Jump to content

beebs

Members
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    2,183

  • Joined

  • Last visited

 Content Type 

Blog Entries posted by beebs

  1. beebs
    EPISODE 2

    ALEXIS DILLON
    Jacqueline MacInnes Wood

    RYAN OLSEN
    Scott Clifton

    ERIC HADLEY
    Scott Evans

    DARREN WASHINGTON
    Bryton James

    KIAN McCLARY
    Chord Overstreet

    PETER PHILLIPS
    Kin Shriner

    JASON TOMS
    Zack Conroy

    MARY RUSSELL
    Victoria Rowell

    JOANNA WILLIAMS
    Lynn Herring

    MARK WILLIAMS
    Wayne Northrop


    OUTSIDE THE MAJOR ST. APARTMENTS

    Kian stands dumfounded as Peter steps out of his limo to greet him. Jason stands a bit in behind him, as though Kian somehow will shield him. Peter seems to ignore their awkwardness.

    PETER: Hey baby, I thought I'd come surprise you.
    KIAN: Oh...heh, great. Umm...Peter, this is my...uh...the manager of the restaurant...umm...
    JASON: I'm Jason Toms, nice to meet you, sir.
    PETER: Heard a bit about you, Jason. I'dve been a part of the hiring process but I was in New York so I left it all in the hands of my...incredibly capable business partner

    Peter winks at Kian, who smiles uncomfortably.

    PETER: So, come on. Let's go. A party awaits us!

    Kian and Jason look at each other knowingly, equal measures of relief and concern on their faces. They head down the steps to the car.





    Through the window on the main level, Joanna Williams peeks through her window at the goings-on outside. The neighbourhood snoop with equal parts gossippy motormouth and all-seeing eyes. Trusting her is out of the question for the residents of the building...at least if they know well enough.

    JOANNA: Oooo, Mark, Mark, come see. Kian's got a big, shiny limo to take him to his grand opening.

    Mark's in the kitchen, looking around the corner at Joanna. He's used to her nosiness, but it nonetheless agitated.

    MARK: Would you stop snooping already? You're gonna get yourself arrested for invading privacy again, and this time I'm not bailing you out.
    JOANNA: No, come on! If they've got a stretch limo they WANT people to look! You don't get a limo like that and come up to the door of a place like this if you want people to keep their eyes to themselves and look down at their newspapers. This is an obvious cry for attention. I'm just giving them what they want.

    Mark walks over, sandwich in hand, looks quickly out the window and turns around again, sitting down in his easy chair, facing the TV.

    MARK: And if you were paying any attention to the look on that boy's face, you'd know he'd rather be locked in the trunk of a Kia than be in that limo.
    JOANNA: What on earth are you talking about, Mark?
    MARK: It's obvious, something's going on between the two young ones and they don't want Peter to find out about it.

    Joanna looks over at him wide-eyed, with a wide grin. Mark looks up at her, realizing what he's just done.

    MARK: You know I've lived with you too long. I'm starting to turn into you.
    JOANNA: Marriage is beautiful, isn't it? *giggles* I'm going upstairs and telling Mary all about it.
    MARK (disinterested): I'm sure she'll give it her usual care and attention.
    JOANNA: Hush, go back to watching your football or whatever it is this time of year.
    MARK: Hockey still.
    JOANNA: Whatever, it's all the same game anyway. BYE!

    Mark rolls his eyes, despairing at what he's just done, and goes back to his show.

    Joanna heads out the door, and immediately runs into the landlord's cat. Calling out for attention (also food), she picks up her feline friend to bring her upstairs with her. As she's about to step up, Darren exits his apartment next door to hers, heading out the door. She stops him momentarily.

    JOANNA: Hey Darren! How's it going?

    Darren knows better than to tell Joanna too much, and is polite but guarded.

    DARREN: Not a lot, Mrs. Williams. Got a friend's art show tonight I'm gonna check out.
    JOANNA: Oh, would you stop with this Mrs. Williams stuff, it's Joanna. Now, this art show. It sounds exciting. What kinda stuff they do.
    DARREN: Oh he's a photographer, graphic artist, you know. Name's Calvin J. Really cool stuff, you know?
    JOANNA: That's fantastic. Hey, do you know what the limo outside's all about.

    Darren knows where this is going and tightens up.

    DARREN: Nope. Can't say I do.
    JOANNA: Oh well it was just so big and glamourous I just had to ask, you know. I love the glitz and the glam of these new fancy restaurants opening up, and to think we've got an up and coming chef living right under this roof, it's really something! You know?

    Darren, midway through this diatribe is already about to go, and tries to be polite but can't hold back any longer.

    DARREN: Yea for sure, Mrs. Wils-er Joanna, look, I really gotta go so...I'll see you later.
    JOANNA: Oh! Bye Darren, umm, hey, do you have any food scraps for...

    Darren runs out the door as fast as possible.

    JOANNA: ...the....cat. Okay!

    On his way out, Darren walks past Alexis, just stepping out of her car.

    DARREN: Hey baby.
    ALEXIS: Ugghh, not this again.
    DARREN: No seriously, I gotta warn you bout this neighbour we got. I forgot to tell you earlier. Mrs. Williams. BIG ass snoop. Gonna get up in ALL your business. Watch her.
    ALEXIS: Noted. Now, please move. In a bit of a hurry.
    DARREN: That's cool. I'll catch ya later.

    Alexis rolls her eyes, collects herself, and heads inside. Inside, Joanna's slowly making her way up the stairs, cat still in her arms. Alexis moves up the stairs quickly and notices the cat.

    ALEXIS: Ugh, good, my boyfriend got rid of it.
    JOANNA: What, Misty? Ohhh, she's a sweetheart. She belongs to the landlord, did you wanna hold her?
    ALEXIS: NO! ....no, I'm allergic. But thanks. And you are?
    JOANNA: Joanna Williams. I'm your downstairs neighbour. You haven't met me yet but...I mean, I knew you were moving in and all. I keep tabs on things around here, you know.

    Alexis nods and smiles, but already is looking to get out of this conversation.

    ALEXIS: Yeah, I gotcha...well....look. I got an art show tonight I wanna check out, this Calvin J guy. Get some new stuff for the walls...go along with this new apartment and all, so, I'm gonna take off. It was nice to meet you Mrs. Williams.
    JOANNA: OH! Call me Joanna!

    Joanna laughs uncomfortably as Alexis steps into her apartment quickly and closes the door in Joanna's face. Joanna realizes it's the same artist Darren was mentioning.

    JOANNA: Calvin J again. HM! Must be a popular guy.

    Joanna heads up the stairs again, up one more floor to Mary's.

    Alexis stands, back against the door for a second, eyes wide with relief at getting out of that mess. She calls out for Ryan while looking around the apartment for him.

    ALEXIS: Ryan??

    After checking out all the rooms and realizing he's not there, she checks for a note. Not finding one, she gets a bit aggravated and tries calling Ryan. The ever-present mind that he is, Ryan's left his phone on the desk in his rush to leave for the grand opening. Alexis silently curses him and goes to head off to the art show alone, when she notices a puddle on the ground in the doorway of the bathroom. Looking up at a drip in the ceiling, her frustration increases and she storms out of the room, headed up for the landlord's apartment.

    Before knocking, she inevitably runs into Joanna and cat once more.

    JOANNA: OH! Fancy running into you again!
    ALEXIS: Yeah, imagine that. It's like we just saw each other a minute ago.
    JOANNA: *giggles* I know right?
    ALEXIS: Right well, if you'll excuse me-
    JOANNA: You know, that art show you were going to? Well, that Darren fellow that lives downstairs across from me said he's going too. You should meet him, he's a real cutie. Around your age too! You'd really like--
    ALEXIS: We've already met. He seems like a great guy.
    JOANNA: OH! So you're going with him. Let me know how that goes.
    ALEXIS: I'm...not. Actually. Can you excuse me one second.
    JOANNA: Oh sure, take your time. I'm actually just gonna head back down to my apartment and feed Misty. My friend's not home.

    Alexis goes to knock on Dan, the landlord's door, just as she does, Joanna stops her yet again.

    JOANNA: Oh and before you do that, I knocked on Dan's door too. He's not home. He rarely is. Always travelling somewhere. This time around I heard he was going to Africa.

    Joanna stops for a second, Alexis stands facing the door, banging her head against it.

    JOANNA: Anyway, it's hard to get ahold of him, last time he was away half the year. He usually just has you give Mary the rent cheques while he's away, but if you wanna get anything fixed, you're better off doing it yourself, honestly.
    ALEXIS: Thanks for the advice. Duly noted. Now, if you'll excuse me.
    JOANNA: Oh no worries, and say 'hi' to Darren for me.

    Alexis dashes off to the art show. Joanna gives Alexis a wink, hoping to hear some juicy gossip later in the evening.

    NEXT on NINE LIVES:
    The art show begins
    and
    A gala to remember?
  2. 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.

    ---
  3. beebs
    EPISODE 59
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Sheryl picks up the phone in her office at Titan, she begins a conversation with a mysterious person, whom she is obviously very familiar with.

    SHERYL: (into phone) Hey, it's me.

    After a pause, she continues.

    SHERYL: Yeah, I'm still in Salem. Look, you remember how you owe me a little...favour?...Yeah. So does that mean you're in? ...No, you'll have to come here first. (laughs) That's right. Okay. I'll keep in touch. Bye.

    Sheryl puts down the phone and smiles broadly, before looking for a file, and heading from her office. She strides confidently to the door and closes it with a confident flourish.

    ---

    Gabi sits at Hope's desk, pleading with her to look into Nick's supposedly renewed drug use.



    GABI: Please, Hope. You have to go talk to Nick. You're my only hope.

    Hope looks down, deep in thought about the decision before her.

    After a pause that feels like an eternity, Hope answers.

    HOPE: Alright. I'll do it.

    Gabi beams with happiness at Hope's decision.

    GABI: Thank you! Thank you so much, Hope. I know I'm asking a lot but...you may have saved my life.

    Gabi stands up and hugs Hope tightly. Hope reciprocates but with much less intensity than Gabi, as though she's still contemplating her decision.

    HOPE: No problem, Gabi. I'll let you know how it goes, alright?
    GABI: Okay! Thanks again, I know it's...I know it's a huge thing to ask of you, I just...want you to know that I do appreciate it.
    HOPE: Don't mention it.

    Gabi grabs her purse and walks quickly out of Hope's office, waving goodbye as she does. Once outside the door, Gabi breathes a heavy sigh of relief, knowing that her plan has, so far, worked.

    Inside, Hope sits back down, shaking her head at the dilemma she faces.

    ---

    Daniel steps over to the nurses' station at University Hospital, where Maxine stands, staring into her computer. Despite this, Maxine knows Daniel is there.



    MAXINE: Dr. Jonas, how are you this morning?

    Maxine looks up to see a rather hungover doctor standing before her. She raises an eyebrow, knowingly.

    MAXINE: Mmmhmm, that's what I thought.
    DANIEL: Maxine, I don't want to hear it.
    MAXINE: Did you at least have a good time last night?

    Daniel looks away, hoping to avoid answering her question. Maxine continues to stare Daniel down.

    DANIEL: Ehhhh...you could...say so.

    Maxine sees a bit of a glimmer in Daniel's eye and gives him a knowing look. Her smirk disarms Daniel a bit, and he leans in to speak in confidence to her.

    DANIEL: I can't tell you anything more than that.

    Maxine makes a mock-insulted face, and Daniel laughs before walking away.

    As Daniel walks away, he looks down at his notes. About to make his rounds, he notices the first name on the page. Theresa. He looks up at her hospital room door and sighs, struck by the sadness of the situation.

    ---

    Kim sits in the waiting room outside Aiden's office as Aiden's secretary hangs up the phone at the desk next to Kim. She looks at Kim with a smile.

    SECRETARY: Mr. Jennings will see you now, Ms. Brady.

    Kim stands up, smiling politely.

    KIM: Thank you.

    Kim timidly opens the door to Aiden's office and steps in, closing it carefully behind her.

    AIDEN: Ms. Brady! Good to meet you. My name's Aiden Jennings.

    Aiden strides over to Kim confidently and shakes her hand. Aiden smiles warmly, while Kim looks up with a bit of trepidation, smiling only momentarily, almost sheepishly.

    KIM: It's...great to meet you, Aiden. Please, call me Kim.

    Aiden motions for Kim to have a seat at his desk, at which point Aiden steps back towards his side of the desk.

    AIDEN: Please, Kim. Have a seat. So what is it I can help you with, exactly?
    KIM: Well...I need you to give me a little advice about a family...situation.
    AIDEN: Okay...what exactly is it?
    KIM: It's my daughter, Theresa. She's been in an accident, and she's...unfortunately in the hospital.

    Aiden looks at Kim with concern.

    AIDEN: I'm...really sorry to hear about that. Is there a problem at University Hospital or something?
    KIM: Well...no.
    AIDEN: Then what's the problem?
    KIM: To be blunt, I need you to find a way to keep Billie Reed out of Theresa's hospital room.

    ---

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

    ---

    Marlena and John are in Marlena's office at the hospital, as Marlena steps back from John, stunned at what he'd just told her.

    MARLENA: I'm sorry? You saw what?

    John steps forward towards Marlena, who is still upset by John's sudden change of heart about salvaging their marriage.

    JOHN: The first thing I see when I come back to town, Doc. You and...Roman. I saw you comforting him on that bench, Doc.
    MARLENA: You have absolutely no idea what that was about, John!
    JOHN: No. I do.
    MARLENA: How could you possibly?! You've been gone for months! No one's heard boo from you! And suddenly you know exactly what's going on?

    John holds up his hands to indicate to Marlena to calm down. Marlena doesn't agree.

    MARLENA: NO! NO! No you do not...
    JOHN (talking over her) Doc, I'm not saying what you think I am...Doc. Come on now.
    MARLENA: I was comforting Roman because he...
    JOHN: Doc! You don't have to explain anything to me. Just...be good to him. Alright?

    Marlena looks at John with confusion in her face, realizing that John isn't upset but giving her up.

    MARLENA: What?

    John sighs heavily, visibly pained by what he has to tell Marlena, but he finally struggles to spit it out.

    JOHN: My lawyers will contact you in the morning. We'll get the divorce proceedings finalized. I want this to be quick and painless for both of us.
    MARLENA: John! What do you mean?
    JOHN: I mean it's time we let this go, Doc. Look, I...I can't talk about this any further but...this is just...it's how it has to be, okay?

    John heads for the door and steps into the hall. Marlena can only stand still in shock as he leaves.

    JOHN: I'll be gone by morning.
    MARLENA: What...John? JOHN!

    Marlena follows John to the door as he walks off. She stops and looks on with hurt and utter confusion on her face as he disappears into the busy hospital.

    ---

    Aiden thinks for a moment before standing up from his desk and pacing the room.

    AIDEN: I mean...this is a big step. Is this Billie...Miss Reed is she...is she a threat to Theresa at all?

    Kim sneers at the thought of Billie as she responds.

    KIM: Well, if you ask me she's a threat to anyone within a 100 mile radius of her.
    AIDEN: Okay, but...legally. Can we make a case against this woman? Because you can do one of two things here, y'see. You can either just talk with the hospital administration and ask that Theresa be put under a stricter visitor list. Only immediate family admitted, and those usually work but they're...hard to enforce in a hospital the size of University Hospital.
    KIM: Right. I mean...I used to work at University Hospital so I know that all too well.

    Aiden walks over to the edge of his desk and sits on the corner of it, looking at Kim for some kind of response.

    AIDEN: Exactly, and then there's a restraining order, which is effective, but...extreme.

    Kim looks up at Aiden with a sudden shift in demeanour. Suddenly her near-timidity vanishes and a look of steel resolve flashes in her eyes as they stare unwaveringly at Aiden.

    KIM: That woman has done more damage to my family than anyone, even Stefano DiMera could dream of. I want her away from my daughter if it's the last thing I do.

    Aiden's eyes immediately widen at the fire that emerged in Kim's eyes, deadlocked into his own.

    ---

    Kate looks at Billie with some slight confusion in her face before she snaps back to her usual calm, collected visage.

    KATE: Nick Fallon has absolutely nothing to do with anything I do. I was just saying that Nick was telling me that he overheard from a board member on the elevator this morning that we may end up with major fines from the FCC if we keep the station. The conflict of interest in this is crystal clear, Billie.
    BILLIE: Well...he has a point. But I don't know why you're trusting conjecture from Nick.
    KATE: Because he's right more often than he's wrong. Whether he's a psychopath or not.

    Kate grabs her briefcase and heads for the door of her office.

    KATE: Now. We have a board meeting to go to. Can I count on you to vote with me on this?

    Billie mulls it over for a moment before responding. She nods hesitantly.

    BILLIE: Yes.

    Kate smiles and opens the door to her office.

    KATE: Good! Let's go then!

    Kate motions Billie from her office and she and her daughter head for the board room.

    As they walk into the lobby, Lucas steps off the elevator, much to Kate's delight. She quickly motions her son over to her side.

    KATE: Ahhh! Lucas! I have something I need to talk to you about.

    Wrapping her arm over Lucas' shoulder, Lucas looks over to her with a more than bit of worry in his eyes as they walk off to the board meeting.

    LUCAS: Uh oh. What did you do now?

    ---

    Nick is in his lab, making a face of pain as he pinches the bridge of his nose. Still reeling a bit from his hangover, he reaches into his briefcase, and pulls out the bottle of "Aspirin" from his bag. Quickly walking over to the water cooler, he grabs a paper cup and downs the pill and the water.

    Refreshed, and trying to shake off the hangover pains, he walks back to his bag, closing it up when he gets a call from Sheryl. Looking at his phone before answering, he answers with a cocky smile on his face.

    NICK: Yeah, just packing up to head home for lunch...well why wouldn't I?...Yeah. Everything's gonna work out exactly according to plan.

    ---


    JJ stands in the Horton living room, and looks at Jennifer before holding up his hands in surrender.

    JJ: Okay, you got me. I was driving Abigail to the airport this morning.
    JENNIFER: What? What do you mean? Where is Abby?
    JJ: She's in Europe.

    Jennifer tenses with worry, she almost explodes at JJ from the shock of his news.

    JENNIFER: What??
    JJ: It was for work, it's...DiMera...it's a...project they wanted specifically her to work on. It was...really last minute.
    JENNIFER: I...she didn't even...consult with me. She didn't...she's not fit to fly, she just got out of hospital a few hours ago, I mean...

    JJ holds his mom's shoulders, hoping to make her feel a little more relaxed.

    JJ: Look...Mom, I tried to talk Abs out of going but...it's just...for a few weeks, it's not a huge deal, okay?
    JENNIFER: OH that's what YOU think!

    Jennifer makes a beeline for the phone, but JJ follows her and stops her before she can pick it up.

    JJ: Mom, what are you doing?
    JENNIFER: I am going to call the airport and stop them before that plane takes off.
    JJ: You can't! It's already taken off. They left hours ago.



    Jennifer looks at JJ with at first appears to be shock but soon changes into one of disappointment. She backs away from her phone and looks at JJ with intense sadness.

    JENNIFER: How could you let her do this, JJ? How could you just...ship your sister off to the DiMeras.

    JJ looks away, shaking his head as well at his mother's grave accusation. At the same moment, Jennifer grabs her jacket and purse from the table, never once taking her eyes off JJ.

    JJ: Mom...MOM, where are you going?
    JENNIFER: I'm going to have a little chat with your sister's boss.
    JJ: Mom! I don't...

    Jennifer doesn't listen and slams the door shut before JJ can get a word in. JJ is left behind, holding back his urge to slam his fist down.

    ---
  4. beebs
    EPISODE 63
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson





    Kate, standing in the Titan board room with Victor, turns around and cancels the call quickly before she allows Victor to confirm that Nick was on the phone.

    KATE: Uh...what are you talking about?
    VICTOR: Oh don't play dumb with me, Kate. I saw Nick's name pop up on your phone in large print. And despite what you think, I haven't got cataracts just yet.
    KATE: Well, first of all, it's none of your business who calls me, and secondly, so what if Nick did call me? He is, after all, my employee. It was probably just a call about a product we're testing.

    Victor steps in close to Kate, in hopes of intimidating her.

    VICTOR: You'd better hope that's all it's about. I will be watching you after today, believe that.

    Kate stares back, not threatened by Victor's tactics.

    KATE: Duly noted.

    Kate grabs her bag and, with a flourish, slings them over her shoulder, sashaying out of the board room. Victor watches her head out, and scrunches his face slightly, indignant at his major loss.

    VICTOR: Damn it all.

    ---


    Billie walks through the 16th floor lobby of Titan, on her cell phone, as she prepares to leave the building. She has a worried look on her face as she talks to the person on the other end.

    BILLIE: (into phone) Yeah, I have a feeling Nick had a hand in this. But for the life of me, I can't tell what it is or how deep he is involved in this. But I'm certain it has something to do with the other two...Okay, I'll get back to you.

    Billie hangs up, and notices a text message on her phone from Daniel.

    u feeling any better now?

    Billie smiles, texting back:

    cup of coffee + an aspirin did the trick lol

    Billie pops her phone back in her bag, and smiles a bit as she steps onto the elevator to head down to her car.

    ---


    Jordan sits at her desk at the hospital, finishing up some reports, when she hears a knock at the door of her office.

    JORDAN: Come in.


    SHERYL: Hello, Stranger. Mind if I have a word.

    Sheryl steps in, and immediately incites a bit of anxiety in a previously relaxed Jordan.

    ---


    Jennifer stands before EJ in the DiMera living room, enraged by his nonchalance in the face of her worry for her daughter.

    JENNIFER: Come on, EJ. You're a father. Imagine if in a few years, Sydney just...took off one day to another country without saying a word to you. You'd be worried.
    EJ: If it was an actual cause for concern, yes. But this is not, Jennifer. This is work-related. You blowing this completely out of proportion.
    JENNIFER: No, see, that's where you're wrong, EJ. Because I know you manipulated the situation to benefit yourself. Just like you always do.

    EJ gestures in 'confusion' at Jenn's accusation.

    EJ: What are you even saying, Jennifer? How would I benefit from this in any way?
    JENNIFER: Oh my GOD, it's SO obvious. I have no idea why you're so hellbent on denying it.
    EJ: Deny WHAT?!

    Jennifer steps in close to EJ, her rage bubbling in the surface as she quietly lays into EJ.

    JENNIFER: That that little chat you had with Abigail last night? That was you convincing her to get on that plane today. One day after she's out of the hospital because of, what? Business? I'm sorry, but it reeks of manipulation and intimidation. In other words, every hallmark of the DiMera men.
    EJ: How fair of you, Jennifer.

    Jennifer steps back, raising her voice a bit again as she challenges EJ's insistence of innocence.

    JENNIFER: It's more fair than you deserve. Because I can tell that this is all just a set up so that you can win Abigail back for Chad.
    EJ: What?? Oh, come on, Jennifer, that's ridiculous.
    JENNIFER: (interrupting EJ) You heard me! You can't tell me that you had any other innocent motive for sneaking my daughter onto a plane at 5am so she can work intimately with your goons. Tell me, EJ, is Chad waiting for her in Italy too?

    EJ has full on lost his cool now, shouting over Jenn trying to stop her ranting to no avail.

    EJ: It was business! This was not some grand scheme cooked up for duplicitous purposes, Jennifer. She's an important part of our team, and she doesn't need Mummy to keep tabs on her every move!
    JENNIFER: I know one thing for sure, that if this was a simple business trip and nothing shady was going on, wouldn't I have heard about it by now? Something must have happened after Abby checked out, because I don't remember Sami talking about it last night at the hospital.


    At that moment, Sami steps into the living room, overhearing her name from the other side and looks Jenn's way with a look of interest.

    SAMI: Talk about what?

    Jenn turns around quickly to see Sami standing in the doorway, both her and EJ snapped out of their intense debate.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jennifer looks to Sami standing in the doorway of the DiMera living room. Sami's surprised to see Jenn and wondering what Jenn's just said about her.

    JENNIFER: Sami! Do you happen to have a minute? We need to talk.
    SAMI: I...sure! You want to talk alone?
    JENNIFER: Oh no, no, EJ's heard what's on my mind already, he doesn't have to leave.

    EJ, collecting himself from his frazzled state, swallows visibly as he heads towards Sami, who, having heard the commotion from outside the door is rather uncomfortable as EJ approaches her, all of this in Jenn's line of vision.

    EJ: Well, actually, I am needed at the office, so I should go. You ladies enjoy your time together.

    EJ walks past Sami and hesitates as to whether to lean in for a kiss or not. He decides to go for it, but Sami lurches back away from him, causing EJ to retreat. Jennifer notices the tension and looks on with curiosity. EJ puts on his blazer and gives his farewells as he exits the room.

    EJ: Goodbye, Samantha. Jennifer.

    As EJ leaves, Jenn catches her breath, releasing a lot of the tension from the confrontation that just took place. After a second, Jenn looks back at Sami, as she points in the direction of where EJ was.

    JENNIFER: I'm....so sorry, Sami. I...

    Sami walks over to Jenn, concerned, putting a hand on her shoulder.

    SAMI: No, no. I...what's going on?

    Jennifer tries to hold back a bit of tearing up as she laughs a bit at the situation.

    JENNIFER: I could ask the same of you two. I mean...I...I know it's none of my business but--
    SAMI: ...Don't even ask, Jenn. I really don't want to get into it.
    JENNIFER: Well, I understand that too. (sigh) Look, I came to see you because I...got up this morning and discovered my daughter was gone. And I know it was for work and I know...she's an adult and can make her own decisions but...I figured you would understand, as a mother, that--
    SAMI: Wait, Abigail didn't tell you about the Rome trip?

    Jenn shakes her head, she looks down, a bit disappointed, but not blaming Sami.

    JENNIFER: No. She didn't. I know a lot of that is because she knows I'm not...too thrilled with her taking this job in the first place, but...
    SAMI: I'm sorry, Jenn. I should've...let you know. Like...a text or something.
    JENNIFER: No. (sigh) When I came here, I was upset and I was...blaming EJ for it because I just...I had this feeling that it's all this big...plan to get Abigail back on side so that Chad can move back in but...

    Sami looks at Jenn, shocked by Jenn's accusation.

    SAMI: He what?
    JENNIFER: I'm sorry. I know, that was...out of line of me to think that.
    SAMI: No, no, it seems...actually a...fairly reasonable jump to make. Especially with how much EJ's been doting on Abby lately. But...Jenn, I want to reassure you.I was the one who hired her. None of that had anything to do with EJ. (sigh) I know that...Chad did some pretty awful things before he went to Boston, but...I don't think EJ is plotting with his brother to get Abigail back.
    JENNIFER: Well, Sami, with all due respect, you tend to turn a blind eye to a lot of things the DiMeras do, and right or wrong I know that's because you love EJ and...nothing will change that.

    Sami looks a bit uncomfortable as Jenn brings up her relationship with EJ, but stifles herself from giving too much away. Jenn fiddles uncomfortably with her hands as she finishes speaking with Sami.

    JENNIFER: I just...I was hoping to...maybe open a door of communication between you and I.
    SAMI: That's fine. I understand. I will keep an eye out for Abigail for you.
    JENNIFER: Thanks.

    Jenn heads for the door slowly, unsure whether to give Sami a hug or not, but chooses not to. Instead grabbing her purse from the coffee table and walks away slowly. Jenn stops suddenly and turns back to Sami, who is still looking out the window.

    JENNIFER: Oh, and Sami. One thing. If you...ever need to talk to anyone...about...anything. I am here for you, too.

    Sami turns around to smile at Jenn, unsure to what Jenn's referring but grateful nonetheless.

    SAMI: Thank you, Jenn.

    Jenn smiles as she heads out the door. Sami turns back to the window, the smile fading from her face as she stares pensively out at the spring day before her.

    ---

    Sheryl saunters over to the chair opposite Jordan's desk in her office, and has herself a seat. Jordan tries to ignore her, but Sheryl stares straight into her eyes, patiently waiting for Jordan to react. Jordan tries to continue writing up her report at her computer but finally cracks.

    JORDAN: Can I help you?
    SHERYL: I thought you'd never ask!

    Jordan rolls her eyes before clicking at her computer, presumably to save her work, before wheeling away from the computer and stopping herself at the centre of her desk. Jordan leans in towards Sheryl with her hands clasped together, almost mockingly attentive.

    JORDAN: I'm listening!
    SHERYL:Good! Stay sitting down, you'll be glad you did when I tell you what we've pulled off.
    JORDAN: I'm waiting with baited breath.
    SHERYL: We did it. Titan TV is out of Victor Kiriakis' control as of ten minutes ago.

    Jordan's eyes widen, not sure whether she believes Sheryl's news or not.

    JORDAN: I...are you for real? This is happening.
    SHERYL: This is absolutely happening, Jordan. The board, with a little help from Nick Fallon, sided with us. The people of Salem are gonna know the truth about that damned oil sands project. Finally.

    It finally dawns on Jordan. She looks away momentarily as she allows the reality of the situation set in.

    JORDAN: Well I'll be damned. Nick Fallon wasn't playing us?
    SHERYL: So far, so good, eh?
    JORDAN: Yeah...so what's our next move then?

    Sheryl leans in towards Jordan and says in a bit more hushed tone.

    SHERYL: That is exactly what I want to talk about with you.

    ---


    Kayla, helping set up Brady's memorial service in town square,notices Roman looking blankly at Brady's portrait set up near Tom & Alice Horton's tree. She walks over to her brother and gently places a hand on his shoulder.

    KAYLA: It's hard to believe, isn't it? That Brady's gone?

    Roman stares at the picture, scanning every feature bit by bit. He finally turns to Kayla, and looks at her with a panicked expression.

    ROMAN: Kay, that...that's not Brady. Is...is it?

    Kayla looks at Roman, knowing that she'd heard about his memory troubles, but not that they had progressed so quickly. Kayla takes Roman's arm and squeezes it, almost cuddling it in an attempt to comfort him without smothering him.

    KAYLA: It's okay. That is Brady now. What do you remember him looking like?
    ROMAN: I...Kay, Brady's just a little kid. I remember him being so....young. He wasn't even school aged and now...why can't I fill that time in.

    Kayla sees her brother go deep into thought and pulls him in close, holding him as he zones out, trying in vain to fill the blanks in his memory.

    ---


    Billie steps off the elevator at the hospital and, upon seeing Daniel perched at the nurses' station, sneaks up behind him, covering his eyes with her hands.

    BILLIE: Guess who?
    DANIEL: Gah! I needed those!

    Billie laughs as she jumps back, and Daniel turns to see Billie. He smiles through his lingering hangover.

    BILLIE: You look like you could use an...Aspirin or...something.
    DANIEL: Yeaaah, Maxine already suggested that. I'm trying to avoid overmedicating myself, especially for...

    Daniel feels a bit of the dull, nagging headache pain hit him and holds his nose for a moment. Billie giggles.

    BILLIE: For...self-inflicted wounds.
    DANIEL: Yeah.
    BILLIE: Well, I'm gonna tell you right now that the only person suffering for your tenacity is you. So, I'd suggest giving in.
    DANIEL: Hey, who's the doctor here?


    Billie laughs heartily as they walk through the main room of that particular floor. As they approach the door of Theresa's room, the elevator door opens and Kim Brady emerges, a police escort in tow. She immediately spots Daniel and Billie and looks their way with a satisfied smile on her face.

    DANIEL: So you're here to see Theresa?
    BILLIE: Yeah. I'm hoping to get in to see her as much as possible, since Kim's threatening lawsuits and beheadings if I stand on the same floor as her.
    DANIEL: Just...don't let it get to you. She's concerned about her daughter, just like you are. I'm sure you're gonna be able to work it out.

    As Kim stops, standing behind Daniel and Billie, Daniel catches Kim out of the corner of his eye and turns to face her. Kim smiles as the policeman addresses them.

    POLICEMAN: Miss Billie Reed?

    Billie looks the policeman up and down before looking suspiciously at Kim.

    BILLIE: Can I help you, Officer?

    Kim holds up an envelope in Billie's face, an almost smug look on her face as she serves Billie.

    KIM: This would be a restraining order that says that you can't be within 100 feet of Theresa.

    ---

  5. beebs
    EPISODE 65
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Jennifer steps into the town square, and sees Liam off in the corner. Jenn looks over and waves his way, as Liam walks over to her from across the square. Liam notices the glum look on Jenn's face and, as he meets Jenn near one of the tables in the square, he gently touches her chin and smiles as she looks up at him.

    LIAM: Jenn? You alright?

    Jenn sighs heavily before answering Liam's question. She turns away slightly as she answers, her voice heavy with concern.

    JENNIFER: I don't really know.
    LIAM: Well...what's wrong?
    JENNIFER: (sigh) Aibigail...disappeared this morning.

    Liam appears distressed by the news, Jenn immediately tries to placate him.

    LIAM: What?
    JENNIFER: No! No, she's okay...

    Liam breathes a sigh of relief at the news, visibly relaxing after a moment's tension.

    LIAM:Oh, thank God for that--
    JENNIFER: ...but the problem is where she's gone.

    Liam looks up, confused, Jenn tries to calmly explain the situation, hoping not to upset Liam again.

    LIAM: What do you mean?
    JENNIFER: (sigh) It turns out that Sami sent her on an assignment to Italy last minute, and so now, one day after she's in hospital for that fall, she's on a plane to Europe to work for the DiMeras.

    Liam looks at Jenn, not sure quite how to respond or react to Jenn's news. He looks off, away at nothing in particular, deep in his own thoughts.

    ---


    Sami stares out the window at the DiMera mansion, deep in thought as she considers the possibility that Abigail's project in Italy may not be purely a business decision on EJ's part, but a clever manipulation among many others. Considering Jennifer's words from earlier, Sami is mentally checked out.

    ***Sami flashes back to Episode 63***

    JENNIFER No. (sigh) When I came here, I was upset and I was...blaming EJ for it because I just...I had this feeling that it's all this big...plan to get Abigail back on side so that Chad can move back in but...

    ***

    Sami snaps back to the current moment and realizes she needs to speak to someone. She walks quickly over to her purse and pulls her cell phone out, she quickly makes a phone call.

    SAMI: (into phone) Laura? You wouldn't happen to be free for a house call, would you?

    ---



    Hope drives down the road at lightning pace, obviously speeding as she makes her way towards Horton Town Square in time for Brady's memorial. Her impatience is plain on her face and in her mannerisms as she moves frenetically between looking at the road and checking the time on her car stereo.

    HOPE: Come on, come on, come on. Ugh, this damned guy in front of me would just MOVE!

    Hope honks angrily on her horn as she shouts at the cars in front of her.

    HOPE: COME ON! Ohhh my God, I'm so late.

    Hope leans back in her seat, looking to the sky, trying to calm down, as she mutters to herself.

    HOPE: Come on, Hope. You're not supposed to be the one getting road rage, you're a cop. You're supposed to obey the traffic laws, and smile and drive defensively!

    Hope takes a second to breathe before finally getting fed up and turning into the next lane, when the car in front of her turns abruptly to make the same move. Hope hits her brakes, but not soon enough and bumps into the side door of the car in front. Hope curses as she undoes her seatbelt to get out of the car.

    HOPE: Damn it! Damn it, damn it, damn it!

    Hope gets out of the car, infuriated. She continues to curse as she steps out on the roadway and turns toward the driver of the car she hit.

    HOPE: As if this day couldn't get any...

    Hope slams her car door shut and turns around to see the man in the car in front get out.


    It's Aiden.

    HOPE: ...worse.

    ---


    Victor stands by his office desk at Titan, and looks at Sonny incredulously.

    VICTOR: Rescind the offer? What for?
    SONNY: Because I don't want him sucked into this world of greed and lies, I just...

    Victor's face turns to one of anger and frustration upon realizing what's going on.

    VICTOR: You've been sucked in by those knuckle-dragging treehuggers, haven't you?
    SONNY: No, I--
    VICTOR: Because I've got news for you, Sonny. The offer stays on the table, and you'd better back off if you ever want to see Will Horton stand at the altar with you.

    ---

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

    ---


    Laura sits in a chair in the DiMera living room, a recording device in hand as she leans over to speak to Sami, who is casually laid down on the nearby sofa, shoes off. Sami is still deep in thought as Laura tries to coax out her inner most feelings to try to give Sami some sense of healing.

    LAURA: Tell me what you feel at this exact moment.

    Sami pauses a moment, staring straight out at nothing in particular. A very expressionless look on her face as she ponders, then answers Laura's question.

    SAMI: Helpless. I feel like...like I've finally run out of ways to fight back...or maybe I just don't want to fight anymore. I can't tell.
    LAURA: That's not, in my experience, your usual way of reacting.
    SAMI: No. It's not.
    LAURA: For as long as I've known you, you seem to lash out when you're backed into a corner, so tell me what's different this time.

    Sami hesitates, breathing in deeply as she tries to honestly answer Laura, but is almost afraid to respond so openly.

    SAMI: Because this time, it's my son who would bear the brunt of it. I can't defend myself without...destroying Johnny.
    LAURA: What do you mean?

    Sami becomes increasingly emotional, but tries to hold herself in as responds.

    SAMI: I mean I can't look at my own child without thinking about how he was conceived. I can't feel his touch anymore and feel the love he clearly feels for me and the warmth and love I saw...see. Every time I look at my own son, I love him, I know I do, but...there's this...

    Sami looks down at the engagement ring EJ got for her. She looks at it thoughtfully as she pulls it off her finger, and holds it up for Laura to see.

    SAMI: It's like this ring. You see, I have looked at this ever since EJ put it on my finger.

    Laura smiles as she looks at the beautiful diamond ring, clearly noteworthy for the size and shine of the diamond.

    LAURA: It's absolutely beautiful, I have to admit.

    Sami manages a weak smile as she takes the ring in the palm of her hand and closes her fist around it tightly.

    SAMI: Yeah. I always thought so too. But then I was looking at it from a weird angle one day when I was out and....you know...the sun just...hit it at just the right angle. And...you know, I saw this...tiny, tiny imperfection just on the top right hand corner. It's...barely visible to any normal person, even if you looked it over with a magnifying glass, you'd never notice it.

    Sami holds the ring up again, this time right up in front of her eyes, shaking her head, disappointment in her face and her voice.

    SAMI: ...But you know...now...that's all I see is that tiny little flaw. And I can't unsee it. I don't know if I ever will, and I know that I shouldn't let it overtake everything else about it for me but...I'm worried I can't help but feel that way. I mean...this is just a ring. But, I mean, we're talking about my son. My beautiful....beautiful boy. And I can't see him without thinking of how...the man I'm supposed to be marrying...he forced me to have sex with him in exchange for his sister's father's life.

    Sami stands up and begins to pace before the couch. Laura follows her every step carefully, her every expression, her every gesture.

    SAMI: I mean...how screwed up is that? How...terrible of a situation to be in, not to mention how he even came to be.

    Sami stops and sighs heavily. She sits down again and looks earnestly at Laura, struggling to ask her a question as the emotion wells up in her voice.

    SAMI: Laura...how am I going to...when the time comes...I mean...he'll have questions. How am I going to be able to tell my son that he was the product of rape?

    ---

    Hope sheepishly looks Aiden's way as he steps over to Hope's car. Aiden looks at Hope sternly.

    AIDEN: I thought the police were meant to be better drivers than the rest of us.
    HOPE: I'm....really sorry. I just...I thought you were gonna turn with the car in front and then you just...turned fast into me and...
    AIDEN: Oh, so now you're gonna blame this on me?

    Hope shrugs, trying to play nonchalant with Aiden, who is quickly getting angrier.

    HOPE: Well...you turned out of your lane without signalling...you know I could have you ticketed for that.
    AIDEN: Ohhh you're gonna pull THAT one out now. Just throw your weight around? You know, I was on my way to a meeting with a new client, a real important client and--
    HOPE: ...And I was on my way to my friend's son's funeral. And now I'm gonna be late. And I'm not happy.

    Aiden, upset, and worried, walks over to the driver's side door of his car as he speaks.

    AIDEN: Oh, YOU'RE not happy. I don't have a fender now because of you...you...you know what? Just, let's just...I'm going to the repair shop now, and maybe I can get a rental in time to meet with my cli...client...

    Aiden looks over to see Hope taking her cell phone out and taking pictures of the damage to his car. He walks back over

    AIDEN: What in the hell are you doing?

    Aiden doesn't look up at Hope, but at her car, then back at his page.

    HOPE: Writing down your licence plate number, and...I'll need your insurance info.
    AIDEN: Oh for...Hope, let's be reasonable, okay? You have to get to your friend's memorial service, and I need to get to your client, so can we agree to do this later? Our cars are still perfectly capable of getting to where we're going, so we can just--
    HOPE: We can just...don this by the book. Okay? Or would you rather that ticket I was talking about?
    AIDEN: Okay. Okay...look, you're right. Let's just...drive down to the police station, we'll get this checked out and...I'll just...have to call my client and say I'll be a bit late.
    HOPE: There we go, now you see sense!

    Aiden walks around to the driver's side door again and Hope to hers, before they both step into their respective vehicles, Aiden looks over to Hope and shakes his head before stepping in. He sits down in the driver's seat and turns the key in the ignition. The car grumbles and then fails.

    AIDEN: Ohhhh great.

    Hope, overhearing Aiden's car's failure, saunters over to his window. He winds it down and looks out to see Hope's smug face, raised eyebrow and smirk.

    HOPE: Need a lift?

    ---

    Sonny stands in Victor's office, arms folded as he angrily counters Victor's threat.

    SONNY: Are you seriously gonna stand there and tell me that unless I cowtow to your demands, I'm gonna lose my fiance?
    VICTOR: Will needs a job, this is a great opportunity for him. If you deny him this, he'll resent you until the day you die...which will be about twenty minutes after he finds out we had this conversation.
    SONNY: He won't find out if you don't tell him.

    Victor stands, unmoved. Sonny gestures in frustration.

    SONNY: Which you will. Of course. Because everything needs to be your way.
    VICTOR: Sonny, I've had a hard day. We lost a member of our family, and I've had to make some tough business decisions. You should be thrilled that I'm welcoming Will into the family fold, especially considering the bunch of winners he calls his kin.
    SONNY: Well, I'm not. Not under these circumstances. You're pitting him against me to prop up your dirty business. As if you think you can buy my approval of this disgusting project of yours. Well it's not gonna work.
    VICTOR: I'm doing no such thing.

    Sonny tries to hold back from yelling at Victor. He fights it a moment but his frustration lets loose regardless.

    SONNY: Yes, you are! Don't act like I'm stupid, Uncle Vic. Please, just...tell Will that you...decided to go with someone more experienced and no one has to know we ever had this conversation. Please. For Will's sake, for my sake. Ari's. Just...please just take the offer back.

    Victor looks straight into Sonny's eyes, a stern, almost stone-like expression on his face.

    VICTOR: I'm sorry, Sonny. I can't.

    Sonny shakes his head before turning toward the door.

    SONNY: No. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I ever tried to talk any sense into you. Because it's obvious to me that all you care about is the bottom line. You're no better than any of these other snake CEOs trying to...pillage the land of every drop of oil they can get their hands on at any cost. Well, guess what? You just cost yourself an awful lot more than just money, Uncle Vic.

    Victor looks steadfastly ahead, never once looking away from Sonny, though it's clear the hurt this is causing both of them. Sonny turns back around when Victor calls out to him.

    VICTOR: Sonny!

    Sonny looks at him, eyebrows raised, looking like he isn't really interested in what Victor will say, but he gives him the opportunity regardless.

    VICTOR: You'll thank me soon enough.

    Sonny guffaws as he begins to turn back around for the door.

    SONNY: Right. See you around.

    Sonny slams the door to Victor's office shut as Victor looks away, mad at himself for the turn things took.

    ---

    Liam stares off into the distance. Jenn looks concerned by Liam's sudden distraction and calls out to him.

    JENNIFER: Liam? ....Liam??

    Liam snaps back to reality. He turns towards Jenn and puts a hand on her shoulder.

    LIAM: I...have to make a quick call, I'll be right back, okay?



    Jennifer watches with concern as Liam steps off towards the exit of the Town Square. JJ walks in from another entrance as Liam leaves. Liam pulls his phone from his jacket on his way out. Observing Liam walking out, and Jenn's concerned reaction, JJ decides to discretely follow Liam out, as Jenn gets distracted by Maggie handing her program bookets for the memorial service.

    Outside the square, Liam gets on the phone, while JJ hides behind the archway, obscuring any way of Liam seeing him.

    LIAM: (into phone) Yeah, so when exactly were you gonna tell me about Abigail Deveraux? ...mmmhmm?...Yeah? Well, tell Stefano I want an update every day until she's back then. Got it?

    JJ's eyes widen as he makes a connection between Liam, Abigail and Stefano. Terrified for his sister, he sneaks off quickly from the park towards the square, unsure what he'll do next.

    ---
  6. beebs
    NOTE: Hopefully this entry is a little easier to take in for some of you. I know a few of you have been hoping to see more of my dialogue. Expect quite a paring down of the cast. I find there's a few characters that just aren't working right now, and they'll be gone soon. Some will be a surprise, but the episodes will soon be quite a bit more focused. Anyway, enough of me rambling on. Here it is!


    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #2

    At the apartment, Sonny stands aghast at Will for agreeing with Gabi regarding her tactics with Nick.

    WILL: Look, I'm not saying I like the guy, or anything. All I'm saying is that maybe Gabi's onto something.

    Sonny clasps his hands together and closes his eyes, looking like he's trying with everything in his power to hold back what he really wants to say.

    SONNY: I don't....I don't even understand what you're talking about right now.
    WILL: Sonny, don't you get it. Look, Nick's back. We don't know what he wants, what he's hiding, anything. All I'm saying is that maybe if we give him some time while we're figuring out what he's up to--
    SONNY: And then what? In the meantime, we hand Ari over to him? Will, look what he did to you before. To Gabi. You can't seriously think this guy is actually about to turn on his heels and do a 360 now, do you?

    Gabi's had enough, and interjects suddenly.

    GABI: What if he has?
    WILL/SONNY: Seriously??

    ---
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KZsiMhziRI
    (yeah, that's right. I'm kickin' it old school)
    ---

    Nicole paces Daniel's apartment, clutching the envelope containing the evidence of Eric's innocence to her chest. She ponders what Hope has told her previously, that any evidence collected from Dr. Chyka's hideout would likely hurt Eric's case, not help it. She flashes back to Eric telling Nicole that he's giving up the priesthood to be with her. She sighs heavily.

    NICOLE: This is the right thing to do. Now, where to hide this.

    Nicole stares at the fireplace and contemplates throwing the evidence into it.

    NICOLE: I could just burn it...then it'd be gone forever...I can't do that.

    Nicole turns away and continues pacing. She holds the package away from herself and starts shaking it before her.

    NICOLE: UGGGH! What am I gonna do with you?? I wish I could just...throw you in a drawer and forget you're even there.

    Nicole thinks for another minute before coming to a conclusion.

    NICOLE: The only place that I know only my eyes will see you is in my office.

    Nicole grabs her purse and heads off to the TV station.

    ---

    Kate walks through the park outside Horton Town Square and runs into a shady-looking man, holding a large brown envelope. They both look around to ensure they are alone before speaking.

    KATE: So? What do you have?
    MAN: See for yourself.

    The man holds out the envelope, which Kate takes from him. Opening it up, she finds an article and a familiar-looking mugshot staring back at her.

    KATE: Well, well, well, Jordan Ridgeway. Or should I say Patty Hearst?

    Kate dons a wry smile, amused by her own wit.

    ---

    Back at Will, Sonny & Gabi's apartment, Gabi has worked up the nerve to stand up to Sonny and Will's objections about Nick.

    GABI: Look, I think we should just give him a chance. I mean, he knows that Sami and Kate tried to kill him but he's not--
    SONNY: Woah, woah, wait a minute. He knows? And where exactly is your name in all this?
    WILL: Seriously, Gabi, you hit him over the head with a rock, I wouldn't exactly say you didn't do anything--
    GABI: Nick says I'm innocent.

    Will and Sonny stand aghast. Sonny suddenly realizing the depth of Gabi's insecurity and desperation. He responds with more than a hint of disgust.

    SONNY: Oh, God, you're still in love with the guy, aren't you??...Admit it, Gabi.

    ---
  7. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 26
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Nicole opens the file folder that holds all her research on EnerNext for Percy.

    NICOLE: Alright!

    Nick raises a finger, as if to ask a question meekly in a classroom.

    NICK: Uhh...question.

    Nicole continues to be short with Nick responding almost before he has a chance to finish his sentence.

    NICOLE: Yeah?

    Nick is taken aback by Nicole's impatience with him. He carries on, though he's treading carefully so as not to show any outward irritation with Nicole that could get Percy in trouble.

    NICK: Do you have any of this documentation in electronic form? I...I ask because I feel like...as a technologically inclined person, I just...I find paper copies to be very...
    NICOLE: Old hat?
    NICK: Insecure.
    NICOLE: Look here, felon--
    NICK: Fallon--
    NICOLE: Whatever! I like keeping hard copies in addition to keeping electronic copies on the cloud server. It's harder for people to deny inconvenient truths when they're on paper.
    NICK: Understood.
    NICOLE: Can I move on now?
    NICK: Whenever you like.
    NICOLE: Great! So I've been working on tracking down all the scientific data on projects like this, their effect on the local environments, plus, I managed to contact a local citizens' group who are planning to rally at the press conference today. They know your story, and I hear you may have some big support coming your way today.
    PERCY: Brilliant! Are you saying there's hope for my home after all?
    NICOLE: We'll see. The only thing I've had trouble tracking down is their business association.
    PERCY: How so?

    Nicole shuffles uncomfortably in her seat.

    NICOLE: Well...word has it that EnerNext are entering into a partnership with a major conglomerate, but no one knows who.

    Nick smirks, recalling the article he saw about Titan's deal with EnerNext.

    NICK: Well, I wouldn't worry too much about that. I mean, surely they'll announce the deal at the press conference.
    NICOLE: I don't like surprises. They did make mention of making a supplies deal awhile ago with Titan, but that deal was cancelled shortly thereafter because Titan was "moving in another direction", so I doubt EnerNext would get back into bed with them. And thank God, because if Titan were involved in this deal, I wouldn't have been presented with this story. And personally, I think we have a good shot at taking these bastards down.

    Percy and Nick smile confidently at Nicole.

    ---

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

    ---

    Kate is surprised to see Billie at her door, with all her luggage.

    KATE: Well, sweetie, I wasn't expecting you so...early.
    BILLIE: Yeah, you know how the ISA works. They like to keep people on their toes.
    KATE: That's the understatement of the year.

    Kate realizes she's keeping her daughter in the hallway.

    KATE: Well, come in already. I'm sorry.
    BILLIE: Thanks, Mom.

    Billie brings in two suitcases and a tote bag with her, and another two bags linger in the hallway. Kate's eyes bug out at her luggage.

    KATE: Uh...Billie?
    BILLIE: Yeah, Mom?
    KATE: How long are you planning on staying?

    Billie heads back for the door to grab the last two bags.

    BILLIE: As long as I'm needed. Could be a few weeks, could be a few months or more. You never know!
    KATE: Well that's lovely. Uh...are they setting you up with accomodations or...?
    BILLIE: Of course not! Mom, they need me to live with you so that you stay protected, since you're the informant and all that. Speaking of which, how did you figure out that Jordan Ridgeway was really Kaylie Matthews, anyway?

    Kate suddenly remembers the root of her troubles with Billie before Billie left town the last time were rooted in Kate's manipulations and meddling. She tries now to cover her tracks.

    KATE: I...well...it's a funny story.

    ---

    Jordan wakes up in Rafe's arms. She stirs a bit before waking up to a text message. She looks over to a sleeping Rafe and, as quietly as possible checks the message. It's from Sheryl.

    EN announcement 2day. Meet me @ titan hq

    Jordan looks up, concerned about what Sheryl has in mind.

    ---

    Brady shakes his head in disbelief at Victor's warning. He paces the Kiriakis living room.

    BRADY: You know...I felt really good today. For the first time in a long time. I woke up...I felt good. I didn't have the baggage of the past couple years on my back. I didn't have the hurt. The humiliation. None of it. I felt like I could finally move forward. Thanks for taking that away from me, granddad.
    VICTOR: I'm only telling you this for your own good. The board was deeply embarrassed by your presentation. We can't have our CEO going in front of a national audience like this. Especially when there's such potential for naysayers and protest groups at the press conference.
    BRADY: You think I don't know that? You think I'm just an ostrich, burying his head in the sand and pretending nothing's going on around me? Grandad, I know what the stakes are.
    VICTOR: Good. Keep them in your mind past the end of the press conference and we might be making some progress. I've got to get going to go over the details with EnerNext's president. I'll see you at the Town Square.

    Victor slowly walks out of the room. Brady looks over at the bottles of alcohol in the corner of the room. He strongly considers heading over to it.

    ---

    Theresa stands in her doorway, a mix of concern and anger at her mother crosses her face. Theresa tries to maintain a tough exterior, but she is clearly sweating at her mother's discovery.

    THERESA: What are you doing with that?
    KIM: It fell out of your bag last night, Theresa. Don't worry, I didn't steal any from you.
    THERESA: Ugh. You're so hilarious, Mom.

    Kim waits a moment for Theresa to say something or invite her in. When she doesn't, Kim prompts her.

    KIM: Well? Are you going to invite me in or do I have to stand here with a bag of cocaine in my hand?
    THERESA: SHHH! Mom! Get inside! God!

    Theresa ushers her mom inside in a hurry before slamming the door behind her. Theresa leans against the door in something of a panic.

    THERESA: Could you NOT go around talking like that where anyone can hear you? Have you never heard of discretion, Mom?
    KIM: Theresa, if you're doing something you don't want your neighbours to hear about, then you shouldn't be doing what you're doing, anyway.
    THERESA: You know, you can stop lecturing me any time now. You are the last person who has any right to try to talk to me about doing the right thing.
    KIM: Dammit, Theresa. When are you going to let this go?
    THERESA: Never. I will never let it go, Mom. You're gonna try to tell me that I should just forget that you completely betrayed my trust in the worst way possible? That you called me a liar at the worst possible moment, and for the worst possible reason? Are you out of your mind?

    Kim looks down at the ground, she sighs heavily with regret.

    KIM: I told you, Theresa. I'll never forgive myself for that. But you just don't understand what I had been through.
    THERESA: I keep hearing about this. What you went through. Over and over. Don't you think that what your Uncle Eric did to you might actually make it easier to have believed me when it happened to me, Mom?
    KIM: I know. I'm sorry, Theresa. I didn't know.
    THERESA: No. No, you CHOSE to not know. You chose to pretend that nothing was happening because you were too busy latching onto a man with a history of doing skeezy, awful things to vulnerable women for money. And why? Because Dad was too busy with Aunt Kayla?
    KIM: Theresa, I--
    THERESA: Save it, Mom.

    Theresa turns to walk away, but Kim grabs her by the shoulder.

    KIM: Jeannie, just hear me out.
    THERESA: NO! No, you are gonna hear ME out for once. For once in your pathetic, desperate life. You're gonna hear me out.

    ---

  8. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 33
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Billie looks over at Daniel, who has stopped her at Horton Town Square, concerned with the company she's keeping. Billie is not impressed.

    BILLIE: I'm sorry?
    DANIEL: What were you doing talking with Theresa Donovan?

    Billie leans back, arms folded, floored by Daniel's audacity.

    BILLIE: She happens to be a very good friend of mine, thank you.
    DANIEL: Well, I guess you're not quite the person I thought you were then.
    BILLIE: Excuse me?

    Daniel approaches Billie, a bit of menace in his walk. Billie still stares him down, unblinking.

    DANIEL: Oh yeah. I went there. You remember your friend Jenn? Yeah, that girl you just were speaking to put her through a living hell these past few months. And me. And JJ.
    BILLIE: Oh, I'm aware of all of that. I'm also aware of the hell that girl's gone through before she ever met you or Jennifer or JJ. So you can spare me your holier-than-thou attitude about things you know nothing about, Daniel.

    Daniel's taken aback by Billie's impassioned defense of Theresa.

    ---

    Sheryl and Jordan are sitting at Club TBD in a corner booth. Sheryl is on her laptop, attempting to access a file. Jordan looks over to her, looking occasionally to the laptop, and to the door. A certain tension is across Jordan's face, and she appears jumpy. Sheryl is focused on the work ahead of her.

    Finally, Jordan's fidgeting and twitches gets to Sheryl.

    SHERYL: Would you stop fidgeting?
    JORDAN: I'm sorry. I just...you know this is crazy. I mean....anyone could catch us here.
    SHERYL: Well, yes. If you keep acting like a complete nut, yes, they might.
    JORDAN: (sighs) I'm sorry. I just...I'm really concerned that you're going too far again, Sheryl.

    Sheryl turns abruptly to face Jordan. Jordan's words set her off like a switch had been flipped. She speaks with a quiet rage, not unlike a hot pressure cooker.

    SHERYL: Again, hm? Like I did in Canada? Are you seriously gonna say that now? That operation was neccessary, Jordan. We have absolutely no choice but to do that. And if you think this is any different, then you need to go back to Birmingham, and never come back.

    ---

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

    ---

    EJ approaches Sami's office desk, still reeling from her decision to move out. Sami draws herself up and back with every step EJ takes towards her.

    EJ: Samantha, I--
    SAMI: EJ. Please. Please don't...come any closer.

    EJ fights the anger he feels from the sting of Sami's sudden fear of him. He fights the urge to lash out.

    EJ: Samantha, I...I don't...I don't think this is a good idea.
    SAMI: EJ, I can't. There is no other option.
    EJ: What do you mean, Samantha? I can't...I don't know how much more space I can give you. You're already at the opposite end of the house as it is. And you know father's conditions for your freedom were that the entire family live under one roof.
    SAMI: EJ, I never said I was taking Sydney, and Johnny away from you.
    EJ: (sigh) You don't get it, do you, Samantha? YOU are my family as well. You are as much my family as my brothers, my sister, my children and my father.
    SAMI: Look, I...I do love you. But I...EJ, this feeling, this fear I have in me...I buried it for so long. I tried to hide it and allowed myself to forget that that....side of you existed. I gave myself a sort of....selective amnesia. Our fight last night, it...I need to take some time on my own, away from everyone to just...heal. It's not about not loving you or not seeing you as a part of my life or...or...family. I just need time to truly move past what you did to me.

    EJ closes his eyes as Sami speaks. He doesn't look up. The shame he feels washes over him, and he stands solemnly, feeling the gravity of the effect he's had on the woman he loves. He takes a deep breath before speaking.

    EJ: Okay. You take the time you need. But remember something. I love you. More than anything in this world. You NEVER lose sight of that for one moment. Who I was then and who I am now are...galaxies apart.

    Sami smiles, trying to look at EJ, but she can't, and looks away.

    SAMI: I won't. Because I love you too. But I don't know if I'll ever be able to see the man I wanted to marry, without seeing the man who raped me. And I wish I could.

    EJ's heart sinks, as does his head, as he fights back tears.

    ---

    Victor slams his briefcase on the conference table at Titan. Around him sit Brady, and Tyler. All three men are in foul moods after the disaster that was the press conference. Victor opens his briefcase, sorting paperwork as he speaks to the other two men.

    VICTOR: Well, that was quite possibly the most spectacular disaster since the Hindenburg. I'm sorry your introduction to the Titan board had to be this mess, Tyler. I expect the rest of your time on the Titan board of directors goes somewhat more smoothly.
    BRADY: What I can't figure out is how Nicole, who was supposed to be helping promote the project, managed to be working to demonize this whole project to the public.
    TYLER: It's obvious. And I think it should be obvious to all of you that there is a lack of editorial control at Titan TV. And it has become a complete liability to you.
    VICTOR: If you're suggesting we divest ourselves of Titan TV, you can save your breath. We need that TV station, particularly if we want to see this project accepted by the public.
    BRADY: Grandad's right. But...I also think we need some changes if we are to retain controlling interest in the TV station.

    Victor furrows his brow at Brady's suggestion.

    VICTOR: What in the hell do you think I was going to suggest? Let that lazy sleaze Miles lay back and light Cuban cigars with my money in his office?
    TYLER: Well, with all due respect, that's essentially what he's done by allowing Ms. Walker's report to go public. If Miles is gone and Ms. Walker goes with him, I support retaining Titan TV. Otherwise, it's too big a liability, and it would also be a major conflict of interest.
    BRADY: I second that. Nicole had no right to go ahead with a line of questioning like that.
    VICTOR: She had no right being unleashed on this planet. If she isn't ousted, I'll personally drop kick her from the building. Now, if the rest of the board agrees to this--
    BRADY: ...I talked to Kate after the press conference and she supports us.
    VICTOR: Then that's four.
    BRADY: If her little lap dog of a son follows mummy's lead as he usually does, that'd be five.
    TYLER: Which would put us over the top.
    VICTOR: So then it's settled. We'll put it to a vote Monday. I'll round up the troops and we'll get this sorted.
    BRADY: Sounds like a plan.
    TYLER: Good work, men.

    The three men, exchange handshakes, standing up from the table in a subdued happiness at their damage control.

    ---

    Nicole looks directly at Nick, clearly unsure of her decision, but she breathes deeply and chokes out her answer.

    NICOLE: Alright. I'm in. I'll do it.

    Nick smiles widely with his trademark sinister smirk.

    NICK: 'Atta girl. I always knew you were smart.

    Nicole grimaces, knowing she's made a mistake, but fearing the consequences too much to go back on her word. She folds her arms and shakes her head.

    NICOLE: So how are you going to make this work.
    NICK: Oh I'll find a way. And don't worry about moving your stuff out of your office. It's not going anywhere. I can guarantee it.

    ---

    Daniel approaches an enraged Billie, whose back is turned him as she reaches for her phone in her purse. His demeanour is one of a sudden calm.

    DANIEL: Look, I didn't realize that Theresa's past was so rough. But she had no right to treat Jenn, JJ, and I like that.
    BILLIE: I know that. I'm sure she knows that too. Look, I...I shouldn't have even said as much as I did to you. But know that Theresa isn't the bad person you think she is. She's hurting inside, and she's doing the best she can with that pain in her heart.
    DANIEL: (sigh) I'm sorry. I didn't mean to come down so hard on you.

    Billie pulls herself together quickly, looking at her phone quickly and noticing a missed call. She looks over to Daniel with a sudden smile on her face.

    BILLIE: Don't mention it. I won't hold it against you, as long as you don't do it again. Got it.

    Billie pinches Daniel's cheek before stepping away, leaving Daniel puzzled by her wildly changing emotions, but also intrigued.


    Once Billie steps away, she calls back the missed call. She whispers loudly in the phone.

    BILLIE: Mom? It's me. Sorry I didn't call sooner, but I think I got something big that could help us.

    Billie holds the tiny flash drive in the palm of her hand, looking it over as she speaks.

    ---

    Jordan looks taken aback by Sheryl's reaction. She tries to motion to Sheryl to calm down as she's drawing attention to herself. Sheryl looks around and appears to relax, though she's still visibly upset. Sheryl returns her attentions to her laptop screen. She doesn't look up at Jordan at all from here on out.

    JORDAN: Look, maybe I should choose my words more carefully next time.
    SHERYL: Ya think?
    JORDAN: Look, just...tell me what you're trying to do.
    SHERYL: Okay, you remember that computer we were on at work?
    JORDAN: You mean the one Nick Fallon caught us at?

    Sheryl rolls her eyes, but continues to focus squarely at the screen.

    SHERYL: Well, I snuck a little device on it that allows us unrestricted access to the Titan executive database, and no one can trace it.

    Jordan's skepticism begins to melt as Sheryl explains. Jordan looks over Sheryl's shoulder in sudden interest.

    JORDAN: You're kidding!
    SHERYL: Nope! Just about to get us into the frameworks now.

    Sheryl hits enter on her keyboard with a flourish. The login fails. Sheryl's face drops in shock.

    SHERYL: Oh God.
    JORDAN: What?

    Sheryl finally breaks her gaze with the monitor and looks at Jordan, a look of panic across her face.

    SHERYL: The key's not hooked up to the system. Someone found it.

    ---
  9. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 34
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Marlena is in her office, on the phone to Laura Horton. The old friends are chatting happily as Marlena sits at her desk, having a chuckle.

    MARLENA: (into phone) Alright, so I'll expect you in a few days then? Excellent. Thank you ever so much, Laura! Bye bye.

    As Marlena finishes her call, Will steps into her office. Marlena's smile widens upon seeing her grandson.

    MARLENA: Will! What a lovely surprise!

    Marlena gets up and gives Will a warm hug. She looks out the door as Will walks in. Will clues in immediately to what Marlena's looking for.

    WILL: I didn't bring Ari with me. She's with Gabi this afternoon.
    MARLENA: Oh. Well that's alright. What can I do for you?
    WILL: Well, I'm hoping that that was the person that'll be helping mom you were talking to on the phone.
    MARLENA: Ah, yes. That was Laura. I don't think you've seen her since you were about as tall as my knees though, so I don't know how well you remember her.

    Will and Marlena share a laugh.

    WILL: Well, you know. It's been a long time but I vaguely remember her. But I have to admit, I am worried for mom, even now.
    MARLENA: Why's that?
    WILL: Well, I didn't tell you this when I saw you yesterday but...when Mom was at our place the other night, she...she was going to cut off her engagement to EJ.

    Marlena almost reacts with glee at Will's announcement, but holds back, overcompensating with concern.

    ---

    JJ opens the door to head out for his community service. There at the door, about to ring the doorbell is Liam. JJ doesn't hide his dislike of Liam from his face.

    LIAM: Oh hey, JJ! Is your mom home.
    JJ: Yeah. She's inside. What did you want?

    Liam smiles awkardly, trying to stay cool in the face of JJ's hostility.

    LIAM: I, uh...I had a little surprise I wanted to give her. Our date last night went really well so...
    JJ: Great. I'm glad. Isn't this like...your third or fourth date or something?
    LIAM: Yeah! I think things are going really well. Do you mind if I--
    JJ: ...I'll go get her. One sec.

    JJ turns to go back inside, letting the door swing shut behind him, but Jenn is not far behind him and catches the door before it closes.

    JENNIFER: JJ. I got it.
    JJ: Kay.

    JJ heads out, rolling his eyes at his mother and Liam. He brushes past Liam on his way out. Jennifer gives a disapproving look JJ's way as she leans in the doorway, before looking back to Liam.

    JENNIFER: Sorry about that. How are you?
    LIAM: GOOD! I'm doing fantastic! I had a little something for you.

    Liam presents a box of chocolates to Jenn, who smiles widely at Liam.

    JENNIFER: That's really sweet of you, Liam. Look. I'm sorry that JJ's not taken with you. He's...
    LIAM: He's young. He misses his dad. It's okay.
    JENNIFER: I'm glad you understand. God, it's like you've known me forever. I really appreciate the time I've spent with you, Liam.
    LIAM: Jenn, you're a beautiful, special woman. And that's a rare thing to find. I just hope you feel the same about me.
    JENNIFER: Absolutely, I do. Look, what are you up to tonight?
    LIAM: Oh I just...I have some work to catch up on at home tonight and--

    Jennifer looks to Liam seductively. She grabs the lapel of his jacket and pulls him in slowly as she speaks.

    JENNIFER: ...Well...Abigail is working late tonight at her new job, and JJ is going to visit his Grandma Jo for the weekend, so...how about I go to your place and make you a nice quiet dinner, and distract you a bit.

    Liam stops her and pulls away suddenly.

    LIAM: I don't think that's such a hot idea, Jenn.

    Jenn frowns, confused by Liam's sudden rejection.

    ---

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

    ---

    Billie sits down at a table at Club TBD, a coffee cup before her. She checks her phone for messages, a look of concern across her face. Shortly thereafter, Theresa comes stumbling in, a bit panicked, in a way that Billie seems familiar with. Billie stands up with a smile and arms reaching out.

    THERESA: Oh my God, I'm sorry I'm late.

    Theresa rushes over to give Billie a hug.

    BILLIE: It's okay, hon. I was prepared for you to be a bit late anyway.

    Theresa pulls back from her hug, a mock-serious look on her face.

    THERESA: Hey now, come on. I'm not ALWAYS late.
    BILLIE: I kinda doubt that.

    Theresa rolls her eyes a bit, jokingly, as she and Billie sit down at the table.

    THERESA: Okay, fine. I'm...usually--
    BILLIE: (laughing)...always late.
    THERESA: Oh whatever. (laughs) So what's up with you, I haven't seen you since I left LA.
    BILLIE: I'm alright. I...I'm kinda shocked I'm back in Salem, but...my mom needed me at work so...
    THERESA: Ooo! Does this mean you're gonna be doing more amazing cosmetics work? Some 48-hour concealor that won't come off with an ice pick?

    Billie and Theresa have a laugh, as T passes, Theresa stops him.

    THERESA: Oh, T. Mimosa for me.

    T looks down at Theresa, a bit of annoyance on his face, but still within the realm of professional appearance.

    T: Only if you say the magic word.

    Theresa shoots T a look of daggers.

    THERESA: Please.
    T: One moment!

    T walks off, Billie giggles, and Theresa scowls.

    THERESA: Can you believe the lousy service I get here?
    BILLIE: Well, don't you have a bit of a rep around here already?
    THERESA: That's not my fault. That's Jennifer Horton's fault.
    BILLIE: Now, come on, Theresa. I've known Jennifer about as long as I've known you. She's really a great person--
    THERESA: ...Oh my God. You too. Really? I've heard this speech like...a thousand times already from my parents, from my grandmother, from my aunt Kayla, from JJ, from Daniel, I don't need to hear it again from you. She nearly had me thrown back on a bus to LA with a slight detour at the county penn. I will not forgive that prissy bitch.
    BILLIE: Theresa, seriously. I know how you feel about her but--
    THERESA: ...But nothing. Jennifer Horton and her perfect little life where nothing bad has ever happened can go straight to Hell.
    BILLIE: Theresa, stop it. Jennifer and you have way more in common than you think, honey. She's not had it very easy. I promise you.

    Theresa rolls her eyes dismissively. Billie leans in closer to Theresa from across the table.

    BILLIE: I'm serious. I don't want you to think I don't support you, but we have all been where you are. Trust me. Jennifer as well.
    THERESA: Well, I do feel for her, whatever she went through, but that doesn't mean I'm going to suddenly become her closest friend, okay? Look can we talk about something else, please.
    BILLIE: Like?

    Theresa slowly cracks a smile.

    THERESA: Liiiike the hot rich guy I'm seeing.
    BILLIE: Oh my God. Who is it this time?
    THERESA: Brady Black.

    Billie's face drops upon hearing Brady's name.

    BILLIE: Oh no.

    ---

    Nick studies his iPad in the elevator at Titan. An article from the business section at the Salem Spectator is on it, detailing the scandal at the EnerNext press conference and what it could mean for Titan. The article specifically mentions that Titan TV, long on the decline in the ratings game, could be shipped off to pasture by the Titan board this coming week. The article puts a smile on Nick's face as the elevator dings, and the doors open.

    Nick steps off the elevator and heads over towards Kate's office. There is no secretary sitting at the desk, so Nick simply walks in. Kate, focused on work, barely looks up from the paper in front of her on her desk.

    KATE: I see your brush with death didn't instill any manners in you.

    Nick stops in the doorway, reaching back to the other side of the door, and he knocks on it loudly.

    NICK: (loudly) Can I come in?
    KATE: Only if you've come to resign.

    Nick walks in, and immediately begins to pace the room. Rarely looking at Kate, he almost seems to be making a grand speech.

    NICK: Sorry, Kate. No such luck. I do, however, have a proposition for you.
    KATE: Well that can't be a good sign. What are you going to blackmail me into doing now, Nick?
    NICK: Oh come on, Kate. I'm not here to do anything like that. But if you insist. I have a little request.

    Kate keeps her eyes on her work. Clearly disinterested in Nick's grandstanding.

    KATE: Spit it out, Nick. I'm busy.

    Nick walks quickly towards Kate, which throws her off a bit, but she tries to not make it obvious that he's startled her.

    NICK: You need to drop that attitude. I'm making your pathetic little company millions upon millions of dollars and I'm treated worse than the unpaid intern.

    Kate finally looks up at Nick, looking him straight in the eyes with a piercing quality that shows she means business.

    KATE: There's an easy way to fix that, Nick. Stop threatening my family, and stop trying to take Ari away from her family.
    NICK: I have absolutely no intentions of that. But I don't want that little girl to grow up with your morals, or Sami's morals, or heaven forbid, EJ's morals.
    KATE: That's rich, coming from a would-be rapist and murderer.
    NICK: Enough! Kate. You're going to understand something. I hold all the cards here. So follow what I say, or you're all going down. Got it?

    Kate pulls her reading glasses off her face. She stays fixated on Nick.

    KATE: Is this how you're going to conduct yourself? Go around town, day in and day out, making demands on people and blackmailing them if they don't agree?
    NICK: If I have to.
    KATE: Well, then you're of little use to me as an employee, aren't you? People will start to see through you rather quickly.
    NICK: Oh, I'm sure you can cover for me.

    Kate finally loses her cool. She slams her fists on her desk and stands up, now enraged.

    KATE: Damn it, Nick! What do you want? Stop playing these stupid games and just tell me what you want.

    Nick smiles, finally having got a rise out of Kate. He goes back to pacing the room, as though all is well once again.

    NICK: There's a vote coming up. A very important vote. It involves our local TV station.
    KATE: What about it?
    NICK: It's incredibly important, for you, and for everyone else, if you vote against keeping Titan TV under Titan's control. Important enough that if you don't vote against it, it'll be the last vote you ever take part in. Got it?

    Kate narrows her eyes, and shakes her head. Kate's face shows a sense of dread that is unmistakable.

    ---

    EJ walks through the hallway at Countess Wilhelmina towards the elevator, deep in thought. He looks over some files as the door opens and he goes to step on without looking. Just before stepping on though, he sees Abigail about to get off at the same floor. EJ looks shocked to see Abby there.

    EJ: Abigail! Wh-what are you doing here?
    ABBY: Well...trying to get off the elevator, for a start.
    EJ: Oh, sorry.

    EJ steps to one side. He still has a look of confusion on his face, as he goes to ask Abigail a question, Abigail cuts him off.

    ABBY: I didn't realize you were so involved with Countess W.
    EJ: Samantha and I try to run the operation together as much as possible.

    Abigail's eyes widen, surprised by EJ's statement.

    ABBY: I had no idea.

    Sami, seeing EJ and Abigail's tension, steps into the hallway to greet Abigail, almost as a rescue mission.

    SAMI: Abigail! Glad you made it!

    EJ motions to Abigail, still rather confused, but concerned at what might be happening.

    EJ: Samantha, I--
    SAMI: Was just greeting our newest addition to our promotions department. Today's Abby's first day at Countess W!

    EJ looks to Abigail, his uneasiness with the situation painted on his face. Abigail looks nervously up at EJ before quickly looking away, an awkward smile on her face.

    ---
  10. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 35
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Ciara, Johnny and Chase walk together down the path toward the Brady Pub, Hope not far behind as they walk. Hope is on the phone to someone and stops near the door of the pub, as the kids talk a bit further away.

    CHASE: My dad says that he fought a bear once and won.
    JOHNNY: COOL!

    Ciara looks at Chase, unimpressed.

    CIARA: So? No one cares what lame fights your dad's in, Chase. I bet he made it up.
    CHASE: Did not!
    CIARA: Well did you SEE him fight the bear?
    CHASE: Just cos I didn't see it doesn't mean it didn't happen!
    CIARA: Then I don't believe you.
    CHASE: Shut up!

    Chase pushes Ciara, and Ciara pushes back, just as Hope notices and Aiden arrives. They both scuttle to stop the kids from fighting.

    HOPE: Hey hey hey!
    AIDEN: What's going on here?
    CIARA: He pushed me.
    CHASE: Did not!
    CIARA: Did so.

    Hope steps between the kids as they begin to grab for each other again.

    HOPE: Okay, okay, enough! Ciara! Come into the pub with me, we're gonna have a talk, okay?

    Ciara folds her arms and frowns in an almost melodramatic fashion.

    CIARA: Fine.

    Ciara stomps into the pub, closing the door behind her. Hope looks at Aiden with a knowing look of parental frustration, but Aiden is not appearing to understand. Holding his son against him as if to protect him, he shakes his head at Hope.

    AIDEN: Why is it SO HARD for you to control your child?

    Hope raises her eyebrow, upset by Aiden's accusation.

    HOPE: Excuse me?

    ---

    Theresa crosses her arms in frustration as Billie sits across from her at the table at Club TBD, unable to contain her disapproval at Theresa's relationship with Brady.

    THERESA: Uh oh? What? What's wrong with Brady?
    BILLIE: I mean....it's not that he's a bad guy. I've known him since he was a kid, he's a great guy but...Theresa, he's in a really bad place right now, and...having been an addict myself, I know what this could be for him right now, and I don't think it's healthy for either of you.
    THERESA: Billie. Were fine. We have a lot of fun together and I let him take a lot of weight off his shoulders. Is that really such a big deal?
    BILLIE: Honey, if he's using you as a distraction for his real problems, yeah. It's a huge deal.

    ---

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

    ---

    Will looks at Marlena with an unimpressed look as he stands in her office.

    WILL: Grandma, come on. This isn't something to celebrate.
    MARLENA: I know. I know, but...well, you know how much I love EJ DiMera.
    WILL: Oh, I'm sure there's enough warmth there to heat our entire apartment block.

    Marlena and Will laugh. Will puts his hand on Marlena's shoulder reassuringly.

    WILL: I know you're just looking out for her. But I have a really strong feeling that, if they can get through this, they might just make it this time.

    Marlena gives a half-hearted smile to Will. She stares at the ground a few seconds before looking to him. Will looks to her the entire time, wondering what she's pondering.

    MARLENA: Will, I don't know if I've ever talked to you about this. But I think you need to hear it. Because I really don't think you truly understand my hesitation at your mother marrying EJ.

    Will nods slowly, a bit confused as to what Marlena's leading to.

    WILL: Okay. What do you mean?
    MARLENA: Well...as your mom told you, EJ...he forced your mother to have...sex with him. And...

    Marlena takes a moment and breathes. She fights back tears as she tries to muster the words. Will rubs his hand up and down Marlena's arm in sympathy. Marlena's fight slowly is lost as she recounts her story to Will.

    MARLENA: I have been in her shoes before.
    WILL: With EJ?
    MARLENA: No, no. It was...so long ago. Before your mother was even born. I was engaged to a man named Kellam Chandler and...he raped me. And I...I just don't know if it's possible for any woman to be able to truly, completely trust and believe in that man after he does something like that to her. Now, your mother has been so strong for so long, and has really fought this feeling about EJ for a long time but...I think the realization of what EJ did to her...it's finally sunk in, Will. And if I'm being completely honest...I'm so glad for that, because now she can see that man for the evil, evil creature that he is.

    Will, stunned by Marlena's story and her perceptions of Sami and EJ's relationship, leans in to hug his grandmother, so very much on his mind, he can only stare ahead, eyes wide open.

    ---

    Jenn looks at Liam, confused and slightly hurt by his rejection of her evening plan.

    JENNIFER: What do you mean?
    LIAM: Jenn, I just have a lot of work to do tonight. I know you wanna help take my mind off it but..I've just been so distracted lately and I really need to finish this project for tomorrow. I hope you understand.

    Jenn smiles as Liam speaks. She feels reassured and puts her hand on his shoulder in sympathy.

    JENNIFER: Liam! It's okay. I understand. You shouldn't feel guilty for being dedicated to your job.
    LIAM: I figured you'd understand. Look, we can always get together tomorrow night and I'll tell you how everything went. Okay?
    JENNIFER: I'd like that.
    LIAM: Alright. I'll see you later.

    Liam kisses Jenn tightly on the lips. Jenn watches as Liam heads off for his car, a smile a mile wide across her face. As Liam takes off, she hears the phone ring. Jenn scuttles back into the house, closing the door behind her. She picks up the phone, and hears from her mother.

    JENNIFER: (into phone) Hello?

    ...

    Laura Horton sits at a desk in her office at a Portland clinic. She appears relaxed and content, wearing a huge smile as she begins to talk on her office phone to her daughter.

    LAURA: Hi Darling. It's your mom.

    ...

    JENNFER: Mom! How are you?

    ...

    LAURA: I'm well, honey. I just wanted to call to let you know I'd be coming to town in a few days.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Oh that's fantastic! Uh...where are you staying?

    ...

    LAURA: I'll just be staying at the Salem Inn, it's just for a couple weeks while I work with a patient at the hospital. Marlena asked me to help her with it.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Absolutely not, we'd love to have you stay with us at the house.

    ...

    LAURA: Are you sure? I know it's a really busy place right now, and I wouldn't want to impose.

    ...

    JENNIFER: Mom! Don't worry about it. I'll build a bed for you if I have to. Just...please come stay with us, will you?

    ...

    LAURA: Alright, darling. Oh, and by the way...how is Abigail doing?

    ...

    JENNIFER: She's actually doing much better, Mom. Apparently she's just started a new job today working for Countess Wilhelmina. I don't know how I feel about her working for the DiMeras though.

    ---

    Sami, Abigail, and EJ stand in the hallway at the DiMera Building. EJ is shocked and upset after Sami's news. Abigail is also a bit uneasy, not having realized that she'd be working so closely with EJ in her new position.

    EJ: Samantha, why didn't you consult me about this first?
    SAMI: I didn't think it was a big deal. What, you don't want Abigail working here?
    ABBY: I'm sure he doesn't. That's fine, EJ. If you'd rather I not take this job, I can always find another job.
    EJ: No. No, Abigail. That's not what I meant. Look. Samantha. Can I have a word alone with Abigail for a minute? I just...I don't want her to misunderstand.

    Sami looks at Abigail and EJ, feeling something is going on that she's unaware of. She lingers on their eyes. Both of them fixated on the other. Sami turns to EJ and hesitates before speaking.

    SAMI: Sure. I'll be in my office. We can talk later.

    Sami walks back into her office, before shutting the door, the turns back to Abigail.

    SAMI: Oh! Abigail. Don't forget to head down to HR at 3:00 and pick up your new ID badge, okay?
    ABBY: Okay, thanks Sami!

    Sami closes the door to her office. No sooner has she done this than EJ has taken Abigail by the arm and dragged her into the adjacent board room. Abigail is surprised and tries in vain to fight EJ off, but he overpowers her. He lets go of her, and Abigail falls against the board room table.

    ABBY: OW! What the Hell, EJ?
    EJ: You're going to have to explain to me how you figured I wasn't working closely with Samantha at this company.
    ABBY: I didn't think of it, okay? I figured you were busy working with Stefano. I didn't think I'd be working alongside you all the time.
    EJ: Did you ever think of letting ME know before you accepted?
    ABBY: Why would I do that? What business is my work to you, anyway?
    EJ: It's my business because we have a secret between us that we need to protect, and the more we're together, the more difficult that will be.

    Abby in tense as EJ is approaching her with anger every time he speaks. She tries in vain to back away, her legs pressed against the conference table.

    ABBY: Well, we just have to make the best of it.
    EJ: We absolutely do not, Abigail.

    EJ turns away a minute, running his fingers through his hair with a pensive look across his face. He stops a second a turns to Abigail, a more subdued, inquisitive tone in his voice. He asks with less hostility:

    EJ: You never told me what happened with your job at the hospital.

    Abigail tenses again after relaxing a moment. She looks at the ground as if searching for somewhere to look away from EJ.

    ABBY: It was nothing.
    EJ: Oh ho ho, come on, little girl. You know, that's not it or you'd be fighting to get that job back right now. What happened?

    Abigail doesn't speak, her mouth quivers as she tries to speak, but fails to come up with a good lie. EJ's anger rises, and he desperately lurches toward Abigail, grabbing her by the shoulders and shakes her, as if to loosen the words from her throat.

    EJ: Tell me what happened, damn it! What happened at the hospital, Abigail!
    ABBY: It was Anne! It was all Anne!

    EJ stops, taking a step back. EJ is confused, barely knowing Anne.

    EJ: Anne?
    ABBY: Anne Milbauer. She heard everything. She forced me to quit or she'd...

    EJ holds back from screaming, a great tension in his face turns away from Abigail, a burning rage in him he struggles to keep from letting out.

    ---


  11. beebs
    EPISODE 62
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson





    Victor and Tyler stand at the head of the board room table at Titan HQ, as the board meeting comes to a head. John Black stands with them at the table, with Kate & Lucas Roberts, Billie Reed, and Justin Kiriakis sat around the table, with Nelson, another Titan board member, waiting impatiently for the vote to conclude.

    Victor looks back John's way, as Tyler clears his throat, looking back toward John.

    TYLER: So! Yes. Back to the vote. John Black, as proxy voter for Brady Black, a vote of 'yay' would mean you are in favour of retaining the Titan TV division, a vote of 'nay' would mean you are in favour of Titan divesting of all Titan TV properties. What say you?

    John looks calmly around the room, smiling as the rest of the room impatiently waits for his answer.

    JOHN: I vote...'nay'.

    Victor immediately slams his fist on the table in anger.

    VICTOR: Damn it, John!

    Tyler carries on through Victor's protestations. Everyone around the table mutters to each other, soaking in the shocking turn of events John's arrival has brought.

    TYLER: Therefore, by a margin of 5-4, I declare this vote closed. Titan shall be divesting itself of its Titan TV division, placing it up for sale immediately.

    Victor stares John down, looking directly into John's eyes with malice.

    VICTOR: You will regret this, John.
    JOHN: Are you kidding, Vic? I just did you one big favour. You oughta thank me.

    John grabs his briefcase, nods Victor and Kate's way and strolls out of the board room. Victor is left looking defeated as the board members filter from the room.

    As Kate makes her attempt to leave, Victor quickly grabs her arm to stop her from slinking away.

    KATE: Ow!
    VICTOR: Not so fast, Kate. I know what you're up to, and I'm not gonna let you get away with it.

    ---



    Nick opens the door to his apartment, and he and Hope step inside. They're chatting and laughing as they do, with Hope scurrying Nick inside.

    HOPE: Hurry, hurry, hurry, I need to go to the bathroom.
    NICK: (laughing) Okay, okay! Go! It's right there.
    HOPE: Thank yooou!

    Hope runs into the bathroom quickly and shuts the door. Once inside the bathroom, Hope's need to pee immediately vanishes. Hope puts on her detective face and, to avoid suspicion, noisily lifts the toilet seat.

    She then quickly steps over to the medicine cabinet. Hope very quietly opens it and looks inside. As the door of the medicine cabinet opens, it squeaks, making Hope jump. She stops the door immediately then waits, hoping Nick doesn't respond to the noise. After a moment of nothing, Hope carries on, but Nick immediately thereafter calls out to her through the door.

    NICK: Hey Hope! I'm just going to step out for a second to speak to the concierge, alright?

    Hope is startled by Nick's announcement and nearly doubles back when she hears him. She manages to pull it together and smiles through gritted teeth before calling back out to him.

    HOPE: Alright! I'll be out in just a sec.

    Hope waits another second for the door to shut before she opens the door to the bathroom. Sighing heavily, she steps out of the bathroom, not having seen anything in the medicine cabinet and not knowing where else to look for the pills Gabi hopes she'll find.

    Suddenly, Hope looks up to see Nick's briefcase. Her eyes light up.

    HOPE: Of course.

    Hope makes a beeline for Nick's laptop bag, which he uses for a briefcase. She opens it up and commencing looking through the various compartments, but just before reaching the compartment where the pills are, she hears a loud knock on the door.

    Hope is startled, but after a moment's pause, goes back to looking through the bag. A moment later, the knocking continues, and a voice is heard through the door.



    NICOLE: (while knocking) Nick! Open the door, you little shmuck, I wanna have a word with--

    The door opens and Nicole nearly whacks Hope in the face when she opens the door.

    NICOLE: ...you.

    ---

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

    ---



    Eric Brady walks through the Horton Town Square, setting up the final touches for Brady's memorial service with the help of his grandmother, Caroline. As Eric finishes, he walks over towards Caroline as Marlena scurries in, getting everyone's attention as she seems rather flustered.

    MARLENA: Oh, Eric. Caroline! I'm so sorry I'm late. I had one hell of a morning.
    ERIC: It's alright, Mom. It's good to see you.

    Eric reaches over to give his mother a hug, before Caroline reaches out to Marlena as well.

    CAROLINE: Marlena, don't worry about it. We handled things just fine on this end.
    MARLENA: Well, that's good to hear. Listen, Caroline, I know this isn't really the time or place, but I need to have a talk with you later on about Roman.

    Caroline and Eric look at Marlena with a bit of surprise and concern.

    CAROLINE: Roman? Is something wrong?
    ERIC: Is dad okay? What's...?

    Marlena waves her hand to stop them.

    MARLENA: No, no. It's not...urgent. He's fine. Whenever you have the time, I just have...something to discuss with you.
    CAROLINE: Sure. Stop by the pub later?

    Marlena gives Caroline a reassuring smile.

    MARLENA: Sure.
    CAROLINE: If you don't mind though, I'm going to try to get ahold of Nicole. She was going to try to track a few more people down that we hadn't reached yet.

    Marlena turns back to Eric, who still looks a bit concerned. She holds out her hand to touch her son's face to reassure him.

    MARLENA: Oh, Eric, stop worrying. Your father's just fine.
    ERIC: Why don't I believe you?
    MARLENA: (sighs) Eric, your father and I just had a rather...intense discussion last night. It's nothing to be worried about.

    Eric looks at Marlena, unconvinced, but nods.

    ERIC: Okay. I'll let it go. But if something's going on with Dad--
    MARLENA: ...I will let you know immediately.

    Eric finally smiles, though the worry is still plain on his face.

    ERIC: Thanks, Mom.
    MARLENA: Now, let's get this together. How can I help?
    ERIC: Well, you can start by grabbing that folding table over in the corner with me...



    Marlena and Eric head off to grab the table, as Roman saunters into the square, he looks over at Brady's portrait, posted up on an easel by Tom & Alice's tree. He stares at it, confusion in his eyes.

    ---

    Nicole looks at Hope, standing in the doorway of Nick's apartment, with bewilderment.

    NICOLE: Hope?
    HOPE: Nicole?

    Nicole saunters into Nick's apartment, as Hope lingers back, eyebrow raised in curiosity. Nicole yammers on as she looks around for Nick.

    NICOLE: I...I mean I knew it was hard keeping that massive house up on a single income but I didn't think you'd have to take such a steep....downgrade.

    Nicole looks around the corner to see if there's more room.

    NICOLE: I mean, where does Ciara sleep? In the bathtub?
    HOPE: NICOLE! Enough. What do you want?
    NICOLE: To talk to Nick, obviously.
    HOPE: Nick stepped out for a minute, I was just here to go to the bathroom for a moment before we head out to lunch. Nick had something to drop off, you see, so...we're kind of in a hurry.
    NICOLE: Right, well...what I need to ask him won't take long so...
    HOPE: So, you can ask him later. Goodbye, Nicole.

    Hope holds the door open, motioning for Nicole to leave. As Nicole steps out, a sour look on her face, Nick reappears and nearly bumps into Nicole as he does.

    NICK: OH! Nicole! Just the person I wanted to see.

    Hope looks at Nick incredulously.

    HOPE: Really?
    NICK: Yeah! Uh...Hope, did you wanna just...meet me at the pub, I won't be a minute.

    Hope pauses a moment, not sure what's happening.

    HOPE: I....sure?
    NICK: Thanks. I promise, this won't take a moment.

    Hope walks out the door, not sure what's going down, but knowing it can't be anything good. She calls out to Nick as she heads out the door.

    HOPE: Alright...I'll grab us a seat!
    NICK: Sounds good!

    Nick closes the door behind Hope, a big smile on his face.

    NICK: SO! Good news!

    Nicole folds her arms, the sour look still on her face.

    NICOLE: It better be. I'm still thisclose to being fired for that stunt you pulled at the last press conference.
    NICK: Clear that from your mind forever, Nicole. I, Nick Fallon, have delivered for you.

    Nick pulls out his iPad from his bag, and, a few taps later, presents the page to Nicole.

    NICK: Observe.

    Nicole grabs the iPad, and reads the headline.

    BREAKING: TITAN TV TO BE SOLD TO PRIVATE INVESTOR

    Her eyes bulge out as she processes the news.

    NICOLE: What?? How did you..?
    NICK: Only through the magic of research, my dear. We'll talk about this later, drinks?

    Nicole stands, mouth agape, suddenly realizing the power Nick might be wielding.

    NICOLE: I....

    Nick escorts Nicole to the door, Nicole still in shock, she eventually nods, as Nick hastily takes his tablet back.

    NICOLE: I...yeah.
    NICK: Give me about an hour?
    NICOLE: ...Sure.
    NICK: K, BYE!

    Nick abruptly slams the door in Nicole's face. He walks back into his apartment and grabs his phone, rolling his eyes at having had to deal with Nicole.

    NICK: Now...time to call Kate...and congratulate her on her good news.

    ---

    Kate rips her arm from Victor's grasp, holding it before adjusting herself, a scowling look on her face directed at Victor.

    KATE: I don't know how I was ever married to such a savage.
    VICTOR: Neither do I.
    KATE: The nerve. I just had this cleaned too, and now your greasy little hands are all over it. Vile.
    VICTOR: Maybe if you focused less on fashions and more on business we wouldn't have this problem.

    Kate pretends to be non-plussed by Victor's volatile reaction, as she turns her attentions to packing her things away into her bag.

    KATE: I don't know what you're talking about.
    VICTOR: Oh, the Hell you don't. I know what you were up to today. Someone tipped you off about John's proxy vote, and you couldn't wait to get him here. Now who put you up to it?

    Kate scowls at Victor, arms folded, not giving anything away, as her smartphone rings. Standing slightly away from it, she tries to casually grab it, but Victor spies the name appaearing on the screen as she turns to answer, and calls her out as she's about to press "talk".

    VICTOR: I swear, Kate, if Nick Fallon is behind this, you can both hand in your key cards now.

    Kate quickly holds the phone close to her chest and swipes to ignore the call, fearing she's been caught.

    ---
  12. beebs
    EPISODE 64
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Jordan sits attentively at her desk at the hospital, waiting on Sheryl to fill her in on what the next step of their plan is.

    JORDAN: Okay. Tell me, what's this great plan of yours?
    SHERYL: Simple. I made a phone call today, to an old friend of ours.

    Jordan's brow furrows, as she pulls her glasses off her face.

    JORDAN: An old friend?

    Sheryl leans in, smirking confidently at Jordan as she quietly tells her the name of their old friend.

    SHERYL: Jerome Grant.

    Jordan leans back, surprise plain on her face as the news hits her.

    ---


    Sonny picks up his cell phone from the table at his apartment. Will and Gabi are milling about making dinner as Sonny looks back at them. He tries to be subtle as he makes his phone call to Victor.

    ...


    Victor picks up his office phone at Titan, standing at his desk, and casually answers.

    VICTOR: Victor Kiriakis.

    ...

    SONNY: I need to see you immediately. We have to talk. Alone.

    ...

    VICTOR: I won't be here much longer. Meet me at the office before we go to Brady's memorial.

    ...

    SONNY: See you then.

    Sonny turns to grab his jacket from the closet, and calls out to Gabi and Will.

    SONNY: I have to go for a minute....there's a...uh...problem with a shipment at the club. Meet you at Town Square?
    WILL: Alright.
    GABI: We're just finishing up lunch before we go. You sure you don't want a sandwich for the road?
    SONNY: No, I'll be fine. I can grab something fast at the club before the service.
    GABI: Okay!
    WILL: See you soon. Love you!
    SONNY: Love you! Bye, guys!
    WILL & GABI: Bye!!

    As Sonny shuts the door, his positive demeanour immediately vanishes, as he sighs.

    SONNY: Dammit, Uncle Vic. I'm not gonna let you take Will down this road. Not in a million years.

    ---


    John arrives at Brady's memorial service, which is still being set up in the square. Spotting Kayla with Roman, John walks over casually to greet his friend.

    KAYLA: John! So good to see you! I'm...so sorry to hear about Brady.

    John and Kayla embrace warmly, as Roman looks on with a faint smile.

    JOHN: Good to see you too, Kay. Appreciate it. How's everyone holding up?
    KAYLA: Ah, well,you know...as good as can be expected.
    JOHN: Understood. Listen...uh...Roman, can your sister and I have a little chat alone for a sec, I have something....kind of important to discuss with her.

    Roman nods in agreement, collecting himself after his memory lapse minutes before.

    ROMAN: Sure thing, John. It's good to see you.
    JOHN: Same to you, man.

    John and Roman exchange a quick slap-on-the-back hug as they go their separate ways. John casually grabs Kayla's arm as they walk towards a quieter corner of the square.

    KAYLA: Okay, this sounds really important if you're sequestering me away in dark, dark corners. What's going on?
    JOHN: Well...

    John stops for a moment and takes a quick look around to see who's paying attention as he speaks.

    JOHN: You know I've been away for awhile in Europe, right?
    KAYLA: Of course, we've all been worried about you.
    JOHN: Well...we need you to come with us. It's urgent.

    Kayla looks surprised and taken aback by John's request.

    ---


    Nick walks through the park just outside Horton Town Square. He calls Kate again.

    ...


    Kate is now in her own office, indignant and annoyed by Nick's repeated attempts to contact her at inopportune times.

    KATE: What?

    ...

    NICK: Now, now, Kate. Is that any way to talk to someone who just got you exactly what you needed.

    ...

    KATE: You'd better pray your little trigger finger didn't just land us in the unemployment line. Victor saw I was calling you and put together that it was your tip that brought John to the board meeting today.

    ...

    NICK: Victor will only figure that out if you spill the beans. Which I know you won't since your very freedom depends on it. Am I right?

    ...

    Kate sighs into the phone, fed up of Nick's threats but incapable of lashing out.

    ...

    NICK: Now, sit tight, because now the real fun is gonna begin. And I'm going to make us gobs an gobs of money.

    ...

    Kate continues to stand by her desk, phone in ear, suspcious of every word coming from Nick's mouth but playing along.

    KATE: From your mouth to God's ear, my dear.

    ...

    Nick laughs softly, but almost maniacally.

    NICK: As long as you don't screw this up, everything you want can be yours.

    ---

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

    ---

    Gabi and Will sit down to eat their lunch, as Gabi feeds Arianna. Gabi looks at Will, who seems zoned out a bit, not eating his lunch. Gabi waves her hand in front of his face.

    GABI: Hey! Earth to Will

    Will snaps back to reality and smiles, grabbing his sandwich from his plate.

    WILL: Sorry. Just...had a moment there.
    GABI: Where did you go just then?

    Will sighs and looks down at his sandwich, suddenly feeling not very hungry. He puts the food back down on his plate and looks up at Gabi.

    WILL: Was just thinking about Brady, and Theresa, and...just how stupid this all is. I mean, we could here today and gone the next...and for what? I mean, seriously, if we don't live our lives to their full potential every day...there's no guarantee there'll be another chance, you know?

    Gabi smiles and reaches her hand out across the kitchen table, placing her hand over Will's, and giving it a comforting squeeze.

    GABI: I know exactly what you mean, and if there's one good thing to come from all this, it's that we're remembering that, and that every day's a chance to make our lives better...

    Gabi looks at Ari, who's caught her attention, gurgling as she picks up a pea off her plate and puts it in her mouth. Gabi smiles as Will looks over to Ari as well.

    GABI: ...And for our daughter too.

    Just as Gabi says this, Will's phone rings. Grabbing it from off the kitchen table, Will looks at it, and sees Club TBD's number on the screen. Confused, he answers.

    WILL: (into phone) Hey, what's up?

    ...


    It's T, calling from the club, where a rush of rowdy customers are calling out to T, who's a bit frazzled behind the bar.

    T: Uh...hey, Will! It's T. Any idea where Sonny is?

    ...

    WILL: I...yeah, he's on his way to the club now, T. Didn't he just tell you that?

    ...

    T looks confused, looking over his shoulder as he speaks, holding up one finger to a customer.

    T: Uh, no. Sonny hasn't spoken with us since this morning, dude. Look, it's really busy at the club, and I can't get Sonny to answer his phone, so can you just let him know to come down here ASAP when he can?

    ...

    Will looks to Gabi, a look of concern now on his face, as he answers T in an almost half-listening way.

    WILL: ...yeah. Sure. K, Bye.

    ...

    Will hangs up, and furrows his brow, confused by the exchange he just had.

    WILL: Sonny never called anyone at the club.
    GABI: Okay, that's weird.
    WILL: Yeah, really. So, the question is, where the Hell IS he, and why didn't he want me to know about it?

    ---

    Kayla looks over her shoulder to check and make sure nobody's paying attention to her conversation with John.

    KAYLA: What do you mean?
    JOHN: I mean, we need you. Trust me. I can't tell you anything more than that it has to be you that comes with me.
    KAYLA: But....I mean, John, you can't expect me to just...up and abandon my job, my home...

    John holds his hand up to stop Kayla midsentence. Kayla stops herself but is still unconvinced.

    JOHN: I will cover your expenses, and the bills will get paid.

    Kayla looks down, shaking her head. John's eye remain locked on her, regardless.

    JOHN: I need your help. I'll even pay for Joey to come with you while you're away, we just need your help.
    KAYLA: Why can't you tell me now what's going on? Who it even involves. You keep saying 'we' but...I mean, are you there with Shane? Bo? (laughs) Steve?? Haven't heard from HIM in awhile!

    John leans over and almost whispers to her.

    JOHN: Yes.

    Kayla looks up suddenly, shocked by John's confession.

    JOHN: I can't say anything more than that. But trust me, this is just as much a professional request as a personal one. Now...can I trust you to be on the plane with me tomorrow?
    KAYLA: I...John, I can't just...go...I need to figure this out.
    JOHN:: I can arrange a plane out for you by the end of the week if that works better for you.
    KAYLA: Just....can you give me until tonight to think it over?

    John nods, reluctantly agreeing to Kayla's terms.

    JOHN: Sure. I'll wait.
    KAYLA: Thank you. Come on, let's join the others. The ceremony should be starting any minute now.

    John takes Kayla's arm and escorts her back into the crowd, he looks to her with a warm smile.

    JOHN: Sounds good to me.

    ---

    Sonny steps into Victor's office, where Victor stands before his desk, rifling through some papers. Noticing the door opening, Victor turns around to see Sonny. His greeting makes plain his sombre mood.

    VICTOR: Sonny. What was so urgent?

    Sonny breathes in deeply, mustering all his courage to stand up to his great uncle.

    SONNY: I heard your associate offered Will a job today.
    VICTOR: Ah, yes. Tyler ran it by me. He read an article Will wrote for his blog, said that was just the kind of angle we needed to promote our energy program at EnerNext. I figured you'd be thrilled that your fiance was able to get such a prestigious job so soon after graduating.

    Sonny steps toward Victor, trying hard to not come across upset. He smiles a bit, but is clearly stammering in frustration, as Victor speaks, he tries to get Victor to end his long speech.

    SONNY: I...uh...mmm...Uncle Vic, stop. Please.
    VICTOR: What is it? I thought you were proud of Will.
    SONNY: I am. And I'm thrilled that you all feel the same way. But you can't offer Will this job. You need to rescind that offer.

    ---


    Kim stands with her police escort, in front of Billie and Daniel at University Hospital by the doorway of Theresa's hospital room. She holds in her hand, a copy of the restraining order against Billie.

    BILLIE: You can't be serious, Kim.

    Billie snatches the paper from Kim's hand as she spits out her words. Kim looks into Billie's eyes with smug malice.

    KIM: 100% serious. You can't be within 100 feet of my little girl.
    BILLIE: Oh, your little girl, hm? You're never going to see has an adult woman, are you, Kim? You know, like, an autonomous person who can make her own decisions about who she befriends? Or who she confides in? Or who she trusts?

    Kim's cool toughness disappears in a flash as Billie cuts into Kim, suddenly emerges rage and vitriol as she stares Billie down and fires her own shot Billie's way, holding back the full volume of her anger.

    KIM: I will not have you talk to me about my daughter. You have no idea about how things really were in our home, and you're not about to give me lessons in being a mother now.
    BILLIE: Oh, right. Because you've done such a bang-up job!
    KIM: How dare you?

    Daniel steps in at this point to try to cool things down, but the two women's eyes never leave each other. Kim's police escort hangs back, trying not to get involved in case anything escalates.

    DANIEL: Ooookay, ladies. Let's take a step back from each other a minute before we say anything we'll regret. We ARE in a hospital, after all.

    Billie stands down a bit, turning to Daniel, a sarcastic smile on her face.

    BILLIE: Oh, don't worry, Daniel. Anything I have to say to Kim, I can say through my lawyer!

    Billie storms away, heading for the elevators, as Kim watches, a smile of satisfaction on her face, but she simultaneously breathes in deeply, as though it's all been a front. Daniel sees the emotion in her eyes and puts a hand on Kim's shoulder.

    DANIEL: Are you sure you're alright?

    Kim wells up a bit when Daniel speaks, she looks up at a concerned Daniel and smiles.

    KIM: Oh yeah. I'm fine. (sigh) Thanks!
    DANIEL: Alright. If you need to sit down a minute, you can use my office.

    Kim smiles and takes Daniel's hand, squeezing it.

    KIM: Thank you, Daniel. I'll be fine. Can I see my daughter?
    DANIEL: Absolutely.

    Daniel waves to the officer, who then steps away, heading for the elevator, as Daniel guides Kim into Theresa's room. As Billie waits for the elevator not far away, she looks on with pure disgust in her face. The elevator door opens, and Billie curses Kim before stepping on.

    BILLIE: I swear to God, Kim, you haven't beat me yet.

    ---
  13. beebs
    EPISODE 66
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Laura reaches out to Sami, as they stand in the foyer of the DiMera Mansion, and Sami gives Laura a grateful hug, almost needing Laura to keep her upright from the emotional exertion she just went through.

    SAMI: Thank you so very much, Laura. I....seriously don't know how I could have got through the day without your help.
    LAURA: It's my pleasure.Sami, you've grown so much, and...I want you to remember, no matter what's happened in your past, whatever you may have said or done, you're a fantastic mother. And I know you love Johnny so very much. Just remember that.

    Sami nods, trying to hold herself together, wiping away tears from her face.

    SAMI: I'll try. Umm..hey! Are you going to Brady's memorial today?
    LAURA: Yes! I was just going to call Marlena and let her know I'm on my way. Did you...did you need a ride over?
    SAMI: Uh...yeah! I can totally go with you. Let me just...grab my keys and a couple other things.
    LAURA: Sure.

    Sami runs into the living room to grab her things, including her tablet. As she picks it up, she sees a notification on the screen. It catches her eye and she unlocks the screen to read it more closely.

    SAMI: Oh my God!

    Laura looks up, concerned by Sami's outburst.

    The screen reads out the headline from the Salem Spectator's website that's gone around town.

    BREAKING: TITAN TV TO BE SOLD TO PRIVATE INVESTOR

    Sami looks up at Laura, the shock still on her face.

    LAURA: Sami? What's wrong?
    SAMI: Uh...I...nothing. Let's go!

    Laura seems unconvinced, but smiles halfheartedly anyway, as Sami guides her out the door of the house.

    ---


    Will and Gabi lock up the apartment, Gabi rocking the stroller with Ari inside back and forth gently. Will turns to Gabi, still stewing over Sonny's lie. He holds his cell phone in his hand, looking up at Gabi while he texts.

    WILL: So, I'll meet you and Ari at Town Square?
    GABI: Sure. I hope you guys are alright.
    WILL: Yeah...so do I.

    Gabi leans over to give Will a hug, before heading off.

    GABI: Okay, I'll see you then. Let me know what happens with Sonny.
    WILL: Yeah...I will.

    Will looks up, sighing heavily as he thinks back to Sonny's rushed exit from the apartment.

    ***
    FLASHBACK to Episode 64


    Sonny turns to grab his jacket from the closet, and calls out to Gabi and Will.

    SONNY: I have to go for a minute....there's a...uh...problem with a shipment at the club. Meet you at Town Square?
    WILL: Alright.

    ***


    It's T, calling from the club, where a rush of rowdy customers are calling out to T, who's a bit frazzled behind the bar.

    T: Uh...hey, Will! It's T. Any idea where Sonny is?

    ...

    WILL: I...yeah, he's on his way to the club now, T. Didn't he just tell you that?

    ...

    T looks confused, looking over his shoulder as he speaks, holding up one finger to a customer.

    T: Uh, no. Sonny hasn't spoken with us since this morning, dude. Look, it's really busy at the club, and I can't get Sonny to answer his phone, so can you just let him know to come down here ASAP when he can?

    ***

    Will shakes his head, as he finishes up his text to Sonny.

    How r things @ the club?

    WILL: I'm gonna find out what you're up to, Sonny.

    ---


    JJ runs back into the Town Square to try to avoid getting caught by Liam, who was just in the adjacent park. He tries to casually walk over to get his mother's attention before Liam comes back, but is too late, as he turns around to see Liam surprise Jennifer by wrapping his arms around her as she stands at a nearby table. JJ looks on in fear at the exchange, now worried about his mother's safety.

    ---


    Maggie knocks on Victor's office door at Titan, as he finishes up putting his documents into his briefcase and closes it up. He looks up and smiles.

    VICTOR: Maggie! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes!

    Maggie smiles warmly as she walks into the room, ever so casually. She laughs a bit at Victor's comment, obviously flattered.

    MAGGIE: Ohh...you're either the sweetest man on Earth, or you had a really rough day.
    VICTOR: I'd say a bit of both.

    Maggie smiles again as she walks towards her husband, wrapping her arms around his collar.

    MAGGIE: You know what? I'll take it.

    Maggie quickly kisses Victor on the lips before continuing.

    MAGGIE: Now. I've been busy all morning helping Caroline out with the memorial for Brady, and you still haven't told me whether or not you're even going to be there or not.

    Victor's face drops at Maggie's implied question. He sighs loudly as he tries to answer.

    VICTOR: Maggie--
    MAGGIE: Victor, come on now. You heard what Hope said. That car was travelling too fast for Brady to survive.

    Maggie pulls Victor's face to look right into her eyes. She barely blinks as she tries to talk sense to Victor.

    MAGGIE: Honey, I know you're skeptical. I understand why you would be. But you have to face the real probability that Brady didn't survive that crash.

    ---

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

    ---


    At the Town Square, Jenn chats with Marlena, Eric, and Caroline about Brady, while Liam is off at the desserts table that has been set up for the guests. JJ finally sees an opportunity to talk privately to his mother about what he heard Liam say, and excuses himself from his conversation with Kayla, Adrienne and Justin, interrupting Adrienne's comment as politely as he can.

    JJ: Sorry, Aunt Adrienne, I...just gotta ask my mom something real quick.
    ADRIENNE: Okay, sure thing, sweetie.
    JJ: Thanks.

    JJ smiles as he walks off, over to his mother, tapping her gently on the shoulder. Jenn turns to face him, still with that hint of motherly disappointment thanks to their earlier conversation about Abigail's whereabouts.

    JJ: Uh, sorry, Mom?
    JENNIFER: Hey, Honey!
    JJ: Uh...I...when you got a second free, it's...really important I talk to you...alone.

    Jenn looks to him, concerned.

    JENNIFER: Sure. Is something wrong?

    JJ looks around to make sure Liam's still a ways away.

    JJ: Uh...yeah. But I think...if we have a minute now might be a good--


    As JJ finishes his sentence, Nicole arrives, with a special someone in tow, Chloe. Chloe's arrival stirs everyone in the room and Jenn is immediately distracted by her arrival. Jenn appears pleased but tense with Chloe arriving, reminded of Chloe's machinations from her last visit to Salem. Caroline, however, is pleased to see her.

    CAROLINE: Chloe! How good to see you!

    Caroline heads over to give her a hug, as Jenn looks up at JJ and smiles. She leans over and whispers to him.

    JENNIFER: Yeah, now might be a good time.
    JJ: Let's go to the park?
    JENNIFER: Yeah.

    Jennifer takes JJ by the arm and heads over toward the park. As they head off, Liam heads back to where Jenn had been and can't find her. He scans the crowd and sees nobody, and begins to look around the square in vain.

    Caroline, Marlena, Eric, and Nicole, meanwhile, hang back to chat with Chloe, catching up with her and reminiscing about Brady. The group is laughing as Chloe tells them stories about her adventures.

    CHLOE: ...So I've mostly been dealing with the more...mature ladies and gentlemen, that kind of fans instead of screaming teenage girls, you know?
    MARLENA: I'm so glad your singing is going well for you again.
    CAROLINE: So am I! We were so worried when you came back from that accident all those years ago.
    CHLOE: Honestly, it took a lot of time, training, and patience, but...you know...Brady was always there to help me.

    Chloe begins to choke up, thinking back on Brady. She smiles through her tears.

    CHLOE: If he hadn't been there for me, I don't think I would've made it back. Oh my God, I'm gonna miss him.

    Nicole leans over to give Chloe a comforting hug, as Victor walks in with Maggie in tow. Clearly having overheard the end of Chloe's story, he makes his presence known with a snide remark.

    VICTOR: And it's too bad you did come back, seeing as this whole mess we're in now is your fault.

    Chloe turns around quickly to face Victor, visibly upset by yet another of his abusive remarks at her expense.

    ---

    In the park, JJ leads Jenn, before taking her arm and huddling in closer to her, trying to be as quiet about what he knows as possible. Jenn stands back, concerned for her son.

    JENNIFER: Okay, what did you need to talk to me about?
    JJ: Okay, well...before I tell you, you have to promise me you're not gonna freak out.

    Jenn folds her arms, convinced JJ's done something to make her freak out.

    JENNIFER: I can't guarantee anything, JJ.
    JJ: No, Mom, I'm serious. This is...really important, and you need to know.
    JENNIFER: Know what, JJ? Is this about your sister? Because, honestly, I don't know if I can handle much more bad news about her--
    JJ: ...Not...not really. I mean, yes, but...
    JENNIFER: Oh, God, JJ! What is going on--
    JJ: It's about Liam!

    Jennifer looks at JJ, stopped in her tracks by his connecting Liam to Abigail's departure from Salem.

    ---

    Will arrives at Club TBD, and notices the immediately the crowds have dissipated. He looks over to see a relaxed T behind the bar. He notices Will come in and nods at Will in greeting.

    WILL: Hey, T. So...did Sonny ever come around?
    T: Nah, man. I'm proud of myself, man. I took care of the whole crowd and CLEANED UP. Look, look, look, look.

    T reaches into his pockets and pulls out the tips he's collected over the past couple hours. Will looks surprised and laughs with T, slapping his buddy on the back in approval.

    WILL: Oh my God, that's amazing. Just...just tips?
    T: 100%, dude!
    WILL: I...Wow!
    T: Yep. So...okay, so did you pass along the message to Sonny.
    WILL: I...no, I never had a chance, I just...was on my way out anyway so I decided to come down myself but...it looks like you got it all under control.
    T: Yeah, man! Totally!

    Will looks down at his phone, having felt a buzz in his pocket. T looks over his shoulder.

    T: That Sonny?
    WILL: Yeah.

    Will checks Sonny's message and frowns, shaking his head at Sonny's response:

    yeah got it all figured out, heading out soon

    ...

    Sonny walks casually past the Brady Pub, texting as he walks. The same frown on his face as Will. He sees Will's response come up on his phone:

    gonna call u. got a question

    Sonny sighs.

    SONNY: Uh oh.

    As Sonny's phone rings, he picks up almost immediately.

    SONNY: (into phone) Hey Will.

    ...

    Will looks off, a bit of a bitchy look on his face as he speaks to Sonny.

    WILL: (into phone) Hey Sonny, Gabi and I are just heading down the Town Square. I had to pass on a message to T, can I speak to him a moment?

    ...

    Sonny's eyes widen, a bit panicked by Will's question. He kicks into action and walks away from the pub toward TBD.

    SONNY: I, uh...he's downstairs at the moment, just grabbing some condiments for--

    ...

    Will interrupts Sonny, a smug grin on his face as he cuts in.

    WILL: Oh, never mind. He's right here. Say 'hi', T!

    Will passes the phone over to T, who awkwardly takes the phone from Will, not sure what he's getting himself into.

    T: Hey, Sonny! Where were you, man? It was a madhouse down here!

    ...

    The colour drains from Sonny's face as he realizes he's been caught. He stops in place, taking a second to figure out what he'll do. Unable to respond for a moment, Sonny stammers as he tries to collect himself enough to continue walking towards the club.

    SONNY: I...uh...I'll be there in a sec.

    ...

    WILL: Yeah, you better be. And you better have a really good explanation, too.

    Will hangs up the phone, before slamming it down on the bar. Will breathes in deeply, frustrated, hurt, and angry at his fiance for his lie, but also worried what Sonny was actually up to.

    ---
  14. beebs
    EPISODE 67
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Chloe stands in the Horton Town Square, surrounded by Brady's friends and family, facing off with Victor at Brady's memorial.

    VICTOR: Who invited this pox on our family, anyway?


    Nicole steps in to defend her friend, retorting sassily to Victor.

    NICOLE: I did.

    Victor gives Nicole the sideeye.

    VICTOR: You're lucky you're no longer my employee. I assume word got out that we're selling the station off. If not, surprise! It's your lucky day! Your newest dumb move didn't result in a pink slip. You might want to drop by the corner store and pick up a lottery ticket.


    Maggie cuts in, frustrated by Victor's petulance.

    MAGGIE:Victor, enough! This is about Brady, and in case you forgot, Chloe happens to have been married to Brady.
    VICTOR: Oh trust me, I wish I could forget. The damage she's caused my grandson is the reason we're here today.

    Victor turns back to Nicole and Chloe.

    VICTOR: You've got some nerve dragging that bitch here. She turned him to drugs, and broke his heart over and over. I hold you responsible in large part for Brady's accident. Both of you.


    Nicole steps in to defend her friend, but just then, John interjects, trying to cool down the proceedings.

    JOHN: Woah! Woah, Vic. Come on. Chloe's just here to mourn her ex-husband. Now, you two may not see eye to eye, but...just let her be here. This is about Brady.
    VICTOR: Yes, it is. And he would want Chloe here. God knows why. Come on, Maggie.

    Victor and Maggie walk off, as Chloe leans over to John.

    CHLOE: Thank you.
    JOHN: Don't thank me. Just trying to keep the peace around here. How've you been?
    CHLOE: I'm alright! It's good to see you. I just...wish it were under--
    JOHN: ...Better circumstances, I know. But you know, I know that Brady wouldn't have wanted us to dwell on that, and that's exactly why I think this whole wake thing is a great idea.

    Chloe smiles, a little misty-eyed. she nods in agreement with John.

    ...


    Sami and Laura arrive at the Town Square, and Marlena, who has been chatting with Maggie, Roman, Eric, and Nicole (begrudgingly), smiles and reaches out to greet Sami and Laura with hugs.

    MARLENA: Ohh it's good to see you both.
    SAMI: Hey Mom.

    While hugging Laura, Marlena begins to get emotional, and holds her eyes shut a moment to fight back tears.

    MARLENA:Ohh, what a...bittersweet day. I'm glad you both could come. You came together?

    Sami hesitates to answer, looking Laura's way before telling her mother.

    SAMI: Uh...yeah, Laura was at the...house, she offered me a ride down.

    Marlena nods, trying to read between the lines. Sami senses Marlena's probing and is immediately uncomfortable.

    MARLENA: I see. Sami, you sure you're okay?

    Sami responds a bit defensively, hoping Marlena will back off.

    SAMI: Yes, Mom. I'm fine. Promise.
    MARLENA: Alright. You're in good hands with Laura.

    Sami, a bit relieved that Marlena isn't probing any further, smiles.

    SAMI: I know.

    Hoping to change the subject, Sami interrupts the group's conversation with an almost-too-cheerful question for the group.

    SAMI: Hey! Uh, has anyone seen Will or Sonny yet?

    ---


    Sonny walks into Club TBD, looking more than a little nervous as he looks Will's way. Will sits at the bar, a sour, pissed off look on his face.

    SONNY: Will.
    WILL: So...hard at work at the club, I see.
    SONNY: Will, I--
    WILL: ...NO excuses, Sonny. Now, do you wanna tell me where you actually were? Or should I give you this ring back now?

    Sonny looks mortified at Will, as his biting question hits him.

    ---

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

    ---

    Eric stands with the group at Town Square, responding to Sami's question.

    ERIC: Haven't seen Will or Sonny yet, why?
    SAMI: Well...I wanted to thank them for the offer to stay with them while I was....working on my issues with EJ. I think I'll be okay there at the mansion for now, there's a whole empty wing I can stay in for the time being, and...they're a bit of a full house right now.

    Marlena's far from thrilled by the news, and pipes up immediately.

    MARLENA: No! No, Sami...you can stay with me if you like.
    SAMI: Mom, it's okay. I'll be fine.

    Sami immediately tries to change the subject again, hoping her mother will stop trying to insert herself into her affairs.

    SAMI: Speaking of Will and Sonny, they've been trying to...give me some news for the past while. Has anyone found out what it is? I'm so curious.
    MARLENA: Yes! They did tell me the other day at lunch. They had been hoping to tell you first, actually.

    Sami's standoffishness quickly changes, as her own nosiness into HER child's life creeps in. The others in the conversation smile with anticipation.

    SAMI: Oooh, tell me! Tell me! Tell me!
    MARLENA: Well...I really shouldn't be saying anything. I don't wanna steal their thunder, but...

    Everyone huddles up like schoolchildren in on the latest gossip, giggling in anticipation.

    MAGGIE: Come on! Tell us!
    MARLENA: Okay, okay! (laughs)

    Marlena takes Sami by the hands and smiles excitedly as she tells Sami the news.

    MARLENA: Your son, and Sonny are engaged to be married.

    Sami's eyes light up. The first bit of great news she's had in awhile. She's speechless, as the others in the group gasp in excitement, then begin to chatter away excitedly to each other. Everyone, that is, except for Eric, who looks on in stunned silence, trying to absorb the news.

    ---


    JJ and Jennifer are having a tense moment in the park just outside Town Square. JJ looks to a stunned Jennifer with worry, as he tells her about what he'd just seen.

    JENNIFER: What did you just say?
    JJ: Okay, so I...I came to Brady's memorial and on the way in, I saw Liam off the side of the park, and he was on the phone.

    Jenn looks at JJ, a bit confused.

    JENNIFER: Okay?
    JJ: He was talking about Abigail's trip. And something about...keeping tabs--
    JENNIFER: Woah, woah, woah, no, STOP! JJ, seriously. This has got to stop. First Daniel, now Liam?

    Now JJ looks at Jenn, confused as to what she's talking about.

    JJ: Wh...what? I don't--
    JENNIFER: First you do everything you can to tear me and Daniel apart, and I understood, because you miss your father, and now, once you decide that, oh, Daniel's okay, and I move on with someone else, you decide to go after Liam? I mean, JJ, are you ever gonna be happy with any man that comes into my life?
    JJ: Yes! But I don't trust this guy.
    JENNIFER: Don't lie to me. You've done enough of that today already.
    JJ: Mom, I was respecting Abigail's wishes. Mom, she didn't even want ME to know where she was going. She told me she was going to California. I had to sneak a look at her boarding pass to find out she was actually heading to Rome.

    Jenn looks away, incredulous.

    JENNIFER: My God!
    JJ: And I'm worried, because when I heard Liam on that phone, he--

    A voice interrupts JJ, causing both he and Jennifer to jump.


    LIAM: ...I was trying to figure out where she was and if she was okay.

    JJ looks on in fear as Liam walks into the park.

    ---

    Sami steps away from the group, taking a moment to step aside and grabs her cell phone. Holding it up, she texts EJ.

    did u read the news? if not, check the spectator website

    Sami hits 'send' and looks back up. She talks quietly to herself.

    SAMI: Hopefully EJ has some insight on how we can make this deal work for us.

    She smiles slyly before turning back to the crowd and rejoins the conversations.

    ---

    Will and Sonny step into the office at Club TBD, and Sonny shuts the door to the room behind him. Will leans against the desk, arms folded, a contemptuous look on his face, while Sonny is looking worried himself, but angered by Will's outburst in the main room.

    SONNY: There, now we can talk like adults instead of some trashy reality show!
    WILL: Why? Didn't want your three patrons out there to hear what a rotten liar you are?
    SONNY: Will, enough!

    Sonny steps toward Will, his expression and tone become a much cooler, calmer one as he continues.

    SONNY: I need you to understand what happened today--
    WILL: ...Oh, you mean you need to explain why you lied and said you'd be at the Club when you were really...?

    Sonny looks down, away from Will. Will follows his eyes, making sure Sonny never gets an opportunity to look away from him. Sonny rolls his eyes.

    WILL: Not gonna tell me? Do I really need to take this ring off, for real?
    SONNY: How dare you even suggest that...let alone twice.
    WILL: Sonny, you need to understand something. I have had such an unstable upbringing between all the guys that my mom would force out of her life,and mine, of course...that I don't put up with lies. And if we're going into this on lies, then we aren't going into it at all. You understand me?
    SONNY: Alright. I get it.

    Will gestures, waiting for Sonny to spill the beans.

    WILL: So? I'm waiting. Where were you this afternoon instead of at the club?

    Sonny sighs heavily, closing his eyes as he confesses.

    SONNY: I went to see Victor about his company hiring you.

    Will shakes his head in stunned disbelief.

    ---
  15. beebs

    DAYS #68: He's Alive!

    By beebs,

    EPISODE 68
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson


    John stands before the crowd, with Victor beside him, the crowd still milling about, conversing warmly and sharing memories of Brady. John turns to Victor and quietly asks him a question.

    JOHN: Now...you're sure you don't want to speak?
    VICTOR: Positive. As far as I'm concerned, this whole thing is a farce. I'll be mourning my grandson only if they find me proof that he's really dead. As the kids say, I wanna see the reciepts.

    John shrugs, nodding his head in understanding.

    JOHN: Alright. But I gotta tell ya, Vic. You're gonna regret not speaking today. And you know it.
    VICTOR: I'll take my chances.


    As John and Victor finish their conversation, Hope and Aiden explode into the square. Still bickering, they cause a scene in the square as they storm in, Hope storming in first, trying to ignore Aiden as he follows her, shouting at her.

    AIDEN: ...And I swear, I've never see a cop be such a rotten driver in my entire life!

    Hope stops and turns around, pointing at Aiden.

    HOPE: And you need to learn what a turn signal does.
    AIDEN: Oh, THAT again? Come on! Hope, you're being ridiculous.
    HOPE: Oh, I'm being ridiculous? Right, I'm not the one who's trying to weasel his way out of a ticket by trying to cozy up to the officer issuing the ticket.

    Aiden snaps in a voice loud enough to be heard in the next county.

    AIDEN: YOU OFFERED ME A RIDE!

    Aiden's outburst is greeted by stone silence from everyone in the square. Aiden and Hope immediately feel sheepish for having rendered the crowd silent, and Hope immediately sits down in the nearest seat.

    Victor pats John gently on the back as John turns to the crowd before the collection of chairs assembled by Tom & Alice Horton's tree.

    JOHN: If I can have everybody's attention, please. Please, everyone, have a seat.

    The crowd hushes as everyone begins to filter into the seats. Hope looks daggers at Aiden as he sits down in front of her, an equally sheepish look on his face. She mutters angrily to him.

    HOPE: I hope you're satisfied.


    As she says this, Caroline shuffles in to sit beside Hope on one side, with Maggie down beside her. Daniel, naturally, by her side. Caroline speaks softly to Hope, as she puts a hand on her shoulder.

    CAROLINE: I'm glad you could make it.
    HOPE: Thanks. It's good to see you too.
    DANIEL: I gotta admit, that was quite an entrance.

    Hope blushes, making an embarrassed face as she replies to Daniel.

    HOPE: Yeah, I...guess I should just stick with saying 'hello' and hugs, right?
    MAGGIE: I was just surprised it took you this long.
    HOPE: Well...I got kinda...tied up.

    Hope looks Aiden's way as she speaks, with Maggie, Caroline, and Daniel's eyes following Hope's, before looking at each other, knowingly.

    ---


    EJ files away papers in his office at DiMera Enterprises when his text tone goes off. Stopping what he's doing, he steps over to his desk and checks his phone. He sees Sami's text and immediately jumps into action.

    He sits down at his desk, opening his laptop and immediately typing in www.salemspectator.com.

    The main headline pops up, as do EJ's eyes.

    TITAN TV TO BE SOLD TO PRIVATE INVESTOR

    EJ stops a minute, soaking in the information.

    EJ thinks quickly, grabbing his phone and makes a call.

    EJ: Yes, I need to get ahold of Chad DiMera. Tell him it's urgent, his brother needs him.

    ---

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

    ---


    Liam walks up behind Jennifer in the park just off to the side of Town Square, placing her hands on her shoulders firmly, but tenderly, as Jenn converses with her son, JJ. JJ scrambles to cover himself after having begun revealing what he overheard Liam say earlier in the same park.

    JJ: Sorry, I didn't mean any harm, I just...
    LIAM: Nonsense! You have every right to be concerned. Your sister just flew off halfway around the world. You're concerned! Thing is, I am too.

    JJ nods, looking down at the ground, hoping not to make matters worse.

    JJ: I'm sure. And...and I appreciate that!

    Jenn smiles at JJ, while putting one hand on top of Liam's.

    JENNIFER: See? It was just a misunderstanding. Honey, Liam cares about both of you. I trust him. and I know you'll learn to trust him too.
    LIAM: Your mom's right, JJ. I'm really concerned for both of you. You're great kids, and I just want to make sure Abigail's safe. So I put in a call to someone I know from the hospital who knows Sami and EJ, and they'll try to keep tabs on her while she's in Italy.

    Jenn smiles at Liam, turning around to face him, lovingly. She wraps her arms around Liam's neck.

    JENNIFER: That's wonderful. Ohhh wow. Thank you! I mean, you didn't have to do that at all and yet...
    LIAM: Anything for you guys.

    Jenn smiles before turning back towards JJ.

    JENNIFER: We really do appreciate it. Don't we?

    JJ nods, still deep in thought and still trying not to rock the boat.

    JJ: Yeah. Thanks, man.
    LIAM: Anytime. Now, shall we get back? I thought I heard someone announce that the ceremony was getting underway.
    JJ: Great, I'll uh...be right there in a sec.
    JENNIFER: Alright. I love you, sweetie!
    JJ: Love you too, Mom.

    Jenn hugs JJ quickly before taking off, arm in arm, with Liam. As Liam turns the corner towards the square, he shoots JJ a very tellingly menacing look. JJ looks up in time to catch Liam's look, striking terror in his heart, but JJ tries to maintain a cool exterior with some degree of success.

    JJ: I don't know what's going on, but none of it is good.

    ---


    Gabi arrives at the service at Town Square and has a seat next to Eric and Nicole, near the aisle so that she can keep Ari in her carriage. As she rocks the carriage back and forth for Ari, she texts Will as discreetly as possible.

    Hey! Is everything ok w/ u & sonny??

    Gabi looks up at the podium where John is speaking, a worried look on her face as she mutters quietly to herself.

    GABI: Come on, Will. What's going on over there?

    ---


    Will stares Sonny down in the office at Club TBD. Sonny stands in front of the door, hoping to keep Will from running out as he explains himself. Will, for his part, leans almost pointedly casually against Sonny's desk, arms folded. However, he cannot contain his shock at Sonny's confession.

    WILL: You what?
    SONNY: I...went to talk to my Uncle Vic. I asked him not to give you the PR job with EnerNext.
    WILL: What...why the Hell would you do that, Sonny?
    SONNY: Because I don't want you involved in something like this. It's...it's...Uncle Vic trying to control you and by proxy me, and control control control everyone in this family and I just...I can't let him do that to you--
    WILL: ...Did you ever think for a second to let ME decide that?

    Sonny steps forward towards Will, trying to cool things down a bit.

    SONNY: You were blinded by the flashy contract and the...glamourous job.
    WILL: And what if I was? Sonny, it's my career. And you know what? I'm sorry, but in this day and age, you don't get ahead by playing by the rules. It's about taking an opportunity when it's presented to you, not by being proud and working your way up purely on your own back.

    Sonny seems incredibly unimpressed by Will's attitude, but Will is undeterred by Sonny's disapproving looks.

    SONNY: Are you serious?
    WILL: Dead. Serious.

    Sonny stands a moment, at a loss for words.

    SONNY: I'm...I'm sorry.
    WILL: Oh, you will be. Heh, you know, I might have been swayed if you'd just been upfront with me about all this, but going behind my back? Trying to get my job taken away from me because you don't like who it comes from or what the job entails? How dare you?

    Sonny looks down at the ground, increasingly apologetic.

    SONNY: I know. I just don't want you to get...manipulated.
    WILL: You don't want me to change, in other words. You don't want me to have to stand up for myself because you like doing everything for me. Is that it? Well, let me tell you a little secret, Sonny. I'm not your child. I'm your fiancee. And if you want it to stay that way...you need to stay out of my professional life. Understood?

    Sonny's apologetic look melts away as Sonny feels the intensity of Will's tone. Sonny's face suddenly becomes defensive and threatened by Will.

    ---

    John continues to talk to the crowd gathered at the square about Brady.

    JOHN: He was my son. He was our friend. He was sometimes our greatest adversary, but his heart was always in search of love.

    The crowd are tearing up a bit at John's heartfelt speech. John himself starts to get a bit emotional, before breathing in and carrying on, a smile across his face, as much in tribute to Brady as anything.

    JOHN: I want to keep this party light, as Nicole and Eric requested, and I'm glad that so many of you have come out to help me celebrate Brady's life. So let's remember him in the same way that he would want to be remembered: A great young man with a huge heart that wanted to share the best of everything with everyone he knew and loved.

    The waiters from the restaurant in the square appear with flutes of sparkling drinks for the crowd.

    JOHN: In case you couldn't tell, I'm proposing a toast.

    The crowd laugh as they raise their glasses in tribute, following John's lead.

    JOHN: Obviously, these are non-alcoholic. Because the one thing we need to remember...is that though this is a good day to remember Brady, it is to remind us of the importance of sobriety, and caution, and remebering the disease that is addiction...and what it can cost us. Here's to one of the finest men I've ever known.

    John looks up to the sky as he raises his glass.

    JOHN: I love you, son!

    The crowd clink their glasses together in what is surprisingly close to unison, as they shout out.

    ALL: To Brady!

    ---

    The sound of clinking glasses descends suddenly into the sound of screeching tires and the loud smash of a breaking windhshield suddenly.



    The flash snaps Brady out of a nightmare as he sits bolt upright in bed, sweat pouring from his face, he gasps for breath as he looks around him, terrified.

  16. beebs
    EPISODE 69
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson




    Nick walks up to the door of Percy's cabin, and knocks on the door.

    After a short wait, Percy answers merrily, as always.

    PERCY: Greetings, Master Fallon! How are you doing this fine day?
    NICK: Just great, Percy!

    Percy steps out of the way to allow Nick to step inside. Closing the door behind Nick, Nick gets down to business almost immediately.

    PERCY: So to what do I owe the pleasure, Nicholas?

    Nick puts his bag down on the table and unzips it.

    NICK: Well, I have some news, and a job for you.

    Nick pulls out his laptop and sets it on Percy's dining room table.

    NICK: Uh...you don't mind if I plug this in at all, do you?
    PERCY: Not at all.
    NICK: Thanks.

    As Nick plugs the computer into the outlet in the wall, he continues to talk to Percy.

    NICK: So...my news is...ah, there we go...that we finalized the Titan TV sale. The propaganda campaign is off.

    Percy smiles from ear to ear at the news. He walks over to the dining room table, holding back a bit his glee, in his own, incredibly posh British way.

    PERCY: I...oh, I am so grateful to you, Nicholas. You have truly saved the day. I...how can I ever repay you for your kindness?

    Nick sits down at the table in front of his computer, and opens it. He smiles up at Percy.

    NICK: Funny you should ask. I have a little job for you, as I said. And you won't even have to leave your home to do it. But...for that to work, you're going to have to connect yourself to the world wide web.
    PERCY: ...I'm sorry?
    NICK: The internet. Because you, Percy, my friend, are going to be doing some...surveillance.

    Percy looks on, baffled by Nick's request.

    ---



    Sami talks with Marlena, Maggie, and Laura after Brady's memorial has ended in the town square, sipping on what's left of her drink, before hearing her phone ring.

    SAMI: Oh...uh...I think that's my phone...just one sec.



    Sami searches through her bag to find her phone as she steps away from the group. Pulling her phone out, she sees that it's EJ. She excitedly answers, while trying to find a quiet spot to talk.

    SAMI: Hey! EJ! What's up? I'm just at the memorial, it's wrapping up.

    ...

    EJ: Samantha. Saw your text. Listen to me carefully. We are making a bid on Titan TV. Meet me at the house immediately. Tell NOBODY what you're doing. You understand me?

    ...

    SAMI: Completely. See you in a minute.

    Sami hangs up and smiles widely. Looking around her to make sure nobody's looking, she talks to herself.

    SAMI: Ohhh EJ. You did it again.

    ---

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

    ---



    The crowd returns to conversing at Town Square for Brady's memorial after John's speech. Most if not all still have drinks in hand. Gabi spots Hope in the crowd and waves, trying to subtly get her attention. Hope notices and stops her conversation with John, and excuses herself before heading over to Gabi.

    GABI: So, did you do it?

    Hope grabs Gabi's arm and looks around to make sure no one's listening in.

    HOPE: We can't talk here, Gabi.
    GABI: What do you mean?

    Hope looks at Gabi incredulously.

    HOPE: Are you nuts? There's people we know everywhere. Come with me, now.

    Gabi stutters to respond before following Hope out of the square, both of them looking around with suspicion as they do.




    Nicole stands with Chloe, sipping on their sparkling juice and having a chat. Chloe looks uncomfortable, a fact Nicole picks up on.

    NICOLE: You alright, you seem a little...nervous.
    CHLOE: Well, wouldn't you be if Victor Kiriakis spent all his time staring you down?

    Nicole rolls her eyes, dismissively gesturing at Chloe's comment.

    NICOLE: Oh please! Chloe, haven't you ever heard of 'resting bitch face'?

    Chloe looks at Nicole, confused.

    CHLOE: Yeah...
    NICOLE: Well, it's something like that. Honestly, if I got as worried as you are every time Victor tried staring me down, I'd never get any work done.

    Chloe shrugs in acknowledgement.

    CHLOE: Fair enough. I just don't trust Victor when he's mad.
    NICOLE: Honey, don't let it to you. Look, let's just...celebrate Brady, okay? That's what we're here for. Not dwelling about...whatever bone Victor wants to pick with you. Right?

    Chloe cracks a faint smile.

    CHLOE: Right.

    Nicole raises her glass, Chloe meets with hers as they toast.

    NICOLE: Come on. Let's go mingle.



    Nicole turns to walk with Chloe, but spots a sour-looking Eric in one of the seats set up for the speeches. Concerned, she looks Chloe's way a moment.

    NICOLE: Uh...you go ahead without me a second, okay?

    Chloe, spotting Eric as Nicole speaks to her, clues in immediately, and nods.

    CHLOE: Sure.
    NICOLE: Thanks.

    Nicole squeezes Chloe's arm as a goodbye before walking over to sit with a solemn Eric.

    NICOLE: Hey. You gonna join the party or what?
    ERIC: Nicole. Hey...yeah...I...just give me a moment, okay?

    Nicole leans into Eric, putting arm around him.

    NICOLE: I miss him too.

    Eric stands up, in an effort to shake off Nicole's touch.

    ERIC: it's not Brady, Nicole. It's...everything.
    NICOLE: What do you mean, Eric?
    ERIC: I just...I need to go. Alone.

    Eric storms off, leaving Nicole sitting in her seat, flabbergasted by Eric's strange reaction.

    ---


    Brady lays in bed, looks around the bedroom he's woken up in, trying to decipher where exactly he is, when a woman walks in. An older woman, but it's plain to see she was stunning as a young woman, and has aged beautifully now. She appears pleasantly surprised to see Brady awake.

    ANITA: Ah! You're awake, finally. I was starting to worry when it took you about a day longer than the doctor expected to wake up.

    Brady looks up at the woman, confused.

    BRADY: I...wha...where am I, exactly?

    The woman smiles and sits down on the bed next to him, she puts a hand to his forehead.

    ANITA: About thirty miles from anywhere...Hah! You're not even running a fever anymore.
    BRADY: Wait, what? Who...who are you exactly?
    ANITA: My name's Anita. I'm the one who found you floating around in the lake.

    Brady furrows his brow, confused by Anita's statement.

    BRADY: I...what?
    ANITA: The lake. We're right by Smith Lake. You are...very, very lucky, I have to say.
    BRADY: Woah, woah, woah, wait....lucky? What...what happened to me?

    Anita looks down at Brady, shaking her head.

    ANITA: That...I could not tell you.

    ---

    Gabi and Hope step into the park alongside Town Square. Gabi looks at Hope with a worried look.

    GABI: Hope...what is happening? Did you...

    Gabi looks around to make sure no one hears them before continuing.

    GABI: ...did you find anything at Nick's apartment?
    HOPE: No, Gabi. That's what I wanted to tell you. Nick's apartment turned up clean. There wasn't so much as a bottle of Aspirin.

    Gabi looks at Hope, shocked.

    GABI: That's impossible, I...
    HOPE: You what, Gabi?

    Gabi catches herself before saying anything more, but is now panicked, searching for an answer.

    ---

    Sami bursts into the DiMera mansion living room, excited by EJ's earlier call. EJ sits at his desk, but stands up quickly as Sami walks in.

    SAMI: Okay, so what's the deal?

    EJ walks over to the living room doors and looks out into the hallway before shutting them. He looks back Sami's way and holds his finger to his lips.

    EJ: Careful, just in case father's lurking.

    Sami rolls her eyes and whispers as loudly as she can,

    SAMI: Okay, okay, now SPILL!
    EJ: I just got off the phone with Chad. We're going to use one of our hidden shell corporations to pick up Titan TV for a bargain right under Victor's nose.
    SAMI: I had a feeling you were onto something.
    EJ: Right, now, once we pick up Titan TV, we use that to grow Countess W's advertising base, and end this travesty of an energy project Victor's hellbent on setting up. It's a win-win.

    Sami looks excitedly at EJ, the tension between them non-existant in this moment.

    SAMI: I can't believe you've pulled this off.
    EJ: Well, I haven't yet. But I know that if we hadn't done it, Nick Fallon would have been controlling your lives until the end of time.

    Sami is crashed back into reality, remembering Nick's blackmail.

    SAMI: Oh, how could I forget? Do you really think that going so far out of our way to give into Nick's demands is a good idea.
    EJ: Samantha, the more control we have over this situation, the less Nick can control you, Gabi, and Kate. That's what matters. It's just a little...added bonus that we can use this TV station to stick it to Victor. No?

    Sami raises and eyebrow and smiles at EJ, the first smile EJ's seen from Sami in weeks. He smiles in kind.

    ---

    Percy stands at his table in his cabin, looking at Nick with a confused look on his face.

    PERCY: I...eh...Nicholas...

    Nick looks up from his laptop, a smile on his face.

    NICK: Yep?
    PERCY: What on Earth do you mean, surveillance? I...I barely know how to use a computer!
    NICK: Oh. It's nothing.

    Nick waves dismissively as he stands up from the dinner table, and reaches into his bag. He pulls out a small black plastic box and places it on the table with almost ceremonial care.

    NICK: This....is an external hard drive. You are going to collect as much data as you can on every...single...member of the Titan executive as you can.

    Nick pulls a set of papers out from his bag and hands them to Percy.

    NICK: These are the people you need to focus on. Study them carefully, their faces, their responsibilities.

    Percy flips through the pages before stopping Nick and looking at him quizzically.

    PERCY: I'm sorry, Nicholas but...what exactly is the meaning of this?

    Nick stops, looking Percy's way with a huge grin.

    NICK: Why, it's quite simple, Percy. Blackmail.

    ---

  17. beebs
    EPISODE 70
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Eric sits alone by the river, skipping stones into the river as he stares ahead intently. Deep in intense thought, he doesn't hear as Nicole approaches him carefully. As not to scare him, she simply takes her heels off and sits down with him. Eric finally stops to look and see Nicole sitting next to him before going back to looking out at the water.

    Nicole hesitates before finally speaking up, speaking gently to not antagonize Eric any further.

    NICOLE: You're not an easy man to find, you know.
    ERIC: I hate to say it, Nicole but...that was kinda the goal.
    NICOLE: I went to St. Luke's first thing and...they suggested coming out here, since you used to head out to the riverside whenever you were feeling lost.
    ERIC: I'm amazed you didn't know that.

    Nicole laughs half-heartedly.

    NICOLE: I guess I was too focused on not...falling back in love with you to notice? Sounds corny, doesn't it?

    Eric softens a bit at Nicole's words. He looks her way again, giving half a smile before he speaks, then returning to looking away at the water.

    ERIC: Nah...I understand.
    NICOLE: Well...I don't. What happened at the square that's got you so upset? You were fine before--

    Eric tenses again, interrupting Nicole immediately.

    ERIC: ...It's nothing. Just...(sigh) Marlena gave me some news and...
    NICOLE: And? Come on, Eric, what is it? Is everything okay?
    ERIC: Will and Sonny are getting married.

    Nicole looks at Eric, confused by what he's saying until she suddenly clues in and reacts.

    NICOLE: I don't...wait, Eric. What are you saying? Do you have a problem with Will and Sonny getting married?

    Eric looks at Nicole, an upset and frustrated look on his face, matching Nicole's confused and disappointed look.

    ---


    Will storms into his shared apartment, with Sonny following not far behind. Will appears to ignore him, as he walks into the bedroom, leaving Sonny in the living room. Will walks back out with blankets and a pillow, hastily piled together and throws them down on the sofa, his eyes laser-focused on Sonny. Sonny looks at Will with concern and points to the sofa.

    SONNY: What, you're not gonna sleep out here tonight, are you?

    Will folds his arms and keeps his eyes focused on Sonny, a cold anger in his eyes.

    WILL: No. You are.

    Will turns and walks back into the bedroom, and shouts out to Sonny before the door slams.

    WILL: Goodnight!

    Sonny closes his eyes, wincing at the sound of the door slamming.

    ---


    Gabi stands in the park with Hope. She stammers, trying to cover herself about her plan for Nick.

    GABI: I...I meant I...I was so sure because he was...he was...he's been acting...

    Hope motions to Gabi to spit it out, finally finishing Gabi's sentence for her.

    HOPE: ...unusual? Like he had been before?

    Gabi nods, looking up hesitantly at Hope.

    GABI: Yeah.
    HOPE: Well, the thing is, Gabi. I don't buy it. Any of it.

    Gabi looks up, shocked by Hope's rebuttal.

    GABI: What?!
    HOPE: Gabi, I spent all afternoon with Nick. He seemed absolutely fine.
    GABI: No, no no no no, you don't understand. I saw him taking something this morning, I was out with him last night, he was off, he was...
    HOPE: Drunk, Gabi? Maybe he had a hangover and took an Aspirin. You know, people DO that sometimes.
    GABI: No, Hope, you don't understand. You need to go back and check his bag again. I'm telling you he's got to be on something.

    Hope shakes her head, silencing Gabi.

    HOPE: I can't. I looked, there was nothing. Look, Gabi, I'm worried about Nick too. I'm worried he isn't making the progress I thought he was after this whole ordeal with you and Sonny and Will, but...I can't just go searching through people's stuff on a whim. If I do find something? Gabi, it wouldn't hold up in court. It sure as hell wouldn't help Nick.

    Gabi looks pleadingly at Hope, petrified that her plan will fall through.

    GABI: Hope, please!
    HOPE: No. Gabi, I'm sorry. But until you can find me proof that something is up with Nick, I can't...and I won't go snooping again. I'll see you later.

    Hope walks off back toward the town square, leaving Gabi behind, shaking with anger and disappointment.

    GABI: Damn you, Nick. Damn you.

    ---

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

    ---


    Billie steps into Club TBD, and, upon seeing Justin waving from one of the corner booths, smiles and heads over to him.

    BILLIE: Justin.
    JUSTIN: Billie! Long time, no see.

    Billie puts her bag down and sits down across from Justin at the table.

    BILLIE: Ha ha. Glad to see you're still keeping your sense of humour.
    JUSTIN: Well, we do what we can, even when we're the pariah of the family.
    BILLIE: I'm sure. Victor must be really livid with you about the divestment deal with Titan TV.

    Justin shrugs, clearly resigned to his fate.

    JUSTIN: It is what it is. Victor couldn't hold onto both the station and the oil sands project. I just...forced his hand a little.
    BILLIE: Well...I'm glad you did.

    Justin looks to Billie, intrigued by her interest.

    JUSTIN: Why's that? I mean...I know you voted in favour of divesting, but...I mean, you work with MadWorld, why do you care what happens to EnerNext?

    Billie looks to Justin, knowing what direction he's taking this conversation, she stops herself and gives Justin a 'gotcha' smile.

    BILLIE: I don't think you wanna get into that.
    JUSTIN: Oh, but I'm SO fascinated. Do tell!
    BILLIE: Let's just say that I want what's best for everyone at Titan. Now, let's get to why I asked you to meet me here.

    Billie reaches down into her bag and pulls out an envelope, containing the restraining order Kim presented her with earlier.

    JUSTIN: Is this business or...?
    BILLIE: Personal. But...I'm pretty sure I know which lawyer my, uh...the other party in this whole...situation consulted, so...
    JUSTIN: Say no more. So what's this about?

    Billie hands Justin her copy of the restairaing order.

    BILLIE: Well...obviously, since Brady and Theresa's accident...I've been visiting Theresa at the hospital for the last few days.
    JUSTIN: Right. And that...from what I can see here...really displeased Kim.
    BILLIE: That's...(sigh) putting it mildly. Justin, she hates that I have a relationship with her daughter. She gave some judge a...sob story about me harrassing her and her daughter and he bought it.

    Justin looks up from the order and shakes his head slowly.

    JUSTIN: I hate to tell you this, but a restraining order is very easy to put into effect.

    Billie looks a bit disappointed at Justin. Sighing as she speaks, she responds.

    BILLIE: And...not so easy to get lifted.
    JUSTIN: Unfortunately. So...whatever issues you're having with Kim, you may just have to find a way to work around them, I'm sorry to say.

    Billie nods, pondering over what Justin's said, gears turning in her mind.

    ---

    Gabi unlocks the door to the apartment and sees Sonny watching TV on the couch alone, blankets covering him. She looks on, confused, as she speaks softly, trying not to wake Ari.

    GABI: I...what are you doing out here?

    Sonny looks up from the TV, a resigned, shamed look on his face.

    SONNY: I'm uh...I'm kind of in the dog house right now.

    Gabi looks confused as she turns on the light in the living room. Sonny squints with the sudden change in light.

    SONNY: Ugh.
    GABI: What did YOU do to get thrown out of the bedroom.
    SONNY:Ohhh nothing huge, just...lied to Will about where I was going and then tried to convince my Uncle Vic that he should rescind Will's job offer.

    Gabi looks surprised and upset by Sonny's confession, nearly blurting out her surprise aloud before catching herself and returning to a soft voice, this time, agitated.

    GABI: I...you...are you serious, Sonny?? What kind of stupid move is that?
    SONNY: I know! I know...I should've just...kept my mouth shut.
    GABI: You don't say. You know I was waiting for you guys to come around at the memorial service and you never showed. I was getting worried something was wrong. Obviously, I had good reason to worry.
    SONNY: Yeah....and now Will is...so mad he's threatening to call off the engagement and...I...I just feel like a...an ass. So...yeah, sorry we couldn't meet you at the memorial.

    Gabi gets up off the couch and walks over to the kitchen to grab a drink of water, as Sonny looks at the time and realizes how late it is.

    SONNY: Oh yeah, speaking of which, that...that was...hours ago...where have you been, anyway?

    Gabi nearly spits out the water as she drinks it, trying to come up with an answer for Sonny.

    GABI: I, uh...I was catching up with Will's family. They...wanted to see Ari.

    Sonny nods, a bit unconvinced, but willing to accept Gabi's answer.

    SONNY: Makes sense.

    Gabi walks back around to sit beside Sonny, concerned more for him than her own trouble, she puts a comforting hand on his knee.

    GABI: So? What are you gonna do about you and Will? You think you'll work through this?

    Sonny sighs looking down at the floor in contemplation, almost as though Gabi weren't even in the room.

    SONNY: I'm not sure...I'm just not sure.

    ---

    Will stands in the bedroom, staring intently out his window at the moon shining outside. He looks at the alarm clock beside his bed and sighs, knowing he won't be able to sleep, between the pressure of the new day and new job, and his pressures at home with Sonny, Gabi, and Nick, Will has a lot on his mind, as, saying nothing, he closes his eyes, as if to make a wish.

    ---

    Eric stares up at the same night sky, by the river, Nicole by his side, upset by his reaction to the news of Sonny and Will's engagement.

    NICOLE: I mean, you can't be against them getting married. I never took you for a bigot, Eric--

    Eric interrupts Nicole, clearly irritated by her implicit accusation.

    ERIC: ...I don't have a problem with them getting married. I mean...(sigh) It's complicated.

    Nicole looks on, confused by Eric's statement, she responds more emphatically this time.

    NICOLE: What's complicated about it, Eric? They love each other. They...they take care of that baby better than I've ever seen anyone care for a baby. There's...so much love in that home...that's the stuff marriages are made of...not that I'd know from experience or anything, but...
    ERIC: But there's more to it than that. Nicole, I've spent years dedicated to a church that tells me that marriage is a sacred vow under God between a man and a woman. It's about creating children together, and having their love recognized by God under his laws...

    Eric trails off at this point, clearly troubled by what he's saying.

    ERIC: ...but I can't look at Sonny and Will and think that their love's any different. And how can I reconcile that with what my beliefs have taught me?

    Nicole tries, unsuccessfully, to bring some levity to Eric's clearly troubled mind.

    NICOLE: Well...it's not like you've tried stoning me to death for not being a virgin on my wedding day.

    Eric looks up at Nicole, a wry smile on his face as Nicole chuckles and leans into Eric, playfully.

    NICOLE: Come on, Eric. My point is, maybe it's time you stopped following the....silly little intricate rules of the Bible and just...followed the basic outline. I mean...come on, one day...down the road, I'd love to get married to you, and I know you won't let some...archaic rule about not divorcing stop you from marrying me, right?

    Eric hesitates to answer, making Nicole nervous almost instantly. She looks back at Eric, very frantic, very fast.

    NICOLE: Right??

    Eric looks up at Nicole.

    ERIC: That's the thing, Nicole. I don't think I can.

    NIcole's face turns white as a sheet at Eric's revelation.

    ---

  18. beebs
    EPISODE 71
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Jordan and Rafe sit down at a table at Club TBD. Rafe tries to prod a smile out of Jordan, who is deep in thought.

    RAFE: Hey! Earth to Jordan. Come on, what's up?

    Jordan snaps out of it, though she still looks concerned and distracted. She gives Rafe a half-hearted smile.

    JORDAN: Ugh, I'm sorry, Rafe. I just...I got so much going on at work, and...
    RAFE: Aaaand you're not at work. Look, you've been distracted all day. you didn't make it in time for Brady's memorial, and you've spent every moment...

    Rafe sees Jordan looking away every couple seconds at her cell phone, which is planted face-up on the table. Rafe puts his hand over her phone and slides it towards himself.

    RAFE: ...looking at your phone. What's going on?

    ---


    JJ knocks on Laura's bedroom door. Laura's still awake and calls out to him from her vanity stool, where she's finishing putting lotion on her face.

    LAURA: Come in!

    JJ walks in carefully, as Laura turns and smiles to see her grandson.

    LAURA: JJ! How are you?
    JJ: I'm alright, Grandma. I...uh...I wanted to talk to you. It's...really important.
    LAURA: Sure! What is it?

    JJ breathes in deeply before speaking, a hopeful look on his face as he quietly speaks to his grandmother.

    JJ: I need you to talk to my mom about Liam.

    Laura's face drops as JJ brings Liam up to her.

    LAURA: What do you mean?
    JJ: Okay...so...when I got to Brady's memorial today? I saw Liam, he was with my mom, but...then he got this phone call. And I...I followed him out into that park by the square?

    Laura nods in understanding, all the while still intently focused on what he's saying.

    LAURA: Okay? Then what happened.

    JJ looks down a moment while speaking, before looking up at his grandmother, a worried look on his face.

    JJ: I overheard his conversation, and I'm certain I heard him say that he was watching over Abby for Stefano.

    Laura draws herself up immediately, a wave of panic on her face.

    ---


    Daniel walks up to his door to the sound of someone knocking frantically on his door. He's half-naked and clearly not fully awake. The frantic knocking causes him to scurry quickly to the door, if only to make the persistent knocking stop.


    He opens the door to find Billie standing in front of him. He's surprised to see her at this hour.

    DANIEL: Billie!
    BILLIE: Oh thank God, you're still up.

    Billie walks into Daniel's apartment before Daniel even gets a moment to react.

    DANIEL: Come...in?
    BILLIE: I'm SO sorry I'm barging in at this hour, I just...I needed to ask you something.

    As Daniel tries to object, Billie holds up her finger to stop him.

    BILLIE: And before you say a word, no, it can't wait until tomorrow.

    Daniel sighs, giving up. He looks to Billie, arms folded, an exhausted look on his face, eyes half-open.

    DANIEL: Okay...what do you need?
    BILLIE: I need you to find a way to get me in to see Theresa.

    Daniel's eyes squint even harder, trying to process what Billie's proposing.

    ----

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

    ---


    Nicole sits with Eric at the edge of the river. Visibly upset by what Eric's just told her, she looks intently at Eric.

    NICOLE: What do you mean, you can't marry me, Eric? EVER?

    Eric nods, slowly, and with a heavy heart.

    ERIC: Nicole, my faith means a great deal to me. I...I can't just...turn my back on the teachings of the church because they're convenient for me--

    Nicole interrupts, hurt and upset, a rage coming over her.

    NICOLE: ...Convenient isn't the word for it! Eric, this is what's right, this is not convenience. Damn it, Eric, we love each other. I think there's a reason why we've been...brought back together after...all these years. It's meant to be, Eric. You can call it...God. Or...whatever you want. But would a just God want to deny you the one thing that makes you happy because I married the wrong person once or...a few times?

    Eric says nothing. Staring straight out at the water. Deep in thought, contemplating what Nicole's saying, and his own perspective.

    NICOLE: Eric?

    Still staring out, Eric doesn't even acknowledge that he's listening. Nicole tries desperately to get Eric to respond.

    NICOLE: Eric, say something!

    Eric sighs, finally speaking up.

    ERIC: Nicole, just because it...feels right doesn't mean it is.
    NICOLE: Why? Why is it not right? Who is it hurting, Eric?

    Eric sighs again, this time reluctant to answer. Nicole doesn't wait for his answer.

    NICOLE: There's a reason you can't answer that. Because you know, in your heart...that I'm right.

    Eric looks at Nicole, a very troubled look still stuck on his face, as he gets up and walks away, leaving Nicole by the river, still tense with anger, and confused and upset by Eric's reluctance to dedicate himself to her.

    ---

    Jordan tries in vain to get Rafe to give her back her cell phone. He slides the phone off the table and puts it in his shirt pocket. Jordan tries to reach for it frantically.

    JORDAN: Rafe, give that back.
    RAFE: Ah ah ah! nope. We agreed to spend a quiet evening together. Not checking our social media every few seconds.

    Jordan rolls her eyes before giving up.

    JORDAN: Okay. Okay. Sorry.
    RAFE: Well, it's better to at least see something other than the top of your forehead.

    Jordan squints her eyes, unimpressed by Rafe's humour.

    JORDAN: Ha ha. Very funny. I was actually waiting for a call from someone.
    RAFE: And when it rings, I can hand you the phone. It's no big deal.
    JORDAN: Rafe, yes it is. That's a very important call.

    Rafe becomes more and more agitated as Jordan becomes more and more frantic.

    RAFE: From who? Jordan, you're not acting like yourself at all. What's wrong?

    Jordan flashes back to her last conversation with Sheryl.

    ***

    FLASHBACK TO 64


    Jordan sits attentively at her desk at the hospital, waiting on Sheryl to fill her in on what the next step of their plan is.

    JORDAN: Okay. Tell me, what's this great plan of yours?
    SHERYL: Simple. I made a phone call today, to an old friend of ours.

    Jordan's brow furrows, as she pulls her glasses off her face.

    JORDAN: An old friend?

    Sheryl leans in, smirking confidently at Jordan as she quietly tells her the name of their old friend.

    SHERYL: Jerome Grant.

    Jordan leans back, surprise plain on her face as the news hits her.

    ***

    Jordan sighs, before rolling her eyes and telling Rafe what he wants to hear.

    JORDAN: I'm worried about...a friend.
    RAFE: Anyone I know?
    JORDAN: Yes. Okay, fine. It's Sheryl. Look, she and Lucas have been...I dunno. He's been so busy with work lately that she hasn't heard a word from him and she's getting a little...anxious. You know?

    Rafe shrugs, before taking Jordan's hand and looking into her eyes, hoping she'll listen to his advice.

    RAFE: Well that's for them to worry about. Not you.

    Jordan looks away, trying to avoid Rafe's gaze, but he holds his hand up to her chin, guiding her gaze back his way, ever so gently.

    RAFE: Hey, hey. I know you're concerned about your friends. I understand. But you can't fight everyone's battles for them. Sometimes you just gotta...let whatever's happening happen.

    Jordan nods reluctantly, smiling half-heartedly at Rafe.

    JORDAN: I guess you're right.
    RAFE: I know I am. Now...come on. Let's enjoy our evening together. No. Distractions.

    Jordan finally gives in, smiling warmly at Rafe as he leans in across the table. She gets up slightly from her end as they gently kiss each other's lips.

    ---

    Daniel shakes his head slightly, checking to be sure he heard Billie correctly.

    DANIEL: You...you want me to what?
    BILLIE: I want you to find a way to sneak me in to see Theresa.

    Daniel blinks, shaking his head again in disbelief.

    DANIEL: I...Billie. Seriously? This is all kinds of...illegal and unethical.
    BILLIE: And doable. Kim doesn't have a guard at the door of that room. And you know full well that if I go in later in the evenings, the hospital will be quiet enough that no one will see me, as long as we're careful.

    Daniel holds up his hands to object to Billie, but Billie won't hear of it.

    DANIEL: Billie, I can't--
    BILLIE: No buts, Daniel Jonas. I will not have Kimberly Brady trying to concoct some kind of parallel history that denies my relationship with her daughter. Theresa is my friend, and I am one of her ONLY friends. She needs me around her. You know that.
    DANIEL: Billie, I can't interfere with a court order. I mean...do you understand what you're asking me to do, here?
    BILLIE: I think I might. I used to be a cop, remember? Come on, you don't have to be any more involved than just...schedule your checkups on Theresa for later in the evening and let me in.

    Daniel laughs in disbelief at Billie's suggestion. He takes a moment to respond so as not say anything too harsh.

    DANIEL: You have no idea how my rounds work, do you? It's not that simple, Billie.

    Billie chokes up a bit as she walks in close to Daniel. She looks intently at him, hoping to appeal to his symapthies.

    BILLIE: I know it's not simple, but...please. Daniel. I need this. I need to see Theresa. This is the only way I can make this work.

    Daniel shakes his head as he puts his hands on Billie's shoulders.

    DANIEL: Do you realize what could happen if we're caught doing this? I could lose my license, and you would go to jail immediately.

    Billie sighs, looking at the ground before she looks up at Daniel, nodding.

    BILLIE: I'm ready to deal with that. I don't care, as long as I get to see Theresa. Daniel, people in comas, they hear us. And I know that it'll be good for Theresa to hear my voice. That girl needs to hear my voice, Daniel. Please. Do this for me.

    Daniel thinks it over a moment, walking over to the window before turning around suddenly to face Billie.

    DANIEL: Okay.

    Billie smiles immediately, rushing over to hug Daniel.

    BILLIE: Thank you. Thank you...oh God. Thank you, Daniel.

    Daniel holds Billie tightly, but looking out, a concerned look on his face as he contemplates what he's about to do.

    ---

    Laura looks concerned as JJ speaks to her, the concerns she's had about Jennifer and Liam's relationship coming out JJ's mouth.

    JJ: I'm worried, Grandma. He...he was talking to some guy and...I know I heard her name.
    LAURA: Did you tell your mom?
    JJ: Yes, but...this is what's really scaring me, Grandma. Liam came out of nowhere and he heard me tell mom about his conversation. He knows I heard him.

    Laura's now trembling in fear from JJ's comments. JJ sees Laura tremble and takes her hands into his.

    JJ: Grandma...you okay?
    LAURA: I...I don't know.
    JJ: Just...try to relax, okay?

    Laura breathes in deeply, as she tries to relax herself and keeps asking JJ questions.

    LAURA: Right. Okay...so...JJ...what happened after that conversation you had with your mother?
    JJ: Well...they took off, mom and Liam did...and I stayed behind to try to...sort this out in my head...and as they left...Liam...he looked at me...I caught him trying to...like...stare me down or something. But I'm more worried about Abigail than anything. I mean...she's working for Stefano but...Liam works at the hospital, he has no ties to Stefano.
    LAURA: JJ, I don't...I don't understand any of this. I mean...what business would Liam have spying on Abigail for Stefano, unless...

    Laura halts midsentence. JJ immediately more tense as Laura's expression becomes even more terrified.

    JJ: Grandma?? Grandma what's wrong?

    Laura tries in vain to allay JJ's fears, too terrified herself to relax.

    LAURA: JJ...I...I have to ask you something.
    JJ: Anything, Grandma, what?

    Laura leans in close to JJ, trying to ensure JJ listens carefully to her.

    LAURA: Don't do anything else. I have a terrible feeling that I know exactly what's going on.
    JJ: What? What, Grandma, tell me what it is.
    LAURA: I can't, JJ. If I tell you...I don't know if either of us will be safe. Just...leave it alone. Leave it all to me. I will take care of this. Okay? Promise me!

    JJ looks on, now terrified for his family, but not sure what Laura won't tell him. He nods in agreement as he gets up from the edge of Laura's bed, where he was sitting.

    JJ: Okay. I promise. Goodnight.

    JJ walks out of the room in a daze. Confused by Laura's reaction and petrified by what Laura won't tell him. He closes the door behind him as Laura stares into the mirror, visibly terrified and upset.

    LAURA: Damn you, Stefano! You better not be up to what I think you are.

    ---

  19. beebs
    EPISODE 72
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson




    Sonny lies on the sofa in the living room of the apartment, fast asleep until the sound of the curtains being brusquely opened is heard. The bright morning light billowing into the room jolts Sonny out of his slumber, his eyes blinking wildly as he covers them with one arm, trying to adjust to the new light.

    SONNY: Ugh! God! What the He...Oh my God.

    Sonny stops, eyes suddenly wide open at the sight of the person standing in front of him. He looks on completely flabbergasted.

    ---


    Laura steps into the living room of the Horton house, dressed in her housecoat, a lost look on her face, and deep in thought. Her daughter, Jennifer, steps into the living room, coming from the kitchen, with two cups of coffee in her hand, oblivious to her mother's distress at first.

    JENNIFER: Good morning, Mom! I heard you stirring upstairs so I got an extra cup of coffee ready for you...

    Jennifer looks over as she puts the coffee down on the table in the living room. She stops suddenly and looks with concern at her mother.

    JENNIFER: Mom, you look awful, Are you okay?

    Laura tries to allay Jennifer's worries, as she tries to rub the sleep from her eyes and stretches her arms and back while she talks.

    LAURA: Yes, Honey. I'm fine. I just...I didn't sleep very well last night, that's all.
    JENNIFER: (sigh) You're worried about Abigail too, hm?
    LAURA: You could say that.

    Laura walks over to the other side of the sofa and sits down beside Jenn. They both begin to sip their coffee as they talk.

    JENNIFER: I just...I worry that she's in over her head, working for DiMera like this, it's...it just seems so dangerous, Mom.

    Laura nods in agreement, putting her coffee cup down as she speaks.

    LAURA: I just hope this trip doesn't drag out too long. Quite honestly, Jennifer, the longer she stays in Italy, the more worried I am for her safety.

    Jennifer looks at her mom, surprised by her alarmism.

    JENNIFER: Mom, what are you saying? Do you know something you're not telling me?

    Laura looks up at Jenn, her face looking a bit surprised but still painted with the fatigue of worry.

    ---



    Sami walks into the DiMera living room, fully dressed, and ready for another day’s work. She smiles as she spies EJ turning toward her, also dressed for the day.

    EJ: Ready?
    SAMI: As ready as I'm gonna be. Did you get everything set up?

    EJ smiles as he hands Sami his tablet.

    EJ: We can make the announcement by this evening. Should be finalized by noon.

    Sami beams as she reads the tablet. She looks up at EJ, but hesitates to hug him. Her smiles drops off a bit, as the tension persists between them.

    SAMI: You are a miracle worker.
    EJ: Only when I'm properly motivated.

    Sami looks down a moment, trying to contain herself, but EJ, sensing Sami's guard starting to finally come down, touches her chin, prompting Sami to look back up at EJ. She touches his hand to pull away, but stops herself from gripping his hand. They both pull back from each other, as Sami breathes in deeply and speaks seriously.

    SAMI: I, uh...I asked Laura Horton if....if we could, uh...do a...umm...a group session together. The three of us.

    EJ tries to interject but Sami interrupts, anticipating EJ's objection.

    EJ: Samantha, I don't--
    SAMI: ...EJ, we need to do this. Do it for me. If you want this marriage to...hold together or survive in any way...we need to do this. Please.

    EJ sighs heavily, looking through Sami as he thinks over her request.

    ---

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

    ---


    Nick bursts into Nicole's office at what is, for now, Titan TV. Nicole is visibly displeased to see Nick, and immediately turns back to her computer pretending to be hard at work.

    NICK: Knock, knock.
    NICOLE: And here I thought I was gonna have a GOOD morning.
    NICK: Ohh, come on now, Nicole. This is easily the low point of your day.

    Nicole shoots a glare at Nick before returning to her computer monitor.

    NICOLE: Or a bad omen.

    Nick sits down opposite Nicole at her desk, undisturbed by her ignoring him. He leans in, a sleazy smile on his face the whole time, enjoying the repartee.

    NICK: Life's what you make it. Especially now that you're free from your...suffocating ex-employer. No?
    NICOLE: Oh please. Give yourself some credit, Nick. You've managed to somehow be far more suffocating than even being MARRIED to Victor could ever be!
    NICK: Flattery will get you everywhere. Come on, you've gotta be at least...somewhat happy with this. Now we can get down to the business we came here to do, right?

    Nicole finally breaks her laser-focus with her computer monitor and glares Nick's way. She turns to face him, leaning over her desk, almost hissing her response to him.

    NICOLE: What part of this don't you understand, Nick? I don't want anything to do with you or your sleazy plans. Is that clear enough for you or do I have to draw you a diagram?
    NICK: I think I hit a nerve. I think I need to remind you of something, Nicole. I hold all the cards here. So I'd suggest dialing that temper of yours back before your little secret ends up the first story you read on the 6 o'clock news.

    Nicole rolls her eyes, looking annoyed, but knowing Nick has her number. She shakes her head at him, astounded by his audacity.

    ---

    Laura turns away from Jenn as they sit on the sofa in the Horton living room. She shakes her head.

    LAURA: No, no. Darling, I don't know anything more than you do.
    JENN: Well, then I think we need to take a step back. I mean, I know...I'm as worried about her being in Italy working for DiMera as you are, but sitting here...stewing about it all the time is...it's only going to stress us all out, and we know that's not what you need.

    Laura gets tense as Jennifer alludes to her mental health. She turns to Jenn with a slight agitation.

    LAURA: Don't start with that, Jennifer Rose. I am entitled to show concern for my granddaughter. I just can't...I'm getting worried about how close Abigail is getting to the DiMeras and for her own safety, I think that...well...maybe we should convince her to quit once she gets home. I think it would do her a world of good.

    Jenn looks over to Laura, thinking over her idea, shaking her head in agreement.

    ---

    EJ sighs as he steps away, turning towards the doorway to the garden. He finally speaks up to respond to Sami.

    EJ: Samantha, I don't know that that's such a good idea.
    SAMI: I know, it's...not exactly what you wanted. But...but it's a good first step, you know? Get all our...awful past out on the table, maybe work out what makes our relationship so...you know...volatile.
    EJ: (sigh) I just...I don't like the idea of...pathologizing our problems like this, it seems...
    SAMI: EJ, this is for me...and for...Johnny.

    EJ turns around, surprised.

    EJ: Wait, you're not telling me that Johnny's become affected by everything between us.

    Sami shrugs, defeatedly.

    SAMI: Are you surprised? He was always...super aware of everything that happens between us. He's a really sensitive kid, EJ.
    EJ: Yes, but...to this extent?

    Sami sighs, dreading telling EJ the truth of the situation. She finally speaks up.

    SAMI: That's not all. He, uh...I've been having trouble when I...
    EJ: What? What is it?

    Sami stammers and puts her arms up a moment before walking towards the garden doors herself, hoping that focusing on something other than EJ will help her speak.

    SAMI: I...uh...I was out...in the garden. Few weeks ago, you know. Just...after our fight. Wanted to (sigh) clear my mind.

    Sami turns around to face EJ, who looks on, listening intently, seeing the pain Sami's in, and for the first time, seeing her pain beyond his own suffering. He tears up a bit as he listens to Sami speak.

    SAMI: Johnny ran out to see what I was doing...

    Sami pauses, looking down. She takes a moment before starting to tear up herself.

    SAMI: He hugged me. And I couldn't....I couldn't stand the touch of him. I wanted him...away from me. All I could think about was...you. That night, making me...service you so that Lucas could live. I...
    EJ: Samanth--

    Sami interrupts EJ, increasingly agitated as she recalls the situation.

    SAMI: I thought...I was over it. I thought I'd moved on. That...that we were finally past it, but...but I can't do it, EJ. I can't. You...all the things you have done to me, and all the times I've had to fight back.
    EJ:Samantha. I love you. And I will spend every...single day of my life...from here on out, making this up to you.

    Sami cools down again, fighting her anger with every muscle in her body. She breathes in deeply before speaking again.

    SAMI: EJ. If you want to make it up to me...the first step is to come with me to see Laura.

    EJ looks down, seriously contemplating Sami's point.

    ---



    Will turns around from opening the curtains. Fully dressed in a smart, tailored business suit, he smiles with a hint of smugness as he looks down at a half-asleep Sonny.

    WILL: Good morning.

    Sonny looks Will up and down, awestruck. He finally croaks out a response.

    SONNY: I...you look like...a whole new person.

    Will raises his eyebrow and smirks at Sonny, in a bit of a pose.

    WILL: Amazing what a suit and a shave can do, hm?
    SONNY: Yyyyeah. Wow...you look amazing, Will.
    WILL: Well, you'll have all kinds of time to ogle me later. I need to get to work.

    Will grabs his laptop bag. He smiles at Sonny as he walks over to the door. Sonny calls out to him to stop him.

    SONNY: Uh...Will!

    Will stops and turns around.

    WILL: Yes?
    SONNY: I...did you feed Ari this morning?
    WILL: Oh! Yeah, it's all taken care of, Sonny. Ah, look. Just because...well, you know...how things are right now, I think we should probably stay in separate rooms again tonight. You know? Oh, but if you had a rough sleep, you can definitely sleep in the bedroom while I'm at work.

    Will flashes a [!@#$%^&*]-eating grin Sonny's way, while Sonny looks on, brow furrowed, clearly hurt by Will's coldness.

    SONNY: Will...

    Will laughs, continuing his chipper charade for Sonny.

    WILL: Sonny, come on, I'm gonna be late for work.
    SONNY: Aren't you forgetting something?

    Will looks himself over, feigning ignorance.

    WILL: Mmm...got my bag, got my laptop, did my teeth, deodorant...mmmmmmnope!

    Sonny sighs audibly, slumping down on the couch.

    SONNY: Will, come on, let's talk about this.
    WILL: I wish I could, but I gotta go. Bye!

    Will struts out the door and shuts it as Sonny calls out, trying to object.

    SONNY: Will, come on, I--

    As the door closes, Sonny turns away, upset by Will's lingering anger.

    SONNY: ...wanted to talk.

    ...

    Outside the apartment door, Will smiles and adjusts his posture.

    WILL: Alright, Sonny. You don't think I can hack this job...time to show you what I can do.

    Will walks off, pulling out every ounce of confidence he can muster as he heads off towards his car.

    ----
  20. beebs
    EPISODE 74
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    At what is for now Titan TV, Nick smiles smugly while lounging in a chair opposite Nicole's desk. Grabbing his laptop bag as he pulls out his tablet, he taps and slides his finger across the screen before showing Nicole footage of their exchange up to now.
     
    NICOLE: You....what?
    NICK: I have it all right here. See, I've got eyes, Nicole. Everywhere. You know, once you master the art of hacking, you really can do anything! It's crazy!
     
    The colour drains from Nicole's face, as Nick puts his tablet back in his bag, and pulls out a flash drive from his bag, placing it on the desk before a stunned and terrified Nicole, who was just caught by Nick's surveillance equipment admitting to hiding the documents proving Eric was drugged. Nicole gulps audibly before responding to him with as strong, but cool a voice as she can muster, which comes off more upset and wavering than she'd like to believe.
     
    NICOLE: What do you need me to do, Nick?
     
    Nick nods, still smiling as Nicole squirms, hating cowtowing to her blackmailer's increasing demands.
     
    NICK: Much better. Everything you'll need is on that flash drive. Just remember to destroy it when you're done. Have a great day, Nicole!
     
    Nicole holds up the flash drive, looking it over as Nick grabs his bag and leaves Nicole's office. Nicole holds it firmly in her fist, silently cursing Nick. She sits down at her desk and thinks aloud.
     
    NICOLE: There has GOT to be a way to trap that little rat in his own game. But he's on the side of the good guys...how the hell does that work?
     
    Nicole shakes her head as she puts the flash drive into her computer and waits for it to load.
     
    ---
     

    Will walks down the hallway towards his new office at EnerNext, holding a coffee mug in his hand, before stopping at the door. He turns the doorknob and steps in, jumping back upon seeing Alex standing inside.
     
    ALEX: AH! Will! I was looking for you.
     
    Will stands at his doorway, keeping a goofy smile on his face, stunned by Alex's presence in his office.
     
    ---
     

    Laura walks off the elevator at University Hospital and stops at the nurses' station. Maxine greets her immediately with a warm smile.
     
    MAXINE: Well! Good morning, Dr. Horton. How's it going?
     
    Laura smiles, but with a tension in her face that Maxine can't quite put her finger on.
     
    LAURA: Oh, just fine, Maxine. Uh...you haven't seen Dr. Jonas around anywhere, have you?
    MAXINE: No, he's taken a late start today. In fact he's requested to work evenings all week. Should I have him get ahold of you when he comes in?
    LAURA: Yes, if you don't mind. Thanks!
    MAXINE: Anytime, Dr. Horton. Oh! And, uh, by the way, there's a very improtant meeting at 10:45 in the board room.
     
    Laura looks up from her mail, a bit surprised, but smiles Maxine's way.
     
    LAURA: Oh. Alright, thanks. Any idea what it's about?
     
    Maxine shrugs dismissively.
     
    MAXINE: I dunno, usually it's about not wasting paper in the photocopier and boring budget updates. I wouldn't worry too much.
    LAURA: Heh, alright. Thanks again, Maxine.
    MAXINE: Have a good day, honey.
     
    Laura steps away from the nurses' station and over to the coffee machine. Pouring herself a cup, she sighs heavily while looking over to see none other than Liam talking with one of the doctors at the opposite end of the room. Laura looks on momentarily, before muttering to herself.
     
    LAURA: Alright, Laura. Keep calm, and tread lightly. Daniel may be able to help you keep on eye on Liam, but don't overplay your hand. Jenn and JJ's safety depends on it.
     
    ---
     

    Brady wakes up, pale and sweaty, to find a tray of breakfast food arranged beside his bed, a note laid down beside his plate of eggs, bacon and toast. Brady rubs the sleep from his eyes and reads the note carefully, his vision still not the greatest.
     
    Figured you'd want a nice breakfast. If you need anything, just holler. Anita
     

    Brady tries to get up from his bed but quickly realizes he can barely move them, after days of bed rest. As he tries to shuffle over to his breakfast, Anita walks in, hearing the rumbling.
     
    ANITA: Oh good, you're up. Here, I wasn't sure if you'd be able to reach the food, but I knew that you'd better eat something or you'd shrivel up and die.
     
    Anita rushes in and grabs the tray from the TV dinner table set up beside the bed. She quickly pops the tray on Brady's lap.
     
    BRADY: Well, I'm not so sure I'm not gonna shrivel and die yet.
    ANITA: Don't talk like that. You're looking better every day.
    BRADY: You know, I'm...I'm still not hungry. I feel so...
    ANITA: That's probably you coming down from your drugs.
     
    Brady looks up, shocked that Anita was even aware of his relapse.
     
    BRADY: What? How...? How did you even know I--
    ANITA: The doctor told me during his house call. You had a rapid heart beat and dialated pupils. He figured you were high when you ended up in the water. Honestly, from what that doctor told me, it's a miracle you're even alive.
     
    Brady looks up at Anita, alarmed by her sombre statement.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     
    Anita sits at the edge of Brady's bed, conversing with him about his situation. Brady looks at Anita with a concerned look.
     
    BRADY: What do you mean, lucky to be alive?
    ANITA: You showed up washed ashore by the lake. Limp as a fish. I thought you'd drowned, but thankfully...I'm a retired nurse so...
     
    Brady flops down, exhausted, in the bed. Looking at the ceiling before inhaling deeply and shutting his eyes, trying to soak in each breath.
     
    BRADY: Why don't I feel so lucky?
    ANITA: Probably withdrawals. And your body's probably weak. Lucky for you, I managed to get your body warmed up, or that cold lake water would've killed you before the withdrawal symptoms ever could.
    BRADY: Great. (sigh) I don't think I wanna eat.
    ANITA: I'll leave it here for you anyway. You might get hungry later. But you do need to eat.
     
    Anita gets up and heads for the door, stopping and turning back, as though remembering something.
     
    ANITA: I'll make you a pot of tea, that might help.
     
    Brady continues to stare blankly at the ceiling.
     
    BRADY: I...sure.
     
    Anita stands in the doorway and smiles.
     
    ANITA: I'll be back in a minute.
     
    As Anita walks out, Brady summons the strength to sit up again in the bed. Looking around the room, he looks out the window overlooking the lake. 
     
    The images flood back in his mind of the night of his accident. His harsh words for Theresa. The sound of his car speeding into the icy water. He shudders as he relives the moment of panic, recalling the impact. 
     
    He flops back in bed, squinting his eyes shut, as if shutting his eyes will wipe the memories away.
     
    ---
     

    Sami stands in the DiMera living room, standing before the desk. She closes up her briefcase after filing away some papers, and putting her tablet inside her purse, as she hears the living room doors swing open. She continues preparing, assuming EJ is at the door to motivate her to get a move on.
     
    SAMI: I'll be there in a sec, EJ, just gotta...
     
    Sami turns around and jumps back immediately upon realizing Nick is at the door, not EJ.
     
    NICK: Oh come on, Sami! I'm way skinnier than EJ. But I appreciate the compliment. He's a looker, that one!
     
    Sami looks on, eyes squinting with malice.
     
    SAMI: What do you want, Nick?
    NICK: Just wanted to have a little talk with you.
    SAMI: Well, I don't have time right now. I have to get to the hospital, as a matter of fact.
     
    Sami tries to walk out, appearing busy as she collects her things. Nick grabs Sami's arm to stop her, causing Sami to stop in her tracks, a bit of a shiver as she looks at Nick with an insane contempt. Nick looks back, an arrogant, dangerous nonchalance in his eyes.
     
    NICK: Not so fast, Sami. This will only take a minute. And I think it's in your best interests, and Kate's...and Gabi's...if you stuck around for....just a minute. Don't you think?
     
    Sami continues to stare him down as Nick retains his firm grasp on her arm.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole sits at her office desk and looks down at the flash drive Nick's given her.
     
    NICOLE: (sigh) Alright. Let's see what dirty little secrets you have locked inside you.
     
    Nicole holds the drive in her hand before rolling her eyes.
     
    NICOLE: Although, knowing Nick, he's probably just loaded a virus onto this thing to wipe my hard drive clean. Oh well, I'll just expense a new one with my new boss, I guess.
     
    With a bit of a laugh, Nicole plugs the flash drive into her computer. She talks herself through the process as though she's at a slot machine in Vegas.
     
    NICOLE: Alright, baby, show Mama the money....
     
    Nicole looks on with laser-focus as the document list appears on her monitor. Clicking on the first document, she waits with baited breath as the document loads on her screen. She inhales deeply as she soaks in the information.
     
    NICOLE: My God. Victor, you're going DOWN.
     
    Nicole smiles a satisfied smile as she reads on.
     
    ---
     
    Will relaxes a moment, miraculously keeping his coffee cup in tact as he steps inside his office toward Alex.
     
    WILL: I...Alex. I...sure, what do you need?
    ALEX: Come here.
     
    Alex opens a folder as Will steps close to him. Alex leans in close to him, causing Will to tense up. Alex begins to show him a document for Will to work on.
     
    ALEX: I'm gonna start you off slowly, just to get your feet wet, so...here...is a press release we'll be sending out tomorrow regarding the property acquisition problems we're having.
     
    As Alex speaks,Will feels Alex's body move in close to him, his breath on his neck, and every touch, no matter how inadvertent, excites him. Will breathes in deeply to try to relax himself, all the while, so focused on holding himself back, that he barely listens to Alex.
     
    ALEX: Okay, so...
     
    Will sits himself down at his desk to look over the file, as Alex crouches down beside him. Will sets his coffee on the table and leans in close again, as Alex explains the file.
     
    ALEX: So essentially, you'll be editing this for time, and we need this to read more like progress is being made on this front. We can't let the press see that we're stagnant on this issue.
     
    Will moves his arm over to point to a piece of this document.
     
    WILL: Right, so, here...
     
    Will clips his coffee mug as he points over the folder and knocks it off his desk...and all over Alex's shirt. Alex jumps back and Will jumps up from his seat.
     
    WILL: Oh God. I'm...
     
    Alex looks himself over, holding back a curse as he tries to undo his tie and shirt before the heat of the coffee burns him.
     
    ALEX: Ow Ow ow ow ow!
    WILL: Ahhh I'm sorry, here, here, here, let me get that off...you...
     
    As Will jumps over and helps peel Alex's wet shirt off him, they both stop a moment. Will looks down at Alex's body and swallows hard. He stutters as he tries to speak.
     
    WILL: I...I'm so sorry. I just...I...
     
    Alex laughs a bit, looking at an obviously embarrassed Will.
     
    ALEX: Don't worry. I'm...a klutz half the time myself. Uh...look. Let me...go change. I bring a change of clothes usually just in case...a pen explodes...bit of my lunch falls on me...
    WILL: Some idiot newbie spills coffee on you on the first day.
     
    Alex smiles, putting a hand on Will's shoulder in reassurance.
     
    ALEX: Nah, come on. Don't be so hard on yourself. Will. I'm not gonna fire you for this. If I was going to, I'dve fired myself last year. Okay?
     
    Will nods sheepishly. Alex now puts both hands on Will's shoulders, looking up at Will to try to convince him to look up his way. Will finally does, and their eyes lock. Will's defenses go down and he smiles at Alex, they both laugh gently at their situation, as Will's eyes get distracted by Alex's shirtless body.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena arrives at University Hospital's board room to find it filled with people from all over the hospital. She quickly walks over to Laura, who looks over and greets Marlena.
     
    LAURA: Good morning. I take it you got word about the meeting?
    MARLENA: Yes, I did. It's unusual of them to ask so many people to one of these meetings, so I'm rather curious what it could be about.
    LAURA: Sounds serious.
    MARLENA: It very well could be.
     
    Laura looks over to see Jennifer walk into the room with Liam in tow. Laura stares with a deeply troubled look, which Marlena immediately picks up on.
     
    MARLENA: Laura...are you alright?
     
    Laura holds her gaze a moment longer before responding, looking Marlena's way only as she finishes speaking.
     
    LAURA: I'm fine. I'm...just fine.
    MARLENA: Why don't I believe you?
     
    Laura smiles and tries to reassure her friend, but is barely able to reassure herself.
     
    LAURA: Don't worry. I'll be just fine.
     

    Marlena looks on, deciding to drop it, as the door closes behind a newly arriving Kayla, who calls out to the room for their attention.
     
    KAYLA: Good morning, everyone! Let's get started!
     
    Kayla walks over to the head of the board room table. She remains standing as she speaks to the crowd gathered in the room.
     
    KAYLA: So...you're probably wondering why I've called this meeting this morning. And I do want to thank you all for coming out on such short notice....but I am...officially announcing my resignation as Chief of Staff at University Hospital.
     
    The crowd look on, stunned by Kayla's announcement.
     
    ---
  21. beebs
    EPISODE 73
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Marlena steps out of the coffehouse in Horton Town Square, cup of coffee in hand as she sits down at one of the tables out in the square. She sits down as her cell phone rings, she picks it up and talks as she rifles through her bag.
     
    MARLENA: Dr. Evans...yes...yes, I can be at University Hospital in...20 minutes....Board room? Uh, sure! I'll be there. Bye bye.
     
    As Marlena hangs up her phone, she looks around and sees a young blonde woman walk into the square, looking a bit lost. She looks on, a bit of recognition in her eyes as she smiles, looking the young woman's way.
     
    Finally, the woman stops upon seeing Marlena and smiles widely. She approaches Marlena, who remains seated.
     
    MARLENA: Noelle?
     

    Noelle looks back excitedly as Marlena recognizes her.
     
    NOELLE: Marlena!
     
    Marlena jumps up from her seat, as Noelle and Marlena hug each other tightly. As they pull away, their screams of joy begin to turn to giggles.
     
    MARLENA: Oh my LORD, it's so good to see you again! I've missed you.
    NOELLE: I was amazed you even recognized me, it's been so long. I think I couldn't have been more than...what, 12 when I last saw you?
    MARLENA: Probably.
     
    Marlena smiles warmly as she looks at Noelle proudly. They hold each others hands.
     
    MARLENA: Your dad would be so proud of you. I'm so sorry to hear about his passing.
     
    Noelle's demeanour changes almost immediately. Her face drops as she steps away from Marlena momentarily before sitting down at the table.
     
    NOELLE: Yeah, thanks.
    MARLENA: I'm sorry to have brought him up. I know it's still relatively fresh for you and your mother.
    NOELLE: Yeah, well...there's a lot of....adjusting to do. In more ways than one.
     
    ---
     

    Nicole sits at her desk at her office, staring down Nick, who's sitting across from her, lazily lounging in his chair, a typical cocky look on his face. Nicole tries to posture to appear unmoved by Nick's threats.
     
    NICOLE: I need to remind you of something, Nnnnnnick! You need my help more than you're willing to admit.
     
    Nick leans back in his chair, sitting himself in a casual position almost mockingly.
     
    NICK: Oh this oughta be good. Where's the popcorn?
    NICOLE: I'm serious. If you and your little minion didn't have me telling everyone in Salem how disastrous this oil sands project would be, no one would give a damn about Percy and his little...owl-watching sanctuary. You'd have been a thirty-second human interest curiosity on one newscast before the Titan spin machine forced the public's hand and the city's, into forcing him to sell his land. And then where would that leave you?
     
    Nick tenses as Nicole speaks, the smile slowly fading from his face, but still trying to appear relaxed.
     
    NICOLE: Face it, Nick. I have more power than you're willing to admit. And it bugs the hell out of you.
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Will steps off the elevator at the Titan Building on the EnerNext floor. He luckily steps off the elevator as Tyler steps into the hallway. Tyler notices Will immediately and greets him with a professional smile.
     
    TYLER: Ah! William! Perfect timing. You're looking rather chipper this morning.
    WILL: Thanks, Mr. Houston. I...had a hard time sleeping last night.
    TYLER: Well, it certainly doesn't show. Ready to meet everyone?
    WILL: I sure am.
    TYLER: Great.
     
    Tyler motions Will to follow him down the hallway. Will smiles, trying to hide his nervousness. Tyler looks over, sensitive to Will's uncertainty, and tries to break the tension.
     
    TYLER: So I guess I should tell you a bit about what you'll be doing here.
    WILL: Could help. (laughs)
    [b[TYLER: Well, you'll mostly be writing press releases, dabbling a bit in advertising copy. We will need you to focus a bit on speechwriting, as I'll want someone who really understands spin and how to avoid any potential...pitfalls.
     
    Will nods, understanding what Tyler's getting at.
     
    WILL: A bit of...persuasive writing, if you will.
    TYLER: Precisely.
     
    Tyler smiles and puts his hand on Will's back in a father-like way. He motions them forward again as they approach the door to an office.
     
    TYLER: So here's where your new office space will be.
     
    Will steps into the room, beaming as he examines the lush surroundings.Dark wood covers the walls of the office, with the light streaming in from the window right behind his new desk. Will stands in awe of his workspace, as a young, chiseled man with dark hair steps in from the hallway.
     
    WILL: It's...amazing.
     
    As Will speaks, the man knocks on the doorframe. Tyler looks behind him towards the door, and sees the young man. He immediately walks over to him and ushers him into the room.
     
    TYLER: Ah! William! This is Alex, you'll be reporting directly to him.
     

    Will turns to face Alex and smiles immediately. A rush coming over him as he looks him over. Alex extends his hand for Will to shake. Will stands awakwardly for a moment before clueing in and shaking his hand in return.
     
    WILL: Oh...nice...to meet you, I'm Will.
     
    Alex smiles back, lingering in their handshake slightly longer than expected. Will smiles a bit of a goofy smile and Alex smiles back.
     
    ALEX: Pleasure.
     
    ---
     
    Noelle walks with Marlena across Town Square, both ladies with coffee cups in hand. They laugh as they share stories.
     
    NOELLE: (sigh) Thank you for meeting me today. I was...honestly really worried about coming back to Salem.
     
    Marlena stops and touches Noelle's cheek gently, moving a strand of hair away from her face lovingly.
     
    MARLENA: I know it's difficult moving back here after all these years. And so far from your mother. How is Liz holding up?
    NOELLE: Oh she's...alright. We've been helping her out as much as we can, but....it isn't so easy from so far.
    MARLENA: Why doesn't she come back to Salem with you?
     
    Noelle shakes her head, shrugging as she continues to look straight ahead, in thought as she speaks.
     
    NOELLE: A lot of memories. I think mostly of Dad. Mother couldn't really take it.
     
    Marlena stops and looks at Noelle with concern in her eyes.
     
    MARLENA: It's been well over a year, Noelle. I mean...do you think it's healthy for Liz to still be so...
    NOELLE: I think Dad's death and...well, I just think that she's hurting a lot more than she's willing to believe.
    MARLENA: Is she working?
     
    Noelle looks down, laughing almost to keep from crying. She shakes her head.
     
    NOELLE: No. She hasn't in months. Marlena, her first performance in two years, and dad was at home dying of a heart attack. She's...she's never forgiven herself for it.
    MARLENA: Surely she knows it isn't her fault.
     
    Noelle looks up to keep from crying, this time starting to lose the battle.
     
    NOELLE: Listen, can we....can we continue this later. I...I have to get some errands done today before dinner.
    MARLENA: Sure.
     
    Noelle takes Marlena's hand and squeezes it, smiling warmly her way through her tears as she tries to wipe them away.
     
    MARLENA: Listen, Noelle. Just remember, if you need someone to talk to...
    NOELLE: Thanks, Marlena. I'll call you soon.
     
    Noelle walks away as Marlena lingers behind, still looking on with real worry on her face.
     
    ---
     
    Nick gets up from his seat. He leans over Nicole's desk, trying to intimidate her, but Nicole responds cooly. She remains in place, arms folded on her desk, a calm expression her face.
     
    NICK: You think you got this all figured out, don't you, Nicole?
    NICOLE: I know that you'd be stupid to use what you've got on me unless you absolutely had to.
    NICK: Don't be stupid enough to think I won't.
     
    Nicole leans back finally, laughing in Nick's unmoved face.
     
    NICOLE: I don't think you understand this at all. Your plan's worked just fine so far, but what happens if even ONE piece of your little...convoluted plan fails? City council could still allow EnerNext to buy out Percy's land.
    NICK: That won't happen if you do what you're instructed to.
     
    Nicole leans back in, looking menacingly at Nick.
     
    NICOLE: I don't take instructions from you, you little twerp.
     
    Nick gets back up from leaning on Nicole's desk. He shakes his head at Nicole's insolence.
     
    NICK: You really don't get it, do you? I have every document you kept hidden from Eric in your desk drawer safely stored where you can't find it. I can pull it out whenever I feel like it.
    NICOLE: And I know you won't do that. Nick, you can't overplay your hand here. The Titan executive is gonna get wise to you, and then you and your little plan here are gonna crumble like stale bread.
     
    Nick smiles smugly. He responds ever so calmly, yet menacingly.
     
    NICK: Not now they're not. Remember that old saying, Nicole? Loose lips sink ships?
     
    Nicole still looks on dismissively.
     
    NICOLE: I'm sorry, am I talking to the Riddler? Would you just spit it out?
    NICK: Well, Nicole. Let's just say that no matter what happens around this building, I know about it.
     
    Nicole furrows her brow, confused and a bit worried by the implication Nick's making, but disbelieving it simultaneously.
     
    NICOLE: How is that even possible? Did you develop ESP or did you hit up Dionne Warwick for a psychic friend?
    NICK: I wouldn't say that so much as....the walls, Nicole? They have ears. And trust me, you've been so very helpful. Especially now that I have video that shows our little...exchange here about what you did.
     
    The colour drains from Nicole's face as Nick smiles a winner's smile.
     
    ---
  22. beebs
    EPISODE 75
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson
    Sami stands in the DiMera living room, her arm being firmly grasped by Nick, who's attempting to stare her down. Sami glares back, determined with every fibre of her being not to allow him to.
     
    SAMI: Nick. Let go of my arm.
    NICK: Will you at least hear me out.
     
    Sami finally wavers, looking down at where Nick's grasping her arm. She sighs in defeat.
     
    SAMI: Sure.
     
    Nick releases Sami as she forcefully breaks away from him simultaneously. She steps back away from Nick as she looks back toward him, while holding her arm where Nick held it.
     
    SAMI: Who knew such a skinny little rat had such a strong grip. Ow.
    NICK: I'll take it as a compliment.
     
    Sami snaps, cutting Nick off before he can continue his 'witty' banter.
     
    SAMI: Just what do you want, Nick?
     
    Nick ensures the doors to the living room are shut and saunters ever-so-slowly over to the sofa. He casually sits down and looks at Sami.
     
    NICK: We had an agreement, did we not?
    SAMI: What do you mean? I've done everything you've asked of me.
    NICK: Except...neither you, nor Kate have offered Gabi that modelling job I requested you to give her.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes at Nick's persistent request.
     
    ---
     
     
    At the board room at University Hospital, the crowd of staff are aghast at Dr. Kayla Brady's revelation that she will be quitting her position as Chief of Staff.
     
    MAXINE: Dr. Brady, how soon are you leaving us?
    KAYLA: Today will be my last day.
     
    The crowd is even more shocked by this turn of events. Kayla immediately tries to cool down the crowd, talking over each other in shock and dismay.
     
    KAYLA: Everybody! Calm down! It's...not a big deal, I swear!
    MARLENA: Kayla, what's wrong? Why are you leaving?
     
    Kayla tries to hold back, recalling John's request that she tell nobody of her plans. She inhales deeply as she answers Marlena.
     
    KAYLA: I...have a bit of a...personal trip I'm going to need to take. I'll be in Africa for the forseeable future with Joey and Steve.
    MAXINE: Well we, at the hospital, are gonna miss you, Kayla. And I am gonna throw you one hell of a going-away party.
     
    The crowd cheers Maxine's plan on as Kayla stands awkwardly, again trying to silence the crowd.
     
    KAYLA: I'm...I'm sorry to disappoint anyone...but I will be leaving tonight. There won't be time for a goodbye party. However...
     
    Kayla has to take a moment over the sound of disappointment from the staff. She holds her hands up once again to try to calm the crowd.
     
    KAYLA: However...I do have some great news, especially for those of us who have been at University Hospital for a long time. I'd like to welcome our new chief of staff. An old friend of ours with an extensive resume here and in Europe. It's my honour to welcome back to Salem, and to University Hospital...Dr. Valerie Grant.
     

    The door to the board room opens as the group filling the room turn to see Valerie standing in the doorway. Applause slowly builds in the room as Valerie steps in, smiling widely as she looks around the room.
     
    ---
    ---
     

    Rafe and Jordan lie in bed together at Rafe's, cuddled naked together comfortably in their sleep. Rafe begins to stir from his sleep, which rouses Jordan. She turns to face Rafe, who puts his arm around her, as they gently kiss good morning.
     
    RAFE: Well if there was a better way to wake up, I sure don't know about it.
     
    Jordan giggles as she quickly kisses Rafe again, never taking her smiling eyes off his.
     
    JORDAN: I could get used to this being every morning.
    RAFE: Mmm...I like the sound of that.
     
    As they roll over again, Rafe now on top of Jordan under the sheets as they begin to kiss more intensely, their eyes shut as Jordan wraps her arms around Rafe's neck, pulling him in closely to her.
     
    This would be when Jordan's cell phone begins ringing, prompting Rafe and Jordan to stop suddenly, but after a moment's shock, Jordan realizes who it likely is and chooses to ignore it, grabbing the back of Rafe's head and pulling it back towards her. After another moment of kissing, Rafe leans back up again.
     
    RAFE: Aren't you gonna get that?
    JORDAN: No.
     
    Another kiss, Jordan is determined to distract Rafe from her ringing phone, but Rafe stops again, starting to exasperate Jordan.
     
    RAFE: Jordan, that could be important.
    JORDAN: It isn't. Trust me. I just wanna focus on you right now.
     
    Jordan looks seductively at Rafe, her hands running up and down his chest and shoulders. Rafe smiles back at Jordan, as Jordan's phone goes silent, the call going to voice mail. Rafe and Jordan get back into the mood, as Rafe leans in again, starting to kiss down Jordan's neck and slowly kissing down it toward her chest, causing Jordan to stir pleasurably.
     
    Jordan's phone begins to ring again. This time Rafe immediately slumps down in frustration, while Jordan flops back as well, staring at the ceiling.
     
    JORDAN: I guess I have to get that now.
    RAFE: Yyyup!
     
    Rafe sighs as he rolls back over off of Jordan, who leans over to grab her phone off the bedside table.
     
    Naturally, it's Sheryl.
     
    ...
     

    Sheryl sits at her office desk, dressed impeccibly as always. She sits in her office chair, relaxed, and looking over at someone sitting across from her on the other side of her desk.
     
    SHERYL: Finally!
     
    ...
     
    JORDAN: Ugh...Hi.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: Don't be so happy to hear from me! Where were you?
     
    ...
     
    JORDAN: Just in bed, I'm not due into work for another two hours so...we were taking it easy.
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: What can I say? I've got a gift for timing. Listen, I need you to head over to Titan, ASAP.
     
    ...
     
    JORDAN: Now?
     
    ...
     
    SHERYL: No time like the present. I got a surprise for you.
     
    ...
     
    Jordan's eyes widen, realizing what this means. She stutters a bit before speaking, trying to hide her sudden panic from a concerned Rafe.
     
    JORDAN: I'll...I'll be right there.
     
    Hanging up her phone, Rafe looks on with concern as Jordan immediately starts to get up from her bed. Rafe paws at her in a vain attempt to keep her in bed.
     
    RAFE: Wait, wait, wait, you're not going so soon, are you? We were just getting started!
    JORDAN: I know, and I'm sorry, but...patient at the hospital is in a...really really bad way right now and they need me there early.
     
    Rafe sighs, not able to argue with Jordan's job. He starts to get up from the bed himself, reluctantly.
     
    RAFE: Fair enough. But I think we've got time for some time alone, still.
     
    Jordan goes pilfering through her drawers quickly, looking for clothes for work and not paying attention as Rafe walks over behind her, still naked himself.
     
    JORDAN: No we don't, I really need to go.
     
    Jordan stops suddenly and turns back toward the door, bumping immediately into an upright, smiling Rafe. She looks up in a bit of shock at him as he holds her arms in his hands.
     
    RAFE: I can help wash your back at least.
     
    Jordan smiles back, almost giggling at Rafe's suggestion.
     
    ---
     
    Sheryl puts down her phone at the office and looks back at her guest. She laughs as she begins to speak to him.
     
    SHERYL: I caught her in a bit of a...personal moment.
     
    The man she talks to looks back her way, having a bit of a chuckle as he replies to her.
     
    SHERYL: You know, it's good to have you back with us, Jerome. Now our plans are finally gonna start to really gel. You know?
     

    Jerome looks back from the chair opposite Sheryl, hands clasped together, one leg crossed over the other casually as he sits in his smartest pinstripe suit.
     
    JEROME: Well, let's hope Jordan thinks so. Otherwise you may find youself in over your heads, and I guarantee you, you'll end up drowning.
     
    ---
     
    Valerie steps up the head of the table in the board room, and begins to address the group.
     
    VALERIE: Well, I told you I'd come back, I just...didn't expect it to take so long!
     
    Everyone laughs, including Valerie, as she continues on, in a more serious tone.
     
    VALERIE: But in all seriousness, I am thrilled and honoured to return to University Hospital. I spent a very long time away, and I've missed seeing so many familiar faces. I'm so glad to be back!
     
    the crowd applauds, as Valerie looks around, a smile on her face.
     
    VALERIE: I would like to thank Dr. Kayla Brady for recommending me for this position. I know we haven't seen each other in a long time, but I'm grateful that you thought of me, and I will do my best not to disappoint you.
     
    Kayla and Valerie hug, as the crowd applauds again, and Marlena heads up to greet her old friend.
     
    MARLENA: Hello, stranger!
    VALERIE: Marlena! Ohh it's so good to see you again! How are you?
    MARLENA: I've been well. Lots has happened since I last saw you!
     
    The two women laugh as Marlena and Valerie stand, holding each other's hands.
     
    VALERIE: Well, listen, I'd love to catch up with you, if you're able to. Maybe we can meet up today for lunch?
    MARLENA: I'd love to, but I'm meeting Roman for lunch already. Unless you'd want to join us. I know it's been an eternity since you've seen him!
    VALERIE: I'd LOVE to! Absolutely! Are you two still married?
     
    Marlena looks off to the side whimsically, and answers with a bit of a laugh, as she turns to head out of the room, putting her hand on Valerie's shoulder.
     
    MARLENA: That's...a very, very long story.
     
    Valerie looks on, a bit confused as the two women walk toward the door.
     
    ---
     
    Sami plays cool with Nick, though she's clearly exasperated by his persistence.
     
    SAMI: We've played this game before, Nick. Remember? You trying to get Gabi a modelling job so that you could whisk her away to New York and live happily-ever-after with my son's baby? And how did that turn out, exactly?
    NICK: I dunno, you tell me.
    SAMI: As I recall, it went over as well as...well (laughs) a giant boulder.
    NICK: Don't try to be clever, Sami. It doesn't suit you. That's more of a...Nicole thing.
     
    Sami glowers at Nick, unable to resist his obvious baiting. She bites back loudly.
     
    SAMI: Say what you need to say and get out, Nick!
     
    Nick doesn't move from the sofa, instead smiling widely, knowing that he got a rise out of Sami.
    NICK: Offer Gabi a modeling contract. Make her a contract, have me vet it. If you get sneaky, I'll catch it, so don't try to put any clause in there that could upset me. Because you don't want me upset, Sami.
     
    Sami rolls her eyes and folds her arms, knowing Nick's won.
     
    SAMI: Fine. I'll draw it up. Now get out.
     
    Sami grabs her bag and heads to the door, opening it, then standing by it and motioning to Nick to leave.
     
    Nick gets up but turns away from her, facing the doorway to the garden, pinching the bridge of his nose, but trying to hide it from Sami, who senses something is off. She steps forward slightly, trying to catch Nick's attention. Nick is distracted by the surge of pain in his head.
     
    SAMI: Did I stutter?
     
    Nick draws himself up and turns around, still feeling the pain in his head, but working his best to not appear weakened.
     
    NICK: Just remember, don't even think about double-crossing me, or you'll have an awful lot to answer for, to a lot of people. See ya!
     
    Nick waves, and sets off walking casually out the door of the DiMera living room, as Sami rolls her eyes. She sighs heavily as she grabs her bag, and leaves the living room herself, shutting the living room door behind her.
     
    ---
     
    Jordan storms into Sheryl's office, visibly irritated by being summoned yet again. She sighs audibly as she greets Sheryl.
     
    JORDAN: You summoned, m'lady?
    SHERYL: I told you I had a surprise for you.
     
    Jordan stops as her face drops, as the colour drains from it, looking down as the chair in front of Sheryl's desk turns around slowly. Jerome appears, smiling slyly as he does.
     
    JEROME: Hey stranger.
    JORDAN: Jerome....
     
    Jordan breathes in deeply, trying to maintain as the shock hits her.
     
    ---
  23. beebs
    EPISODE 83
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     
     

    Eric walks out of the flower shop at Town Square, a huge bouquet of red roses in his arms, as he ponders his next stop. He strolls alongside the shops lining the town square before stopping before The Hourglass. Looking inside, he smiles before opening the door to step in.
     
    ERIC: Perfect.
     
    The door creaks as it shuts behind him.
     
    ---
     

    Jerome makes his way down the street in his rented van, transporting his belongings to his new home in Salem. He approaches his grandmother’s new house. Radio on, he overhears the news.
     
    RADIO: Salem PD are on the lookout this hour for a suspect involved in a string of burglaries in West Salem. Suspect is said to be an African-American male—
     
    Pulling into the driveway in his rented U-Haul, he turns the van off, pulling the keys out of the ignition, shaking his head.
     
    JEROME: Always a black man. (sigh)
     
    Opening the van door, he remembers to press the button to automatically unlock the back of the van. Walking around to the back, he pulls out one lighter box from on top, breezily slinging the box under his arm. Jerome shuts the back of the van before heading for the door.
     
    Looking through his keys, he finds the key that Valerie told him would open the door. Awkwardly trying to balance the box and manoeuvre himself around to get the key in the lock, he nearly drops the box. Jerome finally gives up, and places the box on the ground, focusing his attention on unlocking the door to his new home.
     
    The key doesn’t work.
     
    Jerome’s arms drop to his side, frustrated, he curses in his head, as he pats his jacket, searching for his phone.
     
    JEROME: Where the Hell…is my phone??
     
    ---
     

    Jerome’s phone sits on Valerie’s desk in her new office at University Hospital. As she flips through the files on Roman Brady, she’s struck by something. Concerned, she flips back to the previous page, studying the page through her reading glasses.
     
    VALERIE: Wait a minute…this file…there’s nothing in here from before in 1997…maybe it’s still in John’s file?
     
    Valerie flips through to find John’s file. Opening that up, she takes a minute to search through his records before closing that file.
     
    Valerie looks up, deep in thought.

    VALERIE: Where on Earth is the rest of Roman’s file?
     
    ---
     

    Liam walks quickly into the lobby at University Hospital. Looking around, he sees Marlena step off the elevator, and head for her office. Hanging back, he watches her intently.
     

    She stops, then turns back towards the opposite hallway, stopping quickly at the nurses’ station.
     
    MARLENA: Maxine, is Jennifer still in her office?
    MAXINE: Yes, Dr. Evans, she’s in her office right now.
     
    Marlena smiles her trademark warm smile as she heads back towards Jenn’s office.
     
    MARLENA: Thank you.
     

    As Marlena disappears down the hall, Liam smirks, and begins down the opposite hall, heading for Marlena’s office. Not far behind is Laura, still trying to keep out of sight from Liam. Maxine watches as Laura follows Liam at a distance. She furrows her brow as she tries to figure out what’s going on, but Laura’s eyes are trained on Liam, as she makes her way down the hall.

    Around the corner, Liam looks around to make sure no one sees him. Sensing the coast is clear, he closes his eyes momentarily as he puts his hand on Marlena’s office door handle. Twisting it, the door opens and Liam breathes a sigh of relief as he enters, still checking to see if anyone’s looking.

    As he steps inside and goes to shut the door, Laura turns the corner. Seeing the door shut, Laura looks on in fear for her friend’s safety. She doubles back to seek out Marlena.
     
    ---
     
    ---
     

    At Titan HQ, Victor steps into Tyler’s office, an unhappy look on his face. Tyler turns around, surprised to see him.
     
    TYLER: Victor! I thought you were working from home again today.
    VICTOR: I was, but I had to go over some things quickly with you before the day was out, and it isn’t anything we can go over on the phone.
     
    Tyler, sensing something serious is up, sets down the files he had in hand and sits down in his chair behind his desk.
     
    TYLER: Alright. What’s the trouble?
    VICTOR: John’s declared Brady dead. Says he doesn’t want to drag the matter out any longer when there’s so little chance of Brady being alive. And as much as I don’t want to believe that he’s really gone…I really don’t have much choice but to accept it.

    Tyler looks on, mulling over Victor’s words. He nods gently as he responds.
     
    TYLER: I’m sorry, Victor.
     
    Victor doesn’t look up from the ground after Tyler speaks. He continues, still deeply in his own mind.
     
    VICTOR: I have, as a result, room to appoint a new member to the Titan board.
    TYLER: Do you have anyone in mind?
    VICTOR: Not really. No one I particularly trust, anyway. Phillip’s removed himself from the board while he’s working for another company, and Daniel has no interest in the business.
    TYLER: I see.
     
    Victor looks up at Tyler suddenly, his gaze piercing through Tyler, almost causing Tyler to jump back a bit.
     
    VICTOR: I was considering my wife.
    TYLER: Oh?
    VICTOR: Yes. I have set up arrangements so that my wife will have full ownership over the top floor of this property. She’ll be regenerating the space as The Penthouse Grille once again. I’ll need your sign-off, of course on that.
     
    Tyler, still a bit off-kilter, almost intimidated by Victor, nods quickly to Victor’s request.
     
    TYLER: Absolutely. No problem. I do have to...well, question your taking on your wife as a board member, I mean…what kind of business credentials does she have, really?
     
    Victor looks at Tyler incredulously. He scoffs back at Tyler.
     
    VICTOR: She owns three thriving restaurants across the city, and is about to reopen a fourth, all while also running a health spa. I don’t know, Tyler. You tell me. She goes by Maggie Horton in the professional world, perhaps you’ve heard of her.
     
    Tyler’s eyes widen, surprised to hear the woman he’d been flirting with was Victor’s wife, and so accomplished.
     
    ---
     
    Eric steps out from the parking lot outside Horton Town Square and locks his car remotely. He stands in the park just outside Town Square and smiles widely, a relaxed feeling he hasn’t felt in ages.
     
    ERIC: Everything’s set. Now…the last step.
     
    Eric pulls his phone out of his pocket and texts Nicole.
     
    meet me @ Anderson park 535. dont b late, its important. Love, eric
     
    Eric smiles as he hits send.
     
    ERIC: And now, we wait.
     
    ---
     
    Laura walks briskly back down the opposite hallway, in hot pursuit of Marlena, who’s just about to enter Jennifer’s office. Before Marlena has a chance to knock, Laura calls out to her.
     
    LAURA: Marlena!
     
    Marlena turns quickly to see a panicked Laura.
     
    LAURA: I really need you for a moment, it’s urgent! I think someone’s breaking into your office.
     
    Marlena draws herself up, a worry rushing over her as she lets go of the handle of Jennifer’s door.
     
    ---
     
    Inside Marlena’s office, Liam leaves the light off, but pulls a pocket flashlight from his pocket, attached to his key ring. Holding the keys so they don’t jingle, he walks over to Marlena’s desk.

    He crouches down, and attempts to open the top drawer. It’s locked.
     
    Noting that a couple are locked, he quickly adjusts his key ring to pull out a long pin-shaped device. Sliding the device into the lock, he manages to fix the lock to open the drawer. He begins to dig inside, while holding the flashlight above the drawer. He spots what he’s looking for.
     
    LIAM: Bingo.
     
    Pulling the pad out, and sliding them quickly into his pocket, Liam quickly closes the drawers and gets up, heading quickly for the door.
     
     
     
     
     
    As Liam heads for the door, Will makes his way down the hallway, approaching Marlena’s office door. As he puts his hand up to the handle of her office door, Laura and Marlena quickly approach, concerned looks on their faces as Marlena call out to him.
     
    MARLENA: WILL!
     
    Will turns around fast, smiling widely as he spots his grandmother and Laura. His smile fades as he looks at their worried expressions.
     
    WILL: Hey! I was just looking for you. Uh…you alright?
    MARLENA: Yes. I…we’re fine. We just had a scare. Laura was…just telling me she thought someone had broken into my office. You…weren’t just in there looking for me, were you?
     
    Laura looks on, realizing that Will is dressed almost exactly the same as Liam, and realizes she could easily have confused him for Liam. She sheepishly responds as she begins to second-guess herself.
     
    LAURA: Uh…maybe I…I must have made a mistake. I…saw you in the hall, Will and had to…call Marlena over. I thought…well, it doesn’t matter. Uh…mm…hey, I bought Arianna an early Christmas gift. It’s…in my office if you wanted to come see.
     
    Will smiles broadly, though still confused. He nods at Laura, while Marlena smiles.
     
    WILL: Uhmm…sure! I have to get going in a minute though. Family…dinner tonight or something.
    LAURA: Oh, I won’t keep you long.
    MARLENA: I have to grab something from you anyway, so I’ll come along.
    LAURA: Great! Let’s go…
     
    Laura scurries away, as Marlena and Will look at each other with confusion.
     
    After Marlena and Will walk away, Liam creaks the door open to Marlena’s office. Seeing them round the corner, and noting that coast is now clear, he slyly exits Marlena’s office, before heading casually back down the hall. He gets on his cell phone once again.
     
    LIAM: (into phone) I got everything you need. I’ll be at the pier in ten.

    Liam hangs up, rolls his eyes, and sighs, as he walks over to the elevator, hitting the down button and waiting for the elevator to arrive.
     
    ---
     

    Hope drives the road, heading for the elementary school to pick up Ciara. As she drives, she’s in the middle of a call piped through the sound system in her car. It’s Rafe.
     
    RAFE: (through the speakers) I’m just gonna put through the final papers on that case and we’re done, alright?
    HOPE: Sounds good, Rafe. Um…Rafe, I have to meet with that…(sigh) Aiden Jennings tomorrow morning, can you…
     
    Midsentence, Hope spots the infamous rental van parked outside a house she’s driving by. She becomes transfixed by it, nearly running herself off the road. Hope slows down slightly, as she changes her subject to Rafe.
     
    HOPE: Uhm…Rafe?
    RAFE: (through the speakers) Yeah.
    HOPE: What was that description you gave me of the burglary suspect?
     
    After a moment, with the sound of papers ruffling, Rafe finally answers.
     
    RAFE: (through the speakers) Uhhhh…black man, 6 foot, driving a rental van. Possibly wearing an out of state college sweater—
     
    Hope interjects before Rafe can even finish.
     
    HOPE: …I think I just got him. Hold on.
    RAFE: (through the speakers) What? …
     
    Rafe’s next comments get cut off as Hope parks her car and quickly turns off the ignition. She steps out into the street, as Jerome walks back over the back of the van, placing the box he had planned on bringing into Valerie’s house back inside the van. He mutters to himself.
     
    JEROME: I can’t believe I forgot my phone…
     
    As Jerome shuts the back doors to the van, Hope appears behind the door, gun in hand, pointed at a stunned Jerome.
     
    HOPE: Put your hands up! You’re under arrest!
    JEROME: WHAT?!?
    HOPE: NOW!
     
    Jerome, visibly angered, but knowing he shouldn’t say another word, raises his hands, palms facing Hope as he turns to face her, a resigned look on his face.
     
    ---
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
  24. beebs
    EPISODE 85
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
    Laura, Marlena and Will walk into Laura's office at University Hospital, laughing as Laura tries to break the tension from her earlier close encounter with Liam.
    LAURA: So, I was hoping to grab something Ariana was really going to need, but...I kept thinking to myself, "Laura, remember when you just had Jennifer, and all you wanted was a couple glasses of wine to mellow you and Bill out?"...and then I remembered that you and Sonny are nowhere as dysfunctional as Bill and I, so (laughs) I just went with it.
    Will and Marlena laugh as Laura reaches down into the cabinet behind her desk and pulls out a rather large box. Will looks on, pleasantly surprised by Laura's gesture, as she sets it down on her desk, but is unsure whether or not to open the package. Laura motions towards him.
    WILL: I...what is this?
    LAURA: Go on! Open it! I have another one for your wedding, so don't feel like you have to wait on Sonny. This one is all for you.
    Will smiles warmly at Laura. Feeling a bit emotional, he sighs as he responds.
    WILL: Thank you, Laura. You know, you don't have to do all these things for us.
    LAURA: But I enjoy doing them.
    MARLENA: And, I have to say, she is persistent too!
    Everyone shares a laugh, as Will opens the package, revealing a set of wine glasses, and a pair of fine wines, one red, one white. Will is stunned by the gift.
    WILL: I...Laura! Oh my GOD, you didn't have to do this for us!
    Will leans over and gives Laura a warm hug. Will, Laura, and Marlena share a laugh, as Will's phone rings. Separating from their hug, Will looks at Laura and Marlena apologetically.
    WILL: Sorry, I...I gotta take this.
    LAURA: Oh, not to worry. Go ahead.
    WILL: Thanks.
    Will turns to head out into the hall, and sees who's phoning. He glowers a bit when he sees it's Sonny.
    ...

    Sonny calls Will's phone from outside Club TBD, hoping to get an answer from his fiancee.  As the phone rings repeatedly, Sonny becomes increasingly impatient.
    SONNY: Come on....come on, Will, pick up.
    Exasperated, and just about to hang up, Sonny is about to move the phone from his ear when Will finally answers.
    ...
    WILL: (into phone) Hello?
    ...
    Sonny immediately bugs his eyes out, glad to finally get an answer, but annoyed he had to wait so long. He covers his annoyance on the phone.
    SONNY: (into phone) Hey! I uh...I'm heading to Victor's now, just...wanted to check to see if you were on your way.
    ...
    Will closes the door to Laura's office behind him, a bit annoyed by Sonny's persistence. Will doesn't hide his exasperation, however.
    WILL: (into phone) Of course, I am, Sonny. Just...finishing up at the hospital.
    ...
    Sonny, sensing Will's frustration, gets a bit agitated, but tries to suppress it.
    SONNY: (into phone) Look, I'm sorry I bugged you, but...we haven't been talking much the last few days, and I was worried you were gonna back out.
    ...
    WILL: (Into phone) I'm not gonna back out, Sonny. I keep my promises.
    ...
    Sonny bites his tongue, knowing the subtle implications of what Will just said. He smiles sarcastically, and responds politely, but coldly.
    SONNY: (into phone) I'll be there in 15. Meet you at the gate?
    ...
    WILL: (into phone) Will do. 
    Will hangs up the phone immediately.
    ...
    SONNY: (into phone) I--
    Sonny hears the phone click, ending the call. He stammers in frustration at Will's continued petulence. 
    SONNY: ...love you.
    Sonny sighs, disappointed by how the call's gone. He walks off toward his car.
    ---

    Kate walks back toward the seat where she and Nick had been waiting for Gabi, with Ari in her arms. Nick still looks distraught, the searing headache still gripping him. She looks on, feigning concern, slightly.
    KATE: Didn't find anything for that headache, hm?
    Nick looks up, sitting at the booth, lifting his head from the table. He looks groggy.
    NICK: No, I did. Just...didn't work.
    KATE: I see, so I guess Gabi's your only hope then, now, hm?
    NICK: I dunno. These headaches have been getting pretty bad.
    Kate smirks as she starts to put Ari in her high chair.
    KATE: Well, then! I guess you're going to need something stronger to dull the pain, aren't you?

    Trying to hold in her smug laughter, Kate looks over suddenly as she hears Gabi walks in just at that moment, the bag of pills in hand. Almost leaping over to the table, she reaches into the bag and pulls out the bottle of what appears to be acetominophen. Handing it over to Nick, she smiles.
    GABI: Here you go, Nick.
    Nick smiles back, accepting the pill bottle eagerly. Kate looks on with amusement.
    NICK: You're a lifesaver.
    KATE: Yes, she certainly is.
    Gabi looks at Kate curiously, as Kate looks back with her trademark smirk.
    Nick takes the glass of water on the table in front of him and downs two of the pills quickly. Gabi breathes a quick sigh of relief, as Nick gets up from his seat.
    NICK: I uh...I need to go to the bathroom just a minute. You'll...you'll watch my things, yeah?
    GABI: Of course!
    NICK: Thanks. I'll be right back.
    Kate smiles, playing with Ari as she watches Nick leave.
    KATE: We'll be waiting!
    Once Nick's out of eyeshot, Gabi sits down nervously by Nick's things. Kate looks at Gabi with a knowing look, which renders Gabi ten times more nervous than she was already.
    GABI: Kate, you're....you're scaring me.
    KATE: Oh, I'm sorry. I just...I can't get over your chutzpah!
    Gabi looks at Kate, increasingly confused.
    GABI: My what? Kate, what are you talking about?
    KATE: Why Gabi, don't be so coy! It's not every day you get your psycho ex-boyfriend hooked on prescription drugs again. Quite frankly, I'm impressed.
    Gabi looks at Kate, horrified that she's been caught, as Kate casually sips on her martini.
    ---

    Hope is at the Salem Police Station, questioning Jerome in the interrogation room, as Valerie Grant storms into the station, the look of a woman on a mission. She stops at Rafe's desk, trying to grab his attention.
    RAFE: Uh, can I help you?
    VALERIE: Yes, you can start by explaining to me why my grandson has been arrested for having the audacity to move into my home, and make it fast.
    Rafe looks on, a cocky grin on his face as he prepares to do battle with Valerie.
    ---
     

    ---
    Inside the interrogation room, Hope interrogates Jerome about his alleged crime spree. Jerome continues to evade all of Hope's questions, looking straight ahead at nothing in particular, deep in his own thoughts.
    HOPE: Look, we're getting nowhere, and you're going nowhere before you talk.
    Jerome doesn't respond, as though not even in the same room. Hope becomes exasperated and gets up from her chair, slamming the palms of her hands against the table in frustration.
    HOPE: Dammit, Jerome, talk to me.
    Jerome doesn't move, except for his eyes, which suddenly flash, as he looks at Hope.
    JEROME: Why? So you can intimidate me with what you claim you know about me?
    HOPE: No, because we need the truth. Now, I'm not gonna ask you again: What were you doing with that rental van?
    Jerome bites his lip a moment, before finally answering.
    JEROME: You want the truth, hm? 
    Hope stands upright, thinking she's finally got somewhere.
    HOPE:Ideally.
    Jerome looks Hope dead in the eyes, disdain and malice cutting the tension in the air.
    JEROME: How's this for you? If you had done any research before making your arrest, you would know that that was my rental that I used to bring my stuff from Toronto to Salem. If you had bothered to check whose house you stopped at, you'd know that was my grandmother's house I was parked in front of, trying to move my things inside. If you remembered anything, which I get the strange feeling you know a lot more than you're letting on, you'd know that Valerie Grant was going to marry your nephew, a certain...David Banning? Yeah. So you only had to make one two minute phone call to see that my story checks out. But that would be too difficult for you, wouldn't it? Because anytime a black man 'fits the description', y'all are all too happy to scoop him up whether you have a shred of credible evidence or not--
    Hope finally snaps, not wanting to hear Jerome's accusations of racial prejudice.
    HOPE: ...ENOUGH! Look, this has nothing to do with the colour of your skin, Jerome. Whether you want to believe it or not, we had every reason to arrest you for these burglaries. The description matched you perfectly--
    The sound of Valerie's voice cuts through, stopping Hope in her tracks.
    VALERIE: ...Let me guess. Black male, mid-to-late 20s, muscular build, wearing a hoodie.
    Hope turns around to see a fuming Valerie at her door, with Rafe close behind. Valerie continues into the room, a confident stride as she steps toward Hope in confrontation.
    VALERIE: Am I getting warm, Detective Williams?
    Hope stands, unable to think clearly when faced with her nephew's ex-fiancee. She looks to Rafe, who looks on, a bit sheepish.
    HOPE: What is she doing in here? This is an interrogation ro--
    VALERIE: ...And this interrogation is OVER. It ends NOW, Hope.
    RAFE: The, uh...the boys brought in the real perp. Caught in a woman's house on Greeson St.
    Hope turns, and Jerome looks up to see the main room, where a man in a similar hoodie to Jerome's is brought in...but the man is white. Valerie looks back in the room, giving almost menacing looks at Rafe and Hope.
    VALERIE: Another accurate description by the local police. And they wonder why we're dying.
    Valerie looks at the ground, disappointment stinging her watering eyes, before she speaks again, looking at Hope at the tail end of her sentence.
    VALERIE: Is my grandson free to go?
    Hope doesn't speak, only nodding in agreement. Valerie turns to Jerome, as Rafe walks over to remove his handcuffs.
    VALERIE: Let's go, baby.
    As Jerome's handcuffs are removed, Valerie guides Jerome out the door. Before stepping out, she turns to Hope one last time.
    VALERIE: Give David my regards, Hope.
    Hope looks on, too stunned to respond, as Rafe guides Jerome and Valerie out of the room. The door closes behind them, as Hope turns away, looking shellshocked by what's just transpired.
    ---
    Gabi looks behind her, hoping that Nick hasn't heard what Kate's just said, before leaning in and speaking just above a whisper to Kate.
    GABI: What are you talking about, Kate?
    Kate almost chokes on her martini, setting it down on the table as she tries to hold back her laughter.
    KATE: Gabi, come on! You can drop the act. I heard your phone conversation.
    GABI: WHAT? You were spying on me, Kate?
    KATE: Ohhh, relax. Honestly, I'm actually impressed. I wish I'd come up with it, myself. The truth is, if you're going to get rid of Nick, the best way to work is under his nose. So tell me, who's supplying you?
    Gabi sighs, as she tries to find a way to evade the question.
    GABI: Look, Kate, I really can't talk about this here. Nick could be back any moment, and--
    KATE: ...And you don't want to get caught with that perscription pad you're also trying to hide from me, right?
    Gabi looks down, terrified that Kate really does know what's going on. Kate looks quickly down toward Nick's bag and nods very subtly, a signal to Gabi.
    Gabi takes the cue and gently glides Marlena's perscription pad into Nick's laptop bag. Kate reaches out at this point across the table to Gabi, attempting to reassure her.
    KATE: Gabi, you need to understand something. I've been in your shoes before. My ex-husband was an absolute tyrant, and I regret not having taken the steps to put him away when I had the chance. I lost years with Billie and Austin I'll never get back because of that, and there's no way I'm going to let the likes of Nick Fallon do the same to you.
    GABI: Kate, thank you. But you don't need to get involved in this, I'm handling it.
    KATE: I'm sure you are...as well as you're able to.
    Gabi looks at Kate, a bit annoyed at her lack of faith.
    GABI: What's that supposed to mean?
    KATE: It means you need all the resources you can get. I heard you on that phone call. Let me guess, the police didn't take the bait the first time, and that's why you're trying again, this time taking the extra...embellishment of planting perscriptions pads on him? It's smart, but you have to have a plan B. Someone to help you with the potential pitfalls.
    Kate looks over at this point, and sees Nick approaching. She nods and almost mouths her next words.
    KATE: (whipsers) Think about it.
    Nick steps over to the table, still a bit groggy.
    GABI: Nick. How are you feeling?
    NICK: I'm uh...still a litle sore, but...the pain's going down at least. Thanks for running out and grabbing the pills for me. I owe you one.
    Gabi waves dismissively at Nick's offer.
    GABI: Oh, it's nothing. Don't even worry. You don't have to pay me back for that.
    Kate looks at Gabi, trying to hold back a smile at the hidden irony, as Gabi tries to ignore Kate's look.
    GABI: Uh, hey. If you're free at all tomorrow night, we should get together for a bit.
    NICK: I'd like that. 
    GABI: Great, text me.
    NICK: Sounds good. Hey, could you grab me my bag from the corner there.
    GABI: OH, sure!
    Gabi reaches around to lift Nick's bag over, the perscription pads poking out slightly. Gabi spots it and slyly pushes them in as Nick takes the bag.
    NICK: See you ladies later on. OH, and Kate. We have to talk about your current proposal soon.
    Kate looks ahead, drink in hand, almost completely ignoring Nick.
    KATE: Nick, we have nothing to talk about. You handle your business, and I'll handle the rest.
    NICK: So you're okay with Gabi taking on the modelling gig?
    KATE: If she's okay with it.
    Kate looks at a stunned Gabi, who is studying Kate's face, looking for a clue as to what she should say in this moment. On the spot, she chokes out a reply.
    GABI: I....sure! Yes! Sure.
    KATE: Great! We'll sign the papers at my office tomorrow morning, okay?
    GABI: Sure!
    NICK: Okay, well, I'm out then.
    KATE & GABI: Bye, Nick!
    As Nick heads out, Gabi and Kate wait with baited breath to see him close the door to the Brady Pub behind him. The moment it closes, Gabi turns quickly, and angrily to Kate.
    GABI: What was that, Kate?? You told me you were trying to get me away from Nick, not sucking me deeper into his...sick...web.
    Kate raises her glass, smiling widely as she offers a toast to Gabi.
    KATE: Oh, don't worry, Gabi. You may not realize it now, but I have everything under control. You're just gonna have to trust me.
    Kate takes a sip, smiling as she does, while Gabi looks on in stunned amazement.
    ---
    Will walks up to an awaiting Sonny outside the front door of the Kiriakis manion. Will looks anything but pleased to be there, but Sonny manages a half-hearted smile. He speaks nervously.
    SONNY: Hey...you made it.
    WILL: Yep. Just like I promised.
    SONNY: Yeah, you mentioned on the phone. Look, Will...just...speaking of promises, can you and I...make a deal? A pact?
    Will almost laughs in Sonny's face, giving a spiteful smile to Sonny's request.
    WILL: Heh...Sonny, come on. Your promises don't mean much to me right now.
    SONNY: Will, I'm serious. Let me...make this a chance to make it up to you.
    Will's smile disappears, looking down to one side as he sighs, knowing Sonny's being earnest.
    WILL: Alright. What do you want us to do?
    Sonny steps toward Will, placing his hands on Will's shoulders tenderly. Will flinches, but doesn't step back.
    SONNY: Just...pretend to be happy, for tonight. Look, my...my parents will be here, and...you know how my mom is about you and I...just...we'll pretend nothing's wrong, and whatever we're feeling, we can talk it out tomorrow. We'll sit down, have breakfast...and we'll talk. Just you and I.
    Will takes a moment to think over his words, still not quite looking Sonny in the eye. He finally looks up, nodding slowly in agreement.
    WILL: Okay. But don't expect instant results.
    Sonny smiles, finally being given a glimmer of hope by his fiancé.
    SONNY: Thank you. (sigh) Look, we...we better go in.
    WILL: After you.
    Sonny walks up to the door, and rings the doorbell. Henderson opens the door.
    SONNY: Hey, Henderson, we're here...
    Sonny is taken aback, when he looks behind Henderson, to see a face he hasn't seen in years.
    SONNY: Oh my God....Alex???
    ALEX: Hey, my man, how are you??
    SONNY: Oh WOW, this is...WOW, look at you, man! It's so good to see you!

    Sonny races inside to give Alex a hug, as Will steps inside, a wave of horror washes over him. Sonny turns to face Will, a huge smile on his face as he speaks.
    SONNY: Alex, I want you to meet my fiancé, Will Horton. Will, this is my brother, Alex Kiriakis.
    Will turns ghost white, stunned into silence.
    ---
  25. beebs
    EPISODE 60
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson  
     

    At Titan HQ, Victor and Tyler approach the closed doors of the Titan board room. Victor motions to Tyler to stop before entering.
     
    VICTOR: Now. Remember what we planned. This has to go down properly.
    TYLER: Victor, as long as you have Kate and her kids on board, it tips the balance.
    VICTOR: That's true. And having my vote plus Brady's proxy vote will make all the difference. If we lose the TV station, we are never going to get the public support for the fracking operation. We need that station, dammit. Nothing, and I mean nothing can go wrong today.
     
    ---
     

    Hope knocks on the door of the MadWorld lab, seeing Nick closing up his briefcase. Nick, hearing the knock, looks up and smiles, seeing his cousin.
     
    NICK: Hope! What a great surprise. How are you?
     
    Nick walks over and gives Hope a big hug.
     
    HOPE: Good to see you. Got time for lunch?
    NICK: You know, I was just about to head out for lunch. I just gotta stop off at my place quickly for a sec, do you mind tagging along?
    HOPE: No, no. No problem at all.
    NICK: Great. Uh...give me one sec. I just gotta run to the bathroom and we can go, okay?
    HOPE: Sure! I'll just wait here.
    NICK: Awesome.
     
    Nick steps out of the lab, leading Hope to immediately begin casually snooping around. A bottle on one of the shelves catches Hope's eye, and she reaches up to grab it.
     
    ---
     

    Will steps into his living room, where Sonny is prepping lunch. Will smiles as he walks over to his fiancee and kisses him quickly on the lips.
     
    SONNY: Hey. How's Ari?
    WILL: Oh, I just laid her down to sleep, so she'll be out for awhile.Gabi's gone to run some errands. Which is perfect because I need to share some news with you.
    SONNY: Oh?
    WILL: Yeah...well...you know how your uncle Vic is involved in this whole...EnerNext business?
     
    Sonny looks at Will with an almost suspect look in his eyes, trying to figure out where he's going with this.
     
    SONNY: Yes. And you also know how I feel about that project.
    WILL: Well, that's it. I know you're dead set against it because of the environmental damage and the pollution it could cause--
    SONNY: ...Will cause, Will. Not to mention, don't you think it's really convenient that they're planning to do all this fracking right near the poorest section of Salem?
    WILL: I know, but...you know, this could be good for people in those areas too, no? I mean...the jobs that that could create--
    SONNY: ...Will. They will be spending all that money in health care. The pollution...Salem would be completely inhospitable if they go ahead with this fracking operation.
    WILL: Oh come on. Lots of places do this, and they're just fine.
     
    Sonny pauses and looks at Will with confusion.
     
    SONNY: Will, why are you so defensive of Uncle Vic's fracking project. What's going on?
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Hope grabs a pill bottle from the shelf and opens it.
     
    HOPE: Empty.
     
    Hope puts it back on the shelf, not sure if she should be thrilled or disappointed. She keeps looking before hearing the door swing open, and Hope jumps back into an awkward waiting pose as Nick walks in.
     
    NICK: Ready?
    HOPE: Yeah! Let's go!
     
    Hope looks back into the lab, trying to think of any other place Nick could have hid any pills before they walk out, and Nick closes the door.
     
    ---
     
    Will stumbles over his words, trying to formulate the best way to tell Sonny the truth. Sonny pours himself a glass of juice and takes a drink as Will explains himself.
     
    WILL: Well...see, I ran into Aunt Maggie yesterday, right?
    SONNY: (through his drink) Mmhmm.
    WILL: And, well, I had written an article that I'd had published on a blog. I showed you that article, yeah?
     
    Sonny nods as he sits down on the sofa next to Will.
     
    SONNY: Yeah, I know which one. That was a really good article.
     
    Will smiles, still flattered by his husband's praise, even if it's almost expected of Sonny.
     
    WILL: Thank you. Well, Aunt Maggie liked it too, and the next thing I know, I get this call from this man, Tyler Houston.
     
    Sonny's expression changes immediately when Sonny hears the name. Will pulls out the contract Tyler handed him from his bag and shows it to Sonny.
     
    SONNY: Oh no, not...
    WILL: And...Sonny, he liked my work so much that...offered me a job. A good job, I'd be the one writing all public relations releases for EnerNext.
    SONNY: Oh no, NO way.
     
    Will is taken aback by Sonny's visceral refusal.
     
    ---
     

    Victor opens the doors to the board room to find a room filled with executives from various divisions of the corporation, including Kate, Billie, Lucas, and Justin. Tyler walks in alongside Victor, and the two prepare to sit down at the head of the table.
     
    VICTOR: Good afternoon, everyone. I trust we will be able to settle this with some expediency, as my grandson's so-called memorial service will be held later this afternoon. 
     
    Kate looks over to Lucas, hiding her mouth with her one hand as she whipsers to him.
     
    KATE: Poor old fool still thinks there's a chance that boy's alive.
    LUCAS: Well, he's right. There's no body.
    KATE: That means nothing, it's all just an attempt to keep the votes in his favour and you know it.
     
    Victor continues to speak, grabbing an envelope from Tyler as he continues his announcement to the room.
     
    VICTOR: Now on that note, as we have no actual confirmation of Brady's untimely demise, I move to have his place on the board retained until such time as there is an official death certificate issued by the coroner's office.
    BILLIE: Well, Victor, that could take months!
    VICTOR: I'm well aware of that. I'm not jumping the gun on this. Brady is family, and I'm not giving up on him, unlike some of his so-called friends in this damn town. So on that note, and in the absence of his father, I will act as Brady's proxy on today's vote.
     
    Kate rolls her eyes and looks to Lucas again.
     
    KATE: Told you.
    LUCAS: But will that give him enough votes to win?
    KATE: Not sure, there's a couple wild cards. But I will say this, if Victor does get his way, start looking for a new job. Fast.
     
    Victor opens his briefcase, pulling out paper packages which he begins handing out to the members of the board gathered around the table. Once the paperwork is handed out, Victor continues.
     
    VICTOR: Now, the matter at hand today is a motion put forth by one of our board members, one that I am fundamentally opposed to, I might add. It is, as a costcutting matter, whether or not to shed our television operations. I need not explain to you the service our TV station will provide us in the fight against the loopy treehuggers who want to shut EnerNext down. If we shut down the TV station and sell it off, sure it will save us some money. However, if we don't get this fracking operation on the right side of public opinion, this company will be in very real danger of brankruptcy, and we can't let that happen.
     
    Tyler steps in at this point, continuing Victor's statement.
     
    TYLER: Now, I would like to have the board member who put forth the motion to have their say. Justin?
     
    Justin Kiriakis stands, buttoning his suit jacket button as he begins. He begins with a bit of trepidation, but picks up steam quickly, as his lawyer instincts kick in.
     
    JUSTIN: Ahh yes. Thank you, Tyler. Now, as I am legal counsel for Titan, and, by extension, EnerNext, I have brought forth this motion to prevent any possible...concerns we may have down the road, particularly with regards to any potential anti-trust lawsuits, as well as a particularly glaring conflict of interest between Titan TV and its reporting on the EnerNext deal. 
     
    Kate leans over once again, to Billie this time, and whispers her rolling commentary yet again.
     
    KATE: Uh oh. Dear old Uncle Vic's gonna have some choice words for little Justin.
     
    Billie looks at her mom with a smile, trying not to laugh.
     
    BILLIE: (whispering) Mom, stop!
    KATE: (whispering) Well, it's true! If I'd done something like this, Victor would've had me hung.
     
    Justin tries to ignore Kate and Billie, barely giving the faintest of eye rolls as he continues to make his case to the board.
     
    JUSTIN: While I am fully in support of the EnerNext proposal, I...do think we would be better off long term avoiding possible FCC fines, that could be in the region of tens of millions of dollars, if not more. The revenue from the EnerNext deal may not be enough to offset the potential disastrous effects of the FCC fines, and we may end up in an even worse situation than we're in already. Thank you.
     
    The board members flip contientiously through the handouts provided, and there is a bit of a pause between the end of Justin's speech and when Victor rises back up from his seat at the head of the board room table to finish up.
     
    VICTOR: Thank you, Justin. Now, with that, I would like to quickly ask if there are any concerns or questions from the board before we vote.
     
    Victor takes a quick pause, looking around the room, as do all the other board members, eager to see what the others in the room have to say. When no one speaks up, Victor continues.
     
    VICTOR: Very well. In that case. We will commence voting. If in favour of retaining Titan TV, vote Aye. If you're in favour of divestment, vote nay. Tyler Houston.
    TYLER: Aye.
    VICTOR: Nelson Hamilton.
    NELSON: Aye.
    VICTOR: Justin Kiriakis.
    JUSTIN: Nay.
     
    Victor looks at his nephew with a look of disappointment, as the vote continues to the next board member.
     
    VICTOR: Michael Browning.
    MICHAEL: Aye.
    VICTOR: Billie Reed.
     
    Billie breathes in deeply before responding.
     
    BILLIE: Nay.
     
    Victor's expression changes immediately, as he looks Billie's way, shooting daggers from his eyes. He continues the voting, with a much more bitter tone in his voice.
     
    VICTOR: Lucas Horton.
     
    Lucas responds, never taking his eyes off his mother.
     
    LUCAS: Nay.
     
    Victor looks at Lucas and Kate, noticing the communication happening between them just with their eyes. Lucas almost mouths to his mother.
     
    LUCAS: I hope you know what you're doing.
     
    Kate nods her response to Lucas, before the inevitable. Victor almost spits out Kate's name.
     
    VICTOR: Kate Roberts.
     
    Kate turns her glare the way of Victor, and, staring him down as if facing the devil himself, responds cooly.
     
    KATE: Nay.
     
    Victor holds his stareat Kate for a moment before looking back out to the board room before him.
     
    VICTOR: Victor Kiriakis. Yay. And naturally, as John nor Brady is present, I will be voting for Brady by proxy, and I--
     
    The moment these words escape Victor's lips, the board's attention is pulled away suddenly by the board room doors opening. Victor and Tyler quickly turn around, shocked by the abrupt noise behind them.
     

    Before them, John stands in the now-open doorway, nodding his greeting to the room, with a cool confidence.
     
    JOHN: Sorry, I'm late, everyone.
     
    Victor looks at John with a stoic look, but dread lingers behind his eyes.
     
    ---
     
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

  I accept