beebs

That's what's interesting to me. She seems to have gone back to the Ann Marcus lightning pace that very clearly did not work for Marcus. Granted, I know the times had changed, and rather rapidly, but even GH had plenty of room for character development, whereas we still don't really understand what Chandler's end goal really is, or why they're so hellbent on controlling every aspect of everyone in Salem's lives. I would've been interested in hearing more about Sunny Chandler, her sons, and her fate. Probably one of the only truly intriguing bits of the Chandler family mess, and that, of course, is the one thread that's dropped. It's so odd to me that both Joshua and Tod linger on the show on and off for the next few years, and yet it sounds like they never find out they're brothers? Bizarre. (ETA: They may yet, looks like October addresses the lingering mystery) I think you're onto something @Franko re: Laemmle trying to craft DAYS as Dallas. Kind of silly since so many other shows are going the same road at this point, most notably OLTL with the Buchanans, and to much greater success. Once again, daytime doesn't understand that the key to success is to be different, not to ape what's working elsewhere. Shall we see the transition from Laemmle to Tomlin/Poteet-Lisanti? I should point out that I'm one of few who liked much of Tomlin's last run (until his heavy-hitters all left and he replaced them with the Ozark Buffoon Crew and elephant statues, of course), so I'm kind of biased to like what he writes, but...we'll see. OCTOBER 1980! Mickey is starting to feel neglected by Maggie, while she spends so much time tending to Kyle, but Maggie insists he needs a friend. Mickey, feeling jealous, talks to Neil about his insecurity. Neil affirms what Maggie's been saying: while yes, Maggie has spent a lot of time with the paralysed football player, Kyle needs Maggie's support. Mickey is pacified by Neil's confirmation. God knows why, but Julie feels guilty for Lee's stroke EVEN THOUGH THE BITCH WAS TRYING TO WHACK HER WHEN IT HAPPENED! Doug reassures her that Lee is to blame for her own stroke, because she didn't take her meds right. Does Julie even realize she was about 0.4 seconds away from being back in the emergency ward? Cos like... While Doug is tending to his nasty wife, Julie goes to the club, and spends time with Neil (who is exactly the LAST person who should be at a casino). They discuss their respective problems (Liz cutting Neil off for dubious reasons, Lee's brain not working on one side), and Neil suggests they go back to his place. Julie refuses, even after Neil promises not to get fresh. Julie leaves him, and re-enters later to find him at the blackjack table. Julie has the most powerful glare in all of humanity because the instant they lock eyes, Neil backs away from the table almost reflexively. But Neil can't be kept away from the blackjack tables, and when Doug and Julie spy Neil back at them later on, they have Joshua keep an eye on him, hoping to stop him before he bets. Julie scolds Neil about his turning to gamlbing. Neil admits to Julie that his breakup with Liz has driven him back to the tables. Lee wants Doug to move back into the penthouse to help care for her. Doug refuses, but Neil suggests Doug do so to help with Lee's recovery. Doug relents. When Doug tells Julie the news, she's livid, but after the initial flare of anger, becomes more understanding, and goes along with Doug's supposed obligation to Lee. Doug has also settled on a decision, however, and will not move back into the penthouse. Lee pretends to understand, but secretly reaffirms her commitment to staying an invalid so that Doug will be forever tied to her. Julie, suspecting Lee is doing exactly what Lee is doing, accuses Lee of doing exactly what Lee is doing. Lee is indignant that Julie should accuse her of doing exactly what she is doing, and begins to do exactly that: pretends she's a helpless wounded victim, and that she can't breathe. After Lee gasps at Julie to get out, Julie runs out into the hallway to call for help. As Julie does this, Lee leans back in her bed, and breathes deeply. Once Neil arrives in Lee's room, he "talks her down", telling Lee she's just hyperventilating. Lee asks Neil not to let her see Julie again. When Doug arrives at the hospital, he has a go at Julie for seeing Lee. Because of course, he does, the dumbass. Kyle gets his legs out of casts, and they do a chem test with Lee, who, during therapy, sees Lee having a hissy fit. She's displeased when Kyle nicknames her Contessa, but her mood quickly changes when Doug shows up. Kyle admits to Doug that he's been keeping an eye on Lee and sees how she's been struggling. Doug asks Kyle to keep an eye on Lee's progress for him. Lee gives Kyle a shy smile. I guess the flirtation begins. Neil, being refused to be dealt in at Doug's Club, is approached by a shady figure who tells Neil about a nearby poker game at the Salem Inn. Neil asks to be cut in. Doug, meanwhile, begs Neil to try again to contact Liz, hoping to keep Neil away from the casino. Neil feels it's hopeless, something Liz confirms to Doug while they're out on the campaign trail together. Mickey and Maggie invite Kyle to their place for dinner. He is reluctant at first, before Mickey insists. During his therapy, however, Kyle falls. Maggie is there to lend a hand of support as Kyle talks about his fear of an operation, but Mickey walks in at that moment, and is instantly insecure, disappearing before anyone else sees him there. Lee is on thin ice. Doug tells her that if she doesn't start making some effort, he's not going to visit her any longer. Lee miraculously moves her hand suddenly! Liz and Don go out campaigning for the $#!tbag, and get cozy at an intimate dinner at Don's hotel room. They drink and drink and drink and then Liz cries on Don's shoulder about what she thinks Neil did to her, and Don claims Marlena's giving him a hassle (which is entirely of Don's own creation, of course), and Liz has a meltdown because she's feeling insecure over being rejected AGAIN and Don comforts her and butters her up with compliments and then kisses her and then they screw. Yayyyyy.... Don and Liz wake up the next day and regret their actions. Liz promises to keep it secret, knowing it was only comfort, and nothing serious. Marlena, meanwhile, tells Kellam that she and Don are having problems (Marlena is obviously lacking close girlfriends if Kellam is who she turns to). According to SOD she tells him he is "very" understanding. I'm sure. So understand that Kellam's hired a PI. She contacts Kellam and tells him she saw Don with another woman, but can't identify who the woman is. Kellam asks her back to Salem ASAP, where he instructs her to become friendly with Marlena and casually mention Don's affair to her in conversation, but makes it clear he doesn't want to be linked to the information. Kim, the PI, encounters Marlena at campaign HQ, and somehow manages to bring up her ex-husband's infidelity without it being incredibly forward for a first conversation, yet can't bring herself to tell Marlena about Don and Liz. I guess some topics are too awkward for even Kim to slip into polite conversation with strangers. Hours later, Kim and Marlena have another random heart-to-heart, before Kellam calls Kim at headquarters, presumably to scold her on her lack of progress. As they discuss Don's indiscretion, Marlena walks in and overhears the whole thing. OOPS! Of course, Marlena doesn't know who Kim's talking to. Ironically, Kellam's actually on the phone telling Kim to hold off on telling Marlena about Don and Liz's tryst when this happens. Sketchy. Don returns from the campaign trail, and Marlena is an ice queen with him. When he presses, she breaks down in tears and asks him point blank if he's been having an affair. Don weasels his way out of it, saying it wasn't an AFFAIR per se, just a one night thing and he was gonna tell her about it, honest. Marlena screams at Don not to touch her. He tries to tell Marlena that the night meant nothing to him, and tells Marlena "don't ruin everything, baby. We can put our marriage back together!" To which Marlena tells him that things will never be the same between them, and admits that part of her wants Don to leave, but part of her would be hurt he Don left. Kellam asks Marlena about the situation with Don, and Marlena once again lavishes compliments on Kellam about how sensitive he is. Kellam and Marlena continue to work closely together, while Don is sent back on the campaign trail. Both Don and Marlena resent this, as both privately want Don home for Marlena's upcoming birthday. Don calls, and is unhappy to find Kellam is there. He promises he'll make it back for Marlena's birthday. Don then gets a call from the DA, saying he's been promoted to judge, and asks Don if he wants to take on the role of DA. Don is ready to leap at the chance, but needs to confirm it with Marlena and Kellam first. Don calls again to say that, actually, he won't be there for Marlena's birthday. Oh well! Kellam finds out, and asks if he can spend her birthday with Marlena and Johnny. Marlena asks him to come for cake in the evening. Don laments not being able to be home for his wife's birthday, and is stunned that she found out about his affair with Liz. Liz doesn't believe her father had anything to do with Marlena's discovery, as if he had, she would've been scolded about it by now. She encourages Don to go home for Marlena's birthday, even cancelling a press conference so that Don can head back to Salem, and surprise Marlena. At the apartment, Kellam lavishes Marlena with an expensive bracelet, and Johnny with a toy truck. Once Johnny's off to bed, he tells Marlena all about his depressing, loveless childhood, with a disinterested father and a mother who died when he was young. Marlena responds to Kellam's candid story by telling Kellam about her worries that Don's lack of communication will cause them to lose custody of Johnny. Marlena tears up, Kellam comforts her, they kiss, and Don walks in! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARLENA! Don closes the door again before he's spotted, confused as to what to do. Kellam then apologizes for kissing Marlena. Moments later, Don walks in again, and announces his presence. Marlena is pleased to see him, but notices the door was slightly ajar when Don came in. Kellam leaves shortly thereafter, and Marlena asks Don if he saw Kellam kiss her. He admits he did, and then scolds his wife, accusing her of "trying to get back at him". Marlena is livid when she finds out Don has unilaterally decided to take the DA position without consulting her. Why? Because she thinks it's unfair to Kellam. How is Marlena this blind??? Don enrages Kellam with the news, particularly when Don admits he would've quit regardless of whether or not the DA position was firm. Trish gets good news! Her agent has set up a photoshoot for her at the club. That's all. Josh's Aunt Emily dies, and he inherits a farm and some letters from his parents. Josh's real name is apparently John Talbot Jr. If ever there was a posher name, It's likely hyphenated. Apparently John Talbot Sr. was a great attorney, and his mother was, indeed, the infamous Sunny Chandler. Mrs. Chisholm sends Josh her condolences, and Josh tells her that he knows she is close to another relative of his. Tod finds a portrait of Sunny in...some room of the house (presumably the attic but I don't know why he'd be up there), and asks Kellam to hang it in the living room. Kellam is inordinately angry about this, prompting Todd to hang it in his room in defiance. Max warns Kellam that they need to watch out for Flora because she might spill the beans about how Sunny died. JUST TELL US ALREADY JEEEZ. The letter explains that Sunny regrets leaving John Sr. and Josh to marry Kellam the Greasebag, but that she had to stay with Kellam because she was pregnant with Tod. Josh finishes the letter and, after showing Mrs. Chisholm, asks her how Sunny died. Flora won't answer and spontaneously announces she feels ill. Julie becomes a busybody after Josh spots Sunny's portrait in her studio, where Josh is having the portrait framed, and seemed to recognize the woman. Julie asks Flora if Josh knew Sunny. Flora has another meltdown, and Julie changes the subject before she has to change Flora's Depends. Julie then decides to take the direct approach, asking Josh about how well Flora knew Josh's mother. Josh gets defensive, and Julie just tells him she realized she knew nothing about him. Josh wants Julie to mind her business and "accept him as he is". Whatever that means. Julie then randomly brings up Carol's interest in Josh, to which Josh flatly rejects the idea of being serious withCarol, but that doesn't stop him from seeing her. Kellam and Max apparently has someone spying on Josh too. The Chandlers are singlehandedly keeping every PI in Salem employed. What good fortune for them! Josh once again asks Carol to go swimming (these folks spend a lot of time swimming considering the time of year...It's getting weird), and just as they're leaving, Carol realizes she forgot the towels. Once inside Josh's room, she runs over to Josh's pants and starts rummaging through his wallet (wanna bet she's Max's spy?), only to be caught by Josh, who re-enters the room after Carol takes too long. Carol claims she just wanted to know his birth date, so she was looking for his drivers' license. Suuuuure. Josh agrees not to fire her, but tells her things will never be the same between them. OH I WAS RIGHT. Max meets with his spy for an update, only to have Carol emerge to tell him that Josh is onto her, and that the name on his license is Joshua Fallon. Max pays her off to leave town. Once Max tells Kellam about Carol, he's concerned carol might sell them out, if the price is right. Don't worry, Kellam. I'm sure that's the last we'll hear about Carol. More letters from Sunny! This one begging Aunt Emily to help her escape Kellam! Apparently, according to Mrs. Chisholm, Sunny asked Kellam for a divorce, and custody of Tod, but Kellam refused, citing, GUESS WHAT, his political ambitions! Sunny then ended up in the sanitarium for depression. Josh then presents Flora with Sunny's last letter to Josh's aunt Emily (unusually close to the ex-'s family, aren't we?), where Sunny reveals she was threatened by Kellam because Sunny threatened to reveal Kellam's affair with Liz's college friend. Ick. Apparently Sunny had been heavily medicated from that point, and was becoming very weak. Tod was in boarding school, Josh's father John was an alcoholic, and Aunt Emily was ill. Josh is convinced this last letter proves Kellam is responsible for Sunny's death. Flora won't say anything, scared for the harm that might come to Josh if Kellam finds out what Josh knows. Josh heads to Mickey's office with Sunny's letters. After reading them, Mickey is convinced Kellam had something to do with Sunny's death, and, if the truth came out, it would end Kellam's political career. But there's a problem: without corroboration, it's just the words of a dead woman who was mentally ill vs. a living political figure. If Josh can come up with someone to back up Sunny's story, only THEN should Josh go to the police. Once home, Josh discovers someone (Kellam & Co.) have ransacked his apartment. Julie arrives, and is stunned to find the scene, and begs Josh to tell her what's going on, but Josh won't. Tod, being a close friend of Josh's, wonders why Josh holds such animosity toward Kellam. Josh won't say, but Todd insists that, if Kellam did anything to harm Josh, Tod would never forgive Kellam. Josh goes to Flora, asking her to tell him about Sunny's death, but Flora still won't. However, she does tell Josh that Sunny's maid delivered a note to her before Sunny died. In the letter, Sunny begged Flora to see her. But when Flora visited the Chandler house, she was turned away. Josh presses enough that Flora admits she knows how Sunny died, but is scared of the consequences if she tells Josh the truth. Josh insists he is already in harm's way, as someone broke into his apartment. Flora still won't talk, even when Josh tells her he's going to track Sunny's maid down. Flora is sure the maid won't tell the truth, as she had lied to the grand jury when Sunny died. Josh tries anyway, asking Mickey to track the maid, Mrs. Parker, down. Mickey does, and Josh insists on seeing her. Mickey warns him of the danger that may put him in, but Josh is undeterred. He visits Mrs. Parker's home, and is told by her parents that Mrs. Parker now lives in a rest home (yikes!), and give Josh the address. At the rest home, Mrs. Parker is revealed to be extremely ill, and is initially afraid to say anything to Josh. But once Josh explains the importance of the matter, Mrs. Parker decides it best to tell the truth and get the guilt she's been carrying for _X_ years off her shoulders. She tells Josh that the night Sunny died, Sunny called Mrs. Parker for help. Leaving her room, Mrs. Parker headed downstairs to Sunny's room, where a nurse, a bodyguard, and Max were holding her down, as the nurse gave Sunny an injection. Mrs. Parker ran to Flora and told Flora the story, but when they called and asked to speak to Sunny, they were told she was dead. Scared stiff, Mrs. Parker lied at the inquest to save her own skin. She finally agrees to tell the truth to Mickey. OH I GUESS NOT! When Josh returns with Mickey, Mrs. Parker's parents mysteriously showed up and whisked her away. Figures. At Josh's, Julie comes in and startles Flora, as Julie reads news clippings about Sunny's death. Julie asks about Sunny's eldest son, but Flora immediately gets ill again and tells Julie she's worried about Josh. At the club, she finds that Tod was looking for Josh, and puts all the pieces together when Trish comments to her that Todd sees Josh as a brother. It all fits. Josh, now without anyone to corroborate Sunny's letters, pleads with Mrs. Chisholm to tell Mickey the truth. The old bat stubbornly refuses, claiming she doesn't want to put Josh in danger. No matter how much Josh begs her to, she won't. Josh, fed up with her nonsense, shouts that he's going to punish the Chandlers for killing his mother, and Flora becomes a hysterical wreck, begging Josh not to leave. Josh does, because like, why stay there with the woman if she's gonna stonewall him and scream at him endlessly. Come on! Chris and Mickey visit Kellam and tell him about the breach of contract suit they're planning to file against him. Kellam is vocal in his objection, citing the damage it could do to him in the polls. Chris and Mickey confirm that that's entirely the point. Kellam's big mad, until Max suggests they copy Chris' solar generator to the letter, make some small changes, and, once they've given Chris back his design, sell their own. Kellam is dubious, knowing that Mickey will file suit once again, but Max points out that the filing and litigation will take months to take shape, long after the election. Kellam agrees, and tells Don he's going to forefit all rights to Chris' generator. Leslie and Chris realize, upon hearing the news, that although they get their design back, the worth nothing because no one will be using it now. Apparently the show forgot Leslie met Chris' parents before, as they're talking as though this is the first time Leslie met Mrs. Kositchek, and they get on famously (of course). Leslie and Chris finally set a wedding date, but Leslie wants to keep the date a secret, just to ward off any potential bad luck. Mary goes looking through Alex's things, and discovers a list of Alex's holdings, including SIDO! Mary immediately calls Chris. Just before Chris arrives, Alex pays her a visit. When Mary confronts him about it, Alex warns her that if she tells Chris the truth about who owns SIDO, Chris and Leslie will give up the marina, and leave town, screwing Mary out of her investment. Mary realizes that Alex is right, and keeps quiet, making Mary look suspect af. Sally the dayplayer's baby is home, and it's HARD. And EXPENSIVE. This comes as a big surprise to me and everyone who isn't Jessica Blake. She tells Jessica as much, but Jessica, desperate to be right, tells her to BE HOPEFUL. Sally can't find a job, comes home to the baby crying, and Jessica, who'd cut a class to tend to the infant in cradling her. Once Sally is back, she runs off to school, leaving Sally alone with a screaming infant who she resents. Sally nearly smothers the baby with a pillow, but thinks better of it at the last moment. She takes the baby in her arms and apologizes. This is going so well. Sally almost immediately thereafter calls Marie and tells her she changed her mind, and signs off on the baby's adoption, then plans to leave town. Jessica finds out and is mad as Hell, even after finding out what Sally nearly did to the poor child. Jessica blames Marie for Sally's decision, because, I guess, according to Jessica, a dead baby is preferable to an adopted one. Tod visits Chris' new business...whatever it is, and asks him to repair his motorboat. It sounds as though he spots Cassie there, and again makes a play for her, taking her out swimming. He cuts class to do this, and once at Cassie's apartment, they head for the bed. Jessica shows up in the middle of the fun to ask Cassie to set her up with a pre-med student she met at her birthday party. Cassie agrees to try her best, and Todd is unhappy about the news. Whooooo cares? At the disco (what a boring life these kids lead, they literally only go to the disco and the beach), Cassie and Jessica meet with Toddd and Mark the pre-med student Jessica felt so strongly about she had to interrupt Tod and Cassie's sexy time to set a date up with. They apparently are getting along well, for all that trouble, but Todd has to comment about Jessica's good looks, which makes Cassie jealous. GIVE IT UP, CASSIE. The next day, Cassie begs Jessica not to take Tod from her. Jessica has absolutely no intention of doing so. The NEXT day, Jessica cuts class again to go on a picnic (what a change) with Todd, Cassie, and Mark. Jessica laments skipping class, which Cassie pokes fun at her for. When Tod comes to her defense, Cassie's once again jealous af. When Marie finds out about Jessica cutting classes, she gives Jessica a stern lecture about how she'll lose her scholarship if her grades aren't good enough. Jessica lashes out at Marie yet again, telling Marie that she's going to have FUN and she isn't going to be a goody-two-shoes ANYMORE. She holds up to that promise for all of five minutes, before Alex tells her exactly the same thing Marie did. Except when Alex tells her, Jessica listens to him and promises to never ever do it again. Yeah, I'm starting to loathe Jessica. In the same conversation, Jessica tells Alex how lonely she is, and vows to find her real parents, because she doesn't have any family to speak of. Be careful what you wish for, brat. Marie once again questions Alex about his closeness to Jessica. He once again assures Marie that his interest in her is merely fatherly. He also scolds Marie for her attitude toward Jessica, telling Marie that she is the cause of Jessica's unhappiness, and that Marie should be FRIENDLIER to Jessica(*eyeroll*). So what does Marie do? She goes to Alice and tells her not to get too close to Jessica, because she might accidentally reveal that Jessica is Marie's daughter. Alex, feeling Jessica needs a pick-me-up, suggests to Marie that they should help Jessica find her birth parents. Marie is...less than thrilled by the prospect, telling Alex to never do this, and that it would be dangerous for them to do. Alex is...baffled, and agrees not to pursue the matter, but warns Marie that Jessica may very likely conduct her own search. Tod is disappointed when Kellam makes him spend his 21st birthday at the Chandler house, therefore Cassie is not welcome. Jessica refuses Liz's invitation to the party, but agrees to go as Pre-Med Mark's date. When Josh hears that Jessica is going to the party, Josh warns her not to, but won't tell her why, only to "Stay away from the Chandlers", which baffles Jessica. The first weeks of Tomlin/Poteet-Lisanti seem to just be a continuation of Laemmle's nonsense (I guess, since they were her co-writers, that's logical). I appreciate that they're bringing her stories to some sort of closure, though I really don't know why they're glossing over Brent shooting Julie. I guess they knew that that truth would push Lee one step too far, though you never know. Flora Chisholm is annoying me now. Constant screaming like a banshee over nothing. Just tell the fekking truth already, and Kellam can't hurt anyone anymore. God. For Marlena to still be 100% supportive of Kellam at this point requires her to have been completely out of the loop with every other person she knows in the community, and I don't buy it. What a weird storyline, and it makes Marlena look unusually dumb.

JUNE 1979 Susan, fresh back in Salem, pays the David Martin Clinic a visit, and the first person she visits is Tom, who is thrilled to see her back in Salem. When he presses Susan as to the reason for her visit, Susan informs Tom that this isn't merely a visit, Susan and Anne are back in Salem permanently. Things with Eric didn't work out, and she feels that, no matter what, she's at home in Salem. Tom is thrilled to have her back, and wonders if Susan will return to working at the David Martin Clinic. Susan wishes to do so, but also feels the clinic is running fine without her, so she's intending to loosen the reigns somewhat, and involve herself in other projects as well. Tom is pleased for her. Donna and Pete ride off on Pete's motorcycle to grab burgers and a soda, and catch up on what's happened since Pete's been away. Pete tells Donna that he's now graduated, and has decided to spend the summer in Salem with his uncle Neil. He hopes to work, save some money, and hopefully head away to college in the fall. Donna is happy to have Pete back in her life, but insists they keep their reunion private, especially from her father and stepmother. Pete is reluctant, not wanting to begin their renewed connection with a lie, but Donna insists that is the way it has to be, as Don would never accept Pete back in her life. Pete goes along with this for a few nights, but resents sneaking around. He also is firm with Donna that they're just friends for now, he wants to take it slow, and he wants to see other girls. Donna doesn't love this idea, but goes along with it, simply happy to have Pete back in her life at all. One of the girls Pete has his eye on is Anne Peters. He spots her one night while out with a friend, and approaches her. After some flirtation, and more than a hint of presuasion on his part, Anne agrees to go out with him, but asks that he keep it a secret, as her mother is, in her words, "ridiculously overprotective". Anne keeps the dates secret from Donna as well, admitting she's just getting to know Donna, and some of the other girls in school consider her a blabbermouth and a troublemaker. Mickey is approached by Kate, sharing the news that her mother has passed away, and that there is some degree of dispute with her relatives over her share of the inheritance. She hopes Mickey can advocate for her. Mickey is pleased to help, and takes on the case. They meet at his office to discuss the matter, and Kate reveals to Mickey that she, in fact, has little interest in the money in her mother's estate for herself, she plans to use it as a scholarship for medical students at Salem University. The reason her family objects is entirely based upon greed. They argue Kate has no need for the money herself and is estranged from the family. Additionally, their mother's will was last updated in 1966, and she has been ill for years, too ill to update the will, but her relatives insist Kate would not be included, based on the word of their mother. Mickey thinks it an easy win for Kate, as the relatives can’t speak on behalf of the mother, and Kate assures Mickey that her mother was of sound mind to the end, regardless of her physical health. At home, things are not so serene. When Mickey discusses his day, and the help Linda had given him, and how she's been an excellent fit, as though she'd never been away, Maggie seems distant. When Mickey points it out, Maggie gets defensive, but quickly catches herself, admitting to a hint of lingering insecurity. She wishes Linda would return to working for Anderson, though she knows that's not possible. She laments that Susan's return means that she won’t be as involved with the children at the David Martin Clinic as she had hoped. At the hospital, Susan's return means Maggie knows she’ll be needed less in the clinic, but Susan insists she’d love Maggie to be around to help out as needed, and Neil offers her more work with him, if she's interested. Maggie accepts. The two work closely together, with Maggie working as his de facto secretary, while also volunteering some of her time with Susan at the clinic. Through this, Maggie begins to see Neil's softer side, and is charmed by him, and he is wowed by her quick connection with Pete when he visits Neil at the office. Maggie provides Pete with guidance when he comes by Neil’s office, troubled by his deception in seeing Donna behind Don and Marlena's back (though he doesn't mention Donna or her parents by name). Neil sees the two talk at one point, and it wowed by Maggie’s easy connection with Pete, whom Neil hasn’t had quite as easy a time getting through to. Stephanie makes the trip to Margo's to help her set up the house and paint. There, she and Margo talk about her situation with David, and Margo asks why she feels such animosity toward Trish, wondering if it's a degree of insecurity. Stephanie denies this, saying she actually doesn't mind Trish as a person. In fact, in another life, she's sure they'd be the best of friends. The problem is, beyond David's obvious lingering feelings toward Trish, Stephanie resents how Trish ripped Scotty away from David early in life, when he had the love of both parents. A sore spot for her, she says, as she grew up without a father. Margo understands, but counters that Trish wanted a career, much like Stephanie has. In Trish's world, the only way to have that career is to leave for Hollywood, which David had no interest in doing. As much as she feels that what Trish did was wrong, she understands why she did it. Stephanie agrees with Margo, but doesn't feel like being as magnanimous, under the circumstances. As their bond gets closer, Stephanie visits Margo again, and they discuss Stephanie's injury to her hands. Margo is stunned by how extensive the burns are, and asks how she got them. Stephanie is vague about details, but repeats her story about dropping the hot pan, then picking up the hot pan from the floor so as not to damage the laminate. Margo seems uncertain about the story, since the scabs on the burns look too uniform to her eyes, but she keeps quiet. Stephanie and Margo have an intense discussion over dinner regarding what would happen if her leukemia came back. Margo is hopeful, but says that if it does come back, it will likely be fatal, and could be incredibly painful. Stephanie wonders how long Margo could remain in this state, and Margo tells Stephanie the doctors speculate she could die within days or could linger for months, but that Margo has decided that, if things get too hard, and there's no hope, she'll ask Mike to allow her to pass away on her terms. Stephanie believes that's the best idea, though she hopes it doesn't go that way for her. Margo thanks Stephanie for her optimism, but also tempers it by making it clear that she's very at peace with her fate. Mary is increasingly uncomfortable with Stephanie’s confidence at work, and is still uneasy about Stephanie's story about her burns, and troubled by the convenient timing of her burns: just as the government ID checks were beginning. She recalls how familiar everyone found Stephanie to be when she was hired, and finally decides to ask Bob about Stephanie's hiring. Bob confirmed that Stephanie's documentation is with Linda, in fact, when they had begun the government background checks, Bob wasn't able to locate the files, as he assumed Linda had them when she was off in New York. Mary approaches Linda, asking if she had seen Stephanie's employee file. Linda, still playing the amnesiac, tells Mary that she didn't take the file when she left for New York, and doesn't remember ever having seen it. Mary is stuck, until she has a chat with Margo over lunch one day, and discusses the burns on Stephanie's hands. Margo is struck by how severe the burns on Stephanie's fingertips are, and how fortunate she is that the burns weren't so bad as to require skin grafts. This sparks an idea in Mary's head, and she heads for Tom's office to ask about accessing Stephanie's records. Tom, of course refuses, despite Mary's pleas. Mary voices her frustrations to Chris, who, while believing that something is amiss with Stephanie, encourages Mary to drop her investigation, or, at least, hire a PI. Mary doesn't want to raise any alarm bells prematurely, but desperately wants an answer, and resents Chris' advice, snapping at him after he receives a call from Amanda, asking him when they'll get together that night. Chris and Amanda continue to see each other, with Chris becoming more and more attached to Amanda, though Amanda is still uncertain about how attached she can get before divorcing Greg. Greg, of course, still hopes that Amanda will return with him to Chicago. When Amanda visits Chris at Anderson, Chris feels Amanda is being pulled in two different directions, and tells her to go back to Chicago with Greg for the time being to try to get her house in order. He will be here for her whenever she’s ready, and tells Amanda that he will call her every day until that time. Amanda is grateful to Chris for his patience, and vows to return to him, and Salem, again soon. They kiss for a long moment, long enough for Mary to walk into the room and catch them. Mary makes snarky remarks about their lack of professionalism that Chris brushes off. Chris then asks Mary about her new beau, Steve. Mary is less-than-thrilled by that line of questioning, frustrated by Steve’s extended stay in Paris. She makes the flip remark that she doesn’t need Steve to be hanging from her lips at every moment to keep him. Chris thinks Mary is a bit defensive, which Mary finds insulting, and storms off. Bob is thrilled by the progress Anderson is making with the government contract. They’re nearly ready to commence production, and Bob is looking at expansion of the plant to accommodate secondary assembly lines. He tasks Stephanie with arranging a trip for himself and Chris to head to Washington, in hopes of approving the expanded contract, as well as potentially finding other investors looking to have product lines assembled via Anderson. Chris finds the timing perfect, as he’ll be leaving town just as Amanda heads back to Chicago, so he’s all set to head off. Mary resents that she can’t go along, but Bob pacifies her by giving her more control at the plant while he’s away, essentially evenly dividing Mary’s and Stephanie’s workloads. Bob recognizes Mary’s hurt from when Stephanie was away recovering from her burns, and he thinks this is a much better opportunity for Mary to show her worth. Mary jumps at the chance. Stephanie has been calling to make the arrangements for Chris and Bob’s hotels. After a conversation with Bob about the details of their trip, and which government offices they’ll need to be in relatively close proximity to, Stephanie slips in a call under hushed tones to a friend of hers. While looking over her shoulder and being generally secretive, Stephanie gives the person on the other end some very specific details about the trip, and what Bob and Chris will be looking for in an investor. She smiles broadly as she hangs up the phone. Marlena and Don are mostly happy at home, though both are very busy people. They make a point of spending at least one night together at the weekend alone, and one with Donna. The system seems to work, though tensions arise one weekend night when Jordan calls Marlena to the hospital on one of her date nights with Don for an emergency with a patient. This doesn't bother Don too much the first time, but the second time, when Jordan calls while he and Marlena are in bed making love, does. Marlena is indignant, recalling numerous times when Don has had to be called away during intimate moments. Don attempts to explain those away, but Marlena doesn't buy it, and asks that they discuss it when she comes back from the hospital. While at the hospital, Marlena feels ill, which concerns Jordan. After collecting herself, Marlena goes to see Neil, who runs some tests, while Jordan calls Don. Don is initially openly hostile on the phone, but when Jordan explains the situation, Don races to UH. Upon arriving, Neil informs Don that there's good news, and tells both he and Marlena that they're expecting a baby. The news lifts both Don and Marlena's spirits, softening any hard feelings between them for the time being. Don apologizes for his hostility both to Marlena and toward Jordan. Doug feels he's made the correct decision in not revealing Dougie's paternity to Julie, particularly after yet another negative pregnancy test result, and hearing the news of Marlena's pregnancy. Julie feels a sense of inadequecy in not being able to give Doug a child, and, while she loves Hope, wants to give her a brother. Doug wonders if adoption is the answer, but Julie is dead set against that, particularly after her own experience in having David adopted. She's even more dead set against using Doug as a sperm donor to another woman's egg (which is, of course, how Dougie was conceived), feeling that their baby should be THEIRS. Doug feels that this is giving Julie a complex, and that maybe they should hold on on trying for a baby. Julie refuses, expressing that this is what she really wants. Doug thinks it wise to maybe visit Neil again, and ask what options there are for them. Neil believes they don't have many options, but thinks an avenue to consider is IVF, a new treatment that has worked for a couple in the UK and is beginning trials in the US. Neil believes Doug and Julie could be ideal candidates for this new treatment. Julie is excited by the news, but Doug wants her to really think about it first. Julie agrees. Julie is thrilled when Steve calls Julie, telling her of a huge find he has uncovered at an estate sale in Provence. He encourages Julie to fly over to help him. Doug thinks this is the distraction Julie needs, and thinks she should go, so Julie makes last minute arrangements and heads for Paris. David and Stephanie sneak moments alone while at work at Anderson, but David is strict about not being seen together for the divorce hearing, which will soon begin. Stephanie is trying to be patient, but admits she resents the distance in their relationship. David insists it's only temporary. Stephanie is increasingly unsure. Trish, meanwhile, is feeling increasingly confident about her chances with the case, and says as much to Jeri while visiting her mother. Jeri, feeling that there's still a sense of sadness in Trish, asks her if she still carries a torch for David. Trish admits that, yes, she'd rather reconcile with her husband, but, knowing that's impossible, she has to win custody of her son. Jeri isn't so sure it's as much of a lost cause as Trish would believe, noting that since Jeri's visit to David's apartment, David and Stephanie have probably been keeping their distance. At least, she says, that's what she's heard. Trish doesn't appreciate her mother giving her false hope, but Jeri explains that she doesn't actually want her and David together, not after how cruel he's been in keeping Scotty away from Trish. Trish blames herself for David's behaviour. As Trish performs at Doug's Place one night, Jerry Reinhart shows up, and commends Trish on her performance. Trish is flattered, and they sit together. Jerry admits he came to see what kind of work environment Trish has here and how suitable it would be for Scotty in the eyes of the court. Trish recognizes it's not neccessarily the greatest, but it's a clean, respectable establishment, and she works with people that are like family to her. Jerry agrees. The conversation turns from talking business to more casual conversation, but Jerry, sure to be seen keeping things professional, keeps things brief. Trish, however, is definitely charmed by Jerry.

Okay, it's time to find out about the Great Caning That Wasn't of 1980, and all other associated nonsense! Apologies for not doing more of these lately, I've had one hell of a holiday season. A note about August: I read over some of the Tune In Tomorrow recaps, and discovered that David left town in a hurry because Mary told him if he didn't, she WOULD press charges, thus his sudden desperation to leave for greener pastures, so his motivation to take off is a little less...unsympathetic. He's still a whiny bitch tho. ONWARD to Nina Laemmle's last month! Mickey tells Don his employers are a bunch of sleazy conmen, and Don plugs his ears and goes la la la...then goes to ask them about Mickey's (factual) allegations that Max and Kellam had conspired with Alex, and they develop the brightest haloes you've ever seen in your life with a quickness. Don stays duped and agrees to stay on their team, but warns them that if he learns better, he's out. Kellam waits until Don leaves and then twirls his mustache, telling Max "I think success has gone to Don's head. We are going to have to keep an eye on him". Why not just surveil the entire fekking city at this point? God! Now that Chandler own the plant, they've no more use for Alex, and he has to clean out his desk "until things cool down", but Kellam promises he'll make Alex an offer to stay "in time". Alex promises to hold him to that. Max is increasingly concerned about David coming back to bite them in the arse. Alex demands they don't harm David or Scotty, and the mustache twirlers immediately decide once Alex leaves the room that Alex and David must be "disposed of". If I didn't know any better, I'd expect them to talk like 1930s gangsters at this point. They're either spying on, or plotting to kill EVERY MAN IN TOWN at this point! Liz sneaks off the campaign trail to see Neil. She's despondent after seeing the suffering of the public: Starving babies and slums and such. She credits Neil with helping her to see beyond the confines of her sheltered existence, and they go to bed. The next morning, Neil warns Liz that Kellam will be pretty pissed off with her. I'm sure he'll put a tail on her and a hit on Neil now. SHOCKER! Kellam knows Liz snuck off the campaign trail to screw Neil, and is livid! Guess he's already got a tail on her! He once again demands she give up Neil, after calling her a tramp, because that's always a good way to influence your family members. Liz storms out of Kellam's office in tears. Kellam perks up when he finds out Todd passed his exams, and shows his love for Tod by throwing money at him: a cheque in celebration of Todd's success! They randomly drop in here somewhere that Tod asks again about his mother, and Kellam deflects once again. Looks like that's a dropped storyline. Shortly thereafter, Kellam holds a cocktail party, to self-congratulate over his donation to the new Children's wing at the hospital. Liz overhears when Kellam pulls Marlena aside to a private room and slathers the compliments on thick about what a great hostess she is. Liz makes a snide remark to Marlena after being spotted spying in the corner, jealous that Marlena, not Liz, was chosen to be her father's hostess (really, Liz? This is some baby $#!t]). Kellam tells Liz she's being a big baby as well, and that he loves her...then follows that up by claiming Neil's only after Liz's money, prompting Liz to leave Kellam's office in tears. Filled with doubt thanks to her father's endless needling, Liz asks Julie if Neil married Phyllis for her money. Julie deflects Liz's question, instructing her not to dwell on the past, as it could ruin something great that's going on right now between her and Neil. Liz goes along with Julie, and chooses to trust her gut about Neil's affections for her. When relaying the story to Neil later on, Liz senses Kellam has an interest in Marlena beyond having her host cocktail parties. Kellam sticks his nose further in where it doesn't belong, visiting Neil. Neil's already feeling guilty about the wedge he's put between Liz and her a$$hole father, and this worsens after Kellam tells Neil that if he doesn't break it off with Liz, she'll be disinherited. Kellam knows of Neil's past of wooing rich women for their money, and says something about Liz wanting men who will leave her so she'll be hurt (a haphazard way of explaining what happens next, I think). So therefore, Kellam wants the romance with Liz to end because - all together now - it makes Kellam look bad with the election coming. November cannot come soon enough, I swear. He gives Neil several hours to tell Liz. So he does...and he tells her why. This should be fun. Back at the Chandler house, Kellam suddenly believes Neil DOES love Liz (help, my eyes are stuck rolled back in my head), but rationalizes that eventually he'd try to get after her money anyway. Max suggests they try to insinuate to Liz that they'd paid Neil off in exchange for dumping Liz. The trick works, Liz buys Max's story. Liz goes on the campaign trail for her father, almost to spite Neil. Julie tries to convince Liz that Neil didn't accept any bribe, but Liz, for some bizarre reason, believes her father's keeper's story. Julie even goes to the trouble of telling Neil the bull$#!t Max and Kellam told Liz, but Liz won't listen when Neil pleads with her on the phone. Jessica is jealous of Carol's closeness with Joshua, so she...ignores Joshua...well, that's a choice. Jessica earns a scholarship, and Todd...passes his exams. Jessica tells him she'll be roommates with some random pregnant girl named Sally who works at the clinic. Tod tells Josh he's throwing a bash to celebrate Jessica's scholarship at the disco. He tells Josh to be sure to bring Carol (so that Todd can have Jessica to himself, obviously). Tod visits Jessica's new apartment with Knocked-Up Sally, and invites Jessica, Mike, and Sally to the disco for a party. Only when Jessica arrives does she discover the party is for her! She's thrilled because Joshua gifts her a book his mother gave him! And then Carol shows up! And she goes back to INGORING him again! Jessica gets gifts in celebration of her scholarship! Tom gives her a microscope! Marie and Alice give her a silver chain for her medallion! When Marie sees the medallion, she's shocked! She recognizes it! The date on the medallion is SPECIAL to her! It's the date of birth of her baby she gave up! Marie knows Jessica is her daughter! And now Marie can't face Jessica. And Jessica notices, and asks why Marie is pulling away from her. Marie tells her that there needs to be distance between them, because, as a nun, she should never have let Jessica get so close to her (???!!!) Jessica leaves in tears, and asks Alice why Marie is so angry at her. Alice has absolutely no idea what the Hell just happened. Suddenly I'm starting to understand why Jessica was such a beeotch during that Christmas episode we saw earlier. Marie goes to the chapel, feeling guilty for pushing her daughter away, and needing guidance (how about DON'T DO THAT, MARIE). When she sees Alex and Jessica have gotten close, she feels even worse. She tells Alex to not let Jessica get too close to him, but won't tell him why. She fears she's beginning to become infatuated with the old coot. Alex is baffled, as Marie had previously encouraged Alex to take Jessica out on the town to celebrate her scholarship, and now she wants him to back off. Make it make sense! For the record, Alex this time has the good sense NOT to be a letch with Jessica like he did with Cathy (thank God, for all her faults, Laemmle doesn't have a weird fascination with grossly inappropriate incestuous relationships like Harrower had). Alex takes Jessica to Doug's club, and Josh is working, and is surprised to see them together. Jessica explains that Alex is simply her benefactor, I guess allaying any potential concern he has for her. Later, Jessica asks Alex to sign a loan application for her. Alex would rather just give her the money, but Jessica refuses, stubbornly wishing to "make it on her own" (fool, student loans will end your life!) Alex signs the application, proud of his daughter-he-doesn't-realize-is-his-daughter. Josh takes Carol out for a swim. Once they're back at Josh's apartment, they warm up by the fireplace and get LIT (like...by drinking, not...like, being lit on fire). Josh kisses her and they screw. Josh tells Carol afterward that he isn't interested in anything serious, however. What a gentleman. Meanwhile Kellam meets with Jessica and tells her he expects her to get cozy with Toddd. Jessica tells him that's not happening, that she knows he disapproves of Todd and Cassie, tears a strip off Kellam for trying to force her to try to break Tod and Cassie up, and hands Kellam back his cheque, quitting as Todd's tutor. Kellam tells Tod that Jessica was 'rude' (because trying to dictate your adult children's romantic lives is the height of good manners, naturally). Todd asks Jessica why she quit as his tutor, and realizes when she explains Kellam's manipulation that Jessica doesn't want him, and that he'd better give it up. Alice confronts Marie about why she's pushing Jessica away. Alice presses a resistant Marie, telling her Jessica has had enough rejection in her life, including her own mother. Marie blurts out "I had no choice!" OOPS! - Marie explains that she fell in with the wrong scene, and that she got involved with "a man", and when she had the nerve (ie. when she grew terrified of him after seeing him shove his brother off a highrise balcony), she left him to join the convent. It was at the convent that she realized she was pregnant. She's certain the father doesn't know, but won't say who the father is. Alice agrees with Marie that the truth should be kept secret from Jessica. Alice visits a weepy Jessica, who cries that she thought Marie loved her a little bit, and that she can't live without Marie's friendship. Alice tells Jessica that Marie does love her, and that it's hurting Marie to keep distance from her. Alice asks if she can be the friend Jessica needs, and Jessica is grateful, hugging her grandmother-she-doesn't-know-is-her-grandmother. Jessica lashes out at Marie upon finding out Marie advised Sally to give her baby up for adoption. Personalizing it, she yells at Marie that she feels the baby will feel unwanted, as she did by being given away. Jessica feels her mother must've hated her to have given her away. Marie insists it wasn't true, and that there's a special bond between mother and daughter, and if Jessica's mother had given her up, it was because she thought it was the best thing etc. Jessica isn't moved in the way Marie hopes, sobbing "there's nothing like a mother's love, I know because I went my whole life without it!", before running away. Once Jessica leaves, Marie breaks down in tears. Sally begins to change her mind about giving the baby up, when...BAM! LABOUR TIME! Jessica rushes her to the hospital, and has a baby girl. Sally decides to keep it, delighting Jessica and, of course, disappointing Marie. Sally names the baby LINDA (heh heh heh heh). Mary, forced into a financial corner, sells the plant to Chandler with extreme reluctance and a heavy heart. The settlement she gets from the shysters', she tells Chris she's going to invest to build a fortune until she can afford to buy the plant back. Chris quits in disgust at the prospect of working for Chandler, and requests only severance and the rights to his solar generator. Don thinks he's being a fool for not requesting his royalties from the generator, but Chris wants to go into business with Mike and he needs liquid assets fast to do it, so a cash settlement is ideal. Leslie joins Chris in quitting the plant upon finding out Chandler has taken it over. Leslie accuses Chris of shutting her out of his life, though Chris still wants to marry her, he's just preoccupied and distracted, largely because of losing the plant. Mary doesn't ask Alex for alimony, but DOES request a percentage of his future earnings. Alex, meanwhile, tries to butter up Victoria, who's handling Mary's divorce. Mike decides to sell his house to free up money to invest in Chris' new company. He gets an apartment in the same building as Jessica and Sally. Chris scopes out a site on the North Shore for a new marina, which thanks to rezoning, should become extremely valuable. They want to take it. But Alex, who is at the bank to try to grease the wheels on Jessica's loan application, also hears about the North Shore land, and wants to buy it himself as an investment property. When Chris applies for a loan to buy the North Shore land, the banker calls Alex as Chris' reference (why, I'll never know...like...was Chris dumb enough to actually put Alex's name on the document?? For real??). Alex tells his friend at the bank that Chris is suspected of burning down the Anderson plant. Bye bye Marina. Chris can't figure out why da hell his loan was denied, so he goes to Max and Kellam and demands his cash settlement for the generators. They refuse to pay him a dime until they turn a profit on them (knowing full well they intend to force the generator project to fail). They suggest to Chris that, if he wants his money, he should work for them. HAH! Chris tells them where to shove it, but Max seems confident Chris will change his mind (okay, Max, what are you gonna blow up now?). Chris asks Mickey and Victoria to force Kellam's hand. Chris scores another ally in Josh, who meets Chris at the club. They bond over their disdain for Chandler, and over a love of boats and repair work (a solid foundation for any stereotypically masculine friendship). Josh expresses interest in Chris' new endeavor. Kellam "asks" Alex to stop his divorce proceedings from Mary because it's making Kellam look bad on the campaign trail (honey, that's the LEAST of your troubles). Alex agrees as long as Kellam agrees to keep David and Scotty safe. Alex then asks Mary to postpone the divorce, and she agrees, under the same condition (that no harm come to David or Scotty), but Alex insists he has no control over whether David or Scotty will be kept out of harm's way. Kellam, to his credit, orders Max to pay David off to keep quiet, and insists no harm come to David or Scotty. I'm glad that thanks to everyone's insistence that no harm come to David or Scotty, we now have some assurance that no harm will come to David or to Scotty. Mary finds out that a mysterious company called the Salem Independent Development Organization bought the North Shore land. Mary tells Chris she suspects she knows who runs this SIDO. Leslie, without having spoken to Chris, figures out SIDO is a cover for Alex Marshall, and that Alex and the loan officer who denied Chris the loan to buy the North Shore land know each other. Leslie puts her charms to work, trying to persuade Alex to lease the land to Chris to run the marina, in exchange for her silence regarding who owns the land. Alex initially refuses, but when Leslie tells him that this will force Chris to leave town, and, by consequence, Leslie as well...Alex relents. Alex likes Leslie enough that he doesn't want to see her leave Salem. Touching. Chris agrees to the lease, and Leslie deftly hides who SIDO is when Chris asks, claiming they're "Independent investors". Because...you know, that isn't implicit in the name or anything. Mickey asks Don to have Chandler release Chris' settlement money, but when Don does this, Kellam tells him he won't until the generators turn a profit (ie. never). Don lashes out at Kellam for breaking his agreement with Chris. Kellam relents, and promises to honour his agreement with Chris...by paying Chris is piddly-a$$ monthly installments. Chris is furious and asks Don how he can work for the Slimebucket Twins. Don is beginning to wonder himself. Chris then asks Mickey to arrange to strip Chandler of their rights to the solar generator. Mickey advises to instead sue Chandler for breach of contract, since they did agree to pay Chris in one lump sum. If they sue, Chandler is more likely to give in, not wanting the publicity of a lawsuit during his election campaign. David didn't even say goodbye to Julie before f*cking off, and Julie, apparently done screaming bloody murder in the emergency room, blames herself for not being close to her adult-shaped brat. David calls her, won't tell her where he is, and says it's better that he's out of the way. He's not wrong. Trish is so depressed she won't sing, but pulls herself together when the agent comes a-knockin'. Hearing her sing at the club, Ol' Tin Ear is super impressed! Julie tells Trish about David's phone call, and tells her he claims it'll help Trish pursue her career. Julie thinks he's full of s#!t and tells Trish to call the cops, worried about David's and Scotty's safety because she could tell David's drinking again, but Trish won't. Instead, she calls a PI to track them down through Mickey's new law partner, a woman named Victoria Wallace - or Wallis, depending on the source (apparently played by Patch Mackenzie). Mickey is apparently out of town (according to Tune In Tomorrow, to help track David and Scotty down), so Victoria is watching the office. Mary visits Trish, and warns her that Alex may try to prevent David from ever returning to Salem, knowing that David could testify against Alex. Mary then warns Alex to never lay a finger on David or Scotty. Trish's agent tells her that if her new single is a hit, she'll have to tour extensively, which alarms Trish. She didn't think she would have to leave Salem, because apparently she's never considered what one has to do to sell records before. David sends her a letter. What does it say? Who knows? Probably whining about her singing career to make her feel more at home while he's away. Oh nevermind, the next write up actually tells us what's in the letter: he's taking good care of Scotty, Scotty's his only reason for living (I'm sure your wife LOVES to hear that), now Trish can have her fancy career (I was right, he does guilt her about her music), he loves her but has to stay away. Blah blah blah. Trish is PISSED, and goes to Julie, showing her the letter. She knows David is at risk because of Alex's machinations, and Scotty by proxy. In order to get Scotty back, she needs to find out the extent of David's involvement with Alex. So she presses charges against David, hoping the police will track him down and keep him out of harm's way. Victoria tells Trish that the cops won't search for David until they have proof of his involvement with the sabotage at the plant. Trish figures she has a way to get the needed proof and pays Chris a visit. Instead of Chris, she finds Leslie there. Trish explains her dilemma, and Leslie believes Trish's plan isn't a bad one, but warns Trish to be careful going up against the Slimebucket Twins. When Doug offers to help track down David, whom they now realize is in LA, Trish refuses, citing that she has her own plan. Doug is worried for Trish's safety. Trish's plan backfires when Chris admits there's no evidence that David was involved in the sabotage, and tells Trish he thinks it better if David stayed out of Salem. But Chris, we discover, is dubious of Trish's plan, and asks Mary not to help Trish find the evidence, believing the cops will simply think Trish is a wife scorned and seeking vengeance against the husband who abandoned her. Trish then decides to accept the concert tour so she can afford to pay for PIs to Julie is discharged from UH and stays with Tom and Alice while she recovers, and is feeling pretty good. Then Lee visits! Apparently she doesn't whack Julie this time, they just argue about Doug. Lee sounds pathetic, claiming Doug's money is the only thingman she's ever loved, and that Julie can make it on her own, but she can't LIVE without Doug (cue Dolly Parton's "Jolene"). In desperation, Lee throws her pills out, and lies when Neil calls her on it, noting her elevated blood pressure. She claims she's taking her pills, but secretly hopes if she ends up sick, Doug will feel guilty and come back to her. She pretends to be gracious and asks Victoria to rewrite the divorce settlement to have Doug give her a smaller settlement. Considering the entire reason we've had to endure this twit for the past year is because she wouldn't accept a measly $100k/year settlement in the first place, this seems like a dumb move, and a transparent one at that: Doug and Julie both immediately realize it's all a stalling technique. Doug finds out about Lee's visit to Julie, and is livid to hear that Lee is pretending to be suicidal. Lee might actually be, as she discovers Brent has been tracked down to Texas, and will likely be arrested within 24hrs. Lee loads up on tranquilizers, I guess hoping that if her blood pressure doesn't get her, she'll be so wobbly her body won't know WHAT to do. Her doctor is unsure whether or not he should refill Lee's prescription, but ultimately decides to do so (she's now on her third). A man is arrested in Dallas, but, and SOD doesn't make this particularly clear, Josh doesn't identify the right mugshot as being Julie's attacker. The cop tells Josh that the man in the mugshot has a bunch of aliases, and was arrested for pimping, not murder (well, yeah, considering Julie didn't die...) Josh insists that BRENT is the shooter. Lee has confused her body so profoundly that she's about to be readmitted to University Hospital, but before she goes, she pays Julie another visit. She plays the wounded wife record again to Julie, screaming at her that Julie 'owes her that much'. Julie ain't buyin' it, and demands that Lee leave. When Lee won't go, and carries on ranting about her great love for Doug's money, Julie heads for the door to demonstrate exactly HOW one leaves a house when asked. Lee picks up a cane that's leaning against the coatrack in the Horton foyer and goes to crack Julie over the head with it (FREEZE FRAME! - no, literally, for anyone who remembers when the clip was online, the day's cliffhanger literally had Lee in mid-swing, as seen in the pic above). OOPS! Lee has a stroke and misses. Oh well! Yep, Lee was mixing blood thinners with tranquilizers (and also not taking her blood thinners regularly, either), so off to emergency she goes! Doug is, of course, concerned, and heads to UH to see how she's doing. Neil suspects Lee wasn't taking the meds he prescribed (perceptive). Doug finds out Lee's left side is paralyzed, and will need extensive therapy to regain use of her limbs. Doug, ever the fool, blames himself. Neil tells him not to, telling him Lee was the author of her own misery. Julie, meanwhile, is so guilt-ridden she couldn't THINK of marrying Doug now (eugh). She feels sorry for Lee, even though she feels bitterly towards her. The feeling's mutual, as we learn from the voice inside Lee's head when Doug goes to visit her at UH the next day. Doug vows to help Lee through her recovery. Neil encourages Doug to stay with Lee through her recovery because he is the only one she appears to respond to. Doug agrees through gritted teeth. Neil tells them that Lee will need daily therapy to recover. So Lee, of course, decides, she will NEVER recover, and will therefore keep Doug by her side FOREVER! Muahahah! As Mickey is out of town, Maggie goes to Doug's club alone, and meets a football star named Kyle McCullough (played by Richard/Rick Hill). He asks Maggie to spin the roulette wheel for him, and he wins. He kisses her and calls her his Lady Luck. Maggie goes back the next night, and sits at her table, and turns on the charm, clearly attracted to Maggie. He asks her to go on a moonlight joyride with him, but Maggie refuses. Kyle's ego bruises extremely easily and he gets trashed, then goes for his moonlight joyride alone (I guess he figures if he's that trashed he won't notice Maggie isn't with him). He immediately crashes his car and probably won't walk again. That's what you get for drunk driving, Kyle. Maggie is supportive of Kyle, and waits by his bedside when she hears of his accident. Kyle wakes up, and learns about his injuries. He pleads with Maggie to stay by his side, as Neil discusses his need for extensive therapy if he wishes to recover. Maggie agrees to stay with him throughout the ordeal, relating to his injury because of her own history with disability. When Mickey comes home from his trip, he questions Maggie about her somber attitude. After telling him about Kyle's struggle, Mickey remarks how "compassionate" Maggie is. This view shifts almost immediately when Maggie turns down Mickey's offer to go to dinner so that she can stay with Kyle. And...watch him...not move his limbs. They literally don't tell me that anything significant is happening that would cause Maggie to not want to leave his side, so...I guess Maggie lives there now? (ETA: Apparently SOD went on a coffee break when they mentioned that KYLE WAS GOING INTO SURGERY, like...kind of an important beat, guys). Don and Marlena hear that Johnny is to be placed at a state orphanage, and, though they aren't ready to adopt him, they agree to take him into their home. Johnny is thrilled, but is less-than-thrilled by Don's near-constant absence. When Josh invites Johnny and Marlena over for dinner, the boy whines that he wishes Josh were his father, as Don is never home. Marlena sense Don is overworked, and is annoyed that he's prioritizing his career over his family. She suggests he step off the campaign trail, and allow her to take over. Don lashes out, acting paranoid and claiming that Marlena is plotting with Kellam to replace him (WTF?) He disallows Marlena to go on the campaign trail. This blows up into a huge argument, as Marlena resents Don's breaking promises to Johnny. This is such a bloody mixed bag. There's some good bits, but a lot of cockamamie plotting, mustache twirling for no apparent reason, and nonsensical characterization for the advancement of the plot (hello, Liz?) that just bogs everything down. Why are there SO MANY new characters every time we turn around? Why are they all so boring? Why are they all these characters that disappear almost immediately once Laemmle leaves?? WHY does it feel like Brent will never be tracked down? I honestly just cannot figure out what Laemmle was thinking for a lot of this. And yet....it's still far better than most of what we have onscreen now. That's...I don't know if that's a compliment or a damning indictment of Ron.

I find Monica so very much softer in the June '78 episode. It's interesting to see how quickly she hardened as she assimilated into the Qs. Despite being the schemer prior to this, she was still a nervous wreck as she dealt with an upper crust family like the Quartermaines. It was neat to see, especially to see an episode from what's probably Jane Elliot's first week on the show. @Franko I can't imagine there'd be this much talk of the details of the event without it airing, tbh. I found the fact they didn't actually show the Grand Jury testimony interesting. Was this budget, or Monty's early attempts to speed things up before she chopped the hell out of scenes? I desperately want to see more of this now. I hope this is a sign of things to come in 2021 (though I doubt it).

So I'm gonna try to do this as painlessly as possible. TBH, I can't wait for Laemmle to leave at this point. Having said this, the 8-12-80 episode that is posted on the Internet Archive plays a whole lot better than I anticipated, given the storylines thus far. Let's get to it! August 1980: Mrs. Chisholm asks Josh what he thinks about Jessica. Josh says she's too young for him. Flora counters that she might need a older man since she's "such a free spirit", and says that her own husband was significantly older than her. If Josh doesn't do something soon, Flora insists, Jessica is liable to do something rash. Stop encouraging this sh!t, Flora! Jessica relays her evening with Josh to Marie. Jessica can't understand why Josh pulled away from her. Marie suggests it was because Josh respects her and doesn't want to hurt her, ominously telling her that other men could LEAVE HER WITH SCARS SHE WILL KEEP FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE. Conveniently, Alex walks in at this exact moment. Josh daydreams about Jessica, when a woman walks into the casino, and impresses Josh with her spiel about the advantages of hiring a woman dealer. Josh likes her spunk and hires her. Alex visits Marie, and immediately uses her as a sounding board for his marriage problems again. He whines that Mary is suspicious of him. Marie tells him that Mary already told her, which infuriates Alex. Alex figures Mary is telling everyone their business. Marie relays that she advised Mary to talk with him about it, but Alex won't listen, kvetching that he thought Marie was someone he could talk to but "I guess you're not!" much to Marie's relief. Marie is surprised, but not disappointed, when Jessica decides to shift her focus from nursing to research. Worrying that Alex will cut her off, Marie fills Alex in on Jessica's decision, and Alex, after talking with Jessica, is so impressed by her that he agrees to continue sponsoring her studies, much to Jessica's delight. At Cassie's birthday party, Josh shows up just in time to see Tawd plant a kiss on Jessica's cheek. Josh leaves before anyone sees him. Cassie also observes this, and is jealous af. Cassie shouts out for everyone to get nekkid to go skinny dipping, knowing Jessica is too uptight for all that. Tod and Jessica remain clothed, so that doesn't work. Then the popo show up, and Todd orders everyone back on the ferry (I guess the party was on Smith Island?), but tells Jessica to wait for him on the beach after he corrals everyone to "spare her embarrassment" (this isn't a trap AT ALL). Liz, who's busy getting some at Neil's cabin, spies the raid from the window of the cabin, and makes her way over to convince the officer not to arrest the kids. Toddd thanks Liz for stepping in on his behalf, before taking off to meet Jessica at the beach, leaving Cassie shivering on the ferry back to Salem. Jessica later tells Taud that she wants to go into pathology. He's impressed, and tells Kellam he wants to go to Salem U because he's met a girl who wants to tutor him. Kellam agrees to hire Jessica as Todd's tutor, after a pleasant meeting with her. Josh is not happy about Jessica's new job, offering her money if she refuses the job. Jessica refuses. At the first tutoring session in the park, Jess and Hot Toddie are interrupted by Cassie. Toddd takes off in a hurry, and Cassie theorizes he's still mad at her, before accusing Jessica of trying to take her man. Tooodd gushes to Josh about Jessica, claiming Jessica is too good him. Josh agrees, and warns Tod that if he harms a hair on Jess' head, he's gonna catch Josh's hands. Todd asks Jessica to dance to the disco. BUT. SHE. SAYS. NO! (I don't expect any of you to get that) He asks Cassie instead at Jess' insistence, but spends the entire night daydreaming of Jessica while dancing with Cassie, who is apparently fantasizing of marrying Toddd. Josh just happens to show up at the club with Carol. Tod tells Cassie that Carol is the kind of woman Josh apparently likes, not Jessica. Way to diffuse Cassie's insecurities, bozo. Carol throws herself at Josh, but he won't give in, because he has to "take care of" some things. Tawd tries to feed Jessica ideas that Carol and Joshua are an item, and describes Carol as a "beautiful" blonde. Lee goes to Neil's office for a checkup on her hypertension, and tells him she impulsively decided to go to the club opening, and admits she made a mistake. She then proceeds to tell him that the only thing that'll make her feel better is to have Doug come back to her. Pathetic. Julie won't stay with Doug at the club, as he's still married to Lee, and Lee's stunt at the opening was humiliating to her. Doug counters that Lee's stunt proves Lee is dong just fine and he can go ahead with the divorce. Mickey, upon hearing the news, is pleased, but warns Doug that Lee could easily take him for all he's worth. Doug doesn't care, and would happily hand over his money if it means he's free to be with Julie. Mickey also tells Doug that if Lee agrees to the divorce, it could be entirely sorted within 6 months. He tells Doug not to go to Mexico, as the legality of the divorce could be disputed (well, if we're being technical, why not Julie's divorce from Doug then, in that case?). Doug officially asks Lee for a divorce. Lee asks if Julie has anything to do with his decision. Doug tells Lee that he loves Julie very much. Lee states simply that all she wants is his happiness. Doug is shocked at how easily Lee appears to be backing down (it's never that simple, Doug). Lee immediately calls Brent and asks him to come back to Salem, it's time to do something about Julie. Lee goes to Mickey and demands some of Doug's money so she can pay for a trip to New York. She asks for cash. After ponying up the money, Lee buys a ticket to New York, but doesn't take the trip, instead renting a motel room on the edge of town, with the rest of the money going to Brent. Julie, I'm guessing, changes her mind about staying with Doug, because of what transpires next: Brent, now back in town, calls Doug under the guise of being a business proposition. Josh and Julie warn him about the shady dealers he'll have to endure with the casino, and suggest he hire more security. Doug doesn't think it necessary. Brent then calls, disguising his voice as a doctor at Hope's summer camp. He tells Doug that Hope has been injured. Doug races out to retrieve her, while Julie stays late at the shop, waiting on an appointment...who just happens to ALSO be Brent. Josh leaves a note for Julie about Doug's emergency at the casino, before heading off to Cassie's birthday party. Arriving at the camp, Doug realizes Hope is fine, and that the call was probably a set up. Panicked, he hurries back to Salem, worried why someone would want him out of the club. Doug calls Flora to tell Josh to check on Julie when she arrives. Outside the club, Brent knocks out the security guard, sneaks inside, and hides in Doug's office, where he assembles his rifle while waiting for Julie to arrive. When she does, she searches for Doug, confused as to why he isn't there. In the dark, Brent aims his rifle at her, and fires! Josh arrives JUST in time to hear Brent fire at Julie. Josh races to her side, Julie's been shot in the chest. Brent fires again, and Josh chases after Brent. They get in a violent scuffle, breaking glasses and stuff. Brent overpowers Josh, decking him before escaping. Back at the hotel, Lee awaits Brent's return. But Brent's not happy when he arrives. The guard and Josh will recognize him. He's not wrong, when the police sketch artist consults with Josh, the sketch is strikingly accurate. Brent leaves town, and Lee's pleased...until she turns on the radio and hears that Brent's hit job was a lousy one: Julie's still alive. Doug returns to the club too late. He blames himself when he hears the news of Julie's shooting, as does Don (who should mind his own fekking business), who smugly claims to Marlena that this is proof that Doug should never have opened the casino in the first place. Neil is called back to Salem to operate on Julie. Julie remains in critical condition after the surgery, and, as we see in the 8/12 episode, screams like she's possessed in her bed gasping for air as she develops an irregular heartbeat. David races over to the hospital, and randomly decides this is the moment to air his grievances about Julie giving him up as a baby to Tom and Alice, before wising up, and taking comfort in his great-grandmother's arms. Lee calls Mickey from "New York", and is "surprised" when he tells her of Julie's shooting. She tells him that she'll be home immediately. After great exertion, Lee makes it to the hospital to comfort Doug, who would rather swallow tacks than see Lee right now, and wonder why she came back. Lee later sees Brent's sketch in the paper, and freaks out at how good it is. She gets more nervous when Mickey tells her that police have tracked down an abandoned car they believe is the getaway vehicle of Julie's shooter. They figured out the car was a rental, and the man who rented it fits the description of the sketch. While there, Mickey pressures Lee to visit the insurance adjustor about her "missing" wedding ring. Lee finally relents, and lies that she lost the ring at the restaurant in the mall. Lee claims she went back to look for it, but the investigator asks the restaurant about Lee's claim, and they tell him that she never went back there. The investigator suggests to Mickey that Lee pawned her own ring. Mickey puts the question to Lee, who claims she was too sick to have gone to pawn the ring (oh, but not too sick to put on a spectacle at Doug's casino, suuuuure). After seeing the sketch, this woman named Carol (I assume this is the woman Josh hired??) remembers seeing Brent lurking about the casino the night of the shooting, and is certain she's seen him before, but can't place him. MARGO FINALLY DIES. Mike calls Mickey while in consult with Doug, and tells Mickey that Margo was lying EXTREMELY STILL when he went to bring her her breakfast in the morning. Mickey is somehow shocked by the news. Julie visits Maggie, and finds out from Maggie's face that Margo had passed. Maggie tells her "she accepted death so beautifully", as they hug, and Maggie cries. Mickey and Maggie decide to go out to the farm to comfort Mike, only to find Hank there alone. Hank tells them Mike went off to be alone for awhile, but Mike returns just as they're about to go look for him. Mike admits he is struggling to go on without Margo, but wouldn't do anything drastic, as he claims Margo would never have forgiven him. Alice arrives at the farm and tries to convince Mike to come back to Salem and stay with them awhile while he gets himself together. Mike refuses, stubbornly clinging to the farm, where he and Margo were happy. Mickey is concerned that Mike is bottling up his grief. After blowing up at his family, Mike sits outside on the porch at the farm, and thinks about Margo. After some soulsearching, he walks back into the farmhouse, and tells everyone assembled that they're right, it's time he went home. Trish reads a rave review of her singing in the paper, and David responds like a two-year-old, as per usual. He tells Trish he wants to leave Salem, and shouts, "You think you're so special. I can make it on my own! I don't need your help!" Maybe this is Nina Laemmle's attempt to de-SORAS David by having him BEHAVE like a child? A top agent contacts Trish, wanting to represent her. Trish is thrilled! Chris promises to Leslie's parents that he will take good care of her, and on the last night of her parents' visit, proceeds to get Leslie's father pissed drunk. SOD tells us that Leslie's father likes Chris because he is "Not only...strong enough to control Leslie, but he is Polish!", (insert raised eyebrows here) which apparently, they are as well. I presume James is not the name his grandfather used, then. Leslie's mother, takes a more...subtle approach, telling her daughter she thinks it's time Leslie considered marriage. Chris carries Leslie to her sofa, and tells her he will stay the night to protect her, as he's certain they were being followed from the hospital. Chris spies the same car parked across the street from Leslie's apartment, and calls the police. Hamlin tells Max that he thinks it's best that he leave town. Max agrees, as it would be unwise for him to be around when the insurance investigator arrives in town. Max asks if anyone other than Alex knows about his involvement in causing the fire. Hamlin tells him that David does. So Max sticks his goons on David. Mary probes Leslie for information about the "accident", and discovers that David made up her schedule for that day. While this is happening, Alex coaches David on what to tell the insurance adjustors: that Chris conspired with Hamlin to start the fire. They point to the fact that Chris fired Hamlin immediately after the fire, hinting that it was in a move to keep Hamlin quiet. Mary tells Chris about Margo's death. He feels guilty for not going to see her before her passing. Swept up in the emotion of the moment, Chris tells Leslie he loves her. According to SOD, Leslie responds by telling Chris about the anonymous caller from the previous recap that threatened Chris' life. I can't imagine that's actually how the interaction went, but...Chris proposes. Leslie says yes. When Mike returns to work, Chris offers him a promotion to production supervisor. Chris needs someone he can trust, asking him to keep an eye on David. The insurance investigator believes Alex and David's bullsh!t story about Chris being involved in the fire, and won't pay out until they locate Hamlin. While Chris and Mickey discuss their situation, Chris gets a call from Washington, saying they need to deliver on the generators ASAP or the contract is cancelled. Chris relays that they can't meet the deadline, but the government official won't budge. Cancellation would ruin Anderson, so Kellam and Max lick their chops and call Don off the campaign trail, and over to the Chandler mansion to broker a deal with Chris to take Anderson over, hoping his influence will smooth things over with the brass at the plant, as well as with the public. Don tentatively goes along with the plan, but is incredulous that Anderson has collapsed so quickly after Bob's death, and wants to investigate a bit on his own before he negotiates. He also suggests to Kellam that they fund a children's wing for the David Martin clinic to help build a bit more goodwill with the public during the takeover, which Kellam and Max are on board with. Kellam informs Marlena of his plans (conveniently leaving out the detail that it was Don's idea), and Marlena is all giggles about it. I guess the contract is cancelled, as Mary realizes the plant needs to be sold. Mary is certain Alex is behind the failure of the company. Kellam and Max agree that Alex needs to be "taken care of", but Alex, when he manages to corner Kellam alone, warns him that he's allowing Max to have too much power, and he will live to regret it. Chris refuses to let the ship go down without a fight. Depressed, he tells Leslie he can't marry her until the plant is saved. Guess the wedding's off then, as the government officially cancels the contract. Chris considers future career options. Mary refuses to give up, despite the writing being very much on the wall. She refuses to give up her stock in the plant, despite Alex's not-so-subtle attempts to convince his wife to take Chandler's offer. Mary snaps at him, calling out his hypocrisy in claiming to care about the plant, yet giving in so easily to the Chandlers. Alex, of course, denies this. Mary marches Alex over to his closet, and shows him it's empty. She's taken the liberty of packing his things for him. He's out! "When you tell your friends, the Chandlers, that I'm selling the plant, why don't you add that I'm divorcing you". COLD AS ICE. I love it. Mary's next target is David, who she invites over, and rakes him over the coals for his disloyalty to Bob. David counters that he and the workers weren't disloyal, they just didn't trust Chris. Mary doesn't buy it, and pointedly asks David if Alex gave him bonuses for turning the workers against Chris. David can't deny it, and Mary explodes, warning David that Alex's actions are tantamount to sabotage, and he, David, and everyone else involved in the plant's collapse could be prosecuted. David promises to make it up to Mary, but Mary orders him out, and to never set foot near Anderson again. David goes home to tell Trish he's "quit" his job (guffaw), saying he couldn't stand it anymore, and so he can stay home with Scotty now. He won't tell her anything more about it. Alex hears about David "quitting" and says he should've known better than to trust a "punk kid". Mary heads to Mickey's office, and tells him that she knows Alex conspired with Chandler to bring down Anderson. Mickey realizes that, if this is true, then Chandler's offer to purchase the company is illegal. Mary tells Mickey that she allowed David to resign in exchange for not pressing charges. Mickey suggests she not let sentiment get in the way. Chris' name needs to be cleared, and even though Mary doesn't want to tarnish the Horton name, but she needs to do what's right, and have David charged. Once Mickey tells David that he knows about his involvement with the Chandler sabotage of the Anderson plant, he asks David to testify against Alex and Chandler, hoping for leniency for David. David is a big baby again and decides the appropriate course of action is to run away instead. Trish tells him she's not going anywhere, as she's starting make headway in her career, so David decides to take Scotty and piss off and leave a goodbye letter for Trish to find. Trish is understandably hysterical after finding the sh!tbag's letter, saying he'll be a good father to Scotty (because babies raising babies always goes well). He punctuates the letter by saying that now Trish can focus on her career. A$$hole. David and Scotty get on a bus and leave town. Kellam is big mad about Don, Marlena, and Liz going to Doug's casino opening. He throws a fit to Don and Marlena for "insulting him" by going. Marlena tells him that if he loyalty is questioned, she's quitting the campaign. Kellam backs down immediately, and apologizes. Marlena continues to work with the kids at the clinic. Johnny appears jealous of Marlena's interaction with children who are not him. Josh tries to comfort him, but Johnny wishes Josh would take him home with him. Abandonment issues, y'all. Josh pulls Marlena aside and hints that she and Don should adopt Johnny. Don, when approached by Marlena about the possibility, is his usual grumpus self about it, but agrees to go with Marlena to see the boy. At the clinic, Johnny has a meltdown, which seems to confirm his position, but Marlena has Don and Johnny talk, and manages to convince Don to take the boy on a picnic with them. When Johnny learns this isn't going to happen now, he has another meltdown, as Marie tries to calm him down. Don is pretty certain this is a baaaad idea now. Marlena cries. Don backs down again, and takes Johnny on the picnic. They have a good time, and Marlena is impressed by how well behaved he is (Johnny, not Don). Despite the good time, Johnny is certain he'll never see Don or Marlena again. Nina Laemmle hitting us over the head with this abandonment complex BIG time, isn't she? Liz tells Neil she's so taken with him that she wants to move in. Neil thinks it's a rotten idea considering Kellam's campaign. Liz is aware, but suggests they marry once Kellam's campaign ends. Neil seems to like the idea. Kellam finally manages to get Neil to the Chandler mansion so he can tell Neil to not see his daughter. Kellam does as expected, and Neil flatly tells Kellam that they'll be married after the campaign ends. Kellam offers to buy Neil off, but Neil tells him where to shove his money. His love for Liz has no price on it. D'aww. GROWTH! God, I hate how Nina Laemmle writes David. What an absolute garbage human. Anyway, this month was a lot better than the previous ones, but I still am not loving a lot of the direction this show has taken. I dunno. What about y'all?

First off, glad to hear from you. The feedback is super-appreciated! I'm not the HUGEST fan of SORAS, but I figured...well...the ship has sailed with Mike and David already, so I'll likely freeze their ages somewhat for awhile, or at least age up some others to kind of...balance the scales a bit. As a result, yes, Anne and Susan are Anne and Susan Peters. Unfortunately, I wrote this without taking a second to remind myself how they left Salem (if they left Salem at all, in fact), as Daytime Serial Newsletter basically just...kinda...stopped writing about Susan without addressing where she went, and I foolishly didn't double check other sources, so that's my bad. I'll speak more to it in the June post. Absolutely looking to reintroduce Valerie, and possibly Danny as well. Just unsure on when, but it'll come. As for Stephanie and Trish, yeah I basically was running off what Harrower hjad written, so continuing with Stephanie and Trish butting heads thanks to the divorce from David, but I had lapsed a bit on how their relationship was when Brooke "died", so I'm sort of playing it more that Stephanie is mad that Trish would take her son away from a father that loves him, something she never had, and run with that. It's more of an explanation than Harrower ever gave for Stephanie's sudden change in attitude, I imagine. As for Pete and Donna, this was after their initial story with the miscarriage and Donna saying Don had raped her had ended, and Pete had left town to complete school. I believe that was all under Ann Marcus. Glad you enjoyed, and I appreciate the critique, quite genuinely. I need checks and balances to make this work, as I'm far from an expert on this show, much as it fascinates me. So thank you!

Marie and Laura embrace, not having seen each other for awhile, but the happy reunion is short-lived. Marie is concerned to learn that Laura hasn't told anyone in Salem of her visit. Marie insists that Laura tell her family of her whereabouts, but Laura pleads with Marie to keep her secret, if only for a few days. She just needs to be alone. In Salem, Bill heads for the airport, hoping to find out where Laura flew to. When the desk clerk is reticent to share that info, Bill pleads, insisting that he's looking for his wife, and asks if a Laura Horton had booked a last minute flight the day before around 4pm. When that doesn't turn out, Bill wonders if a Laura Spencer had. Again, nothing. The only name booked at the counter that day was a Carrie James that flew on a 4:35pm flight to Montreal. Instantly it clicks for Bill. Carrie for her mother's name, James for her father's name. Laura has gone to see Marie. Bill asks Tom to have his cases covered while he's away, as Alice promises to watch Jennifer. Bill books a flight out to Montreal. Marie and Laura discuss her mental state, and her guilt over Laura not seeing her mother before her death. Marie tells Laura that her guilt is understandable, but that sometimes one is stretched too thin, and can't process traumatic events at first. They can freeze or simply block them out. She also tells Laura that her mother's suicide is not Laura's responsibility. Carrie was mentally ill, and it's easy to look inward to think of what you could've done differently, but, realistically, what could Laura have done differently. Laura knows Marie is right, but wants to take her time to think everything over. Bill arrives at the convent, and Marie greets him. She's happy to see him, but with a twinge of sadness in her eyes, particularly with regard to Laura. Marie tells Bill that Laura needs time to herself, and that her mother's death hit her hard. Marie goes to check on Laura, to see if she'd like to see Bill, but Laura isn't in her room, and no one can find her. A bit of panic ensues as Bill and Marie search for her, but eventually Bill catches up with her at a fountain on the property. Laura is, at first, depressed, and doesn't want to speak to Bill, but Bill speaks in affirmation of her feelings, and reminds her of the great life they've built together in Salem, one her mother can be proud of. Laura expresses that that life has a lot of painful memories attached as well, ones she wishes she could break away from and start anew. Bill understands, and promises that whatever Laura wishes to do, he will follow her. After a long discussion, Bill and Laura decide that, since Laura must travel to Chicago to settle her mother's estate anyway, that maybe she and Bill can take some time there. Perhaps a new start, just Laura, Bill and Jennifer. Bill thinks it's a lovely idea. Marie expresses that she'd love to come with them back to Salem, hoping to make things easier for them both. So the three of them head for the airport, and back to Salem to say their hellos and goodbyes. Tom, in Laura's absence, has hired Dr. Jordan Barr to replace her, after Marlena makes it clear that she's not entirely interested in the position for herself, still somewhat ill at ease after Laura began to chip away at her self-confidence. Marlena meets Dr. Barr, and they hit it off immediately. Marlena's confidence begins to turn around again under Jordan's wing, reminding Marlena of her talents with patients. Jordan's warmth rubs Don the wrong way, but he retains a professional exterior in front of Marlena at the hospital. But at home, Don makes some snide remarks about Marlena's new mentor, reminded of Marlena's history with Dr. Paul Whitman. Marlena senses some tension over breakfast, but initially chalks it up to Don being stressed over his work caseload. Donna begins receiving phone calls from a "friend", but is secretive as to whom the friend is. Don becomes increasingly concerned when Donna becomes withdrawn from the family. Marlena chalks it up to Donna's angst over her babysitting mishaps with Scotty and Jennifer, which allays Don's fears for a bit. One night, after Donna recieves a call from this "friend", Donna asks Don to take her to a friend's place for a slumber party. Don agrees, provided Donna leave a phone number where she can be reached. Donna leaves the number of a young friend, Anne, where she can be reached. Satisfied, Don and Marlena agree to let her head off, and pack an overnight bag for her. Marlena offers to drive her, but Donna says Anne's mom, Susan, will pick them up. Donna says her goodbyes, claiming Susan is downstairs waiting for her. Outside the apartment building, Donna steps outside, and smiles. Waiting for her is Pete. Doug asks Don to file Rebecca's letter regarding Dougie separately from his and Julie's other paperwork, and that he set up a living trust fund for baby Dougie as well. Robert, meanwhile, tries to do Doug a favour, and find out any information he can about the artificial insemination that Doug took part in. I guess, hoping to find out if Doug has a child out there somewhere, since he and Julie are struggling to conceive. Neil insinuates that the insemination didn't work out, hoping Robert will stop prying. David visits, and asks Julie to come to Stephanie's with him tonight, hoping that, if anyone sees him there, at least he's there with Julie, so it doesn't look untoward. Julie is reluctant, but agrees. Doug bites his tongue hard, until David leaves, when he makes it clear that he doesn't like David using Julie in his games against Trish. Trish pays Stephanie a visit, Stephanie is less than thrilled to see Trish, but lets her in anyway. Once inside, Trish tries to fish for information about her relationship with David. Stephanie is honest that she hasn't seen David in days, but will see him the next day as she's well enough to return to work. Trish makes it clear that she won't give up David or her son without a fight, and Stephanie better stay out of her way. Stephanie blows up at Trish at this point, laying into her for taking off out of state with Scotty, not letting David know where she was, and up and leaving for Europe without her son. Stephanie calls Trish a rotten mother, she vows that she will do everything she can to make sure Trish stays out of David's, and Scotty's life. At this point, Trish is so livid that she slaps the hell out of Stephanie, just as Julie and David come through the door. Stephanie immediately plays the victim, and David throws Trish out of the house, telling her he will absolutely make good on his threats to divorce her now. After Trish leaves Stephanie's, Julie gives David and Stephanie some alone time, where Stephanie pressures David to finally bite the bullet and file the divorce decree. David, though enraged, still needs some convincing before he finally is convinced, but he does. The next day, he heads to Mickey's to file the petition. Mickey tries to talk him down, asking what precipitated David's action, and once David explains the situation, Mickey asks if he's doing this out of anger and spite, or does he really feel like things are irrepairable between him and Trish. David considers it, but tells Mickey that he loves Stephanie, and that he can't stand to be apart from her any longer. It's time. Mickey files the paperwork. Trish is devastated when she gets served with the divorce petition, and immediately meets with Jerry Reinhart. They begin to compile a case against David, while Trish stews over whether or not to involve Stephanie in it as David's adulteress. Trish visits Jeri, who convinces her to do just that. Despite Trish's lingering anger over Jeri's vicious visit to David, she knows that it's her best shot of keeping custody of Scotty. Upon telling Jerry, he agrees with Trish. Doug and Julie go to another check-up with Neil, and again get the same news, Julie is not pregnant. Julie is frustrated, but Doug seems okay with the news. His attempts to reassure Julie only frustrated her more, causing her to wonder why Doug isn't more upset by the news. Doug won't say, knowing Julie would like them to have a child of their own. Doug plays it off as trying to lift Julie's spirits, but Julie is too annoyed, and heads out of the hospital without him. At home, Doug apologizes for his attitude at the hospital. Julie also feels regretful for snapping at Doug. They go to bed early, and make up by making love. Amanda puts the brakes on soon after, though. She admits to Chris that she really doesn't want to pursue anything further with him, as she IS still married, and an affair with a married woman could ruin Chris' career. Chris tries to convince Amanda that he doesn't care about anything but the here and now, but Amanda won't budge, and insists she should return to Chicago before things get out of hand. Chris feels once again rejected. The chaos of Laura's departure convinces Amanda to stay in Salem. She turns to Chris for comfort. Once Laura returns to Salem, Bill and Laura hold a goodbye party at the Horton house. Amanda arrives with Chris. During the party, Laura tells Amanda about what transpired in Montreal, and how she and Bill were able to come together. Caught up in the spirit of romance, Amanda is reminded how empty her life in Chicago has been with Greg. She tells Chris she's decided to stay in Salem after all. Chris is ecstatic, but their joy is short-lived when Greg appears at the party. Greg puts on the appearance of being happy for his friends in the Horton family, but when he manages to get Amanda alone, he harps at her to return home to Chicago. Amanda refuses repeatedly, avoiding telling Greg about her and Chris' budding relationship. Greg pushes her repeatedly throughout the evening. At one point, Greg pulls Amanda into the Horton kitchen, and tells her how he's realized how neglectful he's been, and apologizes for it. He promises to Amanda that he will be the kind of husband that Amanda needs, will treat her like a queen, make her feel like the toast of Chicago. Amanda tells Greg that he's way off-base, and that she doesn't need to be put on a pedestal. She needs to feel like a partner in their marriage, and to feel like she's respected by her husband. Greg insists he can do this if Amanda will just leave Salem and rejoin him in Chicago. Amanda counters that Greg still doesn't, and what he's doing now proves it, as he still isn't listening to what she's saying. Amanda leaves at this point, and Chris asks if she wants a ride home. Amanda would like to, but thinks it a bad idea under the circumstances. She asks Doug to drive her back to Doug and Julie's. Mike and Margo move into their new house, financed partially by Laura's gift. Margo sets about organizing a housewarming party for them. Mike wants to have a serious talk with Margo: since her cancer has remained in remission awhile now, he'd like to consider trying for a baby. Margo tries her level best to change the subject, pretending to be so focused on planning the party that she's too preoccupied to answer Mike. Mike, for now, doesn't push the subject. Secretly, Margo is horrified at the very idea of trying to have a baby right now. She visits Trish, and confides in her that the idea of having Mike's baby when she could very well die at any time seems cruel, and even if she does give birth successfully, she's scared Mike would very quickly be raising their baby alone. Trish tells her to be honest, but gentle with Mike. At home, Margo can't bring herself to let Mike down, seeing how his face lights up when he talks about their potential child. She asks Mike to wait, as Anderson's government contract is eating up a lot of her time at work, and she'd just like to get settled in first. Mike's face drops upon hearing this, rightly believing that Margo is deflecting because she's afraid of her cancer coming back. Margo insists that isn't true, and assures Mike that when things settle down, they will try for a baby. Mike backs off, and he and Margo share a lovely evening together. Returning to work at Anderson, Stephanie is welcomed back by Margo, who invites her out to lunch. Stephanie accepts, and the two discuss their respective lives. Stephanie admits to Margo that she's still on a low dosage of medication for the pain in her hands, but insists she'll be able to manage. Stephanie asks how things are with her. Margo discusses buying the new house, but talks about how low-energy she's been, and unmotivated to handle the decoarting. Stephanie offers to help out, hoping to take some of the stress off Margo's back. Margo refuses at first, but Stephanie insists that helping to decorate would offer a nice distraction for her from the heaviness of her own situation with David and Trish. Margo accepts. Mary continues to be wooed by Steve, though Mary is still clearly still hung up on Chris. Steve tries to entice Mary with a trip to Paris, as he's on another antiques hunt for Chez Julie. Mary seems intrigued, but is clearly distacted. When Steve sees this, he tells Mary that, if they are to get closer, Steve wants to be certain that Mary's eyes are only for him. Mary apologizes, and admits that she's still very much in love with Chris. She asks Steve to forgive her, but he's right, it wouldn't be fair to see him until she is well and truly over Chris. Steve heads off to Paris, and checks in occasionally with Julie regarding any finds he encounters for Chez Julie. Maggie, feeling unchallenged by her work life, asks Julie what she would suggest to give her life more meaning. Julie counters that Maggie may simply be looking for a way to distract from missing Janice. Maggie is certain Julie's right, but Julie wonders why Maggie isn't focusing her attentions on Mickey. Maggie tells Julie she appreciates Mickey and loves to spend time with him, but his hectic schedule leaves her alone far too often, and it's beginning to wear her down, her time alone gets her thinking about Janice, and about alcohol. Julie suggests she spend some time volunteering at the hospital, particularly in pediatrics. She suggests maybe helping by connecting with other young children may help Maggie fill the void in her life that Janice left. The next day, when Maggie goes to ask Tom about the idea, he is enthusiastic about it, but worries if Maggie is up to it, what with having lost Janice so recently. Maggie tells Tom that she'd considered it, but that since having children with Mickey is simply not in the cards, she needs to find other ways to connect with children, and to bring joy into their lives, and hers. Tom agrees to it, and arranges for Maggie to assist Neil in the clinic. Linda, still feeling her position in the Anderson home is vulnerable, sets about trying to break down Bob's defenses, and get back into his bed. She plans a lovely evening for herself, Bob, and Melissa. Bob, largely to project a secure, happy home for Melissa, plays along, eventually being drawn into the joy of the evening. Once Melissa is sent up to bed for the night, Linda makes her move. Sensually wrapping her arms around Bob, she thanks him for a lovely evening, and wishes it didn't have to end. Bob, conflicted between his attraction to his wife, and revolted by her previous actions, resists her. He tells Linda he'll take the spare room tonight. Linda is not deterred, however. Knowing she's making progress, she attempts the next night with a much more provocative display, donning a sexy negligée, and lighting candles in the bedroom. Bob, already worn down by the previous night, gives into Linda this time, and they spend the night together. The next day, Bob has regrets, and claims nothing's changed between them, he just needed to get off. He even has a moment of clarity, and accuses Linda of using sex to get her way. Linda lays on the wounded dove routine extra thick, claiming she cannot BELIEVE Bob would make her feel so VIOLATED and be so ABUSIVE towards her, and is convinced Mary's influence is to blame for his coldness, knowing she is still mistrustful of Linda's motives. Linda tries for some financial insurance in case her scheme with Bob doesn't work out, and asks Don for a job as a legal secretary for him and Mickey. Don's all for it, but Mickey points out that their lawfirm handles Anderson's affairs. He isn't so sure, but hires her anyway. Of course, Linda's intent in having the job is to have access to Anderson info to worm her way back into the company. When Mickey tells Maggie about his having hired Linda, Maggie tries to bite her tongue, but cannot. She has deep misgivings about Linda working so closely with Mickey. Mickey counters with his own discomfort with Maggie working so closely with a womanizer like Neil Curtis, but he knows Maggie would stay loyal to him, seeing the men who've been close to her in the past, even during rough times in their marriage. Maggie has never strayed once, and for that, Mickey is grateful, and will do the same in kind. Recognizing his wife's insecurities, Mickey also tries to reassure her that his affections for Linda died many years ago. Maggie accepts Mickey's words, but it's obvious in her face that she isn't 100% certain that Linda won't manipulate things to her favour in some way.

In all honesty, it would've fit Reilly's fetish for Catholicism to have Sister Marie in Salem, but I shudder to think of exactly what exact kinds of blasphemy would occur if she were in town at that time.

I really can't wait to get to this part in the story because right now Jessica looks so immature and unsympathetic and I have virtually no context as to why, and it's intriguing me (not enough to write out August 1980, mind you, but...)

Might not have been private two years ago when they made that tweet.

@Franko I feel like Liz was fairly public about exposing Lee's affair with her ex-husband, but I also think Lee was more focused on being dumped by Doug, so that's probably the source of the humiliation. I think the first business trip Chris took coincided with Stephanie dying, Bob having his last heart attack, and Mary deciding she was marrying Alex and was gonna install him as de facto head of the company in Bob's absence. So like... He comes back after 3 weeks and the company, in that time, is completely different than when he left. Every time he goes away, wild sh! t goes down, I swear! @jam6242 thanks so much for posting that video. Really helps clarify some things. (sorry Frank, can't seem to remove the double tag) @Franko@victoria foxtonyou're right. The casino set is kind of underwhelming. Especially after all the effort they went to to renovate after closing Doug's Place. Hmmm...

Thanks @AbcNbc247! I'm glad you liked it! I admit, I didn't really have much for Bill and Laura, or Mickey and Maggie at first, but I think I've got a plan formulating, at the very least, for Mickey and Maggie, so that'll prove interesting. I may give Bill and Laura a bit of a rest for now, but we will see how that goes. Re: Mary and the government contract, I'm gonna leave that going, mostly because it feels like an unnecessary beat to play, since they just...immediately went back to an almost-identical storyline involving the government contract for the solar panels, so like...why bother? There are other ways to accomplish the same thing, tbh! This is just the beginning, of course. I'll have a lot more coming. Thanks again for reading and commenting. I hope you continue to enjoy this *bites nails*

Sorry, y'all. I got caught up in writing the DAYS '79 fanfic, I neglected updating everyone on 1980. I think I'm subconsciously dreading what's coming, tbh. Let's get to this nonsense: Neil and Liz are seeing each other more and more. Neil's quenching that thirst, getting a room at a cheap motel for him and Liz to hook up, where he *gasp* insinuates that Liz could convince him to be monogamous! I'll believe it when I see it. After checking up on Lee, Liz and Neil have lunch, where Liz fills Neil in on Lee's shady dealings in the past. She tells Neil about her tendency to latch onto other women's men. Well, you'll LOVE Neil then... Max continues to be the weird overlord of the Chandler family (which I still cannot figure out the reason for), and tells Kellam that Liz and Neil are seeing each other, that they should not see each other, and that Kellam should find a husband for Liz. Kellam asks if Max also has a suitor in mind for Liz, but Max says nothing. These two are fekking weird. Neil arranges another quaint rendez-vous with Liz, this time at a cabin in the woods. After returning, Kellam tries to grill Liz about the nature of her relationship with Neil, but Liz responds by simply leaving the room. Kellam then attempts to have Liz go on the campaign trail with Don to try to keep Liz away from Neil, which Liz flatly refuses to do, knowing what her father is up to. Out of spite, she accepts Neil invitation to accompany him at Doug's casino opening. Doug and Julie are off antique shopping again, where Julie worries Doug is overspending. Doug promises he will watching his pocketbook a little closer once the casino is open. Julie says she'll be keeping her eye on him. The flirtation is beginning anew! Brent is surprised when Lee tells him that Byron didn't trust Lee with his inheritance, noting that Lee used be able to turn anything into money. Brent is restless to get out of Salem, but sticks around at the promise a big payday from Lee. Lee gives him a deposit on that payday, but not in cash. Instead, she gifts Brent her wedding ring, then cries to Doug that she lost it. Doug say, no worries! The police and insurance company will look into, causing Lee to spill her tea. Doug asks her to go see Neil, since she's apparently so nervous. LOL. Doug goes to the mall to see Julie, and insists she stop seeing Kellam, as he doesn't trust him. Doug says he'd do anything. Julie point-blank asks him "would you divorce your wife?", but Doug won't, apparently seeing her agitation as anything other than signs that she's a scheming you-know-what. Brent is lurking out in the hallway listening in while this conversation goes on. Doug still wants to go to antique auctions with Julie, despite his concerns about Lee, even overcoming Julie's objections on the matter. Lee tells Brent she wants her ring back, as she doesn't want the insurance company to be lurking about. Brent counters that, if he gives her the ring back, his days of stalking Doug and Julie for Lee are over. Lee immediately changes her mind. When Neil pays a house call to check on Lee, he finds she has high blood pressure (yeah spending a year manipulating a man into giving you your dead husband's inheritance would do that), and hypertension. Neil recommends Lee have a stay in the hospital. Lee refuses, claiming that her anxiety is simply down to her marriage falling apart. Doug apparently is fixated on a mirror he saw at an old inn, and ends up buying it. But when Doug and Julie go to leave with their new purchase, it's stormy outside, and the innkeeper insists they stay the night, assuming they're married. He gives them the bridal suite. Doug and Julie take advantage of their forced evening together, and light candles and get some wine going. After a toast to his 'fair lady', they kiss, then head to bed together. Downstairs, Brent appears, and investigates. After sneaking a peak at the hotel register, he snaps photos of Doug's signature. Doug and Julie discuss their future, and Doug promises to divorce Lee, on the condition that Julie agree to be his 'fair lady' again. Julie asks if Doug is proposing, but apparently doesn't give him an answer? Josh gets a call in the morning from Doug, telling him what happened the previous night. Josh agrees to cover for Doug with Lee, and claims Doug came back late and slept at the club, not wanting to disturb Lee, which placates her temporarily. Then she visits Brent, who tells her the truth. It's about to get real! Brent gives Lee 24 hours to make a decision about how to handle Doug's infidelity with Julie. Doug, meanwhile, has decided to divorce Lee (I guess Julie said 'yes'), but, of course, as he says this, Neil calls and tells Doug about Lee's hypertension. He insists Doug not talk about divorcing her now. Doug won't commit to staying married to Lee, but agrees to be gentle with her. At the shop, Kellam pays Julie a visit, asking her to dinner. Julie decides to pack it in, and tells him that it would be unwise to continue to see him, or to work for him, knowing that Kellam wants more of a relationship between them than Julie does, and hands back the brooch Kellam gave her. Kellam is outraged, asking if she knows what she's giving up. As if to answer the question by way of unintentional visual example, Doug walks in at that exact moment. Kellam realizes Julie's made her choice, and heads out with ego thoroughly bruised. Doug disappoints Julie, however, by telling her of Neil's diagnosis of Lee. He tells Julie, however, that he will separate from Lee, regardless, and will move out of their penthouse, which serves to reassure Julie. This lasts a whole five seconds. Doug tells Lee anyway that their marriage was a mistake and that it's all over. Lee freaks out, as expected, taking a bunch of sleeping pills after Doug leaves. She's fine, she just nearly sleeps through Brent's deadline is all. Lee sucks at figuring out proper dosage, I guess. She races to Brent's hotel room, horrified to see his bags already packed. He demands an answer from Lee, which she is so shellshocked from the past few hours, she can't. Brent suggests she give him something to retain him for another day or so, but Lee insists she has nothing more to give. Brent gets sleazy when he has an idea of something she can give him. Lee tries to fight him off, but Brent throws her on the bed and gets on top of her. JEEZ, Nina Laemmle really liked to dip into that rape well, didn't she? Lee glosses over the previous incident with Brent and decides to go to the hospital, as Neil instructed her to, so that she'll appear more sympathetic to Doug. Neil, concerned, asks Lee about the bruise under her eyes, and she claims she "fell". Lee is a basket case, refusing to talk to the insurance company about her missing ring, which mystifies Neil. Lee insists it's lost forever, and sobs that there's nothing she can do about it now. She is despondent, crying to Doug that he cannot leave her. I...honestly can't tell if this is Lee's trauma response or an Oscar-worthy performance to try to keep her hooks in Doug's bank account. Liz finds out about Doug and Julie's reunion and is THRILLED! Not only does it mean Kellam loses (not bitter in the slightest, Liz!), but it also means Lee has lost! Sounds like Lee is the one who broke up Liz's last marriage or something, though why would she not recognize her immediately as the other woman? I don't understand. Liz vows eternal friendship to Julie. Marlena has continued to work with the children's clinic at the hospital, and tells Don she'd like to continue to. Don thinks Marlena just wants to be around kids to find one to adopt to take the sting off of losing DJ. Marlena denies this, and tells him she fears these children will be scarred forever without her help. Don stays angry, and when Kellam offers to send him out of town on the campaign trail, Don jumps at the chance. Marlena would rather not. Kellam is okay with whichever direction Marlena decides, simply happy to have her as part of his campaign. Marie tells Alex that Tom is very fond of him, and the work he's done for the hospital. Alex admits he did it all for her. When probed by Marie, Alex admits he doesn't love Mary, never did, thinks she's a spoiled brat, and probably should never have married her. Marie tells Alex that he knew this going in, and surmises Alex only married Mary because she was Bob's daughter, therefore $$$. Alex admits it's true. But Marie is put off when Alex suggests he would divorce Mary, claiming it's "morally reprehensible", and suggests Alex thinks that doing one nice thing for the kids at the hospital would grant him absolution, when it won't. Let the nun come out! MORE GENERATOR DELAYS! Chris is fed up and wants to go fly with Leslie to the trouble spot to see what the hold up is, but Alex, knowing what's really going on, tells him it's a better idea for HIM to go with Leslie instead, reasoning that if something goes wrong at the plant, Chis is better-equipped to handle it. Chris agrees, albeit reluctantly. Chris then changes his mind, not wanting Leslie to be the one to take Alex on his trip. He worries about Leslie's change in attitude toward Alex since he came back from his last business trip (the lesson here, Chris, is stop taking business trips). Chris notes that both Phyllis and Mary have been sucked in by Alex's charm, and now he worries the same is true of Leslie. Leslie balks at Chris' assertion. David gets mad at Trish AGAIN. This time because David bought Trish a gold bracelet and she has the audacity to show it off to Chris and tell her about David's bonus. Of course, David got the bonus because he was spying on Chris for Alex. When Chris figures it out, he calls Leslie to rush back to Salem immediately. Once back, Chris tells Leslie the news: David has been on Alex's payroll, explaining his icy attitude towards them. Leslie doesn't really care, and tells Chris as much, saying she'll stay friendly to Alex. Chris asks her just how friendly she's been, which offends Leslie. Chis says he refuses to share Leslie with any man (she's a woman, not your marble collection, Chris). Leslie soon hands in her resignation, claiming she won't let Chris walk all over her. Chris tells her he got angry because he cares, and Leslie relents, telling Chris that she is, indeed, in his corner. This precipitates a sudden chill in the air between Leslie and Alex. Alex asks Leslie out for dinner, but Leslie refuses, saying that, outside of business, she doesn't make it a habit of going out with married men. Better get on that divorce then, Alex! Chris has to go to Washington on business again, a sure sign everything's about to go to hell. He tells Leslie that he'll have something important to ask her when he gets back. Three guesses what it might be. Chris is worried about leaving Leslie alone at the plant with Alex and Hamlin lurking about. And with good reason, Alex tells Hamlin (SOD really doesn't like using any of the new characters' first names, and I don't care enough about this dope to remember it right now, so you'll just have to bear with me) that he (Alex) set Chris' latest trip up so that Hamlin would have free reign at the plant. Hamlin warns Alex that he may have to hurt Leslie to pull off his plans. Things start off with David being instructed to keep Leslie busy. But when David presents his schedule to Leslie, she balks at how poorly structured it is, and makes her own. She then finds the factory workers slacking off, and when she confronts Hamlin about it, he shrugs off the responsibility for it, while being typically condescending to her. David is apparently increasingly displeased with Alex's plans, and argues with him over it before having lunch with Trish. Trish arrives at the plant in the middle of the argument, and when it's over, David is snappy as usual, and Trish leaves. Hamlin then really goes to the extreme, and cuts some wires in the plant machinery, causing a fire. After the fire is put out, Leslie checks the circuit box to see what might have caused the fire, only to hear footsteps behind her. When she calls for a guard, a cascade of steel barrels roll towards her, and knock her unconscious. One wonders what so many steel barrels are doing so poorly stored, but I digress. The guard finds Leslie on the floor of the generator room, and rushes her to the hospital. Neil calls Chris, who races back to Salem. David questions Alex about whether he was to blame for Leslie's "accident", but he defensively denies any involvement, and, in a great, genuine show of innocence, tells him that anything he heard between Alex and Hamlin is to be kept confidential from everyone, Trish included. Hamlin calls Max, demanding Max protect him. Max tells Hamlin he's on his own. After the call, Alex grabs Hamlin by the collar, and gets him to admit to setting up the "accident", and that Max asked him to do it. Returning to Salem, Chris sits at Leslie's bedside, and tells her of his regret in letting her stay behind. Leslie wakes up, and wonders what happened. Thankfully, it's not amnesia, she remembers all once Chris jogs her memory. Chris leaves, and Leslie immediately gets a threatening phone call from some random man telling her not to squeal about the barrels or the fire, or else someone very close to her will get it. Chris and Alex head for the generator room, and Chris very quickly finds the cause of the fire. Chris thinks the fire started far too quickly, and finds it extremely convenient that he got called out of town just before the accident. Alex gets defensive again, asking Chris if he's accusing him. Chris isn't sure, but threatens to turn whoever did do it inside out. Alex visits Leslie, but Leslie is convinced Alex is to blame for her accident. Alex begs her to believe he was not involved. Mary, finally involved in the story again, also suspects Alex is behind the fire. She asks where he was when the fire started. She then goes to Marie for guidance. Marie tells Mary to have a very honest talk with Alex. But when Mary does, Alex is evasive. Never one to shy away from a confrontation, Mary asks him point blank if he's out to destroy Anderson. Alex finally snaps, telling her he didn't, but he knows that's what she wants to believe because their marriage is a farce. He says that if Mary wants out, he'll be happy to let her out. David, freaked out that his allegiances have put him on the wrong side of things at work, panics about being accused of causing the so-called accidents, and goes on a drinking binge, worrying both Trish and Julie. Chris sends for Leslie's parents. They arrive and are quite taken with Chris, hinting not-so-subtly that he'd make a great husband. At the plant, Chris fires Hamlin (I guess he figured out he was responsible, but they don't make it clear how he's deduced this information), and tells Hamlin to never come back to Salem or something something broken bones etc. Who cares? Bye. Josh gets Jessica's call about the weird man trying to break down Flora's door, and runs into the mansion. They fight, and Josh is able to throw him down the stairs. Josh asks where the man's from, he only says "welfare" before attacking Josh again, with Josh hitting his head as the man runs from the mansion. After the chaos subsides, Neil checks Mrs. Chisholm out, and lets them know that Flora has a weak heart, but will be fine for the time being. No one can figure out what the intruder wanted. Josh suspects the intent was to frighten Flora to death, and Doug agrees. He hires a security guard for the property, but senses Josh is holding back from him. Josh won't divulge, worrying that to tell Doug is to make Doug a target, much like what's happened to Flora. Kellam is livid. Max has bunged up all of their plans, not only to find out more about Josh, but also to scare Flora to death so that everyone keeps their mouths shut about how Sunny really died. Kellam is worried Flora will not do this, and they are unsure how Josh is connected to her. So the plan is to get their hired goon to find out what he can, and spook the old man enough to cause a heart attack. What delightful characters. Jessica is distraught because Josh won't go out with her. Cassie tells her not to give up, but instead, to make him jealous, offering to set Jessica up with her friend Danny. Jessica refuses, because that would be dishonest. Cassie tells Mary-Sue that she might as well give up on Josh, then. WELP! Jessica immediately (awkwardly) tries Cassie's suggested approach with Josh. Josh asks Jessica to visit Flora, but Jess says she can't because she's busy. Then quickly adds that she has a date with one of Cassie's friends. Smooth. For said date, Cassie slathers the makeup onto Jessica with a trowel, and gives her a vampy dress to go with it. On a pretext they don't explain, Jessica goes to see Josh, and shows off her new makeover, which Josh finds unimpressive and, frankly, kind of disappointing. Not getting the reaction she wants, Jessica whispers that she's going to the disco and she's going to have a "VERY VERY GOOD TIME". Danny the Blind Date thinks Jess is a knockout, but is disappointed when Jessica won't dance with him. Tod, I guess on a double date with Cassie and them, tries to reassure Jessica, but it doesn't do much to help. Josh decides to come to the disco to monitor Jess from afar in a completely non-parental, non-creepy way. He's distressed to see Jessica drinking (he likes them socially awkward and uptight as f*ck, apparently). Spotting Josh, Jessica tells him she's tired of him playing big brother, and dances with Danny out of spite, even kissing him (she's a quick study, isn't she?). At this point, Josh cuts in and instructs Jess to "quit acting". Shortly thereafter, Jessica learns Cassie and Toddd have left, so she asks Danny to take her home, which goes just GREAT. Danny tries to put the moves on Jessica, but is rebuffed. Danny gets fresh, and Jess slaps him, before running out of the car. Danny chases after her, but Big Brother Josh scares him off. Josh asks Flora to the casino opening, but she suggests someone younger, like Jessica. She's awfully old to hit him over the head with that sledgehammer, isn't she? Jessica shows up at the mansion, and apologizes for tarting up at the disco. Josh teases her, claiming he's asked someone else out to the casino opening, before revealing it's just Mrs. Chisholm. He then hands Jessica an envelope, saying he'd be delighted to take both Flora AND Jessica to the gala. Jessica immediately accepts. THE GALA! Everyone dresses in 1890s style, and Josh instructs the other dealers to watch for underhanded trickery from gamblers, and to be honest themselves. Julie is dolled up in a glittery red dress with a matcher red feather boa, as both she and Doug greet the incoming guests. Mickey and Maggie arrive first, then Don and Marlena. Don makes a point to tell Doug how much he disapproves of the casino, politically, while in the same breath wishing him all the success in the world. (SHUT UP, DON, you campaigned against your friend's success, you can save every word of it!) Jessica and Josh walk Flora home, before taking a moonlight stroll in the garden outside the casino. They begin to dance, before they kiss...and kiss....and then Josh stops himself and takes Jessica home. the definition of a buzzkill. Doug steps out of the era temporarily to sing "The Look Of Love" to Julie, as Lee walks in, wearing the silver glittering gown Maggie designed for her. She makes a point of standing right next to Julie's table, and loudly applauding Doug when he finishes the song. Embarrassing Julie, Lee's spectacle forces Julie to run from the room, before Neil sends Doug after her. Doug takes a moment to tear a strip off Lee for her little performance, and demands she leave immediately. He then leaves to track Julie down. Lee lays into Neil for sending Doug away, before pushing past Liz to get out. But Liz pulls her back in to give Lee some unsolicited advice: "You shouldn't make unexpected entrances", before telling Lee about an entrance she made at a party in Paris, where she opened the wrong door while looking for a powder room. Instead, Liz opened the door to a bedroom, and found Lee there with her (now-ex-) husband. OOPS! Lee, humiliated, runs home, and tears the ribbons off her gown (not having seen this gown, I have no idea what this entails). Well...at least Lee's finally exposed. Liz really is the most engaging of the new characters, and I will say, they really amped up the action this month. But...my God how I don't really care about 90% of this stuff. Sure there's more action, sure there's more movement than there was during most of Harrower's run, but...meh? I dunno, what do y'all think?

I hope you enjoy when you do! And please, feel free to give feedback. I don't claim to be an expert on DAYS history, so if anything rings false or if there's any story direction you'd rather I go in, speak up. I'm just having fun with this one!😅

So, I decided to bite the bullet and make another DAYS Alternate Timeline blog. After months of writing up recaps of the late 70s and into the (GOD-AWFUL) 1980 Nina Laemmle run, I got so frustrated by the missed opportunities on the show, that I decided to have some fun and build some stories of my own based on what Ann Marcus and Elizabeth Harrower had set up. If any of you have ideas, suggestions, questions, complaints, have at it. Let's have some fun together with this, and run with the story opportunities DAYS missed way back when. NOTE: I will be italicizing segments of the story that actually played out on screen (because I didn't hate EVERYTHING Elizabeth Harrower did). I know it'll be tonally different than the rest of it, but I'm being lazy. ONWARD! APRIL 1979 So, as Stephanie recovers from burning her hands off, David spends time at her apartment caring for her, which leaves Donna alone with Scotty a lot more often, giving Trish far more opportunity to see Scotty. But this all blows up in her face when Alice finally convinces Donna that it's a bad idea to continue keeping secrets from David, and implores her to keep her distance from Trish, she will handle telling David about Trish's visits herself. Before Alice can get a chance, however, Trish tries to pay another visit. Donna won't let her in, and David returns from Stephanie's apartment, needing to grab something from his place before he makes her dinner. He spots Donna trying to keep Trish at bay, and goes off on Trish, vowing to have her evicted from the building for harrassment, and to slap a restraining order against her. Once Trish is dealt with, David tries to find out from Donna what was going on. Donna breaks down and admits that she had been letting Trish visit for some time, also admitting Alice knew, but before Donna can explain that Alice intended to tell David about the visits, David fires Donna, and heads for Alice's in a rage. Alice attempts to explain the situation to David, noting that she only just found out about Trish's visits herself, and was going to visit David this evening to explain the situation to him. David cools off a bit, but still needs time to think. Realizing he's neglected Stephanie, he heads back to her apartment. Stephanie tries to further cool David's nerves, but to no avail, he's too deep in thought. Mary, after hearing the news of Stephanie's "accident" pays her a visit while David is away. Mary isn't particularly comfortable, but feels for Stephanie. Mary, her usual unfiltered self, wonders out loud how Stephanie could've injured her hands. Stephanie is defensive, raising Mary's suspicion. Stephanie quickly backtracks, and apologizes, before quickly feigning exhaustion. Mary shows herself out. Bill continues to fixate on the strange burns on Stephanie's fingers the next day. Mary pays him a visit, and tries to casually bring up the subject. Bill, of course, can't divulge any information to her, but privately, the question nags at him. He takes the question to Tom, and together they discuss the possibility that Stephanie didn't burn her hands the way she claimed to. Julie, now back from her antiquing trip to Scotland, visits David, who fills her in on Trish's latest machinations. Julie is more irritated with Trish than ever. While understanding her need to leave Salem with Scotty years before, she agrees with David that taking Scotty and running away was a terrible thing to do. Still unsure about how she feels about Stephanie, she asks David how he feels about her. David's eyes light up when he speaks of her, saying that it feels like they've known each other for years. Julie makes a decision: to avoid arousing suspicion, Julie will check in on Stephanie instead, which will allow her to keep an eye on Stephanie (not that she's telling David that part, of course). Julie's first visit to Stephanie goes as expected. Stephanie is shocked to see her instead of David. When she asks Julie where David is, Julie tells her plainly that she doesn't think it's a good idea that David be seen to be taking care of Stephanie while they prepare for the court case, so instead, Stephanie is stuck with Julie. Stephanie, while displeased, understands and resigns herself to spending a lot more time with her potential mother-in-law. The first visit is awkward, but Stephanie is thankful to Julie for coming around to help her. Bob is stunned when he pays Stephanie a visit, learning of Julie's decision to help her during her recovery. Bob suggests Stephanie stay with him at the lakehouse instead, but Stephanie won't hear of it, noting that the house is full up as it is with Linda, Mary, and Melissa staying there. Bob relents, but insists on visiting her regularly until she's ready to come back to work. Linda plays Bob like a fiddle once again. She suggests to him that she needs to start over with a new job, and a new home, knowing full well Bob's ego wouldn't allow his wife to be working full time as a typist in a cramped apartment. He also feels for Melissa, and wants to give her a secure, stable home life, so he promises Linda he'll provide for her and Melissa generously and she can stay with him, regardless of whether or not they eventually separate. Linda then asks for a copy of the PI's report on her, then feigns horror at what she "used" to be like. She begs his forgiveness and asks for his help in remembering her "lost" past. Bob feels guilty, but admits he could have forgiven Linda if her affair had been with anyone other than Neil, but doesn't hold what she can't (allegedly) remember against her. Linda then sets about ruining Bob's relationship with Stephanie. She doesn't get it. She doesn't like it. She's gonna END it. She decides to get Mary on-side, convincing her that it is best for Bob if Linda stay at the lakehouse because then Linda can protect Bob from Stephanie. Mary is her usual blunt self, and admits she agrees that Stephanie is not to be trusted, but neither is Linda. Linda is shot down again, this time by Bob, who is lauded with compliments and flirtatious come-ons, and pathetic pleas for forgiveness by Linda. Bob wants to hear none of this, and goes to bed alone. Neil convinces Amanda to go to dinner with him at Doug's Place. After falling for his trickery once again, Amanda is left alone almost immediately, as Neil gets an emergency call from the hospital and has to bail. Chris, who's been drowning his sorrows over Mary having the audacity to have boundaries, offers to step in for Neil. They hit it off and have a lovely evening. Chris and Amanda go out once again to a local dive. Amanda finds the dive bar charming, as well as her company. Amanda later comes down with the flu, and Chris brings her some soup, but is pushed out of the way by Neil, who comes around on a "house call". Chris is falling hard for Amanda, but Amanda, still wounded by the breakdown of her marriage, is still needing some time. She enjoys Chris' company, but doesn't want to rush things. Chris agrees. Julie, now back from her Scottish antiquing trip, hears of Amanda's dates with Chris. She warns Amanda that Chris may be cute, but not worth dating. Julie feels he doesn't have the maturity, nor the refinement that would suit Amanda in a partner. Besides, Amanda is still married. Amanda gets Julie's point, but Chris makes her feel special, unlike Greg. Mary is convinced that Chris will come crawling back soon enough, but when she spies Chris and Amanda at Doug's Place, her insecurities begin to gnaw at her. Steve, still fascinated by Mary, sees Mary's sudden rush of anxiety, and takes full advantage. They make a date, and Mary relaxes enough to even be a little openly flirtatious in front of Chris and Amanda. The next day at Anderson, Chris is put off by what he saw as a desperate display by Mary to get his attention. Mary denies this, and plays it cool to Chris about her connection with Steve. Chris warns Mary to watch out for Steve. "There's something about that guy I don't like." Mary tells Chris to mind his own business. Robert collects Rebecca's safe-deposit box. Inside he discovers a letter addressed to Doug. Robert hands Doug the letter, and Doug reads it. Inside, Rebecca tells Doug that Dougie is, indeed, his son. He decides to keep the news that Dougie is his a secret from Robert, as he doesn't want to take Dougie away from him as well, but also from Julie, due to her insecurities about her inability to conceive. Julie and Doug continue to try for a baby, unsuccessfully. Neil is reticent to run any tests on Julie for it, but recommends she take it easy, as the stress of running Chez Julie can't be helping matters. Julie asks Maggie and Steve to take on more responsibility at the shop, hoping to spend more time with Doug. Steve sees this as an opportunity to involve himself in more seedy nonsense, but Doug makes it clear that his eyes will be on Steve. Julie and Doug get into a row over Trish and David's impending divorce. Julie tries to hold back, but ultimately wishes Doug would fire Trish for her conduct with Scotty. Doug is more sympathetic to Trish, and tries in vain to convince Julie of Trish's position. Julie understands why Trish left town all those years ago, and is sympathetic to a point, but is enraged that she expects to return to Salem and simply pick up where she left off as though nobody's moved on with their lives. Julie feels David has a right to move on with his life, despite her reservations about Stephanie. Doug feels similarly, but instructs Julie to keep her nose out of it. Julie insists it's too late for that, as she's the one helping Stephanie out around the house while she recovers. Doug is livid about this news, and things are tense at home afterwards. Amanda picks up on this tension the next morning at home, and attempts to mediate, but to no avail. Maggie decides not to uproot Janice again, and lets her stay with Joanne and he fiancé in San Francisco. Instead, she buries herself in her work. Mickey, equally distracted by his law practice, barely notices as Maggie becomes less and less engaged in their home life. At home, Laura is stunned by the news that her mother committed suicide, after calling out for her to come visit repeatedly. Laura sinks into a steep depression, and withdraws from everyone, including Bill. Marlena visits her, hoping to open the virtual prison she's built for herself just a crack, but Laura only asks Marlena to take over her caseload, saying she needs time to herself. Bill, worried immensely about Laura, tries to reach out to her, but is pushed away at every turn. He commiserates with Kate, who comforts him in a friendly way, but once Laura spies them in an embrace, Laura hits a new low. She confronts Kate, congratulating her on taking advantage of Laura's suffering for her own gain. Kate insists that isn't the case, but Laura won't hear of it. Laura hands in her resignation to a shocked Tom, before paying Mike and Margo a visit. She writes Mike a cheque for $2000 to help cover the expenses of their new house, and heads to her house. She informs Donna, who is watching Jennifer, that she won't be home for a couple weeks, as she needs to do an emergency consult at Brookville Hospital. Laura insists that Bill knows all about it, and after a heartfelt goodbye to Jennifer, Laura heads off. Once Tom tells Bill about Laura's resignation, he makes a beeline for home, only to find Donna there with Jennifer. Upon Donna filling him in on Laura's alleged consult at Brookville Hospital, he calls there, only to hear, as he suspected, there was none. Bill is now clueless as to where Laura could be. Laura heads to the airport, where she books a last minute flight. At the airport, Laura runs into Julie, who is just coming back from her trip to Scotland with Doug (Doug is getting the car). Laura is awkward and evasive with Julie, but is warm and glad to see her. Julie suspects something is wrong, but Laura insists she's just there to pick up a friend from the airport (deftly hiding her plane tickets out of Julie's sight), apologizing for not giving Julie a ride back into town. Julie tells her it's fine, as Doug's just picking up the car to drive them back, but she buys Laura's story, and leaves. Laura then boards her flight. It's not until Julie arrives home that she realizes that Laura was leaving town. Bill fills her in on not only that, but also on Stephanie's accident. After much probing from Julie, Bill admits he feels that Stephanie is hiding something from everyone, as her injuries were inconsistent with what she claims happened. Julie doesn't know where Laura was flying off to, and can't give Bill much more information, but she notes that Laura didn't have much in the way of luggage with her, which, if she were flying for a long time, she would likely need. Bill doesn't even know where to start looking for Laura, but Kate offers to lend him a hand in his search, for which he is grateful. Marie is called into Mother Superior's office. Concerned, she heads straight over and asks why she's been called. Mother Superior informs her that there is someone here who really needs her help. When Marie inquires who it is, Laura enters the room.

So far you can't. Corday apparently says he doesn't understand why anyone would want to see the old episodes. Though I swore I read on that lawsuit that it was actually Sony that was keeping a lid on the vintage episodes? I dunno. Either way, the answer is apply pressure to NBC, Corday and Sony, and don't expect much.

Well, you never know. I don't know how public the situation was leading up to Sunny's vegetative state, but the last coma she slipped into was the the third such incident, so maybe she heard about the earlier incident in April 1980 and ran with it. I doubt it, but it's possible.

Folks with that level of arrogance to try to usurp the work of others the way Laemmle has tend to possess far less talent than they do mouth.

I suspect he was simply a talk-to between 1970-77, because he was mentioned extremely rarely in any Daytime Serial Newsletter recap before Ann Marcus arrived.

Laemmle seems to be leaving everything open at this point. It feels like there's a lot of chem testing happening, and not a lot of clear vision. I'll agree that it seems like they were heading towards Kellam having an obsession with Julie/potentially raping Julie. I suspect once again, Laemmle didn't do her homework and that angle was vetoed because Julie had literally been raped 2 years earlier, so she just pivoted to Marlena...and yeah, it doesn't make sense. Honestly, I just get the sense that Laemmle didn't care about DAYS or its history. She came in wanting to write the show she wanted to write, and it was gonna happen no matter where she ended up, existing characters be damned.

So, according to the recaps (which I think I may compile into a blog at some point), Tommy basically starts to reappear in 1977, starts dating Linda, who is only using him to make Bob (her real target, because she wants his $$$) jealous. Once she gets what she wants, Tommy is dumped, and is a talk-to for the next year, before vanishing again, only to show up for Tom and Alice 50th wedding anniversary party in March 1980, and then he vanishes, never to be heard from again. That's literally it.

@victoria foxton I am being a bit glib in saying that Josh was 40. The character was definitely meant to be a 20-something like Tod/Todd/Taud (anyone with confirmation on how we're technically supposed to spell his name? I'm running out of amusing misspellings). Just that the actor was so much older than the part he was playing. I really don't get the logic of what Laemmle is trying to do here. The worst part is, after reading that article @jam6242 just posted, I'm reminded that Desmond, Byron's lawyer has also just vanished, even though he was clearly meant to be a big part in Lee's unmasking. It just feels like Laemmle couldn't be bothered to do her homework on what had just happened not six months prior to her arrival. Also nice to get confirmation that Kate Woodville's storyline for Marie was indeed dropped, and why. I wonder what Ann Marcus' intended direction was for that story.

Was he also not consulting for Y&R at the time? I have heard rumblings that their Marge story was, to some degree, something Reilly cooked up. And indeed, when you think about it, it definitely reads as something he'd do. I'd also be curious to know, considering I'm decidedly less versed in B&B history, if any Reillyisms snuck into B&B during the brief consulting stint, or if it wasn't particularly noticeable.

Honestly, Don worked a bit as Julie's suitor, but between consistently stringing along then rejecting Mary whenever Julie would come near him in the mid-70s, to pursuing Marlena entirely as a rebound after "losing" Julie to Doug (which Marlena caught straight away and made him wait til she was sure she meant more to him, smart on her part), to his endless string of uptight, domineering, and often chauvinistic viewpoints in the intervening years, it's almost a relief the character of Don was retired eventually. Having said this, if the big mid-80s romance was between Bo and Donna instead of Bo and Hope, I could ABSOLUTELY have seen Don take on the disapproving heavy role that Doug and Julie ended up taking on. Quite frankly, it would've made a whole lot more sense for all the characters involved, tbh. And I gotta say, I could see there being potential chemistry between Peter Reckell and Tracy Bregman. Also, thanks for the historical context there, @Franko. Hadn't really considered that. But, of course, shoehorning topical elements that don't quite fit the characters, especially when Don ran for governor (or was it the senate?) not three years earlier is really silly. Don could've fit that same bill, regardless, much like @Khan said. It really does seem bonkers that DAYS kept trying to woo young viewers by systematically shipping off every young character they had on the canvas or purposely underwriting them (David and Trish have been virtually non-existent since their custody battle storyline was dumped, though I suspect a lot of that was down to Kaye Stevens' firing, I think her part in the storyline was meant to be much bigger and Harrower couldn't make it work without making Jeri and Julie interact, so they just dumped the story altogether). Jessica The Girl Who Would Disappear Through a Crack In The Floor If She Could is not engaging enough to pull those eyeballs in (bless Jean Bruce Scott's heart), and even she will be paired with a man nearly twice her age. Why? Also, can we talk about how many people know Lee from Paris at this point? Why bother introducing Tony Kingman at all and insert him into Lee's backstory if he's going to go on three dates with Julie and then vanish? Bizarre. ANYWAY, onto June: Chris has a birthday! Leslie surprises him with three presents: flying lessons, a cake, and sex. Chris wants to make the relationship more than just business, but Leslie, modern dame that she is, would rather not. Dylan O'Grady accepts a better paying job (orchestrated by Max), and disappears almost immediately upon arriving. Max has had his mole, Allen Hamlin, interview for the job. Leslie and Chris take the bait and hire him. Chris has a secret project, and wants Leslie to work with him on it. She's excited to. Max and Alex plot to make sure the current project, the solar generators, fail miserably. Max wants to stop the first shipment of generators from reaching Washington. Alex refuses, saying a mishap now with the deliveries will arouse too much suspicion. Max has the transport truck run off the road anyway, and only 1/3 of the generators are salvageable. Alex is fuming, knowing what's coming. Sure enough, Mary and Chris think the "accident" was sabotage, and Alex has to try to convince his wife that it was just a stroke of bad luck. Alex confronts Max, who pretends he had nothing to do with it, but is glad it did happen, then threatens Alex some more with the Magnus files. Alex, undaunted, then confronts Kellam directly, reminding him that they agreed to no violence during the Anderson takeover. Kellam defends Max's (alleged) innocence. Alex threatens Kellam back this time, saying that if Alex goes down, Max and Kellam will go down with him. Same goes if there is any more violent "mishaps". Satisfied that he's put the fire out, Alex smiles on his way out of the room, turning back to say to Kellam: "You know, there's always been some speculation; who has the power, you or Jarvis?" Apparently Alex can't pay his bills. The jeweller calls Mary, and lets her know that Alex still owes $5000 for jewellery he bought her. Mary, who had started to trust Alex again, is back to suspicion once again. She confronts him about it, but apologizes once Alex tells her he actually donated most of his liquid funds to the hospital. But not enough to stop doubting Chris as well. Mary is not taking an interest in the plant, and when confronted Mary accuses Chris of taking advantage of Bob during his final weeks. Chris knows instantly that this was another seed planted in Mary's head by Alex, and calls her out on it, telling her to ask Mickey if she doubts him that much. She does, and Mickey makes it clear that, indeed, Chandler is gunning for Anderson, this lights a fire under Mary to protect her daddy's company at all costs. Allen is behind the mishaps (duh), and Max wants more of them, and quickly. Apparently knowing no subtlety or patience, Max threatens to reveal some shady information from Allen's past if he doesn't act now. How did Max get this far in life while being completely incapable of playing the long game? Leslie, shockingly, doesn't trust Allen. Leslie then straight up tells Alex she agrees with Chris that the transport crash was no accident, and accuses Alex of being part of it. Alex brushes it off, saying Chris blames him for everything, before claiming they're very similar, and smiles skeezily, telling Leslie that they need to trust each other, and that he thinks Chris doesn't trust Alex with her. Gag. Gag. Gag. Alex apparently learned hypnosis from Marlena, because suddenly now Leslie believes Alex had nothing to do with the truck crash. Chris is fuming, wondering what weird hold this slimy, middle-aged man has over every woman in Salem. Once Chris calms down, however, he has second thoughts, realizing that the Chandlers may be a more likely culprit. Chris goes out of town on business (OH GOD OH GOD OH GOD), and Alex visits Leslie at her apartment. Flirts with her over a drink, then leaves. Chris calls to check in, Leslie "neglects" to mention that Alex paid her a visit. Finally convinced Alex is on the level, Mary asks Mickey to end his investigation on Alex. Mickey is reticent, still mistrustful of the man, but Mary insists. At home, Mary is finally willing to be an active participant in the bedroom...which, of course, means Alex is now too tired. Allen wants Leslie out of the way, but Alex refuses to have her harmed, as Alex claims she could prove useful to them once they've taken over the company. Leslie is sick of Hamlin not taking direction, but when Alex, trying to cool Leslie down using his smarmy charm, suggests firing Allen, Leslie backs down, and agrees to give Allen another chance. God knows why. Alex continues to flirt with Leslie, who stupidly falls for it. He tells her she reminds him of someone she was once close to (which one? There's so many to choose from!) Their friendly chat is interrupted by a jealous Mary, who scolds Alex for his endless flirtation with every woman in the immediate time zone, particularly Leslie. Alex is getting tired of Mary's mouth. Notice how he always starts to tire of women the second they start calling him on his sh!t? As Leslie discusses her interaction with Alex and Allen to Chris, he's shocked that Alex offered to fire Allen. Leslie insists that Alex was supportive. Then, as she talks to Chris, she begins to see Alex's face instead. The more they talk, the more she sees Alex's face. I guess she's losing it, or Alex has some kind of hypnotic power I'll never understand. Mary learns that Phyllis is once again suicidally depressed, and plans to visit her. Alex pretends to be concerned and encourages her to go, before suggesting Leslie can help him with the promotional work while she's gone, which immediately sets Mary off. Alex snaps, tired of Mary's (justifiable) jealousy. Mary storms off, leaving Alex alone. He smiles and says to himself "thank you, Phyllis". Allen goes to Max about the "trouble" Leslie is causing at Anderson. Max demands she be "gotten rid of" if she poses any more trouble. Apparently Mickey was distant with Mike recently? I don't know when this happened, but Mickey suddenly decides he needs to reconnect with Mike, and goes up to the farm to talk to him. They have a warm heart-to-heart. Marie finally overworks herself and faints at work. Tom happens to be nearby and rushes her to a hospital room so she can rest. Once she's out, Alex sends her flowers. Tom accidentally spills the beans that Alex is Jessica's benefactor. Alex apparently still loves to use Marie as his sounding board whether she wants to be or not. He visits her, and tells her how his marriage to Mary is a joke, that Mary doesn't trust him, and that he feels he has to keep secrets from her. Marie encourages Alex to be honest with Mary, noting sadly that she chose her career because of a secret. Alex brushes her cheek, and asks "the thing between us? Was that your secret? I never knew!" Heh, yeah you still don't, buddy. Tom later asks Alex to represent him at the hospital board meeting, as Tom is going to have surgery performed (I assume ON him, but it isn't clear [ETA: Tom is, indeed, the one being operated on. Only took six more pages to confirm this]). Tom laments that the hospital will soon, once again, run out of money (JEEZ, Tom, get it together!), and Alex has an idea involving Chandler. Because that's always a great idea. Alex bursts into the Chandler house, and before he can be escorted out, tells Kellam of his idea to improve his image: donate a huge chunk of money to University Hospital, and then announce grant matching. For every dollar the public donates, Chandler will match it. Liz actually likes the idea, and Kellam, desperate for any good publicity he can get, agrees to it. Tom is thrilled by Kellam's donation drive. Marie is...kinda. She's less than thrilled once she realizes it's Alex's idea. When she sees Alex, she thanks him for his help. Alex is surprised, since Marie refused his help before. Marie admits she's forgiven Alex, but Alex counters that he wonders if Marie has forgotten. I SURE AS HELL HOPE NOT. The eyeroll-worthy whitewashing continues, as Alex talks of the guilt he feels at what he did to her, and laments hurting her, and wails that Marie is the only woman he's ever loved and that if he hadn't mistreated her, she wouldn't have joined the convent etc. Marie tries to tell him that the church made her happy, and that they're living their own lives now. Alex admits he only married Mary because he "couldn't have the woman he really loved". UM NO YOU MARRIED HER SO YOU COULD GET AT HER DADDY'S COMPANY BUT NICE TRY. Tom comes out of surgery just fine. Doug can't make his mind up. He initially urges Julie to go dine with Kellam (I guess to try to smooth things over for the casino). She does, then they're photographed together in the paper...so Doug gets mad at her for it?! Make it make sense, please. Julie's so annoyed by Doug's outburst she refuses to help with the casino and further (and who could blame her?). She heads straight over to the Chandler house and tells Kellam she's back to work decorating the house, pleasing him greatly. He ALSO tells Julie how much he reminds her of the dead second wife, who finally has a name: Sunny. He also declares his attraction to Sunny's Doppelganger Julie, and asks her to be his hostess while Liz is out of town. Doug apologizes for freaking out over Julie doing exactly what he said she should do in the first place. Julie accepts and decides to continue work on the casino after all. Liz finally runs into Lee, and reminds Lee about their days in the jet set. Doug wonders why Lee never brought up her connection to Liz before (finally, ONE of these Parisian connection stories is MOVING). When Liz later turns up at the casino site looking for Julie, she instead finds Doug. Doug asks about how she and Lee know each other. Liz tells him that Lee and Byron were quite chummy with Liz and her ex-husband, Rick. Doug is surprised by this, and tells Lee about it. Lee snaps, claiming Liz is a liar, and can't understand why Liz is acting like they were long-lost friends when she ignored her when they were in Europe. Lee later calls a mystery friend, whom she asks for a favour, as someone is causing her trouble. Liz, at the same time, asks Max for more info on Lee, particularly where Lee came from. The claws are coming out! Julie rebuffs Kellam's offer to play hostess during Liz's absence, and makes it clear she is not romantically interested in him either. Liz is relieved, and asks if Julie's lingering feelings for Doug is the reason why. Julie gives her stock answer that Doug is married, to which Liz snaps back "oh yes, I know Lee, only too well." Oops! Liz meets Neil and is taken with him. They go out on a date, and Liz finds him rather disarming. They're quite taken with each other, and quickly share their weaknesses with each other. They both agree to see each other regularly, though Liz insists she not be put on a pedestal. Neil agrees, so long as he can still spoil her with flowers and candy. Julie is, however, actually attracted to Kellam, as she tells Maggie. Kellam is smitten with her, and gifts her a brooch. Julie accepts it on the condition that it come with no strings attached. Max advises Kellam to back off Julie, noting what happened to Sunny. Kellam hints that he's ready to marry again. Because giving a woman you've known about 6 weeks a brooch is an entire courtship now, you see. All you gotta do. Simple as that. Doug offers to join Julie on an antique hunt for the casino. When Lee shows up at the casino looking for Doug and Julie, Josh tells her that they're off together antique hunting. Lee fumes at the news, vowing to protect her marriage at all costs. The next day, Lee tries again. This time she finds Maggie there, who tells her the same thing. Lee hides her seething rage from Maggie, and feigns regret for her strained relationship with Julie. Maggie is impressed by Lee's sudden show of maturity and offers to design Lee's dress for the grand opening of the casino. On their antique hunt, Doug again apologizes for standing in Julie's way with Kellam. Julie admits Kellam is a charmer. Doug spots a tub in the shop that catches his eye. They share a nice, goofy moment when Doug decides to buy the tub for his office, before getting in the tub and yukking it up as he sings in the tub in the middle of the shop. Doug is out again, and Lee is fuming. She assumes Doug is once again out with Julie (this time, it's not the case, he's out with Josh, and Julie's at the Chandler house), but Lee takes it upon herself to go call her mystery friend. The mystery friend agrees to fly up to Salem from Atlanta. Lee tells mystery friend, revealed to be Brent Kavanagh, that she loves her husband's money very much, and that Julie and Doug are probably having an affair (I'd advise a good stretch before you leap like that, Lee). So Brent agrees to follow Doug and Julie around, for old time's sake. Lee pays Brent big money for his trouble, and when Brent asks what Lee will do if her suspicions are right, Lee nervously answers, "Well, something will have to be done about it!" OH OK. Max gets back to Liz on his little PI job on Lee. Her real name is Emily, and Liz connects the dots. Liz figures Doug might want to know a bit more about Lee's past, since no one else has been able to get very far with that in the past year or so. Apparently Brent finds Doug and Julie boring, but agrees to follow them one more time to catch them in the act and impress Lee. But again, just more antique hunting. While they shop, Brent spots an antique pistol in one of the stores, and holds it up, while looking at Julie. THIS IS FORESHADOWING, YOU SEE. SEE IT?? EVERYONE??? SEEE???! Nina Laemmle: Queen of Subtlety. Jessica tends to kids in the hospital for extra money, and gets especially close to a young kid named Johnny (I assume this is the same Johnny that eventually becomes Marlena's ward later on). Jessica is finally convinced to go on one of Cassie's blind (double) dates with her and Tod/Todd?/Toddd. Who's the blind date? Mr. Malaria himself! Joshua! They're at a disco, and Jessica feels, surprise surprise, awkward. She regrets agreeing to the date, but Tod apparently likes her. She tells Cassie that she won't go on another blind date, but if Josh asks her out himself, she'll go....maybe. Josh won't, because he's nearly 40 and Jessica is old enough to go to a club, but still too young for him (this is a nice change from the predatory sh!t we've had to deal with with Cathy, innit?), so Ttod decides he'll pursue Jessica himself...you know...despite being Cassie's boyfriend and all. Josh warns Tood to stay away from Jessica. Todd might just be trying to please Kellam, however, since Kellam is livid with Toddd is still seeing Cassie. Josh puts flowers on his mother's grave, commemorating the tenth anniversary of her death. Josh asks Flora if she believes the story that his mother committed suicide. Flora says that his mother stopped coming to see her when she got ill (not sure if she's referring to herself or to Josh's mother). Then starts freaking out about "the men" again. She notes that that's when the men came! Flora tried to help Josh's mom but couldn't. Oh noooooo.... Ttodd refuses to attend Kellam's latest schmoozefest cocktail party. When Kellam wonders why, Td tells him that it's the anniversary of his mother's death (LET US BEAT THE AUDIENCE OVER THE HEAD WITH THIS, EH?). Kellam apparently forgot, and demands Liz postpone the party til' the next night. Liz coldly reminds Kellam that Sunny's suicide was suicide, not an accident (so presumably we shouldn't care then? No wonder Tod ended up a drunk with such warm, caring relatives). Kellam denies this for some reason. Josh is visiting with the kids at the hospital, when Kellam shows up for a photo op. Josh is irritated by Kellam's using sick kids for political gain, and won't shake Kellam's hand. Insulted, Kellam asks Max to have Josh checked out. Josh introduces Jessica to Flora, who she hits it off with, of course. Flora regales her with stories of her past, and tells her that she agrees with Josh that Jessica is special. Tttoodd suggests to Liz that her interest in Josh is something other than casual. He suggests Liz visit Josh. When she does, they have a rather arbitrary heart-to-heart, where Josh reveals to her that he served in Vietnam and worked in Las Vegas for a time. They share a need to roam, with Josh perceptively seeing in both of them a need to run from something. How many bloody people are they gonna try to pair Liz with??! As they talk, Liz leans in and kisses him. Things get a little hot and heavy, JUST in time for Jessica to show up, catch them, and whisp away just as quietly as she arrived. Kellam finds out that someone's been tending to Sunny's grave. Tawd can't explain it. I assume it's Josh, but I don't know why Kellam is A - shocked, B - not tending to it himself , and C - at all concerned by it if he doesn't care enough to do B. At the casino mansion thingy, Jessica visits with Flora in her bedroom. As they talk, there's a knock at Flora's door. Flora is immediately spooked. Jessica asks who's there. The person on the other side says there's an "urgent message for Mrs. Chisholm". Jessica calls to Josh to help, as whoever's on the other side of the door starts trying to bust the door down. Don, as stated earlier, blames Marlena for DJ dying because she dared to do anything other than lie on her back for nine months. I'm sure Sam would've appreciated that. Don throws himself into his work and refuses to consider having another baby. Don tries to get the injunction against Doug's casino, but, even with Kellam's money being thrown at it, the injunction fails. Don's anger is short-lived, and he manages to cool down once he's thoroughly shattered Marlena's self-confidence. As she sobs, claiming she's beginning to doubt herself, Don offers for her to be his partner (you know, like she's already supposed to be), and help him climb the political ladder. Kellam strongly urges Marlena to join Don on the political trail. Don and Marlena attend Chandler's fundraiser for the hospital's David Martin clinic, and Marlena is still shaky being around children after DJ's death. Marie suggests she counsel some of the kids. Marlena is drawn to Johnny, but Johnny pulls away from her. Marlena bursts into tears at the rejection, but Marie and Josh encourage her to keep trying, noting his abandonment issues. Josh is especially excited to have Marlena do counselling work with the kids after learning she's a psychiatrist. Marlena decides to take on a new job as Kellam's campaign staff psychologist. She enjoys working alongside Don on the campaign trail, and husband and wife get close once again. Kellam is so thrilled by Marlena's presence on the trail, that he makes her the spokeswoman for his campaign over Liz. He finds Liz too polished (read: phony), and the public would see right through her. Trish is debuting as a singer at a local fancy venue, where she'll be performing regularly while they await the opening of the casino. This doesn't appear to annoy David, for a change. OH NEVERMIND, HE'S ANNOYED AGAIN! David comes home from a long day of pretending Alex isn't a crook and finds his wife is doing something other than burning herself making him a steak. He demands she curtail her shite career, despite it not having been a problem for him the entire last year they've been together. Trish leaves to rehearse at the casino. There Josh suggests a turn-of-the-century themed opening night, and Flora, thrilled by Trish's singing (poor thing needs hearing aids), gifts Trish a dress from her youth to perform in for the gala. She encourages Trish to defy David and continue singing. I hate this s#!t so much. My God. And since when did David go from young modern guy to a completely regressive chauvinist pig? Like...as though he learned nothing from Trish running off to LA/Italy/Paris? And back then, he wasn't even annoyed by her singing. WTF??

EPISODE 188 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco On the desk in the DiMera living room, sits the invitation to the gala grand re-opening of the Penthouse Grille. Next to it, a freshly-emptied coffee cup is slammed down on the desk. We see that it is EJ's who is dialing a local bank branch. EJ: (into phone) Yes, this is EJ DiMera, may I speak with Michael Howell, please?...Yes, Michael, it's EJ DiMera. I was curious if you were available to meet with me this morning before 10am....no, the ah...the sooner the better. This is somewhat of an urgent matter...I...I mean, it's not really to do with any particular business account, this is more to do with our safe deposit boxes....Yes, 8:45 is perfect. Cheers. EJ hangs up, relieved to get a time window with Michael, as he holds the safe deposit box key in his hand. He flips it, feeling momentarily triumphant that maybe he will get an answer to what is in that box. EJ: Alright. Time to find out what's in you. EJ picks up his briefcase and heads for the door, only to run into a groggy Sami, who's just emerged from upstairs in her robe. She furrows her brow, curious as to what EJ is up to. EJ: Samantha! SAMI: You're...you're ready awfully early. Where's the fire? EJ stands in the doorway of the living room, visibly uncomfortable with Sami's suspicion. --- Gabi walks into the Kiriakis living room, checking frantically to ensure she's alone. She is dressed for the day, and has her purse with her. After a moment, she closes the double doors leading to the living room, and scurries to the other side of the room, checking the hallway toward the kitchen. Realizing she's truly alone, Gabi relaxes slightly, her actions becoming a bit less stacatto. From her purse, she pulls out the photos of her, Sami, and Kate in their attempt to drown Nick in the river. Carefully, she studies them, sighing as she flips through them. GABI: Well...all you gotta do is burn them, Gabi. And you're homefree. Gabi stops flipping when she hits upon the photos of EJ and Abby in a passionate liplock at the Smith Island cabin. After an excruciatingly long moment, Gabi looks ahead at the fireplace, with a roaring fire burning before her. She continues, thinking over her problem. GABI: (voiceover) But what if I'm not. Gabi takes a moment, and ponders over her situation more carefully, pacing the room as she thinks to herself. GABI: (voiceover) What if EJ's been playing Sami, Kate, and I all along? I've never trusted him, and he's never exactly been all that loyal to Sami, either. Plus, what if Nick has him by the balls. Nick could making EJ play Sami for his own benefit...or...EJ could be on the level this time. Gabi stops herself as she stands before the fire, ready to toss the pictures in. GABI: Burn 'em, or keep 'em. (sigh) What are you gonna do, Gabi? Gabi stares into the fire, more confused than ever. --- Nick walks into the Salem PD Headquarters, his manila envelope containing the files on Sheryl and Jordan in hand. Spotting Rafe nearby, he walks over to greet him. NICK: Rafe! Good morning! Rafe is less-than-thrilled to see Nick, and takes a good swig of the black coffee in his hand before responding. The coffee's heat and bitterness causes Rafe to wince as he answers, his words dripping with sarcasm. RAFE: Nick. You're up awfully early. Got tired of tormenting my sister so you decided to torment me, hm? Nick chuckles, giving him his trademark smirk as he follows a disintered Rafe around like a lost puppydog. NICK: You know, I think your protectiveness of Gabi is admirable. And I get it. I mean, we both love her, we both want what's best for her-- Rafe sits down at a desk in the middle of the room, setting his coffee cup down and leaning back as he interrupts Nick's diatribe. RAFE: Naaah, see...see, you want what's best for you, and you've got some real wild ideas about what love is, Nick. I gotta tell you, so...I think the best thing for you to do, if you really love my sister...you know, like a normal person would do, is to leave her the Hell alone. Nick leans in closer to Rafe, across the desk from him, still smiling smugly. NICK: Well...I'd love to go tête-a-tête about what's best for Gabi, but...I have some business to take care of before I go home to have breakfast with her. See, since we live together now and all... Rafe sits up suddenly, shocked by what he hears. RAFE: What...are you talking about? NICK: You haven't heard? She moved in last night with me at the Kiriakis mansion. Rafe laughs mockingly, shaking his head at what he perceives as a sick joke of Nick's. RAFE: Give me a break. She'd never move in with the likes of you-- NICK: ...Oh, don't worry. She has her own bedroom, so...no hanky panky, for now anyway. If you don't believe me though? Ask her yourself. Now, if you don't mind, I have some information for Roman, and-- RAFE: You sick... Hope approaches at this moment, stifling Rafe's enraged reaction to Nick's news. She looks at Nick sternly. HOPE: Ahhh...Roman's...not in yet. And I don't know if he will be today. Is everything okay here? Rafe looks up at Hope, a little startled by her arrival. Suddenly overcome by concern over Gabi, Rafe answers her question in a bit of a panic. RAFE: Like Hell it is. This clown just told me Gabi moved in with him. NICK: Like it or not, Rafe...it's true. HOPE: Now, hold on. Rafe, just cool-- RAFE: I'm not cooling down, Hope. Look, I gotta go talk to my sister. Find out what the Hell's going on. Rafe gets up from his desk, and grabs his jacket. Quickly downing his coffee, he starts to walk off, almost ignoring everything around him as Nick goads him on his way out of the station. NICK: Tell her I won't be long, Rafe! Nick chuckles to himself, as Rafe storms off. Hope stays behind, unimpressed by Nick's harrassing way. HOPE: Your mother wouldn't be very impressed by you right now, you know. Nick's smug look disappears, as Hope motions Nick toward Roman's office. HOPE: Don't worry, I'm not gonna call her. Come on with me, I wanted to talk to you anyway about last night. Hope turns and leads Nick into Roman's office. Once Nick's inside, Hope slams the door shut to the office, prompting Nick's almost-unbearable pain to arise once again. Hope doesn't notice at first, and begins to speak to Nick with her back to him, oblivious as Nick begins to hold his head in immense pain. HOPE: So let's start with what you've got for Roman, since I'm gonna be taking care of his case load while he's... Hope turns around, struck by the image of Nick leaning against the nearby desk, clutching his head. She cautiously steps toward him to see if he's okay. HOPE: Nick? Nick, are you okay? NICK! --- --- EJ stands in the doorway of the DiMera living room, trying to think of an answer to Sami's question, as Sami stands before him, rubbing her eyes of sleep. EJ: Samantha...I umm...I have to head out to a...an early meeting. SAMI: Meeting? It's like...not even 8am, EJ. EJ: I realize, I just...I have some prep to do before so I'm gonna...head into the office early and get myself organized. You know? Sami looks at EJ with a furrowed brow. She looks at him for a moment, before nodding and walking into the living room, making a beeline to the coffee tray Harold laid out. SAMI: Right. EJ isn't sure if Sami has bought his story, and watches her walk to the coffee carefully. After a moment, Sami turns to respond further to EJ. SAMI: Well, I'm gonna be at the office for 9:30. I have to stop off at Kate's. We have to...figure out what the plan is for tonight. I'm hoping Lucas was right and that this is the last we have to deal with Nick. EJ sighs, responding somewhat more naturally to this than his previous statement. EJ: Yeah. Trust me, I know. Gonna try to make sure of that. SAMI: Right? Ummm...why don't you call me when your meeting's done, okay? EJ nods, walking over to Sami, and giving her a goodbye peck on the lips. EJ: Absolutely. Let me know how the meeting with Kate goes, alright? SAMI: Yeah. Will do. Love you. EJ: Love you. After a moment spent looking lovingly at each other, EJ heads out of the room. Sami listens carefully for EJ to close the door to the house, before slowly walking over to EJ's desk in the corner of the room. SAMI: Mmmhmm... Sami pulls out the tablet from the top drawer. Shifty-eyed, she turns it on, and begins to tap the screen. SAMI: Alright, EJ. Let's see who this so-called "meeting" is with. Sami tries to log in and is immediately successful. SAMI: (sigh) EJ, you really need to be better at passwords if you're gonna be married to me. Sami smiles, pleased with herself at getting access to EJ's tablet so quickly, before opening up the Calendar app. After a moment's work, she pulls up today's schedule. Other than the Penthouse Grille party in the evening, there's nothing on his calendar for today. SAMI: Aaaaand just as I thought. Nothing. Sami sets the tablet down on the desk, sighing as she looks around the room, trying to figure out what EJ's up to. SAMI: Alright, EJ. What are you not telling me? --- Hope rests a hand on Nick's shoulder, as he grasps at his head, trying to calm the intense head pain he's experiencing, as he leans against the desk in Roman's office. HOPE: Nick! Nick begins to bring himself into check. He breathes deeply, while Hope looks on, deeply concerned for him. NICK: I'm okay. I promise. Umm...Hope, do you have a glass of water or anything? HOPE: Yeah! Yeah, one sec. Hope races over to the water cooler in the corner of the room, and hastily pours Nick a cup, as Nick grabs a pill from his jacket pocket and quickly pops it in his mouth without Hope seeing it. Hope returns with the glass of water, and Nick downs it and the pill quickly. HOPE: Here. NICK: Thank you. HOPE: Nick, are you sure you're okay? This...this isn't because of the light falling last night, is it? Nick shakes his head quickly, trying to not upset his head any futher, as he tries to focus himself to talk to Hope. NICK: No, no. This started before then. I'm okay, though. Um...did you...did you make any progress on that, by the way? HOPE: Not really. We found a...drop of blood by the door of the elevator, but...haven't been able to tie it to anyone so far. NICK: Hm...well, I can make a statement for you later if you want. I just...I wanna get this info I have to Roman about the people who were trying to sabotage the Titan servers. Hope sits down next to Nick, as they both lean on the edge of Roman's desk. HOPE: Yeah, that's fine. I'll look into it if you want. Do you...you think the light falling on the soundstage is connected to the Titan hack? Nick shrugs, speaking unusually candidly to his cousin, without the dastardly pretense he usually carries himself with. NICK: Pfft, I don't know. It's not like I've been making a lot of friends lately. It could be anybody, for any number of reasons. HOPE: But you didn't see anything or anyone unusual in the studio at all? NICK: No. HOPE: What about Jerome Grant? Did you see him at all? Nick takes a moment to think it over, before slowly shaking his head. NICK: No...no I haven't seen him since I ran into him with Abby at Salem U a few weeks ago. Like I said Hope, I didn't see anything, and I don't know that there's a connection between the light falling in the TV studio and the Titan hack. HOPE: Well someone was out to get you, Nick. And you've become pretty powerful, pretty quickly. That usually creates a lot of enemies in a hurry, especially in this town. NICK: No, you're right. HOPE: Plus, I did watch Nicole's special last night, and you were about to drop some names that seemed extremely delicious to you. So, I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility that the two are connected. Nick nods, taking a moment to compose himself before answering Hope. NICK: Yeah, you're right. I mean, I do know who the Titan hackers are, and I was going to expose them. Right there, on TV. HOPE: That's why you're here now, isn't it? You know who they are. Abe's voice cuts through, causing Nick and Hope to look toward the door of Roman's office, where Abe has just walked in. ABE: Well that's good to hear. Because I want them caught by the end of tonight. And I think you, Nick, can help us make that happen. Nick looks a bit confused, but smiles at Abe's determined statement. --- Kate stands in the kitchenette of her loft, scooping yogurt into a bowl for herself, as Billie opens and walks through the front door to her mother's home. Kate barely looks up as her daughter enters, continuing to prep her breakfast. KATE: Another good night with the good doctor? Billie shuts the door to Kate's loft, giving her mother an annoyed look. BILLIE: As a matter of fact, yes. Thank you. Kate throws some banana slices on top of her yogourt, before pulling a spoon from the utensil drawer. She raises it as if it were a teacher's ruler, scolding Billie playfully. KATE: I told you to be careful with Daniel, honey. BILLIE: Mother....just because you've had your problems with Daniel doesn't mean I will. KATE: If it were just me, that'd be one thing. But the only person he hasn't screwed in some form or fashion in this family has been Austin...well, and...wait, no, just Austin. BILLIE: Mom! Kate shrugs, before picking up her bowl to eat her breakfast. KATE: Okay, he didn't REALLY do anything to Phillip and he doesn't know Rex or Cassie, thank God, but other than that-- Billie becomes exasperated with Kate, cutting her off a second time. BILLIE: Mother! Enough! I get it! KATE: Well, I'm sorry but I don't see where I'm wrong here. And yes, I know I do this to you daily but I'm HOPING, maybe eventually I'll get through to you! BILLIE: Well, that makes one of us, because I know I won't get through to you. Kate downs a spoonful of her breakfast, before pointing her spoon once again Billie's way to help make her point. KATE: Mm! You're right. You won't. Billie rolls her eyes as she sits down on a stool on the other side of the kitchen bar, as Kate changes the subject abruptly. KATE: So, what's on the agenda today? You going to the big gala at the Penthouse Grille tonight? BILLIE: I will be, yeah. I'm hoping we can get this business with Sheryl, Jordan, and Nick finally finished tonight. KATE: Oh, honey, don't worry. I know for a FACT we're gonna bust them before the night's done. We have them dead to rights! Billie pauses a moment before responding, less confident than her mother. BILLIE: I'm not so sure about that, honestly. Kate looks back at Billie, a little confused. KATE: What do you mean by that? BILLIE: I mean we're going to have to come up with a plan, and fast to get them into our trap, or they're gonna slip through our fingers. KATE: We'll get them. I have faith in you, and in Abe. BILLIE: Well, let's hope so. KATE: Want me to pick you up? Billie is about to answer, when the doorbell rings. Getting up from the stool she's been sitting on, she heads for the door, still turning back to look at Kate. BILLIE: No, it's fine. I'm going to the hospital to visit Theresa first, and Daniel's gonna drive me over. Kate takes the last bite of her breakfast, before holding her spoon up, wagging it disapprovingly at Billie again. KATE: More bad decisions. BILLIE: Whatever, Mother. Billie turns away from Kate, and slides open the door to the loft, revealing John at the other side. Billie is surprised to see him. --- Gabi stands before the raging fire in the Kiriakis fireplace, holding the photos of her, Sami, and Kate trying to drown Nick in her hands. She throws the pictures in, one by one. She exhales audibly, the relief visible in her face as the evidence that Nick held over her disappears before her eyes. She stops suddenly once she hits the photos of Abby and EJ together at Smith Island. She sighs again, holding the pictures in her hands. GABI: Do I? Or don't I? After a moment, Gabi silently makes her decision. She draws the photos close to her chest, and slowly returns those particular pictures back into the manila envelope that contained them. She sighs again, nodding slowly. GABI: It's the best insurance. Just in case EJ's playing both sides. Now I have some power. Gabi places the envelope in her bag, before turning to head for the doorway, only to be stopped by the sound of Maggie and Rafe chatting as Maggie opens the door to the Kiriakis living room. The sound startles Gabi, who hasn't quite got the pictures stuffed into her purse, and she quickly swings her bag behind her back, which Rafe spots immediately. GABI: Rafe! MAGGIE: Ahh...Gabi...Good morning! Rafe's here to see you. Gabi smiles awkwardly, her arms trying desperately to hide her handbag from Rafe's view (unsuccessfully). Maggie seems equally baffled by Gabi's strong reaction to Rafe's arrival, and observes both of their reactions to each other. GABI: Awesome! What...what did you want, Rafe? RAFE: Gabi...you and I need to have a little chat. Gabi tenses up, not sure what exactly is going on, as Rafe looks at her stoicly. ---