PhoenixRising05

-Laura is thinking out loud what to do about Jack and Billie when Hope arrives and is shocked to overhear what Laura is saying. Laura explains to Hope she does not feel bad about what she is doing. Hope tells Laura that they have always been close friends and it's no big deal even if something more does happen. Jennifer and Billie were friends and she knows Jack and Billie were close. If Billie could make him happy and she seems to, Jennifer would be happy. Hope implores Laura not to let her hatred for Kate blind her. Laura insists it's not. Hope knows that Laura is trying to protect her family but she tells Laura that Jack needs to move on and it can't always be about what she wants or approves of. She is not Jack's mother nor can she tell him what to do. She understands Jack and Laura are close but she is only going to make things worse and tear the family apart by scheming to mess things up. Laura asks hope if she wants Billie with Jack to make sure she stays away from Bo. Hope admits she isn't worried about that. She understands they have a daughter and that occupies them and she knows Billie and Bo are through. Laura asks if she is sure. Hope says she is sure and that Billie is the least of her concerns. Laura asks how Bo is. Hope says she wishes she knew because she hasn't seen or talked to him and she is very worried. Laura assures her it will work out but Hope isn't so sure. Hope admits she has a feeling things are only going to get worse. -Billie arrives at the Kiriakis mansion and asks if Bo is there. Henderson says he is and that he will announce her but Billie just plows her way in and walks in on Bo, who is looking over some papers. He asks Billie what she is doing. Billie tells him his daughter needs him and that it is up to him to decide what is more important-revenge or family. Bo asks what is going on. Billie fills him in on what happened last night and how Frankie and Abby had to save Chelsea. She tells Bo that he can't remain isolated anymore. She doesn't know what is wrong with him but his family needs him. His daughter needs him more then ever. Bo says he is doing what he has to do and what is right. Billie tells Bo he can't justify avoiding his family and being isolated from them. The choice is his and their daughter needs both of them before it's too late. Bo recalls learning about Chelsea's rape and being in the hospital after she was raped again. Bo tells Billie he will go with her to start a search. Billie thanks him and says he is doing the right thing and acting like the Bo Brady she knows and everyone loves. No tells Henderson he is leaving and to tell Victor what is going on. He tells Billie to call Hope and tell her to call the station and get some units out to search. Billie asks why he can't call. Bo admits he would rather not risk calling the station and talking to Roman or Abe and having to argue back and forth. Billie agrees. Bo tells her to call once she has done that and they will meet up later and compare notes. They wish each other luck and go off in separate directions. -Chelsea walks the streets of downtown Salem, still hung over and recovering from being high the previous night and early morning. She sees some guys she knows in an outside alley near a convenience store. She asks what they are doing. They recognize her as Chelsea Benson and they smell the booze on her. They ask her if she has been partying. She says she has and that she is looking for more fun and asks if they have any ideas. She is handed something and she asks if it's meth. The young man nods. Chelsea looks at it and says that this is what she meant by partying and that this is excellent. She hopes to have the night of her life as the guys promise she will. -Max is having a beer at his garage when Cassie comes in and asks if he wants company. He asks why she always shows up when he is a mess and is hitting the bottle. She says she has radar. She tells him how she was at Theo's custody hearing and fills him in. Max asks if she is happy her aunt lost Theo. Cassie lies and says it was right considering being a Dimera is dangerous and unsafe. He asks if she feels scared. She lies again and says she does and that she would rather not be a Dimera. Max tells her she is not a Dimera and that she isn't even close. She is still a Brady from what he can see. He embraces her as she secretly sports an evil smirk. Abby walks in and slams down a wrench to get their attention. Max asks what she is doing there. She says she had to talk to him but didn't realize he was busy. Cassie leaves and says she will let them talk. -Max asks what is wrong and if Abby is going to yell at him again. She tells him she is. She asks what is going on with Cassie and him. He tells her nothing and that it seems they are friends. Abby asks what he means by "seems." Max clarifies by saying a friendship is developing. Abby sarcastically says she is happy for him and that his spending time with Cassie is keeping him from being there for people he says he cares about. Max reminds Abby he already apologized for the Chelsea incident and doesn't know what happened. Abby asks him to admit he hung on her and then, once he admits it, they can work through it. He denies it again and reiterates he doesn't know what happened. Abby tells him Cassie happened. Max tells Abby not to blame her. There is nothing with her and she had no reason to answer his phone and hang up. Abby can't beleive he is supporting Cassie and ignoring everyone else. She tells Max they needed him last night and he let them down. Max apologizes and tells Abby about his talk with Chelsea earlier. Abby tells him it is too late for him to do anything for Chelsea and that he has had his chances. Max reminds Abby that she was with him all summer when he backed away from Chelsea and asks why she didn't try to convince him to keep pursuing Chelsea to find out what was going on. Abby says she shouldn't have to do a thing. If he cares, he would do it on his own and he has shown of late he doesn't. He is with Cassie everytime she turns around and is turning into a person she doesn't recognize. She tells Max she is done wasting her time and energy. She can't look at him and never wants to see him again. He tells her she is overreacting and wants to know if there is more to this. She recalls talking to Frankie about how she feels about Max. She lies and says there is nothing else. His behavior of late disturbs her and that is it. She then walks off angry as Max wonders what is going on. Abby gets in her car and cries, wondering why she keeps lashing out and making things worse instead of opening up to him about her feelings. Seeing him with Cassie just infuriates her so much and she can't get angry anymore. She needs to do something and to tell Max how she feels like Frankie told her to. She decides to go back in the garage and talk to him to make things right. She goes back in but the garage is locked and Max appears to have left the back way. Abby is disappointed and hopes she hasn't blown her chance. Cassie is watching nearby and says that Max is on his own and right where her and her grandfather want him. -Eric and Greta have returned from the hospital outside of Salem and are awaiting word from the specialist about the tests he ran on Eric. Greta tells Eric to think positive and have faith. Eric says it is hard when every single test he has had has been negative. Greta holds his hand as the phone rings and Eric answers. He has short discussion and seems unreactive at first. He then slowly hangs up and Greta asks what happened. Eric says nothing is changed and that he could die any day now. He is running out of time. Greta comforts him. Eric says he is running out of time and Nicole isn't even there. He returned to Salem to be with her and his loved ones and she is more worried about work then anything else. Greta urges Eric to tell them all. It is the right thing to do. Eric refuses and says he would rather die alone then have people feel sorry for him. Greta says he won't day alone-she'll be there and she promises she isn't going anywhere. Meanwhile, Nicole is at another business meeting and seems frustrated. She keeps thinking about Eric and how long the meeting has lasted already. She tries to close up the meeting but the client and his advisors can sense Nicole wants to end this and they all feel insulted by her desire to choose whatever she has to do over the overseeing of a potential blockbuster deal. Nicole apologizes but notes that the meeting has gone on for long enough and it's late. Nicole asks if she can at least make a phone call. All in attendance approve. She calls the suite. Eric has fallen asleep on Greta's lap and she is watching TV. She answers the phone. Nicole is stunned to hear her and asks what is going on. Greta lies again and says she is only doing what Nicole wanted and is trying to figure out what is going on with Eric for her. Nicole doesn't buy it but pretends that she does. She asks to speak with Eric. Greta says he stepped out but that she will tell him that Nicole called. Nicole thanks her and hangs up. Greta gently runs her fingers through Eric's hair as tears stream down her face. She says she feels so helpless and hates all this. She wishes there would be a miracle but knows that there won't be. She just hopes he is at peace with all this and that everything works out the best it can in the end. Nicole returns to her meeting and is asked if everything is ok. Nicole says it is and that she can stay as long as they need her now. She doesn't need to be anywhere or with anyone. -Victor asks Maggie how she could do such a thing is reveal details of what him and his allies were planning. Now Stefano knows something is coming and lives are in more danger then before, especially his life and the lives of Bo and everyone else involved with his efforts to purge Salem of the Dimera's and any other threats to the happiness of all of them. Maggie says she is sorry and hates the Dimera's so much. Shehas the fight with Caroline and had a blowup on the stand when she attacked the Dimera's verbally. She was just losing it and was out of control. Victor says sorry won't cut it and that all his plans are ruined now. The surprise factor is gone and it is back to the drawing board. Maggie says she will make sure it will never happen again. Victor reminds her of her reputation as a gossip. Maggie says that is in the past and she is definitely not the same woman. Victor says he can't take a chance. Lives depend on it including Bo's, Lucas's, Austin's, and his own as well as the lives of everyone in Salem. He can't have blowing something by blurting something out. Maggie promises it will never happen again. Victor says he will make sure it will never happen again and he tells her he is finished. He wants her out. She doesn't understand and asks what he means. He angrily tells Maggie that he is not going to take a risk and have her ruin everything. He wants her out of his house and out of his life. A crying Maggie tells Victor he doesn't mean that. He coldly stares at her and says he does. He says he wants it done immediately or he will arrange for her stuff to be moved out. He then walks away as Maggie reminds Victor they are friends and that she needs him. She continues to yell to Victor she is sorry and that she needs him. She screams he can't do this and that she thought they were friends. She crumples to the ground and screams for Victor to come back and that she can't go on without him. She needs him. She takes hold of a park bench and breaks down in tears. The screen fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Bo: Where the hell are you Chelsea? Billie to Hope: Bo is looking for Chelsea. Hope to Billie: Let's hope this means the Bo we know is coming back to us. Sami to Lucas: I just don't want anything to happen to you. Carrie to Alan: Open up to me. Just tell me!!! Alan to Carrie: I can't!!! You don't understand!!! You don't understand what I have been through. Julie to Alice: Everything is all set and, hopefully, this will lead to the breakthrough we have been waiting for with Maggie. Victor to Lucas: I can find her and I need your help. I said some things I regret and now I am worried about what she may do. Maggie: I don't want to live. Take me!! I want to be with you Mickey!! Take me now!!!

-Everyone is stunned by what is going on with Maggie ans Caroline. Roman and Hope tell Maggie and Caroline to calm down. Maggie is outraged at Caroline's words. Caroline apologizes saying she had no right to say that. She just doesn't think what is going on with Victor and her is right nor does she think Bo, Lucas, and Austin teaming up with him is wise. Maggie tells her that the conversation is over and she doesn't wish for it to go any further. Caroline apologizes again but Maggie walks off. Julie goes after her but Maggie tells her she doesn't wish to talk. Caroline apologizes to Alice. Alice makes nothing of it and says they all are concerned about Maggie and everything that is going on. While outside, Julie bumps into Victor who was hoping to catch the end of the hearing. Julie fills him in and he is pleased that Theo was kept out of Dimera hands. Julie tells Victor they need to talk. She asks him about what is going on with him, Bo, Lucas, and Austin and says that her family is concerned about the welfare of Bo and Lucas and all of them as a whole. Victor says they are fine and doing what they must. He does not want to discuss it. Julie changes the subject to Maggie and asks what his feelings are concerning her. Victor explains that Maggie has become a dear friend and nothing more. Julie tells Victor she considers him a close friend from their many times together. Victor feels the same. Julie asks Victor if there is nothing else going on and explains to him what just happened with Caroline and Maggie. Victor explains they are just two friends who grew closer by being there for each other and that is all. Doug is helping Alice to her car so Julie tells Victor she has to go but she would like to keep in touch more. Victor says he would like that and tells her to call to make arrangements. She asks him to be careful and kisses his cheek before going off to leave with Doug and Alice. Julie tells them both she is still very worried about Maggie and everything going on. Alice tells her to be patient because they have their plan that is in motion to fall back on. -Lexie and Stefano are on their way out when they pass Roman and Hope, who are talking. Lexie gives them both a cold stare as she leaves. Hope tells Roman she is very worried now that Lexie has embraces being a Dimera again. Roman says it seems they have alot to worry about. Hope agrees and wonders when all the madness going on in Salem is going to stop. She doesn't know how much more their families can take. -Abe and Celeste arrive home and Abe embraces Theo. Celeste knows that he is happy but warns Abe she has a feeling that the worst is yet to come. He asks what she means. Celeste says she has no details, only that she has this vibration that worst things are ahead for all of them. Abe says he hopes she is wrong and everything will work out. Celeste worries about Lexie and tells Abe they must get her away from Stefano. Abe says he is willing to help but their marriage is finished. Celeste understands but she needs his help before Lexie is lost to them for good. Abe says he will help for Theo's sake and because it is time Salem is rid of the Dimera's and their influence. -Abby is sitting out back when Frankie arrives. She asks how court was and he fills her in. He asks if she has heard from Chelsea. She says she hasn't and doesn't care. She has enough for herself to deal with. Frankie asks if she is talking about Max and she nods in agreement. He urges her to talk to Max and try to work things out. Alot has been going on lately and he thinks alot can be fixed by a long talk. Abby doesn't think so but Frankie tells Abby it won't hurt. Abby agrees to talk to Max and see where things go. Frankie is pleased and says she won't be sorry. Laura arrives him soon after. Abby walks in and can see Laura is angered by something. She asks if Laura is ok. Laura tells Abby that Jack and Billie worked things out and she knows it isn't right and has to put an end to it. Abby is angry too and asks what else they can do. They already explained their side to the story. Laura says she isn't giving up-not when it comes to her family. Abby says she will help in any way she can because she wants to protect their family too. Laura hugs her and is happy to hear her say that. -Jack tells Billie he is really happy that everything is settled. She agrees. He notices she is worried and asks what is wrong. Billie says there is still no word on Chelsea and she has some friends at the station looking for her because it would be worse if she looked and found Chelsea. He asks Billie if she wants him to go look. Billie says he needs to go back to work. Jack laughs and says he had forgotten that because it has been so long since he has been on a schedule. He has a deadline to meet. He tells Billie to call if she needs anything. She embraces him and says she will and runs off. Billie says it's time for her to take some action and makes a phone call to Bo and tells him there is a problem with their daughter that needs immediate attention before it's too late. -Max is walking the pier and has a bad headache from a hangover. He bumps into a disheveled girl and is shocked that it's Chelsea. She is clearly out of it and he can smell alcohol on her breath. She also seems strung out. He asks her why she is doing this to herself. She says no one wants her and she is nothing but a dirty whore. She doesn't deserve love from anyone. Max says none of that is true and that she is just buying into what Jason and Barry said to her. He tells Chelsea he is sorry for not being there for her. he knows he should've never walked away from her over the summer when she was pushing him away. He should've known there was a reason and he is sorry because he knows she needed him and now he knows she needs him more then ever. She has been through one traumatic ordeal after another and he heard what happened last night. Chelsea tells him that if he cared about her at all he would've never abandoned her for months when she needed him and he would've came last night when Abby called for help. Instead, he never questioned why she was pushing him away and he hung up on Abby. Max explains he never hung up and doesn't know what happened but admits he screwed up over the summer. Chelsea was pretty insistent that they take a break but he should've never backed off and forced her to open up to him. He is sorry for everything that has happened. Chelsea says she wanted him to stay away from her but that she still hoped deep down he wouldn't back off. She would then know they had something but now she knows they don't and never will. She doesn't want anything from him and wants him to leave her alone. He begs Chelsea to let him help her. She tells him he had his chance and it's too late. She pushes him and knocks him over and tells him he can go to hell. Max chases after her but loses her. He is afraid for what may happen to her next. -Eric is at his and Nicole's hotel suite when Greta arrives. She asks if Nicole is there. Eric says sarcastically she had another business meeting. Greta apologizes and says she knows that upsets him. He changes the subject and asks what she wants. Greta says she was hoping no one would be there because the specialist is here. Eric isn't sure he is up for it but Greta says the sooner Eric sees him the sooner it's over. Greta tells Eric that the specialist could find something to give him hope. Eric says he could also put the final nail in his coffin. Greta tells Eric that the specialist has arranged some tests at a hospital on the outside of Salem since Eric doesn't want anyone to learn of his illness. Eric thanks Greta for making that arrangment. Greta asks Eric if he is going to leave Nicole a note saying he went out. He tells her he isn't because she probably still won't be there when he returns. They leave. Eric meets the specialist and they shake hands. He tells Eric he hopes to give him better news. Eric says he doubts it but it won't hurt anything to check things over. They head for the hospital. -Lexie and Stefano leave the courthouse as Stefano continues to promise that they will get Theo back and will get revenge. Lexie says she hopes so. They bump into Maggie who says the only ones that are going to be getting revenge are the people of Salem thanks to Victor and his team. Stefano asks what she is blabbering about. Maggie tells him that Victor and his men along with Bo, Austin, and Lucas have teamed together to rid Salem of the Dimera's and all those that have inflicted pain and suffering on Salem for years. Stefano laughs and says that he isn't scared. Maggie says he will and vows that they will pay and sooner then they think. She blurts out she has already seen them all working with maps and blueprints of Stefano's various lairs and properties. She tells them that Victor and his allies are already at work plotting to take action against him so revenge is coming and she knows it will be sweet for all the pain that has been caused because of the Dimera's. Victor comes out from behind and screams out Maggie's name and asks what she thinks she is doing. Maggie is shocked to see Victor as Lexie and Stefano laugh. Stefano thanks Maggie for her help and tells Victor he will never destroy him anyway. Victor gives Stefano a cold stare as Stefano wishes them good day and leaves with Lexie. Maggie is about to say something but Victor interupts and asks why Maggie did this. Maggie apologizes as Victor asks her how she could do this to him. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Abby to Max: I don't even want to try anymore. It's not worth my time. I don't want to see you again. Billie to Bo: Your daughter needs you so it's up to you to come through. What will it be, Bo? Chelsea: Meth huh? Sounds like just what I need. Laura: I won't let Billie get her claws into Jack. Hope: Laura! I can't believe you!! Greta to Eric: I am here for you. I am not going anywhere. Nicole: Greta's up there again. What is going on with you two, Eric? Victor to Maggie: I want you out!! Out of my house and out of my life!!!

-The whole courtroom reacts to Abe winning custody of Theo. Stefano, Lexie, and Cassie are stunned, Roman, Cal, Shane, Hope, Sami, Caroline, Billie, and the Horton's all congratulate Abe. Lexie asks Stefano what happened. Stefano declares this an outrage and wishes to appeal. Judge Fitzpatrick explains that Theo just wouldn't be safe in the Dimera environment and is better off in a more normal and stabile living situation. Lexie orders an appeal but Judge Fitzpatrick tells her that no appeal will be heard as the case is open and shut. Theo remaining in Abe's custody is the logical decision and any judge would see that. unless they were bribed. Lexie quietly asks Stefano if he did anything to ensure they would win the case. Stefano lies and says he tried talking with the judge but, obviously, it was to no avail. She would not accept bribery and would not bow to threats. Lexie wonders if bribery and the threats made things worse on their end. Cassie overhears and waves for Stefano to come over to speak with her while everyone is distracted. She asks why he lied to Lexie. He was with her during the court recess and never went to see the judge. Stefano says he had to lie because Lexie can't find out he did nothing to help her. The truth is he needed her to lose Theo to make her turn completely to the Dimera's. She has now turned against all those she loves and is now where she belongs-with her family. Stefano vows to get Theo back at some point but stresses that this needed to happen this way for things to line up the way he wants them. He urges Cassie to return to her seat so no one sees them speaking. -Abe asks Judge Fitspatrick when a visitation arrangement will be settled. The judge says there will be no visitation at the moment. The court wishes to monitor Lexie and her home life before making any decisions. Her being connected to the Dimera's and living in the middle of that firestorm concerns her, especially with Lexie nearly dying. Abe asks that the judge consider that Lexie is a good mother and should be able to see her son. The judge says that once they acquire enough information to make sure it's safe and proper, she will be able to see him. It may be under supervision, however. Lexie is devestated. Cameron apologizes for the loss in court. Stefano blames it on her and says she didn't do enough. Cameron says that there wasn't a whole lot to be done. They had all the negativity on their side with his family's name. It was just too much to overcome. Stefano says that if she was a better lawyer she could overcome it. Cameron gets fed up and walks off saying she is done working for him or any Dimera. She leaves. Abe tells Celeste he didn't want Lexie to lose Theo completely. Lexie lashes out at him and vows revenge on Abe and everyone in the courtroom. She tells her mother that she is disgusted with her and that she is no longer her daughter. Celeste explains that she wasn't taking sides but her pleas fall in deaf ears with Lexie. Judge Fitzpatrick reminds Lexie that Abe was being very civil given the circumstances and trying to help her. Lexie is furious and will not listen to reason. She vows that her and her family will get their revenge and she will get her son back no matter what she has to. Stefano reiterates that promise as they both leave. Outside the courtroom, Lexie begs Stefano to help her as he is the only person she has left in the world to help her. He promises that he will an grins as he thinks about how everything is falling in line. Abe thanks Frankie for his work and he leaves. Abe comforts Celeste and assures her that Lexie and her will work things out. Celeste tells Abe she isn't so sure and fears her daughter may be lost to all of them. -Cassie says goodbye to Caroline and Cal and leaves. Cal congratulates Abe and leaves. Shane is called away and gives his best wishes to Roman as he leaves. Sami says she is leaving too and Abe thanks her for her support. He hopes they can put the past in the past. She agrees. Roman comes over to her and says he is proud of her for helping Abe. Sami gives him a cold stare and asks if someone was talking before walking away. Roman yells out that she can't ignore or avoid him forever. He exists and is not giving up on her. Sami doesn't listen as she walks away. Roman talks to Eric and asks how he is. Eric says he is ok but could be better. Roman says he wants to get to know Eric again and wants to try to forge a relationship. Eric says he'll see as he doesn't have much time on his hands. Roman tells him that they need to call or talk more. Meanwhile, Sami bumps into Nicole. Sami asks Nicole if she found out anything about Eric's secret yet. Nicole says she hasn't but that he has been spending alot of time with Greta. Sami warns Nicole to be careful and to find out what is going on without being caught because being caught could end up destroying Eric and her anyway. Nicole understands. Greta asks Eric how he is doing. Eric says he has very little energy and can feel his time running out. Greta admits to Eric she called the specialist she knows and he is coming in. Eric is angry and reminds Greta that he said no. Greta begs him to see the specialist. It can't really hurt or damage anything even more. She begs him to humor her. He reluctantly agrees and says he will see the specialist. She is very happy and embraces him, which Nicole sees. She tells him she will call him when the specialist arrives and leaves. Nicole returns to Eric. He asks if something is wrong. Nicole lies and says that nothing is wrong and that she just wants to leave. He agrees and they take off. -Hope overhears Billie talking to Kate on her cell about Chelsea and asks if Billie has found her yet. Billie says she hasn't. Hope explains she just talked to Judge Fitzpatrick and had the charges against Chelsea for Zack's death formally dropped. They decided it was best not to go through another hearing given all Chelsea and the family has been through. She tells Billie that Chelsea will have to do a large amount of community service and be on probation. Billie says she is ok with that and thanks Hope. She wishes she knew where Bo was. Hope says they all wish they did. Jack walks over and asks to speak with Billie. Hope leaves. Jack says he is done covering the hearing and thinks they should talk now. He asks if everything is ok between them and if things can go back to the way they were before everything happened with Abby. Billie tells Jack that things can't be the same because they both have to be there for their families and need to give that factor consideration. Jack says they can still be friends since that is all they are and be there for their children and family. He would hate to lose their friendship. Billie agrees. Jack asks if they are ok. Billie says they are and they embrace as Laura watches and overhears. Laura tells herself she won't let this happen and will have to think of another way to stop it. Alice, Doug, and Julie join her. Doug says he will go get the car. Alice tells Laura she is wrong to interfere and Jennifer would not want that. Julie says she has already told Laura this. Laura says she is just looking out for Jack. Alice asks Laura if she is sure about that because it seems like Laura is looking out for herself since she doesn't want Kate's daughter getting involved romantically with Jack. Laura says that is not the case, although it does play a part in it. She just feels like Billie should not be involved with Jack at this juncture. Alice and Julie warn her that her plotting could backfire. -Maggie calls Victor and asks if she can pick up anything for him, Bo, Lucas, and Austin on her way back. He says no and she hangs up. Caroline overhears and asks Maggie how long she plans on playing hosue with Victor. Maggie says she is not playing house. Caroline reminds Maggie of when she pushed Victor away because she was becoming too dependent on him and she didn't want things to get too complicated as they were both vulnerable. She asks what happened to make Maggie change her mind. Maggie says that Victor and her are friends and that they shouldn't have to stop being friends. They help and comfort one another and there is nothing wrong with that because they care about each other. Caroline tells Maggie if she cared for Victor she would put an end to his reverting back to his old ways to get revenge. Maggie says she approves of it because something needs to be done. Too many lives have been destroyed and lost already and it's about time action was taken so she supports Victor and his cause. Caroline is stunned and says that Maggie will be sorry when someone gets killed. If she cared, she would put an end to all that. Maggie asks for Caroline's problem is. Caroline explains that she just doesn't think what is going on with Victor and Maggie is right and she does not like how Maggie is standing by while Victor destroys his life and the lives of Bo, Lucas, and Austin. Maggie thinks Caroline is lying and that she has been afraid since day one that something more could be happening between Victor and her. Caroline denies it but Maggie claims she knows that is the case and that Caroline feels guilty for causing him pain. Caroline tells Maggie that none of those accusations are true but wonders if Maggie is developing more then friendly feelings for Victor. Caroline tells Maggie that her husband is gone and Victor is right there for her at all times. She adds that Maggie has been walking around him like some late in life whore and asks her how long she thinks it will be before she uses her pain and suffering over Mickey's death to get Victor into bed. Maggie is stunned that Caroline would go to that extreme and attack her verbally. She slaps her and calls her a [!@#$%^&*] as Roman, Hope, Alice, Julie, Doug, Abe, Celeste, and Laura watch. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Julie to Victor: How do you feel about Maggie? Maggie to Stefano and Lexie: Justice will be served and revenge will be had. Beleive my words Victor is already working on destroying you all. Victor to Maggie: Maggie!! Greta to Eric: This could give you some hope. Eric to Greta: Or it could be the final nail in my coffin. Max to Chelsea: Please, Chelsea. Don't let it be like this. Let me help you. Please!!! Celeste to Abe: I hate to say it Abraham but the worst is yet to come.

Announcer: ON SALEM LIVES... ONE MAN Clip of Max. THREE WOMEN. Clips of Abby, Chelsea, and Cassie. ONLY ONE CAN HAVE HIM...AND THIS WEEK...SOMEONE WILL... Clip of Cassie and Max kissing in a car while a stunned Abby and Chelsea watch with Abby in tears. Abby: It looks like Max has made his choice. IT ALL LEADS TO A NOVEMBER LIKE NO OTHER IN TWO WEEKS!!! MISS A DAY, MISS ALOT!!!

Week of October 15, 2006 Edition VICTOR TO MAGGIE: OUT!!!! Victor loses it this week on Salem Lives when he kicks Maggie out of his mansion in a fit of rage which, ultimately, leads her back to the bottle. The week begins with Maggie lashing out at Stefano and Lexie after Theo's custody hearing. "The hearing is over and Lexie has lost Theo so Maggie is rubbing it in," says HW Tim Lowery. "She really hates the Dimera's because of the island and Mickey's death and she is just laughing in their face saying there is more suffering for them to come." Maggie then makes a huge error-an error that she gets caught in the act of making. "She says that Victor and his crew are planning their revenge and that the Dimera's will be no more," previews Lowery. "She then blurts out that Victor, Bo. Austin, and Lucas are already looking over maps and blueprints of Stefano's various properties and lairs and that they are going to strike. The worst part is that Victor hears everything and is just furious." Lexie and Stefano leave and Victor just loses it on Maggie. "He tells her in the middle of his temper eruption that he wants her out of his house and away from him," sighs Lowery. "She runs off in tears and he isn't bothered by it until much later when he can't find her after he goes off to look for her." By week's end, Victor organizes a search party to find Maggie while Maggie is tempted by her past demons again and hits the bottle hard...again. "Things are definitely turning ugly," hints Lowery. MAX AND CASSIE: COLLUSION COURSE Chelsea and Abby are on a collusion course with Max and Cassie this week on Salem Lives and the results leave heartbreak and devestation in it's wake. The week begins with Max bumping into a down and out Chelsea. "She is drunk, high, and just totally out of it," says HW Tim Lowery. "When Max runs into her she isn't even coherent." Max tries once more to let him help her and to give their relationship one more chance and Chelsea refuses. "She brings up how they are over and he had his chance," previews Lowery. "She mentions how he didn't even care to find out what was going on with her and, basically, says he abandoned her. Max reminds Chelsea how she pushed him away but even he knows that he gave up and screwed up big time." Chelsea then runs off and her downward spiral worsens when she accepts meth from a bunch of friends from school. Meanwhile, Abby and Max end up having a fight after Frankie once again convinces Abby to talk to Max. "They have a major falling out," sighs Lowery. "They both feel horrible about it but don't have the courage to go find one another to fix it." A disappointed and guilty Max then hits the bar and ends up seeking solace with Cassie. "Cassie is there in front of him once again and he is getting hammered," says Lowery. "Max normally would never just jump into bed with a girl but he is so vulnerable and just looking for some confort somewhere. He is lost and is so out of it and Cassie has seemed to always be there recently. He needs a friend and gravitates towards Cassie and calls her a friend for the first time, which makes Cassie feel good too." At week's end, passions ignite for Cassie and Max just as both Chelsea and Abby decide to look for Max and talk things out. When they find Max, what they see will not only continue Chelsea's cycle of destruction but will send Abby down a shocking path as well. "Chelsea will get much worse and what happens to Abby will stun everyone," promises Lowery. "The situation with both Abby and Chelsea will get very serious...and disturbing." Rumor Mill -Look for the upcoming Horton Halloween Party to showcase the return of several Horton's and a major face off as one woman comes face to face with an infamous face from the past. -Expect a major recast of a current character in the coming weeks. Think RKK/Peter Reckell. -An announcement regarding Cal's (Josh Taylor) psychiatrist is pending. -Jaime Lyn Bauer (Laura) may be sticking around a little longer. -Patsy Pease" return as Kimberly has been postponed for a bit. Look for the actress to reappear before the end of the year, however. Previews and Peeks into Week of 10/16/06 -Lexie vows revenge. -Celeste tells Abe the worst is yet to come. -Maggie and Caroline have it out. -Laura is shocked to see Jack and Billie have worked things out. -Nicole witnesses another Eric and Greta close encounter. -Julie and Victor have a heart to heart. -Maggie makes a huge mistake. -Victor loses it. -Eric shocks Greta. -Chelsea and Abby send Max into Cassie's arms. -The Horton's prepare to pull a fast one on Maggie. -The search is on for Maggie. -Lucas is touched by Sami's concern. -Carrie and Alan discuss his past. -Maggie gives in to temptation...again. -Steve finally gives in to Kayla. -Max and Cassie turn up the heat. -Abby and Chelsea's hearts are broken. Red Letter Days!!! Monday October 16: Lexie vows revenge after losing Theo. On this same day, Maggie and Caroline go at it!! Wednesday October 18: Maggie bears witness to Victor's rage. Friday October 20: Max and Cassie heat up as a heartbroken Chelsea and Abby watch. Next Week: Abby makes a big change. Billie sees another side to Abby. Carrie makes a stunning request of Alan. Lucas, Austin, and Roman get a huge shock. The Horton's put their plot to save Maggie into motion. Maggie comes face to face with several loves ones from the past. Lexie learns of Stefano's plans.

-Judge Fitzpatrick officially opens the hearing. The judge asks if the demand on both sides is for full custody. Lexie stands up and says yes while Abe reluctantly agrees, saying he wishes they could compromise. Lexie says there will be no compromising. She wants her son. Frankie informs the judge that Commishioner Carver has several people that wish to speak on his behalf. She allows it. -Alice, Hope, Billie, Caroline, Roman, and Shane explain how long they have known Abe and how great of a father he is. They admit concern about Lexie being a Dimera and Theo's safety, citing the attempt on her life, but they do feel that Lexie should still be able to see her son and spend time with him as much as possible. Maggie then asks to take the stand and throws her support behind Abe. She explains all the horrors the Dimeras have put so many through and Theo should not be exposed to that. Maggie lashes out and says that all the Dimera's should burn in hell. She tells everyone that Lexie doesn't care about any of them. She is sitting on Stefano's side and has made her loyalties clear since she moved into the Dimera mansion. She tells Stefano that he will pay and so will his family. Judge Fitzpatrick warns Maggie not to issue threats. Maggie apologizes and returns to her seat behind Doug, Julie, and Laura. -Laura is called to the stand to explain the psychological effect on the child depending on which parent gets custody. Laura says she feels usually that the child is better off with the mother but she just ins't sure it's safe so her support is for the father to obtain custody. Lexie lashes out saying Laura has no idea what she is talking about. The judge orders her to remain silent. Frankie then calls Sami up to the stand. Sami explains how fondly she thinks of Abe and how she grew up thinking of him as an uncle and still does. She looks at Lexie and Stefano and remembers his warning to her. She tells herself she can't be afraid. She tells the court that Abe is a wonderful father and Theo belongs with him. She agrees that it just isn;t very safe for him to go with Lexie and she really isn't sure if Lexie is in the state of mind to raise Theo right now. Lexie lashes out and says that Sami's opinion means nothing based on her history and calls her a [!@#$%^&*]. The judge orders order and warns Lexie that another disruption will give her a ticket to jail. Lexie quiets as Cameron warns her to cool it. Sami returns to her seat with Eric, Nicole, and Greta. -The judge then asks if Celeste would like tp speak as the maternal grandmother of Theo. Celeste says she will only say that both Lexie and Abe are wonderful parents and that she doesn't want to take sides. She cares about Abe and loves her daughter. Judge Fitzpatrick asks Celeste if she thinks Theo would be safe with Lexie. Celeste says he would be safe being cared for by Lexie but by himself or just being around the Dimera influence could make him a target and put him in danger. She also fears him becoming like Stefano just like so many of his children have, including her daughter. The judge thanks her and calls Abe to the stand. Abe explains how much he loves his son and many of the things they have done together. We then see some flashbacks of Theo and Abe playing and him reading to Theo. He also notes that Lexie is a wonderful mother and he would never take Theo away from her completely. He wanted joint custody but she wanted all or nothing and he needs to protect his son from harm and from the Dimera's so he needs to go for full custody. Cameron asks the judge if she may ask a question. The judge grants her request. Cameron reminds Abe that he is a cop and the commishioner to boot, meaning that could put Theo at risk too. Abe insists that Theo is always kept safe and watched and he would do everything in his power to protect him. The Dimera's are not only a red flag for danger for others and for themselves but also are a bad influence and he can't have his son grow up like them even though those that grew up away from them still ended up being sinister (looks at Lexie) . He just asks the judge to be fair and keep the child first in all this. He leaves the stand. -Stefano steps up and explains how much his daughter loves Theo and that he will be well taken care of and safe. He is in no more danger with them then he would face on the street. Frankie brings up Stefano and his family being a bad influence and says that no one can trust a word he says, based on his history, so his words lose credibility with him and all those that know him. Stefano laughs and tells Frankie he is only trying to help his daughter and say his peace. The judge tells Stefano he may step down. -Lexie is asked to take the stand and makes an emotional plea to hold on to Theo. She apologixes for all her mistakes and tells the judge she has lost so much. Frankie asks her if she can promise Theo will besafe and secure. Lexie vows to protect him and give her life for him but reminds Frankie and the court that Theo is in just as much danger with any one of them. If something is meant to happen, it will regardless of the whereabouts. Lexie then says there are a few things she feels the court must know about her soon-to-be-ex-husband. Lexie stares at Stefano, who nods his head in approval. She explains Abe's past and his temper. She brings up his relationship with Faye and the son, Brandon, that resulted from that. She tells the court of his shooting Larry Morris and, later, Brady Black. She also claims Abe pushed her away and emotionally abused her while he was blind and impotent and that even continued after the blindness was cured. She claims if people are trying to say Theo is not safe with her and that she is unfit, then Abe has just as much on him too as he has a hot temper and all these things suggest he exhibits questionable behavior too. Ahe is humiliated Lexie would bring all that out, especially about his impotence and their private life. He lashes out at Lexie for that. Lexie tells Abe she is going to do whatever it takes. The judge tells Lexie that while Abe has said he was partly responsible for pushing her away due to his actions, Lexie still did the deed and lied. The judge also tells Lexie that the Larry Morris and Brady Black case are well-documented. Roman and Cal stand up and say Abe had nothing to do with that and it was an accident. Same goes for Larry and the Faye/Brandon thing as both Sami and Nicole rise and state that Abe has really done nothing wrong but push away his wife and start the whole mess they are going through today. The judge agrees and says she knows all that too and tells Lexie that all those past occurances have nothing to do with what is going on. They came off as desperate and displayed nothing but hatred and disdain for her husband, someone she said she loved for years. If anything, it made her see Lexie in an even worse light. Lexie says she did love him but that things changed. She just wants her son. Judge Fitzpatrick returns to her quarters to contemplate her decision. -Abe asks Celeste if she has had a vision. Celeste says the same on as before where he is upset and people seem to be unhappy. Abe is worried. -Billie asks Jack if he has acquired any inside informatiion. Jack says he hasn't but that Stefano has gone MIA, meaning he could be doing a little shady handiwork to make sure things go his way. Billie worries that is true and that Abe will lose. -Lexie tells Cameron that she is worried as their scheme to play dirty backfired and made her look bad in the eyes of the judge. Cameron says things could still work out and they just need to hope. Lexie says she can't hope-she feels like her hopes of holding on to Theo are slipping away. She notices Stefano is gone and figures he went behind the scenes to help. Cassie comes into the hallway outside the courtroom and sees Stefano. Stefano says he just needed to walk around a bit as he is cramping. Cassie wants the real answer. Stefano says he needed Lexie to think he went in to see the judge to help. Cassie asks why. Stefano insists she will see and returns to Lexie. Lexie says she knows he went to help her and asks how it went. Stefano says they will see soon enough as the judge returns with a decision. Everyone rises and is seated. Judge Fitzpatrick tells both Abe and Lexie and their counsels to rise and she reveals she has decided to award full custody to...ABE CARVER!!! Everyone is thrilled for Abe as a stunned Lexie is stunned and held by Stefano. The screen fades to black and the credits roll.

-Doug and Julie bring Alice to the courthouse. Laura meets up with them and asks why they are there. Alice explains that she is speaking on Abe's behalf. She has always been close friends with Celeste. Laura explains she is there as a psychiatrist and to also seak for the best interests of the child. They all agree it will a tough decision as they care for both Lexie and Abe but it may be best for Theo to live with Abe based on the Stefano factor and the fact that she almost died because of her connection to Stefano. They are all stunned when Maggie arrives. Alice, Julie, and Laura embrace her and are very happy to see her. Maggie explains that she came to make sure the judge rules in favor of Abe. She insists the Dimera's must pay and she wants to make sure they don't destroy any more lives. Julie says they are all so happy to see her. Maggie explains she would never have come if not for wanting to see the Dimera's lose this case. Laura asks Maggie if she remembers that this is Lexie losing. Maggie insists that she is a Dimera and that she should pay. She says that Mickey's blood is on the hands of that family. Julie and Laura are disturbed. They go off to a corner and admit they are both worried about her. They head back over and ask how she is doing at Victor's. She says she is doing much better. Julie asks if she wants to join them later at Alice's for coffee but Maggie refuses. She says she is busy and doesn't feel like it. Julie whispers to Alice that she is worried. Alice reminds her of their plan and asks Julie to have patience and hope for the best. Hope arrives and is also pleased to see Maggie. They embrace. Hope asks Maggie how Bo is doing and if he is coming. Maggie explains that Lucas, Austin, Victor, and Bo are busy. Hope is stunned that Bo wouldn't even come to show his support. She asks Maggie to watch over him as a favor. Maggie says she will do her best. -Billie asks Jack if he really wants them to spend time together again. Jack says it shouldn't even be an issue as they are friends. Billie says they should talk later as people are starting to arrive and she sees Laura is here. Jack agrees that they shouldn't cause anymore tension or drama and he needs to go interview some people anyway. He says he will talk to her later. Billie is pleased that Jack and here are working things out. Hope sees Billie and asks why she is there. Billie says Abe asked her to come. Hope says she would've came anyway but that Abe wanted as many character witnesses as possible since it is him against the Dimera's. Billie says that it is going to be difficult because Lexie and Abe are on opposing sides. Hope agrees but says she is supporting Abe because of Stefano and Lexie alreayd nearly died herself because of Stefano. Billie agrees and thinks Theo is safer away from that. Hope asks about Chelsea. Billie tells Hope what happened the night before and how Abby and Frankie had to save her. Hope is shocked. Billie says she doesn't know what to do and that she needs Bo. Hope says they all do. Meanwhile, Laura comes over to Jack and asks how he is. Jack says he is fine but busy trying to acquire some information on the custody case since this is a big story dealing with the commissioner and the Dimera's. Laura agrees but wanted to make sure he was ok after what happened with Billie and Abby. Jack says he is fine and happy as a clam. Laura is suspicious and wonders if something is going on that he isn't saying. -Roman arrives with Caroline, Frankie, and Shane. Cal arrives behind them. Roman is stunned to see him. Cal says he still remembers being Roman and still considers Abe a good friend, along with Lexie, so he came for support. Caroline hugs him and is happy to see him. Shane and Roman explain they are there to speak for Abe and to make sure the Dimera's go nowhere near the baby. They do care for Lexie still despite everything she has done with Carrie and Austin and all but they feel Theo is best with Abe. Caroline and Cal agree. Frankie goes into the courtroom. Nicole and Eric arrive and say they came to support Abe. Greta also arrives too and says she is there as support as well despite not knowing both Abe and Lexie well. Cal sees Laura and calls her over to talk to her. He asks if the shrink she was sending for to treat him has called yet. Laura says she has had something happen to delay her but that she will be in Salem very soon. Cal thanks Laura for doing this and says he is looking forward to remembering the past, good or bad, and moving on. Caroline bumps into Maggie and says she heard Maggie is living with Victor. She asks how they are both doing. Maggie says she is doing much better thanks to Victor and Victor is just fine so Caroline has no reason to worry about him. Caroline says she is worried because of Bo, Victor, Lucas, and Austin all working together on bringing down the Dimera's and all the crime in Salem and she thinks that is reason to worry. Maggie says all is well and that Caroline need not concern herself. Maggie walks away while Caroline seems unsettled with the conversation. -Abe and Celeste arrive in his car. Abe says he checked in with the sitter and everything is fine. He assures Celeste everything will work out fine. Celeste tells abe she doesn't think so. She had a vision and he was upset and everyone was in a outrage. Abe hopes she is wrong and that everything will go well. Celeste asks Abe how he thinks Lexie will react to so many of her friends siding with him. Abe says it will get ugly and may push her towards Stefano even more. -Cassie calls Stefano from in the courthouse and says that many of the Brady's and Horton's are there. Stefano orders Cassie to sit with the Brady's so no one will learn she has embraced her Dimera heritage. Cassie understands and goes over to Caroline and embraces her. Stefano asks Lexie outside the courthouse if she is ready and willing to do what is necessary. Lexie says she knows she will have to do whatever it takes and play as dirty as possible to win. She knows she is going to lose Abe but she can't lose her son. Stefano says he will do whatever he can to help. They enter the courthouse and everyone gives them a cold stare. Lexie goes over to meet with her attorney, Cameron Reese. Abe is stunned to see her, as is Roman. Cameron tells Abe he has one hell of a fight on his hands. Abe says it won't be the first time he has battled her and he warns Cameron he will fight with everything he has and not give up his son. Cameron says they will see about that. Frankie warns Abe to keep his emotions in check because, with Cameron and the Dimera's involved, it could get very ugly. -Sami arrives and realizes she is late. As she is about to walk in the courtroom, Stefano stops her. Sami tells him to stay away from her. Stefano says he has a friendly warning for her. He tells Sami that she will pay for bringing Lexie down with her in their little scheme and he will be sure to help Lexie personally get revenge on her. Sami asks if that is a threat. Stefano says it is a promise and welcomes her to life as a Brady. He admits he used to respect and like her as she wasn't the average good-hearted Brady but now she has become a target just like the rest. He walks off smiling and tells her he will see her inside. A frightened Sami enters the courtroom where Eric asks if she is ok. He knows when something is wrong with her. Sami lies and says she is fine and can handle it. -Lexie looks around the room and sees no one sitting on her side of the courtroom and all her friends sitting on Abe's side. Lexie lashes out saying she now knows where their loyalties lie. Hope stands up and begs Lexie to understand. They want her to be with Theo but it's her family and Stefano. She almost died herself because she walked into a trap meant for Stefano. Hope asks Lexie if she wants that life for Theo. He is much safer with Abe. Lexie says she knows what is going on. She knows they all hate her because of her involvement with Sami in the sceme to break up Carrie and Austin and she all knows no one ever forgave her for her actions in regards to Zack and the baby switch. Hope says what happened with Zack was in the past and she knows that Lexie made a mistake sleeping with Tek and that the whole scheme with Sami stemmed from that. Billie stands up and tells Lexie they just think Theo is better off staying with Abe. Celeste tells Lexie to leave the Dimera's and work something out with Abe. She may even be able to fix her marriage. Abe insists that isn't possible but that they can work something out. He hopes that Lexie sees him as a good father, just like he sees her as a good mother despite everything. He doesn't want full custody but wants to share it providing she breaks with her father and the Dimera's. Lexie says that is never going to happen, especially not now that she sees they are all against her. She has lost everything from her marriage to her job and while she is partly to blame, it is not all her fault. She is sick of being a loser and that is what she will be without embracing her birthright. She was wrong to give that up and to deny herself of being a Dimera. She is where she belongs and tells Abe to prepare for a fight and tells everyone in the room that they are now her enemies just like they are her father's. She will make them all pay for their betrayals and for their actions. Sami looks on frightened as Cassie looks on secretly pleased and proud. Celeste and Abe are appalled. Abe whispers to Celeste that he will do what he didn't want to do-he will have to go for full custody to protect Theo from the Dimera's. Celeste agrees he needs to do what he must and then asks for God to help her daughter. Stefano whispers to Lexie he is proud of her and assures her they will win and she and their family will have all the success and happiness they deserve. Judge Fitzpatrick then enters as everyone rises. She calls the court to order and tells everyone to be seated and officially begins the hearing. The screen then fades to black as the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Maggie: Abe Carver deserves his son and the Dimera's deserve to burn in hell!!! Sami: I don't think Lexie is in the right situation to care for and protect Theo like a mother should. Lexie: No one gives a damn what you have to say you [!@#$%^&*]!!! Abe: Your honor, please. I love my son. Do the right thing and keep Theo with me. Lexie: There are some things I feel should be told to the court your honor and I am sure you will find them rather interesting. Stefano: Everything is going exactly as planned. It is only a matter of time before Salem feels the full wrath of the Dimera's.

About two weeks ago in the SALEM LIVES INSIDER, there was mention of a casting call for the role of Cal's (Josh Taylor) psychiatrist. Very few ideas were received and, through collaboration with my co-HW and others, we now have a narrowed down list of actresses that seem best suited for what we are going for (for the casting call please go to the 9/24/06 edition of the Insider). Please PM me or post who you think is best here. The age is not as important as who can play the character best. The casting call had an age for a woman in her mid 40's-early 60's but I have now stretched to a range of mid to upper 30s-late 50's so go for that age range when choosing from the list. The character is a world-renowned psychiatrist who has never found love. She is career-driven and romance is not a priority with her. Work is her middle name and she is strong-willed and feisty to say the least. Here are the final list of actresses being considered so please choose one and PM me or comment here in the blog: Sally Field Victoria Principal Terri Garber Phileice Sampler Anna Stuart Famke Janssen Famke I picked because she is a fave of mine and she oozes sex appeal and the rest are excellent options as well. Please PM and post comments by Sunday at 6:00 pm and I will announce the chosen actress later that evening. Thanks for the input and I look forward to the results.

-Austin, Lucas, Victor, Nico, and Bo are all looking over maps and property blueprints. Victor says they need to be well-informed to prepare for their attack on Stefano. He does not want to make a mistake like the last time. Bo asks if that is a confession. Victor smiles and says that is in the past and they need to move on if they are going to accomplish anything. Maggie comes downstairs and says hello to everyone. Lucas embraces her and asks how she is doing. She explains she is better not being around the memories and not around the whole family. Lucas reminds her to call if she needs anything. She asks why Lucas and Austin are there and they fill her in on their plan to bring Carrie home. Lucas beleives Maggie will be against it but she explains she is on Victor's side too. Things need to change and after all the death and destruction on the island, including Mickey's death, Stefano and all those who have hurt them need to pay. Lucas is happy she understands. Maggie walks over and starts looking and messing up the order of the blueprints and maps. Maggie asks what they plan to do. She asks Victor if he is going to blow up something else like he did the warehouse. Victor urges her to keep quiet about that as the more that speak about it the more likely it is of him going down for it. She apologizes. Bo asks Victor if he can talk to him for a moment. -Bo takes Victor into the den and says he needs to warn him. He knows he is only helping Maggie out and that they have grown close but she has always been a gossip queen and nosy and they don't need her blowing their plans or interfering. He reminds Victor of what she just did going through the materials they were looking at. Victor agrees it is a risk having her around but she has no place else to go and they have become good friends. He promises Bo that if things get out of hand he will put an end to the living arrangement. -Lucas tells Austin he is surprised Maggie accepted them joining Victor. Austin once again asks if he is sure they are doing the right thing. Lucas says this is the only way to clean up Salem and make sure Carrie feels safe and secure enough to come home and stay in Salem. Maggie overhears and thinks it is a brilliant idea. Lucas says it is their only shot. Bo and Victor return. Victor kindly asks Maggie to leave them be as they have business. She understands and says she will be upstairs. She says goodbye and leaves. Victor tells Bo that everything is just fine. Bo warns him once again to keep an eye on her because one slip-up could endanger their lives and the lives of others. Victor is sure it will all be ok and tells them all they need to get back to researching and planning. They all sit down and begin to discuss plans and strategies against Stefano and all their other enemies. -Billie arrives at the courthouse for Theo's custody hearing. She is there to support Abe and realizes she is early. She bumps right into Jack, who is covering the story for The Spectator. They say hello and explain what the other is doing there. They both try to say goodbye but Jack turns around and tells Billie he can't do this. They are friends and nothing more and this is wrong. Billie says it is really what is right. She still can't find Chelsea and he has issues with his family. Their families need special attention right now without interuption and distraction. Jack says they are only friends and that there are no distractions. He agrees to talk to Abby and Laura and make sure there are no problems. Billie refuses saying they need to think about their families. Jack mentions how they are adults and have a right to do as they please as long as they obey the laws and then Jack lists all Billie has done for him and she returns the favor. Jack asks if she would at least come by a few times a week instead of always being around everyday. Billie says they shouldn't see each other at all but Jack refuses to agree with that and admits he was wrong last night to even want to do that. He tells Billie there is nothing to worry about and that they are only friends. Billie is reluctant but Jack begs her to let him have his "old" friend back." She agrees and they embrace. Jack reminds her that he will take care of Abby and Laura. -Max is outside the Deveraux garage sitting in a lounge chair when Frankie comes over and taps his shoulder. Max jumps as Frankie asks where he was last night. Max insists he was busy. Frankie asks if it was with Cassie. He says it is none of his brother's business but then Frankie guesses Cassie. Max stays silent. Abby then interupts the discussion in frustration. She tells Max how she called him last night to ask him for help. She explains how Chelsea got drunk and high and was going to have sex with two guys. They reminded her of her rapes and she screamed and began to say "No!" She had wanted the sex before but changed her mind now. Abby didn't have Bo's number on her but did call Jack, Billie, and later Frankie them man who saved her and Chelsea. She tells Max she called him and heard music, like from a bar, in the background for a second and then a hangup. He explains he never hung up on her. Abby lashes out at Max telling him Chelsea needed him again and he let her down and that she needed him too. She put her life on the line to help Chelsea and he was nowhere to be found. He hung up on her and went about his business. He has been so upset of late for abandoning Chelsea over the summer without ever asking or trying to find out why she was pushing him away and now he abandons Chelsea again along with her. Max insists he has no idea what she is talking about. Frankie asks if his friend, Cassie may know what happened. Max decides to give her a call to meet them for answers. -Cassie arrives and asks why Max wanted to see her. He explains Abby's claims and then asks if she picked up his phone and hung up when he went the bathroom at the Pub last night. Cassie lies and says she did nothing of the sort. She never even knew Max had has cell until he came back and asked her if anyone called. Max asks her if she is lying. Cassie acts offended and says she has no reason to lie. She would never just hang up his phone since it could be an emeregency. Abby wonders if she is lying to but Cassie denies everything and says she has nothing to gain. Frankie says that she had Max to gain. Cassie says she still considers herself a part of the Brady family and they feel the same way. She has changed alot and Chelsea does feel like family to her as she still feels like a Brady. She doesn't care for her but would never want to hurt her. Max says he beleives Cassie. Abby is stunned and says that means that Max did hang up. Max says he has no clue what happened but he did not hang up. He never even got a call last night. Abby gives up and says it doesn't matter as it is too late to change anything. Max asks where Chelsea is. Abby explains that no one knows. She then tells him in a sarcastic tone to have a nice day just like he had a nice night while Chelsea and her were in danger and it could've been much worse if Frankie hadn't come. Max apologizes and says he wants to find out what happened. A disgusted Abby walks off. Frankie tells Max and Cassie he doesn't know what happened but warns them that if they continue to hurt Abby they will have to deal with him. Frankie leaves. Max apologizes to Cassie for the interrogation. She understands and says she does need to go as Theo's custody hearing is soon. They say goodbye. Cassie privately breathes a sigh of relief as her and her grandafather's plans were nearly ruined. She needs to make sure no one catches on until their plans are in full motion. Meanwhile, Abby goes in the house and admits she does beleive Max and that he did not hand up. She thinks Cassie had something to do with it but isn't sure. She lays on her bed and begins to cry, wondering why everything is such a mess and when she and her family will finally find happiness. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Stefano to Sami: I have a warning for you Samantha. Abe to Celeste: It will all work out for the best. Celeste to Abe: No, darling. It won't. Stefano to Lexie: Are you prepared to do what is necessary? Lexie to Stefano: Yes. I am going to play as dirty as I need to and do whatever it takes to hold on to my son. Hope to Lexie: Just please understand... Lexie to Hope: I understand completely and now I realize what is really going on. I hate you all!!!

-Cassie follows Max out of the Pub. Max yells at her and tells her to just leave him alone. She refuses and tells him that he is drunk and she will help him get home. He asks her why she is always hovering around him lately. She admits she likes him and is attracted to him and and she is still close to the Brady's. They will always be like family to her and she is just trying to help. Cassie recalls Stefano asking her to use her closeness with the Brady's and to also get close to Max to aid in his upcoming plans and tells Max she likes him alot and is trying to be a friend. He tells her that from what he hears about her she was never the friend type. She asks what he heard exactly. Max says he heard she was very man-hungry. She laughs and says that being a Brady softened her a bit but that she still has the wild and crazy Cassie in her. She teases Max and says that he may get to see that someday. Max smiles and Cassie then helps him walk as he begins his way home. -Jack is stunned by Abby's words, as is Billie. He asks her why she is saying all this now. Abby reiterates what Laura told her earlier about it being too soon and about JJ and their family needing Jack. Abby says she is also worried about Billie taking advantage of her promise to her mother about caring and helping with thier family. She asks Jack if he is sure Billie isn't using him to make Bo jealous and she reminds him of her past with Bo and Hope. Jack says Billie has always been a family friend and that he is well aware of the mistakes she made that she regrets. Abby says she appreciates all Billie has done with helping their family and getting her dad back to work but she just doesn't think this is right. Billie tells Abby she understands but says she is not taking advantage of anything and is not using Jack. Abby says she is not the only one that feels that way. Jack asks what she means. Abby says that everyone around them will agree with her. Jack asks if this means her grandmother. Abby mentions that she knows grandma doesn't like him being around Billie but that she has nothing to do with her feeling like she does. Abby looks at Laura, who whispers a "thank you" to Abby for not saying they talked and causing some family drama. Billie does see Laura's whisper to Abby and both woman give each other a cold stare. Jack says he needs to talk to Abby alone. He asks Abby why she is so bothered now by this as Billie has been around alot for weeks. Abby says that JJ really needed his father tonight and that just put everything in perspective. She also can't see being related to Chelsea and her family. Jack insists him and Billie are only friends and that nothing else is going on. Abby tells Jack she doesn't want anything to go on and that is why it needs to stop now. She tells Jack she just doesn't feel comfortable and righ about this right now. She hopes he understands. Jack says he does. -Billie stands near Laura while Abby and Jack talk. They both remain silent until Billie tells Laura she knows she had something to do with Abby turning on her all of a sudden. Laura doesn't answer and then Jack and Abby return to them. Jack says he needs to talk to Billie. Billie tells Jack she already knows what he is going to say and she accepts it. Jack says it is for the best and she is still his friend but they should just avoid each other for the time being. Billie says it's fine and that she doesn't want any trouble. She doesn't understand why this is an issue as they are only friends but he needs to put his family first so she is fine with it. She admits it is hard as he has been a comfort to her. He feels the same way and apologizes for all this. She did so much for him and he feels this is wrong. Billie understands and tells him they are friends and they need to do what is right. She is willing to go with this. He thanks her for understanding, as does Abby. Abby also fills Billie in on what happened with Chelsea earlier. Billie and Jack feel awful that they turned their phones off. Abby cites that as another reason for why she thinks Jack and Billie's relationship is wrong. Jack tells her to cool it but Billie agrees. She needs to be there for her daughter too and she was wrong to try to block all that out tonight just so she could relax and have fun. It was selfish and she hates herself for it. Her phone should've been on. Jack tells her not to blame herself. Billie wonders why Bo didn't answer his phone and figures it has something to do with his issues. She says she will have to thank Frankie for helping and then asks Abby how Chelsea is. Abby says she was shaken because she was reminded of her rapes but she chose not to come home with Frankie and her and just ran off. Billie is both furious and upset that she is MIA again. Abby tells Billie that Chelsea was encouraging the guys and didn't say no until she recalled her rapes. She was willing to go that far with both men and was incredibly drunk and high. Billie is worried sick and says she needs to go. Jack thanks her again for everything and for her understanding. Billie looks at Abby and then at Jack and says they need to do what they need to do and that maybe it's for the best for everyone. She then glances at Laura, who seems pleased by the look on her face. She then walks off. Abby hugs her father and thanks him. Jack mentions to Laura that she should be pleased. Laura says she just wants what is best but that she learned her lession about interfering. Jack is happy about that and says he wants them all to know his family comes first. Abby thanks him and hugs him as Laura looks on smiling. Meanwhile, outside, Billie tells herself she is doing what is right but knows Laura used Abby because Jack wouldn't listen to her anymore. She doesn't want to cause trouble so she will just leave them alone and worry about her life and family from now on. She calls Chelsea, whose phone is off, and wonders where she is. -Steve is still trying to find a way out of the cell and is frustrated. He once again blames Kayla and her yapping for delaying their escape long enough for them to get locked up. Kayla apologizes but thinks they should take advantage of their time alone to help him remember his past. Steve says he has no interest in that and says he doesn't even know if he can trust her. She could be a spy sent on by Alamain or that Dimera person to mess with him. Kayla insists she is not a spy or minion and that she is his wife and the mother of his daughter. Steve says he doesn't remember any of that. All he knows is that she is familiar to him but that is it. He reiterates that his only focus is on finding a way out of the cell. Kayla says that someone will come looking for her and will find them. She has brothers that are cops and everyone knows she was only going to be away for a short time. They will come looking. Steve says he doesn't feel like waiting as he has been locked up for over a decade while she has been for a short time. Kayla urges him to stop wasting his energy as there is no way for them to get out on their own. He may as well put his energy into remembering his past. Steve says he already heard so much from her about their past and nothing rang a bell. Kayla then says that maybe she has to show him his past, rather then tell him. He asks how she plans to do that. She then pulls him into a kiss. He pulls back and looks into her eyes. She tells him she loves him and that this is what they had, what they still have, and what they will always have. Steve then grabs her and kisses her without pulling away. He pulls away, eventually, and wonders why he responded to the kiss with one of his own. Kayla says he felt their love and now he knows she is no spy or minion working for the Dimera's or Alamains. Steve admits that there was a connection there and that he knows now she is not on the bad side but he doesn't remember anything but being in captivity, who has held him captive, and what his name is. Kayla says he felt the power of their love and that was a start. They will continue to progress and she will help him along. He says he hasn't remembered anything in years. Kayla explains that is because he has been alone and locked up for years. They will get out and she will help him remember. They will make much more progress once they get out because she can walk him down memory lane but talking will help too. She tells Steve she is a doctor and would know. He isn't so sure but Kayla reminds him that he felt something and that he kissed her. That is a sign that she has gotten to him and that they are going somewhere. Steve says that maybe it is but his goal and focus is on escaping. He goes back to examining the door as Kayla vows not to give up. She is going to keep working on him, whether they are locked up or free, and she is more determined then ever to get the man she loves back now that she knows he is in there based on the kiss. She vows not to give up until their family is back together in every sense of the word. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Bo to Victor: I am warning you Victor. Maggie being around here can only lead to trouble. Austin to Lucas: Are you sure we are doing the right thing? Abby to Max: I called you last night!! You hung up when Chelsea needed help...when I needed help!! Max to Abby: I have no idea what you are talking about. Max to Cassie: You aren't lying to me are you? Jack to Billie: We can't do this. I can't do this. Billie to Jack: What? Jack to Billie: Not seeing each other...it's wrong.

-Greta is walking the pier and bumps into Hope. They both ask how the other is doing. Hope says she is worried about Bo and informs Greta of what is going on with him. Greta asks Hope about Victor's past before he learned of Isabella. Hope tells her he was ruthless but had his supporters. She says that Julie became a friend of his when they all got washed up on the island following the Loretta sinking. Caroline also supported him. After he learned of Isabella, he promised her he would change and he did. Her death really transformed him into what he was currently, at least until lately when he decided he wanted revenge. Hope asks Greta why she is asking so many questions about Victor. Greta lies and says she just wants to a get a handle on who Victor is since Bo seems to following the same path of revenge is Victor and she just inquired for the sake of conversation. She chooses not to share with Hope that she wants to learn a little more about Victor because he is her father. Hope asks how she is. Greta mentions having a friend with an illness that is said to be terminal. Greta explains she found a specialist that could help but her friend won't see him. Plus, he is hiding his illness from his family and friends and she is the only one that knows he is ill. Hope asks if it anyone she knows. Greta lies and says it is a friend from Paris. Hope tells her that it is best not to interfere but that it can't hurt to bring the specialist in and just make her friend see him. Greta asks Hope if she can do that. Hope stresses that it's Greta's choice but if she cares for this person she must do what she can to help regardless if he gets angry with her or refuses. It could end up saving a life. Greta agrees and says she will do that. She thanks Hope for the talk and wishes her well with Bo. Hope says she hopes Shawn was here. He is her only child left, except for JT who isn't really her's biologicallyand isn't even in Salem, and she could use someone by her side right now. Greta recalls talking with Chelsea about Hope being her real mother and contemplates telling her but decides it isn't her place. She hugs Hope and they say goodbye. After Hope leaves, Greta calls the specialist and asks him to come to Salem afterall. -Nicole gets out of the shower. Eric tells her they need to talk about all their problems. Nicole is tired and thinks they should talk in the morning. Eric makes a comment that she may be working again in the morning. Nicole takes it as sarcastic and tells Eric she gave up alot to stay in Salem and she needs to have a career too. Eric approves but says they need to spend time together too. He feels distance between them, as well as tension. Nicole agrees they have problems but they can work through them. She agrees to make a better effort to manage her time better and balance things out. Nicole asks Eric why he doesn't go back to work as a photographer or go freelance like he was previously. Eric says he just wants to enjoy life and relax. Nicole says he is acting like he could die tomarrow. Eric is bothered by her saying that and says that life is short and anyone can die tomarrow and that is why he wants her to start thinking about their relationship more. Nicole agrees and says they will get through this. Nicole remembers what her secretary said about having to make a choice and she opts not to tell Eric of her impending decision. Eric says he wants to stop fighting and just enjoy each other. They kiss and make love. While Eric is asleep, Nicole gets up to answer emails on her laptop and do some work. Eric sees her, which Nicole doesn't notice, and begins to understand Nicole's work is beginning to consume her. He wonders if they can deal with this before he says goodbye for good. He loves her and wants to spend his last days with her and may never get the chance if this continues. Eric thinks about what they do to fix their shaky relationship. -Laura and Julie are having tea at the Deveraux home. Laura thanks Julie again for watching JJ earlier. Julie asks why Laura went to the Penthouse Grill anyway. Laura swears Julie to secrecy and explains her scheme to keep Billie and Jack apart. She says it's not just about her history with Kate but she just feels it is too fast and that Billie is wrong for Jack. She also feels Billie is taking advantage of her promise to Jennifer to take care of Jack and the family so she can have Jack. Laura says she nearly destroyed Bo and Hope and she is worried about what may happen to Jack. She even wonders if Billie is losing Jack to make Bo jealous. Julie admits Billie did alot of bad things and that she doesn't care for her but thinks Laura is wrong to interfere. She explains to Laura that she is acting just like Kate and that the more she tries to tear them apart, the worst she looks to Jack and the more closer Jack and Billie will get. Julie thinks that Laura needs to let them live and explore things on their own. Laura reluctantly agrees, especially after her plan at the restaurant failed badly. She also reminds herself that Jack and Billie are only friends right now and, hopefully, it won't be more. Julie tells Laura that only time will tell. Julie realizes she has to go. She embraces and says goodbye to Laura and warns her again about interfering. Julie leaves as Laura prays nothing comes of Jack and Billie. -Chelsea is shocked to see Abby in the motel room. The two guys laugh saying that they will now have one girl for each of them. Abby tells them to back off. Chelsea tells Abby she never should've come. Abby says she needed to help her and couldn't just stand by and watch her get hurt. One of the men pins Abby against the wall and says that she will be a fun little goodie. He begins to kiss her as the other guy goes back to Chelsea. Both men begin to kiss the woman and remove their clothes when Frankie burst through the door. He throws the man off of Abby and to the floor, punchiing him in the process. He picks the guy off Chelsea and throws him against the wall. Both men scurry away as Frankie asks if both girls are ok. Abby thanks him for coming so fast after she called. Abby explains to Chelsea that after she couldn't reach Max or either of their parents she called Frankie. She thought the police would make things worse and even more dangerous with all the sirens. Frankie says she did the right thing as he was in the area and it seems they lucked out he was close. The cops may have never made it in time. He asks Chelsea if she is ok. Chelsea says she is fine and that she just needs to pick better men. Frankie thinks she needs to stop with the out of control behavior. Chelsea explains everything she has gone through and is going through and says no one will make her do anything. She was reminded of her rapes when the two men were on her and there would've been no problem if she wasn't reminded by the two men by what they said and did. Frankie warns Chelsea she is always going to be reminded of what she went through everytime she is with a man in bed but she has people in her life who will help her get over it. Pushing people away will only make the problem grow. Abby agrees and asks Chelsea to come home with her and Frankie. Chelsea refuses and says she doesn't want love or attention or her family and friends pitying her. She knows she is a whore who destroys people's lives and who is wanted by no one. She just wants to be left alone. Frankie and Abby try to reason with her but she runs out. Later, she calls up an old friend from high school and asks if she can stay with her for the night. The friend agrees and Chelsea heads there as she refuses to go home and face those that love and care for her. -Frankie and Abby discuss Chelsea in the car as he drives her home. Abby says that Billie will freak when she hears what happened and that Chelsea ran off. Frankie asks what happened with Max. Abby fills him in on their talk earlier and how he hung up on her when she called him to help with Chelsea. She says the cell phone was picked up and she heard a click so he hung up. Frankie is stunned and can't beleive Max would be like that. Abby agrees and says that she plans on telling him what she thinks of him. Frankie says he will speak with him too and is sure there is more to it. Abby disagrees and tells Frankie that Max may not be what anyone thought he was. They arrive at the Deveraux home. Frankie heads for the garage apartment and says good night to Abby. She tells him the same and enters the house. Laura is there when she enters and she gets an idea to do what she wants without her getting her hands dirty. Laura tells Abby they need to talk and sits her down. Laura explains to Abby her concerns about her father and Billie and how she feels it is too fast and Billie is taking Jack away from being there for JJ and his family through their mourning period that they are still going through. She reminds Abby of what Billie did to Bo and Hope and asks if they can even be sure Billie isn't using Jack to make Bo jealous. She also tells Abby she beleives Billie is using her promise to Jennifer to take care of the family to snag Jack for whatever reason. Abby insists her parents and Billie have always been close friends and that she likes Billie and doesn't see what the problem is. She tells Abby to just think about what she said. Laura ackowledges that Billie has done alot for Jack and his family and brings up arranging for his return to his job at The Spectator. Abby cites that as a reason for not thinking Billie is a problem. Laura says it is too quick and she asks Abby if she wants Jack and Billie to get closer and someday marry. She reminds Abby that she would be united with the Roberts/Reed families, including Chelsea, and there would be all kinds of tension and turmoil. She urges Abby to think about everything she said and goes to make tea. Abby contemplates what Laura said. JJ begins to cry upstairs and Abby goes to tend to him. He won't stop crying. Laura comes in and can't get him to stop either. Abby says that her father always can get him to stop when he makes some funny faces at him and sings some weird song he thinks of. Laura tells Abby that Jack should be there but he is with Billie. They are still going through a difficult time and she tells Abby it is too fast and this proves that. Abby begins to wonder if she may be right as Laura whsipers that JJ's crying couldn't come at a better time. -Jack and Billie are playing a car racing game at the arcade. She beats him 3 out of 5 and says it appears she has won the battle of the arcade games. They both laugh and he congratulates her. He says he wants a rematch though. They turn in their tickets and Billie sees a a purse up on the high shelf that Chelsea may really like but she doesn't have enough tickets. Jack asks the employee how much the purse would be and offers to buy it. Billie insists he doesn't have to do that. Jack says he lost the arcade battle and he owes her for everything she has done for him. She tells Jack he has done so much for her by helping her take her mind off her troubles. Jack says it's reciprocal and gives the employee the money for the purse. Billie thanks him and says that Chelsea likes this style of purse to put with her everyday outfits. Jack says he can't understand all the different categories of outfits women have but says he doesn't have the energy to talk about. Billie thanks him again and gives him a small kiss on the cheek. They smile at each other and agree it's time to go home. They hate to end such a fun night but Billie says they need to return to reality sometime. -Jack convinces Billie to come in the house for a nightcap. Billie is afraid Laura might be there but Jack says he doubts it after what happened earlier. He convinces her to come in and they both turn their cell phones on once they enter the Deveraux house. They realize Abby called both of them by seeing their missed calls list. Abby and Laura hear them come in upstairs and bring a screaming JJ down with them. Jack hears them come down and asks why JJ is screaming. Abby says he wanted his daddy but he was busy. Abby gives Billie a cold stare that stuns Billie. Jack calms JJ, who quiets, and asks Abby what she meant by that. Abby says that she has no choice but to say something and she tells Billie to stop messing things up with their family and to leave her father alone. Billie and Jack are stunned as a subdued but satisfied Laura looks on with a small smirk. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Max to Cassie: Just leave me alone!! Cassie to Max: Not a chance. Abby to Jack and Billie (with Laura in the room): It would be best for everyone if she just stays away from us!! Jack to Billie: There is only one way to go from here... Billie to Jack: You don't need to say a word. I know exactly where this is going. Kayla to Steve: I guess I will just have to show you what we had. Steve to Kayla: Now how do you plan to do that? Kayla to Steve: Like this... (grabs Steve and kisses him)

Announcer: A WEEK OF CAN'T MISS MOMENTS ON SALEM LIVES!!! FIRST... HER HUSBAND CAN'T REMEMBER THEIR LOVE BUT... WILL A KISS CHANGE ALL THAT? Clip of Kayla kissing Steve. THEN!! A CUSTODY BATTLE TURNS UGLY... Abe: How could you do this? I never thought you could sink so low. Lexie: I will do whatever it takes to keep my son. AND SALEM FACES A HORRIFYING REALITY.... Stefano: The Dimera's are back and here to stay! Lexie: I will destroy you all!! Cassie: They all won't know what hit them. A WEEK OF TWISTS AND TURNS!!! MISS A DAY, MISS ALOT!!!

Week of October 8, 2006 Edition THE DIMERA'S ROCK SALEM!!! The Dimera's make their resurgence known in Salem this week on Salem Lives as Stefano, Cassie and Lexie serve notice that a new era has begun for their family. The week begins with one Dimera, Cassie, stirring up trouble for Max. "Abby called Max to help her rescue Chelsea and Cassie took the call and just hung up the phone," sums up HW Tim Lowery. "Cassie lies to Max and says no one called and Abby and Chelsea both end in danger." The next day, Abby confronts Max and lashes out at him for his ignoring her. "Max doesn't have a clue what she is talking about," previews Lowery. "He says he knows nothing of any phone call. This leads Max to question Cassie, who lies again. Max doesn't see why Cassie would hang up the phone as he sees Cassie as still a Brady in his eyes since his family still accepts her." Abby runs off angry but privately admits to beleiving him. "She beleives him but is still angry about him being more interested in Cassie then her," says Lowery. "She just doesn't understand what she has that she doesn't." Little do Max and Abby know that Cassie is actually helping Stefano behind closed doors. "Stefano knows the Brady's still care and accept her and Cassie wants in on the Dimera empire so she is willing to do anything-even betray the family she once thought her's," says Lowery. "She is attracted to Max so that makes it easier but she is just doing as Stefano asks to fulfill his plans." Cassie isn't the only Dimera stirring up trouble-Lexie and Stefano are causing mayhem on their own as Theo's custody hearing begins. "Lexie knows she will have to play dirty and give up Abe to keep Theo," previews Lowery. However, she still is reluctant and so is Abe, who even has a change of heart and decides to offer joint custody to Lexie. "He just thinks the woman he loves is still there so he gives her one last chance and the benefit of the doubt," says Lowery. "He knows their marriage is over but there is a child involved and he just hopes she sees him as a good father just like he sees her as a good mother." Things get messy though when pretty much all of Salem shows up to support Abe or speak on his behalf. "They all try to explain to Lexie that Abe needs more help as she has the Dimera name on her side but Lexie takes it to mean they have all abandoned her because she is a Dimera and because they never got over what she did to Hope and the whole baby switch fiasco," previews Lowery. "She gets angry and denounces all of them and makes an official proclamation that she is a Dimera for life now and that she wants to be the woman that took Zack from Hope because that woman was successful and not a loser. She just starts to doubt all of them and all of Salem is rocked because this adds to the Dimera presence." Stefano stands by her and, during a talk with Sami, warns her that she will pay for admitting what Lexie did for Sami. "Sami is scared stiff because Stefano tells her that he will make it his personal mission to see her suffer," says Lowery. By week's end, the custody hearing is in full swing and gets nasty as Lexie pulls out all the stops. "Poor Abe is playing it fair as usual and Lexie is pulling out his past with Fay, his temper, and his shooting Brady and Larry Morris," sighs Lowery. "She even claims he emotionall abused her during his blindness and impotence, which she talks about publicly. He is humiliated and it is heartbreaking." The judge then rules on custody and all of Salem finally realizes the Dimera's are back in full force. "The scariest thing is they know about Stefano and Lexie and what they are capable of but Cassie is like the phantom menace and no one knows she is working against them too," laughs Lowery. Actually, the scariest thing is that the trouble is just beginning... ABBY: FATHER'S KEEPER Laura steps up her plans to keep Billie away from Jack this week on Salem Lives when she enlists Abby in her scheme. "She is talking with Julie who is not exactly a supporter fo Billie because of Hope," says HW Tim Lowery. "However, Julie warns her to let Jack figure everything out on his own as trying to stop him from being with Billie will only make him want to more. It makes Laura look worse and worse is her point." Laura agrees to back off, realizing that Jack and Billie are only friends at this point and that Julie is right. However, Abby returns and Laura gets an idea. "She begins to think to herself what would be if she found a way to keep Billie away from Jack and not get her hands dirty," previews Lowery. "It is then that she uses Abby and has this talk with her where she suggests that Billie is pushing Jack to move on too fast, that he is not home with JJ right now when he should be and she is not with her daughter when she should be, Billie is using her vow to Jennifer to snag Jack and is disrespecting Jennifer's memory, and on and on." Abby buys into all this and confronts Jack and Billie when they return. "The big shock is that she comes right out with it in front of her father," says Lowery. "She just reiterated everything Laura told her and no one can even get a rid in. Jack realizes that Laura is not the only problem and that Abby is not ok with this so he talks with her and tells Billie they should keep away from each other for now." Billie agrees and then has a moment where she realizes what is going on. "Abby mentions not being the only one that feels the way she does and Billie looks at Laura and just knows she said something to Abby," says Lowery. Billie says nothing of it and leaves but not to worry JILLIE fans, this is far from over. "The next day, Jack and Billie meet up at the custody hearing and things already kinda get back on track," previews Lowery. However, don't expect that to last long with Laura and Abby around. KAYLA AND STEVE KISS!!! Kayla turns to a more aggressive method to help Steve remember his past this week on Salem Lives when she kisses him and he kisses her back. "They are still in the cell and Steve is still impatiently waiting for rescue," previews HW Tim Lowery. "Kayla just keeps telling him someone will look for her and find them but Steve is just blocking her out." Kayla once again suggests taking their time in captivity as an opportunity to discuss his past and try to recover his memory but he once again has no interest in anything but escaping so Kayla goes to more hands on measures. "She decides to show him how much she loves him and to show him his past rather then tell him so, while he is yelling at her, she just jumps at him and kisses him," says Lowery. "He pulls away at first and then she says she loves him and he looks into her eyes. It is then that he just gives in and kisses back and things get heated...until he puts the brakes on." Steve tells Kayla it's not right and then goes back to not thinking about his past yet again. "The good thing is that the kiss erases doubts he had about whether she was a Dimera spy or some nutcase," laughs Lowery. "He had no idea she was telling the truth but feeling what he does with that kiss he realizes he had something with her and that this is something he needs to explore so Kayla does make some progress." Hearing that should be music to Steve and Kayla fans' ears. Rumor Mill -Word is a major TV and film star may have won the role of Cal/faux Roman's psychiatrist. Check back for an announcement this week. A former Days and PC actress is also rumored to be up for the role. -One actor may soon be out and his character recast a la RKK/Peter Reckell. Comings and Goings In Marsha Clark (Judge Karen Fitzpatrick): The judge returns to weigh in on Theo's (Kavi Faquir) custody hearing on October 12 and 13. Rolonda Watts (Cameron Reese): The tough as nails lawyer returns on October 12 and 13 to represent Lexie (Renee Jones). Previews and Peeks for Week of 10/9/06 -Nicole grows suspicious of Eric and Greta. -Greta takes action to help Eric. -Frankie plays hero. -Chelsea hides. -Abby lashes out at Max. -Cassie has Max fooled. -Greta questions Hope about Victor. -Eric and Nicole's relationship is on the rocks. -Jack and Billie share a tender moment. -Kayla kisses Steve. -Laura uses Abby against Billie. -Victor, Bo, Lucas, and Austin plot against Stefano. -Victor is warned about Maggie. -Lexie and Abe go to court. -Stefano warns Sami. -Lexie turns on Salem and plays dirty. -Theo's custody is decided. Red Letter Days!!! Tuesday October 10: Steve and Kayla kiss!!! Friday October 13: Theo's custody is decided as Abe is humiliated, Lexie plays dirty, and the presence of the Dimera's is felt full force in Salem. Next Week: Carrie and Alan discuss his past. Lucas is touched by Sami's concern. Eric shocks Greta. Chelsea may send Max into Cassie's arms. Abby's heart is broken. The Horton's prepare to pull a fast one on Maggie.

-Billie checks her messages and sees that Abby has not called with word on Chelsea. She is getting worried. Jack tells her to relax and that everything will be fine. He is sure Abby will find her. Billie sees her cell battery is low so she must turn her phone off. She asks Jack where they are going. Jack says he has a surprise that will help both of them keep their mind off the turmoil in their lives and help cap off a great night. -Abby has searched almost every night club. She arrives in the one Chelsea was in previously and asks the bartender if he has seen her. She shows a picture of her and says it is important that she finds her. The bartender says he saw her earlier and that she left with two men. He urges Abby to check out some motels as Chelsea seemed very friendly with the men. Abby asks if she was drunk or high. The bartender says he doesn't know so he can protect himself from getting arrested for selling drugs and giving alcohol to a minor. Abby decides to start searching motels. -Max is at the Brady Pub drowning his sorrows. He hates that he hurt Abby and hates what he did to Chelsea. Cassie arrives and asks him to perk up and have some fun. Max tells her to shutup and get the hell away from him. -Nicole asks Eric and Greta what is going on when she finds them in the suite together on the bed. Eric says that Greta tripped and they both fell on the bed. He claims that she pulled him down with her. Nicole seems ok with the explanation but asks to talk to Greta alone. Eric worries about what they may discuss so he eavesdrops. Nicole and Greta go outside the suite and Nicole tells Greta she knows what is going on and why she has been spending so much time with Eric. -Jack surprises Billie with a visit to an arcade. Billie says she remembers being in one as a teen. It used to be where she picked up boys. Jack laughs and says he never once stepped into an arcade until Abby had to go to a birthday party at one. He ended up having more fun then her. Billie forced Jack to play "Dance Dance Revolution." Jack somehow wins and brags to Billie that she was beaten by a novice. Billie says she only played once before and it when Chelsea was with some guys and Billie followed her. She played the game so Chelsea wouldn't see her. Jack thinks that was clever. They then decide to play laser tag. When they come out later, Jack is upset that Billie won. Billie tells Jack that it seems they are even so far. She thanks Jack for this as it is just what she needed. He says he needed it too and is having a blast. Between this and dinner, they have had a fun night. Billie says it's isn't over yet. Billie thanks him for being such a good friend. Jack says he is only returning the favor. They embrace. -Abby has searched a few motels and is sick of searching. She wonders where Chelsea could be. Meanwhile, Chelsea in in the very motel Abby is at. The two men she met are kissing her all over her neck and body and she seems to be enjoying it. One of the men then stops. Chelsea asks what's wrong and the man says he has to get some protection. His friend says he needs to as well. They race out to get some as a high and drunk Chelsea waits patiently. -Nicole tells Greta that she has been suspicious of all of the meetings Eric and her have had. Nicole says she has caught them talking alone so many times but now she is sure she knows what it is up. Nicole says she thinks Greta is helping her to find out what Eric is hiding. She did ask Greta and Sami for help so Greta is merely doing as she was asked to by her. Greta lies and says she is right. Greta mentions that she knew something was up with Eric the day they all learned John was Roman and she had a long talk with Eric at the station. Nicole remembers that as the first time she saw them talking together alone since they all returned to Salem. Greta says that she got the sense something more was going on so when Nicole asks for Sami and her help, she agreed. She still cares about Eric and says she would never take him away from Nicole. Nicole says she knows that and realizes that now. She should've remembered Greta has strong morals and would never do anything like that. She thanks Greta for the help and tells her to get back to her when she learns anything. Nicole returns to Eric and apologizes for thinking the worst when she walked in. She goes in the bathroom to change. Eric thanks Greta for everything and keeping his secret. He complimets Greta on elaborating on her lie and making it more realistic. She still thinks it is wrong to hide his secret and not see the specialist but she will go along with his wishes. Greta wishes him good night and Nicole, who is finished changing, good night. She leaves. Nicole tells Eric she doesn't want to fight anymore and just wants to focus on them and enjoying the evening. Eric agrees and tells Nicole that they shouldn'y waste precious moments arguing. They kiss as Nicole recalls the decision between Eric and Highstyle she will seemingly have to make. She chooses not to tell Eric of the decision she needs to make and makes no mention of it. Eric and Nicole then make love. -Abby is walking around the motel when she sees two men, obviously drunk, yelling up to a Chelsea in a room on the second level. Abby wonder if it is her Chelsea. The men enter the room and jump right on Chelsea. Chelsea kisses them both and begins to make love to both of them at the same time. Abby takes the stairs to the second level and can hear Chelsea making love to them from outside the door. She is appalled she is having sex with two men at once. The men are all over her as Chelsea is all over them. She then begins to have flashbacks of both of her rapes as the hands all over her remind her of Jason and Barry. She quietly begins to say "No" and then, eventually, starts to yell out "No!!!" with tears in her eyes. She starts to beg them both to stop as she doesn't want to do this with them anymore. One of the guys says it is too late to stop now and the other just tells her to relax and have fun. Abby can hear Chelsea screaming "No!!" and for the men to stop. She decides to call for helo. She tries calling Billie but her phone if off and her father's doesn't have a charged battery since he has barely used it since her mother's death. She ultimately decides to call Max. -Cassie asks what Max's problem is. He says he is hurting the people he cares about. He hurt Chelsea when she needed him most and now she is a mess and thinks she has no one and he hurt Abby, who he didn't know liked him in a romantic way, by dancing with Cassie the other day. Cassie tells Max he had no idea Abby would be hurt and, as for Chelsea, it is hard to trust her and know what is going on there so he can't blame himself. Max says he does blame himself. He just tells Cassie to leave him alone. Max asks Lisa for another drink. She reminds him one more and she is cutting him off. Max decides he needs to go to the bathroom and tells Cassie she better be gone when he returns. Lisa goes into the back room for supplies. Max has left his cell phone in his jacket on the bar. Cassie hears Max's cell phone ring and sees on the caller ID shows it's Abby. She knows Stefano needs her to spend time with Max in a effort for her to stay close to the Brady's and she kinda likes Max as she sees him as very sexy. She doesn't want anyone to interfere in her plans. She picks up the phone and quickly hangs it up without saying a word to Abby. Abby wonders what happened but decides she can't waste time and call back. Chelsea needs help now. Max returns and asks why Cassie is still there. Cassie says he left his stuff at the bar and she didn't want anyone to steal it while Lisa was in the back room. Max thinks that is only an excuse for her to hang around some more. He asks why she hangs around him recently of late. She tells him she thinks he is sexy and she likes him. Max tells her to join the fan club. He checks his cell and asks if she heard his phone ring at any point since it was right on the bar with his coat. Cassie lies and says no. Max decides to turn his phone off so he won't be bothered by anyone else as Cassie smiles. -Abby realizes someone else she can call for help that won't cause more issues with Chelsea to develop. She just hopes it isn't too late. Meanwhile, both men are all over her as Chelsea yells for them to stop and quietly says while her hands shake "It's happening again...all over again." The men tell Chelsea to stop screaming and fighting them and to just do her job as a whore. Chelsea recalls her rapists calling her a whore and begins to scream louder for them to stop. The men just keep going. All of a sudden, the motel room door opens and Abby yells for them to stop and get off Chelsea. The men are caught off guard by Abby while Chelsea is stunned to see her. The men asks Abby what she is going to do to make them stop. One of the men says that now they each have a girl to party with. A nervous and fearful Abby looks at a shaking and afraid Chelsea as the men move closer to her. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll.

-Caroline begs Victor and Roman to stop the fighting while Kate tries to get Austin and Lucas to reconsider their decision. They refuse and Lucas says they are siding with Victor and Bo. Kate is stunned and tell them both how unhappy she is. She tells them sarcastically to go ahead and get themselves killed for all she cares and walks out of the pub. Roman tries to get Lucas, Austin, and Bo to reconsider but they won't. Bo says they are just doing what they have to. Belle and Claire then arrive. Caroline begs them all to stop fighting with a child around. Roman asks why Belle is there. Belle explains she is leaving town and he is the only one she has not said goodbye to. She tells Roman about Shawn leaving and her finally realizing where she belongs. Victor makes a snide remark about it being about time Belle figured it out. Roman tells him to keep his mouth shut. Belle tells Roman she has to do this and try to rebuild her life and family. Roman understands and says he will miss her. Belle says it is so hard to say goodbye. Roman embraces and says she will be fine. She is doing the right thing and he wishes her luck and hopes to see her home soon. Roman reminds her that her mother is watching over her. Caroline embraces her too and tells her to keep in touch. Roman gives Belle one more word of advice, which is to follow her heart. He urges her not to force something that may not be there as she has already caused so much problems for herself and others by making the wrong choices. Belle understands that she needs to be there for Philip right now and try to work things out but she is not going to stay with him just for the sake of him staying with him. Victor is angry. Belle promises to help him rehab and recover and then they will see where it goes. Roman and Belle say goodbye again and she takes off with Claire as Austin, Lucas, and Bo also say goodbye to her. Victor tells Roman that Belle has an obligation to Philip. Roman tells Victor that Belle will stand by Philip and will try to work things out but she won't remain in a loveless marriage. He won't let her. Victor recals a time when he thought of Roman/John as a son because of Isabella but now he just wants him to stay out of his way. Victor leaves as Lucas, Austin, and Bo follow. Bo glances over to Roman and Caroline and then leaves. Caroline asks Roman how they are going to put an end to everyone taking sides and starting a war. Roman says he will find a way. He is not just going to watch innocent people get hurt, especially his loved ones, and will not watch more people get corrupted by Victor. He is going to put an end to all of this somehow. -Outside the Pub, Lucas and Austin asks what happens now. Victor asks them one more time if they are having second thoughts. They both answer no. Victor tells them to meet at his mansion in the morning so they can discuss making plans to take some action against Stefano before he makes a move. Lucas and Austin agree and leave. Victor asks Bo if he has any doubts. Bo says he has none and knows he is doing the right thing. -Billie, Frankie, and Greta are at the Penthouse Grill and are bothered by what has happened. Giving what is happening, Frankie decides to leave. Greta agrees since things have taken an awkward turn. Billie tells them they don't have to but they think it is best. Billie tells them both good night. She begins to worry about Chelsea and, realizing it would be better to have a friend look for her to avoid any more tension between them, she calls Abby. Billie asks where she is. Abby says she is shopping at Salem Place and asks what she needs. Billie asks if she could look for Chelsea. She hasn't heard from her since morning when she ran out on her at the hospital and she can't look for her because it make things worse if her mother comes after her. Abby agrees to find her and says she will call when she has news or has found her. Billie thanks her. -Jack lashes out at Laura for trying to use Frankie and Greta to keep Billie and him apart. He tells Laura that Billie and him are just friends and that she has done alot for him and his family. Kate arrives and begins to overhear everything. Laura says she just doesn't think Billie is the right person to be around. He asks why and not to use her past with Kate as a reason. She mentions what Billie has done to Bo and Hope in the past. Jack says they all make mistakes and reminds Laura of the mistakes she has made in the past. Jack mentions all his mistakes and says that Billie is human. He warns Laura to back off or she will lose him, Abby, and JJ being in her life as she needs to just let them live. Jennifer would want that and Jennifer would want him enjoying himself and being with a good friend. Jack says he needs to return to his table and tells Laura that he will not warn her again. Jack goes back to Billie. Billie asks if everything is fine. Jack assures Billie that nothing like that will happen again and he will not let Lauta ruin their friendship. Billie fills him in on Frankie and Greta leaving and on her calling Abby. She admits she is worried about Chelsea. Jack comforts her and tells her it will be ok. Meanwhile, Kate grabs Laura as she is about to leave and tells her to stop messing around with her daughter's life. Laura tells her to tell her daughter to stop messing around with Jack's. Kate reminds Laura that Jack and Billie are friends and always have been. It is nothing romantic and, if it gets that far, so be it. Laura calls Kate a hypocrite as Kate always interferes with her kids and family. Kate says she is trying to change and just let her children live, even if they do make bad decisions. Laura laughs and asks how long that will last. Kate tells her to stay out of Billie's life or she will have to deal with her. Laura tells Kate to keep Billie away from Jack or both Billie and Kate will have to deal with her. Kate says this reminds her of old times when they used to be at each other's throats. Laura says some things never change and leaves as Kate says she can't let Laura get away with doing this. She tells herself she wants to change but she needs to get involved with this to put an end to Laura's scheming. She looks through her phone numbers and makes a call...to Bill Horton. She tells him there is a problem he should know about. -Chelsea is now walking the streets with two guys. She is letting them kiss her all over as she kisses both of them at once. She is high and is now having a beer. She tells the guys she really wants to party so why not take her someplace more private so they can get the real party started. Both men laugh and like they idea. They pick Chelsea up and carry her off. Meanwhile, Abby is seaching the docks and tries calling Chelsea's cell phone again. There is no answer and she doesn't know where else to look. She decides to try some seedy night clubs to see if Chelsea went partying because she was upset. Later, Chelsea ends up with the two guys at a motel. She throws herself onto the bed and says she is ready to have some fun. -Nicole is downstairs at the Salem Inn bar, recalling her fight with Eric. She decides to call Highstyle and see if there is a chance to hire a temporary CEO to fill her role for now. Meanwhile, in Eric and Nicole's suite, Eric lies on the floor unconscious. Greta arrives at the door as she wants to fix things with her and Eric since they argued earlier. She also wants to try to convince him to see the specialist. She knocks on the door and panics when she gets no answer. She asks the maid to let her in but she won't. Greta tells the maid she is a princess and even shows the maid a royal ring she wears. The maid doesn't buy it. Greta offers her $100. The maid asks for $250 and she has a deal. Greta hands it over reluctantly and says she is lucky that she is a princess. The maid opens the door and walks off with the money. Greta opens the door to see Eric lying on the floor. She runs over to him and begs him to wake up while, downstairs, Nicole speaks with her secretary. The secretary tells her that the budget is too tight as the campany is not doing well this quarter. The investors are upset and Nicole needs to make a move. Nicole realizes she will have to choose between Eric and Highstyle as she can't keep doing what she is. She decides to go upstairs and she if Eric has cooled off. She will think about the decision later. Eric wakes up and asks what Greta is doing there. She says she stopped by to make sure he wasn't mad at her after their argument and she paid the maid off to let her in. She tells Eric he needs to see the specialist. Eric refuses again and tells Greta he is getting worse. Nothing will save him now. He just wants to enjoy his final days but doesn't think he will with Nicole and him on the rocks. He tells Greta about his argument with Nicole. Greta says she is sure everything will be fine after they talk. She helps him up but he is still quite dizzy. She helps him to the bed but he is falling back on her. As a result, they both fall on the bed. Nicole notices the door open as Greta did not shut it and walks in to find Greta and Eric on the bed. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Billie to Jack: You knew just what I needed. What would I do without you? Nicole to Greta: I know exactly what is going on with you and Eric. Cassie and Max: Stop being so gloomy and have some fun. Max to Cassie: Why don't you just shut up and leave me the hell alone? Chelsea (on the bed with the guys in the motel): No!!! Stop!!! I don't want to anymore!!! Please stop!!! Abby: Oh no!! Chelsea...

-Victor arrives at the pub and sees Caroline at the bar. He gives her a loving glance but decides to just keep his distance. Caroline looks on, disappointed he didn't come over but tells herself it is for the best. Victor sits with Austin and Lucas and asks why they wanted to meet with him. Lucas tells Victor that Austin and him want to join Victor's cause. They heard Bo joined and they want Carrie to be able to return to Salem and raise the baby in a safe Salem, not one with the danger of the Dimera's and others looming upon it. Victor understands their motivation but asks both of them if they know what they are getting into. Bo has police training at least but neither of them have no experience dealing with what they are about to. Lucas reminds Victor of his work with Tony a few years ago. Victor tells Lucas this is a whole different ballgame. Austin tells Victor he has reservations about it too but the only way Carrie will come home is if they clean things up so he asks Victor to just give them a chance. Victor says he can give them a chance and, if they mess up, they could get themselves killed or others. Lucas reminds Victor of how long they have all three known each other and tells him to have faith that this will work. Victor reluctantly agrees and tells both of them what he told Bo-they need to avoid and isolate themselves from their loved ones for this to work. They can't risk interference or anyone they care about getting caught in the crossfire. Kate walks in and overhears and says she will let them join Victor's side over her dead body. Austin begs Kate to stay out of it and explains his and Lucas' reasons for doing this. Kate understands but knows it is dangerous. She went through this same sort of thing when Lucas was working for Tony and when Philip became a marine. She doesn't want to deal with it again. Lucas apologizes but tells his mother she can't talk them out of it. -Belle and Claire arrive at Sami's apartment to say goodbye as their flight is leaving in a few hours. Sami fills her in on her confessing her lies to everyone and on her giving Lucas unoffcial custody of Will until she proves she can change for good and be worthy of having everyone she loves in her life. Belle applauds her and wishes she could be around to help. Sami understands why Belle is leaving and says they will keep in touch. She tells Belle she is sorry about Shawn. Belle says it is for the best as it was consuming their lives and making them into people they don't want to be. Sami hears someone in the hallway yelling and goes outside to check it out. It's Will, who can't seem to get his key to Lucas's apartment to work. Sami tells Will she will help him. He tells her to stay away and that he doesn't need her. He also calls her "Sami" rather then "mom." Sami reminds Will she is his mother. Will tells her she may be in name and legally but he doesn't feel that way. She has hurt him and their family so many times he wants nothing to do with her. He finally gets in the apartment and slams the door. Sami goes back into her apartment upset. Belle tells Sami to give him time and, once he realizes she is changing, it will all be ok. Sami says she hopes so and just hopes it isn't too late to change. She fears the damage she caused may be too much to get past. She also confesses she is worried about Lexie getting back at her for spilling their secret. She has lost Abe and may lose her job and Theo. Belle tells her not to worry about that and just to worry about herself and her family. If Lexie tries something, Sami should just tell someone or the police and they will take care of it. Belle suggests telling their father but Sami tells her not to go there. Sami embraces Belle. She gives Claire a kiss and wishes them good luck. Belle says it will all be fine with mom watching over them. Sami says i is good to know they have a angel up there in their corner. Belle says a final goodbye and leaves while Sami talks to the heavens and asks Marlena for continued strength as she tries to change and get through all this. -Roman arrives at the Pub through the back entrance and hears all the arguing. He asks Caroline what is going on. Kate comes over and tells him that Lucas and Austin are joining Victor and Bo's little rebellion. Roman tells Lucas and Austin it's a bad idea. Caroline agrees. Victor reminds everyone that it is their decision and they are big boys. Bo arrives and agrees. He tells Victor that he has been looking for him as their is something they need to discuss right now. Roman tells Bo it is wrong for him to be doing this too. He is pushing away everyone he cares about and now he is advocating Lucas and Austin to do the same and be in danger too. Victor tells Roman to stay out of it, as does Bo. Roman explains to Victor how his style will only makes things worse and lead to constant retaliation. He says he wants to protect the people he cares about but he will only be endangering all of Salem with this war and innocent people, maybe even people he loves, will get hurt. Victor tells Roman to just stay out of his way and stop interfering. Roman wanrs Victor he will not continue to stand by and watch him corrupt the people he knows and loves about. Victor tells him again to stay out of his way and let people live as they choose. Roman reminds Victor he is a cop and if Victor is partipating in illegal activity he can't stay out of it. Same goes from anyone who associates with him. Bo warns Roman to back off. Caroline tries to break the fight up. Lucas and Austin watch all this as Kate begs them not to do this. She tells them to look what all the tension and takins sides is doing to all of them. They can get Carrie back another way. Lucas tells Kate they are doing it no matter what she says. It is time they take action to protect those they love. Kate is furious and frustrated. -Laura arrives at the Penthouse Grill to see Jack and Billie having a good time. She tries to stay out of sight, which is made easier because Jack and Billie have a back table. Laura sees Greta at the bar and also sees Frankie finishing up a meeting with a client. She thinks she has an idea how to stop Jack and Billie before things go too far. Meanwhile, Jack and Billie are having a good time talking about movies and TV. They are happy not to be talking about their lives. Jack asks Billie if she would like to dance. Billie says she would like that. Laura hides as they hit the dance floor. She is upset to see them dancing and having fun. She makes her way over to Greta at the bar and says hello. She asks how things are. Greta says they could be better. Laura then acts surprised when she sees Jack and Billie on the dance floor. Greta mentioned going over to say hello but doesn't want to interupt. Laura says that she is sure they wouldn't mind and that they would love to see a friend. Greta changes her mind and decides to go talk to them as Jack and Billie return to their table. Laura goes to Frankie's corner table and says hello. Frankie asks what she is doing there. Laura says she just came out for a drink and once again acts surprised when she sees Jack and Billie there. Frankie recalls them asking him to join them and Laura encourages him to do so. He says his meeting is over so he may as well. He goes over. Jack and Billie are happy to see them and all four sit down and talk. Laura is pleased and hopes this separates Jack and Billie. All four are having fun when Greta mentions that they should ask Laura if she wants to join them. Jack asks what she is talking about. Frankie tells Jack that Laura is there too and mentions she is the one that told him where him and Billie were. Greta adds that Laura did the same thing for her and she thinks they should invite her over. Jack and Billie have both realized what is going on. Jack says he will be right back. Greta and Frankie ask what is going on. Billie tells them it seems Laura was using them because she doesn't want her and Jack to spend time together even though they are only friends. Greta and Frankie are stunned. Laura is near the bar trying to stay out of sight when Jack sneaks up on her and tells her the jig is up. -Nicole arrives at the Penthouse Grill looking for Eric. She shows a picture of Eric to the host, who tells her that he saw Eric earlier with a young woman. He points at Greta. The host says that Eric left some time ago. Nicole thanks him and wonders why he has seemed to be alot with Greta lately. She beleives Greta is simply trying to find out what Eric is hiding for her since she asked her and Sami to help her. Nicole returns to her hotel suite to find an angry Eric. Nicole explains to Eric that her business meeting went late. Eric reminds Nicole of how many times the same thing has been happening recently. Nicole tells Eric she missed alot of work and that she needs to be doing some of it as long as they are out here. She knows he wants to stay in Salem but she has a job and she needs to keep doing it since she should be in LA. Eric asks why someone can't be hired to handle things in her absence. Nicole reminds Eric that things were being handled but it has been a long time. She has been gone since May and there is no budget room to hire someone to run things while she is in Salem. Eric gets furious and tells Nicole he doesn't have much time left and he doesn't like the distance between them at the moment. Nicole asks what he means. Eric reminds Nicole how short life is and that they saw that on the island seeing so many people die, including his mom. He wants them to have a happy life together but her work is ruining everything. Nicole explains that Highstyle was given to her by Austin and is her dream job. Eric asks her about their dreams for their future. Nicole is frustrated and says she doesn't want to argue. They both need to cool down so she leaves the suite. After she leaves, Nicole realizes she may have to choose between her dream job running Highstyle or her dream life with her true love, Eric. Meanwhile, back in the hotel suite, Eric is angry and says he just wants things to be right as time is running out. He then gets bad headache and holds his head in agony as he collapses to the floor of the suite. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Belle to Roman: It's so hard saying goodbye Roman to Belle: I know. Come here, baby. Victor to Roman: This is your only warning. Interfere and you will pay the consequences. Jack to Laura: If you don't stop this, you are going to lose all of us. Billie to Abby: I need you to look for Chelsea. Chelsea: Why don't both of you take me somewhere so the real party can get started? Greta (sees Eric laying on ground): Oh my God...Eric!!! Nicole (opening suite door): What the hell?

Thanks for commenting!! It's always nice to hear what people are thinking as I don't know what everyone likes and doesn't like otherwise. The shorter format will continue for a while. There will be long episodes here and there but I am doing my best to keep them reasonable. I want people to be able to read them and not fall asleep from reading alot

-Nicole is at a meeting with a business client. She calls LA to check in with Highstyle and is alerted by her secretary to the fact that investors aren't happy with her being away from the base of operations so long, especially since the company has actually lost money this quarter. The secretary tells Nicole something must be done or investors may pull out. Nicole checks her cell phone after her meeting ends and realizes she has a ton of messages from Eric and that she is very late for their dinner together. Nicole is feeling the pressure as she realizes her career is interfering with her relationship with Eric and vice versa. -Eric is at the Penthouse Grill waiting for Nicole when Greta shows up. She asks to sit down with Eric and claims she has been looking for him. She apologizes for the way they ended things when they last talked. Eric says it is forgotten already. Greta says she was looking for him for another reason and that is because she has news that may save his life. She explains that she found a specialist in Paris that may be able to help and she has him on call to fly into Salem. Eric refuses and says his case is hopeless. He has already seen enough doctors to know that and he more concerned with the fact that he feels distant from Nicole of late. She is already more then two hours late for their dinner together and she has been spending more time working lately then she has been spending with him. His time is running out and he wants to be with her. Greta says he should tell Nicole so that she is aware. Eric says he can't and she knows why. Greta tells him to at least see the specialist and give it a chance. He has nothing to lose and a miracle could happen. Eric refuses and asks Greta to stop pushing him to tell Nicole and to see doctors that won't help. Greta insists she is only trying to be a friend. Eric thanks her but says he has enough on his mind. He says he is sick of waiting for Nicole and is going home. Greta begs him to think about what she said. Eric reminds her to back off and says goodbye. Greta then places a call to the specialist and tells him to sit tight as she may still be needing his services yet. She is determined not to give up on Eric just yet. -Laura comes downstairs and sees Jack dressed ina tux. She tells him she never even heard him come in and asks where he went earlier. He fills her in on the big surprise and his going back to work at The Spectator. Laura is happy for him and gives most of the credit to Frankie since he was the one that called her to watch JJ while Jack was gone. Jack mentions it was Billie's idea. Laura doesn't respond. Jack begs her to lay off of Billie and give her a chance. The doorbell rings. Jack is trying to get his cuff links on and asks Laura to answer the door. She does and is upset to find Billie standing before her, dressed in a very sexy black dress. Billie says hello and asks if she can come in. Laura reluctantly lets her in. Jack greets her and says she looks great. Billie says he looks good too. Jack thanks her for the big surprise earlier. Billie says she is his friend and that is what friends are for. Jack sees Laura and realizes they should go before Laura gets on Billie's case. Jack thanks Laura for watching JJ and says he will check in at some point later. Laura lies and wishes them a good night. She then refuses to let them grow closer and decides she needs to end this before it starts. She calls Julie and asks if she can watch JJ as she has an errand to run. Meanwhile, Jack and Billie enjoy each other's company on the way to the Penthouse Grill. They laugh about JJ's little incident earlier with his oatmeal and the mess he made. Jack asks what is going on with Chelsea. Billie says she has left her tons of messages but nothing so far. She doesn't want to go out to look as it is early yet and, if she found her, Chelsea would only be more angry that Billie was not trusting her and checking up on her. Jack says they can both use this night to forget about their problems and just have fun and relax. Billie agrees and says she looks forward to a wonderful night. -A frustrated Steve punched the door and blames Kayla again for being the reason why didn't escape. Kayla apologizes and sees that Steve hurt his hand. She takes a look at it and tells him to stop thinking about them getting out. Someone will be looking for her at some point and they will find them. They just need to have hope. Steve says he has no hope as he has been in captivity for years in many places. No one found him until she did and now it's back to square one again. Kayla says it will be ok and urges him to take this time with her alone as an opportunity for them to work together to help him remember. She tries describing moments from their past and how he started off as a criminal named "Patch" and how they slowly found love together. She also describes their wedding when she regained her hearing and how she gave birth to Stephanie. Steve says it all sounds nice but he doesn't feel anything when she tells him all that. He says it isn't the time or place anyway as he is only focused on getting out of the cell. Kayla tells him to just focus and not think about getting out. He reminds Kayla of how many years he has been locked up compared to her half hour being in the cell with him and explains she has no clue how he feels. Kayla agrees but she knows he wants to remember his past and they can take this time together to help that along.. Steve says all he cares about right now is escaping and that he has no interest in worrying about recovering his memory right now. Kayla gets upset and then remembers her life with Steve in a montage of special moments they had set to the song "The Rose." As tears stream down Kayla's face, she realizes the man standing in front of her is not even close to the man she loved and there is a chance he may never be if she doesn't remember. Steve gets upset and starts banging on the door and yelling for someone to help in frustration as Kayla watches, wondering what she will have to do to get the man she loves back. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Laura: Ah...I think I know who I can use to put an end to this nonsense. Lucas to Victor: Austin and I wanted to meet with you because we want to join your cause. Kate: The hell you will!!! Sami to Will: Will, I am your mother! Will to Sami: You may be in name and in law but I want nothing to do with you. Nicole to Eric: Why are so upset about this? Eric to Nicole: I am upset because the clock is ticking and I don't have much time left. Nicole to Eric: What are you talking about?

-Kayla is still outside Steve's cell and is in shock over finding him after all these years. Kayla: It's really true. You're really here...Oh...I am so sorry. I better get you out of there. Steve: Yeah...good idea. Who the hell is this chick? Kayla searches for something to help her get into the cell. She can't find anything around to help so she decides to use a bobby pin and pick the lock like Bo and Roman taught her how to do when they were younger. She gets the door open and runs into Steve's arms. Kayla: I have missed you so much. We all have. You don't know how long I waited for this day...a day I never thought would happen. I love you so much, Steve. Wow...I just keep on talking and you can barely get a word in. Steve: Yeah...uh, who are you? Kayla: What do you mean who am I? I'm Kayla Brady Johnson. I am your wife and the mother of your daughter, Stephanie. Steve: I'm sorry but I don't remember any wife or kid. I have no clue who you are. -Stefano arrives at the hospital. A nurse walks up to him telling him he has a phone call. He goes to the nurse's desk and takes the call. It's Cassie and she tells Stefano that Kayla has found Steve. Stefano is pleased and says that everything is going as planned. He tells Cassie to keep him up to date or to have one of his lieutenants inform him of anything that happens. Stefano then enters Lexie's room. Lexie notices that he seems happy. Stefano says he is and that she will be too. They are getting their revenge on their enemies. Lexie asks what is going on. Stefano insists she will learn in time but right now he has other news for her. He informs Lexie that he used the Dimera name and influence to push up Theo's custody hearing. Lexie is stunned and says she is not ready. Stefano insists the sooner the better and warns Lexie she may have to choose between Abe and Theo. Lexie says she already thought about that and she will choose her son. She will do whatever it takes to hold on to Theo, even if it means playing as dirty as she can. She vows to stop anyone who gets in her way. Stefano is pleased to hear this and says he will be there to help her and that he has some ideas for how they can handle the hearing. Lexie embraces him and thanks him for his support. Stefano says he will always be there for his children as long as they are there for him and the Dimera family. Lexie says she regrets ever turning her back on the family and that she may have been happier if she hadn't. She vows to stay true to her family's name and heritage now, which further pleases Stefano. -Celeste comes downstairs and sees how distraught Abe is. She tells Abe she put Theo to bed and, unless he needs anything else, she is going to head home. He asks her to stay and shows her some paperwork he just recieved informing him Theo's custody hearing is tomarrow. It seems they beat him to the punch as he was about to have Frankie serve Lexie. Celeste asks how that is possible. Abe says it had to be Stefano using his influence to push up the date. Abe knows he is going to lose Theo as Stefano is corrupting Lexie yet again and they will play dirty. Celeste admits she had a vision of more pain and suffering coming the way of many in Salem. Abe asks if he is one of those who will suffer more pain. Celeste clams up but Abe urges her to tell him as she has always been right. He wants to know. Celeste admits she saw him in her vision and he seemed like a broken man. Abe says he is going upstairs to see Theo. Celeste reminds him that Theo is sleeping. Abe explains that he wants to be with him as this could be their last night together. He tells Celeste goodnight and goes upstairs. Celeste gets her purse and looks at a picture of Lexie, Theo, and Abe as she leaves. She asks why this has to happen and prays that Lexie will come to her senses and not let things go too far since Abe does not deserve to lose his son, just like she doesn't deserve to. -Billie and Frankie drive her car, with Jack having the garbage bag over his head in the back seat. Jack moans and groans and complains he can't be breathe. Frankie tears a hole in the front of the bag. Jack is able to see and is shocked to see Billie and Frankie. He asks why they put the bag over his head and what is going on. Billie explains it was a setup and that she called Laura to watch JJ. They have a surprise for him. Billie tells Frankie they are there. Frankie reverses the bag so Jack can't see anything as Billie pulls over. They drag a kicking and screaming Jack into a skycraper-like building. They bring Jack up to a dark office space. They take the bag off his head. Jack asks what is going on. The lights then go off and Jack is stunned to find himself at The Spectator. Jack asks Billie and Frankie what is going on. They tell him to go into the editor's office. -Jack goes in to find Harold and Vern waiting for him. Jack shares a friendly hug with both of them and asks what is going on. Billie and Frankie thank Vern and Harold for their help. Vern explains that Billie called him and Harold and made it known that Jack was bored and actually baking. Harold explains they knew Jack was lost when he was actually baking cookies. Vern then says that Billie informed him that Jack was ready to go to work and just felt like The Spectator was the only place. Turns out the editor in chief job is still open so that is where the surprise idea developed. Harold tells Jack that he can't handle being the editor in chief so that is why he offered Jack the job a few weeks ago and he was unable to find anyone. Vern, who is a special advisor to the paper, has been helping him along but Harold just wants to write and report. Vern explains that the job and office is Jack's if he wants it. Jack looks around and sees a special plaque honoring Jennifer on the wall of the office. Billie explains that the plaque was in the main office but they felt it would make the office perfect for him. He says it does and that they thought of everything. He thanks them all and says it is all exactly as he wants it. Harold takes that to mean he is taking the job. Jack excitedly says he is taking it. It is what Jennifer would want and it is where he should be. Plus, he needs to provide for his family. Jack embraces Vern and Harold and thanks them as they leave to make some preparations for Jack officially returning to the paper. He also thanks and hugs Billie and Frankie. Frankie insists it was all Billie's idea. Jack playfully kisses Billie several times on her face and shakes her as he hugs her. He says he doesn't know where he would be without her. She says he has always been there for her, especially recently, so it's part of being a friend. She says he owes her though. He says he will pay her back for this and thanks her and Frankie for everything. He wants to go out on the town to celebrate with both of them. He suggests the Penthouse Grill. Frankie says he has a meeting with a client there so perhaps he will meet them later. Billie accepts the offer and thinks it will be fun to keep both their minds off everything and to just let loose as friends. Jack agrees. Billie says she will need to check in on Chelsea and she if she can track her down during the night. Jack understands. They both go their separate ways to change and Jack asks her to meet him at his house so they can go from there. Billie agrees. When everyone leaves, Jack sits in his office and looks at Jennifer's plaque of honor. He tells Jennifer he will dedicate everything he does while back at The Spectator to her and will continue to do his best to make her proud. -Kayla is stunned by Steve not remembering her. Steve explains he only remembers his years in captivity. His first memory is of waking up in the tropics in some sort of island compoung and, from that point on, it's has been one cell or dungeon after another. Kayla says she knows as she talked to someone named Patrick who worked for Stefano Dimera and he explained everything to her. It was he who led her to finding him. Kayla realizes Stefano must have had his memory erased but then is reminded that Lawrence Alamain was behind Steve's "death" plot. Steve recognizes the name Alamain and says that he heard two guards early on in his captivity say that he was the one who wiped his memory by way of some sort of drug. He also remembers Alamain turning him over to Stefano Dimera. Kayla explains that Lawrence did that so Carly, the woman he loves, wouldn't find out that he faked Steve's death to get revenge. He figured by giving Steve to Stefano he would have the best of both worlds as Steve would suffer and be used to cause pain for the Brady's and he would still hold on to Carly. Steve can't beleive he is at the center of all this. He mentions how he hasn't had a single memory in all his years in captivity. Kayla says she will work with him and they will get through this. She will help him recover his memory. She is a doctor and with him being around her and other familiar faces, it should return to him quickly. Steve isn't so sure and is sick of talking. He says they are wasting time and need to leave before the guards return. Kayla agrees and apologizes. She was in so much shock and just had so many questions. Steve says they will talk later but now they need to leave. They turn to exit the cell when they come face to face with two masked guards. They close the cell door, locking Steve and Kayla in together. Steve can't beleive he missed his chance to escape and blames it on Kayla and all her talking and wasting time. Kayla says she couldn't help it as finding her presumed dead husband after 16 years is kind of a shock. She realizes how easy it was to get into the area where Steve was and figures this could've all been a trap. She wonders if Patrick was even in on it and set her up. Steve says it doesn't matter as they are both trapped together in a place that no one will find. He paces back and forth frustrated as Kayla thinks about everything they have to face. She tells Steve they will find a way out or someone will come looking for her after awhile as people will wonder where she is. Steve hopes so because people looking for her maybe their only shot. Kayla agrees and says that, in the meantime, she is going to help him reocover his memories and isn't going to give up until she does. Steve doesn't seem confident she can but Kayla is and vows to do whatever it takes to make things they way they should be. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives: Greta to Eric: I have a way to save your life. Nicole (on the phone): Are you saying I have to leave Salem? Jack to Billie: Ready for an unforgettable night? Billie to Jack: You betcha!! Laura: I am not going to stand by and watch this happen. Kayla to Steve: I just want to help you remember!!! Steve to Kayla: Well, right about now I don't give a damn about remembering!!!

Announcer: STEVE AND KAYLA... Clips of Steve and Kayla kissing and of them being pronounced husband and wife. ONE OF DAYTIME'S GREATEST SUPERCOUPLES Clip of Steve and Kayla pledging their love for one another and him calling her sweetness. SEPARATED BY DEATH...UNTIL NOW... Kayla: Steve...oh my God...it's you...it's really you!! Kayla races into Steve's arms. A MOMENT 16 YEARS IN THE MAKING... Kayla: My dream is finally coming true. I thought it was impossible but you've come back to me. BE THERE FOR ONE OF THE BIGGEST EVENTS OF THE YEAR!!! Kayla: I am never letting you go. THE EMOTIONAL REUNION...WITH TWO STUNNING TWISTS!!! Kayla: No!! This can't be happening... MISS A DAY... MISS ALOT!!!

Salem Lives Insider: Week of 10/1/06 Edition KAYLA AND STEVE: REUNITED!!!! The event fans have waited years for takes place this week on Salem Lives when Steve and Kayla are finally reunited. "It is beautiful, emotional, and very true to character," promises HW Tim Lowery. "We have Kayla crying and Steve being his normal self. I don't want to spoit it because I feel this is a huge occasion so fans will just have to wait and see how this unfolds." Not all is ok though-Steve has no memory of Kayla or his life in Salem and Kayla learns she has walked into a trap and is now being held captive as well. "That is what I meant by Steve acting like himself," laughs Lowery. "He remembers his years of captivity and who held him but nothing about his life before his presumed death. As to how he lost his memories and his captive years, the fans will just have to pay attention this week for answers to those questions." Kayla immediately begins to work on Steve and starts bringing up moments from their past together. "It's like a mile a minute with her," laughs Lowery. "She just brings up memory after memory. There are some great flashbacks but it does nothing for Steve. In fact, it has the opposite effect and causes friction between them. Steve just wants to find a way out of the cell and Kayla is actually happy they are trapped as it gives her the opportunity to work on him in regards to his memory." By week's end, Steve lashes out at Kayla and it becomes apparent to her that the man standing in front of her is not her husband. "She realizes that it is him but only in body," points out Lowery. "She knows she has a fight ahead of her." JACK AND BILLIE: GETTING "JILLIE" WITH IT!!! Jack and Billie grow closer as they enjoy a night on the town this week on Salem Lives but, little do they know, someone is out to spoil their fun. The week begins with Billie and Frankie dragging Jack off to a mysterious location. "Billie and Frankie know that Jack is ready to move on and is bored so they conspire together on some sort of surprise," recaps HW Tim Lowery. "They stick him in a garbage bag and drag him off. It really is hilarious because Jack is moaning and groaning the whole time and is screaming while Billie and Frankie just keep moving." Jack is dragged into a dark building where Billie and Frankie take the bag off of him an turn on the lights to reveal...The Spectator. "Billie knew he wanted to go back there but had turned down the job previously," points out Lowery. "Harold and Vern are there and they offer Jack the editor in chief job and he accepts. There is a plaque honoring Jennifer in Jack's office and it is all just like he would want it. He is all over Billie-thanking her, kissing her in a friendly way." Jack then decides he wants to celebrate so he asks Billie and Frankie to out on the town. Frankie is busy but Billie accepts. Jack returns home and that is where things get ugly. "Billie arrives to meet Jack and is dressed to impress," previews Lowery. "Laura is there and is clearly bothered but knows speaking out will only turn Jack against her and closer to Billie. She keeps quiet and just wishes they have a good time." Unbeknowst to Jack and Billie, Laura drops JJ off with Doug and Julie and makes a beeline for the Penthouse Grill after she tracks them down. "Laura arrives there and sees that Frankie is there meeting with a client and that Greta is there," points out Lowery. "She gets this bright idea knowing that Jack and Greta had a history and that Frankie is single and, before you know it, Laura is convincing both Frankie and Greta to visit with Jack and Billie in hopes that it will stop anything before it starts." The plan then backfires on Laura when Greta mentions that they should invite Laura over to join them. "Jack is puzzled by this and immediately understands what is going on at that point, " says Lowery. "The others figure out what is happening too as Jack takes Laura aside and tears into her for interfering." By week's end, Jack is the least of Laura's concern as she will then have to deal with an old rival who is not too happy about Laura's little scheme-Kate Roberts. "That is when things really heat up," teases Lowery. COMINGS AND GOINGS IN Ryan Scott (Harold Wentworth): Scott returns in scenes with Jack (Matthew Ashford), Billie (Julie Pinson), Frankie (Billy Warlock), and Vern (Wayne Heffley) on October 2. Wayne Heffley (Vern Scofield): The actor returns for a one day apperance on October 2 (see above for more info). OUT Martha Madison (Belle Brady-Kiriakis): As previously reported, Madison begins a 6-8 week hiatus on October 5. Ava and Olivia White (Claire Kiriakis): Baby Claire leaves with her mother on October 5. Rumor Mill/Grapevine -The role of Cal/faux Roman's psychiatrist has been cast. Expect an announcement this week. -Expect the Greta/Eric/Nicole story to heat up in the coming weeks. -There is big movement on the Carrie/Alan front coming up but expect Alan to play more of a role in the coming weeks initially then his pregnant roommate. -As previously mentioned, some Horton's are on the way back along with someone else who was very close to a Horton and to another popular Salem heroine. -Expect Kimberly Brady to resurface in late October. Previews and Peeks into Week of October 2: -Billie and Frankie have a surprise for Jack. -Kayla realizes she was lured into a trap. -Abby is appalled by Chelsea's actions. -Celeste comforts Abe. -Lexie gets served and vows to play dirty to hold on to Theo. -Nicole chooses business over Eric. -Frankie and Greta get drawn into Laura's scheme. -Belle and Claire leave Salem. -Lucas and Austin join Victor's side. -Laura and Kate's feud re-ignites. -Battle lines are drawn between Roman and Victor. -Kate calls an old flame. Red Letter Days!!! Monday October 2: Steve and Kayla share an emotional reunion!!! Thursday October 5: Belle and Claire leave Salem as tension mounts between Roman and Victor. Next Week: Nicole grows suspicious of Eric and Greta as her relationship with Eric begins to get rocky. Greta takes action to help Eric. Victor, Bo, Lucas, and Austin plot against Stefano. Lexie and Abe go to court. Laura uses Abby against Billie. Stefano warns Sami. Kayla kisses Steve.

Act 1 Scene 1: Abby's bedroom. Abby is listening to her IPOD and recalling seeing Cassie and Max dancing on TV. Abby: What are you looking for Max? What does she have that I don't? Scene 2: Deveraux Living Room Laura: I never thought I would see the day when Jack Deveraux would be baking cookies. Jack: Well, JJ loves them and so does Abby. They are nowhere close to how Jennifer used to... Laura: It's ok, Jack. I know what's you mean. We all miss my daughter. Everyday I think about how her life was cut short and how she was unfairly taken from her family. Jack: Yeah...well, let's not dwell on that. Back to the cookies. Grandma Horton gave Jennifer the recipe so if the cookies leave alot to be desired I guess I will just to give dear old Alice a call. Laura (laughing): I guess so. Doorbell rings. Jack: I will get that. Jack runs over to answer the door. He opens it to find Billie waiting for him. Jack: Billie! Good to see ya. Come on in. Billie: Well, thank you. Nice to you too pal. Laura turns around as Billie enters the living room. Billie: Hi, Laura. Laura: Billie. Jack: Detecting major tension... Billie: Maybe it is a bad time. Jack: No! No, it's fine. Please stay. Laura: Actually, it is a bad time. Jack: No it isn't and I am sick of this. Billie is a friend and if you can't deal with that then don't let the door hit you on the way out. Scene 3: Outside Deveraux Home. Frankie is pacing outside the garage when Max walks up behind him. Max: Hey, bro. You wanted to see me. Frankie: Yeah... Max: Well, spit it out. I have to get back to the garage. Why did you want to see me? Frankie: It's about your little televised dance with Cassie yesterday. What the hell are you thinking Max? Scene 4: Dimera Living Room Stefano is at his chess board, brandi glass in hand. Cassie walks in. Cassie: Hey, grandpa. What's ya doing? Stefano: First off, it's grandfather my dear. Secondly, not much. I am waiting for an update on Kayla Johnson's escapades in Austrailia. Cassie: Has she fallen into the trap yet? Stefano: I have not been informed of that yet. All I know is she was closing in on finding what she is looking for. Little does she know that finding her beloved will lead her to even more pain for herself and all those she loves (laughs) . Scene 5: Austrailia-secret tunnels. Kayla is navigating through the tunnels, flashlight in hand. Kayla: I have been looking for hours and still nothing. I can't lose hope. This is the only place he can be in. Well, it is the Dimera's. They may have him on some uncharted island or maybe I am just on a wild goose chase. Patrick could've played me. Enough...I have to think positive. Kayla hears a noise and turns around. Kayla: Is someone there? Salem Lives logo appears as theme plays. Act 2 Scene 1: Dimera Living Room. Cassie: So, what happens after we get through all this Kayla junk? Stefano: Cassie, Cassie. The english...I know those of the young generation have a distinct language but you are a Dimera. Please talk like it. Cassie: Whatever... Stefano: Lovely. Now to answer your question...well, we will discuss that further as we go along. Cassie: Well, why not now? Stefano: Well, I want to make sure everything goes properly first. I don't want to be one to get ahead of ourselves. I am just pleased that the Dimera's are truly rising again in Salem and we will have our revenge. Cassie: Yes and I am happy to be a part of it. Stefano pours Cassie a drink. Stefano: To the future of the Dimera family and to the glorious revenge that we will have on our enemies. Cassie: I think I will toast to that (laughs). Scene 2: Australia-secret tunnels. Kayla: Is someone there? Kayla looks around. Kayla: Guess not...well, better keep going. I don't have time to waste. A mysterious, gloved figure watches from the shadows and follows closely behind as Kayla continues on in her search. Act 3 Scene 1: Seedy Nightclub On West Side of Salem. Chelsea walks around and observes the seductive dancing, drug use, and excessive drinking. She walks up to the bar. Bartender: What can I do you for? Chelsea: Give me whatever you got. I am here to have an unforgettable night. Bartender: I will need some ID. Chelsea: Can't we just forget the ID...only just this once? Bartender: How old are you? Chelsea: Take a look at my ID (hands over ID). Bartender: Keep this on the down low. Chelsea: Sure thing. Bartender: Alright, what do you want? Chelsea: Hmm...surprise me and do keep em coming. Bartender: Look...I am bending the rules enough so you will get however much I am willing to give. Chelsea: Fine. Damn...drugs are all over the place here and this guy is worried about giving alcohol to a minor. Oh well, I guess I will just have to indulge in other things. Bartender: What was that? Chelsea: Nothing...just work on my drink. Scene 2: Deveraux Living Room. Laura: I am sorry Jack. I will just leave. Jack: Laura...you and I have always been close and your my mother in law. You are always welcome here but you have to lay off of Billie. She is a friend to me and was a friend to Jennifer. Laura: I know and... Jack: Just promise me you will let this go. It is unnecessary and only causes problems that none of us need. Laura: Fine. I have to be going anyway...lots to do. Laura hugs Jack. Laura: I will see you soon and give my love to Abby and Frankie. Oh...give my adorable grandson a kiss too. Jack: I will. Bye Laura. Laura leaves. Jack: I am so sorry about that. Billie: It's ok, Jack. Besides, we already discussed this and we know why she hates me. I am Kate Roberts' daughter and she is just being protective of you given your history and you being her son in law. I understand and I think she will get over it after awhile. Jack: I hope so. So...how are you doing? You look kind of...well, not very relaxed. Billie: Yeah...it's Chelsea. Jack: What's happened now? Billie: Oh just the typical rape victim pushing those closest to her away behavior. You know...the thing that is unhealthy yet nearly every rape victim does it. I don't know why I thought Chelsea would open up to me and let me help her deal with this. She has lost so much in her life and has been through hell the last few months. She is in a bad place Jack and she is going back to her destructive ways again. She ran out on me at the hospital and was off to party. Jack: Do you want to go look for her? Billie: No. Besides, I have no idea where to look and it would only make things worse if we find her. My worst fear is that she will head down the road I took when I was young. I don't want her going through what I did. Abby comes down the stairs. Abby: Daddy, I'm going out. Jack: Oh...ok. Where? Abby: Just to Salem Place. I have my cell. Jack: Ok. Just be careful. Abby: I will. Love you daddy Abby and Jack embrace. He kisses her on the cheek. Billie: Oh, Abby. Have you seen or heard from Chelsea within the last few hours? Abby: No. Why? Billie: Well, she ran out on me at the hospital and said she going to party somewhere so I just wanted to know if you had any idea where she was. Abby: No. Sorry but I will let you know if she calls. As far as I know, there is nothing going on school-related but things can happen fast. I will see you guys later. Jack: Bye Abigail. Billie: Bye Abby. Jack: She will be fine Billie. Billie: I hope you are right. I really do. Scene 3: Outside Deveraux House. Max: What about it? Frankie: Why are you hanging around Cassie Dimera? Max: Well, I had a few drinks and I was upset about Chelsea alright. Besides, what is the big deal? cassie just happened to be there and she was helping me forget my troubles. I thought she was still a friend to the family since she thought she was a Brady up until a few weeks ago? Frankie: It's just that she is a Dimera and with everything going on it is best to try to avoid unnecessary contact. Cassie is a girl who goes with what is best for her from my knowledge so it wouldn't surprise me if she is buttering up to Stefano. The Brady's need to be on guard. We all do. Now...I heard about what happened with Chelsea and you from Abby. I am really sorry. I wish you hadn't went on a drinking binge. Max: It wasn't a binge. I had one too many. Frankie: Whatever. Look....it seems Abby saw you on TV when she was visiting Chelsea and that is the other thing I want to talk to you about. Max: Well, I am glad Chelsea saw it. Frankie: You aren't seriously hoping she was jealous? Max, the last thing on her mind right now is you. The girl is in a bad place so... Max: Your right. Sorry. I guess I am just upset because... Frankie: She broke up with you. Give her time. She has been through alot. Max: Yeah. Frankie: Now back to Abby. Max: What about her? Frankie: She saw this, Max. I shouldn't tell you this but I feel like I have to. Abby likes you Max. She likes you alot. You two spent alot of time together recently and went through alot together. Now, from what I observed, she has been miserable since yesterday so I assume she did see you on TV. Max: You don't know that. Frankie: Safe bet. Abby is going through alot too and you were the one thing that seemed to get her through losing her mother and Josh. You need to get things straight with her and let her know where your relationship is going before she gets hurt. If you are not on the same page as her, then you need to talk to her and explain what is going on and what you are looking for because, mark my words, if Abby gets hurt, I will not be happy and I will be the least of your worries compared to Jack. Max: Alright...I understand. So...your saying she likes me? I mean, really likes me? Frankie: Yeah. Abby walks into the backyard. Abby: Sorry to interupt but I was wondering if either of you saw my red sweater in the garage? Frankie: Yeah, it's right on the top of the steel self when you walk in. Abby: Thanks. Max: Hey, Abby!! Abby: Yeah. Max: We need to talk. Abby: You know what? Yeah. I think we do. Salem Lives halfway theme. Act 4 Scene 1: Dimera Living Room Stefano enters the room. Cassie: Where did you go? Stefano: To check on Kayla's progress. Cassie: And? Stefano: She is not there yet but she is close. We will be informed as soon as the operation is complete. Cassie: What if something goes wrong? Stefano: Nothing will go wrong. Dimera's think positive, my dear. Cassie: Still...what if? Stefano: Then we just figure out something else. If this does somehow fail, then we may need to go to extreme measures to get things where we need them. Cassie: Like? Stefano: Haha. Lots of questions. Patience. It most likely will not come to that. I am sure the plan will succeed so actions like that won't even be needed. Besides, I would prefer to handle things this way. Much neater (laughs) Scene 2: Austrailia-secret tunnels. Kayla is still moving through the tunnels. Kayla: I feel like I am going in circles. I am probably not even close. This is hopeless. Kayla looks around for something to give her hope. Something then catches her eye. It is a loose brick in the wall. Kayla: Now what do we have here? Kayla pushes it further out and the wall opens to reveal a staircase going upward. Kayla: Perhaps I just found what I am looking for. Kayla begins to make her way up the staircase as the mysterious figure follows close behind. Act 5 Scene 1: Outside Deveraux House. Frankie: I will leave you two alone. Abby: Thanks Frankie. Frankie leaves. Abby: Well, you go first. Max: You sure? Abby: Yeah...go ahead. They both sit down on the picnic table. Max: Something has come to my attention and I just feel I need to set the record straight. You know that I am going through a rough time right now. Abby: Yeah, I know. The whole Chelsea thing. That isn't your fault Max. Max: Well, I should've known something was up with her all summer. I know her better then that. There was no way she would just push me away for no reason unless she was trying to make me jealous and she wasn't. She wasn't even around another guy so that should've been a red flag. Abby: There was no way for you to know. Max: I fell in love with her. I should've known. I just broke things off with her because I was selfish and didn't want to waste my time trying to figure out what was going on. I was expecting her to just tell me. Going through what she did...how could I be so stupid? Then I go to her after learning what happened and expect her to let me be there for her when she just had the same thing happen to her again. She has been through one horrible ordeal after another and I wasn't there. Abby: Max...most of the summer we were stuck on an island. Max: Yeah but I could've done more once we got back to Salem but I didn't. I am having trouble dealing with that Abby and dealing with losing her. Abby: There still may be... Max: No. It's over. It will never be right and I would never want to be back with her. I abandoned her when she needed me most so I deserve to lose her. The whole thing made me realize that I am probably not ready for any relationship right now. Abby: I see... Max: That is what I need to talk to you about. Look...Abby. You are awesome and you have been a good friend to me. We went through alot this summer from the island to you comforting me over Chelsea. Abby: You did alot for me too. You saved my life and nearly died and you were there for me on the island and during my mother's death. I am glad we had each other. Max: So am I. Anyway, I think things may have...I think that... Abby: Frankie told you didn't he? Max: Uh... Abby: I'm not mad. I am happy he did. If he didn't, we may never have talked about all this. Max: Yeah, I suppose not. Abby, you are great and I want to always be friends but I can't promise you anything more. I'm sorry if you thought something more was happening here... Abby: Well, after seeing what I did yesterday, I already began to have doubts... Max: I am sorry you saw that. I didn't realize it was on TV and I was a little... Abby: Drunk? Max: Yeah and Cassie was there. I was in a bad place and I still am. It wouldn't be fair to you Abby or any other girl if I started a relationship right now. I am not really good for anyone and I don't want you to waste your time when I am a headcase right now. There are plenty of other guys out there just waiting for someone like you. Look (takes her hand) ...it's not you. You are great. It's me. I can't do this again right now. I need to just live and...I don't know. I guess see what is out there. I can't have anything tying me down so maybe it is best what happened as I can enjoy my life and do my own thing for a bit. You get what I'm saying? Abby: Yeah. Sure. Max: Wow...you are taking this better then I... Abby: Can I ask you something? Max: Yeah. Abby: What do Cassie and Chelsea have that I don't? Scene 2: Deveraux House Billie: Well, enough about me. How are doing? Jack: Getting by like I have been. A little bored. Billie: Well, how about going back to work? You seem ready. Jack: I am but... Billie: You don't know where to go. How about The Spectator? You love it there. Jack: Well, Harold called a few weeks ago offering me the editor in chief position but I wasn't ready. There are so many memories for Jennifer and I there...it was too soon then. I turned it down and someone had to take the position by now. Billie: Well, it can't hurt to look into it or check out other newspapers. It would be a nice homage to Jennifer if you were to go back to The Spectator. Jack: Yeah it would, I guess. I have plenty of time to look and I am sure The Spectator job is gone. Oops...those cookies should be done. Be right back. Jack runs out of the room and into the kitchen. Frankie enters the living room. Frankie: Hey, Billie. Billie: Hi, Frankie. Frankie: Everything ok? Billie: Best it can be I guess. Frankie: Oh...where's Jack? Billie: Taking the cookies out of the oven. Never thought you would see him baking huh? Frankie: Grilling, yes. Baking, no (they both laugh). Well, I have noticed he has been a little bored lately. I mean, he is ready to move on but it seems he doesn't know what to do. Billie: Yeah. Frankie: You know, we need to help. We really do need to do something about Jack. Billie: I agree and I think I have an idea. Act 6 Scene 1: Seedy Nightclub on Salem's West Side Chelsea: It is so great that a place like this is open this early. I will have to stop in more often. Man: Hey, there. Chelsea: Hey. Man: You look like a girl looking for a good time. Chelsea: You bet your ass I am. The drinking thing just isn't working well so I am looking for other options. Man: Well, how about this? The man holds out exctasy in his hand. Chelsea looks at it and takes it. Chelsea: That will do quite nicely, I think. Scene 2: Deveraux House. Jack returns to living room. Jack: Cookies are done!! Hey, where is everyone? Billie? Jack sees a note on the desk Jack: Ok...so Billie wants me to meet her at Salem Place in an hour. Why couldn't see just pop into the kitchen and tell me that? I realize I was gone for a long time an it took longer then...whatever. I need to call a... (doorbell rings) Jack walks over and opens the door. Jack: Laura! Back so soon? Laura: Frankie called me and said you needed someone to watch JJ so here I am. Jack: What the...? Laura: Something wrong? Jack: No...thanks. Yeah...I have to get out of here. Call me if he is any trouble. Laura: Sure. Hey, Jack... The door slams. Laura: ...where are you going? Jack is walking to his car. Jack: I would like to know what the hell is going on. I guess I will find out soon en...argh. Frankie and Billie put a garbage bag over Jack's head and throw him in Billie's car. They then high-five each other. Jack: What is going...let me out!!! Frankie: Got him! Billie: Now let's get going. Jack: Let me out. This better be a new garbage bag!! Scene 3: Outside Deveraux House. Abby: Forget it. Never should've asked. Max: No. Look I already explained Cassie. That was nothing. As for Chelsea, I don't know. I guess we both grew up with difficult childhoods by missing out on knowing our real parents. I guess I liked to look into her eyes and see a vulnerability there. I can't explain it...I don't know. I already told you Abby it isn't you... Abby: You know what? It's fine. I never should've asked. I understand Max. Let's just drop it. Max: You are wonderful Abby. Any guy would be lucky to have you. Abby: Yeah. I will end up with some nice guy that goes to church every Sunday or flosses or even ends up being wealthy or at least well-off...someone who is so perfect there is no excitement. Max: You don't know... Abby: Yeah I do. It's my luck. What I saw in you Max...it was special. There is so much about you...you have flaws and you are human. You are not someone who has everything going for him and...you know what? Forget it. I can't do this. What the...? Max: It sounds like screaming. Abby: Don't hear it anymore...must have been a cat in the trash again. Anyway, we talked and I know where we stand. Max: Abby, you were going to say something. Abby: No, I am done. I have things to do so see you around. Max: Bye. I'm sorry Abby. I really am. Abby goes to get her sweater in the garage. She is shaking and knocks everything off the shelf. Abby: Damnit Max. Damnit...why not me?!!! Why? Abby leans against the wall and breaks down in tears. Scene 3: Dimera Living Room Stefano hangs up the phone and re-joins Cassie in the living room. Stefano: It will be happening any moment now, my dear. Cassie: Really? Cool. Stefano: Indeed. I knew that Kayla would fall right into the trap. The groundwork has now been laid. Our revenge has officially begun. Stefano and Cassie laugh. Scene 4: Australia: Secret Tunnels. Kayla makes her way up the stairs and finds herself in a dark corridor. She slowly walks down it. She hears someone talking behind the door of a room. She stops to listen. Kayla: It sounds like a man. Could it be this easy? Only one way to find out. Kayla reaches for the door knob and is surprised when it opens without trouble. Kayla: Not even a lock? Strange... She enters a dark, chilly room, She notices what it appears to be closed cell ahead of her. There is a little window on the door to the cell that has bars. She walks over to it. Kayla: I don't hear the voice any... Man: Is someone there? Kayla: That voice...that is the voice I heard. It sounds... Man: Is someone there? Speak!!! Kayla walks over to the mini-window on the cell door and looks in to see a man in the dark. He turns to look at her. She seems stunned when the man walks out of the dark shadows. Man: Man...Yes!!! Finally someone has found this hellhole. I thought no one would ever come. Kayla (tears in her eyes): Oh my God... Man: What? What is it? Why are you staring at me like that, woman?!! Kayla: It's...true. It's really...right in front of me. It's really you. Your here!!! Man: What...? Kayla (in tears and desperately holding on the window bars): Oh my God!!! Steve!!! Your here. I found you!!! I dreamed about this for years but I never though....Steve!!! You've come back to me!!! You've come back to me!!! The screen then fades to black and the credits roll.

-Julie and Laura are both on the phone. Doug asks Alice if she really thinks this will plan will work if they can get everything set. Alice thinks it will help Maggie at the very least. Laura gets off and says she has good news. Julie hangs up and says she has good news as well. They've did it and everything is in place. Alice and Doug are happy as well. Julie says they should be arriving very soon and, once they do, they just have to set up a meeting with Maggie. Laura just hopes this doesn't overwhelm Maggie or make matters worse. Alice says they just need to have faith it will all work out in the end and that this will be the thing that brings, or leads, to Maggie getting better and allowing her family and friends to be there for her. -Bo and Victor are having breakfast in the living room of Victor's mansion. Victor asks Bo if he slept well. Bo says as well as he could given what happened the last time he saw Hope and with everything else going on. Victor reminds Bo that if he wants to do this he needs to get used to having to push those he cares about most away. It is the only way to make all this work and keep them safe. Victor says he has to go meet with Kate and says they will talk later. Maggie comes downstairs. Victor asks how she slept. Maggie says it was the first full night she has slept. She still woke up a few times thinking about Mickey but she didn't think about a drink or didn't feel guilty about Mickey. She tells Victor that maybe it's the fact the mansion doesn't have the memories and she reminds Victor that being with him just makes her so calm and comfortable. Victor is pleased and says they will talk later. -Maggie sees Bo and remembers Hope asking her for help. She says hello to Bo and says that the mansion is becoming a full house. Bo laughs and agrees. He asks how she is doing. She says she is much better being in a place with no memories and being with Victor, who is the only thing that seems to make her feel good at this point. Bo warns Maggie about growing too dependent on Victor and reminds her of why she pushed Victor away a few weeks ago. Maggie says she was wrong to do that. Victor and her are friends and they have been there for each other through alot. She will be sure to not grow too dependent but she needs to do what is best right now and being with Victor in his house feels right and is what she needs right now. She just can't be alone and in her house. Bo says she is not alone and has her family. Maggie says she can't be around them because then the memories and guilt overwhelm her. She reminds Bo of his family too. She asks Bo if he is sure he is doing the right thing by moving in with Victor and taking the law into his own hands. Bo says he needs to do what is best for his loved ones and he just can't stand by anymore and watch them suffer. Something needs to be done. Maggie asks how far Victor and him are going to go. Bo says they will do what they need to do. Maggie seems pleased with Bo's words, which stuns Bo. Bo says he is shocked Maggie agrees with what he said. Maggie admits that she knows where Bo and Victor are coming from and that she wants Stefano and everyone involved with that island to pay. She lost Mickey and Jennifer, Marlena, and Bonnie all died as well. Carrie disappeared and now won't come home because she feels it isn't safe. Something needs to be done and she agrees with Bo-the system isn't going to do it. Bo is glad she sees it that way. Maggie says maybe it will even make her feel better seeing some punishment for what happened to Mickey and the others and all the other bad things the Dimera's and Ernesto did in the past. Maggie goes to the kitchen to get more food for breakfast. While alone, Bo is happy that Maggie agreed with him and admits having doubts until hearing Maggie. Now he knows he is doing what is right for all those he cares about. -Nicole and Eric are sharing a hot, steamy shower when there is a knock on their hotel suite door. They get dressed. Eric answers to find Belle with Claire, who says she has come over to say goodbye. Belle explains that Shawn has left and she needs to go where she truly belongs-with her husband and the father of her child. Eric agrees and embraces her saying he will miss her. Nicole wishes Belle luck and tells her to tell Philip she is thinking about him. She always kinda liked him from her time with Victor despite them hating each other most of the time. Belle thanks them both and wishes them well. She hopes Eric will be around when she returns with Philip. Eric says he hopes so too. They leave. Nicole realizes how late it is and says that a investor with Highstyle is flying in to Salem to meet with her today. She begins to get dressed. She needs to meet him in an hour. Eric is surprised she is working. Nicole explains she has missed too much work and that she will be basing herself out of Salem until things settle down and Eric and her decide what they are going to do. Eric says they are staying in Salem for now. Nicole says they can discuss the matter sometime soon but she needs to go. She leaves. -Eric gets another headache and nearly collapses. There is another knock on the door. It's Greta and she can see Eric is suffering. She tells Eric that he needs to tell Nicole and his family. Eric wants no pity and doesn't want a long, drawn out goodbye. He just wants to enjoy his final days living a normal life. Greta reminds Eric that he may not die. Eric says that his recent tests were not promising and he does not want chemo so he is out of luck. Greta says she has researched several specialists. Eric says he doesn't want any. Greta asks Eric if he wants to die. Eric denies that but says it is hopeless. He has heard for months that it is hopeless. Greta asks him what will happen when he collapses in front of Nicole or someone else and they find out too. They are going to be so mad at him and he will spend his final days dealing with disappointment and regret. His family and friends deserve to know so they can say goodbye. He tells Greta he wants it this way and that he wants to be alone. He asks her to leave and again asks that she keeps what she knows to herself. Greta says she will even though she hates it. Greta leaves as Eric gets another headache and wonders to himself how much time he has left. -Victor meets with Kate at the Brady Pub. Kate just wanted to discuss Philip's progress. He has not woke up yet but the doctor's beleive it will be any day now. Belle overhears and apologizes for interupting. She saw them both and felt that she needed to inform them of something they will be happy about. She is going to San Francisco with Claire to be with Philip. She admits she was wrong and that she belongs there. Victor asks Belle why it took Shawn leaving to get Belle to admit her mistake and to go to Philip. Belle says that Shawn leaving was a wake up call to her mistake and to her actions, which were appalling. She just hopes that some day they will both understand that she loved Shawn with all her heart and that she loves Philip too. It will take her a long time to get over Shawn but she is going to do what she can to make her marriage work because she does love Philip and she knows he will need her. It was and is a complicated matter but she hopes they can all get past this and forgive each other. Victor hopes so too and says that Belle has alot to prove to them. Kate agrees and warns Belle she will have her to deal with if she ever hurts Philip again. Belle understands. Kate and Victor kiss Claire and say goodbye. Victor wishes Belle luck and tells her to give their love to Philip. She says she will. Kate asks Victor if he thinks Belle meant what she said. Victor thinks she did and thinks they should give her a break. She is a nice girl but she was in a difficult spot. She loved both of them and all three of their lives have had so much turmoil and they are so young. Kate agrees but still vows that if Belle does anything else to hurt Philip, there are no excuses this time. She will make her pay. Victor agrees and also reminds Kate not to interfere. Kate reminds Victor that she is trying to change and let her children's play out their own lives. Victor is pleased and tells Kate to stay that way. -Billie is helping Chelsea get dressed as she has been released from the hospital. Billie asks Chelsea if she is sure she is feeling alright. Chelsea tells Billie to lay off. Billie wishes Chelsea would open up to her as she went through a horrible ordeal twice and has been through hell these past few months and she wants to help. Afterall, she is her mother. It will only help if Chelsea lets it all out. Chelsea finally lashes out and tells Billie to back off. It isn't going to help to rehash everything and talking about does not help. She talked about it the first time with Victor and Hope and the whole world eventually learned about it. She is sick of people pitying her and just wants to be left alone. Billie says she just wants to help and she doesn't like Chelsea attitude. Chelsea reminds Billie of everything she has been through and asks Billie what mood she expects her to be in. Chelsea says she tried to change and bad things still happened to her and those around her so why bother. She is done trying to be nice because it does nowhere and she is only pretending. Being raped again made her realize who she was and, strangely, she has Jason and Barry to think. They were right-she is nothing a but a manipulative whore that no one wants. She asked to be raped by how she dressed and trying to change was her being something she was not. Not anymore. She tells Billie she will find her own why home. Billie asks where she is going. Chelsea says it is none of her business but, if she must know, she is going to party somewhere. Billie says that partying and trying to forget by drinking and drugs is not the way to deal with this. Billie knows that from personal experience and she tells Chelsea to just come with her. Chelsea tells her to back off and to stop acting like her mother. Billie says she is her mother and she is trying to help. Chelsea tells her not to and to just leave her the hell alone. She runs off. Billie runs after her but Chelsea gets in the elevator as it shuts. A frustrated Billie wonders what she is going to do. In the elevator, Chelsea is upset she almost spilled that Billie is not her mother but is happy she didn't. She doesn't need Hope getting involved and being on her back. She will go party and forget about everything and be herself. The days of changing are over for her. She sees a headline referring to a murder and remembers shooting Jason and Barry. She says that no one can ever know what she did or she will end up behind bars on top of everything else. -Kayla boards a ferry boat that takes her to an island. Kayla asks the boat operator why she is the only one on the ferry. He tells her that this island is not on the main maps and that only explorers and historians come there. She asks if it is uninhabited. He says no but explains there is not a large population. She thanks him. He gives her his card and says to call the number when she is ready to return. Kayla searches around looking the marker she sees on the map of the island. She sees a building with old architecture. It looks like a old-fashioned surfer bar. She looks around and wonders if she is in the same place she sees on the map. She then notices a old pier nearby. She runs over to it and says that there is supposed to be old tunnels that were built for the easier transfer of supplies from beach to beach. She looks around under the pier and sees a latch. She pulls on it and it opens up a old, falling apart door. She enters and pulls out a flashlight. She slowly moves down the tunnels and realizes this is what she is looking for as there is supposed to be a connecting network of tunnels that are relatively unknown to newer residents of the island as they used to be used by the police for security and investigative purposes. She searches around and moves items around, hoping to find a secret latch. She begins to get frustrated and throws her flashlight. The flashlight hits a lantern on the wall and the lantern breaks off as the wall opens up a little. Kayla walks over and realizes the wall opens up. She pulls it open and realizes she has found the tunnels she is looking for. She wonders what danger she may find but says it doesn't matter-she is finding her husband. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Abby to Max: We need to talk... Max to Abby: Yeah we do. Jack to Laura: Billie is a friend and if you can't deal with that then don't let the doot hit you on the way out. Frankie to Billie: We really do need to do something about Jack. Billie to Frankie: I have an idea. Chelsea: Give me whatever you got. I am here to have an unforgettable night. Stefano to Cassie: The Dimera's are truly rising again in Salem and we will have our revenge. Cassie to Stefano: Yes and I am happy to be a part of it. Kayla (with tears in her eyes): Oh my God...

-Hope enters the Brady Pub. She sees Austin and Lucas and says hi to them. She apologizes about the Carrie situation. Lucas tells Hope he still hopes to find a way to bring her back. Hope says she will pray that they do. Caroline is at the bar when Hope sits down. Caroline is surprised to see her there and can tell Hope is upset. Hope fills her in on what happened with Bo. Hope asks Caroline what they should do. Caroline asks Hope if she is asking her to help her fix a mess she helped create. -Lucas and Austin discuss Carrie. Austin says the only way Carrie will think of returning is if she knows it is safe to return. Otherwise, she will not return as she doesn't want to raise a baby in a dangerous environment. Lucas still thinks there is more to it and wonders if it has something to do with what Sami and Lexie did. Austin doubts it. Lucas asks Austin if he really think Sami meant what she said. Austin says he does and he thinks she proved it by giving Will to Lucas until she could prove herself. Sami would never do that unless she was serious. She loves Will. Lucas says he agrees but Sami as tried to change so many times and if surviving things like her own execution didn't change her, he doesn't think anything will. -Sami is at her apartment and recalls all her past sins and crimes. She is determined to prove herself and show she is worthy of the love and treatment of her family and friends. She just hopes she can do it and prays for the strength. She remembers what Roman said to her before he left. Sami vows that she will change everything about her but her hatred for John. He will never be Roman and she will never accept him. Nothing will get her to change her mind about that. -Roman and Shane arrive at the hospital and bump into Stefano, who is outside Lexie's room. Roman laughs because it seems Stefano was kicked out of his daughter's room. Roman sees Abe and Lexie holding hands and regrets what he is about to do. Stefano sees the look of lament on Roman's face while he is staring at Lexie and Abe and he asks what is going on. Roman says it is none of his business. Roman tells Shane it is time. Both men walk in and say hello to Lexie, Abe, and Celeste. They ask Lexie if she is feeling better. She says she is and thanks both men for their well wishes. Roman says that he needs to talk to Abe alone. Abe tells Lexie and Theo he will be right back and leaves. Shane, Roman, and Abe go around the corner to avoid Stefano. Roman says he can see Lexie and him are closer. Abe tells Roman they are going to try to work things out. Roman says he is sorry he has to tell him this but he needs to know and it is best coming from him. Stefano is listening nearby when Roman tells Abe all about Sami and Lexie's scheme against Carrie and Austin. Abe is stunned and doesn't want to beleive it. Stefano is laughing and whispers to himself that he no longer has to worry about Abe and his daughter. Abe pushes a medical tray to the ground and throws a coffee pot. Roman tells him to take it easy. Abe walks off in a rage. Roman and Shane follow. -Lexie, Celeste, and Theo are waiting in the room. Abe comes in and says Theo needs to be out of the room. Shane takes him and leaves as he says Lexie may need her mother. Lexie asks what is going on. Abe tells her he knows what she did for Sami because of her affair with Tek. Lexie's face sinks as she realizes what is happening. Abe asks Lexie if it true. She says it is and she regrets it. Abe asks why she never told him. Lexie says he was so mad at her and wouldn't talk to her and things were such a mess it just never came up. He lashes out at her and says not to make excuses. She was hoping he wouldn't find out and he did. He was right with what he said on the island. She is a Dimera through and through and he wants nothing to do with her. He is through for good this time and he is going to make sure she loses Theo. He doesn't want his son being corrupted by the Dimera curse. Stefano says he will have a hell of a fight on his hands. Abe says he will fight to the death to protect his son from him. Abe walks out as Roman follows him. Celeste tells Lexie how disappointed she is in her. Lexie tells her mother she doesn't want a lecture as she feels bad enough. She tells her to just go as she needs to talk to Stefano. Celeste doesn't think that is a good idea but Lexie demands it and tells her mother to get the hell out of her room. Celeste warns Stefano that she will not stand by and watch her daughter follow in his footsteps. Lexie was saved before from his influence and she will be again. Stefano laughs as Celeste leaves. Lexie begins to break down and tells her father she lost everything. She is suspended from the hospital and now she has lost Abe for good and probably Theo. Stefano hugs her and says it will all be ok. He will make sure she doesn't lose Theo and that everything else works out. Abe is no loss and as long as she has Theo he doesn't matter. Lexie says he is right-only Theo matters. She loves Abe but she will do whatever it takes to hold on to Theo, even if it means giving up Abe for good. Stefano is pleased to hear this. -Hope knows that she played a role in why Bo is acting like he is but she doesn't want to play the blame game. They all know how they got to this point so it's time to figure out how to fix it. Hope tells Caroline she asked Maggie for help. Caroline says that no one will convince Victor to turn Bo away so it is useless for Maggie to even try. It is why she won't even try despite her history with Victor. Hope asks what else they can do. Caroline says she has no clue other then to watch him from afar and pray that they stop him when he is about to do something stupid or that he stops himself and changes his mind about all this. Hope prays that will be the case as she can't remember ever being this worried about him. Caroline agrees and says they just need to trust Bo will come to his senses or that maybe even Victor will. -Lucas is returning from the men's room and asks Austin if he heard what Hope and Caroline were talking about. Austin tells Lucas he doesn't eavesdrop. Lucas tells Austin about Bo's plans and him moving in with Victor. Lucas says that Hope may have just given them away to bring Carrie home. Austin doesn't understand. Lucas says they need to join Victor and Bo's cause to wipe out all the threats to their family and friends in Salem. Austin reminds Lucas that Victor and Bo are going to be on the other side of the law and taking the law into their own hands. Lucas reminds Austin that he said he would do anything to bring Carrie back and this may be the best way to do it. If they both team up with Bo and Victor, they can help them get rid of the Dimera's and any other threats to Salem and they can find Carrie and she will come home. Austin isn't so sure about this. Lucas says it is the only option they have. He asks if Austin's in because he is in regardless of what he does. Austin tells Lucas that he knows how much he cares for Carrie. Austin says he will give this a try but can't make any promises. Lucas is pleased and says with him on board and them all working together, they should be able to make Salem a safe enough place so Carrie can come home. Austin hopes so. -Roman and Shane try to calm Abe. He thanks them both for coming and telling him and says he needs to be alone with his son. They hand him Theo and tell him to call if he needs anything. Roman feels bad about shattering Abe's dreams of being a family with Lexie and Theo but he needed to know. Shane tells him they did the right thing. They leave. Celeste tries to comfort Abe but Abe tells her to just go. He needs to be alone with Theo and seeing Celeste just reminds him of Lexie. Celeste understands and tells Abe to let her know how he is doing tomarrow and if he needs anything. He thanks her. Celeste apologizes for her daughter. Abe insists it wasn't her fault. Her daughter is a Dimera and he knows that now. Celeste kisses Theo and quietly walks off. Abe holds Theo and vows not to let him fall victim to the Dimera curse like his mother did-no matter what he has to do. -Lexie tells Stefano that Sami must pay for this. She had no right to tell Roman. She picks up the phone. Sami runs out of the shower as her phone rings. She is shocked to answer it and hear Lexie on the line. Lexie attacks her for admitting the truth to everyone. Sami says she had to. She wants to change and she feels bad for Lexie but it will be better now that the truth is out. Afterall, it was Lexie who was trying to convince her to change and take responsibility for her actions finally. Lexie is shocked that Sami actually listened for once. She tells Sami she lost Abe, will probably lose her job, and could lose Theo so things aren't ok for her. Sami says that Lexie is out of a coma and that is a plus. Lexie is frustrated and tells Sami she will pay for this no matter how right she felt about doing it. She has lost everything and she will make sure Sami suffers for it. Lexie hangs up. Sami wonders what Lexie might do and if she may get Stefano involved. She worries abotu what this means for Will and her family. Stefano tells Lexie he will help her get her revenge and hold on to Theo. Lexie understands that the only way for her to hold on to Theo and get what she wants is to think and act like a Dimera. No more doing what is right. She is going to win and do whatever it takes. Stefano is pleased she feels that way and embraces her with a sinister smile on his face. -Kayla searches all around Austrailia for Steve. She shows his picture to pedestrians and has no luck. She goes to a local library and does some internet and map research. She still comes up with nothing. She asks the clerk if she has any other maps of some secluded areas or maybe some relatively unknown areas around the area. She hands Kayla some older maps that are barely used anymore but contain some info the other maps don't about some not so well known sights and even some hidden gems around the area. Kayla searches through them and is about to give up when something on one of the maps catches her eye. She then says she thinks she just found Steve. She puts the other items away and asks the clerk if she can take the map with her. The clerk says she seems nice enough and the map is never used anymore anyway so go ahead. Kayla runs off with the map and says something is telling her this is where Steve is. She tells Steve she is coming as the screen fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Kayla: Who knows what kind of danger I will find here? Julie to Alice: Yes!!! We did it Grandma!!! Now let's just hope this works and helps Maggie. Maggie to Bo: Are you sure you are doing the right thing? Greta to Eric: Tell Nicole the truth before it's too late. Belle to Victor and Kate: You will be happy to know I am leaving Salem to be with your son. Billie to Chelsea: What aren't you telling me about that night? Chelsea...did you have anything to do with Jason and Barry's murders?

-Belle is walking through the airport wondering what to do next. She goes home to Claire. She pays the babysitter and then holds Claire. She tells her she has bad news and that uncle Shawn had to leave. She remarks how at one point she beleived Shawn was her father and now so much has changed. Her life is a mess and she has so many regrets. She remembers Shawn's last words to her about going to Claire and going to Philip since they are her life now. Belle says he was right. Shawn and her are through and she was wrong to let Philip go off alone. She was just so in love with Shawn and had wanted it for so long she couldn't bare to leave him but Shawn left for her. She looks at Claire and realizes that there is only one thing she can do now and it's the right thing. It is what she should've done before but couldn't bare to do with Shawn here. She needs to leave Salem with Claire and be with Philip so she can fulfill her promise and responsibility to him. She kisses Claire and tells her they are going to see daddy. -Abe and Celeste hold Theo as they wait outside Lexie's room so they can get in to see her. They are bothered by Stefano being there as well. Abe wants him out but Celeste convinces Abe to not start anything. Cassie arrives and says she wanted to be there for her grandfather and aunt. Stefano is happy she is there and whispers to her that he is very pleased with her actions in regards to Max earlier. She is proving to be quite the asset to the Dimera family. Cassie thanks him and says she is just trying to prove her worth and that she is a true Dimera. Stefano says she is and that he is very impressed. Abe tells Celeste that this whole ordeal has made him realize he still loves Lexie and that he played a huge role in why Lexie cheated on him. He pushed her away and his attitude was inexcusable. He thinks if both Lexie and him take responsibility for their actions they can try to work this out. Celeste is happy to hear that and thinks Lexie will too. The nurse and doctor tell them they can go in but only two at a time. Abe and Celeste run in ahead of Stefano with Theo. Stefano is annoyed. Lexie is happy to see Theo, Abe, and Celeste. Celeste asks her how she is feeling. Lexie says she has been better. Abe fills her in on what happened and tells her they suspect Victor is responsible and that Stefano was the real target. Lexie asks if Victor is in jail. Abe says they really have no proof other then Victor owning the blown up warehouse. Stefano overhears and gloats with Cassie that Victor will pay and that plans are already underway. -Abe tells Lexie that this whole crisis made him realize something. When he thought she was gone, he was heartbroken and it was like a part of him died. He realized he was unfair to her and that he was partly responsible as he pushed her away. He thinks they owe it to their son to give their marriage one last try. He apologizes for treating her unfairly and putting all the blame on her. He hopes they can both take responsibility for their actions and work through this. Lexie is overjoyed and embraces Abe. She tells him she loves him and that she won't be sorry. Celeste congratulates them. Lexie kisses Theo and tells them that his mommy and daddy are going to be try to be a family with him again so they can all be happy together. Stefano walks in and says that she will be happy with Abe over his dead body. Abe tells him that can be arranged. Lexie begs them both to stop and asks Cassie to keep Stefano out of her room. She wants to be with Abe, her mother, and Theo. Stefano says he is her father and that he has a right to see her. Lexie says she wants to see him too but she has alot to discuss with Abe and she wants to be with her son. She begs Stefano to understand. Stefano reluctantly leaves. Lexie says she loves him and Stefano echoes the sentiments. Abe and Celeste are happy Lexie threw Stefano out. Lexie warns both of them that Stefano is her father and a part of her life. Abe explains that he is the reason she almost died. Lexie insists it was an accident. Abe brings up all of Stefano's past crimes and what he did to her with the baby swtich and the recent island debacle. Lexie explains Stefano had no part of the island plot as he created the idea but never saw it through and all that is in the past. Her father being in captivity seems to have changed him. Abe doubts that and cites the fact that Lexie has spent very little time with him. Lexie says she plans to spend more time with him. Abe is unhappy with that, as is Celeste. Lexie says she doesn't want to discuss this and only wants to enjoy being with them. Abe agrees to drop it. Meanwhile, Stefano is hurt and angry about Lexie kicking him out. Cassie tries to calm him but Stefano insists he will never let Abe be with his daughter. He won't let anyone take his daughter away from her rightful place in the Dimera empire and Abe is already doing that right now. Cassie says she will help him make sure that Abe does not interfere with his plans for Lexie and his empire. -Lucas, Eric, Nicole, Kate, Austin, Shane, Will, and Roman are all stunned by Sami saying she is giving up Will. Sami insists it is only a verbal agreement and if she can't prove herself to be a changed woman then they will go to court and make it official. She does deserve to be Will's mother until she can prove she is worthy just like she doesn't deserve their love or forgiveness until she proves herself, which she will do no matter what it takes. Will asks Sami if she doesn't want him anymore. Sami insists that Will is her life but she wants to show them all how serious she is. She has learned her lession and she will show them. Kate and Nicole doubt it but Lucas and Austin actually buy her being serious and hope she means it. Roman, Shane, and Eric agree as they all are disappointed in her right now. Sami says she knows and that she hopes she can make everything up to all of them. Sami asks Lucas and Will if they will do what she says. Will agrees saying he will be better with his dad right now anyway. Sami agrees. Lucas agrees as well. Will says he is going to pack. Austin tells Sami he hopes she means this because he is so angry with her right now. Sami understands and says she will do her best to show him she can be a person they can all be proud of. Austin wishes good luck and tells Lucas he needs to talk to him. Lucas says to just be at his apartment later. Austin leaves. Kate is sick of listening to his and says to call her the next time Sami screws up as a Sami downfall is too good to miss. She leaves. Eric gets another headache and hides it from Nicole. Nicole wants to leave so Eric hugs Sami and says he is going to hold her to her word that she has learned from her mistakes. Sami asks Eric why he isn't mad at her. Eric says life is too short and that he has faith she has learned her lesson. Sami thanks him for always being there with her and says she will try to make him proud. Eric and Nicole leave. -Roman walks over to Sami. Sami says she doesn't even want to talk to him and she doesn't give a damn what he thinks. Roman says if she is going to commit to changing she needs to accept him as her father or at least be civil. Sami says she doesn't care what he thinks of her and she doesn't want to waste her energy proving anything to him. Roman says he doesn't know how to get through to her but tells her that he will always be there when she realizes the only way to fully complete her transformation and her process of change is to let go of the hate she feels towards him. Sami turns her back on him and says nothing. Roman tells Shane they can go now as he doesn't want to start anything. He tells Sami he is disappointed in her for scheming yet again but he is proud of her for acknowledging her faults and trying to change. He only hopes they can work things out someday. He leaves and, on the way out, tells Shane they need to find Abe. Shane asks why. Roman says he needs to know about Lexie's part in Sami's scheme and it is best he hears it from them. Shane agrees. Lucas helps Will carry his things. Sami hugs him and says it is the way it has to be for now. Will says the way her trach record is he may never be moving back in. Sami understands the lack of faith in her and says she will prove them all wrong. Lucas hopes so and takes Will and leaves. Sami tells herself she is doing the right thing and that she needs to do what it takes to prove herself to them but it hurts like hell to give up her son. She breaks down and says she just hopes she make them all proud and really do this as she has been able to before. She prays to God to give her the strength to do this because she doesn't want to lose her son and all the people she cares aboutthat are still with her. She holds a picture of Will and cries on the couch as she promises she is going to succeed so she can have them all back in her life, especially him, and feel she is truly worthy of having them in her life. -Bo comes back downstairs and says he has everything. Hope demands to know where he is going. Bo says she has no right to demand anything. Hope reminds him they are still married. Bo is aware and says how knows for how long. Hope asks what is wrong with him. Recently, he wanted to work things out and now he is pushing her away. Bo remembers Victor saying they must push loved ones away to protect them. Bo tells Hope she didn't want to talk when he wanted to and then she lied to him about Chelsea's rape, which made the evidence trail cold, and screwed up his plan to make the rapists confess when he found them in the alley. Hope says she thought he was going to kill the rapists. Bo says and that is another thing-she beleived too easily that he would just jump right in bed with Billie when she found him "in bed" with her in the motel and she also didn't beleive in his innocence in regards to Jason and Barry's murders. Hope says there was alot going on and she just wasn't ready to talk to Bo at the time and she does have regrets. She apologizes for that and for thinking he did it. It is just that so much happened and Bo just learned Chelsea's was raped again that night so anything was possible, especially since it was Chelsea's rapists who were murdered. Bo says it doesn't matter. He is not wasting his time anymore with her or his family. No one gets it and understands there are problems and that the systen and doing things "by the book" is not helping. He needs to take action. Hope fears the anger and rage she is seeing in Bo's eyes and asks if he moving in with Victor. Bo doesn't answer. Hope begs Bo not to do this and not to push her and his family away. Bo says Victor is family too and he understands that the status quo does nothing. People like Jason and Barry, who have previous offenses, are let go because of a retracted confession even though they have no alibi and were pretty much proven to be the rapists because Victor provided testimony and evidence. The DA tossed it because Victor got it via illegal means. People like Stefano Dimera go free to cause more pain and suffering. He can't stand by and watch it anymore. Too many loved ones of his have suffered and he reminds Hope that her family has suffered. Hope understands the frustation and says that Bo and her can fight for changes and they can deal with all this together. They can work everything out. -Bo tells Hope she is a month too late. He says he doesn't want to deal with this right now and that no one is changing his mind. He knows what he needs to do. He opens the door. Hope grabs him and begs him not to do this. Bo coldly looks at her and pushes her off of him. Hope: Why do you have to do this? We have all lost enough. Our family has lost enough. Bo: Hope, just leave me alone and stay out of my way. Hope: You are scaring me. I don't like hearing what I am hearing or seeing that look in your eye. I have never seen that look for as long as I've known you. Please Bo. Stay with me. Please don't this. Don't go down this path. Bo: Hope, please. Hope: Bo... Hope grabs hold of Bo's arms and tries to pull him back into the house. Bo: Hope, just let me go!! Don't fight me!!! Hope holds him tighter and tries to pull him back in. Hope: I am not giving up on you. I won't see you do this. I won't let you. It's not you to be acting and talking like this and it certainly isn't you to go down the road you are going. Please Bo. Please...think of your family. Think about Shawn and Chelsea. Think about Zach. Bo: I have to do this so let me go. Hope: You don't want to do this... Bo: Damnit Hope!!! Just let me go!! Bo throws Hope off of him and she falls to the ground. Hope: You have never... Bo: I am sorry. Hope(crying): You really are lost. I don't...I don't know how to pull you back from this. Bo: Goodbye Hope. Hope (chasing after Bo): Please don't do this. Bo!!! Please!!! Bo gets in the car and drives off as Hope runs after the car. Hope: Oh God. Please God help him. Help all of us. Help me. How do I save him? How do I save him before it's too late? Bo(in his car): I am sorry Hope. I had to do this. After the island and what happened to Chelsea, I just can't watch all of the people I love continue to suffer. Victor is offering me a way to protect all of you and to finally end the reigns of Dimera, Toscano, and all those other cold hearted bastards that make people suffer. Dimera created the island plot and Toscano helped and that is why Victor ordered the drug operation and...why Chelsea got raped the first time. It has to be stopped and I am going to make it stop...for the sake of everyone. No matter what I have to do...even if I have to give you and everyone else I care about up to protect you all...whatever it takes. I do love you Hope (fighting back tears). I do love you. The screen then fades to black and the credits roll. On the next Salem Lives... Hope to Caroline: What are we going to do? Caroline to Hope: You are asking for my help to fix a mess you helped create? Lucas to Austin: Did you hear that? Austin to Lucas: What? Lucas to Austin: Hope may have just given us a way to help bring Carrie back. Abe to Lexie: I want nothing to do with you!! You are a Dimera through and through!!! Stefano to Lexie: I will help you get through this and to get your revenge. Lexie to Stefano: Thank you father. Lexie to Sami: I am going to pay you back you bitch!!! Kayla: That's it!!! I just found Steve.