beebs

GREAT episode. Lots quieter than the previous few but just as powerful. II loved the jail scene, and it's great that Victor is just goading people. So true of him. I love that you've made Victor take a fall. It's a much stronger story choice than usual. So tired of Vic getting away with EVERYTHING. But he took folks down with him, and I love how that's playing out too. Leslie and Roxanne was FIRE. The intensity between those two was excellent. I was so engaged in them, and I loved that Leslie is standing up to and not letting her get away with calling her out endlessly for her past. Leslie getting a spine. It's great to see. Their dynamic is excellent. Paul and Dru....I can't wait for Dru to tell all. I wonder if Paul will buy it. Nick and Noah dealing with Sharon's death. I guess that will play out for awhile. I wonder if Noah will be able to bounce back from this, especially with the impending turmoil over Mary's baby. OOOO this will be good. I especially like that your episodes are getting shorter and tighter. It lets you be more focused, and the stories will be tighter for it. You've done GREAT this time and left us begging for more, and that's the way to do it, I think. Really impressed with this one! AWESOME work!

GREAT episode yet again. I loved Trinity's article. So thoughtful and intense. I really do hope it makes the paper, it's a fantastic statement and beautifully written. I see Trinity as being a very smart girl who holds a lot of her feelings in, a lot to do with her family. I think Sam will draw a lot of that reservation out of her. I'm enjoying them forging a connection. Jack's concerns about being watched are well-founded, and I realized why Reva feels such a responsibility to Jack, considering her own time in Goshen. Totally forgot about that parallel until just then. Really great that that's motivating her. Again, you're nailing these characters, and it impresses me. The flashbacks with Eartha continue. I'm enjoying seeing Eartha and Morris fall in love. Wonder what ends up coming between them. Does Elijah somehow come back in the picture? I can't wait to find out. Blair finally making friends. The best way to people's hearts is via alcohol, as I say. Blair's still bitter about Reva. Gotta love a strong female rivalry. Very focused episode. I love that you're taking your time and moving slow with this show. Getting everyone mixed up and getting us comfortable with the characters first and foremost. It's a wise move, and it will pay off down the road. Really loving it so far!

Ben's giving me creepy vibes, knowing when Luke's on lunch breaks. Hmmm...I'm so curious why Ben is so intent on pursuing Luke. I feel like he's connected to a lot of other bits of the story, like the paper, and Jack. VERY curious. Jack coming back to do what he does best. His homing instincts are uncanny! Too bad he's so nervous about everything, I'm not even sure Todd will get him a job in this case. Speaking of Todd, his repartee with Gary is amazing. You really get how to write Todd, I'm telling you. GREAT stuff there. Hopefully this new incentive gets Todd up off his ass and to finally getting this dumb document. Haha. Elijah and Eartha's backstory starting to fill in. I'm really excited about that, as their situation is curious to me, but I'm still patchy on their past, and I really want to know more. Them as teenagers had a real spark. GREAT show. Enjoyed it as usual.

OOOO Michele is still gonna lie about Bridget "attacking" her. As if she knows Bridget is still up to no good. AND LOOK HOW IT TURNED OUT! OOOOO that condom. Bridget is in trouble now! WOW WOW WOW, this story is getting better and better. Your pacing with it is GLORIOUS and I can't wait to see what twist it takes next. Lindsay dealing with her depression and her changing hormones is obviously taking its toll on her. The realization that she won't be able to have children isn't sitting well with her, and Stacey is not able to be patient anymore. It's hurting her so much to see Lindsay in so much pain. GREAT scenes and great that you connected her and Michael again. I wonder if Stacey still has lingering feelings for Michael, considering how she slipped her hand away from his like that. Wonder if that's setting anything up. Donna talking with Bridget was on point. Donna trying to stop Bridget from making the same mistakes Vicky made. It's so fitting, as she sees so much of Vicky in Bridget. I'm glad that's been made clear to Bridget, and that she's that little bit smarter. Good discussion there. You're still giving me great, focused episodes, and fantastic stories. You're KILLING it! GREAT work!

OOOOO this was another great one. Bridget still hasn't stopped scheming, and it could all backfire on her if Michele figures it all out. Loved the moment between Michele and Vicky as they discuss burying the hatchet and Vicky's own struggles with Marley. Excellent mother/daughter moment. Great to see Allen and Tyrone bury the hatchet too. Brothers reconnecting, just in time for the baby to be born. I do love that you're having a laugh at Marley's looooong pregnancy. Good work there. Donna and Michael are giving me life too. I love Donna quipping about texting to Michael. She totally would know how to text, and be so smug about knowing how as well. Great to see Donna worried about Michele, as we all know what Michele's state of mind is right now. It's all building up. I can't wait to see the next one to see what goes down with the twins. EEK!

This is a much quieter episode than the previous one, but still very strong. I enjoyed getting the backgrounds on everyone. Seeing where Maggie's been and catching up with Matt was a treat. Those 90s teen stories weren't all that memorable to me so I'm glad we got some background to refresh my memory. Haha. I'm really liking that Maggie will be a doctor at BCGH. Good move. Devin Lucas, Carl and Lorna were good as well. Devin's sadness at not being able to get close to his father, and slowly understanding the reality of that. It was well done and strong choices. Russ and John competing for COS. John seems like a shoe-in, but I expect Russ will stick around regardless. Too big a return for him to quietly sneak back away. Good work yet again, Cary!

This was a great little episode. So rich, the dialogue, the stories moved and the situations were powerful. I love seeing Devin Lucas and Carl going head-to-head. You could feel that energy and his hurt and confusion surrounding every aspect of his life. And the impatience he's feeling towards Carl, who has a whole story he needs to tell him, but Devin can't wait. I'm not big on the mid-scene cuts, only because it cuts the rising energy of the scene off just as it builds. BUT, that's just me being old school. The scenes were still fantastic, so don't even worry about my whiny ass. This keeps your show different, and that's a GOOD thing. I enjoyed Elizabeth trying to nudge Michele into going after Bridget. They are gonna make a GREAT team if Michele decides to go back to her schemes, which, judging by Bridget's newest trick, may be very likely. Vicky and Jake were AMAZING. You saw where each of them were coming from and it was a real struggle. Very honest and rich and real. Love love love this, and I wish I had a situation like this on my show. The tension between their love for each other and their anger at each other is so palpable. Brilliant work there. ALL great stuff, and I could picture it all playing out in my head, like it was on TV. BRILLIANT episode, Cary. You're doing Grade A work here!

LMAO WTF Nick punching Paul in the face. HAHAHA. OMG. That's a reaction and a half! Great episode all around again. Lily finding out about Cane selling their kids. WOW. There's gonna be some major fallout here. I can't imagine Sharon's actually dead. Great scenes with everyone sort of...getting their bearings after the crazy night they'd had. Scotty, Daniel and Lauren trying to figure out who Vandalynn is. The flash-dying of her hair from the explosion is an interesting twist too. This girl is the master of disguise. I can't wait to see that all play out. Excellent stuff. Mary's baby WTD thing will be excellent, especially since basically half the men in Genoa City could be the daddy. Love it. That story has potential to have legs for YEARS. All around fabulous work again, ML. You're doing a fantastic job.

This is one crazy episode. So much fallout from all the past month's events! Good use of flashbacks with Mary and her men. Haha. I'm hoping this all leads to some great fallout there. Mary has been very good at doing her mother's dirty work, so I really do hope there's some fallout from that. Leslie really needed to put Sister Patterson in her place. That was some foolishness. She needs to do something other than harrass Leslie, so I'm glad that happened. Haha. Dru and her family reunion were wonderful. Every beat felt real and well-written. I love that Dru and Phyllis finally had their showdown, but hope it isn't their last. One of my favourite Y&R rivalries. GREAT cliffhanger too. Did Nate pull through? Gonna be an exciting episode next time around. Fantastic work, beginning to end!

EPISODE 77 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Valerie and Marlena sit in the cafeteria in University Hospital, sipping on coffee as they pick away at their lunch. The old friends smile as they catch up. Marlena pulls a picture from her wallet. MARLENA: So this is my daughters Belle and Sami. VALERIE: What beautiful young women they are...Wow. Roman must be so proud of them. Marlena looks down awkwardly, which Valerie catches. VALERIE: Okay, Marlena...you gotta get me up to speed on this whole...Roman situation. What happened between you two? Marlena nearly spits out her coffee at Valerie's unintentionally loaded question. MARLENA: Valerie, if you wanted me to fill you in on that, you'd need all afternoon, not just a lunch date. Valerie smiles, laughing quietly, but realizing how out of the loop she's been. She furrows her brow subtly as she responds. VALERIE: Cliff notes? Marlena puts down her coffee, trying hard to hide her frustration at Valerie's persistance, but Valerie catches on, and holds up her hands. VALERIE: Okay...if you don't want to talk about it... MARLENA: No no. It's just...it's very complicated. (sigh) Basically...we thought we had lost Roman...many many years ago....not to...get into too much detail but...a man came to town. John Black. We...we all thought he was Roman and...I married him. VALERIE: But Roman was alive the whole time? MARLENA: He had been held prisoner...for seven years. And then they kidnapped me as well. Valerie looks on, shocked by Marlena's story. VALERIE: My God! Marlena, I'm...so sorry. Marlena smiles re-assuringly. She puts her hand over Valerie's. MARLENA: It's alright. We managed to escape. Either way, once we were all back in Salem...things got complicated. John and I had an affair...and that's how we had Belle. VALERIE: I see. Is....that why you and Roman aren't together anymore. Marlena nods with a hint of sadness. Valerie looks at Marlena with a sympathetic face. VALERIE: I'm sorry to hear. MARLENA: Oh it's okay. That was a long time ago. I just wish things were going well with John now. Marlena stares off in a distance as she thinks over her recent problems with John, and their divorce. --- Daniel stands by the nurses' station at the hospital, trying to step between Billie and and angry Kim, who has caught Billie and Daniel in a warm embrace. DANIEL: Okay...Kimberly, I want you to understand something here. This hospital is extremely well-protected without a police guard. There will always be someone within eyeshot of Theresa's room, so all this talk about a police guard is unneccessary. Okay? KIM: Says the man that I just caught hugging the woman I have a restraining order against. Come on, Daniel. I'm not stupid. Daniel sighs, as Billie rolls her eyes. Giving up, Billie presses the down button on the elevator. BILLIE: Look. I have to get back to Titan, but, Kim. Just...let it go. I'm not going to see Theresa, okay? I'm respecting your wishes. KIM: If that's the case, then why are you here? BILLIE: Believe it or not, I have friends at this hospital that aren't named Theresa. I had to go see Jennifer for a moment, if you must know. Alright? So just relax and call your dogs off. The door to the elevator opens, with Billie staring Kim down as she steps on, making a snarky remark before leaving. BILLIE: But I will not stop caring about Theresa. And when she wakes up, you better hope she doesn't put a restraining order out against you. Especially conseridering how well you two get on. Have a nice day, Kim. Daniel? I'll see you at Club TBD? Billie steps onto the elevator, while Kim stares her down as the doors close. Kim points to Billie as she looks up at Daniel, who's had quite enough of Kim, himself. KIM: Do you see that? And you try to explain to me why I shouldn't have a police guard up. Daniel finally snaps, looking over Kim's head as he shouts out at her. DANIEL: Okay, Kim, ENOUGH! There will be no guards for Theresa's room and that's final, got it?? Kim looks at Daniel, stunned and disgusted by his strong reaction, and his domineering. --- Eric walks through Town Square, deep in thought as he quickly grabs his phone from his pocket to check a newly received text message. As he does, he continues walking. Turning the corner by Tom & Alice's tree, he slams into a woman passing by, who jumps back before she falls down, herself not having paid close enough attention. NOELLE: Oh God, watch...! ERIC: I'm so sorr-- Eric stands back, shocked to see Noelle again. Eric looks on, at a loss for words momentarily, as is Noelle. ERIC: Noelle Curtis...what are you doing here? --- --- Eric offers a hand to Noelle as he lifts her up off the ground of Horton Town Square. The both smile, surprised to see each other again after so long. NOELLE: My God! Eric Brady, it's been...ages! Noelle leans over and gives Eric a warm hug. Eric smiles and hugs back. ERIC: It's been a...long while. You're looking...fantastic. Eric pulls out of the hug and, still holding her hands, backs away from her to see how beautiful she looks. Noelle smiles, flattered by Eric's compliment. NOELLE: You're not looking so bad yourself. I heard you...have had...quite a year. Eric's face drops, as he nods, a sad look across his face. ERIC: ...Or two. Yeah, you could definitely make a case. But I'm pulling through. NOELLE: Good. I'm glad. Yeah, it's...definitely not be an easy year for me either. ERIC: I heard about your dad. I'm sorry to hear. Neil and my mom were good friends for a very long time. Noelle smiles half-heartedly, a certain sadness in her eyes. She nods as she looks down, deep in thought in a way, as she continues to talk to Eric. NOELLE: Yeah. It wasn't easy on any of us. Especially since now I'm...helping to support her. Eric looks shocked by Noelle's revelation. He looks into Noelle's eyes with a deep concern. ERIC: What?? Noelle holds up her one hand to motion to Eric not to panic. NOELLE: It's...not a big deal, don't worry. I'm taking it all in stride. I'm just...gonna have to make it work is all. ERIC: Well, I hope it does work itself out. Hey, how long are you in town for? 'Cause I really would love you to meet everyone, catch up with me and Sami and... Noelle laughs at Eric's enthusiasm as she interrupts him to give him her news. As she does, Nicole appears from the opposite end of Horton Town Square and spies Eric and Noelle speaking. She hangs back, observing their body language from afar. NICOLE: Who the Hell is that? Noelle smiles and responds to Eric. NOELLE: Well...we'll have plenty of time for all that. I'm staying in Salem...hopefully for good. Eric's eyes light up at the news. He smiles widely, still standing hand-in-hand with her. ERIC: Really?? NOELLE: Really! ERIC: That's fantastic! Eric pulls Noelle back in for a big hug as Nicole looks on. Now blind with jealous rage, she storms over to Eric and Noelle and, upon approaching them, makes herself known. NICOLE: And just what in the HELL is going on here? Eric pulls away from Noelle and turns to face Nicole, his face immediately twisted into one of confused displeasure. --- Jordan sits down at Sheryl's desk, sitting in a chair next to Jerome. Sheryl leans over her desk, placing down before the both of them a single page each. Jordan squints at the page as she picks it up, looking up at a smirking Sheryl as she scans the page. JORDAN: You're serious about this? SHERYL: Absolutely. Jordan sets the paper down on Sheryl's desk. She looks over incredulously at Jerome. JORDAN: You're going to steal all the data Titan has on EnerNext from their mainframe and cover your tracks with a virus? SHERYL: Not just any virus, Jordan. That's why I brought Jerome back to help us. He can explain it a lot better than I can. Sheryl motions to Jerome to continue. He smiles wryly and begins, hands clasped together as he sits casually at his seat. JEROME: We will be accessing that specific server only. Once the files are accessed and copied, which should only take about twenty minutes, we would have to cover our tracks to avoid any chance of Titan's security system catching the transfer. As a result, we will systematically corrupt and effectively paralyze the Titan servers, top to bottom. JORDAN: And what if the firewall stops us before then? I mean, wouldn't someone not get a warning that there was a breach in the firewall? SHERYL: Not if Jerome's plan goes correctly. Jerome looks over to Jordan, who is still a bit lost on the logistics of the plan. JEROME: There is a hole in every firewall. We just have to figure out where it is, and take advantage of it. SHERYL: Once we're in, we take what we need, and then effectively set fire to the house. Jordan looks at Sheryl, unimpressed, and responds sarcastically. JORDAN: Sounds extreme. JEROME: It's the best way. It's effectively untraceable, destroys Titan's inner workings, which will cost them millions if not billions, and whatever we collect on the project will go straight to the media, which will put the final nail in Titan's coffin. Jerome turns to Sheryl at this point, pointing and smiling, looking impressed. JEROME: Oh, and by the way. Great work with the Titan TV sale. I didn't think you could pull that one off, but it helps us out big time. SHERYL: Thank you. JORDAN: Won't that still be a bit of a battle? I mean, I'm sure there's a boatload of Titan loyalists still left at the station. I can't imagine they'd be thrilled with this. Jerome looks back to Jordan, a wry smile on his face, and a glimmer in his eye. JEROME: Trust me. When the man isn't signing their cheques, they'll take him down in a heartbeat for a good story. You can believe that. SHERYL: And truth be told, I'm certain that by the end of the week, there won't be a Titan for them to worry about anyway, and we'll be miles away by then. As she finishes her sentence, Sheyl looks up shocked as the door to her office swings open. Lucas looks on, confused by the scene he sees in front of him. LUCAS: Miles away from where? Sheryl looks on, stunned and at a loss for words as Jordan and Jerome turn to see Lucas in the doorway. LUCAS: Sheryl, what the Hell is going on here? --- Daniel pulls Kim into his office, with Kim attempting to free herself from his clutches, as he shuts the door. Kim pulls off him, finally, and curses him as she feels her not-as-sore-as-she's-making-out upper arm. Daniel leans against his desk and points a finger at Kim as he starts in on her. KIM: Let go of me! What kind of neanderthal are you? DANIEL: One that's concerned about your daughter's well-being. Daniel stops a moment, relaxing somewhat as his tone changes to a more reserved, concerned one. DANIEL: ...And yours. Kim looks up from studying her arm for bruising. She squints at Daniel in wonder. KIM: My well-being? (laughs) Daniel, I've been through...so much worse than this. DANIEL: Yeah, and how did you handle that? Kim looks away a moment, annoyed by Daniel's interference. KIM: I don't want to get into this with you, okay? Daniel raises his voice, hoping to stifle Kim's objections. DANIEL: You need to, Kimberly! Daniel stops a moment before softening his tone again, his eyes unmoving from Kim's. DANIEL: Your daughter has been in a terrible accident. The longer she's in that coma, the greater the chance she'll never wake up from it. Now, I want to do everything I can to make sure she does wake up, but that includes her being surrounded by friends and family that will help her heal. And whether you want to admit it or not...that includes Billie. Kim looks away at the window, shaking her head in denial. As she responds to Daniel, she becomes increasingly emotional, tears beginning to form in her eyes. KIM: That woman has caused us nothing but pain. She's torn every bit of stability and normacly away from that girl. And just when I finally get my daughter back... Kim stops a moment to collect herself as she begins to break down. Daniel looks on, sympathetically, but folds his arms and stays put, not wanting to step towards Kim. KIM: I can't take any chances with this, Daniel. Billie Reed poisoned my daughter against me, and I'm not going to let her near my daughter again, ever! Daniel looks down, retaining his composure as best he can as he takes in Kim's emotion. DANIEL: It's not right. And you know it. Kim nearly hollers over Daniel, refusing to accept what he has to say. KIM: Oh to HELL with what's right for Billie! She has no right to insert herself into this. DANIEL: Okay, Kim...I want you to realize something. Okay? I saw Billie with Theresa, and I saw how much Billie cares about that girl getting better. That kind of energy is sometimes exactly what can make the difference between someone coming back out of a coma, and someone never waking up. Kim stays silent, wiping away her tears as she listens to Daniel. DANIEL: But I have to respect that restraining order. If I don't, I run the risk of losing my job, and my licence. Why would I risk that? Just...don't let this anger consume you, Kim. Billie may be in my life, but that's not gonna give her special privilege where Theresa's concerned. You need to trust that. Kim stops a moment, mulling over what Daniel's said before continuing. KIM: Okay...fine, I won't ask for a guard for Theresa's room, and I will respect...whatever thing you have going with her...but if I ever catch Billie Reed in my daughter's hospital room again, so help me, you will live to regret it. Do you understand me? And trust me, if she's in there, I WILL find out. I can guarantee you. Daniel looks up again, afraid to even make a response against Kim's strong reaction. --- In the hospital cafeteria, Valerie studies Marlena's troubled expression with concern of her own. VALERIE: What do you mean by that? Is everything okay with you and John? Marlena sighs as she answers, not able to quite look Valerie in the eyes, hoping to retain her composure. MARLENA: No, I can't say that they are. We're getting a divorce. Marlena feigns a smile, as Valerie reaches out across the table to touch Marlena's hand in comfort. VALERIE: I'm really sorry to hear that. But I'll tell you something, you look a hell of a lot more conflicted than sad about this. Marlena...are...are you sure this is what you want? Marlena looks down, contemplating Valerie's question. She slowly nods, before looking back up at her friend to answer her question. MARLENA: Yes. Yes, it's probably for the best. Too much water's passed under the bridge, and as much as I don't want to admit it, I have much more important priorities to consider right now. Valerie raises an eyebrow at Marlena's vague statement. VALERIE: Such as...? MARLENA: What to do about Roman. VALERIE: What do you mean? Is he okay? Marlena takes a sip of her coffee before answering. Putting the cup down, she shakes her head subtly, hoping to maintain discretion concerning his situation. MARLENA: No. And actually, that's something I really should ask you about, especially with your expertise in neurology. VALERIE: Absolutely, anything. Marlena leans in, looking around to make sure no one could be listening in on them as she softly asks Valerie her question. MARLENA: Roman's been having very...bizarre memory lapses and these...strange moments that almost seem like the beginnings of dementia... VALERIE: It very well could be, but he's so young, that's a surprise to me. MARLENA: To me too. And it comes so soon after his mother's diagnosis with Alzheimer's as well. But, that's the thing. The symptoms don't quite line up. Valerie looks on, head tilted slightly in confusion. VALERIE: How do you mean? MARLENA: I mean that something in my gut is telling me something else is happening to him. And I need you to figure out what it is. VALERIE: I'll do whatever I can. Marlena smiles at Valerie warmly. MARLENA: Thank you. I'll be meeting with Roman after lunch so maybe we can have a chat with him then. VALERIE: Sounds good to me, I'm free for a little while longer, so I don't mind at a... Before Valerie can finish her sentence, she spots another familiar face walk through the door of the cafeteria, looking for someone. She spots Roman immediately and calls out to him as she stands up, smiling widely. VALERIE: Chris Kositchek! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes! Roman looks at Valerie, bewildered, and as though looking at a stranger, as Marlena looks on, a flash of deep concern hits her as she looks quickly back and forth between Roman and Valerie. ---

Uh oh! Who's watching Marah? I loved the teen's party. The song fit the whole scene beautifully. Great work there. Could see it all play out, Zack got some game. Wonder if it's all gonna blow up in his face when Cory figures out what's going on. You got a handle on the young characters like I'd never be able to. haha. I'm a bit envious of that, if I'm honest. The party felt really real, and I love Zack and Sam's friendship. Oooooh the Davis BBQ is drama. Morris is acting like a baby about this, and you know it's gonna get more drama from here. I wonder what's really motivating them to stick together. Is it just all for the kids? Do they realize the damage they're doing to the kids staying together? It'll be interesting to see that grow and how the kids' relationships with others end up witnessing their parents' dysfunctional relationship. I hope you play those beats down the road. Those dynamics are spot-on. Loved Blair and Todd again. Awesome romantic 4th of July under the stars. Good way to bring the episode together. I'm really impressed by your work on this one. Good job!

The teens are really doing it for me. Great stuff between Sam and Trinity, and I love the math class stuff. Very small beats but it makes everything set up for later, and I can't wait to see that all play out. The Davises are fantastic in so many ways. So many questions unanswered, and I love that you're peeling back the layers slowly. It's really fantastic to see Malik dealing with being the mediator, and, just like us, not really knowing what the root of it is or how to take the steps to fix it. Reva and Josh taking Jack in. Wonder what's gonna happen there and where it'll lead. It is a bit odd that Reva's so committed to having Jack stay with them, so I figure there's more to that than meets the eye. Josh, of course, isn't so sure of this himself. You're really doing good stuff there, and everything's building up nicely. Keep this up, and I know you'll have a great show on your hands. You're doing GREAT.

EPISODE 76 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Billie walks up to Daniel by the Nurses' station at University Hospital, and taps him on one shoulder, before darting in the opposite direction. Daniel turns around and looks confused momentarily before spotting Billie out of the corner of his eye and grabbing her. They both laugh heartily as Billie grabs Daniel's arm and smiles. DANIEL: Gotcha. BILLIE: Yeah, well, I don't put up much of a fight with you. How are you doing? DANIEL: Ahhh, alright. Ready for lunch if you are. BILLIE: I think that would be an excellent idea. You made the arrangements for tonight? Daniel looks at Billie and shakes his head. DANIEL: You know I can't talk about that here. BILLIE: I am being as vague as I can, but frankly, I just want to be sure you made the arrangements. This has got to work. Daniel leans in close and hugs Billie. DANIEL: Don't worry. Everything will be fine. As Daniel holds Billie, Kim steps off the elevator and catches the two of them in their embrace. She folds her arms immediately and stares disapprovingly. --- Sami walks down the hallway of University Hospital, just outside Dr. Laura Horton's office, making a quick phone call on her cell phone as she turns the corner. SAMI: Gabi! Glad I caught you...umm...are you free at all this afternoon? ... Gabi walks casually toward The Brady Pub while on her phone, pushing her stroller with her other hand, thinking momentarily before responding to Sami's question. GABI: Uh...yeah. Sure. I can...meet you. Why? Is something wrong? ... SAMI: Uh...no! No, everything's fine, I just...I have a proposition for you, so I just...figure we could meet up. ... GABI: Sure! I'm just about to sit down to lunch with Will, so...maybe after that? ... SAMI: I might have to make that a little later. I've got a quick stop to make to clear up some business so...maybe...around 3? ... GABI: Sounds good, I'll see you then. ... SAMI: Perfect, bye! Sami hangs up the phone before looking down at it again to check the time. She inhales deeply as she looks up at Laura's office. SAMI: Well, here goes nothing. Sami steps into Laura's office, but jumps back a moment when, opposite Laura, sits EJ. He smiles upon seeing Sami enter the room, and gives a small wave. Sami smiles back, relieved that he's made it. --- Gabi struggles into the Brady Pub with her stroller. Will, already inside, catches this and jumps over to help Gabi in. He laughs as he helps Gabi push Ari inside. GABI: Oh my God, thank you SO much, Will. Will lifts the stroller over the bump in the doorway, and lets the door shut behind him as he helps to guide the stroller. WILL: Heh, hey, I gotta make myself useful somehow today. GABI: Rough first day? WILL: Just a bit. Gabi finds their booth and sits down, positioning the stroller so that Ari can face her. WILL: Here, I'll just...grab a high chair, be right back. GABI: Kay. Will grabs a high chair from the corner and they set Ari up in it, at which point Gabi folds the stroller shut. GABI: There we go! WILL: So how was your morning? GABI: Pretty boring. Just...got Ari fed, got myself ready, came here. WILL: Must be nice. GABI: Well, it was pretty uneventful until a minute ago. Will's ears perk up. He looks at Gabi inquisitively. WILL: Oh? GABI: Yeah. Your mom just called me. Something she really wants to talk with me about. WILL: Sounds...serious. GABI: Yeah...and with your mom, I don't ever know what to expect. Will rolls his eyes and nods his head in agreement. WILL: Trust me, I've lived with her my entire life, it never gets any easier. Gabi snickers a bit before looking at Will with a bit of a bemused look as well. GABI: So...morning that bad? Will shrugs, looking down at his menu disinterestedly. Gabi tries to catch his attention. WILL: I guess...I dunno. Met my boss. GABI: And how's he? Will thinks carefully about his answer, recalling the tension he felt as Alex moved in close to him, and helping Alex peel his shirt off. He snaps out of it after a second as Gabi snaps her fingers, trying to regain his attention. GABI: Will! Will shakes his head, trying to get back to the land of the living. He looks at Gabi with a confused, smitten look that's hard to hide, even though he's desperately trying to downplay it. WILL: Sorry. I just...I don't know...I've never met anyone like this guy in my entire life. Gabi looks at Will, trying to downplay how shocked she is at Will's answer. --- --- Jordan awkwardly steps forward in Sheryl's office, half-smiling at Jerome as she goes to take a seat. Jerome gets up as she makes her attemps and steps toward her, causing her to step back slightly. JORDAN: Wow...It's...been a long time, Jerome. JEROME: How've you been...what is it now? JORDAN: Jordan Ridgeway. JEROME: Right. Jerome smiles and opens his arms for a hug. Jordan reluctantly accepts, wincing as Jerome pulls her near. She steps back and sits down as she looks daggers at Sheryl, she smiles smugly at the situation. SHERYL: So nice to see old friends reunited, no? Jordan rolls her eyes at Sheryl. She shakes her head as she responds. JORDAN: You know, you're really starting to make me question this partnership, Sheryl. Ever since we got to Salem, you've been doing nothing but antagonizing me. SHERYL: Well, if I don't push you, you'd be spending all your time cozying up to the good cop Rafael, am I right? Jordan tries to shush Sheryl as she mentions Rafe, but to no avail. Jerome's heard, and turns his head Jordan's way. JEROME: Rafael? You done got yourself some latin dude now? And a cop? My God, nearly going to jail for blowing up that bank really must have scared the crap out of you, Kay. JORDAN: JORDAN. My name in Salem...is Jordan. And no, it didn't. I just have other priorities than constantly trying to take down Western capitalism. It's called growing up. Sheryl lets out a dismissive laugh at Jordan's comment. She looks Jerome's way, while pointing to Jordan. SHERYL: You see what I've had to put up with? So come on now, let's just...get down to business. I don't have much time before Lucas comes to pick up for lunch so...let's get this plan down, okay? JORDAN: Sure, whatever. SHERYL: Not whatever. This is going to give us all the leverage we need to stop this EnerNext deal...with or without Nick Fallon's help. Jordan looks on, increasingly uneasy with Jerome suddenly involved in this situation, but sighs, looking at Jerome, a bit defeated. --- Gabi looks at Will, a bit surprised by his expression about his new boss. GABI: You sound like you're...smitten or something. WILL: I'm not... Gabi looks at Will, giving him a disbelieving "yeah right" look. Will looks to the side, knowing he's been caught. He leans in close to Gabi so as not to be overheard. WILL: He...(sigh)...Gabi, I don't know what I'm supposed to do. GABI: Are you attracted to him? Will sighs heavily, looking down at his coffee mug. He nods sheepishly. WILL: Yeah, I am. But...I just met him today, I mean...you've been attracted to people you've just met before, right? GABI: Well, yeah, but, I mean...I'm not always the most rational person when it comes to guys, now am I? WILL: You said it, not me. GABI: Rude. WILL: I know. Will winks at Gabi, and the two friends laugh a second, before Will looks at Gabi seriously. WILL: But...seriously...you...you can't...don't tell Sonny, okay? Promise me. Gabi takes Will's hand across the table and puts hers overtop, giving it a gentle squeeze. GABI: Will, why would I do that? You know I'd never say anything...but you have to be honest with yourself, Will. I mean...you've only ever really been with...Sonny...I mean...there's me but that... WILL: Hardly counts, I know. And...maybe you're right. Maybe my...brain or my body is just telling me that I'm just...not ready to be married yet. GABI: Maybe. But I do know one thing. I know you love Sonny more than anything. So, you really need to be sure before you take your vows. Will nods. He thinks over Gabi's words carefully before answering. WILL: Yeah. But I do know one thing...I know I can't hurt Sonny. And maybe I'm just...angry at him and want to...lash out because of yesterday but...I know that'll pass. I love him, Gabi. GABI: Then you need to be honest with him. Tell him what's going on, and figure out what you two need to do next. Do it now, before this goes any further. Will looks up at Gabi, struck by her seriousness. --- Sami looks pleasantly surprised to see EJ in Laura's office. She laughs awkwardly, as she steps forward, then takes a seat next to him. SAMI: EJ! Wow...I'm really glad you made it. EJ: Samantha, where else would I be? Laura smiles, seeing the natural closeness they share, she steps over toward her own seat, and sets herself down across from EJ and Sami. LAURA: You know, it's not often that I see such positive energy coming from both partners in a setting like this. It's a very good sign. EJ: It's simply how I feel for her, Laura. If this is what I have to do to give Samantha peace of mind, so be it. I will be here for her every step of the way. Sami looks over EJ, touched by his warm words, and sensing how genuine they seem. She smiles and replies softly and emotionally. SAMI: Thank you, EJ. Laura looks on, putting on her reading glasses as she grabs her notebook and tape recorder. She hits 'record' and begins to take notes as she looks over the top of her glasses at Sami and EJ. LAURA: Okay, shall we begin? Sami and EJ shuffle in their seats at Laura's announcement. SAMI: When ready. LAURA: Excellent. Now, Sami, I wanted to start with you. We've talked about how your relationship with your son has changed recently. How has that situation changed in the last few days? Sami looks up at the ceiling. She thinks a moment before responding. SAMI: Ohhh I don't know...I stepped into Johnny's room last night. Was watching him sleep. I wanted to reach out to him...run my fingers through his little curls...but I couldn't. LAURA: Okay, I just want to focus on something here though...you say you went to his room. Sami, that's actually a good sign. You weren't even able to look at him before without having flashbacks. EJ looks to Sami, seeing her stare straight ahead, letting Laura's words sink in. She hesitates to smile, as though unsure whether she believes Laura's optimism or not. --- Kim steps towards Daniel and Billie, who immediately separate from their embrace. Her arms folded, she tuts them as she shakes her head disapprovingly. KIM: Well! Far be it from me to break up a cozy scene. But don't you think that, as Theresa's doctor, you really shouldn't be so...cozy with the woman I've specifically had banned from my daughter's hospital room? Daniel turns to Kim, arms up to try to motion to Kim to cool down. DANIEL: Kim, you need to hold on a sec-- KIM: I am not going to hold on a second. How am I supposed to trust that you're not sneaking her in? BILLIE: Because I'm not. Kim glares at Billie as Daniel tries to cool the tension between the two women. DANIEL: Kim, I understand why you're concerned about this, but Billie and I have discussed the situation, and she will not be going in to see Theresa, okay? Kim shakes her head, refusing to buy into Daniel's words. KIM: No. I don't buy it. Kim raises her voice, pointing her finger towards the doorway to Theresa's room. KIM: I want that door protected by a police guard so I can be absolutely sure...that this woman... Kim points to Billie as her voice lowers to a hiss. KIM: Stays the hell away from my daughter. Billie sighs, biting her tongue hard as Daniel looks on, still trying to reason with Kim, who could shoot daggers at Billie with her eyes. ---

EPISODE 75 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Sami stands in the DiMera living room, her arm being firmly grasped by Nick, who's attempting to stare her down. Sami glares back, determined with every fibre of her being not to allow him to. SAMI: Nick. Let go of my arm. NICK: Will you at least hear me out. Sami finally wavers, looking down at where Nick's grasping her arm. She sighs in defeat. SAMI: Sure. Nick releases Sami as she forcefully breaks away from him simultaneously. She steps back away from Nick as she looks back toward him, while holding her arm where Nick held it. SAMI: Who knew such a skinny little rat had such a strong grip. Ow. NICK: I'll take it as a compliment. Sami snaps, cutting Nick off before he can continue his 'witty' banter. SAMI: Just what do you want, Nick? Nick ensures the doors to the living room are shut and saunters ever-so-slowly over to the sofa. He casually sits down and looks at Sami. NICK: We had an agreement, did we not? SAMI: What do you mean? I've done everything you've asked of me. NICK: Except...neither you, nor Kate have offered Gabi that modelling job I requested you to give her. Sami rolls her eyes at Nick's persistent request. --- At the board room at University Hospital, the crowd of staff are aghast at Dr. Kayla Brady's revelation that she will be quitting her position as Chief of Staff. MAXINE: Dr. Brady, how soon are you leaving us? KAYLA: Today will be my last day. The crowd is even more shocked by this turn of events. Kayla immediately tries to cool down the crowd, talking over each other in shock and dismay. KAYLA: Everybody! Calm down! It's...not a big deal, I swear! MARLENA: Kayla, what's wrong? Why are you leaving? Kayla tries to hold back, recalling John's request that she tell nobody of her plans. She inhales deeply as she answers Marlena. KAYLA: I...have a bit of a...personal trip I'm going to need to take. I'll be in Africa for the forseeable future with Joey and Steve. MAXINE: Well we, at the hospital, are gonna miss you, Kayla. And I am gonna throw you one hell of a going-away party. The crowd cheers Maxine's plan on as Kayla stands awkwardly, again trying to silence the crowd. KAYLA: I'm...I'm sorry to disappoint anyone...but I will be leaving tonight. There won't be time for a goodbye party. However... Kayla has to take a moment over the sound of disappointment from the staff. She holds her hands up once again to try to calm the crowd. KAYLA: However...I do have some great news, especially for those of us who have been at University Hospital for a long time. I'd like to welcome our new chief of staff. An old friend of ours with an extensive resume here and in Europe. It's my honour to welcome back to Salem, and to University Hospital...Dr. Valerie Grant. The door to the board room opens as the group filling the room turn to see Valerie standing in the doorway. Applause slowly builds in the room as Valerie steps in, smiling widely as she looks around the room. --- --- Rafe and Jordan lie in bed together at Rafe's, cuddled naked together comfortably in their sleep. Rafe begins to stir from his sleep, which rouses Jordan. She turns to face Rafe, who puts his arm around her, as they gently kiss good morning. RAFE: Well if there was a better way to wake up, I sure don't know about it. Jordan giggles as she quickly kisses Rafe again, never taking her smiling eyes off his. JORDAN: I could get used to this being every morning. RAFE: Mmm...I like the sound of that. As they roll over again, Rafe now on top of Jordan under the sheets as they begin to kiss more intensely, their eyes shut as Jordan wraps her arms around Rafe's neck, pulling him in closely to her. This would be when Jordan's cell phone begins ringing, prompting Rafe and Jordan to stop suddenly, but after a moment's shock, Jordan realizes who it likely is and chooses to ignore it, grabbing the back of Rafe's head and pulling it back towards her. After another moment of kissing, Rafe leans back up again. RAFE: Aren't you gonna get that? JORDAN: No. Another kiss, Jordan is determined to distract Rafe from her ringing phone, but Rafe stops again, starting to exasperate Jordan. RAFE: Jordan, that could be important. JORDAN: It isn't. Trust me. I just wanna focus on you right now. Jordan looks seductively at Rafe, her hands running up and down his chest and shoulders. Rafe smiles back at Jordan, as Jordan's phone goes silent, the call going to voice mail. Rafe and Jordan get back into the mood, as Rafe leans in again, starting to kiss down Jordan's neck and slowly kissing down it toward her chest, causing Jordan to stir pleasurably. Jordan's phone begins to ring again. This time Rafe immediately slumps down in frustration, while Jordan flops back as well, staring at the ceiling. JORDAN: I guess I have to get that now. RAFE: Yyyup! Rafe sighs as he rolls back over off of Jordan, who leans over to grab her phone off the bedside table. Naturally, it's Sheryl. ... Sheryl sits at her office desk, dressed impeccibly as always. She sits in her office chair, relaxed, and looking over at someone sitting across from her on the other side of her desk. SHERYL: Finally! ... JORDAN: Ugh...Hi. ... SHERYL: Don't be so happy to hear from me! Where were you? ... JORDAN: Just in bed, I'm not due into work for another two hours so...we were taking it easy. ... SHERYL: What can I say? I've got a gift for timing. Listen, I need you to head over to Titan, ASAP. ... JORDAN: Now? ... SHERYL: No time like the present. I got a surprise for you. ... Jordan's eyes widen, realizing what this means. She stutters a bit before speaking, trying to hide her sudden panic from a concerned Rafe. JORDAN: I'll...I'll be right there. Hanging up her phone, Rafe looks on with concern as Jordan immediately starts to get up from her bed. Rafe paws at her in a vain attempt to keep her in bed. RAFE: Wait, wait, wait, you're not going so soon, are you? We were just getting started! JORDAN: I know, and I'm sorry, but...patient at the hospital is in a...really really bad way right now and they need me there early. Rafe sighs, not able to argue with Jordan's job. He starts to get up from the bed himself, reluctantly. RAFE: Fair enough. But I think we've got time for some time alone, still. Jordan goes pilfering through her drawers quickly, looking for clothes for work and not paying attention as Rafe walks over behind her, still naked himself. JORDAN: No we don't, I really need to go. Jordan stops suddenly and turns back toward the door, bumping immediately into an upright, smiling Rafe. She looks up in a bit of shock at him as he holds her arms in his hands. RAFE: I can help wash your back at least. Jordan smiles back, almost giggling at Rafe's suggestion. --- Sheryl puts down her phone at the office and looks back at her guest. She laughs as she begins to speak to him. SHERYL: I caught her in a bit of a...personal moment. The man she talks to looks back her way, having a bit of a chuckle as he replies to her. SHERYL: You know, it's good to have you back with us, Jerome. Now our plans are finally gonna start to really gel. You know? Jerome looks back from the chair opposite Sheryl, hands clasped together, one leg crossed over the other casually as he sits in his smartest pinstripe suit. JEROME: Well, let's hope Jordan thinks so. Otherwise you may find youself in over your heads, and I guarantee you, you'll end up drowning. --- Valerie steps up the head of the table in the board room, and begins to address the group. VALERIE: Well, I told you I'd come back, I just...didn't expect it to take so long! Everyone laughs, including Valerie, as she continues on, in a more serious tone. VALERIE: But in all seriousness, I am thrilled and honoured to return to University Hospital. I spent a very long time away, and I've missed seeing so many familiar faces. I'm so glad to be back! the crowd applauds, as Valerie looks around, a smile on her face. VALERIE: I would like to thank Dr. Kayla Brady for recommending me for this position. I know we haven't seen each other in a long time, but I'm grateful that you thought of me, and I will do my best not to disappoint you. Kayla and Valerie hug, as the crowd applauds again, and Marlena heads up to greet her old friend. MARLENA: Hello, stranger! VALERIE: Marlena! Ohh it's so good to see you again! How are you? MARLENA: I've been well. Lots has happened since I last saw you! The two women laugh as Marlena and Valerie stand, holding each other's hands. VALERIE: Well, listen, I'd love to catch up with you, if you're able to. Maybe we can meet up today for lunch? MARLENA: I'd love to, but I'm meeting Roman for lunch already. Unless you'd want to join us. I know it's been an eternity since you've seen him! VALERIE: I'd LOVE to! Absolutely! Are you two still married? Marlena looks off to the side whimsically, and answers with a bit of a laugh, as she turns to head out of the room, putting her hand on Valerie's shoulder. MARLENA: That's...a very, very long story. Valerie looks on, a bit confused as the two women walk toward the door. --- Sami plays cool with Nick, though she's clearly exasperated by his persistence. SAMI: We've played this game before, Nick. Remember? You trying to get Gabi a modelling job so that you could whisk her away to New York and live happily-ever-after with my son's baby? And how did that turn out, exactly? NICK: I dunno, you tell me. SAMI: As I recall, it went over as well as...well (laughs) a giant boulder. NICK: Don't try to be clever, Sami. It doesn't suit you. That's more of a...Nicole thing. Sami glowers at Nick, unable to resist his obvious baiting. She bites back loudly. SAMI: Say what you need to say and get out, Nick! Nick doesn't move from the sofa, instead smiling widely, knowing that he got a rise out of Sami. NICK: Offer Gabi a modeling contract. Make her a contract, have me vet it. If you get sneaky, I'll catch it, so don't try to put any clause in there that could upset me. Because you don't want me upset, Sami. Sami rolls her eyes and folds her arms, knowing Nick's won. SAMI: Fine. I'll draw it up. Now get out. Sami grabs her bag and heads to the door, opening it, then standing by it and motioning to Nick to leave. Nick gets up but turns away from her, facing the doorway to the garden, pinching the bridge of his nose, but trying to hide it from Sami, who senses something is off. She steps forward slightly, trying to catch Nick's attention. Nick is distracted by the surge of pain in his head. SAMI: Did I stutter? Nick draws himself up and turns around, still feeling the pain in his head, but working his best to not appear weakened. NICK: Just remember, don't even think about double-crossing me, or you'll have an awful lot to answer for, to a lot of people. See ya! Nick waves, and sets off walking casually out the door of the DiMera living room, as Sami rolls her eyes. She sighs heavily as she grabs her bag, and leaves the living room herself, shutting the living room door behind her. --- Jordan storms into Sheryl's office, visibly irritated by being summoned yet again. She sighs audibly as she greets Sheryl. JORDAN: You summoned, m'lady? SHERYL: I told you I had a surprise for you. Jordan stops as her face drops, as the colour drains from it, looking down as the chair in front of Sheryl's desk turns around slowly. Jerome appears, smiling slyly as he does. JEROME: Hey stranger. JORDAN: Jerome.... Jordan breathes in deeply, trying to maintain as the shock hits her. ---

Who is spying on Todd and what is with this document. That's what I wanna know! Great work again with Todd, I love the humour and you can totally see Roger Howarth playing that up. Also loved the scenes of Dani and Sam talking about Todd, wonder if Sam was finally able to get through to her or if she's just paying lip service. Ben is after Luke. That boy is thirsty. Great job bringing that to life too, I wonder what Ben really wants out of Luke. Is it just sex? Doubt it. Marah going into business with Lily should prove exciting. I enjoy that this is bringing the P&G people together like this. There's a lot of potential story for all of them. Very excited at where it's going. Wonder who's spying on Josh & Reva. Probably Blair, let's be honest. Haha. GREAT work!

HOOO "I got plenty for you to eat", girl you takin' a page off Rob Ford with that [!@#$%^&*]. LOVE it. Yeah, we knew that was going there. Luke gone get plowed now. HAH. Wonder what this Ben thing is going down. Ben is not who he claims to be, i think. Very shady customer. Todd and Reva and Josh and Blair is a hilarious mess. Great drama, but also great comedy. There's so much great stuff there and I could see it play out. I figure this is just gonna escalate from here. Eartha and Morris seem so good at this game. Years of practice help. Great repartee between them, and the tension is thick. Wonder what skeletons are in Morris' closet that are so disturbing to Eartha! GREAT work!

Now that an ENDING. I bet you Neil comes out of this, but it'll be hard for him when he comes out. Will be able to walk? Hopefully. Dru is BACK! I love love love how you're having these family moments around all these chaotic scenes, and I REALLY love that you're dragging out the suspense of who survived the blast. VERY well-written, and incredibly good pacing. You're awesome at this. Your stories are moving and this has been an excellent read that TV Y&R hasn't given me in a LONG time. Love Scotty and Rafe and their tension. Scotty isn't ready for anything but sex, and he needs to take that journey to accept himself. I know you'll be able to write that whole process well. One of my favourite scenes of this episode. ALL of it moved and it was excellent. GREAT work, ML!

EPISODE 74 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson At what is for now Titan TV, Nick smiles smugly while lounging in a chair opposite Nicole's desk. Grabbing his laptop bag as he pulls out his tablet, he taps and slides his finger across the screen before showing Nicole footage of their exchange up to now. NICOLE: You....what? NICK: I have it all right here. See, I've got eyes, Nicole. Everywhere. You know, once you master the art of hacking, you really can do anything! It's crazy! The colour drains from Nicole's face, as Nick puts his tablet back in his bag, and pulls out a flash drive from his bag, placing it on the desk before a stunned and terrified Nicole, who was just caught by Nick's surveillance equipment admitting to hiding the documents proving Eric was drugged. Nicole gulps audibly before responding to him with as strong, but cool a voice as she can muster, which comes off more upset and wavering than she'd like to believe. NICOLE: What do you need me to do, Nick? Nick nods, still smiling as Nicole squirms, hating cowtowing to her blackmailer's increasing demands. NICK: Much better. Everything you'll need is on that flash drive. Just remember to destroy it when you're done. Have a great day, Nicole! Nicole holds up the flash drive, looking it over as Nick grabs his bag and leaves Nicole's office. Nicole holds it firmly in her fist, silently cursing Nick. She sits down at her desk and thinks aloud. NICOLE: There has GOT to be a way to trap that little rat in his own game. But he's on the side of the good guys...how the hell does that work? Nicole shakes her head as she puts the flash drive into her computer and waits for it to load. --- Will walks down the hallway towards his new office at EnerNext, holding a coffee mug in his hand, before stopping at the door. He turns the doorknob and steps in, jumping back upon seeing Alex standing inside. ALEX: AH! Will! I was looking for you. Will stands at his doorway, keeping a goofy smile on his face, stunned by Alex's presence in his office. --- Laura walks off the elevator at University Hospital and stops at the nurses' station. Maxine greets her immediately with a warm smile. MAXINE: Well! Good morning, Dr. Horton. How's it going? Laura smiles, but with a tension in her face that Maxine can't quite put her finger on. LAURA: Oh, just fine, Maxine. Uh...you haven't seen Dr. Jonas around anywhere, have you? MAXINE: No, he's taken a late start today. In fact he's requested to work evenings all week. Should I have him get ahold of you when he comes in? LAURA: Yes, if you don't mind. Thanks! MAXINE: Anytime, Dr. Horton. Oh! And, uh, by the way, there's a very improtant meeting at 10:45 in the board room. Laura looks up from her mail, a bit surprised, but smiles Maxine's way. LAURA: Oh. Alright, thanks. Any idea what it's about? Maxine shrugs dismissively. MAXINE: I dunno, usually it's about not wasting paper in the photocopier and boring budget updates. I wouldn't worry too much. LAURA: Heh, alright. Thanks again, Maxine. MAXINE: Have a good day, honey. Laura steps away from the nurses' station and over to the coffee machine. Pouring herself a cup, she sighs heavily while looking over to see none other than Liam talking with one of the doctors at the opposite end of the room. Laura looks on momentarily, before muttering to herself. LAURA: Alright, Laura. Keep calm, and tread lightly. Daniel may be able to help you keep on eye on Liam, but don't overplay your hand. Jenn and JJ's safety depends on it. --- Brady wakes up, pale and sweaty, to find a tray of breakfast food arranged beside his bed, a note laid down beside his plate of eggs, bacon and toast. Brady rubs the sleep from his eyes and reads the note carefully, his vision still not the greatest. Figured you'd want a nice breakfast. If you need anything, just holler. Anita Brady tries to get up from his bed but quickly realizes he can barely move them, after days of bed rest. As he tries to shuffle over to his breakfast, Anita walks in, hearing the rumbling. ANITA: Oh good, you're up. Here, I wasn't sure if you'd be able to reach the food, but I knew that you'd better eat something or you'd shrivel up and die. Anita rushes in and grabs the tray from the TV dinner table set up beside the bed. She quickly pops the tray on Brady's lap. BRADY: Well, I'm not so sure I'm not gonna shrivel and die yet. ANITA: Don't talk like that. You're looking better every day. BRADY: You know, I'm...I'm still not hungry. I feel so... ANITA: That's probably you coming down from your drugs. Brady looks up, shocked that Anita was even aware of his relapse. BRADY: What? How...? How did you even know I-- ANITA: The doctor told me during his house call. You had a rapid heart beat and dialated pupils. He figured you were high when you ended up in the water. Honestly, from what that doctor told me, it's a miracle you're even alive. Brady looks up at Anita, alarmed by her sombre statement. --- --- Anita sits at the edge of Brady's bed, conversing with him about his situation. Brady looks at Anita with a concerned look. BRADY: What do you mean, lucky to be alive? ANITA: You showed up washed ashore by the lake. Limp as a fish. I thought you'd drowned, but thankfully...I'm a retired nurse so... Brady flops down, exhausted, in the bed. Looking at the ceiling before inhaling deeply and shutting his eyes, trying to soak in each breath. BRADY: Why don't I feel so lucky? ANITA: Probably withdrawals. And your body's probably weak. Lucky for you, I managed to get your body warmed up, or that cold lake water would've killed you before the withdrawal symptoms ever could. BRADY: Great. (sigh) I don't think I wanna eat. ANITA: I'll leave it here for you anyway. You might get hungry later. But you do need to eat. Anita gets up and heads for the door, stopping and turning back, as though remembering something. ANITA: I'll make you a pot of tea, that might help. Brady continues to stare blankly at the ceiling. BRADY: I...sure. Anita stands in the doorway and smiles. ANITA: I'll be back in a minute. As Anita walks out, Brady summons the strength to sit up again in the bed. Looking around the room, he looks out the window overlooking the lake. The images flood back in his mind of the night of his accident. His harsh words for Theresa. The sound of his car speeding into the icy water. He shudders as he relives the moment of panic, recalling the impact. He flops back in bed, squinting his eyes shut, as if shutting his eyes will wipe the memories away. --- Sami stands in the DiMera living room, standing before the desk. She closes up her briefcase after filing away some papers, and putting her tablet inside her purse, as she hears the living room doors swing open. She continues preparing, assuming EJ is at the door to motivate her to get a move on. SAMI: I'll be there in a sec, EJ, just gotta... Sami turns around and jumps back immediately upon realizing Nick is at the door, not EJ. NICK: Oh come on, Sami! I'm way skinnier than EJ. But I appreciate the compliment. He's a looker, that one! Sami looks on, eyes squinting with malice. SAMI: What do you want, Nick? NICK: Just wanted to have a little talk with you. SAMI: Well, I don't have time right now. I have to get to the hospital, as a matter of fact. Sami tries to walk out, appearing busy as she collects her things. Nick grabs Sami's arm to stop her, causing Sami to stop in her tracks, a bit of a shiver as she looks at Nick with an insane contempt. Nick looks back, an arrogant, dangerous nonchalance in his eyes. NICK: Not so fast, Sami. This will only take a minute. And I think it's in your best interests, and Kate's...and Gabi's...if you stuck around for....just a minute. Don't you think? Sami continues to stare him down as Nick retains his firm grasp on her arm. --- Nicole sits at her office desk and looks down at the flash drive Nick's given her. NICOLE: (sigh) Alright. Let's see what dirty little secrets you have locked inside you. Nicole holds the drive in her hand before rolling her eyes. NICOLE: Although, knowing Nick, he's probably just loaded a virus onto this thing to wipe my hard drive clean. Oh well, I'll just expense a new one with my new boss, I guess. With a bit of a laugh, Nicole plugs the flash drive into her computer. She talks herself through the process as though she's at a slot machine in Vegas. NICOLE: Alright, baby, show Mama the money.... Nicole looks on with laser-focus as the document list appears on her monitor. Clicking on the first document, she waits with baited breath as the document loads on her screen. She inhales deeply as she soaks in the information. NICOLE: My God. Victor, you're going DOWN. Nicole smiles a satisfied smile as she reads on. --- Will relaxes a moment, miraculously keeping his coffee cup in tact as he steps inside his office toward Alex. WILL: I...Alex. I...sure, what do you need? ALEX: Come here. Alex opens a folder as Will steps close to him. Alex leans in close to him, causing Will to tense up. Alex begins to show him a document for Will to work on. ALEX: I'm gonna start you off slowly, just to get your feet wet, so...here...is a press release we'll be sending out tomorrow regarding the property acquisition problems we're having. As Alex speaks,Will feels Alex's body move in close to him, his breath on his neck, and every touch, no matter how inadvertent, excites him. Will breathes in deeply to try to relax himself, all the while, so focused on holding himself back, that he barely listens to Alex. ALEX: Okay, so... Will sits himself down at his desk to look over the file, as Alex crouches down beside him. Will sets his coffee on the table and leans in close again, as Alex explains the file. ALEX: So essentially, you'll be editing this for time, and we need this to read more like progress is being made on this front. We can't let the press see that we're stagnant on this issue. Will moves his arm over to point to a piece of this document. WILL: Right, so, here... Will clips his coffee mug as he points over the folder and knocks it off his desk...and all over Alex's shirt. Alex jumps back and Will jumps up from his seat. WILL: Oh God. I'm... Alex looks himself over, holding back a curse as he tries to undo his tie and shirt before the heat of the coffee burns him. ALEX: Ow Ow ow ow ow! WILL: Ahhh I'm sorry, here, here, here, let me get that off...you... As Will jumps over and helps peel Alex's wet shirt off him, they both stop a moment. Will looks down at Alex's body and swallows hard. He stutters as he tries to speak. WILL: I...I'm so sorry. I just...I... Alex laughs a bit, looking at an obviously embarrassed Will. ALEX: Don't worry. I'm...a klutz half the time myself. Uh...look. Let me...go change. I bring a change of clothes usually just in case...a pen explodes...bit of my lunch falls on me... WILL: Some idiot newbie spills coffee on you on the first day. Alex smiles, putting a hand on Will's shoulder in reassurance. ALEX: Nah, come on. Don't be so hard on yourself. Will. I'm not gonna fire you for this. If I was going to, I'dve fired myself last year. Okay? Will nods sheepishly. Alex now puts both hands on Will's shoulders, looking up at Will to try to convince him to look up his way. Will finally does, and their eyes lock. Will's defenses go down and he smiles at Alex, they both laugh gently at their situation, as Will's eyes get distracted by Alex's shirtless body. --- Marlena arrives at University Hospital's board room to find it filled with people from all over the hospital. She quickly walks over to Laura, who looks over and greets Marlena. LAURA: Good morning. I take it you got word about the meeting? MARLENA: Yes, I did. It's unusual of them to ask so many people to one of these meetings, so I'm rather curious what it could be about. LAURA: Sounds serious. MARLENA: It very well could be. Laura looks over to see Jennifer walk into the room with Liam in tow. Laura stares with a deeply troubled look, which Marlena immediately picks up on. MARLENA: Laura...are you alright? Laura holds her gaze a moment longer before responding, looking Marlena's way only as she finishes speaking. LAURA: I'm fine. I'm...just fine. MARLENA: Why don't I believe you? Laura smiles and tries to reassure her friend, but is barely able to reassure herself. LAURA: Don't worry. I'll be just fine. Marlena looks on, deciding to drop it, as the door closes behind a newly arriving Kayla, who calls out to the room for their attention. KAYLA: Good morning, everyone! Let's get started! Kayla walks over to the head of the board room table. She remains standing as she speaks to the crowd gathered in the room. KAYLA: So...you're probably wondering why I've called this meeting this morning. And I do want to thank you all for coming out on such short notice....but I am...officially announcing my resignation as Chief of Staff at University Hospital. The crowd look on, stunned by Kayla's announcement. ---

LOVE LOVE LOVE this. Another FIRE episode, ML! Wow, okay. Let's start. Lauren and Scotty had a good scene. Getting everyone up to speed. Loved Scotty texting Rafe. That boy's a little ho. Excellent stuff! You WENT there. Sister Patterson is FIXATED on Leslie. What does she see in her with that third eye? I'm so curious, it can't be a coincidence. Devon is gonna kill Cane if the blast didn't already. LOL. Good scene there. The revelations keep coming! I love how you're having everyone get their time to learn the truths as they happen. Wise move. I enjoyed Hillary's scene with her father. Humanizes her, and that was necessary. I'm not overly sympathetic to her because her motives were all kinds of selfish, but obviously she isn't all bad either. Good way to remind us of her POV. Wonder if she does something drastic in that tub. AND THAT ENDING. I could just SEE the looks on everyone's faces as Dru came WAILING into the ER. YASS B*TCH! DRU WINTERS IS HOOOME!!! <3 <3 <3 SO excited. This is gonna be GOOD. FABULOUS episode. You brought it this week YET AGAIN!

Great scenes yet again, Nick. I loved the conflict of Jesse giving the news to Natalia that she's off the force. Very good stuff there, and motivating for her. You can see that push and pull between them and it's great. I also liked the windows into the broken home with Greg, and Vin's twisted idea of love for Ali. All very insightful to their characters after the robbery. You set that up very well. I like how you show Vin's untamed aggression. I could see Greg's father ending up dead if he pushes someone too far. Interesting story potential. Kayla, Roman and Steve's scenes were, as always great too. Kayla's so no-nonsense with Roman, and they played off each other well. Wonder how they're gonna get that warrant if they only have their hunches to go on. GREAT stuff again! Really doing good work here, Nick!

GREAT episode. All the scenes moved, and pacing was great. The robbery scenes were very well executed. The tension and the build were fantastic and it's gonna be great to see how it all goes down after this. Jesse and Kayla had a good interaction. Liking where that's going, and there's obviously potential to really get messy, which you know I love! Derrick surprised me with that comment about Brittany and Billy. Gonna be interesting to see how he manages to make that one happen. No idea where that's going, and I kinda like that! The triangle scenes were good too. JJ is, as usual, torn between the angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other. Gotta love him, he's gonna screw up with Miranda so much and you know it. Wonder why Daniel is so adamant to keep him away, though. HMMM... Fantastic episode. Really great work, Nick!

Liking a lot of what I'm seeing. The Eliza/JJ/Miranda stuff is good.That Eliza is dangerous. Good set up. The BRO stuff is good family conflict, and I loved seeing Emily and Paul's reactions to Henry and Barbara. LOL. The plots are really thickening all around. Liking that Greta is dealing with Stefano claiming to be her father. I'd be more than a little dubious though, the DiMeras are pretty notorious for cooking up nonsense for their own gains! GREAT stories. Everything's moving nicely.

Great episode again, Cary. Devin confronting Carl is gonna be great. I can definitely see the scenes playing out, and you're doing them justice. Can't wait to read that. Joy and Steven are gonna be great too. Lots of dark secrets from the past in your show, and I'm enjoying you filling in those blanks for us. Loving the scuba gear hanging out in Joy's closet. Haha. Vicky's reservations about Joy seem pretty well-founded, especially considering her surveillance of Marley's house. I guess there's more to the story than simply her working for Reginald. Great stuff there. Lorna and Felicia's interaction is also good. Wonder what will happen when Christy's drugs take effect on Felicia. Very tight episode. Simple and great impact. GOOD stuff!

EPISODE 73 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Marlena steps out of the coffehouse in Horton Town Square, cup of coffee in hand as she sits down at one of the tables out in the square. She sits down as her cell phone rings, she picks it up and talks as she rifles through her bag. MARLENA: Dr. Evans...yes...yes, I can be at University Hospital in...20 minutes....Board room? Uh, sure! I'll be there. Bye bye. As Marlena hangs up her phone, she looks around and sees a young blonde woman walk into the square, looking a bit lost. She looks on, a bit of recognition in her eyes as she smiles, looking the young woman's way. Finally, the woman stops upon seeing Marlena and smiles widely. She approaches Marlena, who remains seated. MARLENA: Noelle? Noelle looks back excitedly as Marlena recognizes her. NOELLE: Marlena! Marlena jumps up from her seat, as Noelle and Marlena hug each other tightly. As they pull away, their screams of joy begin to turn to giggles. MARLENA: Oh my LORD, it's so good to see you again! I've missed you. NOELLE: I was amazed you even recognized me, it's been so long. I think I couldn't have been more than...what, 12 when I last saw you? MARLENA: Probably. Marlena smiles warmly as she looks at Noelle proudly. They hold each others hands. MARLENA: Your dad would be so proud of you. I'm so sorry to hear about his passing. Noelle's demeanour changes almost immediately. Her face drops as she steps away from Marlena momentarily before sitting down at the table. NOELLE: Yeah, thanks. MARLENA: I'm sorry to have brought him up. I know it's still relatively fresh for you and your mother. NOELLE: Yeah, well...there's a lot of....adjusting to do. In more ways than one. --- Nicole sits at her desk at her office, staring down Nick, who's sitting across from her, lazily lounging in his chair, a typical cocky look on his face. Nicole tries to posture to appear unmoved by Nick's threats. NICOLE: I need to remind you of something, Nnnnnnick! You need my help more than you're willing to admit. Nick leans back in his chair, sitting himself in a casual position almost mockingly. NICK: Oh this oughta be good. Where's the popcorn? NICOLE: I'm serious. If you and your little minion didn't have me telling everyone in Salem how disastrous this oil sands project would be, no one would give a damn about Percy and his little...owl-watching sanctuary. You'd have been a thirty-second human interest curiosity on one newscast before the Titan spin machine forced the public's hand and the city's, into forcing him to sell his land. And then where would that leave you? Nick tenses as Nicole speaks, the smile slowly fading from his face, but still trying to appear relaxed. NICOLE: Face it, Nick. I have more power than you're willing to admit. And it bugs the hell out of you. --- --- Will steps off the elevator at the Titan Building on the EnerNext floor. He luckily steps off the elevator as Tyler steps into the hallway. Tyler notices Will immediately and greets him with a professional smile. TYLER: Ah! William! Perfect timing. You're looking rather chipper this morning. WILL: Thanks, Mr. Houston. I...had a hard time sleeping last night. TYLER: Well, it certainly doesn't show. Ready to meet everyone? WILL: I sure am. TYLER: Great. Tyler motions Will to follow him down the hallway. Will smiles, trying to hide his nervousness. Tyler looks over, sensitive to Will's uncertainty, and tries to break the tension. TYLER: So I guess I should tell you a bit about what you'll be doing here. WILL: Could help. (laughs) [b[TYLER: Well, you'll mostly be writing press releases, dabbling a bit in advertising copy. We will need you to focus a bit on speechwriting, as I'll want someone who really understands spin and how to avoid any potential...pitfalls. Will nods, understanding what Tyler's getting at. WILL: A bit of...persuasive writing, if you will. TYLER: Precisely. Tyler smiles and puts his hand on Will's back in a father-like way. He motions them forward again as they approach the door to an office. TYLER: So here's where your new office space will be. Will steps into the room, beaming as he examines the lush surroundings.Dark wood covers the walls of the office, with the light streaming in from the window right behind his new desk. Will stands in awe of his workspace, as a young, chiseled man with dark hair steps in from the hallway. WILL: It's...amazing. As Will speaks, the man knocks on the doorframe. Tyler looks behind him towards the door, and sees the young man. He immediately walks over to him and ushers him into the room. TYLER: Ah! William! This is Alex, you'll be reporting directly to him. Will turns to face Alex and smiles immediately. A rush coming over him as he looks him over. Alex extends his hand for Will to shake. Will stands awakwardly for a moment before clueing in and shaking his hand in return. WILL: Oh...nice...to meet you, I'm Will. Alex smiles back, lingering in their handshake slightly longer than expected. Will smiles a bit of a goofy smile and Alex smiles back. ALEX: Pleasure. --- Noelle walks with Marlena across Town Square, both ladies with coffee cups in hand. They laugh as they share stories. NOELLE: (sigh) Thank you for meeting me today. I was...honestly really worried about coming back to Salem. Marlena stops and touches Noelle's cheek gently, moving a strand of hair away from her face lovingly. MARLENA: I know it's difficult moving back here after all these years. And so far from your mother. How is Liz holding up? NOELLE: Oh she's...alright. We've been helping her out as much as we can, but....it isn't so easy from so far. MARLENA: Why doesn't she come back to Salem with you? Noelle shakes her head, shrugging as she continues to look straight ahead, in thought as she speaks. NOELLE: A lot of memories. I think mostly of Dad. Mother couldn't really take it. Marlena stops and looks at Noelle with concern in her eyes. MARLENA: It's been well over a year, Noelle. I mean...do you think it's healthy for Liz to still be so... NOELLE: I think Dad's death and...well, I just think that she's hurting a lot more than she's willing to believe. MARLENA: Is she working? Noelle looks down, laughing almost to keep from crying. She shakes her head. NOELLE: No. She hasn't in months. Marlena, her first performance in two years, and dad was at home dying of a heart attack. She's...she's never forgiven herself for it. MARLENA: Surely she knows it isn't her fault. Noelle looks up to keep from crying, this time starting to lose the battle. NOELLE: Listen, can we....can we continue this later. I...I have to get some errands done today before dinner. MARLENA: Sure. Noelle takes Marlena's hand and squeezes it, smiling warmly her way through her tears as she tries to wipe them away. MARLENA: Listen, Noelle. Just remember, if you need someone to talk to... NOELLE: Thanks, Marlena. I'll call you soon. Noelle walks away as Marlena lingers behind, still looking on with real worry on her face. --- Nick gets up from his seat. He leans over Nicole's desk, trying to intimidate her, but Nicole responds cooly. She remains in place, arms folded on her desk, a calm expression her face. NICK: You think you got this all figured out, don't you, Nicole? NICOLE: I know that you'd be stupid to use what you've got on me unless you absolutely had to. NICK: Don't be stupid enough to think I won't. Nicole leans back finally, laughing in Nick's unmoved face. NICOLE: I don't think you understand this at all. Your plan's worked just fine so far, but what happens if even ONE piece of your little...convoluted plan fails? City council could still allow EnerNext to buy out Percy's land. NICK: That won't happen if you do what you're instructed to. Nicole leans back in, looking menacingly at Nick. NICOLE: I don't take instructions from you, you little twerp. Nick gets back up from leaning on Nicole's desk. He shakes his head at Nicole's insolence. NICK: You really don't get it, do you? I have every document you kept hidden from Eric in your desk drawer safely stored where you can't find it. I can pull it out whenever I feel like it. NICOLE: And I know you won't do that. Nick, you can't overplay your hand here. The Titan executive is gonna get wise to you, and then you and your little plan here are gonna crumble like stale bread. Nick smiles smugly. He responds ever so calmly, yet menacingly. NICK: Not now they're not. Remember that old saying, Nicole? Loose lips sink ships? Nicole still looks on dismissively. NICOLE: I'm sorry, am I talking to the Riddler? Would you just spit it out? NICK: Well, Nicole. Let's just say that no matter what happens around this building, I know about it. Nicole furrows her brow, confused and a bit worried by the implication Nick's making, but disbelieving it simultaneously. NICOLE: How is that even possible? Did you develop ESP or did you hit up Dionne Warwick for a psychic friend? NICK: I wouldn't say that so much as....the walls, Nicole? They have ears. And trust me, you've been so very helpful. Especially now that I have video that shows our little...exchange here about what you did. The colour drains from Nicole's face as Nick smiles a winner's smile. ---

EPISODE 72 Written by A. Washington-Beeby Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson Sonny lies on the sofa in the living room of the apartment, fast asleep until the sound of the curtains being brusquely opened is heard. The bright morning light billowing into the room jolts Sonny out of his slumber, his eyes blinking wildly as he covers them with one arm, trying to adjust to the new light. SONNY: Ugh! God! What the He...Oh my God. Sonny stops, eyes suddenly wide open at the sight of the person standing in front of him. He looks on completely flabbergasted. --- Laura steps into the living room of the Horton house, dressed in her housecoat, a lost look on her face, and deep in thought. Her daughter, Jennifer, steps into the living room, coming from the kitchen, with two cups of coffee in her hand, oblivious to her mother's distress at first. JENNIFER: Good morning, Mom! I heard you stirring upstairs so I got an extra cup of coffee ready for you... Jennifer looks over as she puts the coffee down on the table in the living room. She stops suddenly and looks with concern at her mother. JENNIFER: Mom, you look awful, Are you okay? Laura tries to allay Jennifer's worries, as she tries to rub the sleep from her eyes and stretches her arms and back while she talks. LAURA: Yes, Honey. I'm fine. I just...I didn't sleep very well last night, that's all. JENNIFER: (sigh) You're worried about Abigail too, hm? LAURA: You could say that. Laura walks over to the other side of the sofa and sits down beside Jenn. They both begin to sip their coffee as they talk. JENNIFER: I just...I worry that she's in over her head, working for DiMera like this, it's...it just seems so dangerous, Mom. Laura nods in agreement, putting her coffee cup down as she speaks. LAURA: I just hope this trip doesn't drag out too long. Quite honestly, Jennifer, the longer she stays in Italy, the more worried I am for her safety. Jennifer looks at her mom, surprised by her alarmism. JENNIFER: Mom, what are you saying? Do you know something you're not telling me? Laura looks up at Jenn, her face looking a bit surprised but still painted with the fatigue of worry. --- Sami walks into the DiMera living room, fully dressed, and ready for another day’s work. She smiles as she spies EJ turning toward her, also dressed for the day. EJ: Ready? SAMI: As ready as I'm gonna be. Did you get everything set up? EJ smiles as he hands Sami his tablet. EJ: We can make the announcement by this evening. Should be finalized by noon. Sami beams as she reads the tablet. She looks up at EJ, but hesitates to hug him. Her smiles drops off a bit, as the tension persists between them. SAMI: You are a miracle worker. EJ: Only when I'm properly motivated. Sami looks down a moment, trying to contain herself, but EJ, sensing Sami's guard starting to finally come down, touches her chin, prompting Sami to look back up at EJ. She touches his hand to pull away, but stops herself from gripping his hand. They both pull back from each other, as Sami breathes in deeply and speaks seriously. SAMI: I, uh...I asked Laura Horton if....if we could, uh...do a...umm...a group session together. The three of us. EJ tries to interject but Sami interrupts, anticipating EJ's objection. EJ: Samantha, I don't-- SAMI: ...EJ, we need to do this. Do it for me. If you want this marriage to...hold together or survive in any way...we need to do this. Please. EJ sighs heavily, looking through Sami as he thinks over her request. --- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7-6YubuS4 --- Nick bursts into Nicole's office at what is, for now, Titan TV. Nicole is visibly displeased to see Nick, and immediately turns back to her computer pretending to be hard at work. NICK: Knock, knock. NICOLE: And here I thought I was gonna have a GOOD morning. NICK: Ohh, come on now, Nicole. This is easily the low point of your day. Nicole shoots a glare at Nick before returning to her computer monitor. NICOLE: Or a bad omen. Nick sits down opposite Nicole at her desk, undisturbed by her ignoring him. He leans in, a sleazy smile on his face the whole time, enjoying the repartee. NICK: Life's what you make it. Especially now that you're free from your...suffocating ex-employer. No? NICOLE: Oh please. Give yourself some credit, Nick. You've managed to somehow be far more suffocating than even being MARRIED to Victor could ever be! NICK: Flattery will get you everywhere. Come on, you've gotta be at least...somewhat happy with this. Now we can get down to the business we came here to do, right? Nicole finally breaks her laser-focus with her computer monitor and glares Nick's way. She turns to face him, leaning over her desk, almost hissing her response to him. NICOLE: What part of this don't you understand, Nick? I don't want anything to do with you or your sleazy plans. Is that clear enough for you or do I have to draw you a diagram? NICK: I think I hit a nerve. I think I need to remind you of something, Nicole. I hold all the cards here. So I'd suggest dialing that temper of yours back before your little secret ends up the first story you read on the 6 o'clock news. Nicole rolls her eyes, looking annoyed, but knowing Nick has her number. She shakes her head at him, astounded by his audacity. --- Laura turns away from Jenn as they sit on the sofa in the Horton living room. She shakes her head. LAURA: No, no. Darling, I don't know anything more than you do. JENN: Well, then I think we need to take a step back. I mean, I know...I'm as worried about her being in Italy working for DiMera as you are, but sitting here...stewing about it all the time is...it's only going to stress us all out, and we know that's not what you need. Laura gets tense as Jennifer alludes to her mental health. She turns to Jenn with a slight agitation. LAURA: Don't start with that, Jennifer Rose. I am entitled to show concern for my granddaughter. I just can't...I'm getting worried about how close Abigail is getting to the DiMeras and for her own safety, I think that...well...maybe we should convince her to quit once she gets home. I think it would do her a world of good. Jenn looks over to Laura, thinking over her idea, shaking her head in agreement. --- EJ sighs as he steps away, turning towards the doorway to the garden. He finally speaks up to respond to Sami. EJ: Samantha, I don't know that that's such a good idea. SAMI: I know, it's...not exactly what you wanted. But...but it's a good first step, you know? Get all our...awful past out on the table, maybe work out what makes our relationship so...you know...volatile. EJ: (sigh) I just...I don't like the idea of...pathologizing our problems like this, it seems... SAMI: EJ, this is for me...and for...Johnny. EJ turns around, surprised. EJ: Wait, you're not telling me that Johnny's become affected by everything between us. Sami shrugs, defeatedly. SAMI: Are you surprised? He was always...super aware of everything that happens between us. He's a really sensitive kid, EJ. EJ: Yes, but...to this extent? Sami sighs, dreading telling EJ the truth of the situation. She finally speaks up. SAMI: That's not all. He, uh...I've been having trouble when I... EJ: What? What is it? Sami stammers and puts her arms up a moment before walking towards the garden doors herself, hoping that focusing on something other than EJ will help her speak. SAMI: I...uh...I was out...in the garden. Few weeks ago, you know. Just...after our fight. Wanted to (sigh) clear my mind. Sami turns around to face EJ, who looks on, listening intently, seeing the pain Sami's in, and for the first time, seeing her pain beyond his own suffering. He tears up a bit as he listens to Sami speak. SAMI: Johnny ran out to see what I was doing... Sami pauses, looking down. She takes a moment before starting to tear up herself. SAMI: He hugged me. And I couldn't....I couldn't stand the touch of him. I wanted him...away from me. All I could think about was...you. That night, making me...service you so that Lucas could live. I... EJ: Samanth-- Sami interrupts EJ, increasingly agitated as she recalls the situation. SAMI: I thought...I was over it. I thought I'd moved on. That...that we were finally past it, but...but I can't do it, EJ. I can't. You...all the things you have done to me, and all the times I've had to fight back. EJ:Samantha. I love you. And I will spend every...single day of my life...from here on out, making this up to you. Sami cools down again, fighting her anger with every muscle in her body. She breathes in deeply before speaking again. SAMI: EJ. If you want to make it up to me...the first step is to come with me to see Laura. EJ looks down, seriously contemplating Sami's point. --- Will turns around from opening the curtains. Fully dressed in a smart, tailored business suit, he smiles with a hint of smugness as he looks down at a half-asleep Sonny. WILL: Good morning. Sonny looks Will up and down, awestruck. He finally croaks out a response. SONNY: I...you look like...a whole new person. Will raises his eyebrow and smirks at Sonny, in a bit of a pose. WILL: Amazing what a suit and a shave can do, hm? SONNY: Yyyyeah. Wow...you look amazing, Will. WILL: Well, you'll have all kinds of time to ogle me later. I need to get to work. Will grabs his laptop bag. He smiles at Sonny as he walks over to the door. Sonny calls out to him to stop him. SONNY: Uh...Will! Will stops and turns around. WILL: Yes? SONNY: I...did you feed Ari this morning? WILL: Oh! Yeah, it's all taken care of, Sonny. Ah, look. Just because...well, you know...how things are right now, I think we should probably stay in separate rooms again tonight. You know? Oh, but if you had a rough sleep, you can definitely sleep in the bedroom while I'm at work. Will flashes a [!@#$%^&*]-eating grin Sonny's way, while Sonny looks on, brow furrowed, clearly hurt by Will's coldness. SONNY: Will... Will laughs, continuing his chipper charade for Sonny. WILL: Sonny, come on, I'm gonna be late for work. SONNY: Aren't you forgetting something? Will looks himself over, feigning ignorance. WILL: Mmm...got my bag, got my laptop, did my teeth, deodorant...mmmmmmnope! Sonny sighs audibly, slumping down on the couch. SONNY: Will, come on, let's talk about this. WILL: I wish I could, but I gotta go. Bye! Will struts out the door and shuts it as Sonny calls out, trying to object. SONNY: Will, come on, I-- As the door closes, Sonny turns away, upset by Will's lingering anger. SONNY: ...wanted to talk. ... Outside the apartment door, Will smiles and adjusts his posture. WILL: Alright, Sonny. You don't think I can hack this job...time to show you what I can do. Will walks off, pulling out every ounce of confidence he can muster as he heads off towards his car. ----