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EPISODE 113 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Jennifer and Liam laugh and chatter as they walk into the Horton living room, as JJ sits on the couch, snacking and watching TV. JENNIFER: JJ! Hey, honey. JJ turns toward Liam and Jennifer, greeting his mom and her boyfriend unenthusiastically. JJ: Oh. Hey, guys. JENNIFER: Listen, JJ, honey? Liam and I are just getting ready for a later dinner, so I'm gonna pop quickly in the shower. JJ: Sure, Mom. Jennifer turns to Liam for a moment. JENNIFER: You don't mind if you wait for me a few minutes? LIAM: Yeah! That's great. I uh...I had something I wanted to talk about with JJ, anyway, so... Jennifer smiles warmly at Liam as she leans in to give him a quick peck on the lips before heading upstairs. JENNIFER: Alright. See you in a few minutes. LIAM: You bet, Jen. Jennifer runs upstairs, as Liam walks toward the archway between the Horton living room and foyer. JJ tries to avoid engaging with Liam, instead focusing closely on his TV show. He can sense Liam's presence and is made increasingly uncomfortable, before Liam speaks. LIAM: Hey, JJ. JJ: Yeah. Hey Liam. Liam saunters into the Horton living room casually, hands in his pockets as he moves toward the sofa, where JJ is. LIAM: Look, I...I kinda feel like you and I we...we started off on the wrong foot. JJ: You could say that. Liam pauses a moment, looking over JJ's unchanging expression, before carrying on with his attempts to converse with him. LIAM: I ah...I talked to your mom about you. JJ continues to avoid Liam's gaze, staring instead straight ahead at the TV set. JJ: Oh yeah. LIAM: Yeah...I uh...(sigh) Look...JJ.... Liam steps over to sit beside JJ on the sofa, JJ still trying to avoid engaging, but upon Liam sitting down, JJ looks over, and locks eyes with his mom's mysterious beau. LIAM: I know I've sorta...given off a very negative impression to you in the last few months and I...I didn't know really what I could do to change your mind. JJ shrugs dispassionately, trying to turn his attentions back to the TV. JJ: I dunno. You kinda freaked me out there a couple times but...I don't really have a bad impression of you. Liam smiles warmly at JJ. LIAM: That's good. Liam reaches into his blazer pocket, and pulls out an envelope, handing it to JJ. LIAM: Because I was hoping that I could change that impression into something really good. JJ looks down at the envelope, then, confused, up at Liam. Liam meets JJ's eyes and nods, trying to prompt JJ to take the envelope. --- Nick sits at his computer in the Countess W lab, he suddenly leans back in his chair, lurching back looking victorious. It shocks a focused Tyler, who looks over at Nick. NICK: Got it! TYLER: What? Did you get 'em? NICK: And dropped them right in your lap. Tyler walks over towards Nick, staring at his laptop seriously, trying to figure out what's happened. TYLER: Alright, but what, or should I say, who...did you drop in my lap? Nick turns to look up at Tyler, smugly satisfied. NICK: One employee in marketing by the name of Sheryl Connors...except that's not exactly her real name. She's been trying to take down your systems...and your company for months. And tonight, she and her cronies attempted to launch a virus to take your systems out, just like they did this morning with the Salem City Hall servers. Tyler looks at Nick, stoic and taking in all the information he's being given. TYLER: But you...stopped them in time? NICK: There's some damage but nothing that's unrecoverable. So...yes. TYLER: Did you get enough info on them to make charges stick. Nick gives his now-trademark smirk, savouring the moment. NICK: Ohh yeah. And then some. --- Sheryl looks down at her smoking laptop, stunned and amazed by the collosal meltdown of her computer. Her shock quickly fades into anger as she realizes what's happened. SHERYL: I'll kill h... Sheryl picks up her laptop suddenly, ready to toss it across the room, when she notices a bump just on the lip of the bottom side. Turning the unit around suddenly, as the heat is too much for her hands, she drops the computer back onto her desk, and sees the bug Billie planted on her unit. She flashes back to the door of the elevator opening and seeing Billie standing there. Jolted back to reality, she comes to the obvious conclusion. SHERYL: Billie. --- Billie sits at her computer desk at Titan, flanked by her brother Lucas, and her mother, Kate. They all look on in awe as Billie exclaims suddenly. BILLIE: They beat me. LUCAS: Who did? BILLIE: I have no idea...but someone got to them before we did...and now we...well...now we basically have nothing. Kate's face sours instantly, standing up in frustration and begins pacing the room at her daughter's news. KATE: DAMMIT. I can't believe that little tramp wins again. BILLIE: Well...on the bright side, we did stop them from taking the entire company's secrets and flushing them down the drain on their way out. KATE: That's cold comfort when the whole reason we did all this was to put Jordan Ridgeway and Sheryl Connors behind bars where they belong. Billie looks up at her mother, a strange look in her eye. BILLIE: Well...what if there's still a chance they do? Kate stops, looking skeptically at Billie, as Lucas looks over at Billie, confused. --- --- Noelle walks into Club TBD, where she looks around to see the crowd. She spies a seat at the bar, and walks casually over, before speaking to the woman sitting the next seat over. NOELLE: Excuse me...I seem to have caught this place on a busy night...is this seat taken? The woman turns around to face Noelle. It's Nicole. She looks at Noelle, sighing as she looks her up and down. She shakes her head. NICOLE: No. It's free. Have a seat. As Noelle lifts herself onto the stool, Nicole turns herself slightly toward Noelle. NICOLE: Look, I'm...I'm sorry I snapped at you the last time we met... Noelle pauses a moment before realizing Nicole's prompting her for her name. NOELLE: Noelle-- NICOLE: Noelle! Yes! Sorry. I...look, I feel bad, I...I've had a really bad few weeks at work and...Eric and I...I don't have the best luck with men, and...Eric...he's the love of my life, and we were supposed to get married today. Noelle looks at Nicole, nodding in understanding. NOELLE: But the server at City Hall was down. Eric told us earlier. NICOLE: Yeah... Nicole laughs half-heartedly to herself before taking a drink of her martini. During that moment, Noelle quickly prompts to T to give her a martini of her own, as Nicole continues. NICOLE: I just really want this stress to be over with. NOELLE: Oh, I get it. More than you'll ever know. Nicole looks back at Noelle, intrigued. NICOLE: Oh yeah? You sound like you had a rough evening, yourself. NOELLE: I did indeed. And I have one Victor Kiriakis to thank for it. Nicole looks on, suddenly fascinated by their common adversary. --- JJ stares at the envelope Liam's handed to him, as he sits on the sofa in the Horton living room. After a moment, he reaches for the envelope, as Jennifer emerges from upstairs. JENNIFER: Liam, what's that? JJ and Liam turn quickly around to see Jenn walking down the last of the stairs and heading toward the living room, wearing a simple dress and her hair still in a towel. Jennifer has a smile on her face as she approaches her boyfriend and her son. LIAM: Oh this? Liam points to the envelope he's just given JJ. He then turns to face JJ and smiles earnestly. LIAM: This...well...see...when I said your mom and I we...talked about you...see...we talked about your dreams, JJ. How you wanted to go to Stanford, pursue a law degree. Well...that's expensive. Jennifer looks at Liam, and back at JJ, trying to gauge the other's reaction. A smirk on her face as she wonders what Liam has up his sleeve. Meanwhile, JJ looks stunned by Liam's sudden shift in demeanour and tone towards him. JJ: Yeah...it is... LIAM: Your mom, she ah, she told me you'd have to take out student loans for this if you're accepted and that that's...put you off applying...I think...I hope this will make you reconsider. JJ hesitates a moment before slowly opening the envelope. Inside, a cheque for $50,000. JJ's taken aback. JJ: Wh...what?? What is this? Liam points to the cheque and smiles at a confused JJ. LIAM: Think of it as an investment in a great young mind. JJ looks stunned, turning to a beaming Jennifer, who begins to tear up looking back at JJ, then back to a beaming Liam. --- Tyler stands in the Countess W lab, staring seriously at a very self-satisfied Nick. TYLER: So you're saying that you've got this Connors woman...but what about her cronies? NICK: The cronies are a bit harder to crack, but...I think if I...work on a bit...I should be able to get them too. Tyler finally cracks a smile at the end of it all. TYLER: That's fantastic, then. Tyler shakes Nick's hand firmly, a proud look on his face, as he turns to head for the door of the lab. TYLER: Listen, I'll make sure you receive a commendation with the board for this, and I'll have security escort Ms. Connors out right now-- Nick interrupts him, stopping him in his tracks as he emphatically interjects. NICK: Wait wait wait wait. No, stop. We can't just go in there and throw her out. We're gonna do this my way...and she'll never see it coming. TYLER: What do you mean? NICK: If you want what I've got here, you're going to have to agree to my terms, Mr. Houston. Tyler looks disgusted at Nick, shouting back in protest. TYLER: I beg your par-- NICK: ...This is NOT a negotiation, Mr. Houston. Let Sheryl go for tonight. She won't be going anywhere just yet. She's got too many loose ends to tie up in Salem first. --- Sheryl hastily packs up her things from her office, including her computer and hard drive. She gets on her bluetooth and frantically calls Jerome as she grabs her jacket to leave. ... Jerome stands in the Grant living room, holding the phone up to his ear, concerned. JEROME: (into phone) Hey, Sheryl, what happened? ... Struggling to put her jacket on as she races out, Sheryl speaks to Jerome. SHERYL: (into phone) Someone caught us, and I'm pretty sure I know who. We need to meet NOW. ... Jerome's eyes bug out, suddenly in crisis mode. JEROME: (into phone) Woah woah woah, wait. No no. We are not meeting now, not if they know about you. ... SHERYL: (into phone) Well, what else are we gonna do, Jerome? ... JEROME: (into phone) Just chill, ok? Get your stuff out your hotel room, check out. I'll get you a room at a motel at the edge of town. We'll meet there. I'ma text you the address, ok? ... SHERYL: (into phone) Fine, but make it quick. All hell's about to break loose. Sheryl ends the call, and closes the door to her office, she sighs heavily, checking the hallways to make sure they're empty before heading out. SHERYL: If it hasn't already. Sheryl makes a beeline for the service stairwell, hoping the trip down eight floors will be faster and make her less liable of being caught. --- Kate stands by Billie and Lucas in Billie's office, looking unsure. KATE: What do you mean? Is there a chance we can still nab them? Billie looks down at her computer, thoughtfully. She taps her desk as she thinks, before turning toward Kate. BILLIE: Well...the bug still caught a lot. Enough that we can probably still get charges to stick...and whoever it was that DID stop her from taking the server out...they're probably going to play their hand very soon. LUCAS: So what are you saying? We just have to wait and see what happens? Billie turns toward Lucas, nodding slowly. BILLIE: Pretty much. Kate and Lucas look at each other, incredulous. ---

EPISODE 112 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Nick and Tyler burst into the MadWorld lab, making a beeline for Nick's laptop, which sits on a conference table at the far side of the room. TYLER: I'm telling you, this better be the real deal or I'll have your head on the chopping block so fast, Mr. Fallon-- NICK: Don't worry. Once I show you what's going down...you'll be thanking me. Nick leans over the table where his laptop sits, and opens it. Pressing the "on" button, the computer boots up quickly. NICK: I don't make a habit of wasting anyone's time. Particularly my own. TYLER: You better hope not, or I'll get security to hightail you out of this company so fast your head will spin. NICK: That won't be neccessary. Just wait. I promise this'll be worth it. Nick pulls up a chair and sits down in front of his computer. Opening up his surveillance program, he logs into Titan's security camera system. Tyler looks on, stunned. TYLER: Wait, how did you get access to this? And who authorized it? NICK: There's no time to explain that. I started checking things out when I became suspcious something was rotten with our suspect here, and this helps me keep tabs on them. Nick turns to face Tyler, a blank, matter-of-fact look on his face. NICK: You know, you really need to work on your firewalls. For a multinational, your digital security is incredibly vulnerable. Tyler looks back at Nick with concern and surprise. Nick turns back toward the screen as he zeroes in on Sheryl's office. NICK: Quite frankly, a security breach would be not only embarrassing...but could be really catastrophic. Tyler and Nick focus in on Sheryl's office, where they spy her working away furiously at her workstation. --- Sheryl sits at her desk, Bluetoon in ear, as she stares intensely at her screen. She speaks to Jerome through the Bluetooth, careful never to utter his name as she types and clicks her mouse through the various screens, preparing to load the virus that would destroy Titan's servers into her work computer. SHERYL (into phone): I'm through the EnerNext partition. Through her bluetooth, Sheryl hears Jerome's voices come through into her ear with his next instruction. JEROME (via phone): Alright. Two minutes to launch. Make sure you start in the backup hard disk. The backup isn't typically in use, therefore will be harder to detect we're in there before it gone. Sheryl stares dead ahead at her screen. A smug smirk appears on her face as she answers Jerome. SHERYL: (into phone) Roger that. --- Billie sits in her office, Lucas by her side, as she focuses on her computer screen as well. Hoping to catch some activity from the marketing wing where Sheryl works, she and Lucas listen in on her conversation, unsure who she's speaking with, as they only hear her side. BILLIE: Come on, Sheryl. Slip up. Say this guy's name. LUCAS: You know, I think I know exactly who it is. BILLIE: Oh? LUCAS: I'm pretty sure it's this guy...Jerry? Or Jerome? He came into her office last week when I was there. I hadn't seen him before, and I just...I get a feeling about him. BILLIE: Well...we're not gonna be able to use a feeling as evidence, unfortunately. We gotta have her say his name and make it clear he's connected to what she's up to or else it doesn't exist. As Billie finishes her sentence, Kate comes into the office. Billie and Lucas turn to face her. KATE: It's just me. What did I miss? Billie guffaws as she turns back toward her computer screen as she answers her mother's question. BILLIE: Well...you missed me nearly getting caught by Justin Kiriakis, and Sheryl Connors as I bugged her office. KATE: You didn't... BILLIE: No. Thankfully, I didn't. But I did run into her at the elevator. Apparently Sheryl thinks you're manipulating Lucas into possibly breaking things off with her, Mom. Kate turns toward Lucas with a sour expression. KATE: Lucas, I told you you had to keep up the charade with Sheryl, and I meant convincingly. LUCAS: Okay, enough, Mom. Look, it's nearly over now, and I don't see the point in trying to hide my feelings about her any longer than I have to. KATE: Well, you still had to while Billie was putting the bug in Sheryl's office, didn't you? And apparently, you didn't do a very good job and you might have put this entire plan in jeopardy. Kate turns back toward the screen, shaking her head in indignance at her son's irresponsibility. KATE: I just hope this is enough to get Rafe away from that conniving little tramp, Jordan Ridgeway or whatever her name is supposed to be. Lucas looks back Kate's way, shaking his head at his mom's persistance. LUCAS: You just better hope this plan DOES work, or else you're gonna alienate Rafe more than you already have. Kate looks back at her son, the both of them glaring at each other, as Billie seems oblivious to it all, keeping close watch over the Titan server, and Sheryl's actions. --- --- Nick types and clicks furiously at his computer, as Tyler paces behind him, on his cell phone with Justin. TYLER: (into phone) Justin, I know, but this kid is certain that there's about to be an attack and he says it's directly related to the City Hall server crash and the delay in approving the Ruggles land expropriation deal. I know he's got a handle on this...yes, I know you don't like him...I have a strong feeling he....well we don't have much choice right now, do we? If we wait on this...it might be too late... Nick smirks as he listens on, simultaneously listening to Sheryl through a single earbud, studying Sheryl's movements closely as she is about to launch her virus. ... Sheryl, meanwhile, is still at her desk, very nearly ready to launch her attack (with Jerome's remote help). SHERYL: (into phone) Alright, we ready to do this thing? JEROME: (via phone) In 3...2...1... Sheryl hits "Enter" on her keyboard, almost ceremoniously. ... Up in Billie's office, Kate, Lucas, and Billie study the screen as Billie jumps into action, noticing the activity appear in the backup server. BILLIE: Damnit! She started in the backup system. I have to double back to access it. Billie types away furiously to try to access the backup server, but is denied access. LUCAS: Do you know the password? BILLIE: No, but there's other ways to work around it. Billie moves her mouse over to another window, and begins to work from there, disabling a specific firewall that protects the backup server from being accessed by her computer. ... Nick, meanwhile, is overwhelmed by the activity. Realizing suddenly that someone else is trying to work on the backup server, he flips back to the surveillance program, and realizes it's Billie, Kate, and Lucas. NICK: Oh, no. Tyler, upon hearing Nick, quickly ends his call to Justin and darts over to Nick's computer again. TYLER: Yes, it...I gotta call you back, Justin. Don't worry, it's under control. Tyler looks intensely at the screen, as Nick springs back into action. TYLER: What's wrong? NICK: Nothing. I'm on it. TYLER: I hope so. Nick ignores Tyler's panicked threats, and takes advantage of Billie's disabling the firewall and leaps in. As the files from the backup server begin to be downloaded, then systematically destroyed, Nick locates the IP address for Sheryl's laptop. NICK: Not so fast, little lady. ... Sheryl's laptop displays the progress of the virus installation: 2%... Sheryl smiles as her external hard drive she's attached to her computer works overtime, downloading and destroying the Titan files. SHERYL: (into phone) We're on our way now. JEROME: (via phone) And we only saving the small files and documents about the workings of the company, right? SHERYL: (into phone) Not to worry, I programmed it to only save document files, spreadsheets, graphics, media. The rest is getting corrupted and discarded. JEROME: (via phone) Perfect. How far we at? SHERYL: (into phone) Only 3% so far. ... Billie digs further in, tracking down Sheryl's IP. LUCAS: What are you doing now? BILLIE: I'm gonna throw the program they're using into an endless loop that hopefully will jam the program up, and buy me enough time to close up the security hole so they'll be booted from the system. KATE: Do you have enough time? BILLIE: I'll be fine... Billie looks on her screen, and realizes there's someone else accessing the server. BILLIE: If someone else doesn't beat me to it. Kate looks over at Lucas, who looks back at her, concerned. They both turn their attentions back to Billie, and to her computer screen. ... Sheryl looks on more and more intensely. The progress bar inches forward... 5%... SHERYL: (into phone) I'm gonna shift this over to the EnerNext subserver once we're done with this backup. JEROME: (via phone) Got it. SHERYL: (into phone) Okay...we're in. Downloading EnerNext's documents... 6%... ... Nick plugs a memory stick into his laptop, as he continues to work furiously at stopping Sheryl. Tyler looks on in wonder. TYLER: What are you plugging in there? NICK: Just a program to destroy whatever device these guys are using against us. TYLER: Like...digitally... Nick looks up at Tyler, his classic smirk on his face. NICK: Oh no. Not just digitally. Tyler looks on, concerned by Nick's plan. ... Billie continues to work away at stopping Sheryl's virus from progressing, as Kate and Lucas sit on pins and needles. LUCAS: Billie, how much longer is this gonna take. BILLIE: Not long now, I'm nearly there. KATE: This better work. BILLIE: It will, Mom. Don't worry. Billie focuses in as she clicks to access Sheryl's computer remotely, so she can trip it up and stop it from continuing to spread the virus. BILLIE: Almost there. ... 8%... Sheryl stares straight ahead as she notices unfamiliar activity happening around her. SHERYL: (into phone) Dammit! We got company. Sheryl clicks to kick Billie's computer out of hers. ... Nick double clicks his mouse, launching his counterattack against Sheryl. NICK: Buh-bye! ... Billie's computer is suddenly kicked out of the server altogether, shocking Billie, as she leans back in her seat, taking a stunned Kate and Lucas with her. LUCAS: What happened? ... 11%... Sheryl looks down quickly at her work computer and her external hard drive, as her computer's fan abruptly shuts down, and her computer's processor goes into overdrive, causing the computer to freeze up. SHERYL: (into phone) What the Hell? JEROME: (via phone) What's wrong? Sheryl??? As Jerome tries in vain to get Sheryl to answer him, her and laptop begin to overheat quickly, and sparks, with a plastic burning smell and smoke emerging from the laptop. The sparking causes Sheryl to jump back from her laptop, breathing heavily from the shock, as Jerome continues to call out to her over the phone to her Bluetooth. JEROME: (via phone) SHERYL....SHERYL! You there??? SHERYL... ---

More DAYS blog entries are up. Thinking of posting back on here with each episode again after this. EPISODE 109 EPISODE 110 EPISODE 111

Continuing with the DAYS blog with new entries! EPISODE 106 EPISODE 107 EPISODE 108

More DAYS: TAT is up on Blogspot! Thanks for continuing to check in! EPISODE 103 EPISODE 104 EPISODE 105

After an unusually long break, the next three episodes are up! Feel free to comment and check 'em out! EPISODE 100 EPISODE 101 EPISODE 102

For those who want to check out the latest DAYS episodes (hopefully still more interesting than the Dena dreck): EPISODE 97 EPISODE 98 EPISODE 99 Enjoy! Be sure to leave comments and keep following the blog!

Hopefully this is cool, just wanted to keep those of you who've been following my DAYS up to date with my new entries, which I'm posting externally. EPISODE 93 EPISODE 94 EPISODE 95 EPISODE 96 Gonna lurk around at SON, but again, likely not gonna be posting much. Hope you all follow DAYS: TAT. Thanks for reading

After two years, I've had the pleasure of sharing my vision of Days of our Lives with you here at SON. I regretfully will be moving my posts to Blogger, after some lingering formatting issues, and the banning of ML Cooks (aMLCproduction) from the forums (look for his Y&R to appear as well soon), I have decided that it is best for me to move the blog onto another account. All episodes from #93 will be posted at http://daystat.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/days-93-abbys-home-and-kim-finds-roman.html, as have the previous 92 episodes here. I likely won't be posting much, if at all here anymore, but greatly appreciate the time I've spent here at SON, and hope you all will follow my story there, and please feel free to leave me feedback. Every bit helps motivate me to improve and grow as a writer. This has been a fabulous exercise for me, and I really appreciate your support through it all. It's been quite the ride! ETA: If you'd like to keep updated with new episodes, check out the DAYS: ETA page on Facebook.

Another strong show. I love all the different pieces. The Abbott teleconference was great again as Jack stubbornly refuses to believe he's in any danger from Victor. But the family knows better. Don't get too comfortable, Jack. Phyllis and Michael was another strong beat. I'm enjoying watching them at odds over this. Phyllis will not take Michael's actions lying down, and she shouldn't. I love that you're showing the emotional conflicts here, as I find the best soap opera is when you can understand the motivations for everyone's actions and understand why they feel they did the right thing. Great storytelling there. I'm interested to see where things will go with Gloria now that she's in the loop on what Michael has done. Karynn and Esther's adventures continue. I enjoyed the heart-to-heart between Chance and Nina on their way to Chicago. It was good to see them discuss things. Nina's a meddler, though given her history, I could see why she'd be a bit protective of him. Karynn is is so snarky, it's fantastic. You really got a strong connection between her and Esther, and I totally buy it. Great writing there. Fascinated to see where the story wth Karynn's ex-husband goes as well. All very strong stuff here. A solid episode. Great work, ML!

EPISODE 92 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson The sunlight fights its way through every available crack between Nick's blinds. One beam brightly hits Nick right in the eyes, jolting him from his slumber. The bright sunlight shocks him, causing him to squint. Nick goes to sit up, but is hit almost immediately with a searing headache. It nearly cripples him, but he manages to stumble over to the window of his small studio apartment. Looking out the window, he sees the bright day, sighing as he winces, the sunlight hurting his eyes. He turns back to find his laptop bag. Rifling through it, he finds his pills. But his fingers slide across what's resting next to the pill bottle: Marlena Evans' perscription pad. Just as he's about to lift the pad up, he lurches back in pain. The pad gave him a papercut. Nick puts the cut finger in his mouth, wincing at the pain and discomfort. NICK: Mm! Dammit! Nick holds in his pain a moment to awkwardly open the bottle of pills. He struggles, as his hands shake violently. He looks at them, concerned greatly by his symptoms. He quickly opens the bottle, taking two pills from the bottle. He looks down at the bottle, shrugs, and pulls another one out. Taking all three, he steps into the bathroom, and turns on the tap, pouring half a glass of lukewarm water, which he uses to wash down the pills. After downing his medication, he looks into the bathroom mirror. He looks at his messy appearance, the emerging circles under his eyes, and shakes his head. NICK: You gotta get it together, Fallon. You got too much to do today to let this stop you. Wayyy, way too much. --- Sheryl lies half-asleep in bed, sighing after a good night's rest, before she reaches out slowly to caress Lucas' face. She reaches out and finds no one there. Opening her eyes in surprise, she gets up with a start. She looks confused around her room. SHERYL: Lucas? Getting up from her bed, covers, of course, covering her body, she inspects the bathroom before looking for her phone. SHERYL: Where the Hell did you go? Pulling her phone out, she looks down, seeing no texts or calls from Lucas. She looks up, confused by his absence. --- Hope walks into her living room, dressed and ready for work, coffee cup in hand, as the doorbell rings. She jumps momentarily, before putting her coffee cup down, and calls out toward the door. HOPE: One second! She runs over to the door, looking in the small window in the door, she spots Marlena. She opens the door, smiling. HOPE: Hey! Marlena! Her face drops, however, upon seeing the heavy concern on Marlena's face. MARLENA: Hope, I... HOPE: ..W...What's wrong? Come in, come in! Hope moves back away from the door, welcoming Marlena in. Marlena walks in solemnly. She hesitates to speak, sighing as she begins. MARLENA: Thank you. Uh...I had to see you, and I'm...I'm sorry to bother you so early in the morning. Hope shakes her head, looking very concerned at Marlena. HOPE: No, no! Nonsense, you're always welcome here, you know that. Uh...sit down. You, uh...you want some coffee? I just made a fresh pot. MARLENA: Ah...no. No, thank you. I couldn't possibly keep anything down right now. Marlena obliges Hope's request, sitting down, breathing heavily, struggling to hold herself together. Hope quickly walks to Marlena's side and sits down next to her. HOPE: Marlena...you're scaring me. What's wrong? Marlena looks up at Hope, starting to tear up. MARLENA: Roman's missing. And I need your help to find him. --- Lucas wanders through the park, deep in thought over the events of the previous night. Up ahead, he spies Club TBD. He craves a drink, but resists. Looking at the nearby bench, he spots something unusual. It's Roman, asleep by the bush. Lucas looks on, baffled by the sighting, and calls out to him. LUCAS: Roman? Roman doesn't answer, but is startled by Lucas. He stirs, as Lucas approaches. Lucas kneels down next to him, shaking him gently to make sure he's okay. LUCAS: Roman! Hey, man. You alright? Roman grunts as he starts to wake up. Lucas bursts into action as he takes his jacket off to try to warm a freezing-to-the-touch Roman up. LUCAS: Man, you're freezing! Here, take my jacket. ROMAN: Uh...where am I? LUCAS: You're in the park, just outside Club TBD. Are...are you okay? What are you doing sleeping out here? It's got to be like...fourty degrees outside! Roman's eyes widen, as he struggles to catch his breath. He looks around, confused. ROMAN: I...I have no idea. I went for a walk and...who...how did I end up here? LUCAS: I dunno, man, but we gotta get you inside. Come on. Lucas hoists Roman up on his feet and guides him slowly towards the club. --- A tray of food is set down in front of a sleeping Sonny. The sound of the tray hitting the table jolts Sonny from his sleep. He looks, wide-eyed at the tray, before looking up, and seeing Will standing over him, a smile on his fiance's face. WILL: Good morning! Sonny looks stunned a moment, before lifting himself off the couch he'd spent the night on in the hospital lounge. He stutters a bit before he answers. SONNY: I...ah...Will...hey! Will laughs a bit, watching Sonny stumble over his words. WILL: You surprised to see me? I've been with you all night. SONNY: You...you have? WILL: Yeah. I was worried about you. I...I saw Adrienne walk out of here last night, she...she seemed really upset. Did you-- SONNY: ...Yeah. We talked. Will folds his arms, nodding slowly, knowing exactly how it turned out from Sonny's reaction. WILL: Aaand obviously that didn't go very well. Sonny raises his eyebrows, before shrugging, a hint of sadness in his voice. SONNY: You could say that. Will sits down next to Sonny, putting his arm around Sonny's waist, drawing him close to him. Sonny leans into Will, feeling comforted by Will for the first time in a long time. WILL: I'm sorry, Sonny. I...feel like I'm...I dunno, like it's my fault this all happened. SONNY: (sigh) Don't say that. It's not your fault my mom has this...vendetta against you. WILL: Well...what happened? Sonny lifts himself off Will's shoulder, turning to face Will. He sighs with sadness in his eyes before answering him. SONNY: Well...she came to me to tell me what her and my dad were fighting about in the garden. Will looks at Sonny, a very concerned look on his face as he asks Sonny a question, almost not wanting an answer. WILL: And...what was it? SONNY: She says that you are a carbon copy of your mother, and that you are, and I quote: lusting after my brother. Will tenses up, knowing that Adrienne has his number, but he hides the uneasiness. --- --- Sami stands in the DiMera living room, sipping her coffee, as she flips through some paperwork. She hears her phone ring. Picking it up, she quickly answers. SAMI: (into phone) Hey! Uh...Suzanne, it's Samantha Brady...yeah. I, uh, I'm heading into the station today and I just need you to pass along a message to Nicole Walker. EJ walks into the DiMera living room, Johnny on his shoulders, laughing heartily. Sami turns and sees EJ and Johnny step into the room. She smiles as she sees them come into the room, but is immediately striken with tension, as they approach. She fights the tension, as she continues her phone conversation. SAMI: (into phone) ...YES! I, I just want to pass along to her that I would like to meet with her for 11am. Tell her it's imperitive that I speak with her, and she should cancel all other arrangements for that time...Thank you. Hanging up the phone, she looks at Johnny and EJ and smiles. JOHNNY: Mommy! SAMI: Hey, sweetie! You ready for your trip today? JOHNNY: Yup! EJ and Sami laugh as Sami gently pats Johnny's head. She smiles, though her hand trembles. EJ catches Sami's hesitation and speaks up. EJ: I uh...I packed the children's things, Harold...helped me out, but... SAMI: That's great. Thank you. Uh... EJ leans down to lift Johnny off. EJ crouches down by Johnny and speaks kindly to him. EJ: Now, I need you and your sisters to be downstairs in twenty minutes. No later. Alright? JOHNNY: Okay! Johnny runs off out of the living room, heading upstairs, as EJ approaches Sami. He nearly places a hand on her shoulder, but thinks better of it, as Sami, sensing the nearness of his hand, flinches slightly. Setting his hand down by his side, EJ sighs. EJ: Are you sure about this? Sami responds, not turning around the face EJ. SAMI: I think it's better that they are with family far away from all this tension right now, yes. EJ sighs, as Sami turns to face him, explaining her rationale. SAMI: Look, EJ, I don't want them to go to Colorado any more than you do, but the truth is that while you and I are going through therapy and I'm struggling with...our...past...it just isn't healthy for them. They need to feel loved and cared for. I can't give that to them right now, especially Johnny. EJ nods, trying to understand. EJ: I understand...but it seems as though you're punishing the children for something that I did. And by extension, you're punishing me, and yourself. SAMI: I have to do what's best for them. And what's best for them isn't to be around us right now. Not until I'm able to deal with what happened between us that night, and not until I'm comfortable...I'm comfortable being with you again. EJ looks down, fighting his emotions, as he nods. He tries to understand Sami's situation, though he struggles. He finally responds. EJ: I...uh...I need to go check on the children. I'll see you at the office later? SAMI: Yeah! I'll be in after I take care of business at the station. EJ: Alright. Samantha... Sami turns back at look at EJ, who stares at her, hurt, but lovingly. EJ: I do love you, very very much. Sami smiles, unsuccessfully holding in her desire to cry. SAMI: Me too. EJ swallows heavily as he turns back around, heading out after Johnny. Sami stays behind, wiping her tears away, as she hears another notification ping. She looks at her phone, stunned. SAMI: Oh my God! Sami reads the headline: Victor Kiriakis suffers heart attack, hospitalized --- Will sighs heavily, biting his lip as he looks up at Sonny, almost afraid to ask what Sonny did next. WILL: And...what did you say about that? SONNY: Well, of course, I told her it was nonsense...and then I told her that I wanted her to stay away from you, and from me. Will looks stunned, unsure what to say in response to his fiance's act of loyalty. WILL: Sonny...you didn't have to do that-- SONNY: Yes...I did, Will. Look, you know...this is why I was afraid of you taking this job at EnerNext. I...I don't mean to interfere in your career, but...my family, they have this way of...meddling, of worming their way into our lives. And it looks like they found their way in already. Will takes Sonny's hand, and holds it tightly. He smiles warmly at his fiance. WILL: Sonny, I love you. And I really appreciate what you did for me. But I don't want you to ruin your relationship with your mom over me. It's not fair to you, or your mom. SONNY: No, what's not fair is my mom deciding to meddle in our business. She's trying to create problems and make me doubt you. And I'm not going to let her do that. Will looks down, still tightly gripping Sonny's hand, he smiles warmly at him. WILL: I know. But don't you think you're just...both under a lot of stress right now, what with Victor's heart attack, and Chad being AWOL from TBD, and...our...problems at home...don't you think you overreacted just a bit? Sonny looks at Will, then looks down. He thinks over what Will says intensely. --- Hope gets off the phone to the station, and turns back around to Marlena, who is furiously texting, a very worried look on her face. HOPE: Okay, uh...so I just spoke to Rafe...they can't formally put out a missing persons' report yet, but...they are looking into it. Hope looks down at Marlena finishing up her text. HOPE: Who are you texting? MARLENA: Kim. She was with me when...Roman took off. Hope looks on, increasingly concerned for Roman. She takes a moment, unsure whether to ask or not, but decides to go ahead. HOPE: Marlena...is something wrong with Roman? Marlena looks up at Hope, incredibly hesitant to tell her the truth. She looks down and sighs before responding. MARLENA: In all honesty, I don't know. But if we don't find him, I'm very concerned for his well-being. Hope, shocked, rushes over to the sofa again and sits at Marlena's side. HOPE: Good God...it's not Stefano is it? Has Stefano kidnapped-- MARLENA: ...No! No, no, no, it's not Stefano...at least not that I'm aware of. No, it's...Roman himself...I am so worried that he may be a danger to himself. Hope looks on, before pulling a tearful Marlena into a hug. Still unclear as to Marlena's concern, she furrows her brow, concerned for her brother-in-law. --- Lucas sits Roman down on the bench, as T comes over to see what's wrong. T: Hey, uh...Lucas...what's wrong with Mr. Brady? Is he okay? LUCAS: I uh...I think he's okay, but...he's been outside for quite awhile, can you grab us some coffee for him? T: Yeah, absolutely. T runs off to grab Roman a cup of coffee, as Lucas pulls out his phone. ROMAN: Who are you calling? Lucas doesn't look up as he scrolls through his contacts. LUCAS: I'm calling Marlena, first off. She needs to know you're okay. Roman panics at Lucas' suggestion, holding his hand up to reach out for Lucas' phone to stop him. ROMAN: I don't want Marlena to hear about this, you understand me? Lucas looks at Roman, stunned and concerned. --- Nick steps into the lab, where Percy sits at a desk, headphones in, listening intently to various conversations throughout the Titan complex. Nick waves silently to Percy, who, over the sound of his headphones, welcomes Nick loudly. PERCY: GREETINGS! Percy fumbles, realizing not everyone hears the things he is, and quickly takes his headphones off. He walks quickly over to Nick. PERCY: Oh, Nicholas, I have very important news for you. NICK: Oh do you. PERCY: Well...strictly speaking, I have two items for you to look over, but...this first one is of utmost importance. Nick looks to Percy, intrigued, as he sets down his bag on the table. NICK: I'm listening. PERCY: Well...you may not be especially thrilled about this first one. NICK: Try me. PERCY: Well...it seems as though Miss Ridgeway and Miss Connors have taken on a new addition to their ensemble-- Nick pulls out an apple, which he bites into as he replies. NICK: Oh yeah...I met him last night. Jeremy or... PERCY: Yes, uh, a Jerome Grant. Well...it seems as though the three of them have some sort of...computer software they're looking to install on the Titan servers, and it appears to me, as though today is the day they will go ahead with this. It sounds actually like something that could really cause a lot of damage. NICK: Really! Nick smiles wryly as he crunches into his apple. PERCY: Yes...I say this because I have a concern that...well...they may try to use you as a...what did they call it, a...uh...."fall guy" for their plan. And knowing that your intentions are only to assist these young ladies...I wouldn't want to see you harmed. Nick laughs, slapping Percy heartily on the back before pulling him in close to him. NICK: (laughs) Ohhh Percy. Not to worry, I won't be taking the fall for anyone. You can bet on that. Nick looks down at his apple, and bites into it, almost maniacally. ---

OOOOO Phyllis is figuring [!@#$%^&*] out. You got her very good. A little bit smarter than pretty much anybody in town. I like that. Her relationship with Michael is a great way to help connect the dots, and I love how this is moving. I can't wait to see how that progresses. I liked the flow of following Scotty from the lobby to the condo and into the conversation with Victor and Lauren. Great way to guide us into the situation and connect the stories. LOVED the Abbott teleconference. It was nice to see Ashley here. She's kind of glue holding everything together, her absence is helping to cause the family structure to crumble. I can't wait to see the struggle between Keemo and Jack explored more. You've been digging deep into the family and emotional relationships between the characters lately and I have been really enjoying it! Nina and Jill meeting at the Chancellor shell. A good scene, with revelations left, right and centre. I expect Nina will be saving Karynn and Esther soon. Great as well to see the panic spread across Genoa City as Victor's release becomes public knowledge. I'm sure that will have ripple effects across town, and it'll play heavily into future story. Great stuff!

GOOD episode yet again! As Cary said, the balance was perfect, the stories were firing on all cylinders, and the movement was there. Loved it. Phillip is going down a destructive path, no thanks to Cane, I'm wondering how much Rufus will manipulate the situation to get her hands on that Chancellor money. Very dark scenes and the music helped too. Good stuff. Nikki and driver had a really surprisingly tender moment. I feel like he's really going to be there for Nikki, and that's what she needs right now, though I worry he will coddle Nikki with her drinking, much like Jack did back in the day, and that will not help matters at all. I'm intrigued by the direction that story's going. Victor and Lauren's scene was good as well, though Victor really has to get in the moment and gain back that intensity he has always had. I find his "breaking character" moments amusing, but I think the intensity really needs to be there, too, and it'll help your scenes flow even better. REALLY good job writing Lauren as well, and you gave the recap dialogue a very smooth stroke, so it let us buy into it without breaking the reality of the moment. GOOD job. Michael and Phyllis was another good scene. Phyllis is a great confidant for Michael and I'm glad you took advantage of their longtime friendship to help bring people up to speed with the story. Michael is in HUGE trouble now that Victor's out, and he KNOWS it! Fantastic show beginning to end. Another winner, ML!

EPISODE 91 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson The doors to the elevator at University Hospital open, to find the Kiriakis clan step out, by and large upset and a bit panicked, as Maggie in particular moves briskly to the nurses' station to ask Maxine about Victor. MAGGIE: Maxine! Where's Victor's room? Maxine quickly points down the hall to guide Maggie, as she turns herself toward the room. MAXINE: Just over here, Maggie. But you can't go in yet, they're operating! Maggie runs before Maxine's even finished her sentence toward the door, stopping just outside, upset that she can't go in to see her ailing husband. Alex, Sonny and Will hang back, as Justin and Adrienne step forward, the shock still plain on their faces. Daniel steps out from the room VIctor's in and immediately sees his mother's worried face. He sighs, giving a half-hearted smile, as Maggie rushes over to him. MAGGIE: Daniel! How is he? Daniel holds up one hand, a half-hearted attempt to calm Maggie down, as the others move over closer to him to hear what he has to say. DANIEL: He's stable. Victor had a heart attack. Maggie clenches, upset by the news, she grabs Adrienne's hand for support. ALEX: How bad was it? DANIEL: (sigh) It wasn't minor. But...I wouldn't worry too much, he's getting prepped for surgery now. WILL: Is he gonna be okay? DANIEL: Victor's in...remarkably good health for his age. I think the bulk of the problem has been the stress he's been under lately. We may have underestimated how much pressure he's been under the past few months. Maggie looks at her son, the feelings of guilt rushing over her as she recalls her snapping at him, knowing the pain he's been through. JUSTIN: Alright, Daniel, just...keep us updated. DANIEL: For sure. Daniel stops to give Maggie a hug, before stepping away to prep for surgery. DANIEL: Alright, I gotta go prep for surgery, I'll let you know as soon as I know anything. I love you. MAGGIE: I love you too. Thank you. Daniel walks off at a determined pace, as Maggie starts to crumble. Sonny takes her other hand and pulls her towards him, putting her in a tight embrace. MAGGIE: It's all my fault. ADRIENNE: No, sweetie! Absolutely not! You were upset, and we've all been under a lot of pressure. You can't blame yourself for this. Maggie begins to sob as she holds onto Sonny, Adrienne provides comfort, gently stroking Maggie's back, as the family circles Maggie for support. --- Kim walks through Horton Town Square, quickly scurrying to get to her car as she's walking alone at night, when she spots a familiar face. KIM: Roman! Hey! Roman looks confused, before turning to face his sister. He looks at her with a look of a total stranger. ROMAN: I...Hello... Kim looks at her brother, a concerned look on her face and she leans over to touch his shoulder. KIM: I...Roman, it's...it's me...Kimmy! Roman stares at Kim, totally bewildered by her. Kim looks back, a smile on her face, but with an increasing tension and panic in her face. --- Jennifer smiles as she and Liam sit at a late evening dinner at Chez Rouge. Liam pours Jennifer a glass of champagne, never taking his eyes off her. JENNIFER: You know, you have this really sexy look in your eyes right now. LIAM: Oh yeah? Well if that's a come-on, we haven't had our food yet. Jennifer feigns offense, as Liam laughs. JENNIFER: Well, I never! Putting off romance for food? I don't know about you, Mister! LIAM: Ohh, I've always got time for romance. Liam leans over the table and gently kisses Jennifer on the lips, before sitting back down in his seat. LIAM: But I've also learned, that good things come to those who wait. JENNIFER: Isn't that the truth. Jenn raises her glass, as Liam does the same. They toast, once again never taking their eyes off each other. --- A woman in black pumps walks quickly into the terminal of Salem International Airport. She walks over toward the exit, but stops just beforehand. Pulling her phone out, she taps the screen on her phone to get an Uber from the airport to the Horton House. It's Abigail. --- Nicole lies in bed, Eric's arms around her, as she sleeps soundly, deep in a dream: *** Nicole stands before the justice of the peace, beaming as she looks at Eric. Flowers in her hand, she's about to become Mrs. Eric Brady. JUSTICE OF PEACE: We are gathered here to today to join Nicole Walker, and Eric Brady in marriage. Daniel and Chloe stand on either side of Nicole and Eric, smiling, happy for their friends' big day. Nicole can't help herself and blurts out to Eric in joy. NICOLE: I can't believe it's finally happening for us. I love you so much. Eric, far cooler and reserved, smile back, responding warmly but casually. ERIC: Me too, Nicole. The justice of the peace continues: JUSTICE OF PEACE: If anyone can show just cause why these two should not be joined in marriage, may they speak now, or forever hold their-- SAMI: STOP THIS! Everyone jumps as Sami's voice cuts the happy mood in the room, jolting everyone out of the moment. Sami and Marlena storm into the room, Sami and Marlena shooting daggers from their eyes at Nicole. Nicole turns around in horror as Sami walks over to her. ERIC: Sami...Mom, what are you doing here? SAMI: We're here to stop you from making the biggest mistake of your life, Eric. Eric looks at his sister, annoyed at her constant interference. ERIC: Sami... MARLENA: No! Eric, she's right. Nicole has gone way too far this time. Nicole rolls her eyes, irritated at the interruption, and trying to remove them from the room. NICOLE: Oh whatever, you know what, you two have done more damage to our happiness than I ever could have. SAMI: Oh that's REALLY rich, Nicole. Eric, upset by what's happening, cuts in between Nicole and Sami, who are now right up in each other's faces. ERIC: Wait wait wait wait wait, STOP! What is the meaning of this. MARLENA: Eric. Nicole lied to you. She DID get the evidence proving that Kristen hired Dr. Chyka to drug you in that hotel room. ERIC: What?! NICOLE: No! I wouldn't do that! If I knew what happened to that evidence, don't you think I would have turned it over? Sami looks at Nicole, an angered, mistrustful look on her face. SAMI: I don't know, would you? NICOLE: You know, if I did do all this, where IS the proof, where did you get it? NICK: I think I have the answer to that question. Nick saunters into the room, a smug, self-satisfied look on his face, as Nicole begins to hyperventilate. Nick walks over to Eric, and casually places the folder with all the documentation into Eric's hands. He places a small flash drive on top for him. NICK: Merry Christmas. Oh, and if you're wondering what the flash drive is, it's proof that she had this folder the whole time and just hid it in her desk so you wouldn't see it. At least, not if I hadn't broken in. (laughs) Nicole panics, almost unable to breathe, before letting out a bloodcurdling scream, jolting her out of her dream. *** NICOLE: NOOOOO!! Eric, scared stiff, jumps up, shocked at Nicole's freak out. He looks quickly at Nicole, and wraps his arms around her to comfort her. ERIC: Shhh! Shhh! It's okay. It's okay. I'm here. Nicole sobs, shaking in fear over her nightmare. NICOLE: No, no no no no, it can't it can't, no... --- --- Kim looks with a sense of dread at her brother, as Roman looks at her like she's a stranger. ROMAN: I...I'm sorry. I... KIM: Roman...come sit here with me. You do remember me, right? Roman looks down as Kim takes his hand, holding it tightly. His confusion plain on his face as he tries to back off. ROMAN: I'm sorry, Ma'am. I... Marlena walks past at that moment, spotting their exchange and immediately springs into action, as Roman looks her way. MARLENA: Kim! Kim, it's okay. Roman, Roman! Marlena walks over quickly, as Roman begins to panic, feeling ambushed by Marlena and Kim. ROMAN: Lady, let go! MARLENA: Roman! It's okay! It's okay. It's me. It's Doc. Look at me! As Kim lets go of his hand, she steps back, tears in her eyes. She observes the panic in Roman's eyes as he begins to calm down. MARLENA: Roman. You recognize me? It's Marlena. Roman, breathing heavily, nods as he holds Marlena's face in his hand. He gently carresses her cheek as he begins to tear up. ROMAN: Doc...what is happening to me? Who...wha... MARLENA: Roman, that woman is your sister. It's okay. Her name is Kimberly Brady. Do you remember a Kimberly Brady? Roman shakes his head a moment, before cooling down. ROMAN: That name means something to me, but... MARLENA: That's her. That's your sister. Roman squeezes Marlena's hand, nodding in understanding. Marlena looks at Kim and guides Roman to the bench. MARLENA: Look, let's...let's sit down. Kim approaches Marlena and Roman as Roman sits on the bench. He puts his hands behind his head and leans down, looking down at the ground. ROMAN: My God...What's happening to me, Doc? KIM: No, seriously, Marlena...what's happening to him? MARLENA: I..uh...I'm going to talk to Kimberly for a moment, okay? Roman nods, as Marlena takes Kim's arm and steps away from Roman for a sec to talk quietly to Kim. MARLENA: I think...I don't want to say for certain before we've had a chance to look closer into things but... KIM: Marlena, I can take it. Just...tell me straight up. Marlena looks back at Roman, seeing him taking deep breaths on the bench behind them. MARLENA: Valerie Grant and I are looking into it. We...we think it could be some form of dementia, but... KIM: Roman as well? MARLENA: That was my first thought, but...it's progressing too quickly to be anything like Caroline's...and anyway, I don't think this is the same situation as Caroline, anyway. KIM: Wha...why is this the first I've heard about it? MARLENA: Well, if I'm being honest, I didn't realize until today it was getting so bad so quickly. Honestly, Kim, I wanted to wait until I had a definitive answer before I said anything, and Roman...well, he didn't want to alarm you all what with Kayla leaving and Bo still missing... Kim nods, understanding Marlena's point. KIM: I understand that...but I wish you'd told me something was wrong sooner. MARLENA: I know...and I'm sorry, just...I had to think about Roman's wishes as well. KIM: I know. (sigh) Look, I...I think we should speak to someone at the police station about this before Roman ends up hurt. I mean... MARLENA: I thought about that as well...I think, considering what's happened tonight, we might...maybe consult with Hope and...maybe Abe as well. I know Abe isn't...directly involved with the police right now, but... KIM: It's still worth a try. I mean, I just...I don't want my brother to end up injured on duty or worse. MARLENA: I agree. Look, for now, let's just get him home. Kim nods again, in agreement. KIM: I agree, I think...uh...I'd rather he not be alone though, maybe he should go with you. MARLENA: Absolutely. Kim sighs, a bit relieved, though still horribly concerned for her brother. KIM: Okay. Marlena and Kim turn to grab Roman from the bench, only to stop in their tracks upon realizing he's vanished. MARLENA: Oh my God. KIM: Oh no, he's gone. --- Nicole is held in Eric's arms as she breathes deeply, still deeply shaken by her dream. ERIC: It's okay...do you...do you want to tell me about it? Nicole shakes her head as Eric cradles her. NICOLE: No, it was too awful. I just...just hold me. ERIC: I'll never let you go. Just know that, okay? Nicole looks off, desperate to believe that what Eric says is true. NICOLE: Okay. Eric, sensing her tension, kisses her gently on the lips and smiles at her. ERIC: I love you. NICOLE: And I love you. More than you'll ever know, Eric. Eric smiles as Nicole finally smiles again, they kiss again deeply, as Nicole holds onto Eric for dear life. --- Jennifer laughs again as Liam finishes a story. She's not drunk, but has had a few glasses on champagne by now. JENNIFER: You know...I don't have to work tomorrow and...well...JJ's out with Rory...God help him, and my mom went out with some friends for the evening...so...we have the house to ourselves, you know. LIAM: I'm listening... JENNIFER: Unless...you...maybe wanted to take me back to your place? I haven't seen it yet and all... Liam stiffens at the suggestion, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. LIAM: I...uh...I think we should maybe...maybe your place is a better idea. Jennifer looks concerned suddenly by Liam's shuffling. JENNIFER: You...you okay? I... LIAM: Yeah, no. I'm...I'm fine, I just...my place is a disaster zone still, we're...we're kinda...still renovating the place so... Jennifer smiles, a bit relieved but still thinking about what Laura told her earlier. JENNIFER: That's fine...maybe we should just...take it easy tonight, if you're not up to it. Liam catches on, and changes his tone again, trying to reassure Jenn. LIAM: No! No, it's fine, I just...(sigh) I just don't want to disappoint you at all. You know? Jenn smiles, reaching her hand across the table to meet Liam's. JENNIFER: You could never disappoint me. Trust me. Liam smiles back, grasping Jenn's hand in his. They both gaze intensely into each other's eyes. --- Abby arrives at the Horton house. The lights all out. She turns them on as she walks into the living room. ABBY: Well...so much for surprising everyone. (sigh) Abby looks down at the table, and sees Jennifer's files from work. She looks wistfully at them, recalling the circumstances that led to her leaving the hospital. ABBY: Back to keeping secrets and telling lies. Thank God it'll be easier now. No one will ever know about the baby now. --- In the University Hospital lounge, Adrienne stands, holding a cup of coffee in styrofoam cup. Her hands shaking like a leaf as she struggles to raise it up to her lips to take a sip. Her sons, Alex and Sonny sit in the opposite corner of the room, a deep concern for Adrienne plain on their faces. Sonny sighs, as he slowly gets up, as Adrienne nearly spills her coffee. He puts a hand on her shoulder, causing her to jump momentarily. SONNY: Mom...are you okay? Adrienne turns to face her son. She smiles as she takes her son's hand. Alex looks on from the corner, a smile on his face as well. ADRIENNE: Honestly, I'm terrified. But I'm grateful my boys are here. SONNY: Mom, we wouldn't be anywhere else. Alex gets up from his seat, taking Adrienne's other hand. ALEX: Sonny's right. We're here for you and for Dad. ADRIENNE: Thanks, sweetie. Uh...Alex, honey, can...can I talk with your brother alone for a moment? ALEX: Of course, Adrienne! I..uh...I'm gonna go check on Noelle. Adrienne gently squeezes Alex's hand as he walks off toward the hallway. As he disappears around the corner, Adrienne turns to Sonny and looks at him intensely. ADRIENNE: Sonny...look, I don't want to start a fight, but..I-- SONNY: Then don't. ADRIENNE: Sonny! SONNY: No! Seriously, Mom! This is SO not the time to start going in on me about my marrying Will. Sonny turns away from Adrienne, as Adrienne reaches out, pleading with her son to listen. ADRIENNE: Sonny, Listen! I didn't want to start a fight. All I'm saying is I want you to be careful. (sigh) Will has never been with another man before, and... Adrienne pauses, looking out the door to make sure no one hears what she's about to say. Sonny, not watching his mother, interjects, prodding her for an answer. SONNY: ...And?? ADRIENNE: ...And I saw Will...I saw how he was looking at... Sonny turns around, exasperated by his mother's stalling. SONNY: At??? At who, Mom? Spit it out! Adrienne shouts out her response, shaking in fear and frustration over Sonny's demand for an answer. ADRIENNE: At Alex! He was giving your brother the eye. The whole evening we've spent in that house, Sonny. I couldn't stand it. You were looking at him with such...love and affection and...it's so honest and...all I could see was the lust in Will's eye for Alex. Sonny looks at his mother, absolutely stunned at what she's saying. Sonny begins to laugh at his mother's answer, totally in disbelief. SONNY: You...you have absolutely lost your mind! ADRIENNE: I'm serious, honey. I'm not making this up. I swear, I saw it with my own eyes. Sonny backs away from his mother, holding his hands up to stop her from approaching. SONNY: No! No no no, THIS...this is it, Mom. I know you can't stand the idea of me marrying Will, but to make up something like THIS? You stay away from my home, and away from Will. Adrienne begins to tear up, petrified of losing her son. ADRIENNE: Please! No... SONNY: No, Mom! Enough! If you want to see Arianna, I'll bring her to the house, you can see her then, but I'm not going to allow you to meddle in our lives anymore. I've had it. ADRIENNE: Sonny! SONNY! Adrienne shouts out as she watches her son walk out of the room. She holds her head in her hands as she cries. ---

Oh now she gone have a baby. She better move fast or that sperm will die before it's even in her! LOL. What an emotional episode, though. Vicky serving Jake with divorce papers, and Paulina being there for him. We all know where that's heading, and with Grant as a spoiler, the classic set up returns, and I can't wait. Really good scenes there, particularly with Michele seeing it all go down, and immediately blaming Bridget. This will just be more fuel for her fire. Felicia's shaking, and I love her dismissing it as just hot flashes. She KNOWS something's up, but what's causing those cravings. Hmmm... I can't say I'll really miss Jack, but what a way to tie all that history together, really good stuff there! Grant is not going to get what he wants, particularly when this is the lengths, and desperation he goes to to get it. Loving that, and Frankie still being worried about Cass. She has good reason to! Another excellent episode!

Christy is showing herself now. Time to have a baby LOL. Oh WOW. I loved her luring Cass to the warehouse. That whole family is nuts. Haha. Frankie's feelings were right on the money. Really enjoyed that build-up. After all this time, people STILL don't buy into Frankie's extra-sensory abilities! People need to get with it! LOL. Michele's scenes were great too. What did she find on her sister's computer? I can't wait to find that out. That girl is out for blood! Loved the scenes between Bridget and Cory as well. She's there for him in his time of need, and it's good to see. She's really growing up, and that's good. Michele's schemes will be a true test of that, surely! Another all-around great episode. Lots of great stuff, and great movement. Fantastic job, Cary!

I'll tell you right now, I love the structure of this episode. Rachel listing off their friends and going through what each of them are dealing with before the party is a masterstroke. GREAT build there. Felicia is going to really suffer for her decision to go with Iris. Rachel does NOT take well to being one-upped by Iris, and this is going to be VERY hard for her to take, especially with the loss of Carl imminent. I love that you're dealing with that subtlety. Not every headwriter would. It's a GREAT story decision! I love that you also had Matt and Mitch discussing Jasmine's work ethic at school. It's small, but it adds a lot of reality to things. And naturally, Felicia struggling to keep away from the bottle. I love the sensuality between Paulina and Jack. It's so natural, and you capture it well. Too bad Grant is all too ready to blow a huge hole in it! Jack has NO idea what's about to hit him! Bridget found the condom. Too late, though! I LOVE that you're reigniting Stacy/Michael/Donna. That's a fantastic use of history, and so natural. Something innocent being blown out of proportion by a perpetually jealous Donna. GREAT stuff!

I am LOVING this cat and mouse game with Grant and Carl. Carl knows something HUGE about Grant and I just LOVE it. The fact of Grant having a secret son is a HUGE one and I am loving watching Grant squirm. BRILLIANT reveal, one last act of revenge against the unscrupulous turd who took his son away. BRILLIANT. Elizabeth is so hurt, and the fact it's taking a toll on her is great. You really know how to write Rachel, I know I've said this before, but I can SEE and HEAR her saying these lines in my mind. It's SO well-done. MORE great work there. Lizzie's pain, I feel it SO much. Very well-conveyed. Another great scene. Everything in this episode flowed so naturally, it was fantastic. It was simple, and Carl's emotions and sadness, and that of his family...very palpable. Kirkland and Charlie's scenes were another good set. Charlie has NO clue what Eric has done. SCANDALOUS! Hahah, I know this secret is gonna marinate a LONG time. Great stuff, and I can't wait to see what happens next there. FANTASTIC episode, Cary. I'm THRILLED by it!

EPISODE 90 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Inside Anita's cabin, the dark night is lit up by the roar of the fire. A late winter snow and wind whips past outside, but inside, the home is warm and comforting. Anita sits inside, curled up on her sofa, engrossed in a book. She stares down at the page through her reading glasses, perched on the tip of her nose, as the sound of footsteps emerge from the guest bedroom. It's Brady. Anita turns, surprised to see him finally up and out of his room. ANITA: Good Lord! You're out of your room! Brady looks at Anita, inquisitively. BRADY: Yeah! I mean...well...the fire and all... Anita pulls her reading glasses off, a smile on her face as she looks at Brady, amazed to see him out. ANITA: I just...well...I knew you'd been moving around your room but...you've barely been out since you've been here. BRADY: I...I know. I just...I'm glad you gave me the space to...you know...recover and...clear my mind. Anita moves over slightly on her sofa, then pats the space next to her, encouraging Brady to sit down, he walks slowly over and sits down, though awkwardly, his legs weak from weeks of under-use. ANITA: Sit, sit! Look...Brady, I...you know I don't mean to pry but...darling, what happened to you before I found you on the shore? Whatever it is...it's deeply troubling you, and...maybe I can help you with it? Brady looks down, sighing, as his mind wanders back to the night of his accident. The memories flood back to him. *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 39 Theresa pulls her little vial of cocaine out for Brady. He brazenly pours it out on the table in front of him and grabs his wallet to grab a credit card to cut it up with. Theresa is barely paying attention, as she uses her cell phone camera to try to get a good look at her makeup. THERESA: I still look so good right now. Better than that bitch Chloe. God, her singing got on my nerves you know that? BRADY: Stop talking about Chloe like that! She's...great. THERESA: Sure, Brady. Whatever. I think I'm gonna take a selfie of this. Theresa fumbles with her phone, trying to flip the phone around to use the flash, but ends up reversing which lens is in use, and begins recording a video of Brady as he does the line of cocaine from the table. Theresa, not sure why the camera isn't working, flips the phone back around in frustration. THERESA: Ugh, this damned phone. Never...oh... BRADY: What? THERESA: Nothing. Stupid camera was on the wrong function, just... BRADY: It didn't get a shot of me, did it? THERESA: I can't even tell. Nothing's working right. *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 41 As the car takes off, Brady is back at the club, looking for Theresa. Unable to see her, he sees Chloe and stops her to ask. BRADY: Hey, uh...have you seen Theresa at all? CHLOE: No, the last time I saw her she was heading out the door in a hurry. BRADY: What? *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 43 Brady opens the doors to the board room, overhearing Victor's announcement. VICTOR: Then it is so...as of today, the 27th of July, 2014, Brady Black is temporarily relieved of his duties as CEO of Titan Industrie-- BRADY: NO! The board turn around in shock at Brady's outburst... *** FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 45 Brady's foot presses more and more on the accelerator, as the car pushes up towards 70, 75, 80mph. Theresa holds onto the grip on the door tightly. THERESA: B...Brady, slow down. Brady is looking straight ahead, barely even acknowledging Theresa's existence. BRADY: Why? THERESA: Well...well the speed limit, Brady is-- BRADY: Do you honestly think I care right now? Like...at all? Do you think what you want matters to me right now? THERESA: Brady, you're scaring me. Brady starts to pay closer attention to Theresa now, but it is mostly anger he shows her as he intermittently divides his attention between her and the road before him. BRADY: Do you think I'm scared? Huh? Do you think I can feel anything right now? THERESA: Brady, what are you talking about? BRADY: What do I have now, Theresa? Think about it for a second, yeah? I just lost my job, my reputation is ruined, the woman I thought I was getting to know and care about, she double-crosses me because she's so damned insecure about me being able to be nice to my ex-wife. Every single woman I ever get involved in betrays me. My family hates me. Tell me, Theresa.What do I have to live for now? Tell me. THERESA: Okay, okay, Okay-- BRADY:...TELL ME! Do you get it? THERESA: Okay! I'm sorry, Brady, would you PLEASE slow down. Brady takes his eyes off the road now entirely, and begins to lean in closer and closer to Theresa. His speed is now reaching 85mph. BRADY: Ohhhh no. You don't get it, do you? I want you to listen to me for once. No distractions. No one around to watch you to see the glamourous life you're living off my back. Just you, finally facing the person you are. The despicable, self-absorbed piece of street trash you really are-- Theresa looks away from Brady. 90mph. Theresa looks up and sees a sharp turn in the road ahead, she panicks and screams out. THERESA: BRADY, LOOK OUT! Brady looks up and tries to steer into the turn while slamming on the brakes. Theresa, in a moment of quick thinking, pulls her door open and leaps from the vehicle, but due to the speed the car is travelling at, she is knocked unconscious and severely injured immediately upon impacting the ground. Brady's car skids off the road and drives through the barrier, off the side of the embankment, into the lake below. *** Brady snaps out of his haze, as he begins to breathe heavily, almost having a panic attack right in front of a very concerned Anita, who has wrapped her arm around Brady's shoulders. ANITA: Brady! Brady! Are you alright? Talk to me! Brady shakes his head, coming out of his state, he looks at Anita, swallowing heavily before answering her, still gasping for air. BRADY: I...I can't, Anita. I just...I gotta... Brady gets up from the sofa, and grabs a coat from the coat rack. He quickly darts toward the door and steps out, shutting it hastily behind him. Left behind in the house is Anita, looking at the door in shock. She settles back down on the couch, mouth left hanging open in shock. --- Sheryl lies asleep in her bed, lying next to a wide-awake Lucas. Lucas stirs silently, unable to close his eyes. He sighs as he turns to look at a dormant Sheryl, he breathes heavily, looking uncomfortably at Sheryl in bed. He swallows, as if gasping for air, as he turns away to get up out of the bed, trying not to wake Sheryl. He sits quietly at the edge of the bed, as though trying to catch his breath. He looks up, standing up as quietly as possible, grabbing his boxers from the floor and hastily putting them on before turning to walk over to the window. Deep in thought, he looks out and sighs as he stares off into the night. --- Nicole and Eric flop down, spent from the passionate sex they've just had. Breathing heavily, they look lovingly at each other in bed. Nicole turns back towards her new fiance and puts her hand on his chest, playing with his chest hair as she talks softly to him. NICOLE: You know...if it's like this every time, I can't wait to be Mrs. Eric Brady. Eric smiles, laughing a bit to himself as Nicole looks on, mock-offended. NICOLE: What?! ERIC: I just had a thought... Nicole looks at Eric, inquistively. NICOLE: And that is...? Eric turns his head to face Nicole. He raises his eyebrow and replies casually to her. ERIC: Are you gonna take me to Red Lobster now? Nicole punches Eric's arm playfully as he laughs, clutching his arm in pain momentarily through his laughter. NICOLE: You're so WEIRD. ERIC: (laughs) No, but seriously...I was thinking...why wait? Why don't we get married tomorrow? Nicole looks at Eric, shocked by his suggestion. --- Inside the living room of the Kiriakis mansion, Victor stands, sipping his drink slowly. While his family appears to unravel before his eyes in the garden, and his great-nephew is married to a woman he loathes, his stress is high. His glass of bourbon shakes in his hand as he simmers with rage. Looking down after taking a sip, he sees a picture of Brady on his desk. Feeling emotional, Victor grits his teeth hard. Suddenly, something appears to jolt Victor from within. He drops his glass of bourbon on the carpet, as he grabs his chest, the glass shattering on the ground. --- --- Jordan and Jerome stand in Jordan's hotel room, a palpible tension between the ex-lovers. Jerome stands behind Jordan, waiting for an answer. Jordan turns, looks at Jerome, annoyed by his probing questions, and answers angrily. JORDAN: My decisions and who I'm with now are no longer any of your concern, got it? Jerome stares at Jordan a moment, before bursting out laughing. He shakes his head at Jordan, crossing his arms. JEROME: That was a great performance, girl. I gotta hand it to you. But I'ma tell you something. Okay, you...you're in love with that dude. It's obvious. And you and I know damn well how dangerous that is when you're in town on a job. Especially when you in deep with a cop. Jordan turns away from Jerome again, now folding her arms, and rolling her eyes, not wanting to hear Jerome's advice. Jerome responds by stepping in closer to his ex. JEROME: For God's sake, Kay! Have you looked this Hernandez dude up? He used to be an FBI agent! You know how much danger you're in if he figures out your ties to this EnerNext takedown? You have no choice but to leave town...and him. Jordan turns back around, walking right past Jerome toward the door again, not even looking him in the eye. JORDAN: You're just trying to stir up trouble becuase you want me back. And as God is my witness, I am never EVER going back to you. You need to get that through your head, Jerome. Jordan swings the door open to her suite, pointing the way out to Jerome. JEROME: I'm not trying to stir anything up. I'm just looking out for you. Evidently something you aren't doing. JORDAN: I am looking out for me. And I found a better way out. So whatever you and Sheryl have cooked up for tomorrow, I want no part in. Jerome shakes his head as he steps toward the door. JEROME: I got news for you. You're already too far in. There's no way out now. Jordan snaps at Jerome, staring him down menacingly as her voice raises at him. JORDAN: GET. OUT! Jerome obliges, never taking his eyes off Jordan as he steps past the doorway. He turns before Jordan closes the door, and gives Jordan one last tidbit of advice. JEROME: Alright! I'm out. But remember. There is no way out of this. Even if you do manage to worm your way out of this situation, your little detective friend is gonna find out all about your...extra-curriculars. And it ain't gone end well. Jordan looks unmoved by Jerome's warning. JORDAN: Goodbye, Jerome. JEROME: See you tomorrow, Kay! Jordan rolls her eyes as she slams the door shut behind him. Jordan leans against the door after its shut, the front of strength she put up against Jerome withering away, as she looks around, panicked by his stern warning. --- Lucas looks intensely out the window of Sheryl's apartment. The night sky is dark, and the cloudcover means not a star in the sky. Looking out over the lights of the centre of Salem, he barely blinks as he thinks over what has just happened. Sheryl's words still linger in his head from earlier. "You know....I never could understand...how a man....could still call himself a man...and not want to make love." Lucas looks back at Sheryl, a bitterness in his eyes as she glares her way. Wordlessly, he walks back over, puts on pants, and hastily throws back on his white t-shirt and dress shirt, barely managing to grab his suit jacket before he heads for the door. On his way out, he takes one look back at Sheryl, before quietly closing the door behind him. On the floor near the door, his tie has fallen in his haste to leave. --- Nicole can barely choke out her reply to Eric about his offer to elope, as she lays in bed next to him, wide-eyed, and open-mouthed. NICOLE: I...what? Eric, I mean...that's not what I had in mind for this wedding...at ALL! Eric interrupts her just at the end, taking her hand in his as he speaks gently to her, trying to calm her nerves with reason. ERIC: I...I know. Look, I would love to do it the traditional way and have a huge wedding with all our families there but...I mean...think about it, Nicole. That's really unlikely with my family. Nicole shrugs, acknowledging the facts Eric's laying out. NICOLE: Fair enough, I mean, your sister alone would probably try to drag me back up the aisle. ERIC: ...Aaaaand not to mention my mother. I...I had a long talk with her and...I mean, we're just patching things up after what happened with Kristen and...(sigh) I just don't...I don't want another huge falling out. I'd rather just...quietly get married and...well, we can tell our families in our own time. Hopefully, without drama or any attempts to stop the wedding from happening. NICOLE: Do you honestly think we can make that happen, though? Eric thinks momentarily, sighing at the thought of having to hide his nuptuals. ERIC: We stand a better chance of just making it to the altar this way. NICOLE: But we'll still have to face your family when we get back. I mean, Eric, I don't want our marriage to be this deep, dark secret, like we're ashamed of it. ERIC: I know. But...I'll make you a deal. We get married officially tomorrow. Just a simple justice-of-the-peace ceremony, and once my family gets used to the idea of us being together and..their opinion of you mellows a bit, we do a big ceremony, the right way. Okay? Nicole smiles, nodding slowly in agreement to Eric's idea. NICOLE: I think I can handle that. ERIC: Good. I uh...I'll call Daniel in the morning, and we'll get this all organized? NICOLE: And I guess I'll call Chloe, and...we head up to Chicago? Eric smiles warmly at his soon-to-be-wife, raising a hand to gently stroke her cheek. ERIC: You ever feel like a teenager? NICOLE: Doing something BAD and rebellious? Eric and Nicole giggle as they lean in slowly to gently touch each other's lips in a kiss. --- Brady stands out by the lake, watching the waves crash against the shore. He stares straight ahead, barely even blinking as Anita walks over to him, wrapped warmly in her winter coat. She stands silently beside him for a moment, looking up at him with a piping hot cup of tea in her head. Looking up, she offers him the tea. ANITA: You took off in a real hurry. Brady breaks his gaze, looking down at Anita, as he accepts the cup of tea. BRADY: I had to get out of there. Brady takes a sip of the tea, before raising the cup in a toast. BRADY: Thanks for the tea, by the way. ANITA: Anytime. I thought you'd be cold out here. BRADY: Nah...it's not that bad. Besides, gives me some time to think. Some fresh air's good for the ol' brain. ANITA: I would have thought you'd have plenty of time to think cooped up in that room all the time. Brady laughs a bit at Anita's remark, still staring straight out at the water before him. BRADY: Funny enough, I spend most of my time in there trying not to think. About anything, really...sneaks up on you sometimes. ANITA: What do you mean? BRADY: (sigh) Just...thinking about your family. What you left behind. Anita stops a moment before responding. She hesitates even to say it, but eventually goes ahead anyway. ANITA: Brady, don't you think you should eventually go back to Salem? Brady looks back out at the water, shaking his head quickly. BRADY: Nah. No way. If I do go back, my life in Salem is over, anyway. There's nothing left for me there. Anita looks at Brady with a pained expression. Brady continues to look straight out for a moment, before turning to look at Anita. BRADY: You know...you ever get the feeling that something terrible is about to happen, you just...no rhyme or reason to feel that way, it's just...your gut? ANITA: Ohhh yeah. I've had that feeling a lot the last few weeks. BRADY: Yeah...I'm feeling that now. And it feels like it's partly my fault. Brady stares back out at the water. Anita joining him as the sound of the waves crashing against the shore mesmerize them. --- Maggie, Alex, and Noelle stand in the kitchen at the Kiriakis Mansion. Maggie, still prepping dinner for everyone, turns toward the couple, who are stood together, with Alex embracing Noelle from behind. She smiles at them, loving their closeness. MAGGIE: Well, you two. Dinner's almost ready. I'm just going into the living room to let Victor know and we'll be ready to start. Okay? NOELLE: Alright, Maggie. We'll be in the dining room in a minute. MAGGIE: Alright, but I don't want you two lovebirds to be late to the dinner table either, okay? Alex and Noelle laugh as Maggie heads for the swinging door to the kitchen. ALEX: Alright, promise. Alex and Noelle hold up one hand, gesturing the promise to Maggie, who shakes her head while laughing at the happy couple. After Maggie steps out of the room, Noelle quickly turns around to face her husband, kissing him quickly on the lips. NOELLE: You know, I could really get used to being a Kiriakis. ALEX: Now THAT is something I never thought I'd hear you say. NOELLE: (laughs) It's true, though. Honestly, I'm grateful that Maggie's been so welcoming to me. It's really made a difference. Alex takes both of Noelle's hands and looks her intensely in the eyes. ALEX: Look, Victor will come around. Just give him time, and whatever misgivings he has about you are gonna fade away. NOELLE: I'm...not so sure. ALEX: Well, I am. So don't worry, okay? Noelle smiles, leaning in to kiss Alex again. The couple wrap their arms around each other as their kiss evolves from a quick peck on the lips to a more passionate one. --- Outside, in the Kiriakis garden, Justin puts a hand on Sonny's shoulder to try to get his attention, but Sonny shrugs it off immediately, aggravated by Justin and Adrienne's intense conversation at his and Will's expense. SONNY: Don't...touch me right now, Dad. I'm serious. You two have seriously got to back off. All the way off. Adrienne pleads with her son, stepping towards him, and trying to take his hand, but Sonny will have none of it and lurches away. ADRIENNE: Please, Sonny, just...you have to understand, I'm just trying to look out for yo-- SONNY: ...No! No, you need to stop doing that. Okay, your idea of looking out for me, which, by the way, I don't need because I am an adult...is smothering me, and it's toxic. It is starting to tear away at my relationship with the man I want to spend the rest of my life with, and we haven't even made it to the altar yet! Adrienne stops, trying to choke out a response to Sonny while holding back tears. ADRIENNE: I just don't want you to make a big mistake. And I'm sorry, Will, but I think that Sonny marrying you would be a huge mistake. Will shakes his head, feigning cluelessness at Adrienne's reasons for not wanting he and Sonny to marry, knowing that her answer will sound absurd to Sonny. WILL: But why, Mrs. Kiriakis. I mean, you know Sonny and I have been through a lot. And I've stood by him. So why are you so concerned now? ADRIENNE: Because, Will, I know what your mother's like, and I've seen the way you look at-- Adrienne gets cut off by the sound of Maggie's shocked voice coming from inside the house. MAGGIE: (from inside) OH MY GOD, VICTOR! Everyone turns around suddenly, stunned by what they hear. Sonny is the first to react, running quickly inside, as the others filter in. Inside, Maggie kneels by Victor's limp body, sobbing as she panicks, trying to figure out whether Victor is alive or dead. Sonny arrives first, followed by Alex, Will, Adrienne, and Justin, as Noelle slowly saunters in behind them all, arms folded, with a much different look on her face from the others. Maggie looks up as Sonny rushes into action, pulling his phone out from his pocket. Maggie shouts out to the others. MAGGIE: I think he's had a heart attack, call the ambulance. Sonny dials 911 immediately, as the others are stunned, almost too stunned to react, as they observe Victor lying on the floor, struggling to breathe. Justin then jumps over, kneeling down with Maggie, as he grabs Victor's hand. SONNY: (into phone) Yes, this is Sonny Kiriakis, we think my uncle's just had a heart attack... ---

I love that Noah's sexuality is starting to be called into question. I always read Noah as a bit gay, so great move there. I loved the Victor/Nikki scene, and HERE COMES DRIVER <3 Esther, Karynn, and Garret are a HOOT. I can just SEE Liz Hubbard as Kay's sister. GREAT casting, and these scenes really bring that home. Fantastic stuff! I expect Karynn won't be in prison for long though. Scotty and Rufus are a trashy mess and I love it. Scotty, thirsty as ever, he's got his eyes on Noah. And you know Scotty plays to win. That's gonna end in butt babies, just you wait! HAHAHA. GREAT show again, ML!

EPISODE 89 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Rafe and Hope stand in their office at the Salem PD. Hope looks at Rafe with a concerned look on her face, as Rafe stands stunned at what Hope's just asked her. RAFE: I...I don't even know how to answer that...I mean...I know these cops like they're family to me, Hope. No, I don't think they're racist. HOPE: But what if...what if it's deeper than that. What if we've...(sigh) what if we're so used to seeing certain faces committing crimes that we've started to believe that they're inherently criminal people? Hope walks away from Rafe, increasingly uncomfortable looking him in the eyes. She paces the room, deep in thought, as Rafe's eyes follow her around the room. HOPE: I know it's...I know it's not that they're bad people. I mean, we're trying to keep the community safe. I mean...everyone loves Abe...they loved Lexie when she was on the force, you're respected...but... RAFE: Hope, come on. Don't let this one case hit you so hard, I mean...so the profile was wrong. There's a million ways that could have happened. The eye witness could have seen the wrong person, it could have been dark out...Hell, the perp could have an accomplice, this may not even be over yet-- HOPE: ...But what if it is, Rafe?! What if the Salem PD is the problem here? What if Jerome was right? Rafe sighs as he looks at Hope, shaking his head in disbelief of what she's asking him. --- Sheryl sits at the table at Club TBD, where the lights are dimmed as the evening clientele mills about, having their cocktails and eating their dinner. She keeps one eye on the door as she looks over her menu. Her impatience building as she sees each person step in, and not seeing Lucas. Finally, Lucas steps in the door, nervously looking around for his date. Sheryl immediately spots him, and waves in his direction. After a moment, Lucas feigns a smile and heads over to greet her. Sheryl gets up from her seat, a big smile on her face as she reaches out to her date. SHERYL: Lucas, honey! I'm glad you finally escaped your mother's clutches. LUCAS: Sheryl-- SHERYL: ...Oh come off it, Lucas, it was a JOKE! LUCAS: Yeah...sorry. I'm just...you know, tense. Sheryl leans over to touch Lucas' shoulder, causing Lucas to flinch again at her touch. Sheryl looks on, hurt again by Lucas' resistance to her. SHERYL: Okay...I'm sorry. I guess I'm just...not used to you being quite so...prickly. Sheryl sits down, a sense of defeat in her eyes. Lucas follows, adjusting himself a bit as he gets comfortable in his seat. Sheryl looks at Lucas, a bit annoyed at him. Lucas picks up on it, and leans in to speak softly to Sheryl. LUCAS: Look, I'm sorry. I haven't had a very good couple days. With work, and...the TV station selloff...I've been really overloaded. SHERYL: I understand that. Sheryl reaches out across the table to Lucas, almost touching his hand, but hesitating at the last moment. She pulls her hand back into her lap. She looks down, appearing a bit sombre. SHERYL: I just...I wish I could...maybe find a way to help...I dunno, make it easier on you. Maybe take some of the load off. Lucas sighs, remembering his mom's advice before he left for dinner to be more convincing in his 'relationship' with Sheryl. Lucas looks up at Sheryl, who looks back at him with a lustful look in her eye. Lucas looks back curiously, as Sheryl gently slips her left pump from her foot, and glides it up his leg. Lucas' eyes widen, as Sheryl's not-so-subtle come-on becomes obvious to him. LUCAS: Well! I uh...ahem...Gee I...I feel better already. Uh... Lucas quickly turns to get T's attention as he passes by. LUCAS: Hey! T! Can you uh...can you get me a cup of coffee...and a uh... Lucas turns to face an expectant Sheryl, who looks Lucas' way unwaveringly, as she makes her order. SHERYL: Double vodka on the rocks. T looks on at the situation before him, slightly amused, and intrigued as he responds, fighting back laughter. T: Alright...coming up, guys! T rushes off, leaving an uncomfortable Lucas at the mercy of Sheryl. He squirms uncomfortably, but decides to play along, against his better judgment. LUCAS: I uh...I knew you wanted to help me unwind but...I had no idea you meant like this. Sheryl looks on, raising her eyebrow seductively, as she responds to Lucas. SHERYL: Maybe we should skip dinner. I think I'm feeling hungry for something a little different. Lucas tries to hold back an uncomfortable look, as he tries to formulate a response to Sheryl. --- Jerome steps off the elevator at the Salem Inn, walking over to Jordan's door. He knocks. Inside, Jordan jumps up from her chair, startled by the sudden unexpected visitor. Through the door, she hears Jerome's voice. JEROME: Kay? Baby, it's me. Jordan races over to the door, hoping none of her neighbours heard Jerome call her by her real name. She quickly opens the door and motions him inside, an irritated look on her face. JORDAN: I told you not to call me that! Get in here! NOW! Jerome slides casually inside, with Jordan stuffing him inside as she tries, through her frustration, to close the door while resisting her urge to slam it. She glares as she speaks menacingly to him. JORDAN: How did you find me here? Jerome smirks as he looks at his ex-, appearing to take pleasure in her dismay. JEROME: I texted Sheryl. She said you could use the pep talk. JORDAN: Oh right, I forgot. Sheryl's my mom now and I need her to tell me what I need to do. Jordan opens the door back up, motioning to Jerome to leave, as Jerome walks toward the door. JORDAN: Look, I'm sorry you wasted your time, but I don't need you, and I don't need your 'pep talks'. Jerome puts his hand against the back of the door, shutting it, while blocking in Jordan. They stand mere inches apart, as Jerome looks lustfully in Jordan's eyes. Jordan, still clearly attracted to Jerome, looks at him intensely. JEROME: Maybe you don't know what you need as much as you think you do. Jordan looks back at him, her defenses wearing thin against Jerome, though still trying to put up the front. --- Adrienne stands, still uncomfortably cold in the Kiriakis garden with Justin, as Adrienne tries to explain her calling Alex "Justin's son". ADRIENNE: I didn't mean it like that, Justin. JUSTIN: No, but what else COULD it mean, Adrienne? You've always resented Anjelica's presence in our lives, even being just on the peripheral. ADRIENNE: Well, I don't know, Justin. Maybe her trying to blow me up might have something to do with it? I mean, I know, I'm just talking crazy here, but-- Justin sighs, knowing this argument's going to go around in circles. He tries to stop it from moving further down this road. JUSTIN: Adreinne. I don't blame you for hating Anjelica. But you have helped raise Alex from the time he was a toddler. I thought you have accepted him as your own-- ADRIENNE: ...I have, Justin...I just... JUSTIN: You just...what? You see Anjelica every time you look at him? You...resent his presence in our lives again? You question his motives in marrying Noelle Curtis because you're just, so certain that he's got something to hide? ADRIENNE: A mother knows her son, Justin. Justin explodes with anger at Adrienne's remark. JUSTIN: You just reminded me he isn't your son, Adrienne! So how do you know he's hiding something? And how do you know that Will is so...eager to play the field that he's willing to risk what he has with Sonny to make a play for his brother. His brother who is married to a woman? Justin and Adrienne jump back, looking towards the door as a voice calls out to them. SONNY: Is that really what you feel, Mom? Adrienne stands, shocked and at a loss for words as she's caught by her visibly upset son. --- --- Rafe puts his hand on Hope's shoulder, as Hope stays fixated on the view through her office window. RAFE: Hope, you can't fix everything, you know. Hope stays fixated on the street below, leaving Rafe unsure if she's even listening. He squeezes her shoulder gently, hoping to rouse some kind of reaction in Hope. RAFE: Look, I know this case has thrown you for a loop. That's why I was pushing Grant so hard. But you gotta realize, we're only human. HOPE: Yeah, but we also need to have some humanity. Hope sighs, turning around to face Rafe finally. HOPE: You know, I just...seeing Jerome and...seeing Valerie again just reminded me why I became a cop in the first place. I didn't do it to hurt people, or...punish people. I did it to help protect people. To make my community a better place. RAFE: And you do that. Every day. I see that. Rafe puts his arms around Hope, as she reciprocates, holding Rafe in a tight embrace. HOPE: Well, I need to do more, Rafe. I need to figure out a way. As Rafe and Hope separate from their hug, Hope walks over to her desk, grabbing her purse and jacket. As she puts it on, she sighs. HOPE: I gotta...I gotta pick Ciara up. She's probably upset, I've been...really busy lately. RAFE: You want me to give you guys a ride home? I gotta head that way anyway, pick up Sheryl at the Salem Inn. Hope smiles a bit, nodding appreciatively. HOPE: Yeah. I'm...not exactly in any shape to drive right now, am I? RAFE: Come on, Partner! Rafe puts his arm around Hope, walking with her out of her office, finally coaxing a lasting smile out of his sombre partner. --- Jordan inhales deeply, taking in Jerome's scent as she tries to hide her discomfort, and her attraction to Jerome. JORDAN: Don't patronize me, Jerome. Jerome lifts his right hand up to gently carress Jordan's face, causing Jordan to flinch, and push Jerome away. Jerome doesn't fight back as Jordan walks away from her. JORDAN: Dammit, Jerome! Don't you get it? It's over between you and me. And it has been for a very long time. JEROME: You know...that's funny because...I didn't think we ever officially broke things off between us. You know, as far as I remember...you just up and left town without saying where you were going, what you were doing, or who with. Now, what I wanna know is...is that how you normally break things off with the men you get with, or am I just a special case? Jordan turns around to face Jerome, eyes rolling, cutting him off as he finishes his question. JORDAN: I didn't...I didn't think we had anything more to talk about. You didn't want to tie yourself down to me, and...then this whole...EnerNext thing came up. I mean...Kate's offer to come to Salem came up way sooner than Sheryl and I expected. JEROME: And you couldn't take two minutes to pick up a phone and tell me what was happening. Say goodbye? Dear John letter? A text message-- JORDAN: ...I couldn't! Dammit, Jerome. It wasn't safe! The RCMP were onto us, and if I stopped to make that call, I'd be setting myself up. Jerome looks down, shaking his head, knowing Jordan's making excuses. Jordan looks him dead on, as earnestly as she can. JORDAN: Look, I know I left suddenly. And I'm sorry for that. But we were having too many problems to ignore. And it wasn't going to get any better if I stayed in Toronto. JEROME: But you don't know that. Jordan stops, sighing as she looks up to the ceiling. She throws her hands up in defeat. JORDAN: No. No, I don't. But it's too late to go back now. We have a job to do. That's the only relationship we're going to have here in Salem. You put that virus in the Titan server, and it's done. Jerome cocks his eyebrow, sensing a hint of hope. JEROME: And after that? Jordan rolls her eyes at Jerome's badgering, she looks away, folding her arms in discomfort. JORDAN: After that, I don't know. JEROME: Does that mean you'll be leaving Salem? Jordan hesitates, looking down, away from Jerome's intense gaze. JORDAN: I haven't decided yet. Jerome leans toward where Jordan's looking, hoping to catch her gaze. Jordan looks away, and Jerome follows her eyes. Jordan sighs again, as it hits him just why she's hesitating. JEROME: Oh God. It's that sumbitch cop you been screwing around with. Hah! You're in love with him, aren't you? Jordan bites her lip, trying to avoid giving Jerome the answer he's searching for. --- The elevator dings before the door opens to Sheryl's floor. As it opens, Sheryl is pressed up against a visibly-uncomfortable Lucas, who is trying to get into the mood for the sake of Kate's plan, but Sheryl notices his tension. They kiss, but Sheryl, feeling Lucas' tension, steps back. SHERYL: Lucas! Come on, what's wrong? Sheryl grabs Lucas' hand and guides him from the elevator toward her apartment door. LUCAS: Ahh, it's nothing. I guess I'm just still tense from the office. Sheryl wraps her arms around Lucas, smiling seductively at him. He feigns a smile in return, putting his arms around her. SHERYL: Well, you know what I say to that. LUCAS: Yes, I do. SHERYL: Well, do you want to come in? Maybe I can...work out those knots in your shoulders, and maybe...help you relax? Lucas inhales, trying to gather his strength to go through with what's surely about to happen. LUCAS: I think that's a great idea. Sheryl smiles back, as she turns to open the door to the apartment. SHERYL: Good. As Sheryl steps in, Lucas lingers behind, almost afraid to step inside. Sheryl laughs at Lucas' reticence, coaxing him inside. SHERYL: (laughs) Come on, silly. You're acting like a school boy. Haven't you ever been to a girl's bedroom before. Lucas furrows his brow, as though Sheryl's wounded his pride. LUCAS: Hey! I resent that! I'll have you know I've been to...p...a few ladies' bedrooms in my time. Sheryl giggles as she sits herself down on her bed. Kicking off her shoes, she bites her lip seductively as she looks up at Lucas, who stands nearby, hands in his pockets, looking Sheryl up and down. SHERYL: Hmm...that's good to know then. Aren't you gonna come over here. LUCAS: I uh...ahem, I dunno if I'm up to it. Sheryl looks up at Lucas, getting up off the bed and walking over to him. He backs up slightly, as Sheryl forcefully grabs his belt buckle and undoes it. Lucas resists momentarily. LUCAS: Sheryl... SHERYL: Not. A. Word. Sheryl leans in, nearly kissing Lucas, but instead whispers, half seductively, half threateningly, as she kisses his cheek, and slowly nibbles his earlobe. SHERYL: You know....I never could understand...how a man....could still call himself a man...and not want to make love. Lucas' resists the urge to leave, his masculinity called into question, but simultaneously hearing his mother's voice in his head, nagging him to stay: KATE: If you intend on seeing this plan through, you're going to have to be an awful lot more convincing than what just went down. Before he can respond, Sheryl pushes Lucas onto her bed, straddling him aggressively. LUCAS: Wh...what are you doing, Sheryl? SHERYL: Isn't it obvious? Sheryl rips open Lucas' shirt, as she kisses him full on the mouth. Lucas looks disgusted, but doesn't resist, replaying his mother's words over and over in his head, and Sheryl's emasculating whispers spliced between his mother's voice. you'll have to do better than that what kind of man doesn't want to make love? better than that SHERYL: I want you, Lucas Horton. Make love to me. Sheryl leans over aggressively to kiss Lucas again, her legs straddling his torso as she kisses down his neck, kissing further and further down his chest, as Lucas lays back, closing his eyes momentarily, trying to simply go along with Sheryl's desire as best he can, still hearing the threatening voices circle in his head. what kind of man... you'll have to do better than that ...doesn't want to make love I never understood you'll have to do better... Lucas gasps in a combination of mental anguish and physical stimulation as Sheryl moves her way down his body. Tensing with an anxious uncertainty as Sheryl takes sexual control over him. --- Maggie and Alex carry on talking to each other in the kitchen, as Noelle steps into the kitchen. MAGGIE: Noelle! NOELLE: Hi, Maggie! I just came to check in on my husband. Noelle wraps her arms around Alex, who turns his head to kiss his wife on the cheek. Noelle smiles widely as she hugs him. Maggie looks on, smiling. MAGGIE: I'm so glad you two are so happy. (sigh) We could use a lot more of that in this house lately. Noelle looks on, sighing quietly, understanding Maggie's pain. NOELLE: I'm sorry, Maggie. I...I know the last few months haven't been easy on you and Victor...but...I have a feeling things are going to change very soon. Maggie smiles at Noelle, leaning against the island, feeling Noelle and Alex's concern and warmth. MAGGIE: Thank you, both of you. I hope so, too! --- Sonny and Will step into the garden, Sonny fuming at his parents' argument over his relationship. Adrienne stumbles over her words as she tries to respond to her son's question. ADRIENNE: I...I...Sonny! Look, your father and I-- SONNY: ...Were just nosing their way into my personal business. Again. ADRIENNE: Sonny... SONNY: Can it, Mom! Justin steps in to defend Adrienne, glaring at Sonny angrily. JUSTIN: Sonny. Don't talk to your mother like that. Will steps toward Sonny, touching Sonny's arm gently. WILL: Sonny...look, I didn't mean to cause trouble, I-- SONNY: No. No, that's all my mother's job. My mother, who can't seem to separate mother from son. My mother, who seems to think that Alex Kiriakis and Anjelica Deveraux are the same person, just like Sami Brady and Will Horton. Adrienne tries to calm Sonny down, trying to step toward her son, but Sonny shakes his head, backing away from her. ADRIENNE: Sonny... SONNY: No! No, not this time, Mom. I love Will. And I know that Will is in love with me just as much. Whatever problems we're having right now, we will work them out, because that is what marriage is about. I know that's hard for you two since you seem incapable of going half a decade without some kind of litigation against each other, but-- JUSTIN: Sonny! Enough! Now, you owe your mother, and myself, an apology. Sonny laughs mockingly at Justin, incredulous that Justin would make such an assertion. SONNY: Hah! Like Hell, I do! You know, this is exactly why I wanted Will away from Titan. I didn't want him to be involved in all this family drama, and melodramatics. And I definitely didn't want anyone in this family, especially my own parents, to spend so much energy trying to run our lives, and trying to manipulate, and and and speculate about our sex lives. I mean, what business is it of yours? Adrienne and Justin look solemnly at each other, realizing only now the depth of Sonny's anger at his family's involvement in his life. They stand, stunned, not realizing that inside the house, from the doorway, stands a solemn Victor, holding a drink in his hand. He listens closely to the entire conversation. Victor takes a sip from his drink, before breathing in heavily, an almost pained expression on his face as he contemplates his family's growing tensions. ---

WOAH! That was a GREAT shock. Maggie getting attacked like that. GREAT shock! I loved the little things of that scene too. Maggie playing with her new remote locks, while Cass, ever the traditionalist, is puzzled by them. He's been with Frankie too long! Haha. Too bad the locks didn't work. Definitely could feel the tension as Eric blackmailed Kirkland. That was well-written as well. Things are getting steamy with them, and Christy is just warming up. Deliciously evil mother and son. GREAT stuff! Brianna has a PLAN for Maggie, and I KNOW it isn't good, GREAT cliffhanger there. Frankie's intuition is more right than she thinks! GREAT episode. VERY tight! Not much more to say, other than I am VERY impressed!

OKAY what an episode. So we have some great scenes with Cory getting meet his brother, after all these years. Can't wait to see their relationship develop. Hopefully in dramatic ways. Kirkland getting some good head will shut him up for now, but will he end up telling Charlie? (Probably not, or else there'd be no story LOL) I loved the juxtaposition between Paulina and Jack reminiscing and lovemaking with Christy and Grant's scheming and plotting. Grant knows he has the silver bullet that will take Jack down and give him his chance with Paulina (so he thinks), but I hope he doesn't. I rarely see Paulina this happy, so it would be nice. Finally, the tender scenes between Rachel and Carl. It's going to be so sad to see him go. It's been a long build to this, but it has been well-written throughout. Driving story in many directions, and so many nods to the past, with branches into the future. Brilliantly done! Another great show! GOOD job!

EPISODE 88 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson Hope stands in her office at the Salem PD, staring thoughtfully out the window. Rafe slowly opens the door. Observing Hope, he sighs to himself, as he stands in the doorway, holding a cup of coffee in his hand. Never once looking away, barely even blinking, Hope doesn't notice as Rafe walks over to her, and hands her the cup. She jumps a bit, startled by Rafe. She looks down at the coffee cup and smiles as she takes it from Rafe. RAFE: Figured you could use this. HOPE: Thanks. RAFE: You alright? Mrs...what was it, Grant? She really got to you. Hope looks down, then back out the window, not looking Rafe's way as she takes a sip of her coffee. She takes a second before replying to him. HOPE: Was it that obvious? Hope turns around to face Rafe, a slight smile on both their faces, as they attempt to relieve a bit of the tension from dealing with Valerie and Jerome. Rafe shrugs as he makes a bit of a joke. RAFE: Enh, not really. Heh. But seriously, that Valerie woman really shook you up. You...obviously have met before? Hope looks down, nodding slowly as she answers Rafe, though almost zoning out. HOPE: Ohh yeah. My...nephew David was supposed to marry Valerie a looong long time ago. RAFE: And...obviously that didn't work out so well. HOPE: You could say that. Rafe looks on with concern, as Hope stays brooding in her own head, as though Rafe wasn't even in the room. RAFE: Look, I don't wanna pry here, but...you look really upset by this. HOPE: Yeah, well...(sigh) besides all the personal history...there's something about this whole situation that...it's just not right. Hope looks up, looking intensely at Rafe, who looks back in stunned confusion. --- Nicole and Eric unlock the door to Nicole's unlit apartment, laughing in between kisses. Eric holds a bottle of champagne in his hand, and places it down on the kitchen counter, as Nicole quickly turns on the light. NICOLE: Ahhh! I...I cannot believe this. Nicole runs back over to Eric, wrapping her arms around him from behind, much to his surprise. Eric laughs as he loses his balance while trying to grab champagne glasses from the cabinet above. ERIC: Woah! Hey, Miss soon-to-be-Mrs. Brady. NICOLE: Mmm, I like the sound of that. Eric turns around, champagne glasses now in hand as he puts one arm around Nicole. Guiding her around to his side, he grabs the bottle and squeezes Nicole gently. ERIC: Well, you better get used to hearing it, because I can't wait to make you my wife. Eric twists off the cork with a loud pop. The cork flies out of the bottle and smashes the lightbulb above them, rendering the apartment once again pitch black. Nicole and Eric duck momentarily to protect themselves from the shattering glass, before looking up in stunned silence. NICOLE: Oh God. ERIC: Well...at least the darkness is romantic. NICOLE: Yyyyyeah, I was never a fan of making love on broken glass, though. Nicole turns toward the cupboard, pulling out a big flashlight. NICOLE: Fortunately... Nicole turns on the flashlight, startling Eric, who jumps back to protect his eyes from the bright light. ERIC: ...AH! Hey! NICOLE: I'm prepared for anything! Nicole strides quickly back around, heading for the closet to find another bulb. NICOLE: Don't move, I don't want you to step in the glass or anything. ERIC: Yeah. Sure. Eric looks on, sighing at the romantic, celebratory mood being gradually killed before his eyes. --- Adrienne and Justin stand outside the Kiriakis Mansion, in the garden. Adrienne holds herself tightly, cold from the chilled winter air, as her husband drapes his jacket across her shoulders. JUSTIN: You're shivering. Adreinne waves dismissively at him. ADRIENNE: I'm fine. I can handle it. Thank you. I just...I needed to breathe. You could cut the tension in that room with a knife. JUSTIN: Don't I know it. You never explained yourself, why are you suddenly so against this wedding. Adrienne steps in close to Justin, her voice gets softer as she explains herself. From inside, Will stands by the slightly-ajar door, straining to hear her. ADRIENNE: I saw what was happening with Will and Sonny in there, Justin. JUSTIN: And what was happening, exactly? Remember, I just got here. Adrienne responds incredulously. ADRIENNE: You didn't see it?? Justin, Will might as well have been on another planet, he was so completely...fixated on Alex. JUSTIN: Well...Alex is an extremely attractive guy, I mean, it doesn't mean anything. Alex is with Noelle. Adrienne rolls her eyes at what she views as her husband's naivete. ADRIENNE: Oh please, Justin, I've told you a thousand times, Alex isn't with that girl for love. It's so obvious. JUSTIN: You know, I don't exactly appreciate you making assumptions about my son's sexuality-- ADRIENNE: Why? Are you ashamed of Sonny now? Justin looks down, stopping and sighing before answering as thoughtfully as he can. Careful not to say something he'll regret. JUSTIN: You know that's not what I meant, Adrienne. I just-- ADRIENNE: ...You just still wish he were straight? I don't get it. Justin explodes in anger, raising his voice, pointing back into the house emphatically, as though Sonny stood behind him. JUSTIN: NO! I am so proud of our son, Adrienne. He has more strength and self-respect than most men twice his age. I would go to my death for that kid. ADRIENNE: Then you need to stop him from making a huge mistake. JUSTIN: He can decide that on his own, Adrienne. Adrienne leans in close to Justin again, her one finger raised to make her point to Justin. She speaks softly but firmly. ADRIENNE: If it isn't Alex, it'll be some other guy. He's Sami Brady's son in every. Single. Way. Will leans back, the back of his head hits the wall behind him. He rests himself there, standing in stunned disbelief at what he's overheard. He breathes heavily before looking around for Sonny, then darting off. --- --- Nicole kneels on the kitchen counter of her apartment, as she finishes screwing in the lightbulb that had previously burnt out. Eric looks on from behind the counter, silently spotting Nicole, trying to protect her if she loses her balance. NICOLE: Aaaaalllmost got it. Aaaaaand THERE! The light flickers on, causing Nicole to throw up her arms in victory. NICOLE: HaHA! So? How many Nicoles DOES it take to change a lightbulb? ERIC: I'd say one. Nicole looks down, glaring at Eric for his dry 'wit'. NICOLE: Smart-ass. Nicole leans over to playfully swat Eric, but misses and loses her balance. She shrieks as she falls into Eric's arms. After a moment of panic, Nicole and Eric stop for a second, looking into each other's eyes. After a long moment, they slowly lean in and kiss each other passionately. Their kiss leads to Nicole reaching around to wrap her arms around Eric's neck, as she draws him in closer. Aroused by the intensity, Eric lifts Nicole onto the counter, as Nicole draws Eric close to her. She wraps her legs around his waist as he pulls open her blouse, kissing down her neck as Nicole closes her eyes, enjoying the sensation of every kiss. Nicole takes a breath as Eric lifts his head, looking into Nicole's eyes. She smiles wryly, as she pulls his shirt off quickly, exposing his rippled body. NICOLE: The bedroom? Eric nods, a playful glint in his eye. ERIC: Bedroom. Eric effortlessly scoops Nicole up into his arms, her arms and legs still wrapped around his body. The kiss passionately as he carries her into her bedroom, the lights, newly changed, left on. --- Noelle casually walks toward Victor, both of them standing in the Kiriakis living room alone. She looks at him smugly, as Victor tries to ignore her completely, looking the other way. NOELLE: You know, this really is such a beautiful home. I could get used to it here. Victor squints his eyes, trying to stop from spitting his drink out, as he chokes out an answer. He turns around, glaring at her. VICTOR: You expect to live here? I was hoping you'd at least settle for a neighbouring zip code. Noelle crosses her arms, a wry smile on her face. She begins to pace the room as she talks, contemplating as she speaks. Victor gets tense as she speaks. NOELLE: Victor, you're a card. You know as well I do, though, that as long as Alex is staying here with you and Maggie... Noelle turns around suddenly, staring down Victor. NOELLE: ...I...will be right here with him. I mean, I am his wife, after all. Victor grimaces, never once looking away from Noelle as they each try to intimidate the other. VICTOR: Mm. Don't remind me. Noelle laughs quietly as Victor turns back around, finishing his drink. She saunters around to the other side of Victor, grabbing a glass for her own drink as she picks up the caraffe and begins to pour herself a drink. NOELLE: Oh come now, don't you want your nephew to be happy? VICTOR: Yes. Which is exactly why I want him far away from you, and preferably the rest of your dysfunctional family to boot! Noelle takes a sip from her drink, savouring the flavour, as she responds to Victor's repeated snipes, again with a smile and cool exterior. NOELLE: Well, don't worry about my family. You've already done your part in tearing ours apart. And juding by how tonight's going...it looks like you're doing wonders on your own. Victor looks menacingly at Noelle, who takes the opportunity to turn toward the hallway heading for the kitchen. NOELLE: I best check on Maggie and the boys. Enjoy your wallowing! Victor watches from his peripheral vision as Noelle casually walks out of the room. Once gone, he quickly finishes his drink, before slamming the glass down on the desk before him. VICTOR: Damn that little... --- Maggie turns around in the Kiriakis kitchen, holding some serving bowls she's pulled out from the pantry, and walks slowly toward the centre island, where Sonny leans against the counter, and Alex sits casually on a bench. They're relaxed, catching up, and helping bring a smile back to Maggie's face. MAGGIE: It's so nice to be back in a kitchen again. Alex, who's stealing some mini-profiterols from a bowl on the counter, looks over to Maggie, a wide smile on his face. ALEX: You know how funny that sounds, knowing you own a restaurant? Maggie and Sonny laugh, as Maggie smacks Alex's hand away as he reaches over to grab another profiterol. MAGGIE: Restaurants! And you're gonna spoil your supper if you keep that up. SONNY: And those abs, I might add. Alex gives Sonny a smug, mocking look. ALEX: Ahh you're just jealous because I got the good genes. SONNY: Yeah, well, apparently modesty's a Johnson thing anyway. ALEX: Ohhh! I know you didn't go there just now. SONNY: I SO did! As the boys laugh, Maggie leans over the table and grabs their hands, squeezing them tightly as she smiles, looking back and forth between the two of them. MAGGIE: You know...can I just say...this was exactly what I needed? SONNY: I'm glad to hear it, Maggie. I'm sorry about what's been happening between you and Uncle Vic. Maggie smiles warmly at Sonny. MAGGIE: Thanks, Sonny. I mean...I know it's not his fault. With everything that's happened. Titan being in so much trouble, and...Brady dying...I know it's been hard on him. ALEX: But it's not your fault, either. SONNY: Exactly. Don't be afraid to have some sort of...release. Maggie nods, sighing in a sense of relief of having been able to talk this out with Alex and Sonny. MAGGIE: I know. I was never very good at that. At least tonight, I've got the kitchen free for a bit. SONNY: Yeah! I was amazed you got Chef to go home early. Maggie gives a cute smile to Sonny. MAGGIE: I have my ways. As Maggie winks at the boys, everyone laughs, and Alex smiles, nodding in approval of his great aunt. MAGGIE: But you know...honestly, it's nice having a kitchen again. I thought I'd love being waited on hand and foot but...I miss everyone coming down to my house and hanging out in my kitchen. SONNY: Yeah! That used to be like...every lunch break. Me, Chad, Will, Gabi, Melanie... MAGGIE: I really miss that. But...I wouldn't trade it for life with Victor for anything. Alex pats Maggie's back gently, smiling approvingly, as Sonny takes a sip of his drink. ALEX: Well...we wouldn't trade you for anything either. You make a great addition to this family. Sonny holds up his drink, as Alex reaches over to grab his. Maggie, not having hers, laughs awkwardly, slightly embarrassed by the praised being given to her. SONNY: Hear hear! As Sonny and Alex toast, Will bursts into the room. He sees Sonny and Alex toast and senses the same tension as before. ALEX: Hey, Will! Will stops a moment before calling out to Sonny. WILL: Hey! ...Uh...Sonny, can I...talk to you a second? Sonny, sensing something's troubling Will, immediately walks over. SONNY: Uh, sure. Everything alright? WILL: Yeah, I just...I need to ask you something...in private. SONNY: Ssssure. Sonny and Will both look back into the room, with Sonny giving both Maggie and Alex a smile, while Will looks on, fixated on Alex, before catching himself and looking away. WILL: I won't keep him long, I promise. Maggie and Alex laugh quietly, as Sonny is dragged into the hall. Once in the hall, Sonny looks around, a bit annoyed by Will's awkward behaviour, he whispers intensely at Will. SONNY: What's wrong? You alright? Will begins to panic as he grabs Sonny, holding him tightly for a moment. WILL: I...I don't know. Sonny reciprocates, holding Will tightly in his arms for the first time in days. He savours the moment, as much as he worries for Will. SONNY: What is it? Tell me. Will holds back tears as he pulls back from his embrace with Sonny. Looking intensely at his fiance, tears in his eyes, he answers. WILL: It's your mom, Sonny. Sonny looks on, worry and aggravation painted on his face. --- Adrienne stands in the Kiriakis garden, facing away from a confused Justin. Justin stands, hands on hips, trying to sort out Adrienne's thought process. JUSTIN: Do you seriously think that Will is going to marry our son, his first boyfriend, I might add, only to throw everything they've worked so hard for away just as things are starting to smooth out for them? Adrienne laughs softly, as she turns around, shaking her head at her husband. ADRIENNE: Justin, you cannot be that naive. JUSTIN: And you can't possibly be that cynical. Do you hear yourself right now? Will is Sami's son, therefore he's inevitably going to turn to be a Samantha Gene Brady mini-me? Adrienne sighs, holding in her feelings as Justin ravishes her for her remark. ADRIENNE: That's not what I'm sayin-- JUSTIN: Then what ARE you saying, Adrienne? Because whatever it is, I don't think it's fair to Will, or to our son if you start trying to separate them again. All you're going to do is alienate them both. Is that what you really want? ADRIENNE: No! Of course not! Justin, I just...there is something going on between Alex and Will, and so help me, if your son comes between Sonny and Will-- Justin, taken aback by Adrienne's slip, cuts her off, stunning her into silence with his interjection. JUSTIN: My son? Adrienne, you helped raise Alex like he was your own...what are you saying? Adrienne struggles to find an answer, hoping not to make matters worse. Justin looks on, an increasingly hurt and angered look in his eye. --- Rafe looks confused at Hope. He looks on, attempting to figure out what she's referring to. RAFE: I...I don't know what you mean...I mean...we went on the info we had on this guy...it turned out to be wrong. End of story. Hope turns around, shaking her head in disagreement. She takes a second, sighing before responding to Rafe. HOPE: Not...exactly. Rafe squints in confusion, now shaking his head. RAFE: I don't get it. HOPE: Oh, Rafe, dammit! I just...I have...concerns. RAFE: About-- Hope turns around quickly, interrupting Rafe, a sudden intensity and anger in her voice. HOPE: ...About Jerome! About why we arrested him when he was...so diametrically opposite to what the real thief looked like. Rafe shrugs, trying to rationalize with Hope, but still uncomfortable. RAFE: Well...these things happen all the time, you know that-- HOPE: No! This...it's more than that. I mean... Hope looks down, turned back away from a confused Rafe. She looks at the ground, as if not even focused on anything in the room. She's intensely inside her own thoughts, and Rafe, her audience for her self-reflection. HOPE: ...I mean...Rafe, that profile. How many profiles have we seen...black male...early 20s... Hope turns back around, prepared to look at Rafe again. HOPE: What...what if Jerome's right? What if he was only made a suspect in the first place...because he was black? Rafe looks on, a conflicted look on his face, as he contemplates what Hope says to him. ---