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EPISODE 183 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco It's a cool dark night on the outskirts of Salem. A chilly wind has kicked up, as Tyler Houston steps toward the front door of Anita Hernandez's cabin. He knocks, as he looks out at the dark night around him. Rubbing his hands together to keep them warm in the cold, he tenses his body as he awaits Anita. Opening the front door, Anita is surprised to see Tyler standing there. ANITA: What the--what are you doing here? TYLER: (sigh) It's a long story. Tyler waits a beat before continuing. TYLER: May I uh...may I come in? Anita hesitates, looking back inside at Brady, who's just entered the living room, curious about why Anita's at the door. TYLER: I know he's here, Anita. BRADY: Who's... Anita opens the door to let Tyler in, as Brady stands back in the kitchen area, stunned to see Tyler again. BRADY: Tyler...wh...look, if you came to track me down, I, I just can't-- Tyler steps into the room, and holds his hand up to stop Brady from continuing. TYLER: Brady....no one knows you're here. And no one's going to know. Okay? I didn't come here to try to get you back to Salem. Anita interjects, slightly annoyed by Tyler's return visit. ANITA: So why are you here, then? Once wasn't enough? TYLER: Look, I...ah, something's happened, and I need to leave town. And I won't be back. ANITA: What? Why? TYLER: It's...a long story, but I need to call Victor first, and on a secure line. That's why I'm here. Anita nods slowly, confused by Tyler's vague information. She motions toward the landline phone, as Tyler nods in appreciation, and heads over to call Victor. Anita turns to face a very baffled Brady, to whom she gives an equally confused expression. --- At the Grant house, Jerome sits with his grandmother on the living room couch. He wears a strange expression as he questions his grandmother. JEROME: You talk like you got some real beef with the Hortons. Valerie shifts uncomfortably, trying to be somewhat dismissive of what she's already expressed to Jerome about the Hortons, but failing. VALERIE: I don't really have beef, but like...(sigh) How shall I put it? Jerome laughs, breaking Valerie's thought. JEROME: ...But you got beef with 'em! VALERIE: Look, don't get me wrong, Jerome. They're lovely people. They do their best. I have worked alongside this family for years. But I also know they have their fair share of problems. Ones that are extremely easy for a man like you to get caught up in. And I don't want that for you. I've...pulled your behind out of enough jams for one lifetime. Valerie notices Jerome's crooked collar, and awkwardly, lovingly adjusts it as she fidgets to distract from her nervousness at the subject at hand. Jerome gently flinches, tickled by his grandmother's touch. JEROME: Okay, I get that. But...what you mean? What kind of problems? Valerie stops fidgeting and sighs, before deciding to tell Jerome. VALERIE: Well...your Uncle Eli's father, for one. Jerome turns his head quickly to look at Valerie's sheepish expression. --- Marlena and Abe head into the underground parking at Marlena's building. Marlena trails Abe, who is eager to get going. Abe looks back to see Marlena, slowly walking towards him, clutching herself as she walks, deep in thought. Abe walks over to Marlena, and comforts her as they walk toward Abe's car, Abe seeing Marlena clearly distressed by Roman's absence. ABE: We'll find him, Marlena. Marlena sighs, leaning against Abe as they walk. MARLENA: I know. Still doesn't make me worry any less. No sooner has Marlena finished her sentence do Kim and Andrew pull into a spot right near Abe and Marlena. Kim honks her horn, startling Marlena, as they both step out of Kim's car. Marlena looks stunned to see Andrew. MARLENA: Oh my...Oh my God, Andrew! Ohh it's so good to see you! Oh, when did you get into town? Andrew laughs as he gives his former aunt a hug, while Kim looks on, somewhat less-than-impressed by Marlena's enthusiasm, under the circumstances. KIM: He ah...he just arrived tonight. We were finishing up dinner when we got the call. MARLENA: Ohh, it's so good to see you. Oh that must've been a fantastic surprise for you, Kim. Kim nods, with a subdued expression as she tries to speed things along to limit her time with Marlena, whom she's upset with. KIM: It was. It was just what I needed. Look, um...I don't wanna...break up the reunion or anything, but....I think we need to start dealing with why we're here. ABE: Kim is right. I think we need to split up and keep each other on a three way call. MARLENA: Makes sense. I can take the route down Riverside Drive. KIM: Andrew and I can cover the south end. ABE: And I'll handle the centre. Alright, let's get on this, the longer we take, the farther away he might have gotten. As Abe, Kim, Marlena, and Andrew prepare to separate, we see inside the car just a few steps away from where they've congregated. Inside, Roman sits silently in the car, with the engine off. He's almost in a trance, as he states straight out from the drivers' seat, seemingly completely unaware of his surroundings. --- --- Jerome looks quizzically at Valerie as they both sit on the sofa inside Valerie's house. JEROME: Grandma, what about Uncle Eli? Valerie takes Jerome's hand, and holds it gently, as she begins to explain the story. VALERIE:Well... Valerie breathes in deeply, as she considers her words extremely carefully. VALERIE: See...you remember I told you about when I lived here allll those years ago, right? JEROME: Mmhmm. VALERIE: Well...I fell in love with a young man here named David Banning, and he just happens to be Miss Abigail Deveraux's cousin. Jerome slowly nods, making the connection. JEROME: And that...didn't go well. VALERIE: Oh no, it was...I mean, it wasn't without its problems, but our relationship was fine. We loved each other. His family was incredibly kind to me, but...they...they had problems. I worked for Abigail's grandmother at University Hospital, and she...she spent a long time in an institution. Abigail's grandfather was a great surgeon, and a very kind man, but...very troubled. David was an alcoholic, like your grandfather. (sigh) I think the pressure was too much for him. JEROME: What happened to you and David, then? Valerie sighs, looking down at nothing in particular as she reminisces. VALERIE: He had a baby. With his cousin's girlfriend. JEROME: I'm sorry. VALERIE: I'm not broken up about it. Years later, we met again, away from Salem, and...you know, I think being with him away from Salem was a real blessing. We could be together without the pressure of our families and...people who knew us. It was a great time. It wasn't long but...Uncle Eli came from it, and...it means I have a reminder in my life of that special time. Valerie takes Jerome's hand in hers, and smiles wistfully. VALERIE: Look, all I'm trying to say is, the Hortons are lovely people, but don't get bogged down in their problems. They'll take you with them. JEROME: I won't, Grandma. VALERIE: Don't be so sure. I know how you take on the problems of people you care about, baby. I don't want you to sucked into something you can't get out of. Jerome half-smiles, as Valerie pulls him into a tight hug. As she holds her grandson, she looks out from over Jerome's shoulder, a very worried look in her eyes. --- At Anita's cabin, Brady pulls Anita aside and quietly asks her about Tyler, who's stood in the corner of the room, using her landline phone. BRADY: Anita...how do you know that man? ANITA: Brady, it's not a big deal-- BRADY: The hell it's not! Anita, I do not feel comfortable with that man in this house. He works for my grandfather... Anita holds up her hands, trying to keep Brady from getting excited (and loud), as she attempts to explain the situation. ANITA: Brady, don't...don't worry. Look, Tyler has come by before, and he didn't say anything about you being here then-- BRADY: What??! That's supposed to make me feel better? ANITA: Just don't...shhh...Brady. Listen to me. Brady stops himself from continuing, giving Anita a chance to finish, but folds his arms, looking mistrustfully at her. ANITA: I will make sure he doesn't tell anyone you're here. I don't think he will, anyway, but I'll make sure. Okay? Brady unfolds his arms, unsure if Anita will be able to convince Tyler. On the phone, Tyler reaches University Hospital main reception desk. TYLER: (into phone) Yes, may I be put through to Mr. Victor Kiriakis' room, please? After a moment's wait, Tyler perks up again, hearing the phone ring in Victor's room. ... In Victor's hospital room, the phone rings. Victor, watching TV in bed, grumbles silently about the interruption to his show, turning the TV set off with the remote by his bed before picking up the phone, answering exasperated. VICTOR: (into phone) What? ... TYLER: (into phone) Victor! It's Tyler! ... VICTOR: (into phone) Oh, look who it is! The World's Worst Hired Help. You had one job, and I assume you're calling to apologize for botching it? ... Tyler looks utterly baffled by Victor's snarky comment. TYLER: (into phone) Wh...Victor, what are you talking about? VICTOR: (via phone) He's still alive, you idiot! Tyler looks over at Brady and Anita, trying to speak in pointed but hushed tones. TYLER: (into phone) Nick? ... VICTOR: (into phone) Exactly. And now it's too late to make another attempt, so don't even bother trying. I can only imagine the Salem PD all over that studio as we speak collecting whatever they can to tie your sorry ass to it. So forget it. I sent you a portion of what I promised you, but only if you get out of town. ... VICTOR: (via phone) ...and get out tonight. Tyler looks stunned, unable to respond to Victor, as the receiver drops from his ear. --- Hope stands with Nicole and Eric in the WXIR studio, still relatively dressed up from her date with Aiden. She looks around, as other officers snap photos of the fallen lighting rig. Nicole stands in the middle of the studio, arms folded, and explains what happened during the filming of her TV special. NICOLE: And that's when I heard the snap, and then the light just...came down. Hope looks up at the scaffolding high above the soundstage. She squints slightly, as she mulls over what Nicole's told her. After a moment, she asks Nicole a question in a somewhat official "police" tone. HOPE: Right. Nicole, did you see any...movement up there at all? Maybe someone was on set who shouldn't have been there? Nicole shakes her head, certain of her answer. NICOLE: No. I mean, we had a lot of guests in the studio but...no one was anywhere they shouldn't be. I didn't see any movement above us until the light, and that's what caught my attention. ERIC: And you're sure it wasn't an accident, then? NICOLE: It couldn't have been. Honestly, Nick's been involved in all kinds of things lately that I think make him a target. I mean, the light that fell was almost exactly over where he was sitting when it dropped. I can almost guarantee someone was trying to kill him. Eric looks to Hope with concern, wrapping his arm around Nicole. Hope appears surprised, before quickly raising her eyes back toward the lighting rig. --- Anjelica and Liam stand on the foggy pier, Anjelica points at Liam accusingly, speaking quietly but hissing her words at him. ANJELICA: You are letting your feelings get in the way of our goal, and it's becoming a liability. LIAM: My feelings? ANJELICA: Absolutely. You want to disengage because you're bitter about losing me to Stefano-- LIAM: It's not that... ANJELICA: So NOW, you're going to put your energies into Jennifer Horton, which is fine by me, but whatever energy you have left goes to screwing me over as some kind of twisted catharsis for your broken heart. And let me tell you, Mr. Frasier: that's not going to happen. Liam stares as Anjelica steps in close to Liam, part flirtingly, part threateningly. After a moment, Liam leans in for a kiss. Anjelica catches him and backs away, never taking her eyes off Liam, as he looks on with disappointment. ANJELICA: I want to remind you that you're already in this up to your neck, whether you want to be or not. Therefore, if you ever want to be reuinted with your long-lost love... Anjelica discretely holds out the gun once again, waiting for Liam to take it from her. ANJELICA: You need to take care of the problem. As soon as possible. Liam looks down, mulling over his options for a moment before taking the gun from Anjelica, sighing as he puts the gun in his coat pocket. LIAM: Consider it done. Liam turns away without another word, and heads up the stairs away from the pier, leaving Anjelica alone. She watches as Liam walks up the stairs, before turning away, sighing as the stress of her situation weighs on her. --- Kim, Andrew, and Abe walk away from their huddle in the car park at Marlena's condominium, as Marlena lingers behind, deep in thought, but jumping slightly when Abe touches her arm to get her attention as he walks away. ABE: I'll bring the car around, Marlena. Marlena smiles at Abe, as he walks toward the car. Looking away into the sea of cars before her, Marlena spots Roman's SUV parked nearby. After a moment's glance, she realizes someone's inside. It's Roman. Suddenly frenzied, she calls out to Abe, hoping he'll double back to where she is. MARLENA: Abe? Abe! Abe, he's here! Marlena makes a beeline for Roman's SUV, tapping on the front hood, as Roman stares ahead, in his own world as he sits in his parked vehicle. MARLENA: Roman? Marlena frantically tries to open the passenger's side door, to no avail. She bangs on the passenger's side window, as Roman looks her way. MARLENA: Roman! It's Doc, open the door, please! Roman hesitates for a moment, as though still in his trance, before finally unlocking the door. Marlena steps inside, as Kim and Andrew also double back, and Abe arrives. MARLENA: Roman, I was so worried about you. ROMAN: Doc, I... MARLENA: Roman... Marlena takes Roman's hand in hers, and holds it, realizing how very cold it is. She kisses it, and smiles warmly, as she begins to tear up again. MARLENA: Roman, we're all so glad you're safe. Abe, Andrew, Kim, and I we were all about to head off to look for you! Roman looks puzzled, as he looks out at Abe, Andrew, and Kim, who are standing outside the vehicle, deep concern in their eyes. He looks back at Marlena. ROMAN: Doc, that...that can't be. Kimmy's dead. I saw her! Marlena's jaw drops, baffled by Roman's obviously-untrue statement. ---

EPISODE 182 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco Marlena emerges from her bedroom at her penthouse, freshly changed into her street clothes, as the doorbell rings. She calls out to the person ringing the bell, as she heads for the door. MARLENA: Coming! Marlena walks over and opens the door to find Abe there. She quickly motions him inside. MARLENA: Abe! Thank you, I know it's short notice. Abe steps inside and gives Marlena a quick hug. ABE: It's alright. I'm glad you called. Have you heard anything? MARLENA: Not a word. ABE: (sigh) Alright. How long since you've heard anything? MARLENA: I mean, he...he was working, so I didn't think anything was wrong, but...I woke up and checked the entire penthouse, he's nowhere to be seen. Abe nods, then looks down sorrowfully. ABE: He's....he's in worse shape than any of us thought. Marlena stops, and looks at Abe. Her energy shifting as she turns to look his way. After a moment, Marlena nods in agreement. MARLENA: I umm...I've been taking him for tests at the hospital. We...we aren't 100% sure what's going on. ABE: It's obviously dementia of some kind. MARLENA: Well, that's what we assume, but...I have reason to believe Stefano is involved somehow. Abe sighs, shaking his head. ABE: Wouldn't surprise me. But...considering his performance at work... Abe hesitates momentarily, before continuing. Marlena furrows her brow, not sure she likes what Abe is about to say. ABE: I'm starting to believe it would be a good idea to...(sigh) ask Roman to take a leave of absence from the force. --- Tyler drives down the dark highway leading out of Salem. The occasional passing car shines its headlights his way as they drive opposite him down the road. Tyler is looking on intensely, as he thinks back to the events of the evening. *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 167: Tyler sits on a stool next to Victor's hospital bed, reeling from the news that Nick's working for Stefano. TYLER: Victor, are you absolutely sure Nick told you he was funded by Stefano. You didn't mishear him. VICTOR: 100%. Tyler shakes his head, resigned but not totally surprised by the news. TYLER: You know, it makes almost too much sense. VICTOR: I agree. That's why we have to take action, immediately. TYLER: What kind of action? VICTOR: Simple. We'll send Stefano a message, and clean up the filth that's rotting this town from the inside. Tyler sighs, knowing what Victor's implying. TYLER: Victor, we can't be working underhandedly. VICTOR: Too late. The gloves are already off. Get rid of Nick Fallon. By any means neccessary. Victor looks steely-eyed at a concerned Tyler, who is far less convinced of Victor's plan than Victor is. *** Tyler is distracted by a passing car's bright lights, that snap him back to reality with a jolt. Tyler struggles to see and his car begins to swerve onto the gravel at the edge of the road. TYLER: Dammit! As Tyler swerves to get the car back onto the road, he brakes to stop the car before he causes an accident. Pulling over, he stops and leans his head back against the headrest, trying to regain his composure. After a moment, and a heavy sigh or two, Tyler looks out his drivers' side window, then at his GPS. He realizes he's right by Anita's cabin. TYLER: Well, I'll be damned. He decides to pull in, turning suddenly in to the darkened country gravel driveway. --- It's a foggy night, as Anjelica stands alone on the pier. She's dressed in a long black coat and wide-brimmed hat semi-obscuring her face. She paces slowly checking around her to be sure she remains safe, as she waits for Liam to meet her. ANJELICA: (sigh) Come on, Liam, get down here. No sooner has those words come out of her mouth, than Liam walks down the steps of the pier to meet her. Anjelica turns to look at him, looking a bit annoyed. ANJELICA: Took you long enough. LIAM: Sorry, had to wait for Jenn to nod off. ANJELICA: Ahhh yes, precious Jennifer Horton. Liam rolls his eyes, as Anjelica sarcastically waxes poetic about Liam's partner. ANJELICA: Love of your life. Apple of your eye. Tell me, Liam: did you take an extra moment before you departed to watch your beloved as she slept as well? LIAM: You're hilarious, Anj. Now, what did I come all the way down here for, exactly? Anjelica gives Liam an intense deadpan look as she pulls a gun from her coat pocket and places it in Liam's hand. LIAM: What's this for? ANJELICA: Our little problem we were discussing earlier? I want you to take care of him. Liam looks down at the gun, then up at Anjelica, stunned by what she's asking of him. --- --- Jerome shuts the front door to the Grant family home, and steps inside quietly. Inside, Valerie emerges from the kitchen entrance and looks stern, but relieved to see her grandson home. VALERIE: Jerome Grant, where have you been? Jerome stops himself at the first step of the staircase heading upstairs when he hears Valerie's voice. JEROME: Hey, Grandma, uh...Sorry I'm so late. VALERIE: Well, I don't really mind that, but the fact you didn't even text me or call? JEROME: Nah, I know. I should've. VALERIE: You're damned right. Valerie turns and heads into the living room, with Jerome reluctantly following behind her as she continues to speak to him. VALERIE: You know, I've been worried about you. You're avoiding coming home again, and-- JEROME: Grandma, you don't have to worry about me. I'm fine. Valerie stops in front of the couch, and turns to face Jerome, who's slowly stepping into the room. VALERIE: And that's exactly the same conversation we had in Toronto before we moved down here. And I didn't buy it then, and I don't buy it now. Valerie motions to Jerome to join her on the sofa, before sitting down. VALERIE: Come on, baby. Let's talk. Jerome complies, as he sits down next to Valerie. JEROME: Grandma, I know what you're gonna say, and-- VALERIE: No, I don't think you do. Now, listen. I know you're grown, and I can't stop you from doing what you wanna do, but I can and I will tell you what I think about it. And what you're doing right now, it is way too familiar to me. JEROME: Grandma, I promise you, I am not falling into those same patterns. Look, Kaylie and Siobhan are far behind me, now. I don't...I don't even know what made you think of them. VALERIE: Well, different things. Jerome looks at Valerie, a bit confused. JEROME: Like what? VALERIE: Well, you know how I had you set up that video chat for the interview I was doing? Jerome tenses up slightly, becoming uncomfortable with her story. JEROME: Yeah... VALERIE: Well, we hired that girl, and...you know, it's funny, there's...there's something about her. She looks just a little like that girl Siobhan you knew in school. Jerome looks intensely at Valerie, hoping she doesn't make the connection. Valerie continues her story, looking away from Jerome as she recalls their journey back to Salem. VALERIE: You know, I started thinking about it, and...you know, I know they're far behind you, and...you know...after your father was killed, I just...we moved her for a fresh start. Somewhere that felt like home, but...somewhere we could forget the bad memories, bad habits. Valerie takes Jerome's hand in hers, she smiles as she looks at Jerome. VALERIE: I don't want you to fall back into them. JEROME: I promise, Grandma. That's not happening. Things are going well! I'm...doing my research for my thesis, and...I met someone. Valerie perks up at the news. VALERIE: Ooh! Who is this fine young lady? JEROME: Her name is Abigail Deveraux. I met her mom, Jennifer today. I think she said she works at the hospital as well. Valerie raises an eyebrow at Jennifer's name. VALERIE: Jennifer Horton? JEROME: Yeah, I think so. Valerie sighs, shaking her head, as Jerome looks confused. VALERIE: Oh boy. Jerome chuckles at his grandmother's reaction to the news, still puzzled by her less-than-enthusiastic response. JEROME: What? What do you mean? Valerie sighs, taking a second before answering Jerome's question. VALERIE: Look, I'm not gonna tell you you're forbidden to see this girl, but you need to tread lightly with Hortons. They are messy. Okay? Jerome frowns, curious about what his grandmother means. --- At the pier, Liam's face scrunches up after Anjelica has handed him a revolver, confused by Anjelica's request. LIAM: What, am I your hitman now? ANJELICA: You are part of the team that's meant to be helping me get through this plan in one piece. Liam looks down at the gun, shaking his head, as Anjelica slowly walks around behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as she speaks gently in his ear. ANJELICA: You don't want to let the team down, do you? Liam turns his head slightly, giving Anjelica a deathly glare as he holds the gun in his hand tightly. --- Marlena looks at Abe, disappointed and worried. MARLENA: Oh no, Abe, don't take Roman off the force-- ABE: No...no, Marlena, I'm serious. He's made too many mistakes recently. He has completely...just...blanked out on entire cases. Important ones! He could be putting himself in danger every time he steps out of the house. Marlena steps in closer to Abe, pleading with him to reconsider. MARLENA: Abe, if...if it is Alzheimer's...I want to be sure of the diagnosis first, but...if it is...I firmly believe keeping Roman working for as long as possible can only help him cognitively. ABE: And put him in the line of fire! MARLENA: Not if he does admin-- Abe shakes his head, getting riled up as he tries to resist laughing at Marlena's suggestion. ABE: Marlena, be serious! Can you honestly imagine Roman Brady accepting administrative work? Marlena looks down solemnly. She shakes her head, realizing Abe's right. ABE: Now, I will wait for the official diagnosis before I do this, but I am asking that you have the doctors confirm this diagnosis ASAP. Every day we wait, the more danger Roman's in. Marlena nods in agreement. She looks up at the ceiling, sighing in frustration. MARLENA: You're right. I'll have Roman head down to the hospital first thing tomorrow. ABE: Alright. As Abe responds, Marlena gets a text message from Kim. Taking her cell phone from her coffee table, she checks it, before turning to Abe. MARLENA: It's Kimberly. She's downstairs. ABE: Alright, let's meet her down there. Abe and Marlena head for the door. As Abe races out, Marlena is stopped by a picture of her with Roman, Carrie, Sami, and Eric, from when Sami and Eric were newborns. She spots the picture on her mantle by the door, and looks it over, tearing up. Taking a moment to look the picture over, she sets it back down on the mantle and heads out of the penthouse, locking the door behind her. --- Tyler pulls into Anita's property, his headlights guiding him down the dark country dirt road. Approaching the cabin, Tyler stops the car outside, and gets out after turning the car off. He slowly walks up to the front door, seeing the bright lights inside. He stops, noticing movement through the window. Peeking carefully through the window, he makes out a familiar face. TYLER: My God. Inside, Brady finishes the last of the dishes, turning to Anita and smiling warmly, as they laugh and joke. Tyler is stunned. Brady is alive. ---

EPISODE 181 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco Gabi stands in Nick's room at the Kiriakis mansion, holding the pictures he's had hidden in his desk drawer of Gabi, Sami, and Kate trying to drown him in her hand. She's relieved to have finally found them, holding the pictures up to her chest, smiling for the first time in ages. GABI: Oh my God, yes. As she celebrates her mission being completed to retrieve the photos, lurking on the other side of the door is Nick, who is spying on her through the slight crack in said door. He practically seethes, livid as he watches her invade his privacy and betray his trust, but he keeps silent and still, observing her every move, as he grips the handle of the door tightly. Gabi, oblivious to the threat behind her, flips through the photos, before stumbling upon one pic that takes her aback: Abby in a liplock with EJ. Gabi looks stunned. Realizing what she's unintentially uncovered, she hastily shoves the pictures back in the envelope, and walks them over to her purse, stuffing them inside. As she does this, Nick watches her closely, seeing what she's done with the pictures. Before Gabi can catch a glimpse of Nick, he walks away, defusing the situation. Gabi closes her purse, and looks up to the ceiling, taken aback by the picture she's seen of EJ and Abby. GABI: Oh God, you guys. What did you get yourselves into. (sigh) I gotta get out of here. Gabi sighs, before getting up from sitting on the bed, and rushes out of the room, making sure everything is as she found it. Turning the light off and shutting the door completely behind her. After leaving Nick's bedroom, Gabi checks both ways down the hallway, before walking away toward her own bedroom. As Gabi walks past, a face looms from the linen closet next to Nick's room. It's Nick, making sure he's hidden before heading back for his room. From the dark of the closet, he threatens Gabi softly. NICK: You haven't won yet, Gabi. I'll make sure of that. They're poisoning your mind against me. And we can't have that. Can we? --- In the Kiriakis living room, Anjelica and Alex walk in after being dropped off by Will. Anjelica sets down her bag, as Alex sets his things down on the desk. Neither speak at first, but Alex looks at his mother, worry in his eyes. Anjelica catches this look, and furrows her brow in annoyance. ANJELICA: What? ALEX: Anjelica, are you sure you're okay? Anjelica looks away, as she steps over to the bar, and pours herself a drink. ANJELICA: I'm fine. Never been better! Anjelica downs the drink in one shot, and Alex looks at her, not believing a word she says. ALEX: Somehow I doubt that. Anjelica glares at him, as she pours herself another drink. ANJELICA: Well, other than my nerves being shot after nearly being killed by a stage light...I'm feeling fresh as a daisy. Anjelica quickly turns to look at Alex, her mockingly chipper tone of voice suddenly dropping to a threateningly low pitch as she holds a second glass up. ANJELICA: Drink? Alex isn't amused by Anjelica's snark, and glares at his mother, disapprovingly. ALEX: I'll pass. Come on, Mother. Tell me what's bothering you. You've been miserable since we left the studio. ANJELICA: I'm just trying to figure out whether Nick Fallon was onto something or not. ALEX: What do you mean by that? ANJELICA: I mean between you and Will Horton. Alex drops his shoulders, looking away in frustration. --- Roman drives out along a quiet country road in the dark of the night. Over the radio, he hears an announcement. RADIO HOST: (via radio) An update from WXIR-TV. The Walker Report, the live television special hosted by local investigative journalist Nicole Walker, was abruptly cut short midshow tonight after an overhead stage light fell on the soundstage, nearly striking newly-appointed Titan CEO Nick Fallon, as well as Candidate for State Governor, Anjelica Deveraux. Both are said to be fine, but shaken up, and Salem Police are investigating the potential for foul play. More news as it becomes available. As an advertisement kicks in, Roman is surprised by the news, but is quickly distracted by the reflection of a tail light on an SUV up ahead, obscured by nearby bushes. ROMAN: What da... Intrigued, Roman pulls over to investigate. Stopping his car at the side of the quiet country road, Roman gets out, and fumbles with his phone to turn on his cell phone flashlight. Slowly walking over to the abandoned vehicle hidden in the brush, Roman inspects the vehicle, a concerned look on his face. He looks around the otherwise-abandoned roadway, checking to see if anyone's around. When he sees nobody, he flashes the phone light into the front seat. Nothing. Slowly walking back to the back seats... Only a snorkel, and a roll of duct tape. Roman tilts his head slightly, confused by what he sees. Even slower, Roman steps back toward the rear of the SUV, inhaling deeply as he spots more scuba gear, but freezes when he sees in the very corner... A woman's dead body, ghost white from laying there overnight. We see that it is Crystal Clarke's body, though Roman doesn't recognize her. ROMAN: Damn. --- --- In the Kiriakis living room, Alex folds his arms, annoyed by his mother's inference about his relationship with Will. ALEX: You know, I don't appreciate you insinuating that there's anything going on between Will and myself that's not professional. Anjelica takes a sip of her drink, then turns to face her son, a sour, dismissive expression on her face. ANJELICA: Wouldn't be the first time. ALEX: Mom-- ANJELICA: Look, Alex, you know I am supportive of you no matter what, but I cannot stress to you enough that I am running on a family values platform in this campaign, and that requires my family to maintain that appearance as well. That. Includes. You. Alex steps in closer to his mother, speaking firmly, while also appearing visibly uncomfortable. ALEX: Besides the fact that that's not how support works, I'm telling you, Will is my right hand at work. That's it. And he is very good at his work. ANJELICA: And that's where you leave it. At work. Alex, clearly agitated, begins to raise his voice to Anjelica. ALEX: Mother, I can't believe that Nick teasing Will has got you so worked up. Anjelica begins to, in turn, raise her voice to Alex, trying to make her point as clear as possible. ANJELICA: That's not what's working me up, Alex. It's the fact he sees something going on between you. And whether it's there or not, other people are seeing it, and they will start to talk. Alex leans in close to Anjelica and softly, but firmly, punctuates his point. ALEX: Let them. Alex turns to walk away, but Anjelica follows him, trying to look him in the eyes as she shouts out to him. ANJELICA: I will do no such thing! I am running for the highest office in the state. I have our family's legacy on my back here. And I will not let it be ruined once again because the men in this family can't get a handle on their moral compass! Alex laughs sarcastically at Anjelica's comment, raising his voice to match hers. ALEX: Ohhhh, I think murdering sex workers is a little different-- ANJELICA: Not to these people, it isn't! You need to keep up appearances, Alexander Kiriakis. We need to present an image of good ol' American apple-pie eatin' wholesomeness for my sake, AND for yours. Alex cools his tone, and scratches the back of his neck, before speaking again. ALEX: And after the campaign ends? Then what? ANJELICA: I don't care after the campaign ends, you can ruin your life all you want! ALEX: Bull! Face it, Mother. You're always going to have your nose in every relationship I have. I don't even know why I bother having relationships at all, quite frankly! ANJELICA: Oh, now it's a relationship. I'm sure your WIFE would love to hear that! Alex sighs, rolling his eyes at his mother. She ignores him, and continues. ANJELICA: Let me tell you something, dear son of mine: I involve myself because I care about you, and your happiness. ALEX: And if you care so much about my happiness, I'd kindly ask you to butt out. Alex throws his hands up, walking around Anjelica as he heads for the stairs, exhausted from arguing. ALEX: Look, I need to get to bed. I'm tired. ANJELICA: Alexander, don't walk away from me-- ALEX: There is nothing to say. Anjelica, I am happily married, that's the end of it. Okay? Goodnight. ANJELICA: Alex... Alex walks away, as Anjelica watches him, frustrated. --- Marlena emerges from her darkened Penthouse bedroom, wearing her nightgown. She wears a worried expression as she calls out to the empty room. MARLENA: Roman?? Roman, are you there? Marlena walks over to the lamp on the side table in the living room, immediately looking around now that the lights are on. She's stunned by Roman's absence. MARLENA: Roman? Taking a moment to think, she walks over to the front closet door, opening it to see Roman's shoes not there. She realizes immediately that something's wrong, and rushes over to her sideboard, where her cell phone's been left to charge overnight. Picking it up, she calls Roman. It rings... And rings... and rings.... After the fourth ring, the call goes to voice mail. Marlena waits through Roman's voice mail message to leave one for him. ROMAN: (via voice mail) It's Roman, leave a message. The beep afterward prompts Marlena to leave a somewhat uncertain message. Not wanting to alarm Roman, Marlena holds it together and restrains herself into a calm masquerade. MARLENA: (into phone) Ah Roman, it's Doc. I'm....I'm just a bit worried, it's....it's midnight and I was expecting you back at the penthouse by now. If you....if you are able to give me a call. If you're...if you're lost at all...just....just call me back, okay? Let me know where you are...or if you need me to come out to meet you. Alright. Marlena hangs up the phone, now more worried than ever. After a moment's hesitation, Marlena checks her watch. It's past midnight. She calls Abe, who answers after two rings. MARLENA: (into phone) Abe? Abe, it's Marlena....I'm...I'm calling because Roman is missing again, and I could really use your help in tracking him down....yes, if you want to meet here at the penthouse. Please, as soon as you can. Thanks. Marlena hangs up, and after a moment's hesitation, makes one more call. ... Kim is just walking into her apartment after dinner with Andrew, when she hears her cell phone ring. KIM: Oh wow, who could be calling at this hour? ANDREW: Could be important. Kim pulls the phone out and looks at who it is. Her face drops as she looks up at her son. KIM: Honey, I gotta take this. ANDREW: Sure! No problem. Kim answers the phone with a definite harshness in her greeting. KIM: (into phone) Yes? ... MARLENA: (into phone) Ah, Kim, it's Marlena...I just...I'm sorry to call so late, but...it's Roman. He's missing again. I don't mean to alarm you, but...I could use your help tracking him down. ... Kim is shocked, and worried, her tone changes slightly in her response to Marlena's request. KIM: (into phone) Oh Gosh, ahh...yeah. Yeah, I'll be right over. .... MARLENA: (into phone) Thank you, Kim...I'm sorry about this, I know it's late. KIM: (via phone) It's fine. MARLENA: (into phone) Listen, Kim, if you don't mind, I just wanted to take a moment to apo-- KIM: (via phone) Listen, Marlena, I can't really talk right now, just...I'll be right over, okay? Kim hangs up the phone, with Marlena wincing after the call ends, hurt by the terseness in Kim's voice, and their strained relationship thanks to Roman's decline. She puts down her phone, as she leans against the edge of the sideboard. MARLENA: Please God, let him be alright. Marlena turns and walks toward her bedroom to get changed back into her street clothes. --- Roman, still stunned by the sight of Nurse Crystal Clarke's body in the backseat of the abandoned SUV he's spotted in the bush, panics as he looks around in the dark, trying to figure out what to do. He remembers after a moment to check his phone to call for help, but there's no signal. ROMAN: Dammit! No signal out here. He races over to his car. Opening the door, he climbs inside to try to radio into dispatch for help, but his hands tremble, as he realizes he can't remember how to operate the radio. He drops the receiver, and puts his idling vehicle into gear, taking off back down the road in hopes of getting back to Salem to call for help. --- Nick returns to his room, now that Gabi's gone. He shuts the door behind him, looking around the room to see what's out of place. Realizing nothing's out of place, meaning if he hadn't caught her, he would've never noticed Gabi was in his room. He pulls open his desk drawer, and makes sure the manila envelope he'd hidden inside was missing, before slamming it shut in frustration. NICK: Dammit! Damn you, Gabi. He holds his head, trying to avoid another migraine, when his cell phone rings. It's Sheryl. He rolls his eyes as he answers the phone, pinching his nose to try to stop the throbbing in his head from worsening. NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, what do you want? ... Sheryl paces her living room at her new apartment, phone in her ear, her game face on, as she sarcastically replies to Nick. SHERYL: (into phone) You know, I just love your phone manner. It's so warm and genuine. ... Nick leans against the desk in his room, shutting his eyes and grimacing through the dull pain. NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, I don't have time for this right now, what do you want? SHERYL: (via phone) I want to give you some advice, Nick... ... SHERYL: (into phone) You remember what happened tonight at the studio? With the falling stage lights? ... NICK: (into phone) Obviously. ... SHERYL: (into phone) Well, you should know....that was my doing. ... Nick's eyes open as Sheryl lies to Nick about her responsibility for the "accident" at the TV station. SHERYL: (via phone) And I want you to know that it was not my intention to miss. So you'd better watch your step before you make your next move... NICK: (into phone) Or what? ... Sheryl gives an evil smile as she purrs her threat through the phone to Nick. SHERYL: (into phone) Or it'll be your very...last...move. Understood? ... Nick slowly begins to crack up, laughing through the phone at a surprised Sheryl. NICK: (into phone) You have got to be kidding me. SHERYL: (via phone) I am deadly serious, Nick. Nick laughs over the phone yet again, shaking his head as he begins to walk toward his bedroom window. NICK: (into phone) Sheryl, you don't get it, do you? I know full well it wasn't you who dropped that light on me. There's no way, because up until two hours ago, you thought someone else botched the virus operation. ... At Sheryl's end, Sheryl's smile drops from her face, as she realizes Nick's got her dead to rights. NICK: (via phone) So, because I'm such a nice, forgiving guy, I'm gonna make you a little deal. Alright? Sheryl sighs before answering Nick, putting a hand on her hip in frustration. SHERYL: (into phone) And just what kinda deal would that be? ... Nick looks out his bedroom window, his steely eyes looking straight ahead into the night as he delivers his own threat to Sheryl. NICK: (into phone) You get Jordan and leave town forever tonight, or those photos of you and Jordan that I was going to show on Nicole's TV special? I'm gonna take them straight to the police station. Got that? ... Sheryl tenses up, sighing once again, but this time with a certain pent-up rage. SHERYL: (into phone) Loud and clear. ... NICK: (into phone) You got 12 hours, Sheryl. Don't test me. Nick presses "End Call", his eyes never moving from looking outside. ... The double beep of Nick ending the call signals to Sheryl to drop her show of strength, her body unclenching from the tense back-and-forth. She grunts in frustration, before slamming her phone into the side table next to her. She looks around frantically, trying to figure out exactly what to do next. --- In her own bedroom at the Kiriakis house, Gabi texts EJ on her cell phone, as she stands with the manila envelope she's just collected from Nick's desk drawer in her other hand. She texts EJ: got the pics The photo of EJ in a compromising position with Abigail is out of the envelope, as Gabi stares at it carefully while hitting "send". Gabi looks up from the photos after a moment, stunned by the photo she holds in her hands. ---

EPISODE 180 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco Jordan opens the door to Rafe's loft, finding Roman standing on the other side. She is immediately tense, particularly after Nicole's TV special, and begins to trip over her words as she goes to greet Roman. JORDAN: Ah...uh...R-- Roman looks confused by Jordan being at the door. He tries to look past her to ensure he has the right address. ROMAN: Ah...Hi...uh...is Rafe there? JORDAN: Ah, no. No, he...he just stepped out for a second. Umm...is there...anything I can...maybe help you with? Or...maybe pass on a message? Roman looks down, racking his brain trying to figure out what he even came for. After a moment, he looks up at Jordan, and shakes his head. ROMAN: You know what? Don't worry about it. I'll get ahold of him later. Jordan smiles, pleasantly, but with a distinct tension behind her eyes. JORDAN: Okay. Sure. Jordan closes the door, as Roman leaves. Inside, she leans against the door, relieved. JORDAN: Just...breathe, Jordan. He's not after you, or you'd be under arrest already. Just breathe. ... On the other side of the door, Roman walks to the elevator, and presses the "down" button on the elevator. As he waits for it to reach his floor, he pounds on the frame of the elevator, trying in vain to recall why he came to Rafe's. ROMAN: What da Hell am I doing here? (sigh) Dammit. Roman is startled by the ding of the bell, announcing the elevator's arrival. He steps on and presses the Ground floor button. As the doors close, Rafe emerges from the stairwell, momentarily catching a glimpse of Roman, but is unable to call out to him in time. He frowns, wondering about the reason for Roman's visit, before stepping into his unit. --- The door of Will's car shuts, as Percy leaves the vehicle, having been dropped off from the TV studio. Will is now about to drive toward the Kiriakis mansion, with Alex in his front passenger's seat, Nick and Anjelica sitting in back. He turns the steering wheel, leaving the curbside by Percy's place. Everyone is stoic in the car, with most somewhat still shell shocked from Nick and Anjelica's near-miss on the studio floor with the falling lighting rig. WILL: Okay, so I'm taking you all to the Kiriakis house, yeah? NICK: Yep. WILL: Right. The car ride becomes silent once again, as Nick looks over at Will, who is focused on the road ahead. Alex looks over to Anjelica, who is looking out the window, as if in a haze. ALEX: Anjelica...you alright? Anjelica turns and smiles at her son warmly, but distinctly half-heartedly. ANJELICA: Yeah. Yeah, I'm just...I'm just exhausted. ALEX: Can't say I blame you. That was...quite the scare. Anjelica nods silently, before shuffling slightly in her seat. ANJELICA: Yeah...and I can't say these fabric seats are helping matters much. Will pipes up from the front, exhausted himself, and exasperated by Anjelica's unending snobbery. WILL: Yeah, well, welcome to normal people's cars, Anjelica. I'm sorry I couldn't get Harold to lend me the Bentley for the night, but you'll have to make do with plain old unheated cloth. Anjelica rolls her eyes, shuffling slightly again as she glares at Will. ANJELICA: Wish I hadn't told my driver to have the night off. ALEX: You'll be fine, Anjelica. Anjelica turns back to looking out the window, now more glaring out the window, really. The hush falls over the car once again. After a tense moment, Nick turns to ask Will a question. NICK: So, you figure the special got a good rating? Will stares straight ahead, purposefully disengaged from Nick. WILL: I'm sure we'll hear about it tomorrow. NICK: Overnights should be good. You think I came off well on TV? Will snaps at Nick suddenly, catching him off-guard. WILL: I don't really give a damn about how you come off on TV, Nick. NICK: I'm sorry, Will, I-- WILL: But I will tell you, you come off really badly sneaking Gabi out of our apartment without letting Sonny or I have a say about, or letting Gabi discuss it with us first like we asked. Nick looks surprised by Will's sudden display of backbone, Will looks back, heated. --- Kate slams her rocks glass down on the bar table in the DiMera living room, having just toasted to Nick's inevitable undoing. EJ and Sami look on, less than convinced. SAMI: Well, you're awfully sure of yourself tonight, Kate. Kate shrugs, before turning to face the bar, debating whether or not to grab another. KATE: I have good reason to be. Nick Fallon's overplayed his hand. Kate decides to go for it, and pours another half-glass of bourbon into the rocks glass, before picking it up gently spinning it around in her hand. KATE: And it's our time to seize upon that. EJ: Alright, I've got a question. Kate finishes taking a sip of her second drink and motions to EJ to go ahead. KATE: Shoot. EJ: What makes you so sure about this particular timeline for Nick's downfall? Kate saunters over toward the armchair as she explains herself to EJ and Sami. EJ and Sami turn, their eyes following Kate as she takes over their living room. KATE: Simple. Nick was so eager to seize control of Titan, that he got sloppy. He established, and used a working relationship with Jordan and Sheryl, or whatever their real names are, to get access to their servers, and then use them as the fall guys to help bribe the board into giving him control. Of course, those two have been working day and night to destroy Titan for the whole EnerNext fracking nonsense, so Nick pretended to be on their side to get access to their plans, and, I'm guessing, thwart them. Not to mention his blackmail tactics, which...frankly, if we stop him in time, we'll keep him from running his mouth everywhere about everyone and everything. EJ: That's all well and good, but...how can you prove he was working with them? KATE: Well, that's the best part. This stays between us, of course, but Billie's been investigating them this entire time. That's why she was brought back to Salem in the first place. So the goal now is to lure Jordan and Sheryl to the Penthouse Grille gala tomorrow night, and let the fireworks begin. Kate smiles, as she takes a sip of her drink. EJ and Sami look at each other, less than certain of Kate's plan. --- --- Sami folds her arms, as she stands facing Kate in the DiMera living room. SAMI: Well, this needs to work, or we're all going to jail. Though, frankly, I don't see why we don't just kill that little twerp anyway, if we're heading to jail anyway. Kate raises her rocks glass again from her seat in the armchair. KATE: Amen to that! EJ widens his eyes at Kate, implying she keep her mouth shut. EJ: Samantha, remember our New Year's resolution, we were going to try to keep the murder to a minimum this year. KATE: How sweet! Impractical, but sweet. Sami glares at Kate, annoyed by how comfortable Kate is in her home. Sami grabs her paperwork, and tablet, and heads out of the room for bed, kissing EJ on her way. SAMI: Look. I gotta get to bed. But keep me posted, okay? And if anything goes even slightly left, you call me right away. KATE: Got it. Sami turns to EJ to wish him good night. SAMI: EJ? EJ: I'll show Kate out, Samantha. Don't worry. Sami smiles, then walks out of the living room, walking up the stairs and out of sight. EJ checks carefully to make she she has gone up, before motioning to Kate to get up from her seat and come over closer to talk to him. KATE: What? EJ pulls the key he found in the safe out from his pocket. EJ: Does this look familiar to you at all? KATE: Ahh...maybe, I... EJ leans in closer, and speaks softly, but emphatically to Kate. EJ: You need to think really hard about this. Did father talk to you about a...safe deposit box, or anything of the sort that isn't part of the normal DiMera accounts. Kate mulls it over a moment, before answering EJ. KATE: There was something. He mentioned having a box at a small savings and loan in Chicago, but he never said anything more than that. Why? EJ: Because I have been through that safe about a hundred times and those pictures of the drowning attempt, among other...unpleasant reminders, are not in there, but I know for a FACT father has copies of them. KATE:Why would Stefano have those? EJ: To keep me in line. Why else? To remind me that my loyalty is to him, and not to Samantha. Kate nods, understanding Stefano's motivation clearly. KATE: Sounds like Stefano. EJ: Right, but then that begs another question. Kate puts her drink down, realizing EJ's question before it even comes out of his mouth. KATE: Is Stefano tied up with Nick. EJ: Exactly. And how deep. Kate sighs, as EJ clears his throat a moment. EJ: I need to get those pictures, Kate. KATE: What other pictures are in there. I mean, you can't just be this jumpy about Nick and the drowning-- EJ: Nothing for you to worry about. EJ cuts Kate off, preferring not to elaborate. Kate takes the hint and backs down. She grabs her clutch, and prepares to leave, but hesitates. KATE: Can you keep me in the loop about whether you track the pictures down or not? EJ looks up, nodding to Kate. EJ: I will. Kate turns to leave, but EJ calls out to stop her. EJ: Ah, Kate. Kate turns around, as EJ shares his last thought with her. EJ: Don't tell Samantha about the pictures. She's already...a wreck as it is, I don't think she needs this on top of everything else. Kate nods, smiling half-heartedly at EJ. KATE: No problem. Kate turns to leave, leaving EJ alone in the living room, looking pensively at the key. --- Rafe steps into the loft, finding Jordan finishing up cooking dinner for them. Jordan turns to look at Rafe, who points his thumb down the hall. RAFE: Am I seeing things or did Roman just leave? Jordan looks at Rafe, pretending to be confused. JORDAN: Wh...no. Roman wasn't here. It's just been me, finishing up the sauce. Rafe looks genuinely baffled, as he shuts the door to the loft. RAFE: Hm. I guess I need to get my eyes checked...you sure he wasn't just here? Jordan laughs, hoping her deflection works, and raises the mixing spoon from the saucepan for Rafe to taste. JORDAN: I'm positive. Here, try. Rafe leans in and tastes the piping hot sauce. He's immediately enticed by Jordan's home cooking. RAFE: Mmm, okay, that does it, you're movin' in. Rafe leans in to grab Jordan, but in the excitement, Jordan swings the spoon at Rafe and sprays sauce all over his shirt. Rafe backs up, stunned, while Jordan looks Rafe over, trying to hold in a giggle. RAFE: This is like...my favourite shirt! Jordan smiles sensuously, before running the spoon down his shirt, slowly reaching the top of his jeans. JORDAN: i guess you'll have to throw it in the wash....right away. Jordan steps in closer, wrapping her arm around the back of Rafe's neck, and pulls him into a kiss. Rafe grabs Jordan, but stops himself a moment, remembering the sauce. RAFE: Wait, what about dinner? Jordan turns around and turns the flame off the stovetop, before turning back to face Rafe. JORDAN: It can wait. Time for appetizers. Rafe smiles, as he picks Jordan up in his arms, her arms and legs wrapped tightly around him, as he whisks her way to the bedroom. After Rafe closes the door to the bedroom, Jordan cell phone begins to buzz on the kitchen counter, with Sheryl once again trying to reach her. --- Roman shuts the door to his car, and sits inside in the parking lot outside Rafe's building with his car off. In the dark of the night, he racks his brain, stumped as to why he's there. In frustration, Roman smashes his hand against the rim of the steering wheel. ROMAN: DAMMIT! He sighs, mulling over what to do now. ROMAN: Okay, Roman. Just...have a drive around, think over what you were doing. Just...cool your head. Fumbling with the keys, Roman struggles momentarily in the dark, before finally getting the key in the ignition. Once the car is started, Roman backs out of the parking spot, and heads off into the night. --- At WXIR, Abby and Nicole finalize things after the end of production of Nicole's TV special. Nicole bends down with another crew member to inspect where the lines broke on the rig. CREW MEMBER: Nicole, these...these wires... NICOLE: What about them? Nicole notices something is wrong. She turns around, and motions to Abby to come over and take a look at the rig wires. NICOLE: Abby, come here and check this out. Abby steps over, as Nicole points to the cut cable. ABBY: Someone cut that cable. NICOLE: Exactly. And that's not the only one. ABBY: Somebody meant to drop this lighting rig. NICOLE: Exactly. And I have a feeling I know who they meant to hit. Nicole stands up, a worried look on her face. She turns to face Abby, speaking with urgency. NICOLE: Call the police right away. Get someone down here, NOW! Abby nods quickly, before running off to get a signal on her cell phone closer to the doorway, when Eric walks into the studio. He races over to embrace Nicole, who is thrilled to have him here. NICOLE: Oh my God, Eric! ERIC: I saw what happened on TV. Are you okay? NICOLE: I'm fine. Just...shaken up a little. You have no idea how happy I am to see your face. Nicole reaches around and hugs Eric again, tightly. As they hug, Abby stands off to the side of the room, as she begins to dial the police. Her heart sinks a little, as she watches Eric and Nicole embrace. She longs for her own lost love, as she recalls her mother's words from earlier in the day. *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 174 Outside the Brady Pub, Jenn looks confused, as she puts a hand on Abby's shoulder. JENN: Loving Chad wasn't a mistake, Abby. You just...you had a lot on your plate, I wouldn't call that a huge mistake. *** Abby sighs, catching her breath as she recalls her feelings for Chad. She wipes away a tear, as she finally dials the police. --- In Will's car, there is a silent tension from Will having snapped at Nick. All eyes are on the front seats, as Anjelica and Alex await Nick's response. After a moment, Nick begins to laugh at Will's anger. NICK: Dude, you've got this vein that like...pops out on your forehead when you're pissed, it's...hilarious. WILL: That's not an answer, Nick-- NICK: Gabi made her choice on her own. In case you didn't notice, she's a grown adult, and I don't think she needs you to be making her decisions for her. WILL: She does when it affects my daughter. Anjelica listens intently to the conversation, before pulling her phone out, and slyly sending a text to Liam. change of plan, meet @ pier for 11, need 2 grab somethng As she puts her phone away, Nick shakes his head, still keeping a cool head to counter Will's temper. NICK: You act like I'm taking them away to Greece or something. They're right down the road! Hell, Ari will probably spend more time at our place, what with Alex living there and all. WILL: What the Hell does that mean, Nick? Nick smirks, knowing he touched a nerve. NICK: Just sayin', I noticed you two are getting pretty close lately, and not in a boss/employee sorta way. Will looks away, frustrated by Nick's insinuation that something untoward is going on between him and Alex. ALEX: Shut up, Nick. NICK: Hey, is that any way to talk to your boss, man? Will mutters under his breath, turning his attentions back to the road ahead. WILL: Hopefully not for long. NICK: What was that? Will pulls into the driveway at the Kiriakis house, and puts the car into park, before turning to Nick with a big, fake smile. WILL: Nothing. Now get the Hell out of my car. NICK: There's that ol' Salem hospitality. Nick opens the door to leave, but turns back at the last moment to get one more jab in. NICK: Thanks for the ride, by the way. I know it's hard in this rickety old thing, but, maybe I'll give you a raise and you can get a new one. Will rolls his eyes as Nick laughs, shutting the door behind him. Anjelica opens the door, and motions to Alex, who stays behind a moment. ALEX: I'll be right in, Mom. ANJELICA: Okay. Alex puts a hand on Will's shoulder, as Will leans back in the driver's seat, drained and frustrated. ALEX: Hey. Don't let him get to you. We'll get him. I promise. Will nods his head, and puts his hand over Alex's. Alex, suddenly uncomfortable, pulls away, and awkwardly responds. ALEX: I should ah...I should go back in. You okay? WILL: I'll be fine. ALEX: K. Goodnight. WILL: Night. Alex exits the car, leaving Will alone. Will sighs, as he hits his head against the headrest. He sits for a minute with the car off, contemplating how things are going in his life. --- Inside the house, Gabi opens the door to Nick's room, turning on the light to be sure she's alone this time. She checks the hallway behind her before stepping in and leaving the door slightly ajar. Gabi sighs, as she contemplates where to start looking this time. GABI: Alright, chances are, it's gonna be...here. Gabi turns to face Nick's desk, and tries to pull open the bottom drawer where she was stopped before. It's locked. SIghing, she takes a second, before pulling a pin from her hair, and using it to pick the lock. After a second, she manages to pop the drawer open. GABI: Yesss.... Inside, she immediately spots a large manila envelope. Intrigued, she opens the envelope to find she's hit paydirt. The photos of her, Kate, and Sami attempting to drown Nick are inside. She breathes a sigh of relief as she flips through the photos. GABI: Oh my God! I found it. But behind her, trouble lurks. Nick approaches the door, and goes to open it, but notices it's ajar. He hesitates, checking carefully to see who's inside. Seeing it's Gabi, his face drops. He hangs back silently, watching her betray him like a hawk. GABI: We got him. Oh my God, I'm finally free. She presses the pictures up to her chest, thrilled by her discovery, but then flips to the next picture, her own face drops, as she sees an image that stuns her. GABI: Wha....what the....? The image of Abby and EJ mid-liplock is before her eyes. Gabi's jaw drops, as Nick looks on from outside. ---

I don't really care, but your spirited defenses of someone you presumably don't know and whom largely elicits contempt from almost every corner of the soap fandom makes me wonder what stakes you have in it. You gave your opinion, folks disagree with it. Move on. No need for the series of petulant, nasty responses because folks had the audacity to say something you dislike. You know, you're right, Vee. *sigh* already given this one too much of my energy. Moving on.

Okay, Jill. 🙄

EPISODE 179 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco Sheryl paces her apartment living room, livid after Nick's attempted betrayal. Jerome gets up from the sofa, trying to cool her off to no avail. SHERYL: I can't believe it. I can't believe we were barking up the wrong tree the entire time. Sheryl turns to face Jerome, pointing a finger up to Jerome's face as she curses Nick's name. SHERYL: I'm gonna kill him, Jerome. I swear to God... JEROME: You sure whoever dropped that stage light didn't do it for you already? Besides, it's not like he actually exposed you guys or anything... Sheryl turns to look at the TV, shaking her head. SHERYL: Nah. Nahhhh, I may not know Nick well, but I do know he doesn't do anything he doesn't intend to see through. One way or another. Sheryl sighs, shaking her head, while never taking her eyes off the TV. SHERYL: So...it's time to finish what we started, and then get the Hell outta Dodge... Jerome balks at Sheryl's assertion, which catches Sheryl's attention away from the TV. JEROME: (laughs) You think you're actually gonna get Jordan away from Detective Loverboy? You need to be looking after your own ass. Sheryl turns her head back to face the TV, almost mesmerized by what she sees. SHERYL: Ohh, she'll come with me. Once I've finished what I need to do, she won't have a choice. Sheryl smirks, trying to stifle a laugh, as the glare of the TV reflects in her eyes. --- At the WXIR studio, there's chaos after a portion of the lighting rig directly above the soundstage has crashed onto the stage, narrowly avoiding crushing Nick, Nicole, and Anjelica during Nicole's TV special. By the doorway of the studio, Abby runs over to the studio phone, calling the producer in the control room. ABBY: Yeah...end the broadcast?...Yeah, I'll let them know. Thanks. Abby hangs up and turns to walk briskly into the action on the soundstage. She walks toward Nicole, who's on the stage finishing wrapping the episode before they race to a commercial break, to tell her what the control room said. Nick sits back in his chair onstage, holding his head to try to soothe the intense pain and ringing in his ears after one of the lighting rigs fell from above the stage, narrowly avoiding crushing Nick. Alex and Will rush to the stage to check on Anjelica, who's okay, but shaken up in the chaos. ALEX: Anjelica! You okay? Anjelica puts a hand on Alex's shoulder, nodding emphatically. ANJELICA: Yeah. Yeah. I'm fine. Just...a little stunned is all. Percy and Nicole rush over to Nick's side to check on him, as Nick shakes with pain. PERCY: Nicholas! Are you alright?? NICK: P...Pills... Nick is barely audible in all the chaos, but Nicole gets down on her hands and knees to check on him, a moment of genuine concern for her. NICOLE: Nick...Nick, did you get hit? Nick shakes his head, barely able to function without intense pain, as Nicole leans in close to him. NICOLE: Okay, tell me what you need. NICK: My p...my pills...in my bag. Percy races over to Nicole and Nick with Nick's bag. They rummage through his bag to find his pills. Nicole grabs them from the front flap, and Percy hands her his water bottle. NICOLE: Thanks. Okay, Nick. I got your pills, and your water, okay? Nicole pops two pills from the pack, but notice they're chalkier than she's used to for the brand. Also noticing the brand isn't written on the pill, she's unsure for a moment, but hands them to Nick regardless. --- Gabi approaches the Kiriakis Mansion, talking to EJ on her cell phone as she quickly walks up to the front door, rummaging through her purse for her keys. GABI: (into phone) EJ, I will...no, he doesn't suspect anything, and besides, he isn't home right now, he's about to be on Nicole's TV special...I will be careful...I'll keep you posted, thanks. Gabi hangs up, getting increasingly frantic as she can't find her key. After a frustrating moment, she does find it, and opens the door to the house. Once inside, she sighs in relief at being left alone from Nick's suffocating presence. But as she turns to head upstairs, Adrienne comes around the corner from behind the stairs, and she isn't thrilled to see Gabi. ADRIENNE: Gabi! Just the person I wanted to speak to. Gabi rolls her eyes, as Adrienne gives her a stern glare, as she stops Gabi from going upstairs. --- --- At Rafe's loft, Jordan finishes sweeping up the broken glass on the floor of the kitchenette, as Rafe walks over to check on her. RAFE: Babe, you okay? Jordan picks up the filled dustpan, opens the garbage can, and dumps the broken glass inside. She looks surly. JORDAN: (sigh) Yeah, I guess. Rafe takes the dustpan out of Jordan's hands, and put them on the kitchen island. He then takes Jordan's hands in his and steps in close to her, speaking playfully to try to break Jordan's tense mood. RAFE: I don't believe you! Come on! I saw your face when Nick started talking on the TV, you were white as a ghost. JORDAN: Yeah,well...I mean, anytime a person gets a lighting rig dropped on them, I get....faint of heart. RAFE: Well, thank God you're not an ER nurse then, hm? Jordan loosens up a bit, trying to stop from laughing at Rafe's attempts to make her smile. RAFE: Look, seems like everything's okay at the studio, just relax. JORDAN: Ugh, yeah. Sorry, just...it looked intense and I just...I guess I'm just a big bleeding heart. Jordan laughs nervously, while Rafe brushes her hair away from her face. RAFE: I know. It's what I love about you. Rafe turns and opens the garbage can, pulling the bag out. RAFE: Look, I'm gonna...take this out. It's getting pretty full, so...I'll be right back, okay? JORDAN: Okay. Jordan smiles, as Rafe kisses her gently on the lips. He smiles as he pulls away, grabbing the bag of garbage before stepping out of the loft. Jordan watches Rafe as the door closes behind him, breathing a sigh of relief as she thinks over her situation with Nick and Sheryl. JORDAN: Alright, Jordan. Nick didn't actually show your picture. You're still safe. (sigh) You're still safe. Jordan turns the heat off on the stove, going to lift the pot off the stove when she hears a knock on the door. Jordan puts the pot back down, walking quickly over to the door, as she calls out to the person on the other side. JORDAN: One second! Jordan opens the door, expecting Rafe on the other side, but is stunned when it isn't. JORDAN: Rafe, did you forget your key-- It's Roman. Jordan's stomach drops, as her mouth hangs open, stunned and scared. Roman looks on, confused. --- In the Kiriakis foyer, Gabi rolls her eyes at Adrienne, then attempts to walk past Adrienne to get upstairs to her room. Adrienne moves to stop her dead in her tracks. ADRIENNE: I would...like to talk. GABI: Adrienne, I don't have time right now, okay-- ADRIENNE: You need to make time. Because I am worried about you right now, okay? Gabi rolls her eyes, trying very hard not to snap at Adrienne. GABI: You don't have to worry about me. Okay? I'm fine. ADRIENNE: Maybe for now. Gabi folds her arms, very uncomfortable with Adrienne's line of questioning, but keeps tight lipped. ADRIENNE: But I know it's just a matter of time before Nick does something to harm you, or Sonny, or Will. And anything he does to any of you will hurt Ari. GABI: Adrienne, Ari is my number one priority. ADRIENNE: Well, then prove it. Leave Nick, and move back in with Will and Sonny. GABI: I can't do that. Adrienne gets impatient with Gabi, beginning to speak more tersely, though remaining quiet so as not to raise alarm to anyone else in the house. ADRIENNE: Why not? Honey, I can see the fear in your eyes. Believe me, I've been there. Don't leave it until it's too late. Gabi doesn't respond to Adrienne, instead stands with her arms folded, looking away, as Adrienne stares intensely at her. ADRIENNE: Gabi...I'm serious. I'll be keeping an eye on you and Nick. I want you to be safe. For Ari's sake. Adrienne turns and walks toward the living room. Leaving Gabi behind feeling tense. She turns and quickly heads up the stairs. --- At the DiMera Mansion, EJ is stood at the safe in the living room, behind Stefano's portrait. Believing he's alone, he's opened the safe, and is rummaging through to find something. As he rummages, he finds an oddly-shaped key with a number on it. He studies it for a minute, never having seen said key before. He furrows his brow, before putting the key in his pocket. As he does, Sami enters the room, tablet in hand, prompting EJ to quickly shut the safe. SAMI: EJ! EJ: Samantha! You ah...you surprised me. EJ obscures the safe with Stefano's portrait, as Sami looks at him curiously. SAMI: You ah...you don't have to hide from me. I know there's a safe in there. EJ: No, I know, I just...ahmmm...you know. Needed something. So how are you feeling? Sami walks over to the desk across the room, setting the tablet down. She turns back to look at EJ, who is walking her way. SAMI: Better. I mean, I'm still mad at my mom for what she's putting my dad through, but... Sami shrugs, as EJ stands facing her, smiling warmly at her. EJ: I understand. SAMI: Thank you, by the way. Thanks for listening. I know I haven't been...the easiest to get along with lately. Sami steps in closer to EJ, as EJ gives her a hug, Sami finally feeling comfortable again in his arms. EJ: It's alright. That's what Laura's been helping us with, right? SAMI: Yep. From outside the room, they hear the sound of stilettos clicking as the front door to the house shuts. Then Kate's voice rings through the foyer and into the living room, preceding her arrival. KATE: It's alright, Harold, it's just me. As Kate enters the room, Sami and EJ turn Kate's way, Sami folds her arms with a smirk. SAMI: You do realize you don't live here anymore, right? KATE: And for that I'm much better off, I assure you. (sigh) We need to talk. Something's come up. Something big. Sami and EJ look curiously at Kate. EJ: Why? What's happened? Kate's eyes light up as she tells Sami and EJ her news. KATE: Well...I just got back from the police station. Kate saunters over to the bar, pouring herself a drink as she continues. SAMI: Okay? KATE: Abe asked us all to meet there, because they're fairly certain that they not only have Sheryl and Jordan dead-to-rights, they also may have Nick. SAMI: Well, that's fantastic news! When will we know? KATE: Well, they'll likely have everything figured out by tomorrow night. So, I say...we toast. Kate holds up her glass in front of her, smiling as much as she's able to. KATE: Because in 24 hours, we will finally be well rid of Nicholas Fallon. Sami and EJ look on skeptically, as Kate takes a sip of her drink, looking happy as a pig in mud. --- Back at the WXIR studio, Abby finishes up another call up to the control room. ABBY: Okay. Thanks. Abby hangs up the phone and steps away from the wall the phone's against, revealing Nick standing behind her. Now cooled off thanks to his medication, he approaches Abby, who is taking notes with her tablet, not noticing Nick's presence. Nick softly calls out to her. NICK: Hey, Abigail. Abby looks up from her tablet, before sighing and then turning around. ABBY: Nick. NICK: I ah...I'm sorry your first show didn't work out...quite how you...or I wanted. ABBY: Yeah, well...these things happen. Excuse me. Abby goes to step away from Nick, but Nick grabs her by the upper arm, stopping her. NICK: Abby. Wh...what's wrong? ABBY: Nothing's wrong, Nick. Abby forces Nick to let go of her arm, but hesitates to walk away from him. NICK: (sigh) Abigail, if something's bothering you, you can tell me, you know. I mean, we used to be really clos-- Abigail turns around suddenly, snapping at Nick. ABBY: Yeah, Nick. Used to be. Abby backs down, but continues to speak to Nick, looking down so as to be less confrontational. ABBY: A lot's changed since then. Especially with you. Look, I'll be fine, thanks for checking on me. At this moment, Will, Alex, and Anjelica approach, putting an end to Nick and Abby's tense conversation. WILL: Hey, Abs. Ahh, Alex and I are gonna take Anjelica back to the Kiriakis house, did you need a ride to your mom's? ABBY: No. No, I'll be fine. I got...I got a lot to do with Nicole to wrap the production up anyway, so...I'll be awhile. Thanks though. Abby gives them a faint smile, before walking away to get back to work. Alex and Will look at Abby as she walks away, their faces filled with worry. After a tense moment, Nick smirks at Will, who glares back at him. NICK: What? You're not gonna offer me a ride, Will? ALEX: Nick... Will stops Alex from continuing, putting his arm out in front of Alex to indicate it. Will replies to Nick with a stern, almost-catty tone. WILL: You know what, Nick. Sure! We'll give you a ride. You're all headed to the Kiriakis house anyway. Besides, you and I have a few things we need to discuss anyway. Will gives Nick an intense look, while Nick tries to hold in a laugh, amused by Will's apparent lack of self-control. ALEX: Come on, let's go. As they start to walk off, Nick feels his cell phone buzz in his pocket. Pulling it out, he sees the call is from Sheryl. He immediately ignores the call, and follows the others out of the studio. Behind them, on the soundstage, Nicole kneels down by the broken lighting rig. She looks at the cables meant to keep the lighting rig in place. She notices a number of them have clear cuts across them. She sighs, realizing what this means. Nicole is snapped out of her investigation by Abby, who walks on stage to check on her. ABBY: What is it? Nicole looks momentarily at Abby, before looking way up above her. Abby's eyes follow suit. NICOLE: Someone cut those wires. They meant for this to happen. And I don't think this is the ending they wanted, either. ---

Awesome! I saw your post about this in the Classic Y&R FB group and (haphazardly) uploaded a few episodes, but I can't seem to access the page anymore. I'll try again via the link here. Hopefully it works!

Reading through DAYS early history (thanks to the brilliant @JAS0N47 , of course), and in my reading of the monthly summaries, I'm increasingly finding Dr. Greg Peters to be a sanctimonious ass and it's getting on my nerves. Having never seen him on the show in any episodes that have popped up online, I'm curious to know what others' opinions of his character were, watching day-to-day. They also glaze over a (to me, understandable) overprotectiveness Susan Martin had over her daughter, Anne, but only refer to it in reference to the litany of complaints Greg had about Susan. Was this really how Susan was with Anne, or was it down to Greg feeling resentful toward Anne for subconsciously reminding him that Anne was actually Eric's baby?

In fairness, Ron's quite happy to block anyone whose nose is anything less than a deep brown after interacting with him on Twitter, so I guess folks wanna stay suckholing.

Girl, Hitohah outta here. 🙄

Higher clearances for the same ratings, I'd venture.

I've been saying this for awhile. I honestly think the main reason B&B has been sustaining/gaining in the ratings is less to do with their storytelling (because we all know how consistent THAT is) and more to do with the fact it's aired in relatively bite-sized chunks so it's easier to get sucked in than an hour-long show (I also think this is why no soap that's debuted as an hour has ever been truly successful in the ratings). GH honestly needs to do a big blowout story where someone who has hated the mob for the past few decades (I always figured Monica would be the best person to head this up) brings the mob down and then we jail the worst ones (Sonny/Jason etc.) and move on with actual doctors and medical stories.

EPISODE 178 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco At Sheryl's apartment, she and Jerome sit on the sofa, watching Nicole's TV special intensely. JEROME: You know, I like Nicole's style. Sheryl struggles to shift her attention to Jerome, and half-responds, still focused on the show. SHERYL: Yeah...she's...she's getting a lot out of Nick, but...I just get this weird feeling. Like... JEROME: Like...she knows something? Sheryl turns to look at Jerome, nodding. SHERYL: Yeah. I dunno, my antennae are going up, you know? JEROME: I mean...Nick's a loose cannon on his good days...maybe he fed Nicole info. SHERYL: Doubt it. I...I never got the feeling I could totally trust Nick, but...he never gave me reason to doubt him... As they talk, Nicole asks Nick a question on the TV special, which perks up both Jerome and Sheryl's ears. NICOLE: (via TV) Nick, I'm sure everyone at home finds your story of climbing that corporate ladder very inspiring. I was hoping you could share with us, what transpired that led you to the top? NICK: (via TV) Well...it's actually sort of a funny story. Jerome looks back to the TV, as Nick pulls out a manila envelope. Jerome's and Sheryl's attention immediately diverts back to the TV screen. JEROME: You sure about that? --- At WXIR's studio, Tyler opens the door that leads to the lighting rig catwalk above the soundstage. He looks around the area to be sure no one sees him, before stepping out into the room. Quickly, he darts out of the darkened studio, making a beeline for the elevator down the hall. At the elevator, he jams his thumb repeatedly against the button, hoping for a speedy escape. Tyler mutters to himself, as he winces in pain from the cut he received when slashing the wires on the lighting rig. TYLER: Come on, come on...ah... A drop of blood falls to the floor by the elevator door, before Tyler looks up quickly, interrupted by the ding of the bell. The door opens, and Tyler is thankfully alone in the elevator car. The door closes and he leaves the building unnoticed, but for a drop of blood left at the opening of the elevator. ... Back down the hall, in the actual studio, Nicole presses on, interviewing Nick, who sits kitty corner to her on the soundstage. Anjelica Deveraux sitting next to him, carefully monitoring his every word. Nick holds a large manila envelope in his hands, and slowly opens it as he tells his story to Nicole, and the home audience. NICK: See, I was made aware of an eco-terrorist group that had infiltrated the company thanks to some rather...poor hiring decisions.... ... Back in Sheryl's apartment, Sheryl looks mortified, as she and Jerome listen to Nick's tale. NICK: (via TV) ...As such, I have a very extensive background in IT and indeed in online security, so I had been tracking their movements. ... Nick continues, as he looks up from opening the envelope, and smiles at Nicole. NICK: Ultimately, I ended up stopping them from implanting a virus that would have devastated the Titan mainframe and completely destroyed the company's records. NICOLE: Fascinating. The executive board must have been grateful. NICK: You could say that. I...presented a case to them that they could not refuse. ... Nick smirks and chuckles quietly on the TV screen, as Sheryl gets angrier. SHERYL: That son of a.... Jerome shushes her, as the segment continues. NICOLE: (via TV) And were the hackers apprehended? NICK: (via TV) No. ... NICK: Not as of yet. That's...actually...partly why I'm here tonight. Alex, Abby, and Will, all standing back away from the soundstage, look on in confusion at what they're witnessing. WILL: What the...? Will snaps his head to look at an equally-confused Abby. WILL: Do you know what's in there? Abby shrugs, shaking her head quickly, as Will becomes increaisngly tense, muttering under his breath as he watches everything unfold in front of the cameras. WILL: Oh God oh God oh God oh God... NICK: With your permission, I would like to share with your audience, the identities of the hackers tonight, in hopes that the Salem PD, and FBI could locate, and catch these guys before they strike again. Nick looks directly at the camera, smiling as he holds up the envelope. Behind the cameras, Alex and Will look at each other, intrigued. Abigail looks on, puzzled. Above the stage, the lighting rig sways, another wire snapping, as the strain from where Tyler cut takes its toll. ... In Sheryl's apartment, Sheryl seethes, trying to suppress her rage, and her fear of being exposed by Nick, who she thought was on her side. SHERYL: Dammit, Nick... --- --- At the Brady Pub, Andrew and Eric watch Nicole's TV special inside the Brady Pub, as Kim is behind the bar, pulling a pint each for Eric and Andrew. Andrew looks back toward the bar, calling out to his mother, who's busy readying their tray of food and beverages. ANDREW: Hey Ma, you need some help back there? KIM: Nah, I'm good, hun! Thanks! ANDREW: No problem! Andrew looks back at the TV screen, as he and Eric finish the beers they have been drinking. Andrew looks impressed as he watches Nicole's interview. ANDREW: I gotta say, I'm really impressed with her. ERIC: Who, Nicole? ANDREW: Yeah, man. Her interview style is a real breath of fresh air. She's firm, puts the pressure on, but she's personable, witty, easy to be drawn in by. She has...a lot of potential. Eric looks at Andrew, amused. ERIC: Nicole will love to hear you say that. Andrew looks Eric's way, and smiles warmly. ANDREW: You're a lucky guy, Eric. ERIC: Believe me, I know. Kim arrives at this moment, beers, and appetizers on a tray as she sets it all down on the table between Andrew and Eric. Excitedly, she sits down, positively beaming to have her son back in Salem. KIM: Alright guys, here it is. Hope you're still hungry, I got us a little appetizer platter so we each had a little bit of something. And Eric, I hope you like this one, it's a new IPA I just introduced last week, and I know you really like a craft beer. ERIC: Ooo, Aunt Kim, I'm impressed! KIM: (laughs) I aim to please. Eric shifts his body inward, looking inquisitively at his cousin. ERIC: So...Andrew, you happy to be back? ANDREW: Yeah! I mean...I'm glad to be with my mom again. It's been way too long. KIM: It has! I was starting to get a little upset with you, you know. Eric and Andrew smile, as Kim elbows him playfully in the side. ANDREW: Sorry, Ma. I promise I won't do it again. KIM: (laughs) It's okay, sweetie. Kim grabs Andrew's arm and rests her head on his shoulder, as she looks at him with a touch of sadness. KIM: I just wish your sister was out of her coma. I know she'd be excited to see you. Andrew sighs, as he looks up at the ceiling, the heaviness of the subject hitting him in that moment. ANDREW: (sigh) Yeah. I gotta say, I'm glad to be here for my mom, but...I do wish I was here under...slightly better circumstances. ERIC: Trust me. I can relate. But...on the bright side for you...it sounds like Theresa's starting to get better. KIM: Well, yeah. I mean...there has been some progress with her condition, but...I mean...I'll be honest, Eric? Her recovery has been going way slower than any of us expected. Daniel expected her to be out of her coma by now. Eric and Andrew look confused by Kim's news. ERIC: I wonder why she isn't. --- At University Hospital, we see the feet of a nurse stepping off the elevator in her scrubs. The floor is quiet this evening, with only a few nurses milling about the floor. Making her way toward one of the rooms, we see the guard stationed outside Theresa's hospital room. He checks her ID before nodding and stepping aside to allow the nurse into Theresa's room. The nurse closes the door to Theresa's room behind her, before slowly walking toward the still-comatose woman's bed. The nurse's face is obscured by the dim lighting of the room, but we see a syringe raised up before her. Taking Theresa's IV line in her other hand, the woman injects the contents of the syringe into Theresa's IV. She remains by Theresa's bedside momentarily, before turning back out of the room, shutting the door behind her. --- At Rafe's loft, Jordan is making dinner in the kitchenette for Rafe, as Rafe sits on the sofa nearby, flipping channels. Jordan stirs a sauce in the pan as she talks to Rafe, who stays staring at the TV screen. JORDAN: Anything good on tonight? RAFE: Pfft. Nah. It's not a good night. JORDAN: Oh? Why's that? RAFE: It's cop shows on everywhere. You know I hate how much they get it wrong. Jordan giggles, as she grinds up some fresh pepper into the sauce. JORDAN: I do. As Jordan sets the grinder aside, Rafe stumbles upon Nicole's TV special. Interested, he stops flipping channels to watch the program. RAFE: Oh! Nicole's got a TV special tonight. JORDAN: Oh? What on? Jordan, grabbing a glass bowl from the counter beside her, looks up as she hears Nick's voice coming from the TV. NICK: (via TV) With your permission, I would like to share with your audience, the identities of the hackers tonight, in hopes that the Salem PD, and FBI could locate, and catch these guys before they strike again. Jordan's face turns ghost white, as the bowl drops from her hand, smashing on the floor by her feet. --- Inside the studio, Nicole glares at Nick, worried about what he's about to do. NICK: You are okay with me showing these pictures, aren't you? After an uncomfortable pause, Nicole responds. NICOLE: Anything to help bring the perps to justice. Nick pulls out the picture, and begins to turn it around to show the camera. NICK: Folks, be on the lookout, for two women, named Sh-- Nick is startled by a popping sound above his head. Everyone in the studio looks up, as the lighting rig gives way, the last wire snapping as the blazing hot lights fall from the rig above. Anjelica, Percy, and Nicole lurch backward, covering their faces as a stunned Nick barely has time to react before the rig crashes to the ground mere inches in front of him. The sound of the crash shocks everyone, and the heat from the stage light causes a bright flash and sparks to erupt from the wreckage. Alex, Abby, and Will spring into action, Alex calling out to his mother. ALEX: Anjelica! The others in the room look stunned, as Nick drops the pictures and envelope to the ground, the now-all-too-familiar high pitched ringing in Nick's ears that accompanies his blinding headaches returns, causing him immeasurable pain as he tunes the sounds around him out. Nick tenses up as he holds his head, praying for the pain to stop. ---

Yeah, I thought when watching the story initially that Keesha was at least mixed, but I think they just gave her some...fairly heavy bronzer. In retrospect, it's cringeworthy, but I didn't even think twice about it at the time. It was only when I saw her on an old SFT episode that I realized how light her skin really is.

It's so jarring seeing B&B down at #11. It's almost as though CBS viewers forgot to turn their boxes on or something? Bizarre!

Once again, gotta thank you @VanessaReardon for these ratings. It's so fascinating to watch how things would change week to week. Your work is definitely not going unappreciated.

Well aware, unfortunately. I tried getting the app when I was in the Netherlands last month and unsurprisingly got the same result. It just seems so much more glaring when you're in Canada because we're next door neighbours and are basically seen as a common market with the US (often at the expense of our own content), yet are constantly treated like the proverbial red-headed stepchildren with regards to any bonus material, specials, etc.

Let me guess, you're a fellow Canadian. The age-old border problem I thought would be resolved by now, but, of course, persists.

I find this interesting since she's listed as being a story editor for Peyton Place, so it's obvious she did indeed have experience in writing soaps. I suspect she would've benefitted from a co-head writer of more experience, considering I believe Michelle Poteet Lisanti and Gary Tomlin were both relatively fresh writers themselves at the time.

It's almost impossible to say, in retrospect. Watching this episode, the stories seem to be...okay, though not especially exciting. The big drama being Julie being shot at Doug's Club, and her friends and family being torn about whether it was a good idea for her to be there with Doug or not, and whether that put her at risk (wasn't this the riverboat club on the river or something? My memory for those details is a bit patchy), and the fire at Anderson that's suspicious and setting the business up to be ripe to be sold off for parts to Kellam Chandler & Co., who is also running for office at this time. That, and, if I remember correctly, Margo Horton's slow death from cancer were the three big stories at this time. It's relatively grounded in reality, of course, but it certainly isn't anything that would excite viewers when you consider what timeslot competitors like AMC, in particular, was putting out at that time. So, fan anger may have been strong at the slew of deaths during this period, but Bob's death certainly drove story at this time, so it was hardly a pointless death. I also think Bill and Laura leaving was for the best at that point, considering Laura's mental state by that time. But no, I don't think the stories were particularly bad during this period, though not exactly lighting the world on fire. Long story short, I think the deaths may not have hit as hard if there was strong enough story to fill that void, and, from the looks of things, there really wasn't, especially when you consider how shows like GH were making huge gains in this era with far more new faces than DAYS had at this point.

Apologies if it's been shared already, but found a treat on the Internet Archive yesterday: A rare episode from the Nina Laemmle period. Looks like Sony isn't pulling episodes from Internet Archive (so far), but I'll remove the direct link, it's the 8/12/80 episode I find it interesting how, despite folks' complaints about the excess of new faces introduced at this point, the focus is very clearly on the vets here. Any regular viewers from that era know whether this episode is an anomaly, or if Laemmle's changes at the show were more of a simple refocusing of the show around a slimmed down core of characters? ETA: My apologies, just realized the infamous series of deaths in 1980 occurred under Ruth Brooks Flippen, not Nina Laemmle. Oops!

EPISODE 177 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco At Club TBD, Hope and Aiden's date has taken a sudden wrong turn, when Aiden snapped at Hope. Hope is tense after Aiden's sudden outburst. Aiden immediately realizes his reaction to Hope's question was extreme and looks around at the turned heads in his direction. He looks down sheepishly and relaxes, before apologizing. AIDEN: I'm sorry, Hope. I...I didn't mean to snap, I just... HOPE: No, no. I get it. I shouldn't have pushed you. I'm sorry. Aiden relaxes immediately, though Hope is still a bit on edge, she continues. HOPE: Talking about Bo isn't any easier for me. I think it's still fresh for me, so it probably stings more. Having no idea where he is, what he's doing. It's...it's on my mind pretty much all the time. Aiden looks down, and reaches across the table to take Hope's hand in his, squeezing it tightly, and smiling, as they both look up at each other. AIDEN: Why don't I take your mind off it, just for one night. Give you something to smile about again? Hope smiles warmly, and nods slowly. --- Gabi quietly opens the door to Will & Sonny's apartment, hoping to be quiet in case Sonny's home. The lights of the living room are off. Gabi looks around, unsure how to proceed. GABI: Sonny? Will? Gabi sighs in relief, as she makes her way toward her old bedroom door, turning her cell phone light on to guide her way. Just as she reaches her old bedroom to grab the rest of her things, the door to the master bedroom swings opens, and a shirtless Sonny emerges, fresh from a shower. He's startled to see her and shouts out, startling Gabi in return. SONNY: Gabi! Gabi jumps back, the light from her phone blinding Sonny temporarily, before Sonny darts over to turn the lights on. SONNY: Gabi, what the Hell are you doing?? Sonny looks annoyed at Gabi, as Gabi stands by her bedroom door, feeling guilty about being caught. --- At WXIR, Nicole's special is on the air. She sits on the soundstage, speaking with the firm, professional voice typical to a newsreader, as she begins her program. NICOLE: Good evening, Salem! And welcome to tonight's special from WXIR. The Walker Report, starring me, Nicole Walker. As the focus shifts to another camera, Nicole turns to look directly into that camera, as Nicole continues. NICOLE: Tonight we delve into the most talked-about, most controversial project to hit the city of Salem in a generation: The EnerNext energy project. What is it? Who are the winners, the losers, and how will you be affected by the proposal? Tonight, I'll be joined by three people, each will be affected differently by the plan. Nicole turns to face Anjelica, who sits, angled to face Nicole, while still looking out toward the cameras. She smiles as the camera captures her. NICOLE: My first guest tonight is running for state governor, and is no stranger to political world, as part of the storied Deveraux political dynasty. Please welcome Anjelica Deveraux. Anjelica nods to the camera, smiling politely at the camera, then to Nicole. ANJELICA: Thank you for having me. NICOLE: My pleasure. As Anjelica is being introduced, above the soundstage, Tyler studies the lighting rigs illuminating the soundstage. He carefully looks over the small rig right over where Nick sits on the stage below. After a moment of carefully looking the wires over the hold up the lighting rig, Tyler pulls out a blade from his jacket pocket, and begins to cut one of the wires holding the rig up. Below, Anjelica's interview with Nicole continues... NICOLE: You've stated that you're dedicated to seeing this project through, if you're elected. But there's a lot of talk about its environmental impact, how would you respond to that kind of critique? ANJELICA: Very simply, I think it's important to note that we are committed to the project, as it stands today, with a new vision and focus on using alternative fuels, while still providing the economic benefits that the previous administration at Titan were hoping to acheive. NICOLE: Right, but...no formal deviation from the original plan has so far been announced, to my knowledge. Unless you've made some kind of deal behind closed doors? Anjelica squirms momentarily, something Alex and Will notice as they stand behind the scenes on the set. Will looks over at Alex and points it out. WILL: Ohhh here we go. Alex shushes Will, but is simultaneously trying to hold in a laugh. ALEX: Shhhh.... Back on the stage, Anjelica finds her footing, and responds to the question deftly. ANJELICA: Actually, this is the first anyone's hearing of it. I am proposing this in this moment, challening the executive team from Titan and EnerNext to lead the charge and build an energy project that will benefit both the economy, and the ecology. As opposed to utilizing fossil fuels, as originally planned, my administration would greenlight the continuation of the EnerNext Salem project only if Titan, as a company policy, commits to a new model that protects air quality in Salem and the surrounding region. From behind the camera, Will looks on with furrowed brow, as does Alex. WILL: So...tell me...is she telling the truth this time? ALEX: I honestly can't tell. Back onstage, Nicole continues to grill Anjelica. NICOLE: This all sounds well and good, but you have strong familial ties to the Kiriakis family, and to Titan industries. Your son is head of Public Relations for Titan, and his father is legal counsel for the corporation. Is that not some kind of conflict of interest? As Anjelica answers Nicole's question, Tyler makes headway above her head, cutting the wires that hold up the lighting rig for the soundstage. His hands are slipping, as the heat from the rig is making his incredibly sweaty. Tyler wipes his brow, before cutting midway through two more cables, before checking to be sure no one is near his escape route. His hand catches on one of the ends he's cut, cutting his finger slightly. Tyler grimaces in pain, but stops short of making any noticeable sound, as he clenches his hand, and heads for the door to exit the lighting rig bridge. Finding it's unlocked, he quietly walks through and shuts it behind him, as the rig begins to slowly give way, thread by thread. --- --- Gabi sets her suitcase by the doorway of Sonny & Will's apartment, as Sonny emerges from his room, pulling a t-shirt over his head. He calls out to Gabi. SONNY: Gabi, I don't want you to go through with this. Gabi turns around, annoyed by Sonny's persistence. GABI: Sonny, I have to do something. I can't just let Nick threaten us and blackmail us for the rest of our lives. I have to take back some control, not just for me, but for all of you, too. SONNY: Why this? I mean...moving in with Nick is just...feeding you to the wolves. GABI: And I am the only one who can get close enough to Nick to stop him from throwing us ALL to the wolves. Don't you get it, Sonny? How else am I gonna get the pictures of Sami, Kate, and I trying to drown him unless I have access to Nick and his stuff? How am I gonna keep him drugged up so that we can convince a judge that he's a danger to society so we can lock him back up? Sonny gets in closer to Gabi, accentuating his point to her. SONNY: See, THAT'S exactly what I'm worried about, Gabi. I'm worried he will be a danger. To you, Will, Sami, Kate. And to Ari. Gabi looks down at the ground, relenting from her position somewhat, as Sonny continues. SONNY: What if Nick is high on those pills and he catches you doing something you shouldn't, and you end up dead? Gabi remains silent, unable to look up at Sonny, who carries on with his empassioned plea. SONNY: And how far are you gonna take this, Gabi? He already wants to marry you again. You're going to have to sleep with this man, who tried to rape you, if you keep up with this. Are you seriously prepared to deal with that? Gabi finally looks up at Sonny, defiantly. GABI: If it means we're rid of that man forever, I'd do anything. SONNY: Anything, Gabi? Think hard about that for a minute. Gabi stares Sonny down, staring unwaveringly at him. GABI: I have. And yes. Anything. --- Hope and Aiden sit at their table at Club TBD, laughing as they finish their meal together. T approaches with the bill, and he smiles as he lays it on the table. T: I hope you both had an excellent evening. HOPE: Thanks, T. Everything was lovely. Aiden looks Hope's way, and winks. AIDEN: Especially the company. Hope blushes and rolls her eyes, as T chuckles to himself, before walking away. As T walks away, Aiden having paid the bill, Hope and Aiden share a tender moment. The two can't take their eyes off each other. HOPE: I really have had an amazing evening. AIDEN: Even though I snapped at you? Hope laughs, as Aiden reaches into his jacket pocket to pull his wallet out. HOPE: Even though you snapped at me. I kinda walked into that one. AIDEN: Well, well. Hope Brady, admitting she was wrong. There's a first. Hope rolls her eyes, as Aiden drops some bills on the table to cover the dinner. HOPE: Don't get used to it. Aiden leans back, holding his hands up in surrender. AIDEN: Wouldn't dream of it. But...seriously. I did overreact. I just...yeah, you hit a nerve, and... Hope interrupts, reaching across the table to reassure Aiden. HOPE: Aiden, you don't have to expla-- AIDEN: No, no. You were...it was wrong of me to fly off the handle like that. It's just...it's been hard on me and Chase with Liv gone...especially hard on Chase. He misses her constantly, and I see that even now. Things weren't good between us at the end and...I just...I guess I just feel guilty about not being there for her at the end. Hope nods, putting her hand over his. HOPE: Believe me. I understand. It's been....so hard with Bo gone for so long. AIDEN: Have you heard from Bo at all lately? Hope shakes her head. Letting go on Aiden's hand, she looks away at nothing in particular as she responds to Aiden. HOPE: Nope. Just that the mission's taking longer than expected. He had to...have John Black relay the information to me because he can't communicate directly with me. Or his daughter. Hope sighs, laughing to keep from crying before continuing on. HOPE: I just...I think it's time I asked myself some hard questions. AIDEN: Like what? HOPE: Whether or not it's time to move on with my life. Hope turns to look squarely at Aiden, who looks back, unsure how to respond. --- The sound from the TV plays in Sheryl's living room as Nicole's special goes to commercial, and Sheryl mutes the volume before turning to Jerome, who sits on the sofa behind her, intrigued by Anjelica's comments. SHERYL: Well, that's an interesting turn of events. JEROME: You could say that. You believe this Deveraux woman? Sheryl chuckles at Jerome's question. SHERYL: The day I believe a politician during an election campaign is the same day Hell freezes over. JEROME: But I just...I don't see how Nick is gonna support that. That dude's ego is massive, and he doesn't seem like the type to go along with something that isn't his idea. Sheryl looks a touch confused by Jerome's statement. SHERYL: You talk like you've got personal experience to back that up. JEROME: Never said I wanted to talk about it, though. Jerome picks up a beer from the coffee table in front of him, and takes a quick sip, punctuating his desire to end the discussion. Sheryl saunters over to the sofa, sitting down next to him. SHERYL: Fair enough. but as long as he's doing right by the cause, I'm willing to overlook it. From the sounds of it, him taking over Titan could actually be very beneficial to us. Jerome points to the screen, prompting Sheryl to unmute the TV as the theme music starts up, and the show returns. --- Back at WXIR's studio, The Walker Report continues, as Nicole puts on her professional newsreader voice and posture. NICOLE: Welcome back! With me now is the scientist-turned-CEO of Titan Industries, who has made a splash in the business world with his unexpected promotion to head of the conglomerate. Please welcome Nick Fallon, and a special guest of his, Percy Ruggles. Nick looks over at Nicole from his seat, sitting next to Percy, with Anjelica moved to the far left during the break so that Nick and Percy sitting closest to Nicole. Nick smiles in his inimitably smarmy way, while Percy loudly greets the home audience. PERCY: Greetings! NICK: Thanks for having us. NICOLE: Pleasure's all mine. Now...for our viewers at home who may not be familiar with your friend here, tell us more about how Mr. Ruggles is tied to this whole affair. Nick looks over at Percy and smiles broadly. NICK: Percy here is my assistant, partner in crime... Nick turns quickly to look at an unimpressed Nicole. NICK: So to speak, of course. And he's also been the victim of the old guard at Titan and their insatiable appetite for fossil fuels. NICOLE: Well that's an interesting thing to me. Percy's home was in the papers a lot not long ago. PERCY: That is correct, Ms. Walker. The EnerNext Corporation was attempting to force me from my land to construct a oil fracking operation on my land the surrounding properties. As an avid bird watcher, and lover of nature, this was unacceptable to me, and as such, and through great serendipity, Mr. Fallon and I forged a partnership. Nicole blinks, a spitefully blank expression on her face. After a moment's awkward pause, she continues. NICOLE: Fascinating, Mr. Ruggles. I see this partnership has been incredibly fruitful for the both of you, then. PERCY: Oh, it most certainly ha-- Nick and Anjelica both look disapprovingly at Percy, who suddenly feel their glares upon him and retreats within himself. PERCY: ...Has. Nicole immediately turns her attentions back to Nick, beginning her probing interview in earnest. NICOLE: Nick, your ascent to the top at Titan has been shockingly quick. Do you feel truly prepared for the learning curve you'll have to face in your new job? NICK: I think so. I think, in order to move up so quickly in the business world requires a certain acumen and quick thinking that'll mean I'm the best candidate for the job. Will, still stood behind the camera next to Alex, rolls his eyes at Nick's comment. WILL: Humble... Alex chuckles at Will's snark, as Abby walks over to them, barely paying attention to them. ABBY: Hey, guys. WILL: Hey Abby, how's being Nicole's assitant? Abby shrugs, as she turns with clipboard in hand, ensuring all's going well on-stage. ABBY: Well...she's just started treating me like a human, so...that's progress. Abby looks down at her clipboard, only half paying attention to her cousin's question, as Will and Alex chuckle at her quip, before turning their attentions back to the show. Above the stage, the cables holding the small lighting rig begin to strain way above Nick's head. Nicole asks her next question. NICOLE: So then if you are the best candidate for the job, what are your plans? Specifically, are you taking Ms. Deveraux up on her offer of support provided the EnerNext project moves towards a more environmentally friendly outcome. NICK: Well, having only just heard her proposal, I'd have to go over it more closely, but suffice to say, we would be pleased if this proposal were to go through. As it just so happens, a number of years ago, I sold an alternative fuel proposal to Titan, and it has been sort off...buried ever since. I think...with the support of Ms. Deveraux's prospective government, we would be able to take full advantage of this technology, providing the Salem region with inexpensive, clean energy. Above Nick's head, the weight of the lights begin to snap more and more threads of the safety cable. But below, no one notices. NICOLE: You and Ms. Deveraux seem incredibly in-sync on this. Anjelica, still sitting next to Nick on the stage, chimes in. ANJELICA: Serendipity, shall we say. NICOLE: Indeed. Nicole responds sarcastically, but maintains her professionalism, she asks her next question, hoping to trip Nick up. NICOLE: Nick, I'm sure everyone at home finds your story of climbing that corporate ladder very inspiring. I was hoping you could share with us, what transpired that led you to the top? NICK: Well...it's actually sort of a funny story. ... From Sheryl's apartment, Jerome and Sheryl listen closely to what Nick's saying. NICK: (via TV) See, I was made aware of an eco-terrorist group that had infiltrated the company thanks to some rather...poor hiring decisions.... Sheryl's face drops as Nick carries on. ... At the studio, Nick relays his story to Nicole. NICK: ...As such, I have a very extensive background in IT and indeed in online security, so I had been tracking their movements. Ultimately, I ended up stopping them from implanting a virus that would have devastated the Titan mainframe and completely destroyed the company's records. NICOLE: Fascinating. The executive board must have been grateful. NICK: You could say that. I...presented a case to them that they could not refuse. ... Nick smirks and chuckles quietly on the screen, as Sheryl gets angrier. SHERYL: That son of a.... Jerome shushes her, as the segment continues. NICOLE: (via TV) And were the hackers apprehended? NICK: (via TV) No. ... NICK: Not as of yet. That's...actually...partly why I'm here tonight. Nick reaches behind him, and pulls out a manila envelope. NICK: With your permission, I would like to share with your audience, the identities of the hackers right now, in hopes that the Salem PD, and FBI could locate, and catch these guys before they strike again. Nick looks directly at the camera, smiling as he holds up the envelope. Behind the cameras, Alex and Will look at each other, intrigued. Abigail looks on, puzzled. Above the stage, the lighting rig holds in place...for now. ... In Sheryl's apartment, Sheryl seethes, trying to suppress her rage, and her fear of being exposed by Nick, who she thought was on her side. ---

And even then, they STILL lost more than half of their lead-in's audience. That's a HUGE drop, no surprise that they were being dropped like flies from affiliates the time, sadly.

I guess in case the food at McDonalds just isn't greasy enough for you.