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beebs

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  1. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #9
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Jennifer turns the handle to the records room, startling EJ and Abby, causing them to reclothe hastily. Jennifer is about to step in when a voice calls out her name.

    LIAM: Jennifer!

    Jennifer is pleased to see Liam, and her long face brightens up when she does.

    JENNIFER: Liam! HI! How are you?

    Jenn leans in and hugs Liam. Liam graciously kisses Jenn's hand. Jennifer is charmed, giving a muted smile.

    LIAM: M'lady. I am well. What about you? You seem a little less...yourself than usual.
    JENNIFER: Oh, it's...nothing. I just...I found out something about a friend and I need to go talk with him about it.
    LIAM: Daniel, isn't it?
    JENNIFER: (sighing) Yeah. Anyway, it's no big deal, I'm not going to let him ruin my day.

    ---

    Inside Abby's office, EJ and Abby are panicked.

    ABBY: (whispering) Your shirt. Here!

    Abby throws EJ his shirt, he catches it and throws it on, while simultaneously trying to put his pants back on.

    ABBY: (whispering) Can you fix my zipper, I can't reach--
    EJ: Here, here, here.

    EJ grabs her zipper, struggling to keep his pants from falling down.

    ---

    LIAM: Well good, because I happen to be of the opinion that your day is about to get a whole lot brighter.
    JENNIFER: Oh?
    LIAM: Yes. I have taken it upon myself to reserve a quiet table for two at Chez Rouge for 8pm. Would that sound good to you?
    JENNIFER: I think that is just what I needed.
    LIAM: Excellent. Pick you up at 7:30?
    JENNIFER: Absolutely, mi lord! (laughing)

    ---

    Abby looks frantically around for a place to hide EJ. She points to the closet behind her.

    ABBY: (whispering) Quick! In the supply closet. Fast, she's coming.

    EJ runs into the supply closet, still buttoning up his shirt.

    ---


    LIAM: Fantastic. Just keep that smile on your face for tonight. Look forward to it.
    JENNIFER: Me too. Bye!

    With a fresh smile on her face, Jenn steps into the records room, where Abby's makeshift office is located. She steps in just as Abigail shuts the door to the supply closet EJ is stashed in. Abby has a wide, awkward grin on her face as she stands right in front of the closet.

    ABBY: HI!

    Jennifer is immediately suspicious.

    ---

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

    ---

    Hope stands by the booth that Eric, Marlena, and Roman are sitting in. Roman motions for her to join them.

    ROMAN: Come on, Hope. I think we need to have a talk about Bo for a sec.
    HOPE: I'm sorry, I don't mean to sound so hostile.
    MARLENA: Oh don't even think that. Look, honey, I know what you and Ciara are going through right now. It's awful. I can tell she's really having a hard time. But you are strong enough. And you have friends and family that'll help you get through until Bo's back.
    ROMAN: Marlena's right. We all know Bo's working real hard to take down the DiMeras, and it's all to protect you and Ciara and Shawn D. You know how many years we been trying to take them down.

    Hope's a bit exasperated, hearing the same things over and over.

    HOPE: I know! I know I know I know. I understand it, especially being a cop and having gone undercover before. I know why he's doing this, I just...I just miss him. I don't get why he couldn't find SOME way to come home, even for Christmas. Something.
    ERIC: Aunt Hope, I know he'll be back soon. Just...trust God's will is to see him back home to you. Safe and sound.
    HOPE: I wish I had your faith. Truth is, I don't know if he's ever coming back.

    ---

    Sami gets off the elevator at Titan HQ, making a beeline for Kate's office. She looks momentarily for Kate's secretary, before shrugging and charging into Kate's office. She's in a panicked fury, and shocks Kate with her brusque arrival.

    SAMI: Think you're gonna throw us under the bus so soon, hm?

    Kate, shocked and completely confused, gets up from her chair and folds her arms.

    KATE: Sami, what in the hell are you talking about?
    SAMI: I'm talking about the desperate phone calls you've been making to my father, demanding that he meet with you ASAP.
    KATE: They have absolutely nothing to do with you or Nick Fallon, if that's what you're wondering.

    Sami takes her purse off her shoulder and sits down in the office chair on the other side of Kate's desk.

    SAMI: Oh yeah, then what is it?
    KATE: It's none of your business, actually.
    SAMI: So it's about Rafe and his pod woman, then?

    Kate doesn't respond, but raises her eyebrows, insisting that she's saying nothing to Sami on the subject.

    SAMI: It IS, isn't it? She's totally a serial killer hiding out, isn't she? I KNEW it! Nobody has that little personality, and I could tell those glasses weren't perscription, I mean--
    KATE: SAMI! Enough! I am not getting into this with you. Not now.

    Sami folds her arms and gives Kate an "I know I'm right" look.

    KATE: I can't prove a damn thing about Jordan, and if I do know something, I really don't think you're the person I want to turn to first, considering how well you've handled this Nick situation so far.
    SAMI: What do you mean by that? I handled that the best way I knew how.
    KATE: Oh right! Miss "I don't feel a pulse, he must be dead". Let me ask you, is it really that hard to find a vein on someone that skinny?
    SAMI: Oh come on, that was SO not my fault. His head must have been...swollen from being hit with a boulder or...something, I don't know.
    KATE: That's exactly it, Sami. You don't know. And this time, you're gonna stay out of it. Completely.

    ---

    Jordan and Sheryl meet by the pier. They are both bundled up for the cold, and are shivering from it. They recognize each other and step towards each other.

    JORDAN: Hey.
    SHERYL: Hey. What's going on? You seemed really tense on the phone.
    JORDAN: I'm starting to worry about Kate.
    SHERYL: Weren't you always worried?
    JORDAN: Well, yes. But I'm getting really worried now.
    SHERYL: More like paranoid. Come on, there's no way she is going to pull our faces out of all the people that were protesting at that summit.
    JORDAN: Yeah, but not everyone there stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from a bank and got away with it. I mean, seriously? We were all over the news in Canada.
    SHERYL: Yes. In Canada. Have you seen how much Canadian news gets reported here? Zero. Zilch. Unless you're the mayor of Toronto, you're basically invisible to the wider world.

    Sheryl and Jordan's conversation becomes more hushed, concerned that someone could sneak up at any time and listen in on them. They huddle in closer together.
    JORDAN: Well, my point is, you need to be more careful. Especially around Lucas. You can't rush into this relationship with him, or he's going to catch onto what you're really up to.
    SHERYL: Oh my God, Jordan. Come on. Lucas Horton is eating from the palm of my hand already. We are going to have everything we need in no time flat. Trust me.
    JORDAN: You better be right. Or we are in real big danger. And we may not be able to squirm our way out this time.

    ---
  2. beebs
    EPISODE 81
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     
     

     
     
    Hope walks through the Salem Police station towards her office as Rafe approaches. Hope looks over and smiles in greeting as Rafe does the same.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Hey! Just who I was looking for.
     
     
    HOPE: Well, don’t I feel flattered. Come in.
     
     
     
    Hope opens the door to her office and props it open for Rafe come in behind her. He shuts the door after entering as Hope sits down behind her desk.
     
     
     
    HOPE: So I got a few things I’ll need to take care of today so I’m not here long. What’s up?
     
     
     
    Rafe walks over to Hope’s desk and drops a file on it before her.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Well, this can’t really wait. There was another burglary in the west end again last night.
     
     
     
    Hope looks up, stunned and disappointed.
     
     
     
    HOPE: You’re kidding.
     
     
    RAFE: Nope! This time, they at least got a description of the suspect. It’s not perfect, but…
     
     
     
    Hope picks up the file and looks it over quickly, studying it as best she can.
     
     
     
    HOPE: Young male, black, 20-25, muscular build. Grey college hoodie, not Salem U. Wow, okay. Anything turn up so far?
     
     
    RAFE: Nah. This guy seems to have vanished into thin air after the robbery. All they know is he was in a rented moving van, but no one can trace it, they didn’t get the licence plate or anything.
     
     
     
    Hope drops the file on her desk as she looks back over at Rafe.
     
     
     
    HOPE: Damn. (sigh) Alright, well, we’ll keep looking. You doing okay?
     
     
     
    Rafe shrugs, smiling half-heartedly.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Yeah, I’m fine. Can’t complain too much.
     
     
     
    Hope looks at Rafe’s face and raises her eyebrow skeptically.
     
     

     
     
     
    HOPE: Why don’t I believe you?
     
     
     
    Rafe looks up, confused.
     
     
     
    HOPE: It’s Jordan, isn’t it? Rafe, is something going wrong between you?
     
     
     
    Rafe sighs, hesitant to get into this discussion now.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     

     
     
    Daniel stands, stunned in Laura Horton’s office at University Hospital. Laura looks up at him, worried about Daniel’s sudden silence. She gets up from her chair and tries to get Daniel’s attention.
     
     
     
    LAURA: Daniel? Daniel!
     
     
     
    Daniel blinks, suddenly back to reality.
     
     
     
    DANIEL: Hi. Sorry. Umm…look. I think I just…put two and two together and…yeah, I’m worried about Abigail. Very worried.
     
     
     
    Laura looks at Daniel, now more worried than before about her granddaughter.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     

     
     
    Nick sits casually on Percy’s sofa in the cabin, as Percy works away, carefully studying the Titan security videos. Nick scrolls through his tablet, earpiece in one ear, smiling widely at what he’s seeing and hearing as he suddenly gets up and turns to Percy.
     
     
     
    NICK: Got it!
     
     
     
    Percy looks up, peeling the headphones off his ears as though they’d been on for hours. Percy winces in pain as his ears appear, red as tomatoes.
     
     
     
    PERCY: My apologies, Nicholas. I didn’t hear you.
     
     
    NICK: I think I know exactly what we’re going to need to stick it to Victor. Check this out.
     
     
     
    Nick offers his tablet to Percy, who studies the image of Jordan, Sheryl, and Jerome’s meeting. After squinting at it a moment, Percy dons his bifocals, staring once again at the screen looking down his nose.
     
     
     
    PERCY: But…Nicholas, who is that young man there? I’ve never seen him before.
     
     
     
    Nick pulls his tablet away, casually flipping the case around it to close it as he heads back to the sofa to put the tablet away.
     
     
     
    NICK: That…is apparently a man named Jerome Grant. From what I caught, which, incidentally isn’t much because those girls need to stop mumbling so damn much, he knows Jordan and Sheryl from before they came to Salem.
     
     
     
    PERCY: Could he be a danger to us?
     
     
     
    Nick pulls out his cell phone from his bag, smiling his classic smug smirk.
     
     
     
    NICK: Ohhh, I don’t think that’ll be a problem, Percy. Look, I’m gonna head into town, I’ll see you later, okay?
     
     
     
    Nick grabs his laptop bag and slings it over his shoulder as he heads for the door. Percy smiles, nods, and waves as he begins to put his headphones back on.
     
     
     
    PERCY: Absolutely, I’ll keep you informed if I hear or see any so-called “juicy tidbits”, Nicholas!
     
     
    NICK: Great stuff, Percy. See you later on.
     
     
     
    Nick closes the door to the cabin, as he makes his phone call.
     
     
     
    …
     
     
     

     
     
    Gabi, sitting at a table at Town Square, rocking Arianna back and forth in her stroller, hears the phone. She suddenly stops and looks frantically for her phone. Pulling it out, she looks down with a sickened look on her face as she sees Nick’s name on her screen.
     
     
     
    GABI: Oh God.
     
     
     
    Quickly answering, she swallows hard, expecting the worst.
     
     
     
    GABI: Hey Nick, w…what’s up?
     
     
     
    …
     
     
     
    NICK: Hey, Gabi! Uh…look I really have something important to talk to you about. Can you meet me in 20 minutes at the Brady Pub?
     
     
     
    …
     
     
     
    GABI: Uh…sure. Yeah, I can!
     
     
     
    …
     
     
     
    NICK: Great. See you then.
     
     
     
    Nick hangs up the phone, beaming.
     
     
     
    NICK: Ohhh Gabi. You’re gonna love the surprise I have for you.
     
     
     
    Nick walks off toward his car, feeling on top of the world.
     
     
     
    ….
     
     
     
    Gabi hangs up the phone, a look of dread on her face, as she tries to distract Ari, but silently curses Nick. Her sudden tension isn’t lost on Ari, who begins to cry, upsetting Gabi even more.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     

     
     
    Marlena and Eric walk into Club TBD, Eric finally having a laugh with Marlena after spending two days in solemn silence. They find a seat and are handed menus by the server. Marlena and Eric both look up pleasantly, Marlena holding up her hand to stop her before she puts the menus down.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: Oh, it’s okay. I’ll just have a coffee.
     
     
    ERIC: Same for me.
     
     
     
    Marlena turns back to Eric with a serious, but loving face that Eric recognizes immediately. He reacts to it with a change of expression, back inward.
     
     
     
    ERIC: Mom…
     
     
    MARLENA: (interrupting) I know you don’t want me to pry…
     
     
    ERIC: No. Actually, I do. Mom, you’re the only person I can turn to about this. I’m…honestly, I’m really struggling.
     
     
     
    Marlena looks on, now really concerned for Eric. She squints a bit, staring intently at him. Eric catches this and looks down as his coffee is put down on the table in front of him by the waitress, Marlena’s in front of her.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: Eric…what’s the problem?
     
     
     
    Eric breathes in deeply, then sighs as he prepares to tell his mother about his dilemma.
     
     
     
    ERIC: Mom, I’ve been…really troubled ever since this whole…situation with Kristen went down and…I’ve been doing a lot of thinking.
     
     
    MARLENA: Okay. I mean, it’s understandable that you’d have a lot of conflicting emotions, Eric. You lost your vocation. It meant a lot to you, you don’t just…lose that overnight.
     
     
    ERIC: Right, but…(sigh), some things have happened since then…I mean…Sonny and Will’s wedding, among other things…and it’s made me sort of…realize…
     
     
     
    Marlena leans in, trying to catch Eric’s eyes. Eric, stirring his coffee mindlessly, stops, finally looking at his mom.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: Sweetheart. Realize what?
     
     
    ERIC: I’m thinking of leaving the church altogether.
     
     
     
    Marlena’s eyes widen at Eric’s revelation.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
     
     

     
     
    Valerie stands in her office at University Hospital, leaning against her desk with her other hand on her hip, as she stares down her grandson, Jerome.
     
     
     
    VALERIE: Come on now, out with it! Something is on your mind, and you’re a bad liar.
     
     
    JEROME: Grandma…
     
     
    VALERIE: Well, maybe you can fool other people but you sure as Hell can’t fool me. Now spit it out.
     
     
     
    Jerome rolls his eyes, pausing a moment before he gives in. He turns and faces his grandmother, earnestly responding to her.
     
     
     
    JEROME: I just…I ran into old university friends from Toronto here and…we didn’t leave things on a good note. That’s all.
     
     
    VALERIE: Well, you know, it’s not like you’re still kids, Jerome. I think taking the year off before you started your PhD was probably a good idea. Maybe things have mellowed and you’ll work things out.
     
     
    JEROME: Hopefully….I just can’t shake the feeling that something’s happening that I don’t quite understand. I got a bad feeling, Grandma.
     
     
     
    Valerie smiles as she walks over to Jerome, putting her hand under his chin in a form of encouragement.
     
     
     
    VALERIE: You will be alright. In all your years on this Earth, you’ve managed to be smarter, and more resourceful than anyone I’ve ever met. You just remember that.
     
     
     
    Jerome smiles slightly, a warmth in his eyes as he looks at Valerie. He suddenly looks down at his phone and sees the time. Fumbling around a moment, he sets his phone on Valerie’s desk as he asks her a question.
     
     
     
    JEROME: Thanks, Grandma. Look, I gotta get going, uh…you got the keys to the new house?
     
     
     
    Valerie digs into her pocket and pulls out a keyring with three keys on it, tossing them Jerome’s way casually.
     
     
     
    VALERIE: Yep! Got ‘em right here.
     
     
     
    Jerome catches them with ease as he starts for the door.
     
     
     
    JEROME: Thanks. I gotta get this stuff into my room before I head into Salem U. Get into the registrar’s office before it closes. Thanks, Gran!
     
     
    VALERIE: See you later, Sweetie.
     
     
     
    As Jerome closes the door, Valerie watches him, a warm smile on her face, before she grabs her file folder on Roman. She stops as she picks it up, putting it back down again as she sees Jerome’s cell phone.
     
     
     
    VALERIE: Oh Damn it, JEROME!
     
     
     
    She jumps up from her seat and runs for the doorway, but Jerome is already gone. She stops in her doorway, turns back around and sighs. As she heads back to her desk, she stops before it, and stares at Roman’s file.
     
     
     
    VALERIE: Well...maybe it’s time we found some answers for you, Roman.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     
    Rafe looks at Hope, sitting opposite her at her office desk. Rafe tries to hold back his emotions a bit. Hope leans in, trying to catch Rafe’s eye.
     
     
     
    HOPE: Rafe, come on. I think we’ve known each other long enough to know when something’s up with each other.
     
     
     
    Rafe looks up at Hope and sighs. He decides to speak his mind. He begins, fidgeting uncomfortably.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Well…yeah, you’re right. I dunno. Jordan’s been…really distant the last few weeks and I can’t put my finger on why.
     
     
     
    Hope looks at Rafe, concerned.
     
     
     
    HOPE: Has anything changed in the last few weeks? Like…I know she’s been busy with work and all but…
     
     
    RAFE: Nah. It’s mostly been Sheryl. I think she’s going through something and…apparently can’t go to Lucas about it so she goes to Jordan.
     
     
    HOPE: And you get left out in the cold.
     
     
    RAFE: (sigh) Right.
     
     
     
    Hope reaches out and puts her hand over Rafe’s, giving him a comforting look.
     
     
     
    HOPE: Just be patient. Whatever’s going on is not going to break the two of you. I see the both of you and you’re always…incredibly happy when you’re together. Whatever’s going on with Jordan or Sheryl…it’ll pass.
     
     
     
    Rafe smiles slightly, as Hope gets up from her desk and slips on her jacket, and grabs her keys.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Hope you’re right.
     
     
    HOPE: I know I’m right. Look, I’m going to pick up Ciara from school, I’ll keep my eyes open for anything about the burglaries. Okay?
     
     
     
    Rafe gets up from his seat to head into the hallway himself. He holds the door for Hope as she exits the room, with Rafe right behind her.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Sounds good. I’ll text you in a bit if I come up with anything.
     
     
    HOPE: Great. See ya!
     
     
    RAFE: Bye!
     
     
     
    Rafe shuts the door behind Hope. He sighs as he grabs his phone to check for any notification from Jordan.
     
     
     
    RAFE: Nothing. (sigh)
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     
    Laura looks at Daniel, she takes a moment before asking her next question to Daniel, almost afraid of the answer she’ll get.
     
     
     
    LAURA: I’m afraid to ask.
     
     
     
    Daniel immediately starts to pace the room, trying to calm himself a bit in hopes of also placating a now-frantic Laura.
     
     
     

     
     
     
    DANIEL: Look, just…I was Abigail’s doctor when she had that…accident at work. And…I’m not saying to panic but…I will look into this for you, okay? But…don’t worry. I will make sure Abigail is okay.
     
     
     
    Laura exhales and smiles at Daniel, nodding in satisfaction. She relaxes a bit, feeling reassured.
     
     
     
    LAURA: Thank you.
     
     
     
    Laura stops a moment, seeing that Daniel still appears troubled by their conversation. She puts a hand on his arm in reassurance.
     
     
     
    LAURA: And, Daniel. Just…I’m sorry to insert you back in Jennifer’s business like this…I know you two have, well, gone your own way. But…I feel like you…you know my family better than anyone at this hospital and…well…Jenn and Abigail could really use your help. I just…I didn’t know who else to turn to.
     
     
     

     
     
    Daniel nods in understanding. As he responds, Billie approaches Laura’s office door. She hears Daniel’s voice and stops, creaking the door open as he speaks.
     
     
     
    DANIEL: No, it’s okay. I…totally understand why you came to me, and I mean…I’m always going to love your daughter, no matter what’s happened between us. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep Jenn and Abigail safe.
     
     
     
    BILLIE: What are we keeping Jenn and Abby safe from?
     
     
     
    Daniel and Laura both turn around, surprised by Billie’s entrance. Billie looks back, a curious look on her face.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     
    Marlena looks at Eric incredulously. She leans in closer to him, almost scolding him with her reaction.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: Are you serious? Eric, you were so passionate about being a priest, it…it was your life—
     
     
    ERIC: …WAS my life, Mom.
     
     
    MARLENA: Eric, don’t let Kristen win. She’s taken so much from us already, you can’t…
     
     
     
    Eric holds up his hand to try to stop his mom from continuing.
     
     
     
    ERIC: Mom…please. It’s not about Kristen. In fact, I’m starting to think that it’s because everything that happened was because of Kristen, that…maybe that’s why it’s taken me until now to make this decision.
     
     
     
    Marlena chokes a bit on her words, unsure how to respond, but still not pleased.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: I…I, I mean how…look, you just need the proof that Dr. Chyka’s drug is what poisoned you that night, and you’ll be exonerated. We know that.
     
     
     
    Eric looks down, already exhausted by Marlena’s unrelenting pressure.
     
     
     
    ERIC: Mom—
     
     
    MARLENA: Eric! You can’t give up when you’re so close to clearing your name.
     
     
    ERIC: Mom! I’m not about to give up. I will never stop until people know the truth about what happened to me that night. But, Mom, how am I supposed to support a system of beliefs that tells me that my nephew…not only doesn’t have the right happiness with the man he loves, but that they both should be killed for it. Just for loving each other? How do I support a church that is so ready to throw me under the bus, and to judge me as this…monster, when I was a victim? There is so much…evil that is swept under the rug in this church, and they want to dismiss a priest who comes out as gay? I mean…Mom, they won’t even acknowledge your marriage to John, even with all the extenuating circumstances that caused your affair and your divorce from Dad.
     
     
     
    Marlena looks down, nodding sadly as she thinks back on her affair with John.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: I know that was hard, but…
     
     
    ERIC: Mom, it’s…I chose to overlook it for a very, very long time. Because I saw the good that being faithful, and being a priest could do. The benefit it could have to humanity, and the…the joy and comfort that my faith could bring, and I wanted to share that with the world. And maybe I was doing it, in a way to…make my family proud, I don’t know. But the fact remains that I could not reconcile my faith and my love for my family. And my desire to see them happy with the people they love.
     
     
     
    Marlena reaches out across the table and grabs Eric’s hands in hers. Squeezing them tightly, she begins to cry, a look of pride across her face.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: Ohh, Eric. My darling boy. I don’t care what your vocation is. I will ALWAYS be proud of you. And so will your father, and your grandmother, and your aunts and uncles and everybody.
     
     
     
    Eric and Marlena share a laugh, as Marlena holds Eric’s hands firmly.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: I want you to remember, no matter what…I couldn’t be more proud of you than I am right now. Don’t you ever forget that.
     
     
    ERIC: Thanks, Mom.
     
     
     
    Marlena and Eric get up from their seats and share a tight, warm hug that seems to last ages. As Marlena lets go of Eric, she looks him dead in the eyes, still a bit teary.
     
     
     
    MARLENA: And whatever you do decide…I will support you. No matter what.
     
     
     
    Eric nods, feeling the first bit of comfort he’s felt in a long time.
     
     
     
    ERIC: You know, you don’t realize how comforting it is to hear that. Seriously, thank you. I love you.
     
     
    MARLENA: Oh, Eric.
     
     
     
    Marlena pulls Eric in again for a hug, once again holding him tightly, like she was comforting him as a boy.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     
    Nick looks up from his tablet, as he sits in the booth at the Brady Pub. He spots Gabi in the doorway and gets up from his seat. He goes to grab Arianna, but Gabi tenses up, reactively pulling her closer to her chest. She tries to pass it off as nothing and points to the high chair in the corner.
     
     
     
    GABI: No, no! I got her, can you just…grab the high chair for me.
     
     
     
    Nick turns around and spots the high chair, springing into action dutifully.
     
     
     
    NICK: Oh! Yeah, absolutely.
     
     
     
    Nick steps over to grab the high chair, and sets it up for Ari to sit in. Gabi smiles and slots Ari in carefully, with Nick’s help.
     
     
     
    GABI: There we go! Easy does it.
     
     
     
    Once Ari’s in place, the pair sit down.
     
     
     
    GABI: Ohh, thank you, Nick.
     
     
     
    Nick shifts midsentence towards Ari, paying the beautiful young child some attention, but Ari is not having it and flinches at Nick’s touch.
     
     
     
    NICK: Anything for you and this beautiful little girl of yours! Hey sweetie!!
     
     
     
    Ari kicks Nick’s hand away, causing Nick to jump back a bit, and having a short laugh about it.
     
     
     
    NICK: Wow, she’s feisty today!
     
     
     
    Gabi laughs nervously in response before becoming fairly serious, nervously asking Nick the question of the hour.
     
     
     
    GABI: Heh, yeah. She’s…like that some days. You never know. So…uh…why did you ask me to come, Nick? It sounded...pretty important on the phone.
     
     
    NICK: Oh, trust me, Gabi. This is…life-changing news. Without a doubt.
     
     
     
    Gabi looks to one side, grimacing, trying to fake a smile and failing.
     
     
     
    GABI: Can’t wait.
     
     
     
    Nick looks down at his trusty tablet, swiping through different screens until he pulls up the screen to show Gabi.
     
     
     
    NICK: Kate and I have been working on a new line for MadWorld. It’s a young, fresh line of skin care that is 40% less heavy than your main line products with just as long-lasting coverage. Can’t really get into details more than that, but…it’s tested REALLY well.
     
     
    GABI: That sounds fantastic. W…what does it have to do with me?
     
     
     
    Nick turns the tablet toward Gabi and hands it to her. On the screen is a beauty shot from Gabi’s old modelling shoots with a tester from the new line photoshopped in. Gabi looks on in shock as Nick reveals his intentions.
     
     
     
    NICK: We want you to be the face of the new line.
     
     
     
    Gabi looks up at Nick, breathing in deeply, an almost panic-stricken look on her face.
     
     
     
    ---
     
     
     
  3. beebs
    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.
     
    ---
  4. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 32
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson


    Billie walks alone through the Town Square, a look of concern across her face as she makes a call on her phone.

    BILLIE: (into phone) Yeah, I got something for you. I'll need to run a test on it when I get back. Meet you at the station at 7?...Great.

    Billie hangs up, pulling the tiny USB drive she found in the computer at Titan in her hand. She ponders what it could be and how it got there. She's knocked out of this place of concentration by a familiar voice.

    THERESA: Billie!

    Billie turns around to see Theresa's smiling face looking back at her.

    BILLIE: Theresa! Oh my GOD, honey! How are you!

    Billie and Theresa hug each other warmly, Theresa clearly excited to see her friend.

    THERESA: I'm okay. Had a bit of a rough week but I'm holding up well.
    BILLIE: I'm glad.
    THERESA: I didn't realize you were in town! How long are you gonna be here?
    BILLIE: Well, I'm...I'm actually gonna stick around for awhile. I think it's time I called Salem home for awhile. You know?
    THERESA: Well, it's no LA, but knowing you're here makes tolerating this one-horse town a whole lot easier to swallow.
    BILLIE: Oh, it's not that bad.

    Theresa rolls her eyes at the mere thought of Salem as her home.

    THERESA: That's what you think. Hey, are you free tonight? I was thinking of getting together for a drink at the Club TBD.
    BILLIE: Oh I could probably do that. I have a couple things to take care of first but I'd love to catch up.
    THERESA: Great. I'll text you later and we can meet up.
    BILLIE: Sounds good, honey. See you later.

    Theresa and Billie go their separate ways, and Billie goes to make another phone call, but before she can pull her cell phone up to her ear, she's interrupted by another voice.

    DANIEL: What were you doing talking with her?

    Billie turns around, a confused look across her face as she looks to Daniel.

    ---

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

    ---

    JJ looks to Jennifer, who is standing in her office with a departing Liam. JJ has a disappointed look in his eyes, which Jennifer immediately recognizes.

    JENNIFER: Liam and I were discussing meeting for dinner tonight.
    JJ: Mom, don't you think that's a bit soon af--
    JENNIFER: No. No, I don't. JJ, Daniel and I have been apart for a very long time now, and...

    Jennifer suddenly stops herself, knowing Liam's there beside her, and wishing to spare him the discomfort.

    JENNIFER: Liam, you don't mind if I talk to my son alone, do you?
    LIAM: Not at all. I'll see you tonight.
    JENNIFER: Absolutely.

    Jennifer and Liam kiss quickly before Liam steps away. JJ looks off, unimpressed by Jenn and Liam's display of affection. Once Liam departs, JJ, shaking his head, turns around, pointing out towards where Liam just was.

    JJ: Really, Mom?
    JENNIFER: JJ, you really need to stop worrying about who I'm dating and focus on school and your community service, because I swear to you, you don't want to push me right now.
    JJ: Why not? Look, I feel responsible for what happened with Daniel--
    JENNIFER: ...And you should. Look, I am grateful to Daniel for helping you out and keeping you out of prison, but you've got to understand, JJ, this is my life to live. And I want to live it seeing a man who respects my decisions and my right to raise my family the way I see fit. Daniel--
    JJ: Daniel didn't, I get it. Okay? But Daniel did all this to help me, and not because he liked me, not that he should've, but because he loved you that much. So much that he was willing to risk every kind of punishment, to have my back. And I know I certainly don't deserve that. But you do.

    Jennifer smiles at JJ, putting a hand on his shoulder.

    JENNIFER: I know you're grateful to him. And I understand why you'd feel that way, JJ, I do. But you need to understand how important honesty is to me. And if the man I'm with can't trust me with something as important as the safety of my children...then he's not someone that I should be with.

    JJ nods reluctantly. He looks to his mom, a bit defeated.

    JJ: I get it. I do, I just...you know...Liam...he...
    JENNIFER: Now don't you go saying anything against Liam. You hardly even know him at all.
    JJ: Yeah, Mom, but...I dunno. He just...he kinda weirds me out a bit, you know?

    Jenn laughs a bit at JJ's comment as she steps behind her desk, in a bit of an attempt to distract herself, and ease a bit of the tension in the room.

    JENNIFER: Why do you say that?
    JJ: I really...I wish I could tell you what it is but...when I was talking to him at the party the other night...something about him just makes me really uncomfortable.

    Jennifer furrows her brow a bit, unsure what JJ means, but still a bit concerned by JJ's reaction to Liam.

    ---

    Now away from Jenn's office, Liam gets a phone call. He answers in somewhat hushed tones.

    LIAM: (into phone) Yeah. No, it's going well. I can't be on the phone with you here, okay? I'll see you when I get home.

    Liam looks around, trying to not look suspicious in doing so, but naturally, not being successful at it. He heads for the elevator.

    ---

    Nicole lunges for the file in Nick's hands, but Nick pulls away just in time. Nicole is enraged and afraid of the sudden shift in the power dynamic between them, and stands with a distinct discomfort that wasn't there a moment ago.

    NICOLE: How the HELL did you get your hands on that?
    NICK: God, Nicole. For someone as smart as you, you'd think you'd at least be smart enough to take something like this to the paper shredder at LEAST.
    NICOLE: Don't be evasive, you weasel. How did you get ahold of those files.
    NICK: It's easy when you work in the building and know computers. Oh speaking of which, I took the liberty of wiping your backup copies of these from the server so you can't send them to Eric before I do and make yourself look like some kind of heroine or anything.
    NICOLE: Bastard.
    NICK: Language, Nicole. I actually just wanted to get all your research from you so you couldn't junk it. You reporters have sources far better than anything I could get my hands on, but...THIS. This was such an amazing find. Totally not what I was looking for but somehow SO much better!
    NICOLE: You're sick! I mean, really. You set me up and now you're going to pit my career against my relationship with Eric? Are you out of your mind?
    NICK: Lot of people think so. But for the first time in a long time, I feel like I'm seeing things clearer than I have in a long time. Percy, do you mind taking these files with you and putting them somewhere safe?
    PERCY: Certainly, Nicholas.

    Percy approaches Nick and takes the files from him, shielding himself from Nicole. Nicole folds her arms, not even making an effort to grab them now. Percy heads out of the room, leaving Nicole and Nick alone.

    NICOLE: You'll never get away with this, you know.
    NICK: Wanna throw a few more cliches in there, Nicole?
    NICOLE: Sure. How about, 'Go to Hell', 'You don't scare me', and 'I will make you pay for this'?
    NICK: Good choices. Not gonna help you at ALL but...nice effort. So, what's it gonna be? Are you going to keep working to help Percy and I shut EnerNext down? Or will I have to take YOU down?
    NICOLE: How am I even gonna do that? I'm suspended. Even if I'm able to keep working here afterwards, they're going to block me from carrying on with this story.
    NICK: Don't worry about that part. I'll handle it. You just stick to building a case against Titan and EnerNext, and keep building community resistance against it. I'll handle everything else.

    Nicole shakes her head at this entire scenario with disbelief.

    NICOLE: And I'm supposed to what? Trust you?? Really?
    NICK: If you do the right thing? Absolutely. Nicole, you can help a lot of people with this. All kinds of people who don't have a voice right now. And you can do this and have everything you want in your life. Eric, the respect of the journalistic community, a fantastic career. I will make sure you can have those things. But you have to do exactly what I ask of you. Or else...

    Nick points towards the door Percy walked out of.

    NICK: ...your future ends here. It's up to you.

    Nicole rolls her eyes at Nick, but is in serious, strenuous contemplation.

    ---

    EJ steps casually into Sami's office, after interrupting her conversation with Kate about Gabi. Sami is startled by EJ's arrival, and is uneasy with him approaching her, which is not lost on Kate or EJ.

    EJ: I'm sorry if I startled you.
    SAMI: Wha...what do you mean? I just...I was caught off guard, that's all.
    EJ: Well, I apologize for that.

    A momentary uneasy silence fills the air before EJ breaks it. The tension makes the moment of silence feel ten times longer than it is in reality.

    EJ: As for Gabi's modelling contract, I am slightly dubious of the source from which the idea stems, however, I am willing to concede that, in the grand scheme of things, this will stack the deck in our favour when it comes to dealing with Mr. Fallon.
    KATE: Thank you, EJ...I think. Sami, this is the only way we can both keep tabs on Nick.
    SAMI: Look, I'm not saying it's a bad idea, I just...I don't like the idea of Gabi having so much freedom when she's been so...naive about Nick. I mean...this could backfire and, heaven forbid, Ari could end up living with Nick and Gabi somewhere and Will would end up powerless to stop it.
    KATE: That won't happen. Look, don't immediately go to the worst case scenario like this. Gabi wants Will and Sonny to be a part of Ari's life. It's important to her. And as dim as she can be som--
    SAMI: (interrupting) Most--
    KATE: ...most of the time, she really does want what's best for that baby. Give her some credit there, at least.
    SAMI: You're right. (sigh). You're right, I just....ugh, I have so much on my mind right now and--
    EJ: That's my fault.
    SAMI: No, it's...not. I mean it is but...look, EJ, I need to talk to you.

    Kate, sensing she's inserted herself into a bit of a touchy situation, gets up from her seat and heads for the doorway.

    KATE: That would be my cue to leave, I have a feeling.
    SAMI: Hasn't stopped you before.
    KATE: Charming as ever, Sami. EJ.

    Kate saunters out, leaving EJ and Sami alone. EJ stands by Sami's desk, arms folded, while Sami sits, uncomfortably, behind hers. She takes a moment to breathe, not looking up.

    EJ: Are you alright?
    SAMI: No. I'm not. I've been a complete....basketcase all week.
    EJ: I'm sorry for that.
    SAMI: Like I said...it's...not completely your fault. I just...I need to tell you something.
    EJ: ...Okay.
    SAMI: I think...I think I need to move out of the mansion for awhile.

    The colour drains from EJ's face. Truly at a loss for words, he stands, dumfounded.

    ---
  5. beebs
    EPISODE 66
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson



    Laura reaches out to Sami, as they stand in the foyer of the DiMera Mansion, and Sami gives Laura a grateful hug, almost needing Laura to keep her upright from the emotional exertion she just went through.

    SAMI: Thank you so very much, Laura. I....seriously don't know how I could have got through the day without your help.
    LAURA: It's my pleasure.Sami, you've grown so much, and...I want you to remember, no matter what's happened in your past, whatever you may have said or done, you're a fantastic mother. And I know you love Johnny so very much. Just remember that.

    Sami nods, trying to hold herself together, wiping away tears from her face.

    SAMI: I'll try. Umm..hey! Are you going to Brady's memorial today?
    LAURA: Yes! I was just going to call Marlena and let her know I'm on my way. Did you...did you need a ride over?
    SAMI: Uh...yeah! I can totally go with you. Let me just...grab my keys and a couple other things.
    LAURA: Sure.

    Sami runs into the living room to grab her things, including her tablet. As she picks it up, she sees a notification on the screen. It catches her eye and she unlocks the screen to read it more closely.

    SAMI: Oh my God!

    Laura looks up, concerned by Sami's outburst.

    The screen reads out the headline from the Salem Spectator's website that's gone around town.

    BREAKING: TITAN TV TO BE SOLD TO PRIVATE INVESTOR

    Sami looks up at Laura, the shock still on her face.

    LAURA: Sami? What's wrong?
    SAMI: Uh...I...nothing. Let's go!

    Laura seems unconvinced, but smiles halfheartedly anyway, as Sami guides her out the door of the house.

    ---


    Will and Gabi lock up the apartment, Gabi rocking the stroller with Ari inside back and forth gently. Will turns to Gabi, still stewing over Sonny's lie. He holds his cell phone in his hand, looking up at Gabi while he texts.

    WILL: So, I'll meet you and Ari at Town Square?
    GABI: Sure. I hope you guys are alright.
    WILL: Yeah...so do I.

    Gabi leans over to give Will a hug, before heading off.

    GABI: Okay, I'll see you then. Let me know what happens with Sonny.
    WILL: Yeah...I will.

    Will looks up, sighing heavily as he thinks back to Sonny's rushed exit from the apartment.

    ***
    FLASHBACK to Episode 64


    Sonny turns to grab his jacket from the closet, and calls out to Gabi and Will.

    SONNY: I have to go for a minute....there's a...uh...problem with a shipment at the club. Meet you at Town Square?
    WILL: Alright.

    ***


    It's T, calling from the club, where a rush of rowdy customers are calling out to T, who's a bit frazzled behind the bar.

    T: Uh...hey, Will! It's T. Any idea where Sonny is?

    ...

    WILL: I...yeah, he's on his way to the club now, T. Didn't he just tell you that?

    ...

    T looks confused, looking over his shoulder as he speaks, holding up one finger to a customer.

    T: Uh, no. Sonny hasn't spoken with us since this morning, dude. Look, it's really busy at the club, and I can't get Sonny to answer his phone, so can you just let him know to come down here ASAP when he can?

    ***

    Will shakes his head, as he finishes up his text to Sonny.

    How r things @ the club?

    WILL: I'm gonna find out what you're up to, Sonny.

    ---


    JJ runs back into the Town Square to try to avoid getting caught by Liam, who was just in the adjacent park. He tries to casually walk over to get his mother's attention before Liam comes back, but is too late, as he turns around to see Liam surprise Jennifer by wrapping his arms around her as she stands at a nearby table. JJ looks on in fear at the exchange, now worried about his mother's safety.

    ---


    Maggie knocks on Victor's office door at Titan, as he finishes up putting his documents into his briefcase and closes it up. He looks up and smiles.

    VICTOR: Maggie! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes!

    Maggie smiles warmly as she walks into the room, ever so casually. She laughs a bit at Victor's comment, obviously flattered.

    MAGGIE: Ohh...you're either the sweetest man on Earth, or you had a really rough day.
    VICTOR: I'd say a bit of both.

    Maggie smiles again as she walks towards her husband, wrapping her arms around his collar.

    MAGGIE: You know what? I'll take it.

    Maggie quickly kisses Victor on the lips before continuing.

    MAGGIE: Now. I've been busy all morning helping Caroline out with the memorial for Brady, and you still haven't told me whether or not you're even going to be there or not.

    Victor's face drops at Maggie's implied question. He sighs loudly as he tries to answer.

    VICTOR: Maggie--
    MAGGIE: Victor, come on now. You heard what Hope said. That car was travelling too fast for Brady to survive.

    Maggie pulls Victor's face to look right into her eyes. She barely blinks as she tries to talk sense to Victor.

    MAGGIE: Honey, I know you're skeptical. I understand why you would be. But you have to face the real probability that Brady didn't survive that crash.

    ---

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

    ---


    At the Town Square, Jenn chats with Marlena, Eric, and Caroline about Brady, while Liam is off at the desserts table that has been set up for the guests. JJ finally sees an opportunity to talk privately to his mother about what he heard Liam say, and excuses himself from his conversation with Kayla, Adrienne and Justin, interrupting Adrienne's comment as politely as he can.

    JJ: Sorry, Aunt Adrienne, I...just gotta ask my mom something real quick.
    ADRIENNE: Okay, sure thing, sweetie.
    JJ: Thanks.

    JJ smiles as he walks off, over to his mother, tapping her gently on the shoulder. Jenn turns to face him, still with that hint of motherly disappointment thanks to their earlier conversation about Abigail's whereabouts.

    JJ: Uh, sorry, Mom?
    JENNIFER: Hey, Honey!
    JJ: Uh...I...when you got a second free, it's...really important I talk to you...alone.

    Jenn looks to him, concerned.

    JENNIFER: Sure. Is something wrong?

    JJ looks around to make sure Liam's still a ways away.

    JJ: Uh...yeah. But I think...if we have a minute now might be a good--


    As JJ finishes his sentence, Nicole arrives, with a special someone in tow, Chloe. Chloe's arrival stirs everyone in the room and Jenn is immediately distracted by her arrival. Jenn appears pleased but tense with Chloe arriving, reminded of Chloe's machinations from her last visit to Salem. Caroline, however, is pleased to see her.

    CAROLINE: Chloe! How good to see you!

    Caroline heads over to give her a hug, as Jenn looks up at JJ and smiles. She leans over and whispers to him.

    JENNIFER: Yeah, now might be a good time.
    JJ: Let's go to the park?
    JENNIFER: Yeah.

    Jennifer takes JJ by the arm and heads over toward the park. As they head off, Liam heads back to where Jenn had been and can't find her. He scans the crowd and sees nobody, and begins to look around the square in vain.

    Caroline, Marlena, Eric, and Nicole, meanwhile, hang back to chat with Chloe, catching up with her and reminiscing about Brady. The group is laughing as Chloe tells them stories about her adventures.

    CHLOE: ...So I've mostly been dealing with the more...mature ladies and gentlemen, that kind of fans instead of screaming teenage girls, you know?
    MARLENA: I'm so glad your singing is going well for you again.
    CAROLINE: So am I! We were so worried when you came back from that accident all those years ago.
    CHLOE: Honestly, it took a lot of time, training, and patience, but...you know...Brady was always there to help me.

    Chloe begins to choke up, thinking back on Brady. She smiles through her tears.

    CHLOE: If he hadn't been there for me, I don't think I would've made it back. Oh my God, I'm gonna miss him.

    Nicole leans over to give Chloe a comforting hug, as Victor walks in with Maggie in tow. Clearly having overheard the end of Chloe's story, he makes his presence known with a snide remark.

    VICTOR: And it's too bad you did come back, seeing as this whole mess we're in now is your fault.

    Chloe turns around quickly to face Victor, visibly upset by yet another of his abusive remarks at her expense.

    ---

    In the park, JJ leads Jenn, before taking her arm and huddling in closer to her, trying to be as quiet about what he knows as possible. Jenn stands back, concerned for her son.

    JENNIFER: Okay, what did you need to talk to me about?
    JJ: Okay, well...before I tell you, you have to promise me you're not gonna freak out.

    Jenn folds her arms, convinced JJ's done something to make her freak out.

    JENNIFER: I can't guarantee anything, JJ.
    JJ: No, Mom, I'm serious. This is...really important, and you need to know.
    JENNIFER: Know what, JJ? Is this about your sister? Because, honestly, I don't know if I can handle much more bad news about her--
    JJ: ...Not...not really. I mean, yes, but...
    JENNIFER: Oh, God, JJ! What is going on--
    JJ: It's about Liam!

    Jennifer looks at JJ, stopped in her tracks by his connecting Liam to Abigail's departure from Salem.

    ---

    Will arrives at Club TBD, and notices the immediately the crowds have dissipated. He looks over to see a relaxed T behind the bar. He notices Will come in and nods at Will in greeting.

    WILL: Hey, T. So...did Sonny ever come around?
    T: Nah, man. I'm proud of myself, man. I took care of the whole crowd and CLEANED UP. Look, look, look, look.

    T reaches into his pockets and pulls out the tips he's collected over the past couple hours. Will looks surprised and laughs with T, slapping his buddy on the back in approval.

    WILL: Oh my God, that's amazing. Just...just tips?
    T: 100%, dude!
    WILL: I...Wow!
    T: Yep. So...okay, so did you pass along the message to Sonny.
    WILL: I...no, I never had a chance, I just...was on my way out anyway so I decided to come down myself but...it looks like you got it all under control.
    T: Yeah, man! Totally!

    Will looks down at his phone, having felt a buzz in his pocket. T looks over his shoulder.

    T: That Sonny?
    WILL: Yeah.

    Will checks Sonny's message and frowns, shaking his head at Sonny's response:

    yeah got it all figured out, heading out soon

    ...

    Sonny walks casually past the Brady Pub, texting as he walks. The same frown on his face as Will. He sees Will's response come up on his phone:

    gonna call u. got a question

    Sonny sighs.

    SONNY: Uh oh.

    As Sonny's phone rings, he picks up almost immediately.

    SONNY: (into phone) Hey Will.

    ...

    Will looks off, a bit of a bitchy look on his face as he speaks to Sonny.

    WILL: (into phone) Hey Sonny, Gabi and I are just heading down the Town Square. I had to pass on a message to T, can I speak to him a moment?

    ...

    Sonny's eyes widen, a bit panicked by Will's question. He kicks into action and walks away from the pub toward TBD.

    SONNY: I, uh...he's downstairs at the moment, just grabbing some condiments for--

    ...

    Will interrupts Sonny, a smug grin on his face as he cuts in.

    WILL: Oh, never mind. He's right here. Say 'hi', T!

    Will passes the phone over to T, who awkwardly takes the phone from Will, not sure what he's getting himself into.

    T: Hey, Sonny! Where were you, man? It was a madhouse down here!

    ...

    The colour drains from Sonny's face as he realizes he's been caught. He stops in place, taking a second to figure out what he'll do. Unable to respond for a moment, Sonny stammers as he tries to collect himself enough to continue walking towards the club.

    SONNY: I...uh...I'll be there in a sec.

    ...

    WILL: Yeah, you better be. And you better have a really good explanation, too.

    Will hangs up the phone, before slamming it down on the bar. Will breathes in deeply, frustrated, hurt, and angry at his fiance for his lie, but also worried what Sonny was actually up to.

    ---
  6. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 24
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson


    Jordan and Rafe walk through Town Square together, hand in hand. They joke and flirt with each other casually, both smiling widely.

    RAFE: ...And so then Gabi runs to Ma and just screams her full head of "Dario threw his waffles at me"
    JORDAN: (laughing) God, it might be so nice to have a big family that's that close. You have so many awesome memories together.
    RAFE: Yeah, I just...I wish we all lived closer together. And I really miss my sister, Ari.
    JORDAN: Arianna? That's who Baby Arianna Grace is named after, right?
    RAFE: Yeah, that's her.

    Rafe gets a bit choked up at the thought of his sister, before changing his tone and trying to change the subject.

    RAFE: Enough about my family though. You keep not telling me about your family, and I'm just dying to know about them!

    Jordan sighs, nervous about attempting to navigate out of this minefield.

    ---

    Sonny and Will stand in the kitchenette of their apartment. They're quietly discussing the matter of Sami's mental state, hoping she won't hear them from the other end of the room. Gabi tries to stay out of it and stays in her bedroom, keeping one eye out the door. She grabs her phone upon hearing the text tone. it's from Nick.

    hey whats up?

    Gabi is reluctant to respond, concerned that giving out the information might invade Sami's privacy. She thinks a moment before responding:

    just having a talk with the boys. nothing crazy

    Gabi feels awkward and wishes she felt comfortable being more open with Nick, but she resists.

    Meanwhile, in the living room, Sonny continues to try to convince Will that calling Marlena is the right call.

    SONNY: Will, I really think calling Marlena is a good idea. Besides, Sami might need her mom right now.
    WILL: I just...I don't know. They have such a...tricky history, especially when it comes to EJ. You don't know my grandmother's history, there's a lot she doesn't talk about.
    SONNY: Should I...look, I know, it's none of my business. But I think that it's the best call you can make right now. And I think Sami needs it.

    Sami breaks out of her near-trance state and turns around. She stands up after hearing Sonny say her name and walks over to him and Will.

    SAMI: What? What do I need?


    ---

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

    ---

    The elevator door opens to Theresa's floor. Brady and Theresa are in each other's arms as Theresa goes to step out. Both look a bit...wired. Brady doesn't want to let go.

    BRADY: Come on. Let's just...hang out a little longer.
    THERESA: (giggling) Nope! I can't, and you especially can't. You got a big day tomorrow, Boy!
    BRADY: Boy? Did you just call me "boy".
    THERESA: What, you're too matuuuure for that now?
    BRADY: I dunno about that. Come on, just five more minutes.

    Theresa pulls away from Brady.

    THERESA: No no! I gotta go, and so do you. Night!

    Theresa waves cutely to Brady as the door to the elevator shuts. Theresa turns around and jumps back slightly when at her door, leaning on the doorframe is Kim.

    THERESA: What are you doing?

    ---

    Sami stands with her hands on her hips, waiting for Sonny's answer, which he hesitates to give.

    SONNY: Uh...Sami! Look, I just think you should talk with--
    SAMI: With my mom? So she can tell me all about how wrong EJ is for me? How he's destroyed my life because his family is the worst thing to ever happen in Salem since the witch trials? So she can make me feel about an inch tall for every decision I've made in my life since birth?
    SONNY: Look, I'm sorry. But I think Marlena could be a lot more sympathetic than you think. I mean, she--
    SAMI: She's a shrink. Right? That's what you were gonna say? Sonny I--
    WILL: He's just trying to help, Mom. Just...he doesn't think you're crazy. You just...you went through something major and he just wants to help.

    Sami untenses and backs off from Sonny as Will talks her down.

    WILL: Look, I think, just...stay here on the couch tonight with us, and maybe go talk to Grandma tomorrow morning and we'll see...maybe she can help you find a way to maybe...process the memories you've unlocked.
    SAMI: Thanks, Will. (sigh) I don't...I don't know if I can open up to her about this but...I'll try.

    Will pulls her in for a hug, Sami struggles to accept it, feeling slightly tense with a claustrophobic air, but does reciprocate in the end.

    ---

    Jordan stutters and huffs at Rafe request. Rafe's a bit exasperated by Jordan's reluctance.

    RAFE: Well, come on! Talk to me! I mean...you're like...one big question mark to me still. You know?
    JORDAN: (sighing) I know, I just...I didn't have a happy time growing up and I just...it makes me want to hear about your family, and what it's like to come from a home like yours. You know...the ideal family.

    Jordan looks away, a little down, Rafe steps towards her and turns her around gently.

    RAFE: Hey, now. My family wasn't all perfection and bliss. I mean...my mom had us later in life. She was afraid to have kids at all until she was well into her 30s.
    JORDAN: Why?
    RAFE: Well...

    Rafe and Jordan sit down by Tom & Alice's tree. Rafe takes Jordan's hand affectionately in his.

    RAFE: She had this...sorta fear in her after her first child.
    JORDAN: So you have an older brother?
    RAFE: Had. (sigh) Ma lost her first child shortly after she gave birth. She was really young at the time and she was an unwed mother so...she had the child at a home for unwed mothers. Real old school Catholic home run by a group of really strict nuns. Anyway, when Ma gave birth, they took the baby from her and she was told not long after that the baby had died before they were able to adopt him.
    JORDAN: My God! How did she...how did she even--
    RAFE: I dunno. She never got to hold him. Nothing.

    Rafe looks down, solemnly thinking of his mom.

    RAFE: Thing is, it just...it hurt her so much that she spent years trying to move on. Her first love abandoned her, shamed her so badly my family had to move out of their village. And they came here to Salem. Took her years to find the confidence to even look at another guy. When she married my pa, she finally was able to have another chance to have a baby. And then came me, then Ari, then Dario, then Gabi...
    JORDAN: (laughs) Sounds like your mom's a real trooper.
    RAFE: Yeah, well...you know...I helped a lot too. It's hard for her now. She's sort of...hidden herself away since pa left her. She never gained that confidence back.

    Jordan squeezes Rafe's hand and rests her head on his shoulder.

    JORDAN: I'm sorry to hear that. I know you love your mom a lot.
    RAFE: Yeah. I would love to see her more often but...
    JORDAN: Why don't you? I'm sure she'd love to have you.
    RAFE: Ahh, we'll find time soon. You and I will go together. Maybe surprise her.
    JORDAN: Sounds great.

    Rafe and Jordan kiss sweetly, as they stare up at the night sky together.

    ---

    EJ tries to calm an incensed Abigail down.

    EJ: Abigail, I wouldn't think you'd turn to Sami in a million years, but you have to understand something.
    ABBY: What, EJ?
    EJ: Look, telling Nicholas Fallon about anything in this situation is tantamount to telling it to Samantha. You cannot confide in him.
    ABBY: Why not, EJ? What makes you think you know Nick so well that you can tell me what he's thinking or what he's planning?
    EJ: It's simply because I mistrust his motives. After what he did to Will and Sonny, I will not give him the slightest ammunition to use against the people I love. Do you understand that? I mean...for God's sake, Abigail. If he's willing to throw one cousin under the bus, he's just as capable of doing it to another.
    ABBY: Okay, EJ. I get it. I know you're trying to protect me, and I appreciate it. But I will decide how I handle this, okay? And no, i will not tell Nick. But that's for my own reasons. Not to protect you.
    EJ: (sighs) Just...be careful, alright?
    ABBY: I will. And thank you for your concern.

    Abigail turns to leave, EJ stops her yet again.

    EJ: Abigail. Before you go. I want you to know that you will find work again. I'm sorry you had this little...disagreement with someone at work. Just know that if you need someone to put in a good word for you...you can count on me.
    ABBY: Thanks, EJ. But that won't be neccessary. Good night.

    Abigail turns toward the stairway and strides off into the night.

    ---

    Kim smiles awkwardly at her daughter as they stand in the hallway together.

    KIM: I was just coming to say hello. Is that a proble--
    THERESA: Yes, it's a major problem, seeing as I told you not even five hours ago that I didn't want you coming for unannounced visits.
    KIM: Theresa, why are you so angry at me?
    THERESA: Mom, you know why. Okay? Don't even start with me about why I'm angry at you. You want me in jail, and so does dad, and I just...I can't deal with this right now, okay? Just...back off.

    Theresa tries to get away as quickly as possible, and scrapes around in her purse, trying to find her keys to get inside and away from Kim.

    KIM: Theresa, enough. And for God's sake, what were you doing with Brady? I mean...you know he's not in the best shape lately. You're not helping your case by going out with him--
    THERESA: Oh my God, Mother! Back. Off. I can handle myself. Okay? I'm happy with Brady.
    KIM: Oh God, you're not seeing him, are you?
    THERESA: You know what, that's none of your business.

    Theresa pulls her keys from her purse and turns around quickly to unlock her door. She drops something from her purse without noticing and steps inside.

    THERESA: Now, I'm going to bed, okay? Goodnight.

    Theresa slams the door shut in Kim's face, and locks herself inside her apartment. Breathing a sigh of relief.

    Outside, Kim picks up the baggie of cocaine that Theresa dropped from her bag. She holds it up, a look of deep concern painted across her face.

    ---

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CgKghUIj6I

    ---
  7. beebs
    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.
     
    ---
  8. beebs
    EPISODE 1

    DAN KAPLAN
    Shawn Christian

    ALEXIS DILLON
    Jacqueline MacInnes Wood

    RYAN OLSEN
    Scott Clifton

    ERIC HADLEY
    Scott Evans

    DARREN WASHINGTON
    Bryton James

    KIAN McCLARY
    Chord Overstreet

    PETER PHILLIPS
    Kin Shriner

    JASON TOMS
    Zack Conroy

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Spring is starting to...well, spring, and the extreme Canadian winter has brought many feet of snow. The snow is now getting heavy, saturated with the weight of the April showers. We come upon an apartment block in the heart of the city, during a typically dreary day. Rain for a third consecutive day, and no sign the weather will soon let up.

    On the top floor of the building, Dan Kaplan, the building's landlord, looks out the window at the miserable weather, and puts his cat outside the door of his apartment and runs his bath. After running the bath, he gets in. We then hear a loud creaking noise and a loud crash.

    A floor below, we see a young couple, freshly moved in. Alexis Dillon, a suburban princess with a long entitlement complex, and her beau, the hapless Ryan Olsen. Ryan is trying to set up the kitchen cabinet, but as Alexis walks in, the shelves collapse.

    ALEXIS: I see the shelf-building's going well
    RYAN: Yeah, well...cheap Swedish furniture's not all it's cracked up to be
    ALEXIS: That's exactly why I didn't want us to GET cheap Swedish furniture.
    RYAN: You didn't want second hand furniture either, so what else could we afford.
    ALEXIS: Better stuff than THIS. Ryan, come on, you have a new job, a good one! You can afford this, can't you?
    RYAN: Not after first and last month's rent, baby.

    Alexis rolls her eyes and looks around the apartment. It's not to her standards. In fact, she absolutely loathes the place. But Ryan looked like a wounded dog when she voiced that opinion the first time she saw the place, and she hates when he looks that way, so she keeps quiet.

    ALEXIS: You know what we need?
    RYAN: What?
    ALEXIS: Some art for the walls.
    RYAN: I'm sure we can find something down at Kensington Market
    ALEXIS: No, like, real art, like...my friend has a gallery opening tonight on Queen St., why don't we check it out?
    RYAN: I thought we were staying in and ordering take-out...movie...you know?
    ALEXIS: Oh honey, we can do that tomorrow. Please?

    Alexis makes a face that's all batting eyelashes and white teeth. Ryan can't resist.

    RYAN: Alright, alright. We'll go. But don't expect me to buy anything, cos we can't afford it until I've been working a few more weeks.
    ALEXIS (not really listening): Mmhmmm

    Alexis heads over to the doorway, grabs her purse, and goes to open the door.

    ALEXIS: I'm heading to the Carla's for a bit, then we'll head off to the show, K? I'll see you later.
    RYAN: Sure when you gonna be back?
    ALEXIS: I'll only be a couple hours, don't worry.

    They share a kiss, and Alexis opens the door. The landlord's cat scurries in. Alexis is allergic and hates the cat. She can't get her out before the cat runs under their sofa.

    ALEXIS: Dammit, Ryan. Why couldn't you stop her?

    Ryan looks on, apologetic and confused.

    ALEXIS: Get her out before I come back. Seriously.

    Alexis slams the door shut, the hastily-reassembled shelves fall off the cabinet again.





    Outside the building, shivering in their jackets, smoking, stand longtime best friends Eric Hadley and Darren Washington. Darren's a bit of a rebellious soul, and Eric credits him with bringing him out of his shell after being a recluse in his early high school years, which were filled with traumas dating back to childhood. Darren's upbringing was hard on him, but even though they've never discussed it, Darren's aware that Eric had it harder than he did growing up.They never talk about it.

    Today, Darren stands on the steps of the walkup, talking about work. Or Darren's lack thereof.

    DARREN: I swear, forty resumes I've sent out. Not ONE answer.
    ERIC: Well, you haven't been looking long, dude. Give it another week. At least give them some time to call you back.
    DARREN: I haven't got time. I gotta get money, man. Gotta pay rent.
    ERIC: I hear that. The store's not paying much better, honestly.
    DARREN: Least you're working. Man, I can barely afford the free cigarettes I get off people on the street.

    Alexis slams the door in the distance and heads down the hall to the front door. Brusquely opening the door, she nearly hits Darren in the back when she opens it.

    DARREN: Hey, hey, what's the problem?
    ALEXIS: Well for one, you and the fact you smell like an ash tray.
    DARREN: And what's a mouth like that doing on a body like yours, girl?
    ALEXIS: Keeping as far away from yours as possible. Now get the hell out of my way.

    Alexis kicks Eric and Darren away from her as she steps past them to get down the steps. Darren (mostly) and Eric object, as Alexis leaves, Eric looks to her with a wide smile. Darren's less impressed.

    DARREN: Man, that's COLD.
    ERIC: So, not to throw your own lines back at you, dude but...what's a mouth like YOURS doing on a boy from Forest Hill. You're about as 'hood as Drake.
    DARREN: You shut up or I'll put this out in your eye!

    Eric laughs, and gets up to go in. As the door opens, Ryan heads out of the building in a rush, nearly tripping over them both.

    RYAN: Woah, sorry, guys.
    DARREN: Woah, man, where's the fire?
    RYAN: I just remembered tonight's the grand opening at my new job so...
    DARREN: Wait, where?
    RYAN: The Royal, down on Harbord St.
    DARREN: They still looking?
    RYAN: I dunno, you'd have to check with the owner, dude.
    ERIC: I haven't seen you around before. You just moved in?
    RYAN: Yea, last week.
    ERIC: Hey man, welcome to the building.
    RYAN: Thanks dude.

    They shake hands, and go their respective ways. Before heading in, Darren remembers something to ask Ryan.

    DARREN: Hey man, what apartment you moved into?
    RYAN: Unit 4, just the end of the hall.
    DARREN: Cool. We're in 2, dude. Come by later, we'll chill, get some beer. You know?
    RYAN: Thanks, man. I'll...I'll see what I can do.

    Ryan pauses one last time.

    RYAN: Hey, you know how I can get ahold of the landlord, by the way?
    DARREN: *laughs* Good luck. Dan is always off somewhere. I think he said this time he was off to like...Africa or something. Call him, though and see.
    RYAN: Thanks, man. See ya, bro.
    DARREN: See ya.

    The guys head inside and go down into their unit.




    Upstairs, Dan sets his itinerary for a trip to Morocco in the flap of his carry-on bag, then wanders to the bathroom. He draws his bath and lays in the tub. Relaxing in the tub, he doesn't notice the extreme humidity surrounding him. He closes his eyes and relishes the opportunity to relax.





    Downstairs, across rom Ryan an Alexis, is Kian McClary. Kian's a young, thin, babyfaced gay man in his mid-20s. A rising star in the world of cookery, Kian is set to open his first restaurant tonight. The Royal. The Royal is partnership between Kian and his long-term romantic partner, the much-older Peter Phillips, who is a big name among Toronto foodies. But that's not who Kian's with right now.

    KIAN: Jason, honey, what tie should I be wearing with this?
    JASON: I don't know, whatever one you're in the mood for.
    KIAN: Helpful.
    JASON: Hey, I got my own issues to deal with, Mr. Boss-man.

    Kian and Jason share a quick kiss. Jason continues to get ready, and begins to contemplate.

    JASON: Peter's not meeting you here, is he?
    KIAN: No, thankfully. He's meeting us all at the restaurant. And besides, I told him that I'd have a couple people over first to sorta...get the celebration started early.

    Kian drapes his arms around Jason, looking deep into his eyes.

    JASON: Okay, but...I mean, you don't figure it's a little too obvious, what with you making me manager of the restaurant and all. I mean, he's not gonna figure it out, right?
    KIAN: Come on, Peter's so caught up in his own business you could hit him over the head with it and he wouldn't even bat an eyelash.
    JASON: If you're sure.
    KIAN: I'm positive. Stop worrying. Look, there's no love left in this relationship, okay? That ended a long time ago. We're only together for the business and that's it.
    JASON: And I just stay you're secret thing on the side.
    KIAN: No, you stay the man I'm in love with. Only you. And besides, once I get my citizenship, this'll all be moot anyway.
    JASON: Okay, okay.
    KIAN: Promise.

    Kian grabs his jacket and tugs on Jason's wrist to come.

    KIAN: Now let's go. Open time is coming!
    JASON: Alright alright, let me just grab my things.

    They laugh as they head out the door. But upon opening the door, a limo is parked out front, and out of the door steps Peter. Kian looks on in surprise and a bit of discomfort paints his face.





    Upstairs Dan continues his bath, fully relaxed. Soft music plays and his face is just above the water, so he never hears the phone ring. The phone rings over and over, and Dan only hears it a bit and spitefully ignores the phone, dunking his head under the water. As he does this, the heavy snow above him and the endless rain have finally created a pool heavy enough above the old apartment block. The weight is stressing right above him, and the drains outside aren't able to keep up, having partially frozen over in the long, cold winter.

    Dan's old, weather-beaten ceiling finally gives way under the huge weight and collapsed on top of him, sealing him in the bathtub like a pie crust.

    NEXT TIME:
    Kian's grand event


    and


    A surprise for Alexis at the art show

  9. beebs
    EPISODE 87
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson  

    Will, stood in the living room of the Kiriakis mansion alongside his fiance Sonny, looks on at Noelle and Alex's cosy togetherness. Stunned, he can barely choke out a response to Alex's introduction of Noelle, his wife.

    WILL: I...your wife! I...wow! You...I didn't realize.

    Alex laughs at Will's surprise, as Sonny reaches out to Noelle.

    SONNY: It's so good to finally meet you.
    NOELLE: And you, Sonny.


    Noelle breaks free from Alex's arm to give her brother-in-law a hug, as Adrienne steps forward into the scene from across the room, as Victor, still stood in front of the living room bar, looks her way.

    ADRIENNE: Well, now that we've all had a chance for introductions, shall I uh...set the table?
    VICTOR: Nonsense, Adrienne. Have a seat. Would you like a drink?


    Adrienne looks behind her to the chair behind her. She sits herself down as the others follow suit, seated across the sofa, with Maggie taking the easychair opposite Adrienne. 

    ADRIENNE: Uh, no thank you, Victor. I'll just...wait until dinner.

    Maggie senses tension in the air, and tries to break it after a moment of awkward silence.

    MAGGIE: Ah, so...Noelle! It's...really nice to see you again. Ah, I was just saying to Adrienne and Noelle in the kitchen that I hadn't seen her since she were a little girl. And now here you are...all grown up--

    Noelle looks Maggie's way, smiling, as Victor interrupts Maggie with a snarky remark.

    VICTOR: Marrying for money and status, just like her louse of a father.

    Maggie immediately turns to Victor, disgust plain on her face, as Victor takes a sip of his drink.

    MAGGIE: Victor, we have guests. They may be family, but it is no time to be airing your greivences.

    Adrienne chimes in, hoping to reclaim some good humour in the room.

    ADRIENNE: I agree. This is supposed to be a pleasant evening, and...
    MAGGIE: ...And it's a time for celebration. Alex is back in Salem, with a beautiful new bride, no comment from the peanut gallery, thank you.

    Victor scowls as Maggie looks pointedly his way.

    MAGGIE: And we have one more marriage soon to come in the family. As Will will soon be part of our family as well.

    Will smiles awkwardly as Maggie gets up from her seat to pour herself a soda. Sonny puts a hand on Will's knee, causing Will to look down quickly, before looking up at Sonny. Sonny's eyes are glued to Will's, almost pleading with him to be civil. Will looks at Sonny, lovingly, but with a degree of coldness.

    MAGGIE: Adrienne, would you at least like a soda to toast with?

    Adrienne looks away from Sonny and Will, as if snapping out of a daze. She responds to Maggie, awkwardly, but pleasantly.

    ADRIENNE: Ahh....oh, yes! Yes, thank you!

    Maggie turns back to pour the drink, as Victor paces behind the sofa, observing all the tension bubbling under the proceedings. His face tells the story, as his scowl persists.

    MAGGIE: There you are. So, to our guests of honour. Will, Sonny, Alex, and Noelle. May they live and love for many years to come.

    As everyone raises their glasses, Maggie fixes her gaze on an unmoved Victor, who raises his glass only at the behest of his wife.
     
    ---


    Billie picks up a cup of tea from the coffee table in the Horton living room, as Jennifer sits down in the chair near her.

    JENNIFER: Billie, I don't see why you're so curious about my feelings for Daniel.

    Billie stirs uncomfortably, as she tries to answer Jennifer as gently as possible.

    BILLIE: Look...Jenn, I don't mean to pry, that certainly isn't my intention. But...I think you should know...Daniel and I have been...well, we've been seeing each other, and it's been getting pretty serious.

    Jennifer keeps a cool exterior, setting down her tea on the coffee table. She nods at Billie and feigns a smile.

    JENNIFER: That's great. That's good to hear, Billie. But Daniel and I are through. What he does is really none of my business.
    BILLIE: Well...that's where you're wrong.

    Jennifer looks at Billie, confused, and a touch resentful at Billie's insistence.

    JENNIFER: What do you mean by that, Billie? 

    Billie looks down at the ground, trying very hard not be tactless in how she answers the question.

    BILLIE: Because, based on what I've seen today, it's obvious to me that he's still very much in love with you.

    Jennifer looks at Billie, contemplative and a bit frustrated, by Billie's revelation.

    ---


    Laura knocks gently on JJ's bedroom door. JJ sits at his desk, typing away on an assignment, with her earbuds in, and doesn't hear Laura. Laura, seeing this, lets herself in, walking over to JJ and tapping him on the shoulder. JJ jumps, and upon seeing Laura behind him, takes his earbuds out.

    JJ: Grandma!
    LAURA: Sorry if I scared you, but...I wanted to give you some news.

    JJ turns around, as Laura sits down at the edge of JJ's bed.

    JJ: Okay, what's up?

    Laura smiles, trying to sum up everything she's learned today. Still a bit tense and uneasy with some of it, she decides to start with the good news first.

    LAURA: Well, there's some good news, and some...troubling news.
    JJ: Alright, lay the bad on me first.
    LAURA: Well, maybe I should give you the good news first. I...I don't want to cause you alarm.
    JJ: Grandma--
    LAURA: Look, the good news is...I spoke to Daniel today, and...well, he agreed to look into Liam a bit more deeply for us.

    JJ smiles, a look of relief on his face.

    JJ: That's fantastic! Do you...do you think this will mean that...maybe there's a chance they'll find their way back to each other?

    Laura looks down, a bit worried. She shakes her head.

    LAURA: JJ, I know you just want your mother to be happy, but...it's too late for your mother and Daniel.
    JJ: But, I mean, he still loves her, right? I mean, he's agreed to help us--
    LAURA: ...That doesn't mean that they're getting back together. Look, I know you blame yourself for your mother and Daniel splitting up, but...what's important right now is that we keep your mother safe.

    JJ nods, a bit disappointed, but understanding his grandmother's thinking.

    JJ: No, you're right. So...what was the bad news, then?

    Laura breathes in deeply, hoping the right words will come out.

    LAURA: Look, I don't want to...(sigh)...I don't mean to worry you, but...I overheard Liam having a conversation on the phone at the hospital today.
    JJ: A conversation? Okay, with who?

    Laura takes a second to answer, her eyes staring intensely at JJ as she speaks, worry causing her voice to shake.

    LAURA: EJ DiMera.

    JJ looks on, more worried for his mom than ever.

    ---
     
    ---
     

    Valerie and Jerome step into their new house. Valerie tosses her car keys casually on the table by the door, as she and Jerome step in from the winter cold.

    VALERIE: Well...it's not exactly how I planned your welcome. (sigh) But here it is.

    Jerome looks around, a smile on his face as he takes in his surroundings.

    JEROME: Well, well. Not bad, Grandma.

    Valerie turns around, cracking a smile. She puts her hand up to Jerome's face, looking affectionately at him.

    VALERIE: I'm glad you're alright. You know, I know it sounds like I'm paranoid but...I mean, you know this, every time you...turn on a TV or look at a newspaper, it's another black person dying in custody, and--
    JEROME: Grandma, I told you. You don't need to worry about me.
    VALERIE: That's where you're wrong, Jerome. You're dead wrong.

    Jerome looks at his grandmother, confused by her persistance.

    JEROME: What do you mean, Grandma? I mean, you talk like you're speaking from experience or something.

    Valerie sighs, hesitating to answer. She looks unflinchingly at Jerome, a simmering rage inside her that she tries desperately to hold back.

    VALERIE: Maybe I am.

    Jerome looks on, dumfounded, shaking his head, as his phone rings. The disruption cuts the tension, as Jerome turns to find his jacket, where the phone is.

    JEROME: I gotta get that.

    Valerie sighs, as Jerome walks over to pick up the phone. Seeing that it's Sheryl, he immediately answers, but quietly.

    JEROME: (into phone) Hey.

    ...


    Sheryl steps off the elevator at the lobby of the Titan building. Her cell phone in hand, as she responds.

    SHERYL: (into phone) Hey, where are you?

    ...

    JEROME: (into phone) Ohhh I'm at my new house. Just settling in after my stint as a hardened criminal.

    ...

    Sheryl, surprised by the news, scrunches her face in displeased surprise.

    SHERYL: (into phone) WHAT? You're joking.

    ...

    Jerome continues, looking at Valerie, trying to keep the conversation light.

    JEROME: (into phone) No joke. Look, I uh...I don't really wanna get into it right now, but...you alright?

    ...

    SHERYL: (into phone) Not really.

    ...

    Jerome rolls his eyes, knowing Sheryl's problems will be something petty.

    JEROME: (into phone) Alright, spill. What is it?

    ...

    SHERYL: (into phone) I think Lucas might be onto us. I don't know how but...something's wrong.

    ...

    Jerome looks ahead, responding without hesitation.

    JEROME: (into phone) Meet me at Jordan's in 20 minutes?

    ...

    Sheryl again furrows her brow, confused by Jerome's request.

    SHERYL: (into phone) I can't until morning.  Uh...besides, you don't even know where she lives...

    ...

    JEROME: (into phone) Text me directions now. She and I need to clear the air. You be there at 8:30 tomorrow morning. Bye.

    Jerome hangs up abruptly, putting his jacket back on, much to Valerie's chagrin. Valerie starts to head toward Jerome.

    VALERIE: Jerome Grant, where are you going?

    Jerome opens the front door of the house, barely stopping to explain himself.

    JEROME: There's an emergency at the University I have to deal with, Grandma. I'll see you in a bit.
    VALERIE: Jerome, wait!

    The door slams shut behind Jerome, causing Valerie to flinch, before looking off resigned and angry.

    ---

    Nick walks up to Stefano's grand leather chair. Resting against the back of it, he watches the fire along with Stefano.

    NICK: You know...you remember those...photos I sold you? Those ones Percy took of Abigail and EJ doing the do? Whatever happened to those?

    Stefano laughs heartily, never taking his eyes off the fire as he answers Nick.

    STEFANO: Ohh I have them in a very safe place. And if Elvis plays his cards right, they won't move from that place.

    ---

    Jennifer gets up from her seat, arms crossed, pacing the room uncomfortably as Billie looks her way, hoping to find a way to calm her nerves.

    BILLIE: Jenn, I'm sorry if I upset you, but...

    Jenn shrugs, shaking her head, deep in her own thoughts, almost not answering Billie, but just verbalizing her inner thoughts.

    JENNIFER: No, it's...it's okay, Billie. it's not your fault, and I'm sorry it's gone this way. But Daniel and I can't be together...I can't trust him. Besides, I've moved on.

    Billie looks Jenn's way, uncertainty in her eye.

    BILLIE: Jenn, I mean...maybe it's my insecurity talking but...it doesn't sound like you have.

    Jenn stops pacing, clicking back and turning to face Billie. She puts her hand over to meet Billie's, which rests on the top of the sofa near where Jenn was pacing. She smiles warmly at her longtime friend.

    JENNIFER: I have. And I've met a wonderful man who loves me and...it feels like we've known each other forever.

    Billie cracks a smile, as Jenn walks around to the other side of the sofa, never letting go of Billie's hand as she goes to sit on the sofa next to Billie, where she begins to gush about Liam.

    BILLIE: That's...GREAT. Tell me more!
    JENNIFER: Oh, Billie, I mean, you know, I know, I've..moved on kinda fast but...this guy, we talk about he just...he understands where I'm coming from, and he...I mean he even remembered Abigail's birthday a couple months ago, I like...I barely remember mentioning it to him. (laughs)

    Billie doesn't join in Jennifer's gushing, schoolgirl laughter, though she tries momentarily. The realization hits her, that this was what Laura was talking about to Daniel. She tries to hide her concern.

    BILLIE: What a...sweetheart.
    JENNIFER: He really is. Billie, I can't wait for you to meet him.
    BILLIE: I'm sure I will soon. He uh...he works at the hospital as well?
    JENNIFER: Yeah! He's a uh...pharmaceutical rep.
    BILLIE: I see.

    Billie nods in feigned approval, before starting to get up from the couch.

    BILLIE: Look, I need to get going, but I'm glad I stopped by. It's good to see you again.

    Jennifer gets up from the couch as well, smiling widely. She reaches quickly over to hug Billie.

    JENNIFER: It's SO good to see you. Ohhh my gosh, you, Daniel, Liam, and I...we should get together sometime soon. 

    Billie smiles, nodding in strained agreement.

    BILLIE: Yes, we...definitely should. And...again, I'm sorry if I upset you.
    JENNIFER: No! Sweetie, never. I know what you're feeling right now. You're going through a lot of emotions. You're feeling...vulnerable. Insecure. It's okay. I understand that. And if you need me, I'll be there for you. Okay?

    Billie smiles earnestly, almost blushing at her friend's warmth and caring.

    BILLIE: Thank you.

    Billie turns and heads for the door, as Jennifer stays behind in the living room, an intense, thoughtful look on her face, as Billie heads out the door.

    Outside, Billie stands in the doorway, more concerned than ever.

    BILLIE: Alright, Billie. Time to find out who this Liam Frasier guy is...and what he wants.

    ---

    JJ gets up from his seat, his worry about his mom's safety palpible, he starts to panic as he speaks, building himself up into a bit of a frenzy, which Laura can't bear to watch, worried she'll be worked up herself.

    JJ: Grandma, what are we gonna do? I mean...if this Liam guy is really working for the DiMeras...I mean...mom could be in serious danger...and Abigail. I mean...she's working for them already. What if they're spying on her. What if this trip to Italy was...what are they gonna do to her?

    Laura looks at JJ, welling up with concern for her family, she can no longer hold back. She stands up from the edge of JJ's bed

    LAURA: I don't know, JJ. But I do know one thing for sure, is that you need to be kept safe from all of this. And I promise you, I will keep you safe, no matter what it costs me.

    Laura leans over and takes JJ in her arms, holding her grandson tightly.

    ---

    Maggie continues to try to cool the frayed nerves in the Kiriakis living room, trying to keep the mood light with banter, which falls on deaf ears to the rest of the party.

    MAGGIE: So it looks like The Penthouse Grille reopening will be ready to go by the spring. Isn't that great?
    ALEX: That's fabulous news, Maggie. I can't wait to see the place.


    Just then, Justin walks in the doors of the living room. Upon seeing his son looking back at him, Justin's face lights up, as does Alex's.

    ALEX: DAD!
    JUSTIN: You gotta be kidding me! Come here, big guy!

    Justin and Alex laugh and share a warm hug, as Adrienne gets up from her seat to greet her husband.

    JUSTIN: And I'm assuming you brought Noelle with you?
    NOELLE: Hi!
    JUSTIN: Noelle! It's been awhile.
    NOELLE: (laughs) Yes, it has. 

    Justin steps over to Noelle, giving her a kiss on the cheek as a greeting. Adrienne, awkwardly stands near Justin, finally piping up.

    ADRIENNE: Ahh, Justin. Sweetie.

    Justing and Adrienne quickly kiss on the lips, Justin smiling warmly at his wife, though sensing her tension.

    JUSTIN: Yes, my dear.
    ADRIENNE: Could I, uh, speak to you in the kitchen a moment.

    Justin shrugs casually, pouring himself a quick drink before taking off.

    JUSTIN: Sure!

    Adrienne leads Justin out of the room into the side room. Inside the living room, Will's eyes follow Adrienne and Justin out, an air of suspicion as he watches them leave. Victor walks back around toward his previous seat.

    VICTOR: God, I hope dinner's soon. All this fretting and suspicious behaviour is working up my appetite.

    Maggie, starting to lose her cool, begins to crack, her voice raising in irritation not just as Victor, but everyone.

    MAGGIE: Victor, I swear to God. One more snide remark out of you--
    VICTOR: ...And what, Maggie? You'll divorce me?

    Maggie gets up from her seat, finally blown her cool.

    MAGGIE: Don't press your luck, Kiriakis!

    Noelle sits, revelling in Victor's misery, but Sonny thinks better of the situation and gets up as well to try to calm things down.

    SONNY: Okay, maybe we should go set the table. I think Chef is nearly ready for the starters, so...

    Will follows suit, still more fixated on Adrienne and Justin's whereabouts, but using this as an opportunity to spy.

    WILL: Yeah. Yeah, I think that's a great idea, Sonny.
    NOELLE: Ohh, and miss all this great together time? Victor will be so disappointed. Won't he?

    Victor stands stoically by the bar set. Taking a sip of his drink, he casually retorts.

    VICTOR: Blow it out your nose, Hussy.
    MAGGIE: That does it! I've had enough. Victor, I hope you enjoy the poolhouse, because that's where you're staying tonight.

    Victor looks at Maggie, incredulously.

    VICTOR: What on Earth are you talking about, woman? This is MY house!
    MAGGIE: And I own half of it. Remember? I'll be in the kitchen.

    Victor scowls in defeat, as Maggie steps around Victor, heading to the kitchen to join the others in preparing dinner.

    Victor lingers in the living room, alone, save for Noelle, who has stayed behind, a smug smile on her face. Once the last of the group leave the room, Noelle begins to clap at Victor's misfortune.

    NOELLE: Great work, Victor. I have to say...that's one for the books. You've managed to alienate your entire family before the first course is even served. That's got to be a new record. Even for you!

    Victor looks away from Noelle, shaking his head slowly, before quickly downing the rest of his drink.

    ---

    Will and Sonny head for the kitchen, but Will stops just short of the kitchen. Sonny looks back in Will's direction, and Will motions to him, holding one finger up to tell him to hold on a moment.

    WILL: Just need to have a pit stop for a moment.
    SONNY: Okay.

    Sonny disappears through the saloon doors into the kitchen, while Will hangs back, spotting Adrienne and Justin chatting in the garden. Being sure not to be seen, he hides around the corner, just close enough to overhear their conversation outside.
     

    Adrienne stands  stone still. Arms folded, staring straight ahead, as Justin tries desperately to discover what's wrong. He walks up behind Adrienne, putting his hands tenderly on her shoulders.

    JUSTIN: Hey, you alright?
    ADRIENNE: (sigh) I hope so.

    Justin, unsatisfied with his wife's answer, resists his urge to roll his eyes, as Adrienne continues.

    ADRIENNE: I uh...I think I must be losing my mind.
    JUSTIN: Oh?

    Adrienne momentarily laughs at herself a bit, before carrying on.

    ADRIENNE: Yeah! Well...see...you know how I've always....had some misgivings about Will and Sonny being together.

    Justin nods, worried that he knows the direction this conversation's headed.

    JUSTIN: Yyyes. And we've reminded you to stay out of it. Let the boys handle it.

    Adrienne spins around quickly, almost cutting Justin off.

    ADRIENNE: Yes! Exactly! And I told you over and over again that Will is just...he is too much like Sami, and Lucas has not been a much better example for him.
    JUSTIN: Okay. I mean, Lucas has had his fair share of drama, but...you know...so did we.

    Adrienne looks seriously into her husband's eyes. She inhales deeply while she works out her next thought.

    ADRIENNE: Well, I didn't realize how right I was...not until tonight. Justin, this wedding CANNOT happen. I won't let it happen.

    Justin looks on, stunned by his wife's sudden emboldened, and passionate plea.

    Will, meanwhile, hides around the corner, enraged by Adrienne's pointed disapproval.

    ---
  10. beebs
    EPISODE 80
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Laura sits in her office at University Hospital, recalling what JJ told her the previous night about Liam. 

    ...

    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 71
     

    Laura breathes in deeply, standing in her bedroom, as she tries to relax herself and keeps asking JJ questions.

    LAURA: Right. Okay...so...JJ...what happened after that conversation you had with your mother?
    JJ: Well...they took off, mom and Liam did...and I stayed behind to try to...sort this out in my head...and as they left...Liam...he looked at me...I caught him trying to...like...stare me down or something. But I'm more worried about Abigail than anything. I mean...she's working for Stefano but...Liam works at the hospital, he has no ties to Stefano.

    ...

    Laura thinks intensely about what JJ said, while shaking her head.

    She swallows hard before talking to herself.

    LAURA: Ohhh, let's just hope I'm wrong about Liam.


    As she finishes, Daniel opens her door, knocking gently on it. Laura looks up and smiles at him.

    LAURA: Daniel!
    DANIEL: You asked to see me?
    LAURA: Yes, I...I have a favour to ask you.

    Daniel squints a bit, unsure what to expect.

    DANIEL: Oh? What kind of favour?

    Laura stirs awkwardly for a moment, trying to find the best way to ask.

    LAURA: I need you to do a bit of digging on someone...Liam Frasier.

    Daniel looks down, sighing in frustration.

    ---
     

    At the former Titan TV studio, Nicole stands with Miles before hearing the sound of the doors to the studio opening, as a group of people enter the room.

    She closes her eyes, anticipating the worst before turning around to see who's come in.

    As she turns, she spots a group of men in suits approaching.


    Followed by none other than Sami Brady and EJ DiMera.

    NICOLE: No!

    Sami stops before the group of men, and immediately launches into her announcement.

    SAMI: Good afternoon, everybody! I'm sure you all know by now, I'm Samantha Brady. And I will be operating the TV operation formerly known as Titan TV, as of today.

    Nicole breathes in deeply, choking back a scream, as Sami locks eyes with Nicole, a huge smile across Sami's face.

    NICOLE: No! You've got to be joking!

    Sami smiles widely, trying to stop herself from laughing as EJ responds.

    EJ: Oh, believe me, Nicole. This is anything but a joke.

    Nicole looks at EJ incredulously, before looking back towards Sami.

    NICOLE: How is it not? Samantha Brady has as much experience running a TV station as Billy Baldwin has at the Oscars.
    SAMI: My God, Nicole. Even your references are dated...

    Sami saunters over a little too causally over towards an agitated Nicole. She stands inches in front of her as she continues.

    SAMI: You know...considering how our...advertisers demand our programming be....youthful, fresh...ahead of the curve? I might be really careful what I say around here. Know what I mean?

    Nicole scowls at Sami, as Sami smiles smugly.

    ---
     

    ---


    Marlena walks into the 7th floor lobby at University Hospital as the door to the elevator opens. Eric walks out, catching Marlena's eye. He spots her as well and stops, walking back towards his mother.

    MARLENA: Eric! It's good to see you.
    ERIC: Mom.

    The two hug warmly, though Eric's troubled face doesn't get past Marlena, who immediately begins to worry.

    MARLENA: You alright? You seem...a bit distracted.
    ERIC: Yeah, you could say that.

    The two separate, and Marlena looks at her son. She steps back a moment before answering, a worried look on her face.

    MARLENA: You want to grab a coffee and we can talk about it?

    Eric nods solemnly.

    ERIC: I'd like that.

    Marlena smiles warmly as she presses the down button to the elevator, headed for the ground floor.

    MARLENA: Great. I've had quite a morning myself.

    As the door opens, the two step on, and Eric looks on, puzzled himself.

    ERIC: Oh? What happened?
    MARLENA: Ohhh....it's a long story.

    The elevator doors shut as Marlena looks over at her son, whose own worried expression is now equally directed as his mother as it has been at himself.

    ---


    Valerie steps into her office, holding Roman's medical files in hand. Pouring over them, she looks confused by the contents.

    VALERIE: This...can't be right...


    As she speaks, Jerome steps into the room, knocking on the door of her office, causing her to jump a moment.

    JEROME: Hey Grandma.
    VALERIE: Jerome! Baby, how are you?? When did you get into town?

    Valerie puts the folder down, and almost runs over to Jerome, throwing her arms around him, gleeful at seeing her grandson.

    JEROME: Just this morning. I...actually haven't had a chance to go to the house and drop my things off yet.
    VALERIE: Well, actually that's good because I should probably go help you out when I'm done here.
    JEROME: Okay, I'll meet you after.

    Valerie smiles, happy to see her grandson again.

    VALERIE: Sounds good. I should be done in an hour or so. I just gotta...figure out something with this patient file first. Hey, did you get everything settled at the university yet?

    Jerome stops a moment, a strange look on his face that Valerie spots immediately.

    JEROME: I...yeah...I just was taking care of a couple things.

    Valerie looks at Jerome, squinting her eyes like she knows something's up.

    VALERIE: Jerome Paul Grant. I have raised you from the time you were in diapers, and I know you're lying to me. Now out with it. What were you really up to?

    Jerome breathes in, eyes darting quickly to the side as he tries to quickly come up with something to tell his grandmother.
     
    ---

    Nicole keeps her eyes firmly locked on Sami, as she puts one hand on her hip.

    NICOLE: You know, this is hardly the way to build workplace morale, Sami.
    SAMI: Well, I always figured it wasn't exactly great for workplace morale to have a murderous psycho on staff, but these folks seem to manage just fine.

    Nicole rolls her eyes.

    NICOLE: (sigh) Sami, get over it. Whether you want to admit it or not, I'm good at my job, and I work hard. So at least someone thinks I have something worth holding onto.

    Sami begins to laugh at Nicole's assertion.

    SAMI: Like who?
    NICOLE: Your brother for a start! 
    SAMI: Right, well, Eric always did have rotten taste in women.
    NICOLE: Oh that's rich, considering you're the one taking my sloppy seconds. 

    EJ finally has had enough and interjects.

    EJ: Okay, ladies, that's enough, alright? Look, Nicole, I recognize you've done a lot of fine work for Titan TV, and you're in no danger of losing your job now, you understand.

    Nicole looks back EJ's way with a smug smile.

    NICOLE: Thank you, EJ.

    EJ walks up behind Sami, putting both hands on her shoulders.

    EJ: Besides, Samantha, we have a very special project for Nicole to work on for us.
    NICOLE: And what would that be, exactly?
    EJ: You're going to work on that expose of all the shady business practices over at EnerNext. We'll give you every dollar you need. I want you to nail the bastards for us.

    Nicole smiles widely, partly in relief to get her bosses' support.

    NICOLE: Oh, I think I can arrange that.

    ---

    Daniel squirms as he tries to respond to Laura's request, visibly uncomfortable getting involved in this situation.

    DANIEL: Laura...I want you to understand something, okay? Jenn and I...when we split, I made the point to stay out of her life as much as possible, and I've held to that--
    LAURA: ...Yes, but now she needs you, Daniel.
    DANIEL: What do you mean? I mean...Liam's a good guy, I work with him every day here at the hospital.

    Laura begins to appear visibly agitated by Daniel's refusal, her desperation becoming clear to him as she continues.

    LAURA: Daniel! Look, I know what your situation has been with Jennifer, and I understand you're moving on, but I do NOT trust this man at ALL.

    Daniel looks stunned by Laura's statement. Laura, meanwhile, gets up from her desk, and begins to pace nervously around the room.

    DANIEL: Wha...why not? I mean, he treats Jenn really well from all accounts, and...honestly, I don't understand what all the fuss is about, Laura.
    LAURA: No, you don't understand. Look, before I say anything to you about this, you need to promise me this stays between you and I. Nobody else can know about any part of this. Do you understand.

    Daniel puts his hands up in surrender, as Laura stands tense before him, looking directly into his eyes with a great intensity that is offputting even to Daniel.

    DANIEL: You have my word.
    LAURA: Alright...

    Laura looks away, a bit more relaxed again, but once again pacing the room.

    LAURA: JJ came to me last night...he was...he was shaking, Daniel. He was terrified.

    Daniel looks at Laura, a real concern starting to come across his face.

    DANIEL: Terrified of what?
    LAURA: Of Liam. He had overheard Liam talking to someone outside the Town Square on his cell phone, and that someone mentioned that they would be keeping tabs on Abigail while she's out of the country, and...something about reporting to Stefano.

    Daniel looks down a moment, mulling over what Laura's just told him.

    Daniel thinks back to Abigail's fall, and her being his patient afterwards. He recalls her nervousness regarding her pregnancy.

    ...

    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 49


    Abigail lies in her hospital bed as Daniel casually goes over her chart. Abigail is nervous thanks in part to Daniel's close ties to her family and ex-colleagues at the hospital.

    ABBY: That's good. Uh...Daniel...umm...you're not going to tell my mom about any of this, are you?
    DANIEL: Nah, that's...that's not gonna happen. See, your mom and I are, in no uncertain terms, finished.
    ABBY: Good. Uh...that's....not quite what I meant. I mean, I just...well, you know a lot of my family and friends and...
    DANIEL: Doctor-patient confidentiality. Cross my heart.

    Abigail smiles, feeling reassured that Daniel won't speak to anyone about her condition.

    ...

    After this moment, his eyes snap back up towards Laura, a realization having struck him.

    DANIEL: My God. 

    ---
  11. beebs
    EPISODE 86
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson
    Sonny walks up to the door of the Kiriakis Mansion, and rings the doorbell, while Will stands behind him, trying to hide his annoyance at having to be at this family dinner to begin with. Henderson opens the door.
    SONNY: Hey, Henderson, we're here...
    Sonny is taken aback, when he looks behind Henderson, to see a face he hasn't seen in years.

    SONNY: Oh my God....Alex???
    ALEX: Hey, my man, how are you??
    SONNY: Oh WOW, this is...WOW, look at you, man! It's so good to see you!
    Sonny races inside to give Alex a hug, as Will steps inside, a wave of horror washes over him. Sonny turns to face Will, a huge smile on his face as he speaks.
    SONNY: Alex, I want you to meet my fiancé, Will Horton. Will, this is my brother, Alex Kiriakis.
    Will turns ghost white, stunned into silence. Realizing what's happening, he snaps out of his daze and chokes out a reply. Feigning a smile.
    WILL: I...yeah, we...we've met.
    ALEX: Yeah! Turns out Will's my new employee.
    WILL: Yeah! Keeping it in the family. You know.
    Will sneaks a look at Sonny, whose eyes beg Will not to keep antagonizing him on this night. Will smiles, as Alex motions them into the living room.
    ALEX: You, uh...you guys wanna come into the living room. We're having drinks before dinner.
    SONNY: That...sounds like exactly what I need. Will?
    WILL: Absolutely. Lead the way.
    Sonny and Alex head into the living room, Will following closely behind, his face dropping as his sudden tension at being at dinner with both Alex and Sonny shows.
    ---

    Jennifer walks into her living room, a file folder in hand, as Laura sits on the sofa, reading a book on her tablet. As Jennifer walks in, Laura looks up at her daughter and smiles.
    LAURA: Jennifer! How was your day?
    Jennifer sets the file folder on the desk in the corner of the room, before turning toward her mother, smiling, but with an visible tension about her body language.
    JENNIFER: Oh, it was good. You know...quiet day. I had...a press release to finish up about our brand new chief of staff.
    LAURA: Ohh Valerie Grant. It's...so exciting to have her back. I mean, I wish it were under different circumstances, but...
    JENNIFER: I know...it's such a shock...Kayla taking off like that so suddenly. No word on why or...what's happening with Steve and Joey.
    LAURA: I just hope they're okay.
    JENNIFER: Yeah...so do I.
    Jennifer looks to one side in the momentary silence between mother and daughter. She smiles quickly before heading for the kitchen.
    JENNIFER: I, uh...I should go get myself together. Liam and I are going out tonight.
    This causes Laura's eyes to bug out, suddenly worry showing across her face as she watches her daughter head out of the room.
    LAURA: Going out, again? You...Jennifer, you and Liam have become...really close really quickly.
    Jennifer stops in her tracks in the doorway. Turning around, a strange look on her face.
    JENNIFER: Yes, we have. Uh...Mom...you know, you've been rather...uneasy with Liam lately. I mean...I know JJ has also had some...rather vocal misgivings about him as well.
    LAURA: Yes, he has. And...I confess...so have I. But--
    JENNIFER: ...Has JJ been putting these ideas in your head, Mom?
    Laura turns to Jennifer, trying to put her at ease and reaching out, as Jenn walks back into the room, arms folded.
    LAURA: Darling, no! Look, we just...we love you, and with Abigail away, and it being so little time since you and Daniel split...I just...I don't want you to rush into anything, I mean...are you going to be coming home tonight?
    Jennifer turns to face Laura, arms still folded in discomfort at her mother's invasive line of questioning.
    JENNIFER: Mother! Look, this is none of your business, I am a grown woman with adult children of my own. I don't have to tell you where and when I'm spending the night with a man I'm dating.
    Laura puts up her hands to try to calm Jennifer down a moment.
    LAURA: That's....that's not how I meant it. I'm just....I'm just saying, I want you to take it slow. I know how Daniel hurt you by lying about JJ and Theresa and I just...
    JENNIFER: You're just looking out for me, I know...
    Jennifer walks away again, her arms unfolding as she tries to calm down, realizing her mother's only looking out for her. After a moment, she turns again, cooled off enough to speak again.
    JENNIFER: I know. It's just...JJ's different. I know he wants me and Daniel together, and...I don't know...
    LAURA: Do you think JJ's making up trouble for nothing?
    Jennifer ponders Laura's question a moment before answering.
    JENNIFER: I don't know. I mean, maybe. Maybe he's just looking out for me.
    Jennifer shrugs as she continues, pacing the room as she talks to Laura, almost thinking aloud as she does.
    JENNIFER: Sometimes I wonder about Liam. I mean...today he came to visit me at work, and...he had some phone call. He hurried off. It was...it was bizarre, he seemed so...tense. 
    LAURA: A phone call?
    JENNIFER: Yeah...some deal he had to close with another hospital. It really seemed to upset him and he ran off.
    Laura feigns cluelessness, as she tries to coax more information out of her daughter.
    LAURA: Well, hopefully it clears up before tonight.
    Laura gets up from the couch, putting a hand on her worried daughter's shoulder.
    LAURA: Look, JJ will come around, and soon Abigail will be home, and...things will get back to normal again.
    Jennifer smiles, the tension starting to ease off as she turns to face her mother, a warm smile on her face again.
    JENNIFER: Thanks, Mom. And for the record, I have not been to Liam's home yet...I actually...honestly don't even know where he lives, if I'm honest. It's...strange, isn't it?
    Suddenly, the doorbell rings, prompting a chuckling Jennifer to head for the door again, leaving Laura behind, her worry intensifying. Laura responds quietly, as Jenn leaves the room.
    LAURA: Yes...very strange.


    Jennifer steps into the foyer. Opening the door, she's surprised to see Billie waiting at her door.
    JENNIFER: Billie! Oh my God, it's so good to see you!
    Billie smiles widely, looking almost too happy to see her old friend as she waits at the door.
    ---

    ---
    Jennifer hesitates for a moment, before stepping back from the door to invite Billie inside.
    JENNIFER: Uh, sorry, oh gosh, Billie, come in.
    Billie steps in, all smiles, with a tension in her smile, as she looks around to see if anyone else is at home. Jennifer turns to face Billie, holding her arms out for a hug.
    BILLIE: Ohhh, thank you, it's so good to see you!
    Jennifer and Billie hug tightly. Billie steps away from Jennifer, still holding her hands.
    JENNIFER: You too. I'm surprised to see you just...drop by.
    BILLIE: Yeah, sorry, I should have called first. I've been in town...well...a month or two now and...I just never called. I'm sorry, there's just been....a lot happening.
    Jennifer looks with concern at Billie.
    JENNIFER: I heard what happened with Theresa. I can't see her and I...ever saw eye to eye but...she didn't deserve this.
    Billie looks down, trying to hold in her emotions. Her voice cracks a bit as she talks to Jennifer.
    BILLIE: Yeah, well...ahem...she'll pull through this. She's pulled through a lot already.
    Jennifer simply smiles in response. After a moment, Laura walks over, a bright smile on her face as she sees Billie.
    LAURA: Billie! It's good to see you again.
    BILLIE: Hi! Yes, it's been...years. Wow!
    LAURA: Look, uh...Jenn, I'm just going upstairs a minute. I have a call to make.
    JENNIFER: Alright, Mom.
    Laura heads upstairs, as Jennifer guides Billie into the living room. Jennifer motions to the couch for Billie to sit. Billie obliges, as Jenn steps to the side table.
    JENNIFER: Did you, uh...did you want some tea?
    BILLIE: I'd love some, thanks.
    Jennifer flips over two teacups from the tray on the table, pouring out tea from the pot next to it. Billie reluctantly speaks up, breaking the increasingly awkward silence.
    BILLIE: So, uh...Jenn. I uh...I hear you've been...seeing someone. Does this mean you are...you know...over Daniel?
    Jennifer looks up, setting the tea down before she overpours the tea. Turning to face Billie, she looks on with confusion at Billie's strange line of questioning.
    ---

    Lucas sits at his desk at Titan, typing away at his computer, as Sheryl knocks on the door of his office. Lucas barely flinches at the distraction, choosing to continue his work. Sheryl, refusing to be ignored, speaks up.
    SHERYL: Oh Mr. Horton. You have a visitor.
    Lucas looks away finally, seeing Sheryl looking at him sensually. Lucas smiles back.
    LUCAS: Sheryl! Hey! Um...hey, come in, I'll just be one second, okay?
    SHERYL: Alright.
    Sheryl steps into Lucas' office, walking up behind him, putting her hands on his shoulders, sensing tension in them. Lucas flinches as Sheryl rubs his shoulders gently.
    SHERYL: Ooh, someone's feeling a bit tense.

    Sheryl leans in, speaking softly into Lucas' ear as she rubs Lucas' shoulders more deeply. Lucas can't hide the discomfort he increasingly feels. As she does, Kate is about to enter Lucas' office, but stops, hearing Sheryl inside. She leans against the door and listens in silently.
    SHERYL: I guess I should...(whispers) take care of that.
    Sheryl bites Lucas' earlobe, finally causing Lucas to jump back. Sheryl jumps back as well, stunned by Lucas' strong negative reaction.
    LUCAS: Sorry, I just...you caught me at a bad time.
    Sheryl looks Lucas up and down, annoyed at the reaction to her sensual play from her partner.
    SHERYL: I should say so. God, far be it from me to disturb you.
    Lucas gets up from his seat, putting a hand to his forehead, as he tries to apologize.
    LUCAS: Look, it's...it's not you, I just...there's a lot of stuff going down right now with work. You know, the TV station selling, the oil sands fiasco, and  Brady dying. It's just...I got a lot on my mind.
    Sheryl takes a moment, before stepping towards Lucas again, trying to put a comforting hand on his shoulder. Kate spying even closer by the door, just out of eyeshot of the two inside.
    SHERYL: Honey, I know that. That's why I wanted to...surprise you with a little...you know...affection.
    LUCAS: I know, babe, but...look, just...just give me ten minutes and, I promise...I'll make this up to you, we'll go for some drinks and maybe a late dinner at Club TBD? How's that sound?
    Sheryl cracks a smile again, noticing Lucas relaxing again.
    SHERYL: Alright, you're on.
    LUCAS: Great, uh...why don't you go ahead of me and, I'll meet you there in 20.
    SHERYL: Sure.
    As Sheryl responds, Kate opens the door to let herself in. Sheryl looks on, surprised to see her.
    SHERYL: Kate!
    KATE: Sheryl! What a surprise to see you in so late...putting in those overtime hours is paying off?
    SHERYL: You could say that.
    Kate smiles, but with an underlying coldness in her tone that Sheryl can sense.
    KATE: Well, I wouldn't want you to overwork yourself. Go enjoy your evening.
    SHERYL: Ohh, I intend to. I'll see you later?
    KATE: Indeed.
    Sheryl walks toward the door as Kate steps inside. Sheryl turns back to speak to Lucas as she rests her hand on the doorknob.
    SHERYL: See you in a half hour?
    LUCAS: Sounds good.
    SHERYL: Alright, bye, honey.
    As Sheryl closes the door, Kate turns to face Lucas, looking unimpressed.
    KATE: A piece of advice?
    Lucas looks at his mother, dreading what's about to come.
    LUCAS: No, but I'm sure you'll give it to me anyway.
    Kate leans over Lucas' desk, never taking her eyes off Lucas for a second.
    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.
    Lucas looks on, looking simultaneously annoyed at his mother, and confounded that she was able to listen in.
    ---

    At the DiMera Mansion, Stefano sits quietly in his executive chair, facing a raging fire, as the sun dims into dusk. He stares directly into the fire, contemplating the many matters on his mind at the moment. 

    As he does, the doors of the living room open, Nick Fallon making something of a grand entrance.
    NICK: Mr. DiMera, Sir! You will be pleased to know that everything is moving ever-so-quickly into place.
    Stefano smiles, his eyes never moving from the fire as he responds to Nick.
    STEFANO: I should hope so. You've done very well in bringing us Titan TV, now to bring us the rest of the empire...and Victor Kiriakis' head on a platter.
    ---

    Victor stands in the living room, pouring himself a drink, as Sonny, Will, and Alex step inside. Victor looks over, and smiles.
    VICTOR: Ah! Sonny! Will! Glad to see you've made it. A drink?
    Will immediately pipes up, cheerily chiming in his response.
    WILL: I'll have a double.
    Sonny looks back, annoyance still lingering on his face, as Victor responds, holding a glass up.
    VICTOR: Sonny?
    Sonny hesistates, trying to communicate to Will to cool it, before turning to respond to Victor.
    SONNY: Uh, yeah, Uncle Vic. Just a single for me, though.
    VICTOR: Fine. You, Alex?
    ALEX: I'll pass, Uncle Vic.
    Victor prepares the drinks, as Victor continues, casually starting conversation.
    VICTOR: So, Will! How are you finding working for EnerNext?
    Will looks at Sonny, then Alex, smiling wryly as he responds to Victor.
    WILL: So far, I love it. Everyone's been lovely, and your uh...nephew here has been incredibly welcoming.
    Victor turns, heading over to hand Will his drink.
    VICTOR: That's good to hear. And how are things between you and Sonny?
    Sonny and Will look awkwardly at each other, before Sonny tries to end this line of questioning.
    SONNY: Uh...Uncle Vic, I'd rather not--
    WILL: ...Oh it's fine, Sonny. After all, you were more than open with Victor about how you feel about me having this job, I'm sure Victor won't mind me sharing how I feel.
    Sonny looks at Will, shocked by his petulence.
    SONNY: WILL!
    ALEX: I...think I should go...check on...dinner...
    WILL: No, no! Alex, don't be ridiculous. Stay, it's nothing major.
    Victor looks at the situation, taking a sip from his drink while he frets about the mess created.
    VICTOR: So you heard about our conversation then, Will?
    Will looks at Victor, smiling, a smugness in his eyes.
    WILL: Oh yes. We had a really...intense talk about it. Oh, don't worry. He and I came to a very good resolution about it. I mean, you know...it's not perfect but...well, I'm definitely not going to be giving up my job anytime soon.
    VICTOR: That's good to hear. We're lucky to have you with us, Will.
    WIll smiles warmly, the layer of artifice melting away at Victor's compliment.
    WILL: Thank you, Mr. Kiriakis.
    Victor smiles back, as he hands Alex his drink. Alex obliges, nodding slightly in thanks. Alex turns to Will in the same moment.
    ALEX: Victor's right, you know. I'm really glad Sonny has gone along with this job. Personally, I didn't think he would be down with it. He's really....proud that way.
    Sonny laughs uncomfortably at Alex's dig at him. Alex continues before Sonny can respond.
    ALEX: Ahhh, I'm just playing. Look, bro. Your fiancé's a great writer. He's gonna be an awesome addition to the team.
    Sonny smiles graciously, if sheepishly. He nods in agreement, though looking to the ground, deep in thought.
    SONNY: Yeah, that's...no surprise to me. He's a very talented guy.
    WILL: You're all so kind. I mean, honestly, thank you. All of you.

    As Will finishes, Maggie, Adrienne, and Noelle walk into the living room from the side room leading to the kitchen. Maggie's face lights up upon seeing Will and Sonny.
    MAGGIE: Will! Sonny! You're here!
    Maggie walks over quickly, giving a hug to both Will and Sonny, while Noelle hangs back, curling her arm around Alex's. Adrienne, meanwhile, hangs back, watching Victor's quickly-souring face as he watches Noelle slinking herself around Alex, never talking her eyes off Victor as she does.
    A moment later, Adrienne's eyes are taken with Will's sudden fascination with Noelle and Alex's closeness. Will looks stunned, almost despondent, by the gesture of affection between Noelle and Alex.
    WILL: Um...Alex...who is this?
    Alex looks over at Noelle, who rests her head affectionately on Alex's shoulder.
    ALEX: Oh! Yeah, where are my manners? I'd like to introduce you and Sonny to my wife. Noelle Curtis.
    Noelle smiles proudly as Will's face drops, another bombshell hitting him. Victor, meanwhile, grips his drink tightly, immediately taking a sip while he looks away bitterly, and Sonny looks on, cheerily oblivious to everyone else's displeasure.
    Adrienne, meanwhile, looks on from the corner, fixated on Will's miserable expression. She can't hide the displeasure and concern in his face.
    ---
  12. beebs
    EPISODE 79
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Maggie walks down the stairs at the Kiriakis mansion, a worried look on her face as she calls out to her husband.

    MAGGIE: Victor??

    Maggie looks toward the doorway, then the living room. Not seeing Victor, or indeed anyone else, she slowly walks into the living room. Spotting an envelope on Victor's desk, she sees her name written on the front of it.

    Curious, she touches the envelope reluctantly. She then turns around, looking behind her, making sure Victor isn't looking in on her. 

    Once she deems the coast clear, Maggie slowly opens the envelope, pulling the paper out and unfolding it nervously. She struggles to read it, having left her reading glasses in her purse.

    MAGGIE: Oh My God. 


    Hearing a noise behind her, Maggie turns around to find a morose-looking Victor behind her. She smiles warmly at him.

    MAGGIE: The title for the Penthouse Grille.

    Victor smiles slightly. Maggie looks on lovingly.

    VICTOR: I wanted to make sure you had control over the property regardless of what happens to Titan.

    Maggie looks at Victor, surprised by his attitude.

    MAGGIE: Victor...what on Earth are you talking about?

    Victor looks down, away from Maggie, the sadness and worry plain on his face as he struggles to answer her.

    ---


    Marlena opens the door to her office at University Hospital. Roman and Valerie follow Marlena into the room. Valerie immediately closes the door behind her, ready to get down to business.

    VALERIE: Okay, so, talk to me. Tell me about these memory lapses.

    Roman stands, head down, hands on his hips, as he thinks over the moments he's missed so far. His reluctance to talk about his problem being obvious as he stutters his way through his troubles.

    ROMAN: Well...they...just started a few months ago. Minor stuff. There were these....holes in my memories that weren't there before.
    VALERIE: Such as...?

    Marlena, resting against the front of her desk, chimes in.

    MARLENA: The first time I met Bo, for a start.

    Roman turns to look at Marlena. He makes a strong face of frustration, recalling her reaction to his misremembering of that memory. Marlena sees his frustration and stops herself for a second, having been caught off guard by his look.

    ---


    Nicole walks into the studio at what is no longer Titan TV, as many of her colleagues mill about, chattering. All are fascinated by what's going on, curtains obscuring the studio wall that formerly held the Titan logo.

    Nicole looks around, as Miles appears, immediately going to speak to Nicole.

    NICOLE: Miles!
    MILES: Hey, Nicole. You excited about the news?
    NICOLE: To be honest...I'm more nervous than excited.

    Miles nods, and takes a moment before responding.

    MILES: Yyyyeah. So am I. If the news matches the rumours I heard, you won't like the news any more than I will.

    Nicole looks up, eyes widened. A thousand negative outcomes fill her head.

    ---


    Kate sits at her desk at her office. She looks up at a worried Lucas, who has just come in panicked about Sheryl and Jordan. Lucas, meanwhile, paces back and forth in front of Kate's desk as Kate tries to relax him.

    KATE: Oh come on, Lucas. What do you mean, you can't carry the charade with Sheryl? You owe this to me, and to your sister. She's worked way too hard on this for you to back out now.
    LUCAS: I'm not backing out, I just...we need to talk to Roman and Billie and get them to start making a move. 
    KATE: Oh sure! And blow this whole thing up? And then what? 

    Kate holds up her hands and dramatically makes air quotes.

    KATE: "Jordan Ridgeway" and "Sheryl Connors" catch wind of what we're doing, and throw US under the bus. No way.
    LUCAS: Well, Mom. I'm sorry. But I just can't keep up this ruse anymore. I'm not gonna sit there wasting all of my time and energy on a phony relationship just so YOU can win Rafe back.


    Billie steps into the room as he finishes his sentence, closing Kate's office door behind her, startling Lucas.

    BILLIE: Well, you're gonna have to, or else this whole operation goes down the toilet. And this is way bigger than keeping Rafe away from Jordan at this point, Lucas, and you know it.

    Lucas looks on at his sister, sighing audibly.

    ---

    ---

    Valerie, Roman, and Marlena stand in Marlena's office at the hospital, going over Roman's recent history of memory lapses. Marlena hesitates to continue, knowing Roman's frustration and hurt over his disappearing memories is building each time she brings them up, but she presses on.

    MARLENA: He...I mentioned the day I met Bo, and his "wedding gift" for us...and...well, it troubled Roman quite a bit that he couldn't remember it properly.

    Valerie looks on, almost through Marlena and Roman as she contemplates the situation.

    VALERIE: Properly, or at all?

    Roman looks down, shaking his head. He sighs before turning back toward Valerie.

    ROMAN: At all. I don't remember that happening. But it WAS over thirty years ago. These things don't always stay as clear in your mind as you get older.

    Marlena looks on, concerned for Roman, she attempts to chime in, but Roman interrupts.

    MARLENA: Roman, I--
    ROMAN: Now, look, I...want to figure this out as much as you do...but I...I gotta get going. I have to deal with some police business, okay, Doc?

    Marlena closes her eyes, visibly frustrated by Roman's volatility. She exhales before speaking.

    MARLENA: Okay. Sure.

    Roman turns back to Valerie as he turns to head out of Marlena's office. He speaks sternly, with a hint of irritation in his voice.

    ROMAN: Valerie. If you need anything more from me, let me know. But I can't do this right now. I'll see you later.

    Roman leaves, closing the door behind him forcefully, causing Marlena to tense up visibly. Valerie shuts her eyes a moment, before looking back up at a troubled Marlena.

    VALERIE: He's worried, Marlena.
    MARLENA: (sigh) I know. So am I.

    Valerie racks her brain, deep in thought over what she's witnessed. She throws her hands in the air, before pacing across Marlena's office. An idea strikes her.

    VALERIE: I mean...the symptoms, top to bottom....it reads like Alzhymer's. But...

    Marlena nods. She herself looks down, not giving Valerie eye contact, as her troubled mind racks through all the possibilities.

    Valerie stops pacing, and looks up at Marlena.

    VALERIE: Roman's medical records.
    MARLENA: What about them?

    Valerie, perking up, moves toward the doorway, an idea having finally hit her.

    VALERIE: I'm going to grab them. If there is any clues as to what may be wrong with him...chances are it'll be there. I'll be right back.

    Valerie opens the door, almost running down the hallway towards the records room. Marlena stays behind, a concerned but hopeful expression on her face.

    MARLENA: My God, I hope you're right, Valerie.

    ---

    Maggie shakes her head at Victor in disbelief. She puts down the title deed for The Penthouse Grille and puts her hand on her hip, the other on the desk beside her.

    MAGGIE: Victor, nothing is going to happen to Titan. It hasn't so far, and there's no way it will now.
    VICTOR: You can't guarantee that, Maggie.
    MAGGIE: Oh I don't have to. I've seen how much blood and sweat you put into this company, Victor. And I'm not exactly new to this whole business thing myself, you know?
    VICTOR: Maggie, that's different. You run a restaurant, not a conglomerate.

    Maggie looks at Victor, exasperated.

    MAGGIE: Victor, I've never seen you be such a defeatist. In my entire life, I haven't.

    Victor looks away from Maggie. He shrugs.

    VICTOR: Maybe I've always had a reason to fight before.

    Maggie's face changes, realizing how Victor's been affected by Brady's demise. She approaches him and puts her hands on his shoulders, prompting Victor to look up at her.

    MAGGIE: Victor...do you remember when I lost Janice?
    VICTOR: Maggie, this isn't the same--

    Maggie raises a finger to hush Victor up. She raises her voice over him.

    MAGGIE: NOT...a word! Now, I recognize that the circumstances were different...but we pulled through Janice's death. It took time....but we were able to put our lives back together. And remember...you have Phillip, you have Daniel...whether you believe it or not, you have Justin!

    Victor rolls his eyes, holding back his feelings at the moment about Justin, which Maggie anticipated, and quickly continues before Victor can retort.

    MAGGIE:...and you have me. Just rememeber that.

    Victor leans in to kiss Maggie, and embraces her warmly, as Maggie smiles.

    ---

    Billie walks into Kate's office, pleasing Kate, as she could use the backup against Lucas' hysterical position. Lucas folds his arms, knowing what's coming from his sister.

    BILLIE: We have too much on the line for you to be giving this up already, Lucas. We nearly have them right where we want them, right?

    Lucas rolls his eyes, answering begrudgingly.

    LUCAS: Right.
    BILLIE: And...we are VERY close to getting them to do something major that will get them into jail. The deeper we dig, the better the chances of getting Jordan and Sheryl in jail, where they belong.
    KATE: Exactly. So Lucas, you're doing us all a favour by staying the course for just a little longer. 

    Lucas sighs heavily. Throwing his hands up in defeat, he responds.

    LUCAS: Okay, fine. Sure. I'll stay with Sheryl for now, but we need to figure out what they're up to with this...Jerome charater. And fast.
    KATE: Jerome? Who the...
    LUCAS: That's what I wanna know. I was just in Sheryl's office and Jordan was there...with this...guy named Jerome Grant. Said they were working on a project together. She made out like it was for my birthday but...

    Billie thinks a moment, before pointing Lucas' way.

    BILLIE: Okay. I'm gonna look up this Jerome Grant guy, and see what his story is. If that's his real name, and we can get a handle on what he's actually here for, we might be able to intercept them before they do too much damage.

    Kate smiles Lucas' way, confidence beaming in her eyes. Lucas looks back, much more unsure than Kate.

    ---

    Nicole looks around, making sure no one's paying attention as she talks quietly with Miles.

    NICOLE: What do you mean? What did you hear?
    MILES: I heard a major corporation was taking over the station, and they're planning to flip the whole operation on its head, and it's someone well-known to us.
    NICOLE: Like who?

    Miles hesitates to answer. He stutters a bit as he does.

    MILES: I erhh...it's someone you know very well, put it that way.
    NICOLE: I don't like the sounds of this at all, and if you're playing a game on me, Miles, I swear to God...

    Nicole hears the sound of the doors to the studio opening, as a group of people enter the room.

    She closes her eyes, anticipating the worst before turning around to see who's come in.

    As she turns, she spots a group of men in suits approaching.


    Followed by none other than Sami Brady and EJ DiMera.

    NICOLE: No!

    Sami stops before the group of men, and immediately launches into her announcement.

    SAMI: Good afternoon, everybody! I'm sure you all know by now, I'm Samantha Brady. And I will be operating the TV operation formerly known as Titan TV, as of today.

    Nicole breathes in deeply, choking back a scream, as Sami locks eyes with Nicole, a huge smile across Sami's face.

    ---
  13. beebs

    DAYS #21: Seeing Rouge

    By beebs,

    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 21
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Sami sits in the garden outside the DiMera house. Guilty over her feelings of uneasiness with her son Johnny, and reeling from her resugrent memories of her rape by EJ, Sami is completely overwhelmed. From the house, Mary, the maid, calls for her.

    MARY: Ms. Brady! Are you okay?

    Mary steps out of the double doors out to the garden, and calls out to Sami again.

    MARY: Ms. Brady!

    Sami finally pulls herself together, snapping out of the despondent trance she was in.

    SAMI: Oh...uh...Mary! Hi, I'm...I'm okay.

    Sami gets up from the ground and dusts herself off. She tries to play off what Mary just saw and pretend everything's fine.

    SAMI: I...I just...I fell, it's okay.

    Mary doesn't believe a word Sami says, but awkwardly tries to play along, though she's still concerned.

    MARY: Oh...uh...yes. Okay. I hope you're alright. Your son Will called the house. He's wondering where you are. I told him you were in the garden.
    SAMI: Oh my God! Thank you, Mary. I forgot I'm supposed to meet him for dinner tonight. Uh...just tell him I'm on my way over.
    MARY: Yes, Ms. Brady.

    Sami makes a beeline for inside, grabbing her jacket and purse before Mary even gets inside.

    ---

    Maggie turns to see Theresa before her, approaching the table at Chez Rouge that Brady has just sat down at. Maggie is shocked and incredibly displeased to see her there. She asks Brady a question, never once turning around.

    MAGGIE: Brady.
    BRADY: Yyyes, Maggie?
    MAGGIE: What is she doing here?
    BRADY: Uh...I think she just told you. She's my date tonight.

    Maggie finally turns back around, suddenly seething.

    MAGGIE: Oh, like Hell she is! I...

    Maggie stops herself from continuing, realizing she is working. She quickly regains her composure and draws herself up, in an attempt to retain her professionalism.

    MAGGIE: Theresa, I hope you two have a pleasant evening.

    Maggie grabs Theresa by the shoulders and whispers in her ear as she walks away.

    MAGGIE: (whispering) And if I find out you're hurting Brady in any way, you're going to answer to me. Got it?

    Theresa shoots Maggie a look before sitting down.

    Maggie walks with determination back up to the foyer of the restaurant, just as Sheryl and Lucas walk in. Maggie smiles upon seeing Lucas.

    MAGGIE: Lucas! It's so nice to see you, Honey!
    LUCAS: Aunt Maggie!

    Lucas and Maggie hug before Lucas goes to introduce Sheryl to her.

    LUCAS: This is Sheryl, she's our newest hire at MadWorld.
    MAGGIE: It's so great to meet you, and I see you're getting on pretty well with the boss, hm?

    Sheryl laughs a little uncomfortably at Maggie's comment.

    SHERYL: Well, Lucas has been really really great to me. Put it that way.
    LUCAS: The pleasure's all mine.
    MAGGIE: Well, here, let me take you to your--

    Maggie stops midsentence as Jennifer walks in, Liam on her arm, the two of them laughing as they step inside. Maggie's smile vanishes as Jennifer looks over to her. An uncomfortable hush fills the room.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jennifer hesitates to greet Maggie, sensing the tension. But she finally does.

    JENNIFER: Uh...Aunt Maggie! Lucas, and you are...?

    Sheryl extends a hand to Jenn, unsure why there's such tension in the air.

    SHERYL: Uh...I'm Sio..uh...Sheryl Connors. Nice to meet you.
    JENNIFER: Oh, it's nice to meet you, I'm...Lucas' sister, Jennifer.
    SHERYL: Oh! It's so nice to meet you too, uh--
    MAGGIE: Shall I take you to your table, Lucas? Sheryl?

    Maggie, obviously displeased with Jennifer, takes Lucas and Sheryl to their table.

    LUCAS: You know, Aunt Maggie, Jennifer and Daniel have been broken up for awhile. I think it's good she's dating again.
    MAGGIE: Lucas, I know. But I wish they wouldn't have come here on their first date.
    LUCAS: Well...maybe they didn't know it would be such an issue. Cut Jenn some slack, Aunt Maggie. She's not had a very easy year, you know.

    Maggie sighs in a sort of defeat.

    MAGGIE: I guess you're right. I'm just...I'm not having the best night, that's all.
    LUCAS: You're still worried about Brady.
    MAGGIE: Aren't we all?
    LUCAS: You can say that again.

    Maggie looks over and Jenn and Liam, who are talking back in the foyer. She hands Lucas and Sheryl menus.

    MAGGIE: Look, I've gotta get back to work. Here's tonight's specials, and here's the wine list. Your server'll be back in just a second to take your order, alright?

    Sheryl and Lucas smile Maggie's way as she walks away.

    SHERYL: Thanks!




    Back in the foyer, Maggie approaches Jenn and Liam with a bit of a scowl. Jennifer, after the day she's had, is fed up.

    JENNIFER: Aunt Maggie--
    MAGGIE: Jennifer Rose, don't 'Aunt Maggie' me. You have a lot of nerve showing up here with a date. Especially after what you did to my son today at the hospital.
    JENNIFER: What I did?? Aunt Maggie, I don't think you understand what we talked about--

    Liam attempts to defuse the situation and interjects.

    LIAM: Uh, Ladies! It's alright. Look, Jenn. Maybe we should follow your Aunt Maggie's advice and go somewhere. It's my fault for making a reservation anyway. I didn't realize there was a problem.
    JENNIFER: No, Liam. Don't. We're going to have dinner here. Aunt Maggie, I know Daniel is your son and you want to defend him and protect him, but Daniel and I have been apart for awhile now. And it's time you accept that he and I are not going to get back together. Now I'm pretty sure Daniel was upset about our conversation earlier, but that is between him and I. Just, please. Aunt Maggie, I love you. Let me move on with my life.

    Maggie takes a deep breath and tries not to cry, but is so filled with emotions over the crazy evening she's having, she can't help it.

    MAGGIE: I know. I'm sorry, Jenn. It's not going to be easy. But I will try. I promise.

    Maggie and Jenn lean in for a hug, and Maggie shows Jenn and Liam to their seat.



    Lucas looks back at the situation with Liam and Jenn, before turning back to Sheryl.

    LUCAS: Well that didn't look awkward.
    SHERYL: What's the problem there, anyway?
    LUCAS: It's...a long story. Look, what's important is that you're here. I was worried you wouldn't come after how I acted this afternoon.
    SHERYL: It's okay! Look, I'm sorry I interrupted you. You seemed really preoccupied with work.
    LUCAS: Yeah, that's...that's it. Working and...things. I just...I just want you to know that, I really do care about, Sheryl. You've worked so hard for us and...well, you've made my life a whole lot more interesting, too.
    SHERYL: That's so sweet of you. I feel the same about you. You've made it so much easier for me since I came to Salem. I mean, I had Jordan but...well, you know how that was when I first got into town. It's nice to have someone like you to take me around and make me feel...I dunno. At home?
    LUCAS: Trust me, It's been a pleasure for me. You're really special, Sheryl.

    Lucas takes her hand and squeezes it on the table. Sheryl looks down at Lucas holding her hand and smiles, looking into his eyes.




    Brady and Theresa talk about Brady's meeting today, telling the story of what happened. Theresa listens, but is somewhat distracted by the drama of Jenn, Liam and Maggie's encounter.

    BRADY: So then Kate just starts whispering to Lucas, but she isn't like, actually whispering she's...are you even listening to me?
    THERESA: Hmm?

    Theresa snaps out of it suddenly and refocuses on Brady.

    THERESA: Sorry, was watching Maggie acting like a train wreck. She's about one nasty customer away from throwing herself off the wagon.

    Brady turns around to see Maggie looking a little ragged, giving a piece of her mind to an apologetic waiter as they both make a beeline for the kitchen.

    BRADY: Bit of a crazy night, I guess.
    THERESA: I guess so. Anyway, you were saying.
    BRADY: Ahhh, it wasn't important.
    THERESA: No no, you were saying something about a big press conference tomorrow and you'll be on TV making all kinds of big announcements!
    BRADY: Yes, indeed. And the best part is, once this deal goes down with EnerNext, I will be richer than anyone ever thought possible. Like...you wouldn't believe all the things I'm gonna buy you, okay? Like...you're gonna have a castle in England for yourself, and another for a fleet of horses, okay? That's how rich you're gonna be.

    Theresa laughs at how ludicrous it all sounds. At that same moment, their drinks arrive.

    THERESA: You know, you amaze me.
    BRADY: Oh?
    THERESA: Yeah. You're the only guy I've ever met who can come right out of an awful situation and just...spin it into gold.
    BRADY: Believe me, Honey. Ignorance is bliss.
    THERESA: Cheers to that.
    BRADY: Amen.

    Theresa and Brady toast, with Brady taking a good swig of his drink. Theresa drinks somewhat more daintily. Brady leans in and points to Theresa, with one eyebrow raised.

    BRADY: You know what the best part of this whole press conference is, actually?
    THERESA: What's that?
    BRADY: You and I are gonna celebrate it all that night in Chicago, and we're gonna really party it up.

    Theresa fishes in her bag stealthily and leans in at the same time.

    THERESA: Well, you know...it's never too early to start the party, you know.

    Theresa takes Brady's hand, and subtly passes a small baggie of cocaine to him. Brady hesitates to take it.

    ---

    Abby is in her office at the hospital, shocked at Anne's presence, not to mention her implication that she overheard Abby's conversation with EJ.

    ABBY: Uh...what are you talking about, Anne?
    ANNE: Oh Honey, come on. You know what I mean.
    ABBY: No, I don't have a clue what you--

    Anne presses play on her phone and the sound of EJ detailing their morning office romp comes blasting out. Abigail's jaw drops, and she stutters, shaking as she points to Anne's phone. Anne meanwhile, has a huge 'gotcha!' smile across her face.

    ABBY: Where...where did you get that?
    ANNE: Oh Honey, you need to be more careful where you have your personal conversations. I mean, anyone could just...hide around that corner there while the door's ajar and just...record anything they happen to hear someone say about...having sex in the workplace with a major hospital board member during company time.
    ABBY: Anne. Anne, give me that phone.
    ANNE: Ah, ah, ah! Not so fast!

    Anne pulls her phone away from Abigail's grasp. Holding one nagging finger up, Anne shakes it at Abigail, and takes a long moment to think about what to say next. She paces across Abby's office, taunting her. Abby is bordering on a panic attack when Anne finally speaks again.

    ANNE: Now, here's the thing.

    Anne stops and turns around, leaning against's Abby's desk.

    ANNE: I know for a fact that if I played this for the hospital board, they would be...scandalized. But...and I'm sure you realize this because you're such a smart girl, so bear with me here...did you also know that if you're caught having sex while on duty at the hospital, you could be (fake gasps) FIRED?!
    ABBY: You wouldn't dare tell any--
    ANNE: ...And the one person I know would be more disappointed and shattered by a revelation like this coming out would be...guess who, Abigail?

    Abby shakes her head, hoping beyond all hopes Anne stands close enough for her to grab the phone from her hands, she realizes Anne's threat.

    ABBY: You can't...you can't tell my moth--
    ANNE: ...Your MOTHER. That's right. And you know how much I would love that. So that means you have to do something for me.
    ABBY: Anything. Please, Anne. I'll do anything.
    ANNE: Anything?? You sure about that?
    ABBY: Yes, please. Just please...make that recording go away.
    ANNE: Quit. Put in your resignation tonight, and I'll be so grateful to have one less Holier-than-thou Horton to deal with every day, that no one will ever find out about your little sexcapade with Mr. DiMerRRRra.

    ---
  14. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #11
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Abby fidgets awkwardly at her desk, pretending to organize files to distract from her nervousness at Jenn's invasive line of questioning.

    ABBY: You don't believe me? I mean, Mom, why would I lie? I'm fine! I swear!
    JENNIFER: And so that's why you just moved the same file folder to one side of your desk and back twice?

    Abby stops and looks up at her mother with a hint of irritation. She drops the file on her desk and folds her arms.

    ABBY: You know, you and JJ have been on my case for awhile now about something being wrong with me. Ever since Chad left for Boston. I am fine.

    As Abby rants, Jenn looks toward the closet Abby stood before as Jenn walked in. Sensing something's up, Jenn slowly walks toward the closet. Inside the closet, sensing Jenn's been around for too long, EJ makes a quick decision and calls Abby's phone.

    ABBY: And Mom, I really don't appreciate you coming here and lecturing me about something that isn't going wrong in my Mom what are you doing?

    Before Jenn can reply, Abby's cell phone rings. Incoming call from EJ. Abby is concerned, but quickly clues in to what he's doing.

    ABBY: (into phone) Hello?

    EJ doesn't answer, Abby waits a second before responding.

    ABBY: (into phone) Oh! Yes, send them in!

    Abby hangs up and walks over to Jenn just before she opens the closet door.

    ABBY: Mom. I have a very important meeting coming up in a sec. They're heading in now.
    JENNIFER: Oh? What's it about?
    ABBY: It's the man from the...uh...digitization company. They're teaching me how to properly...digitize the files. That's why I was so nervous. It's a really big deal.
    JENNIFER: Oh! Well, that's great, Honey. I'll just...see myself out then.

    Jenn gives Abigail a big hug at the door, which Abigail has propped open so Jenn can leave.

    JENNIFER: I'll see you at home later tonight. I have a date with Liam.
    ABBY: Ooo! Have fun!
    JENNIFER: Thanks! See you later!
    ABBY: Bye!

    Abigail slumps in her chair, as though all the tension in the room just disappeared. EJ hears the door close and peeks his head out from the closet.

    EJ: Is it safe?

    Abby nods. EJ emerges. He adjusts his tie and heads for the door.

    EJ: You and I need to find a better place to have a chat.

    EJ closes the door to the records room and checks both ways before making his way down the hallway like nothing ever happened. Abby remains slumped in her chair, taking in the scene that just took place in her new office. Slowly, a smile crosses her face.

    ABBY: Well, can't say my Monday morning was dull!

    ---

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

    ---

    Marlena and Hope are standing outside The Brady Pub, Marlena places her hands on Hope's. She gives Hope some comforting words on her husband Bo.

    MARLENA: You know...the way they're talking in the letter, I have a feeling that they may be coming home real soon.

    A voice is heard from the alley behind them.

    KIM: If ONLY I were as sure as you, Marlena.

    Marlena and Hope turn quickly to see who's talking. Kim looks back, and has a look of uncertainty on her face. She slowly approaches as Marlena and Hope's faces light up, seeing their friend again.

    MARLENA: Kim! Oh my, it's been so long!

    Marlena and Kim hug warmly. Kim is subdued, mostly because in sadness thanks to Shane's absence. Kim then hugs Hope, whom Kim hugs longer, in more of a hug of comfort.

    KIM: Ohhhh honey. I am so sorry, Hope. Look. Maybe I...spoke too harshly, but...I really am worried about how long Shane, and Bo, and John will be away. Come on, let's go inside and talk.

    Kim takes Marlena and Hope's hands and walk into the pub.

    ---

    Sonny, Will & Nick are at Horton Town Square. Nick has just made his presence known, startling Will & Sonny. Sonny stands in front of Will, as if to protect him from Nick.

    SONNY: Nick. What do you want?
    NICK: Nothing. I was just....out....minding my own business.
    SONNY: And you decided to just come bother the gays? How thoughtful of you!
    NICK: (laughs) Wow! You are way too worried about nothing. Seriously. I just came to say 'hi!'
    SONNY: Hi. And Bye, Nick.
    WILL: Sonny, Sonny. Come on.

    Sonny looks to Will and takes a step back.

    WILL: Look, Nick. I know you want to make a change and try to start your life over.
    NICK: Thank you, Will for acknowledging that--
    WILL: But. You're going to have to remember something. Okay? It's going to take some of us some time to get over what you've done. You can't just...expect people to come to your side right away.
    NICK: Look, all I'm asking for is a chance to prove myself to you.
    WILL: And we'll give you that. But in the meantime, you have got to give us the space to see for ourselves.

    Nick takes a second to ponder it. Will turns to Sonny, and puts his hands on Sonny's shoulders.

    WILL: (softly) Remember what we talked about. Keep it cool. Got it.

    Sonny nods reluctantly. Will turns back to Nick.

    WILL: Look, just...give us some time. I think we can all make this work. Okay?
    NICK: Alright, man. And thank you.
    SONNY: Don't thank us yet, just...just keep working on that new life. Alright?

    Sonny holds out his hand to Nick. Nick shakes Sonny's hand. At the same moment, Sami passes by, witnessing the handshake. She's incredulous.

    ---

    Percy lets Nicole into his cottage. Nicole is immediately hit with the smell of old pine. She wrinkles her nose a bit, usure what to make of her surroundings. Percy pulls out a chair for her.

    PERCY: Have a seat, my dear.
    NICOLE: Oh, oh thank you.

    Nicole sits down, pulling out the orange envelope containing the files on the story. Percy sits down at the other side of the dining room table.

    NICOLE: So...I assume someone contacted you previously about this...story.
    PERCY: Indeed. And I am positively chuffed that someone of your stature in the business has chosen to take me up on this story.
    NICOLE: Yeah, well. Don't...chuff yourself too much. Not so soon, anyway. I don't know whether or not this story's even worth going ahead with.

    Percy is surprised and disappointed.

    ---

    Roman looks over the file folder Kate's handed him on Jordan and Sheryl. He studies the pictures and the article carefully. He looks up at Kate and nods.

    ROMAN: Yeah, I remember these two. Kaylie Matthews and Siobhan McKinnon.
    KATE: Bingo. And they're in Salem, masquerading as Jordan Ridgeway and Sheryl Conners, planning God knows what!
    ROMAN: Now, Kate--
    KATE: The question is, Roman: What are you going to do about it? Are you going to arrest them?
    ROMAN: Absolutely not.

    Kate is shocked and outraged by Roman's firm refusal.

    ---

  15. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 33
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Billie looks over at Daniel, who has stopped her at Horton Town Square, concerned with the company she's keeping. Billie is not impressed.

    BILLIE: I'm sorry?
    DANIEL: What were you doing talking with Theresa Donovan?

    Billie leans back, arms folded, floored by Daniel's audacity.

    BILLIE: She happens to be a very good friend of mine, thank you.
    DANIEL: Well, I guess you're not quite the person I thought you were then.
    BILLIE: Excuse me?

    Daniel approaches Billie, a bit of menace in his walk. Billie still stares him down, unblinking.

    DANIEL: Oh yeah. I went there. You remember your friend Jenn? Yeah, that girl you just were speaking to put her through a living hell these past few months. And me. And JJ.
    BILLIE: Oh, I'm aware of all of that. I'm also aware of the hell that girl's gone through before she ever met you or Jennifer or JJ. So you can spare me your holier-than-thou attitude about things you know nothing about, Daniel.

    Daniel's taken aback by Billie's impassioned defense of Theresa.

    ---

    Sheryl and Jordan are sitting at Club TBD in a corner booth. Sheryl is on her laptop, attempting to access a file. Jordan looks over to her, looking occasionally to the laptop, and to the door. A certain tension is across Jordan's face, and she appears jumpy. Sheryl is focused on the work ahead of her.

    Finally, Jordan's fidgeting and twitches gets to Sheryl.

    SHERYL: Would you stop fidgeting?
    JORDAN: I'm sorry. I just...you know this is crazy. I mean....anyone could catch us here.
    SHERYL: Well, yes. If you keep acting like a complete nut, yes, they might.
    JORDAN: (sighs) I'm sorry. I just...I'm really concerned that you're going too far again, Sheryl.

    Sheryl turns abruptly to face Jordan. Jordan's words set her off like a switch had been flipped. She speaks with a quiet rage, not unlike a hot pressure cooker.

    SHERYL: Again, hm? Like I did in Canada? Are you seriously gonna say that now? That operation was neccessary, Jordan. We have absolutely no choice but to do that. And if you think this is any different, then you need to go back to Birmingham, and never come back.

    ---

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

    ---

    EJ approaches Sami's office desk, still reeling from her decision to move out. Sami draws herself up and back with every step EJ takes towards her.

    EJ: Samantha, I--
    SAMI: EJ. Please. Please don't...come any closer.

    EJ fights the anger he feels from the sting of Sami's sudden fear of him. He fights the urge to lash out.

    EJ: Samantha, I...I don't...I don't think this is a good idea.
    SAMI: EJ, I can't. There is no other option.
    EJ: What do you mean, Samantha? I can't...I don't know how much more space I can give you. You're already at the opposite end of the house as it is. And you know father's conditions for your freedom were that the entire family live under one roof.
    SAMI: EJ, I never said I was taking Sydney, and Johnny away from you.
    EJ: (sigh) You don't get it, do you, Samantha? YOU are my family as well. You are as much my family as my brothers, my sister, my children and my father.
    SAMI: Look, I...I do love you. But I...EJ, this feeling, this fear I have in me...I buried it for so long. I tried to hide it and allowed myself to forget that that....side of you existed. I gave myself a sort of....selective amnesia. Our fight last night, it...I need to take some time on my own, away from everyone to just...heal. It's not about not loving you or not seeing you as a part of my life or...or...family. I just need time to truly move past what you did to me.

    EJ closes his eyes as Sami speaks. He doesn't look up. The shame he feels washes over him, and he stands solemnly, feeling the gravity of the effect he's had on the woman he loves. He takes a deep breath before speaking.

    EJ: Okay. You take the time you need. But remember something. I love you. More than anything in this world. You NEVER lose sight of that for one moment. Who I was then and who I am now are...galaxies apart.

    Sami smiles, trying to look at EJ, but she can't, and looks away.

    SAMI: I won't. Because I love you too. But I don't know if I'll ever be able to see the man I wanted to marry, without seeing the man who raped me. And I wish I could.

    EJ's heart sinks, as does his head, as he fights back tears.

    ---

    Victor slams his briefcase on the conference table at Titan. Around him sit Brady, and Tyler. All three men are in foul moods after the disaster that was the press conference. Victor opens his briefcase, sorting paperwork as he speaks to the other two men.

    VICTOR: Well, that was quite possibly the most spectacular disaster since the Hindenburg. I'm sorry your introduction to the Titan board had to be this mess, Tyler. I expect the rest of your time on the Titan board of directors goes somewhat more smoothly.
    BRADY: What I can't figure out is how Nicole, who was supposed to be helping promote the project, managed to be working to demonize this whole project to the public.
    TYLER: It's obvious. And I think it should be obvious to all of you that there is a lack of editorial control at Titan TV. And it has become a complete liability to you.
    VICTOR: If you're suggesting we divest ourselves of Titan TV, you can save your breath. We need that TV station, particularly if we want to see this project accepted by the public.
    BRADY: Grandad's right. But...I also think we need some changes if we are to retain controlling interest in the TV station.

    Victor furrows his brow at Brady's suggestion.

    VICTOR: What in the hell do you think I was going to suggest? Let that lazy sleaze Miles lay back and light Cuban cigars with my money in his office?
    TYLER: Well, with all due respect, that's essentially what he's done by allowing Ms. Walker's report to go public. If Miles is gone and Ms. Walker goes with him, I support retaining Titan TV. Otherwise, it's too big a liability, and it would also be a major conflict of interest.
    BRADY: I second that. Nicole had no right to go ahead with a line of questioning like that.
    VICTOR: She had no right being unleashed on this planet. If she isn't ousted, I'll personally drop kick her from the building. Now, if the rest of the board agrees to this--
    BRADY: ...I talked to Kate after the press conference and she supports us.
    VICTOR: Then that's four.
    BRADY: If her little lap dog of a son follows mummy's lead as he usually does, that'd be five.
    TYLER: Which would put us over the top.
    VICTOR: So then it's settled. We'll put it to a vote Monday. I'll round up the troops and we'll get this sorted.
    BRADY: Sounds like a plan.
    TYLER: Good work, men.

    The three men, exchange handshakes, standing up from the table in a subdued happiness at their damage control.

    ---

    Nicole looks directly at Nick, clearly unsure of her decision, but she breathes deeply and chokes out her answer.

    NICOLE: Alright. I'm in. I'll do it.

    Nick smiles widely with his trademark sinister smirk.

    NICK: 'Atta girl. I always knew you were smart.

    Nicole grimaces, knowing she's made a mistake, but fearing the consequences too much to go back on her word. She folds her arms and shakes her head.

    NICOLE: So how are you going to make this work.
    NICK: Oh I'll find a way. And don't worry about moving your stuff out of your office. It's not going anywhere. I can guarantee it.

    ---

    Daniel approaches an enraged Billie, whose back is turned him as she reaches for her phone in her purse. His demeanour is one of a sudden calm.

    DANIEL: Look, I didn't realize that Theresa's past was so rough. But she had no right to treat Jenn, JJ, and I like that.
    BILLIE: I know that. I'm sure she knows that too. Look, I...I shouldn't have even said as much as I did to you. But know that Theresa isn't the bad person you think she is. She's hurting inside, and she's doing the best she can with that pain in her heart.
    DANIEL: (sigh) I'm sorry. I didn't mean to come down so hard on you.

    Billie pulls herself together quickly, looking at her phone quickly and noticing a missed call. She looks over to Daniel with a sudden smile on her face.

    BILLIE: Don't mention it. I won't hold it against you, as long as you don't do it again. Got it.

    Billie pinches Daniel's cheek before stepping away, leaving Daniel puzzled by her wildly changing emotions, but also intrigued.


    Once Billie steps away, she calls back the missed call. She whispers loudly in the phone.

    BILLIE: Mom? It's me. Sorry I didn't call sooner, but I think I got something big that could help us.

    Billie holds the tiny flash drive in the palm of her hand, looking it over as she speaks.

    ---

    Jordan looks taken aback by Sheryl's reaction. She tries to motion to Sheryl to calm down as she's drawing attention to herself. Sheryl looks around and appears to relax, though she's still visibly upset. Sheryl returns her attentions to her laptop screen. She doesn't look up at Jordan at all from here on out.

    JORDAN: Look, maybe I should choose my words more carefully next time.
    SHERYL: Ya think?
    JORDAN: Look, just...tell me what you're trying to do.
    SHERYL: Okay, you remember that computer we were on at work?
    JORDAN: You mean the one Nick Fallon caught us at?

    Sheryl rolls her eyes, but continues to focus squarely at the screen.

    SHERYL: Well, I snuck a little device on it that allows us unrestricted access to the Titan executive database, and no one can trace it.

    Jordan's skepticism begins to melt as Sheryl explains. Jordan looks over Sheryl's shoulder in sudden interest.

    JORDAN: You're kidding!
    SHERYL: Nope! Just about to get us into the frameworks now.

    Sheryl hits enter on her keyboard with a flourish. The login fails. Sheryl's face drops in shock.

    SHERYL: Oh God.
    JORDAN: What?

    Sheryl finally breaks her gaze with the monitor and looks at Jordan, a look of panic across her face.

    SHERYL: The key's not hooked up to the system. Someone found it.

    ---
  16. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 40
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Nadia Bjorlin guest stars in this episode as Chloe Lane

    JJ is sitting on the sofa at home, watching TV. The doorbell rings, and JJ ignores it. The doorbell rings again, and JJ calls out, eyes never leaving the TV.

    JJ: Abs! Get the door?

    The doorbell rings a third time and Abigail reluctantly descends the stairs, glaring at a lazy JJ in the living room before opening the door to find Laura standing in front of her.

    ABBY: Oh my God! Grandma! How are you??

    Abigail's face lights up as she lunges for her grandmother and gives her a huge hug. JJ overhears the commotion and gets up, heading excitedly for the door.

    JJ: Grandma! Hey! How are you?
    LAURA: JJ! Abigail! It's so good to see you both. Is your mom home?

    JJ's face drops immediately, while Abigail looks to JJ with a knowing look. She hesitates before telling Laura.

    ABBY: She's actually on a date right now.

    Laura's face lights up a bit, she asks, hopefully:

    LAURA: Oh? With Daniel?
    JJ: Well, she's been seeing this guy named Liam.

    Laura sees JJ's unimpressed face, and looks at him, a bit concerned as well.

    LAURA: Well, that's news to me. She hasn't said a word about any Liam to me.
    JJ: Well, he's not much to talk about.

    Laura hangs her coat up and steps into the house, pulling her bag behind her.

    ABBY: JJ, that's not fair.

    JJ turns back to Laura, ignoring Abigail completely.

    JJ: Here, Grandma, want some help with your bag?
    LAURA: Ah, sure. Just drop it off in the living room. I'll take it upstairs later.

    JJ obliges and carries the bag into the living room, with Abigail and Laura following him into the Horton living room. JJ turns the TV off and they all sit down.

    ABBY: Grandma, did you want tea or something?
    LAURA: I would love some, Abigail. Thank you!
    ABBY: Excellent. JJ?
    JJ: Uhh...I'm fine, Abs, don't worry.
    ABBY: Okay, if you're sure.
    JJ: 100%
    ABBY: Okay, I'll be right back.

    Abigail walks out to the kitchen, leaving JJ and Laura alone for a moment to talk. Laura leans toward JJ, and begins to probe.

    LAURA: Okay, that's a strong reaction for someone who barely knows the guy his mom's seeing. Are you sure we're not doing a repeat of what happened with Daniel?
    JJ: No, Grandma, I'm serious. What happened with Daniel was all on me. I was missing my dad, I was angry, I was grieving. This is different. There is definitely something off with this guy.
    LAURA: Well, like what?
    JJ: He and my mom have been seeing each other for like...weeks now. She knows nothing about his past, they're inseparable and she keeps saying she feels like she's known him forever, but she doesn't even know where he lives?
    LAURA: Okay...
    JJ: Don't you think that's a little weird.
    LAURA: JJ, there's got to be more to it than that. How is he around you and Abigail?
    JJ: He's...weird. Like...he made a comment at the party Mom had after my sentencing, like...that Abigail had 'grown so much'. Mom overlooked it and said that he'd seen a picture of her as a kid but...isn't that a weird first thing to say to someone you just met?

    Laura looks at JJ, then looks down, deep in thought. She takes a moment before responding.

    LAURA: JJ, I trust your instincts. You always should. Personally, I think your mom is a good judge of character most of the time, but, I mean...
    JJ: What? I don't really know what you mean, Grandma.
    LAURA: Your mom has had times where she...before you were born...where she was in some bad relationships. And sometimes I still worry that...if she isn't careful, she could end up hurting herself all over again.

    ---

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

    ---

    Nick steps back from Gabi and hands Ari back to Gabi. He holds up his hands in a sort of act of surrender as Sonny and Will glare at him with an intensity that, if looks could kill, would surely vaporize him on sight.

    NICK: I was just visiting--
    SONNY: ...You have absolutely no right to be here--
    GABI: ...I invited him in, okay?
    WILL: You should've asked me first.
    GABI: He just surprised me. It's really no big deal.
    SONNY: Are you joking? It's a huge deal. When we told you we would need time and space from you, we weren't joking, Nick. When you show up at our apartment and don't ask us? We walk in and you're face-to-face with Gabi and holding Ari, that's not the kind of surprise that makes me think that you're suddenly this new man with a changed outlook. All I see is the same old Nick, playing the same old games.

    Nick's face drops as Sonny talks. Nick is not disappointed by Sonny's words, but frustrated by them. He accepts Sonny's berating, but doesn't take it lying down.

    NICK: I assure you, Sonny. This isn't a game. I was surprising Gabi with some flowers and a quick visit. I want to make up for what I did to her before.
    SONNY: Nick, that's the thing. It wasn't "what you did to her before", it has a name. It's called "attempted rape". That's the kind of stuff that makes me not trust you. You really don't take responsibility, because you don't confront your real problems.
    NICK: Ohhh on the contrary. I'm confronting them right now.
    SONNY: What??

    Sonny hasn't even finished speaking when Nick approaches him suddenly. Sonny doesn't back down from Nick's suddenly aggressive stance.

    NICK: Look, if you want me out of Gabi's life, that's not your call. And if you try to stop me from seeing Gabi when she wants to see me? I'll make sure you go down. Because Gabi's opinion needs to be respected too.
    SONNY: It's a little late to be so concerned with what Gabi wants, isn't it--
    WILL: ...Okay, can we stop with the threats? Nick, I just...I need you to leave. We have to talk this through, the three of us.

    Gabi looks to Will, and takes Nick's hand to try to make him look at her, as the baby begins to cry again, waking up from her sleep.

    GABI: Nick...it's okay. Let me deal with it.

    Nick looks at Gabi, then turns for the door, pushing past Sonny, who's still on guard.

    NICK: Look, I'm sorry if I surprised you. It won't happen again.

    Nick closes the door behind him. Sonny looks to Gabi and shakes his head at her. Gabi rolls her eyes, knowing that Sonny will be scolding her any second. Will looks on disappointedly.

    WILL: Dammit, Gabi. Why did you let him back in here?

    Gabi hesitates to respond to Will's question.

    ---

    Victor paces his living room, on the phone to Tyler. Though it's late, the two men continue to discuss their business affairs.

    VICTOR: (into phone) You're sure this is going through, yes?

    ...

    Tyler is at his desk at his hotel room at the Salem Inn. Still dressed in his suit from his working day, the man is nowhere near sleep, despite the late hour. While on the phone, Tyler is simultaneously on his laptop, and shuffling through papers.

    TYLER: (into phone) Absolutely. From every member I've spoken to, you're still going to get the votes to retain Titan TV. Once that happens, we can maintain our focus on promoting the oil sands project, and I can lobby the governor to force the land sale and we can start the operation up.

    ...

    VICTOR: (into phone) Well how long is that gonna take? I'd like to start all this before Christmas, you know.

    ...

    TYLER: (into phone) You'll be fine, Victor. Just give it a couple months and the shovels will be in the ground. Let me oversee the day-to-day operations and we'll be fine.

    ...

    VICTOR: (into phone) Alright, but you'd better be right about this. There's too much at stake if you fail. Good night.

    Victor hangs up the phone and puts it down on the table in front of him. Maggie walks in behind him and gently begins to massage his shoulders.

    MAGGIE: Can't sleep?
    VICTOR: No, of course not. Brady's off in Chicago with the Brady's newest loose cannon, and I mean "loose" in every sense of the word, and I can't shake the feeling that something awful is going to happen at that vote, Maggie.
    MAGGIE: Well...if something goes wrong with the vote, I won't be all that sad.

    Victor turns around sharply to face Maggie, a cross look on his face.

    VICTOR: What's that supposed to mean, Maggie?
    MAGGIE: Well, now, before you go flying off the handle, you already know I'm not all that fond of this oil business you're getting involved in, Victor. I think it's going to devastate a large part of this community--
    VICTOR: ...And help that same large portion immensely. Damn it all, Maggie. You're supposed to be supporting me in this.
    MAGGIE: I never said I was going to be your "yes" woman. I'm entitled to my opinion on the matter, Victor. And as far as I'm concerned, if this vote doesn't go your way, you need to take it as a sign that maybe you should be more focused on making your money in a way that isn't so destructive.

    ---

    Chloe stands over Brady, looking concerned for her ex-husband and friend. Theresa glares at Chloe menacingly, clearly threatened by Chloe's presence. Chloe can feel Theresa's glare but focuses on Brady.

    BRADY: I'm just having some fun, Chloe. It's no big deal.
    CHLOE: Look, Brady, I know the last little while's been hard on you but...I'm worried about you.

    Chloe puts a hand on Brady's shoulder. Brady looks up at her and smiles.

    BRADY: I appreciate the concern but...don't worry about me, Chloe.
    CHLOE: Brady, I--
    THERESA: ...He said not to worry, Chloe. Why don't you leave us alone and take his advice?
    CHLOE: Would you stay out of this, you useless bimbo.
    THERESA: Oh, I'm the bimbo, says the queen of the spray-tan booth.
    BRADY: Okay, you know what, Theresa? Enough. Alright? Chloe's been a great friend to me, even after we divorced, she's helped me through a lot of ha--
    THERESA: Divorce? You were married??

    Theresa gets up, livid at being denied this information.

    BRADY: Theresa, I never hid this from you, it's just never come up, I don't like talking about my past.
    THERESA: I knew there was something going on with you two.
    CHLOE: We're just friends, Theresa. We've been divorced since you were in high school, if you made it that far.
    THERESA: Cute, Barbie. Now I see why Dr. Dan was so enchanted by you. You're the tangerine to his mandarin.

    Brady gets up from the table, and walks toward Theresa, hoping to stop a huge scene from happening.

    BRADY: Okay, Theresa, enough! Chloe's just looking out for me.
    THERESA: Oh, so you're gonna protect her now? Why did I even bother coming here if all you're gonna do is fawn over Chloe Lane, opera singer of the ages?
    BRADY: I came here with you because I wanted to show you a great time, and now you're embarrassing yourself and me in front of all these important people.
    THERESA: Ohhh, I'm an embarrassment now. Good to know, Brady. You know what, don't worry about it, I'll find my own way back to Salem.

    Theresa turns to head off, but stops and quickly turns back to Brady and Chloe.

    THERESA: On second thought, I'm not going to let you ruin the night for me. I'm going to stick around, and party on my own. If you want to join me, Brady, you know what to do.

    Theresa turns toward the entrance, head held high, trying to fight tears back. She makes a beeline for the bar. Brady looks to the sky, and Chloe walks up behind him.

    CHLOE: I'm sorry.
    BRADY: It's okay. Just...it's not you, it's her.
    CHLOE: I know. Maybe I should just...keep my distance for the night.
    BRADY: No, just...give me a few minutes. I'm gonna make a call and set up a little romantic surprise for Theresa and I at the hotel I booked and I'll come find you in a few minutes, okay?
    CHLOE: Okay. Sounds good.

    Chloe and Brady hug once more. Theresa looks on from the bar, livid and downing her martini quickly. She looks at her phone and contemplates the video she has of Brady in front of her.

    She goes to her contact list and pulls up her friend the paparazzo from LA. She hovers her finger over the screen, thinking about sending him the video.

    After a moment, she stops herself and puts her phone down.

    THERESA: No. Don't even think about it, Theresa. Give Brady a chance to make it up to you. He's not gonna let that bronzed bimbo ruin things between you, and you know it.

    Theresa sighs before ordering another drink.

    ---
  17. beebs
    EPISODE 166
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson
     
     

    Tyler steps off the elevator at University Hospital, making a beeline for Victor's room.
     

    As Tyler opens the door, he's followed in by Daniel, who tries to stop Tyler from advancing.
     
    DANIEL: Ahh...Mr. Houston...
    TYLER: Yes?
    DANIEL: I'm sorry, I'm...just about to do a quick check-up on Victor, and...
     

    Victor, hearing Tyler and Daniel's voices, opens his eyes, and interjects.
     
    VICTOR: It's alright, Daniel. Can you give us five minutes?
     
    Daniel sighs, knowing Victor won't budge.
     
    DANIEL: Victor, I gotta finish my rounds before noon. I have a lunch date with Billie.
    VICTOR: Tell her to postpone. This is important.
     
    Daniel takes a moment, before giving in.
     
    DANIEL: Yeah. Okay. But just five. I'll be at the nurses' station.
     
    Tyler turns, nodding in appreciation to Daniel, as Daniel reaches for the door on his way out.
     
    TYLER: Thank you.
     
    As Daniel shuts the door, Tyler turns his attentions back to Victor, speaking dryly to his longtime business associate.
     
    TYLER: You called?
    VICTOR: Yes. I was just paid a visit from our good friend Nick Fallon. How long were you all gonna keep me in the dark about what he's up to, anyway?
     
    Tyler sighs, frustrated and disappointed that Nick's broken the news to Victor of his takeover of Titan.
     
    ---
     

    Sheryl emerges from the service elevator at University Hospital, checking around to ensure no one has spied her with the wheelchair, before placing it back by the locker room door, as before.
     
    Sneaking back into the locker room, she walks over to her locker, realizing that Crystal's phone is inside, ringing.
     
    She checks to see who's calling.
     
    It's Kim.
     
    Ignoring the call, Sheryl puts the phone back in the locker, and locks it up.
     
    SHERYL: Okay, Crystal. Time to deal with your next problem. Jordan Ridgeway.
     
    Sheryl walks off in search of Jordan.
     
    ---
     

    Kim puts her phone down from her ear, as she stands behind the bar at the Brady Pub, somewhat confused by "Crystal" hanging up on her, as Nick walks into the pub, a bright smile on his face.
     
    Kim turns to greet him.
     
    KIM: Nick!
    NICK: Hey Kim! Ah...have you seen Gabi anywhere?
     
    Kim shakes her head, as she scans the restaurant to be sure she hasn't missed Gabi somehow.
     
    KIM: Ahh no. Can't say that I have. You're supposed to meet her here to get the rest of your things?
     
    Nick leans casually against the bar, smirking with his usual self-satisfaction.
     
    NICK: Mmmm...you could say that.
     

    Just then, Gabi steps in, causing Nick to turn his head around excitedly.
     
    NICK: There's the woman I've been waiting to see!
     
    Gabi walks in, suitcase in tow. Nick looks down, and realizes what this means. He looks back up at Gabi, with a growing smile on his face.
     
    NICK: You....is this what I think it is?
     
    Gabi smiles ,nervously, breathing in deep before answering. She flashes back to what EJ told her when they met earlier:
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 156
     

    Gabi stands with EJ on the pier, her face lined with worry, as she speaks to EJ softly, trying not to be heard lest someone overhear.
     
    GABI: Alright. So how am I going to go about finding these pictures?
     
    EJ looks at Gabi, deadly serious.
     
    EJ: He'll have them. You're going to have to put yourself in very close proximity to him to get them. Make certain you bring your weapon to keep yourself protected, but don't let him think for a second that you're nervous around him.
    GABI: Even if that means I have to go to bed with him?
    EJ: Absolutely, if you have to.
    GABI: EJ, I...I can't do that. The thought of sleeping with that man again makes my skin crawl.
    EJ: I realize. But your family's lives are at stake here. You need to be prepared to do whatever it takes to take Nick down.
     
    ***
     
    Gabi smiles at Nick, feigning a warm look as she tells him her decision.
     
    GABI: Yeah. I'll do it, Nick. I'll move in with you.
     
    ---
     

    ---
     

    Hope walks out of the café in Horton Town Square, a coffee cup in hand to go, as she see Aiden approach the café at the same time.
     
    Catching each other's eyes, Hope moves to go around Aiden without greeting, but Aiden calls out to her, stopping her in her tracks.
     
    AIDEN: Hope.
     
    Hope responds coldly, not even turning to face Aiden.
     
    HOPE: What do you want, Aiden?
    AIDEN: I wanted to...apologize for how I behaved the last time we...heh, ran into each other.
     
    Hope turns around, speaking politely, but not warmly.
     
    HOPE: Aiden, there's nothing to say. Just....forget about it. You live your life, and try to stay out of mine.
    AIDEN: Well, wait. Look, I...I kinda wanted to make it up to you. If you don't mind, that is.
     
    Hope furrows her brow, unsure what Aiden means.
     
    HOPE: Don't mind what?
    AIDEN: Well...I was hoping to maybe...heh, maybe I could buy you dinner or something? Maybe meet up at Club TBD tonight?
     
    Hope looks on, stunned by Aiden's turn in attitude.
     
    ---
     
    Nick beams with delight as he hugs a tense Gabi, who looks on as Nick embraces her, positively stunned by what she's doing. 
     
    Nick laughs obliviously with excitement as he pulls Gabi out of their hug.
     
    NICK: Oh wow! This is...this is the best news I've had today. Seriously. 
    GABI: Well, you...you've had a lot of good news lately, I...I'm just the icing on the cake, I'm sure.
    NICK: That you are.
     
    Nick puts a hand on Gabi's arm, as Gabi looks on, trying not to let his discomfort with Nick's touch show. She looks over at Kim, who takes the cue and speaks up.
     
    KIM: Ah, Gabi! Did you...did you want a coffee or something?
     
    Gabi looks over at Kim, as she steps over toward a table for two.
     
    GABI: Ah...double vodka, straight.
     
    Nick looks curiously at Gabi as they sit down.
     
    NICK: You ah...you drinking so early?
    GABI: Nick, I need all the courage I can to live under Victor Kiriakis' roof. Especially if I'm going to be living there as your guest.
    NICK: That's just it, Gabi. It's not Victor's....it's my house. I own it. 
    GABI: Doesn't make it any less awkward. I mean, I'm moving out of Sonny and Will's and...I mean, I haven't even told them I'm leaving, and...
     
    Nick grabs Gabi's hands and holds them across the table. He looks seriously into her eyes.
     
    NICK: No. No, it doesn't need to be. Gabi, I'm serious. The Kiriakises are guests in our home. If anyone gives you trouble, you leave them to me. Okay?
     
    Gabi nods slowly, feeling very uncomfortable with the situation. Nick lowers his voice as he leans in closer.
     
    NICK: And as for Will & Sonny? We'll figure it out, we'll...we'll make a schedule for Ari, whatever you need. But you need to remember, you're entitled to live your own life. Now, I know Will won't mind as much, he usually doesn't...but If Sonny has that much of a problem with you living with me, I will make sure he stays out of our way, okay?
     
    Gabi interjects, cutting the end off of Nick's last statement.
     
    GABI: No, Nick, you don't have to--
    NICK: No, I...I think this is important. Let me handle Will and Sonny. You just need to make yourself comfortable, and we'll choose some great furniture for Ari's new bedroom, and...
    GABI: Nick, no, I can't--
    NICK: I...insist. I'll ask Maggie to help you out. It'll be no problem. I just want this place to feel like home for you, okay?
     
    Gabi looks down, nodding as she feigns a smile.
     
    GABI: Anywhere I go with you feels like home.
     
    Gabi looks up at Nick, hoping to see for sure if her lie was convincing to Nick.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler steps towards Victor's hospital bed, trying to explain himself to an impatient Victor.
     
    TYLER: Victor, we wanted to make sure you were alright before we bombarded you with business.
    VICTOR: Oh, save it. It's not like I'm at death's door.
     
    Tyler looks at Victor, vaguely amused by his resolve.
     
    TYLER: Maggie just wanted to be sure you made a speedy recovery. Any undue stress would've risked a relapse.
    VICTOR: I'd rather know now and get ahead of it than be blindsided by that arrogant weasel. He came in here giggling and bragging like he'd lost his virginity on prom night.
    TYLER: Well, there's an unpleasant thought.
     
    Victor relaxes slightly as he responds to Tyler's wry comment.
     
    VICTOR: It was equally unpleasant to hear. But it wasn't the worst of it.
     
    Tyler looks at Victor with a hint of confusion.
     
    TYLER: What do you mean?
    VICTOR: I mean that little worm's not working alone. 
    TYLER: Well, we suspected that for awhile. I mean, no one gets their hands on enough money to singlehandedly buy out a major corporation like that without major financial backing.
    VICTOR: Mmm, that's no lie. You'll be as surprised as I was to hear the source of that financial backing.
     
    Tyler rests against the edge of Victor's bed, now extremely curious to know who Victor's talking about.
     
    TYLER: And just who is that?
    VICTOR: Stefano DiMera.
     
    Tyler shakes his head, confirming his suspicions about Nick's sudden victory.
     
    ---
     

    Jordan sits at her office chair at University Hospital, as she hears a knock at the door. Looking up, she calls out to the person.
     
    JORDAN: Come in.
     

    Checking her watch, Jordan assumes it's another patient. But it's Maxine, with some paperwork for her.
     
    JORDAN: Maxine! Hi!
    MAXINE: So...how'd it go with Rafe?
     
    Jordan gets up from behind her desk, taking the paperwork from Maxine's outstretched hand.
     
    JORDAN: Very well...I think we're gonna be okay.
     
    Maxine beams at the news.
     
    MAXINE: I'm so glad to hear it. 
     
    Jordan quickly steps over to the other side of her desk and gives Maxine a warm hug.
     
    JORDAN: Ooo thank you so much, Maxine. You don't know how much your advice helped.
     
    Pulling away from their hug, Maxine gives Jordan a stern look, wagging her finger as she speaks.
     
    MAXINE: Listen, Jordan. If you ever need anything at all, any advice, I will be here. Even if it's just to listen. Sometimes that's all you need.
    JORDAN: I'll remember that. Thank you.
    MAXINE: Anytime, honey.
     
    Maxine steps out the door, closing it behind her, and Jordan turns her back to the door to check out the documents Maxine left behind.
     
    A moment later, there's another knock on the door. Jordan calls out again without turning to look.
     
    JORDAN: Maxine (laughs) what did you forget?
     
    The door opens, revealing Sheryl disguised as Crystal Clarke. Putting on her best fake southern accent, Sheryl steps just inside Jordan's office.
     
    SHERYL: Oh, nothin' big. Just came to get you.
     
    Jordan looks up from her papers, confused by the voice she hears.
     
    She turns suddenly, as Sheryl looks back at her, grinning widely. Jordan's face drops, terrified by Sheryl's arrival.
     
    ---
  18. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 27
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Jordan gets off the elevator at Titan HQ, looking around somewhat frantically for Sheryl, hoping not to be seen. The office is relatively empty given the hour, and the press conference means that many Titan execs are at the Town Square, prepping for the big show to come. Sheryl turns the corner at that moment and collects Jordan, hastily pulling her over to the doorway of an executive office.

    JORDAN: (whispering) How do you even have access to this?

    Sheryl holds up a keycard.

    SHERYL: It's amazing what sleeping with your boss can do, isn't it?
    JORDAN: You're...what?
    SHERYL: Oh, come on. You act like I've never done something like that before. Get real.
    JORDAN: So you stole it?

    Sheryl makes an irritated face at Jordan, and wordlessly turns around to open the door to the office. Jordan looks around her to make sure they're alone before stepping inside.

    ---

    Percy and Nick step into Horton Town Square, looking over where the press conference will take place. Nick takes Percy to one side.

    NICK: So...you know the plan?
    PERCY: Indeed I do!
    NICK: Alright. You stay here with Nicole. I'm off to work, but I'll be streaming the press conference on my phone. If I find anything pertinent on the Titan servers, I'll pass it on to you and you break it there. Got it?
    PERCY: Absolutely, Nicholas. I do have one small question.
    NICK: Okay, shoot.
    PERCY: What happens if Titan is not, in fact, connected to this EnerNext deal?
    NICK: Something tells me you don't have to worry about that.

    Nick winks before heading off to the Titan offices. Percy looks on with a look of concern.

    ---

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

    ---

    Kate sighs heavily after having explained her fixation on Jordan to Billie, and what led her to the discovery that Jordan isn't who she says she is. She sits down on the sofa across from Billie, who is sitting, tight-lipped on the chaise in Kate's living room. Kate waits a moment before finally taking Billie's silence as a cue.

    KATE: Well?
    BILLIE: Well, Mom, what do you want me to say? Oh Mom, I'm so glad you've spent the entire year sticking your nose into your ex's new girlfriend? Because that's totally not the exact reason that I left Salem in the first place.
    KATE: Billie, all I'm trying to do is protect Rafe.
    BILLIE: Yes, but you are the one who set up this entire situation to begin with.
    KATE: And that's why I'm trying so hard to solve this problem. It's my fault Rafe's in this mess and I feel responsible for getting him out of it.
    BILLIE: Oh Mom, you're so noble. Would you like a medal?

    Kate's increasingly exasperated by Billie's tone. She takes a second before replying, looking to the ceiling and counting to three in her head.

    KATE: Okay, Billie...I get it. I inserted myself in a situation that was likely none of my business. But it was to protect Rafe. And judging by what I've uncovered, I'd say I made the right decision.
    BILLIE: Maybe you have...but it's happy side effect of doing something for all the wrong reasons. And one day, that's gonna come back to bite you. And you might be fighting that battle alone.

    ---

    Theresa paces her living room as Kim sits down, tears forming in her eyes. Theresa isn't crying, but her eyes are pained, recalling her past in LA.

    THERESA: You know...I did want to trust you. I did want to be that good daughter you hoped I'd be. I tried. You know, for the longest time, I was actually grateful to Phillip. He did so much good for you. All the time you were in therapy after we moved back to LA. Your reintergration. He was just....so good. I was little but...I knew what was going on. He helped hold you together on the days when you couldn't. I wanted that one day. I knew it.
    KIM: But Theresa...I mean...I know...I know I never asked you about it--
    THERESA: You know, that's the worst part. I've never thought you cared. You always would change the subject or ask me something inane to make it sound like you cared but you weren't really listening. I just gave up. So come on. What do you wanna know, Mom?

    Kim looks up at Theresa, as she clutches a pillow on the sofa. Kim shakes her head slowly.

    KIM: I...when did it start? What...what happened?

    Theresa stares straight ahead of her towards the window. She walks slowly over to it and looks out on the city. She laughs a small laugh, more one of recognizing the situational irony than of actual humour.

    THERESA: You know...that's the first time you've ever asked that. All the times over these past years...I wanted you to ask me that more than anything. Legitimately, that's the one question I hoped you'd ask. You never did.

    Kim looks to the ground before her, ashamed to even look up at her daughter. She reluctantly responds, reiterating her question.

    KIM: Well...tell me now. If you're able to...I mean...if you want to tell me. I'm listening. When did it all start?
    THERESA: I was 7. You had gone back to Salem when we thought Uncle Roman had died. It kept going until I was 16, and that's when I finally had to tell you. You were going away to Europe for a conference, and you were going with that friend of yours. Andrew was going away with his friends for a week to Seattle and I just...I couldn't let you leave us alone. Something just snapped in me.

    Theresa thinks back, flashing back to sitting down on the bed in her mom's room, explaining to Kim what happened with Phillip. And Kim's anger and disbelief in return.

    THERESA: And you didn't believe me. You didn't believe a word of it. Because I'd become such a bad kid that you just figured I was making up stories.

    Theresa finally turns around to face Kim. She looks Kim dead in the eyes.

    THERESA: And that's when I tracked her down.

    Kim's face clearly expresses that she's made some kind of connection with what Theresa's said and something Kim's previously aware of.

    ---

    Sami looks over at Abby, concern on her face, as they continue to talk at Club TBD.

    SAMI: Abby, did I...say something wrong? I'm sorry if something I said got to you, or...
    ABBY: No no no, it's okay. I just...You know...had goals and now...
    SAMI: Well...look, you were always a good writer...we are looking for a junior assistant in our PR department. If you wanted to apply for it--
    ABBY: Sami, I don't want a sympathy handout.
    SAMI: Abby! This isn't a handout. I know you're capable of some amazing stuff, just like your father. Look at this as a chance for you to really shine in a job you're good at.
    ABBY: It is...a really good job...but...
    SAMI: Then yes. I can draw up the paperwork as soon as possible, but first I need to go talk to EJ about it, once I do that, I'll have you sign on. And I'm not gonna take 'no' for an answer. Because you need a job and there's not likely gonna be a better job than this. If I do say so myself, we're a pretty damn good company to work for.

    Abby's at a loss for words what with Sami's generosity. She struggles to respond, and with Sami's motormouth, it's hard to get a word in edgewise anyway. So Abby stands, dons a polite white smile, and nods heartily at Sami's offer.

    ABBY: I...uh....thanks, Sami.
    SAMI: Don't mention it. You're an awesome person, and a hard worker, and I'd know. You don't need a reference if I've seen you work already. RIght?
    ABBY: Right.

    Sami leans over and gives Abby a hug, as though they've been friends for years. Abby is dumfounded.

    SAMI: Look, I've kind of had a frantic week so I gotta go. Uh...I'll see you soon, Abby.
    ABBY: Yeah, you too, Sami.

    Sami takes off hurriedly. Abby stands by the bar, dumfounded, before suddenly realizing how closely she'd be working with EJ.

    ABBY: Oh God, this is gonna get awkward really fast.

    ---

    Sheryl boots up one of Titan's computers and inserts a USB key into the drive.

    JORDAN: Okay, Sheryl, do you not think this is incredibly risky?
    SHERYL: Clearly dating this Rafe guy is making you soft, Jordan. Come on! What is it about Jordan Ridgeway that you can't turn her off and turn Kaylie Matthews back on.
    JORDAN: Because Kaylie Matthews didn't care what anyone thought. Jordan Ridgeway is with a really great guy who doesn't need to know that I'm in cahoots with a woman who wants to bring down a multi-national conglomerate by any means neccessary.
    NICK: Sounds like fun. Can I join you?

    Nick's voice startles Jordan and Sheryl, as Nick enters the room, a wide 'gotcha' smile across his face. Jordan and Sheryl appear petrified that they've been caught.

    ---
  20. beebs
    BILLIE REED RETURNS TO DAYS (SON Blog)







    Yes, Lisa Rinna will be making a return to Days of our Lives. She will be appearing to help Kate take down an enemy working within her company. Will Kate and Billie's old beefs rise back to the surface, and will Billie be able to stop the plot before it gets out of control? Find out, on
    DAYS on MySONtv.








  21. beebs
    EPISODE 84
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks, Nick Monarco & C. Nathaniel Richardson  
    Billie sits at Theresa’s bedside, holding her friend’s hand, watching her comatose body rest. Billie looks on, solemnly, and deep in thought. She smiles after a moment.   BILLIE: Theresa. It’s me. Billie.
    Billie stops a moment as she watches her friend lie in silence. The only sound in the room is the machinery around her bed, the beep of her heart monitor. Billie fights the urge to tear up, and smiles instead.   BILLIE: You know, I was thinking the other day...about one of our phone calls. You were fifteen and you were so mad at your Dad because he was…off on another ISA mission, and you had made plans with him for the weekend to have a ski trip in Colorado. You were…so upset, but you told me that you knew that you had to be there for your mom. You knew what she was in for when your dad left…I….I know you love your mom, Theresa. No matter what she’s done…underneath all that anger.  
    Billie’s tears up, in spite of her best efforts. The door to the room opens, startling Billie. Daniel walks in, allowing Billie to relax a bit. She gets up from her chair, regardless.   BILLIE: Daniel…
    DANIEL: You…probably shouldn’t be here right now.
    BILLIE: I know. I just…I needed to cool off a bit.   Daniel looks on, concerned, noticing Billie’s teary eyes.   DANIEL: Yeah, I’m not so sure you succeeded at that.
    BILLIE: Yeah. Really.   Billie wipes the tears from her eyes, and puts her hands on her hips, trying to regain her composure.   BILLIE: Look…uh…Daniel…about…earlier.
    DANIEL: Billie, I…I can’t talk about it, you know that.   Billie holds up her hands to stop Daniel continuing.   BILLIE: I know. Look, it’s…it’s not about that. I just…look, I know we haven’t been together very long, but...you know…listening to you talking to Laura and…doing…whatever you’re doing to protect Jennifer…I…I mean…   Daniel looks at Billie with uncertainty.   DANIEL: What are you saying?   BILLIE: Daniel, you’re still in love with Jennifer, aren’t you?   ---  
    Nicole slams her files down on her desk in frustration. Sighing audibly, she begins talking to herself aloud.   NICOLE: And yet again, my shadow follows me. (sigh) Except now I gotta work for her. Dammit!   As she raises her fist in aggravation, she stops herself.   NICOLE: Having said this...EJ did give me the go-ahead to do the EnerNext exposé...   Nicole smirks a bit, realizing how this could work to her advantage.   NICOLE: Maybe that little bastard Nick isn't such a bad guy after all.   Laughing to herself, Nicole is suddenly interrupted by a text message. Searching momentarily for her phone, she finds it. Picking it up, she swipes over to check her messages.
    It's from Eric.   meet me @ Anderson park 535. dont b late, its important. Love, eric   Nicole looks a bit concerned. She scrunches up her face.   NICOLE: Hm! Wonder what HE wants. Maybe he's finally made up his mind...   Nicole stops herself a moment before continuing, laughing sarcastically.   NICOLE: Right. Maybe the Pope's become an atheist too! God, I need a drink. Good thing TBD's near the park.   Nicole grabs her files, shoves them hastily into her briefcase before grabbing her coat, and heading out of her office.   ---  
    Tyler sits uncomfortably in his seat in Victor's office at Titan, as he tries to talk his way out of his dismissive comment against Maggie he just made to Victor. Victor, meanwhile, stands in the corner of the room, sorting through some documents.   TYLER: I...I'm sorry, Victor. I didn't realize...Maggie was...your...wife.   Victor turns, smiling wryly as he saunters over to his desk, slowly sitting himself down in his executive chair.   VICTOR: I had a feeling. Personally, I'm amazed you've made it this far in business without learning to do your due diligence. A man in your position could stand to be a bit more careful.   Tyler swallows hard, nodding fervently as he swivels himself slightly to reach a jug of water on Victor's desk. Pouring himself a glass, he continues to backtrack.   TYLER: Well...knowing what I do about Maggie now...I...well...she'd be a great fit. I will say though...   Victor glares Tyler's way as Tyler continues to fumble.   TYLER: You, uh...you might want to take a few days to...you know....assess the situation.
    VICTOR: Well, naturally, I'll be attending to some other things, dealing with the last of Brady's affairs with Titan, and handling the selloff of Titan TV.   Tyler, suddenly snapping out of his own worries, remembers something important to bring up to Victor. Scurrying to grab his tablet, Tyler gets up from his seat, and walks to Victor's side of the desk.   TYLER: Speaking of which, you uhh...you might want to look at this.   Tyler hands Victor his tablet, showing the news report, revealing DiMera Enterprises has acquired Titan TV. Victor's rage escalates immediately.   VICTOR: Dammit!   ---  
    Gabi walks carefully down the steps onto the foggy pier, looking cautiously around for Liam. Spotting him approach through the mist, she looks nonchalantly about before heading his way.
    Gabi cautiously looks around before speaking to Liam, who never quite looks her in the eye as they chat.   GABI: Have you got it?
    LIAM: Yeah.   Gabi looks at Liam intensely suddenly, holding out her hand in anticipation, but Liam doesn’t hand the bag containing the pills quite so quickly.   LIAM: NOT…so fast. I didn’t go to all this trouble for you to just grab and go. You need to understand a few things first.   Gabi breathes quickly, very uncomfortable suddenly with a very intense Liam.   ---
    ---  
    Jerome is escorted by Hope into the police station in handcuffs. He stays silent, but has an intense, embittered look on his face as Hope leads him into the interrogation room, where a curious Rafe joins them.
    Looking over, he points toward Jerome.   RAFE: Who's this?
    HOPE: THIS is the burglar that's been targeting the houses in the west end.
    RAFE: Is that so? Well, then I guess it's time we had a little chat then, huh?
    JEROME: I'd love to...after my lawyer shows up.   Hope rolls her eyes as Rafe leans over the table, trying to stare Jerome down. Jerome won't engage. He stares at the floor, head tilted.   RAFE: You'll talk now if you know what's good for you, man. That's the eighth house you've hit this month. You're a hard man to track down!
    JEROME: I thought I was entitled to a phone call.   Rafe grins, shaking his head.   RAFE: Heh. Yeah, no. You're not entitled to one.
    JEROME: I know my rights. What little I have--
    RAFE: ...You've been watching too much Law & Order. You're not going anywhere until we hear those magic words.   Jerome sighs, fighting his urge to roll his eyes. He simply closes them and responds as if on cue.   JEROME: Please?
    HOPE: Wrong magic words, Jerome. He means "I did it".   Jerome finally turns to face Hope and Rafe, as if suddenly HIS magic words have been spoken. He looks intensely at Hope as his temper flares.   JEROME: Would it make a difference if I did?
    HOPE: What's that supposed to mean?
    JEROME: It means when a black man is in the wrong place at the wrong time, he could saving the President from a terrorist attack and you suckers would think he's the one trying to kill him!   Rafe steps toward Jerome in anger, but Hope holds him back. She focuses in on Rafe a moment, speaking softly to him.   HOPE: No. We're doing this my way, okay?   After a moment, Rafe cools off and nods. Hope turns back to Jerome.   HOPE: You want your lawyer? Call them.
    JEROME: I need to contact my grandmother to get a lawyer for me.   Hope sighs. She walks up to Jerome.   HOPE: Stand up.   Jerome responds dutifully, as Hope walks him toward the door. Rafe hangs back, as Hope leads Jerome out into the main room, Rafe following behind them, arms folded, looking imposing.   HOPE: We have to book you anyway.
    RAFE: You alright or you want me around?
    HOPE: I think I can handle this one.
    RAFE: Alright. Suit yourself. You know where to find me.
    HOPE: Yup...alright, sit down here.   Jerome sits down in front of the desk, as Hope motions another cop to stand behind Jerome to monitor him, which elicits a momentary eye roll from Jerome. Hope barely notices as she pulls up the file on the computer.   HOPE: Right. Full name.
    JEROME: I'm not getting my phone call first--   Hope interrupts in a booming voice that could silence a football field.   HOPE: FULL NAME.   Jerome looks down again, defeat in his voice as he responds.   JEROME: Jerome Grant.   Hope looks up suddenly, taken aback by Jerome's last name.   HOPE: Uh...right. I think the uh...booking can wait. Did you...your phone call. It was to...
    JEROME: University Hospital. Ask for Valerie Grant.   Hope looks over at Jerome, wide eyed, her cool truly lost.   ---   Daniel and Billie walk into Daniel's office. Daniel shuts the door behind them as Billie walks in, still emotional from her visit with Theresa, and with her questions for Daniel.   BILLIE: You didn't answer me, Daniel.
    DANIEL: No, I didn't. Because I wasn't going to start an argument in a room you're not even supposed to be in.   Billie sighs as Daniel walks over to her, putting his hands firmly on her upper arms. He holds her there, staring deeply into her eyes.   DANIEL: Look...Billie, I know it hasn't been that long that I've been...separated from Jennifer, but....you really need to understand. What she and I had together...it's over. Completely.
    BILLIE: That's not what I asked, Daniel.   Billie tries to shake Daniel off of her, but Daniel lets go anyway. Billie starts to pace the room, looking down as she carefully chooses her words.   BILLIE: Look...I don't want to bring up the past and...painful memories any more than you do, but...when I saw Laura in your office, and you were talking about helping Jenn and Abby out, I...I saw the look in your eye, Daniel. You still love her.
    DANIEL: Well, yes. I mean...it's not like those feelings just...disappear overnight, you know. I mean...yes...YES, I love Jenn. I probably always will. But, Billie...   Daniel walks back over to Billie and tenderly caresses her cheek with his hand. Billie initially tries to wriggle away but relents quickly, as Daniel continues.   DANIEL: I'm IN love with you. That's all that matters.   Billie says nothing, sighing a bit as she leans her face into Daniel's hand.   DANIEL: Right?   Billie starts to crack a smile as she steps toward Daniel, putting her arms around him.   BILLIE: I guess...I guess you're right.
    DANIEL: Thaaaat's better.   Daniel smiles as he holds Billie. They lean in for a kiss.   Separating, Billie smiles.   BILLIE: Look. I...I have to get going. Thanks again for getting me in there today.
    DANIEL: Anytime.
    BILLIE: Uh...maybe we can meet up tonight? Dinner at my...   Daniel looks at Billie, shaking his head.   BILLIE: ...mom's...bad idea.   Simultaneously they shake their heads, responding over each other.#   DANIEL: Baaaaad idea.
    BILLIE: Yeah, no. Not going there. Well...I'll text you?
    DANIEL: Better idea.
    BILLIE: Alright.   Billie leans against the doorway to Daniel's office, she smiles playfully, blowing a kiss Daniel's way.   BILLIE: I love you.
    DANIEL: I love you too.   As Billie turns the corner, her expression changes immediately to one of determination.   BILLIE: Alright, Daniel. What are you trying to protect Jenn from, and why are you Laura's only hope.   Inside Daniel's office, Daniel shakes his head, expression changed as well, as he mulls over what he knows about Jenn, and Abby.   DANIEL: God, I hope Billie doesn't go digging now. I'm not even sure Abby's safe now. God help her if Billie gets involved.   ---   Gabi looks fearfully at Liam, who's grabbed her one arm, hands her a plastic pharmacy bag, containing a bottle of what's marked as generic Acetaminophen, and Marlena's stolen perscription pad.   GABI: What...what's in here?
    LIAM: Everything you asked for. But you can't go demanding anything like this again. It's too risky. You got it? No more contact.   Gabi nods furiously, scared stiff.   LIAM: Okay, here's what you need to know. These are Dr. Marlena Evans' perscription pads. Slip them in his bag when his back's turned, and make sure they nab the guy this time.
    GABI: Okay. Okay. Look, what if this doesn't work?
    LIAM: Then he's your problem. There's no third chance here.   Gabi sighs. Eventually nodding. She grabs the bag and runs off, stopping momentarily to thank Liam.   GABI: Thank--   Gabi looks and finds Liam's already vanished into the mist. Gabi sighs audibly and heads quickly back up toward the pub.   GABI: This HAS to work. Please, God. For my daughter's sake.   Gabi looks around again, careful not to be seen by anyone as she makes her way up the steps from the pier.   ---   Nicole walks into the clearing at the park. Looking around for Eric, she doesn't see him. Or anyone. She stands in her winter coat, shivering as she goes to grab her phone from her purse.   She looks down to see a bright red envelope attached to the bench in front of her.   Intrigued, she steps towards it, picking it up.   Her name is on the front. Opening it, she begins to crack a smile as she sees the card inside. She pulls the all-white card from the envelope and reads its inscription.       Nicole looks up.   NICOLE: 8-3-5? What the...?   Jarred by the abrupt end to the letter, she begins looking around again. She notices a single red rose on the ground on the other side of the bench. Tilting her head around, she approaches it.   Picking it up, she sees a trail of roses leading into a larger, but dimly lit clearing on the other side of the bushes. As it's getting dark, she fishes through her bag to pull out a small flashlight she keeps on her keychain.   Following the trail leads her to a small box with a combination lock on it.   Nicole studies the box carefully as she picks it up. A song gently begins as she does.     (0:13) Nicole checks the note again and begins to plug in the combination.   ---  
    (0:26) Valerie hears her office phone ring at the hospital, as she prepares to leave for the day. Picking up the receiver, she's immediately upset by what she hears on the other end. Tearing up as she shakes her head, she responds to the person on the other end shortly before hanging up.   ---   (0:51) Jerome looks straight ahead, a distant blank look in his eye as the phone is placed back down at the police station. Hope looks on, now more distracted and concerned than she would normally be on the job. She tries to speak to Jerome.   HOPE: Is she on her way?   Jerome doesn't answer, lost in his own mind, he doesn't even look Hope's way.   HOPE: Jerome?   Knowing he's not paying attention, Hope carries on with the paperwork, sighing in resignation.   ---   (1:30) Billie drives down the road, deep in thought about her friend Jennifer and the insecurity she feels about her relationship with Daniel, as well as the tragic circumstances that have led to her close friend Theresa ending up in a coma she may not wake up from, and Kim barring Billie from visiting Theresa in hospital.   Distracted, she begins to veer into oncoming traffic.   (1:55) She catches herself as a horn blares out, causing her to quickly jerk the steering wheel right, pulling her car over to the shoulder. Braking hard, she begins to tear up. Resting her head against the steering wheel, she lets her emotions out, crying hard in her car.   ---   (2:08) Victor sits alone in his office, the headline of DiMera taking over Titan TV resting on his desk.   Victor looks over to see a picture of Brady looking back at him. He stares into it, wistfully.   ---   (2:30) Nicole finishes setting the combination on the box, and opens it.   Seeing a beautiful diamond ring, she takes a step back, trying in vain to hold back from crying.  
    (2:45) Eric appears, as a series of lights are turned on via dimmers. Eric smiles warmly at a teary-eyed Nicole.  
    The lights are strung up to read "Will you marry me?". Nicole reads them over, and tears up even more.   ERIC: So...I've been doing some thinking.   Nicole laughs through her tears, Eric joining her. Nicole responds as she wipes her tears away.   NICOLE: I can see that.
    ERIC: I just want you to know that...if doing the right thing means a life without you...I don't want that life.   Nicole wraps her arms around Eric, moved beyond words.   ERIC: Nicole. I love you...so...much. So...what do you say?   Nicole breathes in deeply, as Eric gets on one knee to put the ring on her finger.   ERIC: Nicole Walker. Will you marry me?   (3:34) Nicole shouts out her answer, bouncing in place, still freezing.   NICOLE: Oh my God, YES!   Eric puts the ring on, lifting Nicole into the air for a passionate kiss that they wish would never end. Eric and Nicole's hands wrap around each other, holding each other tightly as they kiss with an intensity that heats up the cold evening.   When they do end their kiss, Nicole rests in Eric's arms, as they tenderly hold each other, Nicole's tears still smearing her mascara. Eric looks on with a look that shows he's finally at peace.   ---
  22. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 31
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Jennifer slams her folders on her desk, seething after her confrontation with Anne. Liam is not far behind her, knocking gently on her door with a concerned look on his face.

    LIAM: You alright, Jenn?

    Jennifer looks up at Liam as she sits down at her desk. An exhausted, upset look on her face.

    JENNIFER: No. I'm not.
    LIAM: Well, do you need a...someone to talk to I could just...stay with you a minute, if you liked?

    Jennifer smiles slightly, but can only manage a bit of a smile.

    JENNIFER: I'd love that, but I think I need a few minutes to myself, or I'm going to explode, and I'd rather you not be here for that.
    LIAM: (laughs) Fair enough. Look, if you want to, we can always stop into the Brady Pub for a bit and you can sorta...vent your frustrations. I know that tends to do me a lot of good sometimes.
    JENNIFER: Thanks, Liam. I appreciate it. Maybe I'll see you at the Pub for...7?
    LIAM: Absolutely.

    Jenn opens her office door for Liam and there is JJ in the doorway, surprised, and unpleasantly surprised to see Liam.

    JJ: Mom! What's going on?

    ---

    Billie steps into the office where the computer had just turned off. Turning on the light in the room, she begins to inspect the computer. Not finding anything, she pulls out the tower, and inspects the back, stopping when she reaches the USB drive. A small drive that barely looks like more than the size of a thumbtack has been inserted into the drive. Finding this odd, she pulls the key out and looks it over closely.

    Billie gets up, putting the USB drive in her pocket. She hastily exits, turning off the light in the room before leaving.

    ---

    Sami is in her office at Countess Wilhelmina, on the phone with a client, when a knock on the door breaks her focus.

    SAMI: (into phone) ...And so these figures need to be addressed, ASAP, because we cannot go into fall with an overrun like that...and...

    The knocking continues, and Sami struggles to ingore it.

    SAMI: (into phone) ...I don't want MadWorld thinking, even for a second, that they've got the edge. You understand? ...I....I gotta call you back. That alright? Okay.

    Sami hangs up the phone and marches, angrily, to the door. Opening it brusquely, she finds Kate on the other side. Sami is unimpressed.

    SAMI: Kate!
    KATE: Well that took you long enough.
    SAMI: I was in a call, Kate. You know, doing work, that thing I do when I'm at the office.
    KATE: How quaint.

    Kate steps into Sami's office without asking permission. She saunters slowly.

    KATE: Mind if I come in and ask you something?
    SAMI: Why do I have a feeling you won't take 'no' for an answer.
    KATE: Because you're smarter than you look?

    Sami glowers at Kate, while Kate turns to face Sami, looking her up and down.

    KATE: On second thought--
    SAMI: ...What do you want, Kate?
    KATE: I just want you to hire Gabi to model for you.

    Sami looks to Kate, confused.

    ---

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

    ---

    Sami looks to Kate, utterly baffled by her idea.

    SAMI: Why would I hire Gabi to model for me? And why are YOU suggesting it?
    KATE: Well, if we want to elminate Nick Fallon, we need to remove any power he has over Gabi.
    SAMI: I really don't think he has much power over Gabi.

    Kate rolls her eyes at Sami.

    KATE: You know, for a woman who's been on death row, you're probably the most naive person I've ever met.
    SAMI: I just don't see it, Kate. Where is all this power he has over her. He's barely associated with her since he got back from downstream.
    KATE: Oh come off it, Sami. Nick has been obsessed with getting back with Gabi for months now. Look at what he did to her the night we tried to kill him--
    SAMI: SHH!

    Kate jumps back at Sami's paranoid jumpiness.

    KATE: Stop that! There's no one here.
    SAMI: Sorry, I'm just...trying to be careful.
    KATE: Well stop it, and start listening. He was after Gabi before, he's after her now. So we need to nip it in the bud before he tries something else. We all know that guys like Nick Fallon don't give up out of nowhere. He's up to something. We need to keep Gabi from being in any way reliant on Nick, and if he does insert himself in Gabi's life again, that we are both in close enough proximity to him to suss him out before he gets too far. Having Gabi working for you works almost like a mouse trap. Lure him in, and nab that bastard.
    EJ: Kate's right. We need to do this.

    EJ startles Sami with his appearance in her office. Kate seems smugly satisfied by EJ's agreement, but Sami is incredibly uneasy with him.

    ---

    Nicole and Percy stand in the MadWorld lab, looking over to Nick, who is obscuring Nicole's file folder while looking out the window.

    NICOLE: Usually when people talk they face each other, Nick.

    Nick turns around, still hiding the file folder behind him.

    NICK: Alright, Nicole. What's the trouble?
    NICOLE: Oh you know damn well, you sniveling little rat. You set me up!
    NICK: Oh I did now! How exactly did I do that?
    NICOLE: Don't play innocent, Nick. You knew all along that Titan was behind the EnerNext deal. You wanted to make sure that the Titan press coverage was against the news to make them look bad. And you tricked me into playing along.
    NICK: Right, Nicole. Because obviously it's not at all up to the person doing the story to maybe...you know....do their research? It took me a whole ten seconds to make the connection between EnerNext and Titan. So what's your excuse?
    NICOLE: EnerNext had worked with Titan before, but it was nothing to do with this project. The only publicized reports on their partnership was from at least two years ago, which means the only reason you knew about this connection was because you had an inside track.

    Nick approaches Nicole slowly, almost menacingly. Percy stands to one side, cautiously observing the situation.

    NICK: And what if I did? I'm trying to help Percy here to keep his home. I'm trying to stop these corporate nutcases from turning the entire town into a toxic waste dump so they can line their pockets a bit more. I'm trying to do the right thing. I know that's really hard for you to conceive of, knowing your history, but I'd think you'd understand someone wanting to change for the better, no? Trying to stand up for what's right?
    NICOLE: I do. But you don't get that by deceiving the people that are here to help you out. And that's exactly why I'm not helping you anymore.

    Nick isn't at all shocked by Nicole's revelation. Percy is stunned, but Nick clearly has anticipated Nicole's reaction.

    NICK: What did you say?
    NICOLE: I am dropping this story.
    PERCY: But you can't do that!
    NICOLE: Just watch me.
    NICK: Percy. Don't panic. I knew she was gonna pull something like this.
    NICOLE: Ah yes. Mr. Omnipotent. You've got my number. Can't hide anything from you, can I--
    NICK: ...You aren't going to drop this story, Nicole. Okay? You're going to keep working on this with us.
    NICOLE: Says who?
    NICK: I do.

    Nicole laughs sarcastically at Nick's assertion. Nick slowly walks over to the window, where the file folder was. As Nicole carries on, he grabs the folder.

    NICOLE: Well, now I know you've lost your grip on reality. Seriously, Nick. You have no legs to stand on here. I am suspended from my job, thanks to you. I may be fired. Which means I would have no place to broadcast this story to. I look like a loose cannon as it is, again, thanks to you. And frankly, since you're doing so much good for my reputation right now, I don't think I'd want to work with you, anyway. So, I don't know, Nick. You tell me, why should I keep working on this story?

    Nick turns around quickly, the file folder opened.

    NICK: Because I don't think that Eric would be too keen on finding out how much you know about...Dr. Chyka, is it?

    Nicole is stunned into silence by what Nick's just revealed.

    ---
  23. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 8
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Jennifer steps off the elevator at University Hospital, making her way over to the desk at the Nurses' Station. Maxine is there to greet her.

    MAXINE: Hey, honey. How are you this morning?
    JENNIFER: Oh I'm alright. (sighs) Is Daniel in?
    MAXINE: Yeah, I think I saw him head in early this morning. Why?

    Maxine raises an eyebrow with a wry smile on her face. Jennifer shakes her head in warning.

    JENNIFER: Don't get too excited, Maxine. We're not getting back together, I can guarantee you.
    MAXINE: Now, come on, honey. You been saying that for weeks now. We all see how you feel about him.You gotta stop torturing yourselves like this.
    JENNIFER: No, see...torture would be getting back together with him once again, only to have it fall apart again. I can't do it, Maxine. I just can't.

    Jenn grabs her things and heads off, trying not to well up.

    JENNIFER: If you'll excuse me.

    ---

    Abigail turns to face EJ, who has just closed the door to the hospital records room, where Abby has taken up office. Abby and EJ can feel the tension between them and attempt to keep a distance.

    ABBY: What do you want, EJ?
    EJ: We need to talk seriously about this...thing that's going on between us.
    ABBY: That's vague. I mean, come on, EJ, let's really lay this out there. We both want each other, but you're in love with Sami. I mean, everyone's only too happy to tell me about how much you love her. So tell me. Truthfully, if you love her so much, why are we sleeping together?

    ---

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

    ---

    Eric is thoroughly exasperated with Sami's accusation directed at Nicole. Though he's doubting Nicole's motives, he isn't willing to entertain the thought that Sami might be right about her arch enemy.

    ERIC: Sami, I think you better stop.
    SAMI: WHY?! All Nicole wants to do is get in your pants, I don't see why I should have sugar coat it.
    ERIC: SAMI, ENOUGH! Seriously!

    At this moment, Roman's phone rings. It's Kate again, demanding Roman meet her immediately.

    ROMAN: Kate, give me a second, okay?...It's incredibly important, yes...No I won't have time for a little bit. I'll let you know when I'm free, okay? Alright. Bye.

    Roman puts down his phone. The family is suddenly hushed and paying attention. Sami's especially interested, considering her current situation with Kate, Gabi and Nick.

    SAMI: What did SHE want?
    ROMAN: Ahhh Kate's just freaking out about something. She really wants to tell me right away, so I told her I'd head down to the MadWorld offices soon as I can.
    SAMI: Oh....geez. I...well I hope everything's okay. I should probably get going actually.

    Sami gets up from her seat and grabs her purse and spring jacket. Eric gets up and Sami goes to give him a hug.

    SAMI: Look, Eric. I love you, and I support whatever decision you make. Just...don't make a stupid one for the sake of...that...woman.
    ERIC: I'm not. Don't worry.This decision is solely mine to make.
    SAMI: Alright. I believe you. (laughs)...alright, I'll see you soon.

    Sami leans over to kiss and hug Marlena & Roman.

    SAMI: Bye mom, bye daddy.
    ERIC: See you, Sami.
    MARLENA: Goodbye, sweetheart.
    ROMAN: See you in a bit, baby girl.

    Sami scurries off quickly. It seems only slightly suspicious to the others, who are kind of desensitized to Sami's actions at this rate. High strung and dramatic are part and parcel of Sami Brady. Best just to get used to it.

    MARLENA: (with a bit of a laugh) My God, my daughter's bullheaded sometimes.
    ERIC: And easily distracted.
    ROMAN: Well, when you're as busy as she is, it's not hard to understand why.
    ERIC True.

    Eric is served another coffee by their waitress.

    ERIC: Uhhh...so? Any word from Bo yet?
    ROMAN: Not quite yet. He's working with John and Shane on something though, it seems.
    HOPE: Well that's more information than I've managed to get out of him. Good work, Roman.

    Hope has enetered the room, still upset from Bo's phone call earlier.

    ---

    Will and Sonny sit down in their living room on either side of Gabi, who is holding Ari.

    WILL: Gabi, let me hold her for a sec.
    GABI: No! No, Will. I want to hold her, please.

    Will reaches out to take the baby from Gabi, but Gabi's protests stop him. He retreats awkwardly.

    GABI: I just...holding her makes me feel...I dunno, a little safer right now.
    SONNY: Okay, Gabi. What's wrong? You look so tired, you've obviously been up all night.
    GABI: Well...the baby was crying...and so I got up out of bed and stayed with her.
    WILL: Gabi, we're talking about your dream. What about Nick that's got you so spooked.
    GABI: It's...it's nothing, he just...

    Gabi darts her eyes between Will and Sonny. She gets up to put Ari back in her crib.

    GABI: Look, I know you guys just want me to say something bad about him, but it's not his fault. He just...he was going through things.
    SONNY: So that gives him permission to rape you?
    GABI: But he didn't, Sonny!
    WILL: Gabi, he tried. He scared you to the point that you hit him in the head with a rock. Obviously you felt threatened by him enough--
    GABI: Yeah, but that's not the point. If I hadn't....humiliated him in Town Square like that in front of all those people NONE of this would've happened.

    Sonny can't believe what he's hearing. Desperate to try to get through to Gabi, he grabs her shoulders, Gabi recoils.

    SONNY: Do you hear what you're saying right now? Gabi, he assaulted you!
    GABI: Get your hands off me, Sonny. (backing away) Don't touch me. Please.
    SONNY: I'm sorry. But I'm worried about you. I don't want Nick to hurt you again, or Will, or Ari.
    GABI: I don't think he will.
    WILL: Yeah, well, I'm not so sure about that.

    ---

    Jennifer makes a beeline for Daniel's office, but is stopped in the hallway by Anne Milbauer.

    ANNE: Ohhh! How nice to see you actually at work for once.
    JENNIFER: (sighing) What do you want, Anne?
    ANNE: To see you working more than an hour a day, continuously, I might add, since you tend to work about two-and-a-half cumulatively, but I hardly count that--
    JENNIFER: I don't have time for this.

    Jenn tries to walk away, Anne grabs her shoulder to stop her.

    ANNE: Woah woah woah woah not so fast, sweetie. I need you to have your sweet little doe-eyed daughter sign something for me. We're going to be publicizing the digitization of hospital records, and she's working on those as we speak.
    JENNIFER: Anything else?
    ANNE: No, just get it back to me right away.

    Jennifer stiffens and salutes Anne mockingly.

    JENNIFER: Yes, Ma'am!
    ANNE: Cute. Very cute.

    Anne walks away, Jennifer laughs to herself at Anne's ridiculousness, she decides to take are of the signing off right away and backtracks to Abigail's temporary office.

    ---

    EJ takes a moment to think before he responds to Abigail. Abigail folds her arms in impatience.

    ABBY: Well? What is it, EJ? Why does this keep happening?
    EJ: Look, Abigail--
    ABBY: Stop! Don't...don't feed me your spin. I think you're still channeling your inner politician. And I don't want to hear it. I want truth.
    EJ: What makes you think I haven't been totally upfront with you?
    ABBY: Well, I don't know. Maybe it's something to do with why I had to be kept in the dark when Nick was missing. Maybe it's because I feel like the only reason you even slept with me in the first place was to shut me up and 'WHOOPS!' you actually enjoyed yourself.
    EJ: That's not what it is.
    ABBY: You've said that before. I'd like to believe it. But I walk away every time EJ, and I feel cheap, and used.
    EJ: I'm sorry, Abigail. I truly am--
    ABBY: ...And the worst part is...I know the second you and Samantha get over whatever you've been fighting about, I'm gonna be thrown out like yesterday's trash. Won't I?

    EJ's anger boils over, he turns around, upset by her accusation.

    EJ: NO! No you will not, dammit. I am attracted to you. You give me something I need, and you're a beautiful girl.
    ABBY: Girl. Exactly, EJ. I'm not a woman to you. Sami's a woman though, isn't she?

    Abby drapes her arms around EJ's neck, leaning in closer to him.

    ABBY: Sami is grown up, she's everything you want in a woman. Sami can make you feel like no one else, can she?
    EJ: Abigail, I--
    ABBY: Shhh. Let me ask you something.

    Abigail is merely an inch from EJ's lips. She whispers sensually to him.

    ABBY: What if I'm more woman than you realize?

    Abigail leans in to kiss EJ. He kisses back, and the fire ignites. EJ clears off Abigail's desk, and lays her down on it.

    Outside, Jennifer fumbles with her purse, searching for her keycard, finding it, she buzzes herself in and turns the handle.

    ---
  24. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 28
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    SPECIAL GUEST STAR: Jerry VerDorn as Tyler Houston, CEO of EnerNext.

    A cross section of Salem appears in Town Square. Everyone from Nicole, who is busy doing a live broadcast previewing the proceedings, to Percy, to Will, Sonny, Gabi, and Baby Ari, as well as Marlena, Hope, Jennifer, Abe, Maxine, all out in protest of the EnerNext deal. Aiden, Adrienne and Justin, are also in the crowd. Kate and Billie hang back, away from the others, observing those around them.

    KATE: I don't see them anywhere.
    BILLIE: Well, it doesn't start for another few minutes, so maybe they're on their way.
    KATE: They better be. I can't wait to see them antagonize Victor and show everybody their true colours.



    Victor and Brady stand backstage, waiting for their grand entrance. Victor is tirelessly ensuring all the final details are in place, while Brady, desperate to try to prove useful, attempts to follow his every move, and take initiative, only to have Victor take over every time.

    BRADY: Grandad, I can do this you know. You don't have to do everything.

    Victor looks over at Brady, a look of resigned annoyance in his eyes.

    VICTOR: You know that mouthwash you're using doesn't cover up bourbon very well.
    BRADY: Dammit, Grandad. ONE SHOT! That's all I had. To calm my nerves.
    VICTOR: And to transfer them onto me. Good God, Brady, you can't even get through a press conference without a drink?
    BRADY: Hair of the dog, Grandad. Trust me, I felt much better afterwards.
    VICTOR: You keep telling yourself that. In the meantime, I've got to get Miles and make sure Nicole's not trying to film this live spot with the lens cap on.

    Victor saunters away. Brady tenses as if to punch something but stops himself.

    As Nicole continues her report, Victor checks with Miles, who is headed backstage, to ensure all is well. Miles and Victor are out of Nicole's line of sight.

    VICTOR: (softly) Has she screwed up yet?
    MILES: No, Mr. Kiriakis. She's right on point, the story will be a huge boon for Titan. So much so, I think I'm going to head down to the stage and get the cues set up. I think she's got this.
    VICTOR: (laughing) You say that now, meanwhile, this one can't even dress herself in the morning. Skin-tight lycra micromini that looks like Picasso threw up on it. Ha! Classy to the end.

    Miles heads back with Victor to behind the stage.

    ---

    Sheryl and Jordan are facing Nick, panicking at being caught hacking into a Titan exec's computer.

    NICK: Well, well. What do we have here? A little corporate espionage, perhaps?
    JORDAN: It's...it's not what it looks like.
    NICK: I'm sure.
    SHERYL: And what the hell are you doing here, anyway?
    NICK: Well, see, I had business to attend to. But you guys are just so much more interesting. So what do you say, if you're not gonna tell me exactly what you're up to, I make a quick call to Kate and--
    JORDAN: Okay okay! We'll tell you.

    Sheryl shoots Jordan a startled and angered look.

    ---

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

    ---

    Theresa looks to Kim, who is sitting on her sofa. Kim looks guiltily at her daughter, while clutching a small pillow, tears in her eyes that she's trying to fight off.

    KIM: How did you figure it out?
    THERESA: Well, it's not hard to use EweSearch, Mom. Besides, I was trying, hoping for any tiny shred of dirt I could find on Phil. I needed to find a way to get him away from us. I was desperate. And that's when I found the film. It was...awful. It was...she was so...dead-eyed and...not the woman I'd met from the time she visited with Bo.

    Theresa flashes back to her teen self at the computer, unsure what to make of what she's seeing. She flips through a telephone book.

    THERESA: I wanted to confront Phil with it...but....for some reason, I just...I knew I had to call her instead. And so I did.

    ...

    In the flashback, we see Theresa phoning someone, panicked and scared. Billie picks up.

    BILLIE: Hello?

    ...

    THERESA: At first, she completely denied any part of it, and she seemed really angry at me. I think someone had tried to use it against her before. Anyway, I had to tell her everything that he'd done to me. The abuse, the touching, the lies. How he told me you'd never believe me...and I bought into that because you didn't. And she didn't ask another question, she just told me she was on her way. And that's what happened.

    Kim stays stone silent for a moment, drinking in what her daughter's just told her. She tries to hold back, but can't fight her tears any longer. She stands up and reaches for Theresa.

    KIM: Oh my God, Theresa. I'm...I'm a terrible mother. I'm so sorry, I should have believed you.

    Theresa tenses at her mother's touch. Kim senses this and pulls away from her. Theresa remains seemingly emotionally vacant.

    THERESA: You're right. You should have. Why did it take Billie telling you about how Phil exploited her for a quick buck before you realized I was telling the truth. You believed someone you'd met a handful of times over your own daughter. How could you?
    KIM: I don't know what to say. I guess I...I didn't want to believe that this same man who put me back together after your father and I separated...how he could be so...hurtful to you. I wish I could take it all back. I really do.
    THERESA: Well, then get on inventing that time machine then.
    KIM: Jeannie, I...
    THERESA: It's Theresa! Mother! (sighs) And I think it's time for you to go.
    KIM: Theresa, I'm sorr--
    THERESA: Go. Please, Mom.

    Theresa walks over to the door and opens it, ushering a reluctant Kim out. Before Kim leaves, she turns to Theresa once more.

    KIM: I will be sorry until the day I die for what he put you through, Honey.

    Theresa says nothing and looks down at the ground. Once Kim leaves, Theresa closes the door behind her, finally letting her pent-up emotions out, she starts to cry as she leans against the door of her apartment.

    ---

    Hope looks over from the crowd of protesters she's surrounded herself with and sees Aiden Jennings speaking with some EnerNext people. She walks over to him, displeased.

    HOPE: Are you seriously supporting this?

    Aiden looks up, and smiles at Hope.

    AIDEN: Ahhh! I KNEW my day was going much too well.
    HOPE: Comedian, I see.
    AIDEN: Well, maybe humour will help these guys get this project through.
    HOPE: I like my air breatheable, thanks.
    AIDEN: And your family and friends without jobs, as well, obviously.
    HOPE: Excuse me?
    AIDEN: Well, just think of all the jobs that this community will not be adding without this project. You know, you really have to start seeing things from other people's perspective, Hope.

    Aiden walks off, leaving Hope making a sour expression. Jennifer looks on with a concerned look.



    Adrienne and Justin look on, Adrienne fully in support of the EnerNext plan, and Justin, who has an inside track, less so. Adrienne is clearly kind of annoyed at Justin.

    ADRIENNE: You should be up there, you know.
    JUSTIN: You know, I just don't think you get why this is such a bad idea, Adrienne.
    ADRIENNE: I don't. I see work for people, which means construction projects for the company, and money for your practice.
    JUSTIN: Yeah, against my uncle. Because things aren't already strained between us because I didn't support this project. Come on.
    ADRIENNE: Well, if you don't make your bonus this year, you know exactly why.

    Justin rolls his eyes as the EnerNext spokesperson steps onstage. The lights focus on the stage, and there is a distinct sound of camera shutters and flashes around the square from the press.

    TYLER: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. I am Tyler Houston, and I am CEO of EnerNext. As you are well aware, we have been working toward acquiring a large area of land to the northwest of Salem. And we are excited and honoured to meet with you today to discuss how this will affect your lives, and also to announce a fantastic deal we have just struck that will help to revitalize the area. Now before we get starte--

    Nicole is already set to go, hand in the air, interrupting the proceedings with probing questions. Tyler attempts to stop her but is unable to.

    NICOLE: About these land acquisitions. Your company has been accused of underhanded tactics in order to coerce residents to give up their homes to them using false appraisals, lowballing and tricking home and landowners into selling their land to you under false pretenses. Sir, are you or your associates aware of these actions and what steps have you taken to avoid these underhanded tactics from continuing as the project continues?
    TYLER: I..I...Miss, I will answer your questions after I am finished my presentation.

    Percy raises his arm and voice from the crowd.

    PERCY: The lady has raised an excellent point that needs an answer!

    The crowd stirs, many in agreement, shouting insistently at Tyler to respond to Nicole's question. Brady and Victor are dismayed, but don't immediately recognize the voice as Nicole.

    VICTOR: Here come the environmentalist wingnuts!


    Back on stage, Tyler attempts to calm the crowd by quietly answering her question.

    TYLER: Procedures in the land acquisition was done lawfully and with full disclosure and agreement of the former landowners. To my knowledge, no one was decieved and the documents were clear in their language.

    The crowd is displeased by Tyler's answer. Nicole is ready and loaded to fire again.

    NICOLE: How about the fact that the site just happens to be a few miles from a predominently poorer, ethnic neighbourhood of Salem, as opposed to the east end of Salem, where scientists have shown the tar sands are richer in crude oil, but is near an affluent neighbourhood?

    Tyler stirs, now clearly uncomfortable with the line of questioning. The crowd is quickly whipping up into a frenzy. Brady looks out into the crowd and is horrified by what he sees.

    TYLER: I'm sorry, uh...Miss...but we will have to continue with the questions after I make my announce--
    NICOLE: Or the simple fact that research from Alberta's tar sands project has shown how utterly devastating such projects are to the local environment and air quality?
    TYLER: I'm...um...

    The crowd is now out of control, many demanding Tyler speak up. Brady turns to Victor.

    BRADY: Someone has to stop her.
    VICTOR: Who?
    BRADY: Nicole, she's...she's the one asking all those questions, she's derailing the entire press conference.
    VICTOR: Get Miles over here now. I'm heading out there.

    Brady runs over to grab Miles, and Victor steps out onto the stage. Kate and Billie are looking around, desperately trying to see Jordan or Sheryl.

    TYLER: If you'll just allow me the opportunity to...

    Nicole's questions, like battle calls, continue until she sees Victor appear on the stage. She, along with the rest of the crowd, fall quickly silent.

    TYLER: *clears throat* May I announce our acquisition by Titan Industries. Meet our new co-CEO, Victor Kiriakis.

    Nicole's jaw drops at the news. Nicole suddenly realizes, Nick duped her.

    NICOLE: That miserable son of a bitch.

    ---
  25. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 5
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Theresa is in bed with Brady, reaching frantically for her phone, which Brady is denying her.

    THERESA: Seriously, give that back.
    BRADY: Only if you promise me you won't even try to take another picture.
    THERESA: FINE! Now give it back!

    Brady slowly lowers his arm and hands Theresa her phone, which she snatches back brusquely.

    THERESA: What the Hell was that for anyway?
    BRADY: I'm gonna tell you something about me, okay? I'm not sure if you noticed or not, but I run a pretty big conglomerate, okay? So everything I do outside the confines of the workplace, have to stay pretty discreet. That means no texting pictures of me naked in bed to your friends, no tweeting that we're going out or something. None of that. Because if that gets back to Titan?
    THERESA:...not so good for you.
    BRADY: Exactly. So you're gonna put your phone away. And...I'm gonna pretend you didn't just try to send a pic of me in your bed to your friends in LA or wherever they are.

    Theresa rolls her eyes and lies back down, facing the ceiling.

    THERESA: (sighing) Fine.
    BRADY: Good. [pauses]...you know, I DID have a good time last night. You're pretty damned good in bed, I gotta say.

    Theresa tilts her head to face Brady, not sure whether to be seductive or embarrassed.
    THERESA: What can I say? I'm gifted.
    BRADY: Ain't that the truth.

    Brady senses a bit of tension in Theresa and snuggles in a little closer to her.

    BRADY: Look, I know we started off...really icy. I was....well, a bit of a jerk--
    THERESA: ...HUGE jerk.
    BRADY: Huge drunken jerk. But, seriously, I was wrong. And I hope you can forgive me. And maybe we can do this again?

    Theresa looks Brady over and slowly but surely, cracks a smile.

    THERESA: Sure.

    ---

    Nicole snaps out of her state of shock after dropping her coffee on the office floor. Miles gets up from his seat and checks the floor before checking Nicole.

    MILES: You okay?

    Nicole picks up her coffee mug. Thankfully the lid has stayed on so only a little spilt.

    NICOLE: Yeah. I'm fine. Thankfully, I'm more of a mimosa girl, anyway.
    MILES: Well, hold off on one of those for a bit, we need to talk.
    NICOLE: Miles, I told you, I'm doing all I can--
    MILES: Nicole, listen. I know your relationship with the horny priest bla bla bla, but just...take a look at this, would you?

    Nicole reluctantly takes the envelope from Miles' hand and opens it. Inside, a DVD in a jewel case, as well as some documents.

    NICOLE: What the hell is this?
    MILES: Your new assignment! I'm taking you off the horny priest story--
    NICOLE: STOP CALLING HIM THAT!
    MILES: Okay! Okay! Jeez.
    NICOLE: Actually, I'm kind of relieved.
    MILES: Hah! I knew it. You got it bad for that guy, don't you?

    Nicole struggles to respond, averting her eyes and giving an awkward smile.

    ---

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

    ---

    Nicole glares at Miles, feeling like a child in school being mocked by classmates for having a crush.

    NICOLE: Does it matter one way or another? It's not like I'm doing the story anymore, now is it?
    MILES: So the answer is yes.
    NICOLE: Why should I even give you an answer to that. It's none of your business.

    Nicole reaches for the envelope and snatches it out of Miles' hand. Opening it up, her eyes widen and her jaw drops.

    NICOLE: Oh HELL no! Miles, are you insane??

    ---

    Hope is heading over towards The Brady Pub to meet with Marlena, Roman, and Eric. As she walks through the town square, she gets a phone call from Bo. She stops to answer.

    HOPE: Bo! It's so nice to hear your...Bo, I can hardly hear you, what's going on?...

    Hope's face drops as the silence continues, Bo is on the other end, delivering news that disappoints her. Unbeknownst to her, Aiden is overhearing the conversation. He stands behind the tree and listens closely.

    HOPE: I just don't understand why you can't take a little bit of time and come home....Shane and John can work this without you, why do...you have no clue do you?

    Hope starts to fight back tears, as the strain from trying to care for Ciara on her own starts to finally overwhelm her. Bo's neglect suddenly hits her like a ton of bricks.

    HOPE: Fine...yeah. Goodbye.

    Hope hangs up and tries to pull herself together, but as she turns to walk away, she finds Aiden standing in front of her. She sighs at the probability of another confrontation with her favourite person.

    ---

    Lucas is in shock from having seen Sheryl and Jordan's mugshots in the newspaper clipping Kate dropped on the table. He studies them closely.

    KATE: Yes, that's right. Jordan and Sheryl are actually Thelma & Louise.
    LUCAS: You can't be serious! I mean, this has got to be fake.

    Kate sits down in her big office chair, playing with a pen in her hand and looking at Lucas with a blasé expression.

    KATE: Nope. 100% real. And here's the fun part.
    LUCAS: Fun. There's a fun part. Okay mom, lay it on me.
    KATE: These aren't just any run-of-the-mill bank robbers. Oh no! These two are wanted under the terrorist act.

    Lucas' eyes nearly pop out of his head at this revelation.

    LUCAS: Are you serious? What for?
    KATE: Well, it seems they were involved in some protests in Canada that got really ugly. Smashed windows, looted stores. Except THESE two went the extra mile. They bombed a bank.
    LUCAS: What?
    KATE: Mmmhmm.

    Lucas is lost for words for a minute. He turns to Kate and struggles to even get a word out for a moment, he's so shocked.

    LUCAS: I....did...did you tell Rafe this?
    KATE: No, are you insane?? He'd insist I was being jealous. No, no.
    LUCAS: Have you at least called Roman about this yet?
    KATE: I tried, but he's (Kate makes quotation gestures with her hands) "too busy". Some kind of family emergency. You know, those things that happen every five minutes in that household.

    Lucas paces the room, dumfounded by Kate's evidence, he can hardly think clearly or rationally on the situation, being so blindsided by Sheryl's deception.
    LUCAS: I can't believe it. I....I have to fire Sheryl right away. I mean she can't be working for us--
    KATE: Lucas! Honey, calm down. Calm down.

    Kate takes a second to let Lucas sit down and breathe.

    KATE: Don't fire anyone, don't call anyone. We will talk to Roman, and they'll be arrested. It's as simple as that!
    ---

    Marlena and Roman are aghast at Eric's announcement that he is leaving the priesthood. She leans in and gives a concerned look.

    MARLENA: Eric, the...the priesthood, it meant everything to you.
    ERIC: Well, yes. But I have faith that God has a different path for me.
    ROMAN: Eric, now, seriously. Are you sure this is what you really want to do? I mean....what made you come to this decision?
    ERIC: Well, my retreat helped. It helped an awful lot. I was able to really understand that my life needs to go in another direction. I need to deal with a lot of the things that Kristen did to me, I need to rebuild my life. My relationships with my family. Especially with Brady.

    Marlena reaches out a hand to Eric across the table. Eric takes her hand in his. Roman places his hand over theirs.

    ERIC: I could really use your support.
    ROMAN: You always have our support, Eric. No matter what you choose to do.
    MARLENA: I can't help but be a little disappointed. I mean, you loved your work with the church so much, and I saw how devoted you were.
    ERIC: Mom--
    MARLENA: I know....I know. But I will always support you. No matter if you decide to leave the church or not.

    Sami naturally walks in at this moment, only hearing the last thing Marlena said.

    SAMI: You can't be serious! They kicked you out of the priesthood??

    ---

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