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  1. beebs
    EPISODE 165
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     

    Kate stands in her penthouse condo, finishing pouring a smoothie in her kitchenette, as she hears the front door unlock.
     
    She turns to see who it is, and smiles upon seeing Billie's face.
     
    KATE: Ah! You finally made it.
     
    Billie walks in, clutching her jacket, trying to hide the fatigue in her eyes. Kate turns around and smiles wider, trying to hide her laughter at her daughter's disheveled appearance.
     
    KATE: Long night, I see.
    BILLIE: Shut up, Mom.
     
    Kate sours her expression momentarily, scolding her daughter for her response.
     
    KATE: Hey, now! Watch it! I could just as soon use that room I've given you as a home office.
    BILLIE: Sorry. What's that you're drinking?
     
    Billie plants her purse down on the kitchen island, as Kate takes a sip of her green smoothie. She winces as she tastes it. Setting it down, she passes it over to Billie.
     
    KATE: Green smoothie. My nurtitionist said it'll help my immune system and help keep my weight in check, but I think the only reason I won't gain weight is from being too nauseated to eat anything the rest of the day. Try it.
     
    Billie looks down. She gives an unimpressed look back to Kate and turns away.
     
    BILLIE: I'll pass.
    KATE: Ungrateful child.
     
    Billie laughs, as Kate picks the smoothie back up, and tries another sip of it. Billie sets herself down on the sofa in the living room area.
     
    KATE: So how was last night?
     
    Billie looks back over at Kate, a wide smile on her face.
     
    BILLIE: Absolutely beautiful. We were gonna have a moonlight picnic, but it was raining so, Daniel set his place up to be just like the park, and the place was lit up with all these lights...oh, I'm telling you, Mom. It was amazing.
    KATE: That's good to hear. I just hope he isn't using you like he used me and Chelsea.
     
    Billie sighs, immediately exasperated by Kate's overbearing nature.
     
    BILLIE: Mom...
    KATE: I'm sorry, but he's screwed over me, your brother, and your daughter, and I'll be damned if he makes a fool out of three entire generations of this family.
    BILLIE: And just how is he gonna do that, Mom? He loves me.
     
    Kate scoffs at Billie. She steps over toward her, sitting next to her on the sofa.
     
    KATE: Honey, I know this man. He's with you on the rebound from Jennifer. As much as he's going to deny it, he's still in love with her. And I know you know that.
     
    Billie grimaces, furrowing her brow as she looks back  disapprovingly at her mother.
     
    ---
     

    Anita stands facing Tyler in her cabin. She sets her cup of tea down on the dining table, as she nods to Tyler, feigning a solemn expression.
     
    ANITA: Well, it's disappointing to hear, but...I don't see why you should put Victor through any more pain. If Brady's gone, then....he's gone.
    TYLER: I'm sorry, Anita. 
     
    Anita shrugs. She paces past Tyler, leaning out the window by the doorway.
     
    ANITA: (sigh) Not much you can do. I understand.
    TYLER: You seem...somewhat resigned about all this.
     
    Anita turns back to face Tyler, snapping at him for his line of questioning.
     
    ANITA: Well, what am I supposed to say, Tyler? What do you want me to feel? Happy? I know there's nothing we can do. Just like there's nothing I can do about my situation.
     
    Tyler walks towards Anita, appearing sympathetic.
     
    TYLER: I know. I'm sorry. I...I wish there was another way, but...it's been too long. To change things now would just...it would cause more problems than it would solve. You know this. I know this.
     
    Tyler puts a hand on Anita's shoulder, as she sighs, shaking her head.
     
    ANITA: I guess so. (sigh) But I do wish I could be closer to Salem...my loved ones.
    TYLER: We both know that's not possible.
    ANITA: The threat is gone, Tyler. It has been for years. I know it's going to be complicated, but...
     
    Tyler grabs Anita by the shoulders, trying to shake a bit of sense into her.
     
    TYLER: But nothing, Anita. You are going to stay living as Anita Hernandez, and you are going to stay away from Salem. And that's final.
     
    Anita looks at Tyler, wide-eyed, infuriated by his forceful manner.
     
    ---
     

    Nick stands inside Victor's hospital room at Univeristy Hospital. As Nick watches Victor's comatose body, he continues to speak to Victor.
     
    NICK: You know, I didn't set out to do any of this, yeah? All I was trying to do was get enough evidence against you to stop EnerNext from taking over Percy's land. 
     
    Nick sits back down on the stool facing Victor's bed. He rests his arms on the edge of the bed.
     
    NICK: You know Percy, right? My right hand at the lab. Says "Greetings" when he walks into a room? Yeah, him. Well...he saved my life a little while ago when your friends Kate and Sami tried to drown me in the river. (laughs) I know, right? Unbelievable. Two known killers trying to kill again. 
     
    Nick giggles as he rests his arm on the side of Victor's bed. He sighs, pausing a moment before continuing.
     
    NICK: How did I get so lucky? I should be honoured. They were willing to throw their lives away for little ol' me.
     
    Nick's expressions changes, as he remains laser-focused on Victor's eyes, he becomes more stern.
     
    NICK: Well, this time...they weren't so lucky. Percy found me, and this....this is my thank you to him. Watching you suffer. And believe me, it feels good.
     
    Nick sneers the last part of his sentence, never once moving or looking away from Victor's face.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Billie closes the door to the fridge in Kate's kitchenette, frustrated with her mother's intrusiveness. Kate, meanwhile, sits on the sofa in the adjacent living room, looking Billie's way.
     
    KATE: You know, I'm only telling you this for your own good, right?
    BILLIE: (sigh) Mom. Remember why I left Salem the last time?
    KATE: Because I was interfering in your life, and being deceptive.
     
    Billie holds her arms out, as though denoting Kate's 'a-ha' moment.
     
    BILLIE: She gets it! She finally gets it!
    KATE: Yes, well, a leopard can't change its spots, and I guess, maybe I'm protective of you and Austin because I lost so many years with you.
    BILLIE: Yes, but you don't get it. The more you try to control everyone's lives, the more years you go without us in your life. You have to let us live ours, make our own mistakes. 
     
    Kate gets up from the couch as Billie speaks and reaches over to take Billie's hand across the kitchen island.
     
    KATE: I just don't want you repeating the same ones I made. Daniel can be a very charismatic man, and I'm sure he really is enjoying his time with you, but you're going to have to realize that he does this whenever he loses somebody he loves. 
     
    Billie bites her tongue, looking away as Kate squeezes Billie's hand gently.
     
    KATE: And he loves Jennifer. Very much. 
     
    Billie pulls away from Kate, and looks at Kate defiantly.
     
    BILLIE: Well, maybe he loves me just as much. Did you ever think of that? Or is it just impossible for you to believe that I could be the woman to help him get over Jennifer Horton?
    KATE: Maybe you're right. But I'd rather spare you from finding out you're wrong.
     
    Billie looks at a concerned Kate, trying to maintain her stern expression, but a hint of uncertainty is in Billie's eyes.
     
    ---
     
    Anita shakes Tyler off her suddenly, her enraged look never leaving Tyler's eyes as she raises a finger in stern scolding.
     
    ANITA: Don't you EVER lay a hand on me like that again, Tyler Houston. 
     
    Tyler backs away slightly, looking sheepishly.
     
    TYLER: I'm sorry, I--
    ANITA: You have absolutely no grounds to keep me here. Not anymore. I am not beholden to Victor Kiriakis, and certainly not to you.
    TYLER: Anita, now, hold--
    ANITA: I will not hold on. 
     
    Anita looks increasingly emotional, as she stands a good two feet away from Tyler, scolding him like a child.
     
    ANITA: You and Victor have spent the last 30 years controlling where I go, what I do. You threatened to pull my stake in Titan when my grandchildren moved to Salem, and I had to beg you to leave them alone. What good has that done me? What good has any of this done me?
    TYLER: We were keeping you safe. That's all we wanted to do.
    ANITA: That's great. Well, I'm safe. I'm alone, I'm facing destitution. But I'm safe. I bet you don't even know what you're protecting me from anymore.
     
    Tyler looks sternly at Anita.
     
    TYLER: If you come back to Salem, there will be too many questions that need to be answered.
     
    Anita steps toward Tyler, she looks him dead in the eyes, with the same sternness he showed her. She speaks softly, but firmly.
     
    ANITA: You go back to Victor, and you tell him to bring 'em on. I'm ready for every single question they can throw at me.
     
    Tyler shakes his head, frustrated by Anita's determination.
     
    Anita, meanwhile, walks over to the door. She opens it wide, showing Tyler the way out.
     
    ANITA: Now get out.
     
    Tyler walks toward the door, stopping momentarily before he leaves.
     
    TYLER: I will come back. And you'd better still be here when I do.
     
     

    Tyler walks off, as Anita slams the door behind him. Brady walks back into the living room moments later, confused.
     
    BRADY: Anita? Was someone at the door?
     
    Anita brushes off her frustration, and puts on her best smile for Brady.
     
    ANITA: Nah, just someone lost on the road, needed directions.
    BRADY: Oh, okay.
     
    Brady accepts the answer as they make their way back to the dining table.
     
     
     
    Outside, Tyler lingers outside in the bushes near the front door of Anita's cabin, struggling to see who is inside with Anita through the dirty window. 
     
    ---
     
    Nick steps away from Victor, holding his head, wincing slightly in pain as he reaches for his meds in his bag. He pulls them out as he continues.
     
    NICK: You know, It's really funny, Vic. 
     
    Nick opens his bag up, and pulls out a metal water bottle. He pops two pills in his mouth and washes them down with the water from his bottle before continuing.
     
    NICK: You almost had me there.
     
    Nick turns back to face Victor, smirking again.
     
    NICK: But I got the drop on ya. And the best part of all this is...well, I got everything I wanted. 
     
    Nick slowly walks over to Victor's bedside again, and plants himself back on the stool next to the bed.
     
    NICK: ...And then some. See, the part you don't know, and that you're neeeeever gonna figure out, is who's helping me out. I mean, obviously I got the oil sands project stopped, but...with a little persuasion from two of your favourite people, I was able to pull off the coup of the century!
     
    Nick laughs, holding his water bottle up, as if to give a toast.
     
    NICK: Wanna guess who I'm talking about?
     
    Nick waits a moment, mockingly waiting to hear an answer from an unresponsive Victor.
     
    NICK: That's right. Anjelica Deveraux....and Stefano DiMera.
     
    Nick laughs heartily at the "genius" of his own plan. 
     
    NICK: Crazy, huh? Yeah, see, our future governor's in cahoots with Stefano DiMera. Betcha didn't know that lil' tidbit. Oh, I had some other help along the way. See, Jordan and Sheryl, they're really these internationally known eco-warriors, and they were gonna plant this virus in the Titan mainframe. You remember that, right, Vic?
     
    Nick waits a beat before continuing.
     
    NICK: But, see...I stopped them, and the board were SO grateful to me for saving their asses, that...with a little bit of extra incentive, they gave me to top slot. Go figure, eh? (laughs) I swear, you would be so proud of what I've managed to pull off. I'm just playing by your rulebook, you know?
     
    Nick's smile fades, he looks a little more intensely at Victor, shaking his head before he carries on.
     
    NICK: But, you know what? The best part of all of this...is knowing that I can finally be the man that Gabi needs. I fought my way up to the top of the food chain. I got mine, I am a success thanks to MY hard work. 
     
    Nick becomes more intense, more cutting with his words, as he leans in close to Victor.
     
    NICK: All the people, all the people in this town who get away with everything because of their power, and their money...
     
    Nick suddenly pounds his fist against his chest, hissing his words out at Victor.
     
    NICK: I own them now. I will ruin them. And tonight, on Nicole's special, I'm going to make sure that everyone knows....they're on notice.
     
    Nick smirks, as he gets up from his stool.
     
    NICK: Godspeed, Victor. Hope you live to see what Titan can be now that it's part of DiMera Enterprises.
     
    Nick grabs his bag, and steps out of Victor's hospital room. 
     
    Moments after the door shuts, Victor's eyes open, intense with fury. He musters the strength to reach for the telephone on the table by the bed. He immediately calls Tyler.
     
    ...
     
    Tyler is surprised by the sudden vibration of his cell phone in his pocket. He turns back, away from Anita's door, and answers quietly.
     
    TYLER: (into phone) Hello?
     
    ...
     
    VICTOR: (into phone) Tyler, it's me. Get your ass into my hospital room, RIGHT NOW!
     
    Victor slams down the receiver, before laying back in his bed, shaking with fury at what he's just experienced.
     
    ...
     
    Tyler looks down at his phone, checking to see that the call's ended. He looks baffled by Victor's harsh tone, but looks back one last time to see inside Anita's cabin, before giving up.
     
    TYLER: I know someone's in there, Anita. But who the hell could it be?
     
    Tyler shakes his head before turning back away and walking to his car.
     
    ---
  2. beebs
    EPISODE 2

    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

    MARY RUSSELL
    Victoria Rowell

    JOANNA WILLIAMS
    Lynn Herring

    MARK WILLIAMS
    Wayne Northrop


    OUTSIDE THE MAJOR ST. APARTMENTS

    Kian stands dumfounded as Peter steps out of his limo to greet him. Jason stands a bit in behind him, as though Kian somehow will shield him. Peter seems to ignore their awkwardness.

    PETER: Hey baby, I thought I'd come surprise you.
    KIAN: Oh...heh, great. Umm...Peter, this is my...uh...the manager of the restaurant...umm...
    JASON: I'm Jason Toms, nice to meet you, sir.
    PETER: Heard a bit about you, Jason. I'dve been a part of the hiring process but I was in New York so I left it all in the hands of my...incredibly capable business partner

    Peter winks at Kian, who smiles uncomfortably.

    PETER: So, come on. Let's go. A party awaits us!

    Kian and Jason look at each other knowingly, equal measures of relief and concern on their faces. They head down the steps to the car.





    Through the window on the main level, Joanna Williams peeks through her window at the goings-on outside. The neighbourhood snoop with equal parts gossippy motormouth and all-seeing eyes. Trusting her is out of the question for the residents of the building...at least if they know well enough.

    JOANNA: Oooo, Mark, Mark, come see. Kian's got a big, shiny limo to take him to his grand opening.

    Mark's in the kitchen, looking around the corner at Joanna. He's used to her nosiness, but it nonetheless agitated.

    MARK: Would you stop snooping already? You're gonna get yourself arrested for invading privacy again, and this time I'm not bailing you out.
    JOANNA: No, come on! If they've got a stretch limo they WANT people to look! You don't get a limo like that and come up to the door of a place like this if you want people to keep their eyes to themselves and look down at their newspapers. This is an obvious cry for attention. I'm just giving them what they want.

    Mark walks over, sandwich in hand, looks quickly out the window and turns around again, sitting down in his easy chair, facing the TV.

    MARK: And if you were paying any attention to the look on that boy's face, you'd know he'd rather be locked in the trunk of a Kia than be in that limo.
    JOANNA: What on earth are you talking about, Mark?
    MARK: It's obvious, something's going on between the two young ones and they don't want Peter to find out about it.

    Joanna looks over at him wide-eyed, with a wide grin. Mark looks up at her, realizing what he's just done.

    MARK: You know I've lived with you too long. I'm starting to turn into you.
    JOANNA: Marriage is beautiful, isn't it? *giggles* I'm going upstairs and telling Mary all about it.
    MARK (disinterested): I'm sure she'll give it her usual care and attention.
    JOANNA: Hush, go back to watching your football or whatever it is this time of year.
    MARK: Hockey still.
    JOANNA: Whatever, it's all the same game anyway. BYE!

    Mark rolls his eyes, despairing at what he's just done, and goes back to his show.

    Joanna heads out the door, and immediately runs into the landlord's cat. Calling out for attention (also food), she picks up her feline friend to bring her upstairs with her. As she's about to step up, Darren exits his apartment next door to hers, heading out the door. She stops him momentarily.

    JOANNA: Hey Darren! How's it going?

    Darren knows better than to tell Joanna too much, and is polite but guarded.

    DARREN: Not a lot, Mrs. Williams. Got a friend's art show tonight I'm gonna check out.
    JOANNA: Oh, would you stop with this Mrs. Williams stuff, it's Joanna. Now, this art show. It sounds exciting. What kinda stuff they do.
    DARREN: Oh he's a photographer, graphic artist, you know. Name's Calvin J. Really cool stuff, you know?
    JOANNA: That's fantastic. Hey, do you know what the limo outside's all about.

    Darren knows where this is going and tightens up.

    DARREN: Nope. Can't say I do.
    JOANNA: Oh well it was just so big and glamourous I just had to ask, you know. I love the glitz and the glam of these new fancy restaurants opening up, and to think we've got an up and coming chef living right under this roof, it's really something! You know?

    Darren, midway through this diatribe is already about to go, and tries to be polite but can't hold back any longer.

    DARREN: Yea for sure, Mrs. Wils-er Joanna, look, I really gotta go so...I'll see you later.
    JOANNA: Oh! Bye Darren, umm, hey, do you have any food scraps for...

    Darren runs out the door as fast as possible.

    JOANNA: ...the....cat. Okay!

    On his way out, Darren walks past Alexis, just stepping out of her car.

    DARREN: Hey baby.
    ALEXIS: Ugghh, not this again.
    DARREN: No seriously, I gotta warn you bout this neighbour we got. I forgot to tell you earlier. Mrs. Williams. BIG ass snoop. Gonna get up in ALL your business. Watch her.
    ALEXIS: Noted. Now, please move. In a bit of a hurry.
    DARREN: That's cool. I'll catch ya later.

    Alexis rolls her eyes, collects herself, and heads inside. Inside, Joanna's slowly making her way up the stairs, cat still in her arms. Alexis moves up the stairs quickly and notices the cat.

    ALEXIS: Ugh, good, my boyfriend got rid of it.
    JOANNA: What, Misty? Ohhh, she's a sweetheart. She belongs to the landlord, did you wanna hold her?
    ALEXIS: NO! ....no, I'm allergic. But thanks. And you are?
    JOANNA: Joanna Williams. I'm your downstairs neighbour. You haven't met me yet but...I mean, I knew you were moving in and all. I keep tabs on things around here, you know.

    Alexis nods and smiles, but already is looking to get out of this conversation.

    ALEXIS: Yeah, I gotcha...well....look. I got an art show tonight I wanna check out, this Calvin J guy. Get some new stuff for the walls...go along with this new apartment and all, so, I'm gonna take off. It was nice to meet you Mrs. Williams.
    JOANNA: OH! Call me Joanna!

    Joanna laughs uncomfortably as Alexis steps into her apartment quickly and closes the door in Joanna's face. Joanna realizes it's the same artist Darren was mentioning.

    JOANNA: Calvin J again. HM! Must be a popular guy.

    Joanna heads up the stairs again, up one more floor to Mary's.

    Alexis stands, back against the door for a second, eyes wide with relief at getting out of that mess. She calls out for Ryan while looking around the apartment for him.

    ALEXIS: Ryan??

    After checking out all the rooms and realizing he's not there, she checks for a note. Not finding one, she gets a bit aggravated and tries calling Ryan. The ever-present mind that he is, Ryan's left his phone on the desk in his rush to leave for the grand opening. Alexis silently curses him and goes to head off to the art show alone, when she notices a puddle on the ground in the doorway of the bathroom. Looking up at a drip in the ceiling, her frustration increases and she storms out of the room, headed up for the landlord's apartment.

    Before knocking, she inevitably runs into Joanna and cat once more.

    JOANNA: OH! Fancy running into you again!
    ALEXIS: Yeah, imagine that. It's like we just saw each other a minute ago.
    JOANNA: *giggles* I know right?
    ALEXIS: Right well, if you'll excuse me-
    JOANNA: You know, that art show you were going to? Well, that Darren fellow that lives downstairs across from me said he's going too. You should meet him, he's a real cutie. Around your age too! You'd really like--
    ALEXIS: We've already met. He seems like a great guy.
    JOANNA: OH! So you're going with him. Let me know how that goes.
    ALEXIS: I'm...not. Actually. Can you excuse me one second.
    JOANNA: Oh sure, take your time. I'm actually just gonna head back down to my apartment and feed Misty. My friend's not home.

    Alexis goes to knock on Dan, the landlord's door, just as she does, Joanna stops her yet again.

    JOANNA: Oh and before you do that, I knocked on Dan's door too. He's not home. He rarely is. Always travelling somewhere. This time around I heard he was going to Africa.

    Joanna stops for a second, Alexis stands facing the door, banging her head against it.

    JOANNA: Anyway, it's hard to get ahold of him, last time he was away half the year. He usually just has you give Mary the rent cheques while he's away, but if you wanna get anything fixed, you're better off doing it yourself, honestly.
    ALEXIS: Thanks for the advice. Duly noted. Now, if you'll excuse me.
    JOANNA: Oh no worries, and say 'hi' to Darren for me.

    Alexis dashes off to the art show. Joanna gives Alexis a wink, hoping to hear some juicy gossip later in the evening.

    NEXT on NINE LIVES:
    The art show begins
    and
    A gala to remember?
  3. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 25
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Kate wakes up in her condo on a bright, sunny morning to a loud banging at her door. She stumbles over to the door, groggy, sleep-deprived, and upset at being awoken.

    KATE: I'm coming! Would you calm down? You morning people make me sick.

    She opens the door to her condo, ready to lay it on the person on the other side. However, behind the door is Billie...with all her luggage.

    BILLIE: Hi, Mom! I'm home!

    Kate is surprised to see her daughter so early, and at her condo. She gives a strange, stunned half-smile to her daughter.

    KATE: Billie! You're...home?

    ---

    Marlena is at Town Square, exiting one of the storefronts with a tray of coffees in hand, when Will and Sonny arrive. She sees them approach and waves. Her face lights up as she approaches them, opening his arms to give the boys a hug before setting the coffees down on one of the tables in the square to free up her other hand.

    MARLENA: Good morning, boys! I'm so glad to see you!

    Will leans over and hugs his grandmother warmly.

    WILL: So good to see you, Grandma.

    Sonny is next in line for a hug from Marlena. They proceed to sit down at the table Marlena set the coffees down on. Marlena smiles widely as she sees Will and Sonny holding hands.

    MARLENA: I took the liberty of getting us all coffee. I know how you like it, Will.
    WILL: Well, on the bright side, it isn't the coffee you make at home, and that's good enough for me.
    MARLENA: (laughing) Ohh! Hey now! I paid for these, you don't bite the hand that feeds you!
    WILL: Alright! Alright! I won't. But...I have a couple things to tell you. WE have a couple things to tell you.
    MARLENA: Okay. Shoot.

    Will and Sonny look to each other with excitement and love in their eyes.

    WILL: You tell her.
    SONNY: Okay.

    Sonny turns to Marlena, holding back his aching desire to shreik with delight.

    SONNY: Will and I are getting married.

    Marlena is at a loss for words, she can hardly contain her joy.

    MARLENA: You're serious? Oh my...Congratulations! Ohhhh my sweet boys. I'm so thrilled for you!

    Marlena jumps up to give the boys a hug and can't help but laugh at the joy of the news.

    MARLENA: Oh I'm so thrilled. You've told Sami, obviously?

    Will and Sonny's joy is suddenly muddled. They stop suddenly and their smiles become immediately awkward. Marlena sees the sudden change and clues in.

    MARLENA: You didn't tell her. What...something happened?
    WILL: Well...that's kinda the other thing we need to talk to you about.

    Marlena's face drops, filled suddenly with concern for her daughter.

    ---

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

    ---

    Nicole is working in her office, and by working, truly she's simply daydreaming of the previous night where she and Eric laid under the stars at their evening picnic. Nicole is lost in the thoughts of Eric kissing her gently when someone knocks at her door, rudely awakening her from her blissful dream. Nicole's face sours as she calls out to them.

    NICOLE: Come in!

    Percy enters the room, smiling widely at Nicole, who smiles a phony, professional smile back.

    PRECY: Greetings!
    NICOLE: Uh...greetings! Have a seat.
    PERCY: Why thank you, my dear. You know, I had such a lovely walk to your office this morning. Such a lovely morning.
    NICOLE: Indeed it is. Now, I want to go over some of what I'll be asking at the press conference with you, and see if there's any questions you want to as--
    PERCY: Actually, I was going to mention, I've invited someone to join me today.
    NICOLE: Uh...who?
    PERCY: My associate. He has been instrumental in assisting me in my attempts to retain my property.
    NICOLE: Alright, well, if he can help, then send him in!

    Nick opens the door and leans in, smiling.

    NICK: There's...actually no need. I'm here!

    Nicole's face drops upon seeing Nick.

    NICOLE: Oh God. It's you.
    NICK: I...I'm just here to help a friend out.
    NICOLE: How? Are you gonna hold EnerNext hostage at gunpoint?
    NICK: Nicole, I've done my time. Okay?
    NICOLE: It's Miss Walker to you. And for the record, I don't know how I could possibly spin an ex-con trying to help Mr. Ruggles into a heartwarming David and Goliath story of triumph.
    PERCY: In fairness, Miss Walker, Mr. Fallon has been a great help to me, and it would mean so much if you'd indulge me and have him be here today to help us out.

    Nicole rolls her eyes, but relents after a moment's thought.

    NICOLE: Fine. But I can't guarantee Nick's gonna be a part of the final story that goes to air. We might not get the desired response from the audience with his name attached.

    Percy goes to object, but Nick stops him.

    NICK: It's okay. I understand. Let's just get down to business, okay?
    NICOLE: Alright.

    Nicole takes her file out from her bottom drawer of her desk, and plops it down on her desk to pour over with Nick and Percy.

    NICOLE: So here's the plan.

    ---

    Abby is at Club TBD, grabbing a cup of coffee, when she runs into an exhausted Sami.

    ABBY: Oh my God. Sami. Hey.
    SAMI: Hey, Abigail. Uhh...how are you?
    ABBY: I'm fine, you...don't look so hot. You okay?
    SAMI: Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Don't worry.
    ABBY: You sure? I...I mean.
    SAMI: It's okay. Long night at work. Look, uh...you know. The kids really miss you. I realized I haven't invited you over in such a long time, and Johnny was asking about you the other day. I'd love if you'd come visit. He remembers you coming to babysit before.
    ABBY: (laughs) Oh wow, I can't believe he remembers that. That was...so long ago.
    SAMI: Yeah, I'm...really amazed how much that boy remembers sometimes.
    ABBY: Well, I mean, I'd love to visit...God, I may even need some babysitting jobs soon.
    SAMI: What do you mean?
    ABBY: Oh, nothing, I...uh...I just...I'm out of work right now.
    SAMI: Seriously? What happened? I thought you were so happy at the hospital!
    ABBY: Yeah, I was, but...I ran into some...problems with some people at the hospital and...I decided it wasn't working for me.

    Sami is shocked by Abby's sudden departure from the hospital.

    SAMI: I can't believe you'd quit so quickly. I mean, you loved working there.
    ABBY: Yeah, well...some things are just...not meant to be, I guess.

    Abby looks away, a bit of sorrow in her eyes.

    ---

    Marlena sits with Will and Sonny as Will has explained the events of last night. She sighs heavily after Will finishes the story.

    WILL: So...mom stayed the night with us. I think she'll be going back to the mansion today though. What...what can I do? Can you...talk to her? I...
    MARLENA: Look, Will. I'm glad you came to me, but...I don't know if I can help. Not without Sami's permission, anyway.
    WILL: Why not? I mean, she obviously needs someone, why not you?
    MARLENA: She has to agree to help first, and I don't think she would agree to me being the one to help her, quite frankly. Now, I can be there for moral support, no problem. But...if Sami needs to speak to a therapist to get all these suppressed memories out, I think I know exactly who can help.

    ---

    Victor is in the living room of the Kiriakis mansion, looking over his papers for the day's press conference, when Maggie enters the room. She walks over to Victor and kisses him gently on the cheek.

    MAGGIE: Good morning, Victor.
    VICTOR: Maggie! Fine morning, isn't it?
    MAGGIE: Well, you could say that, though if those papers you're studying have anything to do with that energy company you're working with, you'd better take a deep breath, and remember what clean air smells like.

    Victor puts his papers down on the table in front of him, a bit exasperated.

    VICTOR: Oh Maggie, would you stop with that? This is a business opportunity, it'll bring good-paying jobs to the community, and you know better than anyone that it'll benefit all of us greatly.
    MAGGIE: At what cost, Victor? Look I want to support you. I know the financial strain you're under right now.
    VICTOR: You don't know the half of it.
    MAGGIE: Well, I have some small idea. But this project is not the way forward, Victor. There are so many other possible streams of revenue you could tap into. Why this?
    VICTOR: Because that's how bad things are, Maggie. When you're in big trouble, you need to take big risks.

    Brady enters the living room at that moment, startling Maggie.

    BRADY: Grandad's right.
    MAGGIE: Brady!
    BRADY: Good morning, Maggie. Do you mind if I join my Grandfather so we can go over our big risk?

    Maggie is slightly put off by Brady's curt tone, but proceeds to head out.

    MAGGIE: Sure. I'll leave you to it. Good to see you, Brady.

    Maggie leaves the room, closing the doors behind her. Brady turns to Victor immediately, enthusiastic about the day's events.

    BRADY: Now, I know today's a big day, so I really hope we can go over these EnerNext files before the press conference. I can't wait to get started on this project.
    VICTOR: Yes, neither can I. I just hope we'll be working on it together at all.
    BRADY: Why? What do you mean? Did that owl-watching guy still refuse to sell the land?
    VICTOR: Yes. But that's not what I'm talking about. It's you, Brady.
    BRADY: Me?
    VICTOR: Yes. You're in severe danger of losing your position at Titan.
    BRADY: This isn't another lecture, is it? Because if it--
    VICTOR: Not a lecture, Brady. A warning. Keep your nose clean, or you'll find yourself in line at the unemployment office.

    ---

    Theresa opens the door to her apartment, heading to work. When she opens the door, there stands Kim, holding the baggie of cocaine Theresa dropped from her bag the night before.

    THERESA: Mom!
    KIM: You and I need to talk. NOW!

    ---
  4. beebs

    DAYS #6: Back To Work

    By beebs,

    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 6
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Brady is heading back home from Theresa's when he receives a text from Sami that reads:

    Get to the brady pub NOW!!! its important


    Brady rolls his eyes at Sami's text and ignores it. He's about to put his phone away when he gets a call from Victor. He grumbles as he picks up.

    BRADY: Grandad.
    VICTOR: Brady Black, I was about five seconds away from calling a search party. Where in blue blazes have you been all night?
    BRADY: Okay, grandad, I thought we agreed that I was going to be living alone like an adult and not having you guys keeping tabs on me.
    VICTOR: Then start acting like one and do your damn job! Be here in ten minutes or I'll be signing your pink slip.

    Brady responds calmly, feeling Victor is really grasping at straws now.
    BRADY: You can't do that, Grandad. I'M the CEO.
    VICTOR: OH? Just watch me!

    Victor hangs up as Maggie walks into the Kiriakis living room where Victor is.

    MAGGIE: Who was that?
    VICTOR: Three guesses.
    MAGGIE: Brady.
    VICTOR: Dammit, Maggie. I'm so worried about him, and I feel like no matter what I do, it's the wrong thing.
    MAGGIE: Maybe he needs some time away from work. Maybe...maybe you should step in and run Titan for awhile.
    VICTOR: You've taken leave of your senses, woman! I want him to at least want to talk to me again before I die.
    MAGGIE: Well, Victor, I don't know what to say. You let him move out, drop out of the program, I'm no longer his sponsor. Your solution to all of this seems to be to just let him do whatever he wants and not have to face his problem.
    VICTOR: That's not what I'm trying to do at all. I want him to stay in charge at Titan because I thought the responsibility would be good for him...

    Maggie senses a hesitation in Victor's voice. She presses on.

    MAGGIE: But...?
    VICTOR: Honestly? I'm not so sure anymore.
    ---

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

    ---

    Nicole throws the envelope down on her desk in disdain. She has her hands on her hips as she stares Miles down, hoping he'll back off and give her another story.

    NICOLE: What do I look like? Erin Brokovich?
    MILES: Nicole! Come on! You're the perfect person for a story like this.
    NICOLE: Are you kidding? What kind of television is a story like this gonna make? "Nocturnal Owl Watcher Being Forced From His Land By Big Oil!"
    MILES: I don't see what the problem is! This Percy guy is quite a character. He'll be fantastic on television!
    NICOLE: I thought I was working for Titan, not Greenpeace!

    Nicole turns away, shaking her head, arms crossed.

    MILES: Now come on, Nicole. You don't know ANYTHING about this story. Look into it. All I'm asking is that you look into it. Maybe you'll be surprised by what you come across.
    NICOLE: And it's even more likely I'll wanna gouge my eyes out from boredom.
    MILES: You know, you're walking on some pretty thin ice here. It's not like you have a job at the church to go back to.

    Nicole's face tightens up as she realizes she's being railroaded into taking the story. She turns around quickly to face Miles.

    NICOLE: I'll think about it. Now get out of my office, would you?

    Miles gets up from behind Nicole's desk, holding his hands up as if to surrender.

    MILES: Alright, alright! But I gotta say, you definitely have a much nicer chair than I do.
    NICOLE: Office Supplier, right behind University Hospital. Get your own.

    Nicole gives Miles and mocking smile as she waves him out the door.

    MILES: Okay! But you give me an answer by tonight, you hear me?
    NICOLE: Yeah, yeah. GOODBYE!

    Nicole slumps in her chair after Miles closes the door, in disbelief at the story she's just been presented.

    NICOLE: An owl watcher? Seriously, Miles?

    ---

    Nick and Percy both enter the lab at MadWorld HQ, impressed by their surroundings.

    NICK: HA! It's so nice to be back at work!
    PERCY: I've never seen such a glorious monument to modern chemistry!
    NICK: Oh trust me. You're gonna love every second of working here.

    Nick places his laptop bag on a counter and pulls his laptop from his bag. Percy walks over to the same table.

    NICK: Alright. So are you ready to do this?
    PERCY: Ready, willing, and able!

    Nick opens his laptop and begins working furiously on it, while explaining what's happening to Percy.

    NICK: Alright. So first thing's first. We're gonna need to ingratiate ourselves to Kate. Make her trust us and our intentions. It's the only way we're going to be able to gain any access.
    PERCY: Are you sure you'll be able to?
    NICK: Well, there's two possibilities. Either I can use my savvy and get Kate to trust me, or you are gonna have to really use those investigative skills of yours and dig up something big against her. Either way, Kate Roberts will be eating from the palm of our hands.

    ---

    SAMI: You cannot be serious!
    ERIC: I am.

    Sami is stood beside the booth at the Brady Pub where Marlena, Roman, and Eric have gathered to discuss Eric's resignation.

    SAMI: They couldn't have come to a decision that fast. Are you serious? Because if they are, I am going to go down to St. Luke's and have a talk with that Father Poindexter or whatever his name is--
    ERIC: SAMI!
    SAMI: WHAT??
    ERIC: Sit down and shut up for a second.

    Sami frowns like a child and slumps down in the booth next to Marlena.

    SAMI: Priests don't talk like that.
    ERIC: I've resigned, I don't have to play nice anymore.
    SAMI: That's not fair. You have to, you know, let me get used to it. Anyway, what happened?
    ERIC: Well, I was just telling Mom and Dad that I had decided that it was best if I resigned. When Nicole and Daniel tracked down Dr. Chyka, they weren't able to find any evidence linking him to Kristen.
    SAMI: Which means there's no evidence implicating that Kristen raped you.

    Eric winces slightly at Sami's choice of words, he looks down in disappointment and in some degree, of shame.

    ERIC: Exactly.
    MARLENA: Wait, Eric. What do you mean?
    ERIC: Well, Daniel and Nicole found out where Dr. Chyka's hideout was, and went off to find him without getting the police involved.
    ROMAN: Which was stupid. Hope told me about this last night. Those two could've got themselves killed going up against that bastard by themsleves.
    ERIC: I know, Dad. And I mean no disrespect, but Stefano's always had men hiding in the force. I mean, look at Benardi!

    Roman shakes his head, completely understanding the situation.

    ROMAN: I know, son. We've had a lot to deal with internally in the force when it comes to the DiMeras. I just...I feel like we could've done more if they'd come to us instead of going about it on their own.
    MARLENA: Wait a minute. What is going on? What happened to the doctor?
    ERIC: Well, Nicole was told to guard him and he escaped with the evidence.
    SAMI: Of course. Of course she did.
    ERIC: Sami, I don't want to hear it, okay?
    SAMI: Oh come on, Eric. She's so transparent she might as well be made of plastic wrap. She knows if they don't get the evidence against Kristen, you'll be out of the priesthood, and she can't wait to pounce on you. And you know it.

    Eric fights his rage at Sami's accusation, but a piece of him can't fight the sense of doubt.

  5. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 30
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    SPECIAL GUEST STAR: Jerry VerDorn as Tyler Houston, CEO of EnerNext.

    Nick walks over to the elevator at Titan HQ, heading down to the Titan TV floors. He looks down at his phone, and sees a text message from Percy.

    Nicole Walker on the rampage. Headed your way. Look out!

    Nick thinks for a moment, before turning to the elevator door as it opens. He presses the button to the 8th floor. The doors close behind him.

    ---

    Brady, Tyler, and Victor stand in the now-deserted town square after the press conference. The three men, all in suits, are despairing the mess that their press conference turned into. Tyler bends down to pick up a page from the newspaper that had blown in in the hustle of the crowd's exit. The headline reads "CONTROVERSIAL ENERNEXT TAR SANDS ANNOUNCED TODAY"

    TYLER: I see we've got friends all over the press.

    Victor and Brady turn to read the headline.

    VICTOR: You know, I remember when all you had to tell people was that there were well-paying jobs being created, and everyone was satisfied.
    BRADY: Well, people would've been convinced if Nicole had kept her mouth shut.
    VICTOR: It's not entirely her fault.
    BRADY: How do you figure?
    VICTOR: Well, clearly the public education system failed her as well, how else do you explain such fundamental stupidity?
    TYLER: Look, I think what we have to consider is, quite simply, how to proceed.
    VICTOR: What's all this "we"? Didn't you quit?
    TYLER: I stepped down. But that doesn't mean I don't have a stake in this, nor does it mean I won't be involved.

    Victor and Brady are intrigued.

    ---

    Theresa steps off the elevator at the hospital, where Anne is planted at her usual coffee station. Anne is more than a bit annoyed at Theresa, who is making a beeline for Anne's side.

    ANNE: Look who shows up! You know, honestly, you're getting to be as bad as the remaining Horton?
    THERESA: Okay, I'm sorry. Rough night. Now what is this about being "down one Horton".
    ANNE: Shh shh. (nearly whispering) Abigail Deveraux.
    THERESA: What about her?
    ANNE: I, Anne Milbauer, detective extraordinaire got the goods on her. And she quit last night.
    THERESA: What??
    ANNE: Quick, okay, come to my office, I'll explain everything.


    Jennifer storms out from the elevator. Maxine, standing at the nurses' station, looks over to her, concern in her eyes.

    MAXINE: Okay, what's wrong with you, Honey? You look like you could stab through someone's heart with that look in your eyes.
    JENNIFER: Maxine, don't tempt me. Have you seen Anne this morning?
    MAXINE: Aha! All you needed to say. She just went with your best friend Theresa to her office.
    JENNIFER: Thanks.

    Jennifer storms over to Anne's office, where the door is closed. Jennifer opens it without knocking. Theresa and Anne look over in shock, but Anne suddenly smiles smugly when she sees who is at the door.

    ANNE: Good morning, Jenny! How are you this wonderful sunny day?
    JENNIFER: You are going to explain to me right now what you did to my daughter last night one way or another.

    ---

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

    ---

    Jordan and Sheryl walk back to the elevators at Titan. Jordan is panicked, but Sheryl is attempting to keep a cool head.

    JORDAN: Well now we have no choice. We have to help Nick Fallon with...whatever plan he's got.
    SHERYL: Why are you so uneasy about him.
    JORDAN: Well...
    SHERYL: It's something to do with Rafe, isn't it? Rafe doesn't like him because...
    JORDAN: Because Nick was married to his sister and he did some pretty unspeakable things to his sister's baby's dad and they got an annulment and Rafe's...well he's protective of his sister. And I can't say I blame him, really.
    SHERYL: Okay, but realistically...Jordan...you know, Nick...I think he's on our side in this, legitimately. And the guy's a computer genius. He could really help us out with taking these guys down!
    JORDAN: I just...I don't know, Sheryl.
    SHERYL: Besides, it's not like we have much choice in the matter, do we?

    The elevator dings and opens, Jordan and Sheryl step in. Jordan sighs as the elevator door shuts.

    JORDAN: Not if we don't want to get caught.

    The door to the adjacent elevator opens at that moment, and Billie steps out, into the deserted office floor. She looks around for any signs of Sheryl or Jordan. Out of the corner of her eye, she sees a light in the office Jordan and Sheryl had just exited. As she looks in, the computer monitor shuts off, as the desktop they were running turns itself off. Billie is concerned, and looking around her, steps into the office, using her key card.

    ---

    A few floors down, Nick is at Titan TV's floor, heading for Nicole's office. Nick is mumbling to himself as he walks.

    NICK: Gotta get those files before Nicole gets here.

    He scans his key card to gain access. It fails.

    Nick thinks for a second, before pulling out his tablet to quickly access the Titan server (which he's hacked), changing his key card access. He tries again, this time unlocking Nicole's door. He steps inside and walks over to Nicole's desk, using only the natural light from outside to guide him. The somewhat ill-lit room is still light enough that Nick doesn't trip on anything on his way. He stops at her desk, recalling his previous encounter with Nicole while she was going over the story with Percy.

    :::

    FLASHBACK to DAYS OF OUR LIVES #26

    Nick and Percy are in Nicole's office, Nicole seems hostile towards Nick, and Nick is treading carefully in order not to step on Nicole's toes and ruin Percy's chances of getting his story told.

    NICK: Do you have any of this documentation in electronic form? I...I ask because I feel like...as a technologically inclined person, I just...I find paper copies to be very...
    NICOLE: Old hat?
    NICK: Insecure.
    NICOLE: Look here, felon--
    NICK: Fallon--
    NICOLE: Whatever! I like keeping hard copies in addition to keeping electronic copies on the cloud server. It's harder for people to deny inconvenient truths when they're on paper.
    NICK: Understood.

    :::

    Nick recalls Nicole pulling the file from her bottom right hand drawer prior to this exchange.

    :::

    NICK: Gotcha.

    Nick makes a beeline for the bottom right hand drawer. Opening it up, he discovers immediately a folder exactly like the one he recalls. He scoops it up hastily and puts it in his laptop bag. He exits the room and heads quickly back to the elevators, hoping to get back to the MadWorld lab before Percy and Nicole get there.

    ---

    Anne has her hands on her hips, enjoying every moment of goading Jennifer while she's enraged in Anne's office.

    ANNE: Now now, Jenny! Is that ANY way to talk to someone in a professional setting?

    Jennifer slams the door to Anne's office shut behind her.

    JENNIFER: Cut the crap right now, Anne. I know you did something to cause my daughter to quit last night. Let me guess, you railroaded her into it? You found some magical loophole in her contract that she hasn't followed so you think you can just...throw her out?
    ANNE: I did no such thing. I approached her with a concern, and we both came to the mutual decision that it would be in everyone's best interest if she stepped down from her position with us.
    JENNIFER: Oh, give me a break. I know my daughter and I know she would never quit a job like this, it means way too much to her.

    Theresa and Anne begin laughing as Jenn talks about "knowing her daughter".

    ANNE: Ohhh Jenny. You keep telling yourself that over and over until you're blue in the face. Because that would be the first time I've seen you work hard at anything, and I would enjoy that very much.
    JENNIFER: You know what? You and your little minion here can be as miserable and vindictive as you want, but I will find out what you did to my daughter, and when I do, I will end your careers here. BOTH of you. I will make your names so bad neither of you will be employable by anyone outside of a fast food window. So you best watch your backs.
    ANNE: Is that a threat? Because I'm trembling in my boots.
    JENNIFER: Good day to both of you.

    Jennifer walks out of Anne's office, visibly angered and confused. Inside, Theresa and Anne wait a moment to make sure Jenn's gone. Anne is still unsure, so she runs to the doorway and closes it quickly before running back to Theresa.

    ANNE: Okay, so here's the scoop.

    Anne leans against her desk casually.

    THERESA: Oh this better be good. The suspense is killing me.
    ANNE: Okay, so I went down to sweet little Abigail's office last night, and what should I see? Our dearest worker bee engaged in a heated little argument with one Elvis Junior DiMera.

    Theresa looks intrigued, but confused.

    THERESA: Wait, why?
    ANNE: Because someone has been having a very steamy little affair under all our noses.

    Theresa nearly jumps out of her chair in excitement.

    THERESA: Oh REALLY!
    ANNE: Oh YES, Honey. EJ DiMera's been screwing Abby on the side.

    Theresa nearly screams out in joy at Abby and Jennifer's expense. She leans in towards Anne with anticipation.

    THERESA: Please PLEASE tell me you got proof of it all.
    ANNE: Theresa, honey, who do you think I am? Of course I did. It's all recorded.

    Anne holds up her phone. Theresa smiles widely, and claps quietly for Anne's quick thinking.

    THERESA: So wait, you confronted her with it and blackmailed her into quitting? That's it?
    ANNE: (laughing) Seriously? Of course that's not ALL. Abby isn't gonna go telling anybody what actually happened, or else this recording goes straight to Mommy, and to Sami Brady.
    Now, naturally, a true professional bitch does not show her entire hand at once. So I'm gonna hold onto this baby. I know it's gonna come in handy later.

    Theresa smiles even brighter. Shaking her head in amazement at Anne's awesome skills in bitchcraft.

    ---

    Nick steps into his lab, and sets his laptop bag on the desk. He unzips the bag and pulls the file folder out. He slowly opens it to ensure the files pertaining to Percy's case are inside. Instead, he finds files with regards to Kristen DiMera's meetings with Dr. Chyka.

    He looks through the files, confused, flipping through them all quickly, he realizes that the files detail a drug cocktail that explains Eric's well-publicized actions at the hotel in the Capitol.

    NICK: Powerful aphrodisiac...woah, these masking agents are...amazing.

    Nick looks through the papers, fascinated by what he's reading. He quickly realizes that these files would exonerate Eric in the eyes of the church, allowing the shamed ex-priest to wear the collar again.

    NICK: And if he had the choice of going back...ohhh DAMN, Nicole. (laughs). Ohhh you bitch!

    Nicole and Percy step into the office behind Nick, who is facing away from the door.

    NICOLE: Quit the funny business. We need to talk, you little worm.

    Nick looks up from the folder, shutting it slowly. A smug smile flashes across Nick's face. He replies calmly without once turning around to face Nicole.

    NICK: Sure, Nicole. Let's talk.

    ---
  6. beebs
    EPISODE 142
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     
    Roman walks into his office at the Salem PD, and looks the room over, suddenly feeling foreign to him.
     
    After a moment of inspecting everything, his desk, the window to outside, the picture of his family from years ago, he sets the framed picture down on the desk face down, and looks the room over once again. 
     

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

    Noelle walks into the room, hands on hips, with a wry smile. Adrienne looks on, unimpressed, while Alex seems...uncertain, looking back at Adrienne before turning back to look at his wife.
     
    ---
     
    Kate steps over to Roman, putting a hand on his shoulder out of concern. Roman fidgets at Kate's touch.
     
    KATE: Roman...
    ROMAN: Just stop...I'm sorry. I haven't had much of a chance to look into this the last few days.
     
    Kate looks over at Roman, shocked by his uncharacteristic lack of attention, as Roman sits down behind his desk.
     
    KATE: I...I don't get it. You knew this was a huge case, Roman. I put my relationships with my kids, with...with Rafe...I put that on hold for this. All to see justice done. And with all the...chaos that's been going down between the virus and...Nick taking over Titan, you...Roman, are you okay?
     
    Roman snaps at Kate, taking her aback.
     
    ROMAN: Dammit, Kate, I'm fine! I can't even have a cup of coffee in the morning without someone asking me what's going on here at Anderson and how I'm gonna take care of this, and I'll tell you, since Bob died, it's been absolute chaos.
     
    Kate looks at Roman, confused and stunned.
     
    KATE: Anderson? Wh...what are you talking about?
     
    ---
     
    Tyler stumbles over his words, stunned by the news that Victor's awakened from his coma.
     
    TYLER: Y...You're sure?
     
    Maggie looks on, excitedly, almost bouncing as she speaks with joy.
     
    MAGGIE: Yes! Isn't it terrific news? I mean...he's...I'll admit, very groggy. I think it's gonna take some time before he's fully awake but...oh this is such good news. I'm going to have to tell the family, but...first I need to get ahead of Daniel. Excuse me.
     
    TYLER: Certainly.
     
    Tyler watches Maggie run off to speak to the nurses in hopes of tracking Daniel down, before looking over toward Victor's room. He slowly walks over, peering inside the room as he gently pushes the door open.
     
    Looking back again as Maggie runs off to find Daniel, Tyler steps into Victor's room.
     
    Victor, still barely revived, gently turns his head to see who's come in. Barely audible, he chokes out a greeting.
     
    VICTOR: H...Houston.
     
    Shutting the door behind him, Tyler slowly walks toward Victor's side. He speaks softly,but with urgency.
     
    TYLER: Victor. It's good to see you awake.
    VICTOR: ...It's....it's good to see you...at all.
     
    Tyler chuckles to himself, before his face drops again, sighing as he continues.
     
    TYLER: Victor...I don't mean to hit you with bad news so soon after you've come to, but...we have a...we have a situation at Titan.
     
    Victor looks at Tyler, his expression unchanging, but with a tension in his face that wasn't there a moment before.
     
    VICTOR: Wh...what kind of situation?
    TYLER: It's Nick Fallon. He blackmailed the board into making him CEO.
     
    Victor turns his head slowly, looking up at the ceiling. He closes his eyes for a moment and curses, barely above a whisper.
     
    VICTOR: Damn. 
     
    Victor turns his head back toward Tyler, their eyes locking in a serious gaze.
     
    VICTOR: Make him pay...for this.
     
    ---
  7. beebs
    EPISODE 3

    It's buzzing at The Royal. The grand opening is upon us, and champagne is in every glass. Kian, Jason and Peter socialize with the local foodies and press, basking in the glory of their creation. Ryan passes by them, hors d'oevres artfully displayed on the tray in his hands. Jason pulls Ryan over momentarily.

    JASON: Can you do me a favour and ask the kitchen to wait ten minutes before serving the mains? I'm gonna have Peter and Kian give speeches, then at my cue, get the staff ready and we'll parade everything out all at once, alright?
    RYAN: Got it, boss.

    Ryan is about to hastily scurry away, Jason stops him before he does so, and looks at him with a wry smile.

    JASON: And don't call me boss. Got it?
    RYAN: Yes, b..Jason.

    Jason lets Ryan go, and wrinkles his nose, shaking his head.

    Jason then goes back to mingling with the crowd, drinking far faster than anyone else in the room. He still manages to come off charming, if a little sloppy.

    Kian and Peter shmooze with the press, Kian held close to Peter's side, but Kian's eyes are clearly following Jason instead. Peter's so caught up in having a sexy young guy on his side, he barely notices as he chats endlessly with the socialites around him.

    Kian tunes it out and daydreams of he and Jason in bed together. Jason's kiss on his neck and heading south before Peter calling his name snaps him out of it.

    PETER: Kian!
    KIAN: Oh...hey.
    PETER: You look like you're a thousand miles away, babe.
    KIAN; Sorry, I just...I couldn't believe that all of this was for me. I had to soak it all in for a sec.
    PETER: Well, get used to it, babe, cos this is just the start of it for you.

    Kian smiles a wide smile and gives Peter a quick peck on the lips, more in appreciation than out of love. Regardless, the group talking with them still beam at them, mistaking their display as a sign of great romance.

    As this happens, Jason gets up on the small stage in one corner of the room, clinking his glass with his fork to draw attention to himself.

    JASON: Excuse me, everybody. Can I have everyone's attention for just a second, please.

    The room grows mostly silent and turns to face Jason, a few members in the crowd still chatter.

    JASON: Hey!

    Jason points to the source the noise, a twinkle in his eye as he does so. The crowd laughs.

    JASON: I wanted to thank you all for coming here, and I have something extremely important that I want to say about someone who is very important to everyone here, but especially to me.

    Kian looks to Jason with eyes darting. Kian shakes his head at Jason hoping to avert a disaster, while Jason looks relaxed and ignores Kian's worries.





    Down on Queen West, Darren chats with his friend, artist Calvin J at his art show. Out of the corner of his eye, Darren spots Alexis come into the gallery. Alexis' face drops and she turns sharply to the bar, avoiding contact with Darren as much as possible. Undeterred, Darren excuses himself and heads over to Alexis.

    As Alexis picks up a glass of wine at the bar, Darren startles her with his greeting.

    DARREN: HEY baby, what's up?
    ALEXIS: You want me to spill this all over the place?
    DARREN: Sorry, baby, if you spilled, i'ma buy you another.
    ALEXIS (unimpressed): How gracious of you.
    DARREN: Come to think of it, I might just buy you one anyway.
    ALEXIS: *sigh* This may come as a huge shock to you, but you're actually nowhere near as suave as you think you are.

    Darren grabs at his chest.

    DARREN: MY HEART!

    Alexis rolls her eyes, takes a sip of wine as she walks away.

    DARREN: Wait wait wait, wait a minute, girl. Come here, I got someone I want you to meet.
    ALEXIS: If it's your mother, I don't think we're at that stage of the relationship yet.
    DARREN: Yet. Cha-ching! Progress.

    Alexis follows him reluctantly, shaking her head at his theatrics as he takes her over to meet Calvin.






    Back at the restaurant, a beautiful black woman in her early 40s enters the room in a dazzling red gown. Her hair done up in a tight bun, she looks every bit as beautiful as a woman in her 20s, but twice as graceful. She stands at the back of the room as Jason makes his speech.

    JASON: I'm glad you're all here tonight for our grand opening. It really means a lot to me and Kian, and Peter of course, that you're here to help us celebrate the launch of this amazing new restaurant.

    Kian winces at Jason's remark. He knows the comment was unintentional, and realizes he's overthinking things, but worries that there's a possibility some buried resentment at Jason's status as Kian's hidden lover will make its way into Jason's speech.

    JASON: The Royal will be one of a kind in this community, a restaurant of fine food for everybody. And we have two very important people to thank for this...Kian and Peter.

    The crowd applauds as Jason motions them to step up. Kian is unsure of what's going on, still deep in thought, while Peter, eager to grab the spotlight, races up to capture the glory of the moment.

    PETER: Thank you, everybody. Thanks for coming out, and even greater thanks to my talented, and loving partner, in life and in business...Mr. Kian McClary.

    The applause continues as Kian finally steps up on the stage.

    PETER: Kian is probably the finest discovery I've ever made. Not only is he one of the best chefs in the country, but he also has quite possibly the best taste in the world. Not only for his food, but for choosing an old lug like me.

    Peter jabs Kian in the side, as the audience laughs. Kian laughs along with them but a slight discomfort is still visible in his face.

    As Peter continues to go on about how great he is, Ryan stands in the doorway of the kitchen, ready to lead the night's parade of great food with the wait staff. He notices the beautiful black woman in the doorway and can't take his eyes off her. She gives a seductive smile and turns back to Peter. Ryan smiles back clumsily, then looks back at the stage as well, waiting for Jason's cue.

    PETER: ...and that is going to be the key to our success.
    JASON: Now without further ado, let's all raise our glasses to The Royal.

    As the call goes out to raise their glasses, Ryan's handed a glass of champagne by another member of the wait staff, Jason motions to Ryan to hand it over to the woman he was looking at before. Ryan quickly scurries over to her and hands her a glass.

    RYAN: Here you are, Madam.
    MARY: Call me Mary. And thank you, handsome.
    RYAN: You're welcome.

    Ryan shuffles back to his corner, as the room prepares to toast.

    JASON: To The Royal
    ALL: To The Royal!






    Alexis toasts with Darren. She's had a few drinks by now, but still seems put off.

    DARREN: You look like you could kill someone, and I don't think I've crossed that line yet.
    ALEXIS: You're teetering on the edge, but no, you haven't.
    DARREN: Then I guess I better watch my step.
    ALEXIS: Trust me, you're nowhere near as bad as some people tonight.
    DARREN: Oh?
    ALEXIS: I wasn't supposed to be here alone tonight but--
    DARREN: But you got stood up and now you wanna get your mind off it. I get it. I know the feeling.
    ALEXIS: Why does that not surprise me?
    DARREN: Now YOU'RE teetering on the edge.

    Alexis laughs and orders another drink. Darren finishes his and sits a little closer.

    DARREN: You really better slow down, you know.
    ALEXIS: I'm a big girl, and I don't need some he-man looking out for me.
    DARREN: Nah, it's not that. I just know a lot of girls who think they can handle their booze, then they end up trippin' over their heels and throwing up on some dude's Cadillac.
    ALEXIS: I feel like there's a story there.
    DARREN: You have no idea.
    ALEXIS (laughing): Well come on, tell me!
    DARREN: Only if you promise to let me walk you home.
    ALEXIS: Hmmmm.....I think considering we're both going to the same place.
    DARREN: Mmmhmm???
    ALEXIS: I think I could handle that.
    DARREN: Excellent.
    ALEXIS: Now don't get too excited. I don't want you getting the wrong idea.
    DARREN: Promise. I'm a gentleman. I treat you like a lady.
    ALEXIS: Good. You know you're a lot less annoying after a few drinks.
    DARREN: Well thanks a lot, lady. What you tryin' to say?

    Darren gets in closer and tickles Alexis a bit. Alexis, whose defenses are now fully and clearly down, is actually enjoying the attention, which passive, distracted boyfriend Ryan never gives her.

    ALEXIS: AH! Stop it. (laughs). Come on. TELL ME! Tell me the story.

    Alexis looks up at Darren, who leans in to kiss her. Alexis at first recoils, but it's only momentary. She leans back in to reciprocate.
  8. beebs

    DAYS1979 #2 - May 1979

    By beebs,


    Episodes
    Marie and Laura embrace, not having seen each other for awhile, but the happy reunion is short-lived. Marie is concerned to learn that Laura hasn't told anyone in Salem of her visit. Marie insists that Laura tell her family of her whereabouts, but Laura pleads with Marie to keep her secret, if only for a few days. She just needs to be alone.

    In Salem, Bill heads for the airport, hoping to find out where Laura flew to. When the desk clerk is reticent to share that info, Bill pleads, insisting that he's looking for his wife, and asks if a Laura Horton had booked a last minute flight the day before around 4pm. When that doesn't turn out, Bill wonders if a Laura Spencer had. Again, nothing. The only name booked at the counter that day was a Carrie James that flew on a 4:35pm flight to Montreal. Instantly it clicks for Bill. Carrie for her mother's name, James for her father's name. Laura has gone to see Marie.
     
    Bill asks Tom to have his cases covered while he's away, as Alice promises to watch Jennifer. Bill books a flight out to Montreal. Marie and Laura discuss her mental state, and her guilt over Laura not seeing her mother before her death. Marie tells Laura that her guilt is understandable, but that sometimes one is stretched too thin, and can't process traumatic events at first. They can freeze or simply block them out. She also tells Laura that her mother's suicide is not Laura's responsibility. Carrie was mentally ill, and it's easy to look inward to think of what you could've done differently, but, realistically, what could Laura have done differently. Laura knows Marie is right, but wants to take her time to think everything over.
     
    Bill arrives at the convent, and Marie greets him. She's happy to see him, but with a twinge of sadness in her eyes, particularly with regard to Laura. Marie tells Bill that Laura needs time to herself, and that her mother's death hit her hard. Marie goes to check on Laura, to see if she'd like to see Bill, but Laura isn't in her room, and no one can find her. A bit of panic ensues as Bill and Marie search for her, but eventually Bill catches up with her at a fountain on the property. Laura is, at first, depressed, and doesn't want to speak to Bill, but Bill speaks in affirmation of her feelings, and reminds her of the great life they've built together in Salem, one her mother can be proud of. Laura expresses that that life has a lot of painful memories attached as well, ones she wishes she could break away from and start anew. Bill understands, and promises that whatever Laura wishes to do, he will follow her. 
     
    After a long discussion, Bill and Laura decide that, since Laura must travel to Chicago to settle her mother's estate anyway, that maybe she and Bill can take some time there. Perhaps a new start, just Laura, Bill and Jennifer. Bill thinks it's a lovely idea.
     
    Marie expresses that she'd love to come with them back to Salem, hoping to make things easier for them both. So the three of them head for the airport, and back to Salem to say their hellos and goodbyes.
     
     
    Tom, in Laura's absence, has hired Dr. Jordan Barr to replace her, after Marlena makes it clear that she's not entirely interested in the position for herself, still somewhat ill at ease after Laura began to chip away at her self-confidence.
     
    Marlena meets Dr. Barr, and they hit it off immediately. Marlena's confidence begins to turn around again under Jordan's wing, reminding Marlena of her talents with patients. Jordan's warmth rubs Don the wrong way, but he retains a professional exterior in front of Marlena at the hospital. But at home, Don makes some snide remarks about Marlena's new mentor, reminded of Marlena's history with  Dr. Paul Whitman. Marlena senses some tension over breakfast, but initially chalks it up to Don being stressed over his work caseload.
     
    Donna begins receiving phone calls from a "friend", but is secretive as to whom the friend is. Don becomes increasingly concerned when Donna becomes withdrawn from the family. Marlena chalks it up to Donna's angst over her babysitting mishaps with Scotty and Jennifer, which allays Don's fears for a bit.
     
    One night, after Donna recieves a call from this "friend", Donna asks Don to take her to a friend's place for a slumber party. Don agrees, provided Donna leave a phone number where she can be reached. Donna leaves the number of a young friend, Anne, where she can be reached. Satisfied, Don and Marlena agree to let her head off, and pack an overnight bag for her. Marlena offers to drive her, but Donna says Anne's mom, Susan, will pick them up. Donna says her goodbyes, claiming Susan is downstairs waiting for her.
     
    Outside the apartment building, Donna steps outside, and smiles. Waiting for her is Pete.
     
     
     
    Doug asks Don to file Rebecca's letter regarding Dougie separately from his and Julie's other paperwork, and that he set up a living trust fund for baby Dougie as well.
    Robert, meanwhile, tries to do Doug a favour, and find out any information he can about the artificial insemination that Doug took part in. I guess, hoping to find out if Doug has a child out there somewhere, since he and Julie are struggling to conceive. Neil insinuates that the insemination didn't work out, hoping Robert will stop prying.
     
    David visits, and asks Julie to come to Stephanie's with him tonight, hoping that, if anyone sees him there, at least he's there with Julie, so it doesn't look untoward. Julie is reluctant, but agrees. Doug bites his tongue hard, until David leaves, when he makes it clear that he doesn't like David using Julie in his games against Trish. 
     
    Trish pays Stephanie a visit, Stephanie is less than thrilled to see Trish, but lets her in anyway. Once inside, Trish tries to fish for information about her relationship with David. Stephanie is honest that she hasn't seen David in days, but will see him the next day as she's well enough to return to work. Trish makes it clear that she won't give up David or her son without a fight, and Stephanie better stay out of her way. Stephanie blows up at Trish at this point, laying into her for taking off out of state with Scotty, not letting David know where she was, and up and leaving for Europe without her son. Stephanie calls Trish a rotten mother, she vows that she will do everything she can to make sure Trish stays out of David's, and Scotty's life. At this point, Trish is so livid that she slaps the hell out of Stephanie, just as Julie and David come through the door. Stephanie immediately plays the victim, and David throws Trish out of the house, telling her he will absolutely make good on his threats to divorce her now.
     
    After Trish leaves Stephanie's, Julie gives David and Stephanie some alone time, where Stephanie pressures David to finally bite the bullet and file the divorce decree. David, though enraged, still needs some convincing before he finally is convinced, but he does. The next day, he heads to Mickey's to file the petition. Mickey tries to talk him down, asking what precipitated David's action, and once David explains the situation, Mickey asks if he's doing this out of anger and spite, or does he really feel like things are irrepairable between him and Trish. David considers it, but tells Mickey that he loves Stephanie, and that he can't stand to be apart from her any longer. It's time. Mickey files the paperwork.
     
    Trish is devastated when she gets served with the divorce petition, and immediately meets with Jerry Reinhart. They begin to compile a case against David, while Trish stews over whether or not to involve Stephanie in it as David's adulteress. Trish visits Jeri, who convinces her to do just that. Despite Trish's lingering anger over Jeri's vicious visit to David, she knows that it's her best shot of keeping custody of Scotty. Upon telling Jerry, he agrees with Trish.
     
     
     
    Doug and Julie go to another check-up with Neil, and again get the same news, Julie is not pregnant. Julie is frustrated, but Doug seems okay with the news. His attempts to reassure Julie only
    frustrated her more, causing her to wonder why Doug isn't more upset by the news. Doug won't say, knowing Julie would like them to have a child of their own. Doug plays it off as trying to lift Julie's spirits, but Julie is too annoyed, and heads out of the hospital without him.
     
    At home, Doug apologizes for his attitude at the hospital. Julie also feels regretful for snapping at Doug. They go to bed early, and make up by making love.
     
     
     
    Amanda puts the brakes on soon after, though. She admits to Chris that she really doesn't want to pursue anything further with him, as she IS still married, and an affair with a married woman could ruin Chris' career. Chris tries to convince Amanda that he doesn't care about anything but the here and now, but Amanda won't budge, and insists she should return to Chicago before things get out of hand. Chris feels once again rejected.
     
    The chaos of Laura's departure convinces Amanda to stay in Salem. She turns to Chris for comfort. Once Laura returns to Salem, Bill and Laura hold a goodbye party at the Horton house. Amanda arrives with Chris. During the party, Laura tells Amanda about what transpired in Montreal, and how she and Bill were able to come together. Caught up in the spirit of romance, Amanda is reminded how empty her life in Chicago has been with Greg. She tells Chris she's decided to stay in Salem after all. Chris is ecstatic, but their joy is short-lived when Greg appears at the party.
     
    Greg puts on the appearance of being happy for his friends in the Horton family, but when he manages to get Amanda alone, he harps at her to return home to Chicago. Amanda refuses repeatedly, avoiding telling Greg about her and Chris' budding relationship. Greg pushes her repeatedly throughout the evening. At one point, Greg pulls Amanda into the Horton kitchen, and tells her how he's realized how neglectful he's been, and apologizes for it. He promises to Amanda that he will be the kind of husband that Amanda needs, will treat her like a queen, make her feel like the toast of Chicago.
     
    Amanda tells Greg that he's way off-base, and that she doesn't need to be put on a pedestal. She needs to feel like a partner in their marriage, and to feel like she's respected by her husband. Greg insists he can do this if Amanda will just leave Salem and rejoin him in Chicago. Amanda counters that Greg still doesn't, and what he's doing now proves it, as he still isn't listening to what she's saying. Amanda leaves at this point, and Chris asks if she wants a ride home. Amanda would like to, but thinks it a bad idea under the circumstances. She asks Doug to drive her back to Doug and Julie's.
     
     
     
     
    Mike and Margo move into their new house, financed partially by Laura's gift. Margo sets about organizing a housewarming party for them. Mike wants to have a serious talk with Margo: since her cancer has remained in remission awhile now, he'd like to consider trying for a baby. Margo tries her level best to change the subject, pretending to be so focused on planning the party that she's too preoccupied to answer Mike. Mike, for now, doesn't push the subject.
     
    Secretly, Margo is horrified at the very idea of trying to have a baby right now. She visits Trish, and confides in her that the idea of having Mike's baby when she could very well die at any time seems cruel, and even if she does give birth successfully, she's scared Mike would very quickly be raising their baby alone. Trish tells her to be honest, but gentle with Mike.
     
    At home, Margo can't bring herself to let Mike down, seeing how his face lights up when he talks about their potential child. She asks Mike to wait, as Anderson's government contract is eating up a lot of her time at work, and she'd just like to get settled in first. Mike's face drops upon hearing this, rightly believing that Margo is deflecting because she's afraid of her cancer coming back. Margo insists that isn't true, and assures Mike that when things settle down, they will try for a baby. Mike backs off, and he and Margo share a lovely evening together.
     
     
     
    Returning to work at Anderson, Stephanie is welcomed back by Margo, who invites her out to lunch. Stephanie accepts, and the two discuss their respective lives. Stephanie admits to Margo that she's still on a low dosage of medication for the pain in her hands, but insists she'll be able to manage. Stephanie asks how things are with her. Margo discusses buying the new house, but talks about how low-energy she's been, and unmotivated to handle the decoarting. Stephanie offers to help out, hoping to take some of the stress off Margo's back. Margo refuses at first, but Stephanie insists that helping to decorate would offer a nice distraction for her from the heaviness of her own situation with David and Trish. Margo accepts.
     
     
    Mary continues to be wooed by Steve, though Mary is still clearly still hung up on Chris. Steve tries to entice Mary with a trip to Paris, as he's on another antiques hunt for Chez Julie. Mary seems intrigued, but is clearly distacted. When Steve sees this, he tells Mary that, if they are to get closer, Steve wants to be certain that Mary's eyes are only for him. Mary apologizes, and admits that she's still very much in love with Chris. She asks Steve to forgive her, but he's right, it wouldn't be fair to see him until she is well and truly over Chris.
     
    Steve heads off to Paris, and checks in occasionally with Julie regarding any finds he encounters for Chez Julie.
     
     
     
     
    Maggie, feeling unchallenged by her work life, asks Julie what she would suggest to give her life more meaning. Julie counters that Maggie may simply be looking for a way to distract from missing Janice. Maggie is certain Julie's right, but Julie wonders why Maggie isn't focusing her attentions on Mickey. Maggie tells Julie she appreciates Mickey and loves to spend time with him, but his hectic schedule leaves her alone far too often, and it's beginning to wear her down, her time alone gets her thinking about Janice, and about alcohol. Julie suggests she spend some time volunteering at the hospital, particularly in pediatrics. She suggests maybe helping by connecting with other young children may help Maggie fill the void in her life that Janice left.
     
    The next day, when Maggie goes to ask Tom about the idea, he is enthusiastic about it, but worries if Maggie is up to it, what with having lost Janice so recently. Maggie tells Tom that she'd considered it, but that since having children with Mickey is simply not in the cards, she needs to find other ways to connect with children, and to bring joy into their lives, and hers. Tom agrees to it, and arranges for Maggie to assist Neil in the clinic.
     
     
    Linda, still feeling her position in the Anderson home is vulnerable, sets about trying to break down Bob's defenses, and get back into his bed. She plans a lovely evening for herself, Bob, and Melissa. Bob, largely to project a secure, happy home for Melissa, plays along, eventually being drawn into the joy of the evening. Once Melissa is sent up to bed for the night, Linda makes her move. Sensually wrapping her arms around Bob, she thanks him for a lovely evening, and wishes it didn't have to end. Bob, conflicted between his attraction to his wife, and revolted by her previous actions, resists her. He tells Linda he'll take the spare room tonight. 
     
    Linda is not deterred, however. Knowing she's making progress, she attempts the next night with a much more provocative display, donning a sexy negligée, and lighting candles in the bedroom. Bob, already worn down by the previous night, gives into Linda this time, and they spend the night together.
     
    The next day, Bob has regrets, and claims nothing's changed between them, he just needed to get off. He even has a moment of clarity, and accuses Linda of using sex to get her way. Linda lays on the wounded dove routine extra thick, claiming she cannot BELIEVE Bob would make her feel so VIOLATED and be so ABUSIVE towards her, and is convinced Mary's influence is to blame for his coldness, knowing she is still mistrustful of Linda's motives.
     
    Linda tries for some financial insurance in case her scheme with Bob doesn't work out, and asks Don for a job as a legal secretary for him and Mickey. Don's all for it, but Mickey points out that their lawfirm handles Anderson's affairs. He isn't so sure, but hires her anyway. Of course, Linda's intent in having the job is to have access to Anderson info to worm her way back into the company.
    When Mickey tells Maggie about his having hired Linda, Maggie tries to bite her tongue, but cannot. She has deep misgivings about Linda working so closely with Mickey. Mickey counters with his own discomfort with Maggie working so closely with a womanizer like Neil Curtis, but he knows Maggie would stay loyal to him, seeing the men who've been close to her in the past, even during rough times in their marriage. Maggie has never strayed once, and for that, Mickey is grateful, and will do the same in kind. Recognizing his wife's insecurities, Mickey also tries to reassure her that his affections for Linda died many years ago. Maggie accepts Mickey's words, but it's obvious in her face that she isn't 100% certain that Linda won't manipulate things to her favour in some way.
     
  9. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 23
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Abby looks confused at Nick, as they sit next to each other on the bench at the pier.

    ABBY: What? Nick, what do you mean by that?
    NICK: I just have a feeling, that's all. Abby, you've had so many crappy things go down this past year...it's not fair. You're due for some good news.
    ABBY: I would definitely agree with that. You know, Nick. I'm really glad to have someone to talk to. I mean...it's really hard keeping everything to myself sometimes, you know?
    NICK: I know exactly what you mean. It's nice to have someone you can turn to. Just remember that. I'm always here for you. You're my family.

    Nick takes Abby's hand and squeezes it gently. He gets up from the bench, ready to head off into the night. Abby looks up at him and smiles.

    ABBY: Thanks, Nick. Appreciate it.
    NICK: I'll see you later?
    ABBY: You bet. And thanks. I really appreciate everything you've done.
    NICK: Don't mention it.

    Nick lets go of Abby's hand and sets off into the night.As he leaves, Abby watches him take off, while behind her, the shadows reveal that EJ's been observing their conversation from behind Abby, out of her line of vision.

    ---

    At Chez Rouge, Theresa and Brady kiss at their table, only to be interrupted by Jennifer's disapproving voice.

    JENNIFER: Oh, you have GOT to be kidding me.

    Brady looks over at Jennifer in shock. Theresa responds by smiling smugly.

    ---

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

    ---

    Theresa smiles her smug smile as she sits back in her seat, looking up at a disapproving Jennifer.

    THERESA: Jennifer! What a nice surprise to see you lurking about this evening.
    JENNIFER: Can it, Terry.
    THERESA: Ugh, can we just stick with 'Theresa', Jenny.
    JENNIFER: After you, Terry.

    Theresa grimaces at the masculinization of her name, while Jenn looks over to Brady in disbelief.

    JENNIFER: Really? I mean, you think this is a step UP from Kristen?

    Brady holds up his hand to stop her.

    BRADY: Okay, Jennifer, I really didn't want to hear Kristen's name tonight, okay? I just came here, with my date, and we came to have a nice, carefree evening. Now is okay with you?
    JENNIFER: Not really!
    BRADY: Really? Oh, and why not?
    JENNIFER: Because, Brady. This wo...this GIRL tried to destroy my son's life to get back at me because I didn't put up with her nonsense on the job. She's petty, she's spiteful, sh--
    THERESA: ...She flies around on a old broom in a pointy hat, etcetra, etcetra, etcetra. Seriously, Jenny, can you just save the tired character assassinations for ONE night and just leave me alone?

    Jennifer leans in closely and squares in intensely on Theresa.

    JENNIFER: No. I will not. And you wanna know why?

    Theresa gives a defiant look back at her.

    THERESA: Why's that?
    JENNIFER: Because Brady's my friend. And I'm looking out for him. And the last thing I'm going to allow you to do is hurt him any more than he already has--

    Brady pulls an escalating, and clearly agitated Jennifer away from Theresa.

    BRADY: Woh, woh, woh, woh! Jenn. With all due respect, I am the only person who needs to concern myself with that. And trust me. I will be fine, okay? So let me and Theresa just...enjoy our evening, and you enjoy yours.

    Brady gets up from his seat, and takes Theresa's hand, pulling her chair out so they may leave for the bar together.

    THERESA: Yes, please. I would think you need to do something to make you feel better after the day you've had. You know how word gets around at the hospital.

    Theresa winks at Jenn as Brady helps put Theresa's jacket on.

    THERESA: See ya, Jenny!

    Jennifer looks on in disbelief, shaking her head as Brady and Theresa head off for the evening.



    Sheryl looks over from her table and catches a glimpse of Jordan and Rafe in their corner table.

    SHERYL: Oh! Wow! It's Rafe and Jordan. You wouldn't mind if I just...popped over to say 'hi' for a sec, no?
    LUCAS: No! In fact, I should probably pop over myself. Rafe owes me a few bucks for that bet we made.

    Sheryl laughs as she gets up from the table.

    SHERYL: Well, I'll be just a second. Us girls have a couple things to talk about on our own, but I'll be fast. Okay?
    LUCAS: Sounds good. I'll be here.


    Sheryl heads over to Jordan and Rafe's table. Upon arriving, Jordan looks displeased to see her for a second, spotting a very suspect look in Sheryl's eye that she recognizes immediately. Something's up.

    JORDAN: Hey...Sheryl. I didn't realize you were here! How...nice to see you.
    SHERYL: You too, both of you!
    RAFE: Yeah, it's a nice surprise. You here with Lucas?
    SHERYL: I am. He says he wants to pop by to say hi in a moment.

    Rafe shuffles in his seat uncomfortably at that comment.

    RAFE: I think I know why. (to Jordan) Hide me. He's after my money.

    Jordan and Sheryl laugh.

    SHERYL: I'll make sure he goes easy on you. Anyway, Jordan. I was hoping you had a minute so we could talk for a sec. I had something to tell you.
    JORDAN: Oh! How...great! Okay. I'll be there in a sec--
    SHERYL: ...NOW.

    Sheryl emphasizes through gritted teeth. Jordan furrows her brow and looks up at Sheryl, trying to maintain a cool and calm exterior for Rafe.

    JORDAN: Heh. Alright. Rafe, if you'll excuse me.

    Jordan gets up from her seat, and Sheryl grabs her by the wrist and pulls her off to the ladies room. Once inside, Sheryl turns Jordan around abruptly to talk to her.

    JORDAN: OW! You know you're not good at this whole "subtle" business, eh?
    SHERYL: I'm trying. But it's really difficult when I can barely get you to communicate with me.
    JORDAN: Look, I'm sorry. I just...I've got a lot of things on my mind. How's...how's things with Lucas.
    SHERYL: Good for now. He seems to be fine. I think this afternoon was just him in a bad mood. But we can't take any chances. Especially with that press conference coming up tomorrow. We need to be there and hopfeully we'll figure out what exaclty EnerNext's next move is.
    JORDAN: Well, if it involves Titan, then we need to be really careful how we proceed. Especially you, since you're working for the company.
    SHERYL: Tell me about it. Look, I think once the press conference happens, we'll be able to figure out what information we need to stop this project dead in its tracks.
    JORDAN: Agreed. In the meantime, we just need to wait, and try to keep Kate Roberts from sticking her nose in any further.

    ---

    Will comforts Sami on the sofa of his apartment. Sami is visibly upset by the recollections of her past with EJ that have come back to haunt her psyche. Sami is held close by Will, who looks to Sonny for guidance, unsure how to deal with the gravity of his mother's breakdown.

    WILL: Could you pass me the water, Sonny?
    SONNY: Sure.

    Gabi looks on from the bedroom, very concerned about Sami's state. She has overheard the conversation, but doesn't understand the context of it. She holds her baby tightly, thinking of how great the bond between mother and child is. A momentary smile crosses her face, before she thinks again of Sami's suffering.

    Sami, meanwhile, sips on the glass of water, catching her breath finally after nearing a panic attack earlier. Will pulls her from his side and looks at her.

    WILL: Did you want me to make some tea or something?
    SAMI: (quietly) That'd be nice.

    Will slowly gets up from the couch as Sami is preoccupied with the drink of water. Sami stops momentarily and looks over to Will.

    SAMI: Oh, and Will?

    Will stops in his tracks and turns around.

    WILL: Yeah, Mom?
    SAMI: Thanks. I'm glad I can count on you.

    A slight smile crosses Will's face.

    WILL: Anytime, Mom.

    Will steps over to where Sonny is, grabbing his arm and pulling him into the corner.

    WILL: Do you know what I can do? I think...I'm pretty sure my mom's in meltdown right now.
    SONNY: Just...keep doing what you're doing. Keep her calm, help her relax.
    WILL: But, I mean. I can't leave her like this all night. I just wanted to give her the good news and have a nice evening and now...
    SONNY: Don't worry. My suggestion? Call your grandma Marlena right away. She's a shrink, she can help us figure out what we can't, and maybe be of some comfort to your mom right now.
    WILL: Possibly. I just...I don't want my mom to think that we think she's gone crazy--
    SONNY: Will! You have to help her. Why are you even hesitating about this?

    Will struggles to find an answer.

    ---

    EJ approaches Abby, slowly descending down the stairs at the pier.

    EJ: Abigail!

    Abigail is startled by EJ calling out to her. She turns around quickly to look at him. She's unimpressed by his presence.

    ABBY: What the Hell? EJ?
    EJ: Abigail, what happened?
    ABBY: What are you talking about? How long were you standing there?
    EJ: Long enough to know something happened after I left.
    ABBY: EJ, nothing happened. I discovered the hospital wasn't the place for me and I quit. I had a disagreement with a supervisor that couldn't be overcome. It's as simple as that.
    EJ: Why is it I don't believe that?
    ABBY: You can believe whatever you want to believe. That's the truth, now if you'll excuse me...

    Abigail grabs her purse and turns to walk away. EJ grabs her arm and turns her back towards him quickly.

    EJ: Not so fast.
    ABBY: Ow! EJ! You're hurting me.

    EJ lets go, but remains intensely focused on Abigail.

    EJ: Did somebody find out about you and I?

    Abby flashes back to Anne playing the recording of EJ detailing their affair.

    ABBY: No. No one found out. And I didn't tell Nick either.

    EJ relaxes slightly, but remains intensely focused.

    EJ: Good. And most importantly, don't tell anything to Nick Fallon.
    ABBY: Why shouldn't I?
    EJ: Abigail, he's an incredibly dangerous individual. He has an agenda to hurt a lot of people that you and I are deeply for. I don't want to give him any ammunition.
    ABBY: Oh right. So you think I'm going to tell him everything about you and I and that he's instantly going to make a beeline to Sami? Are you completely out of your mind, EJ?

    ---

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OPv6DrhIpg

  10. beebs
    EPISODE 132
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    It's Sheryl.
     
    She hands the taxi driver money, and he takes off. She strides confidently over to Brady, who looks at her with interest.
     
    SHERYL: Brady?
    BRADY: Yes! Hi. 
     
    Brady pulls himself upright off the front of the truck fender, and extends a hand to shake Sheryl's.
     
    BRADY: And you must be...
    SHERYL: Crystal. Crystal Clarke.
     
    Brady smiles, intrigued by "Crystal's" myserious appearance.
     
    ---
  11. beebs
    EPISODE 172
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Abby and JJ step out of the Brady Pub, while Jennifer and Laura settle up. JJ looks out at nothing in particular, while Abby puts her hand on JJ's shoulder.
     
    ABBY: You know we'll miss you, right?
     
    JJ looks down, nodding slowly.
     
    JJ: Believe me, the feeling's mutual.
     
    Abby's hand slides off JJ's shoulder, as she turns to stand beside him, both looking out at the sky.
     
    JJ: It's funny, it was always so grey out in London. That winter after Dad died, it rained all through December and January. And one day, the sun finally came out after like...weeks of clouds, and...I promised myself I'd always take the time to enjoy it. No matter where I was.
    ABBY: There's gonna be a lot of sun in California, JJ. You'll start taking it for granted.
     
    JJ turns to Abby and smiles, shaking his head.
     
    JJ: Nah. You never take it for granted. Just like family. You can't take it for granted. 
     
    Abby smiles back at JJ, as JJ becomes emotional, and pulls Abby into a tight hug.
     
    JJ: Take care of Mom and Grandma for me, okay?
    ABBY: I will.
     
    ---
     

    Gabi creeks open the door to Nick's bedroom, checking behind her to make sure no one spots her walking into the barely-unpacked room.
     
    Gently closing the door behind her, she steps further into the room, and gives a cursory look around the room.
     
    GABI: Alright, Nick. Where would you hide those pictures of us dumping your sorry ass in the river?
     
    Gabi spies Nick's laptop bag, and smiles, knowingly. She steps slowly over to it, and is about to unzip it, when the door opens with a flourish, startling Gabi and making her shriek!
     
    PERCY: Greetings!
    GABI: AH!!
     

    Gabi turns around with a start, to find Percy standing in the doorway, confused by Gabi's presence in Nick's room.
     
    ---
     

    Nick looks at Noelle across the Kiriakis living room, confused by Noelle's sudden panic. Noelle walks toward Nick, a horrified expression on her face.
     
    NOELLE: Nick, what did you say to Victor in his hospital room?
    NICK: Who cares, Noelle? He's in a coma!
    NOELLE: NO, HE'S NOT! That's what I'm trying to tell you. Anjelica tried to reach you last night but you never answered. Victor's awake.
     

    The colour drains from Nick's face, as Anjelica casually strolls into the room.
     
    ANJELICA: Ah! There you are, Nick! I didn't want to cause alarm earlier so I didn't ask, but I assume you got my message about Victor's "miraculous recovery"?
     
    Nick looks away, as though he's going to be sick.
     
    NICK: I have now.
     
    Nick begins to hear the familiar high-pitched sound that accompanies his headache. Holding his forehead to try to put pressure on to help it subside, he disengages while Noelle explains the situation to Anjelica.
     
    NOELLE: Apparently Nick never got the message, so he decided it would be a great idea to go to Victor's hospital room this morning and gloat about our plans.
     
    Anjelica turns her head sharply, looking daggers at Nick.
     
    ANJELICA: You have got to be kidding!
     
    Nick shakes his head, trying to keep the pressure down, as Anjelica approaches him, annoyed.
     
    ANJELICA: I messaged you last night, you never responded, and I've told you to keep that phone on you at all times. What were you thinking?
     
    Nick, in the thoes of pain, tries to mask his symptoms, closing his eyes to try to keep the pressure down.
     
    ANJELICA: I knew I should've followed you out of the room this morning, but I didn't want to have anyone figure out what we've been up to. But I guess I didn't have to worry, because you'd fill everyone in all on your own--
     
    Nick explodes in rage, the pressure from the two women in the room plus his headache proving too much for him. He lurches forward and grabs Anjelica's arm, startling her.
     
    NICK: SHUT UP, ANJELICA! 
     
    A flash of unbridled rage stirs in Nick's eyes, as Anjelica looks back in terror, unable to move as Nick grasps Anjelica's arm painfully tight.
     
    Noelle stands back, concerned but not sure how to handle the situation.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Noelle shouts out in terror at Nick, as Nick squeezes Anjelica's arms, a look of unbridled rage in his eyes.
     
    NOELLE: Dammit, Nick, let her go! What's wrong with you?!
     
    Nick realizes what he's doing and after a moment, the intensity in his eyes wears off, his grip loosening on Anjelica, who immediately breaks free and steps back, her expression immediately changing from fear to anger.
     
    NICK: I'm sorry, I--
    ANJELICA: You will be. I swear to God, Nick, if you weren't essential to my plans, you'd be back face-first in that river right now.
    NICK: I know, I...
     
    Nick's head begins to throb, as the high-pitched squeal returns, and his headaches intensifies again, drowning out Anjelica's words.
     
    ANJELICA: I mean it, Nick. Don't you EVER lay a hand on me ever again, or I swear to God, it'll be the last thing you ever do.
     
    Anjelica steps in closer to Nick, who is trying to hide his intense pain from her and Noelle.
     
    ANJELICA: And believe me, I have the means and resources to make sure you are taken care of, so don't think for a SECOND you can outsmart me. Because I promise you, I will win.
     
    Anjelica looks with the same intensity that Nick previously had, a finger raised in scolding to him, while Nick looks on, intimidated. 
     
    ---
     
    Gabi looks over at a baffled Percy, who stands in the doorway of Nick's room.
     
    GABI: Mr. Gr...Percy. You startled me.
    PERCY: Gabriella. What are you doing here?
    GABI: I could ask you the same thing. I don't think Nick was expecting you.
     
    Percy steps into the room slightly, looking around for Nick to no avail.
     
    PERCY: Well...the ah...the butler let me in, lovely chap. Hanson, was it?
    GABI: Henderson.
    PERCY: Right. Well, I actually came about because Nicholas and I had some business to discuss. 
     
    Gabi looks at Percy, hoping he'll take off again so she can continue her search.
     
    GABI: I see. Well, I think he's downstairs, if you want to catch up with him.
    PERCY: Oh that won't be neccessary, I'm sure he'll be up shortly.
     
    The two stare at each other, an awkward silence fills the air, before Gabi sighs audibly, trying to hold in her laughter at the absurdity of the situation.
     
    GABI: Well, I was going to unpack my things, since I'm going to be moving in here, so...if you'll excuse me.
    PERCY: Oh, not to worry, I'll try not to be in your way.
     
    Percy sits down at Nick's desk, while Gabi looks on, annoyed by Percy sitting exactly where she intended to look. Unable to say anything to that effect, Gabi rolls her eyes and walks out of the room.
     
    GABI: I'm sure Nick will be up in a moment.
    PERCY: Oh, good to see you, Gabi!
     
    Percy's goodbye to Gabi is cut off by the sound of her closing the door behind her. He looks over at the door, looking suspiciously as Gabi leaves the room.
     
    On the other side of the door, Gabi grimaces, annoyed by Percy's foiling her attempt to find the pictures of Gabi, Kate, and Sami dumping Nick in the river. She takes off down the hall toward her own bedroom.
     
    ---
     

    Julie floats over to a table in the middle of the nearly-ready Penthouse Grille, while Will and Alex sit across from each other, blindfolded. Julie lays down two delicious desserts on the table for them to try, taking a spoonful each for them, and guiding their hands over to it.
     
    JULIE: Alright, boys! This is the last one. La Pièce De Résistence!
     
    Will and Alex both take a mouthful of the dessert, and savour the flavours. Even blindfolded, you can tell they're delighted.
     
    WILL: Oh my God! Julie! This is....this is amazing.
    ALEX: Seriously, this...if I come to this place every day once you're open, I'm gonna gain fifty pounds just from dessert alone.
     
    Will, Alex, and Julie laugh, as Julie walks behind both of them and gently removes their blindfolds.
     
    JULIE: I still got the touch, I guess.
     
    Alex and Will look on in wonder as Julie reveals the elaborate dessert before them.
     
    JULIE: Our chef is Michelin Star rated, and we'll be offering a unique feature dessert every evening that will combine delicious flavours with breathtaking design, such as what you see before you.
     
    The decadent strawberry tarts sit before them, as Julie hands Alex and Will pictures of other desserts the chef has prepared before.
     
    ALEX: Julie, I'm impressed. This place is ready.
    JULIE: Oh, I hope so, Darlin'. (sigh) It's been a long time since I ran one of these places, and...I'll tell you, it's been great getting back into the habit.
    WILL: Well, you're handling it like an old pro.
     
    Julie smiles, but messes Will's hair slightly as she scolds him gently for his remark though her million-dollar smile.
     
    JULIE: I may be a pro, dear cousin, but, a word of advice...don't ever call me old.
     
    Alex snickers at Will and Julie, as Julie walks off toward the kitchen. Will blushes, embarrassed by his slip.
     
    WILL: Oops.
    ALEX: (laughs) Julie's a real wonder, you know that? I'm glad Maggie chose her to help run The Penthouse Grille, seriously.
    WILL: So am I. I just hope now that...Nick's taken over the company that...you know...things don't go south.
    ALEX: Don't worry about that. I'll protect you from anything that comes our way.
     
    Will laughs, not sure whether he believes Alex or not.
     
    WILL: Yeah, okay. Sure.
    ALEX: Seriously! Will, what have you done that might cause things to go out of hand? You've done every job I've tasked you with, you've done an amazing job writing our press releases. You've even come up with ideas for campaigns I've never even considered. Titan would be so much worse off without you being here.
     
    Will looks down, touched by, and slightly uncomfortable with Alex's compliments.
     
    WILL: I guess I should thank you for that. Even if I don't believe it.
    ALEX: Well, believe it. You're one of the best writers I've worked with.
    WILL: Well, I just hope you still think so after Nick's on TV tonight.
     
    Alex looks at Will with confusion, as he stabs at his dessert to take another bite.
     
    ALEX: What do you mean by that?
    WILL: (sigh) I mean, Nick has it out for me. He wants Gabi, he wants my daughter, and he resents that so far he can't have either. So he's gonna be looking for anything he can use against me to ruin my career and make me look like a deadbeat.
    ALEX: Well, you're not. I know that, you know that, anyone who knows you knows that.
    WILL: Yeah, but...if he goes out there and tells people on Nicole's special that I falsified those press releases for EnerNext...you may not have a choice but to fire me, Alex. And your job might be on the line, too.
     
    Will looks concerned at Alex, who looks back, contemplating what Will's told him.
     
    ---
     

    JJ and Abby are still in mid-embrace outside the Brady Pub when Jennifer and Laura emerge from the pub, ready to leave. Mother and daughter smile, as their kin end their warm hug, turning to face them.
     
    JENN: You know, I remember when I couldn't stop them from trying to kill each other when they were kids, and now look at them.
     
    Laura and JJ crack up, though Abby's a bit more emotional, trying to fight back her tears.
     
    JJ: Yeah, well, that's probably because I stopped trying to pull her hair out when she walked ahead of me.
    ABBY: Yeah, I'm amazed I'm not bald from that.
     
    Abby looks at JJ, giving him sideeye, as the others laugh. Abby finally cracks a smile as she envisions the memories.
     
    As the laughter dies down, Jennifer also becomes emotional, taking a second to drink in her grown son, as he begins his new life in college.
     
    JENN: Your father would be so proud of you, JJ. 
    LAURA: Your mother's right. You've come so far in so little time. We're all...so proud of you.
     
    JJ, also trying to keep from crying, walks over and gives his mother and grandmother big hugs. As he ends his hug with Laura, JJ and Laura share an extended look, before JJ speaks at barely more than a whisper.
     
    JJ: Look out for them, okay?
     
    Laura nods in agreement, before JJ and Laura hug again, before JJ turns to head off.
     
    JJ: I love you guys!
    JENN: You me you'll call me when you get there.
     
    As JJ takes off toward his car, Laura looks on, more worried than the others, as she thinks of the worries she has with Liam.
     
    LAURA: (voiceover) My God, JJ. I hope you stay safe, and nail that bastard, Liam.
     
    ...
     

    Liam walks along the pier, shivering from the chilled riverside air. He heads for the Brady Pub through the fog, and is only stopped by the sound of his ringing cell phone.
     
    Checking quickly to see who's calling, he promptly answers, sighing in frustration.
     
    LIAM: (into phone) What?
     
    ...
     
    Anjelica stands in her bedroom at the Kiriakis mansion, leaning against the vanity while she speaks on her own cell phone.
     
    ANJELICA: (into phone) We need to talk.
     
    ...
     
    Liam rolls his eyes, exasperated.
     
    LIAM: (into phone) About what?
     
    ...
     
    ANJELICA: (into phone) Nick Fallon. He may have compromised the entire plan, and he needs to be dealt with.
     
    ...
     
    Liam looks frustrated, and concerned by Anjelica's strong words.
     
    ---
  12. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 26
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Nicole opens the file folder that holds all her research on EnerNext for Percy.

    NICOLE: Alright!

    Nick raises a finger, as if to ask a question meekly in a classroom.

    NICK: Uhh...question.

    Nicole continues to be short with Nick responding almost before he has a chance to finish his sentence.

    NICOLE: Yeah?

    Nick is taken aback by Nicole's impatience with him. He carries on, though he's treading carefully so as not to show any outward irritation with Nicole that could get Percy in trouble.

    NICK: Do you have any of this documentation in electronic form? I...I ask because I feel like...as a technologically inclined person, I just...I find paper copies to be very...
    NICOLE: Old hat?
    NICK: Insecure.
    NICOLE: Look here, felon--
    NICK: Fallon--
    NICOLE: Whatever! I like keeping hard copies in addition to keeping electronic copies on the cloud server. It's harder for people to deny inconvenient truths when they're on paper.
    NICK: Understood.
    NICOLE: Can I move on now?
    NICK: Whenever you like.
    NICOLE: Great! So I've been working on tracking down all the scientific data on projects like this, their effect on the local environments, plus, I managed to contact a local citizens' group who are planning to rally at the press conference today. They know your story, and I hear you may have some big support coming your way today.
    PERCY: Brilliant! Are you saying there's hope for my home after all?
    NICOLE: We'll see. The only thing I've had trouble tracking down is their business association.
    PERCY: How so?

    Nicole shuffles uncomfortably in her seat.

    NICOLE: Well...word has it that EnerNext are entering into a partnership with a major conglomerate, but no one knows who.

    Nick smirks, recalling the article he saw about Titan's deal with EnerNext.

    NICK: Well, I wouldn't worry too much about that. I mean, surely they'll announce the deal at the press conference.
    NICOLE: I don't like surprises. They did make mention of making a supplies deal awhile ago with Titan, but that deal was cancelled shortly thereafter because Titan was "moving in another direction", so I doubt EnerNext would get back into bed with them. And thank God, because if Titan were involved in this deal, I wouldn't have been presented with this story. And personally, I think we have a good shot at taking these bastards down.

    Percy and Nick smile confidently at Nicole.

    ---

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

    ---

    Kate is surprised to see Billie at her door, with all her luggage.

    KATE: Well, sweetie, I wasn't expecting you so...early.
    BILLIE: Yeah, you know how the ISA works. They like to keep people on their toes.
    KATE: That's the understatement of the year.

    Kate realizes she's keeping her daughter in the hallway.

    KATE: Well, come in already. I'm sorry.
    BILLIE: Thanks, Mom.

    Billie brings in two suitcases and a tote bag with her, and another two bags linger in the hallway. Kate's eyes bug out at her luggage.

    KATE: Uh...Billie?
    BILLIE: Yeah, Mom?
    KATE: How long are you planning on staying?

    Billie heads back for the door to grab the last two bags.

    BILLIE: As long as I'm needed. Could be a few weeks, could be a few months or more. You never know!
    KATE: Well that's lovely. Uh...are they setting you up with accomodations or...?
    BILLIE: Of course not! Mom, they need me to live with you so that you stay protected, since you're the informant and all that. Speaking of which, how did you figure out that Jordan Ridgeway was really Kaylie Matthews, anyway?

    Kate suddenly remembers the root of her troubles with Billie before Billie left town the last time were rooted in Kate's manipulations and meddling. She tries now to cover her tracks.

    KATE: I...well...it's a funny story.

    ---

    Jordan wakes up in Rafe's arms. She stirs a bit before waking up to a text message. She looks over to a sleeping Rafe and, as quietly as possible checks the message. It's from Sheryl.

    EN announcement 2day. Meet me @ titan hq

    Jordan looks up, concerned about what Sheryl has in mind.

    ---

    Brady shakes his head in disbelief at Victor's warning. He paces the Kiriakis living room.

    BRADY: You know...I felt really good today. For the first time in a long time. I woke up...I felt good. I didn't have the baggage of the past couple years on my back. I didn't have the hurt. The humiliation. None of it. I felt like I could finally move forward. Thanks for taking that away from me, granddad.
    VICTOR: I'm only telling you this for your own good. The board was deeply embarrassed by your presentation. We can't have our CEO going in front of a national audience like this. Especially when there's such potential for naysayers and protest groups at the press conference.
    BRADY: You think I don't know that? You think I'm just an ostrich, burying his head in the sand and pretending nothing's going on around me? Grandad, I know what the stakes are.
    VICTOR: Good. Keep them in your mind past the end of the press conference and we might be making some progress. I've got to get going to go over the details with EnerNext's president. I'll see you at the Town Square.

    Victor slowly walks out of the room. Brady looks over at the bottles of alcohol in the corner of the room. He strongly considers heading over to it.

    ---

    Theresa stands in her doorway, a mix of concern and anger at her mother crosses her face. Theresa tries to maintain a tough exterior, but she is clearly sweating at her mother's discovery.

    THERESA: What are you doing with that?
    KIM: It fell out of your bag last night, Theresa. Don't worry, I didn't steal any from you.
    THERESA: Ugh. You're so hilarious, Mom.

    Kim waits a moment for Theresa to say something or invite her in. When she doesn't, Kim prompts her.

    KIM: Well? Are you going to invite me in or do I have to stand here with a bag of cocaine in my hand?
    THERESA: SHHH! Mom! Get inside! God!

    Theresa ushers her mom inside in a hurry before slamming the door behind her. Theresa leans against the door in something of a panic.

    THERESA: Could you NOT go around talking like that where anyone can hear you? Have you never heard of discretion, Mom?
    KIM: Theresa, if you're doing something you don't want your neighbours to hear about, then you shouldn't be doing what you're doing, anyway.
    THERESA: You know, you can stop lecturing me any time now. You are the last person who has any right to try to talk to me about doing the right thing.
    KIM: Dammit, Theresa. When are you going to let this go?
    THERESA: Never. I will never let it go, Mom. You're gonna try to tell me that I should just forget that you completely betrayed my trust in the worst way possible? That you called me a liar at the worst possible moment, and for the worst possible reason? Are you out of your mind?

    Kim looks down at the ground, she sighs heavily with regret.

    KIM: I told you, Theresa. I'll never forgive myself for that. But you just don't understand what I had been through.
    THERESA: I keep hearing about this. What you went through. Over and over. Don't you think that what your Uncle Eric did to you might actually make it easier to have believed me when it happened to me, Mom?
    KIM: I know. I'm sorry, Theresa. I didn't know.
    THERESA: No. No, you CHOSE to not know. You chose to pretend that nothing was happening because you were too busy latching onto a man with a history of doing skeezy, awful things to vulnerable women for money. And why? Because Dad was too busy with Aunt Kayla?
    KIM: Theresa, I--
    THERESA: Save it, Mom.

    Theresa turns to walk away, but Kim grabs her by the shoulder.

    KIM: Jeannie, just hear me out.
    THERESA: NO! No, you are gonna hear ME out for once. For once in your pathetic, desperate life. You're gonna hear me out.

    ---

  13. beebs
    EPISODE 180
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Jordan opens the door to Rafe's loft, finding Roman standing on the other side. She is immediately tense, particularly after Nicole's TV special, and begins to trip over her words as she goes to greet Roman.
     
    JORDAN: Ah...uh...R--
     
    Roman looks confused by Jordan being at the door. He tries to look past her to ensure he has the right address.
    ROMAN: Ah...Hi...uh...is Rafe there?
    JORDAN: Ah, no. No, he...he just stepped out for a second. Umm...is there...anything I can...maybe help you with? Or...maybe pass on a message?
     
    Roman looks down, racking his brain trying to figure out what he even came for. After a moment, he looks up at Jordan, and shakes his head.
     
    ROMAN: You know what? Don't worry about it. I'll get ahold of him later.
     
    Jordan smiles, pleasantly, but with a distinct tension behind her eyes.
     
    JORDAN: Okay. Sure.
     
    Jordan closes the door, as Roman leaves. Inside, she leans against the door, relieved.
     
    JORDAN: Just...breathe, Jordan. He's not after you, or you'd be under arrest already. Just breathe.
     
    ...
     
    On the other side of the door, Roman  walks to the elevator, and presses the "down" button on the elevator.
     
    As he waits for it to reach his floor, he pounds on the frame of the elevator, trying in vain to recall why he came to Rafe's.
     
    ROMAN: What da Hell am I doing here? (sigh) Dammit.
     
    Roman is startled by the ding of the bell, announcing the elevator's arrival. He steps on and presses the Ground floor button.
     

    As the doors close, Rafe emerges from the stairwell, momentarily catching a glimpse of Roman, but is unable to call out to him in time. He frowns, wondering about the reason for Roman's visit, before stepping into his unit.
     
    ---
     
     
    The door of Will's car shuts, as Percy leaves the vehicle, having been dropped off from the TV studio. Will is now about to drive toward the Kiriakis mansion, with Alex in his front passenger's seat, Nick and Anjelica sitting in back. He turns the steering wheel, leaving the curbside by Percy's place.
     
    Everyone is stoic in the car, with most somewhat still shell shocked from Nick and Anjelica's near-miss on the studio floor with the falling lighting rig. 
     
    WILL: Okay, so I'm taking you all to the Kiriakis house, yeah?
    NICK: Yep.
    WILL: Right.
     
    The car ride becomes silent once again, as Nick looks over at Will, who is focused on the road ahead. Alex looks over to Anjelica, who is looking out the window, as if in a haze.
     
    ALEX: Anjelica...you alright?
     
    Anjelica turns and smiles at her son warmly, but distinctly half-heartedly.
     
    ANJELICA: Yeah. Yeah, I'm just...I'm just exhausted.
    ALEX: Can't say I blame you. That was...quite the scare.
     
    Anjelica nods silently, before shuffling slightly in her seat.
     
    ANJELICA: Yeah...and I can't say these fabric seats are helping matters much.
     
    Will pipes up from the front, exhausted himself, and exasperated by Anjelica's unending snobbery.
     
    WILL: Yeah, well, welcome to normal people's cars, Anjelica. I'm sorry I couldn't get Harold to lend me the Bentley for the night, but you'll have to make do with plain old unheated cloth.
     
    Anjelica rolls her eyes, shuffling slightly again as she glares at Will.
     
    ANJELICA: Wish I hadn't told my driver to have the night off.
    ALEX: You'll be fine, Anjelica.
     
    Anjelica turns back to looking out the window, now more glaring out the window, really.
     
    The hush falls over the car once again.
     
    After a tense moment, Nick turns to ask Will a question.
     
    NICK: So, you figure the special got a good rating?
     
    Will stares straight ahead, purposefully disengaged from Nick.
     
    WILL: I'm sure we'll hear about it tomorrow.
    NICK: Overnights should be good. You think I came off well on TV?
     
    Will snaps at Nick suddenly, catching him off-guard.
     
    WILL: I don't really give a damn about how you come off on TV, Nick.
    NICK: I'm sorry, Will, I--
    WILL: But I will tell you, you come off really badly sneaking Gabi out of our apartment without letting Sonny or I have a say about, or letting Gabi discuss it with us first like we asked.
     
    Nick looks surprised by Will's sudden display of backbone, Will looks back, heated.
     
    ---
     

    Kate slams her rocks glass down on the bar table in the DiMera living room, having just toasted to Nick's inevitable undoing. EJ and Sami look on, less than convinced.
     
    SAMI: Well, you're awfully sure of yourself tonight, Kate.
     
    Kate shrugs, before turning to face the bar, debating whether or not to grab another.
     
    KATE: I have good reason to be. Nick Fallon's overplayed his hand.
     
    Kate decides to go for it, and pours another half-glass of bourbon into the rocks glass, before picking it up gently spinning it around in her hand.
     
    KATE: And it's our time to seize upon that.
    EJ: Alright, I've got a question.
     
    Kate finishes taking a sip of her second drink and motions to EJ to go ahead.
     
    KATE: Shoot.
    EJ: What makes you so sure about this particular timeline for Nick's downfall?
     
    Kate saunters over toward the armchair as she explains herself to EJ and Sami. EJ and Sami turn, their eyes following Kate as she takes over their living room.
     
    KATE: Simple. Nick was so eager to seize control of Titan, that he got sloppy. He established, and used a working relationship with Jordan and Sheryl, or whatever their real names are, to get access to their servers, and then use them as the fall guys to help bribe the board into giving him control. Of course, those two have been working day and night to destroy Titan for the whole EnerNext fracking nonsense, so Nick pretended to be on their side to get access to their plans, and, I'm guessing, thwart them. Not to mention his blackmail tactics, which...frankly, if we stop him in time, we'll keep him from running his mouth everywhere about everyone and everything. 
    EJ: That's all well and good, but...how can you prove he was working with them?
    KATE: Well, that's the best part. This stays between us, of course, but Billie's been investigating them this entire time. That's why she was brought back to Salem in the first place. So the goal now is to lure Jordan and Sheryl to the Penthouse Grille gala tomorrow night, and let the fireworks begin.
     
    Kate smiles, as she takes a sip of her drink. EJ and Sami look at each other, less than certain of Kate's plan.
     
    ---
     
     
     
    ---
     
    Sami folds her arms, as she stands facing Kate in the DiMera living room.
     
    SAMI: Well, this needs to work, or we're all going to jail. Though, frankly, I don't see why we don't just kill that little twerp anyway, if we're heading to jail anyway.
     
    Kate raises her rocks glass again from her seat in the armchair.
     
    KATE: Amen to that!
     
    EJ widens his eyes at Kate, implying she keep her mouth shut.
     
    EJ: Samantha, remember our New Year's resolution, we were going to try to keep the murder to a minimum this year.
    KATE: How sweet! Impractical, but sweet.
     
    Sami glares at Kate, annoyed by how comfortable Kate is in her home. Sami grabs her paperwork, and tablet, and heads out of the room for bed, kissing EJ on her way.
     
    SAMI: Look. I gotta get to bed. But keep me posted, okay? And if anything goes even slightly left, you call me right away. 
    KATE: Got it.
     
    Sami turns to EJ to wish him good night.
     
    SAMI: EJ?
    EJ: I'll show Kate out, Samantha. Don't worry.
     
    Sami smiles, then walks out of the living room, walking up the stairs and out of sight. EJ checks carefully to make she she has gone up, before motioning to Kate to get up from her seat and come over closer to talk to him.
     
    KATE: What?
     
    EJ pulls the key he found in the safe out from his pocket.
     
    EJ: Does this look familiar to you at all?
    KATE: Ahh...maybe, I...
     
    EJ leans in closer, and speaks softly, but emphatically to Kate.
     
    EJ: You need to think really hard about this. Did father talk to you about a...safe deposit box, or anything of the sort that isn't part of the normal DiMera accounts.
     
    Kate mulls it over a moment, before answering EJ.
    KATE: There was something. He mentioned having a box at a small savings and loan in Chicago, but he never said anything more than that. Why?
    EJ: Because I have been through that safe about a hundred times and those pictures of the drowning attempt, among other...unpleasant reminders, are not in there, but I know for a FACT father has copies of them.
    KATE:Why would Stefano have those?
    EJ: To keep me in line. Why else? To remind me that my loyalty is to him, and not to Samantha.
     
    Kate nods, understanding Stefano's motivation clearly.
     
    KATE: Sounds like Stefano.
    EJ: Right, but then that begs another question.
     
    Kate puts her drink down, realizing EJ's question before it even comes out of his mouth.
     
    KATE: Is Stefano tied up with Nick.
    EJ: Exactly. And how deep.
     
    Kate sighs, as EJ clears his throat a moment.
     
    EJ: I need to get those pictures, Kate.
    KATE: What other pictures are in there. I mean, you can't just be this jumpy about Nick and the drowning--
    EJ: Nothing for you to worry about.
     
    EJ cuts Kate off, preferring not to elaborate. Kate takes the hint and backs down. She grabs her clutch, and prepares to leave, but hesitates.
     
    KATE: Can you keep me in the loop about whether you track the pictures down or not?
     
    EJ looks up, nodding to Kate.
     
    EJ: I will. 
     
    Kate turns to leave, but EJ calls out to stop her.
     
    EJ: Ah, Kate.
     
    Kate turns around, as EJ shares his last thought with her.
     
    EJ: Don't tell Samantha about the pictures. She's already...a wreck as it is, I don't think she needs this on top of everything else.
     
    Kate nods, smiling half-heartedly at EJ.
     
    KATE: No problem.
     
    Kate turns to leave, leaving EJ alone in the living room, looking pensively at the key.
     
    ---
     
    Rafe steps into the loft, finding Jordan finishing up cooking dinner for them. Jordan turns to look at Rafe, who points his thumb down the hall.
     
    RAFE: Am I seeing things or did Roman just leave?
     
    Jordan looks at Rafe, pretending to be confused.
     
    JORDAN: Wh...no. Roman wasn't here. It's just been me, finishing up the sauce.
     
    Rafe looks genuinely baffled, as he shuts the door to the loft.
     
    RAFE: Hm. I guess I need to get my eyes checked...you sure he wasn't just here?
     
    Jordan laughs, hoping her deflection works, and raises the mixing spoon from the saucepan for Rafe to taste.
     
    JORDAN: I'm positive. Here, try.
     
    Rafe leans in and tastes the piping hot sauce. He's immediately enticed by Jordan's home cooking.
     
    RAFE: Mmm, okay, that does it, you're movin' in.
     
    Rafe leans in to grab Jordan, but in the excitement, Jordan swings the spoon at Rafe and sprays sauce all over his shirt. Rafe backs up, stunned, while Jordan looks Rafe over, trying to hold in a giggle.
     
    RAFE: This is like...my favourite shirt!
     
    Jordan smiles sensuously, before running the spoon down his shirt, slowly reaching the top of his jeans.
     
    JORDAN: i guess you'll have to throw it in the wash....right away.
     
    Jordan steps in closer, wrapping her arm around the back of Rafe's neck, and pulls him into a kiss. Rafe grabs Jordan, but stops himself a moment, remembering the sauce.
     
    RAFE: Wait, what about dinner?
     
    Jordan turns around and turns the flame off the stovetop, before turning back to face Rafe.
     
    JORDAN: It can wait. Time for appetizers.
     
    Rafe smiles, as he picks Jordan up in his arms, her arms and legs wrapped tightly around him, as he whisks her way to the bedroom.
     
    After Rafe closes the door to the bedroom, Jordan cell phone begins to buzz on the kitchen counter, with Sheryl once again trying to reach her.
     
    ---
     
    Roman shuts the door to his car, and sits inside in the parking lot outside Rafe's building with his car off.
     
    In the dark of the night, he racks his brain, stumped as to why he's there.
     
    In frustration, Roman smashes his hand against the rim of the steering wheel.
     
    ROMAN: DAMMIT!
     
    He sighs, mulling over what to do now.
     
    ROMAN: Okay, Roman. Just...have a drive around, think over what you were doing. Just...cool your head.
     
    Fumbling with the keys, Roman struggles momentarily in the dark, before finally getting the key in the ignition. Once the car is started, Roman backs out of the parking spot, and heads off into the night.
     
    ---
     

    At WXIR, Abby and Nicole finalize things after the end of production of Nicole's TV special. Nicole bends down with another crew member to inspect where the lines broke on the rig.
     
    CREW MEMBER: Nicole, these...these wires...
    NICOLE: What about them?
     
    Nicole notices something is wrong. She turns around, and motions to Abby to come over and take a look at the rig wires.
     
    NICOLE: Abby, come here and check this out.
     
    Abby steps over, as Nicole points to the cut cable.
     
    ABBY: Someone cut that cable.
    NICOLE: Exactly. And that's not the only one.
    ABBY: Somebody meant to drop this lighting rig.
    NICOLE: Exactly. And I have a feeling I know who they meant to hit.
     
    Nicole stands up, a worried look on her face. She turns to face Abby, speaking with urgency.
     
    NICOLE: Call the police right away. Get someone down here, NOW!
     

    Abby nods quickly, before running off to get a signal on her cell phone closer to the doorway, when Eric walks into the studio. He races over to embrace Nicole, who is thrilled to have him here.
     
    NICOLE: Oh my God, Eric!
    ERIC: I saw what happened on TV. Are you okay?
    NICOLE: I'm fine. Just...shaken up a little. You have no idea how happy I am to see your face.
     
    Nicole reaches around and hugs Eric again, tightly.
     
    As they hug, Abby stands off to the side of the room, as she begins to dial the police. Her heart sinks a little, as she watches Eric and Nicole embrace. She longs for her own lost love, as she recalls her mother's words from earlier in the day.
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 174
     

    Outside the Brady Pub, Jenn looks confused, as she puts a hand on Abby's shoulder.
     
    JENN: Loving Chad wasn't a mistake, Abby. You just...you had a lot on your plate, I wouldn't call that a huge mistake.
     
    ***
     
    Abby sighs, catching her breath as she recalls her feelings for Chad. She wipes away a tear, as she finally dials the police.
     
    ---
     
    In Will's car, there is a silent tension from Will having snapped at Nick. All eyes are on the front seats, as Anjelica and Alex await Nick's response.
     
    After a moment, Nick begins to laugh at Will's anger.
     
    NICK: Dude, you've got this vein that like...pops out on your forehead when you're pissed, it's...hilarious.
    WILL: That's not an answer, Nick--
    NICK: Gabi made her choice on her own. In case you didn't notice, she's a grown adult, and I don't think she needs you to be making her decisions for her.
    WILL: She does when it affects my daughter.
     
    Anjelica listens intently to the conversation, before pulling her phone out, and slyly sending a text to Liam.
     
    change of plan, meet @ pier for 11, need 2 grab somethng
     
    As she puts her phone away, Nick shakes his head, still keeping a cool head to counter Will's temper.
     
    NICK: You act like I'm taking them away to Greece or something. They're right down the road! Hell, Ari will probably spend more time at our place, what with Alex living there and all.
    WILL: What the Hell does that mean, Nick?
     
    Nick smirks, knowing he touched a nerve.
     
    NICK: Just sayin', I noticed you two are getting pretty close lately, and not in a boss/employee sorta way.
     
    Will looks away, frustrated by Nick's insinuation that something untoward is going on between him and Alex.
     
    ALEX: Shut up, Nick.
    NICK: Hey, is that any way to talk to your boss, man? 
     
    Will mutters under his breath, turning his attentions back to the road ahead.
     
    WILL: Hopefully not for long.
    NICK: What was that?
     
    Will pulls into the driveway at the Kiriakis house, and puts the car into park, before turning to Nick with a big, fake smile.
     
    WILL: Nothing. Now get the Hell out of my car.
    NICK: There's that ol' Salem hospitality.
     
    Nick opens the door to leave, but turns back at the last moment to get one more jab in.
     
    NICK: Thanks for the ride, by the way. I know it's hard in this rickety old thing, but, maybe I'll give you a raise and you can get a new one.
     
    Will rolls his eyes as Nick laughs, shutting the door behind him. Anjelica opens the door, and motions to Alex, who stays behind a moment.
     
    ALEX: I'll be right in, Mom.
    ANJELICA: Okay.
     
    Alex puts a hand on Will's shoulder, as Will leans back in the driver's seat, drained and frustrated.
     
    ALEX: Hey. Don't let him get to you. We'll get him. I promise.
     
    Will nods his head, and puts his hand over Alex's. Alex, suddenly uncomfortable, pulls away, and awkwardly responds.
     
    ALEX: I should ah...I should go back in. You okay?
    WILL: I'll be fine.
    ALEX: K. Goodnight.
    WILL: Night.
     
    Alex exits the car, leaving Will alone. Will sighs, as he hits his head against the headrest. He sits for a minute with the car off, contemplating how things are going in his life.
     
    ---
     

    Inside the house, Gabi opens the door to Nick's room, turning on the light to be sure she's alone this time. She checks the hallway behind her before stepping in and leaving the door slightly ajar.
     
    Gabi sighs, as she contemplates where to start looking this time.
     
    GABI: Alright, chances are, it's gonna be...here.
     
    Gabi turns to face Nick's desk, and tries to pull open the bottom drawer where she was stopped before. It's locked. 
     
    SIghing, she takes a second, before pulling a pin from her hair, and using it to pick the lock.
     
    After a second, she manages to pop the drawer open.
     
    GABI: Yesss....
     
    Inside, she immediately spots a large manila envelope. Intrigued, she opens the envelope to find she's hit paydirt. The photos of her, Kate, and Sami attempting to drown Nick are inside. She breathes a sigh of relief as she flips through the photos. 
     
    GABI: Oh my God! I found it.
     
    But behind her, trouble lurks.
     
    Nick approaches the door, and goes to open it, but notices it's ajar. He hesitates, checking carefully to see who's inside. Seeing it's Gabi, his face drops. He hangs back silently, watching her betray him like a hawk.
     
    GABI: We got him. Oh my God, I'm finally free.
     
    She presses the pictures up to her chest, thrilled by her discovery, but then flips to the next picture, her own face drops, as she sees an image that stuns her.
     
    GABI: Wha....what the....?
     
    The image of Abby and EJ mid-liplock is before her eyes. Gabi's jaw drops, as Nick looks on from outside.
     
    ---
  14. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 29
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Billie and Kate stand off to the side of the chaos, Billie realizing that Jordan and Sheryl probably are nowhere to be found.

    BILLIE: They're not here.
    KATE: How do you know they didn't plant Nicole to ask those questions and whoop everyone up into that frenzy?
    BILLIE: Think about it, Mom. If they knew it was gonna go down here, wouldn't it make more sense to use it as a distraction to do some damage somewhere else.
    KATE:...Like Titan.
    BILLIE: Exactly.
    KATE: Go.
    BILLIE: I'll keep you posted, Mom.

    Billie runs off to Titan HQ to find Jordan and Sheryl. Kate looks over to the crowd, concerned that the chaos will increase. Percy steps over to Kate while she looks on, though Kate pretends not to notice him, hoping he'll go away.

    PERCY: Greetings!

    Kate rolls her eyes, continuing to look out into the crowd.

    KATE: Good day. Enjoying the pandemonium?
    PERCY: My dear, if this will assist me in retaining my homestead, I shall do as neccessary.
    KATE: Is that an admission of guilt? Should I be pointing a finger at you and Mr. Fallon?
    PERCY: Take it as you wish. But I wouldn't speak so loudly as to be heard by those above your station. The consequences could be rather dire.

    Kate finally turns to face Percy. A sour, embittered look on her face, rife with suspicion.

    Nicole snaps out of her trance, with Victor still looking on from the stage right at her. She shakes her head and mouths to Victor "I had no idea". Victor remains unimpressed.

    Nicole turns abruptly and heads right over to Percy. A woman on a mission.

    NICOLE: Where is he?
    PERCY: Whom, m'dear?
    NICOLE: You know exactly who I'm talking about. Nick Fallon. Where is that snivelling weasel?

    ---

    Nick stands in the executive office at Titan, laughing at Sheryl and Jordan, who are seated at a desktop computer, where they shouldn't be. He waits for Jordan to tell him why they're there, though expecting she won't.

    JORDAN: You see...Sheryl had to find some files for Kate for an upcoming presentation, and her computer wasn't connecting to the cloud server so--
    NICK: Baloney.
    JORDAN: What do you mea--
    NICK: Baloney. I know exactly why you're here. And I am going to help you do it.

    Sheryl and Jordan look at each other before looking to Nick, with worry and confusion.

    ---

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

    ---

    JJ, Rory and Bev are at the Brady Pub, chatting over some food after school. Daniel walks in, catching JJ's attention immediately.

    JJ: Daniel!
    DANIEL: Hey, JJ. You and I need to talk.
    JJ: I know. I'm sorry, but I had no choice but to tell my mom about--
    DANIEL: Don't. I know why you did what you did. I wanted to apologize to you. I went about this all wrong. And now I think it's too late for your mom and I.
    JJ: I'm...I'm really sorry, man. Really, I thought this would fix everything, and it just made it worse.
    DANIEL: Look, as long as it stays between all of us, you're in no danger of going back to prison. Just keep your nose to the grindstone, do that community service, and everything will work out just fine, okay?
    JJ: Thanks. I appreciate it.
    DANIEL: Alright, I gotta get back to the hospital. I'll see you later?
    JJ: Yeah, man. See ya.

    JJ sits back down at his table, as Daniel runs from the pub. On his way out, he darts around the corner, and bumps right into Billie, who's also rushing to get to Titan HQ.

    DANIEL: Oo! OW! Sorry.
    BILLIE: Oh crap! Yikes. I'm...sorry. Hi Daniel!
    DANIEL: Billie! It's been awhile.

    Billie smiles a bit. Her tension and hurried pace take a momentary leave. Though she's on her guard since she can't quite remove the mistrust she has for Daniel after how he's slept his way through her family.

    BILLIE: Yeah. it has.
    DANIEL: Did you...just get back to town?
    BILLIE: Today, in fact. I'm gonna be here for awhile, working with mom at MadWorld.
    DANIEL: Excellent. I just popped in to talk to JJ for a sec...I'm heading back to the hospital, did you...you looked like you were in a hurry. Did you want me to take you anywhere.
    BILLIE: Oh...I wasn't going far, just to Titan.
    DANIEL: Well, that's fine. It's on my way to the hospital. Why don't I drop you off?
    BILLIE: I'd love that but I'm parked just the other side of the street so I will have to raincheck. But look, if you're free sometime, we should grab a coffee at the new club.
    DANIEL: TBD?
    BILLIE: Yeah!
    DANIEL: I am totally down for that.
    BILLIE: Fantastic. So...
    DANIEL: So...
    BILLIE: ...I guess I'll see you...sometime.
    DANIEL: Yeah! For sure.
    BILLIE: Okay...bye!

    Billie watches Daniel walk off for his car, Billie shakes her head.

    BILLIE: Oh snap out of it, Billie. You can do better than that.

    Billie shudders a bit, and continues on her way to her car.

    ---

    Nicole is nearly nose-to-nose with a slightly terrified Percy, when Brady steps over to her, grabbing her by the wrist and turning her to face him.

    BRADY: What in the HELL was that?
    NICOLE: I was set up, Brady. I had no idea you guys were involved in this EnerNext deal?
    BRADY: Really? You didn't think to do a little research on it before?
    NICOLE: No! I...I focused on the environmental impact and that...I was assured that Titan wasn't invovled. I even looked into it a bit and...I didn't see anything connecting you guys.
    BRADY: Oh, right. And I'm supposed to believe that. Are you seriously that lazy a journalist?
    NICOLE: No one told me Titan was invovled, Brady. How was I supposed to know you guys wanted a fluff piece talking about how great it was that the local air colour was going to be turning a unique shade of grey?
    BRADY: Right. Well, just for the record, we can't fire you for this. We have journalistic integrity to maintain. But you're definitely off this story, and we're going to suspend you for the next 3 weeks, with pay, until we can figure out what to do with you for causing this...madness.
    NICOLE: But...Brady...wha...I didn't mean to...

    Nicole's demeanour changes from a feeling of deflation to a burning rage, she turns to Percy, fire in her eyes.

    NICOLE: You're gonna come with me and you're going to get Nick to meet us at my office, NOW.

    Nicole grabs Percy by the arm and they storm away from the square. Brady looks on, anger and disappointment in his eyes. Kate looks on, a wry amusement across her face.

    KATE: Well, that was more entertaining than any press conference I've ever been to.
    BRADY: Save it, Kate.
    KATE: Now, now. Just remember. It looks bad now, but you have the media control. You can spin this into gold from here on out.
    BRADY: That's the thing, Kate. I don't know how much longer we'll have Titan TV to do that.
    KATE: What do you mean?
    BRADY: Conflict of interest laws. Plus, Titan's in financial turmoil. We may need to sell the TV station.
    KATE: Well, you certainly can count on my vote to keep the TV station in your hands.
    BRADY:Appreciate it. Look. I gotta get back to Grandad and Tyler. I'll see you at the office.
    KATE: Absolutely.

    Kate looks on, a plotting look in her eyes.

    KATE: I just know this is all connected. But how?

    ---

    Jordan gets up from the chair she's sitting in, confused by what Nick's referring to.

    JORDAN: Help us?
    NICK: I think we both have the same goals here. See, I have good hearing...and a really really good memory.
    SHERYL: Would you stop being cryptic and tell us, what the hell you're talking about?
    NICK: Oh now, where's the fun in that? You know, I like to keep tabs on international news. A lot of people around here don't bother, but I love seeing what's going on from a global perspective. I find it makes my work that much more compelling. Don't you think?
    JORDAN: Sure.
    NICK: And so...when I saw the two of you for the first time...I knew I recognized you both from somewhere. And then it hit me. I did. The newspaper. Take away your glasses, and cut your hair off and dye it pink and voila! Kaylie Matthews, Siobhan McKinnon.

    Jordan and Sheryl look at each other in a bit of terror, but Sheryl holds it in and tries to take dominance back from Nick.

    SHERYL: So what? Now you're gonna blackmail us to help you do God knows what?
    NICK: Oh come on! I hardly have to do anything to you guys. We're on the same side.
    JORDAN: I don't get it.
    NICK: The EnerNext plan. Titan is buying out EnerNext, and Victor and Brady are going to be running it. Ergo, you guys, like me, want to take Titan down. And I think three heads, are definitely better than one. Don't you agree?

    Sheryl and Jordan are still unsure, but look to each other, pondering Nick's idea.

    NICK: Ponder it, ladies. But just remember, I know who you are, and that could get you in a lot of trouble.

    Nick winks at Jordan and Sheryl and walks out of the office, a smug smile on his face. Jordan looks over to Sheryl, concern all over her face.

    JORDAN: Great. Now what do we do?

    ---
  15. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 7
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    story consultant: ML Cooks

    JJ steps downstairs slowly to see where his mother is. Finding her studying papers in a folder in the foyer, he makes his way down delicately.

    JJ: Uh...mom?

    Jennifer stops immediately and turns to JJ with a smile.

    JENNIFER: JJ! Good morning!
    JJ: Yeah, good morning. Look, uh...are you in a hurry or do you have time to talk?
    JENNIFER: No, I've got time...but honey, if this is about Daniel again, I don't want to hear about it--
    JJ: Look, it is, but it's also about me, and I think you should hear me out.

    --

    Sonny & Will wake up in each other's arms. The sunshine hits Sonny's eyes and tempts him awake. After a big yawn, Sonny stares lovingly at Will for a moment. He drinks in the sleeping face of the man he loves. Eventually, he leans over and kisses him softly on the lips, which stirs Will from his sleep.

    WILL: (groaning) Is it time...wake me up later.
    SONNY: Come on, you lazy bum. We got things to do.

    Will scratches his eyes and tries to rouse himself. Sonny hits him with a pillow.

    WILL: OW! Hey!
    SONNY: Come on!

    Sonny gets up out of bed and heads for the doorway.

    SONNY: We have something very important to do today!
    WILL: How could I forget? Half priced brunch day at the club!

    Sonny shoots Will an evil eye. Will giggles.

    WILL: Sorry I had to.
    SONNY: You're the worst.
    WILL: (still laughing) I KNOW!

    Sonny leans on the bed, looking lovingly at Will.
    SONNY: I cannot wait to tell everyone we know that I'm marrying the greatest, sexiest guy on the planet.
    WILL: You can't marry yourself, Sonny.

    Sonny rolls his eyes with a smile.

    SONNY: Oh my God, that was terrible.

    Sonny and Will kiss.

    WILL: You love my awful sense of humour.
    SONNY: You're lucky I do.

    Will & Sonny emerge from their bedroom to find Gabi on the couch, wide awake, bleary-eyed, holding Ari. They're immediately concerned for her.

    SONNY: Gabi! Are you alright?

    Gabi continues to stare straight ahead, as though she doesn't hear them.

    ---

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

    ---

    Brady storms into the Kiriakis mansion, cocky as hell as per usual. Victor is waiting alone in the living room, as Maggie has left upon hearing the door, hoping to give Brady and Victor some time alone to hash things out.

    BRADY: Alright, Grandad. What's all the angry phone calls and threats of search parties about?
    VICTOR: Gee, I dunno. Might have something to do with the business you supposedly run. And yet, here I am, doing your job for you so you can go around town sulking and drinking all day.
    BRADY: How many times do I have to tell you, Grandad. I do NOT have a drinking problem.
    VICTOR: You're so full of crap it's coming out your eyeballs.

    Brady throws up his hands and makes his way for the door.

    BRADY: I don't need to hear this--
    VICTOR: Oh yes you do. The board meeting's coming up. They want to know how we're going to get out of the financial mess we've been in since you took over. I've been trying to cover for you, but you need to pull a solution out and fast.
    BRADY: What do you mean by that?
    VICTOR I mean Titan TV bleeding money by the week, MadWorld and that nincompoup Nick Fallon and that ridiculous computer virus that wiped out the entire fall line, the magazines are all basically kaput, and the only deal that could possibly keep us solvent is languishing on the backburner, all because we can't buy the land we need. And where the Hell is the CEO? Getting drunk at 10am.

    Brady pours himself a drink as Victor rants, essentially ignoring him.

    BRADY: Are you quite done?

    Victor's had enough. He grabs the drink from Brady's hand and smashes it against the opposite wall.

    VICTOR: If you don't clean up your act before that board meeting next week, this gravy train is gonna reach the end of the line, and it won't be turning back.

    ---

    Gabi finally responds to Sonny and Will, though she continues to look straight ahead. She trembles a bit as she does.

    GABI: I had a nightmare. I couldn't sleep.

    Will immediately sits down beside Gabi and tries to hug her. Gabi tenses and backs away slightly, before rationality returns to her and she shakes it off.

    GABI: I'm sorry. I'm just...I'm jumpy.
    SONNY: I can tell. Gabi, what's bothering you.

    Gabi finally snaps out of it and looks to Will and Sonny.

    GABI: It was about Nick. And it's got me thinking, and I don't know what to do.

    ---

    Hope stands in Town Square, face to face with Aiden. She is displeased to see him, and is fighting back tears from her conversation with Bo over the phone.

    HOPE: We've got to stop meeting like this.
    AIDEN: We probably do.
    HOPE: Well, if you'll excuse me.

    Hope goes to walk away before she starts to cry, but Aiden, after hesitating, calls out to her.

    AIDEN: I really don't know if I should ask you this but....are you alright?

    Hope turns around with a sour expression. Her mascara running slightly.

    AIDEN: Stupid question.
    HOPE: Only slightly.
    AIDEN: Look, I just wanted to ask.
    HOPE: Well, I appreciate it, but you've made it more than clear the only person whose pain you're concerned about is your own. Excuse me.

    Hope storms off. Aiden looks dejected but as though he expected Hope's reaction.

    ---

    JJ turns to Jennifer, looking her full-on. Jennifer clearly looks uncomfortable, and would rather be discussing anything else but this.

    JENNIFER: Look, JJ, I told you before, I am in no mood to talk about Daniel.
    JJ: Mom, I'm serious. You need to know this. It's SO important that I tell you the whole truth.
    JENNIFER: What? What do you even mean, JJ?
    JJ: Look, just...come to the living room with me for a sec, okay?
    JENNIFER: Okay, but I'm running late so--
    JJ: Mom, this is too important. It can't wait.

    Jennifer throws her hands up, admitting defeat.

    JENNIFER: Alright, lead the way.

    JJ and Jenn walk into the living room and sit down on the sofa.

    JJ: Okay...(clearing his throat), so remember the night...well...obviously you remember the night Theresa OD'd.
    JENNIFER: How could I forget?
    JJ: Well, you see...look, you can't....you have to promise me you won't tell anyone this, okay?
    JENNIFER: Oh God, JJ. What is it?
    JJ: Mom, promise me.
    JENNIFER: OKAY! Okay, I will. I promise. JJ are you in trouble again?
    JJ: No. Mom, I swear. I've been....100% honest with you in everything else, I just...I screwed up. Okay?
    JENNIFER: What do you mean?
    JJ: The night Theresa OD'd. I was there.
    JENNIFER: What? JJ? What are you talking about?
    JJ: Okay, Daniel....Daniel was not there with her that night. She invited me over. I was...I was into her and so I went over there. She...she told me she had this drug that she wanted to try out, but she was already wasted so she overdid it. I swear, I barely had any, but she...Theresa...she drank it all and...and fast. She passed out, and I didn't know what to do.

    Jennifer is too stunned to even move. JJ just looks dead ahead, recalling the events of that night.

    JJ: I just kept replaying over and over in my head....that judge. Warning me that he's going to make an example out of me. The thought of me in that prison cell. I couldn't do it. I couldn't deal with that. So I called Daniel.
    JENNIFER: Daniel? Why didn't you call 911, JJ--
    JJ: I couldn't. I couldn't, Mom. They would've hauled me in. Daniel came in like....5 minutes. He saved her life. He told me to leave. I wanted to help but he wouldn't let me. He insisted I keep quiet about it. Even to you, even after my sentencing he didn't want me to say anything to you in case my sentencing was reversed. But....I just couldn't keep quiet anymore.

    JJ takes Jennifer's hands and looks into her eyes.

    JJ: He loves you, Mom. He never slept with Theresa. He wouldn't do that.

    Jennifer mulls over everything JJ's told her. She takes a deep breath and thinks before she finally speaks.

    JENNIFER: My God, JJ. I just...I wish you'd told me. Why didn't you tell me?
    JJ: He thought it was safer if you were called as a witness, or were questioned. It was safer to have you hate him than to have to keep this secret.
    JENNIFER: I don't....I would have done it for you.
    JJ: But don't you see--
    JENNIFER: No, no I don't, JJ.

    Jennifer's now fighting off tears, she pulls JJ in for a hug.

    JENNIFER: Look, I'm so so glad you finally told me. And I know you've been trying so hard. I'm so proud of you, and how far you've come. But...I don't think there's a chance for Daniel and I anymore, even after what you just told me.
    JJ: Seriously?
    JENNIFER: No, honey.

    Jennifer wipes away her tears and gets up, grabbing her handbag.

    JENNIFER: Look, I've gotta get to the hospital.
    JJ: Mom, just promise me you'll talk to him. I just want to see you happy. And I know that he made you happy.
    JENNIFER: You're so sweet. But I'll be fine. With or without Daniel. I promise.

    Jennifer gives JJ another big hug and sets off to work. JJ is left frustrated at home.

    ---

    Abby gets off the elevator at Salem University Hospital and heads to the Nurses' Station. Picking up some files, she's spotted by Maxine, who waves to her.

    ABBY: Oh, hey Maxine.
    MAXINE: Hey honey, how you feeling?
    ABBY: Oh, I'm alright.
    MAXINE: Sure you are. By the looks of you, you have not slept a full eight hours in a week.
    ABBY: You've been talking to my mom again, haven't you?
    MAXINE: Now, you know your mom keeps tabs on you. She's just worried about you, that's all.
    ABBY: Well, she has nothing to worry about and neither do you. But thanks.

    EJ emerges from the board room, Abigail doesn't spot him as he exits from a door behind her. He lingers and feigns looking over some paperwork, but is listening in.

    MAXINE: Alright. Well, look. Here's the first of the files to begin digitizing. We set you up with a temporary office by the records room so you can have some peace and quiet while you work.
    ABBY: Oh my God! That's amazing!
    MAXINE: You better thank your Aunt Kayla for that. She pushed for that for you.
    ABBY: That's so sweet. I'll have to thank her when I see her next. Anyway, I better get to work.
    MAXINE: Alright, honey. See you. And get some sleep!

    Abby walks away from the Nurses Station, heading for her office. EJ quickly tucks away around a corner.

    ABBY: (laughing) I will!

    Abby unlocks the records room door with her keycard, and steps inside. Fully focused on the folder in front of her, she doesn't notice the door stops from fully closing by EJ, who sneaks inside behind her and closes the door behind him. His booming voice shocks Abigail.

    EJ: Abigail. We need to talk, right now.

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

    Nicole is transfixed by her research. She stares into her monitor in an almost-zombie-like trance, dutifully copying down information she finds, while typing away. Eric steps into her office while this is going on, and a big smile appears on his face. The sight of Nicole itself would be enough to inspire this, but seeing the woman he loves so involved in her work makes him even happier.

    ERIC: Hard at work?

    Nicole looks up from her computer and smiles.

    NICOLE: Hardly workin'!
    ERIC: (laughs) I doubt that.

    Nicole gets up from her chair, excited about the possibilities of this story.

    NICOLE: Seriously, Eric, I figured this story was going to bore me to death. But you wouldn't believe how fascinating it all is. I mean, seriously. We have got a potential bombshell on our hands with this one.
    ERIC: Oh yeah? What's this about?

    Nicole sways back and forth cutely like a small child with a secret.

    NICOLE: Well, I really shouldn't say anything, buuuuut...I trust you, come on.

    Nicole motions Eric to come over to her desk. Showing him what's on her screen.

    NICOLE: Kay, so have you heard about that new oil sands development they're planning out in the west end?
    ERIC: Barely. There hasn't been much about it in the news.
    NICOLE: Okay, well. I started looking into the impact it would have on the surrounding area. I made a few calls to some researchers in the field too. Turns out that yes, it would do some amazing things for the job market, but look at what the same kinda project did to the air in Alberta. Apparently it's a huge hot-button issue out there, and apparently it's poisoning everyone in the surrounding area slowly.

    ERIC: Wow. Okay, so what does that mean for Salem though?
    NICOLE: Well...basically because Salem's so spread out along the river, the development being to the west side means that they'll get the brunt of the pollution from the tar sands.
    ERIC: Right.
    NICOLE: And since that part of town is already incredibly poor, and mostly filled with minorities--
    ERIC: It's going to cause a major firestorm at city hall.
    NICOLE: If not statewide. Eric, this might be my chance to really break out in this business. I have to make this happen. EnerNext is going down.

    ---

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

    ---

    Aiden sits down with Jenn at Horton Town Square. He hands her a coffee and hangs back, not sure what to say.

    AIDEN: ...You okay?
    JENNIFER: Gee, I dunno. What do you think?

    Aiden hangs his head, sheepish over asking such an obvious question. Jenn feels bad for her snarky response.

    JENNIFER: I'm sorry. I'm...(sighs) I didn't mean to snap back like that.
    AIDEN: You don't have to explain yourself. Whatever happened at the hospital, I know it really upset you.
    JENNIFER: Understatement of the year.
    AIDEN: Did you want to talk about it?
    JENNIFER: I dunno. I really don't. I mean, you've got your own things to deal with and I don't want to burden you with my problems, Aiden.
    AIDEN: Jenn. I've got broad shoulders. I can handle it.

    Hope passes by as Aiden puts his arm around Jenn's shoulder in an attempt to comfort her. Hope hangs back out of their line of sight as she observes their conversation.

    ---

    Theresa lay in bed alone. Brady can be heard in the adjacent bathroom showering. Theresa thinks back to earlier when she and Brady were making love, and she smiles.

    THERESA: Hmmm...how did you get so lucky, Theresa Donovan? I mean, really?

    Theresa hears her cell phone start ringing. She rolls her eyes before getting up, exasperated that she has to move.

    She looks at her phone. It's her mother calling. It's obvious Kim's been trying to phone repeatedly to no avail.

    THERESA: EUGH! Leave a MESSAGE, mother!!

    Theresa throws her phone down on the bedside table before flopping back down in bed. Brady emerges from the shower, drying himself off.

    BRADY: You alright? What was that about?

    Theresa doesn't move. She simply lies there, staring straight at the ceiling.

    THERESA: My mom called. Again.
    BRADY: Still no message?
    THERESA: Nope.
    BRADY: Well, I have to get going anyway, so why don't you figure out why she won't stop calling, and tell me about it later tonight over drinks. How's that?
    THERESA: Ugh. That would involve communicating with her. I don't know if I have it in me.

    Brady laughs. He leans over to give Theresa a kiss.

    BRADY: I know you can do it.

    Theresa smiles as Brady kisses her.

    ---

    Kim stands at the Brady Pub with Marlena and Roman. She walks back over to their table, slightly exasperated by her inability to contact her daughter.

    KIM: This is the fifth time and she still won't answer.
    ROMAN: Well, considering the time of day, she's probably busy at work.
    KIM: That girl wouldn't know work if it bit her on the nose. She's probably avoiding me, like usual.
    MARLENA: Ahhh motherhood. Ain't it just grand?

    Marlena laughs and gives Kim and quick, playful hug. Kim looks at her phone again, and quickly gets up again.

    KIM: I'm really sorry to cut this short but I have to meet with a landlord about an apartment. You guys don't mind if I pay you back for lunch later, right?
    ROMAN: Kimmy, don't worry about it. I'll take care of it.
    KIM: Oh, Roman, stop it. I'll pay you back. Bye, guys!
    MARLENA & ROMAN: Bye, Kim!

    After Kim runs out, Marlena is still smiling, clearly pleased to have her old friend back in town.

    MARLENA: It's so nice to see her again. She's been away far too long.
    ROMAN: You can say that again, Doc. I just wish I didn't have to run off in the middle like that.
    MARLENA: What did Kate want anyway?
    ROMAN: Ahh, nothing too serious. Kate just being Kate. I'll deal with it in due time.
    MARLENA: Sounds about right.
    ROMAN: Did you manage to make Hope feel any better about Bo?
    MARLENA: Not really. To be perfectly honest, I think all three of us are really worried about all three of them. It's hard to shake off.
    ROMAN: No doubt. But Bo's always been the adventurer. You remember the first time you met him? Back at our first wedding.

    Marlena is puzzled by Roman's comment. She puts down her coffee and looks concerned at Roman.

    MARLENA: That's not the first time I met Bo.
    ROMAN: Sure, it was! He tried to take you off on a stolen police motorcycle.
    MARLENA: Roman, that never happened. I met Bo after we were married. He tried to give us a stolen microwave as a wedding gift. Don't you remember?

    Roman looks back to Marlena, confused.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    ---

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

    CAROLINE: Kimmy!
    KIM: Mom!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    ---

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

    THERESA: Coming!

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

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

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

    THERESA: Are you serious?
    BRADY: Very serious.

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

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

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

    ---

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

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

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

    SAMI: Well, for once we agree on something.

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

    ---


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

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

    ---

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

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

    ...

    Percy paces his cabin, sipping on tea.

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

    ...

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

    ...

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

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

    PERCY: It reads "EnerNext"

    ...

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

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

    ...

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

    ...

    NICK: Okay, bye.

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

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

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

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

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

    NICK: Gotcha!

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Kim's voice calls out from behind them, causing both Marlena and Eric to turn around suddenly.
     
    KIM: What about me?
     
    Kim stands before Marlena and Eric, an awkward smile on her face as she anticipates being filled in on their conversation.
     
    ---
     
    Anjelica feigns being stunned, as the rest of the family look on silently, some awkwardly trying to continue their meal, as Anjelica responds to Justin's outburst.
     
    ANJELICA: Well, Justin! I'm suprised at you! I didn't realize you were still holding onto such hostility toward me after all these years--
     
    Justin stands up abruptly from his seat at the table, his voice raising over Anjelica's as he vents.
     
    JUSTIN: Oh, come off it, Anjelica! We all knew this was coming. We knew why you wanted so desperately to come have dinner with us. You can drop the charade now.
    ANJELICA: Well, I don't know what you're talking about, Justin, because I have been nothing but forthright with my intentions tonight. 
    JUSTIN: Oh, have you?
    ANJELICA: Yes, I have. I came here to see my son, and his lovely wife, and his family. I came here to do business with them, and help further my campaign. I hardly see the issue in that.
     
    Noelle sits back, attentively listening to the back-and-forth between the ex-lovers.
     
    JUSTIN: Of course you don't! You never do! Sometimes I think you're completely oblivious to any and all social cues! 
    ANJELICA: Oh, believe me, Justin, I am aware of them. 
     
    Anjelica slowly rises from her seat, leaning on the edge of the dinner table as she zeroes in on Justin.
     
    ANJELICA: I know the resentment you hold toward me. I even understand it. I did some things that were incredibly cruel to both you and Adrienne. And for that, I am tremendously sorry. But I refuse to stand back and allow hostility and pettiness continue to keep a wedge between my son's family and myself. All I ask is to stay here. To spend time with my son, his wife, and his family. All I want is an opportunity to allow us all to heal from the damage that I fully admit...that I caused.
     
    The family look on, stone silent, as Anjelica stares down a defiant Justin. She then turns her gaze over to Alex.
     
    ANJELICA: Are you willing to give me the opportunity, or not?
     
    Alex looks back at his mom, awkwardly. He looks over and notices all eyes are now on him. He struggles to find an answer to his mother's question.
     
    ---
  19. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 10
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: ML Cooks

    Sami won't take no for an answer, and continues to prod Kate for information on Jordan.

    SAMI: Come on, Kate. You can't leave me in the dark about this.
    KATE: Ohh yes I can. In fact, I consider it my responsibility to keep you in the dark about this, because until this information is public, I cannot run the risk of you shooting your mouth off to anyone in the heat of the moment...
    SAMI: Hey--
    KATE: ...Which you are rather infamous for, even you will admit.

    Sami glares at Kate, not willing to admit Kate's right, but knowing she probably is. Roman knocks on Kate's door at this moment, pushing open the door, which is already slightly ajar.

    ROMAN: You don't have a secretary anymore?
    KATE: Don't ask.

    Roman raises his hands as he steps in.

    ROMAN: I won't. Hey Sami.

    Sami hesitates to leave. Kate motions her to the door. Sami knows Kate won't talk for now, and grabs her things to leave Kate's office.

    SAMI: Fine, Kate. But remember something. I was married to Rafe. And despite what you might think, I want him to be happy more than anything else. If you change your mind, call me.

    Sami walks out, putting her hand on her dad's shoulder as she steps out. Roman closes the door behind her.

    ROMAN: Alright, Kate. What's this all about? And it better be good.

    ---

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


    ---

    Jennifer stands in the doorway of Abby's makeshift office, looking at Abby, who is leaning against the closet door. Jenn already feels like something's going on. Little does she realize EJ is hiding in the closet.

    JENNIFER: That's an awfully wide grin for someone who's been so moody lately.
    ABBY: Oh my GOSH, Mom. Can you believe it? They gave me my own little office so I could work on the digitization project in peace!

    Abby runs over to Jennifer and gives her a happy hug. Mid-hug, you can see Abby's eyes pop out of her head, worried about her mother's presence, unsure how to allay her suspicion (which, by the look on Jenn's face, it hasn't.)

    Once they separate from the hug, Jenn pulls the papers from her bag, and looks around the room, hoping to find some sort of clue as to what's going on.

    JENNIFER: Uh...yeah. Great, honey. Uhmmm...look. Sweetheart, Anne brought these for you. Some sort of thing about your new assignment. I think it's the confirmation of your usage of the records room as office space or something.

    Abby takes the papers and looks them over hastily, grabbing a pen from her desk.

    ABBY: Oh, great.

    As Abby's about to sign, Jenn is confused that Abby isn't even really looking it over.

    JENNIFER: Abigail, are you going to read that over first?
    ABBY: What, mom? I believe you.
    JENNIFER: Yeah, but I taught you better than to sign something without reading it over first. Especially something from Anne Milbauer.

    Jennifer pauses, scans the room again quickly. Abby is on pins and needles, hoping Jenn doesn't think to look in the closet.

    JENNIFER: You want me to leave, don't you?
    ABBY: NO! Mom I don't, I just...I have a lot of work to get to.
    JENNIFER: Yeah. Right. So why don't I believe you?

    Abby looks incredibly uncomfortable now, unsure how to respond.

    ---

    Percy stands in the doorway of his cottage in the woods. He is in a passionate debate with a 30-something man in a suit. The man represents a real estate company and Percy is enraged by his presence.

    PERCY: I have resided at this abode for many a year, and purchased it with the express intent of leaving it to my grandchildren, so they may learn to enjoy the wildlife as I have. There is no question of sale for any price.
    AGENT: Uh...but...sir. I mean, you'd be ....you'd be a fool to turn down a million bucks for a place like this...I mean...it's....not exactly the Ritz-Carlton.
    PERCY: Good sir. If I have designs on emulating the Ritz-Carlton, one would assume I would take a somewhat more urban surrounding, no?

    The estate agent looks back at Percy, completely dumfounded.

    AGENT: $1 Million. Final offer.
    PERCY: I would tell you what you could do with your million dollars, sir. However, I don't use that kind of language. Good day!

    Percy slams the door in the agent's face, shaking his head at his persistance. Moments later, Percy gets a knock on the door. He turns around in anger and throws the door open, ready for a fight.

    PERCY: I thought I told you a million times, NO SALE! Oh...

    Nicole stands on the other side of the door, a look of confusion and terror on her face.

    NICOLE: Nicole Walker. Titan TV?

    Percy steps back, slightly embarrassed.

    ---

    Will and Sonny walk hand in hand through Horton Town Square. Some people stare, some grimace, most just ignore them and carry about their business. They're headed to the Brady Pub to meet with the family regarding their engagement.

    SONNY: So? How you feeling about this?
    WILL: I'm....actually really nervous!
    SONNY: Seriously? Why?
    WILL: It's just...I mean, marriage is different from being in a relationship, right? People are generally cool with that, but...marriage has been such a touchy thing lately.
    SONNY: Yeah but...you know, that's changing fast. I mean....look at some of the people staring at us right now.

    As Sonny points it out, at least a couple people look away quickly. Will looks all around.

    WILL: I don't get what that meant...besides making me self-conscious?
    SONNY: (with a laugh) No, like...what I mean is, even a few years ago, I couldn't have walked through town square hand in hand without everyone fixated on us, and people making rude comments. Things, they're changing, Will. Every day. And part of it is us. We're helping change it. Just remember that.

    Sonny leans in and kisses Will, and they embrace, unaware of who's behind them.

    NICK: Remember what?

    Sonny and Will are startled out of their hug, and turn to face Nick, obviously displeased by his presence.

    ---

    Marlena and Hope walk out of the Brady Pub together, with Eric remaining inside for the moment. Hope is still feeling lousy over Bo's continued absence. Marlena puts her arm around Hope's shoulders in comfort.

    MARLENA: You know what?
    HOPE: What?
    MARLENA: I have a feeling about Bo, and John, and Shane.
    HOPE: Oh you do?
    MARLENA: Well, to be fair, John sent me a letter. Abe gave it to me last night.
    HOPE: Oh really? I figured with all the divorce proceedings he was...you know...uninterested.
    MARLENA: Well...we'll have to see about that divorce.

    Hope cracks a smile at the news.

    HOPE: Does this mean what I think it means?
    MARLENA: Well...we'll have to see. Basically, I'm willing to give it another try if he is. And that letter gives me hope that...John may have finally come to terms with what happened with Kristen.
    HOPE: Well, I'd hate see Kristen win anything out of all this mayhem she caused. I've got my fingers crossed. Now...what about this feeling?
    MARLENA: Well...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.

    ---

    Kate paces back and forth as she begins to tell her story to Roman.

    KATE: Well, first thing's first...I'm sure you've met Rafe's physiotherapist, Jordan Ridgeway.
    ROMAN: That I have, and I think she's a mighty sweet girl.

    Kate stops her pacing momentarily and rolls her eyes at Roman's statement. She carries on pacing as she begins to speak again.

    KATE: Well, first thing I need to tell you, you have to keep quiet about for various reasons that are not relevant.
    ROMAN: Alright, you have my word.
    KATE: Great. You see, I hired Jordan to care for Rafe as a sort of...shall we say, a donation to the hospital. Everything was approved by Kayla, there's no funny business going on there.
    ROMAN: Alright, but what's the problem then?
    KATE: The problem is, I started to look into this woman. At first I'll admit, I was just being nosy and she wasn't exactly warm to me, but then I found Jordan to be incredibly shady about the details of her past. Or indeed any of her past because, according to my PI, she didn't exist before three years ago.
    ROMAN: Alright. But I don't see anything wrong with someone changing their name. What's this got to do with me?

    Kate comes around the other side of the desk and sits down on the edge of her desk. She grabs the file containing her and Sheryl's mugshot and the accompanying newspaper clipping.

    KATE: A lot, when you're dealing with a pair of international fugitives.

  20. beebs
    EPISODE 182
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

    Marlena emerges from her bedroom at her penthouse, freshly changed into her street clothes, as the doorbell rings.  She calls out to the person ringing the bell, as she heads for the door.
     
    MARLENA: Coming!
     

    Marlena walks over and opens the door to find Abe there. She quickly motions him inside.
     
    MARLENA: Abe! Thank you, I know it's short notice.
     
    Abe steps inside and gives Marlena a quick hug.
     
    ABE: It's alright. I'm glad you called. Have you heard anything?
    MARLENA: Not a word. 
    ABE: (sigh) Alright. How long since you've heard anything?
    MARLENA: I mean, he...he was working, so I didn't think anything was wrong, but...I woke up and checked the entire penthouse, he's nowhere to be seen.
     
    Abe nods, then looks down sorrowfully.
     
    ABE: He's....he's in worse shape than any of us thought.
     
    Marlena stops, and looks at Abe. Her energy shifting as she turns to look his way. After a moment, Marlena nods in agreement.
     
    MARLENA: I umm...I've been taking him for tests at the hospital. We...we aren't 100% sure what's going on.
    ABE: It's obviously dementia of some kind.
    MARLENA: Well, that's what we assume, but...I have reason to believe Stefano is involved somehow.
     
    Abe sighs, shaking his head.
     
    ABE: Wouldn't surprise me. But...considering his performance at work...
     
    Abe hesitates momentarily, before continuing. Marlena furrows her brow, not sure she likes what Abe is about to say.
     
    ABE: I'm starting to believe it would be a good idea to...(sigh) ask Roman to take a leave of absence from the force.
     
    ---
     

    Tyler drives down the dark highway leading out of Salem.
     
    The occasional passing car shines its headlights his way as they drive opposite him down the road. Tyler is looking on intensely, as he thinks back to the events of the evening.
     
    ***
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 167:

    Tyler sits on a stool next to Victor's hospital bed, reeling from the news that Nick's working for Stefano.
     
    TYLER: Victor, are you absolutely sure Nick told you he was funded by Stefano. You didn't mishear him.
    VICTOR: 100%. 
     
    Tyler shakes his head, resigned but not totally surprised by the news.
     
    TYLER: You know, it makes almost too much sense.
    VICTOR: I agree. That's why we have to take action, immediately.
    TYLER: What kind of action?
    VICTOR: Simple. We'll send Stefano a message, and clean up the filth that's rotting this town from the inside.
     
    Tyler sighs, knowing what Victor's implying.
     
    TYLER: Victor, we can't be working underhandedly.
    VICTOR: Too late. The gloves are already off. Get rid of Nick Fallon. By any means neccessary.
     
    Victor looks steely-eyed at a concerned Tyler, who is far less convinced of Victor's plan than Victor is.
    ***
     
    Tyler is distracted by a passing car's bright lights, that snap him back to reality with a jolt. Tyler struggles to see and his car begins to swerve onto the gravel at the edge of the road.
     
    TYLER: Dammit!
     
    As Tyler swerves to get the car back onto the road, he brakes to stop the car before he causes an accident. Pulling over, he stops and leans his head back against the headrest, trying to regain his composure.
     
    After a moment, and a heavy sigh or two, Tyler looks out his drivers' side window, then at his GPS. He realizes he's right by Anita's cabin. 
     
    TYLER: Well, I'll be damned.
     
    He decides to pull in, turning suddenly in to the darkened country gravel driveway.
     
    ---
     

    It's a foggy night, as Anjelica stands alone on the pier. She's dressed in a long black coat and wide-brimmed hat semi-obscuring her face.
     
    She paces slowly checking around her to be sure she remains safe, as she waits for Liam to meet her.
     
    ANJELICA: (sigh) Come on, Liam, get down here.
     

    No sooner has those words come out of her mouth, than Liam walks down the steps of the pier to meet her. Anjelica turns to look at him, looking a bit annoyed.
     
    ANJELICA: Took you long enough.
    LIAM: Sorry, had to wait for Jenn to nod off.
    ANJELICA: Ahhh yes, precious Jennifer Horton. 
     
    Liam rolls his eyes, as Anjelica sarcastically waxes poetic about Liam's partner.
     
    ANJELICA: Love of your life. Apple of your eye. Tell me, Liam: did you take an extra moment before you departed to watch your beloved as she slept as well?
    LIAM: You're hilarious, Anj. Now, what did I come all the way down here for, exactly?
     
    Anjelica gives Liam an intense deadpan look as she pulls a gun from her coat pocket and places it in Liam's hand.
     
    LIAM: What's this for?
    ANJELICA: Our little problem we were discussing earlier? I want you to take care of him.
     
    Liam looks down at the gun, then up at Anjelica, stunned by what she's asking of him.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     

    Jerome shuts the front door to the Grant family home, and steps inside quietly. Inside, Valerie emerges from the kitchen entrance and looks stern, but relieved to see her grandson home.
     
    VALERIE: Jerome Grant, where have you been?
     
    Jerome stops himself at the first step of the staircase heading upstairs when he hears Valerie's voice.
     
    JEROME: Hey, Grandma, uh...Sorry I'm so late.
    VALERIE: Well, I don't really mind that, but the fact you didn't even text me or call? 
    JEROME: Nah, I know. I should've.
    VALERIE: You're damned right.
     
    Valerie turns and heads into the living room, with Jerome reluctantly following behind her as she continues to speak to him.
     
    VALERIE: You know, I've been worried about you. You're avoiding coming home again, and--
    JEROME: Grandma, you don't have to worry about me. I'm fine.
     
    Valerie stops in front of the couch, and turns to face Jerome, who's slowly stepping into the room.
     
    VALERIE:  And that's exactly the same conversation we had in Toronto before we moved down here. And I didn't buy it then, and I don't buy it now.
     
    Valerie motions to Jerome to join her on the sofa, before sitting down.
     
    VALERIE: Come on, baby. Let's talk.
     
    Jerome complies, as he sits down next to Valerie.
     
    JEROME: Grandma, I know what you're gonna say, and--
    VALERIE: No, I don't think you do. Now, listen. I know you're grown, and I can't stop you from doing what you wanna do, but I can and I will tell you what I think about it. And what you're doing right now, it is way too familiar to me. 
    JEROME: Grandma, I promise you, I am not falling into those same patterns. Look, Kaylie and Siobhan are far behind me, now. I don't...I don't even know what made you think of them.
    VALERIE: Well, different things. 
     
    Jerome looks at Valerie, a bit confused.
     
    JEROME: Like what?
    VALERIE: Well, you know how I had you set up that video chat for the interview I was doing?
     
    Jerome tenses up slightly, becoming uncomfortable with her story.
     
    JEROME: Yeah...
    VALERIE: Well, we hired that girl, and...you know, it's funny, there's...there's something about her. She looks just a little like that girl Siobhan you knew in school. 
     
    Jerome looks intensely at Valerie, hoping she doesn't make the connection. Valerie continues her story, looking away from Jerome as she recalls their journey back to Salem.
     
    VALERIE: You know, I started thinking about it, and...you know, I know they're far behind you, and...you know...after your father was killed, I just...we moved her for a fresh start. Somewhere that felt like home, but...somewhere we could forget the bad memories, bad habits.
     
    Valerie takes Jerome's hand in hers, she smiles as she looks at Jerome.
     
    VALERIE: I don't want you to fall back into them.
    JEROME: I promise, Grandma. That's not happening. Things are going well! I'm...doing my research for my thesis, and...I met someone.
     
    Valerie perks up at the news.
     
    VALERIE: Ooh! Who is this fine young lady?
    JEROME: Her name is Abigail Deveraux. I met her mom, Jennifer today. I think she said she works at the hospital as well.
     
    Valerie raises an eyebrow at Jennifer's name.
     
    VALERIE: Jennifer Horton?
    JEROME: Yeah, I think so.
     
    Valerie sighs, shaking her head, as Jerome looks confused.
     
    VALERIE: Oh boy. 
     
    Jerome chuckles at his grandmother's reaction to the news, still puzzled by her less-than-enthusiastic response.
     
    JEROME: What? What do you mean?
     
    Valerie sighs, taking a second before answering Jerome's question.
     
    VALERIE: Look, I'm not gonna tell you you're forbidden to see this girl, but you need to tread lightly with Hortons. They are messy. Okay?
     
    Jerome frowns, curious about what his grandmother means.
     
    ---
     
    At the pier, Liam's face scrunches up after Anjelica has handed him a revolver, confused by Anjelica's request.
     
    LIAM: What, am I your hitman now?
    ANJELICA: You are part of the team that's meant to be helping me get through this plan in one piece.
     
    Liam looks down at the gun, shaking his head, as Anjelica slowly walks around behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder as she speaks gently in his ear.
     
    ANJELICA: You don't want to let the team down, do you?
     
    Liam turns his head slightly, giving Anjelica a deathly glare as he holds the gun in his hand tightly.
     
    ---
     
    Marlena looks at Abe, disappointed and worried.
     
    MARLENA: Oh no, Abe, don't take Roman off the force--
    ABE: No...no, Marlena, I'm serious. He's made too many mistakes recently. He has completely...just...blanked out on entire cases. Important ones! He could be putting himself in danger every time he steps out of the house.
     
    Marlena steps in closer to Abe, pleading with him to reconsider.
     
    MARLENA: Abe, if...if it is Alzheimer's...I want to be sure of the diagnosis first, but...if it is...I firmly believe keeping Roman working for as long as possible can only help him cognitively.
    ABE: And put him in the line of fire!
    MARLENA: Not if he does admin--
     
    Abe shakes his head, getting riled up as he tries to resist laughing at Marlena's suggestion.
     
    ABE: Marlena, be serious! Can you honestly imagine Roman Brady accepting administrative work? 
     
    Marlena looks down solemnly. She shakes her head, realizing Abe's right.
     
    ABE: Now, I will wait for the official diagnosis before I do this, but I am asking that you have the doctors confirm this diagnosis ASAP. Every day we wait, the more danger Roman's in.
     
    Marlena nods in agreement. She looks up at the ceiling, sighing in frustration.
     
    MARLENA: You're right. I'll have Roman head down to the hospital first thing tomorrow.
    ABE: Alright.
     
    As Abe responds, Marlena gets a text message from Kim. Taking her cell phone from her coffee table, she checks it, before turning to Abe.
     
    MARLENA: It's Kimberly. She's downstairs.
    ABE: Alright, let's meet her down there.
     
    Abe and Marlena head for the door. As Abe races out, Marlena is stopped by a picture of her with Roman, Carrie, Sami, and Eric, from when Sami and Eric were newborns. She spots the picture on her mantle by the door, and looks it over, tearing up.
     
    Taking a moment to look the picture over, she sets it back down on the mantle and heads out of the penthouse, locking the door behind her.
     
    ---
     
    Tyler pulls into Anita's property, his headlights guiding him down the dark country dirt road.
     
    Approaching the cabin, Tyler stops the car outside, and gets out after turning the car off.
     
    He slowly walks up to the front door, seeing the bright lights inside. He stops, noticing movement through the window.
     
    Peeking carefully through the window, he makes out a familiar face.
     
    TYLER: My God.
     

    Inside, Brady finishes the last of the dishes, turning to Anita and smiling warmly, as they laugh and joke. Tyler is stunned. Brady is alive.
     
    ---
  21. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Ep. 19
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: ML Cooks & C. Nathaniel Richardson

    Theresa is shocked and in disbelief by what she sees in her hallway. Her mother being handed keys by her landlord.

    THERESA: Do I need to ask again or is someone going to talk?

    Kim turns to face Theresa, a tentative smile on her face.

    KIM: Well...honey. I was trying to call you to tell you this. I had a viewing with your landlord and...well...I put a deposit down on the apartment just across the hall from you! Isn't that fantastic??
    THERESA: Oh my God. Like...I think I might actually be dying, right now.

    Kim walks to Theresa and takes her hand.

    KIM: I know! Isn't it great??

    Theresa's eyes bug out, and she pulls away from her mother. She is not impressed.

    THERESA: No, this is the absolute worst thing that could possibly happen. Are you absolutely nuts??

    ---

    Roman is in his office, just finishing up a call. He sets down the reciever on his office's land line and types a quick note on his computer. His face wide with satisfaction.

    ROMAN: Gotcha!

    Roman immediately picks the phone back up, and dials Kate.

    ...

    KATE: Kate Roberts.

    ...

    ROMAN: Kate! It's Roman Brady. I need you and Lucas to come down to the station. It's urgent.

    ...

    KATE: I'll be right over.

    Kate hangs up the phone, a wide, sinister smile crosses her face.

    KATE: Jordan Ridgeway, whatever your crazy little plan is, it ends right now.

    ---

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

    ---

    Victor steps into the hallway after the Titan board meeting lets out, his grumpy demeanour plain as the nose on his face. Brady struts out immediately afterwards, smug and confident that he put on a good presentation. He slaps Victor on the back in self-congratulation. Victor doesn't respond, but tenses in reaction.

    BRADY: SO! Grandfather! How was that?
    VICTOR: If you want my honest opinion, that was the most embarrassed I've ever been in my adult life. And that's no small feat, considering the number of times I married Vivian Alamain.

    Brady's expression changes immediately, from cool confidence to confused and upset.

    BRADY: Seriously? I mean, you're actually gonna go there right now with me?
    VICTOR: Gladly. You're a CEO of a multi-national corporation, not a high school dropout contemplating which McDonalds to apply to work at. You've got responsibilities, Brady. And it's high time you actually took those responsibilities seriously.
    BRADY: Or what, Grandad? You're gonna take over as CEO? I dare you to try. The board has to vote me out to reinstate you. You're over 80. They want young blood with the energy to hold up under all the pressure of this job.
    VICTOR: I'm well-aware. And after today's performance, I definitely look like a strong candidate in comparison.
    BRADY: Hah. You know, you're funny, Grandad. Really. You could've had a second career as a comedian. You know that?
    VICTOR: Save it, Brady. I'm being serious. I know you hear this every day at least twice, but I'm really worried about you. I'm worried you're on a slide into something that could destroy your entire life. And I might not be able to help lift you out of it. And frankly, I just can't deal with that at this age. Excuse me.

    Victor saunters away, calmly, but inside he is evidently troubled by Brady's behaviour. Brady shakes his head, watching Victor walk away.

    ---

    Jordan walks into the Horton town square, looking for Sheryl. Upon finding her, she sits down at a table at the cafe area. Jordan's concerned after Sheryl's revelation at the hospital.

    JORDAN: Alright, I'm here. I have to meet Rafe in a half hour so you gotta make this fast.
    SHERYL: God, I wish you hadn't taken up with Rafe. Seriously, I know why you did it but it makes everything we've planned so much more difficult.
    JORDAN: Okay, if you dragged me out her to give me another lecture on how dangerous it is for me to be dating the guy that gives us access to a good chunk of the info we need to pull this off, I'm going back to my apartment to get ready for my date.

    Jordan gets up to leave, Sheryl stops her.

    SHERYL: Woah woah woah! Jordan! Wait. I meant it when I said I had to talk to you about Lucas.

    Jordan sighs and sits back down.

    JORDAN: Fine. What is it? Why do you think Lucas is onto you, Sheryl?

    Sheryl leans in, as if to share some great secret.

    SHERYL: I ran into him at Club TBD earlier. He was...off. Like, really cold. I'd never seen him look at me like that before. There was an ice in his eyes, and he was definitely holding back something.
    JORDAN: That's it? Seriously? Sheryl, you know that Kate's after me, not you. And there's no way she's going to figure out who I am. She wants you with Lucas. I don't know what you're so freaked out about.
    SHERYL: What if you're wrong, Jordan? How can you be so damned sure Kate doesn't have it in for me too and has just been playing nice this whole time? We need to get our ducks in a row, and fast, or there'll be no chance of stopping the oil sands project, especially if we have to fight both EnerNext and Kate Roberts.

    ---

    Roman greets Kate and Lucas at the door of his office as they arrive.

    ROMAN: Kate, Lucas, have a seat.
    KATE: Thank you, Roman. I'm glad you called when you did. I think I know exactly what's going on with Jordan and Sheryl now.
    ROMAN: Well, so do we. And we have a plan. All you two have to do is follow it down to the letter, and Jordan and Sheryl will be neutralized.

    Kate smiles a wry smile at Roman's news. Lucas carries a bit of uneasiness as he looks to his mother.

    ---

    Will is on his phone at the apartment, a concerned look on his face. Gabi walks in at that moment and flashes a quick smile to Will, who waves back. Sonny enters the room, holding Arianna. Will sighs in exasperation suddenly.

    WILL: (into phone) Hey, mom. Uh...so I need to know when you're able to come by so we can make you dinner. I really do have some big news for you, so whenever you can come by would be great. Uh...EJ is totally welcome to join us if you two are on good terms, because I never know where that stands lately...umm...give me a call back. Bye.

    Will drops the phone on the table in front of him.

    WILL: Voice mail, again!
    GABI: What's wrong? Is Sami okay?
    SONNY: We have no idea, we've been calling for about an hour. No answer, just goes straight to voice mail each time. We had some big news to share with her...and you too, but...you know...
    WILL: We kinda wanted to make a big announcement to everyone at once.
    GABI: Well...why don't you give EJ a call. Maybe she's with him?

    ---

    Abigail is heading for the door of her office, files in hand, not really focussing on where she's walking. She opens the door to her office to head out and standing before her is EJ.

    EJ: I need to talk to you, RIGHT now!

    Abigail raises an eyebrow and gives EJ a knowing smile.

    ABBY: So! Back for seconds so soon, hm? I didn't think I was that good.

    EJ walks right past her and into her office.

    EJ: That's not what I meant, Abigail.

    Abigail stops the sexy intonations and tightens right up, suddenly feeling a rush of insecurity. Unbeknownst to either of them, Anne Milbauer has just approached her office door, which is still partially ajar, to ask her a question, and overhears EJ's next comment.

    ABBY: Well then, what is it?
    EJ: We have got to stop this affair, and right now.

    Anne's curiosity spikes, she hides around the corner, just enough to be within earshot, and, with some quick thinking, immediately pulls out her cell phone, hitting record.

    ---

  22. beebs
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES #12
    written by A. Washington-Beeby
    story consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & ML Cooks

    Daniel sits at his desk at University Hospital. He is reading over some reports, and studying them intensely when a knock at his door breaks his concentration. He looks over to the door.

    DANIEL: Come in!

    Jennifer steps into the room, a morose expression on her face. Daniel is surprised to see her, but, seeing her face, isn't sure he really wants to see her right now. After a second, he finally speaks up.

    DANIEL: Jennifer.
    JENNIFER: Daniel. We really need to talk.
    DANIEL: Uh, sure. Um...have a seat.

    Daniel scrambles to put away his work to give Jenn his full attention. Jenn walks over quickly and sits down on the other side of Daniel's desk.

    DANIEL: So...what's going on?
    JENNIFER: Look...maybe this isn't the best place to do this--
    DANIEL: No. No, Jenn. There's no time like the present. It's my office so we have some privacy if that's what you need, so...what's up?
    JENNIFER: JJ. He told me everything.
    DANIEL: Everything about...?
    JENNIFER: About the night Theresa OD'd. I know what happened, Daniel.

    Daniel's shocked and doesn't know how to react to Jenn's news.

    ---

    Sami passes by Nick, Will and Sonny in Horton Town Square, just as Sonny and Nick shake hands. Sami is outraged.

    SAMI: What in the hell is going on here?

    ---

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

    ---

    SAMI: I asked you a question.

    Sonny and Nick end their handshake, while Will walks over to try to calm Sami down.

    WILL: Okay, Mom. Just...relax, okay? Nick, Sonny, and I, we're just...we're calling a cease fire. We figure, the best way to move forward is just...for everyone to get along.

    Sami looks at Will like he has three heads.

    SAMI: Is there something wrong with the air in that apartment? I swear, it's making everyone in there lose any shred of common sense they ever had.
    NICK: Sami, all I'm trying to do is--
    SAMI: Change! CHANGE! Change! Yes! I know! You're trying to make a fresh start, a change. I swear, you're starting to sound like the homeless man on the streetcorner, you talk about change so much!
    NICK: Well, I can't exactly do that unless people give me a chance, now will I?
    SAMI: We all have. We've given you so many chances, and you used those chances to try to ruin Will's life. So yeah, maybe I'm not exactly so open to Nick Fallon Version, what is it? 3.0? 4.0? Deluxe Edition, perhaps?
    SONNY: Sami. Please. Just calm down. Okay? Look, come by later on and we can talk about this, okay?

    Will pulls Sami aside to say something to her away from Nick's ear.

    WILL: (just above a whisper) Please, Mom. We'll have some...good news to share with you as well. Okay?
    SAMI: (breathes) Okay, fine. But this better be good.
    WILL: Promise.
    SAMI: Okay.

    Sami turns to Sonny, who smiles and nods to her. After a moment, she breathes again. She addresses the group.

    SAMI: Look, I gotta get back to work. You boys have a good afternoon. Nick.

    Sami gives Will and Sonny quick goodbye kisses and walks away. She stops around the corner, and looks back over to Nick, Will, and Sonny, who are still talking.

    SAMI: Either something's going on, or my son's brain's fallen right out of his head.

    ---

    Percy is incredulous at Nicole's veiled rejection of his story.

    PERCY: What do you mean 'if'?
    NICOLE: I mean, seriously, this is a nonstory. I mean, come on, we see this all the time. Some big company comes in and buys up all the land for cheap and drives all the weirdo nature people out, people complain, and then people get over it when the money and the jobs start coming in.
    PERCY: I beg your pardon?
    NICOLE: My point is, considering how bad the economy is, and how few new jobs are available in Salem right now, how can you justify being so hostile to this project?
    PERCY: It's quite simple, really. We will be ruining the community if this project goes ahead. Why, the air quality alone will be enough to kill all the native wildlife, or at the very least drive them away. This area is such a unique gem. So many beautiful, graceful creatures call this land home. And that, my dear, is more important to me than any oil sands.

    Nicole sits, unmoved by Percy's speech.

    NICOLE: Then volunteer for Greenpeace and chain yourself to a tree.
    PERCY: I do believe you misunderstand how important this is to the community.
    NICOLE: Okay, convince me.
    PERCY: The entire west end of the city will be completely devastated by the project. Cancer-causing pollutants in the air. In a few years, you will all see the brightness and prosperity of the moment be swallowed up by the heavy toll and looming miasma of death. And naturally, the rich and powerful in the east end will be spared the indignity of this peril.

    Percy's intense monologue causes Nicole to react only with a raised eyebrow and vague interest. She sits, arms folded on the table.

    NICOLE: That was great. What was that? Shakespeare?
    PERCY: I am serious, Miss Walker. You cannot take this lightly. You must look into this, if not for me, for the community at large.

    Nicole holds up her hands in defeat. Something tells her she can't in good conscience ignore Percy's plea.

    NICOLE: Alright. Alright. Fine. I'll make you a deal. I will research this story. If I dig up anything worthwhile, I'll proceed with an on-camera interview. But that's all I promise.
    PERCY: I shall accept this offer.

    Percy holds out his hand to Nicole. Nicole reluctantly shakes his.

    NICOLE: I better not regret this.

    ---

    Kate stands up from her desk, in complete disbelief at Roman's refusal to arrest Jordan and Sheryl.

    KATE: You have got to be joking.
    ROMAN: I'm not! There are absolutely no grounds to arrest Kaylie Matthews or Siobhan McKinnon at this moment.
    KATE: They firebombed a bank. They're wanted terrorists!
    ROMAN: You clearly didn't read the whole story on them, did you?
    KATE: What are you talking about? I had those two looked into with a fine tooth comb.
    ROMAN: Well, if your guy was worth a quarter of his rate, you'd know that Kaylie and Siobhan were brought in, and acquited due to the nature of their arrests during the G8 protests. The police contravened the law in their arrests, and everyone involved was set free.

    Kate shakes her head at the news.

    KATE: Damn it all. And damn that hack Ortiz. I swear to God you can't find a good PI these days.

    Roman stands up to stop Kate from grabbing her phone to contact Ortiz.

    ROMAN: Now, Kate. I never said this was over. We all know they're guilty. And I can guarantee those two are in Salem for a reason. We just need to figure out what they're up to before they strike again.
    KATE: Well how in the hell are we supposed to do that, Roman?
    ROMAN: I'm gonna make a call to some guys at the FBI. I'll get back to you on this.

    Roman starts to head for the door. He turns around and points to Kate to ask her something.

    ROMAN: Does anyone else know anything about this?
    KATE: Only Lucas. Sami thinks she does, but I didn't tell her anything.
    ROMAN: Okay. Well, keep it that way until we meet. Keep your phone on you, I wanna meet with you and Lucas at the station as soon as I hear from these FBI guys. Got it?
    KATE: Got it.
    ROMAN: I'll see you later.

    Kate sighs heavily, arms folded. She slumps into her chair, shaking her head.

    KATE: Dammit, Jordan. What the hell are you planning?

    ---

  23. beebs
    EPISODE 168
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultant: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     
     

    Brady sits on the sofa at Anita's cabin, reading the newspaper, as Anita finishes up the dishes in the kitchen area. Brady calls out to Anita about a news item he's reading.
     
    BRADY: Hey Anita, you read this?
     
    Anita shuts the kitchen tap off, and grabs a rag, drying her hands as she heads toward Brady.
     
    ANITA: Read what?
     
    Brady gets up from the sofa, closing the newspaper and showing her the headline:
     
    FALLON HOLDS MAJORITY STAKE IN TITAN, PROMISES DRASTIC CHANGES
     
    Anita sighs as she reads the headline, realizing the gravity of the situation. Brady drops the paper onto the coffee table and walks over to the fireplace mantle, leaning against it, frustrated.
     
    ANITA: Oh no. Brady, I'm sorry.
     
    Brady shakes his head, sighing before stopping Anita from continuing her apology.
     
    BRADY: No, it's my fault, I shouldn't have encouraged you to sell those shares off, and once again...
     
    Brady slams his fist against the mantle, causing one of the framed family photos on the mantle to fall off, cracking the frame, as the pictures inside fall out.
     
    BRADY: Damnit! I just make everything worse.
     
    Brady looks down, as he bends to pick up the photos from the floor, and spots a familiar face.
     
    A photo of the late Arianna Hernandez.
     
    ---
     

    Marlena and Hope sit at a table at Horton Town Square at the café, Marlena looking inquistively at a distracted Hope.
     
    MARLENA: So are you going to go on this date with Aiden?
    HOPE: Honestly, I'm not sure.
    MARLENA: Bo's been gone a long time, Hope. I know he loves you desperately, but I think it's incredibly unfair of you to wait for him forever.
     

    A voice snaps both women out of their conversation, causing them to look over. It's John.
     
    JOHN: Thankfully, he won't be gone forever.
     
    Marlena looks at John, somewhat displeased to see him, while Hope looks on, confused.
     
    ---
     

    Valerie steps out of her office at University Hospital, with "Crystal Clarke" following closely behind (really Sheryl Connors in disguise). "Crystal" listens eagerly as Valerie finishes their conversation.
     
    VALERIE: So, that's about it. I know you've had a lot of experience with this in...
    SHERYL: Birmingham.
    VALERIE: Right. I think you'll a perfect fit here, Crystal. I knew it from the moment I spoke with you at the interview.
     
    "Crystal" smiles broadly, appearing appreciative of the compliment.
     
    SHERYL: Well, I just gotta thank you, Dr. Grant. You've been amazing. Ah...if you don't mind, I know it's my first day and all, but I have an appointment I gotta keep. Getting everything settled moving into town and all, I need to finish unpacking.
     
    Valerie nods in reaction, smiling approvingly, as the two women walk down the hallway toward the nurses' station. As Valerie responds to "Crystal", the door to the elevator behind the nurses' station opens, and Daniel steps off, overhearing Valerie's words.
     
    VALERIE: Oh, absolutely! Today is mostly just orientation and paperwork. You're fine to head out. 
    SHERYL: Oh, thank you, Dr. Grant. It's great to finally meet you.
    VALERIE: Pleasure's all mine, Crystal. Good luck getting yourself settled in.
    SHERYL: Thanks!
     

    Daniel looks on as Sheryl walks off, making a beeline for the locker room. Daniel steps over to Valerie, who is standing at the nurses' station.
     
    DANIEL: Ahh...Dr. Grant.
    VALERIE: Yes, Dr. Jonas, what can I do for you?
     
    Valerie turns toward Daniel with a smile.
     
    DANIEL: Ahh...the nurse you were just speaking to...Crystal...Clarke was it?
    VALERIE: Yes, she just started today.
    DANIEL: Right. Ahh...has she...been assigned any patients as of yet?
     
    Valerie looks at Daniel, confused. She looks over toward where "Crystal" had walked off, then back at Daniel.
     
    VALERIE: Uh...no, she...she just did her orientation just before meeting with me. She won't be taking on any proper nursing duties until Monday. Why?
     
    Daniel looks down the hallway toward where "Crystal" had walked as well, before shaking his head and turning back toward Valerie.
     
    DANIEL: Nah, nothing. Just...curious about the new staff member, that's all.
     
    Valerie looks back at Daniel, unsure whether to believe him or not.
     
    ...
     
    Downstairs, in the University Hospital parking garage, inside the back of Sheryl's SUV, a still-unconscious Crystal Clarke lies, tied up with her mouth taped shut, her hands and feet bound.
     
    After a chilling moment of deafening silence, Crystal begins to wake up, her eyes twitching as they slowly open. 
     
    She looks around her, and tries in vain to move. She attempts to scream, but the duct tape prevents her from making much sound, as she panics, writhing about in the back of the SUV, unable to free herself, and with no one anywhere nearby able to help.
     
    ---
     
     
    ---
     
    Brady leans over, picking up the picture that fell to the ground. Turning around suddenly, he looks up at Anita, who's quickly walked over with a dustpan, before realizing what Brady has in his hand.
     
    BRADY: You know, I know you're their grandmother, but...I guess I just can't help but be surprised to see her picture.
    ANITA: You miss her a lot, don't you?
     
    Brady nods, unable to take his eyes off the photo.
     
    BRADY: Every day.
     
    Brady sits down on the sofa, as Anita sweeps the broken glass off the floor.
     
    Setting it aside, sits down beside Brady.
     
    ANITA: You know, she didn't talk much to us later in her life. I think she was still upset...knowing what had happened with her father. How he left them.
     
    Anita shakes her head, visibly upset by Eduardo.
     
    ANITA: That never left her. And then to find out she wasn't even related to me.
    BRADY: What?
    ANITA: Oh, no. We...never spoke about it, but...(sigh) Eduardo got another woman pregnant, she couldn't keep the baby but wouldn't abort. I...quite stupidly suggested that he and Adriana raise the baby as theirs, and try to work out their problems. 
    BRADY: And did they?
    ANITA: Oh, for awhile. I didn't want the affair to destroy them. It...I lost my husband because of a stupid mistake I made. And...it nearly cost me everything. Including my life. I didn't want that for them. 
     
    Brady listens intently, as Anita looks on, thinking back on her daughter's marriage.
     
    ANITA: It ended up all for nothing. They had Dario, then Gabi, and...then...Eduardo up and left one day, never came back. And we struggled. Oh, did we struggle. But I made sure those kids were fed. Clothed. I did everything I could for them. Adriana didn't want the handout, but...I knew she would struggle to do it all on her own.
     
    Anita sighs, taking Arianna's picture from Brady, and looking wistfully at it.
     
    ANITA: Then about...fifteen years ago? Arianna's last year of high school, she found out. Her and Adriana got into it. You know how mothers and daughters do. But Adriana let it slip.
    BRADY: That Arianna wasn't really hers.
     
    Anita nods, before biting her lip, trying to keep the tears at bay.
     
    ANITA: (sigh) Ari was a mess. She withdrew. Oh, she was already involved with the wrong crowd, but it got ten times worse after that.
    BRADY: I'm sorry, Anita.
    ANITA: Oh, Brady, don't feel responsible. You were a bright spot for her before she died. The few times I did talk to her, she said some wonderful things about you. When I realized who you were after I found you by the river...I knew it was fate that brought you to me. Arianna's spirit, giving you a second chance.
     
    Anita puts a hand on Brady's and squeezes it tightly. She looks with a weak smile on her face, but love in her eyes.
     
    ANITA: Don't waste your second chance, Brady.
     
    Brady looks at Anita, feeling touched by her words, though still unsure of his future.
     
    ---
     
    Back in the locker room at the hospital, Sheryl walks quickly over to her locker. Opening it up, she checks Crystal's phone once again. Ringing up Crystal's voice mail, she listens to the message Kim left.
     
    KIM: (via phone message) Ah hi Crystal! It's Kimberly Brady. I'm just calling to check in, I know you're probably busy at the hospital getting started up with work, but I just wanted to see when would be a good time to meet up so I can give you the key to the apartment. 
     
    Sheryl's eyes widen with delighted surprise at her good fortune, as the message continues.
     
    KIM: (via phone message) I know you're new in town, you probably don't know your way around very well, but just meet me at the Brady Pub near the pier. I'll take you up to the apartment from there and we can get you settled in. Ummm, just give me a call when you get this. Thanks, Crystal!
     
    The sound of rustling as Kim presses the 'end call' button on her phone prompts Sheryl to hang up the phone herself. Sheryl beams with delight, realizing her plan will take further shape now.
     
    SHERYL: (sigh) Sheryl Connors, or should I say, Crystal Clarke, you are, without a doubt, the luckiest woman on the planet.
     
    Grabbing the rest of her things, Sheryl then closes the door to her locker, and locks it. She walks out with a glowing confidence, heading for the car park.
     
    ...
     
    Downstairs in the parking garage, the real Crystal continues to struggle to free herself from Sheryl's bondage in the back of her SUV. 
     
    As Crystal attempts to kick at the back door of the vehicle, hoping to break the taillight of the truck and possibly free herself, Crystal pulls a muscle, and lets out a muffled scream of frustration and pain.
     
    Crumbling in a heap on the floor of the SUV, Crystal cries, equal parts angry and scared.
     
    ---
     

    Abby looks at Nick, standing with his hands on Gabi's shoulders, as they stand at the Brady Pub. Abby is stunned by Nick's news that he and Gabi will be moving in together.
     
    ABBY: Moving in together?
    GABI: Yeahhh, it's a big change.
    ABBY: I'll say! How are Sonny and Will taking the news?
     
    Gabi looks aside awkwardly before answering.
     
    GABI: I....haven't told them yet.
    ABBY: Gabi!
    GABI: I know! I Know! There hasn't been any time. I...I'm gonna talk to them this afternoon.
     
    Abby stands with her arms folded, uncomfortable with the news, she tries to feign being happy for them, but fails.
     
    ABBY: Well...I just...I want you to be happy, both of you, but...
    NICK: But...
     
    Abby looks at Nick, flashing back to his episode at Salem University not long ago.
     
    ***
     
    FLASHBACK TO EPISODE 104
     

    Nick stands in the main hall of Salem U, taking deep breaths as Abigail and Jerome stand back, stunned by Nick’s behaviour, and obvious pain. Nick holds his head in his hand, his head pounding, his vision blurred. He stumbles, trying to collect himself, as Abby steps back towards Nick, trying to see if he’s alright.
     
    ABBY: Nick…are you SURE you’re alr—
     
    Nick turns abruptly back around, as Abby lurches backwards, scared by her cousin’s unpredictable behaviour.
     
    NICK: I’m fine, just…just LEAVE ME ALONE!
     
    Jerome jumps in as Nick raises his hand to Abby in a fury. Jerome grabs Nick by his jacket and slams him against the wall, holding him there for a moment, staring him down.
     
    ***
     
    Abby snaps out of her momentary trance, trying to cover her fear of Nick's outbursts.
     
    ABBY: I just want everyone to be...sure this is the right thing to do. We're all under a lot of pressure lately, and...you know...I'm just looking out for my friends.
     
    Nick nods in agreement, studying Abby's face closely. Abby feels intimidated by Nick's stare, and looks away immediately back to Gabi, and smiles half-heartedly.
     
    GABI: I appreciate that, Abigail. I really do. But ummm...trust me. I know I'm making the right choice.
    ABBY: I'm glad to hear. If you need anything--
    GABI: I'll definitely call.
     
    Abby smiles half-heartedly, as Jennifer, JJ, Liam, and Laura all arrive at the pub. Gabi and Nick look up at the doorway, as Abby spins around to see her family walking in. She turns back to face Nick and Gabi, pointing back at the group as they filter into the pub.
     
    ABBY: My family's here. JJ's....taking off for college today, so we're gonna have lunch together before he takes off. I should...join them.
    NICK: Yeah. It's nice to see you, Abby.
     
    Abby feigns a smile, as she tries to look at Nick without setting off any alarm bells.
     
    ABBY: Yeah, you too. Good luck, Gabi. Nick.
     
    Gabi looks on at Abby as she steps away. Nick squeezes Gabi's shoulders as he stands behind her. Gabi looks uncomfortable, but plays along with Nick, putting her hand on his gently. 
     

    ---
     
    John stands before Marlena and Hope at their table at the café in Horton Square. Marlena looks at him, annoyed by his presence, while Hope immediately notices the awkwardness, but is curious as to what John meant.
     
    MARLENA: John, what are you still doing in town?
    JOHN: I came back, Doc. I had some business I had to take care of.
     
    Hope looks at John, with a glimmer of hope in her eye.
     
    HOPE: ISA business?
     
    John sighs, wishing he could say one way or another.
     
    JOHN: Hope, you know I can't tell you that.
     
    Hope sighs, slumping in her chair, as John tries to reassure her.
     
    JOHN: Hope, I'm serious, okay? They're making good progress with their mission. I understand if you're ready to give up, but please don't. You're making a mistake.
     
    Marlena gets up from her seat, now enraged by John's insistance.
     
    MARLENA: OH? So Hope's supposed to put her entire life on hold for God-knows-how-long for Bo, but you're ready to divorce me on the drop of a dime? 
     
    John looks away, sighing in exasperation.
     
    JOHN: Doc, it's differen--
    MARLENA: Oh, the Hell it is. 
     
    Marlena moves to make sure John looks her in the eye when she speaks.
     
    MARLENA: You expect Hope is supposed to have unwavering loyalty, even when there are plenty of other men in Salem who would be only too lucky to have her. 
     
    John looks down, knowing the talking-to he's about to receive.
     
    MARLENA: And yet, when I try to defend my children...YOUR children, from being entangled by a sociopath, a RAPIST? Suddenly I'm a villain. Suddenly I'm not worthy to live in the same house as you.
    JOHN: Doc, come on, it's not like that--
    MARLENA: You know it is. You are angry with me because I wouldn't sit by and let you handle Kristen your way. But you should have involved me from the get-go. Instead you play the martyr, and look what you have to show for it. Brady is dead, Kristen has ruined Eric's life. 
     
    John looks back up at Marlena, trying to hold his emotions in, and Marlena continues to chastise him.
     
    MARLENA: But you and your pride. You just couldn't admit you were wrong. And now we're all paying the price for it. 
    JOHN: Doc. I'm sorry. Alright. I'm sorry. I wish I could take it all back, but there are reasons I can't go into why we needed to divorce that go beyond anything that happened with Kristen.
    MARLENA: Like what?
     
    John hesitates, and Marlena immediately notices and reacts angrily.
     
    MARLENA: Damn it all, John, tell me.
    JOHN: I can't.
     
    Hope cuts in, getting up from her seat and putting her hand on Marlena's shoulder.
     
    HOPE: Marlena...look...I know you and John are going through a hard time, but...I really do have a strong feeling that whatever he isn't telling you...maybe it's important that we just sit tight and wait.
    JOHN: Hope's right, Doc. 
    MARLENA: Well, I'm not going to wait around for you to decide whether you're going to make it make sense for me or not.
     
    Marlena turns sharply to face Hope.
     
    MARLENA: And neither should you. You've waited long enough for Bo. As much as I love him, it's time you lived your life. Enjoy yourself with Aiden, alright?
     
    Hope nods, as Marlena turns back to face John.
     
    MARLENA: Now, if you'll excuse me, I have someone I need to meet in a few minutes.
     
    Marlena marches off, leaving a saddened John and a curious Hope behind.
     
    HOPE: And just what is all that about, John? What are you keeping from her?
     
    John sighs, knowing it's best he not tell Hope anything either.
     
    ---
     

    On the island off the coast of Italy, Stefano walks into the catacombs underneath his compound, with Dr. Rolf in tow. They make their way down to the cage where The Patient sits, tied up. 
     
    A black rubber mask covers The Patient's face, with only his eyes, nose and mouth exposed.
     
    Stefano looks over from outside the cage, gleefully.
     
    STEFANO: Ahhh I see this is going exactly to plan.
    DR. ROLF: So far so good, Stefano. I think he is nearly ready.
     
    Dr. Rolf inserts the key to the cage into the lock, opening the door, as the two men step in. The Patient looks on, quietly surveying their movements.
     
    When the two men are standing before The Patient, whose arms and legs are bound to a metal-framed chair, Stefano smiles, speaking directly to The Patient.
     
    STEFANO: Alright, my friend. I know you've been waiting awhile, wondering where we've been.
     
    Stefano begins to pace in front of Rolf and The Patient, almost sermonizing as he explains himself.
     
    STEFANO: But we had many things to take care of before checking in on you. We had to remove your friend from the adjacent cell. His time had come, you see. And soon, yours will as well.
     
    Stefano pulls out his wallet from his suit jacket pocket. He pilfers through it before pulling out a single photo.
     
    STEFANO: But...first, the test. Rolf?
     
    Dr. Rolf looks back at Stefano, pulling a syringe out, ready to react to the Patient's response, as Stefano slowly turns the photo around.
     
    The photo of John Black appears, causing a vicious reaction from The Patient. Snarling, spittling, and trying to fight through his bonds, Stefano can't help but smile with glee as The Patient fights to attack the image before him.
     
    Dr. Rolf injects the syringe into the patient, as Stefano laughs heartily. The Patient's rage begins to simmer, as he lapses quickly into unconsciousness.
     
    ---
  24. beebs
    EPISODE 131
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

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

    Laura and JJ walks through Horton Town Square, JJ with an ice cream cone, and Laura with a cup holding a small sundae. They laugh as they eat their treats, and talk about their days.
     
    LAURA: (laughs) Well, it's good that Rory's keeping his job with the pizza place. I know things haven't been easy for him. 
    JJ: Yeah, you can say that again. I just hope this job gives him enough money that he can afford to head down to Stanford next year without student loans.
     
    Laura nods, before looking up at JJ, a glint of concern in her eye.
     
    LAURA: Yeah...speaking of which...have you...decided what you're going to do about Liam's offer?
     
    JJ sighs, as they both sit down on the bench by Tom & Alice's tree. Looking off into the distance, JJ takes a moment to finish his ice cream cone, then shakes his head.
     
    JJ: I'm not sure. I mean...I know taking it will throw Liam off my trail, and it would certainly help us get the money we need to find out what we need to know about this guy, but...
    LAURA: But it's risky. I don't want you beholden to this man. Especially not if he's tied to Stefano. That man has done too many horrible things to this family. And I am not about to let him harm us anymore.
     
    Laura looks at JJ, clearly upset, verging on tears, as JJ pulls his grandmother in for a hug as they sit on the bench.
     
    ---
     
    Jordan sits quietly at her computer desk. She types quickly at her desk, working on patient files, before the shine from her engagement ring catches her eye, causing her took down at it. 
     
    Jordan takes a moment, soaking up the extreme highs and lows of the past 24 hours. From Rafe's marriage proposal to finding out her pregnancy test gave a false positive, to walking away from a lifelong friendship with Sheryl. She begins to play with the ring as she thinks over her situation.
     
    JORDAN: (voiceover) Sheryl was right. If you stay in town, you're bound to be found out for as long as Nick Fallon is around. He's got your number, Jordan. You're never going to be safe, as long as Nick's alive...
     
    Jordan stops herself momentarily, looking up, realizing the gravity of the situation. She very softly verbalizes the realization she's come to.
     
    A song begins over the scene:
     
     
     
    [0:06] JORDAN: As long as Nick's alive...you'll never be safe. You'll never be free.
     
    Jordan looks on, unblinking, unmoving. She fixates on the point as she continues to fidget with her engagement ring.
     
    JORDAN: As long as he's alive.
     
    ---
     
    The song carries on into this scene
     
    [0:22] Sheryl steps out of the shower, causing a burst of steam to emerge out into the rest of the motel bathroom and into the main room.
     
    Sheryl emerges, wrapping a towel around herself and her hair before stepping out into the main room, where her toiletries are laid out carefully in front of the vanity.
     
    [0:49] Sitting herself before the vanity, she pulls a picture of Nurse Crystal Clarke from a file in her top dresser drawer. She slides it in between the mirror and the frame of the vanity, allowing her to study Crystal's look.
     
    [0:59] Sheryl then applies her foundation, a shade somewhat lighter than her own, in order to mask her lightly bronzed skin. Sheryl slowly blends in a contour, careful to match the hues from the picture.
     
    [1:27] Sheryl slowly puts on her eyeliner, purposely too heavy, along with a heavy black eyeliner, punctuating the look with a strong cateye. She puts in contact lenses, changing her eye colour from green to a hazel colour.
     
    [1:48] Sheryl moves to her lips, applying a bold, bright, almost orange-tinted red lipstick. She moves the stick across her lips, almost seductively. As she puts the stick down, she smacks her lips, giving a confident look into the mirror as her look is complete.
     
    [2:09] The final step in her transformation: Sheryl rips the towel from her head, exposing a long, lush head of fire red hair. She smiles before looking into mirror, and holding up a large pair of scissors.
     
    [2:21] With a deep inhale, she hacks off the last third of her hair, leaving her with a shoulder-length cut.
     
    [2:39] Once the hair has fallen to the floor, Sheryl looks into the mirror, a transformed woman. She laughs quiety to herself before greeting the new woman in the mirror playfully.
     
    SHERYL: Helloooo, Nurse!
     
    Sheryl's laugh grows into a possessed cackle as she admires her work.
     
    ---
  25. beebs
    EPISODE 133
    Written by A. Washington-Beeby
    Story Consultants: C. Nathaniel Richardson & Nick Monarco
     

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

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

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

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

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

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