the scene goes black and then shifts to...


SALEM INN

Tony returns to his suite with a bottle of champagne and tells Anna he has some food being brought up. He is shocked to hear romantic music playing, candles lit, and Anna coming out of the bathroom and a bright red negligee. Tony smiles and says he thought they would wait until at least after dinner. He has waited so long for their reunion and he wants to soak it all in. Anna smiles and says, as she begins to undress him and kiss his body, that they will do just that, saying they will have their appetizer first, a little dinner, and then several different desserts. Tony begins to kiss Anna and says it sounds like a plan. They have alot of time to make up for. Passion ignites and they continue to kiss passionately as he picks her up, lays her gently on the bed, and then begin to make love as the scene shifts to...


JOELLE'S APARTMENT

Lucas can't believe what Joelle has just told him and demands that if there is anything else, she tells him right now. Joelle smiles. Lucas asks her why she is doing this. He reminds her she worked for Kate for years and never tried anything like this. He asks why now. Joelle says what the hell, figuring he has no proof of what she is saying anyway, and tells him a very powerful friend came to her and offered her money to do a job. That job was seducing him and helping him move on after Sami's apparent demise. Joelle explains that she needed the money desperately for her son and mother. Lucas asks who the "powerful friend" was. She tells him to guess. Lucas thinks for a moment and then, as his face turns to one of shock, says "Orpheus."

Joelle nods and says he had cameras all over the place and wanted some naughty images to show to Sami. Lucas is appalled, wondering what Sami actually saw. Joelle says she saw the night in her apartment before he was rushed to the hospital. She then says that Orpheus never contacted her again after the night he was rushed to the hospital, saying everything since then was all her decision as a way of making more money and giving her son, mother, and herself the best life possible. She says she has suffered enough in her life and she wanted better and feels she deserves better, no matter what she has to do. Being nice got her nowhere, anyway. Lucas asks if she drugged him the night he was rushed to the hospital. Joelle says she drugged him, got him drunk, the whole bit. She then says she loves this. He just found out from her that he has done nothing wrong, just as he suspected, and can do nothing to prove what she has said or prove his innocence. Lucas demands she admits all, saying they can cut a deal.

Joelle tells him to get out and stay away from her, threatening a restraining order. Lucas grabs her and begs her to end this, not for him but for his son. Joelle tells him to think about her son and her dead mother. She says she is doing this all for them. She then walks to the door, opens it, and orders him out or she is calling the police. Lucas reluctantly agrees to go but says everyone already suspects something is up with her not going through with the rape exam. Joelle smiles and says good night before closing the door. In the hallway, Lucas wonders what he is going to do to prove his innocence while, inside her apartment, Joelle wonders how she is going to deal with the rape exam problem as the scene shifts back to...


SWITZERLAND

Jack and Alex break from their embrace. Alex tells him that letter just put everything in perspective. It reminded him of his hopes, dreams...everything he wanted. The perfect family...the perfect career...he just wants to be normal. Jack says he can have that...back in Salem. He can work at The Spectator and he has a family with him, Abby, and JJ. Alex says he is sorry he blamed him for his mother's death. He says he blamed himself for not going with her that night or for stopping what happened. He just hates he was mad at his mother before her death. He just never got to say goodbye and blames himself for that. He directed his anger with himself toward him and apologizes. Jack says he understands. He blames himself too and suggests they just stop playing the blame game and move on, remembering how much Elizabeth loved them. It's what she would want. Alex agrees.

Alex then says he will arrange for someone to come and get everything and tells Jack he wants to go home with him, if that's ok. Jack smiles and says it sure is. Alex nods and tells Jack he is ready to go now. They both get up as Jack puts his arm around Alex and says let's go. They then walk out of the house as the scene slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

A LOVED ONE COMES HOME!!!

DECEMBER 12, 2007-EPISODE #392: IN THE WAKE OF NIGHT


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Lucas and Will are at Sami's bedside. After watching the latest news reports, Will asks Lucas if he really thinks Orpheus is dead. Lucas says he hopes so and says he is going to go make a few calls to find out what is going on for sure. He tells Will he will be right back. Lucas goes out in the hall and, as he walks, he hears two nurses talking about their shifts. One nurse says that she had the chance to take an early lunch because the woman who is accusing Lucas Horton of rape backed out of her rape exam so Dr. Terry told her to go on break early.

The other nurse says she thinks the woman is lying. Lucas is a Horton and they are a good family who have done so much for the hospital and community. She thinks the woman doesn't have a leg to stand on and thinks her backing out and avoiding the exam is a sign of that. Lucas overhears this and says his calls will have to wait and races off.


SWITZERLAND

Jack and Alex are looking through Elizabeth's things at her and Alex's home. Jack notes the townhouse like feel and then makes note of the fact that Alex has barely said a word since they left Salem. Alex says he doesn't feel like talking. Jack admits he thought they were making progress since he the tension between them was dissipating as they left Salem. Alex doesn't say anything and Jack says he realizes now that was just a way of shutting him up. Alex is silent.

Jack tells Alex he knows that he didn't want him to go. He just thought this would be the chance they needed to bond and try to get past all that has happened. Alex turns around and tells Jack his mother is dead because she left home to pursue him and he may never get past that. Jack puts his head down and walks away. Jack then asks if Alex lied about coming back to Salem too. Alex doesn't answer for a few moments and then says he has nothing in Salem. Jack tells him he has him, Abby, and JJ. Jack adds he has that Alyson girl he seems to like.

Alex tells Jack she is just someone he had alot in common with and who he talked to at a time when he needed someone to just listen. Someone who understood what he was dealing with. Jack tells Alex he is there for him. Before Alex can answer, there is a knock at the door. Alex answers it and a man in a suit is standing before him when the door is opened. The man introduces himself as Art Teller, Elizabeth's attorney and says he was waiting for her son's arrival. Alex asks how he knew they were there. Art says he told a neighbor to tell him when they arrived. Jack comments on how secure he feels now that he knows the neighbors are stalkers.

Alex introduces Jack to Art. Art tells Alex he has a meeting to get to but hands him an manila envelope, saying it contains a copy of his mother's wishes and adds that she left him everything she owned. He tells Alex there is a letter in there for him...and for his father...so it's good Jack is there. Alex thanks Art and Art tells them to call if they have questions. Art leaves as Alex opens the envelope that holds all of Elizabeth's papers and finds an envelope addressed to him and Jack. Alex and Jack look at each other, wondering what could be in the letter as the scene shifts to...


SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Miranda and Shane are surveying the crash site near the woods. Shane shakes his head and says it looks like Orpheus really bit the bullet this time. Miranda thinks it's about time he ran out of reprieves. She just hopes Roman can get out of hot water. Shane says they need this whole mess behind them so they can focus on Lawrence. He adds that Forrest is monitoring the situation and still nothing. Miranda hopes they locate him soon. Shane agrees and walks off.

Just then, Billie arrives and several FBI agents try to pull her away. Miranda tells them it's ok for her to be there and asks what Billie is doing there. Billie says she saw what happened on the news reports and asks if Orpheus is dead. Miranda says it looks that way. Billie says she doesn't know how to feel. She admits she is relieved in a way but also feels sad. Miranda says it's only normal to be conflicted, given the circumstances.

Miranda then says there is something she had been hoping to talk to Billie about. Billie tells her to go ahead. She knows it's a long shot but she thinks Billie needs to have a DNA test done to be sure Orpheus is her father. Billie is surprised she never thought of that but it must have slipped her mind with the shock of finding out what she did. Miranda tells Billie she can arrange it all for tonight by using ISA connections, saying there is nothing more she can do at the crash site anyway. Billie says she would like that as she wants to know for sure and have this all resolved, once and for all. The scene then shifts to...


SALEM POLICE STATION

In Abe's office, Marlena waits with Bo, Hope, Steve, Kayla, Caroline, Victor, Maggie, Doug, and Julie. Belle walks in and Marlena fills her in. Maggie calls Alice, who is still at the Kiriakis Mansion. She tells her Doug and Julie are fine, Julie's been checked out, and they are back together. Alice is pleased. Maggie says they will be there soon once they handle some business. Abe walks in, dragging Roman, with Patricia complaining behind them.

Marlena asks what is going on. Abe says that the judge agreed to release Roman on bail, pending a further investigation. Patricia tells Abe he better believe she will personally oversee this investigation and that Roman will be brought right back as soon as they have enough evidence. Abe tells Patricia to back off, saying the Brady's have been through enough. Patricia tells him Lucas got released on bail earlier because he is a Horton and now Roman is released because someone pulled strings and he is a Brady. She says she will personally put a stop to these acts of injustice and walks off in a huff.

Steve thinks that woman needs to put a sock in it. Maggie thanks Victor for pulling some strings and helping Roman. Victor smiles. Marlena says she had no idea and thanks him. Victor says it's the least he can do after everything that has happened. Caroline and the rest of the family thank Victor. Roman is then dragged in by a guard. Abe tells him he is free to go. Roman is greeted by friends and family. Abe warns him he will have to answer for what happened. Roman says he would be happy to. Abe says he would like to talk to him about some things, personally, as well. Roman says sure.

Marlena just hopes the nightmare is over and that Orpheus is dead. Bo says they still have Stefano to deal with. Roman adds that they will deal with him but not tonight. They all deserve a night of peace. Maggie agrees and says they all have a wedding to look forward to as well and then shows off her ring. Everyone congratulates Victor and Maggie. Kayla admits they could use a joyous event and something happy to happen for once. They all slowly begin to make their way out of Abe's office as they talk about the wedding and the apparent end of Orpheus.

Meanwhile, Cassie and Lexie race in and Cassie runs right into Stefano's arms, grateful he is alright. Tony and Anna, having just come from having her checked out at the hospital, watch this scene. Lexie embraces Tony and Anna. Cassie breaks from Stefano's embrace and looks over at Tony. Cassie tells Tony she is happy he is ok too. Tony smiles. Lexie embraces Stefano and asks if Orpheus is really gone. Stefano says it would seem that way. He then sees Roman and everyone else walking out of Abe's office.

Stefano walks into Abe's office. Abe looks up and sees Lexie. Lexie says hello to him and says she is glad he is ok. Abe nods. Stefano wonders how that can be. Orpheus' blood and the blood of all his men are on Roman's hands. Abe says Roman has been released, pending investigation. He asks why Stefano cares. Orpheus shot him and was a threat to his family too and now he's dead. Abe walks off. Lexie asks why Stefano does care. Stefano says nevermind. He will deal with this later. Stefano walks out and Tony follows, asking why he is so quiet about Orpheus being his son.

Stefano says he has his reasons and asks why Tony has said nothing to anyone. Tony reminds Stefano he wants to rebuild the Dimera name and empire in a more positive way and affiliating it with Orpheus does not do that. He says he has sworn Anna to secrecy too and says he has goaded Marlena into not saying anything, telling her that Orpheus may not really be a Dimera and not to say anything until they know for sure. Stefano puts his head down. Tony thinks Stefano is staying silent for the same reasons. Stefano tells him to nevermind and walks off. Cassie follows, looks back at Tony, and then goes back to following Stefano.

Anna asks if Tony is ok. Tony smiles and says he will have to work on Cassie but, for the moment, he is fine as long as he has her. They kiss passionately.


JOELLE'S APARTMENT

Joelle hears a knock on the door and goes to open it. She is shocked to see Lucas behind the door and tries to close it but he forces his way in. He tells Joelle about what he overheard and then reminds her of what he overheard her talking to Patricia about earlier. He asks why she is so afraid to take the rape exam. Joelle tells him to be quiet and to leave. Joey is sleeping in the next room. Lucas says he doesn't care. He doesn't remember what happened but she is clearly lying about something. Joelle then turns, closes the door, walks up to Lucas, and puts her arms all around him, caressing his body from head to toe.

Lucas pushes her away and asks what the hell she is doing. She says she is checking for a wire or recorder and says she knew he was too stupid to bring one. Lucas is confused. Joelle says that of course he didn't rape her. He hasn't done a damn thing to her but reject her but that makes no difference. Just as long as the people that matter believe her...she has him right where she wants him. Lucas is stunned and says he knew it. Joelle tells him to not get too excited. He has no proof of her saying what she just did. It's his word against hers, which is why she can tell him everything right now and it would make no difference.

Lucas is confused by what "everything" means and asks if there is more. Joelle smiles evilly as the scene freezes on her face and then fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

JOELLE REVEALS A SHOCKER AND JACK AND ALEX REACH A TURNING POINT!! PLUS, ROMANCE!!

DECEMBER 11, 2007-EPISODE #391: THE SHOWDOWN PART III


SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

-As the news crews report the breaking story in the hanger, the scene shifts back to the main cabin as Roman holds Orpheus at gunpoint. He orders Orpheus to let the women go and Orpheus smiles once again, saying that it was his plan the entire time. They were just bait........to lure him there. Roman tells Michael to open the side door and then pulls out a radio, telling both Shane and Abe that he has the situation under control.........and that Julie and Anna are coming out.

Both Doug and Tony hear this, listening to Bo’s radio, and all three take off towards the hanger. On the plane, Michael opens the door, releases the emergency shoot, and Roman tells the women to get off the plane and get as far away as they can. Orpheus nods his head in approval and Anna and Julie are taken to the door and one after the other slide down the shoot and back onto the ground. Michael gives the men the order to let them go and they all obey, backing off from the hanger opening.......

Until one of them gets an itchy trigger finger and accidentally lets off a round. This causes Victor and Stefano’s men to point their weapons at this man and Orpheus slowly walks over to the door to see what is happening. He looks out and then back at Roman, telling him that they have a real situation here. Roman agrees and then tells Orpheus to give the order to his men to leave the hanger......... including Michael. Michael and Orpheus shake hands as he jumps on the shoot and sails down the ground.......

And all that is left on the plane..........Is Orpheus and Roman.

Anna and Julie run out onto the runway as Tony and Doug run up to them. Bo watches as the four people embrace and, after a brief moment, Bo tells them that they have to go. Anna stops long enough to tell Bo that she had never seen Roman looking like that and Bo looks toward the airplane in the hanger.........and says a silent prayer for his brother. As Bo leads the two couples and his officers away from the hanger.....

Shane gives Miranda the order to have their people fall back into the woods but to keep the plane in sight. If it starts to leave the hanger,.......she has the order to open fire. Miranda understands and tells the agents to fall back. The F.B.I agents get the order to do the same as Orpheus’ men get on board another jetliner and it starts up to leave. 75 of his men strap themselves in and the plane starts to taxi onto the runway.

Back on the 747, Orpheus says how surprised he is that Roman is letting his men go. Roman smiles, saying that he should know him better than that by now. Back on the other plane, the scene slowly goes to the luggage area of the plane and then focuses on a large steel case......that happens to hold 100 pounds of explosives on it, which has just activated. On the runway, Michael walks toward the plane and, as he sees it starting to go down the runway, prepares to fly off into the night.

As Michael walks toward Orpheus’ private jet, F.B.I. and I.S.A. agents have guns aimed at him and, as he boards the plane, the other jetliner starts to rise into the night sky. The scene then goes back to the main hanger as Roman picks up his radio and tells everyone to make sure everyone else is clear. When Abe asks Roman why........


The jetliner carrying Orpheus’s men........suddenly starts to explode! It starts from the wing of the plane and engulfs the entire jetliner as the remnants of the plane fall back to earth in several huge fireballs. Orpheus is livid and Roman smiles broadly, saying that he knows Orpheus won’t underestimate him again. As Orpheus looks at him with utter hatred...........

The scene shifts to EMTs working on both Anna and Julie. As Tony and Doug stand by, everyone reacts to the explosion. Victor comes out and asks if everyone is alright and Doug turns around and scornfully tells Victor that they are just fine. Victor gets the hint and holds Nico back as Doug turns his attention back to Julie. Officers and agents run about as Stefano checks on Anna. Tony holds her hand as the EMT tells him she is fine but that she should still go to the hospital.

Tony agrees, saying that he needs to make sure she is ok. Anna smiles through her tears of happiness, saying that he still cares. Tony says he never stopped. He then takes her hand lovingly and tells her that she has always been the love of his life and hopes that now, she will give him the chance to prove it. Anna says she has made a lot of selfish mistakes. First with Carrie and lately with him. She’s scared to commit again. Tony says he is too so, they should meet the fear together......and then move on to a much better place. Anna smiles as Tony wipes away her tears and says that for him.......she will try her best.

As Tony and Anna gently kiss, the scene then shifts to.......

Doug and Julie, with Doug telling Julie that she still can’t help but get in some type of trouble. Julie says she knows he is really mad but she came to the airport to find him........and beg him not to leave her. But, she says that she will just buy him another plane ticket after all this is over. Doug says that the only place he is going.........is home with her. Julie asks if he will take her back. Doug and Julie hug, with him saying that he never wanted to let her go. He loves her......and always will. Then they now agree to try and put the past behind them, Julie asks. Doug kisses her gently and tells her that should be all the answer she needs. As Doug holds Julie in his loving arms......

The scene shifts back to the airplane. Roman and Orpheus stare each other down and then Roman drops his gun. Orpheus smiles and starts to take off his Rolex watch and a gold medallion that he has hanging around his neck. Roman takes off his watch and takes off his wedding ring, placing it in his pocket. Both men then take up boxing stances as Roman says to Orpheus....

Roman: Time to get your ass kicked, old friend.
Orpheus: Well, partner.....let’s see what you got.

Orpheus steps forward and swings twice at Roman, missing both times. Roman then steps up and delivers a vicious right cross, followed by a hard left hook to Orpheus’ face, making him stagger backwards. Roman moves in and tries to hit Orpheus again but he ducks and hits Roman with a right cross. He steps forward and throws another punch but Roman blocks it and sends Orpheus backwards with another right cross.

Bo and Abe can hear the fight going on in the hanger and Steve, Stefano and Victor walk over to listen. They can hear the blows being delivered, they can hear glass breaking......and they can hear two men having the fight of a lifetime inside that hanger. At the hospital, Lucas and Will are inside Sami’s room, watching the drama unfold on nationwide television while Lexie and Cassie so the same from a waiting area. Alice watches from the Kiriakis Mansion. Maggie and Marlena watch from the airport lounge area And, on the runway, Lincoln and Hawk watch with their men from the woods as Roman and Orpheus do battle one last time.

Back in the hanger, both men go back and forth, trading punches and kicks. They tear up the cabin as Roman starts to get the upper hand on his hated enemy. Orpheus pulls out a sword from the wall and tries to strike Roman with it but Roman manages to disarm him and throw the sword out the open door. Both men are bloody but Roman is resolved to end the threat once and for all.......and tries to when he tackles Orpheus through the open door and down the chute. They land on the ground.......

Roman picks Orpheus up and smashes his jaw once again with a right cross. Orpheus throws a punch but Roman blocks it again and delivers two stinging punches to his swollen face, sending Orpheus over one of the tables in the hanger. Orpheus then starts to stand up and, as Roman gets near, hits him with a uppercut sending Roman backwards. He then picks up a bottle, breaks it, and tries to cut Roman with it. He is successful, opening a gash on Roman’s shoulder.

Orpheus tries to deliver a roundhouse kick but Roman ducks it and backhands Orpheus hard. Roman starts to pass out and Orpheus is beyond glad, telling him that he had him on the ropes......but couldn’t deliver the knockout punch. Orpheus then says he has a plane to catch and takes off running toward the private jet that Michael boarded. Roman gathers himself up and, as the news crews roll, and as Marlena and his family and friends watch, Roman takes off after Orpheus, running down the runway.

As Orpheus boards the plane, Roman pulls another gun and starts firing at the plane. The plane starts to go down the runway as Roman fires at the engine. The plane takes off into the night air and Roman sees Orpheus escape once again. As officers and agents run out onto the runway, Roman collapses under the pain. Marlena, who has arrived one the runway now with Maggie, holds a bloody Roman close to her and he tells her.......

Roman: I tried, Doc. I tried to stop him.......
Marlena: You protected your family. That’s all that matters. I’m just glad.......

Suddenly, everyone looks off into the distance.........as the jet starts to make a fast descent. Stefano sees this and starts running down the runway, followed by Victor, Bo, Shane, Miranda and other officers and agents. Billie, who is walking in Salem Place, sees the Breaking News report on a TV in a department store window and stands in shock and awe of what she is seeing. The news crews are recording the final shocking moments..........

As the jet carrying Orpheus crashes into a wooded area.........and explodes into a gigantic fireball. Stefano stands still, shocked at having witnessed this tragedy. Emergency personnel, fire trucks and ambulances drive off quickly to the crash site as Roman and everyone else look on in stunned disbelief.

That is when Patricia, the Salem D.A., walks over to Roman, who is helped up by Marlena, and says to him........

Patricia: I’m sorry that I have to do this.........but with what just happened, I’m afraid that I’ll have to place you under arrest.
Marlena: WHAT?! ARE YOU CRAZY?! WHAT FOR?!
Patricia: Looks like second-degree murder. Commissioner Carver, read him his rights and take him in.

Abe looks at Roman and his friend looks back at him, saying......

Roman: Do your job, partner.

As Victor walks back over, he and Bo promise that they will have this taken care of and soon.

Abe then very reluctantly reads a bloody and battered Roman Brady his rights and Marlena promises that everything will be fine...........

As Roman is put into a squad car and driven away. The scene then shows an overview of the huge burning wooded area as Stefano stands and looks at the carnage......

As the scene slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE AFTERMATH!!!

DECEMBER 10, 2007-EPISODE #390: THE SHOWDOWN PART II


ROMAN AND MARLENA'S HOUSE

Roman runs downstairs to answer his phone, having just gotten out of the shower. He is still nursing his jaw from his fight with Abe and when he picks up the phone.......Victor tells him that he has to get to the airport. Roman is stunned, asking why. Victor tells him to turn on the television. When Roman does, he sees the scene at the airport. Roman asks what is going on and Victor tells him that Orpheus has both Julie and Anna held hostage and will not let them go until he meets with Roman face to face.

Then, Roman says, that’s exactly what he will give him. Victor tells Roman to be careful and Roman tells Victor to look after his family if anything should happen. They bid each other good-bye......and Roman then runs downstairs to get his gear.


SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Everyone starts to converge in the main terminal. Steve walks in, followed by Marlena and Maggie. At Victor’s mansion, Alice is being watched over by Nico as Bo and Abe give their men their instructions.


ROMAN AND MARLENA'S HOUSE

Roman comes back upstairs. He’s now dressed in black battle gear and carrying several weapons. He has a double holster on, filled with two Glock 47 handguns, and is also carrying a bow and arrow with armor piercing tips. He starts to load up when the phone rings.......

Roman: Yeah. Brady here.
Marlena: Roman......don’t do it. Don’t come near this airport. Let Abe and Shane handle Orpheus.
Roman: Can’t do that, Doc. He called me out........besides, he has a lot on the books to answer for.
Marlena: I know that. (Starting to cry) But you may not walk away from this.
Roman: (Pausing) Then just know........how much you mean to me. Know how special you have made my life. Know how much I cherish our children..........and know, that I’m doing what I have to do.
Marlena: But Roman.......
Roman: After tonight.........Orpheus will be in the past. I made a promise of what I would do the next time I saw him........

And I keep my promises, Doc.

Marlena: Roman, wait........
Roman: I love you so much, Marlena. Good-bye.
Marlena: NO! DON’T HANG UP!!!!

Roman hangs the phone up and looks at it once more.........before walking over to the dining room table and setting it down. The phone starts ringing again as Roman goes over, grabs his gear, walks to the door, looks around one last time, looks at the phone, turns off the light.........

And heads to his car. He gets in and speeds off into the night.


SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Marlena hangs up her phone and, while being consoled by Maggie...Abe, Shane & Bo go over the plans they have to take the hanger back. Stefano and Victor then walk in.......together. Abe demands to know what they are doing there and Stefano says he has his reasons. Victor then says that he has full confidence in his son to do what is necessary.........but will not sit at him while Bo puts his life on the line. Bo smiles at this response and Victor and Bo shake hands. Stefano asks Shane what they are doing about the hostage crisis and Shane says that he has Miranda taking a team into the woods next to the hanger to take positions.

Stefano says that his soldiers will join them, to which Abe refuses. Stefano asks why and so does Marlena, who just walked over. Abe says there is no way he is trusting Stefano not to give his men the order to shoot whoever is near the hanger. Tony and Doug then walk up, saying that they both volunteer to be the ones to try and bait Orpheus out. Both Abe and Shane won’t allow it and Bo says that it is crazy to think that way........but what folks don’t see is Bo winking at Tony.

Tony then changes his tune, saying that he sees what they mean. He just wants to help in any way he can, with Anna and Julie in danger. Doug looks at him puzzled and, before he can say anything,.....Tony takes him by the arm and leads him away. Bo says he will go and calm them down as Victor smiles. Lincoln then walks up and pulls Stefano and Victor to the side, saying that their men are getting in place. Hawk then walks up from the opposite direction, dressed in all black, as Victor tells him to be careful out there......

And to make sure nothing happens to his son. Hawk tells Victor that's what he’s paying him for. Hawk then heads off with Lincoln and the other men as they prepare to take out the hanger.


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Roman walks into Sami’s darkened room. He slowly walks over to her bed and sits down next to her. He takes her hand and looks at his daughter, saying to her in a quiet voice....

Roman: Well, peanut.........I have to leave you now. Orpheus has Julie and Anna held hostage and he has called me out.......

Roman looks at Sami, hoping that she hears what he is saying.......

Roman: And I have to go. Innocents are in danger and it’s been past time that he pays for what he’s done.......to all of us. (Pausing) I just wanted to let you know......that no matter what has been said......or what we have been through.......you are my baby girl and I love you so much, honey.

Roman stands up and, with a tear rolling down his cheek, bends over and kisses Sami on her forehead. As he stands back up, he tries to walk away........but Sami has squeezed his hand. She is still unconscious but Roman now knows that she is fighting to come back to them. He kisses her hand, runs his hand through her hair, and then heads out to the airport......

And his battle with Orpheus.

No one sees Roman head out. As he walks past the waiting room, Lexie and Cassie, who are on their way to see Stefano and have just found out he left, sit with other people and watch the drama unfolding at the airport. Steve calls Kayla from the airport and tells her that everything is breaking down........but he is being kept back this time. Kayla asks why and Steve says that apparently, from what Victor said, Orpheus wants to meet Roman.......alone. Kayla knows this may be what Roman has been waiting for. Steve agrees but says that unlike the shootout at the penthouse, only trained personnel are getting close to this one. Kayla still tells him to be careful and Steve says he will before they both hang up.

Meanwhile, Bo is fitting both Tony and Doug with bullet proof vests. He also tells them that they better not interfere with what the agencies are doing near the hanger. They understand but Tony then says that if Hope were out there......what would he do? Bo says the same thing they are doing. He leads both men off with Hawk and Lincoln walking behind them as Stefano asks Victor......

Stefano: Do you think this is it?
Victor: Maybe. Orpheus has done way too much.........to all of us. Time to stop bull shitting with him....and let him know where WE stand.
Stefano: (Pausing) I guess we can agree on some things. I just hope, for once, that Roman can end this.
Victor: I have every confidence in him. Besides........with Sami laying in a coma, this is the best chance he has to find Orpheus.......and stop him once and for all.
Stefano: Well then......who is your money on?

Both men look at each other........silently and then turn and look back out the window towards the hanger, not saying a word.

The scene then fades to 30 minutes later and, as Orpheus talks with his men,.........a dark figure is seen stalking in the woods near the airport. The figure looks through night vision binoculars and sees several of Orpheus’ men securing the area. The figure then pulls out a bow set, then pulls a steel tipped bow out, prepares his weapon, takes aim.........and fires the arrow, killing a man instantly. The man falls silently to the ground and no one notices him as the figure stalks toward the hanger.

Two more men, who are closer to the hanger, talk between themselves.......when one of them hears a noise in the wilderness. He goes and checks it out while telling his partner to stay focused. As he slowly walks into the woods, he looks around.....but sees nothing. He looks back and forth once more but, before he can turn around,......the figure grabs him, covers his mouth with his hand.......and cuts his throat with a large hunting knife. The man slowly falls dead at the figures feet as his eyes roll into the back of his head.

The figure then takes out a handgun and places a silencer on the end. He then sees the other henchman, who is coming to check on his partner, coming close to him. The figure takes aim.......and shoots the other henchman in the right eye, killing him instantly. The figure then places the gun back into his holster and stalks off once again toward the hanger.

Twenty minutes later, Julie and Anna are asking to speak with their husbands. One of Orpheus’ men says that he is under orders to not let them speak to anyone.......until they are in the air. The women look at each other with abject fear, hoping that they will be rescued soon. Meanwhile, back in the terminal, a phone call comes in...........from Orpheus. He says that the hanger doors are going to open and the jetliner is coming out. If anyone decides that heroics are in order........both of the lovely ladies that he has will end up on the runway, dead. Shane, having answered the call, tells Orpheus that he will not be harmed. Orpheus hangs up the phone and gives the order to taxi onto the runway.

Moments later, after the huge hanger doors open, the 747 starts up to slowly taxi onto the runway. Victor and Stefano’s men, along with Bo, members of the S.P.D., F.B.I. and I.S.A. watch as the plane fires up it’s engines. News crews from local and national television report the tense moments that are going by as the plane is readying to leave Salem. Doug and Tony, who are with the agents and other officers, ask to speak to their wives one more time. One of Orpheus’ men denies the request, saying that they are safe......and will remain so, as long as no one storms the hanger.

On board the plane, Orpheus tells the women that everything will be fine. No harm will come to them.......as long as he gets what he wants. Julie tells him that he won’t get away with this and Orpheus responds, telling her she has been watching too many action movies. He then picks up a handgun and walks toward the cockpit, telling the captain to start taxiing onto the runway.

But........no one responds. Orpheus gives the order again and still........nothing. He then grows very angry, demanding to know who would disobey his orders and, as he walks into the cockpit.......

He starts back out of it with his hands raised.........while Roman has a gun pointed to his head! The captain, Roman tells him, is dead. Orpheus commends Roman on his training. Michael, Orpheus’ right hand man, then walks slowly into the main cabin, telling Orpheus that he has just gotten a report of many of his men.....dead. Roman smiles, saying that it was not a problem at all. Orpheus smiles as well, saying......

Orpheus: Well, I have to hand it to you, Roman,.........the darkness that I always knew you had IS inside you.
Roman: Well, when some bastard like you thinks they can play God with the lives of my family and friends......I take that.....kinda personally.
Orpheus: Really?
Roman: That’s a fact.
Orpheus: Well, looks like we’re at a stalemate. What happens now, old friend?
Roman: Now, we settle our business.........

Once........and for all.

The scene then goes to quick shots of Julie.......Anna.......Michael........and then splits screens, with Orpheus on one side.......and Roman on the other. The scene then freeze frames as these two deadly adversaries stare hatred at one another......

And the scene slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

THE LONG AWAITED SHOWDOWN...OF ROMAN AND ORPHEUS!!!

WEEK OF DECEMBER 10, 2007 EDITION

WRITER'S CORNER


EACH WEEK I, TIM LOWERY (BETTER KNOWN AS PHOENIXRISING05) AND MY FELLOW SALEM LIVES HEAD WRITER, PATRICK L. EWING (BETTER KNOWN AS ROMAN), WILL TAKE TIME OUT TO ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM READERS AND ANYONE ELSE THAT DECIDES TO CHECK OUR FAN FICTION BLOG OUT. WE WILL TAKE TURNS ANSWERING QUESTIONS EACH WEEK. THESE QUESTIONS CAN BE QUESTIONS ABOUT CASTING, WRITING, PAST STORIES, CURRENT STORIES, OR WHATEVER COMES TO MIND REALLY PERTAINING TO SALEM LIVES. PLEASE REMEMBER TO PM US QUESTIONS DURING THE WEEK FOR US TO ANSWER AND ALSO REMEMBER YOU CAN POST QUESTIONS VIA COMMENTING HERE IN THE BLOG. IF WE RECEIVE NO QUESTIONS, ROMAN AND I WILL JUST ANSWER QUESTIONS BASED ON REACTIONS TO EPISODES AND DISCUSSIONS WE HAVE HAD WITH OTHERS. SO, WITHOUT FURTHER ADIEU, HERE WE GO:

THIS WEEK'S WRITER IN THE HOT SHEET: TIM LOWERY (PHOENIXRISING05)

1.) After a few months of relative stability in regards to cast changes, many returns have been announced recently. How many of them will be permanent and are there more coming?

A: Well, most of them are brief but will last a bit longer then normal since we have a wedding coming up. Some of the returns may be permanent. Shane's is. Carrie will be recurring, at least. There may be one return that will end up being permanent after further discussion. We'll see. Fan reaction plays a big part but we know they will be happy with the returns and all the fun that comes with them. As for more returns, see below (laughs).

2.) There seemed to be a major lull in the pace of SL last week. Why was the show so dull?

A: Well, once in awhile you have to have a "setup" week. A week that moves story and gets things to a place to pick up steam again. That was last week but we won't be having another week like that for a LONG time.

3.) SL is driven by action/adventure stories with traditional stories being more of a minority. Will that change?

A: My fellow HW and I have discussed that at length and it will. It will actually begin right away in the new year with an event that happens on New Year's Eve that brings on some of the best story we have ever done. It's really good drama and it will be a change of pace. The action and adventure will be still be here but we think we could use a little shift.

4.) Nicole, Joelle, and Orpheus seem to get away with everything. Will they each face a comeuppance soon?

A: You will have to stay tuned but I can say one of them will get one this week. The other two...well, stick with us. You won't be disappointed.

5.) I am stunned by the development in the Lucas/Joelle story. Did he really rape her?

A: This story has many more twists and turns, some of which occur this month so just be patient. It will be a hell of a ride.

6.) Has Marlena dealing with her guilt and psychological trauma been dropped?

A: No. In fact, it will become a focus again in the coming weeks and Christmas will really bring on a turning point for Marlena.

TWO MORE RETURNS! MORE TO COME?!



On the heels of the previous announced returns for this December comes the announcement of two more returns to Salem Lives. This time it's the news that Judi Evans and Wally Kurth will reprise the roles of Adrienne and Justin Kiriakis in late December.

"They are coming back for the holidays and for Victor and Maggie's wedding like many of the other returnees," says EP/HW Tim Lowery. "They may stick around longer to deal with family issues as well. It's great to have them as we have been waiting to bring Judi back since her departure as Bonnie in summer 2006. The time has finally come and we are pleased to have her and Wally back with us."

In addition to those two returns, comes word of two more as part of a huge story in early 2008.

"Fans will have to just wait and see," Lowery says.

PREVIEWS AND PEEKS INTO WK OF 12/10/07

-All Hell Breaks Loose At The Airport.
-Two Enemies Engage In A Deadly Showdown.
-Two Couples Reunite.
-A Loved One Comes Home.
-Something Left Behind By A Loved One Brings A Father And Son
Together.
-One Woman Seeks Out the Truth...Once And For All.
-The Search For a Powerful Enemy Continues.
-Two Rivals Go At It.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK: TUESDAY DECEMBER 11

IT'S THE MOMENT FANS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR AS TWO ENEMIES ENGAGE IN A DEADLY SHOWDOWN THAT IS CAN'T MISS!!!

NEXT WEEK: A Snowstorm May Keep A Loved One From Coming Home For The Holidays. The Final Preparations For A Wedding Are Made As Men and Women Gather For A Party. One Man Learns A Shocking Truth.

ANNOUNCER: One Year Ago........

One Man Started A Reign Of Terror........

That Cost The Lives Of Innocent People.

Death......... And Destruction........Were His Montra.

But Now.........

He Has Launched His Most Deadly Plan............

Scene Of Julie And Anna Being Held At Gun Point And People Running Through An Airport.

And Only One Man Can Stop Him......

And End His Reign Of Terror..........Forever.

Scene Of Roman Running Down A Runway.

The Battle You’ve Been Waiting For......

Scene Of Roman Hitting Orpheus With A Left Hook.

This Week.....

Scene Of Orpheus Brandishing A Sword.

It's A December To Remember...Only On...

DECEMBER 7, 2007-EPISODE #389: THE SHOWDOWN


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Steve walks into Jean’s room. He sees Alyson there and asks if there has been any change. She says no. Not one thing. Steve says how sorry he is and then asks if he could talk to Alyson out in the hallway. Once in the hallway, Steve gets right to the point, telling her that Nicole wanted him to try and convince her to give up her baby. Alyson is livid, asking how did this woman get the nerve to act like this. Steve says he doesn’t know. All he knows is that he wanted to let Alyson know........before Nicole got out of hand and tried something sneaky again.

Alyson says that she barely knows Steve but thanks him for what he’s doing. She gets ready to walk back into her mother’s room when she stops and turns around. She asks Steve why he is doing this......and he pauses before telling her that he has his reasons and they’ll just leave it at that. Alyson smiles but then turns serious when she says that someone really needs to do something about Nicole. Steve agrees, saying it is long overdue.

They bid each other goodbye and Alyson walks back into her mother’s room, thinking of ways she can finally get Nicole out of her life...........for good.


BO AND HOPE'S HOUSE

Hope calls Carrie overseas in Israel. Hope tells Carrie she got her number from Caroline and then asks how she’s doing. Carrie says she and the baby are doing just fine. She is helping Mike with his clinic there. She also tells Hope about reading all of the stuff that has been going on in Salem. Hope says it’s all true. Carrie wants Hope to tell Roman and Marlena that she is really pulling for Sami. Hope will tell them both and then asks Carrie a question. She wonders if Carrie is coming home any time soon.

Carrie says that with all of the tragedy that is happening there, Europe is the safest place for her baby and herself. Hope agrees but says that things have calmed down somewhat. Shane is heading the I.S.A. in North America and she won’t have any problems. Besides, Hope says she should at least come home to see her family for the holidays. After a few moments, Carrie agrees, reluctantly. Hope says she and the baby will have a wonderful time and that they both can stay with her and Bo.

Carrie agrees and, after they both say their good-byes, Hope thinks to herself, planning to tell Carrie the truth when she arrives. She also hopes she’s doing the right thing as she grabs her purse and heads out the door.


CITY HALL

Roman walks into Abe’s office. The old friends shake hands and Abe asks Roman where his head is at these days. Roman says protecting his family. Abe asks Roman is that what he was doing when he was standing on top of a building and shooting at Orpheus and Stefano’s men recently. Roman pauses and says that if Abe knows about that........maybe he should run him in. Abe says that was his first thought. Roman then smiles, saying......

Roman: Man. I tell you. Still a sucker for the law, aren’t you?
Abe: I’m no one’s sucker, Roman. Remember that when you speak to me.........buddy.
Roman: Yes sir, Commissioner. Wouldn’t want to step on your toes.
Abe: You did that when you helped turn this city into a war zone.
Roman: Oh........so all that is my fault?!
Abe: I didn’t say it was. But ever since Eric’s death and Sami’s disappearance, you act like the rules don’t matter.
Roman: They don’t. Following the rules is what got my son killed and my daughter taken hostage. The same daughter who is laying in a coma at Salem Hospital. So don’t read this [!@#$%^&*] to me like I’m supposed to snap out of it, alright?!
Abe: No. I won’t do that.

Abe walks over to where Roman is standing.........

Abe: Maybe I should just kick your ass right here.......and right now.
Roman: Oh. After all these years playing second fiddle..........you think you can finally take me on?
Abe: Take you on? Buddy boy......I spent those years covering your ass when you decided to run around Salem and the world chasing after Stefano. And........I don’t know how many times I’ve looked the other way for whatever unlawful [!@#$%^&*] you’ve pulled. So, don’t get crazy with me. I’m from the streets.
Roman: Well then........maybe we should finally see who is truly the better man.

Roman takes a swing at Abe, who ducks and lands a right cross to Roman’s jaw. It makes Roman stagger backwards but what Abe doesn’t count on is Roman taking two huge steps and bum rushing him, sending both men over the table and onto the floor. Roman stands Abe up, squares off.....and lands two very hard punches to Abe’s face. Abe staggers backwards as Roman moves in but when Roman throws another punch.......Abe blocks that and lands another vicious right cross on his jaw once again.

Officers from outside hear the fight and come rushing in, breaking the two men up. As they breathe heavy, a bloody Abe looks at an equally bloody Roman and tells him.....

Abe: When you remember that you’re a cop and are serious about putting Orpheus and Stefano behind bars.........come talk to me. Until then......get the hell out of my office.
Roman: That’ll be a long wait, old friend. You can take that offer........and stick it up your ass.

Roman jerks his arms away from the officers as he leaves and Abe cleans himself up, with one hope on his mind.....

That the fight they just had will knock some sense into his best friend.


SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Nicole is dressed in a black mink fur, black hat and dark glasses. She stands by the phones and, as she picks up one of the receivers, Orpheus’s men fan out through the airport. They start taking positions near key areas and, when she is given the signal, Nicole has Anna paged. Anna, who is sitting next to Doug waiting for their flight, hears her name over the public address system and tells Doug she will be right back.

As Anna walks toward the desk area, she is bumped into by a man who says excuse me. Anna smiles as the man walks away but doesn’t realize that she has just been hit with a hypodermic needle. Anna then slowly starts to get dizzy and Nicole watches from a distance as she asks for help from someone. Doug does not turn around to see the man who stung Anna come back to her......and catch her as she faints in his arms. Anna is then led away by this man and two other men as Julie runs through security. She has bought a ticket to try and catch Doug......

But looks up just in time to see Anna being led away........by Orpheus’ men. Nicole smiles as she follows the men carrying Anna as Julie starts to realize that Anna is in some type of trouble and starts to run after her. Julie drops her ticket as she tries to get security to notice Anna being taken away but what Julie doesn’t see is another man slip behind her.......and point a gun into her back, telling her to be quiet before her husband has to bury his dead wife.

Julie is terrified and does as she’s told. But, as the man starts to walk away with Julie, she gets an idea. She sees the fire alarm near one of the exits and, as they walk past it,......she reaches out and pulls it, alerting security. All hell then breaks loose as another man behind the exit door opens it and grabs Julie. Security rush up and draw their weapons.......but Orpheus’ men have the drop on them and open fire in the airport, killing several security officers.

Tony rushes into the airport terminal and sees Doug, who is now standing near the airline desks. Anna and Julie are both gone and Doug says he doesn’t know what is going on. Tony says he came there to find Anna and barely got into the terminal. Doug tells him that security officers are dead and, from what he can gather,.......there has been a major incident at the airport. Tony and Doug then hear over the P.A. that the airport has been shut down......and that all flights have been grounded.

Both men then see airport S.W.A.T. personnel race by them.....and that is when Tony says that they better call Abe and get the police involved in this. Both men race off to the phones......

As the scene shifts to the...


HORTON HOUSE

Maggie walks in wearing and showing off her new engagement ring. Alice looks somber and when Maggie asks what is wrong, Alice tells her that Doug left for the airport.......he’s leaving Salem. Maggie can’t believe it and, after a few minutes, says that they have to get Doug back there before he makes a huge mistake. Alice agrees and Maggie calls Doug on her cell phone.

When he answers, Maggie asks how Doug is doing. He says he’s a little busy right now. Maggie says she is too and, as Alice tells her to stall, Maggie tells Doug that her and Victor got engaged tonight. Doug quickly congratulates her and Maggie asks if he will be coming to the wedding. After a moment, Doug finally starts to realize that Maggie is trying to stall him and tells her that there is a situation at the airport......and that he doesn’t have time to play games.

Tony then runs back up to him........and tells him that two women have been taken hostage. Doug slowly drops the phone but remembers that Maggie is on the other end. Maggie looks at Alice and hears Alice tell her that Julie is at the airport. Maggie then smiles, telling Doug that he needs to sit tight..........Julie is at the airport now. Doug drops the phone..........as he then realizes that the women that are being held hostage........could very well be Anna and Julie.

Tony picks up Doug’s phone and tells Maggie to turn on the television. When Maggie does, they see the breaking news on CNN that the airport has been shut down.......due to a hostage situation. Maggie gasps in horror as Alice goes quiet and both women pray that the two women that are being referred to.......are not Anna and Julie.

In a airport hanger, Julie and a now awakened Anna are brought into the huge bay. It houses a private 737 airliner that is privately owned......by the man who now is walking slowly towards them......

Anna: Orpheus. Should have known.
Orpheus: Yes. The lovely Mrs. DiMera. And the equally lovely Mrs. Williams. A pleasure to have you both.
Julie: (Spits at Orpheus) You bastard......how long do you think you can keep us?
Orpheus: As long as I want. That is........if you two don’t give me any trouble.

Orpheus smiles as he walks away and orders one of his men to make sure the jet liner is fully fueled and ready for take-off at a moment’s notice. As men run everywhere.........

Orpheus makes a phone call........to Bo. He is sitting at the station doing paper work and, when he answers his phone,......Orpheus tells him.....

Orpheus: Well........how are things, Detective?
Bo: Who is this?
Orpheus: Your friendly neighborhood assassin...........Orpheus. Thought you wouldn’t forget me so soon after our last meeting.
Bo: What the hell do you want?!
Orpheus: Temper, Detective........and I’ll tell you. Get your brother down here as soon as possible. You see.......I’m leaving Salem tonight and I just wanted to say a few words to Roman before I left.
Bo: I’m not putting my brother anywhere near you, !@#$%^&*].
Orpheus: I thought you would say that.........that’s why I want you to listen to a couple of guests that I have.

Orpheus walks over to a small table.....and let’s both Julie and Anna speak to Bo. Bo is shocked that he has both women and Bo then hits the panic button, covering the phone and telling one of his officers to get Abe and Shane to the airport as soon as possible.

Orpheus then gets back on the phone, telling Bo......

Orpheus: Now........you WILL do as I say......otherwise, both of these pretty women will get a chance to learn how to fly........

When I throw them out of a jetliner at 30,000 feet! Now, snap to it!!!

Orpheus hangs up the phone...........

And Bo goes into another office. He takes out a small black book out of his pocket and calls Victor. He fills him in on what’s happening. Victor says he knows. It’s all over the television. Bo ask how deep this is and Victor says it’s so deep that he just got off the phone with Stefano. Bo says he’s about to get everything together and head to the airport.......but tells Victor to find Roman and tell him to get there soon.....

Bo: Or both Anna and Julie are dead. We gotta stop him, Victor.........and I think Roman is the only one who can do it this time.

Victor and Bo hang up, with Victor telling Nico to get every available man down to the airport while he calls Hawk.


UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Lincoln helps Stefano dress and, when he is finished, they both leave the hospital and head to the airport. In the car, Stefano tells one of his trusted aides to get every man they have in Salem to the airport.........now.


HORTON HOUSE

Marlena walks in, having came by on her way back to the hospital. Her, Alice and Maggie sit and watch the crisis on television...........

As the scene shifts back to the airport. Orpheus picks up his phone......and makes one more phone call. The person on the other end answers and all Orpheus says is.......

Orpheus: Everything is in place. It’s time to end this.

He hangs up the phone.........and the scene freeze frames on a determined Orpheus’s face...as it slowly fades to black.

ON THE NEXT SALEM LIVES...

ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE!!!