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beebs

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  1. beebs
    Welcome to the first of a few entries to start off the year for those of you who have been reading along and especially for those of you who haven't (so far). 2014 at my DAYS blog have seen a very exciting year (hopefully more exciting than on TV anyway), filled with intrigue and excitement.

    This first entry for 2014 will be going over one of the central stories I've been working on for 2014, and will continue well into the new year. The saga of Titan and it's big oil partner, EnerNext.

    EnerNext: The Corprate Saga Continues



    Upon Nick Fallon's misadventures in the river in the Winter of 2013 at the hands of Gabi Hernandez, Kate Roberts, and Sami Brady, Nick was presumed dead. However, a nature-loving Brit by the name of Percy rescued Nick from a wet and icy death, taking him to his secluded cottage in the woods north of Salem, where Nick was able to recuperate, as well as plot his revenge against everyone who had wronged him.

    Speaking with Percy at length during those long days in the cabin, Nick discovered a plan by a major energy company, EnerNext, to buy up all the land in the rural area north-west of Salem. The area was found to have a potentially lucrative fossil fuel deposit buried beneath it, mostly in hard-to-access tar sands in the soil. EnerNext needed to purchase Percy's many acres of land to commence their fracking operations. However, as Percy is an environmentalist, and avid owl-watcher, he could simply not sell his land, knowing the owls he found so fascinating would be driven away by the clear-cutting, and the extreme amount of pollution created by EnerNext's operation.



    Nick grew sympathetic to Percy's problems, and, upon blackmailing Kate Roberts into rehiring him at Titan subsidiary MadWorld, promised to assist him in taking down EnerNext, if in exchange, Percy assisted him in taking down Nick's enemies. Luckily for both of them, they shared a few enemies in common.

    After researching the situation, Nick decided to find an ally in the press to help him in his mission. He tracked down Nicole Walker, who worked as an investigative reporter for Titan TV. Nicole, desperate to get a foothold in the news business once again after her disasterous stint working for Eric Brady at St. Luke's, was initially repelled by the story of a local birdwatcher reticent to sell his land to a corporation. She was equally repelled at the thought of dealing with a convicted murderer and all-around sleaze like Nick. But the more she dug into the story, the more the story excited her. Here was a story that could really launch her career back on track. The only missing piece of the puzzle was: Who was pulling the strings to get the funding and the local backing for the project?

    Nick did some digging, and uncovered the very convenient truth, that EnerNext was dealing very closely with a local firm, one that Nick could easily use to his and Percy's advantage: Titan. This was less convenient for Nicole, however. Confronting EnerNext's CEO at the company's press conference held at Horton Town Square. Her barrage of tough questions for Tyler Houston, EnerNext's CEO, ranged from the environmental impact of the fracking operations, to the perception of environmental racism by virtue of the much richer oil deposits near the more affluent east end of Salem. After several minutes of questioning, punctuated by a gathered crowd of hundreds of protesters, eagerly rooting for Nicole as she put Tyler on the hot seat, Tyler finally was rescued by a visibly angered Victor, who erupted from behind the temporary stage built for the conference. Tyler announced at that moment that Titan would be acquiring EnerNext's operation.

    Nicole was stunned and angered, having put the fate of her career in jeopardy now that she realized that the very people she was fighting in this story were her own employers. Nicole confronted Nick about the revelation, realizing almost instantly that Nick knew that Titan and EnerNext were to merge, and didn't say anything to her about it, as it would inevitably lead to Nicole giving up the story. However, Nicole didn't realize that while she was making a fool of herself at the press conference, Nick was covering his bases, and broke into Nicole's office at Titan TV, attempting to steal back the information Nicole had collected about EnerNext during her investigation. What he came away with wasn't what he was looking for, but was much more beneficial to him.

    Upon opening the folder, Nick discovered evidence that Nicole had withheld from Eric regarding the identity of the doctor that created the drug cocktail used by Kristen DiMera to rape then-Father Eric, as well as the makeup of the drug itself. When Nick confronted Nicole with the evidence, Nicole was forced to continue working on the story, consequences be damned. But Nick knew to keep everything under the radar, as he had another ace up his sleeve.

    While digging for information, Nick stumbled upon Sheryl Connors, MadWorld's newest graphic designer, in a dark office with her friend Jordan Ridgeway. However, Nick recognized the two immediately as their true identities, Kaylie Matthews and Siobhan McKinnon: Environmental activists accused of blowing up a bank in Canada during the G8 Protests. Nick knew that they were both where they weren't supposed to be, and that they all had the same goal: bring down EnerNext and Titan. By threatening to out Sheryl and Jordan as their true identities, Nick secured their complicity in his plans.

    However, none of them were aware that Kate Roberts was already a step or two ahead of them. With Kate insanely jealous of Jordan's budding relationship with Rafe Hernandez, Kate had hired a private investigator to find out any information he could about Jordan Ridgeway's past. But, after sneaking into Jordan's apartment and uncovering her collection of fake IDs, it took very little time to find out who Jordan really was.



    Presenting the proof of Jordan's real identity to Roman Brady, Kate hoped to be rid of Jordan once and for all. Not so. Due to a legal loophole, Kaylie (Jordan) and Siobhan (Sheryl) had been acquited for the bank bombing in Canada. Roman knew that the two women were up to something, however, and agreed to help Kate find some answers before it was too late. Roman approached the ISA to bring Kate's daughter, ISA agent Billie Reed back to Salem, under the guise of working alongside her mother at MadWorld Cosmetics, all the while actually protecting her and helping her take down Sheryl and Jordan.

    The next step in Nick's plan would be to break apart all the elements that would allow the fracking project to become a reality. Knowing that Titan TV was a crucial element in Titan/EnerNext's plan to make the community see the benefits of the oil sands project, essentially rendering Titan TV to little more than a source of corporate propaganda, Nick set about ensuring the TV station became an entity independant of Titan. Knowing that Victor's brazen dismissal of FCC regulations, and basic journalistic principles would not sit well with the Titan board, and also recognizing not only would it look better on Titan if they shed the money-losing TV operation, he set about influencing (read: blackmailing) the members of the board that he could control. Namely Kate.

    Using what he knew of Kate's involvement in his attempted drowning, Kate is tasked with influencing the vote against Victor's plans to retain Titan TV, thus giving an independent voice to the news against the EnerNext oil sands project, allowing Nicole to continue investigating and reporting the potential dangers of allowing the project to come to fruition, and breaking apart the Titan empire piece by piece, all under the guise of saving Titan's shareholders money.

    Who stands to gain from Titan's loss of their TV station? And who is giving Nick orders? None other than Stefano DiMera.

    Are Nick's intentions simply to right past wrongs and save Percy's land from destruction at the hands of big oil? Or is there something much more sinister at work?




    Please feel free to comment and to ask questions. And thanks all of you who read my Days of Our Lives every week! Happy 2015!
  2. beebs
    EPISODE 122
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Alex stands, tablet in hand, in the Kiriakis living room. He taps a few spots on his tablet screen before handing his tablet to a waiting Justin, who sits in the easy chair nearby, looking baffled.
     
    ALEX: Mom's decided to follow in Harper's footsteps.
    JUSTIN: I'm hoping you mean that exclusively in the political sense.
     
    Justin studies the electronic edition of the Salem Spectator for a moment, before looking up at his son, stunned by the news.
     
    ALEX: Well...considering her history...it could go either way.
    JUSTIN: We need to tread really carefully here. 
     
    Justin hands back Alex's tablet, deeply contemplative, as Alex places the tablet back in his briefcase, nodding in agreement with his father.
     
    ALEX: Exactly. If she supports EnerNext, and her past becomes tabloid fodder, we could go down in flames with her.
    JUSTIN: Or, on the other hand, we distance ourselves from her, she reacts by campaigning against the oil sands, and she wins...
    ALEX: And the project could be dead in the water as well.
     
    Justin nods, trying in vain to think of a solution.
     
    JUSTIN: (sigh) There's only one way to deal with it. And it's not one I'm a big fan of. We have to wait for her to make the first move.
     
    Alex sighs, equally frustrated by the spot they now find themselves in.
     
    ---
     

    EJ follows an enraged Sonny into the Brady Pub, where he puts a hand on Sonny's shoulder, forcing him to turn to face him.
     
    SONNY: What do you want, EJ?
     
    EJ leans in closer to Sonny, speaking softly so as not to catch the attention of the rest of the pub.
     
    EJ: Listen, you and I need to have a serious chat about what's going on with Gabi.
    SONNY: Oh, you mean, you want to convince me that putting a deadly weapon in an apartment with a toddler is a smart idea? I don't think so.
    EJ: Sonny, stop. Okay? I know you're angry about this. Trust me, I wasn't too keen on coming by with that gun, myself. But you have to understand exactly what's happening and why I'm so worried about Gabi.
     
    Sonny looks at EJ, unconvinced, but willing to listen. Barely.
     
    SONNY: Alright, I'll bite. But this better be the best explanation you've ever given anyone, so help me.
     
    EJ nods solemnly, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole, Eric, Chloe and Daniel stand in the office of the Justice of the Peace, stunned by the sudden arrival of Marlena and Sami at the conclusion of Eric and Nicole's wedding.
     
    ERIC: Mom! Sami, what are you guys doing here?
     
    Sami storms into the room towards Eric. Nicole steps in to ward off Sami from Eric.
     
    SAMI: Stopping you from making the biggest mistake of your life.
    NICOLE: Well, you're too late.
     
    Nicole stares down Sami for a moment, before looking Marlena's way, smiling defiantly at both of them.
     
    NICOLE: Eric and I are already married.
     
    Nicole takes Eric's hand, and attempts to walk him out of the office, but Sami stops him, as Marlena advances to try to intervene as well.
     
    NICOLE: So if you'll excuse us--
    MARLENA: Oh no you won't! 
     
    Marlena attempts to intimidate Nicole as well, staring at her intensely before turning to Daniel and Chloe.
     
    MARLENA: Daniel. Chloe. Would you excuse us a moment?
     
    Chloe and Daniel look at each other, gravely concerned for what's to come, before Daniel puts his hand on the small of Chloe's back, guiding her to the door.

    Justice of the Peace Watkins surveys the situation and addresses Marlena as well.
     
    JP WATKINS: I'll...uh...I'll see myself out as well.
    MARLENA: Thank you.
     
    Marlena turns back toward Eric and Nicole.
     
    MARLENA: I think it's time, we all had a little talk.
     
    Nicole looks exasperated, looking at Eric to see a similarly frustrated expression on his face.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Sonny and EJ sit down at a booth at the Brady Pub. Both with coffees in hand, they look at each other solemnly.
     
    SONNY: Well? I'm waiting.
     
    EJ sips his coffee, before looking at Sonny, keeping his voice low so as not to alarm anyone.
     
    EJ: Look, Sonny...all I can say is that Gabi has been trying so hard to get Nick out of everyone's life before he goes too far, and at every turn he's evaded us so far. 
    SONNY: But then why does that mean you have to go to such extreme lengths to get rid of him?
    EJ: Sonny, come on. This is Nick Fallon we're talking about. He's a convicted murderer, and kindapper. He tried to rape Gabi, and tried to manipulate her into leaving the state with him, just so he could keep her daughter away from you and Will. We know what he's capable of, and we know what he can do to all of us if we don't deal with him exactly the right way.
     
    Sonny leans in, emphatically pointing at EJ as he responds sternly.
     
    SONNY: That does NOT mean you bring a gun into our home. I know full well what Nick is capable of. Quite frankly, he terrifies me. But I know that that gun is only going to escalate things. And someone's gonna end up hurt...or dead.
    EJ: I agree. But where you and I differ, Sonny...is that I see it as an inevitability, whether or not Gabi has a weapon at her disposal. The difference being that, unarmed, there's a far greater chance that the person who may be killed is Gabi, or Will...or yourself. And I can't allow that to happen.
     
    Sonny looks at EJ, then looks down into his cup of coffee, deep in contemplation.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole folds her arms, as the door to the Justice of the Peace's office shuts, leaving only Marlena, Sami, Eric and Nicole inside.
     
    NICOLE: Well, if you're going to try to get me to leave, you can save your breath. I'm not going anywhere.
    SAMI: But God knows I wish you would.
     
    Nicole shoots a look at Sami, snapping back at her snarky remark.
     
    NICOLE: Well, too bad, Sami. I'm his wife now.
    SAMI: I swear to God, Nicole, if I had legal grounds to, I'd be firing you so fast right now.
    NICOLE: But you can't. And I'd like to see you try to make that hold up in court--
     
    Eric steps in, cutting Nicole and Sami's argument off.
     
    ERIC: ...Okay, enough. Both of you. Listen, I don't know how the two of you found out about this wedding, but we weren't doing this to pull one over on you.
    MARLENA: Well, you could have fooled me. Eric, I know you're hurting over what happened with Kristen, and I know you feel some kind of gratitude toward Nicole for trying to track down Dr. Chyka, but to sneak around behind everyone's back and MARRY her?
    ERIC: Mom, I am in love with her. Whether you and Sami believe it or not. And we were going to tell you--
    SAMI: Oh, when?
    ERIC: As soon as we figured out the best way. We were going to...take our time, let things settle down with dad, and...hopefully give you some time to start seeing Nicole in a different light.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes, laughing at the thought of forgiving Nicole. Eric ignores his sister's petulence and continues.
     
    ERIC: And when the time was right, we were going to let you know, and plan a big wedding for the family. But we wanted the time to allow you to accept our relationship first.
    MARLENA: So to do that, you had to marry first? You couldn't wait for us to accept her and THEN marry?
    ERIC: Mom, I just...I didn't want to wait.
    SAMI: No, Nicole didn't want to wait. Because, like usual, Nicole rushes into things when she's up to something.
     
    Sami steps in closer to Nicole, making her squirm.
     
    SAMI: I know you've been cozying up to Nick and Percy the Greetings guy for the EnerNext story, but we all know Nick never does anything out of the goodness of his heart...so, tell us, Nicole...what's he got on you that's got you so nervous? Hm?
     
    Nicole glares at Sami, visibly uncomfortable.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome shuts the door to the motel room, a laptop bag in his hand, which he sets down on the desk for Sheryl.
     
    JEROME: Okay. I pulled some strings and got you a basic laptop so you can get what you need done while you're out here.
     
    Sheryl steps over to the desk, arms folded. She looks down as Jerome opens the screen, and plugs the USB stick into the laptop.
     
    SHERYL: Great. So this has everything I need?
    JEROME: I recorded the interview with my grandmother, took a copy of her resumé, and did a search on her professional profile. I think that we've got enough here that you'd be able to fool the people at University Hospital pretty easily into thinking you're Crystal.
    SHERYL: Well...it's not like they know her.
    JEROME: Exactly. Valerie's the only one who's spoken to her, and you'll just have to work on Jordan until you're able to get her alone and get her out of there, and then you can get out of town.
     
    Sheryl smirks, putting a hand on Jerome's shoulder.
     
    SHERYL: You do think of everything, don't you?
    JEROME: I try.
    SHERYL: Just one thing you didn't think of.
     
    Jerome turns back toward Sheryl, confused.
     
    JEROME: What's that?
    SHERYL: What we're gonna do about Billie Reed. She's the only one who knows it's me, and not Nick that put that virus on the server. If we don't take her out somehow, the entire plan falls apart.
     
    Jerome looks back at the laptop screen, sighing under his breath, as he thinks about what to do about Billie.
     
    ---
     

    Justin packs up to head off for the office, as Alex finishes his cup of coffee, still deep in thought about how to deal with his mother's campaign for governor, and the server breach at Titan, when Henderson walks into the room, with Tyler in tow.
     
    HENDERSON: Good morning, gentlemen. A Mr. Houston to see you.
    JUSTIN: Thanks, Henderson, have him come in.
     
    Henderson stands back to allow Tyler to come in, before exiting the room.
     
    TYLER: Justin! Alex! I'm glad I caught you before you headed in for the day. I think we need to have a bit of a talk.
    ALEX: Us? I thought we were having an emergency board meeting today?
    TYLER: We are. And it's an all-departments one so you'll be expected to join us, Alex. But the three of us are going to have to come up with an action plan beforehand.
     
    Justin turns to look at Tyler, confused.
     
    JUSTIN: Action plan? For what?
    TYLER: For how exactly we're going to make sure Nick Fallon doesn't singlehandedly torpedo this entire company.
     
    Alex and Justin look at each other, more baffled than ever. Tyler looks at both of them with deadly seriousness.
     
    ---
  3. beebs
    EPISODE 135
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Abigail sits next to Jerome, as they drive down the road toward the DiMera Tower. Abigail seems on edge, anticipating what could be on Nick's flash drive. Jerome senses Abby's tension and looks over at her, flashing a smile that helps comfort her.
     
    JEROME: I will say this is nothing like any first date I've ever been on.
     
    Abby laughs, looking over and smiling at Jerome as he oscillates his gaze between Abby and the road ahead.
     
    ABBY: Yeah, it's...pretty unusual, I'll admit.
    JEROME: Well, look, I'll help you however you need. Sounds like this is pretty important so...
    ABBY: I think it is. 
     
    Abby looks down at the flash drive in her hand, she looks at it, curiously.
     
    ABBY: I think whatever's on this drive...could change a lot of lives.
     
    ---
     

    Nick sits confidently at the conference table in the Titan board room, sitting next to Percy. A small stack of letter-sized envelopes lay on the table in front of them, as he watches the other board members mill about, conversing solemnly in their seats.
     

    Billie Reed, for one, is especially discomforted by Nick Fallon's relaxed air, knowing what the meeting has in store. She looks over at Kate, who looks unusually at ease, given the circumstance. Kate has her game face on, something her son, Lucas, does not share. He looks back at Billie, trying to hide his worry.
     

    John Black walks in, a similarly solemn expression on his face, as he silently catches Billie's eye. She gives him a worried look, which John mirrors, as he sits down across from her and her family members at the table. He nods over to an equally-worried Justin, who sits next to him.
     

    Eventually, realizing the entire board is present, Tyler finally calls the meeting to order.
     
    TYLER: I, umm...I think we have everyone. So...let's call the meeting to order.
     
    The board members settle in their seats, as Tyler looks around the room a moment, waiting to begin.
     
    TYLER: We...ummm...we're calling the meeting today due to a series of rather...unfortunate events that have occurred in the preceding few days which are hitting our business rather hard.
     
    Tyler takes a moment, looking over at Justin, then Nick, before turning back to the rest of the board, a certain sadness in his voice.
     
    TYLER: Ah...(clears throat) first off, our CEO, Victor Kiriakis has unfortunately suffered a heart attack, and is currently in an induced coma at University Hospital while he recovers from surgery. In the meantime, Justin Kiriakis and myself are acting as interim co-CEOs, as per Victor's request, outlined on Page 4 of the presentations before all of you. 
     
    As Tyler speaks, Kate looks over, glaring at Nick, who winks back at her from across the conference table. Kate rolls her eyes at Nick's smug demeanour and cockiness. She leans over toward Lucas as he whispers snidely to her.
     
    LUCAS: Imagine how good it would feel to smack that irritating smirk off Nick's face?
    KATE: I know the feeling. But just remember how good it'll feel to watch him do it all by himself.
     
    Lucas sighs, having doubts about Kate's strategy.
     
    LUCAS: I hope to God you're right, Mom.
    KATE: I always am.
     
    Tyler carries on with his address to the board, ignoring Kate and Lucas' asides.
     
    TYLER: Additionally, we've fended off an attack to our internal servers. As some of you may have heard. Last night, Nick Fallon prevented a complete and total destruction of our company's mainframe server, and cloud server, preventing the loss of millions of important documents and files, not to mention saving this company. I think we owe him a debt of gratitude.
     
    Justin looks over at Nick, unsure if he shares Tyler's sentiment. Kate, Billie, and Lucas all look at each other, equally unimpressed. John stares ahead, giving his best poker face the entire time.
     
    TYLER: I hear that Nick has a few words for us, and I would like to give him the opportunity to speak to you all. Without further ado, Nick Fallon.
     
    Nick gets up immediately, confidently smiling at the board, who look on with a mix of indifference and, in some cases, dread.
     
    NICK: Thank you. I have to say that...I appreciate all of your efforts. I thank each and every one of you for inviting me here today, and giving me the floor, even if it's just for a few moments. If you'd indulge me, I would like to use this moment to do something very unusual for someone in my position.
     
    Kate looks over at Billie, resting her head on her hand as she leans on the armrest of her chair.
     
    KATE: Here we go.
     
    Nick looks around the room, and grabs the stack of envelopes from the conference table. He holds them tightly in his hands, as he smiles broadly, and speaks earnestly and professionally, looking each board member squarely in the eyes as he looks around the room from his place at the table.
     
    NICK: I would like to put forth a motion. And before you respond to that motion...I would like to make my case for it. I think, once you hear everything I have to say...you'll find it all...extremely compelling.
     
    Nick holds the envelopes in one hand, gently tapping them against his other hand as he carefully studies the faces of everyone in the room.
     
    He smiles again before finally speaking.
     
    NICK: I am proposing making a change. To appoint myself, with the close, guiding assistance of longtime professional, and trusted colleague, Tyler Houston, as new permanent CEO of Titan Industries.
     
    The room stirs, incredulous at Nick's outrageous manoevre. Kate tries in vain to hold in her amusement at the spectacle Nick is making of himself, while Lucas and Billie look her way, more concerned. 
     
    Billie looks over at a frustrated Justin, looking his way with a defeated look.
     
    Nick relishes the reaction he's getting. Looking around the room with his trademark smirk while watching everyone react.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Adrienne walks through Horton Town Square, shopping bags in hand as she races through to get back to her car.
     
    ADRIENNE: Gotta get this home before the boys get back.
     
    Stopping a moment before she leaves the square, Adrienne heads to the bench by Tom & Alice's tree, and lays her bags down, digging through her bag to find her car keys.
     
    ADRIENNE: You can't get into your car with only mind power, Adrienne. They haven't invented that yet.
     
    Finally digging her keys out, she grabs her bags and quickly turns to dart out of the square.
     
    ADRIENNE: Got 'em.
     
    As Adrienne turns, she runs immediately into a woman who's to her left. Not realizing who it is, Adrienne begins to apologize profusely before she stops dead in her tracks.
     
    ADRIENNE: Oh my God, I'm so sorry, I...
     
    Adrienne looks up, realizing the person standing before her is very familiar.
     
    ADRIENNE: Anjelica.
     

    Anjelica flashes a quick smile, looking ever the professional as her insincerity drips out of every word she speaks.
     
    ANJELICA: Well! Adrienne! Isn't it lovely bumping into each other like this?
     
    Adrienne looks on at Anjelica, stunned and visibly displeased.
     
    ---
     
    Abby unlocks the door to Nicole's office at WXIR, letting herself and Jerome in. Jerome turns on the light as Abby fumbles with her keys, trying to put them in her purse.
     
    Closing the door behind them, Abby steps over to the computer and moves the mouse, waking the computer from its sleep. She plugs the flash drive in and waits impatiently, as she sits down in Nicole's office chair, Jerome standing over her.
     
    ABBY: And now we wait.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler stands up at the conference table, as the rest of the room still reacts to Nick's motion. Holding up his arms, Tyler attempts to calm the room down, calling out over the din.
     
    TYLER: Excuse me, everybody! I need order, please. 
     
    After a moment the room quiets down again, prompting Tyler to continue.
     
    TYLER: Look, I know what Mr. Fallon has suggested is...highly unorthodox...to say the least, but...well, let's hear him out.
     
    Tyler finishes his sentence, a grave feeling in him that expresses itself plainly in his voice. Tyler sits down, clearly dreading what's to come, as Nick smiles and nods graciously at Tyler.
     
    NICK: Thank you, Mr. Houston. So...I expected that...eruption. To put it mildly. However, I'm sure a lot of you don't know quite why this company is so important to me....and why this job is so important to me.
     
    Nick steps out from behind the table, and begins to pace the room, starting by pacing behind the head of the table, where Tyler and Justin are seated beside him. Tyler refuses to turn to watch Nick, needing to stare straight ahead as Nick carries on. Justin looks around the room, while leaning his chair to ensure he can see Nick as well.
     
    NICK: You see, a lot of why we're all here today is down to a very important project started by me many years ago. Titan's alternative fuels project, was patented by myself. Unfortunately, since being acquired by Titan, the project has laid dormant while all of you pour billions of dollars you do not have down the drain pursuing a fossil fuels project that will never see the light of day.
     
    Nick stops behind Percy's seat at the table. He turns to look out at the room.
     
    NICK: And why is that?
     
    Nick puts his hands squarely on Percy's shoulders, causing Percy to startle slightly.
     
    NICK: This man. Percy Ruggles. Surely you all remember Percy. The lone holdout of your plan to devastate the local agriculture and air quality in your attempts to filter tar from the ground by the Salem River? 
     
    Nick lets go of Percy's shoulders, holding his arms out to pose a question to the group.
     
    NICK: Why do that when you have a completely workable project right here that is 100% sustainable? Why waste millions manipulating politicians to force people from their homes...when you have everything you need to supply every person in Salem with all the power and energy they need with my patent?
     
    Nick laughs as the group remains dead silent. He nods, knowing they remain unmoved.
     
    NICK: That's what I figured. Your egos don't want to believe you could be wrong about this. That you squandered all this potential because you wanted to own the rights to this and never use it. Just so you wouldn't have to deal with the threat. Well that ends today.
     
    Justin, fed up of Nick's grandstanding, gets up from his seat and holds a hand up to Nick, trying to convince him to stop.
     
    JUSTIN: Nick, that's enough! Now--
    NICK: No! No, Justin. It's not. 
     
    Nick steps back away from Justin, laughing as headache begins anew. Nick's vision blurs as a piercing pain shoots through him once again, Nick stops a moment before continuing his response.
     
    JUSTIN: Nick, are you okay?
    NICK: I'm fine....woah, I am SO fine. Better than any of you will be in a few minutes. Believe me.
    TYLER: Nick, I think we may have...had enough now.
     
    Nick laughs as Tyler awkwardly tries to get Nick to stop his raving.
     
    NICK: (laughs) You....(laughs) you are the last person who should be trying to get me to stop right now, Tyler. And you know it.
     
    Nick breathes in, leaning over, and looking straight into Tyler's eyes with a crazed, laser-focused intensity.
     
    NICK: Besides, the fun is just about to start.
     
    Billie squirms as Nick gathers himself together and walks over to his seat at the conference table. He still holds the stack of envelopes, but also opens his laptop bag, pulling out a single manila envelope, which he drops in the middle of the table. The entire group remains stone silent as they watch Nick drop the envelope down.
     
    NICK: You see, I have been keeping tight surveillance over eeeeevery one of you here at the Titan HQ these last few months....and you know what? You people are some pieces of work. Not a single honest thought or word between any of you. You know that?
     
    Nick cackles as he points at the envelope in the middle of the table.
     
    NICK: THIS....this is the fact sheet detailing every falsehood contained in your sham of a proposal for the EnerNext oil sands. Every half-truth, every outright lie, where it came from, and the money trail that led to it being printed, and propagated throughout the state, and beyond. 
     
    Nick looks around the room, feeling oh-so-satisfied as he surveys the ghost-white expressionless faces of the Titan board members.
     
    NICK: And guess who has all this info? WXIR! The same station you geniuses were so damn ready to rid yourselves of so you could free up capital to invest in this big SCAM!
     
    Nick smiles, seriously amused by the situation, as Justin looks over, trying not to panic, at an unsurprised Kate. John looks over at Billie, then back at Kate, still maintaining a poker face, but a tinge of concern is there if you look closer. Tyler looks down, unable to hide his worry.
     
    ***
     
    As Nick's last words are spoken, we see Abby and Jerome at Nicole's computer, as the document from Nick's flash drive appears on the screen. 
     
    NICK: (voiceover) And very soon everyone in Salem, and beyond is going to know the truth about what you've all done.
     
    The title appears in bold on the screen:
     
    EnerNext & Titan: Fraudulent Arguments in Environmental Impact Study & Associated Payoffs
     
    Abby draws herself up, stunned by the headline alone, as Jerome looks at the screen, knowing the impact this has on his and Sheryl's own aims.
     
    ABBY: I think I need to call Nicole.
     
    Abby grabs her phone from her purse and frantically makes a call to Jerome, as Jerome looks intensely at the screen, certain that he needs to read more, and now.
     
    ---
  4. beebs
    EPISODE 137
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Gabi paces in her apartment, holding the modelling contract in her hand, as she debates whether or not to sign. She turns to Arianna, who sits in her crib, playing, and rests on the ledge of it. She talks to her.
     
    GABI: Should I even do this?  Sami and Kate say that playing along is the best way to keep Nick in line. But I don't want you to get hurt. And I don't know if playing along with Nick any more than I have is even safe.
     
    Gabi sighs as her phone's text tone goes off. Looking over at the desk where the phone sits, Gabi gets up from the side of the crib and walks over, looking at the phone.
     
    The text is from Nick:
     
    hey. U avail 2nite? meet me @ TBD 4 dinner. 8pm xx
     
    Gabi sighs, putting down the phone, as she debates how to reply.
     
    ---
     

    Eric holds the documents proving Kristen used Dr. Chyka's formula to drug him in his hands, as he stands by the door of his hotel room.
     
    Nicole looks at him, a deep fear in her eyes as Eric looks up at her, stunned. Slowly, Eric begins to smile widely.
     
    ERIC: Oh my God.
     
    Nicole responds timidly, almost stuttering her meek reply.
     
    NICOLE: Wh...wh..w...what is it?
    ERIC: It's a miracle. Nicole, It's...amazing. I finally have the proof.
     
    Nicole looks at an excited Eric, still unsure of whether to be excited or scared.
     
    ---
     

    Nick steps to the head of the conference table at the front of the Titan board room. He looks around as he finishes his toxic presentation making his case for why he should be named CEO of Titan.
     
    NICK: ...In fact, my messenger should be presenting Ms. Walker with the evidence I have against her right now. It's enough to destroy her brand new marriage to Eric Brady.
     
    Lucas, Billie, Kate, Justin, and particularly John, all look on in surprise at the news. Nick pretends to have accidentally spilled the beans, holding his hand coyly over his mouth.
     
    NICK: Oops! I wasn't supposed to say anything about that either. (laughs) My bad.
     
    Nick leans against the edge of the conference table, as he looks around the room with an over-confident demeanour. The others look on, with Kate, in particular, scowling his way.
     
    NICK: So...I guess that tells you everything you need to know to make your decision, folks. What say you?
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Eric looks up at Nicole, thrilled by the news he's just received by the courier. Nicole looks on, still nervous, as she steps forward to look at the papers.
     
    NICOLE: Can I...Can I see that for a moment?
    ERIC: Yeah! Sure!
     
    Nicole takes the documents and looks them over, knowing exactly who sent them to Eric. She flips through them to check the contents of every page, almost frantically. Eric senses Nicole's tension and puts a hand on her shoulder.
     
    ERIC: You alright? You don't seem...thrilled by this.
    NICOLE: I'm just...I feel like there's some kind of catch. Like...who had these all this time?
     
    Eric turns Nicole around and kisses her quickly on the lips, leaving Nicole speechless.
     
    ERIC: Nicole. I know why you're worried.
    NICOLE: You do?
    ERIC: Yeah. You're worried that now that I have the evidence that Dr. Chyka drugged me, that I'm going to abandon you for the priesthood.
     
    Nicole looks away, giving a shrug and a cockeyed smile.
     
    NICOLE: Well, I...I can't say I'd be surprised if you did. 
     
    Eric begins to laugh as Nicole reaches out to put her hands on Eric's shoulders, she responds emphatically.
     
    NICOLE: Eric, the priesthood meant SO MUCH to you. Never in a million years would I think I could compete with that...dedication you had to your faith, your vocation--
     
    Eric puts his finger up to Nicole's lips, and Nicole stops herself midsentence.
     
    He sighs, as he looks down momentarily, thinking for a second about what to say to Nicole.
     
    ERIC: Nicole...my dedication and my faith are in you now. I can see that...this was planned all along. I love you, and no matter what happens now that we have this evidence...I made a promise to you today. And I intend to keep it. We are gonna take every step of this journey together. Okay?
     
    Nicole begins to cry, hearing Eric's reassuring words. She throws her arms around Eric and kisses him deeply to show her gratitude to him.
    However, under the chest of drawers by the door of the hotel room, one of the pages Eric received in the package lies, unchecked, hidden just out of both Eric and Nicole's view.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi looks down at her phone, looking at the text message Nick sent her. She sighs before replying to him.
     
    sure, see u then xx
     
    Hitting 'send', Gabi puts her phone down on the table, sighing heavily. 
     
    GABI: Not exactly how I wanted to spend the evening. But...gotta stick to plan.
     
    Looking at the contracts on the desk, Gabi tenses for a moment, knowing she will have to make the decision of whether or not to sign the contract, as she, Sami, and Kate had discussed.
     
    GABI: Speaking of 'plans'. 
     
    Gabi throws her hands up and steps back over to the table, making a call to Sami.
     
    GABI: (into phone) Hey, Sami. I'm ready to sign....yeah, let's get this over with.
     
    ---
     
    Justin, John, and Tyler all step onto the elevator at Titan, heading down to the lobby to leave after the board meeting. All three men have sombre expressions on their faces, and remain quiet as the doors shut.
     
    After a moment of awkward silence, Justin finally breaks it.
     
    JUSTIN: I trust we have a plan to deal with this.
     
    Tyler turns to Justin, an unwavering resolve clear in his reply.
     
    TYLER: You just leave this to me. If this press conference goes how I hope...he'll be toast by sunset.
     
    John immediately cuts in, looking stoically in Tyler's direction, causing both Tyler and Justin to turn suddenly in John's direction.
     
    JOHN: Don't be so sure about that. If I'm right about him, Nick Fallon could be very dangerous to all of us.
     
    Tyler and Justin stay focused on John, a grave concern on both their faces.
     
    ---
     
    Billie, Kate, and Lucas stay behind in the board room at Titan, Billie and Lucas looking dejected, while Kate packs up her things, looking unworried. Billie seems on edge, almost slamming her files and papers into her bag, which doesn't go unnotcied by Kate.
     
    KATE: You know, if you slam those into that bag any harder, you'll tear a hole in the bottom.
    BILLIE: Well, I'm due to get a new one anyway. You know, I can't believe this, Mom. This is a complete disaster.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes, as she continues to get her things organized in a blasé manner.
     
    KATE: You are being so melodramatic right now. 
    BILLIE: I think I have a right to be. You just exposed all of us to a serial blackmailer, and you let him win.
    LUCAS: Billie's right, Mom. He knows we we were onto him, and he knows all about our plans, which, while Sheryl and Jordan are still out there, means we're all in danger.
     
    Kate, finally exasperated with her children's worries, stops putting her things away and turns toward Billie and Lucas, looking at them sternly as she puts a hand on her hip.
     
    KATE: Okay. Enough. You are both acting like scared children right now, and it's for nothing.
     
    Lucas laughs sarcastically, irritated by Kate's dismissive attitude.
     
    LUCAS: I wouldn't call this nothing, Mom. Nick's got enough on everyone to turn all their votes in his favour when he has ZERO experience running so much as a popsicle stand. That means he's got enough to sink ALL of us, and YOU know it.
    KATE: Maybe he does. Hell, Nick could have enough information to put the Pentagon to shame. But that doesn't mean he's going to get away with it.
    BILLIE: And how do you know that?
     
    Kate turns her head to look straight at Billie. She looks at her daughter with a cocky smile.
     
    KATE: Because nobody pisses off that many Kiriakises that quickly without retalliation. He may think that with Brady dead and Victor in a coma that the family's been defanged, but I have consorted with these people longer than that child has been alive, and I can tell you now...he's overdue to be knocked down a peg or two.
     
    Lucas and Billie look at each other, unsure whether to believe Kate or not. Lucas folds his arms and looks Kate's way skeptically.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica stands in the DiMera living room, organizing files on her tablet, as the door opens. She looks over to see Nick walking in. She spots a confident expression in his eyes and sets her tablet down on the desk.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, you certainly have a spring in your step.
    NICK: You could say that.
    ANJELICA: I suppose this means it's good news.
    NICK: You could say that as well. Because as of about twenty minutes ago, you are looking at the new CEO of Titan Industries.
     
    Anjelica's face lights up at the news, and she begins to chuckle to herself gleefully.
     
    ---
  5. beebs

    DAYS #1 + intro

    By beebs,

    So yes, I'm gonna try to do this. I'm going to start from the events after Valentine's Day's episode, and try to build the story off from there. Hopefully I don't get too confused as I go, so bear with me! Any feedback would be marvelous! I recognize this isn't overly enthralling (or that different from what's actually going on right now, but indulge me, I'm kind of zooming through some of the current stories to break off from what's happening onscreen).

    Hope you enjoy!

    *** *** ***

    Celebrating JJ's verdict, the Hortons gather at the family home. Jennifer receives a call from Liam, wondering if she's available tonight for an impromptu date. Jennifer informs him of JJ's verdict, and invites him to join the party.

    Upon Liam's arrival, JJ makes another effort to dissuade Liam from pursuing Jennifer. Jennifer overhears JJ and pulls him aside, telling him that her personal life is not his to interfere in, and that he should focus on celebrating his victory. JJ insists that there is something Jennifer needs to know before she pursues anything with Daniel, but Jennifer doesn't want to hear it, and returns to Liam's side.

    Abigail asks JJ what he thinks he's doing. JJ is tight-lipped, and insists that it's nothing. Abigail isn't so sure, though she's preoccupied with her own troubles with EJ.

    After the party ends, Liam and Jennifer kiss goodnight. JJ catches the kiss from the living room entrance and is troubled by it. Jennifer turns after closing the door and tells JJ immediately that she doesn't want to hear it. JJ insists he wasn't going to say anything against Liam, but that he wants to tell Jennifer something about Daniel. Jennifer cuts him off, saying that she isn't going to talk to JJ about her personal life, and really doesn't want to talk about Daniel. Instead, she wants to congratulate JJ on not going to prison, and that she's proud of him for finally being the sweet, honest son she used to know. She hugs him goodnight and goes to bed.

    ---

    Gabi runs into Nick again at the town square. They have a long chat, and Gabi is left believing that Nick is well and truly in the process of changing. Near the end of the chat, Nick asks to hold baby Ari. Gabi agrees, and Nick holds the baby, calling her "his little baby girl". It is at this moment that Sonny and Will arrive at town square hand in hand to share the news with Gabi of their engagement, and they stand in horror as they see Ari in Nick's arms.

    Gabi attempts to allay Sonny and Will's fears, but Will will have none of it, demanding that Nick hand him his daughter. Nick asks Will to calm down and hands him the baby, while Gabi attempts to ease the tension by insisting that everything was under control and that Nick just wanted to hold the baby for a moment. Sonny is having none of it, and instructs Nick to back off. Nick laughs at Sonny's demands, asking if he'd forgotten that Gabi also has a say as Ari's mother. Nick attempts to lay a guilt trip on Will and Sonny, wondering why Gabi's point of view is never considered in anything, before backing away and leaving to "take care of some business".

    Will and Sonny rip into Gabi upon their arrival at their apartment, wondering what she's thinking. Gabi insists that she believes Nick is making a positive change, and thinks that the best thing they can do is to be nice to Nick so that he doesn't press charges. Sonny, unaware that Nick called Sami, Gabi, and Kate out on their attempts to dump him in the river, demands clarification. Once Gabi fills him and Will in on the situation, Will tells Sonny that he actually sees Gabi's point of view. Sonny is stupefied by Will's admission, and insists that Nick cannot use Ari as a tool of blackmail.

    ---

    Marlena is working late at the hospital, and is visited by Abe in her office. After warm greetings, Marlena invites Abe to have a seat. Abe insists he can't stay too long as he needs to get back to JJ's party at the Hortons', but has news from John. Marlena is slightly dubious, but indulges Abe.

    Abe informs Marlena that John has been asked by the ISA to resume working for them, and he, Shane, and Bo are working on a major case together. Marlena wishes to know more, but Abe cannot say. Abe does tell Marlena, however, that the case could change everyone's lives forever. He presents Marlena with a letter from John that he'd been asked to give her in person. Abe then leaves Marlena's office and heads for the Hortons.

    Marlena ponders the letter momentarily before opening it. John expresses in his letter his continued love for Marlena, and his regrets at how he handled their differences over Kristen. Though he is still hurt by Marlena's lack of faith in him, he recognizes that it was all part of Kristen's plans, and that in due time, he hopes they can mend their relationship. The letter brings a smile to Marlena's face.

    ---

    Theresa steps inside Daniel's apartment and attempts to talk to Daniel about what happened the night she overdosed. Daniel is completely uninterested in having this conversation, but Theresa is insistent. Knowing that if JJ is allowed to go home that he will tell Jennifer what really happened the night of her overdose, she throws herself at Daniel in a last-ditch effort, but is rebuffed.

    Daniel then throws Theresa out of his apartment. Theresa, seeing all her leverage and her plans falling apart around her ears, heads to Club TBD for a drink (or six). Theresa's fed up of perpetuating her charade, and her frustration over not being able to bed Daniel (or anyone else) is starting to get to her. She sits down, deep in thought, at the bar, and demands a drink from T. T tries to make conversation with her, thinking Theresa's pretty cute, but is immediately turned down. As T walks away, Theresa looks further down the bar and sees a contemplative Brady sitting at the opposite end of the bar. Theresa makes her way over to him, and strikes up a conversation with him.

    Brady is his typical guarded self, replacing honest emotions with pointed snarky remarks. Theresa is unfazed, and dishes it right back. Brady figures out that Daniel has rejected Theresa, and laughs at her naivete in thinking Daniel would go for her. Theresa responds by ordering another drink.

    After a few more drinks, Theresa realizes she needs to go home, and Brady offers to walk her home. Upon arriving at Theresa's apartment, she stumbles upon getting out of the elevator, and when Brady reaches to catch her, they kiss sloppily, and then desire takes over. Theresa opens the door to her apartment, and Brady follows her in.

    ---
  6. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 10
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Sami won't take no for an answer, and continues to prod Kate for information on Jordan.

    SAMI: Come on, Kate. You can't leave me in the dark about this.
    KATE: Ohh yes I can. In fact, I consider it my responsibility to keep you in the dark about this, because until this information is public, I cannot run the risk of you shooting your mouth off to anyone in the heat of the moment...
    SAMI: Hey--
    KATE: ...Which you are rather infamous for, even you will admit.

    Sami glares at Kate, not willing to admit Kate's right, but knowing she probably is. Roman knocks on Kate's door at this moment, pushing open the door, which is already slightly ajar.

    ROMAN: You don't have a secretary anymore?
    KATE: Don't ask.

    Roman raises his hands as he steps in.

    ROMAN: I won't. Hey Sami.

    Sami hesitates to leave. Kate motions her to the door. Sami knows Kate won't talk for now, and grabs her things to leave Kate's office.

    SAMI: Fine, Kate. But remember something. I was married to Rafe. And despite what you might think, I want him to be happy more than anything else. If you change your mind, call me.

    Sami walks out, putting her hand on her dad's shoulder as she steps out. Roman closes the door behind her.

    ROMAN: Alright, Kate. What's this all about? And it better be good.

    ---

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4


    ---

    Jennifer stands in the doorway of Abby's makeshift office, looking at Abby, who is leaning against the closet door. Jenn already feels like something's going on. Little does she realize EJ is hiding in the closet.

    JENNIFER: That's an awfully wide grin for someone who's been so moody lately.
    ABBY: Oh my GOSH, Mom. Can you believe it? They gave me my own little office so I could work on the digitization project in peace!

    Abby runs over to Jennifer and gives her a happy hug. Mid-hug, you can see Abby's eyes pop out of her head, worried about her mother's presence, unsure how to allay her suspicion (which, by the look on Jenn's face, it hasn't.)

    Once they separate from the hug, Jenn pulls the papers from her bag, and looks around the room, hoping to find some sort of clue as to what's going on.

    JENNIFER: Uh...yeah. Great, honey. Uhmmm...look. Sweetheart, Anne brought these for you. Some sort of thing about your new assignment. I think it's the confirmation of your usage of the records room as office space or something.

    Abby takes the papers and looks them over hastily, grabbing a pen from her desk.

    ABBY: Oh, great.

    As Abby's about to sign, Jenn is confused that Abby isn't even really looking it over.

    JENNIFER: Abigail, are you going to read that over first?
    ABBY: What, mom? I believe you.
    JENNIFER: Yeah, but I taught you better than to sign something without reading it over first. Especially something from Anne Milbauer.

    Jennifer pauses, scans the room again quickly. Abby is on pins and needles, hoping Jenn doesn't think to look in the closet.

    JENNIFER: You want me to leave, don't you?
    ABBY: NO! Mom I don't, I just...I have a lot of work to get to.
    JENNIFER: Yeah. Right. So why don't I believe you?

    Abby looks incredibly uncomfortable now, unsure how to respond.

    ---

    Percy stands in the doorway of his cottage in the woods. He is in a passionate debate with a 30-something man in a suit. The man represents a real estate company and Percy is enraged by his presence.

    PERCY: I have resided at this abode for many a year, and purchased it with the express intent of leaving it to my grandchildren, so they may learn to enjoy the wildlife as I have. There is no question of sale for any price.
    AGENT: Uh...but...sir. I mean, you'd be ....you'd be a fool to turn down a million bucks for a place like this...I mean...it's....not exactly the Ritz-Carlton.
    PERCY: Good sir. If I have designs on emulating the Ritz-Carlton, one would assume I would take a somewhat more urban surrounding, no?

    The estate agent looks back at Percy, completely dumfounded.

    AGENT: $1 Million. Final offer.
    PERCY: I would tell you what you could do with your million dollars, sir. However, I don't use that kind of language. Good day!

    Percy slams the door in the agent's face, shaking his head at his persistance. Moments later, Percy gets a knock on the door. He turns around in anger and throws the door open, ready for a fight.

    PERCY: I thought I told you a million times, NO SALE! Oh...

    Nicole stands on the other side of the door, a look of confusion and terror on her face.

    NICOLE: Nicole Walker. Titan TV?

    Percy steps back, slightly embarrassed.

    ---

    Will and Sonny walk hand in hand through Horton Town Square. Some people stare, some grimace, most just ignore them and carry about their business. They're headed to the Brady Pub to meet with the family regarding their engagement.

    SONNY: So? How you feeling about this?
    WILL: I'm....actually really nervous!
    SONNY: Seriously? Why?
    WILL: It's just...I mean, marriage is different from being in a relationship, right? People are generally cool with that, but...marriage has been such a touchy thing lately.
    SONNY: Yeah but...you know, that's changing fast. I mean....look at some of the people staring at us right now.

    As Sonny points it out, at least a couple people look away quickly. Will looks all around.

    WILL: I don't get what that meant...besides making me self-conscious?
    SONNY: (with a laugh) No, like...what I mean is, even a few years ago, I couldn't have walked through town square hand in hand without everyone fixated on us, and people making rude comments. Things, they're changing, Will. Every day. And part of it is us. We're helping change it. Just remember that.

    Sonny leans in and kisses Will, and they embrace, unaware of who's behind them.

    NICK: Remember what?

    Sonny and Will are startled out of their hug, and turn to face Nick, obviously displeased by his presence.

    ---

    Marlena and Hope walk out of the Brady Pub together, with Eric remaining inside for the moment. Hope is still feeling lousy over Bo's continued absence. Marlena puts her arm around Hope's shoulders in comfort.

    MARLENA: You know what?
    HOPE: What?
    MARLENA: I have a feeling about Bo, and John, and Shane.
    HOPE: Oh you do?
    MARLENA: Well, to be fair, John sent me a letter. Abe gave it to me last night.
    HOPE: Oh really? I figured with all the divorce proceedings he was...you know...uninterested.
    MARLENA: Well...we'll have to see about that divorce.

    Hope cracks a smile at the news.

    HOPE: Does this mean what I think it means?
    MARLENA: Well...we'll have to see. Basically, I'm willing to give it another try if he is. And that letter gives me hope that...John may have finally come to terms with what happened with Kristen.
    HOPE: Well, I'd hate see Kristen win anything out of all this mayhem she caused. I've got my fingers crossed. Now...what about this feeling?
    MARLENA: Well...the way they're talking in the letter, I have a feeling that they may be coming home real soon.

    A voice is heard from the alley behind them.

    KIM: If ONLY I were as sure as you, Marlena.

    Marlena and Hope turn quickly to see who's talking. Kim looks back, and has a look of uncertainty on her face.

    ---

    Kate paces back and forth as she begins to tell her story to Roman.

    KATE: Well, first thing's first...I'm sure you've met Rafe's physiotherapist, Jordan Ridgeway.
    ROMAN: That I have, and I think she's a mighty sweet girl.

    Kate stops her pacing momentarily and rolls her eyes at Roman's statement. She carries on pacing as she begins to speak again.

    KATE: Well, first thing I need to tell you, you have to keep quiet about for various reasons that are not relevant.
    ROMAN: Alright, you have my word.
    KATE: Great. You see, I hired Jordan to care for Rafe as a sort of...shall we say, a donation to the hospital. Everything was approved by Kayla, there's no funny business going on there.
    ROMAN: Alright, but what's the problem then?
    KATE: The problem is, I started to look into this woman. At first I'll admit, I was just being nosy and she wasn't exactly warm to me, but then I found Jordan to be incredibly shady about the details of her past. Or indeed any of her past because, according to my PI, she didn't exist before three years ago.
    ROMAN: Alright. But I don't see anything wrong with someone changing their name. What's this got to do with me?

    Kate comes around the other side of the desk and sits down on the edge of her desk. She grabs the file containing her and Sheryl's mugshot and the accompanying newspaper clipping.

    KATE: A lot, when you're dealing with a pair of international fugitives.

  7. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #11
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Abby fidgets awkwardly at her desk, pretending to organize files to distract from her nervousness at Jenn's invasive line of questioning.

    ABBY: You don't believe me? I mean, Mom, why would I lie? I'm fine! I swear!
    JENNIFER: And so that's why you just moved the same file folder to one side of your desk and back twice?

    Abby stops and looks up at her mother with a hint of irritation. She drops the file on her desk and folds her arms.

    ABBY: You know, you and JJ have been on my case for awhile now about something being wrong with me. Ever since Chad left for Boston. I am fine.

    As Abby rants, Jenn looks toward the closet Abby stood before as Jenn walked in. Sensing something's up, Jenn slowly walks toward the closet. Inside the closet, sensing Jenn's been around for too long, EJ makes a quick decision and calls Abby's phone.

    ABBY: And Mom, I really don't appreciate you coming here and lecturing me about something that isn't going wrong in my Mom what are you doing?

    Before Jenn can reply, Abby's cell phone rings. Incoming call from EJ. Abby is concerned, but quickly clues in to what he's doing.

    ABBY: (into phone) Hello?

    EJ doesn't answer, Abby waits a second before responding.

    ABBY: (into phone) Oh! Yes, send them in!

    Abby hangs up and walks over to Jenn just before she opens the closet door.

    ABBY: Mom. I have a very important meeting coming up in a sec. They're heading in now.
    JENNIFER: Oh? What's it about?
    ABBY: It's the man from the...uh...digitization company. They're teaching me how to properly...digitize the files. That's why I was so nervous. It's a really big deal.
    JENNIFER: Oh! Well, that's great, Honey. I'll just...see myself out then.

    Jenn gives Abigail a big hug at the door, which Abigail has propped open so Jenn can leave.

    JENNIFER: I'll see you at home later tonight. I have a date with Liam.
    ABBY: Ooo! Have fun!
    JENNIFER: Thanks! See you later!
    ABBY: Bye!

    Abigail slumps in her chair, as though all the tension in the room just disappeared. EJ hears the door close and peeks his head out from the closet.

    EJ: Is it safe?

    Abby nods. EJ emerges. He adjusts his tie and heads for the door.

    EJ: You and I need to find a better place to have a chat.

    EJ closes the door to the records room and checks both ways before making his way down the hallway like nothing ever happened. Abby remains slumped in her chair, taking in the scene that just took place in her new office. Slowly, a smile crosses her face.

    ABBY: Well, can't say my Monday morning was dull!

    ---

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4

    ---

    Marlena and Hope are standing outside The Brady Pub, Marlena places her hands on Hope's. She gives Hope some comforting words on her husband Bo.

    MARLENA: You know...the way they're talking in the letter, I have a feeling that they may be coming home real soon.

    A voice is heard from the alley behind them.

    KIM: If ONLY I were as sure as you, Marlena.

    Marlena and Hope turn quickly to see who's talking. Kim looks back, and has a look of uncertainty on her face. She slowly approaches as Marlena and Hope's faces light up, seeing their friend again.

    MARLENA: Kim! Oh my, it's been so long!

    Marlena and Kim hug warmly. Kim is subdued, mostly because in sadness thanks to Shane's absence. Kim then hugs Hope, whom Kim hugs longer, in more of a hug of comfort.

    KIM: Ohhhh honey. I am so sorry, Hope. Look. Maybe I...spoke too harshly, but...I really am worried about how long Shane, and Bo, and John will be away. Come on, let's go inside and talk.

    Kim takes Marlena and Hope's hands and walk into the pub.

    ---

    Sonny, Will & Nick are at Horton Town Square. Nick has just made his presence known, startling Will & Sonny. Sonny stands in front of Will, as if to protect him from Nick.

    SONNY: Nick. What do you want?
    NICK: Nothing. I was just....out....minding my own business.
    SONNY: And you decided to just come bother the gays? How thoughtful of you!
    NICK: (laughs) Wow! You are way too worried about nothing. Seriously. I just came to say 'hi!'
    SONNY: Hi. And Bye, Nick.
    WILL: Sonny, Sonny. Come on.

    Sonny looks to Will and takes a step back.

    WILL: Look, Nick. I know you want to make a change and try to start your life over.
    NICK: Thank you, Will for acknowledging that--
    WILL: But. You're going to have to remember something. Okay? It's going to take some of us some time to get over what you've done. You can't just...expect people to come to your side right away.
    NICK: Look, all I'm asking for is a chance to prove myself to you.
    WILL: And we'll give you that. But in the meantime, you have got to give us the space to see for ourselves.

    Nick takes a second to ponder it. Will turns to Sonny, and puts his hands on Sonny's shoulders.

    WILL: (softly) Remember what we talked about. Keep it cool. Got it.

    Sonny nods reluctantly. Will turns back to Nick.

    WILL: Look, just...give us some time. I think we can all make this work. Okay?
    NICK: Alright, man. And thank you.
    SONNY: Don't thank us yet, just...just keep working on that new life. Alright?

    Sonny holds out his hand to Nick. Nick shakes Sonny's hand. At the same moment, Sami passes by, witnessing the handshake. She's incredulous.

    ---

    Percy lets Nicole into his cottage. Nicole is immediately hit with the smell of old pine. She wrinkles her nose a bit, usure what to make of her surroundings. Percy pulls out a chair for her.

    PERCY: Have a seat, my dear.
    NICOLE: Oh, oh thank you.

    Nicole sits down, pulling out the orange envelope containing the files on the story. Percy sits down at the other side of the dining room table.

    NICOLE: So...I assume someone contacted you previously about this...story.
    PERCY: Indeed. And I am positively chuffed that someone of your stature in the business has chosen to take me up on this story.
    NICOLE: Yeah, well. Don't...chuff yourself too much. Not so soon, anyway. I don't know whether or not this story's even worth going ahead with.

    Percy is surprised and disappointed.

    ---

    Roman looks over the file folder Kate's handed him on Jordan and Sheryl. He studies the pictures and the article carefully. He looks up at Kate and nods.

    ROMAN: Yeah, I remember these two. Kaylie Matthews and Siobhan McKinnon.
    KATE: Bingo. And they're in Salem, masquerading as Jordan Ridgeway and Sheryl Conners, planning God knows what!
    ROMAN: Now, Kate--
    KATE: The question is, Roman: What are you going to do about it? Are you going to arrest them?
    ROMAN: Absolutely not.

    Kate is shocked and outraged by Roman's firm refusal.

    ---

  8. beebs

    DAYS #112: The Virus

    By beebs,

    EPISODE 112
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Nick and Tyler burst into the MadWorld lab, making a beeline for Nick's laptop, which sits on a conference table at the far side of the room.
     
    TYLER: I'm telling you, this better be the real deal or I'll have your head on the chopping block so fast, Mr. Fallon--
    NICK: Don't worry. Once I show you what's going down...you'll be thanking me.
     
    Nick leans over the table where his laptop sits, and opens it. Pressing the "on" button, the computer boots up quickly.
     
    NICK: I don't make a habit of wasting anyone's time. Particularly my own.
    TYLER: You better hope not, or I'll get security to hightail you out of this company so fast your head will spin.
    NICK: That won't be neccessary. Just wait. I promise this'll be worth it.
     
    Nick pulls up a chair and sits down in front of his computer. Opening up his surveillance program, he logs into Titan's security camera system. Tyler looks on, stunned.
     
    TYLER: Wait, how did you get access to this? And who authorized it?
    NICK: There's no time to explain that. I started checking things out when I became suspcious something was rotten with our suspect here, and this helps me keep tabs on them. 
     
    Nick turns to face Tyler, a blank, matter-of-fact look on his face.
     
    NICK: You know, you really need to work on your firewalls. For a multinational, your digital security is incredibly vulnerable.
     
    Tyler looks back at Nick with concern and surprise. Nick turns back toward the screen as he zeroes in on Sheryl's office.
     
    NICK: Quite frankly, a security breach would be not only embarrassing...but could be really catastrophic.
     
    Tyler and Nick focus in on Sheryl's office, where they spy her working away furiously at her workstation.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl sits at her desk, Bluetoon in ear, as she stares intensely at her screen. She speaks to Jerome through the Bluetooth, careful never to utter his name as she types and clicks her mouse through the various screens, preparing to load the virus that would destroy Titan's servers into her work computer.
     
    SHERYL (into phone): I'm through the EnerNext partition.
     
    Through her bluetooth, Sheryl hears Jerome's voices come through into her ear with his next instruction.
     
    JEROME (via phone):  Alright. Two minutes to launch. Make sure you start in the backup hard disk. The backup isn't typically in use, therefore will be harder to detect we're in there before it gone.
     
    Sheryl stares dead ahead at her screen. A smug smirk appears on her face as she answers Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Roger that.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits in her office, Lucas by her side, as she focuses on her computer screen as well. Hoping to catch some activity from the marketing wing where Sheryl works, she and Lucas listen in on her conversation, unsure who she's speaking with, as they only hear her side.
     
    BILLIE: Come on, Sheryl. Slip up. Say this guy's name.
    LUCAS: You know, I think I know exactly who it is.
    BILLIE: Oh?
    LUCAS: I'm pretty sure it's this guy...Jerry? Or Jerome? He came into her office last week when I was there. I hadn't seen him before, and I just...I get a feeling about him.
    BILLIE: Well...we're not gonna be able to use a feeling as evidence, unfortunately. We gotta have her say his name and make it clear he's connected to what she's up to or else it doesn't exist.
     

    As Billie finishes her sentence, Kate comes into the office. Billie and Lucas turn to face her.
     
    KATE: It's just me. What did I miss?
     
    Billie guffaws as she turns back toward her computer screen as she answers her mother's question.
     
    BILLIE: Well...you missed me nearly getting caught by Justin Kiriakis, and Sheryl Connors as I bugged her office.

    KATE: You didn't...
    BILLIE: No. Thankfully, I didn't. But I did run into her at the elevator. Apparently Sheryl thinks you're manipulating Lucas into possibly breaking things off with her, Mom.
     
    Kate turns toward Lucas with a sour expression.
     
    KATE: Lucas, I told you you had to keep up the charade with Sheryl, and I meant convincingly.
    LUCAS: Okay, enough, Mom. Look, it's nearly over now, and I don't see the point in trying to hide my feelings about her any longer than I have to.
    KATE: Well, you still had to while Billie was putting the bug in Sheryl's office, didn't you? And apparently, you didn't do a very good job and you might have put this entire plan in jeopardy.
     
    Kate turns back toward the screen, shaking her head in indignance at her son's irresponsibility.
     
    KATE: I just hope this is enough to get Rafe away from that conniving little tramp, Jordan Ridgeway or whatever her name is supposed to be.
     
    Lucas looks back Kate's way, shaking his head at his mom's persistance.
     
    LUCAS: You just better hope this plan DOES work, or else you're gonna alienate Rafe more than you already have.
     
    Kate looks back at her son, the both of them glaring at each other, as Billie seems oblivious to it all, keeping close watch over the Titan server, and Sheryl's actions.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     
    Nick types and clicks furiously at his computer, as Tyler paces behind him, on his cell phone with Justin.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Justin, I know, but this kid is certain that there's about to be an attack and he says it's directly related to the City Hall server crash and the delay in approving the Ruggles land expropriation deal. I know he's got a handle on this...yes, I know you don't like him...I have a strong feeling he....well we don't have much choice right now, do we? If we wait on this...it might be too late...
     
    Nick smirks as he listens on, simultaneously listening to Sheryl through a single earbud, studying Sheryl's movements closely as she is about to launch her virus.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl, meanwhile, is still at her desk, very nearly ready to launch her attack (with Jerome's remote help).
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Alright, we ready to do this thing?
    JEROME: (via phone) In 3...2...1...
     
    Sheryl hits "Enter" on her keyboard, almost ceremoniously.
     
    ...
     
    Up in Billie's office, Kate, Lucas, and Billie study the screen as Billie jumps into action, noticing the activity appear in the backup server.
     
    BILLIE: Damnit! She started in the backup system. I have to double back to access it.
     
    Billie types away furiously to try to access the backup server, but is denied access.
     
    LUCAS: Do you know the password?
    BILLIE: No, but there's other ways to work around it.
     
    Billie moves her mouse over to another window, and begins to work from there, disabling a specific firewall that protects the backup server from being accessed by her computer.
     
    ...
     
    Nick, meanwhile, is overwhelmed by the activity. Realizing suddenly that someone else is trying to work on the backup server, he flips back to the surveillance program, and realizes it's Billie, Kate, and Lucas.
     
    NICK: Oh, no.
     
    Tyler, upon hearing Nick, quickly ends his call to Justin and darts over to Nick's computer again.
     
    TYLER: Yes, it...I gotta call you back, Justin. Don't worry, it's under control.
     
    Tyler looks intensely at the screen, as Nick springs back into action.
     
    TYLER: What's wrong?
    NICK: Nothing. I'm on it.
    TYLER: I hope so.
     
    Nick ignores Tyler's panicked threats, and takes advantage of Billie's disabling the firewall and leaps in. As the files from the backup server begin to be downloaded, then systematically destroyed, Nick locates the IP address for Sheryl's laptop.
     
    NICK: Not so fast, little lady.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl's laptop displays the progress of the virus installation:
     
    2%...

    Sheryl smiles as her external hard drive she's attached to her computer works overtime, downloading and destroying the Titan files.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) We're on our way now.
    JEROME: (via phone) And we only saving the small files and documents about the workings of the company, right?
    SHERYL: (into phone) Not to worry, I programmed it to only save document files, spreadsheets, graphics, media. The rest is getting corrupted and discarded.
    JEROME: (via phone) Perfect. How far we at?
    SHERYL: (into phone) Only 3% so far.
     
    ...
     
    Billie digs further in, tracking down Sheryl's IP.
     
    LUCAS: What are you doing now?
    BILLIE: I'm gonna throw the program they're using into an endless loop that hopefully will jam the program up, and buy me enough time to close up the security hole so they'll be booted from the system.
    KATE: Do you have enough time?
    BILLIE: I'll be fine...
     
    Billie looks on her screen, and realizes there's someone else accessing the server.
     
    BILLIE: If someone else doesn't beat me to it.
     
    Kate looks over at Lucas, who looks back at her, concerned. They both turn their attentions back to Billie, and to her computer screen.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl looks on more and more intensely.
     
    The progress bar inches forward...
     
    5%...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) I'm gonna shift this over to the EnerNext subserver once we're done with this backup.
    JEROME: (via phone) Got it.
    SHERYL: (into phone) Okay...we're in. Downloading EnerNext's documents...
     
    6%...
     
    ...
     
    Nick plugs a memory stick into his laptop, as he continues to work furiously at stopping Sheryl. Tyler looks on in wonder.
     
    TYLER: What are you plugging in there?
    NICK: Just a program to destroy whatever device these guys are using against us.
    TYLER: Like...digitally...
     
    Nick looks up at Tyler, his classic smirk on his face.
     
    NICK: Oh no. Not just digitally. 
     
    Tyler looks on, concerned by Nick's plan.
     
    ...
     
    Billie continues to work away at stopping Sheryl's virus from progressing, as Kate and Lucas sit on pins and needles.
     
    LUCAS: Billie, how much longer is this gonna take.
    BILLIE: Not long now, I'm nearly there.
    KATE: This better work.
    BILLIE: It will, Mom. Don't worry.
     
    Billie focuses in as she clicks to access Sheryl's computer remotely, so she can trip it up and stop it from continuing to spread the virus.
     
    BILLIE: Almost there.
     
    ...
     
    8%...
     
    Sheryl stares straight ahead as she notices unfamiliar activity happening around her.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Dammit! We got company.
     
    Sheryl clicks to kick Billie's computer out of hers.
     
    ...
     
    Nick double clicks his mouse, launching his counterattack against Sheryl.
     
    NICK: Buh-bye!
     
    ...
     
    Billie's computer is suddenly kicked out of the server altogether, shocking Billie, as she leans back in her seat, taking a stunned Kate and Lucas with her.
     
    LUCAS: What happened?
     
    ...
     
    11%...
     
    Sheryl looks down quickly at her work computer and her external hard drive, as her computer's fan abruptly shuts down, and her computer's processor goes into overdrive, causing the computer to freeze up.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) What the Hell?
    JEROME: (via phone) What's wrong? Sheryl???
     
    As Jerome tries in vain to get Sheryl to answer him, her and laptop begin to overheat quickly, and sparks, with a plastic burning smell and smoke emerging from the laptop. The sparking causes Sheryl to jump back from her laptop, breathing heavily from the shock, as Jerome continues to call out to her over the phone to her Bluetooth.
     
    JEROME: (via phone) SHERYL....SHERYL! You there??? SHERYL...
     
    ---
  9. beebs
    EPISODE 113
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Jennifer and Liam laugh and chatter as they walk into the Horton living room, as JJ sits on the couch, snacking and watching TV. 
     
    JENNIFER: JJ! Hey, honey.
     
    JJ turns toward Liam and Jennifer, greeting his mom and her boyfriend unenthusiastically.
     
    JJ: Oh. Hey, guys.
    JENNIFER: Listen, JJ, honey? Liam and I are just getting ready for a later dinner, so I'm gonna pop quickly in the shower.
    JJ: Sure, Mom.
     
    Jennifer turns to Liam for a moment.
     
    JENNIFER: You don't mind if you wait for me a few minutes?
    LIAM: Yeah! That's great. I uh...I had something I wanted to talk about with JJ, anyway, so...
     
    Jennifer smiles warmly at Liam as she leans in to give him a quick peck on the lips before heading upstairs.
     
    JENNIFER: Alright. See you in a few minutes.
    LIAM: You bet, Jen.
     
    Jennifer runs upstairs, as Liam walks toward the archway between the Horton living room and foyer. JJ tries to avoid engaging with Liam, instead focusing closely on his TV show. He can sense Liam's presence and is made increasingly uncomfortable, before Liam speaks.
     
    LIAM: Hey, JJ. 
    JJ: Yeah. Hey Liam.
     
    Liam saunters into the Horton living room casually, hands in his pockets as he moves toward the sofa, where JJ is.
     
    LIAM: Look, I...I kinda feel like you and I we...we started off on the wrong foot.
    JJ: You could say that.
     
    Liam pauses a moment, looking over JJ's unchanging expression, before carrying on with his attempts to converse with him.
     
    LIAM: I ah...I talked to your mom about you.
     
    JJ continues to avoid Liam's gaze, staring instead straight ahead at the TV set.
     
    JJ: Oh yeah.
    LIAM: Yeah...I uh...(sigh) Look...JJ....
     
    Liam steps over to sit beside JJ on the sofa, JJ still trying to avoid engaging, but upon Liam sitting down, JJ looks over, and locks eyes with his mom's mysterious beau.
     
    LIAM: I know I've sorta...given off a very negative impression to you in the last few months and I...I didn't know really what I could do to change your mind.
     
    JJ shrugs dispassionately, trying to turn his attentions back to the TV.
     
    JJ: I dunno. You kinda freaked me out there a couple times but...I don't really have a bad impression of you.
     
    Liam smiles warmly at JJ.
     
    LIAM: That's good.
     
    Liam reaches into his blazer pocket, and pulls out an envelope, handing it to JJ.
     
    LIAM: Because I was hoping that I could change that impression into something really good.
     
    JJ looks down at the envelope, then, confused, up at Liam. Liam meets JJ's eyes and nods, trying to prompt JJ to take the envelope.
     
    ---
     

    Nick sits at his computer in the Countess W lab, he suddenly leans back in his chair, lurching back looking victorious. It shocks a focused Tyler, who looks over at Nick.
     
    NICK: Got it!
    TYLER: What? Did you get 'em?
    NICK: And dropped them right in your lap.
     
    Tyler walks over towards Nick, staring at his laptop seriously, trying to figure out what's happened.
     
    TYLER: Alright, but what, or should I say, who...did you drop in my lap?
     
    Nick turns to look up at Tyler, smugly satisfied.
     
    NICK: One employee in marketing by the name of Sheryl Connors...except that's not exactly her real name. She's been trying to take down your systems...and your company for months. And tonight, she and her cronies attempted to launch a virus to take your systems out, just like they did this morning with the Salem City Hall servers.
     
    Tyler looks at Nick, stoic and taking in all the information he's being given.
     
    TYLER: But you...stopped them in time?
    NICK: There's some damage but nothing that's unrecoverable. So...yes.
    TYLER: Did you get enough info on them to make charges stick.
     
    Nick gives his now-trademark smirk, savouring the moment.
     
    NICK: Ohh yeah. And then some.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl looks down at her smoking laptop, stunned and amazed by the collosal meltdown of her computer. Her shock quickly fades into anger as she realizes what's happened.
     
    SHERYL: I'll kill h...
     
    Sheryl picks up her laptop suddenly, ready to toss it across the room, when she notices a bump just on the lip of the bottom side. Turning the unit around suddenly, as the heat is too much for her hands, she drops the computer back onto her desk, and sees the bug Billie planted on her unit.
     
    She flashes back to the door of the elevator opening and seeing Billie standing there.
     
    Jolted back to reality, she comes to the obvious conclusion.
     
    SHERYL: Billie.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits at her computer desk at Titan, flanked by her brother Lucas, and her mother, Kate. They all look on in awe as Billie exclaims suddenly.
     
    BILLIE: They beat me.
    LUCAS: Who did?
    BILLIE: I have no idea...but someone got to them before we did...and now we...well...now we basically have nothing.
     
    Kate's face sours instantly, standing up in frustration and begins pacing the room at her daughter's news.
     
    KATE: DAMMIT. I can't believe that little tramp wins again.
    BILLIE: Well...on the bright side, we did stop them from taking the entire company's secrets and flushing them down the drain on their way out.
    KATE: That's cold comfort when the whole reason we did all this was to put Jordan Ridgeway and Sheryl Connors behind bars where they belong.
     
    Billie looks up at her mother, a strange look in her eye.
     
    BILLIE: Well...what if there's still a chance they do?
     
    Kate stops, looking skeptically at Billie, as Lucas looks over at Billie, confused.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Noelle walks into Club TBD, where she looks around to see the crowd. She spies a seat at the bar, and walks casually over, before speaking to the woman sitting the next seat over.
     
    NOELLE: Excuse me...I seem to have caught this place on a busy night...is this seat taken?
     
    The woman turns around to face Noelle.
     

    It's Nicole.
     
    She looks at Noelle, sighing as she looks her up and down. She shakes her head.
     
    NICOLE: No. It's free. Have a seat.
     
    As Noelle lifts herself onto the stool, Nicole turns herself slightly toward Noelle.
     
    NICOLE: Look, I'm...I'm sorry I snapped at you the last time we met...
     
    Noelle pauses a moment before realizing Nicole's prompting her for her name.
     
    NOELLE: Noelle--
    NICOLE: Noelle! Yes! Sorry. I...look, I feel bad, I...I've had a really bad few weeks at work and...Eric and I...I don't have the best luck with men, and...Eric...he's the love of my life, and we were supposed to get married today.
     
    Noelle looks at Nicole, nodding in understanding.
     
    NOELLE: But the server at City Hall was down. Eric told us earlier.
    NICOLE: Yeah...
     

    Nicole laughs half-heartedly to herself before taking a drink of her martini. During that moment, Noelle quickly prompts to T to give her a martini of her own, as Nicole continues.
     
    NICOLE: I just really want this stress to be over with.
    NOELLE: Oh, I get it. More than you'll ever know.
     
    Nicole looks back at Noelle, intrigued.
     
    NICOLE: Oh yeah? You sound like you had a rough evening, yourself.
    NOELLE: I did indeed. And I have one Victor Kiriakis to thank for it.
     
    Nicole looks on, suddenly fascinated by their common adversary.
     
    ---

    JJ stares at the envelope Liam's handed to him, as he sits on the sofa in the Horton living room. After a moment, he reaches for the envelope, as Jennifer emerges from upstairs.
     
    JENNIFER: Liam, what's that?
     
    JJ and Liam turn quickly around to see Jenn walking down the last of the stairs and heading toward the living room, wearing a simple dress and her hair still in a towel. Jennifer has a smile on her face as she approaches her boyfriend and her son.
     
    LIAM: Oh this?
     
    Liam points to the envelope he's just given JJ. He then turns to face JJ and smiles earnestly.
     
    LIAM: This...well...see...when I said your mom and I we...talked about you...see...we talked about your dreams, JJ. How you wanted to go to Stanford, pursue a law degree. Well...that's expensive.
     
    Jennifer looks at Liam, and back at JJ, trying to gauge the other's reaction. A smirk on her face as she wonders what Liam has up his sleeve. Meanwhile, JJ looks stunned by Liam's sudden shift in demeanour and tone towards him.
     
    JJ: Yeah...it is...
    LIAM: Your mom, she ah, she told me you'd have to take out student loans for this if you're accepted and that that's...put you off applying...I think...I hope this will make you reconsider.
     
    JJ hesitates a moment before slowly opening the envelope. Inside, a cheque for $50,000. JJ's taken aback.
     
    JJ: Wh...what?? What is this?
     
    Liam points to the cheque and smiles at a confused JJ.
     
    LIAM: Think of it as an investment in a great young mind.
     
    JJ looks stunned, turning to a beaming Jennifer, who begins to tear up looking back at JJ, then back to a beaming Liam.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler stands in the Countess W lab, staring seriously at a very self-satisfied Nick.
     
    TYLER: So you're saying that you've got this Connors woman...but what about her cronies?
    NICK: The cronies are a bit harder to crack, but...I think if I...work on a bit...I should be able to get them too.
     
    Tyler finally cracks a smile at the end of it all.
     
    TYLER: That's fantastic, then.
     
    Tyler shakes Nick's hand firmly, a proud look on his face, as he turns to head for the door of the lab.
     
    TYLER: Listen, I'll make sure you receive a commendation with the board for this, and I'll have security escort Ms. Connors out right now--
     
    Nick interrupts him, stopping him in his tracks as he emphatically interjects.
     
    NICK: Wait wait wait wait. No, stop. We can't just go in there and throw her out. We're gonna do this my way...and she'll never see it coming.
    TYLER: What do you mean?
    NICK: If you want what I've got here, you're going to have to agree to my terms, Mr. Houston.
     
    Tyler looks disgusted at Nick, shouting back in protest.
     
    TYLER: I beg your par--
    NICK: ...This is NOT a negotiation, Mr. Houston. Let Sheryl go for tonight. She won't be going anywhere just yet. She's got too many loose ends to tie up in Salem first.
     
    ---
     
    Sheryl hastily packs up her things from her office, including her computer and hard drive. She gets on her bluetooth and frantically calls Jerome as she grabs her jacket to leave.
     
    ...
     

    Jerome stands in the Grant living room, holding the phone up to his ear, concerned.
     
    JEROME:  (into phone) Hey, Sheryl, what happened?
     
    ...
     
    Struggling to put her jacket on as she races out, Sheryl speaks to Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Someone caught us, and I'm pretty sure I know who. We need to meet NOW.
     
    ...
     
    Jerome's eyes bug out, suddenly in crisis mode.
     
    JEROME: (into phone) Woah woah woah, wait. No no. We are not meeting now, not if they know about you.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Well, what else are we gonna do, Jerome?
     
    ...
     
    JEROME: (into phone) Just chill, ok? Get your stuff out your hotel room, check out. I'll get you a room at a motel at the edge of town. We'll meet there. I'ma text you the address, ok?
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Fine, but make it quick. All hell's about to break loose.
     
    Sheryl ends the call, and closes the door to her office, she sighs heavily, checking the hallways to make sure they're empty before heading out. 
     
    SHERYL: If it hasn't already.
     
    Sheryl makes a beeline for the service stairwell, hoping the trip down eight floors will be faster and make her less liable of being caught.
     
    ---
     
    Kate stands by Billie and Lucas in Billie's office, looking unsure.
     
    KATE: What do you mean? Is there a chance we can still nab them?
     
    Billie looks down at her computer, thoughtfully. She taps her desk as she thinks, before turning toward Kate.
     
    BILLIE: Well...the bug still caught a lot. Enough that we can probably still get charges to stick...and whoever it was that DID stop her from taking the server out...they're probably going to play their hand very soon.
    LUCAS: So what are you saying? We just have to wait and see what happens?
     
    Billie turns toward Lucas, nodding slowly.
     
    BILLIE: Pretty much.
     
    Kate and Lucas look at each other, incredulous.
     
    ---
     
  10. beebs
    EPISODE 114
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     


    Maggie, Julie, Alex, and Will step into the main hall of what will soon be the re-opened Penthouse Grille. The building is still very much a work-in-progress, with scaffoldings all around the room, and half-completed painting on the walls. Still, the group is impressed by what will soon come.
     
    MAGGIE: So I just want to thank everyone for coming down here. I know it was last minute and I apologize for changing the venue so suddenly, but I'm glad you could all make it down here.
    WILL: It's no trouble at all. 
    MAGGIE: I'm pleased. Because I couldn't wait to show you all.
     
    Maggie holds out her arms, beaming with excitement as she turns around like a game show model to show off the new restaurant.
     
    MAGGIE: This is the new space.
     
    Julie looks around the room, smiling excitedly alongside Maggie.
     
    JULIE: Maggie, this is going to be incredible! Oh, you must be so excited.
    ALEX: She's not the only one. We have an elaborate marketing campaign planned for this space to go along with a modern, upscale decor, and plush furnishings. This place is going to be THE hotspot of Salem.
     
    Will looks to Alex, giving a playful grin to him.
     
    WILL: You'd better be careful, your brother might get jealous and fight back.
     
    The group share a laugh, before Alex responds in kind.
     
    ALEX: Well, it's all in the family. I think there's enough of a market in Salem for both spaces to operate successfully.
    MAGGIE: Well, I agree. And I think Sonny's plan, from what he told me earlier, was that he planned to use the TBD space going forward more as a lounge and less as a dinner space, so I'm absolutely sure we can find the right balance.
    JULIE: Absolutely. Besides, with how unbelievably grand this place is, this could be a premier spot for events.
     
    Maggie smiles and turns to face Julie, almost bursting with excitement.
     
    MAGGIE: Well, I'm glad you're so enthusiastic about it, Julie, because I had something I wanted to ask you.
     
    Julie stands dumbstruck. Unsure what to expect, she turns to face Maggie.
     
    JULIE: Me? What is it, Maggie?
    MAGGIE: Well...I know you have a whole lot of enthusiasm and decades of experience in running clubs like this...would you do me the honour of running the Penthouse Grille?
    Julie looks at Maggie, suprised and beginning to smile.
     
    ---
     

    Tyler stands in the Titan Lab with Nick. Tyler is incensed by Nick's demands of him, and responds angrily.
     
    TYLER: You have absolutely no grounds to make demands of me, young man.
     
    Nick turns to face him, nonchalantly. He looks directly into Tyler's eyes as he smriks, cooly responding to Tyler's rage.
     
    NICK: I would watch that tone you take with me. You remember the fact I had access to the security system and was able to not only track down but also prevent this virus from going through? What makes you think I don't have access to anything else around here?
     
    Tyler draws himself up, uncomfortable with the direction Nick's going with this.
     
    NICK: You see, I know an awful lot about a lot of people in this building. Including you...your brother...and where your connections in "business" really are. Don't test me, Tyler.
     
    Tyler's face goes ghost white as Nick slowly hints at his familial connections, sighing heavily as he realizes what's at stake.
     
    ---
     

    Noelle and Nicole sit at the bar at Club TBD. The soft, intimate lighting creates a relaxed mood for the two, as the tensions between them lower with each drink. As Nicole sets her martini down, Noelle lifting hers to her lips to take a sip.
     
    NICOLE: So for the record: Victor Kiriakis is a safe topic with me. There is no love lost between him and I.
     
    Noelle turns, intrigued.
     
    NOELLE: Oh really? Why, what did Old Man Vic do to you?
    NICOLE: Ohhh...I could tell you but...we'd need a few weeks before I finish. Let's just say it took me a few years, a murder attempt, some blackmail, and a court case...yeah...he's...taken me to the cleaners a few times.
     

    Nicole quickly finishes her martini, trying to wash down the memories of Victor, before holding up her finger to catch T's attention.
     
    NICOLE: T! Another martini?
    T: Sure thing, Miss Walker.
    NICOLE: Thanks, darlin'.
     
    Nicole turns again to face Noelle, with a raised eyebrow and a cheeky grin.
     
    NICOLE: What did that sour old malaka do to you?
     
    Noelle chortles at Nicole's crack, before turning back in Nicole's direction, putting her martini down on the bar.
     
    NOELLE: Well..for one, he killed my father.
     
    Nicole looks on, stunned by the grave news.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Julie stands, amazed as Maggie smiles back at her.
     
    JULIE: Me? You...You want me to run this...this beautiful place?
    MAGGIE: I couldn't think of anyone better suited to it. You and Doug have been masters in this field for a very, very long time. Heck, you even teach ME a thing or two now and then.
     
    Everyone laughs as Maggie reaches into her bag and pulls out the keys to the restaurant. She holds them out for Julie to take.
     
    JULIE: Maggie, I don't know what to say!
    MAGGIE: Say yes! (laughs) It would be my honour to have you be my right hand. 
     
    Julie takes a moment, before taking the keys from Maggie. They immediately reach for each other and give each other a warm hug, laughing and beaming as Alex and Will applaud their new family venture.
     
    ---
     

    JJ holds the cheque Liam's given him in his hands as he sits on the sofa in the Horton living room. He looks over at a smiling Liam, who sits nearby in an easy chair, with Jenn sitting along the back of the chair, beaming at her son.
     
    JJ: I...I honestly don't know what to say, Liam.
    LIAM: Don't say anything right now. Think about it. I know we...we really haven't seen eye-to-eye so far but...I just figured this could be a step in the right direction. 
     
    JJ looks up at Liam, seriously. He then looks up at his smiling mom, and nods.
     
    JJ: Alright. Give me some time. But...I just want you to know...I really appreciate this.
     
    JJ gets up from the sofa, as Liam does as well, and Jennifer walks toward the two of them, resting her arms on Liam's broad shoulder.
     
    LIAM: It's my pleasure, JJ.
     
    The two men shake hands as Liam turns toward Jennifer.
     
    LIAM: I think....it's time we took ourselves out for the evening. JJ, let me know what you decide.
    JJ: Will do. Have a good time, you guys.
     
    Jennifer pulls JJ into a tight hug.
     
    JENNIFER: Thank you, Sweetie. I'll see you later.
    JJ: Bye, Mom.
     
    As Jenn follows Liam out of the room, JJ turns back away from the two of them, his face dropping with worry as he holds the cheque in his hands. He shakes his head, increasingly unsure of Liam and his motives.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole looks at Noelle, shocked by what she's just heard, as she uncomfortably stirs her martini, trying to find a response.
     
    NICOLE: So...uh...wait, your...your dad...
    NOELLE: Neil Curtis.
    NICOLE: Neil Curtis...how did he get involved with Victor?
     
    Noelle casually takes a sip of her martini before responding to Nicole.
     
    NOELLE: Oh, I don't think we have time for all that--
    NICOLE: Oh come on, you can't drop a bomb like that and just tell me you don't wanna talk about it--
     
    Noelle interrupts Nicole's complaining, leaning back and sighing, rolling her eyes in defeat.
     
    NOELLE: OKAY, okay, fine. If you really wanna know, my dad had a gambling problem, and...ugh...it's complicated, my mother-in-law...Anjelica...she was with my dad at the time, and...
     
    Nicole's eyes dart back and forth as Noelle explains, trying to keep track of the complicated connections in her head.
     
    NOELLE: I dunno, Victor wanted Anjelica for himself, so he manipulated dad into going back into gambling and then...started loan sharking him and...well...that's when things started going downhill. Dad had to close Blondie's, I dunno if you remember driving past that place when you were young.
    NICOLE: Must've been before my time.
     
    Noelle shrugs, and stirs her martini, still a bit wistful as she recalls her early childhood.
     
    NOELLE: Well...by then I was living with my mom in LA anyway, so...I wasn't around for any of that, really. I just know that when my dad finally moved to LA to be near us...he was...he wasn't well. He was...weary. Worn down. He never told us anything about what happened with Victor after he lost Blondie's but...you could tell it hurt him a lot. Mom and I really helped him feel....normal again, I guess, but...he put himself head first into his work. Mom and I never knew why he was obsessed with working and money and...he just...never seemed to have enough on the go, never let a penny slip.
     
    Noelle looked up at Nicole, deadly serious. Nicole looks back, engrossed in Noelle's confessional story.
     
    NICOLE: Victor still had Neil by the balls?
    NOELLE: Oh yeah. You could definitely say that. Victor may have mellowed with the mafia stuff...
    NICOLE: ...But he can still hold a grudge better than anyone.
     
    Noelle nods before looking down, holding her martini glass between her hands.
     
    NOELLE: Exactly. And my dad had a heart attack...about two years ago. And only when he died did we find out...he barely had any estate left. He had bled every account, every...trust...down to nothing...just so Mom and I didn't feel deprived or like...he was a burden on us. It was all a show, Nicole. Victor had never stopped feeding his addiction...but it was always there, and to the day he died, he was on the hook to that man. It was sick.
     
    Nicole reaches a hand out to Noelle, squeezing it gently.
     
    NICOLE: I'm so sorry.
     
    Noelle, fighting back tears, smiles half-heartedly, never looking up from the table.
     
    NOELLE: Thanks...so...yeah...
    NICOLE: You know....I know this is rich coming from me but...do you think, maybe it's healthier to just....let go of that anger? I mean...you've got a good life, a wonderful husband who loves you--
     
    Noelle guffaws at Nicole's mention of Alex, interrupting her.
     
    NOELLE: Yeah. He loves me so much he just chastised me like a three year-old for saying mean things to his almighty Uncle Vic's lifeless body.
     
    Noelle rolls her eyes as she takes a sip from her drink. She then stops...shakes her head slowly in response, still looking down at her hand, clasped in Nicole's.
     
    NOELLE: Nah...Victor Kiriakis...he's got some reparations to repay me...heh...and my mom. I'll never forgive him for what he did to my dad. And I'm gonna make sure he pays.
     
    Noelle looks intensely into Nicole's eyes, while Nicole looks back, taken a bit aback by Noelle's simmering rage.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler, incensed by Nick's posturing, steps towards him, pointing angrily at him.
     
    TYLER: You don't know what you're getting yourself involved in, little boy. This goes way deeper than you want to get into.
     
    Nick scoffs, laughing at Tyler's attempts to scare him.
     
    NICK: Oh, hah, I know. Trust me, I looked into it. I mean, I know Houston is a relatively common name and all, but...like...seriously, Tyler, it doesn't take all that much digging to make the connection. 
    TYLER: I don't know what you're talking about.
    NICK: The fact that you've been involved with Victor Kiriakis up to your neck for decades. This whole...EnerNext thing is just the first time we're hearing about it. Victor hired you to run his mob businesses under a separate corporation from Titan to distance himself, and he knew you'd be able to do the job thanks to you and your brother's biker gang ties.
     
    Tyler looks exasperated, not knowing exactly how to shut Nick down, he lets him carry on.
     
    NICK: So you ran it all, keeping Victor at arm's length until it became expedient for Victor to reign you in because he started to run out of money from his legitimate business. Only by then, you'd gone big time. Got all involved in shady middle eastern oil cartels. Shall I bring up Jack Deveraux's kidnapping in Afghanistan while he was doing a story on your shady dealings? I think that'd go over real well at the Titan meeting--
     
    Tyler finally snaps, cutting a smug Nick off.
     
    TYLER: Alright, ENOUGH!
     
    Nick looks at Tyler dead in the eye, a deep intensity between the two men as Tyler moves in extremely close to Nick, a threatening look in his eye. He threatens him in a quiet but firm voice.
     
    TYLER: You get what you want this time from me, Fallon...but you better watch your back from here on in. Those connections you spoke of aren't child's play. You're in with the big boys now.
     
    Tyler steps away from Nick, heading for the door of the lab, Nick stays still, but donning his trademark smirk as he watches Tyler leave.
     
    NICK: See you at the board meeting tomorrow, Tyler.
     
    Tyler looks back momentarily, before stepping out of the room. As Tyler leaves, Nick exhales, as though he'd held in the world's pressure on his shoulders and is suddenly releasing it. The pain in his head becomes immediately visible on his face, as he struggles to maintain his balance.
     
    Nick hears a shrill, high-pitched sound get louder and louder, as he struggles to maintain his balance and clarity.

    Nick rests against the counter of the lab, fighting to keep his balance as dizziness overwhelms him. He screams out in pain as he falls over, taking a collection of test tubes down with him. They shatter on the ground as he collapses.
     
    ---
  11. beebs
    EPISODE 115
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Sheryl runs frantically around her room at the Salem Inn, packing up the last of her toiletries, as her cell phone goes off.
     
    Picking it up, she checks and sees that a message has appeared from Jerome.
     
    Lakeview Motel, 1937 Highway 50. Booked under Sally Francis, meet u there
     
    Sheryl takes a moment to read the text before putting the phone in her jacket pocket, and zipping up her suitcase, being sure she hasn't left anything behind.
     
    SHERYL: Thank you, Jerome. Saving lives yet again.
     
    Sheryl grabs her suitcase and runs out of the room, struggling with her bag. As she drops the bag to pull the handle out so she can roll the suitcase out, her ID falls out onto the floor. Sheryl, not noticing, carries on, closing the hotel room door behind her as she makes her escape.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome, quickly walking down the stairs to his family home, is encountered by his grandmother, Valerie, who is just arriving home from the hospital. She looks surprised as she greets him.
     
    VALERIE: Hey, Jerome!...Baby, where you going?
    JEROME: Have to take care of something at Salem U.
     
    Jerome quickly kisses his grandmother on the cheek as he grabs his jacket and heads for the door. Valerie turns around, befuddled.
     
    VALERIE: I...he...hey! Weren't we supposed to go for dinner at the Brady Pub tonight?
    JEROME: Uh....I don't know how late I'll be, Grandma. Look...why don't I text you when I'm done and we can meet up there, kay?
    VALERIE: Okay...sure...Jerome?
     
    Jerome stops, having started to open the door, and very clearly in a hurry.
     
    JEROME: Yeah, Grandma?
    VALERIE: Don't be too long. I'd love to spend some time with you, we've both been really busy lately.
     
    Jerome stops, and turns to look at his disappointed grandmother. He smiles sheepishly.
     
    JEROME: You're right. I'm sorry. I'll be there as soon as I can. 
     
    Valerie looks on, smiling warmly at Jerome.
     
    VALERIE: I love you.
    JEROME: Love you too.
     
    Jerome takes off out the door, leaving a frustrated Valerie behind.
     
    ---
     

    Jordan lies in bed next to Rafe. As they lay together in Rafe's bedroom, Jordan wrapped in Rafe's arms, she looks, at last, content, her new engagement ring shining on her finger.
     
    Jordan begins to dream, recalling Sheryl's ominous threat from earlier:
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 105
     
    Jordan stands in Sheryl's office, and looks down, arms still folded in discomfort as she tries to hold herself back. Sheryl looks on, standing behind her desk. Jordan sighs heavily, as she wordlessly listens to Sheryl’s emphatic words.
     
    SHERYL: You can pretend like you have this great future with Rafe, Jordan, but we both know that once we launch that virus tonight, the ISA and the Salem PD are going to be onto us, and you and I will have to leave town and take on a new identity. There’s no way out Jordan. Even if you back out now.
     
    ***
     
    Jordan's snapped out of her memory by the sound of her phone buzzing. 
     
    Trying to pick it up from the bedside table without waking Rafe, she reaches over to the table, and reads the name on the call:
     
    It's Sheryl.
     
    Sighing heavily, she ponders answering the call.
     
    ---
     

    Percy steps into the Titan Lab, excited for the news Nick was to have for him by evening.
     
    PERCY: Greetings! ...Nicholas? 
     
    Percy, unsure whether Nick is even in the room, steps delicately into the lab, looking around, confused.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas, I just received your text messages inviting me to come on down here...
     
    Seeing a single desk lamp illuminated by Nick's still-open laptop, Percy slowly makes his way over towards it. Midway there, Percy's shoe crushes some glass from where Nick dropped the test tubes as he fell. The crunching sound startles Percy, as he looks down at the ground.
     

    Looking down with a furrowed brow, Percy pivots the desk lamp slightly to catch a better light at the ground. Seeing more test tubes broken, Percy hastily walks over to one side of the room and flips on the lights, at which point, he sees Nick collapsed on the ground surrounded by the shattered test tubes.
     
    He looks on stunned.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Jordan decides the cancel the call to Sheryl, then fumbles to turn her phone off, before laying it down.
     
    Laying the phone back down before snuggling back into a sleeping Rafe, she sighs, thinking to herself.
     
    JORDAN: (in her head) Sorry, Sheryl. You're on your own from now on.
     
    Jordan shuts her eyes, and nods off, comfortable in the arms of her fiancé.
     
    ---
     
    Sheryl stands in her new room at the Lakeview Motel, irritated as she pulls the cell phone from her ear after Jordan hung up on her.
     
    SHERYL: Dammit. You stupid...(sigh)
     
    Shortly thereafter, Jerome's car pulls up out front of her room. Not wanting to draw attention to herself, Sheryl walks over to the door, and quickly waves Jerome inside. 
    Once inside, Sheryl quickly closes and locks the door.
     
    JEROME: Glad you made it.
    SHERYL: Yeah, well, I had a hell of a time finding the place. The maps app needs to do a bit of updating with all the construction around that stupid oil field.
     
    Sheryl paces the room, keeping an eye out the window for any unwelcome visitors.
     
    JEROME: Well, if things go according to plan--
     
    Sheryl snaps at Jerome, turning abruptly around to respond to Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: Oh things are definitely not going to plan now.
    JEROME: What do you mean?
    SHERYL: I mean we're caught. They bugged my laptop, and they blew up my laptop before I could plant the virus.
     
    Jerome looks on, very worried. He sighs, looking down away from Sheryl as he tries to help her figure out what to do next.
     
    JEROME: Damn...okay, so...you got a good idea who planted it there?
    SHERYL: Fairly certain it was Billie Reed. She's uh...Lucas' sister.
    JEROME: Okay...and you can't think of anyone else who might be a suspect? Like that Nick dude who you were planning to set up as the fall guy for this?
     
    Sheryl looks down, eventually shaking her head.
     
    SHERYL: Nah...I mean (sigh) honestly, I don't know. She could be in cahoots with him but...Nick's a bit of a lone wolf. I checked him out pretty thoroughly and he only ever was working alone. From what I've gathered, he's alienated too many people in town to really have any allies at this rate.

    JEROME: But you haven't spoken to him at all since before the virus was supposed to be planted.
    SHERYL: No, I haven't. I wouldn't bother keeping him too closeby anyway. The little twerp wouldn't know if he was on foot or horseback.
     
    Sheryl flashes a smirk at Jerome momentarily, before looking down more pensively. She continues her thought.
     
    SHERYL: Besides, I honestly thought he was genuinely on our side with this. That's what made this whole set up so easy. Nick was gonna be working late at the lab, playing innocent, while Jordan, you and I planted the virus, and--
     
    Jerome interrupts Sheryl, raising a point of his own.
     
    JEROME: Speaking of Jordan...what's gonna happen there? I mean...if you're caught, I mean...you and Jordan are so tightly connected...it's only a matter of time before the cops come looking for both of you.
     
    Sheryl laughs dismissively, shaking her head as she paces the room some more.
     
    SHERYL: Try telling Jordan that. No, she's completely fixated on this fairytale life she's constructed in her mind with Rafe Hernandez. She's completely beyond seeing any sense about it.
    JEROME: Well, what are you gonna do? She can't stay here, she's a liability.
    SHERYL: Oh I know. That's the thing, though. She can't stay and we can't go anywhere without her or we're sunk too.
    JEROME: So?
     
    Sheryl stops, and stares out the window, resigned to a fate she didn't anticipate.
     
    SHERYL: We've got to stay here, under the radar until we're able to get Jordan out of here...whether she likes it or not.
     
    Jerome looks on, gravely concerned for Sheryl and Jordan's safety.
     
    ---
     

    Julie, Maggie, Alex, and Will walk out of the archway leading into the new Penthouse Grille. They all are talking amongst themselves, still congratulatory over Julie being named manager by Maggie.
     
    JULIE: Oh, thank you again, Maggie. You know, I know that it's gonna mean long hours and it'll probably put a bit of a crimp in my travel time with Doug, but...you know, honestly, I think it's about time we spent a bit more time here in Salem with the family.
    MAGGIE: I agree.
    WILL: Completely.
     
    The group laughs, as Julie turns to press the button for the elevator.
     
    MAGGIE: Well, listen, we're going to finalize details this week, and then everything should be ready for the grand opening in a couple weeks. How's that sound?
    JULIE: Wonderful. Thanks again, Maggie. For everything.
     
    Julie takes Maggie's hands and holds them in hers. They look warmly at each other, before Maggie pulls Julie into a hug.
     
    MAGGIE: Anything for family.
    JULIE: Absolutely. And speaking of family, you keep me posted about how Victor's doing. I want him to make a speedy recovery.
    MAGGIE: I will.
     
    The elevator doors open, and Julie steps on, the rest of the group looking on.
     
    JULIE: Good night.
    ALEX: Night, Julie.
     
    As the doors shut, Maggie turns to Alex and Will and smiles.
     
    MAGGIE: Now...if you'll excuse me, boys. I still have menu items I'm going to have to finalize ingredient sources for. I'll be in my office.
    ALEX: Alright, we'll see you later.
    WILL: Thanks, Aunt Maggie.
     
    Maggie hugs both Will and then Alex, before walking back into the still-under-construction restaurant, headed for her office, leaving Will and Alex alone.
     
    Will turns away awkwardly, trying to avoid a private moment with Alex. Alex, meanwhile, turns toward Will, and, noticing Will's avoidance, calls out to him.
     
    ALEX: Hey! Where you going?
     
    Will plays it cool, and checks his watch as he talks.
     
    WILL: Well, I gotta get home. I have a fiancé waiting, and I was supposed to be home about oh....two hours ago?
    ALEX: Ahh...yeah. Sonny. Listen, I...I hope you two are in a better place than you were the night of the party at Uncle Vic's, I--
     
    Will holds his hand up to stop Alex midsentence.
     
    WILL: Sonny and I are fine. We worked things out, just like always. 
     
    Alex smiles, somewhat half-heartedly, as Will pushes the down button on the elevator himself.
     
    ALEX: I'm glad to hear it.
    WILL: And how's...Noelle, is it?
     
    Alex tries to look at Will but the tension in the air between them makes it awkward. Alex shuffles a bit, looking away a lot as he tries to avoid answering Will's question.
     
    ALEX: Yeah! She's...uh...well...she's fine. We had a...bit of an argument but...
    WILL: Oh...I'm sorry to hear.
     
    As the elevator door opens, Will smiles at Alex before stepping on. Will turns to face Alex, and smiles at him. 
     
    WILL: You coming?
     
    Alex doesn't react for a moment, still deep in his own thoughts, before responding to Will by motioning his refusal.
     
    ALEX: No! No, no. I uh...I gotta take care of some stuff at the office. You go ahead. I'll see you tomorrow.
    WILL: Kay. Have a good night.
    ALEX: Night, Will.
     
    Will smiles as the elevator door closes. Once the door shuts, Will's face immediately drops in relief. He rests himself against the back wall of the elevator, and lets out a heavy sigh.
     
    WILL: Well, Will? You did it. You made it through another day without cracking. (sigh) How much longer can you keep doing it, though?
     
    On the other side of the elevator door, Alex turns back around, unsure of how he feels. He pulls out his cell phone, to text Noelle, initially, before seeing Will's name at the top of his "recent texts" list.
     
    Nearly clicking Will's name instead, he finally taps on Noelle's name, and texts her:
     
    omw home. u awake?
     
    Alex sighs as looks down at his phone, trying to process the evening's events.
     
    ---
     
    Percy kneels over a still-passed out Nick, shaking him to try to revive him.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas! Wake up! Are you okay???
     
    Nick struggles to revive himself, grunting as he starts to come to. Percy seems relieved when he does.
     
    NICK: Ugh...uhhhh Percy...
    PERCY: Yes, Nicholas, what can I do?
    NICK: Per...Percy grab my pills, they're in my bag. I need two. My head.
     
    Nick's world spins around him, the pain still pulsating in his head. The pressure unbearable.
     
    Percy leaps into action, grabbing Nick's bag and rummaging through it. Pulling out the pills, Nick begins to lift himself up. Percy struggles to find an in-tact glass to give Nick water, but eventually does, as Nick rests on the ground, head still woozy.
     
    NICK: The...pills...
    PERCY: They're on their way, Nicholas.
     
    Nick nods slowly, trying to catch his breath, as he lifts one hand up and studies it. Realizing his hands are bloodied, he looks at them, an exaggerated surprise in his eyes.
     
    NICK: What happ--agh!
     
    A sharp pain hits Nick, as Percy tries to feed Nick his pills. Nick hastily swallows the pills and grabs the water, spilling much of it on himself as he drinks up.
     
    PERCY: Excellent, excellent. There we go, Nicholas. Now...how do you feel?
    NICK: (gasping) like Hell. But....(pant) I'll be okay. Percy!
     
    Percy, getting up from Nick's side, looks back and kneels back down. 
     
    PERCY: Nicholas...who did this to you?
     
    Nick looks at Percy, confused for a moment, before smiling through his pain.
     
    NICK: This? What? Heh heh heh oh this???
     
    Nick holds his hands up to show the bloodied mess to Percy, as well as realizing he has a rather sizeable cut above his eyebrow.
     
    NICK: Oh, that was...nothing.
    PERCY: Well, it seems to me like someone's out to hurt you, and it wouldn't surprise me, under the circumstances.
    NICK: No, no, Percy....you need to listen to me carefully...(gasp) You can't tell ANYONE, no cops, nobody here at Titan...no one at the TV station...nobody...can know about this...or anything we've been doing here, okay? If anyone asks, you say nothing, and you can't tell anyone anything if something happens to me, okay? You can't....you can't trust ANYONE, got it?
     
    Percy looks at Nick, even more terrified. He nods quickly back at Nick.
     
    PERCY: Absolutely, Nicholas.
    NICK: I know...I know I look bad right now, but....you don't understand, now that things have gone down? You have to stay absolutely silent, no matter what. Or there'll be a target on all of our backs. Got it?
     
    Percy draws himself up, petrified, and believing Nick's current state is the result of someone attacking him. He begins to shake a bit in terror at the situation at hand, his eyes never off Nick's intense gaze.
     
    ---
  12. beebs
    EPISODE 116
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Percy finishes apply bandages from the First Aid kit in the Titan lab to Nick, as Nick sits on the island counter of the lab, he winces slightly as his tender wounds are touched.
     
    PERCY: There you are, that should cover it.
    NICK: Ugh, thanks, Percy.
     
    Nick looks over his wounds before jumping down off the counter, walking over toward his laptop, as Percy puts the contents of the First-Aid kit back together.
     
    PERCY: You know, you gave me quite a scare, Nicholas.
    NICK: Yeah, I...I dunno, Percy. These headaches I've been getting--
     
    Percy turns around, surprised to hear about headaches.
     
    PERCY: Headaches? Nicholas, you've been...rather hazy for weeks...are these headaches connected?
     
    Nick looks down at the table, closing his laptop and putting it into his case, he speaks nonchalantly to Percy.
     
    NICK: (sigh) Yeah. Just didn't want to alarm you...or anyone else. People seeing me in pain is seen as a showing of weakness in the business world. Always best to struggle through your pain.
    PERCY: You're far beyond struggling through, Nicholas. You're in great pain, Nicholas. I mean, you've been moody and irritable for weeks. And now I find you...sprawled out on the floor of the lab. Is someone trying to harm you, Nicholas or...is something else going on?
     
    Nick keeps looking down, a serious look on his face as he packs the last of his things away.
     
    ---
     

    JJ sits in the Horton living room, alone, contemplating the cheque that Liam's given him, when Laura opens the front door and steps in.
     
    JJ turns around, and, upon seeing his grandmother, gets up from the sofa. Laura beams as she walks toward her grandson, giving him a warm hug.
     
    LAURA: JJ, darling. How are you?
    JJ: I'm good. I'm good. Uh...how are you?
     
    Pulling out of their hug, Laura smiles warmly at her grandson.
     
    LAURA: I'm alright, sweetheart. A bit tired, though, I'm going to head up to bed if you--
     
    As Laura turns to head up the stairs to her room, JJ stops her, a serious tone in his voice that catches Laura's attention.
     
    JJ: Ah, Grandma! Please. I need to talk to you about something, it's really important.
     
    Laura looks at JJ, concerned by JJ's tone and troubled expression. She nods slowly before redirecting toward the Horton living room.
     
    LAURA: Okay...so...what seems to be the trouble, JJ?
     
    JJ stops before Laura. He sighs as he looks down at Liam's cheque, before unfolding it, and presenting it to her. Laura hesitates before taking the cheque, studying it intensely before breathing in deeply. A look of grave concern on her face as she slowly begins to look up toward JJ.
     
    ---
     

    Noelle sits with Nicole at Club TBD, now rather sloshed, as they continue to laugh and drink. As they continue to laugh at a joke, the door to the bar opens, and Alex steps in. Noelle takes notice of her husband's presence and straightens herself up, donning a serious expression that makes Nicole take notice.
     
    Nicole turns around to face Alex, unsure who it is approaching.
     
    NICOLE: Well, who is this handsome devil?
     
    Alex, smelling the martini on Nicole's breath, makes sure not to get to close, instead rests casually on the bar next to her, trying to maintain a sense of humour despite being rather unimpressed by his wife's public drunkedness.
     
    ALEX: Ohh nobody, just the tired husband here to collect his wife.
     
    Noelle leans against the bar, sloppily pointing a finger Alex's way.
     
    NOELLE: You got my text. But I am not some meat piece you pick up. I am a woman.
    NICOLE: That she is. A woman who's clearly been drank under the table by an experienced professional.
     
    Nicole takes on a mocking haughty tone as she sips the last of her martini. Noelle shakes her head at Nicole, her eyes squinted partly in irritation, partly in exhaustion.
     
    NOELLE: I don't have to take this. But I do have to take this ride because taxis are eps...expensive.
     
    As Noelle stumbles to get out of her seat, she nearly tumbles, but Alex manages to break her fall.
     
    ALEX: I think you're right.
     
    Noelle, still not paying enough attention to try to regain her balance, objects loudly.
     
    NOELLE: Hey! Don't take her side on this!
    ALEX: I'm not, honey. I promise. Look, we need to go. I hope you two had a good evening.
     
    Alex pulls Noelle back upright, and she struggles to keep balance as she holds onto Alex's arm for dear life, attempting to no avail to maintain a sense of dignity on her way out. Nicole waves goodnight to them, quite amused.
     
    NICOLE: Oh, absolutely, had a blast, get home safe, you two!
    NOELLE: Goodnight, Nikki!
     
    Noelle turns back to talk to Alex as they head out of the bar.
     
    NOELLE: You know, that Nicole is so much nicer when you're not near a man, it's like day and night...
     

    As Noelle and Alex head out the door, Nicole sighs, shaking her head with amusement. T walks over and points toward Nicole.
     
    T: You wanna settle up?
    NICOLE: Are you kidding? The other fake blonde's the lightweight here. Hit me up!
     
    T laughs as he steps away to make Nicole another martini. In curiosity, Nicole checks her phone. Seeing Nick's name in her contacts, she looks down and sighs.
     
    After a moment, she shakes her head, and says something to herself.
     
     
    NICOLE: You know what, Nick? You're not controlling me anymore.
     
    Nicole hits a button on her phone, blocking calls from him Nick's number. She looks up with a sense of satisfaction.
     
    NICOLE: Because tomorrow morning, I will be Mrs. Eric Brady, and even if Eric sees those files, I'm gonna know he chose me. You can't hurt us anymore, kiddo.
     
    As she turns back to the bar, putting her phone down on it, T presents her new martini, which Nicole takes a congratulatory sip of.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Alex drives through the night with a stern expression on his face. Next to him, a decidedly uncomfortable Noelle sits, uneasy with the tense silence between them. She finally breaks the silence, trying to maintain her composure despite her obvious intoxication.
     
    NOELLE: How was your eveni--
    ALEX: It was good.
     
    Noelle senses the terse tone in her husband's voice, and immediately knows something is indeed very wrong between them.
     
    NOELLE: Look, Alex, I don't wanna fight abo--
    ALEX: Then don't, okay, Noelle? I'm really not in the mood right now.
     
    Noelle sighs, before folding her arms and slouching down in her seat. As the pair hit a red light, Noelle looks back over at her husband and tries talking again.
     
    NOELLE: I had a really good talk with Nicole tonight. That was...Eric's...fiancé...back at TBD...
     
    Alex's stone silence as he presses down heavily on the gas from the stoplight makes Noelle lean back slightly in her seat, only adding to her discomfort as she looks out at the road ahead.
     
    NOELLE: She helped me relax a bit...and I'm sorry about earlier at the hospital...
     
    Alex still doesn't react. Noelle persists, trying to provoke some kind of response from Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Alex? Did you hear me? I said I was sorry about earli--
     
    Alex finally reacts, still keeping his eyes on the road as he snaps back at Noelle.
     
    ALEX: I heard you. 
     
    Alex finally looks over momentarily at Noelle. Catching her eyes, his eyes snap back to hers, causing him to relent a little.
     
    ALEX: Look, I just....Noelle, I heard you but...
     
    Noelle leans back in her seat, trying to retain her composure, gurgling out a response.
     
    NOELLE: But what?
    ALEX: But I don't know if I believe you or not. You....you had such anger toward Victor, it just...I don't kn...I...Noelle?
     
    Noelle puts her hand over Alex's, as she begins to sweat.
     
    NOELLE: Alex pull over.
     
    Alex looks over, confused.
     
    ALEX: Huh?
     
    Noelle begins to look panicked, as she raises her voice to Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Pull over.
    ALEX: Noelle, I'm not gonna let you walk home from here, it's still about three miles from the ho--
    NOELLE: Now! Please!
     
    Noelle puts her hand over her mouth, sweating more and more profusely as Alex realizes what's wrong. His expression changes and he immediately checks behind him before pulling over by a park. Noelle immediately gets out and runs from the car, sick from the excess martini.
     
    Alex sits in the car, rolling his eyes momentarily before stepping out of the car to check on his wife and hold her hair back like a dutiful husband.
     
    ---
     

    Jennifer and Liam sit at a table at Chez Rouge, as the waiter pours them glasses of white wine. As the waiter, walks away, Jennifer looks up and smiles.
     
    JENNIFER: Thank you.
     
    Jennifer looks over to Liam, raising her glass to toast him.
     
    JENNIFER: Well, I would like to make a toast to you, tonight.
    LIAM: To me?
    JENNIFER: Yes! To you!
     
    Liam and Jennifer laugh as Liam also raises his glass.
     
    LIAM: What for?
    JENNIFER: For reaching out to my son. For trying to build bridges even though you've had problems in the past. It means a lot to me, and I know that, despite his reservations, JJ appreciates it too.
     
    Liam smiles as he moves his glass toward Jenn's and they toast.
     
    After taking a sip from their glasses, Liam sets his glass down and smiles at Jenn.
     
    LIAM:  I just hope that I can keep making you happy, and you know what? I'm gonna make sure JJ comes around, even if it kills me.
     
    Jennifer laughs as she leans across the table to peck Liam on the lips.
     
    ---
     
    Laura stands in the living room of the Horton house with JJ. She turns suddenly to face JJ, horrified by Liam's latest 'gesture'.
     
    LAURA: JJ, you cannot accept this money.
    JJ: I know. I don't want to but--
    LAURA: No buts. JJ, this is dirty money.
     
    JJ looks at Laura, puzzled.
     
    JJ: Grandma, Liam offered me this to go to Stanford. He said this would cover my tuition and my living expenses for awhile, and--
     
    Laura holds up her hands, stopping JJ midsentence.
     
    LAURA: JJ, Liam works for Stefano, he's been supplying people with pharmaceuticals on the sly, this is dangerous to get involved with him. Besides that, isn't it obvious he's trying to buy you off and get you out of town so he can manipulate your mother further?
     
    JJ looks down, sighing. He nods solemnly.
     
    JJ: Yeah, it looked that way to me too.
     
    Laura walks closer to JJ and cups his hands in hers. She stares deeply into her grandson's eyes as she instructs him.
     
    LAURA: That's why you cannot accept this money. Your mother needs you. Your sister needs you. I need you. We've got to stay together to protect this family.
     
    JJ looks down, soaking in what his grandmother's telling him.
     
    LAURA: Please, JJ.
    JJ: Look, Grandma, I understand what you're saying. And I agree, my family needs me...but what if there's another way? What if this money is our ticket to stopping this guy from destroying this family?
     
    Laura looks at JJ, unsure what he has in his mind.

    ---
     
    Nick zips up his bag and nods, turning toward Percy to respond to him.
     
    NICK: Listen, Percy. I don't know what's going to happen from here on out. All I know is, I have a target on my back. And so will you. 
     
    Percy looks at Nick, confused.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas, I don't understand--
    NICK: Listen, Percy. Tonight I stopped Sheryl and Jordan from planting that virus in the Titan server.
     
    Percy looks stunned at Nick, shocked that he would back away from their plan.
     
    PERCY: Wha--why? I mean, that was our plan all along was to allow them access to Titan's computer system to stop this blasted deal--
    NICK: I know...I know, that was what we planned, but...
    PERCY: But Nich--
    NICK: Percy, just...just hear me out. 
     
    Nick looks at Percy, emphatically explaining his change of plan, as Percy looks back, incredulous.
     
    NICK: See...Sheryl was setting me up to take the fall for the virus...and if we were going to see this thing through...I can't let that happen. I can't go back to prison. Ever. So, I decided the best way to stop the oil sands project, is to control it from the inside.
     
    Percy's eyes grow wide, as he realizes the change in Nick emerging.
     
    PERCY: Good lord, Nicholas. You're not saying...
     
    Nick smiles, as he interrupts Percy. A devilish smile on his face.
     
    NICK: Yes, Percy. We're not gonna take down Titan. We're gonna take OVER Titan.
     
    ---
  13. beebs
    EPISODE 117
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Billie steps off the elevator at University Hospital. Standing at the nurses' station is Daniel. Billie and Daniel smile at each other as they give each other a peck on the lips as a greeting.
     
    DANIEL: Well, you're out and about awfully early.
     
    Billie chuckles to herself, checking her watch as she responds.
     
    BILLIE: More like up really late...we had a hell of a night at work and...(sigh) I just needed to see some friendly faces.
     
    Daniel looks up from his tablet, where he's finalizing some work, and gives Billie a stern look.
     
    DANIEL: Well, I hope one of those faces isn't Theresa Donovan.
     
    Billie furrows her brow at Daniel, frustrated.
     
    BILLIE: Of course she is.
     
    Daniel sighs, glowering at Billie's bullheadedness.
     
    DANIEL: Billie--
    BILLIE: ...Well, what do you expect me to do, Daniel? That girl was like a daughter to me before I had Chelsea in my life. I'm closer to her than her own mother. I have a right to see her, regardless of what her mother says.
    DANIEL: You and I know that but I still don't think it's a risk you should be taking. Remember? If I let you in that hospital room, I'm putting my career on the line, and yours as well.
     
    Billie looks to the side, biting her lip, trying to hold in her frustration at Daniel.
     
    BILLIE: Five minutes.
    DANIEL: Billie--
     
    Billie gets agitated, leaning in close to Daniel so as not to project her voice and potentially have others hear their conversation.
     
    BILLIE: Daniel, come on. Just...five minutes, you stay closeby, check in and I'll head home. Okay?
     
    Daniel hesitates another moment, Billie persists.
     
    BILLIE: The guard's on his break, no one will know I'm there. Come on.
     
    Daniel sighs, before taking a moment and motioning silently toward the door.
     
    Billie turns and makes a beeline for Theresa's hospital room door, she looks back at Daniel and smiles warmly at her boyfriend before winking at him, then stepping into the room, closing the door behind her. Daniel looks on, gravely concerned for the consequences if she's caught.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living, still in her robe. It's early in the morning with the sun just peaking out. She paces the living room, studying work documents on her tablet, as she sips her morning coffee.
     

    Down the steps comes EJ, groggy, but noticing the lights on in the living room. He steps into the room, surprised to see Sami up so early.
     
    EJ: Samantha...what are you doing up at this hour?
     
    Sami turns to look at EJ, she sets her coffee and tablet down on the desk in front of her.
     
    SAMI: Oh, I...I couldn't sleep so I...I figured I could at least get some work done.
     
    EJ steps into the room and walks over toward Sami, he hesitates before putting a hand on Sami's shoulder, unsure of her reaction. Sami doesn't pull away, though the uncertainty is still on her face.
     
    EJ: I...umm...if there's anything I can do to help.
     
    Sami looks up at EJ, and smiles.
     
    SAMI: Nah it's...it's okay. I gotta present this contract to Gabi at some point today and then...help Will with some wedding plans, and...
    EJ: Contract?
     
    Sami turns back to the desk to pick up her tablet, she taps it a couple times before presenting it to EJ.
     
    SAMI: Oh yeah...it seems Nick Fallon's trying to pit Kate and I against each other for his golden girl. So Kate, Gabi, and I are gonna play along and get the drop on Nick. And hopefully he'll keep his mouth shut on what happened by the river that night.
     
    EJ looks down at the tablet, before looking up at Sami, a grave concern on his face.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole stands in front of the mirror, beaming from ear to ear as she looks at herself in her wedding dress.
     
    NICOLE: Well...take two, Nicole. Hopefully this time, it goes off without a hitch and you'll become Mrs. Eric Brady.
     
    Nicole looks herself over, before her face drops, the worry hitting her like a ton of bricks.
     
    NICOLE: Just so long as Nick Fallon doesn't pull anything first. (sigh) Nothing can go wrong today. I won't let it.
     
    ---
     

    Aiden sits in his office, taking a sip of his first coffee of the morning. He sets it down on his desk, then getting to signing a document on his desk, when a knock is heard at the door. He looks up, calling out to the person at the other side.
     
    AIDEN: Come in!
     
    A delivery man steps into the room.
     
    AIDEN: Oh! Great. Yes. Ahhh....here it is.
     
    Aiden picks up a large manila envelope and hands it to the delivery man.
     
    AIDEN: And that's going to Mr. Eric Brady at the Salem Inn. That's Room 226.
    DELIVERY MAN: Need a signature on that?
    AIDEN: I will, yes. And uh...please make sure, no earlier than 6pm this evening.
     
    Aiden and the Delivery man nod to each other, acknowledging their arrangement, as the man steps out of Aiden's office. As the door closes, Aiden looks on, sighing.
     
    AIDEN: Alright, Nick. I hope you know what you're getting yourself into.
     
    ---
     
     
     
    ---
     
    EJ's concerned face confuses Sami, she furrows her brow as she steps over to the desk in the DiMera living room, grabbing her cup of coffee to take a sip.
     
    SAMI: Why do you look like something terrible's just happened. 
     
    EJ looks away, suddenly deep in thought.
     
    EJ: Because something terrible may be just about to happen.
     
    Sami suddenly looks concerned.
     
    SAMI: What do you mean, EJ?
     
    EJ turns to face Sami, a sense of urgency in his voice.
     
    EJ: I can't get into it, but you need to be VERY careful how you proceed around Nick Fallon from now on. You, Gabi, and Kate.
     
    EJ turns to head out of the room, leaving Sami stunned and confused.
     
    SAMI: EJ? What...where are you going?
    EJ: I have to take care of something.
     
    Sami stands dumfounded as EJ runs off up the stairs.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole continues to insepct herself in the mirror, when she hears a knock on the door. She turns around quickly, confused as to who would be there.
     
    NICOLE: Now who would that be at this hour?
     

    Nicole opens the door to find Eric standing on the other side, dressed in his tuxedo and ready to go, taking Nicole by surprise.
     
    ERIC: Morning!
     
    Nicole jumps back behind the door to hide her wedding dress.
     
    NICOLE: Aah! Eric! What are you doing here?? It's bad luck to see me in my wedding dress before the ceremony!
     
    Eric chuckles to himself as he leans against the doorframe.
     
    ERIC: You're really gonna play traditional right now? This is probably the least conventional wedding I've ever seen.
    NICOLE: Yeah, well...I have my reasons for being a little bit superstitious. This doesn't exactly have the highest marital success rate, if you hadn't noticed.
    ERIC: Yeah, well...I figure we can be an exception. 
     
    Eric smiles widely and melts Nicole's defenses. She cracks a smile and chuckles to herself before looking into her fiancé's eyes.
     
    NICOLE: (sigh) Okay. Let me grab my coat, and let's go!
     
    Nicole steps away from the door, and grabs her coat, putting it on and grabbing her purse before opening the door to her suite. She steps out to find Eric stood with his elbow stuck out to one side, inviting Nicole to wrap her arm around his.
     
    ERIC: M'lady.
     
    Nicole takes Eric's arm and looks warmly in his eyes as they head for the elevator.
     
    ---
     
    Aiden continues to work at his desk, when he receives a call. Without looking up from his papers, he picks up the phone on his desk.
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) Aiden Jennings.
     
    ...
     

    Nick stands in the Brady pub, a to-go cup of coffee before him as he shakes the sugar packets in his other hand.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Aiden, it's Nick Fallon. Is it sent?
     
    ...
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) It is, as requested.
     
    ...
     
    NICK: (into phone) Excellent. I'll be contacting you probably tonight with what I need next from you, alright?
     
    ...
     
    AIDEN: (into phone) Hey, as long as you keep paying my fee, I'm all yours, Fallon.
     
    ...
     
    Nick stirs his coffee casually as he looks up, smirking once again.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Oh, trust me, that won't be a problem.
     
    Nick hangs up the phone, chuckling smugly to himself.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits next to Theresa's comatose body in her hospital room. She holds Theresa's hand as she speaks gently to her.
     
    BILLIE: Hey, Sweetie. I've been meaning to come see you more but...well...you know your mom.
     
    Billie laughs half-heartedly to herself as she looks down at her friend. She sighs, trying to hold her emotions in.
     
    BILLIE: I guess I should let you know what's up. I...uh...well, Daniel and I are getting pretty serious now. I know he's...not exactly your favourite person, but...he's been good to me. Hell, he's the one making sure I can still come to see you, so that's gotta count for something, right?
     
    Billie stops a moment, never taking her eyes off Theresa's face, as she holds Theresa's hand in hers.
     
    BILLIE: We miss you, Theresa. I know you've got a long way to go and...you may...no, I'm not gonna think like that...I'm not giving up. You're gonna make it all the way back to us, you hear me?
     
    As Billie squeezes Theresa's hand, she feels Theresa squeeze gently back, her thumb moving, causing Billie to jump after a moment, as the heart monitor makes note of Theresa's slight increase in heart rate.
     
    BILLIE: Theresa??
     
    Billie jumps up, and heads for the door of the room to find Daniel to let him know that Theresa's starting to wake up. She stops for a second at the door, a big smile appearing on her face, as she carefully steps back out into the hallway to look for Daniel.
     
    After a moment, the door to Theresa's room, creaks open. A woman in a pair of black pumps steps into the room. She carefully closes the door behind her.
    In her hand is a filled syringe.
     
    ---
  14. beebs
    EPISODE 118
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Gabi walks around the main room of her shared apartment with Sonny and Will, holding Ariana in her arms as she feeds her her bottle. Ari stays peaceful and quiet as Gabi quietly sings to her, as a knock on the door is heard.
     
    Surprised, as it's relatively early in the morning for visitors, Gabi walks cautiously toward the door.
     
    GABI: Seriously? It's like...6:30 in the morning. Who the...
     

    Gabi opens the door to find EJ standing on the other side, looking back at her gravely.
     
    GABI: EJ?
    EJ: Gabi, I'm sorry, but this is an emergency.
     
    Gabi looks back at EJ, confused and surprised by EJ's rather dramatic greeting.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living room, trying in vain to get EJ to pick up his phone.
     
    SAMI: Ugh! Straight to voicemail again? Come on, EJ!
     
    Putting the phone down on the desk, she pinches the bridge of her nose momentarily, trying to figure out what emergency EJ could possibly have at 6:30am, when Harold emerges from the foyer, getting Sami's attention immediately.
     
    SAMI: Harold?
    HAROLD: Uh, a Mr. Fallon to see you, Mum.
     

    Sami's expression changes immediately to one of irritation as Nick steps into the room, a smile on his face.

    ---

    Daniel stands behind his desk in his office at University Hospital, putting down his tablet, as someone knocks on his office door.
     
    DANIEL: Come in!
     

    Billie bursts through the door, a bit out of breath and an excited look on her face.
     
    BILLIE: Daniel! Come, quick!
     
    Daniel walks toward Billie, a worried look in his eye.
     
    DANIEL: Billie? What happened?
     
    Billie starts to smile as she tells Daniel her news.
     
    BILLIE: It's Theresa. I think she's starting to wake up.
     
    ---
     

    In Theresa's hospital room, a woman in black pumps stands by the door. In her hand, a filled syringe.
     
    She slowly steps toward Theresa, being careful not to make a sound as she approaches Theresa's hospital bed.
     
    Theresa lays in her bed, still unconscious, as the woman standing over her leans over to grab her IV.
     
    As the woman jabs the syringe into the IV line and injects the liquid into Theresa's IV, Theresa's head begins to move as her eyes begin to twitch. Theresa struggles to wake up as she sees the blurry shape of a woman standing over her.
     
    The woman pulls the syringe out and quickly makes her way out of the room. 
     
    Theresa, squinting as she struggles to wake up, tries in vain to lift her arm up to reach out to the woman before her energy dissipates yet again and she descends slowly back into her coma.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Noelle wakes up, groggy and sore. She opens one eye slowly, making a sour face. Checking the room around her, she spies Alex walking to the vanity by the bed in nothing but a towel, drying his hair with another towel. Noelle slowly flops over to face her husband.
     
    NOELLE: Ughhh.
    ALEX: Good morning to you too.
     
    Noelle lies back in bed, closing her eyes again, hoping to dull her throbbing headache.
     
    NOELLE: Ugh wake me up next month.
     
    Alex rolls his eyes, somewhat amused by his wife's hangover.
     
    ALEX: You know, I know you don't wanna hear this, but it serves you right.
     
    Noelle stays lying back in bed with her eyes closed as she whines back at Alex.
     
    NOELLE: Shut uuuup. What do you mean?
    ALEX: Well, you know, if you hadn't snuck into Victor's room and had a go at him--
    NOELLE: Aleeeex, come on. Let this go, please?
     
    Alex turns around, exasperated.
     
    ALEX: Well, come on, Noelle. He's family. Whether you like it or not.
    NOELLE: Ugghh, don't remind me.
     
    Noelle fumbles about, flailing to try to feel where her tablet is. Finding it on the bedside table, she haphazardly pulls it toward her and turns it on to read the news.
     
    Alex, meanwhile, bends down to open his underwear drawer, pulling out his briefs for the day.
     
    ALEX: I'm just saying.
     
    Noelle doesn't look up, simply shakes her head gently as she tries to ignore her husband, hoping he either stops talking or changes the subject.
     
    NOELLE: Fine. Whatever.
     
    After a moment, Noelle's eyes widen, shocked by the headline.
     
    NOELLE: Oh God.
     
    Alex stops grabbing his clothing from the drawers of the vanity and straightens up, looking over at Noelle by staring into the mirror.
     
    ALEX: What?
    NOELLE: Not what....who.
     
    Noelle turns her tablet to face Alex. Before him is a picture of his mother under the headline that reads:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    Alex looks over, visibly displeased by the headline.
     
    ---
     
    Daniel steps excitedly into Theresa's room, immedately stepping to her side to check her vitals.
     
    He inspects everything, but sees nothing unusual. He opens her eyelids to check for signs of consciousness, flashing a light into them, before stepping back. 
     
    He shakes his head, hanging back a moment in hopes that maybe he was wrong. Daniel waits a moment before stepping back in closer to her, and taking her hand in his, gently calling out to her.
     
    DANIEL: Theresa? It's Dr. Jonas. 
     
    Daniel waits a moment, before continuing.
     
    DANIEL: Theresa? Can you hear me? If you can, squeeze my hand.
     
    Daniel waits for some kind of small sign from Theresa's again-comatose body, before letting go of her hand and heading out into the lobby, where Billie awaits.
     
    Once Daniel emerges, Billie anxiously walks over to him and puts a shaking hand on his chest.
     
    BILLIE: So? Is she coming to?
     
    Daniel sighs and slowly shakes his head, as Billie's hands quake even more. 
     
    DANIEL: There's no indication she's coming around at all, Billie. I'm sorry, I--
    BILLIE: Did you call our to her? Did you put your--your hand, did...did you hold her hand?
     
    Daniel looks down as Billie holds her still-shaking hands up, before resting them against his body.
     
    DANIEL: I'm sorry, Billie.
     
    She presses herself against Daniel's body as he takes her in his arms to comfort her as she begins to cry.
     
    BILLIE: No...she...I felt her hands, Daniel...
    DANIEL: I know...I know...
     
    Daniel strokes Billie's head with one hand and holds her close to him in the other, as she rests her head against his chest.
     
    ---
     
    Sami leans against the desk in the DiMera living room as Nick stands just inside the doorway. Harold steps out of the room and closes the door behind him, leaving Nick and Sami alone in the room. Sami barely blinks as she glowers at Nick and his sunny expression.
     
    NICK: Well, good morning to you too, Sami!
    SAMI: What do you want, Nick?
    NICK: Oh, trust me. Nothing bad.
     
    Nick all-too-casually steps toward the armchair, sitting himself down and making himself comfortable in it as Sami remains leaned against the desk, scowling back at him.
     
    SAMI: Why does that somehow scare me even more?
    NICK: A negative outlook. Seasonal depression. Irregularity. Could be a lot of things. 
     
    Nick looks over at Sami's mug on the desk beside her and points to it, cracking another joke.
     
    NICK: Oo! Coffee could help, maybe you're the kind that need two cups in the morning.
     
    Sami stands upright, folding her arms in as she maintains her distance from Nick.
     
    SAMI: You know, you're awfully quick with a cheap crack for 7am, Nick. You might wanna cut back on the energy drinks, yourself.
    NICK: Nah, I'm high enough on life right now. And besides, you could make my high even greater if you have that little...proposal we talked about?
    SAMI: Oh, you mean Gabi's modelling contract? Yeah, I sent it to her yesterday, she'll give me her decision this afternoon.
     
    Nick smirks as he clasps his hands together in almost comical self-satisfaction.
     
    NICK: Good. Excellent work, Sami. I think you've earned yourself a little reward for your efforts.
     
    Sami guffaws at Nick's offer, laughing at the absurdity of the situation.
     
    SAMI: A reward? Nick, I hardly think you have very much that I would want.
    NICK: Ohhhhh, I think you might want this. In fact, I guarantee it.
     
    Sami squints, studying the situation and Nick's guarded body language, before speaking up.
     
    SAMI: Okay, I'll bite. What's my great reward?
    NICK: My continued silence about your questionable lifesaving skills...and some valuable information.
    SAMI: Information? What kind?
    NICK: Ohhh very valuable. You might wanna sit down for this.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes as she resolutely refuses to move from her spot by the desk.
     
    SAMI: I'll take my chances, what is it?
     
    Nick's expression changes to one of deadly seriousness.
     
    NICK: It's your brother, Eric. He's getting married today. To Nicole Walker.
     
    Sami's eyes widen as the colour drains from her face.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi stands in the doorway of the apartment, stunned by EJ's early visit.
     
    GABI: I...wh--come in, wh...what's going on?
     
    Gabi steps out of the doorway to let EJ in, and she shuts the door behind him.
     
    EJ: Samantha told me about the bidding war Nick's setting up to try to reel you in.
    GABI: Oh...yeah...what about it?
     
    EJ steps in closer, in disbelief about Gabi's nonchalance regarding the situation.
     
    EJ: Gabi, you've readdicted Nick to the same prescription that drove him to murder, and kidnapping in the first place.
    GABI: Well, yeah, but I can handle it. Nick's gonna slip up soon and we'll catch him and get him thrown in jail before it goes too far.
     
    EJ becomes increasingly emphatic with Gabi, trying to get her to see the gravity of the situation, while simultaneously trying to hold his voice down so as not to be overheard by Will or Sonny.
     
    EJ: No, you cannot handle it on your own, Gabi. I didn't tell you this but that dosage I gave you was far stronger than the first bottle I gave you. Nick is about one step away from a total meltdown right now and if he finds out you, Samantha, and Kate are trying to play him, he's going to take some drastic steps, and I don't think anyone will be safe if he does that.
     
    Gabi curls in her lips, frustrated by EJ's clarity. After a moment of trying to rock Ariana so as to keep her calm in this tense situation, Gabi sighs and responds to EJ.
     
    GABI: Okay, fine. What are we gonna do then?
     
    EJ reaches into his jacket as he replies.
     
    EJ: Well, I'll tell you the first thing you're going to do, and that's carry this with you everywhere you go.
     
    EJ pulls a Glock pistol from his jacket, immediately causing Gabi to tense up.

    EJ holds the gun out for Gabi to take, but a voice calls out before Gabi can reach out for it.
     
    SONNY: What in the HELL is that gun doing in our home?!
     

    Gabi and EJ both turn around quickly to see a just-awoken Sonny standing in the doorway of his and Will's bedroom, looking stunned and infuriated.
     
    ---
  15. beebs
    EPISODE 119
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    EJ stands in Gabi, Sonny, and Will's apartment, holding a pistol he was about to hand Gabi. Sonny stands in the doorway to the bedroom, glaring angrily at EJ.
     
    EJ: Sonny.
     
    Gabi turns around to look at Sonny, who walks hastily over and takes the gun from EJ's hand.
     
    SONNY: What the HELL do you think you're doing bringing a gun in this house, EJ?
    EJ: Sonny, let me explain--
    SONNY: NO! No, you LISTEN to me, EJ. I am not going to have Ariana living with a deadly weapon lying around, ready to be used whenever a wind picks up and a treebranch taps the window pane because we're all so terrified of what Nick Fallon's gonna do next. 
     
    EJ looks away, shaking his head as he allows Sonny to finish his rant.
     
    SONNY: And before you tell me this is supposed to protect us, I think we can find a slightly better way than packing heat everywhere we go.
    EJ: Sonny, Nick Fallon is threat.
    SONNY: He may be, but he's too smart, and too cunning to attack us at this stage in the game with violence.
     
    EJ looks at Sonny, an unsure look on his face.
     
    EJ: Not...neccessarily. Not anymore.
     
    Sonny looks back at EJ, confused.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living room, shocked by the news she's just heard from Nick, who sits causally in the easychair facing her.
     
    SAMI: He's WHAT??!
    NICK: Getting married to Nicole. In...
     
    Nick checks his watch for a second, before looking up at Sami, smiling widely.
     
    NICK: About an hour?
     
    Sami rushes forward, heading for the door of the living room to show Nick out.
     
    SAMI: You're lying. I KNOW you're lying. You're just trying to get me going and...
    NICK: I saw the appointment booking. They're probably headed the justice of the peace right now.
     
    Nick gets up from his seat, turning toward Sami who has her hand on the knob of the door leading out of the living room. She stops before opening it, then turns back to face Nick.
     
    SAMI: My brother wouldn't be so stupid as to marry Nicole Walker.
    NICK: Do you really have the time to debate me about it? Look, you've done me a huge favour by offering Gabi that contract, and I'm willing to pay it forward. I'm not trying to get one over on you. 
     
    Sami laughs to her herself as she responds sarcastically.
     
    SAMI: Oh...that's a first.
     
    Nick looks at Sami, deadly serious as he steps toward her.
     
    NICK: Sami. Do you really think you have the time to second guess me on this? If I were you, I'd be in my car already, trying to stop this farce of a wedding from happening. No?
     
    Sami stops a moment, looking away from Nick before opening the door to the living room.
     
    SAMI: I guess I'd better get ready to go.
     
    Nick smiles smugly as he heads out.
     
    NICK: You're welcome.
     
    After heading out, Sami closes the door behind him. Frustrated, she contemplates her action plan.
     
    Having a sudden epiphany, she heads over to the landline phone on the desk at the opposite end of the room, and makes a call.
     
    ...
     

    At Marlena's penthouse, a relaxed Marlena gets up from having breakfast and digs through her purse to find her cell phone.
     
    Putting it to her ear, she answers.
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Sami?
     
    ...
     
    Sami answers, a definite sense of urgency in her voice.
     
    SAMI: (into phone) Mom, where are you?
     
    ...
     
    Marlena's expression shifts immediately, suddenly concerned by her daughter's tone.
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) I'm at home. Sami? What's going on?
     
    ...
     
    SAMI: (into phone) I don't have time to explain, meet me at city hall right now. It's an emergency.
     
    Sami hangs up the phone, almost slamming it onto the receiver, before taking a moment to think of her action plan.
     
    SAMI: You're not gonna get away with this, Nicole. Not on my watch.
     
    ...
     
    Marlena stands in her living room, confused and worried, as she tries to get Sami to answer.
     
    MARLENA: (into phone) Sami? Sami? Are you...?
     
    Marlena looks at her phone, seeing that Sami ended the call. Worried, she immediately heads for her bedroom to get ready to go meet Sami.
     
    ---
     

    Valerie sits on her sofa in her living room, attempting to set something up on her laptop. Visibly frustrated, she tenses up as though ready to hit the computer, before hearing Jerome come down the stairs, ready to head off for the day. Valerie turns, hopeful that Jerome can help.
     
    VALERIE: Oh! Jerome! Good morning!
     
    Jerome stops once he reaches the bottom of the staircase. Turning to face his grandma, she pulls him by the shirt toward him to greet him with a morning kiss on the cheek.
     
    JEROME: Hey, Grandma.
    VALERIE: Hey. You want some breakfast before you head out?
     
    Jerome hesitates, not wanting to stick around, but trying not to be rude.
     
    JEROME: Uhhhh actually, I was gonna meet some guys from the university at the Brady Pub.
    VALERIE: Oh. That's a shame. I uh....I actually needed your help with something before you left. Do you...do you have a second for me?
     
    Jerome shrugs, politely smiling at his grandmother.
     
    JEROME: Yeah. Sure.
    VALERIE: Good. Cos' this here is about to make your grandmother lose her mind.
     
    Valerie walks Jerome over to her laptop, motioning to him.
     
    JEROME: Okay, what's the problem?
    VALERIE: I have to do an interview for a nurse I'm looking to hire for the hospital, and they want me to do it online using this....video chat business. And I do NOT know the first thing about setting this up.
     
    Jerome laughs for a second with Valerie, before nodding.
     
    JEROME: Yeah, that's cool. I can set you up in two seconds.
    VALERIE: Jerome Grant, you are a lifesaver.
     
    Jerome sits himself down on the couch and quickly sets everything up for the video chat, he looks up at Valerie, who stands over him, watching what he's doing. He asks her a question.
     
    JEROME: Now I just need her name and account name so we can finish setting it all up.
     
    Valerie points to a specific tab on the computer screen to guide Jerome.
     
    VALERIE: Oh! It's um...this one here.
     
    Jerome clicks on the tab that shows the woman's resumé. After plugging in her handle into the chat program, her profile appears on the screen, complete with her picture.
     
    Her name is Crystal Clarke.
     
    Jerome stops a moment, suddenly very focused on the woman's face. A very pretty woman with short, bright red hair in a pixie cut, soft chubby cheeks, and a bright smile. 
    After a moment he notices a striking resemblance to Sheryl. Certainly, the two women have some significant differences in their appearance. This woman's hair, in colour and length, differ significantly from Sheryl's. Additionally, this woman is somehwat chubbier than Sheryl, and their eye colours are somewhat different. But the resemblance is still uncanny to Jerome.
     
    Thinking fast, Jerome looks back at his grandmother.
     
    JEROME: I...uh...I think we're ready. So just...
     
    Jerome gets up from his seat, and guides Valerie onto the couch in his stead. He points toward a specific spot on the screen.
     
    JEROME: Just...click there when you wanna connect the call, and you're good.
    VALERIE: Thank you, baby.
     
    Valerie kisses Jerome lovingly on the cheek before he steps away from the couch. He stops to tell Valerie something.
     
    JEROME: Anytime. Look, I...uh....I think I will stick around and grab some coffee at least.
    VALERIE: It's all ready for you in the kitchen.
     
    Jerome smiles at his grandma before continuing on to the kitchen.
     
    JEROME: Thanks, Grandma.
     
    Jerome heads for the kitchen, stopping just at the doorway as he continues to think over his plan.
     
    JEROME: If I didn't believe in miracles before...this might be just what we needed to finish this job once and for all.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl paces her hotel room in the sleazy hotel at the edge of town Jerome has set up for her. The darkness of the room irritates her, as she has on the bedside lamps and turns on the room's lights, but it's still not enough. She looks over at the room's phone, contemplating making a call to Jordan, but quickly realizes that would be at once foolish and in vain.
     
    SHERYL: Are you stupid? Jordan's not gonna take your calls at this rate. You just gotta sit tight and wait for word.
     
    Suddenly, the room's phone rings. Sheryl lurches forward, quickly pulling the receiver to her ear in desperation.
     
    SHERYL: Hello?
     
    ...
     
    It's Jerome. He stands in his kitchen at home, stirring his cup of coffee as he cheerfully greets Sheryl, almost in a singsong voice.
     
    JEROME: (into phone) I've got some good news for you.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) I could use some right about now. What is it?
     
    ...
     
    JEROME: (into phone) I may have a way for us to pull this job off after all.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl smiles widely, a sudden glimmer of hope finally coming through for her.
     
    ---
     

    Alex walks over to Noelle, who is still lying in bed nursing her hangover. Noelle holds up her tablet which shows his mother's picture on the front page of the Salem Spectator, alongside the headline:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    Alex sighs as he reads the headline. He responds sarcastically.
     
    ALEX: Great. She finally did it.
    NOELLE: Look, I know this is...a huge issue between you guys--
     
    Alex snaps at Noelle, trying to stop her from carrying on with this topic.
     
    ALEX: Look, I don't...I don't wanna get into this right now. You know how I feel about my mother and her...politics.
     
    Noelle leans over in bed, as Alex sits down on the bed next to her. She puts a hand on his shoulder, hoping to comfort him.
     
    NOELLE: I do. And I know that you want to keep your life out of the spotlight, and her running for office...severely hampers that. We can keep our distance from her. I mean...she's not in Salem, so we won't have to attend all kinds of party events and fundraisers.
    ALEX: That's not the point. I'll still get asked for my input. What am I gonna say? No, I don't support anything my mother stands for. No, I don't want her to win the governor's seat! Why do you ask?
     
    Noelle laughs momentarily, while rubbing her husband's shoulders, starting to lift herself out of bed.
     
    NOELLE: Look, just...don't let it bug you too much. If it helps, I'll call Anjelica and we'll work something out. Okay? 
     
    Noelle leans in close to Alex's ear, and whispers sensually into it.
     
    NOELLE: Now...why don't you...take a bit more time getting ready.
     
    Noelle giggles, as she lets her hands wander from her husband's shoulders, leading down to his chest.
     
    NOELLE: I guess I'm starting to feel a bit better.
     
    Alex smiles, but takes Noelle's hands off him, and gets up.
     
    ALEX: I wish I could but...I have too much to go over this morning, and Justin sent me a text saying there was something big that came up last night I have to deal with so...I gotta run. I'm sorry.
     
    Noelle smiles, disappointed but understanding.
     
    NOELLE: It's okay. I understand. 
    ALEX: Look, I gotta get ready. You gonna stay in bed awhile.
    NOELLE: Yeah.
     
    Noelle sits in bed, as Alex leans in and kisses Noelle gently on the lips.
     
    ALEX: I'll let you rest. I'll see you tonight. I might have a surprise waiting for you.
    NOELLE: Ooo! I look forward to it. I love you.
     
    Alex breaks away from Noelle and heads for the door, flashing a sexy smile at his wife.
     
    ALEX: Love you too.
     
    Once Alex closes the door, Noelle sighs. She gets up from her bed and grabs her cell phone, placing a call.
     
    After a moment, someone answers, and Noelle is none too pleased.
     
    NOELLE: (into phone) Just when the Hell were you gonna tell me you were running? We had a deal, Anjelica!
     
    ---
     
    Sonny reacts to EJ's comment in equal measures of frustration and confusion.
     
    SONNY: Wh-what do you mean, not anymore? I...


    As Sonny reacts, Will emerges from the bedroom, half-asleep and confused.
     
    WILL: Guys, what's all the...EJ?
     
    EJ looks over at Will, feeling guilty for having woken him up. He nods a greeting Will's way.
     
    EJ: William.
     
    Sonny turns toward Will, almost laughing at the situation he finds so absurd.
     
    SONNY: Will! You know what all this noise is? EJ's decided that the best way to protect us from Nick is to bring a gun into our home. Because that's a responsible environment to raise Ariana in. Don't you think?
     
    Will looks over at Sonny, Gabi, then EJ, and back to Sonny, responding a little sheepishly.
     
    WILL: Well, uh...I mean...maybe it's because I'm still half-asleep but...he may have a point.
     
    Sonny looks back at Will, mystified and outraged by his statement.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena walks out of the front door to her building. Spotting Sami's car out front, she approaches, surprised to see her daughter there.
     
    MARLENA: Sami?
    SAMI: Mom,  get in.
    MARLENA: What are you talking about?
    SAMI: Mom, Eric may be about to make the biggest mistake of his life. There's no time. Come on, I'll drive.
     
    Marlena looks at Sami, more worried than ever, as she wordlessly gets into the passenger's side of Sami's car and closes the door.
     
    Sami immediately speeds off once they're both inside.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole and Eric sit in the car together, the both of them blissfully happy as they head for Salem City Hall to be married.
     
    ERIC: You excited?
     
    Nicole cocks an eyebrow at Eric, who chuckles to himself as Nicole responds.
     
    NICOLE: What do you think? Seriously though, I am so grateful that we got a second chance, Eric. You don't even know how happy I am to be getting married to you today.
    ERIC: You and me both. I know I don't...speak about this much but...you know...after what happened with Kristen and...Dr. Chyka getting away and...all that stuff with the church...I could've very easily fallen into a really dark place.
     
    Nicole zones out, contemplating her own part in the Dr. Chyka affair. She flashes back to her meeting with Hope upon their return from Dr. Chyka's cabin, when Hope told Nicole that it was better they hadn't found anything in the cabin, as it would harm Eric's case rather than help.

    She then recalls putting the files proving Kristen drugged Eric in her desk drawer.
     
    Eric squeezes Nicole's hand, snapping her out of her thoughts.
     
    ERIC: Nicole.
     
    Nicole looks up, back at Eric. She smiles.
     
    NICOLE: Sorry. My mind...wandered.
    ERIC: Apparently! 
     
    Nicole and Eric laugh together as Eric turns into the parking lot at the city hall. Stopping the car, he puts the car in Park and pulls the keys from the ignition. He stops before getting out and looks over at Nicole.
     
    ERIC: Well, I just want you to know...I thank you. I couldn't have made it through all of this without you.
     
    Nicole begins to tear up, leaning in to kiss Eric. After they kiss gently on the lips, Eric unfastens his seatbelt and opens the door.
     
    ERIC: Are you ready to become Mrs. Eric Brady?
     
    Nicole laughs, unable to hide her glee.
     
    NICOLE: I am SO ready.
    ERIC: Well, let's go!
     
    Nicole unbuckles her seatbelt and quickly leaves the car at the same time as Eric. They shut their respective doors almost completely in sync.
     
    ---
  16. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #12
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    story consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & ML Cooks

    Daniel sits at his desk at University Hospital. He is reading over some reports, and studying them intensely when a knock at his door breaks his concentration. He looks over to the door.

    DANIEL: Come in!

    Jennifer steps into the room, a morose expression on her face. Daniel is surprised to see her, but, seeing her face, isn't sure he really wants to see her right now. After a second, he finally speaks up.

    DANIEL: Jennifer.
    JENNIFER: Daniel. We really need to talk.
    DANIEL: Uh, sure. Um...have a seat.

    Daniel scrambles to put away his work to give Jenn his full attention. Jenn walks over quickly and sits down on the other side of Daniel's desk.

    DANIEL: So...what's going on?
    JENNIFER: Look...maybe this isn't the best place to do this--
    DANIEL: No. No, Jenn. There's no time like the present. It's my office so we have some privacy if that's what you need, so...what's up?
    JENNIFER: JJ. He told me everything.
    DANIEL: Everything about...?
    JENNIFER: About the night Theresa OD'd. I know what happened, Daniel.

    Daniel's shocked and doesn't know how to react to Jenn's news.

    ---

    Sami passes by Nick, Will and Sonny in Horton Town Square, just as Sonny and Nick shake hands. Sami is outraged.

    SAMI: What in the hell is going on here?

    ---

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4&feature=player_embedded

    ---

    SAMI: I asked you a question.

    Sonny and Nick end their handshake, while Will walks over to try to calm Sami down.

    WILL: Okay, Mom. Just...relax, okay? Nick, Sonny, and I, we're just...we're calling a cease fire. We figure, the best way to move forward is just...for everyone to get along.

    Sami looks at Will like he has three heads.

    SAMI: Is there something wrong with the air in that apartment? I swear, it's making everyone in there lose any shred of common sense they ever had.
    NICK: Sami, all I'm trying to do is--
    SAMI: Change! CHANGE! Change! Yes! I know! You're trying to make a fresh start, a change. I swear, you're starting to sound like the homeless man on the streetcorner, you talk about change so much!
    NICK: Well, I can't exactly do that unless people give me a chance, now will I?
    SAMI: We all have. We've given you so many chances, and you used those chances to try to ruin Will's life. So yeah, maybe I'm not exactly so open to Nick Fallon Version, what is it? 3.0? 4.0? Deluxe Edition, perhaps?
    SONNY: Sami. Please. Just calm down. Okay? Look, come by later on and we can talk about this, okay?

    Will pulls Sami aside to say something to her away from Nick's ear.

    WILL: (just above a whisper) Please, Mom. We'll have some...good news to share with you as well. Okay?
    SAMI: (breathes) Okay, fine. But this better be good.
    WILL: Promise.
    SAMI: Okay.

    Sami turns to Sonny, who smiles and nods to her. After a moment, she breathes again. She addresses the group.

    SAMI: Look, I gotta get back to work. You boys have a good afternoon. Nick.

    Sami gives Will and Sonny quick goodbye kisses and walks away. She stops around the corner, and looks back over to Nick, Will, and Sonny, who are still talking.

    SAMI: Either something's going on, or my son's brain's fallen right out of his head.

    ---

    Percy is incredulous at Nicole's veiled rejection of his story.

    PERCY: What do you mean 'if'?
    NICOLE: I mean, seriously, this is a nonstory. I mean, come on, we see this all the time. Some big company comes in and buys up all the land for cheap and drives all the weirdo nature people out, people complain, and then people get over it when the money and the jobs start coming in.
    PERCY: I beg your pardon?
    NICOLE: My point is, considering how bad the economy is, and how few new jobs are available in Salem right now, how can you justify being so hostile to this project?
    PERCY: It's quite simple, really. We will be ruining the community if this project goes ahead. Why, the air quality alone will be enough to kill all the native wildlife, or at the very least drive them away. This area is such a unique gem. So many beautiful, graceful creatures call this land home. And that, my dear, is more important to me than any oil sands.

    Nicole sits, unmoved by Percy's speech.

    NICOLE: Then volunteer for Greenpeace and chain yourself to a tree.
    PERCY: I do believe you misunderstand how important this is to the community.
    NICOLE: Okay, convince me.
    PERCY: The entire west end of the city will be completely devastated by the project. Cancer-causing pollutants in the air. In a few years, you will all see the brightness and prosperity of the moment be swallowed up by the heavy toll and looming miasma of death. And naturally, the rich and powerful in the east end will be spared the indignity of this peril.

    Percy's intense monologue causes Nicole to react only with a raised eyebrow and vague interest. She sits, arms folded on the table.

    NICOLE: That was great. What was that? Shakespeare?
    PERCY: I am serious, Miss Walker. You cannot take this lightly. You must look into this, if not for me, for the community at large.

    Nicole holds up her hands in defeat. Something tells her she can't in good conscience ignore Percy's plea.

    NICOLE: Alright. Alright. Fine. I'll make you a deal. I will research this story. If I dig up anything worthwhile, I'll proceed with an on-camera interview. But that's all I promise.
    PERCY: I shall accept this offer.

    Percy holds out his hand to Nicole. Nicole reluctantly shakes his.

    NICOLE: I better not regret this.

    ---

    Kate stands up from her desk, in complete disbelief at Roman's refusal to arrest Jordan and Sheryl.

    KATE: You have got to be joking.
    ROMAN: I'm not! There are absolutely no grounds to arrest Kaylie Matthews or Siobhan McKinnon at this moment.
    KATE: They firebombed a bank. They're wanted terrorists!
    ROMAN: You clearly didn't read the whole story on them, did you?
    KATE: What are you talking about? I had those two looked into with a fine tooth comb.
    ROMAN: Well, if your guy was worth a quarter of his rate, you'd know that Kaylie and Siobhan were brought in, and acquited due to the nature of their arrests during the G8 protests. The police contravened the law in their arrests, and everyone involved was set free.

    Kate shakes her head at the news.

    KATE: Damn it all. And damn that hack Ortiz. I swear to God you can't find a good PI these days.

    Roman stands up to stop Kate from grabbing her phone to contact Ortiz.

    ROMAN: Now, Kate. I never said this was over. We all know they're guilty. And I can guarantee those two are in Salem for a reason. We just need to figure out what they're up to before they strike again.
    KATE: Well how in the hell are we supposed to do that, Roman?
    ROMAN: I'm gonna make a call to some guys at the FBI. I'll get back to you on this.

    Roman starts to head for the door. He turns around and points to Kate to ask her something.

    ROMAN: Does anyone else know anything about this?
    KATE: Only Lucas. Sami thinks she does, but I didn't tell her anything.
    ROMAN: Okay. Well, keep it that way until we meet. Keep your phone on you, I wanna meet with you and Lucas at the station as soon as I hear from these FBI guys. Got it?
    KATE: Got it.
    ROMAN: I'll see you later.

    Kate sighs heavily, arms folded. She slumps into her chair, shaking her head.

    KATE: Dammit, Jordan. What the hell are you planning?

    ---

  17. beebs
    EPISODE 120
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Sonny stands with EJ in the living room of his apartment, as Gabi lays Ariana down in her crib. Sonny looks at a half-asleep Will, who stands in the doorway to their bedroom. Sonny is mystified by Will's acceptance of EJ gifting Gabi a gun to protect her.
     
    SONNY: What is wrong with you, Will? You think it's a good idea to keep a gun in this house? With your daughter nearby?
    WILL: Okay, Sonny, look. Nick has gone off the deep end before, and we all know that. And he has access to our lives in ways we may have absolutely no concept of. What's to stop him from finding a way to kidnap Gabi or Ari? He's already manipulated his way back into Gabi's life, and she was too afraid to say anything.
    GABI: Not...exactly.
    SONNY: What do you mean by that?
     
    EJ interjects, trying to keep Gabi from spilling the beans on their plot.
     
    EJ: Gabi...
     
    Gabi sighs as she turns toward EJ. She shakes her head before she reveals her real plans with Sonny and Will.
     
    GABI: EJ, we can't keep this from them. Look...my trying to reconcile with Nick, it's all been a ruse. Like Will suggested before. I've been trying to reel him in and get him to trust me again so I could use it against him.
    WILL: Okay...but...
    SONNY: Gabi, please tell me you're not doing anything dangerous.
     
    Gabi shakes her head emphatically.
     
    GABI: No, no. I umm...no, I went on a date with Nick and...well...EJ suggested I get him drunk and...give him his old pain medication to stop his hangover. And then...I replaced his Ibuprofens with lookalikes EJ had made that are really a stronger version of the pain meds Nick got hooked on when he killed Trent Robbins.
    SONNY: WHAT?! Gabi, what the--
    GABI: I had Hope investigate and I was hoping to have him caught with the pills before his parole ran out so that I could have him arrested, but...
    Will sighs, putting a hand on his forehead as he finishes Gabi's sentence.
    WILL: But she didn't find them, and now Nick's back to full-on psycho mode, and if he finds out that Gabi's been duping him...
     
    Sonny turns back toward Gabi and EJ, who both look on very seriously at Will and Sonny.
     
    EJ: You all could be in very grave danger.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome steps into the living room at the Grant house, just as Valerie is about to begin her video interview with Crystal Clarke, the nurse she's looking to hire at the hospital.
     
    He steps into the room and interrupts her before she hits "connect".
     
    JEROME: Hey! Grandma, just...one thing I forgot to do before you start that call.
    VALERIE: Oh! Sure, honey! Go ahead.
     
    Jerome opens up the computer's media player, and sets up the media player to begin recording video and audio of Valerie's computer screen (including the video interview) without Valerie noticing.
     
    Once the recording is set up, he turns the computer back over to Valerie.
     
    JEROME: There you go, Grandma.
    VALERIE: Thanks, baby. Okay, here we go.
     
    Valerie hits "connect", and Crystal appears on the screen, ready to start the interview. Jerome hangs back, watching the interview begin with a big smile on his face.
     
    ---
     

    Sami and Marlena sit in traffic along the highway, desperately trying to get to City Hall in time for Eric and Nicole's wedding.
     
    SAMI: Come on, come on, come on!!
     
    Sami blares on her horn, trying in vain to move traffic. Marlena winces from the noise of the horn blast.
     
    MARLENA: Sami, that's not going to help.
    SAMI: No, but it makes me feel better.
     
    After a moment's pause, Marlena looks over, a bit annoyed at Sami's impatience, and dubious of her motives.
     
    MARLENA: And just what, exactly, is Eric doing that's going to ruin his life? You never did explain that one to me.
     
    Sami sighs heavily, not wanting to say anything but deciding there's really no time like the present.
     
    SAMI: well...I guess, since we're stuck here. I might as well tell you.
     
    Marlena snaps back, sick of all the mystery.
     
    MARLENA: Tell me what?
    SAMI: Eric's getting married this morning. To Nicole.
     
    Marlena looks back at Sami, completely in disbelief.
     
    ---
     

    Eric and Nicole step up to the door of the Justice of the Peace's office. They stand together, holding hands, and looking lovingly at each other.
     
    ERIC: You ready?
    NICOLE: Am I ever.
     
    Eric opens the door to the office and they step in together, hand in hand.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Eric and Nicole walk into the office of the Justice of the Peace, hand in hand. Both of them smiling widely as the smiling older gentleman behind the desk looks up, greeting them.
    JUSTICE OF PEACE: Mr. Brady, I presume?
    ERIC: Good morning! Mister...
    JUSTICE OF PEACE: Greg Watkins.
     

    Justice of the Peace Watkins extends his hand to Brady and then to Nicole, both of whom graciously shake his hand. As Nicole shakes his hand, Daniel opens the door and steps into the room. Eric and Nicole turn to see who's come in and smile.
     
    DANIEL: I...uh...I heard there was gonna be a wedding in here?
     
    Eric walks over and greets Daniel with a handshake and a hug, as the two laugh.
     
    ERIC: It's good to see you, man.
    DANIEL: You too. Nicole, you're looking fantastic.
     
    Nicole smiles and curtsies in jest.
     
    NICOLE: Thank you.
    DANIEL: I uh...I'm sorry I was a bit late, I had to drop Billie off at Kate's.
     
    Nicole raises an eyebrow at Daniel after his remark about Billie.
     
    NICOLE: You and Billie, eh?  Sounds like that's getting pretty serious.
    DANIEL: Well....you could say that.
     
    Eric smiles, and pats Daniel on the shoulder.
     
    ERIC: I'm really happy for you.
     
    Eric turns toward Nicole and JOP Watkins, checking to see who's here.
     
    ERIC: Are we ready to go?
    NICOLE: Uh...just waiting on Chloe.
    DANIEL: Chloe texted me about five mintues ago, she's just parking her car. She'll be up in a minute and we can get started.
     
    Nicole walks over to Eric and takes his hands in hers. She beams with excitement as she leans in and quickly kisses her husband-to-be on the lips.
     
    NICOLE: Eeee it's happening!
    ERIC: I know! (laughs)
     
    ---
     
    Marlena sits in heavy traffic in Sami's car, stunned by the news that Eric is marrying Nicole.
     
    MARLENA: You've GOT to be joking!
    SAMI: I am not.
    MARLENA: How did you find this out?
    SAMI: Nick Fallon came over this morning. We'd been working on a project for Countess Wilhelmina and, he let me know that he'd found out. I guess to give me a warning as a....bizarre thank you for helping him out.
     
    Marlena looks on, confused by the scenario.
     
    MARLENA: Nick Fallon...but doesn't Nick work for Kate?
    SAMI: It's...it's a long story. The point is we have to get to City Hall before that wedding happens.
    MARLENA: Oh you're not kidding. After all the hell that woman put Eric through...and you? I'll be damned if she gets her claws into Eric again.
     
    Marlena and Sami stare out the window, internally screaming as they watch the traffic remain at a standstill before them.
     
    ---
     
    Sonny looks to Gabi, completely stunned by her plan to hook Nick back on his meds.
     
    SONNY: Gabi, what did you think was gonna happen when you started feeding Nick those pills?
    GABI: I seriously thought that Hope was going to see the pills and arrest him.
    SONNY: Oh. Yeah. Hope. Nick's cousin. You know much tension that would cause in the Horton house if they found out Hope was the one that busted Nick? She's not going to bust him even if she DID find the pills.
    GABI: As I found out at Brady's wake.
     
    Will looks over at Gabi, interested.
     
    WILL: What do you mean?
    GABI: I uh...after I got Nick hooked on the pills, Hope didn't find anything, and so I...had someone grab more of the same pills and he...kinda...stole Marlena's perscription pad so that it would look like Nick was stealing drugs from the hospital...
     
    Sonny interjects, rolling his eyes at Gabi.
     
    SONNY: Oh God, Gabi--
    GABI: Well, I had to because by that time, Nick's parole was up and I wouldn't have been able to have mere possession stick, so...unfortunately...
    WILL: Let me guess...she wouldn't look into it.
     
    Gabi looks down, arms folded. She looks back over at Will and Sonny and shakes her head. Sonny reacts immediately.
     
    SONNY: Figures. See, Gabi, you're always going off and...taking matters into your own hands when we should be all trying to get through this together.
    GABI: Look, I know, okay? But I didn't think you guys needed the added stress with everything else you guys are dealing with right now, and Will starting a new job and you're trying to plan a wedding. I just didn't wanna burden you.
    SONNY: Well, consider us sufficiently burdened. Now Nick's so far off the deep end, we have to keep a gun in the apartment. Good job, Gabi.
     
    Gabi looks down, not responding to Sonny's words. Sonny, angry about the situation, grabs his jacket, and heads for the door.
     
    SONNY: I need to go grab a coffee.
    WILL: Sonny, wait...
     
    Will jumps in, heading for the door to follow Sonny, hoping to calm him down, but EJ stops him.
     
    EJ: William...I'll...you stay here, I'll...take care of him.
     
    Will stops, before nodding at EJ. EJ takes the gun, and hands it to Will. Will holds it in his hands, as EJ closes the door to the apartment. He and Gabi look down at the gun, grave concern in both their eyes.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl lays back in her hotel room at the dive motel at the edge of town where Jerome's put her up. She lies on the bed, watching TV, thoroughly bored. She shouts at the TV as a game show plays.
     
    SHERYL: NO, you idiot, $600!
     
    As she shouts out, the hotel room phone rings. She leans over to pick it up, still annoyed at the contestant on the TV screen.
     
    SHERYL: Dumbass...
     
    Picking up the phone, she speaks, knowing who's calling.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) What you got for me?
     
    ...
     
    Jerome paces the Grant kitchen, trying to speak just softly enough so that Valerie can't hear him from the living room.
     
    JEROME: (into phone) Okay, so she's doing the interview now, and I'm 100% this chick's got the job.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl listens, contemplating her plan of action.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Okay. So how are we gonna pull this off?
     
    ...
     
    JEROME: (into phone) Simple. I'll try to access her e-mail based on her resumé, and delete the acceptance letter when it comes in, hopefully before she sees it and makes the arrangements, and no one will be the wiser.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) And if she does?
     
    ...
     
    JEROME: (into phone) Then we cross that bridge when we get to it.
     
    ...
     
    Sheryl sits up in the bed, getting increasingly agitated.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) No, that's not good enough. There is no recourse on this. If she sees that e-mail and comes to Salem to start this job? We have to stop her...and I think I know exactly how to do it.
     
    Sheryl gives a bit of an evil grin.
     
    ...
     
    Jerome looks off, unsure if he likes what Sheryl has cooked up.
     
    ---
  18. beebs
    EPISODE 121
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Alex comes down the steps of the Kiriakis mansion, adjusting his tie as he prepares for work. At the bottom of the steps, he turns to enter the living room, finding Justin there, as he ends a call on his cell phone.
     
    JUSTIN: (into phone) Yeah, thanks. I'll be there.
     
    Hanging up, Justin turns to face Alex.
     
    JUSTIN: Alex! Good morning!
    ALEX: Hey, Dad. I've uh...I've got some news.
    JUSTIN: Yeah, so do I. Uh...you want a cup of coffee before you head out?
     
    Alex walks into the living room and sits down on the sofa, as Justin steps over to the caraffe placed on a silver tray in the corner.
     
    ALEX: Yeah, sure. Thanks.
     
    Justin pours Alex a cup, as well as one for himself, and hands one over to his son. He then sits down in the easy chair next to Alex.
     
    ALEX: So uh...what's your news?
    JUSTIN: Well...it looks like we've got a hell of a day ahead of us...someone tried to break into the Titan server last night, someone who was trying to sabotage the EnerNext project.
     
    Alex looks up at his dad, surprised and concerned.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome walks back into the living room from the kitchen at the Grant house, finding Valerie sitting in her living room, finishing up her interview with Crystal Clarke, the nurse she's looking to hire at University Hospital. She makes a final note on her notepad, before looking up at the screen.
     
    VALERIE: Alright, I think that's everything I need. Listen, Crystal, you've really impressed me, so...I can't guarantee anything, but there's a very good chance you'll be coming on board with us at University Hospital.
    CRYSTAL: (through the computer) Oh that's great, thank you so much!
    VALERIE: Now, I have to check your references, but either way, I'll let you know by this afternoon if you have the job or not, okay?
     
    Jerome stands back, out of his grandmother's sight, listening in on the end of the interview. As he does, he looks toward the coat rack by the door, and quietly as possible, makes his way over to it.
     
    Jerome smiles widely as he realizes his plan's coming together nicely. He leans into Valerie's coat pocket, and pulls out her hospital key card, slyly placing it in his own pocket, as Valerie finishes up her interview, oblivious to Jerome's theft.
     
    CRYSTAL: (through the computer) I can't wait. Thanks again, Dr. Grant.
    VALERIE: It's no trouble at all, Crystal. I'll speak to you soon.
     
    Valerie shuts her computer and Jerome comes into the living room about then. Valerie looks up, and smiles.
     
    VALERIE: Oh hi, Baby. 
    JEROME: Hey Grandma!
    VALERIE: Did you get yourself a cup of coffee from the kitchen?
    JEROME: Yeah! Yeah I did. Hey...uh...how did the interview go?
    VALERIE: Oh, extremely well. I'm absolutely going to be hiring her. I just...you know, I can't say it straight out or else I can get into all kinds of trouble.
     
    Jerome hangs back, as Valerie gets up from her seat on the couch, and picks up her laptop from the table, putting it in her laptop bag.
     
    JEROME: So how soon will you have her come to Salem, then?
    VALERIE: Well...if everything works out right...I'm hoping we can have her up here by the end of this week.
     
    Jerome nods, trying to hide a smile as he collects his information for Sheryl's plan.
     
    ---
     

    At the office of the Justice of the Peace, Eric, Nicole, and Daniel wait with the Justice of the Peace for Chloe's arrival. As they mill about, chatting excitedly, the door opens. Chloe pokes her head in and smiles, calling out to the group in a singsong voice.
     
    CHLOE: I'm heeeere!
     
    Nicole screams in excitement as she runs over to give her best friend a hug.
     
    NICOLE: Ohhhh I'm so glad you could make it.
    CHLOE: Ohhh I wouldn't miss this for the world. 
     
    As they pull out of their hug, they hold each other's hands and smile at each other.
     
    CHLOE: You have no idea how happy I am for both of you. You deserve this, Nicole.
    NICOLE: Thank you.
     
    Nicole turns toward everyone else, a big, glowing smile on her face.
     
    NICOLE: Well, I guess we should get started.
     
    Nicole steps toward Eric, and the Justice of the Peace, while Daniel and Chloe stand behind them, as Eric takes Nicole's hand in hers, and looks deeply into her eyes, as they begin the ceremony.
     
    ---
     

    Sami and Marlena sit in traffic, Sami anxiously trying to find a way to escape the endless traffic jam she finds herself in.
     
    MARLENA: Do you know when they were planning to start the ceremony?
    SAMI: No idea. Nick just said they were headed there now, so I don't think we have much time.
    MARLENA: Oh God. What is Eric THINKING?
    SAMI: Oh come on, you know Nicole's his achilles heel, Mom. She's suckered him in once before.
    MARLENA: You're right...I just hope we aren't already too late.
     
    Marlena looks out the window and sees the next exit clearing up ahead. She frantically points toward it to get Sami's attention.
     
    MARLENA: Sami! Take the next exit, right there. Quick!
    SAMI: I'm on it!
     
    Sami quickly puts her signal on, turning out into the next lane to make their way off the crowded highway.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Will stand in their living room, looking down at the gun that EJ has handed Gabi for protection. Will sighs as he slowly looks up at Gabi.
     
    WILL: I hate to say this but...EJ was right to give you this.
    GABI: You won't hear any argument from me.
     
    Gabi starts to walk away toward the kitchen area to put on a pot of coffee. Will watches her walk off, surprised by her appearance of nonchalance.
     
    WILL: You don't seem the least bit fazed by this. 
     
    Gabi stops, as she grabs the caraffe from the coffee maker. She looks at Will and shrugs.
     
    GABI: Will, I'm doing what I have to do to protect all of us.
     
    Will looks on at Gabi, incredulous.
     
    WILL: You don't think this is just a bit...extreme? Gabi, this should be such a red flag to you of how far this whole situation has gone. Don't you see how deep you've got yourself involved in all this?
     
    Gabi runs the water, filling up the caraffe, before turning and placing the caraffe down on the countertop, exasperated.
     
    GABI: Don't you think I know that? Don't you think I've replayed this over and over and over in my mind a million times? I'm terrified, Will. I'm fighting for my life, and your life, and Sonny's life...but most important is that little girl over there. 
     
    Gabi points toward Ari sitting in her crib, Will looks over at his daughter momentarily, a mix of love and worry in his eyes, as Gabi continues, growing increasingly emotional, before starting to tear up.
     
    GABI: I am fighting to make sure that Arianna doesn't have to live another day with the threat of that sick bastard hanging over all our heads. I want that little girl to grow up with her family around her. And I am running out of ways to do that. And I am scared, Will. I am so scared.
     
    Will looks back at Gabi, realizing how terrified shs really is for the first time, and responds softly.
     
    WILL: You don't have to be scared, Gabi. We're all here for you--
     
    Gabi snaps, cutting Will off as she becomes more and more emotional.
     
    GABI: YOU CAN'T GUARANTEE THAT, WILL! Not if we don't do something to stop Nick. And fast. Because I will not let my daughter lose her parents, or her grandparents because of that sleaze. EVER.
     
    Will stares at an almost-crazed Gabi, both of them deeply worried and deeply upset by their circumstance. Will walks over to an emotional Gabi and gives her a hug, as Gabi begins to sob on his shoulder.
     
    ---
     
    Alex looks at his father, totally stunned by the news he's just heard.
     
    ALEX: I'm sorry, what?
    JUSTIN: The um...the same people that hacked the City Hall server yesterday that was in the news? They tried to break into Titan's servers last night, and corrupt all the files associated with the EnerNext oil sands project, including all your promotional work you've been working on with Will.
    ALEX: Oh my God.
     
    Justin holds up a hand, hoping to stop Alex from freaking out.
     
    JUSTIN: Now, hold on. Before you panic, we stopped them in time, but you have to know, it's someone in the graphic design department that's responsible.
    ALEX: That means they're under my watch.
     
    Justin nods, uncomfortable sharing the news with his son.
     
    JUSTIN: Yeah. Now, Tyler may have something to say about that. Umm, for now the press doesn't know, but they want to hold an emergency board meeting about it later today, and...hopefully, we can get some of this sorted out.
     
    Alex looks down, away from Justin's gaze. He tries to soak in all the information, momentarily holding his head in his hands.
     
    ALEX: God. When it rains, it pours, doesn't it?
    JUSTIN: You can say that again.
     
    Alex gets up from his seat and begins to pace the room, Justin looks on, trying to reassure him.
     
    JUSTIN: Listen, I don't think anything grave is going to happen where your department is concerned. I just want to give you the head's up. Keep quiet if anyone calls or any press get wind of it. We need to keep this out of the press at all costs. There's way too much riding on getting this project off the ground.
    ALEX: I know, Dad. Don't worry. (sigh) But...that's not even the biggest problem we've got right now.
     
    Justin looks over at Alex, confused.
     
    JUSTIN: What do you mean?
     
    Alex pulls his tablet out from his briefcase, and, after pressing a few spots on the screen, hands it over to Justin.
     
    ALEX: Mom's decided to follow in Harper's footsteps.
     
    Justin studies the electronic edition of the Salem Spectator for a moment, before looking up at his son, surprised by the headline.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl steps out of the bathroom, her hair wrapped in a towel, and wearing a matching white dressing gown. She hears a heavy knock on the door and quickly makes her way over to the front door of the motel room, checking to see who it is through the peephole. Seeing that it's Jerome, she quickly lets him in, hoping no one sees him.
     
    SHERYL: Get in, get in, get in.
     
    Closing the door behind her, she looks at Jerome expectantly, as Jerome takes off the hat he wore to disguise himself, and reaches into his pocket.
     
    SHERYL: So...what did we get?
     
    Jerome pulls a USB stick from his pocket, and hands it to Sheryl.
     
    JEROME: Everything you need to become Crystal Clarke, RN.
     
    Sheryl cocks an eyebrow, impressed by what Jerome has managed to do.
     
    ---
     
    Sami pulls up to the City Hall, and quickly puts her car in Park and turns the car off. 
     
    SAMI: Okay. We're here!
    MARLENA: Now, let's just hope we get in there before it's too late.
    SAMI: From your mouth to God's ear, Mom.
     
    Ripping the keys from the ignition, she and Marlena, make a made dash inside, hoping to stop the wedding in time.
     
    ...
     
    Justice of the Peace Watkins stands before a beaming Eric and Nicole, as they stand before him, holding each other's hands.
     
    JOP WATKINS: Well, good morning, and I am pleased to stand before you today, to join Nicole, and Eric, in matrimony.
     
    ...
     
    Running up to the front desk, Sami waves frantically, trying to get the attention of the front desk clerk.
     
    DESK CLERK: Can I help you ladies?
    MARLENA: Yes, I'm Dr. Marlena Evans, and I--
     
    The desk clerk lights up, recognizing Marlena immediately.
     
    DESK CLERK: Oh my GOSH! Dr. Evans! I remember you from when you used to have that radio show on years ago! Never thought I'd see the day...
     
    Marlena tries to cut her off, impatiently trying to move things along without being rude.
     
    MARLENA: Yes, that was...years ago, listen, my son is getting married today, and we need to know which room they're in. Can you help me and my daughter? We're very late.
     
    The desk clerk smiles, ever-so-casually getting up from her seat, and smiling warmly at Marlena.
     
    DESK CLERK: Oh, for you? Anything, Dr. Evans.
    MARLENA: Thank you. I don't mean to be short but we're very late, and I don't want to miss the big moment, so...if you could.
     
    The desk clerk sits herself slowly down at the computer, nodding happily.
     
    DESK CLERK: No trouble at all, Dr. Evans.
    MARLENA: Thanks again.
     
    Much to Marlena's chagrin, the desk clerk continues to prattle on as she slowly starts to look up the room for the wedding.
     
    DESK CLERK: You know, you hear all these things about what's happened to you in the years since the show ended, and I think it's just such a shame, all these ridiculous rumours that swirl around, them saying you killed all those people but...really...kidnapped them and...I can't even keep track! (laughs) People really need to stop with all this fake news, you know?
     
    Marlena resists rolling her eyes, as Sami gives Marlena a look of pure irritation.
     
    ...
     
    JOP WATKINS: If anyone sees just cause why these two should not be joined, let them speak now, or forever hold their peace.
     
    After a moment of silence in the room, Nicole quietly laughs, thrilled that the ceremony can go on without objection.
     
    JOP WATKINS: In that case...Eric Brady, do you take Nicole Walker to be your wife?
     
    Eric smiles warmly at Nicole, squeezing her hands gently, as he answers softly.
     
    ERIC: I do.
     
    ...
     
    The desk clerk clicks on a tab on her computer screen, almost too deliberately, before turning toward Marlena and Sami.
     
    DESK CLERK: What did you say your son's name was, Dr. Evans?
    MARLENA: Ah, Eric Brady...he's to be married to a Nicole Walker.
    DESK CLERK: Alright...
     
    The desk clerk hits "search" on her database window, and the computer begins to work.
     
    After a tense moment, the desk clerk looks back at Marlena and Sami and smiles, slightly apologetically.
     
    DESK CLERK: I don't know if you heard, but the servers were down here yesterday, so it's taking a while for the system to get back into the groove of things. (laughs) Oh, you know technology!
     
    Sami and Marlena smile awkwardly, as Sami responds this time.
     
    SAMI: Oh, do I ever.
     
    ...
     
    JOP WATKINS: Do you, Nicole Walker, take this man, Eric Brady, to be your husband?
     
    Nicole, without a moment's hesitation, excitedly answers, nearly bouncing as she answers.
     
    NICOLE: I do!
     
    Everyone laughs, as Nicole continues to jiggle with girlish excitement.
     
    ....
     
    A moment passes, as Sami cracks her knuckles, unsure whether this relieves any tension, or if she's winding up to punch the desk clerk. Finally, the results come in.
     
    DESK CLERK: Here we go!
     
    Sami and Marlena snap back to the desk, staring attentively, awaiting their answer.
     
    MARLENA: Yes, which room is it?
    DESK CLERK: Ooo! You better hurry, it's happening now. It's in Room 341. It's on the third floor, three doors down on your right...
    MARLENA: Thank you!
     
    Marlena and Sami take off like a shot for the elevator. The desk clerk barely having time to finish her thought. She looks on, as both Sami and Marlena disappear around the corner.
     
    The desk clerk shouts out to them, while waving.
     
    DESK CLERK: Good luck, Dr. Evans!
     
    The desk clerk sits back down in her seat, her expression immediately changing to one of irritation as she does.
     
    DESK CLERK: Damn society folks in this town, always in such a hurry they forget their manners.
     
    ...
     
    Eric places the wedding ring on Nicole's finger. She beams as she looks at the beautiful silver wedding band.
     
    ERIC: I promise, when we do this properly with the family, I'll have something a little bit more...formal prepared (laughs) but for now....just know that I love you, and I am so grateful that I've been given a second chance with you. I don't know what I'd do without you, Nicole.
     
    Nicole begins to tear up, as she leans in to kiss Eric.
     
    NICOLE: Oh, Eric! I love you too...
     
    As they kiss, the Justice of the Peace makes his final declaration.
     
    JOP WATKINS: By the power vested in me by the state, I now pronounce you, husband and wife.
     
    As he finishes the announcement, and Daniel and Chloe begin to clap in congratulations, the door to his office swings open, and a voice screams out, startling everyone inside.
     
    MARLENA: NO!
     
    Nicole and Eric break their kiss, as they, the Justice of the Peace, Daniel and Chloe turn around with a start, finding a panicked Marlena and Sami standing just inside the doorway.
     
    ---
  19. beebs
    EPISODE 123
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Jerome sits down in front of Sheryl's new laptop, inside her grungy motel room at the edge of Salem. As Sheryl paces behind him, almost supervising him as he works, Jerome types away, intensely focused at the screen as he helps formulate a plan to help Sheryl.
     
    JEROME: There we go. And that should also give you access to Billie as well, since she'll be at this event with the rest of the Titan executive.
     
    Sheryl takes a moment, and smiles. She nods and puts her hand on Jerome's shoulder in approval.
     
    SHERYL: Yeah, I think this is good.  Billie Reed, you're gonna pay for what you've done to me...and I'm gonna make sure of it.
     
    Sheryl smiles and laughs to herself as she thinks of what's to come.
     
    ---
     

    Kate and Billie walk through town square, chatting as they sip their morning lattes. From the far end of the square, Rafe and Jordan emerge, holding each other. Kate looks over and stops dead.
     
    KATE: Oh God. 
     
    Billie looks at Kate, baffled by what's distracted her mother.
     
    BILLIE: What?
     
    Billie follows Kate's eyes, and finds a happy Jordan and Rafe approaching them.  Jordan and Rafe smile as they come up to them, Jordan with a much less friendly smile than Rafe.
     
    BILLIE: Oh.
    JORDAN: Good morning, ladies!
     
    Kate looks at Jordan, purse-lipped and scowling eyes.
     
    KATE: Jordan.
     
    Kate looks over to Rafe, a sudden shift to a more pleasant expression as she greets her ex-lover.
     
    KATE: Rafe, how are you doing?
    RAFE: Can't complain.
    KATE: That's good.
     
    Kate looks back at Jordan's smiling face, and works hard to resist rolling her eyes.
     
    KATE: I wish I could say the same.
     
    Billie elbows her mother to try to keep the interaction polite, Kate flashes a dirty look Billie's way.
     
    BILLIE: (under her breath) Mom!
    KATE: (quietly) Ow!
     
    Jordan, ignoring the jab, keeps on smiling, as she excitedly tells Kate her news, knowing how much it'll irritate Kate.
     
    JORDAN: Listen, Kate, I'm so glad to see you. I just couldn't wait to show you.
     
    Kate looks confused, and mostly disinterested, as Jordan pulls her arm from around Rafe.
     
    KATE: Show me what?
     
    Kate gasps, and Billie does as well, as Jordan extends her hand, showing off her gorgeous new engagement ring.
     
    JORDAN: Rafe and I are getting married. Isn't that great?
     
    Kate and Billie look at each other, Kate in some kind of revulsion, Billie remaining stunned with surprise.
     
    KATE: Just...fantastic.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole, Sami, Eric, and Marlena stand in the Justice of the Peace's office at Salem City Hall. Nicole is standing uncomfortably, arms folded, as Sami stares her down, intimidating her with a bold question.
     
    SAMI: I know you've been cozying up to Nick and Percy the Greetings guy for the EnerNext story, but we all know Nick never does anything out of the goodness of his heart...so, tell us, Nicole...what's he got on you that's got you so nervous? Hm?
     
    Nicole looks over at Eric, and shakes her head.
     
    NICOLE: He doesn't have anything, Sami. Don't be ridiculous. The only thing that Nick wants is to tell his story, and that's to help his friend stop this stupid oil sands project.
    SAMI: Oh please. You're not seriously gonna tell me that this rushed wedding isn't some kind of ruse to snow my brother before the other shoe drops, are you? I know you, Nicole.
    NICOLE: No, you don't, Sami. Not as well as you think you do. I've changed. Loving Eric has helped me change. 
     
    Marlena interjects, stepping in to stop Nicole's saccharine story.
     
    MARLENA: How touching. But if you've really changed as much as you say, don't you think having Eric's family be there for his wedding day would've been a nice gesture? His father is dying, Nicole. Why would you want to deny him that?
     
    Eric cuts in as well, trying to stop his family from ganging up on Nicole.
     
    ERIC: Hey, come on now! Don't lay that at Nicole's feet. We discussed this already. Like the adults that we are. And I know that's hard for either of you to believe, but we are grown adults who can make our own decisions. We decided that it would be better to take some time and find a way to make this easier for you all to accept, and THEN we were going to plan a big wedding. That was MY idea.
    MARLENA: Eric, by then it might be too late for your father. He's declining every day. The other night, he ran off and slept in the park in 40 degree weather. He was that confused. He deserved to be here today. I deserved to be here, regardless of what I think of Nicole. I would have respected your decision.
     
    Eric balks at his mother's statement, shaking his head in disbelief.
     
    ERIC: Yeah. Yeah, your showing up here in a fit of rage, the two of you, shows me exactly how much respect my decision would've gotten had I done it your way. At least this way we get it all out in one shot, instead of weeks and weeks of people trying to guilt me out of marrying the woman I love.
     
    Eric puts his arm around Nicole's waist. She snuggles in close to him.
     
    ERIC: So you can save your guilt trips. Nicole and I are married, and there's not a damn thing you can do about it.
     
    Sami and Marlena look at each other, then at Eric and Nicole, deeply unhappy about Eric's words.
     
    ---
    ---
     

    Justin approaches Tyler in the Kiriakis living room, while Alex gets up from his seat, both Alex and Justin curious about Tyler's stern warning.
     
    JUSTIN: I'm sorry...Nick Fallon is going to torpedo the company? Nick Fallon works in the cosmetics lab at MadWorld. How is HE going to destroy all of Titan?
    NICK: Well, not to put too fine a point on it, but he knows everything. And probably about everyone.
     
    Alex puts his hands on his hips, still not following what Tyler's saying.
     
    ALEX: What does he know?
    JUSTIN: Ahh...long story.
    ALEX: Well, I've got nothing but time for this.
     
    Justin sighs, holding the bridge of his nose momentarily while he looks down at the floor. Tyler resists momentarily before he turns toward Alex and begins.
     
    TYLER: Basically, Victor never got rid of the shadier parts of his business. We all knew this. But he tried to keep them separate from the main Titan business, all sort of his attempt to appear legitimate once Isabella died.
     

    As Tyler says this, Noelle emerges from upstairs, doing her hair up in the pony tail as she walks down the steps casually. Midway, she overhears Tyler, and stops to listen, slowly, quietly heading down toward the living room, making sure to remain out of sight.
     
    TYLER: But he kept them all at an arms length through my business, using shell corporations to launder money whenever there needed to be any transfer of capital or resources to Titan. Now that Titan's in trouble, that's when he decided to, quote-unquote "buy out" EnerNext. When EnerNext was just a branch of the other business that I had been working on for the past twenty years.
    ALEX: So you're telling me that EnerNext is basically an oil company that's mostly been used as a front for gambling, loan sharking, and smuggling this entire time, and only the bare minimum's been going to actual oil production?
     
    Tyler sighs, nodding as he continues his story.
     
    TYLER: Just enough to make us look legit to the outside. Now, granted, we did do a lot of work trying to partner with firms in the middle east to tap into those resources, but we ran into...complications.
     
    From the foyer, Noelle smiles widely, loving all the turmoil and shady dealings that Titan has undertaken, and relishing the worries that it'll be exposed.
     
    In the living room, Justin cuts in, hoping to stop Tyler from overdivulging to Alex.
     
    JUSTIN: Look, this isn't really...relevant, nor is it something we really want everyone to know about. So...the important thing here is, how does Nick know about this, why does he want to use this against his own employer, and what are we gonna do about it?
     
    ---
     
    Jerome steps off the elevator at University Hospital. He looks around after stepping off, and looks down at his phone momentarily to text Sheryl.
     
    at UH. will fix email for u. will text when done
     

    Putting his phone away, he notices Abby hugging Maggie outside Victor's hospital room, and approaches her.
     
    JEROME: Well good morning!
    ABBY: Oh, hey!
    JEROME: Hey, I didn't expect to see you so fresh so early.
     
    Abby chuckles to herself, blushing a bit as she responds to Jerome.
     
    ABBY: Well, I'm a pretty early riser, plus, I had a lot to do today, and I had to check in on my Aunt Maggie's husband, who's a patient right now, so...
     
    Jerome turns to face Maggie, extending a hand to her to shake, they smile warmly at each other.
     
    JEROME: Jerome Grant.
     
    Maggie's eyes widen in recognition before they shake hands, and Maggie jumps slightly, pointing toward Jerome, excitedly.
     
    MAGGIE: OH! You're Valerie's grandson!
     
    Jerome laughs as he answers.
     
    JEROME: Yeah! How did you know?
    MAGGIE: Ohh, we've known Valerie a lot of years. I was married into the Horton family for...well...most of my life, and we all knew and loved Valerie very much. 
     
    Jerome smiles back at Maggie, and finally does shake her hand.
     
    JEROME: Well, it is good to meet you, Maggie. I hope your husband makes it out of here soon.
     
    Maggie smiles warmly, but with a hint of sadness.
     
    MAGGIE: I hope so, Jerome. And thank you.
    ABBY: Listen, Maggie. I gotta head to the station, and I wanted to talk with Jerome, so I will see you later. Let me know if anything changes with Victor, okay?
    MAGGIE: Absolutely. I'll talk to you later, Abby! Nice to meet you, Jerome.
    JEROME: Likewise, Mrs. Kiriakis!
     
    As Abby and Jerome step away, Abby looks playfully at Jerome.
     
    ABBY: So...what brings you by here?
    JEROME: Well, I had a little something to take care of for my grandma but...then I saw you and figured I'd maybe...ask you for a late breakfast?
    ABBY: I could be persuaded...but I do need to get to the station. Nicole's big exposé on EnerNext airs tomorrow night, and we need to tighten up a lot of stuff before then, so...it all falls to me.
     
    Jerome looks deeply into Abby's eyes, smiling widely, almost transfixed by his attraction to her.
     
    JEROME: Edward R. Murrow would be proud. You don't see that kinda journalism anymore. Taking down the bad guys against all the pressure from big business? I admire that.
     
    Abby giggles, blushing a little more as she averts her eyes for a moment, then looking back up at Jerome.
     
    ABBY: Well, it isn't really my doing, but I'll take all the credit if you want.
    JEROME: Hah...alright...well...if a late breakfast is no good...how 'bout I stop by around 2 and we'll make it a late lunch. That work?
    ABBY: It's a date.
    JEROME: Is it?
    ABBY: You bet it is.
     
    Abby winks as she walks off, heading for the elevator, catching glimpses back at Jerome, who still can't take his eyes off her.
     
    ---
     
    At Horton Town Square, Jordan stands before a stunned Billie and Kate, showing off her engagement ring to Rafe, who stands next to her.
    JORDAN: I know, it's probably nothing compared to the flashy, ostentatious stuff you would normally wear, Kate, but...for me, it's...better than all the money in the world. Anyway, I gotta go. Rafe? I'll see you after work?
    RAFE: You got it, babe.
     
    Jordan turns and wraps her arms around Rafe, and they kiss lovingly, making Kate visibly uncomfortable.
     
    Jordan breaks the kiss, and waves at Billie and Kate as she happily trots away. Rafe watching Jordan lovingly as she walks away.
     
    JORDAN: Bye!
     
    Kate gives Jordan major sideye, and Billie waves politely. Once only Billie, Kate, and Rafe remain, Billie decides the time is right to make herself scarce to give Rafe and Kate a chance to talk alone.
     
    BILLIE: Ahh...so they have free refills at the Java Café, so...I'm gonna...re...fill myself...a cup...yeah.
     
    Billie steps away in a hurry, leaving only Rafe and Kate behind. Kate looks at Rafe with disappointment, but tries to feign happiness for her ex-.
     
    KATE: I suppose congratulations are in order.
    RAFE: Kate...
    KATE: No, no. No...look...I knew whatever it was between us wasn't going to work, there was way too much in our way, between Stefano and...
     
    Rafe reaches out to try to take listen, but she won't, and steps away from Rafe's hand.

    RAFE: Kate, come on.
    KATE: ...No, Rafe. I gave you the space, because there was so much happening at work, and...well, I guess I stupidly thought you and Jordan wouldn't last. I was wrong. So, I hope you're happy together. Because, I personally don't think you know what you're getting yourself into, and I don't want you to end up heartbroken at the end of all of this. 
     
    Rafe reaches out again to Kate, who tries to resist showing any vulnerability, but Kate steps away, heading back toward the café to meet Billie.
     
    KATE: It's good to see you, Rafe. Congratulations.
    RAFE: Kate...KATE.
     
    Rafe watches as Kate walks away, frustrated and disappointed by how their conversation turned out.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena stands with Eric, Nicole, and Sami, and takes Eric's hand for a second.
     
    MARLENA: Eric...I'm sorry. Listen, can we...can we step into the waiting room down the hall and talk for a moment in private?
    ERIC: Mom, I don't know what we have to talk abo--
    MARLENA: Please. Please just...let's...I promise, I won't say anything to attack Nicole, I just...I want you to understand where I'm coming from, okay?
     
    Nicole looks up at Eric, and lets go from his embrace. She nods approvingly at Eric.
     
    NICOLE: Go ahead.
     
    Eric sighs, before shaking his head, and stepping toward the doorway.
     
    ERIC: Okay. Sure...sure, Mom. Let's go.
     
    Eric and Marlena step out into the hallway, leaving Nicole and Sami behind. Sami stands with cocked eyebrow, arms folded, and an imposing stance, as Nicole rolls her eyes, uncomfortable around Sami.
     
    SAMI: And then there were two.
     
    Nicole glares back at a smug-looking Sami.
     
    ---
     
  20. beebs
    EPISODE 124
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Valerie sits at home, preparing an e-mail to Crystal Clarke, the new nurse she's hired on at University Hospital.
     
    She finishes up the e-mail, and hits send. Closing her laptop, she smiles.
     
    VALERIE: Alright. There we go Crystal. Welcome to University Hospital.
     
    ---
     

    Alex, Tyler, and Justin stand in the Kiriakis living room, contemplating their next step in dealing with Nick.
     
    ALEX: Well, not knowing much about this Fallon guy, I...I mean the best thing to do is assume he has stuff on all of us and collect whatever we can on him.
     
    Justin shakes his head, walking toward his briefcase to grab his tablet.
     
    JUSTIN: Mmm, probably not enough time for that. We have the board meeting this afternoon.
    TYLER: What we're going to have to do is ensure we have a strong bloc of board members who won't budge on Nick. 
    JUSTIN: That won't be easy. Especially when we're flying blind like this.  John's out of the country...
     
    Tyler shakes his head, frustrated by the sudden turmoil everything's been flung into by Nick's hubris.
     
    TYLER: We'll have to do some convincing other board members. Who else have we got?
     
    Justin looks up at Tyler, suddenly having a thought.
     
    JUSTIN: Billie Reed. Her and I have had a rapport as of late, it shouldn't be too hard to convince her, and if she's on side, Kate and Lucas will easily follow suit.
    TYLER: Let's do it.
     
    Justin zips up his bag, and pulls his cell phone from his front pocket on his soft briefcase.
     
    JUSTIN: I'll have Billie meet me at the office.
    ALEX: Excellent.
     
    As Justin steps out of the room, Tyler shakes Alex's hand.
     
    TYLER: I'll see you all at Titan, then. Good work, men.
    ALEX: Absolutely. See you.
     
    Tyler steps out of the Kiriakis mansion, his tension immediately lessens, as he exhales loudly.
     
    TYLER: Let's just hope this stops everything from falling apart, now. Titan can't afford any more problems. And neither can I.
     
    Tyler steps away, heading off for his car to head to Titan.
     
    ---
     

    Daniel and Chloe pace the main lobby at City Hall, as they wait for Marlena and Sami to finish grilling Eric and Nicole on their now-not-so-secret wedding.
     
    CHLOE: How do you think it's going in there?
    DANIEL: Ohhh, pretty terrible, I'm sure.
    CHLOE: I was afraid you'd say that.
     
    Daniel sighs, putting his hands in his pockets as he looks toward the elevator door, expecting anyone from the family to step out.
     
    DANIEL: Well...Sami's anger is all at Nicole, but I also don't think Marlena took too kindly to being shut out of her son's wedding, and personally, I can't blame her.
     
    Chloe looks up at Daniel, nodding gently in agreement. She turns toward the elevator, looking very concerned for her friend.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole stands with Sami in the Justice of the Peace's office at Salem City Hall. Visibly uncomfortable, Nicole folds her arms, as Sami looks back at her. Sami steps towards Nicole, arms folded, shaking her head at Nicole.
     
    SAMI: You know, I'm really impressed by your chutzpah, Nicole. Sneaking away the first chance you get to marry my brother like that. 
     
    Nicole rolls her eyes at Sami's petulence.
     
    SAMI: And it's funny, because you're doing it on company time, too. 
    NICOLE: Sami--
    SAMI: You are SO lucky that your big report airs this week, because otherwise I'd have grounds to fire you.
     
    Nicole looks at Sami, who's still staring her down, trying to intimidate her. Nicole holds firm.
     
    NICOLE: If you try to have me fired, I will sue you for wrongful termination. And I will win.
    SAMI: (laughs) Oh yeah right, Nicole. Even you're not that stupid.
     
    Nicole ignores Sami's petty comments and speaks firmly and cuttingly in response, never taking her eyes off Sami.
     
    NICOLE: I'll win because everyone in the entire state knows how much you hate me. You are so petty. Really, Sami, you're better than this. Don't even TRY to fire me.
    SAMI: Oh why? So you can sink your claws even deeper into my brother? You know, it wouldn't surprise me if you had found those files on Dr. Chyka and you'd just been hiding them all along? That's how desperate you are, Nicole.
     
    Nicole stirs uncomfortably at Sami's insinuation.
     

    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Eric step into the waiting room at City Hall, Marlena closing the door behind them. 
     
    Eric looks over at Marlena, clearly displeased by Marlena and Sami's intervening in their wedding.
     
    ERIC: Look, Mom, I said it in the other room, and I'll say it again. I have really nothing more to say about this.
     
    Marlena holds up on hand to try to stop Eric from continuing.
     
    MARLENA: I know. I know, but hear me out, anyway.
     
    Eric sighs, and shakes his head as him mom carries on.
     
    MARLENA: Eric, this is your wedding day. And, regardless of who you're marrying, I think your father and I deserved to be there.
    ERIC: Mom, you knew that this was just a private little ceremony and that we were going to take our time and plan a big wedding with all the family down the road.
    MARLENA: I know. But that doesn't change the fact that this....this looks like you're running away from something. And I'm pretty sure I know exactly what it is.
     
    Eric looks at Marlena, annoyed by Marlena's prying.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole stands in front of Sami, arms folded, uncomfortable with Sami's insinuation, but trying to deflect.
     
    NICOLE: You know, Sami. I would have to be really sick to keep something so important from the man I love.
     
    Sami looks at Nicole, a smug, mocking smile on her face, almost laughing as she responds.
     
    SAMI: Yeah. Real sick. Sounds just like you.
     
    Nicole rolls her eyes, and starts to head for the door.
     
    NICOLE: I don't have to listen to any more of thi--
     
    Sami grabs Nicole's arm as she walks past, stopping Nicole from leaving the room.
     
    SAMI: Oh no, not so fast, Nicole.
    NICOLE: Sami, there is absolutely nothing you can do. Eric and I are married. And nothing you, or Marlena can say is going to change that. 
     
    Nicole rips her arm away from Sami, and glares back at her.
     
    NICOLE: If you'll excuse me.
     
    Nicole turns to leave the room, leaving an annoyed Sami behind.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits at her office at Titan, behind her desk, finishing a phone call while putting away some papers in her desk drawer.
     
    BILLIE: He'll be at the airport at 11:40am? Perfect. Okay, thanks, Shane. Yeah, I'll pick him up and fill him in. Great. Bye.
     
    Billie hangs up the phone, breathing a bit of a sigh of relief, when she hears a knock at the door.
     
    BILLIE: Come in!
     

    The door opens, and Justin steps in. Billie looks up at him and smiles.
     
    BILLIE: Justin! How are you?
     
    Justin looks a bit less than enthused as he away from the door, closing it behind him.
     
    JUSTIN: I've...been better.
    BILLIE: Uh oh. What's happening?
    JUSTIN: Well...I don't know if you heard about the attack on the Titan server last night.
     
    Billie looks down, debating momentarily whether she should speak on it or not.
     
    BILLIE: I uh...I had. In fact, I was trying to stop it from happening...but someone beat me to it.
     
    Justin looks at Billie, confused and surprised.
     
    ---
     
    Valerie walks through the main hall of her home, turning the lights out, and grabbing her coat and bag from the coat rack by her front door.
     
    VALERIE: Okay...oven's off. Got my laptop. Got my...
     
    As she grabs her jacket, she feels in her pocket, suddenly realizing she doesn't have her hospital key card.
     
    VALERIE: Damn it...where's my key card.
     
    Valerie frantically searches her purse, hoping to find the key card, but to no avail.
     
    VALERIE: (sigh) Where is that damn thing?
     
    ---
     

    Jerome steps toward Valerie's office at University Hospital, carefully checking to make sure the coast is clear, before pulling Valerie's key card from his pocket. He carefully inserts the card into the card reader on the door, unlocking it.
     
    Checking once again to make sure there's no one around, he opens the door and quickly steps inside, closing the door behind him.
     
    Once inside, he turns the office light on, heading for the office's desktop computer. At Valerie's desk, he moves the mouse slightly, waking the dormant machine back up. 
     
    JEROME: Computer still on, and logged in. Grandma, you need to work on your computer security a bit.
     
    Double checking the info on his phone momentarily, he goes online, and accesses Crystal's e-mail. Quickly digging into his bag, Jerome pulls a USB from his bag, and plugs it into Valerie's computer. After a moment, a program loads.
     
    JEROME: Alright. Let's open you up.
     
    The program deciphers Crystal's password character by character, slowly plugging in the resulting characters into password input box on the screen.
     
    JEROME: Come on...come on.
     
    After a minute, the password is entered, and Jerome presses "enter" to login to Crystal's e-mail account.
     
    Inside, he finds the first e-mail, sent by Dr. Valerie Grant. He smiles, as he notices it hasn't been marked as "read". He quickly deletes the e-mail, and empties the trash folder, covering his tracks, before quickly logging out.
     
    JEROME: Alright, Sheryl. You are now officially Nurse Crystal Clarke.
     
    ---
  21. beebs
    EPISODE 125
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     
     
    In the DiMera living room, Stefano sits alone at his desk, rifling through paperwork, when Harold steps in, Nick behind him.
     
    HAROLD: Mr. DiMera...
     
    Stefano responds, not looking up. Harold responds nervously.
     
    HAROLD: Uh...Mr. Nicholas Fallon to see you, Sir.
     
    Stefano looks up, as a smirking Nick steps forward in through the doorway of the living room.
     
    STEFANO: Nicholas. What can I do for you this fine morning?
     
    Nick walks toward Stefano, as Harold closes the doors to the living room, leaving Nick and Stefano alone.
     
    NICK: I came to let you know, we're all ready.
    STEFANO: You have put everything in place?
    NICK: I have. And as of this afternoon, we will have control over Titan Industries.
     
    Stefano looks up at Nick, smiling and beginning to laugh victoriously.
     
    ---
     

    Sonny steps into his shared apartment, looking around to see if anyone's around. He calls out to be sure.
     
    SONNY: Gabi? Will?
     

    Gabi walks out of her bedroom, and Sonny smiles sheepishly.
     
    GABI: Hey. Umm...Will's...Will's in the shower.
    SONNY: Oh...ok. 
    GABI: Did you, ummm...did you talk to EJ about the...
    SONNY: The gun. Yeah.
     
    Gabi hesitates a moment, looking around awkwardly as she asks Sonny a question.
     
    GABI: Did you umm...what did you decide?
     
    Sonny looks at Gabi, and sighs.
     
    ---
     
     
    Eric stands in the waiting room at City Hall, sighing as Marlena continues to try to talk him out of staying married to Nicole.
     
    ERIC: Mom, I'm not running away from anything. Look...I don't have my vocation anymore. I don't have...my...(sigh) my faith abandoned me in my hour of need--
    MARLENA: Don't you think that this could be a test of your faith, Eric? That this is only designed to make your stronger? And to make your faith stronger?
     
    Eric snaps at Marlena, his voice quivering as he cuts her off.
     
    ERIC: How strong do I have to be? How much is enough? At least I know for a fact that Nicole loves me, and is there for me when I need her. 
    MARLENA: Eric, you are so strong. You are every bit your father's son, and look what he's been through. 
     
    Eric looks away from his mother, responding sombrely, as the door to the waiting room opens behind him.
     
    ERIC: Yeah, well, I may be my father's son, but I guess I'm not as strong as he is.
     

    Nicole stands in the doorway, emotional. She calls out to her new husband.
     
    NICOLE: You are every bit as strong as your father, Eric Brady. And I love you for it.
     

    Eric and Marlena turn to see Nicole in the doorway, before Nicole walks into the room, and pulls Eric into a tight hug. Marlena stands back, folding her arms, as Sami stands in the doorway of the waiting room, equally unimpressed.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
     
    Billie stands in front of her desk at the Titan head office, as Justin looks on, concerned.
     
    JUSTIN: Now, wait just a minute here. You're telling me you knew that someone was trying to hack into Titan's servers? Why is this the first I'm hearing about it?
     
    Billie sighs, before carefully explaining the situation to Justin.
     
    BILLIE: I knew because that's what I was brought back to Salem to do. Stop them from implanting the virus.
    JUSTIN: I don't understand.
    BILLIE: Look...before I tell you any of this, you have to promise me everything I tell you stays in this room. No exceptions.
     
    Justin nods, empthatically complying with Billie's request.
     
    JUSTIN: My lips are sealed. You have my word on that.
     
    Billie folds her arms and begins to pace the room, as she begins to explain herself to Justin.
     
    BILLIE: Kate wasn't the one who had me transferred back to Salem. It was the ISA.
    JUSTIN: The ISA?
    BILLIE: (sigh) Yes. Which is why I can't have you spreading this information anywhere.
     
    Justin nods in understanding.
     
    JUSTIN: No, no, I get it.
    BILLIE: Kate was suspicious of one of our staff members, Sheryl Connors, and Jordan Ridgeway, who Kate had hired to help Rafe recuperate after he was shot...and...well...she kind of uncovered more about them than she bargained for.
     
    JUSTIN: So...wait...Jordan and Sheryl....that's not their real names?
     
    Billie shakes her head, still unsure how much she can safely share with Justin.
     
    BILLIE: She...they're out to take Titan down, for a number of reasons, and...specifically EnerNext. 
    JUSTIN: Okay. So...what exactly happened last night, then? You say you...tried to stop them?
    BILLIE: Right. But I didn't. Someone stopped them before I did.
    JUSTIN: I think I know who that was.
     
    Billie looks at Justin, surprised and curious.
     
    BILLIE: You do?
     
    Justin nods, looking off momentarily before looking back at Billie, very worried.
     
    JUSTIN: Yeah. Nick Fallon. And because of that, I need your help.
     
    Billie looks at Justin, confused and concerned.
     
    ---
     
    Eric and Nicole stand in the City Hall waiting room, in a tight embrace, as Marlena and Sami stand around them, upset by the sight of them together.
     
    After a moment, they separate, Nicole looking lovingly in Eric's eyes, as she shoots a look over to Marlena.
     
    NICOLE: Marlena...I know this isn't what you wanted.
     
    Marlena cuts Nicole off, speaking sharply to Nicole.
     
    MARLENA: You can say that again.
     
    Nicole stops for a moment before continuing.
     
    NICOLE: But I want you both to know that I love Eric, with all my heart. He needs me just as much as I need him, and I am not going hurt him. Not this time. 
     
    Sami steps in closer to Nicole, arms still folded as she glares menacingly at her brother's new wife.
     
    SAMI: You better hope you don't, Nicole. Because if you do, I will be on you like white on rice. You can bet on that.
    NICOLE: Well then I guess you have nothing to worry about, then. Because we are going to be happy together, Eric and I. Forever.
     
    Nicole puts her arm around Eric, and he does the same. Eric nods at Marlena and Sami, as he and Nicole step out.
     
    NICOLE: Eric? Let's go.
     
    Marlena and Sami look at each other, stunned by what's gone down, both deeply unhappy with Eric's nuptuals to Nicole, and feeling powerless.
     
    ---
     
    Sonny steps into the living room, as Gabi looks at him, very concerned.
     
    SONNY: Look, I'm not saying I love having a gun around the apartment with a baby in here.
    GABI: If I'm being honest, neither do I.
    SONNY: But I know what a threat Nick is. And I think that if the choice is between you and Ari being at risk, and us having someone to defend you against Nick? I mean...I know I don't like it but...(sigh) this has all gone so far...
     
    Gabi nods, contemplating the gravity of the situation before them.
     
    GABI: I know. It's...this is all way out of hand.
    SONNY: But I understand why EJ gave it to you. We just have to make sure it's in a safe place away from Ari's reach.
     
    Gabi smiles, nodding again, as she reaches out to hug Sonny.
     
    GABI: Thank you.
     
    Sonny hugs Gabi back, but looks on, a deep worry within him of the consequences of this choice.
     
    ---
     
    Nick looks at Stefano, who continues to sign off on paperwork as he responds to Nick.
     
    STEFANO: You know...our partner in all this is going to be very impressed by your ingenuity. 
    NICK: Well, I had great support from you.
    STEFANO: And you shall continue to be compensated generously for your service to this organization. Believe me. However, remember one thing. I control the business. You take orders from me, and from our partner. You are not autonomous in this. You understand?
     
    Nick nods in agreement.
     
    NICK: I think I can control my impluses in this regard.
    STEFANO: Excellent. When the time comes, I will give you more control over things, but for now, you listen to us. Understand?
    NICK: I do.
    STEFANO: Good. Now, I must ask you to leave and prepare for your board meeting. I unfortunately will be absent for the subsequent fireworks, as I shall be taking a rather...extended hiatus from Salem.
     
    Nick looks at Stefano, surprised by the news.
     
    NICK: Oh? I'm surprised. What brings this on?
     
    Stefano looks over at Nick, somewhat frustrated.
     
    STEFANO: There are some problems that have arisen in Italy and in Paris. If I don't attend to them, all of our plans will blow sky high. So I must leave tonight. But not to worry. I will be meeting with our partner today, and you be able to confer with her for the time being.
     
    Nick looks over at Stefano, intrigued, as he leans on the arm of the easy chair nearest to Stefano's desk.
     
    NICK: Oh, I finally get to meet our elusive partner, hm? Wonder what she's like?
     
    Stefano looks at Nick, unimpressed by his cheeky nature.
     
    ---
     

    On an airplane sitting on the tarmac awaiting takeoff from Charles De Gaulle Airport, John Black sits in first class, looking out the window, as a well-dressed woman sits in the seat next to his. John quickly looks over at the woman as she speaks to him.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, well. Long time, no see.
     

    John looks over and raises a curious eyebrow as Anjelica Deveraux flashes a sly grin back at him.
     
    ---
  22. beebs
    EPISODE 126
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Stefano sits in his living room on the recliner, as Nick sits on the adjacent sofa. Stefano looks intensely at Nick, who listens attentively.
     
    STEFANO: I need to be clear with you about this, Nicholas. This woman is MY partner in this plan. You are only privvy to this information to assist me. You will not hold any sway when it comes to decision making. Much like things stand now. Do you understand?

    NICK: I do.
    STEFANO: Good.
     
    After a moment, Nick leans in, giving Stefano an intense, confident look as he continues.
     
    NICK: But I think it should be made clear that I don't intend to remain silent forever. I want to work hard for you and prove that my ideas are just as valid anything you or your partner come up with.
     
    Stefano laughs, shaking his head. He leans over and pats Nick on the hand.
     
    STEFANO: You impress me, Nicholas. That will be very useful to us going forward.
     
    Stefano leans in a little closer, holding a finger up as he becomes increasingly intense.
     
    STEFANO: But...do not overrule me...or there WILL be consequences.
     
    Nick looks back at Stefano, unflinchingly.
     
    ---
     

    On a flight high above the Atlantic, John Black sits in his First Class seat next to Anjelica Deveraux. Both of them returning to Salem. John sits back in his chair, his head tilted toward  a smiling Anjelica.
     
    JOHN: You know...we never really talked much when you were in Salem before.
    ANJELICA: That's because you didn't have anything I needed then. I think it had something to do with you claiming to be Roman Brady. I didn't have much use for policemen when I was engaged in dalliances with heirs to multinationals, and doctors and the like.
     
    John laughs quietly at Anjelica's comment, nodding in response.
     
    JOHN: Yeah, that might have something to do with it. 
     
    John stops a moment, before looking back Anjelica's way.
     
    JOHN: A lot's changed in all those years.
    ANJELICA: Tell me about it. I hear Victor's stepped down from his pedastal as Big Bad of Salem since I've been away.
    JOHN: Yeaaah that's mostly true. 
     
    Anjelica retorts, a quick roll of the eyes as she shoots out a pithy remark.
     
    ANJELICA: How noble of him.
    JOHN: Well, it hasn't hurt him business at all. He's still a very powerful man in Salem.
     
    Anjelica stays looking focused on John, as though trying to carefully read him.
     
    ANJELICA: So I heard. And likewise, I've heard the same about you.
     
    John looks at Anjelica, an eyebrow cocked, unsure what Anjelica's getting at.
     
    ---
     

    Billie gets up from behind her desk at Titan and steps toward Justin. She looks flustered at Justin's news.
     
    BILLIE: I'm sorry, what?
    JUSTIN: Nick Fallon...is the one that halted the EnerNext virus last night.
     
    Billie nods, contemplating the ramifications.
     
    BILLIE: Okay...so what does that mean?
    JUSTIN: It means we need to take action, and fast.
     
    Billie narrows her eyes, unsure what Justin means.
     
    BILLIE: Wh...why?
     
    Justin sighs, looking down away from Billie as he chooses his words carefully.
     
    JUSTIN: Apparently...and...I don't know how he knows this, but...Tyler came around this morning, and...Nick has somehow managed to dig up information on the entire Titan board.
    BILLIE: How?
    JUSTIN: That I can't say. But it means that he'll be at that board meeting this afternoon, and he will use what he knows if he has to. That's why I need your help.
     
    Billie looks at Justin, concerned and surprised.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Kim walks into the Brady Pub, excited to find her brother Roman waiting in one of the booths. Roman lifts himself out of the booth and gives Kim a tight hug.
     
    KIM: Ohh Roman. It's so good to spend some time with you. 
     
    As they separate from their hug, Kim holds onto Roman's arms, looking warmly at her brother.
     
    KIM: How are you feeling?
     
    Roman nods, smiling as he responds to his sister.
     
    ROMAN: Well...you know...I feel a heck of a lot better than I did the other night, that's for sure.
     
    Kim laughs at Roman's answer, and Roman joins in, as they both sit down in the booth. Their waitress comes by, and they both look up at her, responding before she has a chance to speak.
     
    KIM: I'll have a cup of coffee, please.
    ROMAN: Same for me.
     
    Turning back toward Kim, Roman smiles at his sister, eager to catch up with her.
     
    ROMAN: So! How's things going with Theresa?
     
    Kim looks down, a bit wistful as she answers Roman's question.
     
    KIM: Still nothing.
     
    Roman looks back, puzzled.
     
    ROMAN: Nothing? I thought she was coming home for...
     
    Roman catches himself, realizing his memory's slipped again. His face drops. 
     
    ROMAN: She's had that accident...I forgot.
     
    Kim looks over at her brother, taking his hands in hers across the table.
     
    KIM: Trust me, I wish I COULD forget.
    ROMAN: Kimmy--
    KIM: No, no, Roman. It's okay. Listen, Theresa's in good hands. And as soon as there's any changes, I will let you know.
     
    Roman smiles, squeezing his sister's hands.
     
    ROMAN: I appreciate that.
     
    Kim smiles back at Roman, not letting go on his hands.
     
    KIM: Roman.
    ROMAN: Yeah, Kimmy.
     
    Kim looks down, trying to tread carefully with her next statement.
     
    KIM: Look...I know this isn't my place...and I think that it's really important to keep your mind active with everything going on.
     
    Roman looks over at Kim, expectantly.
     
    ROMAN: But...?
     
    Kim hesitates a moment, closing her eyes as she finishes her thought.
     
    KIM: I think you might need to...take a step back from the force.
     
    Roman looks at Kim, stunned.
     
    ROMAN: Wh...Kim...Kim, I can't do that.
     
    Kim looks back at her brother, a deep concern in her eyes.
     
    ---
     
    Billie leans against the front of her desk, with arms folded, as she takes in what Justin's told her.
     
    BILLIE: So, wait...Nick Fallon...he stopped the virus from being implanted...how would he know it was even being put in?
    JUSTIN: I have a few ideas, but no evidence to back it up.
     
    Billie walks past Justin, pacing the room in contemplation.
     
    BILLIE: I can't see any other way than...
     
    Billie looks up, spying a small security camera in the corner of her office. She looks on, having a moment of realization before turning suddenly toward Justin.
     
    BILLIE: Of course. 
    JUSTIN: What?
     
    Billie laughs to herself, almost amazed that she'd overlooked the obvious.
     
    BILLIE: I should've know, paranoid Victor has this place rigged up like Big Brother. Nick would've have to have been tapping into Titan's server, not to mention the surveillance system. If we can prove it...

    JUSTIN: I'm sure you're right, but that's not gonna stop the board from panicking and giving into his demands.
     
    Billie turns to face Justin, curious about his last statement.
     
    BILLIE: What do you mean?
    JUSTIN: Well, Tyler told us about a run-in he had after the virus got taken down last night, and...he says Nick knew a lot...specifics about things, information that needs to stay private.
    BILLIE: Okay...
    JUSTIN: Tyler was under the impression that Nick is going to use that at today's board meeting as blackmail.
     
    Billie looks incredulous.
     
    BILLIE: To what end? He's gonna get laughed out of that board room.
     
    Justin looks back at her, less than amused.
     
    JUSTIN: I wouldn't be so sure. And by the time we get concerte evidence that Nick's been performing corporate espionage to blackmail the board, it'll be too late. That's why I need you to promise me, you'll get your mother and your brother to form a voting bloc against Nick today.
     
    Billie nods, still frazzled by all the information coming her way.
     
    BILLIE: Naturally. Do you think that'll be enough?
    JUSTIN: Well...between you three, myself, and John...that should be enough people with clean hands that we should be able to stop Nick from taking us all down in one fell swoop.
     
    Billie raises her eyebrows, arms still folded. She looks at Justin with concern.
     
    BILLIE: Well...we'd better, and we'd better find out exactly what Nick's doing and where he's getting his information from, or else we may not have much of a Titan left to save.
     
    ---
     
    John sits in his seat on the plane, chuckling about Anjelica's statement about his riches.
     
    JOHN: You know, you don't mess around, do you?
     
    Anjelica looks back, a self-satisfied grin on her face as she looks John's way.
     
    ANJELICA: After this many years? Why start now?
    JOHN: Good point.
    ANJELICA: Thanks. I try. You didn't answer my question, though.
     
    John shakes his head, looking straight ahead before responding seriously.
     
    JOHN: I've been fortunate enough to have resources I never imagined I'd have. Through family, business...but I've lost a lot too.
     
    Anjelica looks thoughtfully at John.
     
    ANJELICA: You're talking about your son.
    JOHN: Brady, yeah. 
    ANJELICA: I'm sorry to hear. I don't know what I'd do if I lost Alexander.
     
    John nods, not looking Anjelica's way as he responds.
     
    JOHN: Let's hope you never have to find out.
     
    Anjelica smiles, showing rare genuine concern for John's situation, as John crooks his neck to better look at Anjelica, he looks at her curiously.
     
    JOHN: So, tell me...what's brought you back to Salem after all these years?
     
    Anjelica's smile shifts into a devilish grin, almost chuckling as she answers John, while pulling her tablet out from her bag.
     
    ANJELICA: Oh I've got a number of...fascinating projects on the go.
     
    Anjelica opens the browser, showing him the Salem Spectator headline.
     
    ANJELICA: Starting with the governor's office.
     
    John looks down at the headline:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    Surprised, and intrigued, he looks back at Anjelica, who raises her eyebrows cheekily in response.
     
    ---
     
    Nick sits on the sofa by Stefano, smiling at his boss cockily.
     
    NICK: Mr. DiMera...I am hardly worried about any consequences. You know I do good work.
    STEFANO: As you should.
     
    Nick gets up from the sofa, and wanders around the back of it, heading toward the terrace doors.
     
    NICK: But, just for the sake of us all being on the same page...what exactly are these issues you're attending to?
     
    Nick looks quickly over at the desk, and spies upon a manila envelope from University Hospital.
     
    Stefano responds firmly to Nick's question.
     
    STEFANO: That is none of your concern. They are simply business issues that need attending to.
     
    Nick quickly diverts his eyes back toward the terrace doors.
     
    NICK: Right.
    STEFANO: Your main concern is this meeting. Now, I have given you all the envelopes for the board members, yes?
     
    Nick nods as he turns his attention back Stefano's way.
     
    NICK: Yeah, they're in my bag.
    STEFANO: Okay, now, there is a strong possibility that John Black will be back for this meeting. If he returns, I want you to give him this envelope, and I want you to tell him something so that he KNOWS you're not fooling around.
     
    Nick walks over to the chair and takes the envelope from Stefano's hands. Nick walks back over to the sofa, and puts the envelope in his bag with the others, as Stefano continues.
     
    STEFANO: I must be clear. This must stay strictly between yourself, and John. No one else must hear this information, okay?
     
    Nick nods dutifully, as he turns back to face Stefano.
     
    NICK: Okay.
     
    Stefano points toward Nick, speaking softly, but very firmly.
     
    STEFANO: You must tell him you're onto his little mission to save Roman Brady. And you must tell him it ends immediately.
     
    Nick smiles, pleased by this extra tidbit of information.
     
    ---
  23. beebs
    EPISODE 127
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    John and Anjelica sit next to each other in First Class on the flight from Paris to Salem. John sits, looking at the Salem Spectator headline displayed on Anjelica's tablet:
     
    DEVERAUX KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN: DISGRACED SENATOR'S EX-WIFE ENTERS GOVERNOR'S RACE
     
    He looks up at Anjelica, as she looks back, a wry smile on her face.
     
    JOHN: Governor Anjelica Deveraux, hm?
     
    John hands Anjelica back her tablet, as she moves to put it away in her bag.
     
    ANJELICA: That's the plan. I mean, I could've done with a slightly less antagonistic headline, but I'll take the free publicity.
    JOHN: Well, these days, is there really any such thing as bad publicity?
     
    Anjelica points John's way playfully.
     
    ANJELICA: Touché, Mr. Black.
     
    John laughs at Anjelica, as the flight crew make an announcement through the loudspeaker.
     
    FLIGHT ATTENDANT: (via speaker) Attention, passengers. We are commencing our descent into Salem International Airport. Would all passengers please take their seats, and fasten their seatbelts as we prepare for landing in Salem.
     
    Anjelica looks John's way, a broad smile on her face as she buckles her seatbelt.
     
    ANJELICA: Well. Look out, Salem. Anjelica's comin' home!
     
    ---
     

    Billie walks into Club TBD, finding Kate sitting at a booth alone, sipping a gin martini. Billie sighs as she looks at her mother, heading over to sit with her. Kate looks up, a half-hearted smile on her face as she sets her drink down.
     
    BILLIE: Isn't it a bit early to be drinking, Mom?
     
    Kate sets her drink down on the table, choosing to ignore Billie's comment. 
     
    KATE: You were looking for me, I presume.
     
    Billie crosses her arms as she stops in front of Kate's table.
     
    BILLIE: You're damned right, I was. Mom, I was worried the way you just...ran off like that after talking with Rafe.
    KATE: Well, it took you awhile to find me. 
     
    Kate looks up and gestures to Billie to come sit with her.
     
    KATE: Well, don't just stand there glaring, come sit.
     
    Billie sits down across from Kate in the booth. She leans in toward her mother and speaks to her sternly.
     
    BILLIE: I figured you went to the office, so I went there.
    KATE: I couldn't focus. I just needed some time alone. You know, just to...process everything that's happened.
     
    Billie looks down, then nods her head in understanding.
     
    BILLIE: I get it. But you need to understand, you played a part in creating this situation, Mom.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes, immediately retorting to Billie.
     
    KATE: I know, I know, you can blame it all on me. I should've vetted this woman better before inflicting her and her psychotic best friend on all of Salem, I get it. Alright?
     
    Billie sighs, looking down again with regret.
     
    BILLIE: I'm sorry, Mom. I shouldn't have said that.
    KATE: It's okay. I know you're just trying to help. But I need to understand there's no way to fix this.
     
    Billie nods, before looking up at her mother, who finishes her martini.
     
    KATE: Now...let's focus on things we CAN control. You were just at the office. Any new developments?
     
    Billie sighs heavily as she gives a worried look Kate's way. Kate catches this and her face echoes Billie's.
     
    KATE: What happened?
    BILLIE: We may not have as much control over what's happening next as you think.
     
    ---
     

    Kim and Roman sit in the Brady Pub at a booth. Kim leans in toward Roman, her hand cupping his across the table. Roman looks at Kim, a grave sadness in his eyes. Kim looks back at him, a deep concern in hers.
     
    KIM: Roman, I don't want you to think that I'm trying to push you to retire...or to do anything you don't want to do. But...
    ROMAN: But you think that these...memory lapses I'm having are starting to affect my ability to do my job.
     
    Kim looks away from Roman for a second before slowly nodding.
     
    KIM: Yeah. I do.
     
    Kim's eyes looks back into Roman's, an earnest concern still plain in her eyes, as Roman looks back, disappointed by his sister's assessment.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Roman looks on, as he contemplates what his sister has told him. He sighs before responding.
     
    ROMAN: Look....Kimmy, I know....I've been having some...lapses in my memory. But you need to understand...I need this job. It's the only thing keeping me going every day. I...
     
    Kim squeezes her brother's hand. She looks deep into his eyes, and nods before answering her brother.
     
    KIM: I know. I know, you're...you haven't had an easy few years, but...Roman, your line of work, it's...(sigh) people's lives are on the line here. I don't know how responsible it is for you to carry on working on the police force on the front lines making decisions like that.
    ROMAN: Kimmy, I...
     
    Kim interrupts Roman, trying to clarify her position.
     
    KIM: I know. But...I had an idea. And...jJust....tell me you'll think about it. 
     
    Roman sips his coffee, unsure about what his sister's about to suggest.
     
    ROMAN: I'm listening.
    KIM: Okay, well...ma's...not doing so well...and you know...I've been struggling since Theresa's been in the hospital. I'd like to help ma out. You know...try to...handle the pub for her. I'd like you to help me.
    ROMAN: Kim, that's a...that's a really important thing you're doing. And I think it's great that you want me to help you out, but...
     
    Kim smiles, holding up her hand to stop him from continuing.
     
    KIM: Roman...just...promise me you'll think about it? I just...I want you to try to take a step back  from the force before you hurt someone, especially yourself?
     

    Roman smiles, still holding his sister's hand as he nods in understanding. As they complete their exchange, Sami and Marlena storm into the pub. Recognizing Roman and Kim, they make a beeline for their booth, which catches both Kim and Roman's attention.
     
    ROMAN: Doc! Sami?
    SAMI: Daddy, we have a huge problem.
     
    Roman looks on, brow furrowed, as Marlena and Sami stop in front of their booth. Kim looks up at them, also worried.
     
    KIM: Why? What happened? Is everyone okay?
    MARLENA: Depends on what constitutes 'okay'. Eric just married Nicole Walker.
     
    Roman and Kim both look on, stunned by the news, as Marlena and Sami look down at both of them, distinctly unimpressed, and aggravated.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole and Eric burst through the door of his suite at the Salem Inn, Eric carrying Nicole into the room, deep in an intense liplock.

    Breaking momentarily from their kiss, Nicole giggles gleefully, opening her eyes slightly to look at her new husband.

    ERIC: Welcome, Mrs. Brady.
    NICOLE: Mmm, you know how I love to be called that.
     
    Eric and Nicole kiss again, laughing happily.
     
    ERIC: Yeah, well...you'd better get used to it! 
    NICOLE: (laughs) I think I can manage that. In fact, I will. Gladly.
     
    Nicole looks into Eric's eyes as they kiss again, deep in their newlywed bliss.
     
    ERIC: Great. Let's start now. Where to, Mrs. Brady?
    NICOLE: Ohhh I'm sure you know where, Mr. Brady.
     
    Eric smiles as he and Nicole stop momentarily before walking over to the hotel room bed, where Eric lays Nicole gently down, as Nicole wraps her arms around Eric's neck, never allowing him back up. They continue to kiss deeply as Eric carefully leans forward into their kiss and lays down on the bed with Nicole.
     
    ---
     
    Billie and Kate sit at their booth at Club TBD. Kate looks at Billie with concern.
     
    KATE: What do you mean, we won't have as much control as we think? What aren't you telling me?
     
    Billie sighs as she sips her drink. Billie puts her drink down before responding.
     
    BILLIE: Justing came to see me this morning.
     
    Kate raises an eyebrow as she raises her own cocktail.
     
    KATE: Oh?
     
    Billie looks at Kate, knowing what she's hinting at.
     
    BILLIE: Don't.
     
    Kate puts her drink down and raises her hands, feigning surrender.
     
    KATE: I'm just saying, Justin is a great guy, and definitely a step up from our spray-tanned surgeon friend--
     
    Billie rolls her eyes, cutting Kate off before she starts a full-on rant against Daniel.
     
    BILLIE: ...Mom! Stop. I don't get to judge you on your partner choices, you don't get to judge mine. Okay?
    KATE: I'm just looking out for you. Now, come on. Tell me what Justin said to you.
     
    Billie sighs, taking a second to clearly tell Kate her story.
     
    BILLIE: He told me that Nick Fallon is planning a coup. He has all kinds of...dirt on every member of the board, and he's planning to use it to take control of Titan at today's board meeting. And if we don't do something about it, Mom....he could very well succeed.
     
    Kate looks away, stunned by the news, and trying to figure out how to deal with it.
     
    ---
     

    Nick and Stefano stand in the DiMera living room, as Nick looks amused, enjoying the new tidbit of information Stefano has just given him.
     
    NICK: John Black trying to save Roman Brady, hm? I don't exactly see Roman in any imminent danger.
     
    Stefano snaps, holding a finger up to Nick's face, making his previous point extra-clear.
     
    STEFANO: NO QUESTIONS! You do NOT get to find out anything more than what I give you. Do you understand?
    NICK: Oh, I understand. 
     
    Stefano backs down slightly, but still glares unflinchingly at Nick.
     
    STEFANO: Good. Because I will not be able to tell you anything. Don't try to squeeze even a DROP more from me. You will not get it, Nicholas. You just keep your head down, and do as I say.
     
    As Stefano finishes his sentence, the doorbell rings. Stefano's demeanour changes slightly with the arrival of their guest.
     
    STEFANO: Ah! Our partner has arrived.
     
    Harold opens the doors to the living room, as Stefano and Nick turn to face their guest.
     
    STEFANO: Ah! Welcome!
     
    Anjelica Deveraux stands into the doorway, smiling widely as she slowly steps into the room.
     
    ---
  24. beebs
    EPISODE 128
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     

    Kate and Billie sit at a booth at Club TBD together. Sitting stirring her martini as she chews solemnly over what Billie's told her about Nick's plan to take over Titan.
     
    KATE: Billie...are you absolutely sure that was Justin told you is the truth?
     
    Billie looks at her mother, unflinchingly. She nods her head before responding.
     
    BILLIE: Yeah. I'm almost certain of it. Justin seemed...(sigh) he seemed...more than flustered, he...he seemed petrified, really. That's why it's so important that we vote him down.
     
    Kate looks down at her martini, before looking back up at Billie. Kate's expression remains solemn.
     
    KATE: We may not be able to do that, Billie.
     
    Billie frowns, a clear, pressing worry on her face.
     
    BILLIE: Why not? I mean, the ball's in our court, Mom. You know he's just bluffing...
    KATE: No....Billie, he's not. We'll have to go after him some other way. But....for now...you're going to have to let him have what he wants. 
     
    Billie looks on at Kate, stunned.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica steps into the DiMera living room, and is greeted by a warm embrace by Stefano. Nick stands back, looking on as the other two greet each other.
     
    STEFANO: Ahhh Anjelica, it's so good to see you again, my dear.
    ANJELICA: Thank you, Stefano. It's been far too long.
     
    Stefano breaks their embrace, but guides Anjelica toward Nick, one hand behind her back as she steps toward Nick, extending a hand in greeting.
     
    STEFANO: I would like you to meet our very loyal liaison in our mission. Nick Fallon, meet Anjelica Deveraux.
     
    Nick extends a hand in return, smirking as Anjelica returns a wry smile his way.
     
    NICK: Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Deveraux.
    ANJELICA: Likewise. And please, call me Anjelica. We're about to get very familiar, you and I.
     
    ---
     

    Anita steps into her living room, as Brady sits at the desk in the corner, typing away.
     
    ANITA: Brady.
    BRADY: Yeah! Anita! What's happening?
     
    Brady stops typing and turns to face Anita, who leans against the frame of the doorway into the room.
     
    ANITA: I had a favour to ask you.
    BRADY: Okay.
    ANITA: Well...you know that old blue truck you were using to head over to the general store for groceries.
     
    Brady nods, knowing which one she meant.
     
    BRADY: Yeah, the one I nearly crashed into that guy with.
     
    Anita walks into the room, and sits down on the couch as she talks with Brady.
     
    ANITA: That's the one. Well...I was thinking...you're relatively handy. If you can do a bit of work on the brakes...I was thinking of selling it, and using the money we get to buy a replacement for you to use.
     
    Brady shrugs, feeling reasonably confident about the idea.
     
    BRADY: Seems reasonable to me. You want me to set up an ad online?
     
    Anita laughs heartily.
     
    ANITA: You know, crazy old me was thinking of asking you to call the Salem Spectator and place an ad that way. I completely forgot about the internet.

    BRADY: You're living in a new age, Anita.
    ANITA: Ain't that the truth! 
     
    Anita gets up from the sofa, and walks over toward Brady.
     
    ANITA: Well, listen. You set the ad up, we'll put it up for, say...$1500 or best offer, and we'll see if we can get anyone to come in and look at it later. Who knows? Maybe we can get rid of the damn thing by tonight!
     
    Anita pats Brady on the shoulders as she passes by. Brady turns around and looks back at his computer, ready to take on the task.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Sami walk over to Kim and Roman, who are sitting at a booth at the Brady Pub. Roman and Kim are stunned by the news that Eric has married Nicole.
     
    ROMAN: Now wait just a minute! Eric is marrying Nicole? I thought he was a priest! He can't...
     
    Sami looks on at her ailing father, worried by his mental lapses. Kim takes Roman's hands into hers, settling Roman back down into his seat.
     
    KIM: Roman...Eric was defrocked. It wasn't his fault, but...Nicole helped him through it.
     
    Sami snorts, folding her arms as she looks down, embittered.
     
    SAMI: You could say that. 
    ROMAN: Well...so...Nicole married Eric...I mean...their relationship didn't cause Eric to be defrocked, did it?
     
    Kim shakes her head, still looking at a confused Roman.
     
    KIM: No, Roman. No, she just helped Eric deal with some problems that happened. The important thing is that Eric is happy. We should all remember that.
    JOHN: I'll go along with that.
     
    Everyone turns as John walks toward the group. Marlena looks on, a deep pain on her face as she looks at her now-ex-husband.
     
    ---
     
    Nick and Anjelica sit in the DiMera living room, chatting with each other, as Stefano puts away papers at his desk. As he struggles to get up from his seat, Nick and Anjelica's focus shifts to him.
     
    STEFANO: Alright. Now, I am going to head out. Nicholas. I want you to keep Anjelica abreast of any problems you encounter. Make sure that your plan goes right today at that meeting.

    NICK: Absolutely, Mr. DiMera.
    STEFANO: And Anjelica, I would offer you to make yourself at home, but...
     
    Anjelica raises her hand, stopping Stefano midsentence.
     
    ANJELICA: Not to worry, Stefano. I have a wonderful suite at the Salem Inn, and of course, for my campaign, obviously it's best that we keep our little connection private.
    STEFANO: I'll leave you to it.
     
    Stefano heads out of the room, leaving Anjelica and Nick in the living room. Nick looks over at Anejlica, intrigued.
     
    NICK: Campaign? You running for office or something?
    ANJELICA: You better believe it. State governor.
     
    Nick's face lights up at the news.
     
    NICK: Ahhh, so I see. So I guess it's important to keep our rather...unethical connection private, hm?
    ANJELICA: Absolutely. In fact, the best thing we can do is make sure that no one can connect me to DiMera Enterprises, or Stefano, at all costs.
     
    ---
     
    Brady walks into the cabin, a digital camera in hand. He walks over to the desktop computer in the corner of the room, all the while opening the flap of the camera holding the memory card. He carefully places the card into a slot on the computer, and prepares to upload the pictures onto the computer, as Anita walks in from the kitchen.
     
    ANITA: Any luck?
    BRADY: Yeah! Just uploading the pictures now, and it'll be up in just a second.
    ANITA: Wow. Technology these days, hm?
    BRADY: Tell me about it.
     
    As Brady types up the last of the ad, Anita walks over and puts a hand on Brady's shoulder.
     
    ANITA: You know, it's been a real help having you here, Brady. It's hard being an old woman separated from her family like this, and my family doesn't come around like they used to. I can't do all the things I've been wanting to do. So, I really appreciate the help.
     
    Brady hits send, then turns around the look up at Anita, a warm, caring expression on his face.
     
    BRADY: You know...Anita...you're the one who's helped ME. I needed a refuge from...everything that went wrong in my life up to now. I...I truly haven't had it easy in a lot of ways, but...I almost feel guilty for feeling that way. So many people have it so much worse than me.
     
    Anita smiles, looking back at Brady lovingly. She sits herself down in the chair by Brady, taking his hands in hers.
     
    ANITA: Never compare your struggle with someone else's, Brady. You've come a long way in a short amount of time. And, no, I don't know a lot about you, but I know that you're a kind, gentle man. A man who's been hurt a lot..and needs to do a lot of healing. I know you'll tell me about what's happened to you in your own time. Don't feel you need to rush.
     
    Brady looks at Anita, smiling sheepishly.
     
    BRADY: You know...I have been feeling so...so down about everything...I just don't wanna burden you with my stupid....stories of self-inflicted wounds. But it comes so easily with you. I feel like...like I've known you all my life. I want to thank you, Anita. You've been a big help to me.
    ANITA: Anytime, Brady.
     
    After a moment, Brady turns to look back at the computer, and points to it, looking back at Anita.
     
    BRADY: The ad's gone live!
    ANITA: Fantastic. Thank you, Brady.
     
    Brady looks back at Anita, smiling genuinely for the first time in a long time.
     
    ---
     

    In her dimly lit motel suite, Sheryl sits at her laptop, blinds drawn. She sits alone, going through ads on an online classified site, when she spots an ad for an older blue SUV, $1500 or best offer. Intrigued, she opens the ad. 
     
    SHERYL: 1995...in good shape but brakes will need replacing soon. $1500, or $2000 with brake replacement included. Lakeview Drive. Sounds perfect.
     
    Sheryl clicks to send off an e-mail about the truck. She smiles her devious smile as she starts her e-mail to come view the truck at Anita's home.
     
    ---
     
    Billie looks on, stunned by her mother's sudden cowtowing to Nick's blackmail.
     
    BILLIE: Mother...I have known you a lot of years, and you've never been one to back down against the likes of Nick Fallon.
    KATE: Well, there's a first for everything, isn't there?
     
    Billie looks at Kate, puzzled. Her voice taking on an incredulous tone as Kate takes a sip of her martini.
     
    BILLIE: I'm sorry, am I talking to Kate Roberts right now? What is it about Nick that's scaring you right now.
     
    Kate puts down her drink, noticeably agitated by Billie's pressing of the topic.
     
    KATE: Look, Billie, you know my history. And you know yours. There's all kinds of skeletons Nick could dredge up at that meeting. None of which you would want exposed. So I think it's best that we play along, do what he says so that we don't alarm him, and build our case against him until we're able to put him away.
     
    Billie shakes her head, in total disbelief about what she's hearing her mother say.
     
    ---
  25. beebs
    EPISODE 129
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Billie sits across the table from Kate at Club TBD. She's stunned by Kate's reticence to take on Nick Fallon at the upcoming Titan baord meeting.
     
    BILLIE: Mom...I can't believe what I'm hearing right now. 
     
    Kate casually sips her martini, trying hard to hide her fears about Nick.
     
    KATE: Believe it.
    BILLIE: I mean, this is not you. The Kate I know would have the jump on a louse like Nick in a heartbeat. You'd be eager to knock his arrogant behind down a few pegs.
    KATE: Billie, sometimes, it's best to play your cards close to your chest. As far as I'm concerned, we need to let Nick fall on his own sword.
     
    Billie looks at Kate, still incredulous by her mother's seeming willingness to allow Nick to take over Titan.
    BILLIE: Mom, isn't that exactly what we were trying to avoid? Nick destroying this company.
     
    Kate casually places her empty martini on the table, before looking back at Billie calmly, a wry smile painted on her face.
     
    KATE:  Billie, have you never heard of the Dunning-Kruger effect? Nick's arrogance and incompetence is going to destroy him long before he can destroy Titan. And I, for one, welcome the chance to have a front-row seat.
     
    Billie glares at Kate, annoyed by Kate's nonchlanace and cynicism.
     
    BILLIE: Okay. So we enjoy Nick fall apart in slow motion. Then what?
     
    Kate leans in close to Billie, and responds softly, but firmly.
     
    KATE: That's when I make my move to take over Titan for myself.
     
    ---
     

    John saunters toward Kim and Roman, and Marlena and Sami, who are gathered around the booth where Kim and Roman are sitting. The group have turned around after hearing John's voice call out to them. They're surprised by his arrival, and Marlena, in particular, is unhappy to see him.
     
    MARLENA: John.
    JOHN: Hey Doc.
     
    Sami steps in, immediately hostile towards her ex-stepfather.
     
    SAMI: You have an awful lot of nerve showing your face in here right now.
     
    Marlena immediately chastises Sami, stopping her from continuing.
     
    MARLENA: Sami, stop it!
     
    Marlena turns back to face John, still an icyness between them.
     
    MARLENA: I wasn't expecting to see you.
    JOHN: Well...there was an emergency board meeting called at Titan today, and...Justin made it seem urgent that I be here, so...I decided to pop in and grab something quick to eat before heading over.
    MARLENA: I see. Well,it's nice to see you're still at least committed to your business affairs.
     
    John, stung by her stuble dig, looks away in frustration.
     
    JOHN: Doc--
    MARLENA: No, I mean, really, John. I know you're hurting from Brady's death, but to divorce me, after reaffirming your love for me? I don't believe any of it. Something is going on and I want to know what it is.
     
    John attempts to reach out to touch Marlena, but she steps back. John immediately backs off, but responds emotionally.
     
    JOHN: Doc, I'm sorry. And I know this doesn't mean much to you right now. But I have my reasons. I think you'll come to understand them one day soon. 
    MARLENA: Like Hell. I will never believe for a second that your feelings for me have changed yet again.
     
    John sighs, trying to avoid any further emotion. Marlena steps toward John, speaking softly, but emphatically.
     
    MARLENA: I know you inside and out. If someone put you up to this, you need to tell me.
     
    John looks over at Kim, Roman, and a glowering Sami, and nods cordially to them.
     
    JOHN: Look, I made a mistake coming here. I'm sorry if I upset any of you. I'll head over to TBD instead.
     
    John steps out, leaving Marlena visibly drained. She turns back toward the others, who look on sympathetically.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl sits at the desk in her darkened hotel room, curtains shut. In the room, the main source of light remains the glow of her laptop screen.
     
    She pours over articles discussing how to successfully dye auburn hair a strawberry blonde colour.
     
    She grabs her phone to quickly text Jerome the shopping list she'll need to successfully pull off Nurse Crystal Clarke's hair colour, and fool Valerie, and the University Hospital staff.
     
    SHERYL: Okay...I'll have to get Jerome to buy...bleach, reddish blonde dye, ruby red dye...and a mixing bottle.
     
    As she sends the text, and puts her phone down, her e-mail notification goes off. Hastily checking the message, it's from Brady, requesting she phone Anita's home to set up a meeting time to test drive and potentially purchase the blue SUV. Sheryl smiles as she reaches the end of the e-mail.
     
    SHERYL: Okay, here goes nothing.
     
    Sheryl picks up her phone, but stops herself, and heads over to the hotel landline. Hesitating momentarily, she breathes in deep, psyching herself up to take the call.
     
    SHERYL: Alright, Sheryl. Your first big test as Nurse Crystal Clarke. Let's see if we can pull this off.
     
    Sheryl picks up the receiver, and puts it to her ear, before beginning to dial Anita's number.
     
    ---
    ---
     

    Nick walks off the elevator at University Hospital. Almost ready to take on the Titan board, he steps out into the lobby, and spies Maggie stepping into Victor's hospital room. He smirks as he steps toward the nurses' station. He catches Maxine's attention.
     
    MAXINE: Yes, can I help you with something?
    NICK: Uh, yes. I'm here to see Jordan Ridgeway? Do you know which is her office?
    MAXINE: Her office is down the end of this hall, but I don't know if she's in her office. Did you want me to page her for you, Mr...?
     
    Nick smiles in gratitude to Maxine before stepping away.
     
    NICK: Oh, don't worry, I'll wait for her.
     
    Nick walks over toward Jordan's office, as Maxine looks on, slightly uneasy.
     
    Nick makes his way to the end of the hall, and knocks on Jordan's door.
     
     

    Inside, Jordan is signing some paperwork, and hears the knock. She responds without raising her head.
     
    JORDAN: Come in.
     
    Nick opens the door to Jordan's office, and smiles like the Cheshire Cat. Jordan looks up, trying to hide the fear in her eyes.
     
    ---
     

    Billie looks on, irritated by Kate's intentions, as Kate looks over her shoulder, attempting to get T's attention for another martini.
     
    BILLIE: I cannot believe you're using this as an opportunity to seize control at Titan. Oh, wait! No, I totally can. Because you're my mother, and that's all you do is look for tiny openings you can use to make a power play.
    KATE: Billie, you of all people should know that business is a dog-eat-dog world.
     
    Billie rolls her eyes, thinking back to her own past dealing with Kate in business. She responds sarcastically.
     
    BILLIE: Oh how could I forget? It's not like my own mother stole my company away from me or anything.
    KATE: You of all people know that was nothing personal. That's just how it works, Billie. Those are the rules.
     
    Catching T's attention, Kate smiles his way, and he winks back, knowingly. She then turns back to Billie, and finishes her thought.
     
    KATE: And if I don't play by those rules, I'm going to get eaten. And I refuse to allow that to happen.
     

    As Kate responds to Billie, Will walks into the room, dressed professionally for work at the Titan building. He spots Billie and Kate and walks over to greet them.
     
    WILL: Grandma Kate, Aunt Billie, how are you doing?
     
    Billie and Kate look up at a smiling Will, and Billie stands up to give Will a hug.
     
    BILLIE: I'm great, Will. How are you, honey?
    WILL: I'm good! I haven't seen you much since you've been back in town!
     
    Will and Billie separate from their hug, and Billie takes Will's hands in hers, as they smile warmly at each other.
     
    BILLIE: I KNOW! I feel terrible about it. There's been a LOT going on, but...I promise, we'll catch up soon, okay?
    WILL: Alright.
    BILLIE: Look, I gotta go, but...Mom...think about what I'm saying, okay? Don't let your need for power cloud your judgment, okay?
     
    Kate looks non-plussed as she looks up at her daughter from her seat.
     
    KATE: My judgment is fine, Billie. I think you're the one who's in a panic. 
     
    Billie sighs, frustrated by her mother's obstinance.
     
    BILLIE: Mom...
    KATE: Billie, I know what I'm doing.
     
    Billie says nothing, but sighs again before grabbing her bag and marching out the door, leaving a confused Will behind. He looks down at Kate before sitting opposite her at the booth.
     
    WILL: What was that about?
    KATE: You don't wanna know.
    WILL: Try me.
     
    Kate thinks it over a moment, as T steps over with Kate's drink. Will looks up at T with a smile.
     
    T: Here you go! Will, nice seeing you, man! How's the corporate life?
     
    Will smiles awkwardly as he answers his friend.
     
    WILL: Ahh well. You know...I haven't been fired yet so...it's a start. Uh...can I get a...uh...
     
    Kate interrupts, using a very firm tone as she gives T the order.
     
    KATE: Scotch on the rocks.
     
    Kate looks over to Will, realizing she has to tell him what's going on.
     
    KATE: You're gonna need it after I tell you what's happening at work.
     
    Will looks back at Kate, puzzled and concerned.
     
    ...
     
    Outside, John approaches the door to Club TBD, when Billie steps out. Noticing John, she grabs him by the arm and steps in close to him.
     
    BILLIE: We need to talk, NOW.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena and Sami stand before a seated Kim and Roman at the Brady Pub. Roman looks puzzled by the goings-on around him.
     
    ROMAN: Doc, you wanna explain to me what da hell's going on with you and John?
     
    Marlena sits down next to Kim, smiling wistfully.
     
    MARLENA: Don't you worry about me. I am here for YOU, Roman. 
    ROMAN: Now, come on, Doc. Stop that. I know you're hurting from Eric marrying Nicole, and your divorce from John, but I'm here for you too.
     
    Roman reaches across the table, and takes Marlena's hand in his. Squeezing it gently, he looks deeply into her eyes. Marlena looks back, still emotional from her confrontation with John, and appreciative for Roman's comforting words.
     
    KIM: Roman's right. You're still family, Marlena. We'll always be here for you.
    MARLENA: Thank you.
     
    As Marlena tears up, Kim reaches over as well to put her hands on Marlena's shoulders, giving her a comforting embrace as well.
     
    ---
     

    At Anita's cabin, the phone rings. From Brady's perch at the computer desk, he calls out to Anita.
     
    BRADY: I got it!
     
    Brady walks quickly over to the rather anachronistic wall-mounted corded phone. Picking it up, he adopts a phony, chipper expression for the caller.
     
    BRADY: (into phone) Hello!
     
    ...
     
    In Sheryl's hotel room, Sheryl stands by the nightstand, clutching the cord from her landline phone. She clears her throat before speaking in an overt, but authentic-sounding southern accent.
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Uh...hayyy it's uh...I'm callin' about the truck you had for sale?
     
    ...
     
    BRADY: (into phone) Oh! Yes! Hi! Ah...well, it's all ready whenever you'd like to come down to see it...again, the brakes work but they're not the best, so I can't let you test drive it off the property or anything but, uh...
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Oh, that's fine. I can just fix it up at my local garage, you don't have to do nothin' for me. But, uh...I don't have a car, exactly, so...can you meet me out near the Floatin' K truck stop on Route 15 for say....five? I can catch a taxi out that far.
     
    ...
     
    Brady checks his watch, then shrugs, as though Sheryl were in the room.
     
    BRADY: (into phone) Uh...sure! Yeah, that works. I'll see you then?
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) That's great. I'll be there. Thaaaanks.
     
    Sheryl hangs up the phone, breathing a massive sigh of relief. Resting her hand, and most of her own weight on the receiver, she takes a second before pulling herself back up, a serious look on her face.
     
    SHERYL: Well...I guess it's time to test out the new look. 
     
    Sheryl walks over to the mirror on the oppsite wall. She looks into it, intensely. She pulls her hair back, and looks up at herself, all the while maintaining an air of confidence.
     
    SHERYL: Goodbye, Sheryl Connors. Hello, Crystal Clarke.
     
    Letting go of her hair, Sheryl continues to look into the mirror, she begins to chuckle. At first, quietly, but soon growing into an almost hysterical, sinister laugh.
     
    ---
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