Jump to content

beebs

Members
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    2,183

  • Joined

  • Last visited

 Content Type 

Blog Entries posted by beebs

  1. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 13
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    story consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & ML Cooks

    Daniel stands up from his desk, he's at a bit of a loss for words after Jennifer reveals she knows what happened the night of Theresa's OD.

    DANIEL: Now wait...just...what did JJ tell you happened that night?

    Jenn steps into the office and sits down in the chair in front of Daniel.

    JENNIFER: Well...I know you helped my son. And for that I'm grateful. You did such a wonderful thing helping him out, especially considering how awful he's been to you.
    DANIEL: Jenn, it was the right thing to do. And JJ was in a lot of pain--
    JENNIFER: You don't need to explain anything. I get it. What I don't get is why you had to lie to me about it.
    DANIEL: Lied...Jennifer, I mean. We had to do it to protect JJ.
    JENNIFER: From the judge, yes. But you didn't have to hide the truth from me. Here I am thinking you slept with Theresa for months. And that you did it to spite me, I mean...did you think I couldn't be trusted to protect my son?
    DANIEL: Jenn, come on. You couldn't know or you'd be forced to live a giant lie until JJ's hearing was over. The chances we'd be caught? I mean--
    JENNIFER: I could have dealt with that. I could have handled pretending. We could have made it work, together, but...

    Jenn begins to cry, choked up thinking over the last few months. Dan puts a hand on her shoulder. Jenn brushes it off.

    JENNIFER: No, Daniel.
    DANIEL: Jenn, I...I just wanted to protect JJ, and no one could know that I didn't sleep with Theresa.
    JENNIFER: I know. It had to look convincing. But that doesn't excuse it. And then...taking up with Nicole? I mean--
    DANIEL: I thought you'd forgiven Nicole. I mean, Jenn...we weren't together.
    JENNIFER: Wait, what are you saying?
    DANIEL: Okay. Jenn, Nicole and I...we were never together. That was all a lie to help Eric.
    JENNIFER: I don't believe this. Are you serious right now?

    ---

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

    ---

    Marlena, Hope, and Kim step into the Brady Pub, where Eric and Caroline are discussing Eric's departure from the church. Caroline is visibly disappointed by the news, but her face brightens immediately upon seeing her daughter, Kim.

    CAROLINE: Kimmy!
    KIM: Mom!

    Caroline totters over to her daughter, giving her a big hug. Their joy surprises some of the bar patrons surrounding them, but neither really pay any mind. They separate and Caroline looks behind Kim, half-expecting other family members to follow.

    CAROLINE: Is Shane with you?
    KIM: No, Ma. (sighs) Shane's actually off with Bo, and John right now.
    CAROLINE: Oh! Well, then he'll be along later.

    Caroline stops for a second, realizing what she's said. Kim reminds her before she has a chance to react.

    KIM: They're not here either, Ma. Remember? Bo and John are in Europe, doing undercover work.
    CAROLINE: I knew it the moment it came out of my mouth, too.

    Caroline shakes her head, and Kim puts a hand on Caroline's shoulder. Caroline puts her hand atop Kim's.

    CAROLINE: Now! What are you doing back? Is my granddaughter in trouble again?
    KIM: (laughing) No, thankfully, no! I'm actually back for...let's call it an extended vacation.
    CAROLINE: What? Where are you staying?
    KIM: Oh I've just got my things checked in at the Salem Inn. I didn't want to impose or anything.
    CAROLINE: Nonsense, I'll fix you a room upstairs. With Shane away, you need to be around your family.
    KIM: That's sweet, Ma. But it's not neccessary. I'm going to be looking for an apartment of my own here in Salem while I'm in town.
    CAROLINE: You're planning to be here that long, hm?
    KIM: Well, I'm on sabbatical from work back in LA, and I think, considering all the things that have happened this year...this is a really chance to maybe reconnect with Theresa, and sort through some of our issues.

    Kim looks to her mother hopefully. No one else in the room appears as hopeful as her, however.

    ---

    Theresa steps fresh from the shower, wearing only a towel. She steps into the living room when she hears the ring of her doorbell.

    THERESA: Coming!

    Theresa steps over to the peephole and a huge smile appears on her face. She opens the door, revealing Brady on the other side.

    THERESA: Well, hey, stranger.
    BRADY: Hello to you too. I brought you a little something.

    Brady holds up a shopping bag to a high-end boutique. Theresa's face brightens up even more.

    THERESA: Are you serious?
    BRADY: Very serious.

    Brady scrunches his face up, making Thersa laugh out loud. She leans over to give Brady a kiss, then pulls back, leaning sensually against the doorframe.

    THERESA: I think I know exactly how to repay you for your generosity.

    Theresa drops her towel, all the while looking intesnely into Brady's eyes, before she grabs the back of his head and kisses him deeply. They close the door to her apartment.

    ---

    Nicole steps back into her office, exhausted. She walks over to her desk and sets herself down behind it in her chair. Pulling out the big brown enveloped containing Percy's story, she rolls her eyes and pulls open the drawer on the lower right hand side, revealing her other big brown envelope: the one containing the evidence against Kristen and Dr. Chyka. Nicole is reminded of her glee at finding the documents, but also her denial of having found them. She holds up the envelope as she thinks back, before putting in Percy's file, then Eric's file into the drawer and closing it. She's racked with guilt and it's written all over her face.

    NICOLE: Dammit. Eric doesn't deserve this. Or me.

    Sami steps into Nicole's office at this same moment.

    SAMI: Well, for once we agree on something.

    Nicole is shocked at first, then visibly irritated by Sami's arrival.

    ---


    Victor steps into Miles' office. He looks typically displeased, and catches Miles off guard with his presence. Miles immediately sets the phone he'd just picked up back on its receiver awkwardly. Victor intimidates him.

    MILES: Mr. Kiriakis!
    VICTOR: So! Did you do what I asked?
    MILES: I certainly did, Mr. Kiriakis. We've got our best investigative reporter on the case. I have no doubt she's going to make this story out exactly how you hoped.
    VICTOR: It damn well better. Because if there's one thing we need, it's the public supporting us, and not some owl-watching kook from Dulwich.

    ---

    Nick walks into his apartment, on his phone to Percy.

    NICK: So how'd it go with the interview?

    ...

    Percy paces his cabin, sipping on tea.

    PERCY: Swimmingly, I must say. Ms. Walker was reluctant at first to partake in this investigation, but I was charming and convincing.

    ...

    NICK: Excellent. Look, I need to know what the name of that company is that's doing the oil sands project. I figure if I research them, we can figure out who's behind it. I'm pretty sure there's a larger, more established company behind this.

    ...

    PERCY: Oh I'm quite certain, myself. Let's see.

    Percy heads to his fridge and pulls a business card from it. He puts on his reading glasses and studies the card thoroughly.

    PERCY: It reads "EnerNext"

    ...

    Nick sits down at his computer, still on the phone. He hastily types in the name.

    NICK: EnerNext...alright. I'm gonna look this up, and I'll give you a call back, okay? I have a strange feeling about this.

    ...

    PERCY: Indeed, Nicholas. I look forward to hearing back.

    ...

    NICK: Okay, bye.

    Nick hangs up and begins to relaly focus on his computer. He studies the search results before stumbling on a link near the bottom of the results page tht catches his eye.

    NICK: Well, well. What is this?...

    The link connects to a news story from an international business site on EnerNext.

    NICK: (mumbling to himself) EnerNext today entered a multi-billion-dollar deal with Greek-American firm Titan Industries. The deal will see thousands of high-paying new jobs created in the energy sector in the upper midwest near Titan's Salem headquarters.

    Nick looks up from his computer, a knowing smile crosses his smarmy face.

    NICK: Gotcha!

    ---
  2. beebs
    EPISODE 130
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Billie pulls John aside into the alley behing Club TBD. Looking behind her left and right to ensure no one is around to hear, she speaks to him softly so as not to draw attention to herself, but with a great intensity.
     
    BILLIE: We need a new plan to stop Jordan and Sheryl. Like...yesterday.
     
    John holds his hand up in a stopping motion, trying to get Billie to cool off.
     
    JOHN: Woah, woah, woah, calm down. Okay, Shane told me the virus was halted, so what's gone down since then?
     
    Billie sighs, trying to retain a cool exterior as she relays the news onto John.
     
    BILLIE: Well, you know about the board meeting today, obviously.
    JOHN: Yeah. That's why I'm back in town.
    BILLIE: Well, Justin told me that Nick Fallon is using it as an opportunity to blackmail the board into giving him control over Titan.
     
    John looks at Billie, incredulous, and, quite franky, amused. He responds, trying to hold back his laughter.
     
    JOHN: Wait, what? He's a lab tech for MadWorld.
    BILLIE: The lead one. I mean, he HAS come up with some real moneymaking formulas for us. Particularly in the new skin care line, no question, but...(sigh) John, he's got something on each member of the board. And he's prepared to use it.
     
    John suddenly looks concerned. He sighs, contemplating what that could mean for him, and the rest of the board.
     
    ---
     

    Inside Jordan's office at University Hospital, Jordan is signing some paperwork, and hears the knock. She responds without raising her head.
     
    JORDAN: Come in.
     

    Nick opens the door to Jordan's office, and smiles like the Cheshire Cat. Jordan looks up, trying to hide the fear in her eyes.
     
    NICK: Hey Jordan! It's been awhile. 
     
    Nick steps inside Jordan's office, and closes the door brusquely behind him.
     
    NICK: Let's talk.
     
    Jordan looks on, the fear plain in her face despite her best efforts.
     
    ---
     

    Will sits across from Kate at Club TBD, as Kate sips her martini. Will grasps his scotch on the rocks tightly, worry about what his grandmother is about to tell him.
     
    WILL: Okay...lay it on me. What's happening at Titan that I need hard liquor at 1pm?
     
    Kate breathes in, taking a moment to find the right wording before laying the truth on Will.
     
    KATE: Nick Fallon is going to use every bit of dirt he's been able to scrounge up about the Titan board to gain control of Titan today at the board meeting. And that includes what happened at the river.
     
    Will's face drops as he takes in the news.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl sits at her computer, with headphones on. She hits "rewind" on the program playing the video of Valerie's interview with Nurse Crystal Clarke. Listening closely, she studies the cadence of Crystal's words. She mouths the sounds of Crystal's words, letting some slip out loud, not hearing the sound of the door opening behind her.
     
    SHERYL: ...thaaaynk yew, Dr. Graaaant.
     

    As Jerome steps into the room, he overhears Sheryl's overpronounciation of the southern accent, and observes her as she leans back in her chair, eyes closed. He tries to hold in his laughter as he listens in.
     
    SHERYL: Ya know you're a reeeeally niiice...
     
    Sheryl opens her eyes to see Jerome standing over her, giggling to himself. Sheryl's expression changes immediately to a sour one as she rips her headphones off her head, turning angrily to face a still-hysterical Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: Dammit, Jerome. Don't scare me like that!
    JEROME: (in between laughs) You know, you...you are...you, heeeee you need to spend some time in Georgia 'cos you not gone convince nobody like that!
     
    Jerome continues to laugh as he sets down the plastic bag containing the supplies Sheryl requested. Sheryl almost immediately snatches them from the table, as Jerome tries to contain himself.
     
    SHERYL: Ughhh...did you find everything I asked for?
     
    Cooling down, Jerome clears his throat before responding.
     
    JEROME: Yeah, I uh...(clears throat) I got the hair dye, the applicators, everything.
    SHERYL: Excellent.
    JEROME: I just hope you're not trying to trick anyone just yet. You need to take your time and practice before we do this.
     
    Sheryl turns to look at Jerome, annoyed.
     
    SHERYL: What do you think I've been doing. And quite honestly, I thought I was doing a damn good job, considering.
     
    Jerome starts to laugh again at Sheryl but contains himself successfully before continuing.
     
    JEROME: You uh...you know, for someone that lived in Birmingham so long, you really picked nothing up.
     
    Sheryl rolls her eyes at her accomplice. She grabs her headphones, preparing to put them back on.
     
    SHERYL: I think I've heard everything I need to.
    JEROME: That's fine. Look, I gotta get going anyway, so...
     
    Sheryl stops herself, turning back Jerome's way.
     
    SHERYL: Why? What the hell do YOU have to do?
     
    Jerome gives his best mockingly upper crust demeanour in response.
     
    JEROME: I happen to have a previous engagement with a young lady.
     
    Sheryl rolls her eyes, leaning back as she puts her headphones back on.
     
    SHERYL: (sigh) Typical. I'd tell you not to get attached, but I know you're allergic to attachment, so have fun.
     
    As she finishes her statement, she slaps the spacebar on her laptop, triggering the playback on the video. Jerome stops a moment, before shaking his head in amusement and walking out of the hotel room.
     
    ---
     
    John looks at Billie as they walk through Town Square together, a contemplative look on his face.
     
    JOHN: So, really...we have no recourse but to go along with this.
    BILLIE: For now.
     
    Billie and John stop as Billie turns to face John.
     
    BILLIE: Mom thinks that going along with Nick will be an opportunity for her.
    JOHN: I don't see how.
    BILLIE: Okay, come on. It's my mom. If she sees an opening to take power, she'll take it.
     
    John nods, understanding Billie's point.
     
    JOHN: Fair enough.
    BILLIE: But I think it's misguided, especially if it damages the company. I mean...how long is Nick going to run Titan into the ground before we get a chance to stop him.
    JOHN: You're probably right. But, okay, back up a little, going along with Nick...how's this tie into Jordan and Sheryl?
     
    Billie looks around nervously, trying to make sure no one is listening.
     
    BILLIE: I'm fairly certain that Nick was in cahoots with Jordan and Sheryl, but that Nick double-crossed them to gain power for herself. I mean...think about it. Nick's friend is that kooky owl watcher that EnerNext is trying to buy the land from for the oil sands project. They're like two peas in a pod. And we KNOW that that was Jordan and Sheryl's motive for coming to Salem.
     
    John nods, taking in what Billie's saying, before thinking of something of his own.
     
    JOHN: So you're thinking Nick's playing all of them?
    BILLIE: It makes sense. If Nick can use these people to get what he wants under the guise of helping them, they'll all be willing to do his bidding until he throws them under the bus.
    JOHN: And God knows who else he's already thrown to the wolves that we don't yet know about.
    BILLIE: Exactly. Which is why I think we need to make sure Nick gets taken out. The sooner we get him put in his place, the better.
     
    ---
     
    Will sets down his drink on the table after taking a big swig of it. He looks up at Kate, while still taking in the news of Nick's plans to take over Titan.
     
    WILL: So...what does that mean for you, Mom and Gabi?
     
    Kate swirls her martini about, looking down upon it as she casually explains the situation to her grandson.
     
    KATE: Well..I'm not entirely sure. But it's in his best interests not to expose us. If only because we know for a fact he still wants to have a chance with Gabi. And he's willing to do whatever it takes to have it.
    WILL: (sigh) Yeah, I know that a little too well. Gabi told us this morning that she'd been...drugging Nick to try to get him hooked onto his pills so that he'd go back to jail, but...apparently that backfired.
     
    Kate nods knowingly. Will looks on, a bit surprised, before realizing the truth.
     
    WILL: Wait...you...you knew about the pills.
    KATE: I found out about it the other day. I know she's very stressed out about it, because Hope won't arrest him, but...I don't know what she expected. I mean, Hope's his cousin, for God's sake!
    WILL: I know. (sigh) And it's getting worse.
     
    Kate looks up at Will, suddenly even more worried.
     
    KATE: What do you mean?
     
    Will hesitates momentarily, sighing before responding to Kate, dreading her reaction.
     
    WILL: EJ is so worried about Nick and his...state of mind that he bought Gabi a gun today.
     
    Kate's eyes widen, suddenly horrified at the prospects of what could come of it.
     
    ---
     
    Nick steps into Jordan's office and shuts the door quietly behind him. Jordan draws herself up in her chair, clearly very tense.
     
    JORDAN: Wh-what do you want, Nick?
     
    Nick laughs at Jordan's fear, stepping casually toward her.
     
    NICK: Oh my GOD! RELAX, Jordan! I mean, come on, we're partners in all this, aren't we?
    JORDAN: I don't know what you're talking about, Nick. Look, as far as Sheryl and her plans go, I am no longer associated with her, okay? So...
    NICK: That's fine. But I expect she's still going to be trying to contact you.
     
    Jordan looks up at Nick, trying to put on a steely reserve. Her voice continues to tremble slightly.
     
    JORDAN: I'm sure she will. But I want nothing to do with her. So whatever you want from her, talk to her about it.
     
    Jordan turns toward her computer, but Nick walks over, and sits down in the chair opposite Jordan's at her desk.
     
    NICK: I don't think that'll be very easy. 
     
    Jordan sighs, turning back toward Nick, exasperated.
     
    JORDAN: Look, Nick, I've had a hard enough day today, so whatever you're trying to say, just spit it out, and go, okay?
     
    Jordan tries hard to ignore Nick, turning back to her computer work, but Nick leans in and stares almost without blinking at her. His intense gaze makes Jordan extremely nervous.
     
    NICK: Alright, I'll get right to the point. You know your little virus? I was the one who stopped it from going through last night. And the folks at Titan know that Sheryl's the one that was trying to put it there.
     
    Jordan turns to look at Nick, contempt in her eyes as she tries to hold her emotions in.
     
    JORDAN: And just how do they know that?
     
    Nick smiles evilly, never moving his gaze, making Jordan even less comfortable.
     
    NICK: I told them. See, I've been monitoring every little thing that's been going on in that building for months now. And I have the evidence to back up everything I claim. So Sheryl's probably on her way out of town as we speak. 
     
    Nick lets out a little chuckle to himself before continuing, standing up to sit down on Jordan's desk, leaning in even closer to her, never once breaking their gaze.
     
    NICK: At least she better be. 
     
    Jordan sighs, worrying about her own fate now that Nick knows their connection. Nick puts his hand up to Jordan's chin, and casually caresses it, causing Jordan to flinch.
     
    NICK: But don't worry. If you keep your nose out of where it doesn't belong...I'll let you keep your life here with your little boyfriend, the cop. Just remember...I know who you really are. So stay out of my way. 
     
    Nick gets up from his perch on Jordan's desk and walks slowly out of Jordan's office.  Just before stepping out the door, Nick turns back toward Jordan with another ominous warning.
     
    NICK: Oh, and if Sheryl does try to contact you...do me a favour and let her know about our little chat, yeah?
     
    Jordan glares at Nick and he smirks, before turning around and leaving her office. As the door closes, Jordan sighs in relief. 
     
    She looks down at her phone as sees another call from an unknown number. Jordan doesn't answer, contemplating whether to refuse the call or not.
     
    ...
     
    Outside Jordan's office, Nick is hit with a sharp head pain yet again. Holding his hand up to his temple, he quickly opens his bag, digging to find his pills. 
     

    Upon finding them, he stumbles down the hall toward the water fountain. As he approaches it, Maggie turns the corner and sees Nick struggling. She calls out to him.
     
    MAGGIE: Nick?
     
    Nick, in his haze, doesn't hear her. Maggie walks over, as Nick clasps both hands on his head, as the pain intensifies to an unbearable pressure.
     
    MAGGIE: Nick! Are you okay?!
     
    ---
  3. beebs
    EPISODE 131
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Sheryl, standing in her motel room at the edge of town,  hears the beeping sound of Jordan refusing her call, and hangs up the motel room's landline phone, frustrated.
     
    SHERYL: Dammit. Jordan, none of us are safe as long as you're in Salem. 
     
    Sheryl turns toward the bathroom door, where she's placed the supplies Jerome's given her. Sheryl looks on at the box of bleach, and of hair dye, makeup, among other supplies. She looks on, steely-eyed.
     
    SHERYL: But I'm gonna make damn sure you do. And make Billie Reed pay for what she's done to us.
     
    ---
     

    Jordan sits at her desk at University Hospital, contemplating accepting the call from an unknown number that's currently coming in on her cell phone. As the phone buzzes on her desk, she stares it down, frozen still.
     
    Jordan remembers back to her conversation moments before with Nick:
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 130
     

    Jordan tries hard to ignore Nick, turning back to her computer work, but Nick leans in and stares almost without blinking at her. His intense gaze makes Jordan extremely nervous.
     
    NICK: Alright, I'll get right to the point. You know your little virus? I was the one who stopped it from going through last night. And the folks at Titan know that Sheryl's the one that was trying to put it there.
     
    Jordan turns to look at Nick, contempt in her eyes as she tries to hold her emotions in.
     
    JORDAN: And just how do they know that?
     
    Nick smiles evilly, never moving his gaze, making Jordan even less comfortable.
     
    NICK: I told them. See, I've been monitoring every little thing that's been going on in that building for months now. And I have the evidence to back up everything I claim. So Sheryl's probably on her way out of town as we speak. 
     
    Nick lets out a little chuckle to himself before continuing, standing up to sit down on Jordan's desk, leaning in even closer to her, never once breaking their gaze.
     
    NICK: At least she better be. 
     
    Jordan sighs, worrying about her own fate now that Nick knows their connection. Nick puts his hand up to Jordan's chin, and casually caresses it, causing Jordan to flinch.
     
    NICK: But don't worry. If you keep your nose out of where it doesn't belong...I'll let you keep your life here with your little boyfriend, the cop. Just remember...I know who you are. So stay out of my way. 
     
    ***
     
    Jordan snaps back to reality, realizing the gravity of the situation and how it could so easily impact her. She down at her phone, still ringing, and quickly dismisses the call, sending it to voicemail.
     
    JORDAN: Sorry, Sheryl. From now on, you're on your own.
     
    ---
     
    Outside Jordan's office at the hospital, Nick struggles to steady himself as he rifles through his bag to grab his bottle of pills, hoping to stop his throbbing headache. 
     

    Turning the corner after exiting Victor's hospital room, Maggie spies Nick, in visible distress. She walks quickly over to him to see if he's okay.
     
    MAGGIE: Nick? Nick?? Are you okay?
     
    Nick doesn't respond to Maggie's worried call, instead popping a pill and stumbling quickly over to the water fountain. After taking a sip, Nick quickly lifts his head up, before stumbling again, causing Maggie to panic, and grab Nick to catch his fall.
     
    MAGGIE: Nick!! Somebody help!
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Nick wakes up to see Maggie and Daniel standing over him as he lies in a hospital bed. Stunned, Nick looks around, barely moving.
     
    DANIEL: Nick, it's me. Dr. Jonas. You just passed out for a minute, but you're fine.
     
    Nick struggles to respond to Daniel, still groggy, and with a dull, lingering head pain.
     
    NICK: I....huh?
    MAGGIE: You passed out, Honey. You were holding your head in your hands. You looked like you were in a lot of pain, and you were stumbling down the hallway. I called out and got Daniel to help.
    NICK: (sigh) You didn't have to do that.
     
    Daniel keeps busy, grabbing his tablet from the counter, and focuses in on Nick's chart as he responds to Nick's statement casually.
     
    DANIEL: Yeaaah well it's a good thing she did. You took a pretty nasty spill. And from what Maggie tells me...you had a pretty major migraine there. You under some stress lately? Work?
     
    Nick looks away from Maggie and Daniel, almost zoning out. He sighs before answering.
     
    NICK: It's nothing. I've got it under control now.
    DANIEL: Well...I hope so, because you need to watch it, Nick. Your blood pressure was high enough to cause a heart attack. Take these headaches as a warning sign.
     
    Nick looks back at Daniel, concerned by Daniel's diagnosis.
     
    ---
     

    Laura and JJ walks through Horton Town Square, JJ with an ice cream cone, and Laura with a cup holding a small sundae. They laugh as they eat their treats, and talk about their days.
     
    LAURA: (laughs) Well, it's good that Rory's keeping his job with the pizza place. I know things haven't been easy for him. 
    JJ: Yeah, you can say that again. I just hope this job gives him enough money that he can afford to head down to Stanford next year without student loans.
     
    Laura nods, before looking up at JJ, a glint of concern in her eye.
     
    LAURA: Yeah...speaking of which...have you...decided what you're going to do about Liam's offer?
     
    JJ sighs, as they both sit down on the bench by Tom & Alice's tree. Looking off into the distance, JJ takes a moment to finish his ice cream cone, then shakes his head.
     
    JJ: I'm not sure. I mean...I know taking it will throw Liam off my trail, and it would certainly help us get the money we need to find out what we need to know about this guy, but...
    LAURA: But it's risky. I don't want you beholden to this man. Especially not if he's tied to Stefano. That man has done too many horrible things to this family. And I am not about to let him harm us anymore.
     
    Laura looks at JJ, clearly upset, verging on tears, as JJ pulls his grandmother in for a hug as they sit on the bench.
     
    ---
     
    Jordan sits quietly at her computer desk. She types quickly at her desk, working on patient files, before the shine from her engagement ring catches her eye, causing her took down at it. 
     
    Jordan takes a moment, soaking up the extreme highs and lows of the past 24 hours. From Rafe's marriage proposal to finding out her pregnancy test gave a false positive, to walking away from a lifelong friendship with Sheryl. She begins to play with the ring as she thinks over her situation.
     
    JORDAN: (voiceover) Sheryl was right. If you stay in town, you're bound to be found out for as long as Nick Fallon is around. He's got your number, Jordan. You're never going to be safe, as long as Nick's alive...
     
    Jordan stops herself momentarily, looking up, realizing the gravity of the situation. She very softly verbalizes the realization she's come to.
     
    A song begins over the scene:
     
     
     
    [0:06] JORDAN: As long as Nick's alive...you'll never be safe. You'll never be free.
     
    Jordan looks on, unblinking, unmoving. She fixates on the point as she continues to fidget with her engagement ring.
     
    JORDAN: As long as he's alive.
     
    ---
     
    The song carries on into this scene
     
    [0:22] Sheryl steps out of the shower, causing a burst of steam to emerge out into the rest of the motel bathroom and into the main room.
     
    Sheryl emerges, wrapping a towel around herself and her hair before stepping out into the main room, where her toiletries are laid out carefully in front of the vanity.
     
    [0:49] Sitting herself before the vanity, she pulls a picture of Nurse Crystal Clarke from a file in her top dresser drawer. She slides it in between the mirror and the frame of the vanity, allowing her to study Crystal's look.
     
    [0:59] Sheryl then applies her foundation, a shade somewhat lighter than her own, in order to mask her lightly bronzed skin. Sheryl slowly blends in a contour, careful to match the hues from the picture.
     
    [1:27] Sheryl slowly puts on her eyeliner, purposely too heavy, along with a heavy black eyeliner, punctuating the look with a strong cateye. She puts in contact lenses, changing her eye colour from green to a hazel colour.
     
    [1:48] Sheryl moves to her lips, applying a bold, bright, almost orange-tinted red lipstick. She moves the stick across her lips, almost seductively. As she puts the stick down, she smacks her lips, giving a confident look into the mirror as her look is complete.
     
    [2:09] The final step in her transformation: Sheryl rips the towel from her head, exposing a long, lush head of fire red hair. She smiles before looking into mirror, and holding up a large pair of scissors.
     
    [2:21] With a deep inhale, she hacks off the last third of her hair, leaving her with a shoulder-length cut.
     
    [2:39] Once the hair has fallen to the floor, Sheryl looks into the mirror, a transformed woman. She laughs quiety to herself before greeting the new woman in the mirror playfully.
     
    SHERYL: Helloooo, Nurse!
     
    Sheryl's laugh grows into a possessed cackle as she admires her work.
     
    ---
  4. beebs
    EPISODE 132
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

     Brady walks into the main room of Anita's cabin, as she sits on her sofa reading the paper. Hearing Brady come into the room, she looks over her shoulder to see him putting his jacket on.
     
    ANITA: Going somehwere?
    BRADY: Not far. Just gotta meet with that woman I was telling you about.
     
    Anita sets down the paper and turns her body toward Brady. She looks on, pleasantly surprised.
     
    ANITA: Already? 
     
    Anita pulls her reading glasses from her face, and shakes her head in amazement.
     
    ANITA: I'm telling you, today's technology is a miracle.
    BRADY: Tell me about it. From when you told me about it until now, we're looking at about...ohh...about a four hour turnaround time. Crazy, huh?
    ANITA: You better believe it. If I'd have known how much I could get done this fast, I'dve gotten on this internet years ago.
     
    Brady and Anita laugh, as Brady opens the door to the cabin to head out.
     
    BRADY: Right? Okay, I've gotta meet this woman at the general store in about 10 minutes, so I'll be back in about an hour. Hopefully minus one blue SUV.
    ANITA: ...and plus a thousand dollars or two.
     
    Brady points at Anita, agreeing to her point.
     
    BRADY: Exactly. (laughs)
    ANITA: Alright, I'll see you in a bit.
    BRADY: Yep!
     
    Brady shuts the door to the cabin behind him, leaving Anita behind, as she looks over at the PC sitting in the corner. She contemplates sitting down to use it.
     
    ANITA: Well...you've seen enough people use it, Anita. About time to try it for yourself, no?
     
    Anita hesitates as she steps towards the computer, sitting down in the office chair. She rests her fingers on the keyboard. She looks up at the screen, a determined look on her face.
     
    ANITA: Besides...you've got some work to do.
     
    ---
     

    Laura sits with JJ on the bench at Horton Town Square. JJ hugs a despondent Laura.
     
    JJ: No one is going to hurt mom, or Abigail, or me. You got that? I'm gonna make sure of it.
     
    Releasing Laura from his hug, Laura looks down, suddenly no longer hungry. She gets up to throw her partly-melted ice cream sundae in the nearby garbage can, and turns back toward JJ.
     
    JJ looks at Laura with a hint of determination in his eyes.
     
    JJ: Grandma, we have no choice. If I refuse this money, it'll just force mom even further toward Liam. This way, Liam thinks I'm pacified, and I'm far enough removed that I can do some digging in safety. This way, mom, and Abigail, and you are safe.
     
    Laura takes a moment, before slumping down beside JJ on the bench. She nods, fully understanding JJ's position.
     
    LAURA: You're right, JJ. There's no other way. 
     
    Laura turns, looking intensely at JJ as she emphatically instructs JJ.
     
    LAURA: Cash the cheque.
     
    ---
     

     
    Nick sits in the exam room, on the exam table, as Daniel taps away at his tablet, editing Nick's chart. Nick looks on, still hazy from his fall.
     
    Maggie stands by Nick, a hand on his back, being concerned for her relative.
     
    NICK: Dr. Jonas, I don't mean to rush you but...I have somewhere to be.
     
    Daniel doesn't look up, still fixated on his work on the tablet. Despite this, he answers Nick immediately.
     
    DANIEL: Yeah, well, I'm not quite done yet. One more question...did you...prior to this fall you took today...did you suffer any other head injuries recently?
     
    Nick looks up at Daniel, before having a flashback to the night he was dumped in the river. Nick remembers being on top of Gabi, and being hit in the head with a rock.
     

     
    As the rock makes impact with Nick's head, Nick snaps out of his flashback, immediately locking eyes with Daniel.
     
    NICK: Yeah. Yeah, I did. But uh...it wasn't anything major.
    DANIEL: Well, sometimes these injuries sort of...lie dormant for awhile before symptoms appear. I might want to schedule some more tests for you.
     
    Nick looks at Daniel, sighing as he worries about missing the Titan board meeting.
     
    NICK: Ah...Dr. Jonas. I'd love to do that but...can we schedule these for another time? I...I'm really running behind.
     
    Maggie steps in before Daniel can respond, voicing her concern to Nick.
     
    MAGGIE: Nick...I know you're eager to get back to work, but...Honey... head injuries are so unpredictable. If you don't stop and think about your health for a moment...it could kill you.

    Nick looks up at Maggie, affected by her grave warning, but unsure whether or not to proceed.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Jordan sits in her office, consumed by the realization that her safety is in jeopardy thanks to Nick. She plays with her engagement ring nervously, as she stares straight ahead, oblivious to everything around her.
     
    JORDAN: As long as Nick's alive...you'll never be safe...you'll never be free...
     
    Jordan looks on, unblinking, unmoving. She fixates on the point as she continues to fidget with her engagement ring.
     
    JORDAN: As long as he's alive.
     
    As she receives a notification on her phone of a voicemail, she snaps out of her trance, and looks at it. Knowing it's from Sheryl, Jordan ignores it, and quickly gets up from behind her desk.
     
    JORDAN: Dammit...
     
    Scooping up her phone, and realizing the time, she grabsher tablet and heads quickly out into the hall.
     
    JORDAN: Gotta get down for my 5pm.
     
    Closing and locking the door to her office, she quickly walks down the hallway, and into the main lobby. As she steps into the lobby, Maggie steps out of the exam room Nick is in with Daniel. Out of the corner of her eye, she spots Nick inside. Quickly turning to Maggie, she nervously smiles.
     
    JORDAN: Maggie!
     
    Maggie smiles, a bit nervous herself from all the health crisies in her family.
     
    MAGGIE: Jordan. How are you doing?
    JORDAN: Oh, I'm....I'm good. Just...on my way to my next patient. Uh...I saw Nick in there...everything okay?
     
    Maggie furrows her brow slightly, still smiling, but with a curious expression on her face.
     
    MAGGIE: Ah....I think so...
     
    Maggie hesitates a moment before continuing.
     
    MAGGIE: I didn't realize you knew Nick.
    JORDAN: Oh, we...we only met once or twice but...well...you know me, always concerned.
    MAGGIE: Oh, I know. And I appreciate it...
     
    Maggie looks down, spotting Jordan's engagement ring. Her face lights up with excitement.
     
    MAGGIE: ...Oh MY! What is THIS???
     
    Jordan takes a moment to realize what Maggie's referring to, before Maggie takes her hand and Jordan happily extends her hand out to show off her ring.
     
    JORDAN: Oh! Yes! Rafe and I are engaged. I'm...I'm so overwhelmed I didn't even...(laughs)
     
    Maggie looks at the ring, holding Jordan's hand in hers. She looks up at Jordan, a seriousness in her voice, but with an earnest joy.
     
    MAGGIE: Jordan, it's beautiful. You're a very lucky woman. And Rafe is an extremely lucky man.
     
    Jordan begins to tear up at Maggie's kindness. They exchange a warm, congratulatory hug.
     
    ---
     
    Inside the exam room, Nick hops off the exam table, and readjusts himself, preparing to leave. Daniel looks up at Nick, putting his tablet down on the counter.
     
    NICK: Look, Dr. Jonas. I appreciate that you wanna help and all, but...I need to schedule these tests for another day. I'm already way behind for this meeting I've got to get to today.
    DANIEL: You know, I wish you would go in for the tests right away but...I can't force your hand. Look, I'll see if I can schedule you for first thing tomorrow morning, and if I can, I'll give you a call on your cell. Okay?
    NICK: Appreciate that.
     
    Nick extends his hand to Daniel, and they share a firm handshake, as Nick grabs his laptop case from beside the exam table.
     
    DANIEL: It's what I do. Oh, and Nick.
     
    Nick stops as his hand is on the doorknob, ready to step out of the room.
     
    NICK: Yeah?
    DANIEL: You're not on any medications, right?
     
    Nick looks at Daniel, shrugging off his recent pill popping.
     
    NICK: Ah...no. Just...since I've been having these headaches I've been taking Aspirins whenever one flares up, but...nothing more than that.
    DANIEL: Hmm, ok. If anything that should help your blood pressure. (sigh) Okay. Yeah, I'll see you tomorrow morning.
    NICK: You got it. Thanks, Dr. Jonas.
     
    Nick walks out of the exam room, and closes the door behind him. Taking a second, he texts Gabi.
     
    hey. U avail 2nite? meet me @ TBD 4 dinner. 8pm xx
     
    He smiles as he hits send. He then puts his phone in his pocket and walks away.
     
    ---
     

    Jennifer and Liam sit out at a table outside the café at Horton Town Square, laughing and holding hands.
     
    JENNIFER: It was a great idea to bring me to lunch. Thank you, Liam.
    LIAM: Anything for you, Jenn. You don't know how much it means to me to have you in my life. I want to take every moment I can.
    JENNIFER: Me too. And I wanna thank you as well. Your gift to JJ was...beyond what I ever expected. I mean...where did you even FIND that kind of money to give away like that?
     
    Liam stumbles momentarily, trying to find an answer, as JJ and Laura approach them. Jennifer spots them and waves, beaming as they approach, a more solemn expression on both their faces. Liam turns as well to see who's approaching.
     
    JENNIFER: Hey JJ! Mom! What are you two up to?
    LAURA: Oh, JJ and I had some free time before I had to head back to the hospital, so I took him out for lunch and we grabbed a frozen yogurt. And you?
    LIAM: Well, Jenn and I were just having a quick lunch break together.
    JENNIFER: We've already ordered but would you like to join us?
     
    JJ nods while looking over at Laura, who looks equally stoic. Laura then turns her attention back to Jennifer, feigning a smile through her nervousness.
     
    LAURA: Ah, sure!
     
    Liam gets up to pull up a chair for Laura, who sits down, looking over graciously at Liam. JJ grabs a chair for himself and sits down as well.
     
    LAURA: Thank you. Ah, so...how's your day been, everyone?
    JENNIFER: Oh, fantastic. Liam and I were talking before about the family cabin on Smith Island. It's really beautiful going out there this time of year.
     
    Jennifer looks over at Liam, excitement in her eyes as she reaches her hand out to tap Liam's thigh.
     
    JENNIFER: You know, I've got the long weekend free, why don't we go up together for a quiet weekend, just the two of us?
     
    JJ and Laura try unsuccessfully to hide their discomfort at the idea, while Liam looks back at Jenn uncomfortably as well.
     
    LIAM: I ah...Jenn, I'm sorry. I have contractors coming up to my house this weekend, I've gotta...supervise them. Need to...put on a new roof.
     
    Jenn smiles, shrugging off Liam's disappointing news.
     
    JENNIFER: That's fine. I'll just come up there with you. I haven't seen the house yet, and all.
     
    Laura nervously observes the exchange, as Liam squirms yet again.
     
    LIAM: Yeah, that's...I'm sorry, Jenn. The house is a mess, and...look, I just think it's better we don't do it this weekend. I'm sorry.
     
    Jenn looks on, disappointed. 
     
    JENNIFER: That's...that's alright. Yeah, we'll do another weekend.
     
    JJ eyes Liam studiously. Observing something is strange in his behaviour, he interjects.
     
    JJ: Hey! I ah...I forgot to mention, Liam. (sigh) I ah...I decided to take you up on your offer. I'm accepting the cheque. I put in my acceptance at Stanford for the winter semester.
     
    JJ looks Liam dead in the eyes as Jennifer looks at JJ, once again excited for her son.
     
    JENNIFER: Oh, Honey, that's fantastic! And thank you, Liam.
     
    Liam looks back at JJ, a smile on his face, but both men barely blinking, as they look each other dead in the eyes.
     
    LIAM: It's my pleasure, Jenn. Anything to help you and your family.
     
    JJ remains locked in with Liam, as Laura looks on, eyes darting back and forth between the two men, and reading the tense body language between them.
     
    ---
     
    Outside the country general store, Brady leans against Anita's old blue SUV. He checks his watch as from around the corner, a taxi pulls up. A woman steps out of the car wearing a navy blue trenchcoat, sunglasses, and a sheer white kerchief over her head, disguising her flame red hair.
     

    It's Sheryl.
     
    She hands the taxi driver money, and he takes off. She strides confidently over to Brady, who looks at her with interest.
     
    SHERYL: Brady?
    BRADY: Yes! Hi. 
     
    Brady pulls himself upright off the front of the truck fender, and extends a hand to shake Sheryl's.
     
    BRADY: And you must be...
    SHERYL: Crystal. Crystal Clarke.
     
    Brady smiles, intrigued by "Crystal's" myserious appearance.
     
    ---
  5. beebs
    EPISODE 133
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Noelle paces nervously inside the Kiriakis Mansion by the glass doors to the garden. She holds her cell phone up to her ear, hoping her call will be answered, checking to see if anyone's coming from either the kitchen or the living room.
     
    NOELLE: Come on, Nick. Pick up your damn phone.
     
    After a second, the call goes to voice mail. Noelle hangs up in frustration and walks back into the living room, upon which point she hears the doorbell ring. Further exasperated, she walks out into the foyer and opens the door.
     

    It's Anjelica.
     
    ANJELICA: Ahh! Dear daughter-in-law. 
     
    Noelle looks stunned by Anjelica's arrival.
     
    NOELLE: A...Anjelica.
     
    Anjelica responds with a chipper tone, dripping with a phony pleasantness.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, aren't you gonna let me in?
     
    As Anjelica says this, she walks right through the opened door, as a surprised Noelle stands back in shock.
     
    Once inside, Anjelica makes a beeline for the Kiriakis living room, as Noelle turns and closes the door.
     
    NOELLE: What are you doing here? And why haven't you been answering my phone calls?
     
    Anjelica walks over to the bar in the corner of the room and pours herself a scotch, as though in her own home. As she does, she pours a second glass for Noelle.
     
    ANJELICA: Oh come now, Noelle. I'm surprised at you! You know that the signals emitted from cellular devices have been known to interfere with the mechanical equipment on airplanes. 
     
    Noelle looks annoyed at Anjelica, while folding her arms, as Anjelica turns around and holds a drink out to Noelle.
     
    NOELLE: Of course, how could I forget?
     
    Anjelica smiles at Noelle's sarcastic reply, as Noelle takes the drink from Anjelica's hand.
     
    ANJELICA: I did get your messages, though. Have you been able to get ahold of Nick?
    NOELLE: Not yet. But I honestly don't think it'll make a difference. Once he lets the board know what we have on them, they're gonna be eating out of the palm of his hand.
     
    Anjelica raises an eyebrow to Noelle, a wry smile on her face as she casually leans her glass over to toast Noelle's. They share a quick laugh as they take a sip from their respective drinks.
     
    ---
     

    Brady stands in front of the truck outside the rural general store, as a heavily disguised Sheryl stands before him, scarf covering most of her dyed-red hair, and large sunglasses. 
     
    Brady pulls himself upright off the front of the truck fender, and extends a hand to shake Sheryl's.
     
    BRADY: And you must be...
    SHERYL: Crystal. Crystal Clarke.
     
    Brady smiles, intrigued by "Crystal's" myserious appearance.
     
    BRADY: Nice to meet you. Although, I gotta say...you look awfully familiar. Have we...have we met?
     
    Sheryl looks on at Brady, mouth agape, as she tries not to show her internal panic on her face.
     
    ---
     

    Abby and Jerome sit in the Brady Pub at a booth, laughing awkwardly as they smile at each other. Abby takes a sip of her soda, as Jerome looks her in the eyes with a warmth that Abby finds irresistable.
     
    JEROME: You know...I think I'm starting to get to like Salem.
    ABBY: Well, good. Cos I could get used to having you around. So tell me, where were you before here, anyway?
     
    Jerome takes a sip of his beer before answering Abby, answering almost too quickly.
     
    JEROME: Toronto. I was finishing my Masters' at University of Toronto.
     
    Abby looks on, impressed.
     
    ABBY: Oh NICE! What in?
    JEROME: Computer science.
    ABBY: Oooh a tech guy.
     

    Abby laughs, giving Jerome a flirtatious look, as Nick opens the door to the pub, immediately spotting Abby and Jerome on their date. He smiles, observing them from afar.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Sami slams the door to EJ's office at DiMera Enterprises, startling EJ who is sitting at his desk.
     
    SAMI: UGGGGH! That...woman!
     
    Sami paces the room, tense and enraged. EJ looks up at Sami, still uncomfortable, as he looks at her through his reading glasses.
     
    EJ: Jeez...what woman, Samantha?
    SAMI: I'll give you three guesses.
     
    EJ sighs and takes off his glasses, placing them down on the desk in front of him.
     
    EJ: Nicole?
    SAMI: We have a winner!
    EJ: What did she do this time? Is that why you went running out of the house this morning?
     
    Sami laughs maniacally, as she walks over to EJ's desk and leans over it, staring intensely at EJ.
     
    SAMI: That's right! That manipulative bitch married my brother.
     
    EJ looks at Sami, genuine surprise on his face.
     
    ---
     
    Anjelica walks over from the bar in the Kiriakis living room, planting herself on the sofa kitty corner from Noelle, who sits in the armchair. She hands Noelle another scotch on the rocks, and holds another in her own hands. Anjelica sounds self-satisfied as they speak of their impending victory over the Titan board.
     
    ANJELICA: You know, I was a bit skeptical at the beginning, but I think this relationship is going to work out just fine between us.
    NOELLE: Well, it can. It all depends on you.
     
    Anjelica takes a sip of her drink, then feigns shock, holding a hand to her chest.
     
    ANJELICA: Me?
     
    Noelle looks at Anjelica, speaking in a no-nonsense tone.
     
    NOELLE: Yes, you. I thought we agreed that we would be in close contact whenever either of us made any moves. 
    ANJELICA: Well, we have, haven't we?
     
    Noelle picks up the newspaper from the coffee table, showing Anjelica's picture prominently on the front page. She holds it up, looking unimpressed.
     
    NOELLE: You call this communication?
    ANJELICA: I call that publicizing what we've already discussed for months. 
     
    Anjelica sets down her drink, her tone changing from one of light-hearted repartee to a more serious business voice.
     
    ANJELICA: Listen, I have not only this campaign to run, but I also have business deals to take care of, and family matters to ensure are being attended to. That's why I asked you to be involved in this arrangement. 
     
    Noelle leans back, looking away and rolling her eyes as Anjelica becomes increasingly empthatic.
     
    ANJELICA: You are the only woman that my son is ever going to love, and if I want my bid for the state legislature to be a successful one, that requires any and all scandals be headed off at the pass. 
     
    Noelle continues to look away, and Anjelica leans in closer to Noelle, hardly blinking as she softly, but cuttingly delivers her next remarks.
     
    ANJELICA: Harper Deveraux ran his political life on being a man of family values, and I intend to run my house the same way. Now, you know Alex has been involved in certain relationships that a lot of my base would be incredibly upset about. But he loves you enough to put those affairs behind him. 
    NOELLE: I know he does, Anjelica. And I love him just as much.
    ANJELICA: Good. Then we have no problem here. 
     
    Anjelica gets up from her seat, walking toward the doorway of the Kiriakis living room. She grabs her clutch from the side table. Stopping momentarily before stepping out, she looks down, and turns back to face Noelle.
     
    ANJELICA: Don't question my methods again, Noelle. I need you to trust that I know what I'm doing at all times. Even a second of doubt on either of our parts could ruin everything.
     
    Anjelica turns back toward the door, leaving Noelle alone in the living room, deep in thought as the front door of the house closes behind a departing Anjelica.
     
    ---
     
    Sheryl stands opposite Brady at the General Store parking lot, looking uneasy. She swallows hard, hoping to stay in character despite Brady's vague recognition.
     
    SHERYL: Ah...no. I just...you must be mistaking me for someone else, I...I just moved up here from down south the other night.
     
    Brady looks on, unsure for a second, before laughing to himself.
     
    BRADY: Yeah, I guess I'd remember meeting someone with a southern accent in Salem. Well, look, if you wanna test drive her before you take her...
     
    Sheryl shakes her head. She smiles as she looks the car over.
     
    SHERYL: Nah, I...I think we're good. It's just a temporary thing until I get myself settled in and I get myself a new car. You know?
    BRADY: Makes sense. 
     
    Sheryl walks around to the other side of the car and reaches over to her purse to look for her cash.
     
    SHERYL: Uh...how much do I owe ya?
    BRADY: Ah, what was it, we agreed on $1000?
    SHERYL: Well, how 'bout we do $800 cash, and you don't have to worry about them brakes?
     
    Brady looks "Crystal" up and down for a second, before furrowing his brow. Sheryl holds up the $800 and smiles at Brady.
     
    SHERYL: Do we have a deal?
    BRADY: We do.
     
    Brady takes the money, and hands "Crystal" the keys to the truck. Sheryl smiles and unlocks the door.
     
    SHERYL: Good doing business with ya, Mister. You wanna ride back to your house?
    BRADY: Ah, sure!
     
    Brady loops around to the passenger side, as Sheryl puts on her best phony cowgirl voice and enthusiastically invites him in.
     
    SHERYL: Hop in!
     
    Brady opens the door to the passenger side of the truck, as Sheryl looks in the rear view mirror, smiling cockily as she realizes her disguise has worked.
     
    ---
     
    Abby and Jerome sit at their booth at the Brady Pub, their eyes barely straying from each other, as Nick approaches the table. Spotting her cousin from across the room, Abby waves Nick over, to Jerome's chagrin.
     
    ABBY: Nick! Hey! How are you doing?
    NICK: I'm doing better. Was just at the hospital to make sure everything was okay.
    ABBY: I'm glad, I've been worried.
     
    Jerome stays silent, staring Nick down, menacingly, monitoring his interaction with Abby to ensure he doesn't fly off the handle again at her.
     
    NICK: Not to worry. Listen, I...I don't mean to interrupt your date, guys, but...
     
    Jerome tries to interject to try to get Nick to back off, but Abby cuts in before he can.
     
    ABBY: You're not...interrupting, Nick. Don't worry.
    NICK: Well...I had something I had to give you. It's ah...it's work-related.
     
    Abby looks at Nick, confused.
     
    ABBY: Oh...ah...for me?
    NICK: Well, strictly speaking, it's...it's for Nicole but...well, she's not taking my phone calls right now.
    ABBY: Oh, she's...well, she had to take the day off today. She's not even answering MY calls, so...
     
    Nick nods, trying to feign innocence when he knows the real reason Nicole stopped responding.
     
    NICK: Right. Well, this is part of the big story you're working on for Nicole's special this week. I think you'll find it very interesting. 
     
    Nick pulls a flash drive from his bag and hands it to Abby.
     
    NICK: Make sure Nicole gets it as soon as possible. Let her know that if there's any doubt about where it comes from or if it's real, that I have the originals.
     
    Abby holds the flash drive tightly in her hand, before looking up at Nick and nodding.
     
    ABBY: Alright. I'll let her know.
    NICK: Thanks. Enjoy yourselves.
    JEROME: Bye.
    ABBY: Glad you're feeling better, Nick.
     
    Nick waves back at Abby, as Jerome scowls at him, watching him leave the pub.
     
     
    Once outside, Nick looks ahead, his trademark smirk on his face.
     
    NICK: And another domino falls. Sorry, Will.
     
    Nick walks off, as inside, Abby holds the flash drive in her hands, curious about its contents, before she carefully places it in her bag.
     
    ---
  6. beebs
    EPISODE 134
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Nick and Percy walk onto the elevator together at the Titan building. Both men appear to be in a chipper demeanour, standing silently as the doors to the elevator close.
     
    Nick presses the button to the floor they intend to travel to, and the lift begins to move. Percy turns to Nick with a nervous smile.
     
    PERCY: Nicholas, I...I hate to ask--
     
    Nick immediately interrupts, looking straight ahead, unflinchingly.
     
    NICK: --Then don't.
     
    Nick turns to look at Percy. He smiles, as Percy's smile fades, suddenly far more nervous.
     
    NICK: We've got this.
    PERCY: Are you absolutely certain?
    NICK: Totally. I even have insurance now. 
     
    Percy looks back at Nick, wondering what he means. Nick recognizes Percy's look of curiosity immediately.
     
    NICK: When I was meeting with Tyler last night, I found the press release Will was working on for the EnerNext project. 
    PERCY: Alright. What exactly is the significance of this press release?
    NICK: Well, I took a moment to read through it...and then I did some fact-checking...and they made every bit of their research up. Anything they didn't pull out of thin air, they paid off scientists to back them up on. So I did a bit more digging. Found out who paid what, how much, as to whom. If that press release goes out, there's a lot of people whose careers will be in shambles.
     
    Percy looks on, contemplative, before the elevator announces its arrival at their floor. The ding of the opening door snaps Percy's head back forward.
     
    PERCY: I see. Then I do believe we're in good stead. Onward!
     
    Nick and Percy step off the elevator in lock step.
     
    ---
     

    In the Titan board room, Billie walks in to find Justin alone in the room, unpacking his tablet at the table. Billie smiles warmly at him.
     
    BILLIE: Well, long time, no see.
     
    Justin looks up with the same smile as he logs into his tablet.
     
    JUSTIN: Likewise. How did it go with the family?
     
    Billie rests her bag on the table across from Justin, giving him a grimace.
     
    BILLIE: It...it was an interesting talk.
    JUSTIN: You're making me nervous now.
    BILLIE: That's because I'm nervous enough for the both of us. My mother's preparing to cave to Nick's proposal, and she expects me to follow suit.
     
    Justin looks at Billie, stunned.
     
    ---
     

    Abby and Jerome sit together on their lunch date at the Brady Pub, sitting across from each other at a booth. They look relaxed together, enjoying each other's company thoroughly.
     
    ABBY: Sorry about...Nick interrupting.
    JEROME: No no! Don't worry about it. The guy gives me a bad vibe but...you two are cousins. I can tell you care a lot about him.
     
    Abby smiles, as she looks down at her coffee cup, stirring it casually as she stares into the cup. Jerome's expression changes to one of concern.
     
    JEROME: I...I...Earth to Abby.
     
    Abby snaps out of her thoughts, blinking momentarily as she looks up again at Jerome.
     
    ABBY: Sorry. Yeah, I...I guess I've just been worried about him. 
    JEROME: Why's that?
     
    Abby sighs, unsure whether she wants to delve into the whole story, but, after a moment, she looks up at Jerome.
     
    ABBY: He hasn't been himself in a very long time. He was this...sweet tech nerd kid growing up. You know...always willing to help someone out and he'd....he'd make stupid mistakes sometimes but you always knew he was trying to do the right thing.
     
    Jerome looks on, interested in Abby's story.
     
    JEROME: So what changed?
     
    Abby sighs, looking down sadly.
     
    ABBY: He was shot...and the pain meds they gave him while he was in recovery...they...they totally messed him up. He became addicted.
    JEROME: I'm sorry.
    ABBY: It's...not your fault. I thought he'd kicked it while he was in jail, but...when I saw him the other day at Salem U, the way he was acting...it was like...
    JEROME: Like he was still on the pills?
    ABBY: Honestly, I wonder if he ever stopped. And it's almost like he was going through withdrawals or something. 
     
    Jerome looks at Abby, thoughtfully and contemplating her view on Nick's behaviour.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Abby looks down, still slowly stirring her coffee, as Jerome looks on, taking a sip. Suddenly, she appears to snap out of it, looking back up at Jerome.
     
    ABBY: Sorry, I know you didn't come here to hear me talk about my weird cousin.
    JEROME: Nah, it's cool. Like...I know you love the guy. I just worry after what I saw at Salem U. Abby, I just get this feeling this guy's up to something, and it's not good. I feel like I need to protect you from him.
     
    Abby smiles at Jerome, reaching a hand out to touch his across the table.
     
    ABBY: You don't have to. But I love that you want to. It's sweet.
     
    Jerome looks down at Abby's hand, resting on his, and cups his other hand over hers. He looks into her eyes seriously.
     
    JEROME: I think you're a very special lady, Miss Deveraux.
     
    Abby giggles, as Jerome squeezes her hand gently, a smile on his face knowing he made Abby laugh.
     
    JEROME: You got this...this look in your eye. There's a lot more to you than what I see on the outside, I can tell.
     
    Abby blushes, smiling a goofy, embarrassed smile as Jerome charms her.
     
    JEROME: I'd like to get to see what's under that calm surface...if you'd let me.
     
    Abby smiles, and nods softly.
     
    ABBY: We'll see.
    JEROME: That's all I can ask for.
     
    Abby pulls her hand away, and grabs her bag from beside her on the seat.
     
    ABBY: I hate to cut this short but, I gotta see what's on this flash drive and report back to my boss. 
    JEROME: You sure you wanna bug your boss when she told you specifically not to?
     
    Abby gets up from the booth and pulls the flash drive out, holding it in her hand and casually waving it as she makes her point to Jerome, who's also gotten up from the booth.
     
    ABBY: If what's on here is important enough that Nick would take the time to track me down in the middle of a work day? It may warrant it, yeah.
     
    Jerome looks on, casually nodding in agreement, before heading for the door.
     
    JEROME: Well, come on. Let me drive you to the office.
    ABBY: Thanks.
     
    Jerome and Abby head for the exit, as Jerome drops enough money to cover the cheque on the table before heading out.
     
    ---
     

    EJ looks up from his desk at DiMera Enterprises, surprised by the news Sami's just given him.
     
    EJ: Nicole married Eric? As in your brother, Eric.
     
    Sami leans against the edge of EJ's desk, fuming.
     
    SAMI: YEP! Mom and I tried to stop them but we were too late, and now Eric isn't speaking to either of us.
    EJ: No surprise there.
     
    Sami glares at EJ, shouting him down for his quip.
     
    SAMI: I'm sorry, WHAT?! My brother just married a lying BITCH and you're making jokes--
    EJ: No, no, I'm not saying I don't blame him, Samantha, but I know how people are when they're...that in love with someone.
     
    Sami sighs, rolling her eyes, balking at the idea that Eric's feelings for Nicole are that strong.
     
    SAMI: Love. Yeah, right. He was manipulated into marrying her. He was vulnerable because your sister raped him, and he was kicked out of the priesthood because YOUR FAMILY made sure the proof disappeared.
     
    EJ gets up from his desk, suddenly feeling defensive of his family.
     
    EJ: Okay, Samantha, that's not fair.
    SAMI: The hell it isn't! 
     
    EJ sighs, holding his tongue before he says anything he regrets. Sami, meanwhile, continues her tirade.
     
    SAMI: Your father is always bailing that harpee of a sister of yours out like she's an eight year old child instead of making her take responsibility for her actions, and you're so afraid of getting on his bad side that you just let him. 
     
    EJ stands behind his desk, folding his arms as he quietly, but sternly responds to Sami.
     
    EJ: Need I remind you of everything I am doing to protect you and your loved ones, including your son from being implicated in an attempted murder. Without my help, Nick Fallon would have had you all in jail months ago, and taken off with your grandchild and that insipid idiot Gabriella Hernandez.
     
    Sami looks down, sheepishly. The reminder snaps her back to reality, and she answers EJ, a guilty calm suddenly in her voice.
     
    SAMI: Yeah, I remember.
    EJ: So don't you ever think for a second that I am not thinking of what is best for you. You are everything to me. I know we have our problems, Samantha, but I am dedicated, 100% to making sure you know every day that you are the most important thing to me. You got that?
     
    Sami looks up at EJ, a faint smile on her face as she nods, acknowledging EJ's vow.
     
    ---
     

    Brady steps back into Anita's cabin, calling out to her to let her know he's returned.
     
    BRADY: Anita! I'm back!
     
    Anita steps out from the kitchen, a casserole dish in her hands, as she walks over to the dining table in the main room. She smiles as she greets Brady.
     
    ANITA: So, is she sold?
     
    Brady pulls a wad of bills from his pocket and holds it out to her.
     
    BRADY: $800 cash. All for you.
     
    Anita sets the casserole down on the table, and turns back to take the wad of bills from Brady, before taking two bills from the wad to give back to Brady, a huge smile on her face. She presses the bills into Brady's hand.
     
    ANITA: Your commission, kind sir.
     
    Brady looks down and laughs as Anita laughs playfully with him. He hesitates a moment before handing the money back to her.
     
    BRADY: You know, I don't know, Anita. You really don't need to give me this.
    ANITA: Absolutely, I do. You need money. And you did a great thing for me.
    BRADY: Well, yeah. But you've done so much for me already. I feel like I owe you. I...I can't accept this.
     
    Anita holds up her hand, shaking her head.
     
    ANITA: You can, and you will. Besides, I hear southerners drive a hard bargain!
    BRADY: Well, that's the thing. See...she talked like she was from the south, and all...but...there was something about her, Anita. I swear, I recognize her. Like...I've seen her somewhere before.
     
    Brady looks over at Anita, racking his brain to place "Crystal's" face.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl backs the big blue SUV she'd just purchased from Brady into a secluded spot off the side of the road. Turning off the engine, she steps out of the car, to look over at the road, and see how well-hidden the truck is to traffic.
     
    SHERYL: At least I'm not too far from that general store. Gotta get this thing hidden away well enough that no one will find it when I make a getaway.
     
    She grabs her phone from her pocket and makes a voice note:
     
    SHERYL: (into voice memo on her phone) 2.4 miles up State Road 45, past Six Mile Road. Look for the old beige fence ending with a group of large pine trees. 
     
    Putting her voice memo away, Sheryl looks over the position of the truck, making sure it's hidden from all angles. Once she's satisfied, She locks up the truck, and calls a cab. 
     
    SHERYL: (into phone) Yes, I'd like a cab to the corner of County Road 8 and Smith Island Road, please? ...yes, and please hurry, my car broke down, and I'm running late...thank you.
     
    Sheryl hangs up the phone, satisfied with herself, as she walks off toward the country intersection.
     
    ---
     
    Justin stands across the board room table from Billie, stunned by the bomb she's just dropped.
     
    JUSTIN: I'm sorry, what? Your mother's voting IN FAVOUR of Nick's proposal?
    BILLIE: Look, there's more to it than that, it's just--
     
    As Billie tries to tell Justin Kate's reason for her vote, the doors to the board room open, and Nick and Percy walk in with a confident stride.
     
    NICK: Ahh, I see we're nice and early for the festivities.
     
    Justin and Billie turn to look at them, a somewhat disdainful look on their faces. Justin comes back with a quick retort.
     
    JUSTIN: Not that you should be privvy to them in the first place. But yes, we aren't due to start for another twenty minutes.
    NICK: Well, I think I've got enough going for me that I won't be missing any more of these going forward. 
     
    Nick sits his bag down on the conference table and unzips it, pulling his laptop from his bag as he talks.
     
    NICK: I think, personally, this is going to be a very productive meeting. Don't you?
     
    Billie and Justin look uncomfortably at each other, then looking back Nick's way with the same uneasiness. Nick, meanwhile, pulls out his stack of envelopes, one for each of the Titan board members. He lays them neatly on the conference table in front of him, as he sits down, looking very self-satisfied.
     
    ---
  7. beebs
    EPISODE 136
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Eric and Nicole lay in bed together, truly happy. They smile, breathing heavily as their heart rates descend from a long session of lovemaking. Nicole rolls over, resting against Eric's naked chest, before leaning in for a kiss.
     
    NICOLE: You know...I could handle this whole...being married thing if this is how it's gonna be every day from now on.
     
    Eric laughs, as Nicole smiles back at him.
     
    ERIC: Yeah, if this was all being married was about, I could get used to it too.
    NICOLE: Well, it could be. You know...I think we're both...very secure in our love for each other...and I know that whatever comes our way...I think we can get through it, as long as we work together.
     
    Eric smiles, taking his hand and putting it up to Nicole's face.
     
    ERIC: I will always be here for you, no matter what.
     
    Eric pulls Nicole in for another kiss, as Nicole's phone goes off. They both stop and sigh. Nicole's head falls face-first into Eric's chest, as Eric laughs quietly to himself.
     
    ERIC: You'd better get that.
     
    Nicole lifts her head, and begins to whine jokingly.
     
    NICOLE: But I don't wannaaaa...
     
    Eric continues to laugh, as Nicole leans over and grabs her phone from the bedside table.
     
    It's Abigail.
     
    Nicole's expression immediately changes, as she answers the call.
     
    NICOLE: (into phone) Abby?
     
    ...
     

    Abigail stands in Nicole's office, her back to Jerome, who sits at Nicole's desk, looking at her computer. He looks on, stunned by what he's seeing on the screen.
     
    ABBY: (into phone) Hey Boss! Uh...I...I'm sorry to bother you. I know you had an appointment and all, but...
     
    ...
     
    Nicole furrows her brow, a bit annoyed and a bit confused as to why Abby's calling.
     
    NICOLE:  (into phone) Uh...it's fine. Now's not really a...great time...
     
    ...
     
    ABBY: (into phone) No! I, I'll make it quick. Promise. It's...really important.
     
    Abby looks over her shoulder to see a stunned Jerome reading the article headline from the flash drive Nick sent them.
     
    EnerNext & Titan: Fraudulent Arguments in Environmental Impact Study & Associated Payoffs
     
    ABBY: (into phone) You're gonna wanna come down to the office...right away.
     
    ---

    Nick paces the Titan board room, holding a pack of sealed envelopes in his hand, as the rest of the Titan board sits in stone silence, stunned by what Nick's held over their heads, and what he wants. Tyler, ready to stop Nick before he goes too far, gets up from his seat.
     
    TYLER: I...uh...I think we've heard enough to make our decision on your proposition, Mr. Fallon.
     
    Nick smiles, and turns to face Tyler, responding with a condescending tone.
     
    NICK: Oh, I don't think so. Not quite yet. 
     
    Nick holds the envelopes in his hand up to prominently display them to the rest of the room. He paces up and down the room still, as the others, most notably Kate, look on in discomfort. Tyler sits down, knowing he won't be able to stop Nick.
     
    NICK: You see, as I mentioned before, I've been keeping a veeeery close eye on all of you here at Titan. And I've gotta say, you guys know how to cover your tracks. But not quite well enough.
    JOHN: And what exactly does that mean?
     
    Nick looks over to John, placing the first envelope down in front of him. Without breaking his gaze for a second, even to blink, he looks John dead in the eyes.
     
    NICK: Why don't you open the envelope and find out?
     
    Nick suddenly breaks gaze, and turns to walk around the table. As he does, Nick flips through the envelopes, placing down one before each board member as he finds the ones for the person before him.
     
    Once completed, he leans on Kate's shoulders slightly, causing Kate to stiffen instantly.
     
    NICK: I think we're ready to begin. 
     
    Nick looks at everyone, a sickening, smug smile on his face, as the board members glare at him murderously.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica stands in the Horton Town Square, smiling at a less-than-impressed Adrienne, who stands opposite Anjelica, with her arms folded.
     
    ADRIENNE: Anjelica. What are you doing back in town?
    ANJELICA: Well, I see you don't pay much attention to the news. Not that that surprises me. You always were a bit of an intellectual lightweight.
     
    Adrienne rolls her eyes at Anjelica's jab, biting her tongue before she says something she'd regret.
     
    ANJELICA: Among other more...personal matters, I am here as part of my campaign for the state governor's office.
     
    Adrienne can't help but crack up at Anjelica's announcement. Incredulous, she responds, very amused.
     
    ADRIENNE: As if you have a snowball's chance in Hell of winning.
    ANJELICA: Oh, come now, Adrienne. A person's past indiscretions are hardly a reason to keep a person out of government these days, we all know that.
    ADRIENNE: Yes, well, I don't think I've ever seen anyone run for office after having tried to blow someone up.
     
    Anjelica looks at Adrienne, a more serious, lethal expression in her eyes, as the smile disappears from her face.
     
    ANJELICA: Ah! those old lies, and innuendoes. Frankly, Adrienne, I think being in that explosion knocked something loose that should've stayed in place. You're long overdue for a doctor's visit. May I suggest ah...Dr. Marlena Evans?
     
    Adrienne, fed up, grabs her shopping bags, and brushes past Anjelica to leave.
     
    ADRIENNE: I don't have to listen to this. Enjoy your visit, Anjelica. I hope it's very short.
     
    Anjelica turns to call out to Adrienne, goading her once more, and stopping Adrienne in her tracks momentarily.
     
    ANJELICA: Oh, I expect it won't be. Seeing as my son's living with you and Justin. I hope I'll see you at dinner tonight at the Kiriakis mansion?
     
    Adrienne sighs, before turning back around to face Anjelica.
     
    ADRIENNE: Well, I would but we tend to not let stray cats in the house, much less eat off the dinner table. 
    ANJELICA: What are you saying? You're not even going to let me share a meal with my son?
    ADRIENNE: Anjelica, quite frankly, I'm sure no one would have an appetite with you there. And I hate wasting food.
     
    Anjelica chuckles to herself.
     
    ANJELICA: Ahh yes, that old blue collar spirit. Waste not, want not!
    ADRIENNE: Which reminds me that I don't have the time to waste on you. So...
     
    Adrienne grabs her shopping bags from the bench and gives Anjelica a fake smile.
     
    ADRIENNE: Have a great day, Anjelica.
     
    Adrienne walks off, leaving Anjelica behind, a raised eyebrow and shaking her head.
     
    ---
     
    Kate holds open the card Nick's enclosed in her envelope, sighing as she's reminded of her part in his attempted drowning. Lucas looks over, panicked as he holds his card in Kate's direction, tensing in frustration. He whispers forcefully.
     
    LUCAS: How the HELL does Nick know about the entire plan?
     
    Billie sighs, resting her fingertips on her forehead, as she reads her card.
     
    Billie, the spy came to town to hide in plain sight at Titan. Trying to get the goods on her mama's boytoy's new girlfriend. What a wonderful waste of our secret service's resources.
     
    Billie sighs, knowing her reason for being in Salem has been found out.
     
    BILLIE: Maybe mom was right.
     
    Kate looks over momentarily at Billie, shrugging as she looks back toward Nick.
     
    KATE: Trust me. This is the best thing we can do.
     
    Across the table, Justin looks at his card, reading:
     
    Justin, actively trying to falsify environmental assessments so you can rush through a forcible eviction from a citizen's hard-earned property? You should be ashamed.
     
    Justin looks over at Billie, a similarly concerned expression on her face as his. He closes his card and lays it down on the table, as he looks over at a smug Nick.
     
    JUSTIN: And just how do you think you can prove any of this.
    NICK: You really wanna test this theory, huh? That I didn't come to this meeting prepared? 
     
    John jumps in, closing his own note. He holds his arms out, looking at Nick incredulously.
     
    JOHN: Oh, come on, Nick! You're bluffing! There's no way you have something on every single one of us with enough proof to back it up that you could take each of us down.
     
    Nick saunters over to John, staring him down with his trademark grin.
     
    He leans in close to John, never breaking gaze.
     
    NICK: I wouldn't push your luck, Mr. Black.
     
    Nick leans in and whispers in John's ear.
     
    NICK: (whispering) I know about your little plan to save Roman Brady. And it's not gonna work.
     
    John tenses immediately. He recognizes Nick is serious, and looks over at a concerned Justin. Sitting back down, he puts his hand over his mouth, sighing heavily.
     
    Nick, meanwhile, turns back toward the head of the table, leaning over it to speak to the rest of the room.
     
    NICK: Now, as I said, I'm not bluffing. In fact, as I speak, I am about to have a small...wedding present sent to one of my greatest allies in the fight to stop this little project of yours: Nicole Walker. 
     
    ...
     
    Nicole readies herself to leave Eric's hotel room, frantically trying to adjust her dress, as Eric stands nearby, shirtless, trying to help zip her back in. Meanwhile, we hear Nick's voice over the hurried scene.
     
    NICK: (voiceover) You see, I've sent a little document to her new husband, detailing some of the things I've uncovered about HER indiscretions, using the same methods I used to dig up all kinds of dirt on all of you. I'm sure you'll be hearing all about it shortly.
     
    As Nick speaks: Outside the hotel room, a man walks toward the door. After a moment, he makes his over and knocks on the door.
     
    Inside, Nicole and Eric stop in their tracks, before Eric heads quickly over to open it.
     
    ERIC: I'll get it. Might be room service. I didn't get them in time.
     
    Nicole laughs quietly, as she adjusts herself, before putting her shoes on.
     
    Eric opens the door, to find the messenger Aiden sent to his room, with a large manila envelope in hand.
     
    MESSENGER: Eric Brady?
     
    Eric looks on, confused, as he clutches the envelope.
     
    ERIC: Yeah. That's me.
     
    After taking the envelope, the messenger holds out a tablet and a stylus for Eric.
     
    MESSENGER: Sign here.
     
    Eric signs for the document, still unsure of what to expect to find inside. As he finishes, he hands both the tablet and stylus back to the messenger, before shutting the door behind him.
     
    Inside, Nicole looks puzzled as well, as Eric begins to open the document.
     
    NICOLE: What is it?
    ERIC: Dunno. Wasn't expecting anything. Were you?
     
    Nicole shakes her head, as Eric opens the envelope and pulls out what's inside. As he does, one of the pages of the document falls out of
    Eric's grasp and falls to the floor, just out of sight underneath Eric's nightstand.
     
    NICOLE: What is it?
     
    Eric's jaw drops, as he struggles to catch his breath. He realizes the information the documents contain.
     
    ERIC: Oh my God. This is it.
    NICOLE: What?
    ERIC: It's the Chyka file. I finally have proof that Kristen drugged me.
     
    Nicole gasps in horror, as she realizes Nick's taken action against her. She braces herself for Eric's reaction. For now, Eric looks up at Nicole, stunned, but with a bit of a smile on his face.
     
    ---
  8. beebs
    EPISODE 138
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Nicole rushes into her office at WXIR, where Abby and Jerome await her. The sound of the opening door causes Abby to turn toward the door, exciting her as she steps toward Nicole.
     
    ABBY: Nicole! Just in time!
    NICOLE: Why? What's happening? 
     
    Nicole stops in her tracks as she sees Jerome at her computer. Her demeanour changes instantly, as she points to Jerome while speaking to Abby.
     
    NICOLE: What's he doing here?
    ABBY: Oh, Jerome and I were on a date, and...
     
    Nicole, not waiting for Abby to answer, immediately shoos Jerome from her desk.
     
    NICOLE: And he's not going to be sitting behind my desk on my computer. I've got sources on there I'd like to keep anonymous.
    JEROME: Sorry. Sorry.
     
    Jerome jumps up from Nicole's desk chair and steps away as Nicole sits down in it.
     
    NICOLE: Oh you will be if I find out even one of my sources backs out of the story for the special.
     
    Abby steps in, nervously, but firmly supporting Jerome.
     
    ABBY|: Nicole, I wouldn't worry about Jerome. He's on our side in this.
     
    Nicole turns to look at Abby, then over at Jerome. She points at Abby, looking her squarely in the eyes.
     
    NICOLE: I'm holding you to that. 
    ABBY: Fine by me.
     
    Jerome looks at Nicole, feeling uncomfortable staying, he looks at Abby, and nods.
     
    JEROME: You know what, it's fine. I gotta get going anyway. 
    ABBY: You sure?
    JEROME: Yeah. Look, I had a great time, even with the interruptions.
     
    Abby takes Jerome's hands and kisses his gently on the lips.
     
    ABBY: So did I. Let's do it again?
    JEROME: You know it. I'll call you.
    ABBY: 'Kay.
     
    Jerome kisses Abby again, before taking off out the door of Nicole's office.
     
    Abby then looks back to Nicole.
     
    ABBY: There! Now it's just us. 
    NICOLE: Good. Look, try to keep your dates out of our personal business stuff, okay? There is way too much as stake here, regardless of whether he supports this story or not. I just want to keep this under tight wraps until we go to air.
     
    Abby throws her hands up.
     
    ABBY: Fair enough! I totally get it.
     
    After a moment, she sighs, and turns her chair to look at her screen.
     
    NICOLE: Good. Okay. Now, what am I looking at?
    ABBY: Well...that's what I was gonna tell you. Nick tracked us down on our date today. Seems he had been trying to get ahold of you for awhile to give you this.
     
    Abby leans over and moves Nicole's mouse over to click the tab where Nick's PDF file is open. Nicole reads the headline, causing her eyes to widen immediately.
     
    EnerNext & Titan: Fraudulent Arguments in Environmental Impact Study & Associated Payoffs
     
    ---
     

    In Horton Town Square, a podium is set up for a press conference, as Justin, John, and Tyler stand by, uncomfortably mulling over their situation. Justin steps toward John, and asks him a question.
     
    JUSTIN: John, if you don't mind my asking...just what did you mean about not underestimating Nick? I mean, come on. He's a...cocky kid with a criminal record. Surely there's no way he could run Titan, we have rules stating he couldn't take over if he'd committed a felony.
    JOHN: And I'm sure Nick is also plenty aware of the number of crimes Brady and Victor have committed over the years. Not to mention the dozens of crimes neither of them have ever been held criminally accounatable for that they probably should've. He's not gonna let that slide, Justin. If you poke the tiger enough times, he's gonna bite back.
     

    John looks over as he spots Kate, Lucas, and Billie arriving at the square.
     
    JOHN: Besides, that's not the biggest thing I have to worry about with him.
     
    Justin looks on at John, puzzled by his vague last statement, but before he can say anything, John grabs the attention of Billie, who nods in recognition of John's greeting. They stand by Tom & Alice's tree, and huddle together, speaking quietly.
     
    BILLIE: Okay, what did you find out?
    JOHN: This kid is in up to his neck.
    BILLIE: Well, I figured that. Out of curiosity, what did he whisper to you at the meeting?
     
    John shakes his head, looking over his shoulder to ensure the others aren't approaching.
     
    JOHN: He said he knows about my plan to help save Roman. Now that can mean only one thing.
    BILLIE: Yeah, but what if he's bluffing?
    JOHN: How is Nick Fallon gonna find out about our mission unless he's working for the guy?
     
    Billie sighs, knowing the truth of the situation, and realizes the gravity of it.
     
    BILLIE: So it's true.
    JOHN: There's only one person that can be behind this, and it means that this goes way deeper than we thought. It's GOT to be Stefano.
    BILLIE: I'll contact Steve and give him the heads' up.
     
    Billie heads out of the square, phone in hand, preparing to call Steve, as John hangs back, looking over at the rest of the crowd at the square, as Nick shows up, looking ever the image of smugness.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica sits in the back of her limo, alone. Cell phone in hand, she looks out over the city as it moves past her. Finally, someone picks up.
     
    ANJELICA: (into phone) We have good news. He's got it. Titan is in our hands now.
     
    ...
     

    Stefano sits on the DiMera jet, finishing a martini as he holds the plane's phone up to his ear. He enjoys the end of the drink and laughs heartily at the news.
     
    STEFANO: (into phone) Excellent. And once I take care of our business here in Italy, we can celebrate your victory as state governor, yes?
     
    ...
     
    Anjelica smiles wryly as she answers Stefano.
     
    ANJELICA: (into phone) I look forward to it. You still haven't explained to me exactly what you're doing in Italy.
     
    ...
     
    STEFANO: (into phone) Nothing for you to worry about. This is a little project of mine I need to handle...on my own.
    Stefano looks out the window, looking stern as his plane descends into Aeroporto Elba.
     
    ---
     

    ---
     
    Stefano sits in the DiMera jet, looking pensively out the window as the plane makes it descent into Aeroporto Elba on Elba Island, Italy. 
    As he looks out over the island, the pilot makes his announcement.
     
    PILOT: (over intercom) Good evening, Mr. DiMera, we are about to make our final approach into Aeroporto Elba, please prepare for landing, and fasten your seatbelt. 
     
    As Stefano fastens his seatbelt, he speaks with his attendant, who passes by on her way to her seat.
     
    STEFANO: Maria.
     
    Maria, the attendant, stops and stands by Stefano's seat, looking at him with a warm smile.
     
    MARIA: Yes, Mr. DiMera.
    STEFANO: Is everything ready for my arrival?
    MARIA: Yes, I spoke with the driver. They've already arrived, and they're ready to take you to the yacht immediately upon your arrival at Elba Island. The ship to Capraia Isola is manned and ready for you to board as well.
    STEFANO: Thank you, my dear.
     
    Maria leaves for her seat, leaving Stefano alone. He thinks to himself about his upcoming plans.
     
    STEFANO: And once I'm on the compound, my plans for Roman Brady will finally be realized.
     
    Stefano sits back in his seat, a sense of comfort washes over him.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl walks back into her motel room, taking her handkerchief off her head and removing her sunglasses. She shakes out her dyed-red hair before flopping down on the edge of her bed, smiling widely.
     
    SHERYL: Well THAT could NOT have gone any better.
     
    Sheryl hears a knock on the door, and gets up, heading for the door. Checking to see who it is, she opens it immediately upon recognizing Jerome through the window.
     
    SHERYL: Come in, come in, come in.
     
    Jerome walks inside, a somewhat shaken look on his face.
     
    JEROME: Hey, how'd it go?
    SHERYL: Better than you could imagine. We have new leverage we can use against Titan if they keep trying to push the oil sands project through.
     
    Jerome looks at Sheryl, surprised and confused.
     
    JEROME: I thought you were done with all that? Isn't time to cut and run and protect yourselves here? That was what this whole disguising yourself as Nurse Crystal Clarke thing was meant to be about. Convince Jordan to leave town with you, and move on with new identities.
    SHERYL: Well...let's just say I had a change of heart after today.
    JEROME: What's that supposed to mean?
     
    Sheryl turns around, positively beaming.
     
    SHERYL: Because whatever vote Titan takes on anything is completely null and void.
     
    Jerome looks at Sheryl, stupefied.
     
    JEROME: What? How?
    SHERYL: Let's just say that...rumours of Brady Black's demise have been greatly exaggerated.
     
    Jerome's eyes widen, as Sheryl starts to laugh at her great fortune.
     
    ---
     
    Nicole turns quickly back to Abby, stunned by what Nick's presented to them.
     
    NICOLE: This is explosive.
     
    Abby nods, stepping toward Nicole, who's still sitting in her computer chair.
     
    ABBY: I know. I was...floored by what was in there.
    NICOLE: This is enough to destroy Titan completely. This is huge, we can't afford any mistakes on this.
    ABBY: I understand.
     
    Nicole gets up from her seat, and prepares to take something from her bag, when Miles bursts into her office, startling Abby and Nicole.
     
    MILES: Nicole! You need to get down to the Town Square right now. Titan's holding a press conference. Looks like it's a big one.
    NICOLE: I'm on it.
     
    Nicole turns to Abby and points at her while giving direction.
     
    NICOLE: I need you to make a list of everyone implicated on that document, and find out who wrote all their press materials. I'll go through the list when I'm back.
    ABBY: Got it.
     
    Abby springs into action, sitting herself down in Nicole's chair, and launching herself into the task, as Nicole packs her bag back up and races out to the press conference.
     
    ---
     

    John steps back into the Town Square, as Nick approaches Tyler near the podium. They engage in a somewhat secretive chat.
     
    NICK: I'm gonna need you to play along with this. I don't think I have to explain why, but you are a crucial part of this handover.
    TYLER: I don't see why I have to be involved in any of this.
    NICK: Need I remind you that your very freedom rests in whether or not you can play nice for the cameras. Unless you want the world to know that you've been running a shell corporation used primarily for money laundering and bankrolling a failing enterprise all this time.
     
    Tyler sighs, looking down as Nick threatens him. Once Nick finishes, Tyler looks up at Nick, and shakes his head.
     
    TYLER: You're in way over your head, kid.
    NICK: No more than you are.
     
    Nick turns to step toward the podium, as Billie returns to the square, having finished her call to Steve. She steps over to John's side. John looks over to her, and she nods, before stepping over to stand with Kate, Lucas, and Justin. Kate, Lucas, and Justin all stand around, looking sombre.
     
    JUSTIN: So...who wants to put money on how long before he's thrown out of the tower by security?
    KATE: Less time than you think.
    LUCAS: That's fascinating, Mom. Especially since you're part of the reason he was made CEO in the first place.
     
    Kate turns to face Lucas, agitation in her tone.
     
    KATE: I had no choice, and you know it.
    LUCAS: Yeah, you keep saying. Too bad we don't know why your hands were tied or we might've been able to change your mind.
    KATE: Ohhh trust me. Lucas, there's no changing my mind. Like I told your sister, I'll still come up trumps on this. Just you wait.
    Lucas, Billie, Kate, and Justin all look up, as Nick steps up to the podium. As he does, Nicole arrives with her cameraman, ready to get the footage from Nick's press conference.
     
    John looks over at Tyler, who stands behind Nick, trying to hide his frustration at this turn of events.
     
    Nick looks out into the crowd, and smiles broadly.
     
    NICK: I think we can get started now. Welcome everybody!
     
    ---
  9. beebs
    EPISODE 139
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    In Marlena's penthouse, Roman walks through the living room, sandwich in hand. He's evidently walked in for a quick bite to eat while on duty.
     
    ROMAN: Thanks, Doc for the sandwich, I'll be back around 7.
     

    He grabs his jacket to quickly put on as he's heading back out to work, when the doorbell rings. Looking back to see if Marlena's headed over or not to answer it, Roman walks over and opens the door to find Eric standing there.
     
    ERIC: Dad! I've got some great news.
     
    Roman looks at Eric, trying to appear upbeat but confused, regardless.
     
    ---
     

    In her motel room, at the edge of Salem's city limit, Sheryl stands in front of Jerome, laughing at her great fortune, as Jerome stands next to her, somewhat less enthused. The TV plays quietly in the background as she and Jerome speak.
     
    JEROME: Brady Black...as in, the guy that drove himself and his girlfriend off an embankment into the lake trying to kill himself and her?
    SHERYL: The very same. And trust me, I know it's him. 
    JEROME: How?
    SHERYL: He's the one I bought our getaway vehicle from, silly. I've got it all planned out. Just need a few things from in town...
     
    Sheryl walks over to the desk, and grabs a notepad and pencil. Quickly jotting down what she needs, Sheryl tears the paper from the pad and hands the list to Jerome.
     
    SHERYL: ...which...I will need you to order for me. Make sure the Salem PD can't track your IP address or you'll have to make a break for it, too.
    JEROME: Duh.
    SHERYL: Anyway, so, knowing that Brady's alive...it means that if we can get the word out that Brady isn't actually dead...the EnerNext project can be delayed if not completely halted.
     
    Jerome sighs, before shaking his head, causing Sheryl to look at him, somewhat alarmed.
     
    SHERYL: What?
    JEROME: You may not need to use that information after all. Not that I'd be able to spill that tea anyway since that makes a clear line between you and me.
    SHERYL: Okay. Still not getting why we may not need it.
     
    Jerome wordlessly points up at the TV, where Nick Fallon appears, giving a press conference. Sheryl looks on, curious, as she quickly grabs the remote and turns the volume up.
     
    Nicole's voice blasts through the TV, giving a preamble to the proceedings.
     
    NICOLE: (via TV) ...Mr. Fallon will be making his address shortly, he is expected to make a major announcement in Titan's name.
     
    ---
     

    Nick stands at the podium at Horton Town Square, where most of the Titan board, as well as Nicole, and various other members of the press, are gathered to hear Nick speak. 
     
    Nicole finishes her report as the rest of the crowd begins to simmer their conversations.
     
    NICOLE: Now, this is unusual for a lab technician to be speaking for a corporate board at his level, but, as we've learned with Titan in recent months, expect the unexpected.
     
    With the TV cameras on, Nick lays on the charm for the masses, as he waits for the crowd to go silent. He leans into the microphone slightly, and begins his speech.
     
    NICK: Today, Titan Industries has a new hope for the future. After months, perhaps, years of struggling in an uncertain economy, we have decided as a company to make a radical change of direction. 
     
    Kate looks on from the crowd, trying not to roll her eyes as she listens to Nick's speech. Billie leans over and whispers to her mother.
     
    BILLIE: Is it too late to sell a chunk of my Titan stock?
    KATE: Honey, if this ship is sinking, we go down together.
     

    As Nick carries on, Anjelica appears from the back of the square. She hangs back, not wanting to be seen by the larger crowd, standing with her head ccovered by a black scarf and dark glasses, as she observes Nick from afar. Nick is still able to spot her, as he carries on in his speech.
     
    NICK: Due to a series of tragedies that have befallen the Kiriakis family in recent weeks, the....board felt it best to appoint someone...more youthful. An outsider with a clear, decisive vision for the company. One who would be willing to make the changes neccessary to carry the company well into the next decade.
     
    Anjelica nods approvingly from her post at the back of the crowd, as Nick looks right at her as he delivers his announcement.
     
    NICK: That person is me.
     
    The crowd buzzes at the announcement, with camera flashes going off, the board members standing around, solemn as Nick looks around from his perch, beaming.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Abby sits at Nicole's computer, working her way through the documents Nick sent her about EnerNext, when Sami steps in.
     

    Abby looks up from the computer, surprised to see Sami.
     
    SAMI: Abby! How's everything?
    ABBY: Good! I uh...I'm just...working on something for Nicole.
    SAMI: I figured. Listen ah...I hope you remember exactly why I'm having you work with Nicole.
     
    Abby looks up from the screen to look at Sami. She sighs.
     
    ABBY: Sami, I'm not....really comfortable with what you were suggesting, I--
     
    Sami interrupts, holding her hands up to stop Abby from continuing.
     
    SAMI: I know. I know. I know, I shouldn't have asked but...(sigh) Nicole's not exactly a model employee. She's incredibly...tricky.
     
    Abby turns away from the computer, giving Sami her entire focus, still sitting in Nicole's chair.
     
    ABBY: Oh, believe me. I know. She and my mom have a hell of a history. But I'm trying to just...let the past stay in the past. She's doing some...really great work on this EnerNext story.
    SAMI: So I've heard. I just want you to tread carefully. If anyone you love is implicated in this story...Nicole...can't be trusted. A lot of people could get caught in the crossfire.
     
    Abby gets up from her seat, walking over toward a frustrated Sami.
     
    ABBY: You're worried about Will, aren't you?
     
    Sami turns around to look at Abby, sternly.
     
    SAMI: Should I be?
     
    ---
     
    Roman steps back to let an excited Eric in. Somewhat awkwardly, he responds.
     
    ROMAN: I...uh...I'm just about to head back to work. Wh...what is it?
    ERIC: Dad, I...well...I just got some really good news about what...what happened with Kristen.
     
    Roman looks at Eric, trying to appear excited but looks almost blankly at Eric, who slowly realizes something's horribly wrong.
     
    ERIC: You don't...you don't know what I'm talking about, do you?
     
    Roman explodes, shouting in a frustrated rage at Eric.
     
    ROMAN: Dammit, would you cut that out? You know, between you and Doc and the rest of the damn family trying to take any opportunity to test my memory. I've had it just about up to here with it!
    ERIC: Dad! Calm down, I was just--
     
    Roman gets right in Eric's face, shaking with rage, as Eric grabs Roman's hands and holds them tightly, trying to stop Roman from physically attacking him.
     
    ROMAN: I WILL NOT CALM DOWN!! You...Dammit, let me GO!
     

    Marlena races over from the opening to the kitchen, worried about the shouting she hears from the living room.
     
    MARLENA: What is going on here? Eric?? Roman? Are you two alright?
     
    Eric and Roman turn to look at a deeply concerned Marlena, who approaches them cautiously.
     
    ---
     
    At Town Square, Nicole's voice cuts through the din of the rabbling crowd, as she asks a question of Nick.
     
    NICOLE: How is it that you, someone with exactly zero experience, have managed to secure the vote to take over Titan?
     
    Nick smiles at Nicole before responding with a phony graciousness to her question.
     
    NICK: I'm glad you asked. Ah...well, you see, the board had to make some tough decisions. It actually brings me to a very important point I need to bring up. See, last night, Titan Industries was targeted by outside forces in a major attempt to breach our computer systems, steal vital corporate information, and destroy our servers. I will be in contact with the Salem PD later today to track down the perpetrator or perpetrators, and make sure they are brought to justice.
     
    Nick clears his throat as he continues, looking directly into Nicole's camera. Nicole takes this opportunity to interject again.
     
    NICOLE: Do you know the name or names of the hackers?
    NICK: I can't speak on that at this time. However, I will say this. The Titan board was grateful to me, as I was the one who discovered that there had been a security breach, and was able to prevent the virus from causing any major damage. Thanks to my efforts, as well as my proposals, which I will be detailing at a later date for the turnaround of Titan Industries, I have been named CEO of Titan, with none other than Tyler Houston as my right hand through the transition period.
     
    Tyler looks on, stunned by the news, he looks over at a shocked Justin, while Nick smiles his trademark smirk as the crowd once again begins to buzz with chatter, as Anjelica, still at the back of the crowd, gives Nick an 'ok' gesture with her hand.
     
    ---
     
    As the press conference plays on TV, Sheryl and Jerome look on, stunned by the news. Sheryl looks on, slack-jawed as her rage builds.
     
    SHERYL: That little BASTARD.
     
    Sheryl looks over at Jerome, whose head twists to meet her gaze. Sheryl speaks to him with intensity, finger pointed at the TV screen.
     
    SHERYL: HE'S the one who stopped the virus. And I'm gonna make that little twerp pay.
     
    ---
  10. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 14
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Theresa lays back in her bed, spent after some wild lovemaking with Brady. She looks up at the ceiling, trying to slow her breathing a bit, before turning to look at Brady. He turns to face her as well, a look of relaxed satisfaction across his face.

    THERESA: You know what confuses me about you?
    BRADY: What's that?
    THERESA: How you can be so much fun, and yet everyone I meet tells me how miserable you supposedly are, and how concerned they are about you.
    BRADY: Why's that confusing? From what I've seen and heard, they do the same damn thing to you.
    THERESA: Yeah, well. I was pretty miserable for a long time. You would be too if you lived with my mom.
    BRADY: Hey, hey, now. Let's not kill the mood. I don't want you to get down and start thinking about all your problems. This here's about the good times, right?

    Theresa looks at Brady with a big smile. She relaxes a bit.

    THERESA: That's right.

    Just then, Theresa gets a text message. She leans over to her bedside table to check it, she texts back quickly, furrowing her brow a bit, then laughing to herself. Brady takes some notice, but doesn't seem especially bothered.

    BRADY: What's that about?
    THERESA: Oh, just a friend of mine in LA. She works for one of those big celebrity news sites, she just sent me something about a singer back there, fell out of a car and flashed everybody. You know, the usual Hollywood drama.
    BRADY; Yep. That sounds about right.

    They have a laugh, before Brady has an idea and turns to Theresa.

    BRADY: I got an idea.
    THERESA: Ooo! What's that?
    BRADY: Well...my friend in Chicago, he's opening up a new club. Sort of an exclusive sorta club thing. He invited me to the grand opening in a couple weeks. How about I take you as my date.
    THERESA: Really? But I don't have anything nice enough for that.
    BRADY: And that's why I would be taking you shopping for it, obviously!
    THERESA: Oh my god, Brady. You are the best!

    Theresa leans over and kisses Brady sensually, Brady kisses back and rolls over on top of her. They're off for Round 2.

    ---

    Nick focuses on his computer. He studies the search results on his screen before stumbling on a link near the bottom of the results page tht catches his eye.

    NICK: Well, well. What is this?...

    The link connects to a news story from an international business site on EnerNext.

    NICK: (mumbling to himself) EnerNext today entered a multi-billion-dollar deal with Greek-American firm Titan Industries. The deal will see thousands of high-paying new jobs created in the energy sector in the upper midwest near Titan's Salem headquarters.

    Nick looks up from his computer, a knowing smile crosses his smarmy face.

    NICK: Gotcha!

    Nick picks up his phone and calls Percy back. Nick's beaming with pride as he speaks into his phone.

    NICK: Percy! I think I've found exactly what we need to bring down the energy company, and everyone else, all in one big fell swoop.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jennifer sits in Daniel's office, visibly upset by the revelation that his fling with Nicole was another lie.

    DANIEL: Look, Jenn, it was for a good reason, I swear. We just...we needed to make sure Eric accepted our help, and he wouldn't knowing that Nicole was in love with him.

    Jennifer almost bounces out of her chair, she stands up suddenly to face Daniel, she steps towards in him, pointing angrily at him, which intimidates him a bit. He backs up as she advances.

    JENNIFER: Oh, and that's supposed to make it all better! I'm supposed to just forgive all the months of lies and the feeling that you were spiting me by hooking up with not just Theresa, but the woman who threw herself down a flight of stairs just so she could frame me for her baby's death? All so she could get me out of the picture? I mean, have you completely lost your mind, Daniel?
    DANIEL: Jenn, I thought we were past all this stuff with Nicole.
    JENNIFER: Well, we would have been if you hadn't moved her in and made out like you were the hot new couple of Salem.
    DANIEL: Okay, it's not like we were out all over town parading this great romance in your face or anything, but we had--
    JENNIFER: You had to make it convincing. I know.

    Jennifer cools off a bit before continuing.

    JENNIFER: Look, I want to forgive you, I really do. I mean, you did all this for all the right reasons. But you hurt me so much for so long, Daniel. It's been too long, it's too late. I'm sorry.

    Daniel stands back. He looks at the ceiling and tries to breathe, as Jenn walks out, fighting back tears that have come back. As Jenn closes the door behind her, she breaks down in tears. Inside, Daniel can be heard, throwing a small vase of flowers across the room, shattering them. He screams out in pain.

    DANIEL: Dammit!

    Jenn can hear him from outside, as she sobs, slowly breaking down in tears against his door.

    ---

    Sami stands in Nicole's office doorway, arms folded. Nicole is behind her desk. Irritated that Sami is there at all.

    NICOLE: Security needs to be tightened around here, I think.
    SAMI: Probably. I mean, how'd you get in here, anyway?
    NICOLE: My God, you're hilarious! You should take that show on the road.

    Nicole stands up from her chair, pauses a moment, waiting for Sami to say something. When she doesn't, she gestures in confused frustration.

    NICOLE: What exactly are you doing here anyway?
    SAMI: I've come to give you a warning.
    NICOLE: Oh this oughta be good.

    Nicole sits back down in her office chair, throws her hands out the sides, with a ready smile.

    NICOLE: Alright, Sami. Let me have it.

    Sami begins to slowly walk towards Nicole's desk, pointing her finger at Nicole angrily.

    SAMI: You can make light of this all you want, but you're the reason my brother's out of the priesthood, and you know it.
    NICOLE: Oh here we go--
    SAMI: You manipulated him into this. That's all you've been doing this entire year. And now you're here, sitting back all smug and satisfied, because you finally got what you wanted. But I'm here to tell you, Nicole. That's not gonna last. Your true colours are gonna come out real soon, and my brother's gonna see you for the cold-hearted bitch you really are.

    Sami is now leaning against Nicole's desk, shooting daggers at Nicole. Nicole still sits back in her chair, appearing unfazed. She slowly begins to clap as loud as possible.

    NICOLE: Bravo, Sami! Bravo! What a performance. But it's not gonna make me crack. And your brother is mine. And that's how it's gonna stay. Got it?

    ---

    Lucas steps into Club TBD. He sits down at a table with work files. Sheryl walks in not long after. She spots Lucas and smiles broadly at him. Lucas nods to her formally, with his usual slightly annoyed look. Sheryl isn't sure how to respond, but approches him anyway after ordering herself a coffee.

    SHERYL: Lucas! How are you?
    LUCAS: Sheryl.
    SHERYL: Lucas. What's...what's going on? Why are you so...uptight?
    LUCAS: Is that really any way to talk to your boss, Sheryl?
    SHERYL: Lucas, what's up with you?
    LUCAS: Look, I don't think...

    Lucas realizes he's doing exactly what Kate told him not to do and begins to backtrack.

    LUCAS:(begins speaking quietly) I don't think we should be quite so...open about spending time together. People might talk, okay?
    SHERYL: O...kay?
    LUCAS: Look, I just...I don't want to rock the boat, okay? You're new, I want everyone to be comfortable with you at work. I don't want people spreading any gossip, you know?
    SHERYL: That's really sweet of you, but everyone's been more than gracious at work.
    LUCAS: Well, that's good to hear.

    Lucas looks back at his paperwork, Sheryl's brow furrows at his inattentiveness. She sits down in response, looking Lucas straight in the eye, trying to catch his attention.

    SHERYL: Hello? Earth to Lucas. What's bugging you? I can totally tell something's up.

    Lucas thinks back to Kate informing him of Sheryl's true identity. He snaps back to reality.

    LUCAS: Alright. I'll tell you. It's you.

    ---

    Gabi is sitting on a park bench alone, thinking on her nightmares about Nick, flashing back to the night he attempted to rape her. She gets incredibly tense at the thought of it, and at that same moment, a hand rests on her shoulder. Gabi is jolted back to reality and is shocked.

    GABI: NICK! Get off me!

    Gabi blurts this out, not realizing who's behind her is actually Nick. Nick is shocked by Gabi's outburst. Gabi looks his way, terror in her eyes.

    ---
  11. beebs
    EPISODE 140
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Sami glares at Abby as they stand in Nicole's office at WXIR. Abby looks on, somewhat uncomfortable by the position Sami is putting her in, and stands with her arms folded.
     
    SAMI: Well? Should I be worried that this report is going to implicate Will?
     
    Abby sighs, dropping her arms to her side in frustration.
     
    ABBY: Sami--
    SAMI: I think I have a right to know. My son took a job at Titan, and no, I'm not happy about it, but I am still going to protect him.
     
    Abby responds, looking away thoughtfully.
     
    ABBY: I understand that. I would...(sigh) I would want the same for my child.
    SAMI: Then, as your boss, I should tell you that if Will is involved in this EnerNext mess in any way...you will keep his name out of Nicole's report.
     
    Abby looks at Sami, struggling to answer.
     
    ---
     

    Daniel stands at the nurses' station at University Hospital, as Kim approaches him, a look of concern on her face.
     
    KIM: Daniel!
     
    Daniel turns around with a start, looking pleasantly at Kim.
     
    DANIEL: Kim! Hey! I'm glad you're here.
    KIM: Well, I heard there was some news about Theresa and I headed straight down.
    DANIEL: Yeah...
     
    Kim's brow furrows as she questions Daniel's peculiar reaction.
     
    KIM: It's good news right?
     
    Daniel struggles to give Kim an answer, causing Kim to look even more concerned.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena walks into her living room, surprised and worried, as Roman and Eric look over at her.
     
    MARLENA: Eric!
     
    Eric looks at Marlena, respondingly politely but coldly.
     
    ERIC: Mom.
     
    Marlena, unsure how to approach the situation, looks over at Roman as she continues to approach.
     
    MARLENA: Roman...what is going on? Are you alright?
     
    Roman relaxes somewhat, but is still deeply frustrated. He turns, and, without looking at Marlena, begins to walk away.
     
    ROMAN: Yeah. Fine. I'm gonna head out.
     
    Roman grabs his jacket, but Marlena tries to stop him.
     
    MARLENA: Roman. ROMAN! Where are you going?
     
    Unable to stop Roman from leaving, Roman quickly responds before walking out and closing the door.
     
    ROMAN: To work!
     
    As the door slams shut, Marlena winces, and Eric looks over at the closed door. He looks back at Marlena, suddenly worried, but trying to hide it.
     
    ERIC: Mom, I'm sorry. I...
     
    Marlena interrupts, overwhelmed and angry. Unable to stay calm anymore, she grabs Eric's arm, forcing him to look her in the eye.
     
    MARLENA: Eric, what did you say to him?
     
    Eric meets Marlena's stare, confused and surprised.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Eric pulls away from his mother, looking away after a moment of intensity between them.
     
    ERIC: I didn't say anything. I realized he didn't remember me or the entire Kristen fiasco and he...he lost it.
     
    Marlena stops a moment, before turning back to Eric, a bit confused.
     
    MARLENA: Kristen?
    ERIC: Yes, Kristen. The whole mess that YOU helped create.
     
    Marlena stops herself, looking down partly in shame and partly to cool her misplaced anger.
     
    MARLENA: I know.
    ERIC: I came here to give you both news about it, in case you're wondering.
     
    Marlena looks up, intrigued.
     
    MARLENA: Oh?
     
    Eric nods, remaining cold and sombre, not quite able to look Marlena in the eye.
     
    ERIC: (sigh) Yeah. A package came in the mail for me after Nicole and I got home from City Hall.
     
    Eric reaches over to the sideboard where he'd placed the envelope containing the Chyka files. He hands them to Marlena, who immediately pulls them out, looking them over in an increasingly excited way.
     
    MARLENA: Oh my...Oh my God, Eric! This is the evidence you needed! Oh HONEY!
     
    Marlena lurches forward, hugging Eric tightly, causing him to tense up, before gently forcing Marlena from her hug.
     
    ERIC: Mom. Please.
    MARLENA: Wh--Eric, I'm sorry.
    ERIC: Just...don't right now. After the stunt you and Sami pulled today, just...don't. I came here to tell you the news, that's all.
     
    Marlena reaches out to stop Eric before he leaves.
     
    MARLENA: No. Eric, stop. 
     
    Eric stops in his tracks, rolling his eyes and sighing as he turns back to face his mom.
     
    ERIC: Mom, I don't have time for this, I--
    MARLENA: This, this will just take a second. I need to know what this means for you and...you and the priesthood.
     
    Eric looks to Marlena, as Marlena waits impatiently for his answer.
     
    ---
     

    Nick stands behind the podium at the press conference in Horton Town Square, gesturing for Tyler to step forward and join him at the podium. Once Tyler does, very reluctantly, step forward, Nick continues his announcement.
     
    NICK: Mr. Houston here has been a major help to me in not only tracking down these hackers, but also with giving me the...confidence to put my name in the ring to lead this company. With his help, and my vision, I firmly believe that Titan will be a successful power player into the coming decade and beyond. Thank you, everyone.
     
    Tyler grabs Nick's arm and pulls him aside just out of the earshot of the microphones, as the press begin to buzz furiously within seconds of Nick's speech ending.
     
    Tyler looks at Nick, enraged.
     
    TYLER: What the HELL do you think you're doing?
     
    Nick laughs softly, giving Tyler a shrug.
     
    NICK: I thought you'd be thrilled. I keep your secret, you help me fullfil my goals.
    TYLER: And what if I don't. I have no loyalty to you, kid.
    NICK: Then I guess you'd better develop a loyalty to the colour orange. Cos' that's the only colour you'll be wearing if you back out now.
     
    Nick quickly looks Tyler up and down, before chuckling to himself.
     
    NICK: ...Nah. Not your colour.
     
    Nick walks away, heading out of the square, leaving Tyler behind, incredulous. Justin approaches him, his eyes trained on Nick. Justin puts a hand on Tyler's shoulder.
     
    JUSTIN: Something tells me that appointment wasn't exactly a mutual decision.
    TYLER: You'd be right. And it's not going to happen, either. Excuse me.
     
    Tyler walks off, following Nick out of the town square.
     
    ---
     
    Daniel and Kim step into Theresa's room. It's dark, and the only sound is the beep of the heart monitor, as a comatose Theresa lays in the bed.
    Kim looks down lovingly at her daughter, as she holds Theresa's hand. Daniel looks over at Theresa before he begins.
     
    DANIEL: I have reason believe she may be starting to...come out of the coma.
     
    Kim looks on surprised and thrilled by the news, but it's immediately tempered by Daniel, as he interjects to stop her from reacting.
     
    KIM: Oh my--
    DANIEL: Wait...Kim, there's something else you need to know.
     
    Kim's face drops as she moves from excitement to panic.
     
    KIM: What? Is something wrong? Wh-what's happening?
    DANIEL: She's...we...okay, I don't mean to alarm you, it's...it's likely nothing, but, I noticed something in her chart, I' ve never seen it before. Coma patients don't tend to start emerging from their coma and then immediately drop back into it...not unless they're being induced into it.
     
    Kim clutches Theresa's hand, increasingly worried, as Daniel tries to keep calm.
     
    KIM: Well you're not inducing the coma, obviously. I mean, that's...that doesn't make sense.
    DANIEL: You're right. And we aren't.
     
    Kim looks over at the door, then Daniel, confused and increasingly frustrated.
     
    KIM: Well, then, I don't get it, I...I mean you have the door guarded, they would've seen anyone who's been coming in or out of here, they'dve had to. We're trying to keep Billie out, so...
     
    Daniel looks away for a moment, sighing, as he tries to keep Kim from digging any deeper.
     
    DANIEL: Yes...it's just been me, you, and the nurses. That's all, I promise you.
    KIM: So, then, I don't understand, Daniel. Are you saying one of the nurses could be drugging my daughter?
     
    Daniel sighs, unsure whether to tell Kim or not.
     
    ---
     
    Abby folds her arms, as she furrows her brow, frustrated by Sami's interference.
     
    ABBY: Sami, I can't force Nicole's hand. She's going to see right through me if I do that.
    SAMI: Find a way, Abby. 
    ABBY: It's not that easy.
    SAMI: I'm sorry, who's your boss here?
     
    Abby sighs, dropping her arms to the side, and tensing her hands into fists, as she stops herself from shouting at Sami.
     
    ABBY: If I suppress information about this story to protect Will or anybody else, for that matter, I might as well kiss my career goodbye. We have journalistic standards to adhere to.
    SAMI: Let me handle that. Just keep Will out of it.
     
    Abby throws her hands up, exasperated. After a moment, she argues back.
     
    ABBY: Look, Will's name probably won't even be important enough to mention on air.
    SAMI: Like Hell it won't be. He wrote all their press releases.
    ABBY: So we may have to speak with him to get more information. Look, Sami, I honestly don't think Will is the one you should be worried about right now.
     
    Sami folds her arms, raising an eyebrow as she looks at Abby incredulously.
     
    SAMI: Oh really? And just who should I be worried about?
    ABBY: Nick. 
     
    As Abby says this, Nicole opens the door to her office, not hiding her irritation at Sami's presence.
     
    NICOLE: Abby's right. You should worry about Nick.
     
    Nicole looks over to Abby, exhausted, and worried.
     
    NICOLE: He just declared himself CEO of Titan Industries.
     
    Sami looks back at Nicole, jaw dropped, as Abby's eyes widen, looking over to Sami with the same surprised face.
     
    ---
  12. beebs
    EPISODE 141
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Nicole steps into her office at WXIR, shutting the door behind her, as Sami and Abby look on in shock.
     
    SAMI: I'm sorry...what did you say?
    NICOLE: Nick just held a press conference, and announced to the world that he is now the CEO of Titan Industries. So, hey, at least you can take solace in knowing that at least ONE thing is going your way today, right, Sami?
     
    Sami rolls her eyes, as Abby looks on, somewhat confused.
     
    ABBY: Why? What happened?
    NICOLE: Well, I wasn't gonna say anything but...Eric and I got married today.
     
    Abby lights up, surprised, and pleased for Nicole.
     
    ABBY: Wow! Oh my God! Congratulations!
     
    Nicole looks on, less excited than Abby.
     
    NICOLE: Yeah! I was real excited until THIS ONE decided to crash the party! Brought her mom too to REALLY rub the salt in!
     
    Abby's face freezes, as she looks over Sami's way. Sami grimaces, with her arms folded. Nicole gives a sarcastic grin to emphasize her displeasure.
     
    ---
     

    Maggie walks into Victor's hospital room, closely watching her husband as he lays comatose in his bed, still recovering from his heart attack.
     
    She looks on lovingly, as she steps toward him. Gently speaking to him as though he were awake.
     
    MAGGIE: Victor. It's me. Maggie.
     
    After a moment, she pulls up a chair and sits down beside his bed. She smiles though she's tearing up slightly.
     
    MAGGIE: I hope you can hear me. I hope you know I'm here. They say...that coma patients can hear people in the room. And I'm really hoping my voice will help you. 
     
    Maggie takes Victor's hand in hers, and pulls it up to her lips, gently kissing it.
     
    MAGGIE: We need you back, Victor.
     
    ---
     

    Eric stands in Marlena's penthouse, sighing in frustration at being put on the spot by his mom.
     
    ERIC: Mom, I...
    MARLENA: Eric, you loved your vocation so much. Being a priest meant everything to you. Wouldn't you at least want the world to know that you were a victim of a...vicious sociopath? Don't you want to clear your name?
     
    Eric snaps at his mom, before stepping back a bit, hoping not to escalate things between them further.
     
    ERIC: Of course I do! I just...
    MARLENA: Just what? Eric, don't tell me you're giving up everything you worked so hard for for Nicole.
    ERIC: Can we not...make this another attack against Nicole? Please?
     
    Marlena steps back from Eric, trying to keep her cool despite her visceral frustration at Eric's weakness for Nicole.
     
    MARLENA: Yes. I'm sorry.
     
    Eric remains calm, but speaks firmly with Marlena, which Marlena silently accepts.
     
    ERIC: Look, Mom, I'm not interested in going down that road right now. I struggled with what happened with Kristen for a long time, and I finally got the answers I needed. I'm going to tell the public what really happened, but when I do, it will be when I am ready. I can't do this on your schedule...and I'm certainly not going back into the priesthood, even if I am accepted back.
     
    Marlena looks down, disappointed.
     
    MARLENA: I wish you'd reconsider.
    ERIC: I know this hurts you, but I am happy with Nicole. I am happy to be married to her. And I'm not going to give up that happiness, not for anything.
     
    Marlena tries to hold her sadness and disappointment in, but can't help but tear up a bit.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Daniel and Kim stand in Theresa's hospital room. Kim looks horrified as Daniel looks down, contemplating how to relay his news to Kim.
     
    DANIEL: Kim, no one is drugging your daughter. Okay? I promise you. No one unauthorized is visiting her. My only concern is that she's emerging from her coma irregularly. That tells me that there's more complications in her recovery than I initially realized.
     
    Kim looks up at Daniel, squinting a bit as she mulls over whether or not she believes him. She slowly nods, before taking Theresa's hand in hers, and squeezing it gently, as she watches over her, lovingly.
     
    KIM: I know...I know it's a miracle that she's even alive. I mean...considering how badly she was injured in the ac--the crash. 
     
    Kim stops herself, looking up at Daniel, suddenly becoming very stoic, trying to hold herself together.
     
    KIM: I know you and Brady are family, but I really struggle with what he did to my daughter. And I am finding it really hard to forgive him. I don't mean to sound cruel but...sometimes I'm...
     
    Kim stops herself from speaking out of spite. Daniel stands silent, acknowledging Kim's pain. He nods slowly as she expresses her anger in a subdued, controlled way.
     
    KIM: You know...it's hard to forgive a lot of people. Because a lot of people have a hand to play in how my sweet little Jeannie ended up like this.
     
    Kim begins to tear up, as she fails to hold it together. Never shouting, Kim overflows nonetheless with emotions.
     
    KIM: She struggled so hard. And... and the worst part is, the person I have the hardest time forgiving...(sigh) is me. 
     
    Kim wipes away tears, as she walks out of the hospital room, leaving Daniel behind with Theresa.
     
    KIM: Excuse me.
     
    Kim steps outside, closing the door behind her, as she struggles to compose herself. Daniel, still in the room, stares at Theresa, as her lifeless body lays in her hospital bed, her progress ever-stagnant.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena stands, facing away from Eric, hoping to hide her tears from her son. Eric knows better, and walks up behind her, putting his hands on her shoulders to try to comfort her.
     
    ERIC: Mom. Mom, I'm sorry. I know how proud you were of me being a priest. But...
     
    Marlena turns around with a start, speaking emphatically, as she touches Eric's face.
     
    MARLENA: No, no, no, you don't...Eric, I don't want you to think for a second I'm not proud of you every minute of every day. Eric, you're a wonderful, compassionate man who gives so much of himself every day. You don't need to be a priest to give back to this world.
     
    Marlena takes Eric's hands in hers, then looks up at her son, proudly.
     
    MARLENA: No matter what way you choose to take your life...I will accept it. 
     
    Marlena gives a cheeky smile as she struggles to hold in a laugh.
     
    MARLENA: I may not like the direction you're going (laughs)...but I always accept your decisions. I trust you to know what's best for you.
    ERIC: Thanks, Mom.
     
    Marlena pulls Eric into a hug, suddenly overcome with emotion. She closes her eyes as she embraces Eric tightly.
     
    MARLENA: Ohhh Eric, I love you so much.
    ERIC: I love you too, Mom. Love you too.
     
    Eric looks off, a wistful smile on his face as he holds his mom in his arms, feeling a sense of true comfort.
     
    ---
     
    Sami gives Nicole sideeye as Nicole steps over toward her desk, trading places with Abby.
     
    SAMI: You know, I really didn't want to crash your little party either, Nicole. But when I found out you were getting married, I had to stop my brother from making a huge mistake.
    NICOLE: Right. The huge mistake being me. We get it, Sami. You hate me. Can we stop pretending you're keeping me here because you respect my talents? 
     
    Sami puts a hand on her hip, annoyed by Nicole's accusation, and expecting another glib response.
     
    SAMI: Okay Nicole. Tell me, since you know everything. Why am I keeping you here?
    NICOLE: To keep an eye on me. Make sure I don't step outta line. 
     
    Nicole laughs to herself, as she shakes her head. Abby stands off to one side, increasingly uncomfortable being in the room with the two adversaries.
     
    NICOLE: You know, ever since you took over Titan TV, I've been wondering exactly why you didn't fire me right away. And now I get it. You know the old saying: Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer? You're a master at that! That's why you made Abigail my assistant, isn't it? She's your little spy, isn't she, Sami?
     
    Abby tries to interject, trying to refute Nicole's claim, but can barely get a word in edgewise.
     
    ABBY: I...wait, for the record, I--
    SAMI: Oh come on, Nicole. If I had that kind of time to micromanage our local station's what...third-most recognized reporter? I really don't think I'd get much work done.
    NICOLE: You're right. You don't get much work done. Just like I'm not getting much work done arguing with you. So, if you'll excuse me, your spy and I have an extremely important piece to complete for tomorrow's newscast. So you need to leave.
     
    Sami prepares to leave, when Nicole holds up a finger, leaving Sami with a final thought.
     
    NICOLE: But just remember something, Sami. If you even think of firing me for marrying Eric, I will slap DiMera with a lawsuit so fast, you won't have time to pack your crap up before they kick you out of your office. Got it?
     
    Sami sighs, folding her arms as she gives a knowing look to Abby, who tries to very subtly shrug as her eyes widen. 
     
    SAMI: Fine. I'll go.
     
    Sami walks out of Nicole's office, with a parting shot.
     
    SAMI: But just for the record, Nicole. If I find out you did ANYTHING to hurt my brother, you WILL be out on your ass faster than you can say "annullment", let alone spell it. 
     
    Sami gives an almost saccharine smile, as she gives a sarcastic parrellel retort to Nicole, her eyes shooting daggers her way.
     
    SAMI: Got it?
     
    Sami steps out of the office, slamming the door behind her with a casual but brisk motion. Abby and Nicole look at each other, Abby looking very uncomfortable, and Nicole looking exasperated, and relieved to have Sami gone.
     
    ---
     
    Maggie holds on tightly to Victor's hand, as she suddenly feels a bit of pressure back on her hand. Taking a moment to loosen her grip, she feels Victor tighten his around her hand, as Victor's heart monitor begins to pace up sligthly. 
     
    Gently wiping away tears, Maggie laughs through the tears, as Victor begins to stir. She smiles as Victor begins to open his eyes. 
    Groggy, he looks at Maggie and, almost silently, calls out to her.
     
    VICTOR: Maggie...
     
    Maggie, hearing her name, breaks down in tears of joy, holding her husband's hand as he comes to.
     
    MAGGIE: Victor! You're back!
     
    ---
  13. beebs
    EPISODE 142
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     
    Roman walks into his office at the Salem PD, and looks the room over, suddenly feeling foreign to him.
     
    After a moment of inspecting everything, his desk, the window to outside, the picture of his family from years ago, he sets the framed picture down on the desk face down, and looks the room over once again. 
     

    His eye turns to the door as Kate walks in, briskly.
     
    KATE: I'm sorry I'm late, but I had to be in the square for Nick's press conference.
     
    Kate puts her clutch down on the table, oblivious to Roman's confused state, she throws her hands in the air in frustration.
     
    KATE: There's just...so much going on the last few days, I need to get you up to speed. For instance, when are we going to get Jordan and Sheryl's arrest warrants out, and how much evidence do you need to pro--
     
    Kate stops upon turning toward Roman, who looks on at her, confused.
     
    KATE: Roman. Are you alright?
     
    Roman looks back at Kate with a blank expression.
     
    ---
     

    Adrienne walks briskly into the Kiriakis living room, dropping her shopping bags on the sofa, before calling out as loudly as possible in the hopes that someone is home.
     
    ADRIENNE: ALEX?? NOELLE! MAGGIE?
     

    Alex walks in casually from the hallway heading into the kitchen, a curious expression on his face as he pops a blueberry in his mouth.
     
    ALEX: Adrienne? What's up? You look like you've seen a ghost.
    ADRIENNE: Yeah, you could say that. I quite literally just ran into your mother in Town Square.
     
    Alex swallows hard, an uncomfortable look on his face.
     
    ---
     

    Maggie sits beside Victor's hospital bed. Victor having just emerged from his coma. Victor manages a weak smile as he gently squeezes her hand.
     
    MAGGIE: Victor! You're awake!
     
    Victor barely peeps out a sound, as he remains incredibly weak.
     
    VICTOR: Maggie. Wh...where am I?
    MAGGIE: At University Hospital, darling. You've been in a coma for a number of weeks now.
     
    Victor looks around, sighing as he realizes what's happened. Maggie, eager to see Victor's progress continue, gets up, heading excitedly for the door.
     
    MAGGIE: I'm going to go get Daniel to come check up on you. 
    VICTOR: Mag...
     
    Victor reaches out for a moment before his weak body gives in. Struggling to keep his eyes open, Victor sighs in frustration as Maggie heads out of the room.


    Outside Victor's hospital room, Tyler emerges from the elevator. Maggie walks over to him.
     
    TYLER: Maggie!
    MAGGIE: Oh, Tyler! I'm so glad you're here. 
    TYLER: What is it?
     
    Maggie puts a hand on Tyler's shoulder, and smiles warmly.
     
    MAGGIE: It's Victor. He's awake.
     
    Tyler looks back at Maggie with a mix of happiness, and of dread.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Will races to the door of his apartment to stop the frantic knocking at the front door.
     

    Opening it, he finds Sami, who bursts into the apartment in an enraged frenzy. Will tries to cool Sami down, pressing a finger to his lips to motion her to keep quiet.
     
    SAMI: Thank God you're here.
    WILL: SHH! Ari's having a nap!
     
    Sami stops herself for a second, resting against the edge of the armchair in the living room, as Will walks quickly over to close Ari's bedroom door.
     
    SAMI: Sorry.
    WILL: What was so urgent?
    SAMI: Where's Gabi?
     
    Will stumbles over his words, thrown off by Sami's lack of focus. He responds firmly without shouting.
     
    WILL: Gabi's at the corner store grabbing milk. What is the problem?
    SAMI: Well, for one, you have a new boss.
     
    Will looks confused, furrowing his brow.
     
    WILL: What do you mean?
    SAMI: I mean Nick Fallon just staged a coup to take over Titan, and if you're not careful, he's got enough on you to ruin your entire career before it even begins.
     
    Will's jaw drops at the stunning news of Nick's ascent.
     
    ---
     
    Alex stands in the Kiriakis living room, watching an on-edge Adrienne pace behind the sofa, while he continues to munch on his blueberries.
     
    ADRIENNE: So she basically just...invited herself to dinner, which, of course, I turned her down, but...not that THAT would ever stop her...
    ALEX: Well, I think she should come to dinner.
     
    Adrienne stops in her tracks, looking incredulously at Alex.
     
    ADRIENNE: Alexander Kiriakis, are you serious?
     
    Alex looks at Adrienne and shrugs at the idea.
     
    ALEX: I don't see why not. Look at it this way, if she comes to dinner tonight, it'll probably pacify her and we won't have to have her asking me to stay here while she's in town.
    ADRIENNE: Alex, that's exactly why I DON'T want her coming to dinner. You know full well she's going to use that dinner invitation to guilt you into letting her stay for however many days she claims she'll be in town, and before you've even shown her what room she's staying in, she'll have her entire campaign team set up in the dining room!
     
    A voice calls out from behind them, causing both Alex and Adrienne to turn toward the entrance to the living room.
     
    NOELLE: Well, I guess that answers my question on how everyone feels about having company for dinner tonight, then?
     

    Noelle walks into the room, hands on hips, with a wry smile. Adrienne looks on, unimpressed, while Alex seems...uncertain, looking back at Adrienne before turning back to look at his wife.
     
    ---
     
    Kate steps over to Roman, putting a hand on his shoulder out of concern. Roman fidgets at Kate's touch.
     
    KATE: Roman...
    ROMAN: Just stop...I'm sorry. I haven't had much of a chance to look into this the last few days.
     
    Kate looks over at Roman, shocked by his uncharacteristic lack of attention, as Roman sits down behind his desk.
     
    KATE: I...I don't get it. You knew this was a huge case, Roman. I put my relationships with my kids, with...with Rafe...I put that on hold for this. All to see justice done. And with all the...chaos that's been going down between the virus and...Nick taking over Titan, you...Roman, are you okay?
     
    Roman snaps at Kate, taking her aback.
     
    ROMAN: Dammit, Kate, I'm fine! I can't even have a cup of coffee in the morning without someone asking me what's going on here at Anderson and how I'm gonna take care of this, and I'll tell you, since Bob died, it's been absolute chaos.
     
    Kate looks at Roman, confused and stunned.
     
    KATE: Anderson? Wh...what are you talking about?
     
    ---
     
    Tyler stumbles over his words, stunned by the news that Victor's awakened from his coma.
     
    TYLER: Y...You're sure?
     
    Maggie looks on, excitedly, almost bouncing as she speaks with joy.
     
    MAGGIE: Yes! Isn't it terrific news? I mean...he's...I'll admit, very groggy. I think it's gonna take some time before he's fully awake but...oh this is such good news. I'm going to have to tell the family, but...first I need to get ahead of Daniel. Excuse me.
     
    TYLER: Certainly.
     
    Tyler watches Maggie run off to speak to the nurses in hopes of tracking Daniel down, before looking over toward Victor's room. He slowly walks over, peering inside the room as he gently pushes the door open.
     
    Looking back again as Maggie runs off to find Daniel, Tyler steps into Victor's room.
     
    Victor, still barely revived, gently turns his head to see who's come in. Barely audible, he chokes out a greeting.
     
    VICTOR: H...Houston.
     
    Shutting the door behind him, Tyler slowly walks toward Victor's side. He speaks softly,but with urgency.
     
    TYLER: Victor. It's good to see you awake.
    VICTOR: ...It's....it's good to see you...at all.
     
    Tyler chuckles to himself, before his face drops again, sighing as he continues.
     
    TYLER: Victor...I don't mean to hit you with bad news so soon after you've come to, but...we have a...we have a situation at Titan.
     
    Victor looks at Tyler, his expression unchanging, but with a tension in his face that wasn't there a moment before.
     
    VICTOR: Wh...what kind of situation?
    TYLER: It's Nick Fallon. He blackmailed the board into making him CEO.
     
    Victor turns his head slowly, looking up at the ceiling. He closes his eyes for a moment and curses, barely above a whisper.
     
    VICTOR: Damn. 
     
    Victor turns his head back toward Tyler, their eyes locking in a serious gaze.
     
    VICTOR: Make him pay...for this.
     
    ---
  14. beebs
    EPISODE 143
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Brady walks into the living room at Anita's cabin. Stepping over to the computer, he moves the mouse slightly, triggering the computer to wake up from its dormant state. He calls out to Anita, who is in the next room.
     
    BRADY: Anita! I'm just gonna pull down the ad for the truck, alright?!
     

    Anita calls back from the other room, the sound somewhat muffled.
     
    ANITA: What was that?!
     
    Sitting down with a soda in hand, he looks at the screen, and has to hold himself back from spitting out a mouthful when he reads the news on the screen:
     
    BREAKING: Nick Fallon declares self CEO of Titan Industries
     
    Brady sets his drink down before he spills it, his hands shaking.
     
    Anita steps into the room, about to repeat herself when she sees a distressed Brady looking at the computer screen.
     
    ANITA: Wh...Brady?
     
    Brady quickly turns around to face Anita, getting up from the desk chair. He points at the computer monitor, stunned and angry.
     
    BRADY: What is this? Why do you have this page open? Wh...did you see this??
     
    Anita looks on, puzzled by Brady's strong reaction.
     
    ---
     
     
    Sami stands in Will, Gabi, and Sonny's apartment, trying to hold in her panic, as Will stands before her, stunned by the news she's just given him.
     
    WILL: I'm sorry. Nick just took over Titan?
    SAMI: Yep! You've got a new boss. Congratulations.
     
    Will sighs, frustrated by the turn of events.
     
    WILL: Wh...well how did he manage that?
    SAMI: The only way that little worm knows how to accomplish anything in life. Blackmail.
     
    ---
     

    Billie sits in the hospital cafeteria, taking a sip of coffee while she reads a book. After taking a sip, she realizes the foul taste of the coffee, spitting it quickly back into her cup and pushing it away, as Daniel walks in.
     
    DANIEL: Hey, I got your text.
     
    Billie gets up upon hearing Daniel's voice, wrapping her arms around him and giving him a soft kiss on the lips. They talk while gazing into each other's eyes, their voices growing softer and more sultry with every sentence.
     
    BILLIE: Mmm, good. I just was waiting here while you finished up your shift. You all done? I could use a little...soft music and a nice dinner after the day I've had.
    DANIEL: Oh yeah?
    BILLIE: Yeah.
    DANIEL: Well, I think I could be persuaded. On one condition though.
     
    Billie looks at Daniel, mockingly giving him attitude, but unable to hold in a laugh as she does.
     
    BILLIE: (laugh) Okay.
    DANIEL: I get to take you back to my place first and work up an appetite.
     
    Billie can barely finish her sentence as she begins to kiss Daniel more and more sensually.
     
    BILLIE: Mmm, okay, that's a condition I think I could live with. But I got a condition for you if you want some personal time with me.
     
    Daniel laughs slightly as he gives Billie another quick kiss. He continues, resting his forehead against Billie's as his arms wrap around her waist.
     
    DANIEL: Heh, okay. I'll bite. What's my condition.
    BILLIE: Make me a better pot of coffee, and I'll be putty in your hands.
     
    Daniel laughs heartily, as Billie cracks up a bit herself. 
     
    DANIEL: Deal.
     

    Billie smiles as she wraps her arms around Daniel's neck, pulling him into another kiss, as Maggie bursts into the cafeteria, catching Daniel and Billie off guard.
     
    MAGGIE: Daniel! I'm so glad I found you!
     
    Daniel and Billie pull away from each other, as they turn to Maggie, concerned.
     
    DANIEL: Mom, what is it?
     
    Maggie beams with the news she shares with them.
     
    MAGGIE: It's Victor. He's awake! He's finally awake!
     
    Daniel turns quickly to look at an equally surprised Billie.
     
    ---
     

    Victor looks on from his hospital bed, too weak to really react to Tyler.
     
    VICTOR: Nick...Nick Fallon?
     
    Tyler stands next to Victor's bed, arms folded, as he softly nods.
     
    TYLER: Yeah. He called everyone to a board meeting and handed out little envelopes, detailing all the dirty little secrets he knows that the board doesn't want publicized and voila! Everyone cowtows to him.
    VICTOR: H...how the Hell did you let this happen?
    TYLER: It's a long story, Victor. All I need to know for now is...do you want me to take care of him, or shall I sit on this until you've been released?
     
    Victor sighs, looking stoically at Tyler as he mulls over his options regarding Nick.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Adrienne and Alex stand in the living room in the Kiriakis house. Adrienne is shocked, as Noelle has just walked in, making a crack about inviting Anjelica to dinner.
     
    ALEX: Noelle. Tell me you didn't...
    NOELLE: Didn't what? Invite your mother to dinner? Of course I did.
     
    Adrienne rolls her eyes dramatically, displeased with this turn of events.
     
    ADRIENNE: Great.
    NOELLE: What?! I heard she was in town for her campaign, she called me earlier while you were out because, big surprise, she couldn't get ahold of Alex. I mean, she certainly wasn't gonna call you or Justin, was she, Adrienne?
     
    Adrienne stands with her arms folded. She sighs audibly before responding to Noelle, sulking.
     
    ADRIENNE: I guess not.
    NOELLE: So...there you go. What am I gonna do? Tell her 'no'? She'd kill me!
     
    Adrienne guffaws dismissively at Noelle, as she turns to walk away.
     
    ADRIENNE: You have no idea how right you are about that--
     
    Alex steps in, trying to stop things from escalating, as Adrienne tries to stand her ground.
     
    ALEX: ...Okay, Adrienne. Can we just hold our fire a little bit, here?
    ADRIENNE: All I'm saying is, you'd opened up Pandora's Box by even just letting her in the room. And now we're all going to have to suffer the consequences for that. 
     
    Noelle rolls her eyes at Adrienne.
     
    NOELLE: Oh come on, Adrienne, you're being melodramatic--
     
    Adrienne cuts Noelle off, waving her hand in front of her as part of her refutation.
     
    ADRIENNE: No, no. Believe me, it's not just going to be a single awkward dinner. We will be stuck with that woman now for as long as SHE decides we are useful to her. And I really don't know if I'm prepared to give up my time and energy to such a worthy cause.
     
    Adrienne grabs her shopping bags, and heads for the staircase to her room.
     
    ADRIENNE: If you'll excuse me.
     
    Alex turns to Noelle, who stands, arms folded, nonplussed by Adrienne's concerns. Alex sighs, sensing the brewing conflict between the two women who raised him.
     
    ---
     
    Will puts down his cell phone, as Sami stands in the apartment, holding a now-awake Ari in her arms.
     
    SAMI: So? What did Alex have to say about it?
     
    Will sighs, looking away from Sami, trying to process the news.
     
    WILL: Yeah. Nick pulled it off. Even Kate apparently voted in favour of it.
    SAMI: She WHAT?
    WILL: Yeah. I mean, I guess she had her reasons but...
    SAMI: Well, she's coming to meet us in a few minutes, anyway, so...I guess we'll get our answer then.
     
    As Sami finishes her sentence, Gabi comes through the door, grocery bags in her hands. She looks over, pleased to see Sami.
     
    GABI: Oh good, you're here.
     
    Sami smiles half-heartedly, as she bounces young Arianna in her arms.
     
    SAMI: Hey! Did you, uh...hear the news?
    GABI: What news?
    WILL: Nick's just become CEO of Titan.
     
    Gabi sets the bag down on the kitchen table, before looking at both Will and Sami, stunned.
     
    GABI: You're kidding.
    SAMI: Nope! So we need to take the next few steps incredibly carefully, or else we are all just a step away from going to prison for a long time.
     
    Gabi looks at Sami, sighing in despair as she realizes the corner she's being put in.
     
    ---
     
    Victor lays in his hospital bed, as Tyler stands next to him, awaiting his answer. Victor responds slowly and breathlessly.
     
    VICTOR: Wait him out. Let Nick bury...bury himself. And make sure...nobody knows that I...I've come to. I ca...I can't handle any visitors.
     
    Victor exhales gently and falls into a sleep. Tyler looks on as Victor closes his eyes, sighing. As he does, Maggie and Daniel step into the room, only to find Victor back asleep. Tyler turns, holding a hand up to reassure Maggie, whose face has immediately fallen upon seeing Victor's eyes shut.
     
    TYLER: Don't worry. He just fell asleep. I think he's still very weak.
    MAGGIE: I know. Thank you, Tyler.
     
    Maggie takes Tyler's hand, squeezing it gently as Tyler cups Maggie's hands in his. Daniel grabs a stool and scoots over to Victor's bedside. He turns back to Tyler and Maggie, shooing them away.
     
    DANIEL: I'm gonna need to check on Victor, so, I'm gonna have to ask you to step out.
    TYLER: That's fine. I have to head back to the office anyway. Um...Maggie, Daniel. Victor asked us to keep quiet on his coming to for awhile. Doesn't want a slew of visitors or anything while he's this week.
    DANIEL: I'll co-sign that. The last thing Victor needs is a procession of family members crowding in here before he's ready for them.
     
    Maggie nods in agreement, still a bit emotional from the turn of events.
     
    MAGGIE: I understand. I'll umm...Daniel. Thank you. I'm gonna go home. Tyler, thanks again.
    TYLER: You alright to drive, Maggie?
    MAGGIE: I'll be fine. Thank you, though!
     
    Maggie and Tyler step out of the room, closing the door behind them. Daniel stares at Victor, smiling warmly at him.
     
    DANIEL: Good work, old man. You made it back.
     
    Victor sleeps, oblivious to Daniel's words, as Daniel begins to work on updating his chart.
     
    ---
     

    Kate stands in Roman's office at the Salem PD. She's baffled by Roman's sudden confusion about his whereabouts.
     
    KATE: Roman...wh...Anderson Manufacturing hasn't been around in...over 30 years. And you were never involved with them, it--I mean, at least not that I'm aware of I...
     
    Roman stands facing away from Kate, looking down at the ground, lost in his thoughts, as Kate steps slowly over to him.
     
    KATE: Roman, I'm worried about you. 
    ROMAN: Kate, don't be.
     
    Kate looks on at Roman, frustrated resignation, as her arms fall to her side.
     
    KATE: Look, I don't know what's going on with you, but...if you need to step aside from this case, I'd be happy to let Billie handle it unilaterally from here on in.
    ROMAN: Nah, I...it's okay.
     
    Roman turns back toward Kate, shaking his head, still an uncertainty in his tone and demeanour.
     
    ROMAN: I um...I just need some time to refresh myself with the case. So...you just e-mail me what you need to fill me in on and...I'll take it from there.
     
    Kate stares at Roman, as he sits down at his desk and grabs the framed photo of his family, a grave concern for him plainly visible in her eyes. She wordlessly puts her purse up over her shoulder and walks out, leaving Roman behind, trying to fight back his pent-up emotions. 
     
    As Kate closes the door behind her, Roman stares at the photo in his hands. Marlena, Sami, Eric and himself, from the time Sami & Eric were babies. The longer he stares, the more frustrated he gets, finally throwing the picture across the room. The picture frame shatters as Roman breaks down in tears.
     
    ---
     
    Anita approaches Brady, baffled by his outburst.
     
    ANITA: See what?
     
    Brady steps aside, ushering Anita closer to the computer.
     
    BRADY: This!
     
    Anita studies the headline, before sighing. Brady looks at her, arms folded. He motions at the computer as he continues.
     
    BRADY: I think you better explain yourself right now.
    ANITA: Brady, I didn't want to get into this until you were ready to talk about what happened to you.
     
    Brady snaps at Anita, not waiting for her to finish.
     
    BRADY: I am not ever going to be ready if you keep being secretive with me.
     
    Anita raises her voice momentarily to match Brady's, before stopping herself mid-sentence to finish her thought.
     
    ANITA: I'm no--I'm not being secretive. But...maybe I haven't been completely forthcoming.
     
    Brady laughs sarcastically at Anita's statement, putting his hands up in the air in frustration.
     
    BRADY: Yeah, you could say that.
    ANITA: You haven't been either.
    BRADY: And how do you know that, Anita?
     
    Anita looks away momentarily, before looking up at Brady solemnly.
     
    ANITA: Because I do know who you are, Brady. And I know exactly how you got here.
     
    Brady tenses his lips, trying very hard to keep from saying something he'll regret in anger.
     
    ---
     
  15. beebs
    EPISODE 144
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Sonny steps into the living room of the Kiriakis mansion, heading over from the kitchen. Adrienne, Justin, Noelle and Alex are all assembled in the living room, and all look up at Sonny as he steps into the room.
     
    SONNY: Hey! Ahh, cook just let me know that dinner was gonna be about another 15 minutes? So...just to wait here.
    ADRIENNE: Great, Honey! Just waiting on Maggie and I guess we'll get everything started.
     
    Sonny pops over to sit down on the sofa next to Justin.
     
    SONNY: Where is Aunt Maggie?
    JUSTIN: Oh, she's just gone to visit Victor for a bit.
    ALEX: Any news on Victor's condition?
     

    As Alex asks that question, Maggie walks into the living room, trying in vain to hide her good news.
     
    MAGGIE: Well...yes and no.
     
    Everyone in the room looks on expectantly, as Maggie stands near the doorway of the living room, her hands clasped together in front of her.
     
    NOELLE: Well, what does that mean?
    MAGGIE: It means that he's turned a corner...but...we can't tell anybody about it.
     
    Everyone looks at Maggie, baffled, as Maggie smiles awkwardly back.
     
    ---
     

    Billie steps off the elevator at University Hospital, and stumbles upon Kim, having a chat with Valerie in front of Theresa's room. Knowing she's not meant to be there, Billie hangs back a bit, but Kim spots her, anyway. Kim glowers as Billie lifts her chin up and walks over.
     
    KIM: Billie. I wish I could say I was surprised.
    BILLIE: Kim. I was actually here visiting Daniel, so you have nothing to worry about.
    KIM: I'd better not. 
     
    Billie looks down, trying to compose herself, hoping to avoid another confrontation.
     
    BILLIE: I umm...how is Theresa?
     
    Kim immediately snaps back at Billie, causing both Billie and Valerie to tense up.
     
    KIM: She's the same. Not that that's any of your business.
    BILLIE: Kim, I...
     
    Valerie cuts Billie off, knowing this will go nowhere good.
     
    VALERIE: Look, I'm not gonna tolerate you two having an all out brawl in the middle of my hospital. Now, if you wanna have a chat, we can step into the lounge, but we aren't doing this here.
    BILLIE: Don't worry, Valerie. I'm leaving.
    KIM: I hope so. And I hope you stay gone, because if I find out you had anything to do with my daughter lapsing back into her coma, I will find out. 
     
    Billie looks at Kim, incredulous.
     
    BILLIE: Kim, what the Hell are you talking about?
    KIM: I have reason to suspect that someone has been poisoning my daughter to keep her in a coma.
    BILLIE: And you assume it's ME? (laughs) Oh my God, Kim, you've REALLY lost it this time!
     
    Kim glares daggers at Billie, as Billie looks on, laughing at the ridiculousness of Kim's claims.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Will stand in their living room with Sami, deeply troubled by the news Sami's just given them regarding Nick.
     
    GABI: Okay...so...if Nick's now the CEO of Titan...I mean...Sami, how far do we want this plan to go? Obviously hooking him on his old medication isn't stopping him, and it's certainly not causing him to get tripped up. Quite honestly, I don't know how much longer I can take this.
    SAMI: Just...stay the course, Gabi.
     
    Will cuts in, getting uneasy with Sami's insistence on persevering.
     
    WILL: Oh come on, Mom. How far do we really wanna go with this whole plan? I mean, every time we think we've got this guy handled, he manages to worm his way out and get the upper hand again. And quite honestly, I'm sick of finding out more bad news every time I hear his name.
     
    Sami, arms crossed, laughs a bit in resignation.
     
    SAMI: Heh. Yeah. You and me both. But there's nothing we can do now. If we don't follow through, Nick WILL win. And Gabi, and Arianna will end up on the other side of the world with Nick Fallon.
    GABI: Ohhh no. I will die before I let that happen.
     
    Gabi and Will looks at each other with a certain level of fear they try to hold back. Sami walks over to the sofa, sitting down and grabbing the pen from the coffee table. She hovers over the modelling contract on the table. Signing the document, she looks up at Gabi.
     
    SAMI: Well then, I guess you better sign on the dotted line then.
     
    Gabi hesitates, standing back from Sami with her arms folded, clearly tense from the pressure.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Anita stands in her living, while Brady stands facing her, arms folded in front of him. Brady looks at Anita, upset by Anita's seeking the news story of Nick taking over as CEO of Titan.
     
    ANITA: Yes...I know who you are, Brady. I've known for a long time.
    BRADY: Have you, now? And just how long were you planning on keeping this little...secret from me?
     
    Anita sighs, trying to find the words to stop Brady from getting too wound up.
     
    ANITA: As long as it was going to take for you to trust me.
     
    Brady guffaws at Anita's statement, as Anita walks past Brady, looking intensely at the article on her computer screen about Nick's takeover.
     
    BRADY: How perfect. So you were gonna keep lying until I trusted you, and for what?
    ANITA: Then maybe you'd open up to me about what happened to you. Maybe you'd finally let me help you. If I told you that I knew you were Victor Kiriakis' grandson, you'dve been out the door as soon as you were strong enough to crawl out of that bed.
    BRADY: And maybe I should've.
     
    Anita grabs Brady's arm, stopping him from walking out of the room.
     
    ANITA: Brady. I didn't keep this from you for my own gain. I did it so that you felt safe here. Nobody from Salem knows you're here, and nobody will as long as YOU want it that way.
     
    Brady looks at Anita, a mix of uncertainty, anger, and a strange sense of trust.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi stares at the pen Sami holds up for her, as Sami sits at the desk in Gabi's living room. Will looks on, unsure of what the situation is, when all hear a knock at the door. Will heads over to open the door, revealing Kate.
     
    KATE: Hi! Sorry, I'm late, I had...a lot to take care of.
    SAMI: So I heard. 
    GABI: So...now that Nick's CEO of Titan...does this change anything where this supposed bidding war is concerned.
     
    Kate smiles, confident in her statement.
     
    KATE: Oh absolutely not.
     
    Gabi smiles, still clearly nervous about the plan.
     
    GABI: Okay, good. I uh...I confirmed a date with Nick for tonight. He...uh...he actually asked me first, so...
    SAMI: Perfect, so we're all set. All you have to do, is sign, and let the fun begin.
     
    Sami hands Gabi her pen, as Gabi steps over to the desk, and signs the modelling contract, putting her into a contract with MadWorld at DiMera. Kate, and Sami look at each other with a confidence, while Will looks on, concerned, and slightly confused by the proceedings.
     
    ---
     
    Valerie opens the door to the hospital lounge, and leads Kim and Billie inside, closing the door behind them. She looks at them sternly.
     
    VALERIE: Now, I assume you're gonna keep in civil in here. 
     
    Kim stands, facing Billie, arms folded as she looks at her with a scowl.
     
    KIM: Naturally.
    BILLIE: Thank you.
     
    Valerie looks at both women seriously for a moment, before stepping out of the room, closing the door again behind them, as Billie looks at Kim, exhausted by the fighting.
     
    BILLIE: Look, Kim. I've had it with the accusations and the arguments. Okay? I have no idea who, if anyone, is poisoning Theresa, but...
    KIM: But I guess we're gonna find out. Becuase I have made sure that there is a guard at that door, 24/7 from now on, and they can't so much as take a bathroom break without getting a relief guard. So if you're taking advantage of your little doctor boyfriend to try to sneak into Theresa's room without my knowing? 
     
    Kim steps in close to Billie, attempting to intimidate her.
     
    KIM: I WILL find out about it. Make no mistake.
     
    Billie looks back at Kim, unflinchingly.
     
    ---
     
    The Kiriakises look confused at Maggie, who stands surrounded by them in the Kiriakis living room. She smiles, knowing how awkward her news is.
     
    JUSTIN: I'm sorry....what?
     
    Maggie smiles, and looks at Justin, before repeating herself a beat later.
     
    MAGGIE: We can't tell anyone he's recovering. He doesn't want anyone to know, I guess partly because of what happened at the board meeting today. Honestly, I don't even think he wanted me to tell you all but...I just can't keep it bottled up. We just need to give him the space to recover, and not push him too hard with too many visitors right now.
    ALEX: Wait...he doesn't? So...does this mean...
    MAGGIE: That's right. Victor's awake.
     
    Everyone, particularly Noelle, take notice, as their eyes widen in surprise.
     
    ---
  16. beebs
    EPISODE 145
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Billie stands, arms crossed, inches from Kim, as they face off in the University Hospital lounge. Billie never backs down or looks away from an equally determined Kim.
     
    BILLIE: You really think that I would poison Theresa?
    KIM: I wouldn't put anything past you.
     
    Kim steps away from Billie, but continues to rant.
    KIM: I mean, really, Billie. Remember Phil?  My ex-husband you made porn films for drug money with? And then you insinuate yourself in my daughter's life afterwards so you could...poison her mind against him, and against me. 
    BILLIE: Oh COME ON, Kim, that was not how it--
    KIM: Oh the Hell it wasn't! Someone blackmailed the two of you over this. You helped my daughter lie about...
     
    Kim stops herself from continuing, trying to keep a cool exterior before carrying on.
     
    KIM: You ruined my relationship with my husband, and my daughter, and you put my relationship with my son AND his father at risk.
    BILLIE: No, YOU did that. You and you alone. 
     
    ---
     

    Brady looks away from Anita as they both stand in Anita's living room in her cabin in the woods. Anita walks slowly over to Brady, who is deep in thought, and gently puts a hand on his shoulder.
     
    ANITA: Brady. I need you to understand. I care about you. More than you probably realize. And I didn't want you to leave before you were ready. 
    BRADY: (sigh) Look, I know that.
     
    Brady turns to face Anita again, feeling a bit badly for having reacted as strongly as he had about Anita knowing his identity.
     
    BRADY: And I realize you probably didn't nurse me back to health for some kind of...financial windfall. I just...(sigh) I...I guess I was running away from...all the problems I had in Salem...the pressure Victor put on me...my ex- put on me...
     
    Brady chuckles momentarily, despite his thoughts going back to a dark place.
     
    BRADY: My ex- sleeping with my priest brother and him having the audacity to call it rape.
     
    Brady looks down at the ground a moment, deep in a troubling thought.
     
    BRADY: Losing my fiancée in an explosion. I just...I haven't been dealing with it all. And...I guess trying to end it all was another step in my running away from it.
     
    Anita puts her hand up to Brady's cheek, as she pulls him into a tender, warm hug. Brady fights off tears, as he and Anita begin to open up to each other.
     
    ---
     

    The Kiriakises huddle around an excited Maggie in the living room to the family mansion. Noelle looks particularly stunned, as Justin, Adrienne, Sonny, and Alex all look on surprised and confused by Maggie's news.
     
    ALEX: Maggie...I don't get it. Why can't we say anything about Victor waking up?
    MAGGIE: Well...apparently he doesn't want so much press attention right now with the whole...Titan shakeup, and...quite frankly, he's pretty weak right now. So...I think the best thing we can all do is give him some space for the time being.
     
    Justin nods, as Sonny and Alex look at each other, understanding the situation. Adrienne looks Maggie's way in cautious agreement, as Noelle looks on, trying to mask her interest.
     
    SONNY: So...I heard we had a guest coming for dinner?  But mom wanted to wait until we were all here before she talked about it?
    ALEX: Oh...that. 
    ADRIENNE: So...I ran into Anjelica Deveraux in the square today and...
     
    Adrienne grimaces, looking at the others almost apologetically, as Noelle looks over at her husband, slightly confused, before her eyes spot the door to the living room open.
     

    Maggie turns, as the rest of the household look on, mostly in displeasure, but also in shock, as Anjelica walks in.
     
    ANJELICA: Hello, family! I hope I'm not late for dinner!
     
    Anjelica smiles widely as the rest of the family appears shocked by her arrival. Adrienne, meanwhile, motions half-heartedly at the door.
     
    ADRIENNE: Surprise!
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Billie stands with Kim in the hospital lounge, venting her anger at Kim's continued vilifying of her.
     
    BILLIE: The only reason I ever stepped in to help that girl was because she knew she could trust me, because I was the only person in her life that didn't think that Phillip Collier was some kind of saint.
    KIM: Oh please. You never gave her another option. You saw an opening and you took it.
    BILLIE: Why would I do that, Kim?
     
    Kim shakes her head, taking a cool, composed tone as she responds to Billie's question.
     
    KIM: Because you were grieving your own daughter. You thought Chelsea was dead, and you used the relationship you'd built with my daughter as a tool to replace Chelsea in your empty little waste of a life.
     
    Billie laughs sarcastically, in awe of Kim's statement.
     
    BILLIE: Oh my God, you have absolutely no shame, do you? When are you going to take even a little responsibility for what happened between you and Theresa? When are you going to admit that if you had just believed her when she came to you in tears, shaking because Phillip Collier had been molesting her for longer than she cared to remember, none of this would've happened?
     
    Kim stands in stunned silence, as Billie lets loose.
     
    BILLIE: She would never have turned to drugs, she would never have gotten herself in trouble with the law, she certainly would never have ended up in a coma because Brady Black wanted to commit suicide and take her with him! But I guess that's all well and good so long as you have your scape goat to blame the fact you couldn't keep your head together long enough to actually be a parent when it mattered!
     
    Kim slaps Billie hard across the face, snapping Billie out of her rage with the shock of the attack.
     
    ---
     
    Brady and Anita sit on the sofa, as a fire crackles in the fireplace before them, talking about Brady's problems.
     
    ANITA: I know where you're coming from. This home...such as it is...
     
    Anita and Brady share a laugh, before Anita stops after a moment, sighing, as she looks around her quaint home.
     
    ANITA: This is my refuge.
     
    Anita looks intensely at Brady, as he senses her pain.
     
    ANITA: I've had a lot of...pain to go through. Losing two of my children...I nearly died. I withdrew. I...I didn't want to be around people. It was safer here.
     
    Anita looks off, as though looking at a ghost from the past.
     
    ANITA: My umm...you asked about why I was looking at the news story about Titan, I...my late husband, he bought up shares in Titan when they first began publishing Bella Magazine. He was...he was certain he was onto a good thing, and that...(laughs) he figured he could retire off the dividends. When he died, he left them to me. And...with how the company's doing now...well...
    BRADY: You're thinking of selling, aren't you?
     
    Anita shrugs, looking solemnly past Brady.
     
    ANITA: We could use the money. This house...it needs some work.
     
    Brady looks down, nodding in understanding of her situation.
     
    BRADY: I think it's a good idea. Titan's in a lot of trouble, and...with Nick Fallon at the helm...it's only gonna get worse from here.
     
    Anita smiles half-heartedly, clearly still worried for the future.
     
    ANITA: Thank you.
    BRADY: Anita, we're gonna make this work for you. I won't let you down.
    ANITA: Oh I know, Brady...and I know that...you've been put in so many difficult situations, and I know that you thought that the only solution was to run away, but...
     
    Anita takes Brady's hand into hers, and holds it tightly, never taking her eyes off his.
     
    ANITA: ...I need you to know that you don't have to run anymore. Not here. You are always safe here. We can really help each other. Whenever you're ready, I am here for you.
     
    Brady smiles warmly at Anita, nodding back at her.
     
    BRADY: Same for me, Anita. Same for me.
     
    Anita and Brady come together for another warm hug, as they sit on the sofa, enjoying the warm fire.
     
    ---
     
     
    Gabi finishes signing the modelling contract with MadWorld, as Sami, Kate, and Gabi had discussed. She stands in her living room, with Will looking on, as Sami and Kate look on approvingly. Gabi lurches up, pen in hand, as Sami smiles up at her.
     
    SAMI: Congratulations. You are officially the new spokesmodel for MadWorld cosmetics.
    GABI: Great. Why don't I feel as excited as I should be?
     
    Gabi hears her text tone go off, causing her to jump slightly as she looks around for her phone. Finding it on the side table in the living room, she picks it up. Kate notices as Gabi looks at the message, that her expression changes, becoming more sombre.
     
    KATE: What is it?
     
    Gabi looks up from her phone, nervously.
     
    GABI: It's time. I have to meet Nick at Club TBD in an hour. What's our game plan?
     
    Sami and Kate look at each other, confidently. Gabi's eyes dart between the two, far less confident that their plan will go off.
     
    ---
    Maggie turns toward Anjelica, who stands in the entranceway of the Kiriakis living room, smiling widely. Maggie looks back, less than enthused.
     
    MAGGIE: Anjelica.
    ANJELICA: Maggie! Long time, no see!
     
    Anjelica quickly walks over, giving Maggie a big hug, which makes Maggie immediately uncomfortable and more than a little confused.
     
    MAGGIE: Anjelica, I wish I'd known you were coming to dinner sooner.
     
    Anjelica remains enthused, almost to spite Maggie and the rest of the Kiriakises. She carries on talking as she helps herself to a drink from the bar in the corner or the room.
     
    ANJELICA: What? And ruin the surprise? You've got to be kidding me. I mean, this is my first time back in Salem in over 20 years! Where else would spend it than with my loving son and his family?
    JUSTIN: A jail cell, maybe?
    ANJELICA: Oh Justin, always the joker!
     
    Anjelica turns back to face the rest of the room, now with drink in hand, smiles as she takes a sip.
     
    ANJELICA: But in all seriousness, I'm here because I am on the campaign trail to the state governor's house...and I think I could be a big help to all of you.
     
    The family look at each other, curiously, as Anjelica smiles slyly and takes a sip of her drink.
     
    ---
  17. beebs
    EPISODE 146
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Gabi steps into Club TBD, dressed to the nines in a form fitting "little black dress", her hair done up in a neat bun. Nick gets up from his seat at their table, in awe of Gabi's beauty.
     
    NICK: Well, I have to say, I don't think I've ever seen anyone so beautiful in all my life.
     
    Gabi blushes, looking down away from Nick sheepisly.
     
    GABI: Thanks, Nick. It's good to see you.
    NICK: You as well.
     
    Nick jumps into action, stepping over behind Gabi to pull out a chair for her at the table, which Gabi immediately sits down in.
     
    GABI: Oh, thank you!
     
    Nick leans in close to Gabi from behind, causing Gabi to tense up slightly, as Nick attempts to be seductive with her.
     
    NICK: Anything for my beautiful woman.
     
    Gabi bites her tongue, wincing slightly as Nick kisses her on the cheek, before sitting down across from her at the table.
     
    Gabi looks over at Nick, who can't help but stare. She smiles bashfully, as Nick leans in.
     
    NICK: So...how's your day been?
    GABI: Been good. I ahh...I have some news!
    NICK: Ooh! Do tell! Sounds like good news.
     
    Gabi smiles, nodding slightly.
     
    GABI: I think you'll think so. I ah...I signed a modelling contract with MadWorld today.
     
    Nick smiles, knowingly.
     
    ---
     

    In the Kiriakis mansion, Anjelica stands, drink in hand, before the Kiriakis clan. They sit in the living room, each with a mix of curiosity and skepticism as Anjelica speaks to them.
     
    ANJELICA: I figured I should come to you all with...something of a peace offering.
     
    Adrienne raises an eyebrow, and turns her head slightly to look at Justin, who looks back, just as skeptically.
     
    NOELLE: Well, this oughta be good, Anj. Come on. Tell 'em.
     
    Anjelica looks at Noelle, giving her a quick icy look, before slowly turning back to the rest of the room, a million-dollar smile on her face.
     
    ANJELICA: I heard you've had a bit of a...shakeup at Titan as of late.
    JUSTIN: I'd call it more of a shakedown, but yes.
    ANJELICA: Well, not knowing much about the situation, I can't comment on which direction things are shaking, but...I do see this as an opportunity nonetheless.
     
    Maggie sits on the sofa, arms folded as she looks at Anjelica, unsure what she's up to.
     
    MAGGIE: An opportunity for who? For us? Or for you?
    ANJELICA: Hopefully, for both of us. You see, I know that Nick Fallon patented a revolutionary alternative fuels strategy that Titan bought many years ago and sat on. And I think the time is right to dust it off, and make it the centerpiece of a new vision for the company.
     
    Alex sits back in his chair, eyes darting back and forth as he reads the room, and the situation. Noelle looks squarely at Anjelica, trying to figure out her strategy. Maggie squints slightly, as Justin, Sonny, and Adrienne look at each other, bemused.
     
    ---
     

    Anita sits on her sofa at her remote cabin, as Brady sits at the computer, reading through the article on the Salem Spectator website. Anita reads through a trashy novel, as Brady, never taking his eyes off the monitor, asks Anita a question.
     
    BRADY: Hey, Anita?
     
    Anita doesn't look up from her book, still feigning reading, as she adjusts her reading glasses perched on the end of her nose.
     
    ANITA: Yeah?
    BRADY: You know those shares your husband bought in Titan?
    ANITA: What about 'em?
     
    Brady turns from the screen suddenly, looking Anita's way seriously.
     
    BRADY: I think you need to sell them. Immediately.
     
    Anita looks up from her book, stunned. She pulls her reading glasses off and looks at Brady with a frown.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Billie stands in the University Hospital lounge, her hand pressed to her cheek, as Kim stands before her, simmering with rage. 
     
    After a tense moment of silence between them, Billie pulls herself together, and looks Kim directly in the eyes.
     
    BILLIE: I hope that made you feel better.
    KIM: You have no idea.
     
    Billie sighs, frustrated by Kim's unending hatred for her, but trying to cool the flared tempers.
     
    BILLIE: You know, I really hope that when Theresa wakes up, you and her can rebuild your relationship. I truly do.
     
    Kim laughs quietly, disregarding Billie's words.
     
    KIM: Yeah. I'm sure you do.
    BILLIE: No, I really mean that, Kim. But I don't want that for your benefit. Your daughter cried to me...so many times that I can't keep count. Just wanting you and her to see eye to eye. She played tough, but...she really loves you, Kim. 
     
    Kim looks down, her rage cooling off, as she listens to what Billie's saying, and begins to look down, almost through the ground. Kim fixates on the floor, as though lost in her own world.
     
    BILLIE: She just needed something you weren't able to give her. She didn't want to burden you with her problems, and so she kept them to herself most of the time. I wish you could see that, and see that turning to me was...the only outlet she had that wasn't self-destructive.
     

    Kim looks up, a drained, blank look in her eye. Billie stays trained on Kim's face, as the door to the lounge opens, and Daniel looks on.
     
    BILLIE: I hope you can be her outlet one day very soon. Theresa wants that.
     
    Daniel steps into the room, uncertain of the energy between Kim and Billie.
     
    DANIEL: Ehhhh...you two okay in here?
     
    Both Billie and Kim turn to look at Daniel, as Billie nods, looking down.
     
    BILLIE: Yeah. Let's go.
     
    Daniel looks at a drained Kim, checking to see if she's okay. Kim nods, knowing Daniel's intent without having said a word to her.
     
    As Daniel and Billie head out, Kim sits down in the lounge alone. She breathes in deeply, as the door shuts behind them, and she takes in what Billie's said to her, beginning to sob quietly in her seat.
     
    ---
     
    Anita looks on at Brady, stunned by his suggestion. she lays her book down on the table, as she sits upright from her comfortable position on the sofa.
     
    ANITA: Sell my shares?
    BRADY: You heard me.
     
    Anita tries not to crack up at Brady's suggestion, though she still lets a laugh slip as she responds.
     
    ANITA: Brady, I have had those shares for over twenty years. The dividends have helped pay the mortgage on this place. Why in the world would I want to sell them now?
     
    Brady looks at Anita, deadly serious. his unwavering stare unnerves Anita.
     
    BRADY: Because if you don't, with the way things are going at Titan right now? You could lose everything.
     
    ---
     

    Nick nods approvingly at Gabi at their table at Club TBD, as T pours them both a glass of red wine. Gabi looks on, awkwardly smiling as Nick pays her compliments.
     
    NICK: Well, I always knew you had what it takes to be one of the top models in the industry.
     
    Gabi smiles half-heartedly, trying to seem bashful, but just feeling uncomfortable.  Kate slips into the club in this moment, immediately spotting Nick and Gabi on their date. She studies the situation closely from the doorway, careful not to tip anyone off that she's there before she's ready.
     
    Gabi, meanwhile, looks down awkwardly at her wine glass. Nick barely notices Gabi's discomfort, as he continues.
     
    NICK: I mean...those eyes alone...
     
    Nick leans over and gently lifts Gabi's chin up with his finger, forcing her to look into his eyes.
     
    NICK: I'm amazed there isn't a bidding war over you.
    GABI: Well...
     

    No sooner have the words come out of Nick's mouth than Kate storms over, seeming desperate to speak to Gabi.
     
    KATE: Gabi, I'm glad I tracked you down.
     
    Gabi looks up, seemingly shocked by Kate's arrival.
     
    GABI: Kate. Wh...what are you doing here?
     
    Kate plunks down a document and a pen on the table in front of Gabi, as Gabi looks down at it, then back up at Kate as Kate explains.
     
    KATE: If you sign with MadWorld, you are making the biggest mistake of your life.
     
    Nick looks on, pleased as punch at the turn of events, as Gabi looks over at him, then back at Kate.
     
    ---
     
    Anjelica smiles as she stands before the Kiriakis family in their living room. Justin finally pipes up, uncomfortable with her suggestion.
     
    JUSTIN: Ahhh....Anjelica...just speaking as a lawyer here...do you not think that this is just a bit of a conflict of interest?
    ANJELICA: Justin, there is nothing in the world that is a conflict of interest if you know where the boundaries are. Now, I'm just speaking as someone with a campaign to run, and...I'm sure you'd all love some good publicity and some tax breaks. I mean...we all know the precarious situation Titan's in at the moment.
     
    Sonny looks at his mother, who rolls her eyes as Anjelica drones on.
     
    MAGGIE: And so, if Titan's in such a financial bind, what makes you think we can even afford to contribute to your campaign?
    JUSTIN: Assuming we'd be foolish enough to ever actually want to do that.
    ANJELICA: I'm so glad you asked.
     
    Anjelica steps back to the armchair nearest to the doorway of the Kiriakis living room. She sets down her drink, and sits down, legs crossed. She looks prim, proper, and all fake smiles as she explains herself.
     
    ANJELICA: You see, I know you've been having some great difficulty with a certain piece of property that you require for your latest energy project, and, provided I win the state legislature...I have the tools at my disposal to, shall we say, grease the wheels a bit?
     
    Maggie and Adrienne look at each other, as Justin looks on at Anjelica, contemplative of her proposition. Sonny and Alex look over at their father, as Noelle studies Anjelica, trying not to crack a smile at her co-conspirator.
     
    ---
  18. beebs
    EPISODE 147
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Gabi sits at a table at Club TBD, looking up uncomfortably as she sits across from Nick. Nick leans back in his seat, smiling as he watches Kate interject on their date. Kate stands over Gabi, having dropped paperwork before Gabi, and glares at Gabi, as Gabi responds meekly.
     
    GABI: Ahh...Kate...can we...can we do this another time, I'm kinda...busy.
     
    Gabi makes eyes in Nick's direction, as though pointing to Nick with them. Kate never takes her eyes off Gabi, remaining stern.
     
    KATE: I'm not available another time, Gabi. This can't wait.
     
    Kate turns quickly toward Nick, giving him an equally sharp glare.
     
    KATE: Do you mind giving us a minute?
     
    Nick, ever the smug one, laughs and leans back, nonplussed.
     
    NICK: Have at it. I'm enjoying the show.
     
    Kate's eyes narrow at Nick, as she responds to him, her voice deeper than before.
     
    KATE: Alone?
     
    Nick takes a second, before slowly getting up from his seat, and nodding at Gabi. Gabi nods back, giving her approval for him to leave.
     
    NICK: I'll be in the bathroom. One sec.
     
    As Nick walks away, Kate looks back at Gabi. Her tone changes, but her expression does not.
     
    KATE: Keep in character, we've got him right where we want him.
     
    Gabi looks up, trying to contain a smile, as she continues to stare at Kate from her seat.
     
    ---
     

    Anita sits across from Brady at her small dining table in her cabin. She holds her hands over her mouth, deep in contemplation over Brady's suggestion.
     
    ANITA: I don't know whether I could sell those shares, Brady.
    BRADY: Well, if you don't, you know the chances are very high that you'll lose even more. It's time to reinvest in a company that's going places. Hell, you could use that money toward fixing the house up.
     
    Anita shakes her head, uncertain of Brady's idea.
     
    ANITA: I don't know about this.
    BRADY: Anita, Nick Fallon is a liability to that company. He knows absolutely nothing about running a major conglomerate. 
     
    Brady stops himself a moment, frustrated not only by the situation, but by his part in it, and having to remind himself of it.
     
    BRADY: (sigh) If I hadn't been so DAMN stupid, I could've been running it myself. Then you wouldn't be in this mess.
     
    Anita reaches out across the table to squeeze Brady's hand.
     
    ANITA: You were in a bad spot. You had been through an awful lot, and you were no shape to run a company. Don't blame yourself for that. 
     
    Brady shakes his head, unconvinced.
     
    BRADY: That's not the point. Shouldn't have gone to that place to begin with, regardless of what was happening in my life. And now it's affecting you. I feel...this responsibility to help you. 
     
    Anita smiles, still holding Brady's hand.
     
    ANITA: You owe me nothing.
    BRADY: I do. I need to protect what's left of your nest egg. Sell the shares, Anita. Before it's too late.
     
    Anita looks back at Brady, then down, again deep in thought.
     
    ---
     

    Anjelica stands at the bar in the corner of the Kiriakis living room, as Maggie steps in from the dining room to the right of the room.
     
    MAGGIE: Dinner's ready, everyone.
     
    As the others filter into the dining room, Justin lingers momentarily, as Anjelica pours herself a drink.
     
    JUSTIN: You've really put a dent in that brandy. Nervous?
     
    Anjelica laughs quietly, before turning to look at her ex-lover.
     
    ANJELICA: Oh me? (laughs) No no. Just needed to unwind a bit. I'm always a little excitable when I'm doing business dealings.
    JUSTIN: Yeah, well....don't get too excited. Any interest I have in this deal of yours is severely tempered by the fact it comes with your name attached.
     
    Anjelica takes a sip of her drink, smiling and nodding, almost in defiance of what Justin's said.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, I can understand your ambivalence. But I hope that with time and consultation, you'll see how sensible this arrangement could be for everyone.
    JUSTIN: I'm not just ambivalent. And I have some major reservations about how forthright you're being when it comes to you wanting to help us. 
    ANJELICA: Look, you are entitled to feel that way. I wouldn't blame you if I were in your shoes.
     
    Justin studies Anjelica and her body language very carefully, as Anjelica lays her drink down on the bar table, and folds her arms in front of her as she continues.
     
    ANJELICA: Justin, I made some very big mistakes when Alexander was a baby, and quite frankly, I think that the stress of finding out Harper was a deranged killer, and losing you...
     
    Anjelica steps in closer to Justin, who shakes his head, as he steps away from Anjelica. Anjelica looks intensely into Justin's eyes, an earnest pain in them.
     
    ANJELICA: I think it caused a psychotic episode, a sort of...PTSD gone horribly awry.
    JUSTIN: Oh come on, Anjelica! That's an insult to anyone who's gone through PTSD, including Jack. You remember your stepson, Jack? He suffered years locked up in the Middle East, and came back in pieces.
     
    Anjelica steps, hanging her head down, feeling sad and shamed.
     
    ANJELICA: I know. Jack is--he was in a lot of pain for a long time.
     
    Justin is unmoved by Anjelica's moment of sentiment, becoming increasingly angry with Anjelica, as his voice raises.
     
    JUSTIN: He had to build his life over from the ground up, with very little help from you, if any. So don't try to pawn off what you did to Adrienne and to me as some kind of mental illness. You knew what you were doing, and you'd do it again in a heartbeat if it meant you'd get what you want.
     
    Anjelica stops herself, trying to choke back tears, as she looks down from Justin's intense glare. She nods in agreement with Justin, who is unmoved by her, as Alex walks into the room, seeing only the tail end of their argument.
     
    ANJELICA: You're right. Ah...excuse me. I'm going to wash my hands for dinner.
     
    Anjelica walks out, trying to dab out the tears before they ruin her mascara. Alex steps into the room, as Justin turns, spotting him. His expression changes, as Alex looks at his father, a displeased look on his face.
     
    JUSTIN: Alex--
    ALEX: What the Hell was that? What did you say to her?
     
    Justin looks stunned, caught off guard by Alex's defense of his mother.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Justin turns to face Alex, who walks in closer to his father.
     
    JUSTIN: Alex, I...I'm sorry.
    ALEX: You know, I know my mom's done a lot of really terrible things, but I don't think throwing that in her face when she may be exactly the lifeline Titan needs is a very good idea.
     
    Justin sighs, frustrated by Alex's desire to see the good in his mother.
     
    JUSTIN: Alex, you forget how manipulative your mother can be. I know you wanna see the best in her but--
    ALEX: Oh I know full well how manipulative she can be. Trust me. I've got the brunt of it for a lotta years now. But don't forget the Hell she went through too. With Harper, with nearly losing me to you and Adrienne when I was a kid...
    JUSTIN: She gave you up to us, Alex.
    ALEX: And then she wanted to have me in her life again when she got better. 
     
    Justin sighs, rolling his eyes at his son's naiveté.
     
    JUSTIN: Oh come on, you don't actually believe her song and dance about PTSD, do you?
    ALEX: No. But I do think she suffered a long, gradual mental breakdown, and I think, despite the...(sigh) downright horrendous results of that...I think we need to give her the benefit of the doubt this time around.
     
    Justin looks down, contemplatively, as he soaks up what Alex has to say.
     
    ---
     

    Valerie works at her desk at University Hospital, diligently typing away on some patient files, when a call is buzzed in. Valerie picks up the phone and answers immediately.
     
    VALERIE: (into phone) Dr. Grant.....oh yes, send her in. Thank you.
     

    After a moment, Marlena steps into Valerie's office, a smile masking her despair. Valerie can sense something is tense about Marlena, and gets up from her seat, a warm, empathetic smile on her face.
     
    VALERIE: Marlena. I'm glad you're here.
    MARLENA: Yes, well...I wish it were under happier circumstances.
    VALERIE: Well...I figured something was wrong when you called...it's...about Roman, I'm guessing.
     
    Marlena sits down across from Valerie, she looks at the ground, mournful over Roman's condition.
     
    MARLENA: He's getting worse every day, Valerie. I have...I don't think I ever expected him to deteriorate as fast as he has.
    VALERIE: Marlena, these things vary wildly from person to person. You know that.
    MARLENA: I know. I just...I guess we were getting closer again and...(sigh) I was looking forward to having this time together...maybe to fall in love again...if...
     
    Valerie turns her head slightly, waiting for Marlena to finish her sentence, but Marlena doesn't.
     
    VALERIE: If...
     
    Marlena's eyes snap back upward to meet Valerie's. She looks on with an intense stare, her voice wavering.
     
    MARLENA: I Guess...I guess I didn't want to say it, but...if it truly even is Roman.
     
    ---
     

    Stefano emerges from the yacht, as the sound of the waves crash against the dock. The cool sea air causes the crew, and Stefano, to bundle up, despite the warm Mediterranean night.
     
    Stefano is greeted by his waiting car, a grand executive car. The driver hustles from the front seat to open the back door for Stefano.
     
    Looking out at the sea, he breathes in the air deeply, exhaling with a dramatic zeal. He gives direction to the driver, in Italian, to head to the DiMera compound.
     
    STEFANO:  Avanti al composto!
     
    Stefano immediately steps into the waiting car, as the driver closes the door for him, then proceeds back into the driver's side door. The car drives off, heading for the remote compound.
     
    ---
     
    Anita sits on the phone with her broker, ironing out details of the sale.
     
    ANITA: (into phone) I'm just glad I got through to you before the exchange closed for the day...perfect. I'm so glad we were able to sell them back so quickly. Thank you, Mark.
     
    Anita hangs up the phone, turning back to a smiling Brady. Anita is much less certain she's done the right thing.
     
    ANITA: Well...they found a buyer...the shares are sold. I'll receive the payment by the end of the week. Just have to have him pay me a visit with some documents to sign and we're a go.
    BRADY: I'm proud of you.
     
    Anita looks at Brady, nervous. She shakes her head and sighs as she answers him.
     
    ANITA: Don't be proud of me just yet. I'm praying I did the right thing just now.
     
    ---
    Kate sits down across from Gabi at Club TBD, Gabi is legitimately panicked, as Kate takes on a tough look, knowing Nick could likely be looking on.
     
    GABI: This is making me sick to my stomach. What if he catches on?
    KATE: He won't. And don't worry about Nick. He may be CEO, but he hardly has enough power to be a real threat, anyway. 
    GABI: What do you mean?
    KATE: I mean, I checked into it earlier and the Kiriakises still own a controlling interest in the company. It's divided up between Justin, Victor, myself, Tyler, and John, who got Brady's shares when Brady died. That makes up about 47%. The rest of the shares are divided up in small fractions to the public.
     
    Gabi begins to ease up a little bit, markedly less tense than she was moments before.
     
    GABI: Okay. So he doesn't have the real power unless he has controlling interest. Why 47% though? I mean, I'm no MBA student or anything, but I thought they'd have majority stake in the family business at least.
    KATE: That's what I found curious, myself. The issue is there's a single shareholder out there who Victor never named, not even when I was married to him. This person had a 4% stake in the company, and all Victor ever would tell me is that it was distant family, and that it "kept the peace". I didn't pry. 
     
    Gabi looks inquisitively at Kate, trying to sort through the mystery.
     
    GABI: But if that person with the 4% stake were to sell, and the public shares were to be gobbled up by a major corporation...
    KATE: ...then we would have to prepare for the worst.
     
    Nick stands by the archway to the bathrooms at Club TBD, phone to his ear. It's Anjelica on the line.
     
    ...
     
    Anjelica stands in the Kiriakis foyer, the doors to the living room closed. She speaks softly, but excitedly.
     
    ANJELICA: (into phone) I just got a call from Mark Foley, our broker.
     
    ...
     
    Nick looks over at Gabi and Kate momentarily, before turning away, hoping not to be seen. He speaks equally quietly.
     
    NICK: (into phone) Okay, what about?
     
    ...
     
    ANJELICA: It's good news. We just acquired enough shares in Titan to become majority shareholder. Congratulations, Nick. We just got ourselves the silver bullet to lodge into Victor's back.
     
    ...
     
    Nick beams, as he turns back toward the table, looking on at Kate and Gabi's intense conversation.
     
    ---
  19. beebs
    EPISODE 148
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Marlena sits in Valerie's office at University Hospital, as they go over Roman's case. Valerie shakes her head as she goes over his file.
     
    VALERIE: You know, Marlena, I've gotta say...I know that there's a lot of missing pieces here, but...this man has been in your life for so many years. I...I mean, wouldn't you have known sooner that he isn't who he claims he is?
     
    Marlena looks down, contemplatively.
     
    MARLENA: I've thought about that. But he felt so....familiar to me. That day that Kristen wheeled him into my room...I wasn't sure but...something felt so...I knew that I knew this man. 
    VALERIE: But you didn't believe Kristen when she told you he was Roman.
     
    Marlena looks at Valerie, remembering that day with Kristen, the anger coming through in her voice as she thinks of Kristen.
     
    MARLENA: I wasn't really willing to believe anything that...that woman told me. She'd told so many lies already, it was...it just looked like another scheme to keep John and I apart.
    VALERIE: Understandable, but what made you realize she was right?
    MARLENA: I just...I heard him speak. I heard his voice and...what he had to say. We knew...I knew I knew and cared for this man. We knew he was Roman. Nobody....questioned it once we'd spoken with him. 
    VALERIE: Marlena. From what you've told me, that's the same thing everyone said when John arrived in town. We need to be absolutely certain that this man IS Roman Brady.
     
    Marlena looks up, deeply troubled by Valerie's suggestion.
     
    ---
     


     

    Stefano's limo pulls up to a grand castle on the remote Italian island. His driver parks and hustles to open the door for him. Stefano steps out of the car, and pulls off his sunglasses, gazing upon the beauty of his grand home.
     
    ---
     

    In the Kiriakis living room, Alex and Justin stand, discussing Justin's animosity toward Anjelica. Justin steps over to the bar, hoping to grab a drink, as Alex looks on. 
     
    ALEX: Dad?
    JUSTIN: Yeah.
     
    Justin looks at the mostly empty caraffe, stunned by how much Anjelica's taken already. He pours himself what's left. The awkward silence holds in the air a moment, before Alex sighs and begins to tell his father what's on his mind.
     
    ALEX: Look, I don't mean to downplay what Anjelica did to you, or to Adrienne.
     
    Justin puts his drink down on the bar with a bit of a slam. He speaks harshly to his son.
     
    JUSTIN: Then don't.
     
    Justin turns around, another awkward moment of silence between them, as the doorbell rings.
     
    JUSTIN: And don't make excuses for her either. Your mother rigged a construction site to blow Adrienne up. Then she kidnapped you. This isn't stealing a few hair ties from a store at the mall, Alex. I'm not entirely prepared to forgive and forget.
    ALEX: But she did bring me back. And you and Adrienne were wonderful parents to me. You did a great job.
     

    Justin sighs, smiling at his son. As Anjelica steps back into the room from the foyer, escorting Will into the room with her. Upon seeing Alex, he stops, smiling awkwardly as Justin and Alex look back.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, look who I found at the door. Does this fine young man belong to anyone in the house?
     
    Alex smiles back at Will, as they both stare without a word shared. Justin ignores this, as he fixates on Anjelica.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Kate sit across from each other at the table at Club TBD, having an intense conversation about the state of affairs at Titan. Knowing Nick will be back from the bathroom any second, they remain tense and vigilant, each checking over their shoulder every few moments to ensure he isn't on his way back.
     
    GABI: Honestly, Kate, I don't know that I like the odds of that 4% stakeholder remaining loyal to Titan. I mean, I've heard how rocky things are, and with Nick coming on...he's completely inexperienced running a company like this, they're bound to sell before the shares become completely worthless.
    KATE: Leave that to me. Nick may in for a fall sooner than you think, and at least at my end of things, I'm going to make sure we make Titan a lot of money so that we can get out of this rut.
     

    Nick approaches from behind Kate, causing both she and Gabi to look up with a start.
     
    NICK: That's the spirit I wanna hear from my staff, Kate.
    KATE: You know, Nick. Relish calling us staff members for now, because it won't be long before the board sees through you, and your incompetence will earn you a nice fat pink slip.
    NICK: I guess I should've anticipated a little resistance. But I still wouldn't push my luck if I were you, Kate.
     
    Kate chuckles momentarily to herself, unthreatened by Nick's confidence. She looks back at Gabi, a bit amused, as she rolls her eyes, and looks back at Nick and responds sarcastically.
     
    KATE: I'm quaking in my boots.
    NICK: You should be. Because I just found out some good news. 
    KATE: I'm waiting with baited breath to hear it.
     
    Nick smiles, as he leans in closely at their table.
     
    NICK: I just got the controlling interest of the Titan stock. So not only am I running the show, I own it, too!
     
    Nick laughs, almost maniacally, as Gabi and Kate's faces turn sheet-white.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Justin gives Anjelica sideeye, as he grabs his drink from the bar table and shakes Will's hand firmly.
     
    JUSTIN: Will! Good to see you! Ah, Sonny's already at the table, they're serving dinner about now. We should probably join them.
    WILL: Oh...yeah.
    ANJELICA: Well, am I going to be introduced or not?
     
    Alex interjects to spare everyone Justin's cutting remarks at Anjelica's expense.
     
    ALEX: Ah...Anjelica Deveraux, this is...Will Horton. Will is...Sonny's fiancé. Will...meet my mother.
     
    Anjelica gives a surprised smile, turning to shake Will's hand, which he accepts, though still unsure what to make of the situation.
     
    ANJELICA: Ahh! Will!
    WILL: Pleased to meet you.
    ANJELICA: And I, you. You know, I have always really admired the Horton family. Such a pillar of our community. Tom and Alice were such lovely people.
     
    Justin rolling his eyes at Anjelica's phoney interest in Will, turns to head for the dining room.
     
    JUSTIN: (sigh) Talk about laying it on thick.
     
    Justin turns back to motion the others into the dining room.
     
    JUSTIN: Come on, guys. Let's get this over with before we lose what's left of our appetites.
     
    Will smiles awkwardly, not sure whether to laugh at Justin's joke or not, as Anjelica nods to Will and touches her son's forearm on her way into the next room.
     
    ANJELICA: I'll see you in there.
     
    Leaving Alex and Will alone in the living room, the tension between them remains. Will looks up at Alex, unsure what to say.
     
    WILL: Ah...so I didn't...I didn't know your mom was in town.
    ALEX: Yeah...we're...not exactly close. I mean...
    WILL: It's okay. I understand. My mom and I have...a similar relationship.
     
    Alex and Will share a laugh. As things grow quiet again, Will's eyes squint a bit, looking at Alex with concern.
     
    WILL: Ahhh....so, I haven't had a chance to ask anybody yet but...I know there's been a huge upheaval at work today. What does that mean for us?
     
    Alex is taken aback by Will's question, leaving him momentarily speechless.
     
    ---
     
    Kate gets up from her seat across from Gabi at Club TBD, looking disgusted. She gives Nick a murderous glare.
     
    KATE: Well, I don't know how you managed this, but don't expect me to cowtow to your every demand. I expect to be able to continue to run my business the way I see fit.
     
    Nick plays it cool, as usual. Shaking his head as he gently responds to Kate, hands in his pockets.
     
    NICK: Not to worry. Just make sure that you stay out of my way, and you'll have all the autonomy you need.
     

    All three turn abruptly upon hearing Sami's voice from behind them. She's revved up to play her part in the ruse, and takes on a snide tone straight away.
     
    SAMI: GABI! Don't sign anything. I have news.
     
    Nick turns to face Sami, smiling even wider now that the games have really begun.
     
    NICK: Sami! Glad you could join us!
     
    Sami reaches into her bag, handing Gabi a document of her own.
     
    SAMI: Gabi, I need you to reconsider Kate's offer. You don't wanna be working under Nick. He's been named CEO of Titan. 
    GABI: Sami, I know, he...
     
    Sami doesn't wait for Gabi to answer, instead carrying on in her fake tirade.
     
    SAMI: He told you, okay. GREAT. But he didn't tell you that he's completely ineffective as CEO without also holding controlling stock interest. So he won't be able to do for your career what I can, seeing as he'll be working in a hostile environment.
     
    Nick immediately interjects, cutting Sami off before she can continue making her "case".
     
    NICK: Aaactually, Sami. That part's not quite true. As I was just telling Kate and Gabi...I just got the stock I needed to take controlling interest. 
    SAMI: You what?
    NICK: Yeah! Isn't that fantastic? 
    SAMI: That's impossible. You don't have the resources to buy up 1,000 shares, let alone the amount it would take to take 51%...
     
    Kate, and Sami both realize at the same moment, with Gabi putting the pieces together moments after.
     
    SAMI: ...You have a benefactor.
    NICK: Not quite.
    SAMI: Bull.
    NICK: No! Honestly. Titan shares are worth next to nothing at this point. It was actually pretty easy for me to buy up shares from the public supply at cut rate prices bit by bit over the last few months. Thanks to a rather...generous infusion of cash from Julie, some good timing with a good broker, plus my big bonus for my hard work on the latest foundation line for MadWorld, my package for taking over as CEO...I ah...well, I managed to secure the last bits I needed to take advantage when a major shareholder gave up her piece of the pie.
     
    Nick shrugs, convinced he's thrown Sami and Kate off the trail, but Sami's not so convinced. She bites her tongue, instead looking at an equally unconvinced Kate.
     
    KATE: That's still millions of dollars in shares, Nick.
     
    Nick nods, casually.
     
    NICK: Mmhmm. See, when you start investing and you make a couple good deals...it all snowballs. 
     
    Sami stops herself, looking over at Kate, who looks on cautiously.
     
    SAMI: Gabi. Choose wisely. Your future depends on it. Call me when you decide.
     
    Sami nods to Kate, then Nick.
     
    SAMI: Kate. Nick.
     
    As Sami takes off, Nick chuckles to himself, sitting himself down at the table with Gabi. Kate, putting on her purse, preparing to leave, looks to Gabi.
     
    KATE: Gabi, Sami's right. You need to choose wisely. Go with the team that has your back. 
     
    Kate's eyes widen, almost in disbelief of what's coming out of her mouth. Gabi looks down at the papers on the table, as Kate turns to Nick.
     
    KATE: Nick, thank you for filling me in.
    NICK: Oh, are you kidding? It was my pleasure.
    KATE: I'm sure it was. Have a great evening.
     
    Kate turns away, rolling her eyes at Nick as she follows Sami out of the building. 
     
     
    Just outside the door, both women breathe a sigh of relief.
     
    SAMI: Do you think we got him fooled?
    KATE: I don't know, but I think we need to find out who's bankrolling this, and fast. 
     
    Sami's expression morphs into one of worry.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena paces Valerie's office, deeply troubled by her earlier suggestion.
     
    MARLENA: Valerie, I can't just go around asking everyone Roman's related to for DNA samples. I know I'm gonna run into...well, more than just some resistance. 
    VALERIE: It doesn't hurt to ask. This is extremely important, particularly if we're going to attempt to properly treat his symptoms.
    MARLENA: I know that, Valerie, but...these people have over twenty years invested in this man. My children...to them, this is their father. 
    VALERIE: Then don't ask them right away. Maybe Roman's sister can do it.
     
    Marlena sighs, turning her back to Valerie, as she shakes her head.
     
    MARLENA: I couldn't do that to Kim. I mean...she has it hard enough right now dealing with Theresa being in a coma, Caroline's health is in decline, Shane is off doing God knows what with the ISA. She's worried about her brother, she's not going to want the rug pulled out from under her again.
     
    Valerie gets up from  her desk, putting a hand on Marlena's shoulder in comfort.
     
    VALERIE: Marlena, your life isn't exactly a cakewalk right now, either. And the more you wait, and the more you agonize over whether or not this man you've thought was Roman all these years is actually the real deal?
     
    Marlena turns to face Valerie, tears in her eyes. Valerie puts both hands on Marlena's shoulders, looking worriedly into Marlena's eyes.
     
    VALERIE: Honey, I'm afraid of what carrying this burden entirely on your own shoulders could do to you.
     
    ---
     
    The door of the large, remote Italian villa open to the living area, as a staff member ushers Stefano inside.
     
    Once inside, Stefano removes his jacket, casually laying it down on the back of the armchair, as he looks on inside the dimly lit room. A chair is turned to face the large window, facing a picturesque view of the sea. 
     
    Stefano chuckles in his inimitable fashion, as he claps his hands together a single time, excited to have finally arrived. He calls out to the person in the chair.
     
    STEFANO: Ahh! Tell me the good news. Is our patient finally ready?
     
    The chair turns, as Dr. Rolf looks Stefano's way, giving him a half-hearted smile.
     
    DR. ROLF: Not quite. But, I feel we should be ready any day.
    STEFANO: Good. We have waited long enough. The time will soon come to put our plan into action.
     
    Dr. Rolf nods, as Stefano looks off, determination in his eyes.
     
    ---
  20. beebs
    EPISODE 149
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    In the Kiriakis dining room, Anjelica stands alone with Noelle in the corner. Looking around to make sure they're alone, Noelle approaches Anjelica.
     
    NOELLE: So...?
    ANJELICA: I think Alex will be on our side on this.
    NOELLE: Perfect.
     
    Noelle looks around, highly suspicious of anyone entering the dining room, so much so, despite being alone, Noelle continues to whisper to Anjelica.
     
    NOELLE: (whispering) Look, I have news.
    ANJELICA: Well, spit it out!
    NOELLE: (whispering) It's Victor!
    ANJELICA: What???
     
    Noelle gestures emphatically to get Anjelica to quiet down, as she whispers to Anjelica.
     
    NOELLE: He's awake, we have to tell Nick.
    ANJELICA: Wh--
     
      
     
    As Anjelica begins to respond, Justin, Maggie, and Sonny enter the dining room, all sharing a laugh as they sit down at the table. Noelle and Anjelica awkwardly halt their conversation and join them.
     
    Sitting down, the room falls quiet, as they all look at each other, unsure how to start the conversation.
     
    NOELLE: It's....so nice to have family together for once.
     
    All five of them look around at each other, unsure what to do, before Noelle grabs her drink from in front of her and awkwardly raises a toast. 
     
    NOELLE: To...family!
     
    The others reluctantly join in, most looking awkwardly at each other, wondering what brought on Noelle's toast.
     
    ALL: Cheers!
     
    As they clink their glasses, they immediately take sips so long, most finish their drinks in one go.
     
    ---
     

    Alex and Will stand alone together in the Kiriakis living room. They look awkwardly at each other, as Will asks a serious question.
     
    WILL: Ahhh....so, I haven't had a chance to ask anybody yet but...I know there's been a huge upheaval at work today. What does that mean for us?
     
    Alex is taken aback by Will's question, leaving him momentarily speechless.
     
    ALEX: Ahh...you mean at the office?
     
    Will laughs, his heart aflutter, as he, without thinking, blurts out a response.
     
    WILL: Yeah, I mean...what did you think I meant? I mean, you're cute and all but...
     
    Alex and Will laugh, as Will realizes what he's just said and begins to blush.
     
    WILL: I mean...oh God. What did I just say?
    ALEX: No...(laughs) God, Will, don't be embarrassed. I know what you meant. Don't worry.
     

    Will looks to the ceiling, closing his eyes in embarrassment, as Adrienne steps into the doorway from the dining room. She looks on, troubled by what she observes.
     
    WILL: Ugh, sorry. I didn't mean to imply that I was...attracted to you at all. You're my boss, and MARRIED. I'm marrying your BROTHER. I just...I tend to put my foot in my mouth a lot. I'm sorry.
    ALEX: Don't worry. Seriously. It's okay. Just as long as you don't have this problem with words on the page, we're good.
     
    Will laughs, as Adrienne steps into the room.
     
    ADRIENNE: Ah, boys? Are you gonna join us for dinner at all?
     
    Adrienne looks directly into Will's eyes, an almost accusatory look in them, despite her sweet tone. It immediately discomforts Will.
     
    ---
     

    Outside club TBD, Kate and Sami stand, having confronted Nick and Gabi on their date, pestering Gabi about her modelling contract offers. Now, Sami's expression becomes more one of worry.
     
    SAMI: You seem worried. You weren't before.
    KATE: I had no reason to be before. Nick worming his way into the CEO position at Titan was nothing. He could be out of there within hours if he so much as breathed the wrong way. But if he has controlling interest? All bets are off, and we need to tread carefully.
    SAMI: Oh, to Hell with that. He's going to put us all in jail, Kate.
     
    Kate tries to quiet Sami down, but Sami continues, increasingly panicked.
     
    KATE: Sami, C--
    SAMI: ...Oh don't try to shut me up. You know I'm right. What is he gonna do when he finds out we're trying to set him up? Dammit, Kate, we need to do something about him, and fast.
     
    ---
     

    Inside Club TBD, Nick and Gabi sit, Gabi deep in thought about what just transpired. Nick notices Gabi's contemplative look, and crooks his head slightly to get her attention.
     
    NICK: Hello?? Earth to Gabi.
     
    Gabi snaps out of her trance, shaking her head suddenly, looking Nick's way.
     
    GABI: Ugh, sorry. Just...in case you didn't notice, I have....a decision to make.
    NICK: Nah, I get it. But I think you know what you're doing. I trust you.
     
    Gabi smiles, as Nick reaches across the table to take Gabi's hand gently in his. Gabi wants to pull away, but manages to stop herself.
     
    NICK: I know I haven't been....exactly the most trustworthy person, myself. But I do want you to know, I'm gonna do everything I can from now on, to give you exactly the life you deserve. 
     
    Gabi looks down momentarily at Nick's hand holding hers. 
     
    NICK: I love you, Gabi.
     
    Gabi hesitates to answer Nick, the words caught in her throat.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Kate walks in closer to Sami in front of Club TBD, and attempts to calm Sami down.
     
    KATE: Sami, you need to think of the long game here. Nick has the power to destroy all of us. That includes Will. So let's stay the course for now, and keep our eyes peeled for any opening.
    SAMI: We don't have time for that, Kate. It's time we make an opening.
     
    Sami, determined, storms off, leaving Kate behind, more worried than ever.
     
    KATE: Sami! Sami! (sigh)
     
    ---
     

    Inside Club TBD, Gabi struggles to respond to Nick, as Nick waits for a response. T arrives with their tapas, which he starts putting down on the table, breaking the tension.
     
    T: Alright! I've got some grilled calamari...lamb proscuitto dumplings, and a mango salad.
    NICK: Thank you.
    GABI: Thanks, T.
     
    T stands by them, ever the professional.
     
    T: Anything I can get you guys? Refill on your drinks? 
     
    Nick holds up a finger, never taking his eyes off Gabi.
     
    NICK: Yeah...give me a bottle of your best champagne.
    T: You got it!
     
    T walks off, leaving Nick and Gabi alone, as she hastily reaches for her fork, trying to eat before she has to respond to Nick.
     
    NICK: I know we've got a lot of baggage, Gabi. And...I know you're probably not ready to tell me you love me, but...I just wanted you to know that I do. And I will always look out for your best interests.
     
    Gabi smiles, as she swallows her calamari. 
     
    GABI: I know. Thank you. Thank you for being so patient.
     
    Nick smiles back at Gabi, looking intensely at her for a moment before asking another question.
     
    NICK: Gabi.
     
    Gabi looks back, inquisitively, if a little tense.
     
    NICK: I...I don't wanna put any pressure on you at all, but...well...now that I've got this job, and...the company assets...I'm planning to finally move out of the room upstairs at the pub.
    GABI: That's great! I'm glad you're finally able to do that.
    NICK: Yeah, so...now, once I have a home to call my own, and...don't feel like you have to say 'yes' or anything...but...would you like to move in with me?
     
    Gabi's eyes widen, stunned by Nick's suggestion, and unsure how to react, or respond.
     
    ---
     
    Will and Adrienne stare off at each other, clearly communicating unspoken thoughts with each other, as Alex looks on, trying to cut the tension.
     
    ALEX: Ah...Adrienne. Sorry, we were...catching up on work stuff. 
     
    Adrienne continues to focus her eyes on Will, though breaking her gaze eventually as she responds to her stepson.
     
    ADRIENNE: Of course. Ah, well...dinner's about to be served, so...come on.
    ALEX: Sure thing.
     
    As Alex leaves the room, Will is held back by Adrienne, who speaks quietly to Will, as she grabs his arm, not forcefully, but firmly.
     
    ADRIENNE: A little advice, Will? If you expect me to play my part, you'd better do a lot better job of yours.
     
    Will looks down at Adrienne, and nearly bursts out laughing. He shakes his head dismissively.
     
    WILL: Adrienne, you're looking for something that isn't even there. 
    ADRIENNE: Am I? Because those eyes you were giving each other just now tell me otherwise.
    WILL: What looks? The only looks I was giving were directed at you when you once again inserted yourself in a conversation that was none of your business.
     
    Adrienne folds her arms, giving Will a squinted glare.
     
    ADRIENNE: Despite what you think, I didn't just fall off the turnip truck. I can tell you're attracted to Alex. 
    WILL: I love Sonny--
     
    Adrienne snaps back at Will, cutting him off from continuing his thought.
     
    ADRIENNE: And Justin loved me. But he still had that affair with Anjelica and still had her child. 
     
    Will stops himself, momentarily looking down, as he soaks in what Adrienne is saying to him. Adrienne steps in closer to Will, speaking a bit more earnestly, and less bitingly.
     
    ADRIENNE: You have two very impulsive parents, who lead with their hearts and not their heads. Don't be like them. Alex may not be my son by blood but I love him just as much as I love Sonny, and I don't want either of them hurt. If you do, I will make sure you regret it.
     
    Adrienne backs away, releasing the tension in her body with a sigh as she turns toward the dining room. As Adrienne walks away, Will looks down, shaking his head as he sighs, his head full from Adrienne's warning. He makes his way to the dining room as well.
     
    ---
     

    Eric sits at the bar of the Brady Pub, a pint of beer before him, as he makes a call on his cell phone to Nicole. Waiting to hear her pick up, he is unsuccessful, and the call goes to voice mail.
     
    ERIC: Hey, Nicole. It's Eric. I ah...I know you've had a big break in your story for tomorrow but...I'm just wondering when you'll be back. I mean...it is our...our wedding night, and I'd...just call me back when you get this. I love you.
     

    Hanging up, Eric takes a drink, as Marlena walks into the pub. 
     
    MARLENA: Ah! Eric!
     
    Eric turns around to see his mother, and gives her a hug.
     
    ERIC: Mom! Hey. How'd your meeting go at the hospital?
    MARLENA: Oh well...Valerie and I had...a lot to talk about. It's actually why I'm here. I'm glad I ran into you. I...I have something to ask of you, and I don't think you're going to like it very much.
     
    Eric looks at Marlena, concerned.
     
    ERIC: Why? What is it?
     
    Marlena hesitates for a moment, before reluctantly responding, unable to look Eric in the eyes as she does.
     
    MARLENA: I need your help to run a DNA test on your father.
     
    Eric looks back in amazement, stunned by his mother's request.
     
    ---
     

    Dr. Rolf sits opposite Stefano in a dimly lit room in Stefano's Italian island villa. The two longtime partners-in-crime discuss their plans as the sun sets.
     
    STEFANO: So! When can we expect the patient will be ready?
    DR. ROLF: Stefano, I cannot give you a firm timeline on this. You know what happened the last time.
    STEFANO: Yes, unfortunately, I do. 
     
    Stefano looks off in a distance momentarily, as Dr. Rolf continues.
     
    DR. ROLF: We cannot have a repeat of what happened before. As you know, the second Pawn project was effective but ultimately we couldn't utilize him because we caused too much brain damage. He would never be able to take proper direction from us.
    STEFANO: Hmmm, yes. And now he appears to be in terminal decline.
     
    Dr. Rolf nods sadly.
     
    DR. ROLF: Yes, indeed. It is a real shame. And, of course, our attempt to reprogram John Black failed miserably as well. 
     
    Dr. Rolf thinks aloud, becoming more and more agitated as he contemplates his strategy.
     
    DR. ROLF: There has got to be a way to find the balance. My work on the second pawn was too potent, and on John Black, not enough.
    Stefano looks Rolf sternly in the eyes, as he points at him to make his point.
    STEFANO: And THAT is why THIS Pawn MUST work for us to get us what we need, or else everything we have worked so hard for will be destroyed!
     
    Rolf looks back at Stefano, nodding with a sombre expression on his face.
     
    ---
     

    In a dark, windowless room, a man is tied to a chair in an otherwise empty room. His hands and feet are bound.
     
    On a screen in front of him, a flurry of images appear on a projector screen. Many disturbing images flash by, changing almost as soon as they appear.
     
    Crawling insects. 

    Scenes from bloody warfare. 

    A gun being fired.
     
    John Black's face then appears, before disappearing, replaced by more violent images.
     
    The man writhes about, his mouth gagged, keeping him from shouting out. He struggles, trying to resist the intense images presented before him, but enraged far more by John than any other.
     
    ---
  21. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES ep. 15
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Sami is in the midst of confronting Nicole in Nicole's office. Sami is refusing to back down.

    SAMI: Now, you listen to me. Eric is not going to fall for whatever little game you're playing. At least not forever. Because I am going to figure out exactly what you did that made him think that leaving the priesthood for you was a good idea.
    NICOLE: Okay, Sami, that's enough. Eric decided this all on his own. Okay, I went out to Chyka's hut in the woods and Daniel and I, we worked our asses off to get a confession out of him, and get evidence on him, because all I wanted was for Eric to be back at St. Luke's.
    SAMI: So why is there no confession, Nicole? Where's all this evidence?
    NICOLE: He got away, Sami. He hit me over the head and took my phone, and whatever evidence I did have. End of story.

    Nicole gets up from behind her desk and heads for the door to show Sami out.

    NICOLE: Now get out of my office. I have important things to do, none of which involve going another 6 rounds with the likes of you.

    Sami gives Nicole a look of intense dissatisfaction. Arms folded, Sami shakes her head, knowing Nicole isn't telling her everything. She begins for the door.

    SAMI: This isn't over, Nicole.
    NICOLE: Bye!

    Sami walks out the door, Nicole slams the door immediately behind her.

    NICOLE: UGGGH! I swear, this day just gets better and better! I should actually get some work done. Find some excuse to not take this stupid owl-watcher story.

    Nicole walks back to her desk. Sitting down, she grabs Percy's envelope from her drawer. Opening it up, she begins looking up any information on the story.

    NICOLE: EnerNext...

    Nicole hits 'search'. Her eyebrow goes up after the results page come up.

    NICOLE: Uh oh.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jennifer walks past everyone at the nurses' station and makes a beeline for the elevator, still sobbing. Maxine takes notice and calls out to Jenn.

    MAXINE: Jennifer! Honey, you alright? ...Jenn!

    Jenn presses repeatedly on the down button and doesn't respond to Maxine. As the door opens, she races in, slamming right into Aiden.

    AIDEN: Woah! Jenn! Woah, woah, woah, you alright?
    JENNIFER: I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I can't...(sighs)

    Jenn tries to run past Aiden and close the door to the elevator, but Aiden jams the door and steps back in.

    AIDEN: Oh no no, I am not leaving you alone when you're like this.
    JENNIFER: Please, Aiden, seriously, I know you mean well but--
    AIDEN: I am not taking no for an answer. You need a friend, I'm gonna buy you a coffee, we can talk. How's that?

    Jenn, looking down at the ground with tears still in her eyes, pauses for a moment, then nods in agreement.

    JENNIFER: (quietly) Sure.
    AIDEN: Okay, come on.

    Aiden wraps a comforting arm around Jenn's shoulder as the elevator doors close.

    ---

    Sheryl sits at Lucas' table at Club TBD, and is puzzled by Lucas' change in attitude. Lucas' change in opinion has blindsided her, and she's visibly upset, almost hostile.

    SHERYL: Me? What did I do?

    Lucas stops for a second, feeling somewhat unsure about how she'll take a rejection. He snaps back to reality after remember his mom's advice to maintain the status quo until she meets with Roman.

    LUCAS: Look, I just...I don't feel comfortable being so open about this. And every time I turn around, you're there. And I can't help myself when I see you because I'm...

    Sheryl cracks a bit of a smile, suddenly. Lucas being flustered is very adorable to her.

    SHERYL: Because you're totally attracted to me, and you can't help it.
    LUCAS: (sighs) Yes. In spite of everything, yes.

    Sheryl laughs, putting her arms around Lucas' shoulders.

    SHERYL: You are so sweet. And you are the best boss a girl could ask for. Who cares what people say about us?
    LUCAS: I do. I have to manage these people.
    SHERYL: Well, then have a talk about stamping out gossip in the workplace, then.
    LUCAS: You've got an answer for everything, don't you?
    SHERYL: Most of the time.

    Lucas smiles uncomfortably as Sheryl tries to kiss him. Just before she does, Lucas' phone rings, and he jumps to answer it.

    LUCAS: Woah! Sorry. I gotta take this. Heh.

    Lucas grabs his phone awkwardly and answers, Sheryl leans back in her chair, still smiling.

    LUCAS: Lucas Horton.

    ...

    KATE: Where are you?

    ...

    LUCAS: At Club TBD, you?

    ...

    KATE: The office. I'm waiting for you. Victor's going to hold the pre-press conference meeting and they need you there.

    ...

    LUCAS: Do I really? It's probably about that damned oil project again.

    ...

    KATE: Yes, well, he needs to go over the ramifications of the announcement to all divisions at Titan. Yours included.

    ...

    LUCAS: (sighs) Fine. I'll be there in a sec.

    ...

    KATE: Alright. But don't hurry too much. The way Brady takes his time lately, we'll be lucky if this press conference doesn't happen at noon tomorrow.

    ...

    LUCAS: Gotcha. Be there soon.

    Lucas hangs up. He looks to Sheryl apologetically.

    LUCAS: Sorry. Mom.
    SHERYL: (laughing) It's fine. Don't worry about it.
    LUCAS: Look, we're good, right?
    SHERYL: Of course!
    LUCAS: Good, because...I don't want things to go sour between us. You're fantastic to work with, Sheryl. And I don't want anything to ruin that.
    SHERYL: Don't worry.
    LUCAS: Great. How about we grab dinner later at Chez Rouge tonight?
    SHERYL: I'd love that!
    LUCAS: Awesome, 8?
    SHERYL: Sure!
    LUCAS: Okay. See you then.

    Lucas grabs his things and takes off like a shot, leaving Sheryl hanging for a kiss. She looks disappointed.

    ---

    Nick steps back from Gabi, who is sitting on the park bench. He is puzzled by her reaction to his hand on her shoulder.

    NICK: Woah!

    Gabi relaxes a bit. She realizes Nick was actually there but isn't actually afraid of him in this moment. In fact, she's a bit regretful of reacting this way.

    GABI: Sorry! I-I didn't even realize you were there.
    NICK: Look, Gabi. I'm sorry, I touched you like that, I should've known better.
    GABI: It's...it's okay. Look, I'm just...I'm having a hard time...
    NICK: Becuase of what I did to you. I know, there's...there's no excuse. Especially after what I...

    Nick breathes in. He still, years later, has a hard time talking about his own rape. It takes all his strength to even talk about it. Saying the words is out of the question at this moment.

    NICK: You know, you'd think I'd know. You'd think the last thing I'd want to...inflict on someone I care about as much as you is the...pain that I felt so many times.
    GABI: Nick, it's okay--
    NICK: NO! No it's not, okay? I did something so...awful...and I love you. Why would I force the woman I love to have sex with me? Why would I want to make her afraid of even being touched by me?

    Nick sits down on the bench next to Gabi. He's very pensive, looking at the ground, but not focusing on anything in reality. His thoughts are on his past. Gabi puts a hand on his shoulder in comfort. Nick doesn't refuse it.

    GABI: You know, for what it's worth...I do still care about you. I mean...it's going to take time for me to get past how what happened that night. But I know you've forgiven me. The least I can do is try to do the same for you.

    Nick looks over to Gabi and smiles. He slowly puts his hand on hers, but she recoils, moving her hand off her shoulder as his moves towards it. Gabi looks away, as Nick's smile disappears, turning back into the saddened look of a lost little boy.

    ---

    Percy gets a phone call at his home in the woods. He trots over to the telephone in his kitchen.

    PERCY: GREETINGS!!

    Nicole holds the phone away from her ear, a pained grimace on her face merely from the volume of Percy's salutation.

    NICOLE: Uh...hi. Percy?
    PERCY: Indeed it is I. Whom shall I ask is speaking?
    NICOLE: Uh...It's Nicole Walker from Titan TV. Look, we've got to meet up very soon. Like, hopefully today, if not tomorrow.
    PERCY: Oh really? Is there something occurring imminently I should be made aware of.
    NICOLE: You could say that. There's going to be a press conference held at the Town Square tomorrow around 5? I'm hoping to be there, and I'm hoping you can too. Looks like something really big is going down.

    Percy is delighted and intrigued by Nicole's request.

    PERCY: I believe that can definitely be arranged.

    ---
  22. beebs
    EPISODE 150
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Abby and Laura emerge from the kitchen of the Horton house, laughing as they talk to each other about their day. As they enter the living room, a moment of awkward silence hits them.
     
    ABBY: You know, I know I don't say this very often, Grandma, but...it's good to have you back in Salem.
     
    Laura takes Abby into a warm embrace, feeling grateful for her granddaughter's love.
     
    LAURA: Oh, Sweetheart. It's so lovely to be back. And to see you so grown, and...happy again. I know, it's been hard with Chad gone.
     
    Abby looks down, wistfully. She shrugs, trying not to think too much on it.
     
    ABBY: Yeah, I mean...it hasn't been easy but...you know...Chad and I...things didn't work out.
     
    Abby sits down on the sofa, and Laura quickly follows suit. The pair lean against the back cushion, looking at each other as they converse.
     
    LAURA: Well, maybe not for now, but...I mean...Chad's recovering from being shot, it's not like he's never coming back to Salem. Honey, anything can happen.
     
    Abby looks back, somewhat uncomfortably, as she thinks over what her grandmother has suggested.
     
    ---
     

    At the Kiriakis Mansion, the family gathers around the long dining table to share a dinner. The tension thick in the air. Anjelica tries in vain to break the stone silence.
     
    ANJELICA: So...I have to thank everyone for allowing me to come tonight.
     
    Justin raises his head from his plate, swallowing hard as he interjects.
     
    JUSTIN: It's not like we had much of a choice, Anjelica.
    ANJELICA: Well, now, that's not very hospitable of you, Justin. I simply wanted to spend some time with my son. After all, we have been living apart for awhile now, since he's living with his lovely wife.
     
    Noelle smiles awkwardly through chewing her food. She looks to Alex, who is also trying to eat (and hopefully stay out of the conversation).
     
    ANJELICA: Alex, how do you like living here with your father's family?
     
    Alex nearly chokes on his lamb souvlaki, attempting to answer Anjelica quickly. He finally swallows, and coughs before answering.
     
    ALEX: Ah...great. It's been very...eventful.
    ANJELICA: I'm pleased to hear. I know we haven't had much chance to talk since I've launched the campaign and all, but...I'm so proud of you.
    ALEX: Thanks...Anjelica.
     
    Maggie interjects, hoping to quell the tension in the room by addressing the elephant in the room.
     
    MAGGIE: Ah...Anjelica? You're staying at the Salem Inn, I heard. 
    ANJELICA: Yes, I have! I've taken a suite there for the time being.
    MAGGIE: Mm! Ahh...how long do you plan on staying?
     
    Adrienne looks knowingly at Justin, she mutters under her breath.
     
    ADRIENNE: Here it comes.
     
    Anjelica smiles at Maggie as she responds to her question.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, funny you should ask. As it turns out, I'm going to be doing a lot more campaigning in the Salem area than I previously thought. Since I'm all about cutting back on fiscal waste and finding inefficiencies in government, it somewhat behooves me to practice what I preach. So...I was hoping to ask a small favour of you all...
     
    Justin shouts out across the dining table, firmly and clearly.
     
    JUSTIN: NO, ANJELICA! You may NOT stay here!
     
    All eyes immediately begin to dart back and forth between Justin and Anjelica, as Anjelica gives a curious, and almost-amused look Justin's way.
     
    ---
     

    Eric sits on his stool at the Brady Pub's bar, a look of total incredulity on his face, as he faces his mother, who stands before him.
     
    Marlena looks down, almost ashamed of what she's said.
     
    ERIC: I'm sorry, did I hear you right?
     
    Marlena nods, reluctantly.
     
    MARLENA: Yes. I asked you to help me run a DNA test on your father.
     
    Eric looks baffled by Marlena's suggestion.
     
    ERIC: For what reason, Mom?
    MARLENA: Look, just...hear me out. Valerie and I were discussing your father's treatment, and...well...we can't locate any medical records on him from before the time Kristen brought him back to Salem.
    ERIC: Mom, that was over 20 years ago!
    MARLENA: Yes. I know. 
    ERIC: So you only noticed this now?
     
    Marlena looks to the ground, half-shrugging as she's confused by the development herself.
     
    MARLENA: Well...we never had to dig into his file that way, and...quite honestly, I was just thankful to have him home again, after we thought he'd died.
    ERIC: Okay...so where does the DNA test come in?
    MARLENA: (sigh) When your father came home, his face was bandaged up, and at first, I didn't recognize him. And when Valerie told me the files were missing, I...my mind went back to that day. I knew something was wrong, and...I followed my wish to see your father again instead of following my gut.
     
    Eric's tone softens as he guides Marlena to the stool beside his. 
     
    ERIC: What did your gut tell you, though?
    MARLENA: That Kristen and Stefano were up to something. As usual. Eric, neither of them would think anything of taking some stranger off the street, and brainwashing them into thinking they were Roman. They've done it before.
     
    Eric breathes in deeply, nodding quietly as Marlena tells her story, then sighs.
     
    ERIC: I know you're right. But we've been so sure for so long about Dad...Mom, he's so ill. Do you really think now is the time to be...going down this path? We should focus on trying to make sure his time left with us are as comfortable as possible.
    MARLENA: I agree, if we know that it's just dementia. Quite frankly, Eric, I couldn't live with myself if I knew there was more to it than that. That Stefano had implanted these memories in him, and caused this terrible illness in him, and I didn't find out the truth in time? When I could possibly find out it's something else, and potentially save his life? 
    ERIC: I understand.
     
    Marlena leans over, putting her hand over Eric's on the bar. She looks her son dead in the eye.
     
    MARLENA: Eric, you know I wouldn't ask unless it was extremely important. Will you do this for me?
     
    Eric furrows his brow, in deep thought over whether he should help Marlena or not.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Nicole sits at her desk, focused on her computer, scouring the documents Nick sent her regarding the EnerNext deal. She hears a knock on her office door, which she responds to without looking up.
     
    NICOLE: Come in!
     

    Sami enters Nicole's office, a determined look on her face. Nicole turns quickly to see who it is, and immediately sighs, rolling her eyes as she realizes it's Sami.
     
    NICOLE: (sigh) What do you want? I'm busy.
     
    Sami closes the door behind her, and folds her arms as she stands across the room from Nicole.
     
    SAMI: Where's Abby?
     
    Nicole looks over at Sami, giving an icy glare, as she responds cooly.
     
    NICOLE: She went home. I figured I could handle this by myself. 
     
    Sami doesn't budge, as Nicole takes a moment to look over a paper on her desk. Moments later, Nicole looks back up at Sami, then the door.
     
    NICOLE: That was a hint.
    SAMI: Yeah, well, I'm not going anywhere. I have something important to talk with you about.
     
    Nicole looks up, giving Sami a fake smile and a sarcastic reply, as she tries to focus on her work.
     
    NICOLE: Oh. Great. 
     
    Sami begins to saunter over to Nicole's desk, beginning to talk to her as she heads from Nicole's desk. Nicole carries on working as she half-listens to Sami, never looking up at Sami.
     
    SAMI: I just had a kind of a meeting with Kate...and...we learned something more about the situation with Titan that I think you'd wanna know about.
    NICOLE: Oh?
     
    Sami leans against Nicole's desk. The intrusion into Nicole's personal space causes Nicole to look up at Sami, suddenly engaged in what she has to say.
     
    SAMI: Nick now has controlling interest in Titan, and that makes him powerful, and dangerous. So I am going to follow EJ's promise, and give you total freedom for your special about the EnerNext project. 
    NICOLE: Even if Will gets caught in the crossfire?
    SAMI: I'll make sure Will lands on his feet. You take that son-of-a-bitch Nick Fallon down before he destroys any more lives.
     
    Nicole and Sami look intensely at each other, Sami's simmering rage in her eyes.
     
    ---
     
    Abby smiles half-heartedly at Laura, as they sit across from each other on the couch in the Horton living room. Abby shrugs as she thinks over what her grandmother's said.
     
    ABBY: I mean...I guess, but...Grandma, a lot's gone down since Chad left town. I mean (laughs) I just went on this...great date with this guy I met at Salem U.
     
    Laura perks up, excited to hear about Abby's date.
     
    LAURA: Ooo! Tell me more! Who's this handsome stranger?
     
    Abby laughs, starting to blush at Laura's teasing.
     
    ABBY: (laughs) Grandma, stop! His name's Jerome Grant, and he's a grad student. I really enjoyed myself.
    LAURA: Oh! Grant! Is his mother Valerie Grant?
    ABBY: Grandmother. And yeah, he lives with her, she just moved back to town.
    LAURA: YES! I remember her! She worked with me when she was nursing student years and years ago. She's a fantastic woman. I remember your cousin David was madly in love with her. They were so beautiful together.
     
    Laura looks at Abby, who looks on, fascinated by Laura's story. She stops, and pinches her granddaughter's cheek.
     
    LAURA: And I know that you and Jerome will be just as beautiful. Especially if he's anything like his grandmother.
     
    Abby and Laura share a laugh, and Abby smiles warmly at her grandmother.
     
    ABBY: From what I hear, Jerome thinks the world of his grandma. Honestly, Grandma, I think losing Chad was the best thing that ever happened to me.
     
    ---
     
    Eric sits next to Marlena on the barstools at the Brady Pub. Eric takes a moment to mull over what his mother's just suggested to him before responding.
     
    ERIC: I dunno, Mom. I don't know if I can go along with a DNA test on Dad.
    MARLENA: And I understand. But you need to understand why I have to ask.
    ERIC: I think I do. You got burned once before with John. Stefano took years away from you with Dad, and...he made you second guess yourself. Now there's a chance that this man we've spent so many years thinking is Roman may not be...but...Mom, I don't see what value there is in that. 
     
    Marlena looks at Eric, pensively.
     
    MARLENA: There is, though. We need to know his medical history if we want to be able to treat him properly.
    ERIC: Yeah, But....Mom. Think about it. Sami's going through therapy to overcome her repressed trauma over her relationship with EJ. I'm just trying to get my life back together after Kristen turned it upside down. Carrie's in Europe, trying to juggle her career, raising Noah, and feeling helpless because she can't help Dad...Caroline's struggling to make it through every day now. She may not have much time left. And then there's Kim...
     

    Kim's voice calls out from behind them, causing both Marlena and Eric to turn around suddenly.
     
    KIM: What about me?
     
    Kim stands before Marlena and Eric, an awkward smile on her face as she anticipates being filled in on their conversation.
     
    ---
     
    Anjelica feigns being stunned, as the rest of the family look on silently, some awkwardly trying to continue their meal, as Anjelica responds to Justin's outburst.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, Justin! I'm suprised at you! I didn't realize you were still holding onto such hostility toward me after all these years--
     
    Justin stands up abruptly from his seat at the table, his voice raising over Anjelica's as he vents.
     
    JUSTIN: Oh, come off it, Anjelica! We all knew this was coming. We knew why you wanted so desperately to come have dinner with us. You can drop the charade now.
    ANJELICA: Well, I don't know what you're talking about, Justin, because I have been nothing but forthright with my intentions tonight. 
    JUSTIN: Oh, have you?
    ANJELICA: Yes, I have. I came here to see my son, and his lovely wife, and his family. I came here to do business with them, and help further my campaign. I hardly see the issue in that.
     
    Noelle sits back, attentively listening to the back-and-forth between the ex-lovers.
     
    JUSTIN: Of course you don't! You never do! Sometimes I think you're completely oblivious to any and all social cues! 
    ANJELICA: Oh, believe me, Justin, I am aware of them. 
     
    Anjelica slowly rises from her seat, leaning on the edge of the dinner table as she zeroes in on Justin.
     
    ANJELICA: I know the resentment you hold toward me. I even understand it. I did some things that were incredibly cruel to both you and Adrienne. And for that, I am tremendously sorry. But I refuse to stand back and allow hostility and pettiness continue to keep a wedge between my son's family and myself. All I ask is to stay here. To spend time with my son, his wife, and his family. All I want is an opportunity to allow us all to heal from the damage that I fully admit...that I caused.
     
    The family look on, stone silent, as Anjelica stares down a defiant Justin. She then turns her gaze over to Alex.
     
    ANJELICA: Are you willing to give me the opportunity, or not?
     
    Alex looks back at his mom, awkwardly. He looks over and notices all eyes are now on him. He struggles to find an answer to his mother's question.
     
    ---
  23. beebs
    EPISODE 151
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Alex sits in his seat at the Kiriakis dinner table, with all eyes in the room on him, as he stirs uncomfortably. 
     
    ANJELICA: Well, darling? I'd love to stay here with you and the family. If you'll have me. What do you say?
     
    Alex looks around the table, visibly uneasy with his mother's request. He finally musters up the courage and shakes his head.
     
    ALEX: Mom, I don't...I don't know if that's such a great idea.
    ANJELICA: Well, why not? Alexander, I haven't spent time with you in months. I've barely talked to you on the phone since you moved to Salem with Noelle. I've missed you.
     
    Alex sighs, trying not to get sucked into Anjelica's guilt trip.
     
    ALEX: Me too, Mom. But...(sigh) Mom, it's not like you're...you know...
     
    Justin cuts in, interjecting with a snarky, cutting ending to his son's sentence, frustrating Alex in the process.
     
    JUSTIN: Welcome? Wanted? Remotely tolerated?
    ALEX: Dad!
     
    Justin gets up from his seat at the table, with Adrienne pawing at him to get him to sit down, to no avail.
     
    JUSTIN: Face it, Anjelica. You've put us all through enough, and we're not going to let you use us again. Got that?
     
    Anjelica looks stunned, before turning to look at her son, who looks guiltily back at her. Alex gets up from his seat at the table, laying his napkin down by his plate, and leaves the room.
     
    ALEX: Excuse me, everyone.
     
    Justin attempts to stop Alex, as the others look on in stunned silence.
     
    JUSTIN: Alexander, where are you going?
     
    Alex ignores him as he walks out toward the living room.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Eric turn around while sitting on the barstools at the Brady Pub, having just heard Kim greet them.
     
    MARLENA: Kimberly!
    ERIC: Aunt Kim! Hey!
     
    Kim smiles broadly as she steps toward them both, giving Eric a warm hug, then Marlena.
     
    KIM: Hey! I ah...I heard about your wedding, Eric. I...I hope that isn't a sore subject to bring up?
     
    Kim looks over awkwardly at Marlena, who smiles diplomatically at her ex-sister-in-law.
     
    MARLENA: It's alright. 
    KIM: Well, I'm happy if you're happy, Eric.
     
    Eric smiles warmly at his aunt, as Kim looks back toward Marlena, curious as to their previous conversation.
     
    KIM: I heard you two were talking about me? My ears are burning.
    ERIC: Ahhh, yeah. I...think you better sit down for this one. It's...it's pretty intense, Aunt Kim.
     
    Kim looks between Eric and Marlena, surprised and a bit concerned as to what to expect.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi and Nick are still on their date at Club TBD. Their meals cleared away, Nick pours the last of the bottle of champagne they'd ordered.
     
    Gabi stirs in her seat, preparing to get up.
     
    GABI: I ah...I think I'm gonna use the ladies' room for a sec. I'll be right back.
    NICK: Sure thing.
     

    Getting up from her seat, Gabi walks quickly to the back of the club, disappearing into the restroom. As she does, Jennifer and Liam step in, arm in arm. T greets them at the door.
     
    T: Hello hello! Table for two?
    LIAM: Yes! Thank you.
    T: Right this way.
     
    T guides them over to a booth in the back corner of the club, away from where Gabi and  Nick are seated.
     
    The pair get settled in, as T recounts their specials for the night.
     
    T: So...here are the drink specials, and I have a mild lamb curry for our dinner special. I'll give you guys a minute if you like?
    JENNIFER: Actually...this place serves an excellent chardonnay...do you...do you drink chardonnay?
     
    Liam laughs at Jennifer's question.
     
    LIAM: If you recommend it, I'll try it.
    JENNIFER: Great.
     
    Liam turns to T, smiling.
     
    LIAM: I guess a bottle of your chardonnay.
    T: Sure thing.
     
    Liam turns to Jennifer, as Jennifer smiles, looking lovingly in his eyes.
     
    JENNIFER: You know, I'm really happy we were able to get out tonight.
    LIAM: It's all good. You had a late night at work.
    JENNIFER: Yeah. I feel like they've all been late nights since Anne quit. 
    LIAM: You've had a lot of catching up to do, I guess.
    JENNIFER: Yeah. That's why nights like this are so special. Can't really take the time off and get away, much as I'd like to. You know, you, and me, up to your little cabin in the woods.
     
    Liam squirms a bit, as Jennifer attempts to paint a romantic picture for the two of them. Jenn immediately notices, and her face changes into a slight frown.
     
    JENNIFER: Liam...what's wrong?
     
    Liam tries to change his expression to allay Jennifer's suspicion, but is unable to respond.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Daniel and Billie step into Daniel's apartment, as Daniel holds the door open for his girlfriend. Billie graciously steps inside with a quick nod of recognition.
     
    DANIEL: After you.
    BILLIE: What a gentleman.
     
    Billie and Daniel laugh as Daniel shuts the door behind Billie, and steps over to the kitchen area, suddenly on the hunt.
     
    Billie sets her clutch down on the coffee table, somewhat oblivious to what Daniel's up to.
     
    BILLIE: It's so nice to finally be out of that stuffy hospital.
     
    Daniel opens and shuts the kitchen cabinets, startling Billie as Daniel rummages around.
     
    With a slam of the cupboard, Daniel's head emerges from below the kitchen counter.
     
    BILLIE: What exactly are you doing?
    DANIEL: We have a problem.
     
    Billie attempts to raise an eyebrow at Daniel, as Daniel grimaces.
     
    DANIEL: We're out of coffee.
     
    Billie's face drops, disappointed by the news.

    BILLIE: I mean...Daniel it's a little late for coffee, no?
    DANIEL: No, but...you know...you said you wanted some, and there's nothing I won't do for my lady. So...there's only one thing to do.
     
    Billie looks at Daniel, curiously, as he gets up from behind the kitchen counter.
     
    BILLIE: And that is?
    DANIEL: One of us will just have to go get some!
     
    Billie looks bemused, as she looks back at Daniel.
     
     
    ---
     
    Justin sighs, as he goes to get up from his seat at the dinner table, but Anjelica gets up first, admonishing him for his behaviour.
     
    ANJELICA: And just where do you think you're going?
    JUSTIN: I am going to talk to my son.
    ANJELICA: Ohh, I think you've done quite enough talking tonight. Now it's my turn. Excuse me, everyone.
     
    Anjelica quickly walks out toward the living room, leaving Justin to look down at the others at the table. He sighs as Adrienne looks up at him, disappointed. He sits down again, trying to finish his meal.
     
    JUSTIN: I'm sorry, everyone. But I will not have that woman trapese into this house and--
     
    Adrienne suddenly snaps at Justin, fed up with his attitude.
     
    ADRIENNE: Oh just STOP IT, Justin! 
     
    Justin is stunned by Adrienne's reaction, and raises his voice back, in disbelief.
     
    JUSTIN: Adrienne, you want her here as much as the rest of us--
    ADRIENNE: ...Not if it means you drive Alex away. And acting like a spoiled brat about it isn't going to get you anywhere.
     
    Maggie cuts in at this moment, speaking more gently, but just as firmly.
     
    MAGGIE: Adrienne's right. Goading Anjelica into a fight in front of her son is just playing right into her hands. You're gonna lose him, Justin.
     
    Justin looks at Maggie, considering hers and Adrienne's point of view.
     
    ...
     
    In the living room, Alex stands at the bar, pouring himself a drink, as Anjelica walks in.
     
    ANJELICA: Alex?
     
    Anjelica stops herself for a moment, before stepping toward him gently.
     
    ANJELICA: Honey, I'm sorry about what just happened in there.
     
    Alex answers cooly, his eyes focused on his glass, as he slams the glass down on the counter.
     
    ALEX: Not your fault. Dad's made his point of view pretty clear, though.
    ANJELICA: Well, your father doesn't run your life or mine. You're an adult, and you have as much say as anyone else what you want to do.
    ALEX: I know. Doesn't mean I want you two down each other's throats every day.
     
    Anjelica shakes her head, sighing as she responds to Alex.
     
    ANJELICA: It won't be like that. I promise I will try...I will not cause problems with Justin. I have way too much work to do anyway.
     
    Alex looks off, not saying a word to Anjelica's vow. Anjelica takes this as a hint, and looks down at the ground, thoughtfully.
     
    ANJELICA: I can just stay at the Salem Inn, if that makes it easier. 
     
    After a moment, he turns to Anjelica, who's turned back toward the dining room. His words stop her dead in her tracks.
     
    ALEX: N...Mother...you can stay with us.
     
    Anjelica smiles genuinely, turning back toward her son.
     
    ALEX: I'll ah...I'll send for your stuff tonight, you...you can stay as long as you like.
    ANJELICA: Ohhh, thank you. Thank you.
     
    Anjelica walks over to Alex, hugging his tightly. Alex reciprocates, as Justin walks into the living room from the dining room.
     
    ANJELICA: Thank you.
     
    Alex looks up, seeing his dad in the archway. He looks blankly at Justin, who looks on, defeated.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi stands in the doorway to the restrooms, just out of sight of Nick and the others in the main room of Club TBD. She types furiously on her cell phone, texting to Sami and Kate.
     
    good work. i think we got him. will keep u informed
     
    Gabi then looks into the dining area, and spots Nick, popping a pill. Noticing Nick lament how empty the bottle's getting, she sends a text out to EJ.
     
    running low again, call me
     
    Gabi puts away her phone, turning back to head into the main room, but as she does, Jennifer waves her down.
     
    JENNIFER: Gabi! Hi! Oh, it's good to see you. 
    GABI: Hey! Jennifer! I ah...I was just out with Nick. How are you?
    JENNIFER: I'm fine. I...I just wanted to see how you were doing. Abigail says you've been...a bit distant lately, and she's been worried about you.
    GABI: Oh, I'm...I'm fine. Really I am. I--
     
    Gabi stops as she looks over at Jennifer's date, realizing it's Liam, the man who's been supplying her with the pills for Nick. He looks back at her with a blank expression.
     
    JENNIFER: Oh! Gabi, sorry, this is my date, Mr. Liam Frasier!
    LIAM: Pleased to meet you.
     
    Liam extends his hand to Gabi, taking hers in his, as he looks up at her, a wry smile. Gabi stands, stunned before him.
     
    ---
     
    Kim emerges from the back of the Brady Pub, her things put away as she walks around to the front of the bar, nervously waiting to hear what Eric and Marlena were discussing.
     
    KIM: Okay, guys. Lay it on me. What's got you both so worried.
     
    Kim sits down on a barstool next to Eric and Marlena, as Eric begins to attempt to explain their discussion.
     
    ERIC: (sigh) We...look, Kim, I know you've got a lot on your plate right, helping out with the pub while Grandma's sick and all, but...
     
    Kim looks at Eric, a nervous smile on her face as she waits for Eric to finish.
     
    KIM: But...
     
    Marlena cuts in, hoping to reassure Kim as she explains the situation to her.
     
    MARLENA: Ah...Kim. we're worried about Roman.
    KIM: I know. I've been...really worried about him too. I mean, the memory lapses, the suddenly vanishing, the...
     
    Kim trails off, making a realization based on Eric and Marlena's troubled faces.
     
    KIM: ...There's more, isn't there?
     
    Marlena takes a second before continuing. 
     
    MARLENA: We're not just concerned about that anymore...and we need your help.
     
    Kim nods emphatically, now very worried about what's to come.
     
    MARLENA: We need you to do a DNA test with Roman. We need to prove that he really is Roman Brady.
     
    Kim's jaw drops, stunned and horrified by what she's hearing.
     
    ---
  24. beebs
    EPISODE 152
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Kim stands by the bar at the Brady Pub, looking at Eric and Marlena with a stunned expression.
     
    KIM: I'm sorry, what did you just tell me?
     
    Marlena takes a moment to find the right words before re-explaining her request to Kim.
     
    MARLENA: Kim...Valerie and I have been going over Roman's files, trying desperately to figure out what exactly is wrong with him.
    KIM: Right. I mean...it's obviously some kind of dementia, right? I mean...what else could it be? The memory lapses, the hostile outbursts, it's all the symptoms.
    MARLENA: Yes...but there's a problem.
     
    Kim reacts with increasing volume and hostility toward Marlena.
     
    KIM: Which is?
     
    Marlena breathes in deeply before responding.
     
    MARLENA: There are no medical records for Roman from before he returned to salem in 1997.
     
    Kim looks at Marlena, completely stunned.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi stands at Jennifer and Liam's table at Club TBD, suddenly snapping out of her stunned moment of silence. She extends a hand to greet Liam.
     
    GABI: Oh! Sorry! Yes, I'm Gabi Hernandez. It's...nice to meet you.
    LIAM: Likewise.
     
    They shake hands awkwardly, as Liam gives Gabi a firm look, which Gabi picks up on. She steps away slowly, as Jennifer attempts to continue their chat.
     
    JENNIFER: How is Nick doing, anyway? I heard he's...been given a...huge promotion.
    GABI: Yeah, we're...we're celebrating that now.
    JENNIFER: Good. I'm glad. I was worried when Abigail told me how much pain he was in at Salem U the other week.
     
    Gabi feigns concern, but is mostly just uneasy with the line of questioning.
     
    GABI: Oh, ah...I dunno. He's been fine tonight. We're having a celebration dinner for me. I'm...getting back into modelling.
     
    Jennifer perks up at the news, making Gabi smile, but half-heartedly, as her worries consume her thoughts.
     
    JENNIFER: Oh my gosh, that's amazing news, Gabi! Congratulations!
    GABI: Thanks. I..ah...anyway, I'm gonna just...head back to him now. It's...it's good to see you, and to meet you. Thanks for asking how we're doing, Jennifer.
     
    Jennifer looks on, confused by her subdued reaction.  She smiles, regardless.
     
    JENNIFER: Anytime, sweetheart.
     
    Gabi steps away from the table, leaving Jennifer looking confused as she watches Gabi hustle back to her table with Nick.
     
    Jennifer then turns back toward Liam, her brow furrowed.
     
    LIAM: Something the matter?
    JENNIFER: Yeah. Something is very wrong with Gabi. And I really hope it has nothing to do with Nick.
     
    ---
     

    Billie stands in Daniel's apartment, disappointed by Daniel's declaration that they're out of coffee.
     
    BILLIE: Well, I mean, I'm disappointed that you're out of coffee, but...I don't really...NEED it.
     
    Daniel emerges from behind the kitchen island, and walks toward Billie, wrapping his arms around her waist.
     
    DANIEL: Well, here's what I propose.
     
    Billie reciprocates, looking seductively into Daniel's eyes.
     
    BILLIE: Mm, what?
    DANIEL: You go pick up some coffee--
    BILLIE: Me? 
     
    Daniel tries to stifle a laugh as Billie feigns indignation.
     
    DANIEL: (laughs) Yes. You go pick some up for me at the corner store...and when you come back...I'll have everything else ready for you.
     
    Billie responds, herself now trying not to laugh at Daniel's suggestion.
     
    BILLIE: You're gonna make me go out, in the rain, and grab coffee for YOU.
    DANIEL: Mmmhmm.
     
    Billie replies sarcastically, giving Daniel a displeased look. 
     
    BILLIE: And they say chivalry is dead.
     
    Daniel laughs, as Billie rolls her eyes. Daniel steps to his chest of drawers in the corner of the room, and grabs an umbrella for Billie, handing it to her.
     
    DANIEL: Here. I promise I'll make it up to you when you get back, 'kay?
     
    Billie raises an eyebrow at Daniel, taking the umbrella and playfully jabbing him in the side with it.
     
    BILLIE: You better. Okay, I'll be back. Love you.
     
    Billie and Daniel share a quick kiss, as she heads out the door of Daniel's apartment.
     
    DANIEL: Love you.
     
    As the door closes, Daniel looks at his living room, particularly looking up at the ceiling, and clasps his hands together, rubbing them together as he nods his head eagerly.
     
    DANIEL: Time to get to work.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Justin stands by the doorway to the kitchen at the Kiriakis mansion, observing Anjelica and Alex in an embrace in the living room. As they separate from their hug, Alex looks warmly at his mother.
     
    ALEX: I...ah...I'm gonna call the Salem Inn for you and we'll get a car to bring your stuff over, okay?
    ANJELICA: Oh, sweetheart, thank you, BUT...
     
    Anjelica grabs her clutch from beside the bar, and pulls out her phone.
     
    ANJELICA: I've gotta head back there, anyway. I have a lot to take care of. 
    ALEX: Alright.
    ANJELICA: I should be back in an hour, okay?
     
    Anjelica spots Justin from the doorway, and smiles smugly at him.
     
    ANJELICA: JUSTIN! You'll be pleased to know you'll have many more opportunities to show off your biting wit. 
    JUSTIN: So I've heard.
     
    Justin steps into the room, a far more humble demeanour than he'd carried before.
     
    JUSTIN: Look, Anjelica...I don't relish the thought of you staying here, don't get me wrong...
     
    Justin looks at his son, and sighs before finishing his thought.
     
    JUSTIN: But it's important for me that my son is happy, and that he spends time with his mother. And that's what he wants, then I'm not going to deny him that.
    ANJELICA: That's a very thoughtful thing to say.
    JUSTIN: Well, don't pat me on the back just yet. See, I just want you to know that I will not tolerate any of the manipulations that I've known you to engage in over the years. I don't want your campaign team in this house. It'd be a conflict of interest.
    ANJELICA: Duly noted.
    JUSTIN: And just so we're clear. If I find out you've been up to anything even remotely duplicitous, you're outta here. Do I make myself clear?
     
    Anjelica nods, for once, not a snarky retort to be heard.
     
    ANJELICA: Crystal.
     
    Anjelica looks up at her son, who smiles at both her, and Justin.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi sits back down in her seat at the table she's sharing with Nick at Club TBD. Nick's pleased to see her return.
     
    GABI: Hey! Sorry that took so long.
    NICK: Don't even worry about it. Who's that with Jennifer?
    GABI: Oh! It's ah...some guy, Leon I think? Liam? Apparently they've been seeing each other for awhile. Abby thinks he's okay, but JJ's not sold on him.
    NICK: Well, you know. There's always someone who's not going to approve of who you're with.
     
    Gabi nods, trying to appear disinterested so that Nick changes the subject.
     
    GABI: Hey, ah...you know, it's pretty late, and...well...I was hoping to at least say goodnight to Ari. Besides, sitters aren't cheap, and...with Will and Sonny out for the night...
     
    Nick holds up a hand, in an attempt to stop Gabi for continuing.
     
    NICK: Say no more, I'll get the bill, we'll be outta here. Can I at least walk you to your door?
     
    Gabi smiles, nodding her approval.
     
    GABI: I'd like that.
     
    Nick smiles back as he flags down T for the bill.
     
    ---
     
    Billie steps back into Daniel's apartment, carrying a wet umbrella, and shopping bag with a tin of coffee in her one hand. She calls out to Daniel as she enters, but stops midsentence from surprise at what she sees once inside.
     
    BILLIE: Okay, Daniel, I got...the coffee...
     
    In the living room, the couches have been moved away, the lights turned off but for strings of blue-tinted LEDs strung from the ceiling, simulating the stars. Daniel sits on a blanket, placed on the floor of the living area. Daniel holds his arms out, welcoming Billie inside, as a song begins to play.
     
     
     
    DANIEL: Welcome.
     
    Billie lays her umbrella down against the chest of drawers next to the door, still stunned by the display Daniel's put on.
     
    BILLIE: Wh...what is all this?
    DANIEL: Well...
     
    Daniel points up to the ceiling, looking up at the lights he's strung up. Billie looks up curiously, following Daniel's eyes.
     
    DANIEL: Since we weren't able to see the stars in the park like we wanted...I improvised a bit. 
    BILLIE: It all makes sense now.
     
    Billie slowly walks over to where Daniel's sitting on the blanket.
     
    DANIEL: And now, I can make the coffee you wanted.
    BILLIE: Well, there's just one problem now.
    DANIEL: What's that?
     
    Billie kneels down next to Daniel, looking into Daniel's eyes with a fiery sensuality.
     
    BILLIE: I'm not really in the mood for coffee anymore.
     
    Billie leans in closer to Daniel, who raises an eyebrow at Billie's suggestion.
     
    DANIEL: Oh? And just what are you in the mood for?
     
    Billie rests her arms on Daniel's shoulders, their faces now mere inches apart.
     
    BILLIE: I think you can guess.
    DANIEL: Mmmm yeah.
     
    As Daniel and Billie lean into their passionate kiss, they lay back on the blanket, caught up in the heat of the moment.
     
    ---
     
    Kim leans against the bar at the Brady Pub, stunned by the news Marlena's just shared with her about her brother.
     
    KIM: Marlena...are you seriously trying to tell me that because of some...clerical error, you're going to leap to the conclusion that the man we've been calling my brother for over twenty years is an imposter?
    MARLENA: Kim, there's more to it than that--
     
    Kim snaps at Marlena, shouting out, causing more than a couple stares from other patrons.
     
    KIM: I should hope so!
     
    Kim, quickly realizing the scene she just caused, looks around her, and quickly calms herself down.
     
    KIM: You're supposed to be helping to save my brother, figuring out what's wrong with him, and why he's losing his memory. Not trying to prove some hairbrained theory you've cooked up.
     
    Eric pipes up, coming to his mother's defense. He's firm, but respectful to his aunt.
     
    ERIC: Aunt Kim, it's not like that. Look, I don't like this any more than you do, but I understand why Mom's asking this.
    KIM: Then, if you understand it, why aren't you the one agreeing to get a sample for this test?
     
    Eric looks away, sheepishly backing down. Kim raises her eyebrows, looking to Marlena pointedly.
     
    KIM: That's what I thought.
    MARLENA: Kim, I'm not trying to cause a problem for you, or for the family. I just want to get to the truth.
    KIM: The truth is that my brother is losing his memory in chunks, and it's only a matter of time before he is going to be a shell of the man we knew. We need to be looking for solutions, or at the very least, looking to make arrangements to ensure Roman is well cared-for when he becomes incapable of doing so himself. Not trying to solve some kind of...tin foil hat conspiracy theory true. 
    MARLENA: Kim, Stefano has done some outrageous things in the past, it's not inconceivable--
    KIM: It may not be inconceivable...but it's also not likely. And it's definitely not the time.
     
    Kim looks intensely at Marlena, who looks back, pained by Kim's rejection of her plans.
     
    KIM: Let this go, Marlena. Please.
     
    Marlena sighs, closing her eyes to keep herself calm, as Eric looks on, concerned for his mother, putting a hand on her shoulder.
     
    ---
  25. beebs
    EPISODE 153
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    It's late, and Nick walks Gabi to the door of her apartment. They talk (mostly Nick talks, while Gabi pretends to listen), as they walk, arm in arm. As it's still raining, Nick holds a big umbrella over them both, protecting them.
     
    NICK: So it's basically the biggest EDM festival in Europe, and...I think we should check it out.
    GABI: That sounds really good, but...we're gonna be really busy this summer, with the shoots and everything, I just don't think that's gonna happen.
    NICK: We can make time. I'll make sure of it.
     
    Gabi smiles, trying to be gentle in her rebuffing Nick's offer.
     
    GABI: We'll see. Ah...look, I'm heading in, thanks again for walking me home.
    NICK: It's the least I could do. I'm glad you enjoyed yourself with me.
    GABI: You know I always do.
    NICK: Oh come on, we both know that's a lie.
     
    Gabi rolls her eyes, knowing Nick's right, she laughs.
     
    GABI: Yeah, I guess, you're right. But I'm serious. Plus, I'm really excited. So much is changing for me, and for you. I think things are really starting to look up.
    NICK: I think so too.
     
    Nick smiles, as he looks at Gabi. He hesitates for a moment, before asking his question.
     
    NICK: You never answered me before about moving into the Kiriakis mansion with me. Now that I'm...well...now that it's mine.
     
    Gabi looks down, her hands in Nick's. She smiles half-heartedly as she looks down. Knowing it's a bad idea, but having to hold in those thoughts.
     
    GABI: Nick, I...I have to think about it. I mean...you know, everything's moving so fast, and...can you just give me a bit of time to think it over?
     
    Nick raises his hand to Gabi's chin, and gently lifts her head up to look into his eyes. He smiles gently.
     
    NICK: Gabi, I'm not gonna make the same mistakes I did before. No pressure. You tell me when you're ready.
     
    Gabi smiles back at Nick as she responds softly.
     
    GABI: Thank you.
     
    Nick and Gabi share a long gaze into each other's eyes, before he leans in for a kiss, but is suddenly struck by a severe pain. He shouts out in agony, as a high-pitched ringing hits his ears. He holds his head, as he crumples from the pain. Gabi panicks, unsure what to do, as the rain soaks her hair and makeup.
     
    GABI: Nick? NICK?! Are you okay???
     
    ---
     

    Sami arrives back at the DiMera mansion, to find EJ at his desk. Standing soaking wet in the doorway to the living room, EJ looks over, pulling his reading glasses off his face. He attempts to stifle a laugh at his the expense of his partner.
     
    EJ: You ah...I see you made it back in one piece.
    SAMI: Save it.
     
    Sami storms into the room, dumping her bag in the corner and making a beeline for the roaring fireplace.
     
    SAMI: I didn't know it was gonna rain so I left my umbrella here this morning, and got caught in the storm on the way back from the office.
     
    EJ looks on, curiously.
     
    EJ: The office? You left hours ago. Did you go back?
    SAMI: EJ, I had to. We had a situation on our hands.
    EJ: Well, it would've been nice to have been kept in the loop, Samantha.
     
    Sami turns herself toward the fire, speaking dismissively to EJ.
     
    SAMI: I didn't have time. 
     
    EJ becomes agitated, getting up from his seat at the desk and beginning to grill Sami.
     
    EJ: What does that mean? It would literally take you ten seconds to send me a text or something.
     
    Sami turns her head, snapping at EJ before turning back toward the heat.
     
    SAMI: EJ, Nick has controlling interest of Titan, I had to make sure we had everything in place to take him out.
    EJ: I agree, that's smart, but shouldn't I be privvy to that? 
    SAMI: I'm telling you now, aren't I?
    EJ: That's not the point.
     
    Sami turns her body to face EJ, now exasperated by EJ's grilling.
     
    SAMI: Look, FINE. I'll tell you what's going on. But you need to keep this to yourself. Okay?
     
    ---
     

    Marlena sighs, as she sits on a barstool at the Brady Pub, next to Eric. Kim stands across from her, awaiting her answer to Kim's demand.
     
    KIM: Marlena. Promise me you won't run a DNA test on Roman.
     
    Marlena sighs again, closing her eyes, before shaking her head. She looks at Kim and responds with conviction.
     
    MARLENA: You know I can't do that.
    KIM: Marlena, that's a cop out and you know it. Roman needs Valerie to be focused on what's wrong with him right now, and getting him treatment, not focusing on some hairbrained idea that he may not be who we know he is.
    MARLENA: But that's exactly it, Kim. What if the cognitive degradation is related to his true identity? What if he isn't your brother and your brother is out there somewhere, trying to get home to Salem?
    KIM: And what if he's not? Marlena, it's been 20 years! Something would've come up by now, surely.
    MARLENA: Not neccessarily. Not if Stefano's involved. 
     
    Kim sighs, certain Marlena's being extremely optimistic.
     
    KIM: What if you're right, Marlena? What if Stefano did send this...impostor to Salem, but then the real Roman did actually die while on that assignment all those years ago like we thought? Hmm? Then what?
     
    Marlena looks back Kim, struggling to answer her question.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Sami stands, arms folded, facing EJ in the DiMera living room. Her hair still soaking from the storm outside, as she explains what she's been up to.
     
    SAMI: Nick was trying to goad Kate and I into turning on each other over Gabi. I guess he wanted to do some kind of divide and conquer and try to manipulate Gabi into trusting him over us. But Kate and I figured it out, and we're playing along for Gabi's sake.
    EJ: How did that go?
    SAMI: So far so good. Nick's totally snowed, Gabi's on a date with him, making him think she's falling for him again. Thank GOD that's a big charade.
    EJ: Is it?
     
    Sami nods, certain of her answer.
     
    SAMI: Yeah. She's terrified of him. I'm surprised you didn't see it before.
    EJ: I did, but...frankly, that girl should be acting instead of modelling because I know she's pulled the wool over our eyes once before where Nick was concerned. That's why I tested her this morning.
     
    Sami looks baffled by EJ's statement.
     
    SAMI: Tested her?
    EJ: That's what I was trying to tell you earlier. I paid Gabi a visit this morning. I wanted to sort of...gauge her reaction when I gave her a gift I'd been planning to give her.
    SAMI: Okay...I'm afraid to ask...what was the gift?
     
    EJ hesitates for a moment, before sighing and responding.
     
    EJ: I gave her a gun to keep with her in case Nick tries to hurt her or Arianna.
    SAMI: You did WHAT?!
     
    Sami looks at EJ, aghast at his decision.
     
    ---
     
    Gabi steps toward a visibly suffering Nick as his headache worsens. Nick drops the open umbrella, an leans against the wall by Gabi's apartment doorway. Deeply concerned by his sudden pain, Gabi coaxes him toward her door, all the while getting herself wet.
     
    GABI: Nick! Nick, okay, it's gonna be okay. We just gotta get you inside. Okay?
     
    Nick, wincing from the pain, barely hears Gabi through his pained grunts. Trying to maintain control over his breathing, Nick holds his head, as Gabi tries to open the door.
     
    GABI: Okay, we got you.
     
    Once open, Nick and Gabi stumble through the door to the darkened apartment. Gabi grabs Nick's umbrella and closes it behind her. Closing the door and turning on the light, Gabi walks Nick over to her sofa, and peels his wet blazer off his shoulders, throwing it on the floor.
     
    Afterwards, she lays him down, fluffing up pillows for him to lay on.
     
    NICK: Nnnng, hm...Gabi, please....please, my medication.
    GABI: Okay. Okay, I'm getting it.
     
    Gabi runs over to grab his blazer, and rifles through it in a panic, before finding the nearly-empty bottle in one of Nick's pockets.
     
    Gabi turns quickly to face Nick, then has a moment of realization, as she becomes aware of what's happening and who she's dealing with. A sudden rush of calm comes over her. She stares at Nick for a moment, seeing him writhe in pain on her sofa.
     
    She bites her lower lip, as she holds the pill bottle in her hand, and contemplates her next move. She then looks down at the desk drawer, where she placed the gun EJ had given her earlier in the day, and contemplates opening it.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena stands up from her barstool, looking at Kim with compassion. Eric gets up from his stool, as well, surveying the situation.
     
    MARLENA: Kim, I get it. You don't want to lose your brother all over again...but you could have him back, and back to stay.
     
    Kim looks back at Marlena, unmoved.
     
    KIM: I could, but if you don't start looking for a treatment for the disease that's eating his brain, then we WILL lose him, Marlena. 
    ERIC: Aunt Kim, you know we're all trying to find answers.
    KIM: Eric, I'm not blaming you for this. But you don't want to be doing this test any more than I do. 
    ERIC: I have my own reasons.
    KIM: That's fine.
    ERIC: But I also think that what Mom's saying has merit.
     
    Kim looks back at Marlena momentarily, nodding before responding to Eric.
     
    KIM: Okay. That's fine. You...you do what you want. But let me make something very clear. If Roman doesn't get the treatment he needs in time, and my brother dies? I'm putting that on you, Marlena.
     
    Kim storms off to the staircase, headed away from a distraught Marlena. Eric pulls his mother into a hug, as a song begins to play.
     
     
     
    ---
     

    As the song continues, Billie and Daniel lay together in Daniel's living room, sharing their blanket after making love. Billie's arms around Daniel's naked torso, as Daniel points up toward the LED lights on his ceiling.
     
    DANIEL: See, I put a big dipper right over there.
     
    Billie laughs as she squints, trying to see the constellation Daniel attempted to replicate.
     
    BILLIE: That looks more like a soup ladle, but...I'll play along.
    DANIEL: Hey! Never criticize an artist in his own studio. Got it?
     
    Daniel teases Billie playfully, as they laugh together, before Billie cuddles in closer to Daniel, looking into his eyes with a loving warmth.
     
    BILLIE: You know...I'm really glad I went to get that coffee.
    DANIEL: Are you?
    BILLIE: Mmhmm. This has turned out to be a beautiful night after all.
     
    Billie leans in to kiss Daniel's lips. He smiles after she does, savouring the moment.
     
    DANIEL: I think so. And in here, there isn't a cloud in the sky.
    BILLIE: Heh, yeah, you're right. 
     
    Daniel looks at Billie, but notices a certain sadness in her eyes.
     
    DANIEL: You okay?
    BILLIE: Yeah, why?
    DANIEL: I dunno, just...after you ran into Kim earlier, I just...I worried that she might've said something to upset you or...
    BILLIE: Nooo, no no no. I'm used to Kim's anger toward me, it's more....it's more that I'm worried about her, really.
     
    Daniel looks surprised, as Billie's expression changes, and she stares off momentarily from Daniel.
     
    DANIEL: Worried? About Kim Brady?
    BILLIE: Yeah. She's got a lot on her shoulders. Theresa, her mother's health declining, Roman going through...I dunno, I guess it's dementia? Being separated from her husband for so long? Your children? That's....that's gotta be so hard on a person.
    DANIEL: Well...she'll be fine, I think. She's stronger than she seems.
    BILLIE: Yeah, but...being alone like she is? I couldn't imagine dealing with all that without you.

    Billie moves in to where her face nearly touches Daniel's. They look adoringly into each other's eyes, as Daniel shifts his body to face Billie's, as he moves his arm up to Billie's face, gently carressing her face. He responds softly to her.
     
    DANIEL: You'll never have to find out the answer to that. I'll always be here.
     
    Daniel and Billie share a tender kiss, as Billie leans into the kiss, and the two roll over, preparing for another round of lovemaking.
     
    ...
     
    Back at the Brady Pub, as Kim descends the staircase, and looks out on a now-empty pub (save for the lone bartender cleaning up), Kim walks into the room slowly. 
     
    She puts a hand on the bartender's shoulder and smiles half-heartedly.
     
    KIM: You're good for tonight, hun. Thanks.
     
    The bartender heads back into the kitchen to pack up to leave, as Kim shuts off most of the lighting.
     
    As the song ends, she leans against the bar, and thinks over the problems facing her. Missing her daughter, and her son, her husband, and the slow decline of her brother and mother. 
     
    Kim is emotionally overwhelmed by a sense of grief, and begins to sob uncontrollably. 
     
    ---
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

  I accept